Laprade Notches Maiden Florida Pro Truck Victory

AUBURNDALE, Fla. – Matthew Laprade earned his first Pro Truck victory in just his second start in the division with a dominant drive Saturday night at Auburndale Speedway.

Laprade qualified fourth at the quarter-mile oval, but was able to start on the pole for the 50-lap main after an inversion of the top four starters for the feature lineup.

From there, track position was the best friend of the 12-year-old from New Smyrna Beach, Fla.

Laprade stayed out front and pulled away from his competition, fending off his nearest pursuers on several restarts and ultimately leading all 50 laps en route to the win.

He beat Corey Bigley to the finish line, with J.T. Chastain, the 15-year-old nephew of NASCAR Cup Series driver Ross Chastain, Carter Brown, and Brennon Pletcher completing the top five.

It was a staggeringly impressive performance by Laprade for his limited time in a full-size vehicle.

“It’s huge to get my first Pro Truck win this quickly,” said Laprade. “I had a fast truck all night, but it definitely wasn’t easy because the field gave me a lot of pressure on the restarts. I was able to hit my marks, though, and get out front and lead the race all the way. Daniel Webster and Right Foot Down Motorsports gave me everything I needed to be successful and hopefully we can keep our speed going.”

Laprade would like to thank marketing partners Wade Tractor & Equipment, Adrenalin Powersports, Synergy SpeedLab, Race Face Brand Development, and the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation for their support of his racing efforts.

His next scheduled race is Saturday, Sept. 28, back at Auburndale but in his familiar No. 18 Legend car.