Rinus VeeKay Secures 11th Place in IndyCar Qualifying with Daring Late Run
In an action-packed qualifying session for the IndyCar 2023 season, Dutch driver Rinus VeeKay pulled off an incredible comeback to secure 11th place on the grid. The drama began when VeeKay’s No. 21 Ed Carpenter Racing Chevrolet suffered significant damage to the back end and left side after a wreck in Turn 3 on the opening lap of his four-lap run.
“What a day,” VeeKay exclaimed. “It would be a really cool story, but I like boring stories more. Just such a roller coaster. Such a heartbreak to start the day.”
Despite the severe damage, the Ed Carpenter Racing team opted to perform extensive repairs instead of switching to a backup car. After several hours of intense work, VeeKay managed to complete a lap at 231.166mph, which was never in danger of being bumped into the last-chance group.
However, in a bold move, VeeKay’s team decided to waive the initial time and move him into the express lane for a make-or-break run. This daring strategy paid off, with VeeKay producing an average speed of 232.419mph in the final seconds to secure 11th place and a transfer spot.
This impressive comeback has kept VeeKay’s chances alive to extend his streak of three consecutive front-row starts, as well as his impressive qualifying record in the 107-year history of the event.
VeeKay praised his team, stating that they were the real winners of the day, and that he only had to stay flat for four laps and hang on to the car. The Dutch driver couldn’t recall how many parts had to be replaced, but confirmed that the chassis and engine remained original.
VeeKay also shook off the physical impact of the crash, which saw him limping as he got out of the car. “Yeah, it was a pretty hard hit, and my right knee hurt a little bit after, but 20 minutes later it was gone,” he said.
The IndyCar driver believes this rebound can spur his team on to repeat another great qualifying performance on Sunday. “We’re here to get pole position and to win the race,” he stated confidently. “We’re not here for anything less. We know we have that car.”
With this impressive display of resilience and determination, Rinus VeeKay has set his sights on securing a top spot on the grid and ultimately, the win. As the IndyCar 2023 season unfolds, fans can expect more thrilling performances from this talented driver and his exceptional team.
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