- Image by Getty Images via Daylife
The world was watching as Danica Patrick made her first stock car start at the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200, an ARCA Series event at Daytona International Speedway.
Her foray into NASCAR has been eagerly anticipated since the announcement was made this past December that she was joining JR Motorsports. Fans and critics alike have been vocal in expressing their differing opinions.
A third contingent of fans took the wait and see attitude and Danica did not disappoint.
She qualified in the 12th position, stayed in the top ten for much of the race and ran as high as fifth at one point. On lap 54, however, she bumped fenders with Nelson Piquet Jr., spinning off the track and into the grass. She managed to straighten out her car and avoid the other drivers, exhibiting great car control.
She even seemed to impress veteran driver Kyle Busch.
“Nice save Danica,” he posted on his twitter account.
The spin probably cost her any chance at a victory but she never gave up. Danica battled her way back up to the front and finished in 6th place.
Many fans are still unhappy about the amount of air time given to cover Patrick’s debut, but most agree that her first start was a strong indicator that she may have what it takes to race stock cars. She might not have won the race but she certainly gained respect from the NASCAR community.
After the race, Danica received a hug from crew chief Tony Eury Jr. who was clearly happy with her performance.
“I couldn’t ask for too much more,” he said. “The biggest goal tonight was to finish. The last 20 laps she really impressed me.”
Patrick has yet to announce if she will make her first Nationwide Series start this coming Saturday at Daytona. But if her comments at the end of the race are any indication, she may be leaning in that direction.
“I learned a lot and I had so much fun in a racecar today,” Patrick said. “So I can’t wait to do it again.”
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- Danica finishes sixth in stock car debut (nbcsports.msnbc.com)
