In a remarkable display, the NASCAR Cup Series was treated to an unforgettable episode of The Ryan Preece Show during the Cookout Clash on Wednesday night. This event was nothing short of a raw, unvarnished showcase of Preece’s racing talents.
Known as Preece Lightning, the 2013 Whelen Modified Tour champion has long been a dominant force on the eastern seaboard, captivating fans with his fierce competitiveness both on and off the track. His vibrant personality shines through during interviews, but it’s his undeniable skill behind the wheel that truly sets him apart.
For those who have followed his journey in Tour Type Modified racing, Preece’s presence on Wednesday was a familiar sight. His radio communications during the race may have suggested frustration with his car’s performance, as he candidly expressed his concerns about visibility and conditions.
“Man, visibility is going to be a challenge. Just so you know. It’s terrible,” he remarked. “I’m pretty sure I know what’s going to happen; nothing good, because we can’t see anything.” His candidness about the race conditions quickly became a topic of interest when he reached the media center.
“I think I know what you’re going to ask,” he anticipated, referring to the buzz around his radio chatter. “Exactly, I knew it,” he replied, acknowledging the excitement surrounding his unfiltered comments. When Preece is confident, he often speaks his mind, indicating that things are going smoothly for him on the track.
“Honestly, there’s a lot of passion behind me,” Preece explained. “Anyone who works with me knows I can come off as extremely focused, to the point where it might seem like arrogance.” Starting from the 18th position due to an unfortunate qualifying order, Preece was aware of the uphill battle he faced.
Climbing into the top-10 and subsequently the top-5 fueled the momentum of The Ryan Preece Show. “That’s not how you want to start as a racer,” he noted. “You aim to say, ‘Hey, we got the pole, won the race,’ and all those accolades. I was aware of the challenge ahead. Starting 18th, moving to 9th, and then making adjustments during the break is no easy feat.”
In the past, The Ryan Preece Show has often featured both Ryan and his father, Jeff, who are deeply rooted in the racing world. Ryan possesses not only driving skills but also the ability to work on cars, a passion he shared with his father as he ascended through the ranks.
In this instance, however, Preece leaned on his crew chief, Derrick Finley. “To me, it doesn’t matter what kind of driver you are; it’s 35 degrees out there,” Preece said. “You can’t predict air pressure or adjustments needed in these conditions. When they set these cars up, it’s generally for dry weather. Achieving this level requires immense effort.”
Finley’s strategy of opting for wet tires in the rain while maintaining speed when the track dried proved successful. Together, Preece and Finley secured their first victory, reminiscent of Ryan’s earlier triumphs in New England.
“There were a lot of emotions tied to this win,” Preece reflected. “I’m on the positive side of it right now. Holding this trophy at a track where I first won over a decade ago is incredibly special. This has been part of my journey to reach the Cup level.”
“Since 2019, I’ve been fully committed to this sport. There were moments when I contemplated moving back to Connecticut two years ago. But then, the stars aligned, and the opportunity at RFK emerged. I often wondered if things would materialize or if I would simply become another story that fizzled out at the last minute.”
Preece expressed gratitude for the opportunity, emphasizing the importance of his dedicated team. “Building speed isn’t easy, and it requires passionate individuals behind you. That’s exactly what we have.”
Looking ahead, Finley aims for this season of The Ryan Preece Show to be filled with numerous victories. “We proved our new No. 60 team could come together last year, and we displayed consistency,” he stated. “But this year, it’s all about winning.”
“To kick off the first race of the year with a win, even if it’s just an exhibition, holds significant meaning for us,” Preece added. “We know we can achieve it, and we’re committed to winning multiple times this season.”
As Preece solidifies his status as a legitimate Cup Series competitor and a race victor, this episode of The Ryan Preece Show concluded in typical fashion. It ended with him celebrating in Victory Lane and gearing up for the next short track challenge ahead.
Although he didn’t anticipate a win, Preece was ready to leave Winston-Salem that night and head to New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where he would engage in racing a Tour Type Modified and Super Late Model leading up to the Daytona 500.
So much for taking time to celebrate? “Brother, I’ll celebrate in New Smyrna, Daytona,” Preece responded. “Racing is what it’s all about. This win makes the drive so much sweeter. In about seven hours, I’ll reach my home around midnight and then get to New Smyrna by 7 a.m.; we’ll push through, enjoy a couple of Celsiuses, maybe some coffee, and I’ll catch some sleep Thursday night.”
As he departed the track, RFK Racing’s communications director, Mike Massaro, reminded Preece of his upcoming media engagements on Thursday. Preece assured him he would fulfill all obligations but emphasized the urgency to leave promptly to stay on schedule.
The Ryan Preece Show has returned, and it is shining brighter than ever before.
