The Alive For 5 Super Late Model Series returned to Dells Raceway Park for the highly anticipated “Trickle 99” event on Saturday, June 24. Despite challenging weather conditions, Gabe Sommers showcased his exceptional skills, delivering a remarkable performance that earned him a second-place finish.
Throughout the day, Sommers displayed his prowess during practice, recording second and sixth-place results in each session. His consistent performance instilled confidence as he entered qualifying, facing stiff competition from eighteen other talented drivers. Sommers surpassed all expectations, setting the fastest lap of 13.334 seconds on the ⅓ mile speedway, securing the pole position by a mere 0.023 seconds.
With the race schedule adjusted to avoid impending rain, the Super Late Model feature event commenced earlier than anticipated, delighting both the on-site spectators and those watching via PitRow TV’s live broadcast. Starting from the sixth position, Gabe Sommers faced a challenging task in the 99-lap race, aiming for victory lane.
Demonstrating exceptional skill and determination, Sommers wasted no time in advancing his position, quickly moving up to the top five by lap five. He continued his charge, climbing to fourth place a few laps later. Despite heavy traffic, Sommers managed to maintain his position, with Luke Fenhaus in close pursuit. Unfortunately, contact between the two competitors on lap 22 resulted in a caution, but Fenhaus took responsibility for the incident, allowing Sommers to retain his spot in the top five.
Following the restart, Gabe swiftly secured a podium position and set his sights on the leading cars. A fierce battle for second place ensued on lap 35, with Sommers successfully solidifying his position by lap 37. With only Jordan DeVoy remaining between him and the lead, Sommers made a decisive move on lap 47, taking over the front spot and establishing a substantial lead. He maintained his advantage, building a 10-car-length gap over his closest competitor, until the final lap when Luke Fenhaus made a late pass, relegating Sommers to a well-deserved second-place finish.
With yet another impressive performance, Gabe Sommers will carry significant momentum into a brief break in their schedule before their next race, the Wayne Carter Classic 100 at Grundy County Speedway on July 8. Fans unable to attend the race in Morris, IL can catch the action live on MidwestTour.TV, with the broadcast starting at 3:00 PM CST.