KURT BUSCH
Wins 2nd in a Row!
Atlanta, GA - Once again, rain played a part in the outcome of a race as Kurt Busch wins for the 2nd time in as many races. Kurt took the lead on lap 206 and silently hoped for rain as the top 5 cars began to close in on the #97 Rubbermaid Ford. When caution came out after a spin by Jimmie Johnson, the #97 crew flew through the pit stop making sure Kurt retained his #1 position. After a few more laps, it appeared that Joe Nemechek in the #25 UAW Chevrolet would be able to snatch the lead away from Kurt. But as she has done in several races this season, Mother Nature made the call and rain began to fall. It was evident that this time the rain would not subside. The caution flag was thrown, then Kurt lead the field to the checkered.
Late charges not only by Joe Nemechek, but Dale Jarrett in the #88 UPS Ford, Tony Stewart in the #20 Home Depot Pontiac and Dale Earnhardt Jr in the #8 Budweiser Chevrolet left many to wonder what may have happened if the rain had held off.
Tony Stewart had an extremely strong car throughout the entire day. Initially leading the race, he was forced to pit after a red flag for rain delayed the race for 2 1/2 hours. He discovered some lug nuts had not been tightened during his first pit stop. When he came in to correct the problem, he took on 4 new tires and fuel. He went from 2nd position to 32nd.
After the field went back to green, Tony charged ahead passing cars high and low. It wasn't long before he had worked his way back to the top 10. He was able to take the lead again, but lost it a short time later to Dale Earnhardt Jr who as making a very impressive run as well.
Tony finished the race in 4th place, but moved farther ahead in the Championship points. He now leads by 146 over Mark Martin who finished 8th in the race.
Although Jimmie Johnson started in 2nd position, the race proved difficult for the rookie driver as the #48 Lowes Chevrolet spun on lap 139 and again on lap 224. Johnson finished the race in 22nd dropped to 3rd in points.
With 3 races left, things are looking pretty good for Tony Stewart to win the 2002 Championship.
Do you think Tony can stay on top? Send us an email to let us know.
Article by S. Kipple
Links
Website designed and maintained
by CSP
Media
original content (c)2002-2003 Dawn Church
Visit http://www.Virtual411.com
"Your Place" in cyberspace
Statements within are the opinions of their authors and do not
necessarily reflect the opinion of CSP Media and their affiliates.