Sunday, July 31, 2011
IMS Photo Recalls: 1972 A Rookie On Staff
After years of ?chasing race cars? as a fan, I finally got my chance to be close to the action. In 1972, I was hired to be part of the IMS Photo Staff. Wow, was I proud of that 1st Silver Badge (yes, I still have it and all the credentials I?ve earned). I was [...]
Dallara, Honda, Baseball ?N Fries?
And continuing on with la Italianna theme; Thanxs solely to No Fenders Photographer ?CARPETS ? who reportedly braved fearsome 101deg-f temperatures to capture the rapidly rising Dallara Automobili USA facility in sleepy ?lil Speedway, Indiana, here?s some pics of the property ? see story above...
As it seemed only appropriate to post this story as early Friday morning ? last week in ?CARPETS favourite ?Fish Wrap,? aka the Indianapolis Star, veteran Indy Car reporter Kurt Cavin noted that Dallara has just fired up the 2012 chassis replete with Honda 2.2-liter V-6 turbo ?lump (engine) for the very first time in Parma, Italy last week, as Honda is the first of the three engine manufacturer?s to produce its vaunted ?12-spec ?lump to date.
As previously noted, Danny-boy ?SPIKE Wheldon and BHA will handle the Dallara testing duties ? with first testing to occur at Mid Ohio on August 8th...
Hmm? Perhaps it?s just Mwah? But I find it somewhat interesting that I?ve just read ?bout the Level 5 Motorsports Boyz having done a dealio to run as the HPD ?works? squad in LMP2/C Le Mans Prototype category, having just switched over to campaigning a Honda ARX-01G for the remainder of 2011 and beyond... As the latest (Nick Wirth) Wirth Research creation utilizes a 2.8-liter twin-turbocharger Honda V-6 engine. Which makes me wonder if the Indy Car ?lump bears any resemblance/architecture with this engine?
LE MANS: Level 5 switches to new HPD chassis
As it seemed only appropriate to post this story as early Friday morning ? last week in ?CARPETS favourite ?Fish Wrap,? aka the Indianapolis Star, veteran Indy Car reporter Kurt Cavin noted that Dallara has just fired up the 2012 chassis replete with Honda 2.2-liter V-6 turbo ?lump (engine) for the very first time in Parma, Italy last week, as Honda is the first of the three engine manufacturer?s to produce its vaunted ?12-spec ?lump to date.
As previously noted, Danny-boy ?SPIKE Wheldon and BHA will handle the Dallara testing duties ? with first testing to occur at Mid Ohio on August 8th...
Hmm? Perhaps it?s just Mwah? But I find it somewhat interesting that I?ve just read ?bout the Level 5 Motorsports Boyz having done a dealio to run as the HPD ?works? squad in LMP2/C Le Mans Prototype category, having just switched over to campaigning a Honda ARX-01G for the remainder of 2011 and beyond... As the latest (Nick Wirth) Wirth Research creation utilizes a 2.8-liter twin-turbocharger Honda V-6 engine. Which makes me wonder if the Indy Car ?lump bears any resemblance/architecture with this engine?
LE MANS: Level 5 switches to new HPD chassis
sponsored fashion F1 driver
Since March 2010, the lifestyle brand THOMAS SABO has become a F1 driver Nico – Nico Rosberg (Nico Rosberg)’s official sponsor. In the latest quarter is approaching, THOMAS SABO and Nico – Nico Rosberg (Nico Rosberg) to establish their ambitious ambitious goals, and strive to break through the achievements of the previous quarter, continued to [...]
Vettel Wins Unforgettable Monaco Grand Prix
Known as one of the most famous legs of the Formula 1 season, the Grand Prix de Monaco has been taking place since the year 1929. Its intricate and exciting course is laid out through the streets of Monaco, and as it features difficult corners, tunnels and even elevation changes, it is also known as one of the most challenging races of the season. Even though extremely high speeds cannot be reached on the course, is remains one of the most dangerous and on Sunday, 29 May 2011, the course showed just how treacherous it can be.
Related posts:Vettel Magic ContinuesHamilton wins Monaco Grand PrixMalaysian Victory for Vettel
Related posts:Vettel Magic ContinuesHamilton wins Monaco Grand PrixMalaysian Victory for Vettel
Songify This ? BEST NASCAR PRAYER EVER ? in song
Songify app – bit.ly Pastor Joe Nelms gives a moving pre-race prayer in the form of a country song all men, women, & children can dance to. ORIGINAL VIDEO: www.youtube.com Gregory Brothers links: YouTube! www.youtube.com Facebook! www.facebook.com Twitter! www.twitter.com Webs! www.thegregorybrothers.com CHORDS DCGD Related Blogs Related Reading: My Greatest Day in Nascar: The Legends of [...]
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Victory takes a gallop on the beach
The winner of the Sprint Cup at the conclusion of Sunday's Ford 400 in Homestead may or may not have the best car. What really counts -- in that race, and for the very survival of Racin' -- is what comes from the other side of the tracks of the mind: A dark woman's lucky smile. It's a Stone Agel truth which science getting to from the futurel side of the brain. Or so 'tis said at Ovalscreams today.
Songify This ? BEST NASCAR PRAYER EVER ? in song
Songify app – bit.ly Pastor Joe Nelms gives a moving pre-race prayer in the form of a country song all men, women, & children can dance to. ORIGINAL VIDEO: www.youtube.com Gregory Brothers links: YouTube! www.youtube.com Facebook! www.facebook.com Twitter! www.twitter.com Webs! www.thegregorybrothers.com CHORDS DCGD Related Blogs Related Reading: NASCAR 09 Trading Paint: 101 Great NASCAR Debates [...]
Franchitti Takes Milwaukee 225
The Milwaukee Mile is a historical racing track that dates back to 1903. On Sunday, 19 June 2011, the track was filled with cars fighting to win an IndyCar Series race. The Milwaukee 225 was a nail-biting event, with it becoming a race between three drivers, namely Dario Franchitti, Helio Castroneves and Tony Kanaan. But, as misfortune fell upon his rivals, Franchitti?s road to victory was cleared, giving him his third event victory for this season.
Related posts:Franchitti Takes Iowa 250 Winners TrophyThe Multi-Talented Dario FranchittiEdmonton Indy Win for Will Power
Related posts:Franchitti Takes Iowa 250 Winners TrophyThe Multi-Talented Dario FranchittiEdmonton Indy Win for Will Power
Morris answers challenge, outlasts Pulliam and bounty hunters at SoBo
Philip Morris continued his dominating stretch at SoBo, winning his seventh consecutive Late Model Series race at the track and leading every lap in Saturday evening’s Bojangles 150.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Morris prepared for bounty issued by SoBo to stop six-race winning streak
SoBo officials issued a $500 bounty to the driver who wins tonight’s Bojangles 150. The challenge will be dethroning Morris, who has won six consecutive races at the track and built at 70-point lead in the standings.
Lamborghini Reventon sports car
Lamborghini Reventon sports car parameters: Chassis Specifications: Front brake type: ABS ventilated disc Rear Brake Type: ABS ventilated disc Front Tire Size: 245/35 ZR18 Rear Tire Size: 335/30 ZR18 Transmission: all-wheel drive Lamborghini Reventon sports car engine parameters: Model: V12 Cylinder capacity (cc): 6496cc Maximum power (Ps): 650ps Maximum power (kW): 478kW Maximum power speed [...]
Another No. 3 heads to Goodwood
For the second-consecutive year, a No. 3 driven by the late Dale Earnhardt will be a part of the festivities at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Earnhardt’s daughter Taylor drove the famed No. 3 in the festival last year. This year, the car Earnhardt raced to his 1995 Brickyard 400 win at Indianapolis Motor Speedway [...]
NASCAR grows presence on iTunes
For awhile now, NASCAR has been offering recaps of Sprint Cup races on iTunes. Now, NASCAR fans can also download, via iTunes, what it is calling “NASCAR Classics, Volume I.” The volume honors the careers of three of the inaugural NASCAR Hall of Fame inductees — Dale Earnhardt, Junior Johnson, and Richard Petty. Full Story
VMI runner
Donnie Cowart, a 2004 graduate of Rustburg High and 2009 graduate of VMI, placed sixth in the 3,000-meter steeplechase at this past weekend's USA Track & Field Nationals in Eugene, Ore.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Philip Morris rebounds for 12th victory of season at SoBo
Philip Morris quickly atoned for his bad luck in South Boston Speedway’s premier points race two weeks ago with a strong performance that is reminiscent of the strength he has displayed throughout the entire season.
Blazing Hot Keith Rocco Wins SK Modified Feature At Waterford Speedbowl
WATERFORD - On July 2 at the Waterford Speedbowl, Keith Rocco completed a feat he had been trying to accomplish for three seasons by winning three SK Modified races in three consecutive days at three different tracks.
It took him three weeks to do it a second time.
Rocco, of Wallingford, held off Rob Janovic Jr. and Kyle James on a restart with three laps remaining and won the 35-lap NASCAR Whelen All-American Series SK Modified feature at Waterford.
Rocco also won the 30-lap SK Modified feature Thursday at Thompson International Speeday and the CarQuest SK Modified 150 Saturday at Stafford Motor Speedway.
It took him three weeks to do it a second time.
Rocco, of Wallingford, held off Rob Janovic Jr. and Kyle James on a restart with three laps remaining and won the 35-lap NASCAR Whelen All-American Series SK Modified feature at Waterford.
Rocco also won the 30-lap SK Modified feature Thursday at Thompson International Speeday and the CarQuest SK Modified 150 Saturday at Stafford Motor Speedway.
Earnhardt Jr. on pole for Daytona 500
Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s pole for Saturday night’s Budweiser Shootout may have just been credited to the luck of a draw, but he hit Daytona International Speedway on Sunday and turned in the fastest lap in Daytona 500 qualifying to claim his first pole at Daytona in a points-paying race.
“Obviously, it gives you good ideas that [...]
“Obviously, it gives you good ideas that [...]
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Timothy Peters excited for opportunity to make 100th career Truck Series start
The Danville resident has made the necessary sacrifices, as well, to turn himself into a contender in the Truck Series, which makes his 100th career start Friday at Charlotte Motor Speedway in the N.C. Education Lottery 200 that much more special.
SENNA: Director?s Cut...
Just ran across an interview with the Senna Documentary?s Director ? which definitely seems worth a read, check it out here;
Exclusive Interview: Asif Kapadia
And for a listing of US movie dates; Y?all can read my previously scribbled rant;
Senna Documentary Dates revealed for US F1 Aficionados ? Finally!
Exclusive Interview: Asif Kapadia
And for a listing of US movie dates; Y?all can read my previously scribbled rant;
Senna Documentary Dates revealed for US F1 Aficionados ? Finally!
Heated: Streaking Keith Rocco Wins CarQuest SK Modified 150 At Stafford Speedway
STAFFORD - The thermometers may have been hitting record levels at Stafford Motor Speedway Friday, though it was hardly enough to faze Keith Rocco.
Hot is a feeling Rocco knows all too well of late.
The reigning NASCAR Whelen All-American Series national champion kept a torrid streak over the last month rolling Friday night at Stafford in winning the CarQuest SK Modified 150.
It was Rocco's first career victory in Stafford's longest event of the season for the division, his fifth consecutive win in his last five starts at Stafford and his seventh win at the track this season.
"It's one we haven't gotten here so it's a huge accomplishment for us," Rocco said.
Hot is a feeling Rocco knows all too well of late.
The reigning NASCAR Whelen All-American Series national champion kept a torrid streak over the last month rolling Friday night at Stafford in winning the CarQuest SK Modified 150.
It was Rocco's first career victory in Stafford's longest event of the season for the division, his fifth consecutive win in his last five starts at Stafford and his seventh win at the track this season.
"It's one we haven't gotten here so it's a huge accomplishment for us," Rocco said.
Let?s Play: Nascar 2011 the Game (Deutsch/German)
Let’s Play: Nascar 2011 the Game Related Blogs Related Reading: Trading Paint: 101 Great NASCAR Debates NASCAR Challenge Sierra Sports: NASCAR 3
Powers New Shoes, ?Plowie?s New ride...
So I found it pretty amazing that the ?Powers-to-Be? (Pun intended) at Penske Racing made a rather bold move this past Friday ? when it was publicly announced that Dancin? Fool ?HULIO?s Strategist Tim Cindric would take over this role for Penske?s leading man Will Power ? who?s borne the BRUNT of several key Pitlane snafu?s by his crack Penske pit crew... Which led me to muse recently to Indiana Bureau Chief Danny B: I know it?s NOT true; BUTT! It almost seems like Penske does NOT want Will Power to win the IndyCar title over Castroneves; CRIKEYS!
As I think it was Bob Varsha on Speedcentre who said Power was clearly agitated during his post concussion ?TRUTH SYRUM? spoutin? off the words SHIT MAN! I keep getting SCREWED in the Pitlane, albeit this was a much more mild bout ?O discontent vs. lead Penske ?Roundy-rounds Boy Curt Busch?s outlash on his in-car radio awhile ago, eh?
Thus, Cindric, who?s been Helio Castroneves Strategist since 2000, a streak of 196 consecutive races together ? will now take over this duty for Will Power beginning at Toronto as The Captain, aka Roger Penske has deemed this necessary in order for Will to have a chance at dethroning Dario ?REO Speedwagon? Franchitti and arch rival Chip Ganassi from a third consecutive Indy Car Series Championship; Aye Karumba!
Meanwhile, past Indy Lights protagonists Sam Schmidt and Gary Peterson of SSM (Sam Schmidt Motorsports) and AFS (Automated Fire Systems) respectively have announced their merger of IndyCar operations; teaming up to run the AFS Racing No. 17 beginning at the upcoming Mid Ohio race, where former Indy Lights winner Martin ?Plowie? Plowman will make his Big Car debut. Then the 23yr old Englishman will contest the ?Twisties? at Sears Point (Sonoma) and Baltimore, as one can only guess this is a lead-up to a full time Gig for 2012? NO word on whether/not they?ll run the remaining Ovals ? perhaps with Thy Leggy ?Juan, nee Katherine Legge at the controls? We?ll see, eh?
As I think it was Bob Varsha on Speedcentre who said Power was clearly agitated during his post concussion ?TRUTH SYRUM? spoutin? off the words SHIT MAN! I keep getting SCREWED in the Pitlane, albeit this was a much more mild bout ?O discontent vs. lead Penske ?Roundy-rounds Boy Curt Busch?s outlash on his in-car radio awhile ago, eh?
Thus, Cindric, who?s been Helio Castroneves Strategist since 2000, a streak of 196 consecutive races together ? will now take over this duty for Will Power beginning at Toronto as The Captain, aka Roger Penske has deemed this necessary in order for Will to have a chance at dethroning Dario ?REO Speedwagon? Franchitti and arch rival Chip Ganassi from a third consecutive Indy Car Series Championship; Aye Karumba!
Meanwhile, past Indy Lights protagonists Sam Schmidt and Gary Peterson of SSM (Sam Schmidt Motorsports) and AFS (Automated Fire Systems) respectively have announced their merger of IndyCar operations; teaming up to run the AFS Racing No. 17 beginning at the upcoming Mid Ohio race, where former Indy Lights winner Martin ?Plowie? Plowman will make his Big Car debut. Then the 23yr old Englishman will contest the ?Twisties? at Sears Point (Sonoma) and Baltimore, as one can only guess this is a lead-up to a full time Gig for 2012? NO word on whether/not they?ll run the remaining Ovals ? perhaps with Thy Leggy ?Juan, nee Katherine Legge at the controls? We?ll see, eh?
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
TV Alert: 12 Hours of Sebring Recap on ABC
In case you didn't spend 12 hours sitting in front of the laptop watching the ESPN3 stream-cast of the 12 hours of Sebring, you can catch a 90 minute recap of the race today on ABC. Since this is not a live broadcast, it is uncertain about what ...
Introduction and Audi R15 Racing Pictures
Audi R15 car is diesel-powered Audi to create the second paragraph of Section Le Mans P1 car, the first generation car is the Audi R10, the Audi R15 car is also called second-generation diesel Audi prototype. R10 launch in late 2005, has been taking since his debut, the participation of three Le Mans 24 Hours [...]
Let?s Play: Nascar 2011 the Game (Deutsch/German)
Let’s Play: Nascar 2011 the Game Related Blogs Related Reading: Great Moments in American Auto Racing (Matt Christopher) NASCAR Sim Racing NASCAR Challenge
Introduction and Audi R15 Racing Pictures
Audi R15 car is diesel-powered Audi to create the second paragraph of Section Le Mans P1 car, the first generation car is the Audi R10, the Audi R15 car is also called second-generation diesel Audi prototype. R10 launch in late 2005, has been taking since his debut, the participation of three Le Mans 24 Hours [...]
Kevin Manion Statement On NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Penalty Against Team And Driver Ryan Newman
Late Wednesday, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series crew chief Kevin "Bono" Manion released a statement concerning the penalty handed down against his team and Sprint Cup Series driver Ryan Newman involving their actions during Saturday's Whelen Modified Tour F.W. Webb 100 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
Newman, driving a car owned by Manion, drove to victory in the event. His car was later found to have illegal motor modifications to a degree so severe that NASCAR stripped Newman of the victory and suspended Manion from participation in the NASCAR regional touring division events for the remainder of the 2011 season.
Manion is the crew chief for Sprint Cup Series driver Jamie McMurray with Earnhardt Ganassi Racing.
Newman, driving a car owned by Manion, drove to victory in the event. His car was later found to have illegal motor modifications to a degree so severe that NASCAR stripped Newman of the victory and suspended Manion from participation in the NASCAR regional touring division events for the remainder of the 2011 season.
Manion is the crew chief for Sprint Cup Series driver Jamie McMurray with Earnhardt Ganassi Racing.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Who Shot the Deputy?
So Y?all most likely know that ?Ol ?SlowHand song wherez ?EC croonsI Shot the Sherriff; But I Didn?t Kill the Deputy!
BUTT! According to Open Wheel Racing?s Numero Uno Curmudgeon, aka Robin Miller (who?ll be guest hosting an upcoming Wind Tunnel episode whilst Ye ?Ol Windbag is off to Alaska upon his ?Scooter...) Hate is not only Good, it?s actually GUH-GUH-GUH-GURR-REAT!!!
MILLER: Hate is Great
As I?ll leave it to Y?all to decide if Yuhs agree or not? As meanwhile; Inquiring Minds STILL wanna Know! Who really slipped upon ze Banana peal ?N stuck der foot in ?Dare Keister over ?Dat BLOWN Dashley LePew PHANTOM Avoidable Contact penalty during this year?s ThorRontTee-un Firecracker 400!
As I listened to Kevin Lee on Trackside last Thursday evening doin? his bestest Perrywinkle-dust toe Tap ?round the situation ? which put him in a slight pickle; Hmm? Let?s see, Kevin works race weekends for NBC Sports/ConversNbc/comca$t ? who OWN Versus, who are now blamed for the snafu.
Yet in fairness, it wasn?t Kevin who blew the call, as he was just the ?lowly? ?Pitboy reporter sent down to offer his head upon a silver platter for ?Cheep to bite off! As for the Booth Jockeys - I seriously doubt I could handle all of the constant overlapping of NON-Stop voices in my Head, Err Headset... Yet, the situation was handled ?Uber POORLY and hopefully WON?T occur again in the future...
TV misreport of penalty triggers new procedures
As I still DON?T understand why Indy Car doesn?t utilize F1?s system where the Stewards post the information Car No. 10 and 12 are under investigation ? otherwise, NO penalties have been handed out...
UpdateRandy Pemberton, Bob Varsha and Robin Miller are all slated to Guest Host editions of Wind Tunnel in Dave Despain?s absence over the next few weeks, reportedly with Miller having Dario ?REO Speedwagon? Franchitti as Co-host, replete with a chat with thee ?Wee Scot, aka Sir Jackie. (Stewart)
It?s also worth noting that Despain mentioned on air how he?d be willing to bet his entire vacation pay on how NEITHER Bob Jenkins or Terry Linger made up the bogus Dashley LePew Phantom ThorRonTee-Un penalty call...
BUTT! According to Open Wheel Racing?s Numero Uno Curmudgeon, aka Robin Miller (who?ll be guest hosting an upcoming Wind Tunnel episode whilst Ye ?Ol Windbag is off to Alaska upon his ?Scooter...) Hate is not only Good, it?s actually GUH-GUH-GUH-GURR-REAT!!!
MILLER: Hate is Great
As I?ll leave it to Y?all to decide if Yuhs agree or not? As meanwhile; Inquiring Minds STILL wanna Know! Who really slipped upon ze Banana peal ?N stuck der foot in ?Dare Keister over ?Dat BLOWN Dashley LePew PHANTOM Avoidable Contact penalty during this year?s ThorRontTee-un Firecracker 400!
As I listened to Kevin Lee on Trackside last Thursday evening doin? his bestest Perrywinkle-dust toe Tap ?round the situation ? which put him in a slight pickle; Hmm? Let?s see, Kevin works race weekends for NBC Sports/ConversNbc/comca$t ? who OWN Versus, who are now blamed for the snafu.
Yet in fairness, it wasn?t Kevin who blew the call, as he was just the ?lowly? ?Pitboy reporter sent down to offer his head upon a silver platter for ?Cheep to bite off! As for the Booth Jockeys - I seriously doubt I could handle all of the constant overlapping of NON-Stop voices in my Head, Err Headset... Yet, the situation was handled ?Uber POORLY and hopefully WON?T occur again in the future...
TV misreport of penalty triggers new procedures
As I still DON?T understand why Indy Car doesn?t utilize F1?s system where the Stewards post the information Car No. 10 and 12 are under investigation ? otherwise, NO penalties have been handed out...
UpdateRandy Pemberton, Bob Varsha and Robin Miller are all slated to Guest Host editions of Wind Tunnel in Dave Despain?s absence over the next few weeks, reportedly with Miller having Dario ?REO Speedwagon? Franchitti as Co-host, replete with a chat with thee ?Wee Scot, aka Sir Jackie. (Stewart)
It?s also worth noting that Despain mentioned on air how he?d be willing to bet his entire vacation pay on how NEITHER Bob Jenkins or Terry Linger made up the bogus Dashley LePew Phantom ThorRonTee-Un penalty call...
Down to the wire for Danica
Danica Patrick took advantage of a second chance and qualified for the Indianapolis 500.
Michael Schumacher quickest in Barcelona today, McLaren getting a lot of practice changing engines
Michael Schumacher put up the quick time in Barcelona testing today,� as the the Mercedes crew tried out some new trick parts on their car before heading out to Melbourne.� Nico Rossberg also took the Mercedes for a spin and was third quickest. McLaren had a dismal ...
Kyle Busch wins Kentucky's inaugural Sprint Cup race
Kyle Busch won the inaugural Sprint Cup race at Kentucky Speedway on Saturday night, pulling away from Jimmie Johnson on a restart with three laps to go to collect his 99th NASCAR series victory.
Introduction and Audi R15 Racing Pictures
Audi R15 car is diesel-powered Audi to create the second paragraph of Section Le Mans P1 car, the first generation car is the Audi R10, the Audi R15 car is also called second-generation diesel Audi prototype. R10 launch in late 2005, has been taking since his debut, the participation of three Le Mans 24 Hours [...]
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Second NASCAR Hall Of Fame Class Officially Enshrined
Pager item text:
NASCAR Hall Of Fame
Slide text:
<p>
With each win, and each championship, a legend grew. And now, those legends have a permanent home.</p>
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (May 23, 2011) ? With each win, and each championship, a legend grew. And now, those legends have a permanent home.
The second class of the NASCAR Hall of Fame ? champions all ? captured over 350 victories and a dozen championships in NASCAR?s premier series. The five inductees ? Bobby Allison, Ned Jarrett, Bud Moore, David Pearson and Lee Petty ? make up the second class of the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, N.C., which was officially inducted tonight, Monday, May 23.
read more
NASCAR Hall Of Fame
Slide text:
<p>
With each win, and each championship, a legend grew. And now, those legends have a permanent home.</p>
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (May 23, 2011) ? With each win, and each championship, a legend grew. And now, those legends have a permanent home.
The second class of the NASCAR Hall of Fame ? champions all ? captured over 350 victories and a dozen championships in NASCAR?s premier series. The five inductees ? Bobby Allison, Ned Jarrett, Bud Moore, David Pearson and Lee Petty ? make up the second class of the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, N.C., which was officially inducted tonight, Monday, May 23.
read more
TV Alert: 12 Hours of Sebring Recap on ABC
In case you didn't spend 12 hours sitting in front of the laptop watching the ESPN3 stream-cast of the 12 hours of Sebring, you can catch a 90 minute recap of the race today on ABC. Since this is not a live broadcast, it is uncertain about what ...
Oreca Peugeot, BMW Motorsport win top classes at Sebring
Historic victory for de Chaunac led team in 2011 opener ORECA Sebring 2011-03-20Hugues de Chaunac 090917-1Peugeot won again at the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring presented by Fresh from Florida on Saturday, this time the Team ORECA Matmut taking victory in America?s greatest sports car race and ...
Kickin? It Brickyard Style
The Brickyard 400 is quickly approaching and while I?ll be perfectly content interning behind the scenes with the media department, it?s great to imagine what I?d be doing if I were attending as a fan. Conveniently enough, the Build Your Own Experience program allows me to do just that! Building your own experience consists of [...]
Ask Donald ? July 13
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Historian Donald Davidson has been the expert on the history of the Racing Capital of the World since he arrived in Central Indiana in the mid-1960s. Now 2010 Auto Racing Hall of Fame inductee Davidson is answering your questions periodically in this blog!
Q: With the Red Bull Indianapolis GP MotoGP race approaching, [...]
Q: With the Red Bull Indianapolis GP MotoGP race approaching, [...]
Hamster racing at the UK
International Online Zhuangao: According to “Daily Mail” reported on August 20, recently, in Durham in the vicinity of Valley Children’s Adventure Playground held a spectacular racing. Participating in the “driver” is a cute fluffy little hamster only. In this interesting game, each has its own small hamster racing, this trait is installed on the car [...]
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Kickin? It Brickyard Style
The Brickyard 400 is quickly approaching and while I?ll be perfectly content interning behind the scenes with the media department, it?s great to imagine what I?d be doing if I were attending as a fan. Conveniently enough, the Build Your Own Experience program allows me to do just that! Building your own experience consists of [...]
Bruton Smith on prize money in NASCAR, says Bristol probably not a sellout
Bruton Smith weighed in on how NASCAR is parsing out price money in a story from NASCAR.com:
"I would like to take half of the money from the points fund and give it to the winners of the races. I'd like to see a $300,000 to $400,000 difference between ...
"I would like to take half of the money from the points fund and give it to the winners of the races. I'd like to see a $300,000 to $400,000 difference between ...
IMS Photo Recalls: 1972 A Rookie On Staff
After years of ?chasing race cars? as a fan, I finally got my chance to be close to the action. In 1972, I was hired to be part of the IMS Photo Staff. Wow, was I proud of that 1st Silver Badge (yes, I still have it and all the credentials I?ve earned). I was [...]
Friday, July 22, 2011
Ride Your Can Off
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway partnered with Gleaners Food Bank (Indiana?s largest food bank) to help fight hunger in Indiana.� President and CEO of Gleaners Food Bank, Cindy Hubert, explained that the organization distributed over 25 million pounds of food in 2010. �Ms. Hubert also explained the significance of holding a fundraiser at the Indianapolis Motor [...]
VIR
Action Express Racing team members push their team's Porsche toward the track during time trials for the Bosch Engineering 250 at Virginia International Raceway on Friday in Alton.
Upon further review, Firestone will remain the INDYCAR tire supplier
After much hand-wringing and worry, it turns out that "everything's gonna be alright". Firestone is staying with INDYCAR through 2013.�
Firestone seems to have successful in their negotiating tactic to get more actually dollars for the sale of their race tires to race teams.
From VERSUS.com:
"Bernard said he and ...
Firestone seems to have successful in their negotiating tactic to get more actually dollars for the sale of their race tires to race teams.
From VERSUS.com:
"Bernard said he and ...
Victory for Alonso at British Grand Prix
The Formula1 British Grand Prix 2011 was a very special event for Ferrari. Sixty years ago, a driver by the name of Jose Frolian Gonzalez won the first race ever in the history of the Ferrari team at Silverstone, and seeing Fernando Alonso on the podium in first position for Ferrari on the weekend was almost as if the team had come full circle. Driving the Scuderia has been a difficult task for Alonso, as he has had to watch ten victories pass him by, but he has finally been able to prove that there is great improvement with the Scuderia, and that the Ferrari team is back in action.
Related posts:Hamilton Wins British Grand PrixVettel Magic ContinuesMalaysian Victory for Vettel
Related posts:Hamilton Wins British Grand PrixVettel Magic ContinuesMalaysian Victory for Vettel
Thursday, July 21, 2011
NASCAR grows presence on iTunes
For awhile now, NASCAR has been offering recaps of Sprint Cup races on iTunes. Now, NASCAR fans can also download, via iTunes, what it is calling “NASCAR Classics, Volume I.” The volume honors the careers of three of the inaugural NASCAR Hall of Fame inductees — Dale Earnhardt, Junior Johnson, and Richard Petty. Full Story
Philip Morris overtakes Keith Rocco for national points lead
Following his eighth and ninth straight victories at South Boston Speedway on Saturday night, Philip Morris supplanted defending champion Keith Rocco atop the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series national points standings that were released Wednesday afternoon.
Who knows why the bubble burst?
The morning after the Amp Energy Juice 500 was as muddled as the race. It required a long drive home to get the old thoughts in order.
This race featured 87 lead changes. It ended in a side-by-side finish, though, oddly, not at the finish line. The last-place driver in the Chase for the Sprint Cup, Clint Bowyer, became the only driver so far to win two of its races. Of course, the reason Bowyer is buried so deeply is the absence of 150 points due to a NASCAR penalty.
See what I mean by muddled?
But what fired my ruminations was the question of declining interest in NASCAR. Many opinions have been offered, most by folks who, in some way, have a specific interest in the view they offer. Those who are having trouble economically blame the economy. Those who love Dale Earnhardt Jr. blame his struggles. Those who loathe Jimmie Johnson blame his dominance.
It can’t be contended that the sport hasn’t reacted. Ticket prices have been slashed. Rules have been changed to promote excitement. Nothing seems to work. The NASCAR estimate of the Talladega Superspeedway crowd was 110,000. In 2003, it was 170,000. Those who point out how convenient it is to watch on TV fail to account for why TV ratings are declining as rapidly as attendance.
I’ve pondered and addressed all these issues and offered a few of my own, but the truth is, I don’t know, either. And I don’t think NASCAR does.
One word occurred to me while driving the interstate: “bubble.”
In the stock market, there was a “dotcom bubble.” I’ve heard of mortgage bubbles, real-estate bubbles and Indy 500 qualifier who are “on the bubble.” The world is one big bubble bath.
The idea is that something grows too rapidly. The perception of prosperity creates something of a feeding frenzy. Everyone gets on board, so much so that growth is artificially enhanced in a way that can’t be maintained.
And the bubble bursts.
All that “Fastest Growing Sport” rhetoric, which NASCAR so enthusiastically circulated, may have burst. “Burst” may be too harsh a word. In the stock market, there is often a “fallback position.” Maybe that’s where NASCAR is right now. It’s still big, but not as big.
This race featured 87 lead changes. It ended in a side-by-side finish, though, oddly, not at the finish line. The last-place driver in the Chase for the Sprint Cup, Clint Bowyer, became the only driver so far to win two of its races. Of course, the reason Bowyer is buried so deeply is the absence of 150 points due to a NASCAR penalty.
See what I mean by muddled?
But what fired my ruminations was the question of declining interest in NASCAR. Many opinions have been offered, most by folks who, in some way, have a specific interest in the view they offer. Those who are having trouble economically blame the economy. Those who love Dale Earnhardt Jr. blame his struggles. Those who loathe Jimmie Johnson blame his dominance.
It can’t be contended that the sport hasn’t reacted. Ticket prices have been slashed. Rules have been changed to promote excitement. Nothing seems to work. The NASCAR estimate of the Talladega Superspeedway crowd was 110,000. In 2003, it was 170,000. Those who point out how convenient it is to watch on TV fail to account for why TV ratings are declining as rapidly as attendance.
I’ve pondered and addressed all these issues and offered a few of my own, but the truth is, I don’t know, either. And I don’t think NASCAR does.
One word occurred to me while driving the interstate: “bubble.”
In the stock market, there was a “dotcom bubble.” I’ve heard of mortgage bubbles, real-estate bubbles and Indy 500 qualifier who are “on the bubble.” The world is one big bubble bath.
The idea is that something grows too rapidly. The perception of prosperity creates something of a feeding frenzy. Everyone gets on board, so much so that growth is artificially enhanced in a way that can’t be maintained.
And the bubble bursts.
All that “Fastest Growing Sport” rhetoric, which NASCAR so enthusiastically circulated, may have burst. “Burst” may be too harsh a word. In the stock market, there is often a “fallback position.” Maybe that’s where NASCAR is right now. It’s still big, but not as big.
Homegrown NASCAR star changes fan?s oil
Plainfield man Matt Graham was pretty excited about the celebrity changing his oil – as were the several fans who were out watching. Related Blogs Related Reading: NASCAR 09 White Lightning: Murder In The World Of Stock Car Racing (Volume 1) Nascar Racing Auto Car Bumper Decal Sticker 10X2.5
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Dominating Performance by Busch
On Sunday, 26 June 2011, the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series continued with the hosting of the Toyota/Save Mart 350, which took place at the Infineon Raceway. With twenty-three Cup victories behind his name, Kurt Busch showed his worth and determination by delivering a winning road course performance, and snatching the victory away from Jeff Gordon by just under four seconds. The race was driven over seventy-six laps and was a vital moment in the series for the Penske Racing Team, as well as for Busch.
Related posts:Busch Takes Winners Trophy at DaytonaBusch Takes Fifth Victory of the YearBusch Sets NASCAR Record
Related posts:Busch Takes Winners Trophy at DaytonaBusch Takes Fifth Victory of the YearBusch Sets NASCAR Record
NASCAR Notebook: Johnson ?qualified? to win
Four-time and defending NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson has cameras follow his every move in the garage during practice Friday at Homestead-Miami Speedway in Homestead, Fla. for Sunday's Ford 400. Johnson qualified sixth, well ahead of Kevin Harvick (28th) and Denny Hamlin (37th). (Photo: Getty Images)
HOMESTEAD, Fla. – For the two contenders seeking to deprive Jimmie Johnson of a fifth straight Sprint Cup championship, qualifying was no cause for celebration.
Johnson qualified sixth at176.482 mph. It was a nice solid run, leaving him well situated for the start of Sunday’s Ford 400.
Kevin Harvick qualified 28th, which wasn’t that unusual. Denny Hamlin qualified 37th, which was. Hamlin’s previous low in qualifying was 34th at Auto Club Speedway on Oct. 8. On the positive side, Hamlin did manage to salvage top-10 finishes in each of his previous qualifying performances that were 30th or worse, and he won after starting 30th just two weeks ago at Texas Motor Speedway.
A poor qualifying performance is also a poor predictor of race-day success, but starting deep in the field adds a certain amount of pressure to an already overheated championship battle.
Johnson held a press conference before qualifying, but what he said seemed pertinent: “I slept great. I don’t know if Denny (Hamlin) did, but I know I did.”
Hamlin’s response? “I feel the same as I do every week. No, I’m never uptight.”
* * *
SPEECHLESS--If Foster Gillett meant to quiet rumors regarding the future of Richard Petty Motorsports, this wasn’t the way to do it.
Gillett, whose father George is the official owner of the team that carries the seven-time champion’s name, was at Homestead-Miami Speedway on Friday. His presence spread quickly, but he refused to responded to any questions posed by media members.
Rumors have the team going out of business, going out of business temporarily while other investors are acquired and being sunk by the reputed mountain of indebtedness faced by the Gillett family.
Foster Gillett’s presence reportedly did nothing to allay fears among team members that their jobs are endangered.
* * *
STEWART’S TAKE-- Tony Stewart is the only driver who has won championships under both the “season-long” and current “Chase” format. Long relegated to the nether regions of the Chase field, Stewart offered his analysis of the three-way battle for the title.
“I think they’re all playing mind games with each other,” he said. “You don’t get this far in the season and be in this position by racing guys dirty. I don’t see it coming down to the last race with guys racing each other dirty.”
* * *
TITLE MAY GO THROUGH HIM--As expected, Carl Edwards established himself as a contender to win the race. He ended a 70-race winless streak last week at Phoenix and qualified second. Edwards won this race in 2008 and has finished eighth or better in five straight races at Homestead.
Referring to Hamlin, Johnson and Harvick, Edwards said, “They’re all going to be aggressive. That’s the way it’s going to be, no matter what they say. That’s how they got in the position they’re in, and now it’s going to be a great race for everyone to watch.
“I hope I’m watching the whole thing in my rear-view mirror, though.”
Music and Racing: A Winning Combination
Looking back, I doubt anyone can put a finger on precisely when they first met. But it was exactly the way everyone tells you it should be: �fun. There was laughter, plenty of laughter and good times though, of course, the cynics swore it wouldn’t last. There were times when their antics together made them [...]
DANGER BEHIND WILL POWER! DASHLEY LE PEW IS PLAYIN? THRU...
DON?T know ?bout Y?all ? BUTT! FUCKING EH RAY! What an absolute pyle ?O rubbish... As really? Dario Franchitti didn?t CRASH into Will Power and get away with another ?CHEEP-SHOT! As it wasn?t avoidable contact on Dario?s part ? WTF? Go ahead IndyCar, might as well just hand over that NAKED man on a trophy thingy... As I was so DISGUSTED by the APATHY of Brian I.J.H.(Whale NOT Sunday ?DAWG...) Braveheart, that I quickly renamed him BillyBob Brazenheartz... (Brian Barnhart) Alas, it was handled sooooooooooo POORLY that I wasn?t even MAD over the BASTARDIZED Mid-race call. Oh wait a ?My-nute Boyz, there CAN?T be any controversy ?til we reach Edmonton, right? As I?m guessin? that?s when the black flag can truly be unfurled, eh?
As I?ve just got ?Juan HUGE Problema with that HOLE black flag NO black flag Mesopotamia, i.e.; Drive-thru penalty for Car No. 10... If the Versus Boyz in the booth truly got it wrong, then please have the Kuhoona?s to say so. Otherwise I?m totally 100% in agreement with Professor B, aka Jon Beekhuis. You CANNOT issue a penalty and then rescind it ? as it gives absolutely NO credibility to your race Officiating IndyCar! What?s next? Phantom yellow flags? Oh Never Mind!
As ironically, Dario claimed he?d done exactly what DannyBoy ?SPIKE Wheldon described at the time of the incident, i.e.; went for a pass that wasn?t there ? backing off too LATE after realizing he wasn?t gonna pull off the maneuver upon Power... Who once again got indirectly SCREWED by ?HULIO! (Initially...) When the Dancin? Fool had some BrainFade, Err left footed brake issues and missed his mark again...
And duh HITS just keep on coming, as I was so GUTTED by IndyCar letting ?Cheep get away with his theatrics ? first sheddin? Crocodile Tears during his initial interview by sayin? Power gets away with everythingy... And then later on doin? his bestest Sergeant Schulz impersonation after his driver won the race. NO! I DON?T KNOW NOTHIN! ?Bout any sorta black flag penalty thingy - this is the first I?ve heard of it ? wah wha wah...
And the Oscar for Best Actor by an ICS Team Owner goes to 'CHEEP (Ganassi - F%%K! What an unreasonably large turd that was ?Chee...)
As perhaps Dashley had better take Will a Payday bar or 4 from the Tarr-Jhey candy department, since after Billy Bob Brazenheartz & Co decided to let Dario simply play thru that Spin ?em Out Boyz episode, I?m seriously considering NOT watchin? another Indy Car race for the resta duh season! (As can anybody tell me the last time a Target Car got a penalty? Or has it simply become the Target Hour Show, eh?)
As I?m still NOT sure if I was watchin? a PickEmUp Trucks race, RASSCAR Saturday Night Short Oval SMASHEMUP-fest or an Indy Car race? As I?ve already denoted it as the Toronto Firecracker 400 to ?Juan particular ?Wag; CRIKEYS!
Although I think that?s the first time EVER I?ve actually broke into laughter during a Dan-Dan-Dan-Danica interview: ?They told me to get outta the car; Somebody TOOK my (NOSE) Wing! I DON?T understand...? (I?m Cornfuzed) That?s FUNNY SHIT Menard! Here Danica, have a Payday candy bar ? they?re Majikly Delicious; Hya!
And DON?T even get me started ?bout ?lil Al?s CONTORTED, confusing and crazy attempts at doing Damage Control for BillyBob?s Officiatin? Crew immediately after the race; Now Yuhs sees Bob, if TK had just given Briscoe a little more room... SHEISA!
As I?ve just got ?Juan HUGE Problema with that HOLE black flag NO black flag Mesopotamia, i.e.; Drive-thru penalty for Car No. 10... If the Versus Boyz in the booth truly got it wrong, then please have the Kuhoona?s to say so. Otherwise I?m totally 100% in agreement with Professor B, aka Jon Beekhuis. You CANNOT issue a penalty and then rescind it ? as it gives absolutely NO credibility to your race Officiating IndyCar! What?s next? Phantom yellow flags? Oh Never Mind!
As ironically, Dario claimed he?d done exactly what DannyBoy ?SPIKE Wheldon described at the time of the incident, i.e.; went for a pass that wasn?t there ? backing off too LATE after realizing he wasn?t gonna pull off the maneuver upon Power... Who once again got indirectly SCREWED by ?HULIO! (Initially...) When the Dancin? Fool had some BrainFade, Err left footed brake issues and missed his mark again...
And duh HITS just keep on coming, as I was so GUTTED by IndyCar letting ?Cheep get away with his theatrics ? first sheddin? Crocodile Tears during his initial interview by sayin? Power gets away with everythingy... And then later on doin? his bestest Sergeant Schulz impersonation after his driver won the race. NO! I DON?T KNOW NOTHIN! ?Bout any sorta black flag penalty thingy - this is the first I?ve heard of it ? wah wha wah...
And the Oscar for Best Actor by an ICS Team Owner goes to 'CHEEP (Ganassi - F%%K! What an unreasonably large turd that was ?Chee...)
As perhaps Dashley had better take Will a Payday bar or 4 from the Tarr-Jhey candy department, since after Billy Bob Brazenheartz & Co decided to let Dario simply play thru that Spin ?em Out Boyz episode, I?m seriously considering NOT watchin? another Indy Car race for the resta duh season! (As can anybody tell me the last time a Target Car got a penalty? Or has it simply become the Target Hour Show, eh?)
As I?m still NOT sure if I was watchin? a PickEmUp Trucks race, RASSCAR Saturday Night Short Oval SMASHEMUP-fest or an Indy Car race? As I?ve already denoted it as the Toronto Firecracker 400 to ?Juan particular ?Wag; CRIKEYS!
Although I think that?s the first time EVER I?ve actually broke into laughter during a Dan-Dan-Dan-Danica interview: ?They told me to get outta the car; Somebody TOOK my (NOSE) Wing! I DON?T understand...? (I?m Cornfuzed) That?s FUNNY SHIT Menard! Here Danica, have a Payday candy bar ? they?re Majikly Delicious; Hya!
And DON?T even get me started ?bout ?lil Al?s CONTORTED, confusing and crazy attempts at doing Damage Control for BillyBob?s Officiatin? Crew immediately after the race; Now Yuhs sees Bob, if TK had just given Briscoe a little more room... SHEISA!
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
INDYCAR is calling on you to vote on the ?lucky dog? rule
Yesterday INDYCAR announced several rule changes for the 2011:� Side by side restarts at all tracks, later green flag starts, and a "lucky dog" rule.� The fan reaction to the last one, the luck dog, was tepid at best.
I actually am in support of these rules, but a lot of ...
I actually am in support of these rules, but a lot of ...
Gordon snaps winless streak
�After nearly two years, Jeff Gordon made his way back to victory lane by winning the Subway Fresh Fit 500 at Phoenix International Raceay on Sunday. The win was the first for Gordon in 67 races and his 83rd career win, overall, tying him for fifth on the Sprint Cup all-time win list with Cale [...]
Ryan Newman Wins Lenox Industrial Tools 301 NASCAR Cup Race at New Hampshire
NASCAR Sprint Cup: Lenox Industrial Tools 301 at New Hampshire - Race Results
Down to the wire for Danica
Danica Patrick took advantage of a second chance and qualified for the Indianapolis 500.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Price of success could be costly to Roush
Carl Edwards' victory in the Sprint All-Star Race was a very, very expensive win.
VIR
Action Express Racing team members push their team's Porsche toward the track during time trials for the Bosch Engineering 250 at Virginia International Raceway on Friday in Alton.
Music and Racing: A Winning Combination
Looking back, I doubt anyone can put a finger on precisely when they first met. But it was exactly the way everyone tells you it should be: �fun. There was laughter, plenty of laughter and good times though, of course, the cynics swore it wouldn’t last. There were times when their antics together made them [...]
Day Three Wrap At NHMS: Traffic Slows, Modified Tour Woes And As The Waiter Goes
MANCHESTER, N.H. - Zucchini? Asparagus? It's really all the same right?
Day three of Sprint Cup Series Lenox Industrial Tools 301 weekend is in the books from New Hampshire Motor Speedway, and we're back hunkered down in The Backstretch's Granite State home away from home for the evening and ready to take a look back at the day that was in Loudon and points beyond.
-- After last weekend at Kentucky Speedway, we're not sure anybody on site at New Hampshire Motor Speedway is allowed to use the words "traffic struggles" in any way here this weekend, but we'll go ahead and do it anyhow.
Day three of Sprint Cup Series Lenox Industrial Tools 301 weekend is in the books from New Hampshire Motor Speedway, and we're back hunkered down in The Backstretch's Granite State home away from home for the evening and ready to take a look back at the day that was in Loudon and points beyond.
-- After last weekend at Kentucky Speedway, we're not sure anybody on site at New Hampshire Motor Speedway is allowed to use the words "traffic struggles" in any way here this weekend, but we'll go ahead and do it anyhow.
MOTOGP: Pedrosa Wins Sachsenring Battle
Dani Pedrosa won out in a tight dogfight to reign supreme at the German GP while Jorge Lorenzo made a bold maneuver in the race's final corner to draw closer to points leader Casey Stoner.
Kyle Busch apologizes for driving 128 mph on road
Kyle Busch apologized repeatedly Thursday for showing a "lack of judgment" in driving 128 mph in a 45 mph zone in a borrowed Lexus.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
This week's Stockcartoon from Mike Smith
Stockcartoons are created by Mike Smith, editorial cartoonist for the Las Vegas Sun, and syndicated through King Features Syndicate. Mike generously shares them with us here.
Mike is also the primary contributor to the Las Vegas Sun's NASCAR blog,"Bloggity, Bloggity, Bloggity."
Todd Szegedy Fastest In Final Whelen Modified Tour Practice At New Hampshire Motor Speedway
LOUDON, N.H. - Todd Szegedy topped the speed charts in the 35-minute final practice session Saturday morning for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour in preparation for today's F.W. Webb 100.
Szegedy put up a fast lap of 29.572 seconds (128.798 mph). Szegedy, of Ridgefield, will start third today.
Sprint Cup star Ryan Newman, who won the pole for the event on Thursday, did not participate in the practice session.
Jimmy Blewett was second fastest in the session with a top lap of 29.624 seconds (128.571 mph). Reigning series champion Bobby Santos III of Franklin, Mass. was third fastest at 29.636 seconds (128.519 mph).
Szegedy put up a fast lap of 29.572 seconds (128.798 mph). Szegedy, of Ridgefield, will start third today.
Sprint Cup star Ryan Newman, who won the pole for the event on Thursday, did not participate in the practice session.
Jimmy Blewett was second fastest in the session with a top lap of 29.624 seconds (128.571 mph). Reigning series champion Bobby Santos III of Franklin, Mass. was third fastest at 29.636 seconds (128.519 mph).
Budweiser Signs Multi-Year Renewal with Daytona International Speedway
Pager item text:
Budweiser and Daytona
Slide text:
<p>
Maintains Official Beer Sponsor Status and Entitlement of Budweiser Shootout.</p>
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. ? Budweiser will continue to serve as both the exclusive official beer sponsor of Daytona International Speedway and the entitlement sponsor for the Budweiser Shootout following a multi-year partnership renewal. As part of the agreement, Budweiser will also begin a non-exclusive promotional partnership with Homestead-Miami Speedway in 2012.
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Budweiser and Daytona
Slide text:
<p>
Maintains Official Beer Sponsor Status and Entitlement of Budweiser Shootout.</p>
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. ? Budweiser will continue to serve as both the exclusive official beer sponsor of Daytona International Speedway and the entitlement sponsor for the Budweiser Shootout following a multi-year partnership renewal. As part of the agreement, Budweiser will also begin a non-exclusive promotional partnership with Homestead-Miami Speedway in 2012.
read more
Powers New Shoes, ?Plowie?s New ride...
So I found it pretty amazing that the ?Powers-to-Be? (Pun intended) at Penske Racing made a rather bold move this past Friday ? when it was publicly announced that Dancin? Fool ?HULIO?s Strategist Tim Cindric would take over this role for Penske?s leading man Will Power ? who?s borne the BRUNT of several key Pitlane snafu?s by his crack Penske pit crew... Which led me to muse recently to Indiana Bureau Chief Danny B: I know it?s NOT true; BUTT! It almost seems like Penske does NOT want Will Power to win the IndyCar title over Castroneves; CRIKEYS!
As I think it was Bob Varsha on Speedcentre who said Power was clearly agitated during his post concussion ?TRUTH SYRUM? spoutin? off the words SHIT MAN! I keep getting SCREWED in the Pitlane, albeit this was a much more mild bout ?O discontent vs. lead Penske ?Roundy-rounds Boy Curt Busch?s outlash on his in-car radio awhile ago, eh?
Thus, Cindric, who?s been Helio Castroneves Strategist since 2000, a streak of 196 consecutive races together ? will now take over this duty for Will Power beginning at Toronto as The Captain, aka Roger Penske has deemed this necessary in order for Will to have a chance at dethroning Dario ?REO Speedwagon? Franchitti and arch rival Chip Ganassi from a third consecutive Indy Car Series Championship; Aye Karumba!
Meanwhile, past Indy Lights protagonists Sam Schmidt and Gary Peterson of SSM (Sam Schmidt Motorsports) and AFS (Automated Fire Systems) respectively have announced their merger of IndyCar operations; teaming up to run the AFS Racing No. 17 beginning at the upcoming Mid Ohio race, where former Indy Lights winner Martin ?Plowie? Plowman will make his Big Car debut. Then the 23yr old Englishman will contest the ?Twisties? at Sears Point (Sonoma) and Baltimore, as one can only guess this is a lead-up to a full time Gig for 2012? NO word on whether/not they?ll run the remaining Ovals ? perhaps with Thy Leggy ?Juan, nee Katherine Legge at the controls? We?ll see, eh?
As I think it was Bob Varsha on Speedcentre who said Power was clearly agitated during his post concussion ?TRUTH SYRUM? spoutin? off the words SHIT MAN! I keep getting SCREWED in the Pitlane, albeit this was a much more mild bout ?O discontent vs. lead Penske ?Roundy-rounds Boy Curt Busch?s outlash on his in-car radio awhile ago, eh?
Thus, Cindric, who?s been Helio Castroneves Strategist since 2000, a streak of 196 consecutive races together ? will now take over this duty for Will Power beginning at Toronto as The Captain, aka Roger Penske has deemed this necessary in order for Will to have a chance at dethroning Dario ?REO Speedwagon? Franchitti and arch rival Chip Ganassi from a third consecutive Indy Car Series Championship; Aye Karumba!
Meanwhile, past Indy Lights protagonists Sam Schmidt and Gary Peterson of SSM (Sam Schmidt Motorsports) and AFS (Automated Fire Systems) respectively have announced their merger of IndyCar operations; teaming up to run the AFS Racing No. 17 beginning at the upcoming Mid Ohio race, where former Indy Lights winner Martin ?Plowie? Plowman will make his Big Car debut. Then the 23yr old Englishman will contest the ?Twisties? at Sears Point (Sonoma) and Baltimore, as one can only guess this is a lead-up to a full time Gig for 2012? NO word on whether/not they?ll run the remaining Ovals ? perhaps with Thy Leggy ?Juan, nee Katherine Legge at the controls? We?ll see, eh?
McLaren and Virgin Racing Partnership
Marussia Motors, a Russian sports car manufacturer, bought interests in the Virgin Racing team last year. Virgin Racing made the move to buy out Nick Wirth's Formula 1 division of Wirth Research Technologies, but after experiencing a very disappointing start to their Formula 1 season, for a second time, Virgin Racing decided to move away from Wirth. Wirth was instrumental in designing and developing the team?s car, as well being leaders in the formulation of computational fluid dynamics, but the team believes they have a greater chance of success with McLaren.
Related posts:Virgin Racing Stars Team Up With FxPro to Release New F1 GameRyan Briscoe Awarded Bruce McLaren TrophyFreescale And McLaren Electronics Team Up To Save Energy
Related posts:Virgin Racing Stars Team Up With FxPro to Release New F1 GameRyan Briscoe Awarded Bruce McLaren TrophyFreescale And McLaren Electronics Team Up To Save Energy
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Day One Wrap At NHMS: Falling Car, Fancy Scoreboard, Forgotten Hotels And The Fast And The Furious
MANCHESTER, N.H. - Holiday Inn Express. Holiday Inn Express. Holiday Inn Express.
We need to just keep telling ourselves that, and at some point this weekend we'll know where we're staying.
Day one of Sprint Cup Series Lenox Industrial Tools 301 weekend is in the books from New Hampshire Motor Speedway, and we're back hunkered down in The Backstretch's Granite State home away from home for the evening and ready to take a look back at the day that was in Loudon and points beyond.
We need to just keep telling ourselves that, and at some point this weekend we'll know where we're staying.
Day one of Sprint Cup Series Lenox Industrial Tools 301 weekend is in the books from New Hampshire Motor Speedway, and we're back hunkered down in The Backstretch's Granite State home away from home for the evening and ready to take a look back at the day that was in Loudon and points beyond.
Ask Donald ? July 13
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Historian Donald Davidson has been the expert on the history of the Racing Capital of the World since he arrived in Central Indiana in the mid-1960s. Now 2010 Auto Racing Hall of Fame inductee Davidson is answering your questions periodically in this blog!
Q: With the Red Bull Indianapolis GP MotoGP race approaching, [...]
Q: With the Red Bull Indianapolis GP MotoGP race approaching, [...]
Cheep?s ?Right-hand Man? Mike Hull throws out some Nuggets upon Autosport Radio
I do not know Mike Hull, nor have I ever met him ? having heard him speak only once before upon Autosport Radio... Yet I found him to be a very clever thinking man ? who wasn?t afraid to be fairly candid upon his thoughts regarding TCGR?s current driver stable, his boss, future chassis and the state ?O Indy Car ? along with even getting in a Zinger ?bout Ye Mayor ?O Hinchtown (James Hinchcliffe) and his throng of Bleeding Hearts Up North Eh! (In Toronto...)
It was nice to hear him being so complimentary of Tom Anderson ? who after all was the Team Manager when the Cheepster ran the table for four straight years in CART with Jimmy Vasser, Alex Zanardi and Juan Pablo Montoya. As I still think Anderson was made a very bad Scapegoat for Mikey?s woes at Indy this year ? as Yuhs mean Tom singlehandedly miss-engineered four Dallara racecars? What ?bout the Engineers below him? Oh Never Mind!
And perhaps I?m late once again to the Par-tee? As I found it somewhat revealing to hear Mike say he only knows about the Honda ?lump (engine) since that?s who Chip Ganassi is going with in the 2012 Engine Manufacturer Sweepstakes ? so dares Yuhs have it. The Captain, aka Roger Penske will be the lead Bowtie Destroyer, whilst ?Tennille, Err ?Cheep (Ganassi) will be Honda?s lead Destroyer as the two continue going Mano e Mano vs. themselves plus the competition.
And it would seem blatantly obvious that KV Racing Lotus will be the lead Frigate for the Lotus by Judd Armada... And I AIN?T talkin? Thee Judd?s like as in Ashely; Hya! Whilst I?d assume Mikey Andretti will resume his past linkage with Honda ? whilst I?d simply be ArseClown guessing on the resta duh field, eh? Although I?d not be surprised to see Keith Wiggins go with Lotus perhaps?
As for Hull?s thoughts upon the 2012 Body-by-Mennen AFX Aerokit Carz, I found his comments most forthright ? basically willing Randy ?the CandyMann? Bernard to flex his muskels by being strong willed and making it happen ASAP!
Mike claimed regardless of what anybody says/tells you ? read my lips! IT?S A Half-million to put a single car on the grid, as in $500G?s ? as in 500 LARGE ?Juans, i.e.; Smackeroos ...
And he was most clever by saying a smart Team Owner would incorporate the cost of the Emperor?s Clothes, Err Body kits into his engine lease contract, claiming that all three engine manufacturers can choose to charge anybody between a minimum of $1.00 and a maximum of $75,000 ? per the league?s directive. Although there wasn?t any alluding to if you could run a Dallara Body kit on any engine package?
On the new Dallara Safety-cell chassis that DannyBoy ?SPIKE Wheldon & BHA will begin testing sometime in August, he believes each engine manufacturer will be given one new chassis apiece to go testing with on September 1st, also the date set for Aero-boundaries to be announced. Then each team will get a chassis by December 15th and then they?ll all hold their collective breaths waiting to learn what the exact testing rules will be for 2012. ShuhZam!
Hull also boldly proclaimed if any manufacturer cannot provide a body kit in time for the 2012 Indy 500 then they simply should NOT be allowed to participate as Aerokit makers...
And although his point was valid ? and I know I?m nitpicking; BUTT! Perhaps Hull will wish to chat with a bloke named Nick Wirth over the comment Mike made ?bout Formula 1 designs its complete chassis by CFD. (Computational Fluid Dynamics) Whale Mike, that?s NOT exactly correct ? as the only F1 team that was doing so, named Virgin ? effectively FIRED Messer Wirth and has retreated to the other 11-teams usage of Wind Tunnels, namely McLaren?s Wind Tunnel for the foreseeable future...
You may wish to check out the Autosport Radio Show with Mike Hull by clicking here.
It was nice to hear him being so complimentary of Tom Anderson ? who after all was the Team Manager when the Cheepster ran the table for four straight years in CART with Jimmy Vasser, Alex Zanardi and Juan Pablo Montoya. As I still think Anderson was made a very bad Scapegoat for Mikey?s woes at Indy this year ? as Yuhs mean Tom singlehandedly miss-engineered four Dallara racecars? What ?bout the Engineers below him? Oh Never Mind!
And perhaps I?m late once again to the Par-tee? As I found it somewhat revealing to hear Mike say he only knows about the Honda ?lump (engine) since that?s who Chip Ganassi is going with in the 2012 Engine Manufacturer Sweepstakes ? so dares Yuhs have it. The Captain, aka Roger Penske will be the lead Bowtie Destroyer, whilst ?Tennille, Err ?Cheep (Ganassi) will be Honda?s lead Destroyer as the two continue going Mano e Mano vs. themselves plus the competition.
And it would seem blatantly obvious that KV Racing Lotus will be the lead Frigate for the Lotus by Judd Armada... And I AIN?T talkin? Thee Judd?s like as in Ashely; Hya! Whilst I?d assume Mikey Andretti will resume his past linkage with Honda ? whilst I?d simply be ArseClown guessing on the resta duh field, eh? Although I?d not be surprised to see Keith Wiggins go with Lotus perhaps?
As for Hull?s thoughts upon the 2012 Body-by-Mennen AFX Aerokit Carz, I found his comments most forthright ? basically willing Randy ?the CandyMann? Bernard to flex his muskels by being strong willed and making it happen ASAP!
Mike claimed regardless of what anybody says/tells you ? read my lips! IT?S A Half-million to put a single car on the grid, as in $500G?s ? as in 500 LARGE ?Juans, i.e.; Smackeroos ...
And he was most clever by saying a smart Team Owner would incorporate the cost of the Emperor?s Clothes, Err Body kits into his engine lease contract, claiming that all three engine manufacturers can choose to charge anybody between a minimum of $1.00 and a maximum of $75,000 ? per the league?s directive. Although there wasn?t any alluding to if you could run a Dallara Body kit on any engine package?
On the new Dallara Safety-cell chassis that DannyBoy ?SPIKE Wheldon & BHA will begin testing sometime in August, he believes each engine manufacturer will be given one new chassis apiece to go testing with on September 1st, also the date set for Aero-boundaries to be announced. Then each team will get a chassis by December 15th and then they?ll all hold their collective breaths waiting to learn what the exact testing rules will be for 2012. ShuhZam!
Hull also boldly proclaimed if any manufacturer cannot provide a body kit in time for the 2012 Indy 500 then they simply should NOT be allowed to participate as Aerokit makers...
And although his point was valid ? and I know I?m nitpicking; BUTT! Perhaps Hull will wish to chat with a bloke named Nick Wirth over the comment Mike made ?bout Formula 1 designs its complete chassis by CFD. (Computational Fluid Dynamics) Whale Mike, that?s NOT exactly correct ? as the only F1 team that was doing so, named Virgin ? effectively FIRED Messer Wirth and has retreated to the other 11-teams usage of Wind Tunnels, namely McLaren?s Wind Tunnel for the foreseeable future...
You may wish to check out the Autosport Radio Show with Mike Hull by clicking here.
Justin Walks Away?
Whilst doin? my daily Internetz trollin?, I came across a very short story by ?Juan of the Wedge Brothers ? specifically Alan Wedge over at Grab Bag Sports... Lamenting the apparent loss of SPEED?s Justin Bell, who I magically caught both segments of Justin?s CrowdCrawl at le Sarthe upon le Memorex... And as those BLOODY BRITS would say: BRILLIANT! Or is that those ?Aussies instead, eh?
Thus, I don?t know if Justin is truly leaving the SPEED Network or not? As he mused into the Camera Eye that he?d be writing books from now on, WTF? As I for ?Juan can personally say I enjoy Justin?s British wit and find him far MORE palatable then his predecessor, the overinflated great Allen ?dee Cadden-eh!? (Alain de Cadenet) So, please DON?T go Justin!
Justin Bell Never Disappoints
And it was an interesting comment, which I believe Leigh Diffey made ?bout how Justin can joke around with Vanina Ickx ? seeing how they?ve spent countless hours growing up around each other, with Justin?s Old Man Derrick having won LeMans a time or three with Vanina?s Papa Jacky, being known as the previous Mr. LeMans - before some ?Dane named tom Kristensen showed up.
As Y?all may know, Derrick won the 24 Heurs du Mans five times while Jacky notched up six overall victories at Circuit de la Sarthe ? one being the closest finish in the track?s history I believe... When Jacky drove the wheels off of the older (obsolete) JW Automotive Gulf Oil liveried Ford GT40 against Hans Hermans Porsche 908, after Porsches future Panzerwagon, a.k.a. the 917 had all dropped out during the 1969 event.
Interestingly, both Justin and Vanina have raced with their fathers ? with varying degrees ?O success. Vanina?s career path (CV) seems far more diverse then Justin?s though... As she?s competed in the Paris Dakar Rally 3-times; (once with her father) FF2000 Stateside; Ferrari Challenge ? having won two events; DTM; Belgian GT Series; Porsche Supercup and various Endurance racing series, i.e.; LMS, LeMans, Spa 24hrs, etc.
Ironically, Vanina ? who reportedly had a not so impressive season in DTM while driving for Audi was replaced by ?Thee Leggy ?Juan,? nee Catherine Legge, who?s subsequently departed Audi and come back Across-the-Pond in hopes of landing an IndyCar ride.
Yet, Vanina seems to keep moving up the ladder year-by-year, now a yearly fixture aboard the ACO?s premiere class; LMP1 Prototypes, albeit the older, nee less powerful Petrol class sleds, as it?d be nice to see her behind the wheel of an Audi R18 next year...
Meanwhile, Justin was no slouch of his own, having mentioned how he?d raced with Pops; as I seem to vaguely recall the Bell?s in a Shell sponsored Porsche 962 at le Sarthe... Before Justin went solo and won the 1997 FIA GT2 Championship for Dodge, along with a Le Mans class victory the following year, both aboard those provocative Viper GTSR?s.
Justin then moved over to rival GM?s Corvette Racing concern, racking up a trio of runner-up finishes in 2000 at Daytona, LeMans and Petit Lemans, before moving onto the SCCA?s Pro Racing Trans Am series (2001-03) where I was unaware of that he?d won two races in the waning years of the series, as I know Justin more as a very quick witted Sports Car Pitlane Reporter along with multiple Barrett-Jackson assignments; both for SPEED respectively ? to which we?ll hopefully see Justin continuing to do so...
Thus, I don?t know if Justin is truly leaving the SPEED Network or not? As he mused into the Camera Eye that he?d be writing books from now on, WTF? As I for ?Juan can personally say I enjoy Justin?s British wit and find him far MORE palatable then his predecessor, the overinflated great Allen ?dee Cadden-eh!? (Alain de Cadenet) So, please DON?T go Justin!
Justin Bell Never Disappoints
And it was an interesting comment, which I believe Leigh Diffey made ?bout how Justin can joke around with Vanina Ickx ? seeing how they?ve spent countless hours growing up around each other, with Justin?s Old Man Derrick having won LeMans a time or three with Vanina?s Papa Jacky, being known as the previous Mr. LeMans - before some ?Dane named tom Kristensen showed up.
As Y?all may know, Derrick won the 24 Heurs du Mans five times while Jacky notched up six overall victories at Circuit de la Sarthe ? one being the closest finish in the track?s history I believe... When Jacky drove the wheels off of the older (obsolete) JW Automotive Gulf Oil liveried Ford GT40 against Hans Hermans Porsche 908, after Porsches future Panzerwagon, a.k.a. the 917 had all dropped out during the 1969 event.
Interestingly, both Justin and Vanina have raced with their fathers ? with varying degrees ?O success. Vanina?s career path (CV) seems far more diverse then Justin?s though... As she?s competed in the Paris Dakar Rally 3-times; (once with her father) FF2000 Stateside; Ferrari Challenge ? having won two events; DTM; Belgian GT Series; Porsche Supercup and various Endurance racing series, i.e.; LMS, LeMans, Spa 24hrs, etc.
Ironically, Vanina ? who reportedly had a not so impressive season in DTM while driving for Audi was replaced by ?Thee Leggy ?Juan,? nee Catherine Legge, who?s subsequently departed Audi and come back Across-the-Pond in hopes of landing an IndyCar ride.
Yet, Vanina seems to keep moving up the ladder year-by-year, now a yearly fixture aboard the ACO?s premiere class; LMP1 Prototypes, albeit the older, nee less powerful Petrol class sleds, as it?d be nice to see her behind the wheel of an Audi R18 next year...
Meanwhile, Justin was no slouch of his own, having mentioned how he?d raced with Pops; as I seem to vaguely recall the Bell?s in a Shell sponsored Porsche 962 at le Sarthe... Before Justin went solo and won the 1997 FIA GT2 Championship for Dodge, along with a Le Mans class victory the following year, both aboard those provocative Viper GTSR?s.
Justin then moved over to rival GM?s Corvette Racing concern, racking up a trio of runner-up finishes in 2000 at Daytona, LeMans and Petit Lemans, before moving onto the SCCA?s Pro Racing Trans Am series (2001-03) where I was unaware of that he?d won two races in the waning years of the series, as I know Justin more as a very quick witted Sports Car Pitlane Reporter along with multiple Barrett-Jackson assignments; both for SPEED respectively ? to which we?ll hopefully see Justin continuing to do so...
Dominating Performance by Busch
On Sunday, 26 June 2011, the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series continued with the hosting of the Toyota/Save Mart 350, which took place at the Infineon Raceway. With twenty-three Cup victories behind his name, Kurt Busch showed his worth and determination by delivering a winning road course performance, and snatching the victory away from Jeff Gordon by just under four seconds. The race was driven over seventy-six laps and was a vital moment in the series for the Penske Racing Team, as well as for Busch.
Related posts:Busch Takes Winners Trophy at DaytonaBusch Takes Fifth Victory of the YearBusch Sets NASCAR Record
Related posts:Busch Takes Winners Trophy at DaytonaBusch Takes Fifth Victory of the YearBusch Sets NASCAR Record
Make A Wish T-Shirts now Available...
Stumbled upon this over at More Front Wing late last week ? and it?s definitely for a good cause, especially since I know how devoted Team ?KanaDuh?s Mike Cockrell is to his Home-race of Edmonton and his excellent Charity work ? for which he was featured on the local TV network last year, as Mike knows somebody by the initials ?PT (Paul Tracy) who likes to contribute to Mike?s efforts.
So if you?re in the mood for helping out and getting some new threads, then check out the link below ? as I?m awaiting my spiffy new duds to arrive any day now...
Buy a PT shirt and support Make-a-Wish Canada
So if you?re in the mood for helping out and getting some new threads, then check out the link below ? as I?m awaiting my spiffy new duds to arrive any day now...
Buy a PT shirt and support Make-a-Wish Canada
Friday, July 15, 2011
McLaren and Virgin Racing Partnership
Marussia Motors, a Russian sports car manufacturer, bought interests in the Virgin Racing team last year. Virgin Racing made the move to buy out Nick Wirth's Formula 1 division of Wirth Research Technologies, but after experiencing a very disappointing start to their Formula 1 season, for a second time, Virgin Racing decided to move away from Wirth. Wirth was instrumental in designing and developing the team?s car, as well being leaders in the formulation of computational fluid dynamics, but the team believes they have a greater chance of success with McLaren.
Related posts:Virgin Racing Stars Team Up With FxPro to Release New F1 GameRyan Briscoe Awarded Bruce McLaren TrophyFreescale And McLaren Electronics Team Up To Save Energy
Related posts:Virgin Racing Stars Team Up With FxPro to Release New F1 GameRyan Briscoe Awarded Bruce McLaren TrophyFreescale And McLaren Electronics Team Up To Save Energy
From the snail-mail bag, five great suggestions for getting fans interested again in NASCAR
Great idea #4: Sprint Cup racin' on dirt tracks.
Dear NASCAR This Week,
I read your newspaper offerings weekly, and enjoy them, especially the comments from NASCAR fans. I've been a race fan for 65-plus years and enjoy sprints on dirt and NASCAR. Was talking to some buddies recently about what NASCAR could do to get fans “returning to the track,” and we came up with some suggestions:
Eliminate qualifying in its present format. At each event, have two qualifying races, starting half of the entries in each qualifier. The qualifier starting positions could be set by pulling numbers out of a hat, or something similar. The qualifier races should be short, maybe 50 miles at the max. Then take the top 20 finishers from each qualifier for the feature event. The features should be no more than 300 miles in length (with special exceptions). The races, as they are today, are too long, and real racing is usually put off until the last few laps. Shorter-distance races would encourage more intense competition throughout the event.
Eliminate this top-35 thing entirely. All that does is prevent potential new teams from being able to compete.
The points battle needs to return to the old format. Too much hype on the top 12 thing.
Maybe a couple of Sprint Cup races on dirt? There are some great mile and 1/2 mile tracks out there.
Lower the ticket prices for these events. An empty bleacher seat is a terrible thing to waste.
Thanks. -- Gary H., Newburgh, Ind.
Monte replies: Thanks to you and your friends for putting so much thought into this. We’d love to see Cup races on dirt, too, but there aren’t any dirt tracks capable of accommodating 50,000 or more fans.
INDYCAR is calling on you to vote on the ?lucky dog? rule
Yesterday INDYCAR announced several rule changes for the 2011:� Side by side restarts at all tracks, later green flag starts, and a "lucky dog" rule.� The fan reaction to the last one, the luck dog, was tepid at best.
I actually am in support of these rules, but a lot of ...
I actually am in support of these rules, but a lot of ...
Terrible accident destructive fighting force Polish Kubica back on track early next year
NEW YORK, July 14 reported Renault driver Kubica That is the beginning of a serious car accident over the pain and almost brought his career, a devastating blow, he believes he will be able to get fully recovered, drove onto the track season opener 2012 . For many drivers like the big nose of people, [...]
NASCAR 2009 Toyota/SaveMart 350
2009 Toyota/SaveMart 350 Howdy y’all! Your favorite Jughead is back but with a new kind of video to show. Of course most of you who subscribed to me expect to see something like Mario Kart Wii, but this time you’re in for something slightly different. It’s still racing, but now it’s real racing! This is [...]
Gypsy season ends
Monday was just a great day. I worked all morning, as is the case with every Monday, then just did little things all afternoon.
I read. I went out back of the motel, where the water laps up to a sandy area walled off from the water, and played my guitar, once in the afternoon and then at dusk. A guy I saw at MFB (motel's free breakfast) asked if I was the guy who was playing guitar last night. I told him yes, and he said, "You were good. Really good."
Hah. What does he know?
I was on Mojo Nixon's NASCAR show last night on Sirius XM. "Manifold Destiny." We talked about what sets Jimmie Johnson (and crew chief Chad Knaus) apart from the rest in NASCAR.
Mainly, though, I didn't think about NASCAR on Monday. Well, I mean, other than writing all the copy for "NASCAR This Week," our syndicated page that appears in newspapers across the U.S. and Canada. And a day-after column. And a blog.
I had my encounter with the little sea bird (see video blog here). I had a good supper. I read a few of the stories about Sunday's Ford 400 written by colleagues.
Remember: I didn't think that much about NASCAR. Who am I kidding? It takes over your life.
I needed Monday. It's been a while since I had "one of those days" that brought my temper up close to a boil. I didn't completely lose it, hence the notation "up close to a boil." Things piled up on me, though. I was detained in the lobby because I didn't have the proper sticker affixed to my NASCAR hard card. When I finally got to the press box, it was very hot and I discovered its location had been changed and its size greatly diminished. Because it was so boxed in on either side by luxury suites -- and because it was so narrow, and because there was a large column right in the middle -- the only place to see was on the front row, and until shortly before the race started, the sun was multiplying through the glass and causing that front row to sizzle a bit (not literally).
There were other aggravations but no need to waste excessive words here, lest I come across as just another spoiled journalist.
So I spent a good deal of the day pissed off and trying to control myself. It's not altogether a bad thing. I usually write best when mildly aggravated. The sarcasm bites more.
On Monday, though, I was happy, relaxed and unworried. The season was over (though I'm going to be very busy for at least the next week). I'd had a night to sleep on the frustration. The little bird gave me some perspective. Playing guitar is my refuge from the maddening world.
I finished off a book and stopped by a local bookstore to buy another. I had a nice conversation with the lady at the bookstore about literature. If I'm here (as in "staying in the Keys," as opposed to Miami), I guarantee I'll stop by her store again next year.
The three video blogs offer some evidence of the range of my moods. The first was shot in the Homestead-Miami Speedway infield. I'm really relaxed and content. The second was after all the pre-race frustrations. I'm talking to the air out on the stairwell, more for therapy than entertainment. The third was the next afternoon (Monday), when I felt as content and philosophical as some mystic. Or ascetic. Or some other word that ends with "-tic." I would think none was "lunatic."
One side of me wishes I had a few more days to clear my mind here in Key Largo. Another can't wait to get home.
I'll be co-hosting NASCAR shows on Sirius (NASCAR Channel 128) on Wednesday (11 a.m.-3 p.m.), Saturday (noon-3 p.m.) and Sunday (noon-3 p.m.).
I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving, my favorite holiday. As a general rule, Thanksgiving is all good. The family gets together and it's pleasant. Christmas can get petty. Or maybe it's just that I get tired of normal life.
I've been a gypsy too long.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Back before things got rotten
photo: Jim Hunter, NASCAR communications exec who died last Friday of cancer at age 71.
TALLADEGA, Ala. – It’s Halloween at Talladega, and neither Jim Hunter nor Ed Shull is here.
Where are the grown-ups going to get their tricks and treats? Beats me.
Kids live in a Halloween world in which one night of the year, they get apples and candied corn and Zagnuts and all kinds of stuff that cost a penny when I was a kid and now runs at least a quarter.
Grown-ups live in a Halloween world all the time, and guys like Hunter and Shull made it bearable, doling out jokes and smart-alecky remarks, all of which, on balance, were enjoyable. Both could, when necessary, spew what seemed like acid from their tongues, sort of like unto a velociraptor, but the taste left in your mouth was never worse than dark, semi-sweet chocolate. Both could also charm a cobra without need of a flute.
Hunter, who died Friday night, was titular. He always held positions of influence: vice president of this or that, president of Darlington Raceway. Hunter never got sent out to a pasture that would hold him long. He could wield power and influence whether occupying the crown or just telling the despot in training what to do in order to keep the rabble in check. In terms of public relations, Hunter was the equivalent of what Jake Gaither said about Bear Bryant: He could take his’uns and beat y’ourn or take y’ourn and beat his’uns. I’d have liked a “flack-off” between Hunter and Humpy Wheeler. There’s no way the National Stock Car Racing Commission could have judged the outcome. The Supreme Court would have had to flip a coin.
The two men, Hunter and Wheeler, once played football, at the same time, at the University of South Carolina, on teams that weren’t notably successful. That’s almost certainly coincidental, but one can’t help but wonder what the Gamecocks had in the water coolers on the sidelines back in the late 1950s.
Wheeler said, via one of dozens of statements circulated on Saturday and one of the few that meant anything other than to meet perceived obligations, “Jim Hunter will be sorely missed because he knew more about pure media relations, and particularly how it relates to the fan, than anyone in motor racing. He was best in crisis, always giving sage advice behind the scenes. He also knew when to interject humor when everyone was ready to crack.”
That’s a fact. Several times he talked to me when I was ready to crack.
Not as many knew Shull, who passed away earlier in the week. A pity. I only had lunch with Hunter once, back in those confused days before NASCAR wrote guys like me off. Hunter and I didn’t dine more often because he probably had a purpose in mind any time he dined. It was in Michigan, back in the 1990s, and Hunter got me together with Jim France, probably because he suspected I had an aversion to anyone with that last name, and he wanted to preserve the reputation of at least one member of the ruling family in my jaded mind.
In one way, it worked. I enjoyed it. In another way, it didn’t. I don’t think Jim France and I have exchanged a word since. I’d be shocked if he has any idea who I am. I do think the quiet member of the family has a lot of sense, which may have something to do with why he doesn’t often traffic in sportswriters.
Shull and I had dinner many times, not because there was any notable reason but more because we enjoyed each other’s company. A typical Shull confab might include yours truly, David Poole, Ray Cooper, Dan Zacharias and a few others, and it might take the form of meeting at (a.) a restaurant that hardly anyone other than us knew about, or (b.) a ballgame, usually involving a pass to one of the luxury suites Gatorade used to have in most of the country’s venues. Shull once invited me to the World Series, which I turned down because I thought my presence alone would contribute to the likelihood of a victory by the New York Yankees. I didn’t go and the Yankees didn’t win, so I’ve no regrets even though it’s probably the only chance I’m ever going to have at seeing the World Series, given this infernal world I’m in.
That was a different century, and in terms of what I do for a living and what Shull did, a different world.
A man in my shoes can’t afford to compromise himself, and that was never an issue with either Hunter or Shull. I hardly ever go to dinner or ballgames or concerts anymore with any “official” who invites me. Then again, hardly anyone ever invites me.
Everything nowadays has to be for a purpose. Influence the media. Affect the outcome. Target the market. Grease the skids. Stuff the ballots.
Most of my dealings with Hunter and Shull were because I liked them, and they liked me. They knew I was too stubborn to be influenced, and I’m pretty sure I told both of them, “Now, you realize, just to make sure there isn’t an issue, I’m going to have to rip you.”
It was a point I didn’t need to get across. I was mainly kidding. They both laughed. Now they’re gone. So are Poole and Cooper. And I don’t laugh quite as often.
Hand to enjoy the crazy fashion fun to drive car
Nowadays, many of my friends will use mobile phones in their free time to play games, it has become fashionable. However, various games, racing games is undoubtedly one of the most popular. With the rapid development of science and technology, and now the phone has a large gravity sensing and touch screen. This allows those [...]
And the Band Plays On...
Sunrise in the mirrorLightens that invisible load
Riding on a nameless quest
Haunting that wilderness road
(RUSh lyrics - Ghost Rider; Vapor Trails, 2002)
So, I was tryin? to think of some catchy RUSh song title to weave into the header for this story ? as karmicly the radio?s playin? Tom Sawyer: ?NO his Mind is NOT for rent ? to any Art or Government;? Catch the Spirit, Catch the Spit!? (Whale it was way back when I began typin? away awhile ago...)
As how many hundreds ?O times have I heard ?N sung along to that most epic ?Ye musical melody from thee ?Kuhnadiun Crunch, aka The Power Trio from Up North Eh! As I?ve just discovered that the Boyz ?O Summer will be playing arguably their finest album of all time in its entirety this tour ? an album from three decades ago titled Moving Pictures ? which would have been the perfect symmetry for me to end my association with the band, as that was my very first ever concert of there?s way back when in the Coliseum...
Yet I suppose there?s some sorta further symmetry here, eh? As it is indeed ironic that without any forethought, I?d just haveda passed back thru Ellensburg, WA upon a 5-day Sojourn over duh Mountains to our dry side of the state, to which my Motorcoach?s operator, head cook ?N bottle washer... Shush! DON?T tell herz; as Mary Ellen informed me that we were approximately 75-miles shy of the Gorge in George, WA ? where the Boyz will be dropping by this very night upon their Time Machine Tour; CRIKEYS! As I haven?t seen Geddy, Alex and whom Pamela coined ?Thee Rhythm Professor,? a.k.a. Neil Peart since 2008; as Danny will undoubtedly be chidin? Mwah ?bout whether or not there still playin? their only HIT song Working Man? Whilst another ex-friend Marco couldn?t believe I wasn?t gonna be attending the concert, as the Gorge Amphitheatre with Columbia River as the stages backdrop is a great venue to partake a concert at... As I just hope the wind dies down, as the last time I saw RUSh play there 3-years ago the wind was fierce enough to totally blow the sound around cattywompus ? making it a very disappointing show for Mwah ? soundwise... Which potentially doesn?t bode well for this evening?s show since it was windier then all ?GeddyUp the first two days we were in Eastern Washington ? as symbiotically I?m playin? chase the radio?s signal around the dial as I try FURR-iously poondin? out this delectable piece ?O poetry; Hya! As that was a pun intended for the two Bitches who accompanied us North by Northwest, or was it South by Southeast?
And like the previous RUSh song Ghost Rider from above:From the white sands
To the canyon lands
To the redwood stands
To the barren lands
With it being full tilt boogy to get outta Dodge prior to Ye dreaded rush hour traffic Monday afternoon in our hurkin? motel on wheels machine ? a nearly three decades old 24? RV with ?Feurd?s? largest big block gasoline V-8 motor in the front cab, as the 460cid gets a miserly 8-10 miles to the gallon of petrol; SHEISA!
As Mary Ellen sez: Yuhs DON?T wanna make a wrong turn in that rig ? ?cause it?ll cost Yuhs a half-gallon of petrol to just go back ?round the block; CRIKEYS!
As we spent the first night nestled into another excellante campsite in the forests of the Cascades ? where we were awoken to the sound of steadily increasing precipitation bouncin? off the vehicles ceiling in the early morning hours.
And Yuhs know you?re losing it when you get more excited ?bout smelling the wild roses on your favourite hiking trail in the Yakima River Canyon/Valley/Basin... As Mary Ellen informed Mwah that the Yakima River meanders all the way from Snoqualmie Falls to the Columbia! As we?d traverse the trail three times in all, the first being in what Mary Ellen noted as when ONLY Mad Dogs ?N Englishmen go for walks, i.e.; in the BLOODY HEAT of the Midday; Hya! As we had to be on guard for ?Rattler?s, i.e.; Rattlesnakes which apparently are prevalent during the summer months in the High Desert plains ? having thought they were only a concern in the Valley of the Sun, Err Arizona. As your Humble Scribe even thought he?d heard ?Juan on our third ?Walkabout in the Bush ? first hearing a slithering noise and then a muted low tome rattling in the high grasses opposite the beaten path...
And speakin? O petroleum burning, tyre beltchin? machinery ? I?m gonna Exit Stage Left ?n go watch the ?Aussie Boyz pound ?round in their V8 Supercars...
Riding on a nameless quest
Haunting that wilderness road
(RUSh lyrics - Ghost Rider; Vapor Trails, 2002)
So, I was tryin? to think of some catchy RUSh song title to weave into the header for this story ? as karmicly the radio?s playin? Tom Sawyer: ?NO his Mind is NOT for rent ? to any Art or Government;? Catch the Spirit, Catch the Spit!? (Whale it was way back when I began typin? away awhile ago...)
As how many hundreds ?O times have I heard ?N sung along to that most epic ?Ye musical melody from thee ?Kuhnadiun Crunch, aka The Power Trio from Up North Eh! As I?ve just discovered that the Boyz ?O Summer will be playing arguably their finest album of all time in its entirety this tour ? an album from three decades ago titled Moving Pictures ? which would have been the perfect symmetry for me to end my association with the band, as that was my very first ever concert of there?s way back when in the Coliseum...
Yet I suppose there?s some sorta further symmetry here, eh? As it is indeed ironic that without any forethought, I?d just haveda passed back thru Ellensburg, WA upon a 5-day Sojourn over duh Mountains to our dry side of the state, to which my Motorcoach?s operator, head cook ?N bottle washer... Shush! DON?T tell herz; as Mary Ellen informed me that we were approximately 75-miles shy of the Gorge in George, WA ? where the Boyz will be dropping by this very night upon their Time Machine Tour; CRIKEYS! As I haven?t seen Geddy, Alex and whom Pamela coined ?Thee Rhythm Professor,? a.k.a. Neil Peart since 2008; as Danny will undoubtedly be chidin? Mwah ?bout whether or not there still playin? their only HIT song Working Man? Whilst another ex-friend Marco couldn?t believe I wasn?t gonna be attending the concert, as the Gorge Amphitheatre with Columbia River as the stages backdrop is a great venue to partake a concert at... As I just hope the wind dies down, as the last time I saw RUSh play there 3-years ago the wind was fierce enough to totally blow the sound around cattywompus ? making it a very disappointing show for Mwah ? soundwise... Which potentially doesn?t bode well for this evening?s show since it was windier then all ?GeddyUp the first two days we were in Eastern Washington ? as symbiotically I?m playin? chase the radio?s signal around the dial as I try FURR-iously poondin? out this delectable piece ?O poetry; Hya! As that was a pun intended for the two Bitches who accompanied us North by Northwest, or was it South by Southeast?
And like the previous RUSh song Ghost Rider from above:From the white sands
To the canyon lands
To the redwood stands
To the barren lands
With it being full tilt boogy to get outta Dodge prior to Ye dreaded rush hour traffic Monday afternoon in our hurkin? motel on wheels machine ? a nearly three decades old 24? RV with ?Feurd?s? largest big block gasoline V-8 motor in the front cab, as the 460cid gets a miserly 8-10 miles to the gallon of petrol; SHEISA!
As Mary Ellen sez: Yuhs DON?T wanna make a wrong turn in that rig ? ?cause it?ll cost Yuhs a half-gallon of petrol to just go back ?round the block; CRIKEYS!
As we spent the first night nestled into another excellante campsite in the forests of the Cascades ? where we were awoken to the sound of steadily increasing precipitation bouncin? off the vehicles ceiling in the early morning hours.
And Yuhs know you?re losing it when you get more excited ?bout smelling the wild roses on your favourite hiking trail in the Yakima River Canyon/Valley/Basin... As Mary Ellen informed Mwah that the Yakima River meanders all the way from Snoqualmie Falls to the Columbia! As we?d traverse the trail three times in all, the first being in what Mary Ellen noted as when ONLY Mad Dogs ?N Englishmen go for walks, i.e.; in the BLOODY HEAT of the Midday; Hya! As we had to be on guard for ?Rattler?s, i.e.; Rattlesnakes which apparently are prevalent during the summer months in the High Desert plains ? having thought they were only a concern in the Valley of the Sun, Err Arizona. As your Humble Scribe even thought he?d heard ?Juan on our third ?Walkabout in the Bush ? first hearing a slithering noise and then a muted low tome rattling in the high grasses opposite the beaten path...
And speakin? O petroleum burning, tyre beltchin? machinery ? I?m gonna Exit Stage Left ?n go watch the ?Aussie Boyz pound ?round in their V8 Supercars...
Closing In On The Cut: Looking At How The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Chase For The Championship Is Shaping Up
The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series hits the halfway point of its 36-event 2011 schedule Saturday night when the series visits Kentucky Speedway for the first time ever.
Though reaching that halfway point means that after the race at Kentucky there will only be eight events remaining before NASCAR set's the 12-driver field for its annual 10-race Chase for the Championship to close out the season.
Though reaching that halfway point means that after the race at Kentucky there will only be eight events remaining before NASCAR set's the 12-driver field for its annual 10-race Chase for the Championship to close out the season.
Shawn Monahan Wins Rough Limited Sportsman Event At Thompson; Larry Barnett Leaving The Division
THOMPSON - A week ago at Thompson International Speedway Limited Late Model driver Shawn Monahan seemingly hit everything but the lottery in a mess of an event.
This week Monahan hit everything just right and took home the big money.
Monahan inherited the top spot when leader Larry Barnett was wrecked on lap 10 and never trailed again on the way to his third victory of the season in the 20-lap Limited Sportsman feature.
"That was probably the roughest race up here to date," Monahan said.
This week Monahan hit everything just right and took home the big money.
Monahan inherited the top spot when leader Larry Barnett was wrecked on lap 10 and never trailed again on the way to his third victory of the season in the 20-lap Limited Sportsman feature.
"That was probably the roughest race up here to date," Monahan said.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Hamster racing at the UK
International Online Zhuangao: According to “Daily Mail” reported on August 20, recently, in Durham in the vicinity of Valley Children’s Adventure Playground held a spectacular racing. Participating in the “driver” is a cute fluffy little hamster only. In this interesting game, each has its own small hamster racing, this trait is installed on the car [...]
Kevin Harvick Incredible Save 2011 NASCAR Nationwide Series Subway Jalapeno 250 at Daytona
Sideways at 190MPH? Not a problem for Kevin Harvick Related Blogs Related Reading: NASCAR Challenge NASCAR 09 Mechanix Wear MG-71-010 Original Glove, Camo, Large
Kickin? It Brickyard Style
The Brickyard 400 is quickly approaching and while I?ll be perfectly content interning behind the scenes with the media department, it?s great to imagine what I?d be doing if I were attending as a fan. Conveniently enough, the Build Your Own Experience program allows me to do just that! Building your own experience consists of [...]
Hall of Fame nominee announcement on Thursday
NASCAR announced on Monday that the 25 nominees for the 2011 induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame will be revealed at 8 p.m. ET on Thursday. The official announcement will be made on a special edition of the network’s show, “NASCAR Race Hub.”
According to a press release from NASCAR, there will be be at [...]
According to a press release from NASCAR, there will be be at [...]
Forget LBJ: The Texas Tornado Delivers In The Clutch
The information lines of the sports world are taut today with criticism of LeBron James after the heavily favored Miami Heat lost to the Dallas Mavericks in six games in the NBA Finals. LeChoke was a common name used for James after he disappeared in the fourth quarter of games in the Finals just 11 [...]
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
NASCAR This Week ends operations today
It's been a hoot, but we gotta scoot.
NASCAR This Week is ending operations on Monday, December 6, and will go offline on Dec. 17.
While traffic to the site has continued to grow since April 2008 when we came online, NASCAR This Week failed to meet its financial expectations.
We’d like to thank Monte for his generous permission to feed all his stories to this site. We still believe he’s the best NASCAR journalist out there, and wonder if the NASCAR heat we got last summer was due more to Monte’s voice than the few bucks we were making off advertising.
Keep giving ‘em hell, Monte!
Monte will continue to cover NASCAR. You can find his stories on the NASCAR page at the Gaston Gazette where he works, as well as his blog, also located on the Gaston Gazette website. Monte also posts blogs on his personal MySpace page, and he also maintains a music MySpace page where you can hear his songs and find out where he’s performing next. He also has a page on Facebook.
We also want to thank all of you for stopping by over the past few years to catch Monte’s latest, join in the comment conversation or just enjoying some NASCAR octane.
Please leave us a message of farewell if you care to in the comments section below.
For the next couple of weeks we’ll leave up some of Monte’s best stories from the season. We think they offer ample evidence of why you should continue to follow Monte where you can. As we said, we think he’s the best around.
Here’s to great racin’ in the years to come!
-- Ovalscream
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