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Young Guns bring ambition, family traditions and respect for the past to the annual event
Lucama, N. (October 28, 2026) — Some grew up following the North-South Shootout, dreaming of one day competing against the sport’s biggest names. Others discovered its significance as their own Modified racing careers developed. Now, a talented group of younger competitors has an opportunity to become part of the event’s 24-year history when the North-South Shootout makes its debut at Southern National Motorsports Park, November 6–7.
Among those representing Modified racing’s next generation are Jack Baldwin, James Blewett, Joey Braun, Trevor Catalano, Carsten DiGiantomasso, Paulie Hartwig III, Cayden Lapcevich, Carson Loftin, Matt Swanson and Tyler Truex.
Despite their relatively young ages, several have already established impressive racing credentials. Yet the North-South Shootout remains a coveted prize, one that carries significance beyond the winner’s purse.
For Matt Swanson, the Shootout was something special long before he became a competitor.
“I always remember people in the racing community considering it like a holiday, and everyone always got extra excited to go to Concord,” recalled Swanson, who will compete for longtime Modified car owner Rick Kluth. Swanson hopes the new venue will provide the setting for their first Modified victory together.
Carson Loftin has already collected 11 Tour-Type Modified victories, but he’s still searching for what he considers a defining accomplishment. For him, winning the Shootout would also fulfill a family ambition.
“I’ve always looked up to my dad,” said Loftin. “He’s come close to winning the North-South Shootout a few times but never quite got it done, so hopefully I can check that one off the list for our family.”
Loftin has also battled 11-time Shootout champion Matt Hirschman in recent editions of the event, giving him an appreciation for the competition required to join the exclusive list of winners.
Paulie Hartwig III knows what it takes to win at the Shootout, having already captured two victories in the 602 Modified division. But the young competitor has his sights set on an even greater accomplishment: a Tour-Type Modified triumph. After finishing second to Hirschman at Caraway Speedway last year, Hartwig hopes to take that next step.
Not every young driver grew up immersed in the Shootout’s traditions. Canadian-born Cayden Lapcevich offers a different perspective.
“Being originally from Canada, the North-South Shootout wasn’t something I followed closely, or at all to be honest,” admitted Lapcevich, who was introduced to Modified racing after moving south.
With fewer than 10 Tour-Type Modified starts to his credit, Lapcevich views events like the Shootout as opportunities to build experience while pursuing a future that could include more touring competition. He also credits the evolution of crew chiefs, teams and racecar preparation for helping the younger generation become increasingly competitive.
While these young competitors are focused on building their own legacies, the history of the North-South Shootout is never far removed.
That connection is especially meaningful for James Blewett, nephew of the late John Blewett III, whose memory is honored by the event. For James, competing in the Shootout carries a family connection unlike that of most competitors. As another generation of the Blewett family takes to the track, the event continues to celebrate a legacy that remains deeply woven into Modified racing.
The impact of John Blewett III extends well beyond his own family. When asked which former Shootout champion he would most like to compete against in his prime, Trevor Catalano chose Blewett without hesitation.
“I never personally got to watch him, but from listening to stories and watching videos, I would love to have been able to race with him,” Catalano said.
It is that connection between generations that helps distinguish the North-South Shootout. Young drivers who once admired the sport’s established competitors now race alongside them, while the history of those who came before continues to influence the next wave of talent.
The 2026 event introduces another chapter in that history with its first appearance at Southern National Motorsports Park. The high-banked, four-tenths-mile oval presents a new challenge for veterans and rising stars alike, with $10,000 awaiting the winner of the 125-lap Tour-Type Modified main event.
For the younger competitors, the opportunity goes beyond adding another victory to their records. It’s a chance to become part of a tradition they hope future generations will remember.
The 24th Annual John Blewett III Memorial North-South Shootout in Memory of Charles Kepley takes place November 6–7, 2026, at Southern National Motorsports Park in Lucama, North Carolina. Friday’s activities are limited to competitors and pit personnel. On Saturday, grandstands open at 1:15 p.m., qualifying begins at 1:30 p.m., and feature racing gets underway at 4:30 p.m.
For more information, visit SNMPark.com/NSS
