By Evan McCrory
SUMTER, S.C. (Apr. 26, 2025) — A picture-perfect 76-degree evening set the stage for a thrilling night of Carolina Sprint Tour racing at Sumter Speedway on Saturday. Despite earlier rain showers, fans packed into the brand-new grandstands — and were rewarded with an unforgettable night of RaceSaver IMCA Sprint Car action.
Following a redraw of the top nine qualifiers, it was Greg Smyre and John Frutchey leading the 25-lap, $1,000-to-win feature event to green. After a false start, Frutchey quickly grabbed the lead and looked poised for his first career Carolina Sprint Tour victory. However, on lap 19, heartbreak struck as Frutchey slowed with engine issues, surrendering the lead to Smyre.
Late-race drama ensued as a caution flew with one lap remaining when Derrek Treece spun and collected Richard Wisdo and Matthew Wall. On the ensuing green-white-checkered restart, Jeff Oliver mounted a daring charge for the lead but spun while attempting a pass on Smyre, forcing yet another two-lap dash to the finish.
This time, Smyre left no doubt, driving to his first victory in several seasons and the fifth of his career, tying George Loux on the Carolina Sprint Tour all-time win list. Cale Cozad and Jake McLain were second and third.
