Since making his ARCA Menards Series debut back in 2016, Christian Eckes has quietly become one of the most recognizable figures on tour today. Relatively unknown when he broke onto the ARCA scene at fifteen-years old, Eckes’ time with Venturini Motorsports (VMS) in the driver development series has given the young prospect the opportunity to hone his skills as he continues his pursuit of achieving success at the highest levels of stock car racing.
Now entering his fourth season of ARCA competition with VMS, 2019 marks the first time the three-time series’ winner and Toyota Racing Development (TRD) driver will run the full schedule and compete for a series championship.
After winning the General Tire Pole award and finishing fourth in the ARCA series opener at Daytona International Speedway, Eckes, 18, will make his next start at Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola, Florida on Saturday, March 9.
Eckes’ (No.15 JBL Audio Toyota) return to Five Flags Speedway also highlights a special homecoming for the teenage driver. Home of the prestigious super late model race known as the Snowball Derby, Eckes thrusted his name on the racing map when he captured the famed Tom Dawson Trophy back in December of 2016.
Arguably one of the biggest achievements for any driver at any level, winning the Snowball Derby title is a feat that will forever accompany a driver’s name for the rest of their lives.
“Winning the Snowball Derby has definitely been one of the defining moments in my career so far,” said Eckes. “It was the first time I realized I could do something in this sport. Competing against the best super late model drivers in the country helped opened my eyes to the possibility of what I could achieve in the future. It also cemented what I already knew, to be the best in any sport, it takes dedication and tireless preparation. It’s exciting coming back to the track (Five Flags Speedway) in the ARCA series and have another shot at victory lane. We’re already off to a good start this year. Winning here in the ARCA car would be really special.”
Poised to make more history, Eckes and his JBL Audio Toyota team will take to the track at Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola, Florida on Saturday, March 9. Practice starts at 1:00 pm; General Tire Pole Qualifying is set for 4:30 pm; and the green flag will drop at 8:00 pm. All times EST. The race will be aired LIVE on MAVTV.
VMS PR
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