Johnson Tames Monster Mile

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Sept. 23, 2002) -- Jimmie Johnson conquered Dover International Speedway for the second time this season, taking home the third victory of his rookie campaign and moving into second in the overall NASCAR Winston Cup Series driver standings. “I've obviously got a great team in the Lowe's team,” said Johnson, after winning the MBNA All-American Heroes 400. “Everybody at Hendrick Motorsports -- everything from the engine department, bodies, chassis -- everything is where it needs to be. “I'm just glad to be back on track. This is going to do great things for the points battle. Right over here -- these guys -- they made it happen. Mom hasn't been to victory lane yet -- this is her first time -- and I've got my dad here. I wish my two brothers were here. I know they're going crazy at home.” It was Johnson’s 17th top-10 finish of 2002 in the No. 48 Lowe’s Chevrolet, tying him with series leader Mark Martin for most on the circuit. Joe Nemechek finished 23rd in the No. 25 UAW-Delphi Chevy after starting ninth, with Jeff Gordon 37th in the No. 24 DuPont Monte Carlo and Terry Labonte 38th in the No. 5 Kellogg’s Chevrolet. The NASCAR Winston Cup Series will next visit the 1.5-mile tri-oval of Kansas Speedway on Sunday, Sept. 29 at 1 p.m. (ET) for the Protection One 400. Live coverage on NBC and MRN Radio will begin at 12:30 p.m. (ET).