DJ Kennington finishes 17th in the NASCAR Nationwide Series race at Daytona (2/14/09)

DAYTONA BEACH, FL - Canadian DJ Kennington finished 17th in today's NASCAR Nationwide Series season opener at Daytona International Speedway. The St. Thomas, ON racer started 16th in the field of 43 but quickly fell back into the mid-20s with a severe loose-handling condition on the #81 DH Griffin Dodge.

After three rounds of pit stops - each for tires, fuel and significant setup adjustments - Kenningon's car finally tightened up and he was able to advance, making it as high as 12th with 23 laps to go. Eventually, the MacDonald Motorsports Dodge came home in 17th spot.

Tony Stewart won the race, driving for Rick Hendrick. Carl Edwards and Clint Bowyer were second and third, respectively.

Photos by Greg MacPherson / Inside Track