Pit crew gives Nemechek rare reason to smile.

Joe Nemechek may be having a turgid season in 2006 but his #01 MB2 Motorsports team had something to smile about at Michigan last weekend when they claimed the honours in NASCAR's weekly pitstop competition.

Nemechek's #01 U.S. Army backed team spent the least amount of time in the pits during Sunday's GFS Marketplace 400 at the two-mile Michigan International Speedway to win the Checkers/Rally's backed contest for the first time this year.

"I'm very proud of all the guys on the U.S. Army pit crew," said Nemechek, who eventually finished 26th. "They've had unbelievable pit stops all year but haven't always gotten the credit they've deserved. Without a doubt, this is one of the strongest over-the-wall teams on pit road and I'm thrilled they're being recognised for their hard work. This is also a special win since Checkers/Rally's is an associate sponsor on the Army Chevrolet."

"Our guys work hard week in and week out to be the best they can be on pit road," offered Lance Munksgard, pit stop coordinator for MB2 Motorsports. "It's great that their hard work is being highlighted and that they are being recognized for the efforts they contribute to the team each week."

The crews of Kyle Busch and Jimmie Johnson continue to lead the season-long competition with four wins each. Tony Stewart's team is in second place with three wins.