CARS Tour driver Ryan Wilson was hospitalized following a severe crash at the North Wilkesboro Speedway. The crash occurred during Lap 56 and involved multiple cars, including drivers Isabella Robusto and Brandon Pierce. Wilson was transported to a nearby hospital for evaluation.
North Wilkesboro Speedway’s race became the season finale after a postponed date earlier in the year. Known for its rich history in motorsports, the North Wilkesboro Speedway was a prominent fixture on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule from its inauguration in 1949 until its last major event in 1996.
Sportsnaut reporter Matt Weaver confirmed the news of Wilson’s hospitalization to social media, posting:
“Ryan Wilson took a big hit in that crash and will be transported to a nearby facility.”
Ryan Wilson took a big hit in that crash and will be transported to a nearby facility
— Matt Weaver (@MattWeaverRA) October 20, 2024
The CARS Tour stands as a noteworthy short track racing series predominantly in the Southeastern United States. It features Late Model Stock Cars and Super Late Models.
Sean Gardner/Getty Images
Brenden “Butterbean” Queen entered the race as the leading contender in the championship run. Throughout the season, Queen has celebrated great success, yet he faces fierce competition Connor Hall who poses a significant challenge to Queen’s title hopes.
Although Queen did not win in North Wilkesboro, he had already done enough to clinch the 2024 title. Commenting on his victory, Queen explained to the media:
“It’s just something I never knew would happen. Last year, coming up four or five points short was tough on all of us. This year wasn’t looking good at times. We just never give up. That’s been the motto the whole time I’ve been with LPP. Trust the process and never give up.
“I’m so grateful for the two years I’ve had here with Lee Pulliam. He deserved a CARS Tour championship. I’m proud to say we got him his first one. He’s so deserving to take one back to Alton, Virginia. He works so hard, the whole organization does. We’re going to spray some champagne, find some waffles, we might burn the Waffle House down at this rate.”
Conner Jones celebrated the race win at North Wilkesboro Speedway. He explained to the media:
“I feel like we were better when we were lower on gas. When we got it full, we were just way too loose. We were really loose in, really loose in the center, really loose off. I don’t know. I think once we wore the gas off of it, it came to us, got a little tighter, got a little snugger. We could really move around the top.
“I’m just really happy. It’s a big race, big place to win at.
“We’ve been through a lot. It’s been an up-and-down year. It feels really good to end it out with two wins.”
