Whitt Secures 20th Place Finish at Atlanta Motor Speedway

Strategy, patience and consistency were all key factors in Cole Whitt’s end result for the Folds of Honor Quick Trips 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Whitt rolled off the grid 37th to start the 500-mile NASCAR Monster Energy Series event.

 

During Stage One, 85 laps, of the three stage format, Whitt battled a loose handling condition and lacked rear grip in the Rinnai No. 72. Despite the challenge, Whitt managed to work his way into the Top-25 and as high as 19th as cars begin the first round of pit stops. Crew Chief Frank Kerr brought the Rinnai No. 72 in for adjustments sending Whitt to return to the field in the Top-25 where he continued to run until the completion of a caution free Stage One.

 

After a series of pit stops for adjustments and into Stage Two, Whitt continued to experience a loose handling car but continued to run in the Top-25. He along with many others fell off the lead lap but consistency, strategy and patience paid off for Whitt late into Stage Three when Crew Chief Frank Kerr made the call, under a caution, to Keep Whitt out to gain track position. The call was risky based on fuel mileage but the decision paid off as Whitt drove the Rinnai No. 72 to the checkers to capture a 20th place finish at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

 

TMI PR