Christopher Bell secured a thrilling victory in the Non-Wing Outlaw Main Event at the Tulsa Shootout on Saturday night, narrowly edging out Kyle Larson in a dramatic photo finish. His win, which came in a car co-owned with his family, marked his return to dirt racing after a two-year hiatus, thanks to a decision by Joe Gibbs Racing to allow him back behind the wheel. The Tulsa Shootout serves as a precursor to the Chili Bowl Midget Nationals and features Outlaw Karts and Micro Sprints, but this particular race was one for the history books, making a strong case for race of the year.
The race saw an intense battle between Bell and pole sitter Blake Hahn, with Bell eventually taking the lead on Lap 35. As the race unfolded, Steven Snyder made a remarkable drive from the back of the field, charging into contention by Lap 45. However, Snyder suffered a tire failure and crashed into the wall, allowing Bell to regain the lead. A caution flag followed when Snyder’s car stalled, bringing Larson into the picture. Larson, who hadn’t raced in the Tulsa Shootout for 15 years, closed the gap to Bell in the closing laps, setting up a thrilling finish that captivated the audience.
Bell’s return to dirt racing had been delayed for two years due to restrictions placed on him by Joe Gibbs Racing. The team reversed that decision in November, enabling Bell to race again. Larson, meanwhile, had returned to the Tulsa Shootout this year to race alongside his son Owen, who made his debut in a junior division, which was won by Brexton Busch, the son of Kyle Busch. Larson also secured two victories earlier in the day, but he was unable to catch Bell in the final laps.
In Victory Lane, Bell was ecstatic, describing the win as a moment he lives for. He shared that he had struggled to find a comfortable line during the week but finally discovered something that worked for him in the final laps. Bell expressed regret for Snyder, who had been racing well before his unfortunate crash, but he was thrilled with the exciting finish. Reflecting on the battle with Larson, Bell acknowledged that he had to block Larson’s efforts to make a pass, especially in the final corner, where Larson made a strong move on the inside.
Larson, while disappointed with second place, praised Bell’s performance and expressed his happiness that Bell was back in dirt racing. Larson noted that the sport needed drivers like Bell and that he was excited to see what the future held for both of them in dirt racing. As for Larson’s late charge, he said he had tried to replicate Snyder’s line by riding the wall, which helped him close in on the leaders. However, he ran out of laps to make a move on Bell, who successfully defended his position.
With the Chili Bowl Midget Nationals just around the corner, the racing world eagerly anticipates whether Bell can continue his success or if Larson will finally claim victory at the prestigious event.
