It was a partnership that came together very quickly that put Robin Buck at the wheel of the familiar looking #66 Quaker State Dodge for round number one of the 2013 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series this past weekend. But the experienced driver and team once again combined for very good race and claimed a fifth place result.
When practice began on Saturday the #66 Quaker State Dodge ran comfortably in the top ten. Buck wasn’t concerned about being the fastest car but rather setting the car up for the race on Sunday. In qualifying Buck didn’t push too hard to achieve a better time. “We knew exactly what we wanted from the car and we have that” explained Buck. “We have a good starting spot and we’ll be fine”.
As the race began in front of a huge crowd on sight and lives on television, the #66 Quaker State Dodge was running strong up near the front with Buck using his usual smooth and consistent style. “I expected some guys to try and get away in the early going, but we expected that the race would come down to the final laps and we wanted to save something for the end” said Buck.
The event played out pretty much according to plan and the #66 Quaker State Dodge was in very good position in the late stages. “Following the last caution it was time to try and push” explained Buck. “I was following the #17 car and he looked to be maneuvering his way around the #3 and I was hoping to go with him but he kind of got squeezed”.
Though he continued his attempts to the end Buck would not gain any further positions and cross the finish line in the #66 Quaker State Dodge in fifth spot. “Of course I would have liked to pick up another position or two at the end but I didn’t want to force the issue too much with the #17, we’re not running for championship points and he is so I was being respectful. Still to put this program together so quickly and come out with a top five is very good. I want to thank the whole team for all their efforts”.
