David Gilliland, No. 34 Taco Bell Ford
Starting Position: 34
Finishing Position: 32
As Tony Stewart won Sunday's AAA Texas 500 at the Texas Motor Speedway, David Gilliland and his No. 34 team were ready to look forward to Phoenix.
Bad luck, bad timing and a lack of cautions hurt Gilliland. With only five yellows throughout the event, more than half the field fell off the lead lap by the time the checkered flag flew. The Taco Bell team took advantage of several 'wave around' opportunities during the few caution periods, but never got the breaks they needed to gain positions. Instead, Gilliland drove a smart race and finished as high as possible.
The team now moves ahead to the newly paved and banked Phoenix International Raceway for hopes of better luck next Sunday.
Travis Kvapil, No. 38 Long John Silver's Ford
Starting Position: 41
Finishing Position: 31
Travis Kvapil and the No. 38 Long John Silver's Ford team gained 10 positions during Sunday's race and finished in the 31st spot. Kvapil completed 331 of the 334 laps just behind Kurt Busch and Penske Racing.
Kvapil too was a victim of the lack of cautions. As the leaders raced at a blistering pace, it was difficult for anyone to stay on the lead lap. But, Kvapil was able to chip away throughout the race and gain as many spots as possible. The team remains locked in the top 35 in owner points heading into Phoenix. |