As Ty Majeski put it, a change in tire combination for the Snowball Derby is going to produce a much different race than in previous seasons, but also from the races held at Five Flags Speedway earlier in the season.
The ASA branded tours started the year on ST1 left sides and ST2 right sides after a long, long time on the F45s but Hoosier made the decision after some autumn testing to bring the ST1/ST3 combination for the most prestigious Late Model race of the year.
“They’ve had some issues with the ST2s and didn’t think they should bring it to the Snowball,” said the two-time and defending race winner after formally accepting his NASCAR Truck Series championship awards over the weekend in Charlotte. “It’s a testament to Hooiser that they’re working on fixing their problems. I’m confident they’re going to be fixed. I don’t think we’ll see any problems, which is a good thing for everybody.”
READ MORE: Provisional Derby entries
It’s been no secret that changes in construction process and compound has challenged the tire manufacturer this season, both in Super Late Model and Late Model Stock competition. The CARS Tour began the season on ST2s and ultimately reverted back to F45s to finish the season.
How is the ST1/ST3 combination going to change the Derby?
“It’s going to throw a loop into things,” Majeski said. “It’s going to be a much harder right-side tire — the same tire we run at Nashville and Winchester, those places. That’s going to be the biggest difference this year. I don’t think you’re going to see as much falloff, or I should say, as much wear.
“The fall off will be more heat related as opposed to the tire wearing out. I’m excited to get down there for sure. It’s going to be a much different race. You’re not going to see as many comers and goers. You’re going to see the cars that have raw speed run good all day.”
