Herzog among big winners on armed forces tribute night

Thirteen-year-old Austin Herzog solidified his position as one of the top young stock car drivers in the nation with a win during Armed Forces Tribute Night at Loanmart the Madera Speedway.

Herzog charged from the rear of the field of MAVTV 51FIFTY Jr. Late Models, for drivers ages 10-16, making the decisive pass for the lead on lap 47 of the 50 lap feature Saurday night. The win is Herzog’s second in the series in three races so far.

Matt Erickson remained perfect on the season, winning his third MAVTV-televised Open Late Model main and fifth overall for the year as well in the 100 lap contest.

Herzog set fast-time and sat on the pole over the 15 car turnout, but had to restart at the rear after having a missing gas cap. While Herzog went to work from the back, it was Las Vegas’ 12-year-old driver Dezel West leading the opening laps. West and 15 year-old Ryan Vargas of La Mirada anchored the field with a gap back to third place Canadian Ben Silliker in a train of six cars for third...