Sprint Unlimited: Denny Hamlin wins at Daytona

Denny Hamlin wins the Sprint Unlimited.

The Sprint Unlimited kicked off the 2016 NASCAR season on Saturday night under the lights at Daytona. Denny Hamlin came away with the win after taking a risk to not pit for fuel and avoiding the multiple big crashes by being at the top of the order.

This event was the first action some of the NASCAR drivers saw in a race format as they look forward to Daytona 500 qualifying on Sunday. With all the cautions, some of the drivers were knocked out of driving much earlier than they wanted. However, a crash towards of the end of the race allowed the new NASCAR overtime rules to be seen.

With the help of many laps under caution, Hamlin was able to preserve his limited fuel supply and hold on for the win. Hamlin was in a tight spot as the field was brought back to close confines due to a caution as the race came to an end. As a result, the new NASCAR overtime rules went into effect. Despite another crash breaking out after the racing resumed and the leader had crossed the yellow line once, Hamlin was able to win the event under reduce speeds due to the caution.

Joe Gibbs Racing has now won the Sprint Unlimited event with Hamlin coming away with this year’s first-place finish. Hamlin’s fuel level wasn’t that dire as he was able to do donuts and spin his tires after winning the opening event of the season. There were no points for the chase awarded. However, he and the other drivers got a good feel for the track as they return on Sunday for front row qualifying for the Daytona 500.

This race had everything to get the folks at home ready for the real races that start with the Daytona 500 next weekend.