Chad Finchum Finishes Fourth in First Legends Nationals

The 2009 racing season has been a great ride for Tennessee racer Chad Finchum.  After moving up to the Legends Young Lions division, Finchum put his name in the record books multiple times, winning races in Florida, Tennessee, North Carolina and Georgia, as well as winning the 2009 Legends Young Lions division Thursday Thunder championship at Atlanta Motor Speedway (GA). 

This past weekend, Finchum’s regular season came to a close with the running of the 2009 Legends Car Asphalt Nationals at Lanier National Speedway (GA).  After qualifying second of the 46 drivers on hand in his division, Finchum raced against the best drivers in the country, finishing fourth.

First up was qualifying day on Friday, where Finchum timed in second to Scott Hensley, which put him firmly in the race without having to try and race his way into the show through a B Main event.

“We qualified for the outside pole next to Scott Hensley, who is one of the better drivers in the nation,” said Finchum.   “It was satisfying knowing that we were fast in qualifying and we were looking forward to the race.”

On Saturday, the 50-lap Nationals feature was plagued with multiple cautions and cars spinning and crashing, but Finchum kept clear of the mayhem, crossing the line in fourth.

“It feels great,” explained Finchum.  “This was the first Legends National event we’ve ever raced in.  Our plan was just to come out here and try to run in the top five and we got it.  Our whole team is pleased.”

Finchum and his #19 Embassy Suites of Concord, NC Legends Car team will head to Lowe’s Motor Speedway (NC) next to race on the NASCAR Pole Night in the Young Lions division on Thursday, October 15th.

Chad Finchum's #19 at Lanier (GA).

  (51 Sports Photo)