Michigan teen Erik Jones races to first ARCA victory, dominating at Berlin Raceway

MARNE, Mich. – Michigan teenager Erik Jones raced to his first ARCA Racing Series victory Saturday night at Berlin Raceway, holding off Mason Mingus.

The 17-year-old Jones, from Byron, led 154 of 200 laps on the 0.4375-oval to become the third driver this season to win in Venturini Motorsports' No. 15 Toyota.

"What a relief," Jones said. "During those last 50 laps, I was hearing all kinds of noises in the car. I was just hoping it would stay together and nothing would break. It's just amazing to come here and win.

"I've made a few mistakes that have cost us a win, so this one is nice," Jones said. "I've probably raced this track about 10 times in a late model. I've had good late models and bad late models, but I've never won here. Last year, in the ARCA race, I finished third. Winning here is really nice.

Points leader Frank Kimmel was third. He's tied with Iggy Katona for the ARCA career victory record with 79.