DAYTONA BEACH, Fla — The ARCA Menard Series made its mark on Daytona International Speedway on Saturday with an exciting race that included both young drivers and familiar faces.

Hollywood actor Frankie Muniz made a bold move from the big screen to racing, while Central Florida native Logan Misuracca went from Lake Mary High School to the race track. But it was Greg Van Alst who stole the show, taking the checkered flag after an intense 80-lap race that saw plenty of wrecks and adversity.

Van Alst, who grew up racing short tracks, was ecstatic about his win, exclaiming, "Oh pinch me, I think I'm dreaming! Guys like me, we grow up racing short tracks, doing everything to get on the track, and to end up in Victory Lane at Daytona, man, it feels like a dream. I'm too worn out for it to be a dream, so I know it's not. Oh my gosh, I can't believe it."

At 41 years old, Van Alst's win was a long-awaited dream come true. "It's everything you dream of," he said. "I grew up watching this, every Speedweeks, and dreaming and dreaming and dreaming that I'd make it here one day. It's something I can tell my grandchildren, my kids can tell their kids. I just can't believe it."

What makes Van Alst's victory even more impressive is the fact that he and his crew were all volunteers. Their hard work and dedication paid off in a big way at Daytona International Speedway, where they can now call themselves champions.

The ARCA Menard Series is a proving ground for up-and-coming racers, and this year's race showcased some of the best and brightest talents in the sport. But it was the veterans who stole the show, with Van Alst leading the way.

For fans of racing, the ARCA Menard Series is a must-see event. With young drivers, familiar faces, and plenty of excitement on the track, it's a race that never disappoints. And for Greg Van Alst, it's a dream come true.