By Sarah Handy, Staff Writer
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla – “I’m really excited about going into the Daytona 500 knowing what we have and the speed that we have.”
Preece expressed a multitude of excitement at Daytona 500 media day and further acknowledged the team has a lot more speed than last year’s event.
“Obviously, our team has a lot more speed than we’ve had from when I was here last year,” stated Preece.
Seeking his first win at NASCAR’s elite level, Preece’s high expectations don’t waiver, especially with his teammate starting Sunday’s Daytona 500 from the pole position.
“I have high expectations all the time, especially what we saw there. A lot of people try to manage their expectations. I think if you aim low, you’re going to finish low,” said Preece.
“If you aim high, you’re going to finish high. Last year was a learning year, for sure. I’m really excited about being on the side with Trent Owens, the guidance of Trent and everybody over there. It’s exciting, so I have high expectations.”
In the 500 one year ago, Preece finished eighth in this event he will look to better that on Sunday afternoon. After all, everyone wants to win the most anticipated race of the race season.
“I’m somebody who wants to win at the end of the day, obviously like most people do. I want to contend for a win, and I feel like we have definitely been building towards that for what I need,” said Preece. “We’re getting there. You just have to manage your expectations and know the victories at the end of the weekend of what your making. I’m definitely really excited about going into this year.”
The west coast swing takes full effect next weekend with Las Vegas kicking off the trip.
Preece is looking forward to seeing the positive gains made with their 1.5-mile program.
“I’m excited to see the gains at the 1.5-mile program to really know where we’re at, what we’re dealing with and the gains we need to make,” said Preece.
“I feel like we could be a team that can definitely contend to make the Playoffs and win some races.”