The SMART Modified Tour rolls into South Boston Speedway this Saturday for one of the most prestigious races on the schedule. Known for its rich history and tight, high-intensity racing, SoBo is the perfect battleground to determine the next “King of the Modifieds.”
With a stacked field of elite open-wheel talent, let’s break down the top contenders and what makes them favorites—or dark horses—to take home the crown.
The Front-Runners
1. Burt Myers – The Veteran with Championship Pedigree
Few names in Southern Modified racing carry as much weight as Burt Myers. With multiple SMART Tour victories and decades of experience, the #1 Citrusafe Ford is always a threat. Myers’ smooth driving style and ability to manage tire wear could be the key to outlasting the competition at South Boston.
2. Caleb Heady – The Rising Star
Driving for Tommy Baldwin Racing, Heady has emerged as one of the most exciting young stars in Modifieds. The defending SMART Tour champion knows how to win on short tracks and has a team behind him capable of making the right adjustments. If the #7NY finds clean air late in the race, he could be hard to beat.
3. Brandon Ward – Mr. Consistency
No driver has been more reliable at SMART Tour events than Brandon Ward. Whether it’s qualifying near the front or finding a way to charge through the field, Ward’s ability to be in the mix late makes him a serious contender. Expect the #2 machine to be in the hunt for the checkers.
Dark Horses to Watch
Jason Myers – The Underdog with Experience
Often overshadowed by his brother Burt, Jason Myers is a seasoned competitor who knows how to navigate high-intensity races. If he gets the right track position late, don’t be surprised if the #4 sneaks into victory lane.
Danny Bohn – The Wild Card
Whenever Bohn enters a SMART Tour event, he’s a factor. His aggressive but calculated style fits South Boston perfectly, and if he qualifies well, he’ll be in the mix for the win.
Keys to Victory at South Boston
- Track Position Matters – South Boston’s tight corners make passing difficult. Expect aggressive moves on restarts to be the difference-maker.
- Tire Conservation – Managing tire wear will separate the contenders from the pretenders. Those who push too early might fade late.
- Staying Out of Trouble – The SMART Mods are known for their door-to-door action. Avoiding unnecessary contact could be the key to being in position for a late-race charge.
Final Thoughts
With a field full of talented veterans and rising stars, Saturday’s race at South Boston is shaping up to be a can’t-miss event. Will a familiar face claim the crown, or will a new “King of the Modifieds” emerge?
One thing is certain—it’s going to be a showdown under the lights!
