Christian Eckes will return to McAnally-Hilgemann Racing in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 2024, MHR announced Oct. 18.
The extension keeps Eckes in the No. 19 Chevrolet for the second consecutive season.
“I’m very excited to return to the No. 19 Silverado next season with Charles [Denike, crew chief] and our entire NAPA Auto Care team,” Eckes said in a team release. “Our current main priority is trying to cap 2023 off with a championship, but having the opportunity to build upon our successes and continue growing MHR is something I’m really looking forward to in 2024.
“It’s been a pleasure to work with the NAPA store owners, NAPA shop owners, suppliers, and everyone in the NAPA Network. I’m thrilled to continue that relationship, and ready for another great year with all our amazing partners.”
With two races remaining in the 2023 NCTS season, Eckes’ career-best year has him in the midst of the championship battle. With one race remaining in the Round of 8, Eckes sits third in the playoff standings, nine points above the cut line to make the Championship 4.
During his 2023 campaign, Eckes has recorded a career-high three wins, nine top fives and 315 laps led. He also had 12 top-10 results.
Eckes is the second driver to be announced to the MHR stable for 2024, following Daniel Dye in the No. 43. Jake Garcia, who currently pilots a second truck for the team in the No. 35, will not return.
Entering his fifth year with Frontstretch, Luken Glover is the author of The Underdog House, shedding light on the motivation and performance of NASCAR's dark horse teams as they strive to fight to the top. Additionally, Glover reports for the site at various events, and he contributes in the video editing department.
A 2023 graduate of the University of the Cumberlands, Glover is a middle school math and PE teacher, as well as a basketball coach. He is passionate about serving in his church, playing/coaching a wide variety of sports, and researching motorsports history.