Cole Denton Scores First ARCA West Victory in Dominant Tucson Performance
TUCSON, ARIZ. (April 12, 2026) — Cole Denton wasted no time making his mark in the ARCA Menards Series West, capturing his first career victory in just his third start with a commanding performance at Tucson Speedway.
Driving the No. 71 for Jans Racing, Denton entered the weekend with zero prior experience at the Arizona oval — but you wouldn’t have known it.
From the moment he hit the track, Denton carried himself with the composure of a veteran, qualifying on the pole and immediately taking control of the race.
With tire conservation playing a critical role in the race strategy, Denton was tasked with balancing two priorities: maintaining track position out front while preserving his equipment for the closing laps. It’s a challenge that often trips up even experienced drivers — but Denton executed it to perfection.
“That race was kind of boring until the last 30 laps,” Denton said. “It felt like we were going under caution speed before then.”
That “boring” pace was exactly what allowed him to stay in control.
Denton methodically managed the race, hitting his marks lap after lap while keeping challengers at a distance. As the race tightened in the final segment, a series of well-timed cautions played into his favor — but it was his discipline and patience that ultimately sealed the deal.
When it mattered most, Denton had the speed — and the composure — to close it out, securing a comfortable, career-first ARCA Menards Series West victory.
“We knew tire management was going to be everything,” Denton added. “The team gave me a great car, and I just focused on staying smooth and being there at the end.”
The win not only marks a major milestone in Denton’s career, but also sends a clear message: he’s not just learning — he’s already capable of winning at this level.
Up Next
Denton will look to carry the momentum into Shasta Speedway on May 2, as the ARCA Menards Series West season continues.
About Cole Denton
Cole Denton is a rising talent from Pascagoula, Mississippi, with a championship background in Legend Cars and Bandoleros. Now competing in Late Models and the ARCA Menards Series West, Denton is quickly establishing himself as one of the sport’s most promising young drivers.
About Jans Racing
Jans Racing fields competitive entries in the ARCA Menards Series West, focusing on driver development and race-winning performance.
About ARCA Menards Series West
ARCA Menards Series West is a premier developmental series on the West Coast, serving as a pathway for drivers advancing to NASCAR’s national divisions.
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