July 5, 2024

Lavonia, Georgia – The 4th Annual Rusty Jordan Memorial at Lavonia Speedway turned out to be an unforgettable night for both fans and drivers, despite a challenging start. A steady rain shower before the race initially threatened to dampen spirits, but ultimately, it transformed the track into a tacky and super fast surface, setting the stage for thrilling high-speed action.

As the rain clouds dissipated, the atmosphere at Lavonia Speedway became electric with anticipation. The unexpected rain worked wonders on the clay track, enhancing grip and speed, much to the delight of the drivers. The packed stands buzzed with excitement as engines roared to life, ready to honor the legacy of Rusty Jordan.

The race saw some of the best dirt track racers from across the region vying for glory. The tacky track conditions allowed for daring maneuvers and close-quarters racing, keeping fans on the edge of their seats throughout the night. Spectacular slides, breathtaking passes, and intense battles for position were commonplace all evening.

One of the highlights of the night was the emotional tribute to Rusty Jordan, a beloved figure in the racing community. Friends, family, and fans took a moment to reflect on his contributions to the sport and his enduring legacy. The race in his honor was a fitting celebration of his passion and dedication to racing.

The no. 1T of Jimmy Johnson would claim the pole to lead the 21-car field to green. Starting beside Johnson was the no. 0N of Johnny Westmoreland. The pace laps displayed a touching tribute to Rusty Jordan with a missing man formation in the fifth position in honor of his number 5, along with a five finger salute in his honor on the fifth pace lap. The green flag fell and the door-to-door action of this 35 lap race began.

The battle for the $3555 prize started right from the drop of the green flag. The 98 of Sterling Helm, the 53 of Michael Segars, and the 75 of Jared Jones would battle three wide for second through fourth. Unfortunately their battle would be ended early as the caution flag would fly in turn four for a spin of the 2T of Ryan Touchberry and the 20 of Bobby Young.

We would realign and try again, the green flag flew and the engines roared back to life. Before we could make it fully through lap four, the yellow flag would fly again, this time for an incident in turn two. The 2T of Ryan Touchberry and the 107 of Zac Fleeman would spin, blocking the racing line.

The 1T of Jimmy Johnson would continue to hold the lead beside the 98 of Sterling Helm. The battle for the lead would see Johnson pull out to a size-able five car lead down the back stretch .

Your Smokey Bear Cigars & Cafe Midway Top 5: 1T Jimmy Johnson, 98 Sterling Helm , 53 Michael Segars, 0N Johnny Westmoreland, 75 Jared Jones.

We would make it three more laps under green until again the yellow flew. The no. 75, who was running in seventh would have a run in with the lapped no. 20 car of Bobby Young . The no. 75 would make heavy contact with the no. 20, resulting in the left front quarter panel being ripped off of the no. 75. Unfortunately, this would end Jones’s quest for the $3555 grand prize.

We would line up and restack the field to try again for a green flag run. Lap 20 would be a critical moment of the 35 lap Rusty Jordan Memorial. As the field was entering turn three, the no. 53 car of Michael Segars, 22 of Terry Caples, and the 2T of Touchberry would pile up with the rest of the field collecting behind them. Multiple heavy impacts and debris all over the racing service resulted in a red flag. The 21 car field would be dwindled down to 10 cars for the final 15 laps.

Johnson would still maintain the lead through all of the chaos ensuing behind him. Johnson would lead the field back to green. The field would run six more laps until the 2D of Dayton Sousa would spin in turn two, resulting in the fifth and final caution of the race.

The final restart would see the 1T and the 98 of Sterling Helm fire off the line with blazing speed. Johnson would pull to an early lead and put a two second gap between himself and Helm. Johnson would claim the victory in the 4th Annual Rusty Jordan Memorial.

Rusty Jordan Memorial Results Modified Street Results

1. Jimmy Johnson
2. Royce Bray
3. Rod Tucker
4. Johnny Westmoreland
5. Jennifer Everett
6. Drew Griffeth -1 lap
7. Michael Lewis -3 laps
8. Dayton Sousa -5 laps
9. Brandon Davis -6 laps
10. Bobby Young -11 laps
11. Michael Segars -15 laps
12. Phillip Burton -15 laps
13. Terry Caples -15 laps
14. Jared Jones -16 laps
15. Austin Brown -19 laps
16. Rex Hambrick -22 laps
17. Ryan Touchberry -22 laps
18. Josh Thurmond -24 laps
19. Elijah Gonzales -28 laps
20. Zac Fleeman -31 laps
21. Ryan Boles – DNS
22. Carson Floyd – DNS
23. Ethan Sellers – DNS
24. Sterling Helm – DQ

The 4th Annual Rusty Jordan Memorial was more than just a race; it was a testament to the spirit of the racing community. The camaraderie, the excitement, and the shared love for the sport were palpable throughout the night. Despite the early weather challenge, the event was a resounding success, leaving fans eagerly anticipating next year’s race.

As the night drew to a close, it was clear that Rusty Jordan’s legacy continues to inspire and bring together the racing family. Lavonia Speedway once again proved to be a premier venue for dirt track racing, delivering a memorable experience for all who attended.