Mark finished 21st in Saturday night’s Chevy Rock & Roll 400 at Richmond International
Raceway. Mark and the U.S. Army team struggled early and could not find the proper rhythm
in the Nextel Cup event.
“I’m proud of this U.S. Army team,” said Mark. “We had a tough night, but they hung in
there to the end. The track was a lot different than it was in practice on Friday and we
just never could get the car rolling like we needed."
Mark started 19th and had handling issues from the opening of the race. The Army crew made
adjustments to the car during the 300-mile event, but was unable to find the necessary
blend of speed and handling.
Though the Army Chevy moved into the top 15 after the race's ninth caution on Lap 262 of
400, it could not maintain the position on the .75-mile circuit.
“The guys did an excellent job in the pits all night and we were able to get the best
finish we could," added Mark. "This team will continue to work hard during the final
10 races and we look forward to bringing home some solid finishes for our soldiers."
Mark will step out of the car next week, before returning to action Sept. 23 in Dover, Del.
Regan Smith will take the steering wheel of the 01 Dale Earnhardt, Inc. Chevy next weekend
at New Hampshire International Speedway.
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