Ross Chastain is heading into this weekend with a clear goal as the NASCAR Cup Series arrives at Martinsville Speedway. The Trackhouse Racing driver is focused on winning the Cook Out 400 and claiming one of the sport’s most recognized trophies, the Martinsville grandfather clock.
Chastain has yet to win at the track, but his recent results show steady progress. The short track is one of the oldest venues in NASCAR and is known for its tight layout and physical racing. For drivers, winning at Martinsville carries added meaning because of its history and the unique trophy awarded to the winner.
Ross Chastain Explains His Connection to Martinsville Speedway
Chastain said the Martinsville trophy stands out because of its history and meaning.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to get to know Clay Campbell up there a little bit and go to breakfast with him. Hearing him tell stories of his family’s history in and around Martinsville and the legacy he wants to continue is really cool. That grandfather clock is a real thing you can take home when you win, which is so cool.”
He also spoke about how the track connects to NASCAR’s past.
“Everything in that track is built on the foundation around NASCAR and what the France family and the Campbell family have done together. The grandfather clock is something that I want. I want it really bad, and I’ll work a really long time to try to take one home.”
Martinsville Performance Shows Steady Improvement
Chastain has competed in 14 races at Martinsville Speedway. His overall average finish is 16.6, and he has recorded five top-10 finishes. His recent results show better performance. Over his last six races at the track, he has an average finish of 9.8.
That stretch includes one top-five result and three straight top-10 finishes. He finished eighth in late 2024 and followed that with sixth and fourth in more recent races. These results show that he has been able to move forward during races after starting deeper in the field.
One of his most notable moments at Martinsville came in 2022 with the “Hail Melon” move, which secured a playoff spot. Despite that moment, he has not yet won at the track.
Trackhouse Racing Looks for Better Results in the NASCAR Cup Series
Chastain enters the race weekend 20th in the NASCAR Cup Series standings with 115 points after six races. His average finish this season is 19.8. His best result so far is a third-place finish at Atlanta.
The team’s overall performance has been discussed by NASCAR reporter Jordan Bianchi.
“It’s not just a Chastain thing. I mean, it’s an organizational thing. We’re sitting here celebrating SVG because he’s finished 14th.”
He also spoke about expectations for the team.
“Now, granted, within the bubble, that’s a really good time. It’s a really good run for him. But their standards should be higher.”
As the Cook Out 400 approaches, Chastain remains focused on Martinsville. His recent track results and experience on short tracks place him among the drivers to watch this weekend.
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