What does it take to win a race? Is it hard work, smart work, or luck? We’ve always heard that we have to work smarter, not harder. And we saw those words proven true during Saturday’s Xfinity Race at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Chase Elliott was unable to reach victory lane due to his qualifying position, but was able to get there with a smart and well-timed move.
This was his first Xfinity race win since 2016. Of course, there was some “luck” involved in winning the final shaft, but it was actually an important strategic plan that changed the game. But unlike always when the driver gets the credit, this time it was someone else’s input that changed the entire game.
Strategic masterstroke propelled Chase Elliott from 30th to victory lane
Elliott was far from winning. In fact, he had a bad qualifying and started the race in 30th place. However, a good strategic decision saw him race through to first place.
But most of the credit this time goes to crew chief Greg Ives, not him. After Riley Herbst crashed on the backstretch, crew chief Greg Ives had Elliott stay on the track with his old tires and save the new set for later use. That was the “secret” that led him to victory – perfect strategy became their weapon! Elliott then lost position after his pit stop on lap 48, but quickly regained the position. Then, a timely caution on lap 169 gave Elliott the perfect opportunity to make the most of his remaining new tires. When asked by SiriusXM NASCAR about Gregg’s move, Elliott said, “That (Ive’s strategic move) won the race,” but also acknowledged that there were many other drivers far better than him. Ta. “Honestly, we were okay.
We weren’t as good as 7 or 1 or some of the other guys,” Elliott said. That’s all you need at some point. If you make good decisions, put yourself in a good position and race smart you get a chance and that was certainly the case today. ”
Throughout the race, Greg Ives showed patience with Chase Elliott, even if it meant giving up position on the track.
Luck also served them well at their final destination, as the alarm occurred at exactly the right time. There’s always been an element of gambling in motorsport, and this time Greg Ives’ gamble paid off.
And for now, Elliott is feeding on his recent winning mentality, but Sunday’s Cup race means even more to him. This marks the 300th launch of HMS and is an important milestone.
Chase Elliott hopes to spend his entire career with Hendrick Motorsports
Chase Elliott is undoubtedly one of the biggest names in NASCAR and HMS. He has been with the team since his debut and this is his second home. Recently, after his win at Xfinity, he was asked where he would like to finish his career.
Elliott doesn’t know how long his career will last, but he said he wants to remain at HMS until it’s over. “He doesn’t know how long his career will last, but he wants to spend it all here,” he said. This was the only home I’ve known during my NASCAR career. It’s a truly wonderful house. I owe everything to Rick (Hendrick) for everything I have, opportunities, life, everything. It was a lot of fun. ”
As for the 300th launch, Elliott pointed out that it’s a big milestone for everyone, and it’s actually a big deal. And while Hendrick Motorsports’ Ace #9 may not seem like he’s been in the sport that long, he’s actually the OG. He said: “Being able to call a place home and drive for a guy means a lot to me. 300 (starts) is a crazy idea in a 38-race season. We’ve been around longer than you think. ”
After the No. 9’s impressive victory in the Xfinity Series in Charlotte prior to the Coca-Cola 600, fans and the team should be looking forward to seeing what happens next.
And will the series continue? What do you think? Will he be able to win the next race? Please tell us!
