Bucknum Reaches 220MPH Milestone, Prepares for Qualification Run

Jeff Bucknum got the most laps of the month today and made the best of the opportunity. In 65 laps his fast time was 220.882 MPH placing him in some excellent company leading up to Pole Day tomorrow. Jeff will practice in one session at 10am EDT then, if everything goes according to plan, he will be the first one in line when qualifications begin at noon in Indianapolis.

We took a studied approach today and got up to initial speed pretty quick,” said Jeff. “Then we went back to the garage for some adjustments with plans to hit the track in the final hour, That plan worked fine until Jeff Simmons whacked the wall right behind me bringing out an extended yellow. As soon as the track was clean there was a quick sprinkle of rain, which further delayed a return to green. Instead of an hour we got less than 15 minutes. Even so we went faster in those final 15 minutes, on used tires and heavy fuel, and I know there is more speed for tomorrow.”
“Last year I was the final qualifier on the first day. Tomorrow I will probably be the first out, a whole new experience. Our goal is get solidly in the field and as far to the front as possible. This is a good, good race car. I am excited and the Hemelgarn crew is very supportive. It is our chance to get ready for a terrific race next weekend.”