What started as a calm day in Austin, Texas turned attrition filled as the laps wound down in the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix.
With seven to go in the 68-lap race, eventual race winner Tyler Reddick and polesitter William Byron were battling each other through every turn.
Two laps later, Reddick made what the Pit Pass Network staff agreed was the Rich MARvelous Move of the Race.
The No. 45 23XI Racing driver took advantage of a slip-up by Byron. When the No. 24 got loose, Reddick took the lead and rode off into the Texas sunset.
The battle for the lead continues.
Under 5 laps to go at @NASCARatCOTA. pic.twitter.com/9alqb2DS7b
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) March 26, 2023
Sort of.
It would have been ideal for Reddick and his team if the action concluded there. However, before Reddick could bring his Monster Energy machine across the finish line, the caution waved for debris on the track.
This would send the race into overtime.
On the first restart, Reddick had the lead and battled three-wide to maintain it. Yet, before the white flag waved, the yellow was in the air as the No. 41 of Ryan Preece dropped debris throughout the track after a shoddy repair by his crew.
Another overtime restart.
Another Reddick lead.
And wouldn’t you know it? Another caution. This time, for tire trouble on the No. 99 of Daniel Suarez.
As drivers came to the green flag one last time, Reddick proved once again that he had the car to beat.
After pacing practice on Friday, claiming a front-row starting spot in qualifying, and leading 41 of the 68 laps, Reddick held on to score his first win of 2023 by a margin of 1.411 seconds over Kyle Busch.
Post-race, Reddick said, “It means the world [to win here]. This whole 23XI team has been working hard all winter long to make the road course program better. Just so proud of this Monster Energy team and TRD [Toyota Racing Development]. All the resources they’ve put in to turn around the road course program means a lot.”
A huge thank you to Rich Mar Florist for their partnership in the Rich MARvelous Move of the race! Be sure to check out their website for all your floral needs and follow them on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) and stay up-to-date with all the Team Rich Mar NASCAR happenings.
