Chandler Smith encountered significant difficulties during the recent Watkins Glen race, finishing in 24th place after a series of setbacks. Despite a strong qualifying performance, Smith was hit with a loose tire penalty following the first round of pit stops, which severely affected his race outcome. The primary issue involved damage from a broken fender brace that caused ongoing problems with his left rear tire.
Race Details and Impact of the Penalty
Smith’s race unfolded with initial promise but deteriorated as the tire troubles persisted. The loose tire penalty forced him to fall back, and attempts to manage the damaged tire failed to improve his track position. While he struggled to maintain competitive pace, the penalty and mechanical issues limited his ability to capitalize on opportunities during the race stages.
Layne Riggs Shows Resilience Amid Tough Conditions
Another driver, Layne Riggs, also faced a tough race but managed to secure a top-10 finish despite challenges. Riggs started well with a 9th place in Stage One but dropped to 19th in Stage Two before climbing back to finish 10th overall. He remarked on the difficulty of the race and praised his effort given the setbacks, including losing positions after on-track incidents and handling a truck with no sway bar.
“That was probably the hardest I’ve ever fought for a top-10. We qualified okay, and I was trying to learn the track and the dirty air when the 33 cleaned us out. We went to the back, clawed our way forward, and tried to save a little fuel in case we had to stay out. On the next restart, the 9 fenced us — I’m not really sure what happened there. For a truck to look this bad, with no sway bar, and still come home 10th, I’ll take it. I was literally driving the wheels off it. That’s what makes champions.” —Layne Riggs
Looking Ahead to Richmond
Despite his disappointing finish at Watkins Glen, Chandler Smith remains determined to rebound. He acknowledged the difficulties faced during the race and emphasized his team’s focus on regrouping to improve performance in the upcoming event at Richmond. The experience gained here is expected to fuel a stronger effort moving forward.
“Tough day in the office for us. We qualified well, but we got a loose tire penalty after that first round of pit stops and our day went downhill from there. We kept killing our left rear tire with a broken fender brace and just couldn’t get it in a spot to where we could make something of our day. It’s ok, though, we’ll regroup and rebound at Richmond.” —Chandler Smith