Dillon learning for Six-Time Champion

One of the best ways to enjoy success is to emulate someone who already is successful.

That’s the approach Austin Dillon is taking in the early stages of his NASCAR Sprint Cup Series career.

Dillon has observed just how meticulous six-time series Jimmie Johnson continues to be in his preparation for each event and has adopted a similar approach. The driver of the No. 3 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet uses a data analyst who helps him with the minutiae of racing.

“(He) really helps me as far as my driving abilities and just looking over different throttle traces and brake traces and just trying to take advantage of all that,” Dillon said on Friday after opening Sprint Cup practice.

“Jimmie Johnson, he studies every weekend, even though he keeps winning. He studies before every race, and we’re studying hard right now.”

Clearly, the homework is paying off for Dillon and crew chief Slugger Labbe. Dillon put the No. 3 Chevy on top of the speed charts in the opening practice session with a lap at 188.511 mph