What won the race: Leading the rest of the distance after inheriting the lead during a lap-20 caution, Ben Watkins of Rock Hill, S.C., picked up his first career Ultimate Southeast Series victory Saturday at Modoc Raceway. Watkins finished ahead of John Henderson and Casey Roberts in winning $4,000 in the Clarks Hill Classic.
Key notes: Dennis Franklin of Gaffney, S.C., a two-time Ultimate Southeast Series winner at Modoc, led first 10 laps before mechanical issues forced him to the pit area during a caution. … Daulton Wilson led the next 10 laps before a flat left rear tire during a lap-20 caution handed the lead to Watkins. … Rain pushed the start of the event back to nearly 10 p.m. and after scoring loop issues, qualifying was set for just before midnight. … There have been 11 different winners in 12 series race this season, with Ross Bailes of Clover, S.C., the lone repeat winner. … This was the tour’s second visit to Modoc this season. Chris Ferguson won there back on May 18. … Friday’s Buck Simmons Memorial sanctioned by the Ultimate Southeast Series at Lavonia Speedway was reset for Aug. 30.
Winner's sponsors: Watkins drives a Rocket Chassis with a Clements Racing Engine with sponsorship from Sandwood Company Inc., Heintz Brothers Performance, Cartersville Country Winery, Craig Industries, S & S Custom Decals, Indocil Art, Bell Helmets, GW Performance and LCM.
Points chase: Entering the event, Zack Mitchell (323 points) of Woodruff, S.C., led Daulton Wilson (256), Anthony Sanders (222), Jeff Smith (198), Dennis Franklin (162).
Current weather: Mostly Cloudy with Light Rain, 80°F
Car count: 21
Fast qualifier: Dennis Franklin
Time: 16.099 seconds
Polesitter: Dennis Franklin
Next series race: August 16, Richmond Raceway (Richmond, KY) $20,059