Mears Earns Career-Best Finishin Daytona 500

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (February 19, 2006) --- Casey Mears and his new No. 42 Texaco/Havoline team officially started the 2006 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup season together on Sunday, and earned a career-best finish for Mears. He crossed the finish line second in the 48th running of the historical Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway.

Casey Mears, driver of #42 Texaco/Havoline Dodge, battles for position with Jamie McMurray, driver of #26 Crown Royal Ford, in turn four during the Daytona 500. (Photo by Doug Benc/Getty Images)

"I couldn't be happier,” said Mears. "It's so hard to get good finishes in restrictor-plate races. So many people can affect the outcome. But the Texaco/Havoline Dodge was running well and we were able to hold the bottom there in the end and fend a few people off. It was a good day for us. The biggest thing is that it starts us out right in the points this year. "

Mears started the 200-lap event from the 14th position after finishing seventh in the Duels at Daytona on Thursday. The Texaco/Havoline Dodge was strong at the beginning of the Daytona 500, but the sturdy winds and a steady mist seemed to tighten up the track significantly. The first caution of the race fell on lap 18 with the No. 42 Dodge Charger in 12th. Mears came down pit road for four fresh Goodyears, an air pressure adjustment and fuel. The Texaco/Havoline crew's quick stop boosted Mears into the top 10.

Racing resumed on lap 20, but Mears was still struggling with a tight car. He drafted in the top 15 until the second caution flag waved on lap 47. The No. 42 crew made another air pressure adjustment and fitted the Texaco/Havoline Dodge with four fresh tires before returning Mears to the track in the 10th position. When Mears pulled off pit road, the crew noticed a tire weight had fallen off the car making the car extremely tight for him during the next run.

Mears struggled