Davey Allison Memorial Delivers Another Unforgettable Night at Bobby Watson’s Carteret Speedway

Pat & Donnie Allison receiving a commemoration for the longstanding partnership between Allison Legacy Series & Bobby Watson’s Carteret County Speedway. photo: Kimi Lynn Smith Photography

PELETIER, N.C. — Every season, the Davey Allison Memorial serves as one of the most meaningful events on the calendar at Bobby Watson’s Carteret Speedway, and Saturday night’s edition once again proved why. More than just an evening of racing, the event celebrated the Allison family’s enduring impact on motorsports while bringing together racers, families, and fans for an unforgettable night at the track.

Special guests Donnie Allison, his wife Pat, their son Kenny, and grandson Justin spent the evening meeting fans, signing autographs, and sharing stories with racing enthusiasts of all ages. Their presence added a personal touch to an event dedicated to honoring the Allison legacy and the values that have made the family icons of American motorsports.

With beautiful weather, great food, and a packed grandstand, fans enjoyed the family-friendly atmosphere that has become a hallmark of Carteret Speedway. Don Haines delivered a stirring rendition of the National Anthem, setting the tone for an evening filled with excitement and gratitude. Above all, everyone was reminded of God’s many blessings throughout the night.

The racing action opened with the Jr. Mini Cup division, where William (Hoyt) Grube Jr. continued his outstanding season by capturing another victory. Jolly Belfiore finished second, while Maci Stancill completed the podium after another competitive race.

The Street Stocks once again put on one of the night’s most exciting battles. Jesse Council continued his impressive return to competition, collecting another victory and showing he hasn’t missed a beat behind the wheel. Tyler Smith crossed the line in second, with Curtis Lanier rounding out the top three.

One of the highlights of the evening was the annual appearance of the Allison Legacy Series. As expected, the division delivered some of the closest racing of the night. Bobby Mares edged out Kyle Siler and Weston Freeman in a thrilling finish that had fans on the edge of their seats. The series continues to impress every time it visits Carteret Speedway, and anticipation is already building for its return next season.

Perhaps the most emotional moment of the night came during the U-CAR feature, where Juan Mejia earned the first victory of his racing career. Surrounded by emotional family members, friends, and fellow competitors in Victory Lane, Mejia celebrated a milestone he’ll never forget. Michael Ludwig finished second, while Cornell Williams completed the podium.

The always-competitive Bomber division kept fans guessing until the final laps. Harry Artemesio led early and successfully held off a determined charge from Deanna Stancill to secure the win. Stancill finished second and Nathan Hall third. With the championship battle remaining incredibly close, every point is becoming more valuable as the season winds down, setting the stage for an exciting finish to the title chase.

The evening concluded with the Legends. Scotty Benford finished first, while Levi Canup finished second and Mason Ford completed the podium in third. The race was marked by an early incident on Lap 2 involving Michael Bivens, who crashed and later exited his vehicle on a hot track while the race was under caution before race officials had reached him. Under Carteret Speedway safety rules, Bivens was disqualified. As has been the case throughout the season, the Legends division once again showcased intense competition and plenty of emotion both on and off the racetrack.

Saturday night was about far more than checkered flags. It was a celebration of family, friendship, sportsmanship, and the lasting legacy of one of racing’s most beloved families.

Bobby Watson’s Carteret Speedway extends its sincere appreciation to Donnie, Pat, Kenny, Justin, and the entire Allison family for making the evening so memorable. The speedway also thanks its dedicated drivers, race teams, sponsors, hardworking staff, and, most importantly, the incredible fans whose continued support makes nights like the Davey Allison Memorial possible.

The action continues at Carteret Speedway with the Jeffrey Earnhardt Racing Experience on Saturday, August 8, followed by the Renegade Monster Trucks on Saturday, August 15. Then, on Saturday, August 22, it’s Kids Night, featuring another exciting evening of racing and family fun.

Full Race Results & Updated points are available at: https://www.myracepass.com/events/635958/races

For a complete schedule of upcoming events, visit CarteretSpeedway.com or follow Carteret Speedway on Facebook, Instagram & Tik Tok.

Thank you for supporting Bobby Watson’s Carteret Speedway, where great racing and great memories continue to be made every Saturday night.

Article Credit: Allen Vick & Lavender Sky Agency