The phrase “from outhouse to penthouse” applies to NASCAR driver BJ McLeod after, at first, not making the Daytona 500 via the second Duel race on Thursday, February 12.
The elevation to penthouse status took place when Anthony Alfredo was disqualified from the same Duel after failing post-race inspection. As the late-night drama unfolded, McLeod experienced quite the swing of emotions at Daytona International Speedway.
McLeod sat down with Heavy NASCAR to talk about what took place, how he felt from one moment to the other and his outlook for Sunday’s 68th running of The Great American Race.
NASCAR Driver BJ McLeod Endured Emotional Rollercoaster
When the checkered flag waved for the second 150-mile Duel to determine who starts where in the Daytona 500, BJ McLeod finished 19th. That was one spot behind fellow non-chartered driver Anthony Alfredo.
Of the three drivers needing to race their way in. the No. 62 Beard Motorsports Chevrolet of Alfredo appeared to make the race. That put McLeod and his self-owned Live Fast Motorsports No. 78 Chevrolet on the hauler headed for home.
However, Alfredo’s car failed post-race inspection, was credited with last in the Duel and disqualified from racing on Sunday. That put McLeod into his sixth-career Daytona 500 start.
“After the race, of course I was disappointed for everyone involved with this team,” McLeod told Heavy NASCAR on Friday. “You kind of get used to it when you’ve been racing for 39 years like I have. It’s a rollercoaster you get on and enjoy the highs and work through the lows to get better from them.
“I was sitting in the car and knew we missed it because of a mistake on our part. During the fuel-only pit stop under green, we sat on pit road almost two seconds too long. As a result, we lost the draft when we went back out couldn’t race against Anthony (Alfredo) to get the good finish we needed.
“I’m close to his family and I was happy for him. So, I got out the car and congratulated him on making the race. I was genuinely glad for Anthony and the team.”
Running Crew Guys Signaled McLoed’s Changed Fate
McLeod had changed into street clothes and was walking through the garage already thinking ahead of what’s ahead for his team. That’s when he found out his night would be a little longer.
“As I was walking to talk to my crew chief about what we needed to do for Atlanta next week,” McLeod said. “One of my crew guys went running by me headed to our garage stall. Then another guy went by and I stopped to ask what was going on.
“He told me Alfredo has been disqualified and we had to take our car to tech. So, I went down there and watched how it went for us. It went well and we are now in the Daytona 500.
“The biggest thing I was happy for was all the guys who put in all the work to get the car ready for this race. All the support we have received through the years to keep racing has been incredible.
“When it all turned around, it’s good to know our preparation paid off and the guys get to enjoy the 500 on Sunday. I think that’s the best part about everything that went on last night.”
Dreaming of Trip to Victory Lane
Prior to making his ascent to NASCAR competition, McLeod was an ace in the Late Model ranks. The native of Wauchula, FL native has more than 100 wins and 22 championship to his credit.
The Daytona 500 has produced some expected winners, as well as dark horse victors very few had on their radar. Of note are Derrick Cope’s win in 1990 and Trevor Bayne doing so in 2011.
“I’ve never had a chartered car as good and fast as the one I have this weekend,” McLeod shared. “We’ve put a lot of money and work into getting our cars better. It’s fun to now think about strategy for Sunday.
“Yes, I have absolutely dreamed about holding the Harley J. Earl Trophy in Victory Lane here,” McLeod said. “I know how crazy that would all be if it happened. If you just do your thing, what you love and work hard at it – I’ll take obsession over talent anytime.
“I do know one thing; I would certainly enjoy the whole experience.”
NASCAR’s BJ McLeod Endured Swing of Emotions Being Out, then In, Daytona 500