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While details are sparse, the CARS Tour is expected to ramp up the participation rewards for its Late Model Stock division next season and teams are taking notice.

With the announcement that the series would downsize its Super Late Model division next season, it has come with the expectation that the Late Model Stocks could be racing for larger purses or additional participation rewards.

It’s caught the attention of four-time NASCAR Whelen All-American Series champion Philip Morris. The King of the Late Model Cars is fresh off winning his eighth Motor Mile Speedway track championship and a major victory at the $10,000-to-win W.O. Grubb 150.

So what’s next? Perhaps Morris is looking to add a major touring championship to his already hall of fame caliber resume.

“There’s a lot of chatter going on about the CARS Tour Late Model Stock deal,” Morris said. “It seems like it could be tuned into what we’re doing here.

“I can tell you that everything is on the table and we’re excited about some of our options.”

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In addition to his Motor Mile success (10 wins in 12 starts,) the 52-year-old has traveled around this year and posted wins at South Boston and Dominion. He traveled to Hickory Motor Speedway for the Bobby Isaac Memorial but endured a challenging night in which he crashed his rig getting to the track before crashing his car during it.

Even with the adversity, he’s enjoyed traveling this season.

“It’s been a good opportunity to get my rear-end whipped,” Morris said. “But it’s a good test when you consider how much experience Josh (Berry) and guys like that have at Hickory. Car counts have been awesome at these big races and we’re just happy to be a part of it.”

Next up for Morris is the Valley Star Credit Union 300 at Martinsville Speedway. He’s already earned three Ridgeway grandfather clocks and has to be considered the favorite to earn another one this weekend.

“We’re excited to get back there for sure, but I don’t even think about the next race until we get there,” Morris said. “We show up at Hickory and that’s what we’re thinking about. Same for Motor Mile.

“But I can already taste the hot dogs in my mind so we’re getting close.”

Matt Weaver is the owner and founder of Short Track Scene. Weaver grew up in the sport, having raced himself before becoming a reporter in college at the University of South Alabama. He also has extensive experience covering NASCAR, IndyCar and Dirt Sprint Cars.

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