The No. 5 Crew Pit Stop Magic: The Hendrick Motorsports No. 5 crew is no stranger to being at the top of their game when it counts. Their exceptional pit crew performance has been a key factor in keeping driver Kyle Larson in contention throughout the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series season.
These dedicated crew members, including Blaine Anderson, R.J. Barnette, Calvin Teague, Brandon Johnson, and Brandon Harder, have consistently played a pivotal role in propelling Larson to victory this season. With a Cup Series-high six wins, Larson seemed destined for a championship berth, and a blazing pit stop secured his place in the Championship 4.
Their prowess in pit stops is a testament to their unwavering dedication and meticulous preparation. According to Racing Insights, the team ranks second in the series in average four-tire pit stops, showcasing their exceptional speed and precision.
What sets this crew apart is their long-standing partnership and extensive experience working together. Barnette, Harder, and Teague have been collaborating at Hendrick Motorsports since 2010, demonstrating a rare level of continuity in the fast-paced world of NASCAR pit crews. Their familiarity with each other’s moves and the ability to anticipate their actions contribute to their seamless coordination.
Their journey to excellence was not without its challenges. Adapting to the new Next Gen car and its single lug nut system posed a learning curve. However, their commitment to improvement and discipline drove them to overcome these obstacles. Blaine Anderson, who joined the crew in 2018, played a pivotal role in helping them adjust to the single-lug stops.
Anderson’s integration into the team was not solely based on his skills but also his compatibility with the crew. The crew members themselves have a say in choosing their teammates, valuing a harmonious work environment.
Their triumph at Phoenix Raceway in 2021, where a remarkable pit stop propelled Larson to victory, was not a stroke of luck. It was the result of a tried-and-true process they had meticulously refined throughout the year.
Crew chief Cliff Daniels, who has experienced championship victories with Johnson and Larson, emphasizes the significance of their well-established process. The crew’s ability to perform under pressure stems from their unyielding focus and commitment to their craft.
As they head into the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series championship race, they do so with confidence and a track record of excellence. Their performance at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, where a crucial pit stop once again propelled Larson to victory, underscored their reliability and expertise.
The No. 5 crew has consistently demonstrated their capability to excel in high-stress situations, making them a crucial component of Larson’s championship aspirations. Their dedication to their craft and ability to thrive under pressure set them apart as one of the best pit crews in NASCAR.
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Our Reader’s Queries
What is the longest pit stop in F1 history?
During the 2021 Monaco Grand Prix, Valtteri Bottas, who was driving for Mercedes at the time, encountered an unusual pitstop that has since been dubbed the longest pitstop in F1 history. The pitstop lasted a staggering 43 hours, making it an unprecedented event in the world of Formula One racing.
What is the fastest pit stop in F1?
During lap 27 of the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix, the McLaren Racing Limited pit crew servicing Lando Norris achieved the fastest pit stop in Formula 1 history, clocking in at an impressive 1.80 seconds. This feat surpassed the previous record held by Oracle Red Bull Racing, whose pit stop time was 1.82 seconds. The McLaren team’s exceptional performance is a testament to their precision and efficiency, setting a new standard for pit stops in the world of Formula 1.
Who are the people in the pit stop?
The F1 pit crew is a well-oiled machine consisting of a team of experts. Two individuals are responsible for operating the jacks, one at the front and one at the rear. Four team members operate the wheel guns, while another four remove the old tires and fit the new ones. Two more individuals stabilize the car on the jacks and operate a side jack for nose changes. Additionally, two experts adjust the front wing angle, and one “lollipop man” operates the light that releases the car from the pit stop. The team works in perfect harmony to ensure a seamless and efficient pit stop.
What does a pit stop crew do?
The pit stop time is a critical moment for any F1 team. Within a matter of seconds, the pit crew must perform a multitude of tasks, including changing tires, making mechanical repairs, and adjusting the wings. These actions require precision and speed, and can make all the difference in a race.
