What won the race: Justin Wells of Aurora, Mo., regained the lead on the fourth lap at Legit Speedway Park and never looked by en route to capturing the 30-lap MARS DIRTcar Series weekend opener. Wells earned $2,000 in taking the checkers ahead of hometown driver Logan Martin, who had a series career-best runner-up finish.

Key notes: The victory was the sixth of Wells's career on the MARS tour. ... Wells assumed command at the drop of the green but lost the lead to Justin Asplin the following lap. After regaining the top spot on lap four, Wells paced the rest of the way. .. The event was slowed by three caution flags, on laps five, 14 and 18. ... Series action continues Saturday at West Plains with a $3,000-to-win event.

Winner's sponsors: Wells's TNT Race Car is sponsored by B&P Racing, Midwest Sheet Metal, Doty Trash Service, Gilmartin Seamless Guttering and Freedom Bank.

Points chase: After Friday's action, Tony Jackson Jr. of Lebanon, Mo., led the standings with 1,489 points over Justin Asplin (1,329) and Payton Looney (1,285).

Car count: 32

Heat race winners: Will Vaught, Gavin Landers, Justin Asplin, Justin Wells

Consolation race winners: Dustin Mooneyham, Jason Hughes

Next series race: September 24, Legit Speedway Park (West Plains, MO) $3,000