Kyle Larson Claims Third All-Star Victory with Dominating Performance in North Wilkesboro

Kyle Larson left no room for doubt in his third All-Star race victory in five years, describing his performance as an “old school butt-whipping”. He dominated the race to earn a prize of $1 million at the North Wilkesboro Speedway, which returned to Cup Series after a 27-year absence. Larson became the fourth driver to win the All-Star race at least three times, with wins in Charlotte, Texas, and now North Wilkesboro. He is now part of an elite circle of drivers to win the event at three different tracks, alongside Jeff Gordon and Dale Earnhardt. Jimmie Johnson has won the All-Star race a record four times.

Larson celebrated his win with a full lap of burnouts around the track. Hendrick Motorsports, with their 11th All-Star race victory, was also celebrating a dominant performance. Bubba Wallace finished second in the 200-lap non-points exhibition race, followed by Tyler Reddick, Chase Briscoe, and Chase Elliot. However, only Larson was awarded prize money in the winner-take-all race.

Wallace acknowledged Larson’s impressive win, saying, “Larson was lights out, so congrats to him.” He was satisfied with finishing second, given Larson’s unassailable lead. “But to run second in the All-Star race sucks because you go home with nothing,” he added, in good humor.

Larson was pleased with his performance, especially after struggling in the heat races a night before the main event. He had received a penalty for speeding early in the race, which sent him to the back of the field. But he drove his No. 5 Chevrolet to the front of the field, passing 16 cars, including polesitter Daniel Suarez, on lap 56. By the time of the first competition caution at lap 100, he had already established an 11-second lead.

Larson’s All-Star victory was a testament to his skill and determination. His impressive win and Hendrick Motorsports’ stellar performance will be remembered for a long time, making this a major event in the racing calendar.

Credit: westhawaiitoday.com

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