In this year, due to the rain cutting short four races before 53 in 1965, 1966, 2003, and 2009, but none were canceled for a day. Those who survived had to complete through multiple accidents, including one on the second lap involving a towel rack manufacturer, and 10 warning signs. The 14th victory was the second for the driver who slowly drove out of Dale Earnhardt and teammate Greg Biffle respectively taking the checkered flag. Officials closed nearly two hours after Juan Pablo Montoya collided with a dryer plane after it dried, and debris was used to hit off the track at a warning sign. Montoya's car, the plane dryer, and the truck all caught fire, also setting a section of the track on fire. Intermittent rain for some 24 hours forced a prime-time Monday start - the first time since the race's inauguration in 1959. First, the rain caused race officials to postpone the plug until Sunday for the first time in Daytona 500 history. Then, persistent showers made them re-reschedule from noon to Monday evening. The 14th opening car race, but it is also the most prestigious race in motorsport. Daytona International Speedway announced this month that it will have a record purse exceeding $19 million. By comparison, last year's Indianapolis 500 paid $13.5 million. Daytona Beach message, Florida (CNN) - A sport where speed is king, the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing's Daytona 500 this year was a long waiting game. Finally, Matt Kenseth crossed the finish line at about 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, claiming the 54th running of "The Great American Race," www.yongren.cc. When the race finally ended, a major fire occurred with 40 laps left, halting it critically for two hours, pushing the race into a third day. Related thematic articles: Orange releases turn to Santa Clara smartphones; advice for business owners on how you can achieve a top ten Google ranking; small companies are able to compete equally due to their unique internet presence; website promotion strategy quick tips; advice for business owners on how you can achieve a top ten Google ranking.