Ryan Newman Takes Home First Win In 78 Tries

After 77 races without a win, an emotional Ryan Newman took the checkered flag at Phoenix International Raceway Saturday night to give Stewart-Haas its first victory of the 2010 season.

One of the first people to greet Newman in Victory Lane was Tony Stewart.

“He’s so proud of me,” Newman said. “He told me he loved me and I told him I loved him back because it’s his name, I’m representing him and a lot of people behind us.”

Bettors were able to take in a hefty prize if they put their money on Newman in Phoenix. He came into the race as a 25/1 underdog.

Newman was able to stave off one of the races favorites when stayed ahead of Jeff Gordon in what amounted to be a two-lap shootout after a late caution. Gordon came into Saturday at 8/1.

The win also moved Newman up six positions to 16th in the Sprint Cup standings.