Jake Crum successfully clinched the SMART Modified Tour championship during the finale at North Wilkesboro. The driver secured the title with a clutch victory, marking his third win of the season and adding a major championship to his impressive resume.
Crum, who started from the lower ranks, worked his way to the front before the race took a dramatic turn. James Civali spun while challenging for the lead, taking out Kyle Bonsignore and Carter McMurray. Crum managed to hold second place after the crash, but Luke Baldwin took the lead, allowing Crum to take control on the restart and ultimately win the race.
Ryan Newman finished runner-up, while Danny Bohn finished third. Bohn won the tiebreaker and finished the season second in the points. Newman admitted his team was "dejected," noting that they were not "quite good enough" at the end, despite having a strong season.
Crum, who started midpack, emphasized his focus during the race, stating he was "biding my time" and trying to stay calm. He concluded the season with three victories, four top-five finishes, and nine top-ten finishes, securing the SMART Tour title.
Source: Short Track Scene