Nationwide Series driver Paul Menard’s performance at Saturday’s Tech-Net Auto Service 300 will be a study in mental fortitude.
At last week’s Heluva Good! 200, Menard leapt from 24th place to fifth before falling victim to a multicar crash on Lap 199.
That final lap was just the fifth total he’s failed to complete this year.
"We are looking forward to bouncing back at Charlotte this weekend," he said. “We’ve had strong cars all year, and we are looking to build on that success.”
Crew chief Matt Puccia isn’t dwelling on last week, either. He has his eye on qualifying.
"Charlotte is a fast track with plenty of grip," he said. "Traditionally, track position is critical. You want to get the good clean air up front. We will be focused on qualifying well and putting ourselves in the position to have a strong finish."
