Zane Smith’s lead engineer wins NASCAR ARCA Menards Series West race on debut

Modified Oct 14, 2023 18:47 IST

Dylan Cappello achieves impressive victory at Las Vegas Motor Speedway’s Bullring in the thrilling ARCA Menards Series race. Cappello, a seasoned racer and lead engineer for Zane Smith at Front Row Motorsports, claimed his first win in the ARCA Menards Series West.

Driving the No. 88 Ford Mustang owned by Mike Naake, Cappello skillfully navigated the competition in his debut race and secured the checkered flag after an intense battle for the lead.

Finishing in second and third place were Trevor Huddleston and Tanner Reif respectively. The race showcased numerous dramatic moments, including cautions and a fiery incident involving the race leader’s car. Overall, it was a thrilling race with exceptional performances from the drivers.

This event was a memorable night in the Las Vegas desert as Dylan Cappello celebrated his first career victory in the Star Nursey 150 at the Bullring, only in his second career start.

According to Dylan Cappello, this is not just any ordinary occasion but an opportunity to cherish moments with loved ones

Cappello’s win was partially due to the misfortune of Sean Hingorani, who had dominated the race for the majority of its 150 laps but encountered a fiery mishap on the right front during the sixth caution, resulting in a red flag.

Unfortunately, Hingorani’s night took a downturn as he had to pit for a new right front tire and later stopped on the track, ultimately finishing in 16th place in the ARCA Menards Series race.

On the other hand, Kaden Honeycutt faced a challenging night, starting at the rear due to an engine change. Despite working his way up to fifth place, the native of Woodlands, Texas, fell back to ninth by the end of the race.

After the race, Dylan Cappello expressed his thrill, stating (Arcaracing):

“Man, it’s just crazy. This is more of a special event where I get to enjoy time with my family and friends. I’ve raced countless times at The Bullring in both a Late Model and a Modified.”

And then, it turned into a win. The excitement is out of control. It’s absolutely mind-boggling. I can’t believe what’s happening right now. This car is incredibly fast. Mike Naake has provided me with an exceptional vehicle.”

Cappello further shared:

“These competitors are fierce on restarts, and I struggled to keep up throughout the night. But, man, I managed to shift gears just well enough and entered Turn 1 smoothly. It all came together. Although I felt like I made 30 mistakes in the last two laps, it all came together in the end.”

With only two races remaining in the 2023 ARCA Menards Series West season, the upcoming event on the schedule is the highly anticipated return to California’s Madera Speedway.

The race, named 51FIFTY Jr. Homecoming ARCA 150 and presented by the West Coast Stock Car/Motorsports Hall of Fame, will be hosted by Madera Speedway for the first time since 2009. Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 21.