Jason Jefferson Wins 33rd Montana 200 at Mission Valley

Veteran Washington racer Jason Jefferson added another feather to his cap on Saturday night at Mission Valley Super Oval, winning the 33rd Montana 200.

Jefferson moved into top spot on lap 130 and maintained the top spot on several restarts through an eventful Montana 200, the first under the banner of the Northwest Super Late Model Series since the historic event moved to Mission Valley following the closing of Montana Raceway Park in 2020.

"It feels really good," said Jefferson. "I'm just really grateful and humble that I've got people that stick with me. I guess everyone's telling me I'm old, so I feel fortunate that people want to race with me. I'm glad Mission Valley carried on the tradition."

On lap 40, Jefferson spun as part of a multi-car incident in turn three. That may have been a blessing in disguise according to him, as it brought the car to pit road for repairs and adjustments.

"It was probably a good thing, because then we worked on it in the pits and made some adjustments. I wasn't good enough where it was. I think it all turned out for the best right there."

Dave Garber finished second in the race, admitting that he probably ran out of steam in the driver's seat to prevent him from truly challenging for the win.

"It was a lot of work," said Garber. "Had to come from the back two or three times, but I actually thought we'd have a little more at the end. I think I ran out of gas, myself."

While veterans took the top two spots in the Montana 200, the third step on the podium belonged to 16-year-old Danica Dart. Dart finished eighth in this event one year ago, but stepped up to a third-place finish in her sophomore attempt in the marquee event.

"We work so hard towards this and we've never really been in victory lane," said Dart. "I can't believe my first victory lane is at the Montana 200 and I'm so grateful for my whole crew. They put together a good car today, and I think I brought my A-game also.

"I got caught up in a lot of stuff. I started in the back, worked my way forward again and again. It went really well. My car just takes a few laps to kick in. It was really fun. Congratulations to Jason and Dave. I'm very thankful."

Alex Lessor finished fourth, while Hayden Hoogeveen rounded out the top five.

Meridian Speedway will be the Northwest Super Late Model Series' next stop, playing host to the Idaho 208 on August 10.

-Photo credit: Northwest Super Late Model Series

Montana 200 Unofficial Results