Johnson wins Daytona 500, Patrick 8th

DAYTONA BEACH, Florida (Reuters) – NASCAR favorite Dale Earnhardt Jr. predicted Danica Patrick will “make a lot of history” in the sport after she finished eighth on Sunday in just her second start in the Daytona 500.

Patrick, the first woman to start the race on pole, went into the final lap in third place but fell back five places as Jimmie Johnson held on for victory ahead of Earnhardt Jr.

Patrick, who crashed out early in her debut last year, had the highest finish ever by a woman, bettering Janet Guthrie’s 11th place from 1980. She also became the first woman to lead the race.

A marketing dream for the sport and her sponsors, the 30-year-old Patrick is proving wrong her doubters, who wondered if she had the ability to deal with the challenges of stock car racing’s premier event. She never fell below 12th in the 200-lap race. Earnhardt Jr, who has a huge fan base and whose father is one of NASCAR’s all-time greats, who died from a crash in the 2001 Daytona 500, says he sees the necessary qualities in Patrick’s driving.

“She’s got a great level head. She’s a racer. She knows what’s coming.

“She’s smart about her decisions. She knew what to do today as far as track position and not taking risks.

“I enjoy racing with her. Look forward to more all year long. It’s just going to be a lot of fun having her in the series.”

Five-times NASCAR Sprint Cup winner Johnson said Patrick’s racing style was well suited to her but warned she may find it tougher at other venues on the circuit.