RYAN FLOOD STEALS THE SHOW TO OPEN LATE MODEL SEASON
- Speedway Staff
- May 4
- 1 min read
Ryan Flood may not be planning a full-time Seekonk Speedway campaign in 2026, but the driver of the No. 98 left no question that when he does race, he is going to be a threat. Flood picked up the Late Model victory in the opener of the NASCAR Local Racing Series season, rolling by Chase Belcher and never looking back. Flood had to hold on for multiple restarts late, including a green-white-checkered finish.
The Move of the Race: Fans were jumping when Flood and Belcher battled it out closely for the lead around halfway. Flood took the top spot from Belcher officially at lap 15, and never trailed again.
The Story: Former Legends Cars and Bandolero winner Ryan Vanasse Jr., planning a full-time Late Model season in 2026, charged through the pack and opened the season with a strong second-place finish. In limited career Late Model starts, Vanasse is proving to be close to Victory Lane already
The Top Contenders: Defending champion Charlie Rose finished third, while Rey Lovelace made a return to the top-five in fourth. Andrew Gomes overcame early trouble in the first corner of the first lap to charge back and finish inside the top-five.
The Top-10: Ryan Flood, Ryan Vanasse Jr., Charlie Rose, Rey Lovelace, Andrew Gomes, Tyler Almeida, Mark Jenison, Brenden LaBelle, Richie Murray, Jeff Belyea
Look Out For Next Week: The Late Models will be back on track for 30 laps on May 9. Belcher will look to rebound from a 12th place finish, although he had the speed to contend for the victory
Even in Practice mode, Wacky Steps is not completely safe because hidden traps and environmental hazards can still end your run.
What an exciting recap of the season opener! Ryan Flood really did steal the spotlight. I appreciate how you captured the energy at Seekonk, Escape Road. If I may offer a thought, it would be great to hear more about the behind-the-scenes strategies drivers employ throughout these races!