What won the race: Fourth-starting Dustin Strand of Grand Forks, N.D., led all but the opening circuit en route to winning Saturday's 25-lap Northern LateModel Racing Association season opener at Devils Lake Speedway. Strand secured his first triumph of the young season and his 30th career NLRA victory, trailing only Brad Seng (45) on the tour's all-time win list.

Quotable: "I was a little worried after last night. We kind of got the car tore up (in weekly action at River Cities Speedway) and the guys worked their tails off and got things put together," Strand said. "You always have got in the back of your mind — is it going to be as good or whatever — but it might be better, I don't know."

Key notes: Second-starting Steve Anderson led the opening lap before fading to finish 12th. ... Eighth-starting Shane Edginton climbed to the runner-up spot on a lap-nine restart and trailed Strand the rest of the way, finishing 0.426 of a second back. ... Cole Schill advanced nine positions and placed fourth. ... Cole Babcock rounded-out the top five after grabbing fifth on lap 23. ... Joey Pederson gained seven spots and finished seventh, while his son, Tucker, finished 10th in his Late Model debut. ... Pole-starting Brody Troftgruben slowed from third to draw the race's third and final caution on lap 20. He continued and settled for 18th. ... Saturday's season opener lasted 19 minutes, with 18 drivers completing the distance and 22 running at the finish.

On the move: Josh Skorczewski of Aberdeen, S.D., started 18th and finished eighth.

Winner's sponsors: Strand’s Longhorn Chassis is powered by a Sturdy Racing Engine and sponsored by Walhalla Building Center, Q&Z Plumbing & Heating, Keewatin Truck Service, Freije Farms, Bemidji Welder’s Supply, Double Deuce Bar & Grill, Shocker Hitch Air Ride, Highside Truck Accessories & Sales, Generations Salon & Spa, Carr’s Grain Service, Naastad Acres, Jason Strand Farms, Flagstaff Nissan Subaru and The Bun Lounge.

Points chase: After Devils Lake: 1. Dustin Strand (249); 2. Shane Edginton (239); 3. Kevin Robertson (231); 4. Cole Schill (223); 5. Cole Babcock (217).

Current weather: Clear, 72°F

Car count: 25

Polesitter: Brody Troftgruben

Heat race winners: Dustin Strand, Steve Anderson, Brody Troftgruben, Shane Edginton

Next series race: May 25, Dead Horse Creek Speedway (Morden, MB) $2,000