Bibeau Brothers Make History with Record-Breaking Finish as Delpaggio Stages Incredible Comeback at Laird Raceway

Posted On: July 31, 2026
Posted By: Saultsports
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Thursday Night Thunder delivered one of the most memorable nights in Laird International Raceway history on July 30th, with record-setting finishes, dramatic comebacks, veteran perseverance, and thrilling racing from start to finish.

The highlight of the evening came in the Factory Stock Feature, where brothers Daniel and Brad Bibeau etched their names into the Laird Raceway record books. Racing side-by-side to the finish line, Daniel edged out Brad by an astonishing 0.001 of a second, producing the closest finish ever recorded on Laird International Raceway’s one-third mile oval. The photo finish will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest moments in the track’s history. Dale Tucker completed the podium with a strong third-place finish.

Adding to the night’s remarkable stories was Rick Ellis, who continues to prove that age is just a number. Competing in his 61st season behind the wheel at 83 years old, Ellis piloted the #51 Jamie Fox Factory Stock and once again demonstrated the passion and determination that has made him one of Northern Ontario’s most respected racers.

The Modified Feature produced perhaps the biggest comeback of the evening. J.P. “Bay Street Roller” Delpaggio appeared destined for second place after trailing Dylan “Grinch” Connolly by nearly three seconds late in the race. Connolly controlled the event by leading the opening 19 of 20 laps, but Delpaggio refused to quit. Charging through the closing circuits, Delpaggio caught Connolly on the final lap and completed a dramatic pass to capture the victory, extending his lead atop the Modified championship standings.

Delpaggio’s win further strengthened his position in the Modified standings after holding off Dylan Connolly, who finished second in the No. 86. John Ross completed the top three with a solid run in the No. 02.

The fan-favourite Spectator Drags once again entertained the crowd during intermission. After winning the event on July 23rd, Ty Martel returned with his 2025 Chevrolet C8 Corvette looking to defend his title. Martel did exactly that, claiming another victory and taking home the $100 winner’s prize, while continuing his impressive streak in front of the Laird Raceway fans.

In the Super Late Model Feature, Jordan Sims continued his strong season by driving the No. 47 machine to victory after an impressive performance against a talented field. Jeremy Van Hoek crossed the finish line second in the No. 51, while Dustin Jackson rounded out the podium in third aboard the No. 61.

In the Four Cylinder Feature, Dustin Couturier put together another impressive drive to earn the feature victory in the No. 86. Lucas Crosato finished second in the No. 22X after a competitive battle throughout the event.

The evening concluded with the always-entertaining Enduro Feature, where Dayne Lorenzo survived the grueling contest to claim the checkered flag in the No. 19. Ashley Morin drove a consistent race to finish second in the No. 25, while Lucas Fabbricino completed the top three in the No. 95.

Looking Ahead: Kids Night Returns August 6

The excitement continues next Thursday, August 6th, as Laird International Raceway hosts another edition of Thursday Night Thunder, featuring the annual Kids Night at the Raceway.

In partnership with The Children’s Aid Society of Algoma, families and children served by the organization will attend the event free of charge for an unforgettable evening of racing and family entertainment.

Fans can once again enjoy the always-popular Spectator Drags, where everyday drivers in street-legal vehicles race head-to-head around the front stretch for cash prizes and bragging rights. Every participant receives $50 to start, while the night’s winner earns an additional $100, making it one of the evening’s biggest attractions.

Admission remains one of the best values in Northern Ontario motorsports. Grandstand admission is $25 for adults, while children and youth 17 and under receive free admission, along with seniors aged 75 and older. Pit admission is $35.

Fans are encouraged to arrive early. Pit gates open at 4:00 p.m, grandstand gates open at 5:00 p.m, hot laps begin at 5:00 p.m, and the green flag flies shortly after 7:00 p.m.

If the excitement of July 30th was any indication, race fans won’t want to miss another unforgettable night of Thursday Night Thunder at Laird International Raceway.

Thursday Night Thunder Features (Unofficial Results)
Super Late Model Feature