Shootout Showdown
Posted on: February 19, 2012
It’s official. The 2012 Nascar Sprint Cup season has started and it all began with a showdown in the Bud Shootout.
If the season is indicative of the performance, teamwork, and fun the No. 51 Phoenix Racing team and driver Kurt Busch had in the Bud Shootout then we are in for one heck of a great season. Spirits were high as the checklists were reviewed, backup car prepared and ready, and the driver calmly looking for a great start to a fulfilling year.
The team had their work cut out for them after a crash in Shootout practice on Thursday. Despite the work ahead of them to get another car suited for the show the team had smiles on their faces.
The green flag flew for the first 25 lap segment of the race and things heated up quickly. All of the drivers were making mental notes as to how to tackle the 2.5 mile Daytona International Speedway with the new rules package. They had to push the envelope each lap and figure out just how far they could push the car and competitors as they have in the past. Some of those lessons came early for some as an early wreck slowed the excitement momentarily. Drivers regrouped and thought more about their task at hand and how to adjust to the conditions.
As the first segment concluded, Kurt drive the No. 51 Tag Heuer Chevrolet all the way to the front after starting in the back. It was a sign to everyone that although the No. 51 team is here to have fun, they are also here to run with the best of them. During the 10 minute break the team and driver worked to readjust a loose shifter knob that had worked its way loose.
The second segment was in full swing and the No. 51 Tag Heuer Chevy maintained great track position. Spotter and General Manager Steve Barkdoll had his hands full to keep up with the side by side racing that went on lap after lap.
As the race winded down and drew closer to the 75 lap mark the team made one final pit stop for the night to grab some fresh Goodyear tires and also make repairs to a loose window in the car. When the pit stop concluded Kurt Busch had everything he needed to march forward. With a handful of laps left, and as Kurt made his way to the top 5 with a full view of the lead, Kurt found himself caught up in a wreck with Jeff Gordon and that brought the night to a close. Jeff found his way on his roof as he slid down the track in turn 4 and the No. 51 team found there way to the garage.
Despite a wrecked car and dashed hopes for a Shootout win, Kurt congratulated everyone on the team for their hard work and ability to run up front for the entire weekend. The No. 51 team, crew chief Nick Harrison, and driver Kurt Busch proved to everyone that determination, patience, and a little fun go a long way in Nascar.
Scanner audio of Phoenix Racing from the 2012 Bud Shootout
