STEADY CHARGE PROPEL BLANEY TO FOURTH-PLACE FINISH IN DARLINGTON

Ryan Blaney and the No. 12 Menards/Richmond Water Heaters Ford Mustang Dark Horse started 24th and finished fourth in Sunday's Cook Out Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway. With practice and qualifying canceled due to weather, Blaney steadily worked his way through the field, overcoming a tight-handling condition early in the race to position himself inside the top five by the end of Stage 1. Following a scheduled competition caution on Lap 35, Blaney climbed to eighth by Lap 48 despite reporting the car was tight, particularly running the high side of the track. The No. 12 team made routine adjustments during pit stops, helping Blaney finish the opening stage in fifth place. In Stage 2, the No. 12 remained a consistent contender near the front, running as high as fourth while balancing changing track conditions and a car that became freer. Blaney concluded Stage 2 in sixth, reporting the car was too tight before the team made another four-tire stop with fuel and air pressure adjustments. Following a short rain delay, the Menards/Richmond Water Heaters Ford Mustang remained in contention as the team continued to adjust in pursuit of a strong finish. Blaney later pitted for four fresh tires and restarted inside the top 10 before making a late charge to secure a fourth-place finish.