Story By: FLORENCE MOTOR SPEEDWAY – UNION, KY – The Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series makes its grand return to Florence Speedway this Saturday night, May 4th, for the highly-anticipated 38th Annual Ralph Latham Memorial.
A hefty $15,000 payday awaits the victor of the prestigious 50-lap main event.
As anticipation mounts for the 38th Annual Ralph Latham Memorial, all eyes are on the formidable lineup of past champions set to take the track. Reigning victor Ricky Thornton Jr. and local hero Josh Rice, winner in 2021 and 2022, are expected to headline a field brimming with talent.
Other previous winners expected to be in attendance include ‘The Newport Nightmare’ Jimmy Owens, who secured victories in 2008, 2009, and 2014, along with two-time Latham winner Jonathan Davenport, claiming the top spot in 2015 and 2019. Also, among the contenders is the 2023 Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Champion, Hudson O’Neal, who triumphed in the 2018 edition.
The Lucas Oil Dirt Late Model Series showcases some of the most elite talent in the sport, including the aforementioned Thornton, who currently leads the season points chase ahead of formidable competitors such as Davenport, Devin Moran, Mike Marlar, and O’Neal. Daulton Wilson, Jimmy Owens, Garrett Alberson, Tim McCreadie, and Tyler Erb round out the top 10 Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series contenders. In addition to these stars of the series, a strong contingent of regional and local drivers is expected to be on hand, ready to defend their home turf and challenge the series regulars for victory.
Also, racing will be Modifieds in a $1,500-to-win Feature event and the Crate Late Models in a $1,000-to-win program