Matt Kenseth Wins #5!
Phoenix, AZ - Even after running out of gas on lap 117, Matt Kenseth was able to come back to win the Checker Auto Parts 500 at Phoenix International Raceway.
With just 48 laps remaining, Robbie Reiser, crew chief for the #17 DeWalt Ford, decided to put on just 2 tires at the last pit stop of the day. His strategy paid off as Matt came out of the pits in the lead. Rusty Wallace also chose to take on 2 tires coming out of pit road behind Matt. But when the green flag dropped, Rusty had to fight lapped traffic while Matt was able to jump ahead, taking a commanding lead. The #2 Miller Lite Ford was not strong enough to catch Matt who went on to win the race.
As they have all season, the Roush cars had a phenomenal day with 3 out of the 4 finishing the race in the top 10. Mark Martin finished 4th in the #6 Viagra Ford. Kurt Busch finished 6th in the Rubbermaid Ford. Jeff Burton, hoping to three peat this race, finished a respectful 11th.
Dave Blaney had a superb race in the #77 Jasper Engines Ford. He fought with the leaders all day finishing 7th. Dale Earnhardt Jr. had a bizarre day. After leading the race from lap 7, he too ran out of gas on lap 117. He was able to power his way back up front and finished 5th.
The 2002 Championship will be decided, as it should be, at the final race in
Homestead, FL. Mark Martin closed the gap on leader Tony Stewart to just 86 points.
Although Tony has typically run quite well at Homestead, we could see a very exciting
race next weekend. I know I'm looking forward to it.
How about you? Email us with your thoughts on the race and the quest for the 2002 Championship.
Article by S. Kipple
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