The final push for the Chase
Ryan Preece, a New England native, finds himself in a tight race for the final spot in NASCAR’s Chase. Sitting 50 points behind Shane van Gisbergen, he has only two races left in the regular season to make up the difference.
His campaign is anchored by a family‑owned operation that has been part of his journey since childhood. Crew members, nicknamed “John the Plumber” among others, have stood by him through every lap, turning the garage into a home‑like environment.
A track that knows him
New Hampshire Motor Speedway is more than just a venue for Preece; it is a place he has known since he was 16. The 1‑mile oval has hosted his first late‑model victory in 2021, where he seized the win on a last‑lap pass that still resonates in the New England racing community.
That familiarity gives him a tangible edge over van Gisbergen, who brings limited oval experience to the table. While van Gisbergen has only two NASCAR starts on ovals, Preece boasts 40 starts at the New Hampshire track, giving him a depth of knowledge that cannot be replicated.
Ford’s dominance at the venue adds another layer of intrigue. In the previous year, Ford drivers led 275 of the 301 laps and captured three of the top four finishing positions, underscoring the brand’s stronghold on the track.
Who stands in his way
The competition is fierce. Ryan Blaney enters the weekend as the favorite at +425 odds, followed closely by Joey Logano and Christopher Bell at +475. Both drivers are part of a deep field that includes Hendrick Motorsports, the winningest team in NASCAR history, which last celebrated a victory at New Hampshire in 2012 with Kasey Kahne.
Beyond the numbers, the event carries tradition. Past winners have been honored with lobster trophies, a nod to the region’s maritime heritage, while recent schedule tweaks have only heightened the excitement surrounding the race.
For Preece, the focus is as much on the experience as it is on the points. His crew emphasizes racing and enjoying the moment rather than dissecting every detail in a room, a philosophy that reflects the close‑knit nature of his team.