The Elk Grove, Calif., native’s talents were shaped by “The Golden State’s” bullrings. Fresh off a Southern 500 win with the NASCAR Cup Series last weekend, Larson flew to California for the opening prelim of the 69th Gold Cup Race of Champions. Any win at the historic Silver Dollar Speedway is a special one for Larson. Then on the 15th lap Larson ripped the top in turns one and two to take over the runner-up spot. On lap 22 in traffic, the gap he needed opened as Larson ducked under Johnson exiting turn two and cleared him heading into the next set of corners. Johnson tripped up on the cushion in turn four, and that was all Larson needed to drive away to the finish line with a four-second lead. “I’ll for sure be tuned in on Saturday,” Larson said.

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