In the shadow of the famed St. Louis Gateway Arch, Haas Factory team showcased their efforts at the World Wide Technology Speedway. During Xfinity action Saturday, Sam Mayer and Sheldon Creed capped their regular seasons, solidifying their playoff positions for the Round of 12 that begins next week. On Sunday Cole Custer strived to become a Cup Series playoff spoiler, while working to overcome handling challenges.
Cup Series
41 Cole Custer
Cole Custer’s return to World Wide Technology Raceway began from the 29th starting position, and he used the opening stage to settle in. While the car started off on the tight side, he was able to maintain pace and his position. A two-tire pit stop on lap 29 gave his crew a chance to adjust the balance, and Custer closed out Stage One in 29th.
Stage Two brought more chances for Custer and his team to fine-tune the Haas/Andy’s Ford. Restarting mid-pack after a caution on lap 78, he worked to manage a car that shifted from tight early to free as the laps wore on. Despite the challenge, Custer held his ground inside the top 30. Multiple pit stops throughout the stage allowed his crew to continue making adjustments, and he finished 28th while keeping his car clean and positioned for the longest run of the day.
The final stage was highlighted by team strategy. Staying out between stages gained Custer track position, and after cycling through pit stops, he climbed as high as 11th with just over 50 laps remaining. Although he continued to manage a tight-handling car, Custer fought hard to the finish. He ultimately crossed the line in 27th, capping off a gritty effort.
“Overall, a challenging day,” said Custer”We didn’t have many things go our way. We’ll move on to the next one and I feel like Bristol is definitely a place we can rebound at so we’ll see what we can do.”
HFT PR