Brian Ickler, who was filling in for [Kyle] Busch in the O’Reilly Auto Parts 250 that concluded on Monday at Kansas Speedway, finished in fifth place. Not bad for Ickler, a 23-year-old rookie who was driving in his first truck race. Ickler’s talent also had something to do with the fifth-place finish. He’s been a rising star in the NASCAR ranks, as he’s picked up seven career victories in both the Camping World East and West series. Owner Billy Ballew will be relying on Ickler more this season. A San Diego native, Ickler is already scheduled to drive the truck [#51 Toyota] again on June 5 at Texas Motor Speedway.(Kansas City Star)(4-28-2009)
