Ryan Blaney Surges from Last to Second in Thrilling Clash at Bowman Gray
Ryan Blaney showcased impressive driving skills at the Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium, finishing second after starting last in the 23-car field. Despite the challenging start position, Blaney methodically worked his way through the pack during the exhibition race.
Two IndyCars racing side-by-side
The Team Penske driver started at the back after using a provisional entry, following issues with their water cooler and radiator that required replacement before the Last Chance Qualifying race. By the halfway break at lap 100, Blaney had already advanced to 10th position, largely through clean racing with minimal cautions.
In the final stint following the restart on lap 120, Blaney reached second place and closed in on race leader Chase Elliott. However, tire management became crucial in the closing laps. Despite having strong turning ability, Blaney's right-rear tire wear prevented him from mounting a successful challenge for the win.
"I got to 10th before the break and got to the top five relatively quick," Blaney explained. "When I got to second, I had saved quite a bit to get there, knowing it might go the whole way. It became a game between Elliott and myself about who could save more right-rear tire."
Race winner Chase Elliott acknowledged Blaney's impressive run, drawing parallels to his strong performance at Martinsville in the fall. "When I saw him, I was like, 'Man, didn't he start last?' But thinking about it, it's not really surprising given how good he was at Martinsville," Elliott remarked.
The quarter-mile track at Bowman Gray Stadium provided enough tire degradation to enable passing, but ultimately, Blaney's charge through the field came up one position short of victory in this exciting exhibition race.