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Schatz Peerless In Volusia All-Star Action

Donny Schatz is all smiles after collecting his first win in 2016. [Joe Jennings Photo]

Donny Schatz is all smiles after collecting his first win in 2016. [Joe Jennings Photo]

Barberville, Fla. – Donny Schatz was peerless in the 30-lap feature in the Arctic Cat All-Star Circuit of Champions race at the Volusia Speedway Park on a cool Thursday evening. The racing action is part of the multi-day DIRTcar Nationals being staged on the half-mile dirt track.

Starting 10th, the North Dakota-native picked off cars quickly and passed early leader Jason Johnson on the 20th circuit for the coveted top spot.

“The track slowed down, got slick and the whole thing went away, so I just ran it through the middle,” the victor said. “I wouldn’t come to a race without thinking I could win. When my guys get things right, it doesn’t matter where you start, if the conditions are right. Getting the first win of the season is always the hardest to do, and you feel good when you get one out of the way.”

Schatz planned to call owner Tony Stewart to discuss the race and hoped the win will bring a smile to the injured driver’s face.

In two nights of All-Star races, Schatz scored a first and a second.

Dale Blaney took second, Johnson third, Danny Lasoski fourth and Bryan Clauson fifth.

Sixth through 10th were Dave Blaney, David Gravel, Brad Sweet, Tim Shaffer and Greg Hodnett.

In the DIRTcar UMP modified feature, Tyler Nicely held off hard-charging Ty Dillon to win the 20-lap feature. Brian Ruhlman took third place.

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