ROCKINGHAM —Tyler Ankrum made history as the first NASCAR driver to take the checkered flag at the Rock in more than a decade.
Ankrum earned the win Friday, April 18 in the Black’s Tire 200 — the first Craftsman Truck Series race at Rockingham Speedway since 2013.
The 24-year-old California native battled his way from midway the field after starting at 16th — 130 races from his most recent win.
Despite his winless streak, Ankrum has finished in the top 10 in every race this season except Daytona, including placing fourth at both Homestead-Miami and Bristol, third at Atlanta, and second at Martinsville.
In addition to the trophy, Ankrum also took home $50,000 for winning the series’ Triple Truck Challenge.
Tyler Ankrum poses with his trophy after winning the Black's Tire 200 at Rockingham Speedway.
William R. Toler - Richmond Observer
Pole winner Jake Garcia — who lapped the mile oval in 22.050 seconds at 153.469 mph — finished in second place, with Daniel Hemric, Rajah Caruth and Grant Enfinger rounding out the top five.
The truck series only ran for two years at the Rock before NASCAR left, with Kasey Kahne winning in 2012 and Kyle Larson in victory lane in 2013. Kahne also placed second in the 2004 Cup Series race behind Matt Kenseth.
Kahne will be driving for Richard Childress Racing in the N.C. Education Lottery 250 on Saturday, following the Rockingham ARCA 150 for Richard Childress Racing.
Enfinger and Matt Crafton, who competed Saturday, both ran in the Rockingham truck race in 2012: Crafton placed third and Enfinger last. Crafton placed sixth in 2013.
Tyler Ankrum (No. 18) battles for position with Timmy Hill on the frontstretch during the Black's Tire 200.
William R. Toler - Richmond Observer
