MARYVILLE, Tenn. — Facing Saturday night thunderstorms and a wide-ranging storm system affecting much of the country, World of Outlaws Late Model Series and Smoky Mountain Speedway officials this evening announced the cancellation of the Tennessee Tipoff finale. The $15,000-to-win event won’t be rescheduled.

The weekend’s outbreak of storms stretching from Iowa to Florida was expected to bring thunderstorms, high winds and potential tornadoes, although the track was on the far western edge of the affected area.

With the cancellation, the WoO circuit turns its attention to Swainsboro (Ga.) Raceway for March 21-22’s weekend of $12,000- and $15,000-to-win.

In Friday’s weekend opener at Smoky Mountain, Bobby Pierce captured the $12,000 victory. The event drew 45 entries but three expected series regulars — Tyler Bruening of Decorah, Iowa; Cade Dillard of Robeline, La.; and Dustin Walker of Polk, Mo. — skipped the weekend event, citing unruly weather.