A fifty-year-old on victory lane

By setting the fastest qualifying time three times since the start of the season, Mark Martin managed the performance of transforming a pole position into victory in Phoenix after 312 laps.

Published on 19/04/2009 à 22:03

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Mark Martin started the race from pole position and led the first 102 laps. After a third of the distance, the sun gradually disappearing over Arizona, the race completely changed its appearance.

With cooler temperatures and an offbeat strategy, Dale Earnhardt Jr was able to believe in his lucky star. But in the absence of a yellow flag, “Junior” did not have the chance to maintain his position on the oval which took the life of his father eight years ago.

In these conditions, while the green flag was law, victory went to the best performer. With all his experience, Mark Martin won for the first time since October 9, 2005. Tony Stewart, Kurt Busch, Jimmie Johnson and Greg Biffle followed under the checkered flag.

In the general classification, no change in the top 3 with Jeff Gordon ahead of Jimmie Johnson and Kurt Busch. Winner this week, Mark Martin moves up to thirteenth place, nine points behind the Chase.

At 50 years and 89 days, Mark Martin becomes the third oldest winner in the history of the Nascar.