MARTINSVILLE (WSLS 10 SPORTS) -
The Goody's Fast Relief 500 gets things started for the round of 8 in the Chase and drivers know that with a win on Sunday, they too can feel some relief from the pressure that the chase brings.
"Making a mistake or having a bad race is really hard to overcome unless you win in this round", said Penske driver Joey Logano.
"So each race more important for you to go out and make it happen and like I said earlier Martinsville is probably the most important to win here because you have those two weeks to prep for Homestead."
Seven time Martinsville winner Jimmie Johnson says the chase feels different than any other year. He feels like it's more of a hurdle to overcome and despite his rich history at the track, it's all about staying in the present.
"There's a reason we run the race. You have to play the game", said Johnson.
"Stats are cool but they don't predict what's going to happen in the future."
Virginia native Denny Hamlin has taken the checkered flag five times at Martinsville, the most recent win in 2015. He's hoping to be up front Sunday after finishing at the back of the pack in April.
"I think every time I come here anything other than a victory for sure is a disappointment and we come here expecting the win every time we come", said Hamlin.
"Doesn't always work out that way it turns out that one out of every four and yes it's our last one this is four so it's about time that we win."
The Goody's Fast Relief 500 is set to begin at 1:00 pm on Sunday.