DARLINGTON, S.C. — There was no doubt which of his two Darlington Raceway victories this year Kevin Harvick enjoyed more.

Harvick had a large smile as he waved to the 8,000 or so fans — the May 17 event here was run without spectators due to the coronavirus pandemic — and even gave the checkered flag to a young fan wearing one of his shirts.

Harvick had reason to be happy, taking the Southern 500 when leaders Chase Elliott and Martin Truex Jr. bumped as Truex tried to make a pass and both brushed the wall.

Harvick was there to take advantage — and begin NASCAR’s playoff the best way possible.