Late Race Charge Brings Hamilton to 12th in Daytona Beach Summer Sizzler

Following a 12 hour, overnight rain delay, Bobby Hamilton, Jr. raced his way to a strong 12th place finish in the Winn-Dixie 250 at Daytona International Speedway.  The pilot of the No. 35 McDonald’s NASCAR Busch Series Ford Fusion, passed six cars in the final two laps to record the impressive finish.

After qualifying in the 28th position, Hamilton knew the race would be full of close calls at 200mph, spinning cars and other challenges.  The plan of action was to stay in contention until the end and then charge for the front.  The plan came together and Hamilton snuck away from Daytona in seventh place in the NASCAR Busch Series Point’s Championship. 

Hamilton continues to position himself for a run up the point’s ladder.  After 19 of 35 races in the 2007 season, he stands just 50 points out of fifth place and 112 points behind third place.  With a string of strong finishes, Hamilton hopes to climb inside the top three.

“We did a good job in Daytona as far as coming away with a good finish,” Hamilton said. “We are moving in the right direction as far as the point’s race.  Next week in Chicago will be important; it’s a place we have won at before.”

Kyle Busch captured the win by stepping down to the Busch Series from his regular ride in the Cup Series.  The win remains in question as the winning car was found to have illegal springs, creating an unfair advantage.

Next week the Busch Series will race at Chicagoland Speedway on Saturday afternoon. Check your local listings for broadcast times in your area.