Shane Clanton won the opening night of the 16th Annual Lucas Oil Late Model Nationals Thursday night at the Knoxville Raceway. Clanton was fas tall night as he set overall quick time in time trials. Clanton took the lead from runner up Tyler Erb on lap 14 of the 25 lap Main and held on to win his first career race at the Knoxville Raceway. Clanton scored 494 points to take the early lead in the overall standings and will be tough to beat tonight. All drivers have the option of running tonight to try to better their score and the highest point total of the two nights will be taken for grid the drivers for Saturday’s championship night.