Kaulig Racing delivered an impressive performance in the Kaulig Racing Nu Way 200 recap at World Wide Technology Raceway, securing top-10 finishes that kept their playoff hopes alive. With drivers Daniel Hemric and Daniel Dye finishing seventh and tenth, respectively, the team demonstrated determination and resilience throughout the event.
Strong Runs by Kaulig Racing Drivers Boost Playoff Prospects
In the latest round at World Wide Technology Raceway, the Kaulig Racing team fielded three entries, with significant efforts across the board. Christian Eckes led the charge with the No. 16 Celsius Chevrolet, showcasing strong speed, particularly during long green-flag runs. Despite falling just short of a win and cementing a playoff berth, the team remained optimistic about its pace and future opportunities. As one driver reflected,
“We came up a little short of a win and a spot in the playoffs, but our No. 16 Celsius Chevy was super fast on the long runs, especially late in the race. We kind of lost the handling and got it back there that last run; we just didn’t quite have enough. We’ve still got quite a few races left this season to continue improving, so we will get ready for Bristol.”
—Christian Eckes, Driver
Meanwhile, Daniel Hemric, piloting the No. 11 Action Industries Chevrolet, began the event in 17th but steadily climbed up the rankings. By the conclusion of Stage 1, he moved to 13th, and after the second stage remained close to the top 15. Hemric made decisive moves in the final segment, breaking into the top 10 by lap 91. Strategic pit stops and double adjustments during a late caution helped solidify his seventh-place finish. Hemric appreciated the chance to return and work with the team, saying,
“It was fun to get that call to come back to drive the No. 11 Action Industries Chevy. I appreciate Matt Kaulig, Chris Rice, and everyone that allowed this to come together. I feel like we made the right adjustments towards the end there – just a little too late to really contend. Overall, we earned a decent result and had fun doing it.”
—Daniel Hemric, Driver
Daniel Dye Delivers Resilience in Action-Packed Race
Daniel Dye, behind the wheel of the No. 10 Race to Stop Suicide Chevrolet, started in 11th position and fought through setbacks during the opening stages. He dropped to 17th by the end of Stage 1, expressing handling concerns that prompted the crew to execute several adjustments. The efforts paid off as Dye’s performance improved in Stage 2 with a 16th-place result, before charging back into the top 10 during the final laps. Dye’s perseverance culminated in a tenth-place finish—his eighth top-10 of the season—capping off a day that also highlighted the importance of mental health awareness. Reflecting on the outing, he shared,
“It was generally a pretty decent day for us. We got a little behind on some changes and had to fight a little harder than we wanted to there at the end, but ultimately made our way into the top 10 in our No. Race to Stop Suicide Chevy. We had a great day raising awareness for suicide prevention awareness month and handing out Race to Stop Suicide wristbands to the garage. It was a cool moment to see my friend Connor [Zilisch] wearing one in victory lane.”
—Daniel Dye, Driver
Significance and Next Steps Ahead for Kaulig Racing
This standout showing at the Nu Way 200 keeps Kaulig Racing firmly positioned in the playoff conversation as the season continues. With consistent top-10 results for Daniel Hemric and Daniel Dye, and the persistent drive of Christian Eckes, the team’s spirit remains high. Leadership from Matt Kaulig and Chris Rice has been instrumental, while moments of unity—such as supporting suicide prevention initiatives—demonstrate the team’s commitment both on and off the track. As they set their sights on upcoming races, including Bristol, Kaulig Racing looks to convert momentum into even greater success in their pursuit of playoff advancement.
