WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Ryan Preece secured a dramatic victory at Bowman Gray Stadium, taking the checkered flag in the Cook Out Clash exhibition race, which marked the first NASCAR event of the season. Battling challenging conditions, including rain and sleet, Preece earned his first NASCAR Cup Series win by leading 46 laps and finishing nearly two seconds ahead of William Byron in the 200-lap contest.
Race Dynamics and Key Moments During the Cook Out Clash
Preece took command of the race roughly two-thirds through and held the lead despite fierce competition. The event, held after a delay caused by snowfall over the weekend, featured multiple caution periods—17 in total—due to frequent spins and contact between drivers pushing their limits on the tight street circuit.
Weather played a crucial role, with temperature near 35 degrees Fahrenheit and precipitation forcing crews to transition to rain tires. These conditions contributed to an extended race duration and concerns over fuel management during the final laps.
Confrontations and Challenges Shaping the Finish
Early leader Kyle Larson dominated by leading 67 laps but encountered setbacks after spinning on lap 102 following a clash with Denny Hamlin. Though Larson fought back into the top ten, he was forced out of contention when he ran out of fuel on lap 153. Similarly, Chase Elliott faced fuel depletion on lap 165, prompting NASCAR to allow a fuel-only pit stop in a bid to reach the finish without further interruptions.
Other contenders like Chase Briscoe, Carson Hocevar, and Shane Van Gisbergen experienced promising moments at the front before incidents caused damage that ended their chances. Throughout the tight and intense racing, bumpers were repeatedly tested as drivers aggressively competed for position.
Preece Reflects on Victory and the Road to Success
Driving the No. 60 RFK Racing Ford, Preece emphasized the mental challenge of the event after securing the win.
“We had a really good car,”
Preece stated.
This is much as a mental game as it is anything. We had a couple restarts go our way.
He also acknowledged the years of effort behind this milestone.
“It’s been years and years of grinding. I’m super thakful for Brad Keselowski and all our partners,”
Preece said.
Two years ago I didn’t think I was gonna have a job.
Outlook for the Upcoming NASCAR Cup Series Season
With Ryan Blaney, Daniel Suárez, and Denny Hamlin finishing just behind the leaders, the competition appeared fierce among top drivers. The Cook Out Clash set a dramatic tone for the season opener, now scheduled for Feb. 15 at the Daytona 500, where the NASCAR Cup Series will officially commence. Preece’s unexpected triumph amidst difficult weather conditions signals a competitive season ahead for both drivers and teams alike.
