Kasey Kleyn Shows Front-Running Speed at Rattler 250 Before Late-Race Incident
KINSTON, ALA. (March 21, 2026) — Kasey Kleyn showcased impressive speed and race-winning potential during the prestigious Rattler 250 at South Alabama Speedway, but a late-race incident cut short what was shaping up to be a podium finish. While running near the front of the field, Kleyn’s car became loose, resulting in contact with another competitor. The contact ultimately led to a flat tire, bringing an end to his strong run.
Kleyn qualified a strong 5th in a stacked Super Late Model field featuring some of the top short track talent in the country. From the drop of the green flag, the Trevor Cristiani Racing driver maintained track position inside the top 10 and steadily worked his way toward the front.
As the race progressed, Kleyn emerged as a legitimate contender, advancing into the top five and eventually running 3rd in the closing stages of the 250-lap event.
Unfortunately, while battling near the front, a cut tire caused the No. 1 Thaemert Farms, Friends of Jaclyn Toyota to spin into the wall, ending what had been a strong run toward a podium finish.
Despite the setback, Kleyn’s performance throughout the weekend reinforced the strength of the Trevor Cristiani Racing program and his ability to compete at the front in one of pavement racing’s most demanding events.
“We had a fast car all weekend, qualifying P5 and staying in the top 10 throughout the race. I was running in 3rd when unfortunately we had a tire go down, causing me to spin. We had a really strong run going, and I was confident in what my team and I could achieve,” said Kleyn.
“I couldn’t be more grateful for Trevor Cristiani Racing and my entire team for all the hard work they put in to bring me such a fast car. Huge thank you to my sponsors Thaemert Farms, Farmer Bean and Seed, KJ Medlez, and FOJ for their continued support. And of course, thank you to all my fans — I appreciate you more than anything.”
The Rattler 250 is one of the premier Super Late Model events in the Southeast, known for its deep competition and grueling 250-lap format that tests both driver endurance and equipment durability.
Kleyn and the Trevor Cristiani Racing team will look to carry the speed and momentum from this weekend into their next event as the 2026 season continues.
About Kasey Kleyn
Kasey Kleyn is an emerging talent in Super Late Model competition, consistently competing against top-tier fields across the Southeast. Known for his smooth driving style and racecraft, Kleyn continues to build momentum with Trevor Cristiani Racing.
About Trevor Cristiani Racing
Trevor Cristiani Racing is a competitive Super Late Model program known for preparing race-winning equipment and developing drivers at the highest levels of short track racing.
About Friends of Jaclyn Foundation (FOJ)
The Friends of Jaclyn Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for children battling pediatric cancer by pairing them with high school and college sports teams, as well as motorsports teams, creating lifelong bonds and support systems.
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