Pennzoil Pontiac Race Report: Benson Spins at Darlington and Still Finishes 19
2 September 1997
Benson Finishes 19th Despite Spin August 31, 1997 Darlington, S.C. Pennzoil Pontiac driver Johnny Benson survived a 360-degree spin midway through Sunday's Southern 500 and finished in 19th place -- two laps behind race winner Jeff Gordon who became only the second driver to win three of the sport's top four events and earn a $1 million bonus. "We were just tight all day," Benson said as he rubbed some of the blisters on his hand after the 4-hour race. "We did the best we could and we didn't wreck it." Benson remains in 12th place in the 1997 points race trailing 11th place Jeremy Mayfield by 50 points and 10th place Ted Musgrave by 103 points. Benson raced as fast as the leaders in the early going, but some handling problems and a pit stop dropped him down a lap. A midrace accident involving two cars gave Benson no option but to lock the brakes and hold on for a ride. The Pennzoil Pontiac spun but some flat-spotted tires were the only damage. "That was awfully close," Benson said. I'm surprised we didn't hit something in all that. But, we did lose another lap." Benson and the Pennzoil Pontiac return to the track Saturday night at Richmond International Raceway. For More Information Contact: Drew Brown Cohn & Wolfe (404) 880-5269 drew_brown@cohnwolfe.com