Kurt Busch won his first race of the season at the Sprint Cup Race Monday night in Long Pond, Penn. The race which was set to start on Sunday was postponed due to a rain delay. This was the first race run on a Monday night at Pocono since 2009 and the first postponed Sprint Cup race of the season.
Busch, who was driving the #41 car was short of fuel going into the last two laps, credits his conservation of fuel and the ability to make to have a strong final lap to his interim crew chief John Klausmeier.
Busch led for 32 laps to win his 28th career Sprint Cup race, moving him into a tie with Hall of Famer Rex White for 25th on NASCAR’s career wins list. He also has three wins at Pocono with three different teams and became the ninth driver to win a race this season.
Best feeling in the world to have the love of my life in victory lane. #trophygirl pic.twitter.com/2BW8TtYQTO
— Kurt Busch (@KurtBusch) June 7, 2016
Second place finisher Dale Earnhardt Jr. who was in the #88 car came in second place during Monday’s nights race. Earnhardt says he lost the race on a restart. However, he does say he is satisfied with the second place win after not having the best month.
Other top finishers included Brad Keselowski, Chase Elliott and Joey Logano.
With this win Busch gained some ground on Kevin Harvick who is currently leading the Chase. Busch is 25 points behind Harvick followed by Brad Keselowski in third.
Kurt Busch will be the defending race winner at the Firekeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway on June 12 at 1 p.m.