In a race filled with strategy and cautions, DJ Kennington emerged victorious at the NASCAR Canada 300 at Riverside International Speedway, taking his No. 17 Castrol Edge / Brimstone Games / CIM Metals Dodge to Victory Lane. It was Kenningtons third trip to Victory Lane with the NASCAR Canada Series at the popular oval.

Kennington, who started from pole position after earning the E3 Spark Plugs Pole Award, managed the early stages of the race with precision. Trouble struck on the opening lap for the No. 80 of Donald Theetge, who ultimately retired after extensive pit work. Bryan Cathcart’s No. 04 also exited the race early.

Kevin Lacroix, behind the wheel of the No. 74 Adaptive One Calipers / NAPA Racing Chevrolet, then gained the lead and remained dominant until a costly pit stop late in the race. The delay allowed the field to pass and cost Lacroix a lap, a misstep that opened the door for Kennington, who took over and held the lead for most of the rest of the race.

“I’m really happy for my guys, my sponsors, and everyone who helped us. We had a great car all day,” said Kennington. “Honestly, Lacroix was very fast. We were better on the short run, he was better on the long run. But sometimes it goes your way and tonight it did. No mistakes, great calls on pit road. It means a lot to win with a brand-new car.”

William Larue, driving the No. 45 Larue Industrial Snow Blowers / XPN Chevrolet, delivered a solid performance to finish second and earned the Jostens Rookie of the Race award.

“It feels really good to be on the podium,” said Larue. “I didn’t think I had the fastest car. Lacroix and Kennington were quicker. We can’t ask for more than second place. My next race is at Chaudière and I think it’ll be good there.”

Rounding out the podium was Ryan Vargas, who earned his first career podium in the NASCAR Canada Series behind the wheel of the No. 28 Critical Path Security Dodge.

“It’s unbelievable. This is my first podium in the NASCAR Canada Series, and it means so much,” said Vargas. “DJ Kennington’s team brought two great cars. I had a lot of learning to do, but once I got into a rhythm, my lap times were strong. It feels great to unload with a top-tier team and fight at the front.”

Unofficial Results – NASCAR Canada 300

Vargas also earned the Gulf Race Fuels Move of the Race award. The top five was completed by Andrew Ranger and Mathieu Kingsbury.

The NASCAR Canada Series returns to action on July 12 at Edmonton International Raceway for the NAPA 300.