LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — The need for speed was in full throttle at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway Sunday for the South Point 400.
NASCAR's top drivers rounded out a full weekend of racing in Las Vegas as the group took to the track for the first playoff cup series race of the season.
It's was a high-octane environment during race day with pit crews at the ready and drivers neck and neck trading leads while giving fans a thrilling race.
"It feels great. I love coming out here every year with my nephew. Enjoying it… tailgating... partying," John Moncivais, of Las Vegas, said.
That's despite the triple-digit heat baring down on everyone in the stands.
"We had to go down here because it was too hot for me. I'm like I don't like these headphones. I'm sweating," 7-year-old Carter Moncivais, said.
The heat was even felt by Martin Truex Jr., who captured the checkered flag for his fifth win of the season.
The crew of Truex Jr. is taking in the win at at the #SouthPoint400 taking it all in at Victory Lane. 2018 winner Brad Keselowski finished 3rd. @KTNV pic.twitter.com/owpN4ITKg0
— Jeremy Chen (@JeremyChenKTNV) September 16, 2019
"As hot as it was today, just trying to find grip. I mean everybody on the racetrack was really surprised by how slick it was at the start of the race," Truex Jr. said.
Above all else fans said they're glad, to soak in all the moments.
"The grandstands were full. We love it and can't wait until next year," Moncivais said.
Last year's champion Brad Keselowski finished third while NASCAR points leader, and Vegas local, Kyle Busch couldn't make up for a lousy start and finished 19th. His brother Kurt did not finish.
The Monster Energy Series travels to Richmond Raceway for a Saturday night race on Sept. 21.
