As the first Silver Crown race of the season approaches after three Sprint races, drivers are gearing up for their shot at victory on Saturday. Among them is CJ Leary, who showed promise in previous races by leading an impressive 77 laps. His strong performance positions him as a top contender for the upcoming race at Toledo Speedway, fueling hopes for a well-deserved victory.
Score to Settle! 🥊@CJ_Leary_ led a race-high 77 laps of last year's USAC Silver Crown race at @ToledoSpeedway.
After his runner-up finish, he's ready to duke it out this Saturday at Toledo.
It's redemption time & C.J. feels his first Crown win since June 2022 is creepin' up. pic.twitter.com/TiMoeS5xcU
— USAC Racing (@USACNation) April 18, 2024
In a recent post, CJ Leary reflected on last year’s race and the missed opportunities despite leading for a significant portion of the race. Despite the setbacks, Leary expressed gratitude for the unwavering support he received from racing legends like Bob and Terry, whose guidance and mentorship have played a pivotal role in his journey. Their support continues to bolster Leary’s confidence as he prepares to tackle the challenges of the upcoming race.
CJ Leary’s Dominant Performance at Toledo Speedway
The 2023 United States Auto Club (USAC) Silver Crown season kicked off with a bang at Toledo Speedway. Among the standout performances was that of CJ Leary, who left a lasting impression on fans and competitors alike.
During the 100-lap race, Leary took over the lead from the legendary Kody Swanson on lap two. What followed was a masterclass in racing as Leary led an astounding 77 consecutive laps. The battle between the two drivers intensified, with Swanson relentlessly pursuing Leary.
As the laps clicked off, Swanson closed the gap and finally claimed the lead for the final time on Lap 79. It was a five-lap battle for supremacy, and Swanson’s experience and determination paid off. He ultimately secured his seventh career Rollie Beale Classic victory, making it his fifth consecutive win at Toledo Speedway with the champ cars dating back to 2018.
Leary’s performance was nothing short of remarkable. His 77-lap lead was the highest of any driver during the race, showcasing his skill and determination. Although he narrowly missed out on the win, his runner-up finish was his best of the 2023 season.
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