Winston Open Live Report by James Hickey

"Ten Days of Speed" at the Charlotte Motor Speedway began with qualifying for the Winston Open. Beforehand, Derrike said, "I'm real happy with the way this team is coming together. We haven't had a lot of time on a track like Charlotte this season so the Winston Open will give us a chance to prepare for the Coca-Cola 600."

When Derrike's turn came, he zipped the SKITTLES® Grand Prix around the 1.5 mile track in 30.175 seconds. The speed of 178.956 mph was good for the 15th starting position. After qualifying, Derrike said, "I knew it was loose down in one and two. I got in three and got back in the gas, and it got out from underneath me. It was a pretty good lap for having to do all that."

Unfortunately during the race, Derrike was shuffled around in the middle of the pack and ended up 18th.