The NASCAR offseason officially came to an end Wednesday at Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, N.C., with the Cookout Clash, a race many drivers described as “wacky” and “a marathon.” Ryan Preece emerged victorious in a chaotic event marked by sleet delays, slick asphalt, and a record 17 cautions. For Preece, the win was more than just another checkered flag—it was a culmination of a career full of highs and lows, mirroring the turbulence of the NASCAR offseason itself.
Drivers and teams endured a difficult winter. Denny Hamlin, who faced both professional setbacks and personal tragedy, highlighted the emotional weight carried by many in the sport. After losing the Championship 4 lead last November, Hamlin dealt with litigation, a shoulder injury, and a devastating fire that took his father’s life and injured his mother. “A lot of people go through tragedies,” Hamlin said. “Everyone has their times when they have to go through tough moments. It’s how you respond that matters.”
The Clash also honored the memory of Greg Biffle, who died in a plane crash in December. RFK Racing, the team Biffle helped build, celebrated a victory with heavy hearts, showing the emotional resilience of the NASCAR community. “It’s time we get back to that,” said RFK Racing president Chip Bowers.
For fans, the race offered a reprieve from the offseason drama. Drivers like Ryan Blaney and William Byron found the experience invigorating, appreciating the chance to reconnect with the sport and the camaraderie of the track. “Nothing is better than working with them at the racetrack,” Blaney said.
As teams turn their attention to the Daytona 500, the Clash serves as a reminder that NASCAR, despite a turbulent offseason filled with tragedy and controversy, is ready for a fresh start. Drivers, crews, and fans alike are looking forward to a new season, hoping to rediscover old rhythms while honoring the challenges and memories of the months gone by.
The road to Daytona is underway, and for NASCAR, it’s a chance to hit reset, embrace competition, and begin anew.
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