Newtown’s own Stephen Kopcik, 27, overcame some early adversity and 30-plus competitors to zoom across the finish line and win the Stafford Motor Speedway’s 53rd Annual NAPA Spring Sizzler with Open Modified cars in Stafford Springs on April 27.

“It’s incredible. That’s one of our biggest races of the year,” Kopcik said.

The 100 lap race included some challenges along the way. Kopcik recovered from an early race penalty which sent him to the back of the pack and needing to overcome nearly 30 cars. A total of 42 were registered before 32 qualified; Kopcik got into the race in the fifth position. A handful dropped out due to various issues but there was plenty of competition for Kopcik to overcome to work his way back to the front of the field and he took control of the race in the second half to score his first career NAPA Spring Sizzler victory.

The caution came out with 75 laps complete for a spin in turn four by one of the racers. Kopcik took the lead on the restart and later went side by side with another racer. He cleared into the lead on lap 93 before falling into second on lap 95. Kopcik took over the lead on lap 96. The caution flew with 99 laps complete as a driver spun into the first turn wall to set up a green white checkered finish to determine the winner. Kopcik held the lead late to earn the checkered flag.

“We definitely had some adversity in the beginning,” Kopcik said. “It just made it all the more exciting. Being able to overcome that really meant a lot,” Kopcik said. “Everyone’s there to do the same thing. We’re very fortunate to have good sponsors and a good team owner.”

Wanick Motorsports, in partnership with Stephen Kopcik Motorsports, runs the team. Sponsors are Wanick Construction, Newtown Pools LLC, Carrigan Heating and Cooling, JB Management, and NJK Automotive LLC.

Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.