The boys of BPR tried their hands at the 200+ mph Michigan Speedway for the DHL 400 for this Sundays Sprint Cup race. A field of talented drivers was on hand for this exciting race. This 100 lap event began as smooth as silk with around 50 laps of green flag racing initially. During this run, many cars challenged the track and other drivers to take the lead. The balance and competitiveness of the cars and drivers was seen as there were 7 lead changes in a 20 lap period.

This included talented racers Sox, Smokinstewart, Renegade, Teaspoon and ARkansaw. As the late afternoon sky cleared, the track became hot and slick leading to a few cautions which would slow the pace of the race for a few laps. After pit stops were made and adjustments were made, drivers were able to gain control of their cars and green flag racing resumed. With around 30 laps to go, the field realized that this race may come down to gas mileage. A few drivers elected to top off their tanks on the second round of pit stops with about 18 laps to go, while others stayed out. This would cost one of the strongest cars a top 5 finish. With about 5 laps to go, Renegade had to make a green flag pit stop to top off his tank. The slippery apron claimed him as a victim as he spun while exiting pit, essentially ending his bid for the win. This yellow would set up the infamous “green-white-checkered finish”. When the green dropped, Sox would lead the field followed by Smokinstewart, Slopland, ARkansaw, Teaspoon and Viper. Contact between the first two cars in turn 2 lead to a spin that collected those two and ARkansaw. Slopland would slip through the smoke and metal followed closely by Viper, and in a Kyle Bush Daytona scenario, Slopland would claim the victory under yellow by a nose. Replays determined the Slopland was clear of the accident and a nose ahead of viper when they crossed the track’s scoring loop.

Smokingstewart assumes the points lead followed by Teaspoon who is 1 point behind. Sox, Slopland and Wheelracer, whom had the lead prior to this week, rounds out the top 5, which is only separated by 116 points. Things are heating up as we move closer to the chase. Full statistics and race results can be seen on backpocketracing.com under cup.