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Kasey Kahne and Katherine Legge’s Rockingham Race Ends in Early Collision
In a dramatic turn of events during Saturday’s NASCAR Xfinity race at Rockingham, Kasey Kahne’s eagerly awaited comeback and Katherine Legge’s debut were cut short when they collided just over halfway into the race, resulting in significant damage to both vehicles.
Making his first NASCAR appearance in nearly seven years, Kahne, a veteran Cup driver, maintained a strong presence in the early phases of the race. After dropping briefly to eighth place, he steadily moved forward during the first sustained green-flag run.
Legge, aiming to gain additional experience on oval tracks, faced an uphill battle even before the race began. Although she initially failed to qualify with the Jordan Anderson Racing team, she secured a last-minute opportunity with Joey Gase Motorsports, stepping in for J.J. Yeley. The crew worked swiftly to make the necessary adjustments to the No. 53 car, including adding e.l.f. Cosmetics decals.
Katherine Legge, Jordan Anderson Racing Chevrolet
Photo by: James Gilbert
The incident occurred when Kahne was vying for position with William Sawalich for fourth place. As they approached Legge, who was running at a slower pace, Sawalich misjudged her speed and collided with her, sending her spinning into Kahne’s vehicle. Kahne was then forced into the wall, resulting in significant damage to both cars.
Legge was unable to continue the race, ultimately finishing in 36th place. This marked her second DNF of the season, following a tough debut at Phoenix. Reflecting on the day’s events, she expressed frustration towards Sawalich’s actions, stating to FOX’s Bob Pockrass, “I got taken out … I don’t have a disappear button on my steering wheel.”
As for Kahne, the Richard Childress Racing team dedicated extra effort to repair his damaged No. 33 Chevrolet, which caused him to lose a lap. However, he managed to return to competitive speed and rejoined the lead lap after a caution involving Sawalich. Despite facing additional challenges toward the race’s conclusion, Kahne ultimately finished in 14th position.
Legge took to social media following the race to express her gratitude to those who supported her during this precarious debut, saying, “I’m so proud of this team!! We were able to run a fast enough lap time in qualifications to put me comfortably in the race if not for Owner Points provisional. So that’s why my sponsors & partners were on board to help me get the track time I promised everyone we would get. Unfortunately, there was nothing I could do about Sawalich getting right up under the back of the car and taking me and subsequently others out of the race.”
She continued with appreciation for her team’s support, citing Joey Gase Racing, Jordan Anderson, JJ Yeley, e.l.f. Cosmetics, and Team Chevy. Legge concluded with a hopeful note for the next race, saying, “See you all at Talladega!”
Photos from Rockingham – Race
Stay tuned for more updates and insights on the NASCAR Xfinity series and its drivers.
Source
www.motorsport.com