One of the favorites in the ongoing NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, Corey Heim, almost lost it after a technical failure. The Georgian driver won Stages 1 and 2 in his No. 11 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro and maintained his lead for 78 laps. But despite having one of the best machines on the track, Heim’s Tundra fell back in the latter part of the race due to unforeseen setbacks.
How Corey Heim Lost His Lead at Homestead
Heim started on the pole and looked promising for the most part with his unwavering lead. However, on Lap 114 of the race, his truck shut off, and he fell behind.
The 22-year-old driver quickly recovered and reclaimed the lead. But just when it looked like Heim was about to clinch his victory, his Tundra gave out again with just four laps left. Under pressure, he tried to recover but only managed to finish third in the race.
When Heim’s truck lost power in the final few laps, his emotions seemingly got the better of him. In the heat of the moment, Heim lashed out saying, “Piece of s*** truck, man! Something is going on.”
The Results at Homestead-Miami Speedway
Kyle Larson, in his No. 07 Spire Motorsports Chevy, drastically changed the course of the race as he surged late. In the last 10 laps, he moved to the front, leaving behind some of the top contenders, including Layne Riggs, Ty Majeski, and Chandler Smith.
Riggs, who took the lead from Heim, gave it up in the final three laps and finished second in his No. 34 Ford, while Larson ended up claiming the win at the Baptist Health 200.
Heim, despite the technical failure of his Toyota, managed to finish third with a total of 54 points. In his post-race interview, the racer could not contain his disappointment.
“I don’t know exactly what was going on. Never really had an issue like that. I’d be totally fine, and the engine would just hard cut [out] on me. Dash would go black and have no power until I fully cycled it. So, I was coasting for six seconds trying to turn the power switch and turn it back (on). I don’t know.”
Heim is still on top of the Craftsman Truck Series standings with 177 points, two wins, and three top-five finishes. As one of the favorites in the series, he’s had an impressive run so far.
Heim will compete next at the NCTS race at Martinsville on March 29, with many fans rooting for the young driver.