Compton Returns to Phoenix

Compton excited for Phoenix return

PHOENIX, Ariz. (April 14, 1998) If racing is a numbers game, then Stacy Compton, driver of the Royal Crown Ford F150, has reason to feel comfortable with his third visit to Phoenix International Raceway for this weekend's Chevy Trucks 150.

"Third time is the charm," Compton said. "I've learned an awful lot about this track during my first two races here last season. It's all about progression."

Compton has vaulted to the forefront of contenders in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. He finished 13th in the final point standings his rookie season and held his own for a guy who grew up on the short-track circuit in late model racing back home in Virginia.

"The competition is tough in this series," Compton said. "There are a number of drivers who'll put on a show at this tri-oval."

Compton enters his second season with a new sponsor, Royal Crown; a new crew chief, Kevin Cram; and a year of experience under his belt. Team RC has set its sights on a few early-season goals, such as a top-five finish here at Phoenix and hopefully a win out west.

"We're picking up momentum each time we race here," the Hurt, Va., native said. "Last fall we qualified fifth and finished eighth."

Team RC gathered a top-10 finish at Homestead two weeks ago, qualifying 11th and finishing sixth. Compton is currently 16th in the points after two races and only 60 points out of the top-five.

Crew Chief Kevin Cram sees the potential in Compton's third visit to the 1-mile oval and is optimistic.

"This truck ran extremely well at Homestead," Cram said. "We should be a top-five truck here this weekend."

One thing is for sure. Team RC is pumped up for this West Coast swing, starting with their third visit to PIR.

Source: NASCAR Online