Gragson takes the limelight in Kansas Speedway truck race

Race winner Ryan Gragson crossed the finish line of the 37 Kind Days 250 at Kansas Speedway. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)

by Brian Turrel

Noah Gragson won the 37 Kind Days 250 race at Kansas Speedway on Friday evening.

Myatt Snider tried to insert some late drama into a race that needed it, staying on the track when most other drivers pitted, hoping for a miracle, or at least a late caution flag.

Snider’s fuel-starved Ford sputtered and slowed with five laps remaining, putting Noah Gragson back in front, where he had been for nearly the entire race.

Last year’s winner Kyle Busch also tried some late pit strategy, taking only two tires on his last stop and gaining a momentary advantage. Gragson took four tires and quickly reeled in and passed Busch, his boss on the Kyle Busch Motorsports team.

Gragson started from the pole, won the race’s two intermediate stages, and was well in front when the checkered flag came down on his victory.

Kansas City, Kan. native Jennifer Jo Cobb placed 22nd.

Noah Gragson hoisted the trophy for the 37 Kind Days 250. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)
Jennifer Jo Cobb talked with her crew in the pits after the race. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)
Kyle Busch prepared to take his car out on the track for qualifying for Saturday’s KC Masterpiece 400. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)
Monster Energy Cup series driver David Ragan signed autographs after his qualifying laps. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)
Jennifer Jo Cobb (10) and Norm Benning (6) raced in the 37 Kind Days 250 at Kansas Speedway. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)
Jennifer Jo Cobb took plenty of time for pictures with fans before the race.
Wendell Chavous’s pit crew changed tires during a pit stop. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)
Jennifer Jo Cobb (10) raced in the 37 Kind Days 250 at Kansas Speedway. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)
Stewart Friesen (52) and Norm Benning (6) raced side by side down the home straightaway. (Photo copyright 2018 by Brian Turrel)