In a thrilling finish to the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Round of 10 elimination race, Corey Heim emerged victorious in the Kubota Tractor 200 at Kansas Speedway on Friday night. The win, Heim’s sixth of the season, came after a nail-biting conclusion that saw race leader Ty Majeski run out of fuel on the final lap.

Heim, who started from the rear of the field after an earlier practice incident, showcased his skill and determination throughout the night. “We were the best truck all night—it’s my favorite track, I love coming here,” Heim said after the race. “I just thought we could sweep the year here. It’s an awesome place to come.”

The race was marked by strategic pit stops and fuel management, with Majeski’s last-lap misfortune allowing Heim to surge past in his No. 11 TRICON Garage Toyota. Layne Riggs finished second, followed by Christian Eckes in third.

The elimination race had significant implications for the Playoff standings. Reigning series champion Ben Rhodes and Playoff rookie Daniel Dye were eliminated from title contention. Rhodes, who ran out of fuel late in the race, expressed disappointment with his 22nd place finish. “We qualified fourth, and at the start of the race—massive changes with the truck,” Rhodes commented. “We could not get it tightened up… If we’d have gotten our stage points, it would have taken care of itself.”

Grant Enfinger narrowly secured the final spot in the Round of 8, finishing 25 points ahead of both Rhodes and Dye. “It was definitely a little bit stressful, definitely too close for comfort there,” Enfinger said, looking forward to the next round at Talladega.

The race featured 10 lead changes among three drivers, with Heim leading a race-high 64 laps. The victory marked Heim’s second at Kansas Speedway and the 11th of his career.

As the Truck Series moves into the Round of 8, the competition intensifies. Heim, Eckes, Nick Sanchez, Majeski, Rajah Caruth, Enfinger, Tyler Ankrum, and Taylor Gray have all secured their spots in this crucial phase of the Playoffs.

The next race at Talladega Superspeedway promises more high-stakes action as drivers continue their quest for the championship title.

Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images