Hamilton Climbs to Seventh in Points Following New Hampshire Race

McDonald’s NASCAR Busch Series driver, Bobby Hamilton, Jr. climbed to seventh place in the NASCAR Busch Series Point’s Championship following Saturday’s 200 mile race in New Hampshire. With the Cup drivers taking advantage of their two hour practice session on Saturday morning, Hamilton and the remainder of the Busch Series regulars were faced with a tough task of competing with the Cup drivers entered in Saturday’s race.

Hamilton qualified 25th during the Saturday morning qualifying session. Crew Chief Chris Wright and the McDonald’s Drive Thru Crew knew they would have to give a top level performance in the pits to give their driver a chance for a strong finish.

The race began under sunny skies and Hamilton quickly gained a few spots in the running order. The New Hampshire track, known as “The Magic Mile,” is very flat and can be tough to negotiate. As the race wore on, the team worked hard on Hamilton’s car to move him forward in the running order. Pit stops were much improved this week, helping Hamilton to maintain his position in the running order.

Up ahead, Kevin Harvick and his fellow Cup drivers were dominating the race. A dogfight for position was ensuing from tenth place back. The McDonald’s Ford worked hard for each position and settled for a 20th place finish at the checkered flag. The finish allowed Hamilton to move to seventh as he continues his quest to be the highest finishing Busch Series regular in the Busch Series Championship.

“We didn’t run as well as I would have liked today,” Hamilton said. “Next week we head to Daytona and our focus will be on the front as we want to continue to gain positions in the point’s race.”

Kevin Harvick captured the checkered flag, holding off Carl Edwards on the final lap. Next week, the Busch Series will compete at Daytona International Speedway on Friday night; check your local listings for broadcast time in your area.