I’m still trying to catch my breath.
Friday night, the Camping World Truck Series returned after an off weekend to put on a show to rival any Las Vegas stage act. Incredible moves were made, some physics defying saves were accomplished and a lot of trucks were torn up and on the hook back to the garage.
At the end of it all, when the dust had settled and the smoke had cleared, it was 19 year old phenom Chandler Smith getting the win over Daytona winner Zane Smith with a daring last lap crossover move on the Nellis Straightaway. The owner of Chandler’s #18 Toyota Tundra, Kyle Busch brought his #51 home in third.
“I’m just beyond thankful for this opportunity. All the glory goes to Him, my wife, all the guys part of this deal. I’m just super thankful right now,” said Smith, who notched his third career win. According to NASCAR.com, it was the ninth truck series race won by a driver aged 23 or younger.
Zane Smith had an incredibly interesting night. Starting out with damage in an early incident involving Colby Howard, Chase Purdy and Hailie Deegan. The #38 team rallied though, showing some serious championship potential, putting their beat up truck in the lead on the final restart. Zane didn’t have the speed to hold off the #18 but settled for second, at least at first.
During post-race inspection, the #38 failed, resulting in a disqualification. A devastating blow for a team who put in one of the drives of the season. I expect a big bounce back for this team next time we see them.
Defending champion Ben Rhodes won both stages, remaining in contention for the win until contact with teammate Ty Majeski sent the #99 smashing into the tri-oval wall. Rhodes was disappointed, but didn’t think his teammate was trying to wreck him. Seems to be a lot of teammate on teammate violence going around lately.
Christian Eckes looked to be in position to get another Las Vegas win but threw a bad block on Busch, who held his line and sent Eckes spinning into the inside wall. Carson Hocevar was arguably the most impressive performer of the race, at times taking the fight right to Kyle Busch, Chandler Smith and John Hunter Nemecheck. A late spin sent Hocevar to the back and he never really recovered.
Todd Bodine returned to the series, making his first of six starts this season in a bid to make 800 national series starts. Bodine spun twice but never gave up, finishing the race under his own power. Derek Kraus also had a solid run and highlight reel save after making contact with Grant Enfinger on the final lap. Ryan Preece came home with a top-five and the Matt DiBenedetto walked away with a good top-10.
The next time we’ll see the trucks will be at the new-look Atlanta Motorspeedway on March 19th.
As for this weekend, the Xfinity and Cup drivers better bring the heat after such a rocking opening act.
Photo Credit to the Official Twitter account of Chandler Smith @CSmithDrive
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