Whitt Finishes 28th at Las Vegas Motor Speedway

In the first of the three stops of NASCAR Goes West, Cole Whitt qualified 33rd for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Kobalt 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.  With an early caution on lap 17, running in the 32nd position, Whitt pitted for four tires and adjustments; returning to the field 30th. As the green flag run progressed, Whitt relayed the Rinnai No. 72 “was tight on long runs and lacked rear stability”. With the next caution, Whitt reminded 32nd. He pitted for adjustments and was penalized for speeding off of pit road sending him to restart at the rear of the field. At lap 80, the completion of Stage One, Whitt was scored 33rd.

 

During the Stage One completion caution, Whitt once again pitted seeking adjustments that would assist with the tight handling. Continuing to consistently run 31st during Stage Two, Whitt completed the Stage in that position.

 

Stage Three continued to be the same for Whitt. The handling became tighter by lap 205. Pitting under green on lap 211, Whitt received more adjustments to the Rinnai No. 72, and rejoined the field 31st. As the race progressed, the car lacked front and rear grip creating more challenges for Whitt. Despite the handling, Crew Chief Frank Kerr opted to keep Whitt out during the next caution to take the wave around and gain track position. As Stage Three neared end, Whitt continued to run 30th. As the white flag was displayed and as the field made the final turn, Whitt ultimately took the checkers with a 28th place finish for the Kobalt 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

 

TMI PR