Watkins Glen NASCAR Practice Notes

Group A Driver Practice Notes

Michael McDowell – McDowell had good speed and was fast over a long run. McDowell was said to look good on old tires. During his 2nd run, McDowell posted the best 15-lap average of the day. During an interview, McDowell said he had “Lights out long run speed.”

Brad Keselowski – Brad Keselowski was in the bottom third of Group A in terms of outright speed. In terms of long run speed, he was fast during his 2nd run and ranked 5th in terms of 15-lap averages (for the Group). Late during his 2nd run he said, “Brakes are really good, really good stopping power. Overall just a little free, pretty much everywhere.”

Ross Chastain – The #1 was showing really good speed over his opening run. Ross Chastain also had good speed over his 2nd round of practice. Chastain ranked 3rd in Group A for both 10 and 15-lap averages.

Tyler Reddick – Tyler Reddick climbed up to the top of the leaderboard early in Group A. Reddick had good long run speed and ranked 1st in terms of 5 and 10-lap averages. In terms of 15-lap averages, he ranked 2nd. Reddick looked strong again over his 2nd run. Reddick said his car has a lot of good speed.

Denny Hamlin – Denny Hamlin unloaded fast and had good speed. He was one of the drivers who wasn’t afraid to get into the new rumble strip area in turn #1. Denny Hamlin spun late in Group A’s first round. Hamlin reported that he was really tight, and his handling wasn’t quite to his liking over his first session. Hamlin had the 7th best 10-lap average in Group A.