Harvick Claims Runner-Up Finish at Michigan International Speedway

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series – Pure Michigan 400
August 18, 2013 – Michigan International Speedway

Kevin Harvick and the No. 29 Rheem Chevrolet team claimed a runner-up finish in the Pure Michigan 400 Sunday afternoon at Michigan International Speedway. Starting from the 15th position, the Richard Childress Racing driver quickly worked his way into the top 10 by lap 20. As the race progressed, Harvick alerted crew chief Gil Martin that the red and black machine needed more rear grip exiting the turns. Harvick visited pit road on lap 73 for four tires, fuel and an air pressure adjustment to help the car’s handling. The California native was scored in the 13th position for the ensuing restart, but regained a position within the top 10 by lap 76, where he would remain for the duration of the event. Harvick lined up second for the final restart of the race on lap 178 and was shuffled back to fifth on the following lap. The 21-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race winner charged forward during the final laps, ultimately crossing the finish line second, picking up his 200th-career Sprint Cup Series top-10 finish. Harvick remains fourth in the Sprint Cup Series driver championship point standings with the top-five finish.

We had a great car all day, I just misjudged the final restart and got myself a little behind near the end. I have to thank Rheem, Budweiser, Jimmy John’s, Hunt Brothers Pizza and everyone else who helps us get to the track each week. Our team tried a lot of different things than we usually would have during the race today that seemed to work out pretty well for us. It was a great effort by the Rheem crew today; just wish we could have gotten the win. – Kevin Harvick

Race Notes

• Started – 15th, Finished, – 2nd,  Laps led – 0, Points – 4th
• Following the event at Michigan International Speedway, Harvick remains fourth in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver championship point standings, trailing leader Jimmie Johnson by 64 markers.
• According to NASCAR’s Post-Race Loop Data Statistics, Harvick led the competition in Fastest Drivers Late in a Run, Green-Flag Speed, Quality Passes and Speed in Traffic.
• All three RCR drivers earned a spot in the Fastest Laps Run category. Harvick led all competitors with 24 of the fastest laps.

Photos