What won the race: Winning a late-race battle over Ryan Gustin, third-starting Michael Brown of Lancaster, S.C., claimed his first career World of Outlaws Case Late Model Series victory in Friday's Rock Gault Memorial opener at Cherokee Speedway. He finished 0.696 seconds ahead of Gustin.

Quotable: "It's badass, badass," Brown said. "You know, I've always dreamed of doing this. It's a surreal moment. It's awesome and I'm damn sure gonna enjoy it."

Key notes: Brown, who recently became a father after the birth of his son Mason, fended off Gustin in the waning laps as the duo battled lapped traffic. … Ross Bailes of Clover, S.C., who is gunning for the Drydene Xtreme DIRTcar Series championship, finished 21st after battling right-front fender damage late in the race that forced him to the pit area. … Current point leader Ben Watkins of Lancaster, S.C., finished 22nd. … The second annual Rock Gault Memorial weekend concludes on Saturday with a $20,000-to-win finale. … John Ruggiero Jr. of Lincolnton, N.C., pocketed $1,500 for winning the Mid-East 602 Crate Late Model Series feature.

On the move: Josh Richards of Shinnston, W.V., started 18th and finished ninth.

Winner's sponsors: Brown’s Rocket Chassis is powered by a Clements Racing Engine and sponsored by Black Crest Farms, Crescent Moon Forestry Services, JR’s Bar, Mike’s Transmission, Live Oak Aesthetic and Family Dentistry, Piggly Wiggly, Mac’s Place Spirits, Hoosier Race Tires, McLeod Racing and S&S Graphix.

Points chase: After Cherokee Friday: 1. Dennis Erb Jr. (958); 2. Brandon Sheppard (940); 3. Max Blair (908); 4. Tyler Bruening (896); 5. Tanner English (888); 6. Hudson O’Neal (858); 7. Chris Madden (854); 8. Dale McDowell (838); 9. Josh Richards (832); 10. Brent Larson (810).

Current weather: Clear, 50°F

Car count: 40

Fast qualifier: Brandon Sheppard

Time: 14.877 seconds

Polesitter: Max Blair

Heat race winners: Brandon Sheppard, Michael Brown, Max Blair, Ryan Gustin

Consolation race winners: Boom Briggs, Josh Richards

Next series race: April 1, Farmer City Raceway (Farmer City, IL) $0