Phoenix Freeway Insurance 500 NASCAR Practice Notes

Christopher Bell – Christopher Bell had a rocket and during his 2nd run on new tires to close out practice, Bell set the fastest 10,15,20,25 and 30-lap averages. Bell said his car was close and he’s happy with it.

Ryan Blaney – The #12 has good long run speed and during his opening run, Blaney recorded the fastest lap 13,14,15,16,17 and 18. Jeff Burton thought Blaney was really good and viewed him as having the best car thru the first half of practice. During his opening run, Blaney set the fastest 20-lap average (for the time). During his 2nd run on new tires, Blaney recorded the fastest lap in practice (for the time). His long run to close out practice was +45 laps. Hamlin said the #12 has “God Like Grip.” Blaney liked his speed in practice and wants to work on balance. When practice ended, Blaney ranked 3rd for 10-lap averages, 3rd for 20-lap averages and then 2nd for 30-lap averages.

Denny Hamlin – Hamlin said his team has some work to do. He thought overall his balance was closer than it was in the spring. In practice, Hamlin ranked 6th for 10-lap averages, 11th for 20-lap averages and then 7th for 30-lap averages.

Kyle Larson – Larson said his handling wasn’t very good. In practice he ranked 12th for 10-lap averages, 12th for 20-lap averages and then 9th for 30-lap averages.

Chase Briscoe – During his second run in practice on new tires, Chase Briscoe found more speed and was improved. Briscoe said he was good in practice but was a little off. In practice, Briscoe had the 8th best 15-lap average and the 13th best 25-lap average.