Asked to describe his rookie season, Chase Elliott said it’s had ups and downs.
Speaking to the media on Chase Media Day at the Bridgeport Art Center in Chicago, the driver of the No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet was asked to size up his first year in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.
“It’s had its ups and downs, for sure,” Elliott said. “I’m proud of some moments, not so proud of others. But, you know, we’ve given ourselves a couple opportunities to contend for a couple wins, which I think is good. Not so good to not be able to capitalize on those opportunities. As I’ve said before, that’s disappointing.
“I think you have to look at the positives of the fact that we were able to, you know, be a contender some this year, which I think is good. Other weeks, we’ve had our struggles, like anybody else. But I think we’ve got to put the positives together and get ready for these next few weeks.”
Elliott’s rookie season in the Sprint Cup Series has been above average in terms of stats. While he’s still searching for his first win, he’s amassed two poles, seven top fives and 13 top 10s in 26 starts. He’s been as high as sixth in points this season and starts the Chase 14th. His best race came back in Pocono in June where he led a race-high of 51 laps before he was caught behind a gaggle of cars on different pit strategies and finished fourth.
When asked if he thought he’s exceeded expectations in his rookie season, he said “It’s hard to say or for me to judge. It’s not really for me to judge.
“But for us, I’m definitely proud to be here. I’m excited about it. I think it’s a great opportunity. You know, we want to try to do the best job we can each week like we always say. But I’m proud of it nonetheless.”
