Pensacola Prepares for High Stakes Showdown at the 57th Annual Snowball Derby
The storied Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola, Florida is gearing up for another epic showdown. This December, the legendary Snowball Derby returns for its 57th year, promising a monumental clash of racing titans vying for a record-breaking $50,000 purse and the coveted Tom Dawson Trophy.
The Snowball Derby is more than just a race; it’s a cultural institution, drawing top talent from the NASCAR circuit, short-track legends, and rising stars hungry to etch their names in racing history. "For over five decades, the Snowball Derby has been the pinnacle of short-track racing, a race that every stock car driver aspires to win," says a longtime observer.
This year’s event promises to be one of the most hotly contested editions yet, with a deep and diverse field ready to push their skills to the limit.
Stars Align for Thrilling Week of Racing
It all kicks off on Tuesday, December 2nd with a festive Snowball Derby Kickoff Party, streamed live on FloRacing, bringing fans inside the energy and excitement building towards the main event. Then, the adrenaline pumps as qualifying draws determine starting positions on Wednesday, setting the stage for intense battles.
The following days will be a whirlwind of intense action. Thursday features practice sessions, giving drivers a chance to fine-tune their machines, followed by the excitement of local division races. The stakes rise even higher on Friday with qualifying for the Snowball Derby’s grueling 300-lap main event, unleashing the full force of competitive drive among the hopeful contenders.
Saturday showcases the Snowflake 100 Pro Late Model race, a premier event within itself, highlighting another level of skilled racing talent. Finally, Sunday, December 7th, marks the climax of the week as the green flag drops on the 57th Annual Snowball Derby – a race where legends are made.
Drivers Ready to Make Their Mark:
This year’s roster is packed with heavy hitters. Returning champion Noah Gragson, determined to rewrite his recent history at the event, will face fierce competition from two-time winner Ty Majeski, the reigning Truck Series champ, and 2021 victor Chandler Smith, known for his incredible consistency.
Young guns like William Sawalich, coming off a strong Derby debut last year and aiming for a top finish before transitioning to Joe Gibbs Racing in 2025, and Carson Kvapil, a prodigy mentored by Dale Earnhardt Jr., are set to challenge the established veterans.
Adding to the intrigue is the presence of several heavy hitters from the Truck Series scene. Seasoned veteran Johnny Sauter, a former Truck Series champion with a wealth of short-track expertise, and rookie sensation Dawson Sutton, looking to make a statement after a near-miss victory in last year’s Snowflake 100, are both poised to shake things up.
The 2024 Snowball Derby promises a thrilling spectacle of speed, skill, and determination.
Don’t Miss a Moment of the Action
For the first time in history, the event will be streamed live in its entirety on FloRacing. Subscribe today and experience the heart-pounding drama unfold on your Smart TV, mobile device, tablet, or computer. Don’t miss this year’s Snowball Derby!
## Chasing Glory: A Conversation with Snowball Derby Veteran John “Lightning” Lawson
**World Today News Exclusive**
the air in Pensacola is thick with anticipation. The roar of engines echoes through the pine forests as drivers fine-tune their machines for the most prestigious Super Late Model race in the country: The 57th Annual Snowball Derby at Five Flags Speedway.
To get a glimpse into the heart of this high-stakes spectacle, we sat down with John “Lightning” lawson, a veteran Snowball derby racer with over 20 starts under his belt and a fervent passion for this iconic event.
**World Today News:** John, thanks for taking the time to speak with us. This year marks your 21st Snowball Derby. What keeps bringing you back to Pensacola every December?
**John “Lightning” Lawson:** It’s more than just a race, realy. The Snowball Derby is a tradition, a pilgrimage for racers like myself. It’s the Super Bowl of short track racing, and winning here would be the crowning achievement of my career.
**WTN:** You’ve seen a lot of changes in the sport over the years.How has the snowball Derby evolved since your first start?
**JL:** The competition has gotten fierce. You see younger drivers coming in with unbelievable talent and experience from other racing series. The cars are faster, the teams more professional. It’s a whole new level.
**WTN:** This year’s field is stacked with superstars. Who do you think will be the biggest challenge for the checkered flag?
**JL:** There are too many names to list! you’ve got defending champion,Bubba Pollard,hungry to repeat,and rising stars like Ty Majeski and Chandler smith who are always a threat.Everyone is bringing their A-game to Pensacola,and that’s what makes the Snowball Derby so special.
**WTN:** This is high-pressure racing. How do you handle the nerves and expectation that come with the Derby?
**JL:** The key is to focus on the task at hand – one lap at a time. You can’t let the pressure get to you. It’s about trusting your team, your car, and your own skills.
**WTN:** What advice would you give to young racers dreaming of competing in the Snowball Derby?
**JL:** Work hard, stay dedicated, and never give up on your dream. Don’t be afraid to learn from the best, and always respect the history and tradition of this great race.
**WTN:** John, thank you for your time and insights. We wish you the best of luck on the track.
**JL:** Thanks for having me.See you at Five Flags!
**Stay tuned to World Today News for continuing coverage of the 57th Annual Snowball Derby, including race day updates, driver interviews, and post-race analysis.**
