What won the race: Leading flag-to-flag, Ben Watkins of Rock Hill, S.C., scored his series-best third Fast Unified Engine Late Model Series victory of the season Friday at Carolina Speedway. Watkins topped points leader Robbie Emory for a $2,500 payday in the 35-lapper.

Key notes: Watkins previously won the first two series races of the season at Cherokee Speedway in Gaffney, S.C., and Fayetteville (N.C.) Motor Speedway. He has four career series victories. ... Outside front-row starter Steve Banal retired after a single lap. ... Carolina Speedway hosted its only series race of the season and fourth in series history. … Fans were treated to a fireworks show.

Winner's sponsors: Watkins drives a Rocket Chassis with a Clements Racing Engine that is sponsored by Craig Industries, Baird Transport, Cartersville Country Winery, Heintz Bros Performance, Indocil Art, Sandwood Company, Inc., and A-Mobile Storage.

Points chase: Entering the event, Robbie Emory (472) led Ben Watkins (446), Shaun Harrell (452), Brandon White (390) and Steve Banal (388).

Car count: 23

Fast qualifier: Ben Watkins

Time: 16.002 seconds

Heat race winners: Ben Watkins, Steve Banal, Brandon White,  ,  ,  ,  ,  

Next series race: July 21, Cherokee Speedway (Gaffney, SC) $0