NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A large and enthusiastic crowd combined with a massive 134-car field to officially launch the 122nd season of racing at Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway on Saturday night, delivering a full evening of competitive and entertaining racing across multiple divisions.
From the youngest competitors to the Pro Late Model headliners, fans were treated to side-by-side action, dramatic finishes, and memorable performances throughout the night despite cool spring conditions.
Robinson Breaks Through in Pro Late Model Feature
The night concluded with a 122-lap Pro Late Model feature that showcased one of the strongest fields assembled to open a season in recent years.
Corey Deuser led the opening 34 laps before former track champion Jackson Boone took command on lap 35. Boone remained out front until lap 76, when a restart allowed Brett Robinson to take over the top spot.
Robinson, who also set fast time in qualifying, held steady over the closing laps while Boone mounted a late charge. In the end, Robinson secured his first career victory at Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway, holding off Boone by just 0.260 seconds.
Pannell Awarded Limited Late Model Victory
One of the most competitive races of the night came in the Limited Late Model division, where Dylan Jones and Michael Pannell traded the lead multiple times over the closing laps in a thrilling battle.
Jones initially crossed the finish line first, but following post-race technical inspection, he was disqualified due to left-side weight and fraction infractions, officially awarding the victory to Michael Pannell.
Feature Winners from Opening Night
- Pro Late Models: Brett Robinson
- Limited Late Models: Michael Pannell
- Pure Stocks: Chase Cohron
- Pest Doctor Front Runners: Brett Lee
The INEX Legends divisions also delivered standout moments:
- Pro Division: Nick Woodall
- Masters Division: Kyle Fletcher
- Semi-Pro Division: Dylan Faulkner (by 0.017 seconds in a photo finish)
- Young Lions Division: Case James
In Bandolero competition:
- Beginner Division: Malachi Woods
- Regular Division: Lucas Harrison
Strong Start to Historic Season
Saturday night’s event marked the beginning of the 122nd year of continuous racing at the historic Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway, and the turnout both on and off the track reflected the continued momentum of grassroots racing in Middle Tennessee.
With 134 race cars in attendance, a packed grandstand, and competitive racing across every division, the 2026 season is off to a strong start.
Up next, the spotlight returns to Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway on Saturday, April 11 as the CARS Tour invades the historic oval for one of the most anticipated events of the early season. Highlighting the night will be the appearance of Dale Earnhardt Jr., who is set to compete in the event presented by Tootsies Orchid Lounge. A strong field is expected for the touring series stop, adding even more excitement to an already stacked schedule. Reserved and general admission tickets are available now at nashvillefairgroundsspeedway.
Fans can find more information on upcoming events, schedules, and ticketing by visiting nashvillefairgroundsspeedway.
-Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway
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