Denver-based Regan Smith started sixth in the 2012 Daytona 500, and so far he's been able to hold steady in the top 10, and even led the race briefly. He's also dodged some early accidents. Right at the start of the race, a six-car pileup involving Jimmie Johnson and Danica Patrick, among others, ended a shot at victory for several drivers.

Related: 2012 Daytona 500: Regan Smith Qualifies In 6th

Later on, Ryan Newman suffered what appeared to be a flat tire and spun out, though neither his nor anyone else's car was damaged in the incident.

So as the cars approch the 50-lap mark, Smith is very much in contention and less than a half-second off the leader of the race.

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