Key notes: The Ultimate Southeast Series rolls into Tri-County Racetrack for Friday’s $5,000-to-win Firecracker 40. … New track promoter Jamie Oliver of Murphy, N.C., picked up a $10,034 SAS victory at Tri-County in Sept. of 2023, a race that honored his late grandfather. Oliver is expected to focus on piloting his Dirt Late Model this weekend. … Payton Freeman of Commerce, Ga., earned a $5,700 unsanctioned victory there in Sept. of ’22. … David Payne of Murphy, N.C., has three major event wins there since April of ’21, earning more than $15,000 over that span. … Garrett Smith of Madison, Ga., won a $4,053 Spring Nationals stop there in April of ’22. ... $100 will be awarded to the night’s fast qualifier courtesy of B&A Farms. … A fireworks show will take place once darkness sets in. … 602 Crate Late Models, modifieds, front-wheel drives, street stocks and Crown Vics are on the undercard. … Watch live on Pit Row TV.

Who to watch: Garrett Smith of Madison, Ga., eyes his second victory of the weekend after winning $5,000 Thursday night at I-75.

Points chase: Before Tri-County: 1. Adam Yarbrough (97); 2. Brent Robinson (91); Donovan Jackson (88); 4. David Yandle (73); 5. Gray Parton (68).

Expected entrants: Garrett Smith, Payton Freeman, Jamie Oliver, Kenny Collins, Adam Yarbrough, Gavin Cowan, Donovan Jackson, Devon Morgan, Michael Luna, Dylan Watson, David Yandle and others.

Current weather: Broken Clouds, 70°F

Car count: 15

Next series race: September 1, Tri-County Racetrack (Brasstown, NC) $5,000