My guess is that it may be heavier and being on the front line got pushed by the marbles behind it and overcame the initial inertia required to get rolling. From then on its weight and gravity  allowed it to go faster. Maybe it had a coating of super nano legs.

Once the leader broke free, the friction between the competitors in the following pack held them back. Excessively close drafting did them in.  At least they all got a rolling start.

Trying to watch that race repeatedly to get a better view of all the competitors, after a couple of 7-up/Crown Royal doses (thanks, Glen  👀  you are either a good or a bad influence  👀  jury is still out) is making my head spin. 

Here we go again ...  another post that will get more responses than any other post this month.
One thing I know is the leader had a SBF under the hood.

6sally6 wrote:

Obviously....the light blue one(winner!) had a big advantage because of the longer rod ratio and aluminum flywheel! The rapid acceleration out of the turns and being able  to "hang-on" in the upper rpm range  before slowing going into the turns!!  The titanium springs and retainers along with a camshaft with "ample" duration and a long LSA also paid off in the upper RPM ranges too.
I mean....anybody could see that!
6sal6

 
Sal, you did not mention the reversed pistons???   🎱   And this race was for all the marbles.

You know...   The spark plug changing competition at the bash seems to be suffering from a lack of interest lately.  Maybe it should be retired and replaced with a marble race.

Didja ever think that some of the past competitors are now dealing with arthritis that hampers their efforts?