By Seth Eggert, NASCAR Writer
The last time Corey LaJoie was behind the wheel of the No. 24 youtheory Toyota Camry for JGL Racing, he earned his best career finish. In fact, LaJoie has had his two best career NASCAR Xfinity Series finishes in the last two races he has competed in. He now brings that momentum into O’Reilly Auto Parts Challenge at Texas Motor Speedway.
LaJoie finished sixth after starting in 20th at Dover International Speedway. At Bristol Motor Speedway, he finished 10th after starting 20th. He was also the highest finishing Toyota at Bristol. So far, these are the only Top 10s that LaJoie has earned in the Xfinity Series.
LaJoie has one previous start at Texas in the No. 98 Ford Mustang for Biagi-Denbeste Racing in 2014. After starting 20th, he ended up 32nd as a result of a wreck just past halfway.
LaJoie’s experience on 1.5-mile tracks also includes several starts in the ARCA Racing Series, where he has won twice on 1.5-mile tracks. His wins came at Chicagoland Speedway and Kentucky Speedway in 2013.
LaJoie was happy to return to one of his favorite racetracks.
“Texas is one of my favorite 1.5-mile tracks that I have been to so far in my career. The track is worn out so you slide around a lot on old tires. The groove widens out as the race goes on which gives you many options depending on how your car is handling.”
LaJoie was optimistic about the momentum he was carrying into Texas.
“We have had solid top-10 runs the last few times out in our No. 24 youtheory Toyota and hopefully we can keep that momentum going and get another solid finish this weekend.”
As both LaJoie and his JGL Racing team continue to improve, they will look to earn their first top five together, while also attempting to play the role of Xfinity Chase spoiler.
