Ankrum ends six-year wait with victory in Rockingham

The return of the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series to Rockingham Speedway after an eleven-year absence had an unexpected protagonist. Tyler Ankrum, who started from the 16th position, managed to win the Black's Tire 200 and ended a 2,135-day winless streak.

From last place to the $50,000 prize

The driver of the Chevrolet No. 18 for McAnally-Hilgemann experienced a rollercoaster of emotions during the 200 laps at "The Rock." An accident on the second lap left his truck damaged and one lap behind the leader. However, fortune changed for Ankrum when he regained his lost lap by being the beneficiary during the caution flag that marked the end of the second stage.

Photo By Nascar Media

The victory not only represented the end of a winless drought but also a $50,000 bonus for winning the final race of the Triple Truck Challenge.

Mastery in resource management

The numbers tell the story of a race where intelligence prevailed over pure speed. Ankrum led only 29 laps compared to 52 by Corey Heim and 43 by Jake Garcia. The key was his exceptional fuel management, which proved decisive in the outcome.

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Different strategies, different results

While Ankrum bet on extreme conservation, other favorites like Corey Heim and Gio Ruggiero (TRICON Garage) chose to stay on track during the caution flags at the start of the final stage. This decision allowed them to lead momentarily, but they eventually had to pit for fuel, compromising their chances.

The champion's streak of bad luck continues

Ty Majeski, the current series champion, added his third consecutive poor result. His Ford No. 98 from ThorSport lost control on lap 109 while battling with Grant Enfinger and ended up hitting the outside wall. This result (31st place) adds to his recent performances at Martinsville (13th) and Bristol (33rd).

Complete results of the Black's Tire 200 at Rockingham Speedway