John Kirk of Johnsburg, Ill. became the fifth different IRA Lightning Sprints feature winner at Wilmot this season taking top honors in the 20-lap main. Early race leader Mitchell Reich of Waukegan, IL spun in turn one three laps into the main. Ron Brannam of Barrington, IL took over the top spot on the restart. Two laps later, with 15-laps remaining, Kirk shot to the inside in turn one to take the lead. Kirk pulled away to the finish for the victory. Derek Fortier of Franksville was second. Ron Brannam was third, his son, Tim Brannam of Holiday Hills, IL, fourth, and Tim's son(Ron's grandson) Max Brannam of Holiday Hills was fifth.
"It's been a long time," said Kirk, noting this was the third career feature win for him at Wilmot. Wilmot has been Kirk's home track as he was crew chief for previous Wilmot and IRA Champion Dave Moulis, for several years before turning to driving. "This track is very special. Lots of great memories here. My wife is here and she can finally see me get a win. My son, Nathan, does a lot of work helping on the car. This is a great way to end the season at Wilmot."
- Kim Tennyson on Sep 20, 2021
- Article Date: 9/20/2021