Three-time NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series champion Jack Sprague (No. 60 Con-way Freight Toyota) predicted we’d hear a lot from 2006 Raybestos Rookie of the Year Erik Darnell (No. 99 Northern Tool+Equipment Ford).
Sprague’s pronouncement proved accurate April 28 as Darnell raced to his first NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series victory in the O’Reilly Auto Parts 250 at Kansas Speedway.
Indeed, Sprague was not only correct, but he proved to be Darnell’s final obstacle as the winner led three times for a race-high 92 laps.
“I couldn’t run with him, ” said Sprague, who gave up the lead to Darnell on the 112th of 167 laps. “I think the fastest truck won. ”
Darnell won in his 31st series start (see chart below) and became the fourth driver under the age of 25 to win a series race at Kansas Speedway.
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