“What a wonderful day today. It was everything we could have hope for. Some heavy hitters went out early and we were able to capitalize on this weekend. I don’t think we ran the best out there. We had some issues like the fuel pump falling off the car because the top end was so bumpy. We went through three fuel pumps. We ran out of tires too. We stole some stuff from Leah’s (Pruett) team, and we have a great group and everyone worked together today. It feels like a family at TSR. Tony has tried to instill that this group of guys and they are really a part of something special. We have established a legacy in the sport with the races and championship we have won. We know we are trying to get TSR its first championship and we know it is possible. Today speaks volumes when you go back-to-back in Funny Car. And to win six races in a season is incredible. It’s so hard win one race in Funny Car. This class is dog eat dog. Robert (Hight) won eight races last year and that is remarkable. My goal this year was to win six to eight races.
We always say you have to win two races in the Countdown to have a shot at the championship. And it’s still super close now. Losing that race to Robert (Hight) at Maple Grove really hurt because it was so close (0.001). We have to be on the front side of the races and Dickie (Venables – crew chief) and the guys have been doing that the last two races. What an amazing weekend for TSR. I’m super proud of Leah. Winning on a holeshot in the final too.
When you do that, you feel amazing as a driver contributing to the team. I can’t say enough about Tony Stewart. He is a great driver, team owner and person. It’s easy to get caught up in the races, wins, championships that you have to step back and enjoy the moment too.
All glory goes to God. You wake up in the morning and ask to have a great day. And we had a great day. You can’t ask anymore than that. We really truly rose to the occasion today.”
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