The 22 Team's Fuel Strategy Pays Off: Nick Hensley's Insights
The No. 22 team of Joey Logano celebrated another victory, thanks in part to their masterful fuel strategy. Nick Hensley, the gas man for the winning crew, shared his thoughts on the team's performance and their championship aspirations.
The Art of Fuel Strategy
When it comes to NASCAR races, fuel strategy can often be the difference between victory and defeat. For Nick Hensley and the No. 22 team, it's a challenge they relish.
"When the ball's in our court, we want it. Last second shot? We want the ball," Hensley explained.
The team's approach to fuel strategy involves a collaborative effort:
- Brandon Pope
- Shaggy (the engineer)
- Joe Bon (at the shop)
- Nick Hensley (gas man)
- Paul Wolfe (crew chief)
Hensley emphasized that while the team prepares meticulously, the final call rests with crew chief Paul Wolfe. "Ultimate decision is up to him on whether to split the stage or try to stretch it," Hensley said.
A Team with "Some Dog"
One of the most striking comments from Hensley was his description of the team's competitive spirit:
"There's some dog in this team, and don't ever give us a shot."
This fighting spirit has served the No. 22 team well, especially in high-pressure situations. Hensley noted that when they "smell" an opportunity, they become particularly dangerous competitors.
Championship Caliber
With their recent victory, the No. 22 team has secured a spot in the Championship 4. When asked if this was a championship-winning crew, Hensley's response was unequivocal: "Absolutely."
He pointed to several factors that contribute to their championship potential:
- Proven track record
- Strong personnel from shop to road crew
- Effective management
- Previous championship experience
The Drive for More
Despite their past success, Hensley and the team aren't content to rest on their laurels. "A win isn't what we're after. We're after championships," he stated. Hensley shared his personal journey, noting that it took him ten years to secure his second championship after his first with Brad Keselowski in 2012.
Now, he's hungry for more: "I want a third one."
The Pressure of the Final Laps
Even for experienced crew members like Hensley, the final laps of a close race can be incredibly tense. He candidly admitted, "My knees are knocking, you know? And it's every one of them, every time."
Hensley mentioned specific races where the tension was palpable:
- Nashville
- Atlanta
- The current race
In these nail-biting moments, Hensley has a unique ritual: "You just got to bow your head, say a little prayer to the fuel gods, and hope that everybody's good to you."
Looking Ahead
With their spot in the Championship 4 secured, the No. 22 team is focused on the ultimate prize. Their combination of experience, skill, and determination makes them a formidable contender.
As Hensley put it, when anyone questions if they're a championship-caliber team, the answer is clear: "Yeah, you know, we've done it before."
Conclusion
The No. 22 team's recent victory showcases their expertise in fuel strategy and their overall strength as a unit. With a mix of veteran experience and a fierce competitive drive, they've proven themselves capable of adapting to the challenges of NASCAR racing.
As they head into the championship round, Nick Hensley and his teammates are ready to fight for another title. Their "dog" mentality and proven track record make them a team to watch in the season's climax.
