ASA STARS National Tour
Keelan Harvick Makes History with Michigan 300 Victory at Owosso
Aug 27, 2026
Johnson Becomes First Kulwicki Driver Development Program Finalist to Win in Virginia
Chase Johnson, who became the first Kulwicki Driver Development Program finalist to win in Virginia, moved into second in the KDDP standings with outstanding performances at three different weekly tracks during the program’s second segment.
Chase Johnson, who became the first Kulwicki Driver Development Program finalist to win in Virginia, moved into second in the KDDP standings with outstanding performances at three different weekly tracks during the program’s second segment.
Competing at Dominion, South Boston and Langley speedways, Johnson recorded six top-five, and seven top-10 finishes in 10 Late Model races during the program’s second segment. He won two races at Dominion Speedway where he is second in the track’s point standings.
“I finally had the opportunity to perform the ‘Polish Victory Lap’ in honor of Alan (Kulwicki),” said Johnson, who trails KDDP standings leader Michael Bumgarner by 16 points.The “Polish Victory Lap” or reverse victory lap was Kulwicki’s signature victory celebration.
“Alan’s story inspires me to stay true to myself, never give up, and work hard,” Johnson said.
Johnson also earned his first pole this year on the same night he entered victory lane. After his second victory, he gave his trophy to a young fan.
In addition to competing at the three weekly tracks, Johnson has his sights set on the prestigious Sept. 26 ValleyStar Credit Union 300 Late Model race at Martinsville Speedway. The event, which typically draws 75 to 90 entries, has four 25-lap qualifying races and a 200-lap feature.Off the track, Johnson focused on raising funds via social media giveaways and raffles for God’s Pit Crew, a faith-based, non-profit disaster relief organization based in Danville, Va.
"KDDP has helped me grow as both a driver and a person through guidance with interviews, social media, communication and more,” the 18-year-old Midlothian, Va., resident said. “My mentor, Danny Cameron, has shared incredible stories about Alan and continues to guide me and my team in the right direction throughout this season.”
Cameron was a member of Alan Kulwicki’s 1992 NASCAR Cup championship team, working as an assistant in the engine shop and the team’s spotter on race day.
Members of Kulwicki’s championship team and veteran drivers are mentoring the “Underbirds” this year.KDDP: Created in 2014 by Alan Kulwicki’s family to perpetuate the NASCAR Hall of Fame member and 1992 NASCAR Cup champion’s legacy, the Kulwicki Driver Development Program has had 50 drivers from 18 states, and two Canadian provinces compete in the North American initiative. Even though the program was suspended in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic, it still has awarded $1,044,902 in scholarships and championship awards. Overall, the 10 classes have competed in 1,514 races, produced 238 victories, and 750 top-five and 1,098 top-10 finishes. Ty Majeski, the 2024 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series champion, was the program’s inaugural winner.
-Kulwicki Driver Development Program Release and Photo
