Ross Chastain Phoenix Post-Race Report

Ross Chastain (@RossChastain), driver of the No. 19 Draw-Tite Ford F-150, made his 13th start for Brad Keselowski Racing (BKR) and his second start at Phoenix International Raceway during Friday night’s Lucas Oil 150 after qualifying his F-150 in the pole position earlier in the day for his second pole of the year.

Chastain got off to a solid start leading the first 35 laps before making his first pit stop under the second caution due to a tire issue on the No. 32. Crew chief, Chad Kendrick changed four tires, where most of field only took two tires. Chastain restarted fifth on lap 41, but before the field could make it back around the no. 94 spun and brought out caution number three.

On lap 78, Chastain radioed in explaining to Kendrick he had a vibration all the way around his F-150. Kendrick eased the young driver and assured him the team would execute a plan on the next pit stop.

During the fourth caution on lap 85, Chastain brought his Draw-Tite Ford to pit road for right sides only and fuel. Chastain entered pit road third and restarted first with 57 to go due to an exceptionally fast pit stop by the BKR crew.

During the final restart Chastain grabbed the lead with 10 to go, but fell one position short of the victory, coming home in second place for the second time of the season, leading 63 of 150 laps.

The No. 19 BKR team now sits fifth in the NCWTS owner points standings, 53 points back from first.

“We had a really fast Draw-Tite Ford tonight, proud of our pole winning qualifying effort. I wish I could have held on just a little bit longer, but I’m so happy for my team and thankful for the opportunity Brad and Draw-Tite have provided me this year. I’m really looking forward to returning home to Florida next weekend with the goal of putting our Melon 1 Ford F-150 in victory lane.” – Ross Chastain

BKR PR