What won the race: Fifth-starting Dale Timms of Hodges, S.C., dominated Saturday’s City Chevrolet Thunder Series season opener at Cherokee Speedway, winning by 6.260 seconds ahead of Lee Gray for a $1,500 payday.

Key notes: Nine drivers finished the race, with eight completing all 25 laps. … Runner-up Lee Gray of Tunnel Hill, Ga., won last year’s series opener at Cherokee. … Austin Mintz of Hopkins, S.C., earned the $100 pole award provided by Buffalo Bar and Grill. ... The City Chevrolet Thunder Series kicked off its fifth season Saturday at Cherokee Speedway, the opening day of competition for the track’s 16th annual March Madness. ... Cherokee hosts the Southern All Stars on Sunday for a $12,000-to-win program.

Winner's sponsors: Dale Timms drives a No. 07 sponsored by Superior Roofing, Cross Air Cooled Parts & Service, Buffalo Bar & Grill and Envy Suspension.

Points chase: It’s the City Chevrolet Thunder Series season opener; Rod Roberts is the tour’s reigning champion.

Current weather: Sunny, 47°F

Car count: 21

Fast qualifier: Austin Mintz

Time: 16.616 seconds

Next series race: March 8, Lavonia Speedway (Lavonia, GA) $1,500