WS: Phoenix race notes, stats

PHOENIX, Ariz. - David Gilliland used lap traffic to slip by Kevin Harvick and pull away to win the United Rentals 100 at Phoenix International Raceway on Sunday.

While Gilliland was cruising to victory in the season opener for the NASCAR Grand National Division, West Series - Harvick had to make a quick pit stop for a dash of fuel. The stop led to a 13th-place finish for Harvick, who won the West Series championship in 1998 and is now a regular in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series.

Defending series champion Mike Duncan finished the race in second, with series rookie Jason Jefferson taking third. Mike David finished fourth, followed by Brandon Ash in fifth.

Gilliland hopes to challenge for the series championship this season, after winning the Rookie of the Year title a year ago.

Time of race: 55 minutes 17 seconds
Margin of victory: 2.823 seconds
Caution flags: 1 for 5 (26-30)

Lead changes: 1 between 2 drivers
Lap leaders: David Gilliland-grid, Kevin Harvick 1-77, Gilliland 78-100.

NASCAR Grand National Division, West Series Championship Standings: 1. David Gilliland 180, 2. Mike Duncan 170, 3. Jason Jefferson 165, 4. Mike David 160, 5. Brandon Ash 155, 6. Michel Jourdain Jr 150, 7. Matt Kobyluck 146, 8. Dale Quarterley 142, 9. Steve Portenga 138, 10. Scott Lynch 134.

-nascar-