Photo – AP
Ricky Rudd was in his second full season with Robert Yates Racing (RYR) and looked for his first win since 1998.
The Virginia driver finished runner-up twice up until Michigan in June 2001 since his last win at Martinsville Speedway in September 1998, where he was given oxygen after the race.
RYR already had success in the 2001 season with Dale Jarrett, who had two wins and Rudd about to knock on the door.
Heading into the Kmart 400, it was a tight championship battle between Rudd, Jarrett and Jeff Gordon.
Gordon came off a dominating performance the last week at Dover, leading 381 of the 400 laps en route to victory.
The three-time champ had the best car for the second straight week at Michigan, but Rudd wouldn’t make it easy.
Gordon won the race off pit road on during a lap 172 caution, but the No.24 team had to come back in for loose lug nuts. Rudd came in again as well.
With both drivers coming in, it handed the lead to Sterling Marlin, looking for his first win since 1996.
Gordon and Rudd made a furious charge back to the front as Gordon finally made the pass on Marlin for the lead on lap 193 with Rudd coming along with him.
The two would settle the win among themselves.
Rudd darted to the inside of the 24 coming to the white flag and both drivers were side-by-side.
Gordon prevailed in turn one as Rudd drove in it too deep. The 24 car had enough as Rudd’s charge was too late and Gordon got his second win in as many weeks. It was also the 100th win for Hendrick Motorsports.
Shawna Robinson also made her Cup début with a 34th place finish for Michael Kranefuss.
2001 Kmart 400 Top-ten