Third generation driver Ross Strmiska of Manteca was able to hold off a stellar field of contenders to earn his first win of the season in the Stockton Late Model race on Saturday night, May 19 at the Stockton 99 Speedway. A season high 21 late models packed the pits at the start of the night and even their three preliminary heat races were hard fought brawls that produced more bumping and grinding than a packed disco. The main event got off to a poignant start as the cars lined up in a three abreast formation in tribute to Louie “Hot Lap” Sartain, the longtime track announcer who passed away just over a year ago.