High Sierra Photo

The No. 5 Toyota Tundra team was on a mission to defend its victory at the "World's Fastest Half Mile." The team dominated the race at Bristol Motor Speedway in 2005, leading 195 of 200 laps. The team was confident in its driver and anticipated another dominant performance Wednesday night.

The team was happy with its vehicle from the start of Wednesday's practice sessions. Mike Skinner told his crew the truck handled a little tight in the center of the corners, but it was really good on the gas. The team encountered a minor setback when Skinner made minor contact with another truck during the first practice session. Fortunately, the truck received only cosmetic damage, which the team was able to quickly repair. Skinner was near the top of the speed chart when both practice sessions ended, further boosting the confidence of the No. 5 team.

Skinner started the event in the sixth position, but it did not take long for him to find his way to the front of the field. By lap 20, Skinner sat second behind race leader Mark Martin. He told crew chief Jeff Hensley that the truck handled loose going into the corners. He was also concerned about the brakes, as the brake pedal was going to the floor.

Despite those issues, Skinner inherited the lead within the next 10 laps and began pulling away from the field. Skinner led the next 30 laps, but he relinquished the lead during a round of yellow flag pit stops. Skinner pitted for four tires, fuel and a trackbar adjustment on lap 65. Several trucks chose not to pit during the caution, so Skinner was forced to restart in the 16th position.

Skinner knew he would have to be patient in order to return to the front. On lap 85, he assured his crew that he was taking his time and saving his tires.

Skinner's patience paid off with a return to the top 10 by the midway point of the 200-lap event. He communicated to his crew that the adjustments made under caution were good. Skinner continued his charge to the front and stood seventh when the checkered flag waved.

The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series takes a couple of weeks off before returning to action Sept. 16 at New Hampshire International Speedway.