Tyler Ankrum earned a fifth-place result at Bristol Motor Speedway (BMS) on Saturday and played part in a historic night for MHR. The driver of the No. 18 Ullico Chevrolet RST tripled his lead in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN truck series (NCTS) points standings. After a intense race at “The Last Great Colosseum” Ankrum now holds a 17 point advantage over second place as his best BMS finish put three of the MHR trucks in the top-five.
Ankrum started ninth making for his fourth consecutive start in the top-10. Ankrum was a constant threat to watch throughout the majority of the race. Ankrum grabbed the seventh position by lap 42 and maintained that spot until the end of Stage 1. Ankrum secured four stage points to help grow his advantage and remained on track to keep his track position. Though the truck felt loose in the exit, Ankrum felt that it was manageable enough to stay out longer.
Ankrum wasted no time charging forward as the second stage restarted on lap 77, and found himself in the top five for the first time of the night. Ankrum managed to escape close calls with lapped traffic to keep his Ullico Chevy clean, but was passed by teammate Zane Smith. Ankrum finished the second stage in sixth to earn five points and came down pit road for his only stop of the night.
Ankrum told crew chief Mark Hillman and his Ullico team the adjustments he’d prefer. With four tires, fuel, and minor track bar adjustments, Ankrum was ready for the final segment in third. Ankrum’s adjustments made it tough for him on restarts making his No. 18 truck feel loose on the bottom lane. He found comfort and speed by running the high line and began gaining time. Ankrum took the checkered flag in fifth for his second consecutive top-five result. He completed MHR’s domination in the top-five by finishing close behind teammate and race winner Christian Eckes and Smith in third.
Tyler Ankrum Quote:
“I told the team what adjustments I’d like to make to the truck. Although it kind of hurt me to start I found what works for me quick. I am proud to be part of such a great team and glad I could help Bill (McAnally) get his first three entry top five. We had a great truck for most the night and though we couldn’t win, I’m happy that MHR found victory lane and I was able to extend my points lead.”
