Howard Has Carolina Homecoming With Hickory ASA Win

Colby Howard nearly had a flawless evening at Hickory Motor Speedway. The South Carolina local showcased a dominant performance in the ASA STARS National Tour Ross & Witmer 255, sponsored by Appalachian Sucker Punch.

After 255 laps, Howard managed to fend off NASCAR Driver Chase Elliott to secure his first victory on the Appalachian Sucker Punch ASA STARS National Tour.

The event began with Howard clinching the CorvetteParts.net Pole Award with a lap time of 14.294. It was an all-Anthony Campi Racing front row, with Carson Brown clocking the second-fastest time.

Howard led the initial 80 laps, winning the first segment ahead of Cole Butcher and Carson Brown.

Upon the restart, Butcher seized the lead, marking the fourth consecutive race he led the field this season. He maintained his position up to the second stage break on lap 160.

From the restart until lap 220, Howard persistently challenged Butcher, often attempting to pass on the inside. The two exchanged paint a few times, but Butcher retained his lead.

A late caution with 30 laps remaining set up a restart, during which Butcher slowed down the field due to a broken axle, forcing him into the pits.

Howard took the lead, with Chase Elliott attempting to catch up. However, Elliott never got close enough to make a move, allowing Howard to claim the victory.

Elliott overcame nose damage, as did third-place finisher Gavan Boschele, who was involved in an early spin. Carson Brown finished fourth, and Bubba Pollard took fifth place.

In victory lane, Butcher celebrated with the winner, acknowledging the intense competition among the top two. Butcher managed to finish sixth, salvaging points from the night.