In only his second start in a touring series modified car, Ryan Newman drove to a thrilling victory at New Smyrna Speedway on Monday night.

Newman, who started seventh, piloted the No. 7 NY Aggressive Hydraulics modified through the field to claim his first win in a modified and a hard fought victory for car owner Kevin 'Bono' Manion.

"That was a lot of fun," Newman said. "I have to thank Ted (Christopher) because he raced me clean there at the end. It was a pretty exciting race from where I was sitting.

"To win this race is a big deal. I'm not a guy from the Northeast but I know how important of a win this is for these guys."

Newman quickly drove through the field and into second place where he engaged in a head-to-head battle with legendary modified driver Ted Christopher. The two drivers swapped the top spot numerous times over the final 14 laps of the 25-lap race.

Newman had to endure multiple caution flags and several restarts before taking the lead from Christopher on lap 21 for good to clench his first victory in the modified ranks.

"Tonight was my dad's birthday, so I think this is a nice present for him," Newman said. "I'm looking forward to racing and having some more fun here again tomorrow night."
Newman will race at New Smyrna again on Tuesday. Action begins at 7:30 p.m. ET.