Here's the Nascar Thread, or to some, WWF on wheels...

The new Dodge Charger cup car will be unveiled on the 11th of January and King Richard Petty himself will be in attendance...

The front ends on all the makes this year are going to look funky. They are going for a bigger "greenhouse" to protect the driver.The real production Charger is the second pic...

http://forums.autoweek.com/servlet/JiveServlet/download/31-10420-219702-1663/2005_charger_newman2.jpg

http://forums.autoweek.com/servlet/JiveServlet/download/31-10420-222768-1950/1.jpg







I really hope Kasey Kahne or Ryan Newman wins the Championship this year, but it could really be anybody with the Chase in place.

I absolutely hate new points system. It's almost competely ruined NASCAR for me.

I absolutely hate new points system. It's almost competely ruined NASCAR for me.

I agree with Wray, go back to the old points system.

Oh and change the name back to Winston Cup, I just cant get used to the Nextell Cup. Wasnt Nextell just bought out by another Cell Company??

Do you guys feel NASCAR has sold it's roots for some bandwagon
fans? It just seems so different than it used to be when I watched
it for a few years in the 90's.

It's different. But everything changes.

I'm not 100% sold on the new points chase, but NASCAR loves it. Opens up new marketing strategies, you know, cash talks. They should drop the "Chase for the Cup" and call it the "Dash For The Cash".

Support your local dirt track.

They certainly do seem to have gone down a much different path, and it's not one I'm much in favour of. I can see the need for progress, but some things should've been left alone. The Southern 500 is a good example. It's hard to argue the closeness of the points race going into Homestead, but still, one has to wonder, if you have to manufacture that closeness by starting over again with 10 races to go, is something maybe wrong somewhere else? Starting with Pontiac in the mid-90s, the cars have been allowed to drift farther and farther from looking like their street counterparts, even as it was attempted to look more like their street counterparts by adding faux headlights and taillights.
Seeing "NASCAR" slathered all over anything anymore doesn't help either. I think I liked it when it was kind of an "exclusive" club - not saying anyone shouldn't be able to follow NASCAR, but to those of us that did, it was like our little secret. Now you can't miss it on billboards and cereal boxes and soap operas and every other part of society it's blasted into.
I dunno. I'll probably watch some of the races this year, but I just don't rearrange my schedule to accommodate it like I used to...

I think that the popularity factor has somewhat ruined the sport. I think a lot of diehard fans wish Nascar was more like NHRA, who hasn't grown that much bigger in the last few years, but is still popular and in touch with their fans.

I just read on the Martinsville Speedway Website that they will only allow 6x6x12 soft sided coolers and one 8x12 clear plastic bag that cannot contain ice into the track. Since 1993 we have taken a Playmate cooler filled with water and beer into the track. Last year and years before a few cans were thrown out on the track. ISC owns the track now and while I enjoy my racin this sucks for the longtime fans. Believe me 500 laps is a long race. They said it would make it easier to get the fans in. I had a feeling last year after seeing a family and mom breaking out the tupperware with the wraps and grapes for the kids. My friend and I looked at each other and chuckled. It's going to be an interesting race this year.

I wonder if they consider frozen water bottles to be "water" or "ice"?

This isnt Nascar but I am very proud my cousin was elected to the national dirt track late model hall of fame for 2005

This isnt Nascar but I am very proud my cousin was elected to the national dirt track late model hall of fame for 2005

Bloomquist? McDowell? Spill, man, spill!!!!

Have any of you guys seen the Dale Earnhart Story? I thought ESPN did a great job with this movie. I am sure they left some stuff out but all in all I thought it was a good film.

As for Late Model Dirt Track Racing...right here baby...

http://www.brianbirkhoferracing.com/SideSkins.jpg

Birkhoffer is THE Man

http://www.brianbirkhoferracing.com/bbdecal.jpg

He's cocky

http://www.brianbirkhoferracing.com/iamfront.jpg
http://www.brianbirkhoferracing.com/iamback.jpg

but the man can race.

Have any of you guys seen the Dale Earnhart Story? I thought ESPN did a great job with this movie. I am sure they left some stuff out but all in all I thought it was a good film.

Considering the complexity of telling the story in under two hours, and considering how awful this could have been, I thought it was a home run. Barry Pepper did a fantastic job. And the ending, when his old man walked out of the mill and picked him up, I lost it. But I'm a sap like that.

I had a chance to be an extra, but I didn't want to go to the mall, stand in line for hours, have them say, "You a race fan? (Yeah) Okay....", all for a couple of split-second crowd shots, which is basically how it went, from what a couple of people told me who did it.

As for Late Model Dirt Track Racing...right here baby...


Birkhoffer is THE Man



Well, at least you didn't say Scott Bloomquist.:thumb:

But I'll take The Wisconsin Wildman, Dan Schleiper (sp?)

Any of you guys follow speedway??

If the old point system was still in place, does anyone know who would have won? I kind of like the way it is now set up, it is more even at the end for the top 10 drivers, more like playoffs in baseball, basketball, football etc...heck, maybe they will have a "bye-race" for the top 2 drivers :D
My top 10 for this year:
1: Jimmie Johnson
2: Junior
3: Jeff Gordon
4: Newman
5: Busch
6: Kennseth
7: Kahne
8: B. Labonte
9: Stewart
10:Robbie Gordon (my sleeper pick)
These guys will be in the last 10 races for the cup.

Your picks are pretty good. Don't forget about McMurray either. He narrowly missed the Chase. I think that this year, there will be more than 10 in the Chase. I think people have seen it last year and will adapt better, and now I think we'll see 11 to 13 in there this year.

That would be great to have more than 10. McMurray and Mayfield are also guys to watch for the top spots.

I agree with Wray, go back to the old points system.

Oh and change the name back to Winston Cup, I just cant get used to the Nextell Cup. Wasnt Nextell just bought out by another Cell Company??

Yep. Sprint and Nextel have merged.

I haven't been watching NASCAR that much over the last few years. They have gotten completely money hungry and the sport is being destroyed. They are abandoning tracks that they have raced at for years just because the can make more money at other tracks. Pathetic.

Any of you guys follow speedway??
You know... sprintcars, speedcars, World Of Outlaws.....

Brian, I'm not really familiar with open wheel racing at all. I've seen a few Outlaw races and I know who Steve Kinser is, but that's about it. Sorry.

I meant to ask you what you meant by "speedway" and never did....

If the old point system was still in place, does anyone know who would have won? I kind of like the way it is now set up, it is more even at the end for the top 10 drivers, more like playoffs in baseball, basketball, football etc...heck, maybe they will have a "bye-race" for the top 2 drivers :D
My top 10 for this year:
1: Jimmie Johnson
2: Junior
3: Jeff Gordon
4: Newman
5: Busch
6: Kennseth
7: Kahne
8: B. Labonte
9: Stewart
10:Robbie Gordon (my sleeper pick)
These guys will be in the last 10 races for the cup.

I know I'm a little late in response here, but allow me to say "?????????????". I can see how you came up with 1 through 9, but Robbie Gordon? He's starting a new team, on his own. He'll be lucky if he qualifies for every race. Remember what happened the last time he was on his own in the Menard's racing machine? Oh, you don't? Neither do I, and I think that's my point. :)

Oh, and that Dodge Charger is pretty sick looking.

I know I'm a little late in response here, but allow me to say "?????????????". I can see how you came up with 1 through 9, but Robbie Gordon? He's starting a new team, on his own. He'll be lucky if he qualifies for every race. Remember what happened the last time he was on his own in the Menard's racing machine? Oh, you don't? Neither do I, and I think that's my point. :)

Oh, and that Dodge Charger is pretty sick looking.The last I heard was that Robbie Gordon is sponsored by Menards and a lot of other companies..he is not on his own.
AND yes I remember the Indy where John Menard thought the gas tank was bigger than others! My saying was: GOT GAS? But, being a billionaire without taking chances is being a lottery winner....where do you go from there?
DOWN! Robbie is a good driver with the will of great drivers, I think he will be a sleeper as I suggested. Mayfield and McMurray will be good starters IMO, not top 10, but I hope for more than 10 for the chase....it will happen soon enough. :cool:

I like Robby Gordon, he's a badass, and he doesn't let any unwritten gentlemen's agreements stand in his way. He's a racer, and Richard Childress should have kicked that punk-ass Harvick to the curb and put Robby in the 3 (29) car.

All in my humble opinion.

I hope Robby does well with his own team. I think there are times when he needs to rein himself in, but I do think he has the tools to be an awesome driver on any kind of track.

Sorry to hijack this thread guys. (Damn Aussies!)
It's the only thread that is near relevant, without starting a new thread.

Just got back from the "World of Outlaws Down Under - Night 3". The show kicked arse!

Here is a rough order.

1. Donny Shatz
2. ??????? Lososki
3. Kerry Madsen (Aussie!)
4. Kevin Swindell
5. Darren Pitman
6. Freddy Raimer
7. Steve Kinser

My personal opinion is that Robbie Gordon needs to learn to drive. Seems like he is always involved in wrecks, or is causing them.

Sorry to hijack this thread guys. (Damn Aussies!)
It's the only thread that is near relevant, without starting a new thread.

Just got back from the "World of Outlaws Down Under - Night 3". The show kicked arse!

Here is a rough order.

1. Donny Shatz
2. ??????? Lososki
3. Kerry Madsen (Aussie!)
4. Kevin Swindell
5. Darren Pitman
6. Freddy Raimer
7. Steve Kinser


That's Danny "The Dude " Lasoski. Gotta love the Outlaws. Glad your getting to see some racing. It's still cold here and we're counting down to Daytona.

My personal opinion is that Robbie Gordon needs to learn to drive. Seems like he is always involved in wrecks, or is causing them.

True, he's very aggressive. Ernie Irvan, Kurt Busch, Kevin Harvick, all had the same problem, and turned it down a notch...well, Harvick's still kind of iffy. I like aggressive drivers, and I really like seeing the other Gordon getting all pissy over Robby's driving. He's good enough to deserve a Cup ride, but yeah, he needs to refine that hunger a little bit.

I heard an interesting little radio blurb today, one of those five-minute daily updates. Think it was PRN's "Garage Pass" or something. Michael Waltrip himself said that if he's not in the Top 10 or has the appearance of being on the verge of the Top 10 by April or May this year, he's pretty sure he's out of the DEI camp for '06. And he said he would want it that way as well.

Consider him done. DEI needs a championship. I like Michael Waltrip, but I'm the only one I know who does.

Wait, what am I doing.....for a minute there, I forgot that I don't give a damn about Cup racing anymore. :brickwall

I heard an interesting little radio blurb today, one of those five-minute daily updates. Think it was PRN's "Garage Pass" or something. Michael Waltrip himself said that if he's not in the Top 10 or has the appearance of being on the verge of the Top 10 by April or May this year, he's pretty sure he's out of the DEI camp for '06. And he said he would want it that way as well.

Consider him done. DEI needs a championship. I like Michael Waltrip, but I'm the only one I know who does.

Wait, what am I doing.....for a minute there, I forgot that I don't give a damn about Cup racing anymore. :brickwallDude. I like Waltrip too, it just seems that DEI has been pushing him out after the little feud him and JR had last year, step-moms have more power in Nascar than in real life...OUCH!!! :irked: I like both guys, as a TEAM, grow up DEI, I guess! It's not ALL about the money. Win a championship and show your Daddy a big THANK YOU!
Some things to think about: DEI and TEAM MENARD joining forces in Nascar, kind of seems likely, Dale Jr, Robby Gordon in Menard uniforms...hmmmm Could happen soon. Paul Menard is trying hard to get in the Cup, but he has the usual issues with the car....CRASH~ :sleep:

The thing about Michael Waltrip is that he is a sponsor's dream. I wouldn't be surprised at all that if he left, Napa would follow him no matter where he went. He is a good ambassador for the sport and his face is everywhere hawking somebody's product. He is one guy who shouldn't have a problem getting a drive anywhere he wants.

Michael is at a crossroads in his career. He's early 40-ish now I believe, so he doesn't fit the current trend that owners are following in grabbing a young buck, getting as much publicity as possible, and pouring untold millions into building a viable team for the future. DEI was supposed to be his big ride, the money's there, the R & D, the personnel, the motors and the corporate support system, and yet, outside of a superspeedway victory here and there, they haven't gone all the way with Michael. So a lot of fans, and evidently a certain element within the organization, conclude that it is all his fault and he should be fired. I think a case could be made that the problem is DEI. Michael's a veteran driver, but he's produced very little in all his years and starts. Again, is it his fault, or have all the necessary elements not fallen into place at the same time? I can tell you that a lot of people I know, some of them with much more knowledge of the sport than I'd ever hope to have, will tell you that he's a shitty driver, no more, no less. Dale Earnhardt saw talent, and I think Michael has talent, but I'm an outsider. Where I see years of experience, some see a driver who has squandered so much opportunity. Does he doubt himself? Has he lost that edge that these young bucks have? Did he ever have it?

I don't know the answers. I don't see him going out and starting his own team, because it rarely works. There's a long list of great drivers who made that move at this point who won a race or two here and there, and then quickly slipped. Darrell Waltrip, Ricky Rudd, Geoff Bodine....they were competitive for a little while, but let's face it, the money and the resources came up short. In Ricky Rudd's case, he went back into a major ride, Robert Yates Racing, and that didn't really work out, either.

My point is, where does Michael Waltrip go if DEI doesn't work out? Would Jack Roush hire him? Rick Hendrick? A lot of people in the business of NASCAR love Michael Waltrip, but will they take a chance? The man's smart, he's funny, he's not ugly, so he fits the corporate sponsor part. He's running marathons, so he's in shape. And he's won races, so he's not incapable. Which brings us back to the question, what's the problem?

Ultimately, I'd like to see him stay at DEI, and for DEI to keep working until they get it right. I think they have team problems moreso than driver problems. Didn't they just completely shake up the teams, basically swapping his team with Junior's? What happens if Junior wins three races in the next two years, do people start to question his abilities?

There's trouble on Highway 3 outside of Mooresville, NC. I can smell it. And I was afraid of it. I wonder what Big E would do?

I wonder what Big E would do?

Win.

First of all, a tip of the hat to RED for the genuinely well written and composed thoughts regarding Mikey Waltrip and the DEI relationship.

Being a great spokesman for the sport (and if you guys would occasionally tune into the Monday post race show on SPEED Network, with Ken Shrader, and Alan Bestwick you'd know what I mean), I believe Mike has a great future in broadcasting.

Yet he is too young, and as Red said...where does he go?

Ricky Rudd had the "Tide" sponsorship with him when he went solo...and accomplished a victory at the "Brickyard".

That's about it, however. To some that may be a huge deal, yet a few years later he found himself driving an under-prepped car for Robert Yates, and now he's in a 3rd generation Wood's brothers car, driving in circles?

I dunno...I like Mike as a person, (and I remember that he was the first to do a "Polish Victory Lap" in honor of Alan, after a win in a Busch race :thumb: ) yet as Red astutely pointed out, where does the man go from here?

We shall see, I guess.

...craig

Win.


I sure would like to think so. But it's going to take a lot more than will and reputation.

I thought it had already been decided that this year would be his last in the 15 car? I thought that came out towards the end of the season. You wonder what keeps some people from getting the job done - he would have a good run occasionally in the Bahari car, but of course never won. Then he comes to DEI and wins right out of the chute. I think all his wins have still been on superspeedways, right? Just weird is all...

Been a Rusty Wallace fan since 87' . It's going to be sad to see him turn those last few laps ! I hope he can get a win or two this year before driving off into the sunset ! In another year or two , all the old school guys will be gone !

I hear you loud and clear on Rusty. Ten-fifteen years ago, there was no one on the track I loved to see lose more than ol' Crusty. Second place was Martin. Now when I think about all these guys being gone, I can honestly get a big ol' lumpy throat over it.

Wallace, Martin, Terry Labonte......hate to see any of them go.

I need to get over the fact that time doesn't stand still. I just don't have the same excitement for NASCAR, and that really sucks.

Truck racing is gaining popularity among my friends who remember the Mountain Dew car, and the Peidmont Airlines car, and the Wrangler car, and the Blue Max car, and the Folgers car..........maybe it's because the truck series seems like the old days of Cup.

All of this waiting around is Bullshit, I say start the season this Sunday. Same goes for MLB

The thing about Michael Waltrip is that he is a sponsor's dream. I wouldn't be surprised at all that if he left, Napa would follow him no matter where he went. He is a good ambassador for the sport and his face is everywhere hawking somebody's product. He is one guy who shouldn't have a problem getting a drive anywhere he wants.

Ok, here is the way I see things happening this year for Mikey. First off he will win the Daytona 500, The odd years are his years...unless he gets one of those tester motors....2nd he will win a downforce race. I don't know where, but I would guess either texas or charlotte. 3rd he will make the cut, may not be top ten, but come richmond I see the race to the chase closer than in 04, he may be 380 out and be in 14th...which will put him in. All that is very possible, alot of Mikey's misfortune in 04 was not of his own doing, an unusual amount of blown motors and tangles with rookies set him in the hole from the start, he turned things around early in the summer and had a hell of a streak goin til he got taken out at pocono, everytime his job at DEI gets threatened, he turns the wick up.

Now that is a perfect world scenario I hope plans out cause im probably the biggest Mikey fan south of Ownesboro, KY and west of Sherrills Ford, NC. If the unthinkable happens and he loses his ride to Truex, I see him winding up in the truck series in a DW toyota and helps big brother introduce the first set of toyota cars into cup down the road. Another scenario is him winding up in a BAM car with Schrader, theyre good friends and there has been talk about even a 3rd BAM car, so who knows, but I do see him following big brother to the booth, he has alot of talent when it comes to color commentating, alot more than rusty seemed to. No matter what happens this year I am confident that he will land on his feet in another ride, He's proven he can win, 5 of em (i include the winston, it's no charity race) and he understands the draft better than most, and hopefully NAPA will come with him, I have too much Mikey/NAPA stuff layin around, what would I do with it.

Ther has been a lot of departures from DEI. Key people. Mike gets the Eury's for his crew. These guys were criticized last year for not being technically astute. This sport has changed so much in the last 15 years with engineers and Lap Tops that you do not need to have the hands on approach of years past. In DEI's case, since Sr. is gone, Jr. is not ready to run the empire, he just wants to race. It will be an interesting year for DEI. I would hope that Mike goes back with the Petty camp. He used to work there in his younger days and has a good relationship with them. That would be my wish. Plus I'm psyched, just got my Martinsville tickets yesterday.

I hear you loud and clear on Rusty. Ten-fifteen years ago, there was no one on the track I loved to see lose more than ol' Crusty. Second place was Martin. Now when I think about all these guys being gone, I can honestly get a big ol' lumpy throat over it.

Wallace, Martin, Terry Labonte......hate to see any of them go.

I need to get over the fact that time doesn't stand still. I just don't have the same excitement for NASCAR, and that really sucks.

Truck racing is gaining popularity among my friends who remember the Mountain Dew car, and the Peidmont Airlines car, and the Wrangler car, and the Blue Max car, and the Folgers car..........maybe it's because the truck series seems like the old days of Cup.
Go Mark!!!!!!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v285/emm5150/Dsc01612.jpg

Go Mark!!!!!!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v285/emm5150/Dsc01612.jpg

Damn right Go Mark!!!!!!!!

On Friday, January 28, CMT will premier "The 40 Greatest NASCAR Moments".

Another "clips" style show, yet these things can be entertaining if one doesn't expect too much.

Anybody here like the new provisional rules as much as I do? :bounce:

Hopefully it will serve to keep the Bodine family off of the race track. :p

...craig :thumb:

Just found out today Paul Andrews is going to crew the 45 team and they are getting engines from Everham Motorsports. Hope Petty Enterprises is headed in the right direction.

Good for Paul! Was Alan's crew chief in '92

I'm ecstatic about the new qualifying rules - I've been begging for this for years. It's sickening to see regular racers go home, rooted out by one-race, one-lap wonders. Qualifying's a nice way to set the starting field, but it shouldn't determine who doesn't get to race. So here's to NASCAR for finally doing something (I feel is) right!

Bill Elliott is going to be driving some for Chip Ganassi this year including the Bud Shootout. He is going to revive the Coors paint scheme. That's way too cool!

Here's a pic...

http://i.a.cnn.net/nascar/2005/news/headlines/cup/01/19/wednesday.notebook/elliott.coors.193.jpg

Also, there's another pic here:

Coors Charger paint scheme (http://jayski.com/schemes/2005/39cup.htm)

I still think that Charger is whacky looking, but it'll be cool to see the classic Coor's colours out there for a race!

I still think that Charger is whacky looking, but it'll be cool to see the classic Coor's colours out there for a race!

Whacky doesn't describe it. It's fugly!

It's the "Million Dollar" Bill Colors.

http://forums.autoweek.com/servlet/JiveServlet/download/31-10420-219702-1663/2005_charger_newman2.jpg
Seperated at birth??? I mean, you want to pull the nose out on both, no?
http://www.ankarsten.com/sw-species/Pics/Ewok.jpg

One get's the impression that if the Charger hit the rear bumper of another car (say it made contact right at the "t" in the air intake) that the fenders would flair out, much like a cartoon character sneezing and blowing wax out of his ears. :D

Doink! So much for the wind-tunnel testing. :rolleyes:

...craig :thumb:

One get's the impression that if the Charger hit the rear bumper of another car (say it made contact right at the "t" in the air intake) that the fenders would flair out, much like a cartoon character sneezing and blowing wax out of his ears. :D

Doink! So much for the wind-tunnel testing. :rolleyes:

...craig :thumb:
I know what you mean chef, it does look a little "fragile" for the most part.
Newman is a champion in the waiting, and everyone can wonder if it is going to be this year. ;) Can't they?

Newman really didn't have a great 2004, and in 2005 all the attention over at Penske will be on Rusty's Last Call. I don't think everyone will be drewling over Newman this year.

I'm a little confused on the "Chase" rules setup. I thought it was only for the Top 10 points drivers, but I read on NASCAR.com that it also includes any other drivers within 400 points. Yet just yesterday I heard somewhere on TV that it is just the Top 10. What's the deal? :confused:

I'm a little confused on the "Chase" rules setup. I thought it was only for the Top 10 points drivers, but I read on NASCAR.com that it also includes any other drivers within 400 points. Yet just yesterday I heard somewhere on TV that it is just the Top 10. What's the deal? :confused:

The top ten in points are automatically in the CHASE. They say if there are 12 drivers that are within 400 points of the leader that they are also in too. So that means 12 drivers would qualify for the chase for the cup at the cutting point. I cant remember what 10th place Mayfield had before he was in for the chase for the cup last year. But it was more than 400 points. So only 10 were in that year. Now Kevin finished 11 with more than 400 points before the started the CHASE. So he couldn't challenge for the cup. But if he had 399 points in 11th of the points system then he would be in. So that would make 11 drivers in the CHASE. So i hope that makes it clear.

Cool, thanks Tommy. That's what I thought. They just had some big NASCAR season preview/press conference thing here in Charlotte the other day, and Brian France was talking about the rules on the evening news and I guess I wasn't listening close enough, I thought he said something else. Maybe he said it was still just ten races in the chase. LOL, anyway...thanks.

Rolex 24 this weekend. 14 days till the 500. Let the pigeons loose.

Am I the only one excited that we get racing tomorrow even if it's for money and no points? I am so ready for Nascar and F1 soon after, it's gonna be a great year!!!

http://msn.foxsports.com/id/3360074_7_1.jpg


I'm rooting for Kasey Kahne and the rest of the Dodge boys this year...

The Dodges are using colors from 20 years ago, that were featured on the Dodge Daytona.
One of which was called "Statutory Grape"! :eek:

I watched practice, and am sad to report that the number 9 blew a motor and crunched some sheet metal, so he'll be starting from the rear of a 20 car pack, which really doesn't matter if the field gets inverted...

Elliots retro colors look great, yet Junior's car features a "Bud-bottle" brown that's pretty lame.

I'm watching practice? :wtf:

Guess I've got the bug, also-for now.

...craig :thumb:

[QUOTE=fast98dodge]Am I the only one excited that we get racing tomorrow even if it's for money and no points? I am so ready for Nascar and F1 soon after, it's gonna be a great year!!!


[QUOTE]
Hell no you are not the only one excited!!! This year for Nascar should be even more competitive for the drivers, since they know any type of bonus point they can possibly get, they will fight for! (See Jeff Gordon).
I know this may seem lop-sided to some of you, but I have the right for "my favorite drivers to root for":
JR., Newman and Robbie Gordon.
PLUS, I always love it when Mark Martin, Jarrett, Rusty and Marlin do great!
Guys I love to hate: BUSCH and HARVICK (but I do reserve the right to pick them in the fantasy league!) :D
Let's get ready for the BUD SHOOTOUT!!!! :bounce:

Congrads to Jimmie Johnson and all his fans here....now I want to make it clear that Jr., Waltrip and Rusty are going to be ONE of the Daytona 500 winners. Rusty wants it the most IMO, and Dale Jr., and Waltrip are gurus of the track and restrictor plate racing.
Do you think that the Daytona 500 is becoming a bigger spectacle than the Indy 500?

Did anyone else see the end of the Advance Discount Auto Parts 200? :scared:

Hope those guys are ok. :(

...craig :thumb:

What a great last 8 laps or so last night. I was really hoping Newman would have won, but it was great racing and Jimmy deserved it. I predicted Biffle wouldn't win and was right. I was surprised that Mayfield and Kahne didn't do so well because I thought their plate program would have improved over last year.

I've already heard some predictions for the 500 and here's mine.

Obvious picks: DEI and Hendrick

My darkhorse pick is Jamie McMurray. Ganassi cars usually do well on plate tracks and I think we will see a little harder edged McMurray this year. He will have a breakout year because he feels like he has something to prove especially after missing the Chase because of a stupid penalty.

500 Qualifying is in a few hours and I'm gonna be watching! Go DODGE! BTW, I thought the new Charger looks pretty badass on the track. They have the most distinctive look and don't look generic like the Ford and Chevy's, but looks don't necessarily win...

Hope the outcome last night isn't a sign that it's going to be the "Jimmie & Jeff" show this year - can't stomach that!

Didn't notice anything different about the Dodge colours in any of the pictures I looked at...

Mayfield's car was Top Banana (Yellow) and Kahne's was Go ManGo! (Orange) last night for the Shootout. They were painted similar to the production Dodge Charger Daytona R/T.

http://images-p.qvc.com/is/image/c/53/c23553.001?$moreviewmain$

Well Dale Jarrett got pole... I'm surprised that DEI didn't do that well. I thought they may have been sandbagging but I'm sure they will do better in the race. I also hope the Charger's do better as well but I think Newman showed last night that the Charger is good in traffic and the draft.

Mayfield's car was Top Banana (Yellow) and Kahne's was Go ManGo! (Orange) last night for the Shootout. They were painted similar to the production Dodge Charger Daytona R/T.

http://images-p.qvc.com/is/image/c/53/c23553.001?$moreviewmain$


Yup, I mentioned that on post #62, yet thanks for the photo!

I must say, Fox's camera angles were stellar all night, quite a difference from as recently as when ESPN covered the tour.

Apparently, no one was seriously injured during the ARCA race (why are these guys at Daytona?), including the four photographers (pit road crash), 2 fans (debris thrown into the grandstand) or in the 13 car pile up at the end.

The footage was much more frightening. :eek:

Next: Twin 125's! :bounce:

...craig :thumb:

Next: Twin 125's! :bounce:

...craig :thumb:Damn straight craig! Thursday just happens to be my next day off of work....how convenient to be the manager that does the schedule! hehe :D

I'm having my brother tape it for me. I think they'll be a good indication of how the race should go on Sunday.

Next: Twin 125's! :bounce:

...craig :thumb:

Best racing of the whole she-bang...and now, they're 150's! :bounce:

I'm thinking about taking Thursday off so I can veg in front of the TV watching the twin 150s!

DEI hardly ever qualifies good. They will be fine in the race.

I'm thinking about taking Thursday off so I can veg in front of the TV watching the twin 150s!

DEI hardly ever qualifies good. They will be fine in the race.Yeppers! :thumb:

Currently watching "Trackside at..." on SpeedChannel, and it's been terrific.

You folk know how much I despise the "Aww, Shucks, Boogity, ect" Darryl Waltrip...well tonight, he wasn't: offerring dead-on accessments of DEI's slipping through isolationism from Childress and other Chevy teams, at how Chevy and Ford learned from Dodge's entry to the sport (7 teams working together) and through sarcasm, blasting NASCAR's incomprehensible qualifying rules for this year's 500.

Well done, DW. :thumb: :thumb:

"Inside Nextel Cup" is next, at 8pm (EST). :bounce:

...craig :thumb:

You're fired up, aren't ya, chef? :thumb:

Cool, it's infectious. I'm starting to feel "racy" again myself.

I'm riding with Michael Waltrip this year. Screw it, I like him.

Who you ridin' with?

You're fired up, aren't ya, chef? :thumb:

Cool, it's infectious. I'm starting to feel "racy" again myself.

I'm riding with Michael Waltrip this year. Screw it, I like him.

Who you ridin' with?

Well, I'm old school, and I miss the Fords of Alan Kulwicki and Davey Allison.
With the Rousch/Yates alliance, I'd like to go with Dale Jarrett or Mark Martin, as I have little love for Rusty Wallace, or any of the "youngsters" in the Ford stable.

I miss the number 3, and through a weird source of loyalty (that I am surely not alone in feeling) I occasionally pull for his son, and through association Mikey Waltrip.

I became an Earnhardt fan getting over the deaths of two Ford drivers.
My heart was wrenched out when Dale passed.

I've been overtly critical of NASCAR ever since, and I'm willing to give it another shot for the first time in a while.

I would guess that I'm cautiously optimistic, while also fired up, if that makes sense. (And Kenny Schrader is still the coolest dude going!)

...craig :thumb:

Newman and Kahne for me, but I already stated that...

Speaking of Daytona and qualifying. Did I hear Hammond or Larry Mac right when one of them said something about NASCAR decreased the restrictor plate hole by another 1/64th of an inch??

I'm oretty sure that's what I heard...correct me if I'm wrong. Here's my concern. Even under the old restrictor plate rules, wasn't it dangerous enough having all those cars bottle necked together like that? Now to make them even MORE likely to be in large groups by decreasing the size AGAIN?!?!?

Evidentally losing Dale Sr. because of the congestion wasn't good enough. Seems to me NASCAR is making the racing on the super speedways MORE dangerous than exciting. Maybe it's me and the old scholl in me; but I saw NASCARS 40 Greatest Moments on CMT a week or so ago and to see the "slingshot" move that Petty, Yarborough, Jarrett, Parsons ,et' al used was far more exciting.

Seeing a car use that move and just go rocketing passed someone was cool as hell. They'd get in the draft and just go flying by the car in front. Their car may have been weaker, but they used the draft perfectly and were able to take advantage of it and would use it to win in most cases. Look how many last lap passes were made in '79. There was no clear cut winner half the time, and they'd sling shot two or three times in that last lap before crossing the line. Now, once that pass is made, it's all but over, because they just don't have the horses to catch up again.

NASCAR seems to want to keep everyone together and TRY to cause an accident, rather than having them create themselves. That side by side win by a nose racing is more exciting. Granted, it ikind of is; but I liked watching the rivalries and the ballsy moves rather than finese and science.

It's kinda like driving a semi in Illinois or California. The cars go 65 and higher, but the semi's are restricted to 55. Cars come barreling up behind a semi and BAM...they are on our ass before they know it and they hit us or cause the person behind them to rear end them because they have nowhere to go and they check up. then the car goes to pass and get's hung out next to the semi, leaving it nowhere to go in the event of trouble ahead.

It's the same concept here. There are certain cars that are stronger and suddenly are in the thick of a huge pack of cars, the next thing you know...they are wiped out by a huge wreck because they have to avoid hitting the car in front of them and then they get nailed from the drafting car behind them, or they get hung out on the side and have nowhere to go in the event of a wrec ahead of them.

Sorry for the ramble, but I just see NASCAR thinking large groups of cars running together to get up to speed exciting. I think exciting is watching the driver have to show off his talent by reigning in the power and controlling it, but be able to use those kick ass old-school moves, like the sling shot.

You're fired up, aren't ya, chef? :thumb:

Cool, it's infectious. I'm starting to feel "racy" again myself.

I'm riding with Michael Waltrip this year. Screw it, I like him.

Who you ridin' with?


I ride with DEI. I just pray that Gordon and Johnson don't start dominating again. They have looked awefully impressive so far.

Well, the "official" party line is that they slow 'em down so that they don't end up in the stands, but I'm sure they don't mind the "excitement" created by the tight packs. Personally, I think they should try running a smaller, unrestricted engine and see how that works. I enjoy watching the racing at the restrictor plate tracks, but it does get a bit stressful sometimes waiting for the "big one".

I guess they figure the plates are cheaper for the teams than running a different motor, or a different compression ratio, just for superspeedways. Bill Elliott said once that if they didn't use the plates, they'd be racing at 220-225 mph. I don't know what the answer is. But in the words of the late Dale Earnhardt, "they have killed racing at Daytona".

Bunch 'em up, let 'em fly....bunch 'em up, let 'em fly.......either way, it's dangerous. And as long as these cars continue to find ways to get airborne, there will be restrictions.

It was last year or the year before, but someone ran a test run around Talladega without a restrictor plate to see how fast he could go. If I remember right, he turned an unofficial lap at 230mph or something like that.

I think that was Rusty.
Let's hope for a top-ten chock full of the "old guard" with Mark Martin leading the way - Rusty, Sterling, Dale Jarrett, etc.

It was last year or the year before, but someone ran a test run around Talladega without a restrictor plate to see how fast he could go. If I remember right, he turned an unofficial lap at 230mph or something like that.

Ya, that was Rusty, going 230 by himself was crazy enough, imagine what it would be in draft situations.....Here is a question I have always had...The trucks run unrestricted, but they reduce the air that gets through to the motor....If I remember correctly they put the air block around the headlight section. Why wouldn't this work with the cup cars?? I know the trucks punch a bigger hole and are not as aerodynamic, but I figure it would be interesting to have a smaller cowl opening and see what that does. Maybe it is not possible, but it could be a solution to plate racing.

Ya, that was Rusty, going 230 by himself was crazy enough, imagine what it would be in draft situations.....Here is a question I have always had...The trucks run unrestricted, but they reduce the air that gets through to the motor....If I remember correctly they put the air block around the headlight section. Why wouldn't this work with the cup cars?? I know the trucks punch a bigger hole and are not as aerodynamic, but I figure it would be interesting to have a smaller cowl opening and see what that does. Maybe it is not possible, but it could be a solution to plate racing.

The trucks use the same engines as the Busch series cars, which are not as powerful as Nextel Cup cars. That, combined with the fact that they are not as aerodynamic may be the reason that they don't need restrictor plates.

The trucks use the same engines as the Busch series cars, which are not as powerful as Nextel Cup cars. That, combined with the fact that they are not as aerodynamic may be the reason that they don't need restrictor plates.


Didn't a major rule change take place for the trucks after Geoff Bodine's frightening, fire filled crash at Daytona, a few years ago?


D.W. mentioned the 1/64th reduction in the plate, along with the heavier rear end and rear spoiler package the other night on "Trackside...", saying NASCAR was trying to push the ass-end of the cars up, to introduce an "artificial" downforce.

He wasn't pleased with the result, and the cars really haven't slowed down that much..."look for some more tinkering", was the impression one was left with, which is what has driven me bananas about NASCAR these past few years: Make a rule that lasts ALL season, please!

I can't stand plate racing, yet I don't believe a smaller engine is the answer either, I mean...look what a bored out 289 will do.

All that would take place is that engine developement would simply "refit' and begin experimenting on the smaller motors, increasing horsepower to the point that we'd be right back were we started in a few years.

Yates' engine factory turned out over 200 motors for the first part of this season alone. They already have engines tested that have run 500 miles in race simulated situational testing, which will be used at Daytona.

With that kind of resource, I doubt a smaller engine would be a factor after 2, hell even 1 season! :eek:
...craig :thumb:

Yes, it was Rusty that did 228mph last year testing radio equipment.

My Dad and one of his buddies are leaving in the morning for Daytona, they are both so GIDDY they cant stand it.

My Dad and one of his buddies are leaving in the morning for Daytona, they are both so GIDDY they cant stand it.

I hope they're not staying at the LaQuinta. The lady at the front desk is a bee-yotch.

The Hampton Inn down the road is much better. :D :thumb:

Gee...ESPN has apparently "rediscovered" NASCAR.
Kenny Mayne and Dr. Jerry Punch were on a set actually at Daytona.

Welcome back, folks. First the Earnhardt movie, now this...wonder if the 2 are related, if ESPN simply decided to get a cut of the ratings, or both? :D

...craig :thumb:

I seem to recall that when the new television contracts started, ESPN wasn't being given on-track access. So they pretty much said "fuck it" at the time, and if that's all true I don't blame them, because they did as much to grow the sport as anyone. Maybe that's been changed and they're allowed to have a presence (or NASCAR's just decide to "come a-courtin'", so that ABC/ESPN will be all warmed up when it's time for the next television deal...)

The Nashville Network had the best coverage, IMO. I wonder if losing NASCAR had anything to do with them turning into "Spike"....

Craig, I remember seeing Mayne interview Sr. at Daytona one year, and Kenny started off by asking him a "Dale Earnhardt Sr./Dale Earnhardt Jr" question....Dale says, "Well, first of all, there is no Dale Earnhardt Sr. It's Dale Earnhardt, Dale Earnhardt Jr......"

He was so delightfully blunt like that. :thumb:

Let the twin Gatorade Duels begin!

It's on!

WOW!!! 10 to go, 3 wide all the way, Gordon in the middle, getting the crap knocked out of him .............wreck! Aww shit, the 9 is in the wall.
Johhny Sauter got to the front on a fake pit stop, and he just blew up!
Damn...this is only the first race. :bounce:

...craig :thumb:

Mikey Waltrip by 3/100's of a second, in the final 500 feet, over Dale Jr.! :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

What a race! :scared:

My heart is still pounding as I type this!

...craig :thumb: :thumb:

Boneheaded move by Harvick, don't you think?

Boneheaded move by Harvick, don't you think?


Agreed...Jimmy Johnson just called (in the post wreck int.) for Childress to fire him, or for NASCAR to "do something".

He went on to say "several good cars are wrecked now because of this..."

They just interviewed Mark Martin: "I could have won Daytona w/that car, not a chance w/my back-up car."

Nemechick just called him an idiot, and threw a waterbottle at Harvick, on camera!

We'll see how this pans out.

...craig :wtf:

Shit! Robby didn't make it. :mad:

I hope you're planning on running all the races this year, LePage... :mad:

What an afternoon...I'm going to f*ck-off to the pub for a while.

Billy...I love watching events "with" you, as always...reminds me of the NFL Playoffs from a couple years back: You and me typing in comments "live".

Ooops, that was PMs.. :brickwall

Whatever, catch up with you later.

Thanks, man.

...craig :thumb:

Nemechick just called him an idiot, and threw a waterbottle at Harvick, on camera!

We'll see how this pans out.

...craig :wtf:

Here comes a fine for Nemechick.

Nemechick just called him an idiot, and threw a waterbottle at Harvick, on camera!


LMAO!!! :thumb: Thats funny stuff. :)

I caught the last lap of the 1st race. You gotta wonder how Jr. really feels about the crew changes between he and Mikey. You could tell he wanted to just let fly with his comments about the car. The stuttering and stammering all calm like is Jr.'s way of trying not to expolde, kinda like Sr.

I missedthe 2nd race becaause I was at work. Now that I have read the excitment, I better check out Speed or ESPN and see the fireworkls that cause the "oohs", "ahhs" and "oh shit did he just do what I think he did's?!?!"

If the old point system was still in place, does anyone know who would have won? I kind of like the way it is now set up, it is more even at the end for the top 10 drivers, more like playoffs in baseball, basketball, football etc...heck, maybe they will have a "bye-race" for the top 2 drivers :D
My top 10 for this year:
1: Jimmie Johnson
2: Junior
3: Jeff Gordon
4: Newman
5: Busch
6: Kennseth
7: Kahne
8: B. Labonte
9: Stewart
10:Robbie Gordon (my sleeper pick)
These guys will be in the last 10 races for the cup.

I know I'm a little late in response here, but allow me to say "?????????????". I can see how you came up with 1 through 9, but Robbie Gordon? He's starting a new team, on his own. He'll be lucky if he qualifies for every race. Remember what happened the last time he was on his own in the Menard's racing machine? Oh, you don't? Neither do I, and I think that's my point. :)

Oh, and that Dodge Charger is pretty sick looking.

Hey, I know I haven't posted here in a couple weeks, so I don't mean to make it seem I'm only coming back to make fun of BREW CREW. I hope you have a good sense of humor....but Robbie Gordon is going to have to have a Kevin Harvick rookie type of year to make the top ten racing in only 35 out of 36 races - and that's if he qualifies on speed next week.

and moving on...

I think that whole qualifying thing sucked. I love the idea of the Gatorade Duels, but they just weren't exciting as they were in the past given that only two transfer spots were open. I think we'd be hard pressed to find anyone who really knows how that whole Daytona 500 qualifying thing worked.

Hey, I know I haven't posted here in a couple weeks, so I don't mean to make it seem I'm only coming back to make fun of BREW CREW. I hope you have a good sense of humor....but Robbie Gordon is going to have to have a Kevin Harvick rookie type of year to make the top ten racing in only 35 out of 36 races - and that's if he qualifies on speed next week.

I was waiting for someone to notice! :D When I saw that Robbie wasn't in, I knew my "sleeper pick" just went to shit, unless of course he kicks ass the remainder of the season, I do not think that will happen now. Oh, well...a far stretch indeed. :brickwall
DAYTONA 500 IS SUNDAY!!!!!!!!!! :bounce:

Hey, I know I haven't posted here in a couple weeks, so I don't mean to make it seem I'm only coming back to make fun of BREW CREW. I hope you have a good sense of humor....but Robbie Gordon is going to have to have a Kevin Harvick rookie type of year to make the top ten racing in only 35 out of 36 races - and that's if he qualifies on speed next week.


Not necessarily. Remember, now we have the "Chase for the Championship" :rolleyes:, so theorectically all he has to do is be in the top 10 or within 400 points of first place after race 26 and then it's a whole new ballgame. I realise for a startup team, that's not likely, but it's a lot more doable than the old system. I know a lot of people don't like him, but I like Robby, and I think he gets unfairly maligned because of past "transgressions". I think he's a true competitor and given a chance he can race anything.

I was off yesterday and at home watching my daughter. I was watching The Speed channel most of the day and during one segment they showed Brian Vickers, Scott Wimmer and Travis Kvapil all talk about racing at Daytona. They played music during this segment and it was "Dreams". They kept looping the intro. That was pretty cool. Also watched the Iroc and Truck Race. That truck race was wild. Seeing Crawford on his roof and then driving it down pit lane was sweet. And Jimmy," no trophy for you". Wished he would have won. Gotta root for him since he's from our area. I just can't believe the truck series is 10 years old. I saw the first Supertruck race at Nazareth and have caught them in Martinsville. They put on a great show and really lean on each in the turns. And, with Mark Martin and Schrader making the switch to the truck series it's gonna just keep getting better.

Shit! Robby didn't make it. :mad:

I hope you're planning on running all the races this year, LePage... :mad:

I read in the Boston Globe that with the $250,000 paycheck LePage will earn for starting the Daytona 500 he now plans to run the first 10 races of the season instead of the first 5. Given the new qualifying system, as long as he finishes in the top 35 at Daytona he'll be automatically qualified for California.

Now that's strange to say...I'm so used to saying Rockingham. Oh well...

Oh, I also want to mention that I've got my 2003 replica Jeff Gordon crew shirt out of the closet and ready for wearing during the race! :thumb:

Have you ever heard the song "Jeff Gordon's Gay"...

Enough said!

Go Dodge!

Good God, get this shit away from NASCAR. This pre-race show is horrible!

I read in the Boston Globe that with the $250,000 paycheck LePage will earn for starting the Daytona 500 he now plans to run the first 10 races of the season instead of the first 5. Given the new qualifying system, as long as he finishes in the top 35 at Daytona he'll be automatically qualified for California.

Now that's strange to say...I'm so used to saying Rockingham. Oh well...

I don't think that's entirely correct - I may be wrong but I think the first four races still go to the top 35 from last year...

You know what I think of today's Daytona 500???

I'm a Bobby Labonte fan. :( Enough said.

The pre race show was CRAP!!! It was like watching the half time show of the Super Bowl.

My Dad called at about lap 45 fromt he stands, got to hear to cars go by - VROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!!

Sounds like he and his friend Johnny are having a kick ass time.

:yell: Damn Gordon!!

o well, great finish!

I hate Gordon... Godammit!

About the prerace, Brian Wilson is officially spent.

Next week, California.

Tony Stewart is SUCH A PUNK!!!! I cant stand that guy.

Wow. Great racing there at the end. Congrats to Gordon, but man, that was some serious racing from Jr. His car basically sucked all day, and to finish third was pretty amazing.

You know what I think of today's Daytona 500???

I'm a Bobby Labonte fan. :( Enough said.Sorry dude...I like Bobby and almost picked him instead of Rusty in fantasy...What a race!!!

Wow. Great racing there at the end. Congrats to Gordon, but man, that was some serious racing from Jr. His car basically sucked all day, and to finish third was pretty amazing.
Nah, Jr.'s car didn't suck all day, he just wasn't in front for the majority of it, I was at a party and everyone was going friggin crazy when he led towards the end...Jeff Gordon won, he desreves it from what I saw, he had a solid race, and YES Tony Stewart is a defintite WEENIE TOUCHER, I can't stand that dork!
I really did wish that Rusty would have won it though.
Waltrip: bad day at Daytona, he was in position to win it, then....

I don't think that's entirely correct - I may be wrong but I think the first four races still go to the top 35 from last year...

Thanks for the clarification. I didn't pay attention to the rule changes as much as I had in the past. But hats off to Lapage with the 9th place finish.

I'm estatic that my driver won. Victory #70...he's closing in on Dale. I don't care so much about passing Dale, it's Waltrip I want him to pass. In a post-race interview Gordon said that he really cherishes each victory more and more. Given that it seems races are harder and harder to win each year, I see his point. Long gone are the days of winning 13 races a year.

Man, what a weekend.

Those trucks are CRAZY, that's some good racin' right there.

Announcers are so neutered these days, they are really good at throwing a "PC" explanation out there for everything. Bring back Buddy Baker, at least he took a stand once in awhile.

Note to Richard Childress: haven't you fired Harvick yet? Didn't I tell you to fire his ass after the Rudd incident?

Yes, it's just racin', and yes, Earnhardt used to do the same thing. But no, he ain't Earnhardt, and no, he can't do the same thing. Don't ask me to explain, it is what it is. Fire him. IMO. :D

I'm just glad Kerry didn't get his ass killed out there. What a maroon. :thumb:

Victory #70...he's closing in on Dale. I don't care so much about passing Dale, it's Waltrip I want him to pass.

He can win 100 races, but Earnhardt or Waltrip he'll never be.

That was a great race. It was awesome seeing Jr charge to the front in the end. I'm also glad to hear everyone is OK, especially Wimmer after that wild ride he took.

Well, now we'll see the cars move a little faster, but not as bunched up at Fontana this coming weekend. The track is really getting better every year, like most tracks do. I expect somebody, I don't know who yet, to be pretty dominant and almost run away with it. Fontana is known for having very few cautions, so that should spread out the field. This race is more of a tell tale of who's good or not this year because there are a lot more tracks like this they race on.

But what about all the rain that Cali has been having lately. What are the chances of there being a washout for the race?

Well, going to the Weather Channel's website, it looks like there is a 20% or less chance of rain there from Thursday through Monday. We should be getting sunny weather with some clouds... :thumb:

He can win 100 races, but Earnhardt or Waltrip he'll never be.

You're right. Waltrip was only a three-time Cup champ and only won one Daytona 500. Jeff Gordon is no DW, that's for sure.

Why does everyone hate Gordon?

I cant remember him doing anything that was so bad.

He just rubbed a lot of people the wrong way. Back in '92 he was driving a Busch car for Bill Davis (a Ford) and it was believed they were going to move together to Winston Cup (yeah, I'm not afraid to still call it that) in 1993. He was going to be Ford's next great hope. All of a sudden, I think just before Charlotte in May, it was announced that he would be joining Hendrick Motorsports at the end of the season and going Cup racing with them. 1993 wasn't so bad, but in 1994 he starts winning races and in 1995 he wins the championship. Not to mention the fact that he marries the trophy girl, too. "He didn't pay his dues" is the cry, "Got handed a choice ride". It just wasn't common for drivers to come into the series and have the kind of success he had so early. Sure, Earnhardt won the Winston Cup his second year, but then he struggled for awhile before becoming a force (and I could start a whole arguement with that crowd saying I'm not so sure Earnhardt ever really was a force - not in the sense of race domination, anyway - but that's another time). Oh, and did I mention he wasn't from the South? Plus, he was a bonafide kid when he started, a lot of the other drivers didn't make it to the big time until they were pushing 30. So he just came along and was young and dominating and it seemed like we were going to be watching him win a lot of races for a long time, and folks didn't like it. Didn't help that Earnhardt egged the old timers on by calling him stuff like "Wonder Boy". I've kind of mellowed on him a bit myself, don't mind if he wins a couple of races here and there - but I still don't want to see him take home the big trophy anymore!

You're right. Waltrip was only a three-time Cup champ and only won one Daytona 500. Jeff Gordon is no DW, that's for sure.

Waltrip and Earnhardt are from a different time. In today's NASCAR it's just as much about your car as it is your driving skills. That didn't used to be the case. Of course, the car always has something to do with it, but much more so in today's "Don't bump me or I'll cry to NASCAR" racing. Gordon is a great racer. I don't hate the guy at all; but he wouldn't be what he is in Waltrip's and Earnhardt's day. Not many today would.

Why does everyone hate Gordon?

I cant remember him doing anything that was so bad.

You can't just waltz in here and take over, kid.

That's the basic mentality. Billy's right, the Bill Davis "Baby Ruth" defection rubbed some folks the wrong way as well.

I don't think the whole "Rainbow Warrior" theme was very endearing, either. Not that there's anything wrong with that. :eek:

But honestly, he hasn't done much to warrant being the bad guy, other than winning. I don't think many people actually "hate" him, they just decided not to pull "for" him.

I don't hate Gordon, but I will never root for him. He is a great race car driver, not doubt about it. I think the reason I dislike him is a few years ago when it seemed like he was winning every single race, that is when I started to not like him. Every time you turned around, he was in the winner's circle which got old really fast, and there is just something about him that irritates me. I can't quite put my finger on it.

"He didn't pay his dues" is the cry, "Got handed a choice ride". It just wasn't common for drivers to come into the series and have the kind of success he had so early.

The funny thing is, ever since Gordon, other owners have been searching for the same formula and it just hasn't worked. It seems that owners (and sponsers) look for one year in the Busch series, and then they go cup racing. More often than not, these cookie-cutter, product selling, stars of the future are out of a Cup ride in 25 races. Far and few between are the owners willing to keep a team together for more than 2 years without seeing results. Casey Atwood comes to mind. It even happens with veteran drivers. Ward Burton out of the NetZero car in less than a year, replace by Mike Bliss. Do you really think it's the driver??? Let's see how long Bobby Hamilton Jr. lasts in the Tide Ride without winning. It's just frustrating to see.

The funny thing is, ever since Gordon, other owners have been searching for the same formula and it just hasn't worked. It seems that owners (and sponsers) look for one year in the Busch series, and then they go cup racing. More often than not, these cookie-cutter, product selling, stars of the future are out of a Cup ride in 25 races. Far and few between are the owners willing to keep a team together for more than 2 years without seeing results. Casey Atwood comes to mind. It even happens with veteran drivers. Ward Burton out of the NetZero car in less than a year, replace by Mike Bliss. Do you really think it's the driver??? Let's see how long Bobby Hamilton Jr. lasts in the Tide Ride without winning. It's just frustrating to see.


That's an astute point.

Pretty much runs along the lines of the "seeking instant gratification" ownership style that ran rampant in the NFL, particularly regarding Washington Redskins owner Daniel Snyder.

It's the same in MLB, the NBA,...and is a pain to witness.

Ward Burton is a guy I truly like. I recall before he was "groomed", he was the slowest talker in the sport. Benny Parsons once said "It's a good thing he drives faster than he talks!"

Mikey Waltrip was the same way, and now is truly set up for life after racing, as he is a good analyst (this will improve, he needs more time) and truly entertaining.

It would appear there are 2 camps right now: Personable, articulate young drivers that can sell the sponsors product (and win the odd race) with solid support from well funded and put together teams, and teams barely making races and playing "musical chairs" with drivers and team members.

How does one root for the latter?

And indeed, it is strange to be saying "on to California", rather than "on to Rockingham". :eek:

...craig :thumb:

Well the only thing that Gordon has ever done that rubbed me wrong was when he was married to that GOLD DIGGER, I got real tired of seeing her in the winners circle with him. I guess you could say it wasnt even him doing it, it was more her. I have no problem with a guys wife standing next to him after he wins but she seemed to think she was part of the show. Gordons crew should have been up on the trophy stand with him NOT HER!!

From what I read she really soaked him in the divorce. Had she not married Gordon she would now be a washed up trophy girl that is possing in some second rate porn mag.

Well the only thing that Gordon has ever done that rubbed me wrong was when he was married to that GOLD DIGGER, I got real tired of seeing her in the winners circle with him. I guess you could say it wasnt even him doing it, it was more her. I have no problem with a guys wife standing next to him after he wins but she seemed to think she was part of the show. Gordons crew should have been up on the trophy stand with him NOT HER!!

From what I read she really soaked him in the divorce. Had she not married Gordon she would now be a washed up trophy girl that is possing in some second rate porn mag.


This may strike you odd (even odder, if I could post a picture :rolleyes: ), yet the woman in question, whose name is I believe Brooke Benton, bears a striking resemblance to one Tawny Kitane (sp on all points).

This is purely from memory, yet the resemblance is profound.

...craig :wtf:

Brooke Sealy (unless she recently married some dude named Benton!). I can see where there might be a slight resemblance, though I doubt she ever battered Jeffrey...

http://www.nascar.com/2002/news/headlines/wc/03/16/gordon_gordon/brooke_tall_med.jpg http://www.chiplewis.org/images/tawny3.jpg

By the way:

http://www.thisoldsoul.com/images/brook.jpg

Both of those women are gold diggers and a bit crazy.

However I would like to make a OLO sandwich with them, I will contact there agents to see when we can put this on the calender. Of course I will film it then sell copies of it on the internet.

Both of those women are gold diggers and a bit crazy.

However I would like to make a OLO sandwich with them, I will contact there agents to see when we can put this on the calender. Of course I will film it then sell copies of it on the internet. :funny:
Actually, I think Jeff's ex looks like Geena Davis.
Still laughing over the OLO sandwich thingy! :D

If anybody ever wants to hear a "Why I hate Gordon" rampage should talk to my aunt. She'll talk your ear off for about 8 hours on why she hates him. I don't hate him nor do I like him. I do see his popularity going up a little with his appearances on SNL, Celebrity Poker and Regis and Kelly. At least it shows another side of him.

As for this weekend's race, I'm sure hoping B. Labonte will have a better finish. At least he can't do any worse.

Terry Labonte & Bill Elliott at California.

There are 48 drivers entered according to nascar.com. That leaves seven spots open based on speed, with the final spot going to a former Cup champion. Does anyone know if Bill Elliott's #91 or Terry Labonte's #44 has any owner points transferred from last year? I think the answer is no. Assuming that the answer is no, Bill Elliott is going to have to be one of the seven fastest of the remaining twelve cars. Terry Labonte is gauranteed the final starting position becuase he is the most recent Cup champion not in the top 35 of owner points in 2004. In fact, he's pretty much gauranteed that spot all year long unless Bobby Labonte has a string of 35 or worse finishes following his tailboat charlie at Daytona.

Do you think Bill Elliott will make the field? He'll have to out qualify Stanton Barrett, Stan Boyd, Eric McClure, Hermie Sadler, Kevin Lepage, Randy LaJoie, Kirk Shelmerdine, John Andretti, Jason Leffler, Robby Gordon, and Mike Wallace. I think that's the full list of drivers not gauranteed a starting position, including Bill Elliott. I think Dave Blaney's #07 has the owner points from the #30 car transferred for this year. Given that of the 11 drivers above, six or seven are field fillers, I think he'll make it.

Basically he has to out-qualify the likes of Stanton Barrett, Stan Boyd, Eric McClure, Hermie Sadler, Kevin Lepage, Randy LaJoie & Kirk Shelmerdine. And two of those guys can actually make it! Obviously Andretti, Gordon and Leffler are on thin ice, but there's no reason they shouldn't be able to out-qualify these guys either!

I have a dear friend, who used to run roundy-rounds in the late 60's-early 70's in the St. Louis area, by the name of "Wild Bill".

He spoke of "qualifying" in this term: "Qualificating".

If one thinks about it, it does indeed make linear and grammatical sense.

In any event, the qualificating, will be shown ( according to our local paper ) on Saturday: Auto Club 500, 3pm on FX.

Which kinda blows for us, regarding speculation...yet is sort of neat in the fact that "you qualify, and then less than 24 hours later, you run".

Added bonus: I have the weekend off! (Now, I've more than likely jinxed it :brickwall )

...craig :thumb:

Nascar went crazy handing out fines for Speedweeks violations:

http://sports.espn.go.com/rpm/news/story?id=1998262

I know I'm getting in late on this Gordon thing but I just remember him starting his first cup race, it's the "Kings" last race, "Awesome Bill" wins the race and and AK wins the Winston Cup. JG, Bobby Labonte and Kenny Wallace were tabbed back then as the first "Young Guns". They even printed cards with them dressed as cowboys. Gordon had Ray E, and was the first prototype: good looking, never worked on the cars, just drive and a sponsers dream. But, the man could drive a car. And, he learned the business from the Man himself, Dale Earnhardt. Since then they have tried to capture that genie in a bottle. Hell, I heard Jimmy Spencer say the next Jeff Gordon is Kasey Kahne. Hey , they used to boo the shit out of DW years ago, now you should hear the crowd during driver introduction at the Spring truck race at Martinsville. I think if one day Gordon got pissed off enough and jumped out of the car and really went after somebody he earn a little more respect from the old school fans.

You are missing the point ddz...NASCAR is doing well and really does not need us, the "old school, ugly " fans.

Do you really believe MTV has shows featuring Jr. in hopes that we would be channel surfing and caught it?

Consumer dollar is the focus.

Suddenly, there is a new potential audience of consumers to sell product to.

Think of it...put a product name on a competitive car: that translates to a good 2-3 hours of advertisement time.

Cynically: If that car has a spectacular wreck, the car (and it's sponsor) are splashed on the front page of sports sections and tv sports segments everywhere.

It is a multi-million dollar a moment business...and racing is yet a part of it.

That is the truth, boys and girls.

And is also why I simply try to watch the race, and avoid the horseshit side show.

...craig ;)

And is also why I simply try to watch the race, and avoid the horseshit side show.

...craig ;)

Well, the side show can be entertaining at times. After all, Vince McMahon built his wrestling empire not on wrestling, but on the good guy vs. bad guy weekly soap opera.

However, I'm with you on this soap opera NASCAR bit. I think I lose interest in it with every passing year. I watched my first flag-to-flag race in 1994 (bonus: can you guess which race that was) but have been steadily following NASCAR since around 1996-1997. The soap opera served my well for the first five years when I was trying to understand the sport and the personalities, but in the past few years, especially since NASCAR went to Fox and NBC, I feel like the personalities are polished and shaped by the greenback dollar.

You are missing the point ddz...NASCAR is doing well and really does not need us, the "old school, ugly " fans.

Do you really believe MTV has shows featuring Jr. in hopes that we would be channel surfing and caught it?

Consumer dollar is the focus.

Suddenly, there is a new potential audience of consumers to sell product to.

Think of it...put a product name on a competitive car: that translates to a good 2-3 hours of advertisement time.

Cynically: If that car has a spectacular wreck, the car (and it's sponsor) are splashed on the front page of sports sections and tv sports segments everywhere.

It is a multi-million dollar a moment business...and racing is yet a part of it.

That is the truth, boys and girls.

And is also why I simply try to watch the race, and avoid the horseshit side show.

...craig ;)




Craig, I'm with ya on that. I can't believe the corporate stuff that's at Martinsville. They drained and filled in a pond to park trailers and haulers. I still go, Part of it is to escape the Northeast in the Spring and the other part is I just enjoy racing. It's getting to the point when your not even going to see chicken bones getting thrown through the fence during the race. Now it's a turkey wrap, hold the Mayo!

Hey Hey Hey...NASCAR news from the land of corn. My state is known more for dirt track racing...BUT NOW we could be in line for some truck or Busch races.


NASCAR comes To Iowa?? (http://www.kwqc.com/Global/story.asp?S=3000575)

NEWTON, Iowa Developers say financing for a 70 (m) million dollar motor speedway in Newton is completey.

Officials with U.S. Motorsport Corporation say construction should begin this spring on the 7/8-mile asphalt oval track. There will be permanent seating for 25-thousand and room for additional seating, which will put total capacity at more than 80-thousand.

Officials expect racing to begin in summer 2006. It will be built just south of Interstate 80, east of the Newton Airport.

The track's design is to be developed with the assistance of NASCAR driver Rusty Wallace. Officials say Wallace will be on hand for the groundbreaking.

Hope you get it , you'll love the trucks!

Boogity, Boogity, Boogity, we got Fontana today, Boys! Let's go racin'!!!

Shit, in the "good ol' days", this race (or more precisely the one in Rockingham) would probably be half over! As of yet they haven't even taken the green flag yet!

Drop the rag!

Don't know if they showed it last week and some of you have already seen it, but I saw the Dale Jarrett commercial today where he says he'll drive the truck. Wonder where that campaign's going to go...

Don't know if they showed it last week and some of you have already seen it, but I saw the Dale Jarrett commercial today where he says he'll drive the truck. Wonder where that campaign's going to go...I wonder too...it is a cool "soap opera" commercial. I thought the new commercial is funny and I hope they do not overplay it like the winfuel commercial...wow, did they ever play that yesterday! :brickwall

anyone see that race update right now? they recapped the race while trying to include all the movies in tonights oscars in the sentence. i thought it was just dumb....

anyone see that race update right now? they recapped the race while trying to include all the movies in tonights oscars in the sentence. i thought it was just dumb....yeah, they are trying to be cute, and it turns out they look goofy.

Good to see Biffle hang on for a win.

Ugly focker, though.

Ha, and apparently, he doesn't know how to cut a doughnut. :D

Always good to see a Roush car win - maybe this is Biffle's year! (Nah - hope it's Martin's). Bad day for Jeffy boy. Good day for guys like Bliss, Schrader and little Bobby. Sucks to be Joe Nemechek.

Broke my heart when Kahne spun out, good race today though. Sucks that Gordon blew up.......... :D

Don't know if they showed it last week and some of you have already seen it, but I saw the Dale Jarrett commercial today where he says he'll drive the truck. Wonder where that campaign's going to go...

I'm guessing that he may race in the Craftsman Truck series sometime this year.

As for yesterday's race, at least Labonte lasted more than 14 laps. After last week, I'll take a 13th place finish.

I'm guessing that he may race in the Craftsman Truck series sometime this year.


That's a legitimate possibility, for sure.

Another could be driving around Charlotte Motor Speedway in a UPS delivery truck that Humpy Wheeler then blows up!

Sweet heavenly crud...can't wait to see Mike Joy, DW and Larry Mac in sombreros and ponchos this weekend, and you know Fox will make them do it. :brickwall

I hope to heck I'm wrong... :rolleyes:

Sorry for the cynicism, even if I can't spell it.

I am looking forward to seeing the lay-out, I just hope Fox approaches this event with some dignity.

A road course, 3rd race in? Why not.

Fingers crossed.
...craig ;)

Sweet heavenly crud...can't wait to see Mike Joy, DW and Larry Mac in sombreros and ponchos this weekend, and you know Fox will make them do it. :brickwall

I hope to heck I'm wrong... :rolleyes:

Sorry for the cynicism, even if I can't spell it.

I am looking forward to seeing the lay-out, I just hope Fox approaches this event with some dignity.

A road course, 3rd race in? Why not.

Fingers crossed.
...craig ;)


Somehow, I doubt the network would have to twist their arms very much....especially Durl.

Sweet heavenly crud...can't wait to see Mike Joy, DW and Larry Mac in sombreros and ponchos this weekend, and you know Fox will make them do it. :brickwall

...craig ;)

:funny:

Well, you guys probably are aware of the fact that I was deeply involved with Golf over the weekend, yet I did take some time to witness FOX's coverage of the Mexico Busch Race.

Two things struck me:

#1. Beautiful layout...actually reminded me of courses I'd seen before, yet the blind spots on a road course are infurriating at times, especially if one attends.

#2. Note to FOX: If you are going to show preamble to a race in a foriegn tongue, please provide an interpreter or subtitles...this simply went on forever, and really was not endearing to those of us that don't know the language.

...craig :thumb:

I thought the layout of the track was nice too, but it wasn't condusive to television coverage at all. If you look at Watkins Glen and Infineon (Sanoma), both are "stadium" road courses. Cameras sit on top of hills and you get good views. I think the Mexico course was pretty flat.

I wish I could find out if there's anything in the pipeline to do a special edition of "Days Of Thunder" - I've been replacing my tapes with DVDs and this will pretty much be the last one (besides "Star Wars"), but I can just see them putting out a special edition with additional race footage and "making of" features and stuff to cash in on the NASCAR craze. Plus they recently had a special edition of "Top Gun" come out.

I've never seen Days of Thunder, but I heard its losely based on Rick Hendricks' road to becoming a NASCAR owner. I recently saw him being questioned about this on TV.

Does anyone know anything about this statement?

I've never seen Days of Thunder, but I heard its losely based on Rick Hendricks' road to becoming a NASCAR owner. I recently saw him being questioned about this on TV.

Does anyone know anything about this statement?

That's part of it...the driver (played by Tom Cruise) is based on the life of a guy that I shared a few beers with from time to time at a place called "RedLine Motors", up the road a piece from me in Pompano Beach, Florida.

His name was Tim Richmond. Tim was a nutcase, yet in a very friendly way.

He worked hard, and partied with the same vigor. He was quite the ladies man, yet sadly his death from AIDs put a pall on his achievements: NASCAR, ever the open minded bastion of free thinking, has done everything it can to erase him from the public's collective memory.

Timmy Richmond was to be the next Jeff Gordon...he was smart, charismatic and could drive the wheels off of a racecar...yet due to the circumstances surrounding his death, most folk will never know.

...craig :(

That's part of it...the driver (played by Tom Cruise) is based on the life of a guy that I shared a few beers with from time to time at a place called "RedLine Motors", up the road a piece from me in Pompano Beach, Florida.

His name was Tim Richmond. Tim was a nutcase, yet in a very friendly way.

He worked hard, and partied with the same vigor. He was quite the ladies man, yet sadly his death from AIDs put a pall on his achievements: NASCAR, ever the open minded bastion of free thinking, has done everything it can to erase him from the public's collective memory.

Timmy Richmond was to be the next Jeff Gordon...he was smart, charismatic and could drive the wheels off of a racecar...yet due to the circumstances surrounding his death, most folk will never know.

...craig :(

WOW! You shared the same bar space as Tim Richmond? Now that you say his name, I remember that Tom Cruise's character was based on him. I read an article on him last summer, it might have been in Dick Bergren's Speedway Illustrated. They were giving copies away at the track.

Of course I know of Tim, given his success at Pocono. That's the track we go to every year (for the past seven). The story is told that he couldn't even see the checkered flag his last race at Pocono because he was crying as he took it for the win - basically because he knew he was going to die. Never saw him race, as it was before my time. Yes, NASCAR really did screw him over and kicked a sick man when he was down.

Incidentally, we won't be going to this year's July race because my wife is expecting the first week in August. Obviously a bummer that we'll miss the race, but good things happening with the family.

I had no idea that the qualifying procedures were different for each track. The article below (which I found at http://sports.yahoo.com/nascar/news;_ylc=X3oDMTBpcmM5ZG1iBF9TAzk1ODYyNzYwBHNlYwN0 bQ--?slug=jb-qualifiedconfusion030805&prov=yhoo&type=lgns) bascially says that ISC tracks are using the NASCAR format, but rival SMI is having qualifying on Friday and a Happy Hour on Saturday. The top 35 are still locked in, but cars aren't impounded after qualifying.

Funny that all the drivers quoted in this article think that the new format sucks because Saturday is a boring day.
Qualified confusion

By Jerry Bonkowski (http://sports.yahoo.com/nascar/expertsarchive?author=Jerry+Bonkowski), Yahoo! Sports
March 8, 2005

http://us.i1.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/i/us/sp/cn/headshots/jerry_bonkowski_2.gif (http://sports.yahoo.com/nascar/expertsarchive?author=Jerry+Bonkowski)http://us.i1.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/i/us/sp/p/yse_lo_70x24_2.gif (http://http://us.i1.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/i/us/sp/p/yse_lo_70x24_2.gif)After this Sunday's UAW-DaimlerChrysler 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Nextel Cup teams will have undergone three entirely different qualifying formats in the season's first three races.

At Daytona, there was pole qualifying day that only locked in the first row for the Daytona 500. Four days later, the Gatorade Duels served to solidify the starting positions for the remaining 41 cars in the Great American Race's 43-car field.

The following week at Fontana, Calif., NASCAR finally implemented its long-awaited "short weekend" qualifying system, where Cup teams had two practice sessions Friday, qualified Saturday and then immediately had their cars impounded until three hours before the green flag on race day.

This weekend, teams will revert to the old qualifying format, with one practice session Friday morning followed by qualifying that afternoon, then by two practice sessions – including Happy Hour – on Saturday. And unlike at Fontana, there will be no impounding.

Oh yeah, next week at Atlanta, we go back to the new format.

But following Atlanta, the old system will be in place at Bristol, Martinsville and Texas. Then we go back to the new system at Phoenix and the old system the following week at Talladega.

This already is proving to be convoluted. Just imagine what it's doing to fans, drivers, crew chiefs, team members and pretty much everyone else who has a stake in the sport.

Can't you just imagine someone like Jeff Gordon (http://sports.yahoo.com/nascar/nextel/drivers/3/) asking crew chief Robbie Loomis, "Hey Robbie, are we qualifying Friday or Saturday this week?"

To which Loomis might say, "Hell if I know, Jeff."

The biggest irony is that the majority of venues that are having Cup qualifying on Saturday are tracks owned by NASCAR's racetrack arm, International Speedway Corp.

On the other hand, most of the tracks – although not all – that are sticking with the old Friday qualifying/Saturday Happy Hour system are operated by the rival Speedway Motorsports Inc.

So how long will this illogical logic continue?

NASCAR officials said before this season began that it would not force the new system upon tracks if they didn't want it. Places like Texas Motor Speedway, which historically draws upwards of 50,000 fans for Friday qualifying and the usual accompanying events that evening, has reason to stick with the old format.

NASCAR chairman Brian France said in January that it was his hope the tracks that didn't accept the new qualifying format would eventually do so.

Yet when asked what might happen if those holdout tracks didn't fall in line at some point, France didn't elaborate upon what further action may occur, if any at all.

But clearly, something will have to give. The system as it stands now is nothing short of ludicrous. We heard several drivers voice their opinions on the new format at Fontana.

Ryan Newman (http://sports.yahoo.com/nascar/nextel/drivers/176/): "It's turned out to be a big waste of time, really. I haven't seen anybody with a smile on their face, really, throughout the entire weekend. ... We're spending an entire day doing nothing. Showing up for a day at the racetrack for two laps is kind of pointless. It's not laid out with the competitor in mind."

Dave Blaney (http://sports.yahoo.com/nascar/nextel/drivers/89/): "It does seem like we've got a lot of time to waste. It's a little boring."

Defending Nextel Cup champion Kurt Busch (http://sports.yahoo.com/nascar/nextel/drivers/156/): "There's no real formula. I wish they would have tried it a bit more in the Busch Series before they gave it to Cup."

Rookie Travis Kvapil (http://sports.yahoo.com/nascar/nextel/drivers/350/): "It would be nice if something was a little more solid. ... For everybody's mindset, it would be nice if everything was precise and the same every week."

Dale Earnhardt Jr. (http://sports.yahoo.com/nascar/nextel/drivers/88/): "It sounds [like a waste of time] to me, but who am I, you know?"

The new system is designed to save teams money, but it would appear that regardless of whether qualifying is on Friday or Saturday, most team members are still going to have to come to town Thursday. They'll still have to prepare for two practice sessions Friday and qualifying Saturday, or one practice session and qualifying Friday and two practice sessions Saturday.

And then there's the question of which race weekend gets which system. NASCAR has said 12 tracks will use the new impound procedure in 2005, but there's the caveat that other events may still be added during the season.

How many hundreds of thousands of fans this season will show up at certain tracks on Friday only to find qualifying is Saturday, and vice-versa? It's enough to make your head spin. To borrow a line from diet diva Susan Powter, "Stop the insanity" and make it one way or the other.

And that's just it - some tracks have made a big deal out of qualifying day, selling commemorative tickets and all that and they don't want to give that up. Can't say that I blame them, but it's up to NASCAR to say "get it out of your system this year, because next year it's all going to be two-day shows."

Vegas winner: Kennseth???? What do you think?

Sterling Marlin

Love him or hate him...you KNOW that if Dale Sr. was still alive, he'd be in the NASCAR hauler looking at France Jr. and Helton telling them to either shit or get off the pot.

For a sport that brags about how much the fans brought them in to the mainstream of popularity; they sure are doing a good job at passing that fan base, AND it's drivers, off.

. . . but it's up to NASCAR to say "get it out of your system this year, because next year it's all going to be two-day shows."

You're right. And the tracks that are independently owned, like my beloved Pocono, will follow NASCAR's rules because they're afraid of losing a race date. I've already been notified of the changes.

Whenever NASCAR finally kills racing at Darlington, the next round of date-loss and potential track departure will probably happen at Pocono, Louden, or Dover. Especially if they ever do build the NYC track.

Charlotte's probably going to lose the all-star race, and it is highly possible that the proposed NASCAR Hall of Fame will go somewhere other than Charlotte/Mooresville, simply because Charlotte put all of their financial eggs in the NBA Bobcats basket.

History, tradition, hospitality and good vibes in general mean absolutely nothing to the powers that be. Business first, sport second. And it doesn't matter how much money a track spends to keep NASCAR happy, Roger Penske bought into Rockingham, they completely rebuilt the Hamlet grandstand, and five years later, the racing is over.

Support your local dirt track. :thumb:

Mini-rant complete. :D

Crap...13 laps in ! :wtf:
Now Fox loses the picture... :brickwall

From what I could tell, it was Jr., Bobby Labonte, Ricky Rudd, and Brian Vickers.

...craig :eek:

I guess FOX doesn't broadcast the races in high-def? :(

Gotta put Martinsville on the list of tracks that could be hit in the next round of "realignment".

Another weekend, another subpar race. I am also not too impressed with the new rule changes for the spoiler and the tires. I think it's another ploy by the France family to shake things up and make things even tighter than they already are. Maybe I'm just pissed JJ won the race and those damn Busch brothers finished 2nd and 3rd... :irked:

Story on www.nascar.com says Bruton wants another race for Las Vegas. Of course, he won't transfer one from one of his tracks - he'll just find some other track to buy up and take one of their dates. Or maybe he'll just start saying Brian France promised him one...

Jr is really sucking ass this year.

Story on www.nascar.com says Bruton wants another race for Las Vegas. Of course, he won't transfer one from one of his tracks - he'll just find some other track to buy up and take one of their dates. Or maybe he'll just start saying Brian France promised him one...


Say it ain't so!

fastdodge is correct in his opinion of the Vegas track: It's a snooze-fest! :sleep:
The racing is subpar, and downright boring...a second race?

And we lost a Rockingham race for this? Now I understand that the seating capacity will be increased in turn 1, due to consumer demand. :wtf:

What are these people seeing that I'm obviously missing? :confused:

Plus the fact that these mid afternoon start times from the west coast foul up my golf game, and tv habits! :brickwall

...craig

Say it ain't so!

fastdodge is correct in his opinion of the Vegas track: It's a snooze-fest! :sleep:
The racing is subpar, and downright boring...a second race?

And we lost a Rockingham race for this? Now I understand that the seating capacity will be increased in turn 1, due to consumer demand. :wtf:

What are these people seeing that I'm obviously missing? :confused:

Plus the fact that these mid afternoon start times from the west coast foul up my golf game, and tv habits! :brickwall

...craig

The reason why we lost a date at the Rock is because to sound like a Nascar exec, "There is too many races already in the area and we want to expand."

What a load of shit, they are chasing $$$ and nothing else.

The reason why Vegas sells out is because it's in Vegas. They could have 4 races there and they would all probably sell out. It's not because of the racing, it's because of everything else to do while your there.

There is talk that up here there will be a new track. The talk is the boring cookie cutter track like California, Kansas, Chicago, Michigan, Vegas, etc... or a short track.

What they should do up here is build a new Darlington (because that track will be one of the next to be axed if you ask me) but have the progressive banking like what they did at Homestead. That would be pretty badass if you ask me. Have an egg shaped track, but with killer banking like the old Darlington but with a new twist to promote different lines and make the turns extremely quick for passing and side by side racing.

As far as fouling up golf times, I'm with you there! I hit a couple of buckets in the morning, watched part of the race before falling asleep, then woke up at the end and went out and played nine...

The other shoe drops...looks like the #1 and #2 finishing cars failed post race tech inspection...(ok, I went to bed at 7:20pm last night, missed some stuff.).

Johnson's car was too low (remember all of those wedge adjustments?) and Little Busches' car had a wrong quarter-panel.

This, along with Harvick, make me look forward to Tuesday.

If anybody has more, please feel free to fill in...

...craig :thumb:

Mornin' , chef. :cool:

Nothing at all on NASCAR.com....I get the impression they'll let the results stand.

I won $8 on Mark Martin, though!

Just thought I'd post a link for y'all good folks, it's run by the racing folks at the Charlotte Observer, and it's a good source for NASCAR/Auto Racing info, news, and knowledge, and is much quicker and easier to navigate than the official NASCAR site.

www.thatsracin.com


Not that they're paying me or anything, just sharin'.... :thumb:

Mornin' , chef. :cool:

Nothing at all on NASCAR.com....I get the impression they'll let the results stand.

I won $8 on Mark Martin, though!

It's there - it's just buried in the middle of the race story. You know damn well had that been a Roush car it would've been front page news... :mad:

Boom!!! NASCAR lays the smack down on crew chiefs, drivers, even ol' Rick himself...

www.nascar.com


If you get caught, you're cheating!!!!

Nascar lowered the boom on cheaters. Docked points and suspensions for crew chiefs:

http://sports.espn.go.com/rpm/news/story?id=2013697

In the Kevin Harvick deal, I don't understand when Todd Berrier was planning on changing the fuel cell. The cars are impounded after qualifying, right? Or was this a race with a Saturday happy-hour so he would've been able to change it before that? Why can't people just try winning by following the rules?

They were impounded in California, but not in Vegas. It will vary all year, NASCAR is moving toward total impoundment, but TV deals and contracts are already in place so they can't do it all this year.

I was reading something with much detail on this yesterday, and now I can't find it, but that's the gist of it.

In the Kevin Harvick deal, I don't understand when Todd Berrier was planning on changing the fuel cell. The cars are impounded after qualifying, right? Or was this a race with a Saturday happy-hour so he would've been able to change it before that? Why can't people just try winning by following the rules?

Only the top 5 cars were to be re-inspected...Harvick screwed up by qualifying too well.

According to Mike Waltrip, it was the guys at the gas pumps that gave it away, by noticing the car had used seemingly NO Fuel during the run!

...craig :thumb:

Bobby Labonte had another "great" run on Sunday. This guy has had zero good luck this year. A last place finish at Daytona because of a blown engine and then Sunday's 41st place finish.

Bobby Labonte had another "great" run on Sunday. This guy has had zero good luck this year. A last place finish at Daytona because of a blown engine and then Sunday's 41st place finish.

I know. He's not even in the top 35 in points. Kevin Legpage, who skipped Las Vegas, is ahead of him in the points standing. I was thinking about adding the #18 to my fantasy team for Atlanta, but now I'm not sure.

Yeah it will interesting to see how the DEI bunch reacts too. Looks like they got some real issues. I'm not a betting man, but I see Junior going to Childress or another Chevy ride. I also still miss racing at Rockingham. That was a drivers track. If they could have built something like that out west might of been some better racing but you can't argue with the weather. Hope Spencer pulls of the threepeat and does well. He's third in points in the trucks. They'll be flying around Atlanta.

check out: http://www.jayski.com
This is my favorite Nascar site....so much information about the upcoming race etc....very good website for the info you want and then some...

Tip of the hat to Red and BC for those sites...with dial-up, by the time I can get nascar.com working, the news has turned to ancient history! :brickwall

...craig :thumb:

nascar.com is definitely not dial up friendly!

It's not always hi-speed friendly, either...

Tip of the hat to Red and BC for those sites...with dial-up, by the time I can get nascar.com working, the news has turned to ancient history! :brickwall

...craig :thumb:The cool thing about Jays website is that it is super easy and simply designed. The upper right hand corner has the upcoming race link and he posts soooo much info about the next race every week that it almost seems that those who read it, should know what is going to happen even before the race starts. The banking of the track, the times for EVERYTHING involved, capacity, past winners, pole sitters, the purse, etc....I hope you all can check the site out...it is quicker than nascar.com.

I've heard of Jayski's site but I had forgotten about it. Thanks, Brew, I'll check that out. :thumb:

Here's a good article about Greg Biffle. After reading it, it's pretty obvious he definitely didn't have a silver spoon in his mouth like some of the other drivers out there. He is considered to be a local boy here so I root for him even though he drives a Ford.

Biffle Article espn.com (http://sports.espn.go.com/rpm/news/story?id=2008629)

Here's a good article about Greg Biffle. After reading it, it's pretty obvious he definitely didn't have a silver spoon in his mouth like some of the other drivers out there. He is considered to be a local boy here so I root for him even though he drives a Ford.

Biffle Article espn.com (http://sports.espn.go.com/rpm/news/story?id=2008629)

Biffle's got a good thing going this year, I believe. He can run up front with the big dogs. :thumb:

Rocket Man Ryan Newman on pole for Atlanta...

WOOHOOO!!! :thumb:

Hey,You can also try Mike Calinoff's StockCarcity site. Mike is Matt Kenseth's Spotter. It's not as comprehensive as Jayski. It has some good stuff. That race in Atlanta is gonna be fast. The trucks were flyin last night. Cooler temps, more horsepower. Just have to get them tires warm.

Rocket Man Ryan Newman on pole for Atlanta...

WOOHOOO!!! :thumb:

Yeah, and he blew away the rest of the field. He was the only one over 194 mph. Only the first four drivers were over 192, and forth place Edwards was a full second faster than fifth place Kasey Kahne.

The speed the first four qualifiers put up is insane.

RACE DAY!!!! :thumb:
That had to be one of the worst renditions of the National Anthem:(

I guess FOX doesn't broadcast the races in high-def? :(


Maybe it was just last week - this week is HiDef! Yay - first HiDef TV I get to watch on my HiDef TV!

That's what it's all about right there! Way to go, Carl!

That's what it's all about right there! Way to go, Carl!What a finish! Carl swept the weekend, backflips and all!
That really sucked that Bobby Labonte crashed in lap 2...I was rootin for him this week.

What a finish. Man it looks wide open this year. Good to see new talent ending up in victory lane. Ford has to be happy. Can we say three straight cups?
Can we say three straight ROUSH championships???
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v285/emm5150/Dsc01612.jpg
GO MARK!!!! :bounce:

What a finish! Carl swept the weekend, backflips and all!
That really sucked that Bobby Labonte crashed in lap 2...I was rootin for him this week.

I think Bobby would finish better if he rode a bicycle! He has been having terrible luck this year.

I think Bobby would finish better if he rode a bicycle! He has been having terrible luck this year.

LMAO!!!

I'm a Labonte fan and this is getting ridiculous!!!! 4 races: 3 accidents. None were his fault either. I was talking to someone before the race and I said, "I hope he can last longer than 14 laps." Shit, I wasn't even close.

A good friend of mine is a big Bobby fan, he's just going nuts these days...

Is it me, or is anyone else sick and tired of Fox's crew and everyone else talking about Hendrick and Roush?

These "changes" that Nascar has put forth with the tires, chassis, etc... were intended to cut the costs of the sport, were they not? Why is it, that the teams that are doing the best and scoring the most points the ones with the deepest pockets?

I think that the big budget teams will do well no matter what the rules are, but I wish they somehow were able to structure the rules so some of the lower budget teams actually had a legitimate chance to do well, not just be a field filler...

Maybe they should start by going back to a "Stock" Car.

What a finish...man, .028th of a second! :eek:

The thing about the deep pocketed teams is they all share info and have great r/d teams, things simply out of reach for smaller teams.

What could be done? Profit sharing, as done in the NFL? I doubt it.

Even if Ford, Chevy and Dodge got more behind the individual teams, the wealthier teams would still have the advantage.

Look, here in South Florida, mom and pop diners are a thing of the past, as outfits like Bennigans, TGIFridays, ect. have taken over the landscape.

Same thing with independant pizza joints...and let's face it: The food and service were superior in the mom and pop places, but they simply could not compete.

It is a rather sucky truism in business today, one that no-one can claim to be proud of, yet it also works as a model for what NASCAR can and will become.

And don't get me started on track closings.

Our local, Hialeah Speedway (where Bobby Allison got his start before moving to Alabama) closed recently. Why? It was said to be too noisy...horeseshit: People wanted the land to build condos.

Yup, I'm all for the little guy, the underdog (now you know why I loved Alan Kulwicki)...yet little by little, he is ceasing to exist.

And no, NASCAR does not care.

...craig :brickwall

Looks like the crew chiefs for Johnson and Busch (however spelled) won their respective appeals, and will be put on probation for 90 days each.

...craig :sssh:

Well, at least this Sunday, I can guarantee that Labonte won't get into an accident on the track. ;)

Well, at least this Sunday, I can guarantee that Labonte won't get into an accident on the track. ;)

I'd place money on that. He may be testing somewhere! :D

Is it me, or is anyone else sick and tired of Fox's crew and everyone else talking about Hendrick and Roush?


It might just be you.

At least they're talking about winners and front runners. Last year it was "junior this" and "junior that". Funny how that Dale Jr. is in every 3rd commercial it seems, yet he's had no race face time so far.

Had my worst week in fantansy racing. I had Bobby Labonte and Tony Stewart. Yuck.

Good point.

Jr as a backmarker being covered?

No thanks...

I just hope one of the non Hendrick/Roush/DEI cars wins it all this year to show deep pockets don't always win championships... See Alan Kulwicki...

I know it's a different time now, but it would still be nice.

Those DEI teams are so screwed up now. Junior is just having a lousy season so far. Waltrip isn't that good so I don't expect him to do anything except do decent at the restrictor-plate tracks.

Good point.

Jr as a backmarker being covered?

No thanks...

I just hope one of the non Hendrick/Roush/DEI cars wins it all this year to show deep pockets don't always win championships... See Alan Kulwicki...

I know it's a different time now, but it would still be nice.

That may wishing for the stars...How 'bout we start with consecutive top 15 finishes for Petty Enterprises, particularly Kyle Petty. Now that would get me excited. I'd love to see Kyle get to victory lane. That would be insane.

That may wishing for the stars...How 'bout we start with consecutive top 15 finishes for Petty Enterprises, particularly Kyle Petty. Now that would get me excited. I'd love to see Kyle get to victory lane. That would be insane.

With Petty Enterprises now getting their engines from Ray Evernham, they just may have a chance of getting everything right and having a little luck on their side and end up in Victory Lane.

Even though Ganassi is a "big fish" budget wise, I'd like to see Sterling Marlin make a serious run to make the Chase this year. I still feel terrible about him getting hurt in 2002 after leading the Championship for so many weeks. He's a good ole boy and tells it like it is. He also seems to have a great sense of humor and plays a lot of practical jokes on people.

Like to see all the old timers kickin' some butt - led of course by Martin, but also Petty, Marlin, Rudd, Jarrett, Labonte and anyone else who was around before the sport got too big for its britches.

Really sucked what happened with Marlin in 2002...

That may wishing for the stars...How 'bout we start with consecutive top 15 finishes for Petty Enterprises, particularly Kyle Petty. Now that would get me excited. I'd love to see Kyle get to victory lane. That would be insane.

That would definitely be wild.....I remember when Kyle was the Bossman at Rockingham, even if it wasn't a family ride. Kyle wasn't ever the fan favorite in terms of bandwagons or merchandise, but when a Petty takes the lead, the crowd goes INSANE.

Good, good times when a Petty's out front....... :thumb:

That would definitely be wild.....I remember when Kyle was the Bossman at Rockingham, even if it wasn't a family ride. Kyle wasn't ever the fan favorite in terms of bandwagons or merchandise, but when a Petty takes the lead, the crowd goes INSANE.

Good, good times when a Petty's out front....... :thumb:

Unless it's because he didn't pit on a caution to pick up five bonus points. :(

Ganassi has been on tough times too this year. Haven't heard much from any of their drivers - including McMurray.

Like to see all the old timers kickin' some butt - led of course by Martin....

I hear that my friend!!!!!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v285/emm5150/Dsc01612.jpg
GO MARK!

I hear that my friend!!!!!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v285/emm5150/Dsc01612.jpg
GO MARK!

That's Pocono, no?

Yep, looks like Friday morning practice session.

That's Pocono, no?
Sure is, I go every year to both races and qualifying. That pic was last July!!!

Sure is, I go every year to both races and qualifying. That pic was last July!!!

We were probably standing near each other on pit road. I had a new 10x optical zoom digital camera last year and took many great pics from the paddock area and pit road. This year will be the first Pennsylvania 500 my wife and I miss since 1999. We have tickets, but my wife's due date is August 1, so we won't be going. We love it. Unfortunately, I think you and I both are slowly coming to the reality that Pocono will lose one of it's races in the next 3 - 5 years.

Unfortunately, I think you and I both are slowly coming to the reality that Pocono will lose one of it's races in the next 3 - 5 years.
Actually, I recall seeing someone near us with a big lens, it could have been you!!! Yes, I think you're right, They will eventually get rid of a Pocono race, which will really suck. I am, however, considering a move to Greenville, South Carolina which is the center point for 4 other tracks....so we'll see what happens. If I stay here in NY, next year we'll have to hook up for sure!!!! Best of luck with the pregnancy!!! :thumb:

Again Labonte was involved in an accident but at least he finished the race. 22nd place isn't too bad considering where he has finished lately.

Jr finally decided to race this week too!

Ahem. See post #234. Who predicted a Petty Enterprises top 10 this week? Thank you, thank you.

Too bad I didn't pick Petty in my fantasy league.

And Kevin Harvick sweeps the weekend?

I don't care for this smug, little jerk...wait a minute, didn't I say that about Kurt Bush? OK, whatever...we will all have folk we root for and against.

Believe it or not, I was pulling for Rusty...don't ask.

This Labonte bad luck simply has to end, along with Kasey's.

Aside from that, I think the various camera shots used by Fox were outstanding...how many different shots/angles did they feature regarding the wreck of the 31 car (thanks, Jimmy Johnson :rolleyes: ) ?

The coverage has been stellar at times, I must admit.

As much as I tend to bitch at times, I still love it.

Looks like a busy night with the remote: Basketball, Baseball, Monster Garage and "This Week In Nextel"!

...craig :thumb:

Heading to Martinsville tomorrow. We're going to the truck race! Go Jimmy Spencer! I got my Crisco shirt to wear. Then Sunday. Go Petty! Also would like to see the 6 car win. The weather looks good and I'll be breaking out the shorts. Also got the "That all Folks" WB demos today so we'll be listening to the VH going down. I'll be back Tuesday with the behind the scenes report.

Outstanding...hope you and the family are safe...and bring extra money for merchandise! :D

Looking forward to hearing your report, brother...take care.
...craig :thumb:

Outstanding...hope you and the family are safe...and bring extra money for merchandise! :D

Looking forward to hearing your report, brother...take care.
...craig :thumb:


Thanks for the kind words Craig, we always have a good time and yep, I always bring xtra cash for stuff to bring home for my friends.

Crisco? Man, that's gotta be an oldie. I still have my Alan Kulwicki "Hooters" shirt from '92 but then I don't think I've worn it since 1993...

Well...I've been following golf (you guys know I always do when it's a major), yet I did indeed catch the race...as much as I belittle Jeff Gordon, my hat is off in respect as to how that team came back from 3 laps down to win.

And it is always a wonderful event when Kurt Busch wrecks or get's collected, so all in all...a nice afternoon at the pub.

Wow, Bristol and Martinsville haven't been back to back in six years, we now see why.

Rumour has it that Martinsville will be stringing up lights soon...think about it: Wouldn't a night race there be kind of cool? :bounce:

...craig :thumb:

Well, Martinsville as always was interesting. The new track suface looked good. However ,the cup cars could not get in a second groove. The Martinsville groove is located about 1/4 track length off of the inside curb on Turn 4. The cars that hit that jump off of the corner. We had great weather, 66 on Saturday with clear skies. I got one hell of a farmers tan. Sunday was around 80. Clear skies and a nice breeze. I was impressed with ISC's changes at the track. The traffic was easy in and easy out. They put more concessions in and had more variety. Plus they sold beer. $3.00 a can. That's not bad.There was aslo a lot of drivers signing at there trailers which was cool.
The truck race was great, the front strech was full and it's general admission to get in. We sat right in turn one. Saw Steve Park drag a thunder gun down pit lane. When the hose snpped you heard the pop from the compressed air. He spun it around the rear end and it broke into pieces near the pit wall. Jimmy Spencer did pretty good. He got a great ovation when he was introduced The trucks lay on other in the corners, you could hear them banging off of each other. The other cool thing that the Grand Marshall was Anthony Edwards, "Goose" from Top Gun and aslo ER. He was there on behalf of Autism. When he said to the crowd " I feel the need for Speed", everyone started yelling "Gooose". You could hear it through the track speakers. It was cool. And Labonte winning, man was he psyched.

The Cup race was also cool. They booed Gordon and Johnson. Martin got a real nice ovation. The "Gentleman start your engines" from the soldiers in Iraq was nice but you couldn't hear them clearly inside the track. This was the first year I saw a lot of quality cars at the rear of the field racing. The 88, 48, 17, 8 were all there. As I said earlier it was a one groove race. The hardest hit was Busch. It also got the loudest cheer. Also there were a lot of cut tires which was also unusual. Gordon did a nice burnout in front of us. People were throwing full beers at the fence but couldn't get them over the catch fence. In fact, before the race someone tried to throw a T-shirt over the fence to Junior. It got caught on top of the fence. When the train went by on the start, the shirt blew onto the ground.
A couple things I thought were funny. Saw a guy with a good looking woman who was wearing a shirt that said " If you lick it, they will come". Also saw a decal in the vendor area that said " Racing makes my" DICK TRICKLE". My friend Dan also bought a shirt that said " I lust for the Pole Position". It showed a stripper hugging a pole. He got it at the No Fear trailer. I really didn't get a chance to see too much . I injured my ankle last week and couldn't walk around the grounds. As far as lights, they are running the Modifieds at night under temporary lights on Labor Day. If they ever run the Cup cars at night, we'll be there. $70.00 for the cup ticket. $35.00 for the truck ticket. Free parking. Great time. And the Crisco shirt, I'm hand washing it and putting it away until next year.

Sounds like a terrific weekend! Also good to see you guys made it back in one piece. :D

Yeah, I understand the lights will be for a modified race (wonder if Speed will provide tv coverage?).

Great report, and again, glad you got home safe.

...craig :thumb:

Labonte won!!!! Labonte won!!!!......the truck race. Everything was back to normal on Sunday when a valve broke and derailed his Top 5 finish. How bad is it when your season is over.........in April.

Listen to this! Homestead is in the process of adding lights to the speedway, so the season finale will start at 4:00pm(EST) and finish at night!

The cost is estimated at about 8 million, (along with the 12 million spent to reconfigure the banking) meaning 20 million has been sunk into the venture in the past few years.

The lighting system is expected to use 2.4 million watts of electricity per hour , just about the same amount used to light up 17,143 blocks of residential areas in South Florida.

1,482 lights on 509 rigs will be joined by 300 miles of wire.

And IndyCar folk are interested, also...Roger Penske said he wouldn't mind running the Toyota 300 under the lights, stating: "We'd love that...it would be great for the event".

Hope the points chase is not already settled before then...by the way, I rewrote this from today's (April 13) Sun-Sentinel...simply quoting the source.

...craig :thumb: