Phoenix NASCAR Happy Hour Practice Notes

Kyle Larson – The #5 unloaded fast and ended practice at the top of the speed chart. When practice was complete, Larson ranked #1 for having the best 5,10,15, 20,25 and 30 lap averages. Kyle Larson started with a 32-lap run so he should have a great feel for his car.

Kevin Harvick – Kevin Harvick looked pretty good in practice and had good speed over a run. Clint Bowyer thought Harvick was happy with his car. Danica Patrick noted that his car was consistent. Harvick said his car was manageable, and he thinks that will be the name of the game this weekend. Harvick said his lap times hung on pretty good. Harvick had the 4th best ten lap average and the 3rd best 20 lap average.

William Byron – Ten minutes into practice while he was 19th, Byron reported, “Really tight and then snaps loose on exit.” The #24 was said to be tight and they have a little bit of work to do.” At the end of practice, Byron said he thinks there were some positives with the last adjustments, just needs help finishing the turns. In terms of long run speed, the #24 was strong. Byron ranked 2nd in terms of 15,20 and 25 lap averages. His ten-lap average was the 5th best.

Austin Dillon – About 10 minutes into practice while he was 24th overall, Dillon reported that his car is loose and he can’t get into the corner. Midway thru practice, Dillon reported that his car is free on throttle and the car feels out of the track, fighting rear grip. Dillon lacked speed. His 10-lap average was the 30th best and his 15-lap average was the 25th best.

Kyle Busch – Early in practice following his first run which had him 29th, Busch was, “Right center loose off, center was getting better.” Late in practice while he was still 29th overall, Busch reported that he’s free in 1 and 2 and tight in the middle of turns 3 and 4. The #8 did not have good speed in practice. In terms of averages, Busch had the 27th best 10-lap average and the 24th best 15-lap average.