Gator Huntin’ – What to Watch for at Volusia

It is officially race day for the World of Outlaw Sprint Cars at Volusia Speedway Park. Four consecutive nights of racing are on the schedule and 45 drivers have signed in for competition. With every new season, new storylines arise, and the 2024 season is no different. Check out some of the things I am watching for this week.

Since 2015, only 3 non-World of Outlaw full-timers have been able to win at Volusia. They are Greg Hodnett, Aaron Reutzel and Dave Blaney. I think that all changes this week, especially with the amount of High Limit drivers in the pit area.

All Eyes on Donny Schatz

Since 2005, no driver has won more races at Volusia. Schatz has found victory lane 28 times, 19 more than the next driver. Last season did not go as planned for the Tony Stewart Racing driver, but if there is one place he can turn it around, it’s Volusia.

Gravel vs. Macedo

The two favorites to win the World of Outlaws title will both need to have strong starts. If they learned anything from Brad Sweet, it’s that consistency is a major factor toward the championship battle. Gravel has been close a couple times but has always fallen short. Macedo looked incredible in Australia and will look to carry that momentum into the new season.

Is Anthony Macri Back?

Can Macri put all of last year’s drama behind him and return to the dominant driver he has been? I think the answer is yes. Macri looked quick in practice yesterday and I expect his team to hit the ground running this year. It would not surprise me to see Macri on the podium more than once this week.

How Will the Young Guns Do?

Ryan Timms, Corey Day, Brenham Crouch, Landon Crawley and Creed Kemenah will all be in action at Volusia. We all know about Timms and Day, but what about the rest? Brenham Crouch looked impressive in practice and I think he has the tools to translate that into a successful week. Landon Crawley will definitely need a few races to get comfortable, as he does not have the 410 experience that the rest of the field has.

Will High Limit Take Over?

Brad Sweet, Rico Abreu, Brent Marks, Cory Eliason, Brenham Crouch, Justin Peck, Spencer Bayston, Zeb Wise, Jacob Allen, Kasey Kahne, Corey Day, Tyler Courtney and Chris Windom have all signed in to race. Brent Marks was quickest in two of the three practice sessions yesterday and he knows how to get around the big tracks. Marks is one of my favorites to steal a win away from the Outlaws. Obviously, you can never rule out Brad Sweet and Rico Abreu. Sweet will likely be on a mission to find victory lane against his old competition. Look for Tyler Courtney and Corey Day to consistently be running up front.

Can an “Invader” Win?

Danny Dietrich, Brian Brown, Austin McCarl, Anthony Macri, Ryan Timms, Sam Hafertepe Jr and Justin Whittall headline the list of invaders signed in at Volusia. We know what Anthony Macri can do, but what about the Knoxville regulars? Brian Brown and Austin McCarl will both be looking to spoil things for the High Limit and Outlaw regulars. Danny Dietrich is always competitive against the Outlaws, but can he get it done far from the porch? I think Ryan Timms will have at least one very impressive night, as he looked very strong in the 360 last week.