(Eastaboga, AL - March 2, 2026) — A new chapter in late model racing at Southern Raceway begins this Saturday night as the inaugural Late Model Challenge Series fires off with Round 1 of the six-race championship, highlighted by a $3,000-to-win / $300-to-start main event for CRUSA 604 Crate Late Models.
The brand-new Late Model Challenge Series has been officially incorporated into the Crate Racin' USA National Points program, awarding full CRUSA National Points toward the 2026 championship chase. For drivers pursuing national honors, the season opener at Southern Raceway represents a key early opportunity to build momentum in the standings.
The series will feature six high-profile events spread across the 2026 season, while also crowning its own champion through a dedicated season-long points fund. The Late Model Challenge Series will pay at least $3,000 to the series champion, with points fund money awarded to every driver who competes in all six races, emphasizing commitment and consistency throughout the year.
Following Saturday’s March 7 season opener, remaining Late Model Challenge Series events are scheduled for April 25, May 16, July 25, September 5–6 (co-sanctioned with the CRUSA Touring Series), and the October 10 finale.
In addition to the headline Late Model Challenge Series feature, a full slate of weekly racing action will fill the Milton, Florida oval on opening night. Fans will also see competition in Street Stock, Vintage, Pure Stock, Bomber, and Stinger divisions.
Ticket Prices for March 7
General Admission: $20 (Kids 12 & under FREE)
Pit Passes: $35 Adults | $20 Kids ages 6–12 | Kids 5 & under FREE
Start times and additional event details will be announced in the coming days.
Southern Raceway is located at 9359 Nichols Lake Rd, Milton, FL, call (850) 623-2333 or email them at southernracewaymilton@gmail.com.
Drivers looking to compete in the 2026 National Points chase can register now by purchasing their annual membership through MyRacePass:
https://www.myracepass.com/sanctions/1008/registrations
Division rules are available at the following links:
Weekly Late Models: https://weeklylatemodels.crateracinusa.com/rules/
Street Stocks: https://streetstocks.crateracinusa.com/rules/
Article Credit: Cody Earley