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Bowman Gray, NC – Three-time Supercars champion Shane van Gisbergen showcased a remarkable, albeit ultimately unfulfilled, performance at the Cook Out Clash, demonstrating exceptional skill on a rain-slicked Bowman Gray Stadium before a late-race incident relegated him from contention. The exhibition race, notorious for its tight confines and aggressive racing, saw the New Zealand driver navigate a challenging early race, a dramatic shift in weather conditions, and a chaotic finish that marred an otherwise standout performance.
Van Gisbergen, piloting the No. 97 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet, found himself mired in the rear of the field during the opening stages of the 150-lap event. The notoriously short quarter-mile oval proved a difficult environment for the road-racing ace, leading to several on-track altercations. Early in the race, van Gisbergen became entangled with Austin Cindric and his former Trackhouse teammate Daniel Suarez. Frustration boiled over at one point when van Gisbergen spun Cindric, later commenting over his team radio, "People just kept running into me and I got sick of it." His sentiment towards Suarez was equally pointed, stating, "It’s the third time the #7’s got me…Guess he’s excited he’s not my teammate, he can hit me now." These exchanges highlighted the intense, short-track nature of the event, where tempers often flare as drivers vie for track position.
The complexion of the race dramatically shifted midway through the scheduled distance when, during the break, inclement weather descended upon Bowman Gray. Temperatures dropped to just above freezing, accompanied by a mix of rain and sleet, prompting NASCAR officials to mandate a switch to wet-weather tires. This meteorological curveball proved to be a turning point for van Gisbergen.
Restarting 15th, the New Zealander demonstrated an uncanny ability to adapt to the treacherous conditions. While many of his competitors struggled to maintain control on the slicker surface, van Gisbergen began a calculated charge through the field. He expertly navigated the ensuing chaos, avoiding the numerous spins and cautions that plagued the pack. His charge culminated in him taking the race lead, holding off challenges from several seasoned NASCAR veterans. Van Gisbergen led 15 laps of the race, engaging in a spirited duel for the top spot with eventual race winner Ryan Preece.
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The sight of van Gisbergen at the front, mastering conditions that would humble many, was a testament to his raw talent and adaptability. His ability to translate his diverse racing background into success on a demanding NASCAR short track, even in adverse weather, drew significant attention.
However, as the track began to dry and rubber began to lay down, van Gisbergen’s advantage started to erode. Despite the changing grip levels, he remained a strong contender, running in second place with fewer than 40 laps remaining in the exhibition event. It was at this critical juncture that his promising run was cut short. Chase Briscoe, making a move to the inside, made contact with the left-rear quarter panel of van Gisbergen’s No. 97 Chevrolet. The contact sent the Kiwi spinning, triggering one of the record 17 caution flags that punctuated the highly eventful race.
The spin significantly damaged van Gisbergen’s Chevrolet and hampered his ability to recover. Despite his efforts, he was unable to regain the lost track position and ultimately finished the race in 20th place. The outcome was a stark contrast to his earlier surge, a frustrating conclusion to a race where he had proven his capability to compete at the front.
Reflecting on his performance after the race, van Gisbergen acknowledged the mixed emotions of the day. "It was a good bit of fun," he stated. "There were moments of brilliance and moments that weren’t. It was cool to get to the front. We were just trying to search for the grip. The wet weather conditions were very different than what I’ve raced in Supercars, just with the way the corners are and the way the rubber lays down. But then it started to come back up again and dry up. It was pretty wild." He added a positive outlook for his team, concluding, "But all-in-all, happy with our run and it’s a good way to start the season for this No. 97 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet team."
Van Gisbergen’s performance in the Cook Out Clash serves as a significant indicator of his potential in his second full-time season in the NASCAR Cup Series. His ability to adapt to challenging conditions and run at the front, even in an exhibition event, suggests he will be a driver to watch. The championship officially commences next week with the 68th running of the Daytona 500, where van Gisbergen will look to build on the promising, albeit interrupted, momentum from Bowman Gray. Trackhouse Racing, with van Gisbergen and teammate Daniel Suarez, will aim to build on the team’s strong showing in recent seasons, including multiple wins and playoff berths. The team’s performance in the Daytona 500 will set the tone for the remainder of the 2024 season.
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