A caution came out with 15 laps to go, Stewart had the biggest decision of the race in front of him: Should he give up track position to pit for tires, or stay out and try to muscle his way past Kahne.

He and Zipadelli debated back and forth over the radio, with Zipadelli urging his driver to make a decision.

''I'm too .... nervous to call it, bud,'' he replied.

So they stayed on the track, gambling that they made the right decision.

It took Stewart just seconds to get into the lead, passing Kahne as they exited the second turn with 11 laps to go. He had to fight to hold him off, finally shaking him for good with just over 10 miles to go. There was no challenge as he crossed the finish line, screaming his appreciation to Zipadelli and his team.