Caruth Claims Victory in Rackley Roofing 200 at Nashville
Nashville Superspeedway – In a gripping finale, Rajah Caruth secured his first win of the season in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, edging out four-time winner Corey Heim and Layne Riggs in the closing laps of the Rackley Roofing 200. Caruth, piloting the No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet, crossed the finish line 0.518 seconds ahead of Heim and 0.629 seconds ahead of Riggs, marking his second career victory.
Caruth led for a total of 61 laps, including the final 51, after taking the lead on lap 100 following a swift pit stop during a caution period. This win not only earned him the coveted guitar trophy but also advanced him into the Truck Series Playoffs.
“I didn’t expect that at all,” Caruth reflected. “My pit crew won that race. They got us off pit road twice.” His victory comes amid a challenging season, and he emphasized the importance of mental determination, saying, “I asked myself, ‘How bad do you want it?’”
Heim, who won the second stage and expanded his series lead to 122 points over Daniel Hemric, acknowledged the impact of his final pit stop mishap. “I slid through my (pit) box during the last stop and didn’t do my guys any favors,” he said, congratulating Caruth on his performance.
Riggs, who won the first stage but struggled with a tire change, commented on his vantage point during the closing laps. “I’ll tell you, I had the best seat in the house,” he noted.
Race Results:
- Rajah Caruth (No. 71 Chevrolet)
- Corey Heim
- Layne Riggs
- Daniel Hemric
- Corey Day
Caruth’s strategic driving and pit crew efficiency proved crucial as he prepares for the upcoming DQS Solutions & Staffing 200 at Michigan International Speedway on June 7.
