Snowball Derby defending champion Ty Majeski experienced a difficult day when an unexpected track issue damaged his vehicle, disrupting his objective of becoming the event’s second three-time champion.
At Pensacola, Florida’s Five Flags Speedway, a piece of asphalt detached from the track during practice, causing significant damage to Majeski’s No. 91 car’s nose and ductwork.
Five Flags Speedway has always been a revered venue in super late model racing. However, its condition has reportedly worsened. Matt Weaver of Sportsnaut shed light on these conditions recently, which, when coupled with inclement weather, have affected the practice sessions for drivers, including Majeski.
The Wisconsin driver had previously secured his place in history by winning the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series championship. This accolade added immense anticipation for his appearance at the Snowball Derby, where a win would mark yet another career milestone.
Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images
The stakes were already high, given the race’s status as one of the most prestigious events in super late model racing. The Derby attracts NASCAR figures such as Noah Gragson and Bubba Pollard.
Speaking to Rob Blount of FloRacing, Majeski shared his thoughts on the competition at the Snowball Derby (below):
“I think this is year 11. So, yeah we’ve had a lot of ups and downs here. No matter if you’re the reigning champion or not, you know, you come down here with a clean slate and it’s so hard to come down here and be competitive year in and year out.”
“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦 𝘧𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘵𝘰 𝘸𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘦.” ⛄️
Two-time and defending winner @TyMajeski explains why he loves the challenge of the #SnowballDerby.
Plus, he discusses his quest to become the second three-time winner in race history. pic.twitter.com/EOmthJ0Nkf
— FloRacing (@FloRacing) December 4, 2024
Historically, the Snowball Derby has featured a roster of celebrated racers, including Kyle Busch and Chase Elliott. This year, the competition is fierce, with standouts like Chandler Smith and Derek Thorn, making Majeski’s pursuit of a third title even more challenging.
Regardless of his current predicament, Majeski remains focused on continuing his racing legacy.
Reflecting on his long-time collaboration with his team, Majeski expressed nostalgia and gratitude:
“I didn’t know that, that’s crazy. Um, you know, it would be special, you know? My guys and I have been together I think this is our 13th year together now. We love doing this together and that’s why we keep coming down here.
We love the camaraderie, we have a great group of guys, and it’s fun for us. When it starts not to become fun you probably won’t see us back here. We love doing this together.”
His loyalty to his team and commitment to the sport is evident as he remains undeterred in the face of adversity, relishing the challenges the Derby presents.
The future of his participation in the Snowball Derby remains of keen interest. Should he overcome this setback, his win could further validate his status as one of the leading short-track racers in America.
In this year’s competitive field, the outcome of the Snowball Derby, especially with the unpredictable nature of track conditions and rival drivers, remains uncertain.
