This proved not to be a major setback though as Alex ran a sensible and steady race to move his way through the field during the Marlboro 500.

By lap 25 of the scheduled 250 laps Barron had moved up 11 positions to 15th. Fifty laps later he was running in the top 10.

Continuing his steady progress, he moved into the top five before the scheduled halfway point. On lap 118 he moved into the lead for three laps, as he stretched his fuel mileage and was able to pit later than those in front of him.

The race started late due to a wet track and it was decided that the race distance would be cut 20 laps to 230 due to impending darkness. A few minutes later it was decided to shorten it an even further 10 laps to 220.

When the checkered flag waved—under yellow conditions due to an accident four laps from the end—Alex was running in the ninth spot.

"We had a great car today that was balanced and a strong Ford motor," said Barron. "I wanted a stronger finish but with the race shortened it reduced my chances to get closer to the front. The team, the Lola and the Ford were flawless today. It was tough to jump into the car for the last two races of the season and I wanted a good showing for Arciero-Blair Racing. I had a mishap at Australia that was my fault causing us to run a 2000 car here this weekend. This strong finish is a credit to all of them."