Pole Position Set for Loudon Showdown
The 2026 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour weekend at New Hampshire Motor Speedway will culminate on August 22 with a 30‑car field battling for supremacy on the 1.058‑mile oval. Austin Beers emerged fastest in qualifying, posting a lap of 29.924 seconds that earned him the pole.
Behind Beers, veteran Eric Goodale will line up second after a 30.014‑second effort, while Tyler Rypkema secured third spot with a 30.040‑second run. The grid positions were determined after a single‑car qualifying session that followed two practice periods.
Practice action saw Jonathan McKennedy set the pace with a best time of 29.544 seconds, indicating strong speed for his No. 31 entry. Series officials noted that the practice sessions were used to fine‑tune setups before the decisive qualifying round.
A Full Field of 30 Competitors
The upcoming race will feature 30 drivers, each aiming to add a New Hampshire victory to their résumé. Among the entrants are a mix of seasoned racers and rising talent, including Ryan Newman, Ryan Preece, and Matt Hirschman, who have all expressed confidence in their programs.
Series director Johnathan McKennedy highlighted the competitive depth, stating that the combination of veteran skill and fresh enthusiasm makes this event one of the most anticipated on the modified tour schedule.
Historic Venue, New Hampshire Motor Speedway
New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon, New Hampshire, has long served as a proving ground for modified‑car talent. The 2026 edition will mark the latest chapter in a storied relationship, with fans expected to fill the grandstands for what promises to be a tightly contested race.
Track President Eric Goodale remarked that the venue’s unique blend of speed and handling challenges continues to attract the series’ best drivers, and this year’s field is no exception.