Hamilton, Jr. Charges to a 12th Place Finish in Bristol

Never Give Up!  The three words that best describe the effort of McDonald’s NASCAR Busch Series driver Bobby Hamilton, Jr. during Friday Night’s Food City 250 race.  After qualifying in the 39th position, Hamilton very easily could have settled in for a long night of racing on the half mile speedway.  Instead, he reached down deep and found the ability to pilot his No. 35 Team Rensi Motorsports machine to the front.

From the drop of the green flag, Hamilton began his drive forward.  The car was working well in traffic and Hamilton was driving patient, yet aggressive in his move forward.  As the pit stops began to cycle during the mid point of the race, Hamilton found himself inside the top-five for a few of the laps.

Crew Chief Chris Wright called a perfect race and brought Hamilton to pit road at the correct time, positioning Hamilton for the final 100 laps of the 250 lap race.

Over those final 100 laps, Hamilton secured his 12th place position, and with a few more laps, could have been inside the top-ten.

“We are happy to start as far back as we did and come home with a 12th place finish,” Hamilton said. “Chris and all the guys on the McDonald’s team gave a strong effort, allowing us to pass so many cars.   We needed this run tonight and now we can go to California with some momentum.”

With the 12th place finish, Hamilton remained in sixth place in the season long Busch Series Point’s Championship.

Kasey Kahne captured the win, holding off a late charge from Jason Leffler.  The Busch Series will now head to California Speedway for racing action on Saturday night.  Check your local listings for broadcast times in your area.