Kurt Busch: ‘This is a big win for me’

After 500 laps at Bristol Motor Speedway Saturday night, Kurt Busch emerged victorious for the first time in NASCAR’s top series since the 2017 Daytona 500.

Busch led the final 24 laps in the Bass Pro Shops/NRA Night Race to capture his 30th career win in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series. Kyle Larson and Chase Elliott finished second and third respectively.

“I always wanted to get to 30 [wins], this is a big win for me,” Busch said. “I grew up at Roush Racing watching a guy named Mark Martin help me. He was a great mentor. I looked up to him as a racer.

“…Early on, before I won my first ever race, If I can get to 30, that’s a pretty special career. Made it tonight. I’m choked up about it. I really love this win tonight. To have six Bristol trophies is special.”

Busch earned his first career win at “The Last Great Colosseum” and now has earned his most recent. The 2004 series champion entered the race riding a losing streak of 58 races.

“I remember winning my first race here at Bristol,” Busch said. “We all got special rings. I’m going to get all the guys rings on their first win. It’s big. It’s a moment. I’ve been pushing hard to get those guys to Victory Lane. I’m glad I can deliver.”

For crew chief Billy Scott, it was his first win in the Cup Series atop the pit box. The 40-year-old crew chief has worked with seven drivers at NASCAR’s top level, previously working with Danica Patrick for two full seasons prior to working with Busch in 2018.

SOURCES
NASCAR Media
Racing-Reference.info