NASCAR Nextel Cup Awards Banquet
Did anyone besides me spend three valuable hours of your time watching this Annual Nextel Cup Awards Banquet? To say that it was a HUGE disappointment is the understatement of the century. The first let down was the fact that Bill Weber was Master of Ceremonies, as if we don't see WAY TOO MUCH OF HIM during the regular season, then, where oh where did they get that so called comedian??? He was a flop last year and definately was again this year. I think Michael Waltrip and Kenny Schrader would have gotten more laughs out of the crowd, at least they are funny ! ! ! Maybe I'll e-mail Bill France or Brian France or whomever and make that very suggestion. What do you think???
Victory Junction Run, Half Marathon and 4.5k
Over 800 runners participated in the inaugural run. The Victory Junction Gang Camp teamed up with John "The Penguin" Bingham, Runners World Columnist and founder of John Bingham Racing for the inaugural Victory Junction Run on Sunday December 3rd.
"When we set out to do this event, we hoped to get 500 participants," said Kyle Petty, NASCAR Driver and founder of Victory Junction Gang Camp. "To have 800 participants come out for the run Victory Junction Run is hugely successful. I am estatic and can't wait to have an even larger event next year. More than $65,000 was raised from the run; whichis a great demonstration of people's passion to help enhance the experience for the children that visit the Victory Junction Gang Camp.
NASCAR's Champ Disabled In The Off-Season ? ? ?
Jimmie Johnson broke his left wrist Friday in a golf tournament when he fell out of a golf cart in Lacanto, FL. This will prevent him from driving for at least four weeks. The injury was to his non-shifting hand so he should be able to participate in pre-season testing at Daytona International Speedway next month. I guess my question would be: How do you fall out of a golf cart??? I guess I wasn't aware of how dangerous golfing could be for a person, especially a tough NASCAR Driver.
In addition, Johnson will obviously not be able to compete in the Race of Champions Nations Cup at the Stade de France in Paris next weekend, but never fear Johnson will still make the trip to Paris as a consultant for the Team USA. Life really gets rough for some NASCAR drivers, doesn't it???
Ricky Rudd To RYR
After nearly a year off from NASCAR Nextel Cup racing, Rudd and Robert Yates have agreed to join forces once again in what could prove to be more than just a nostalgic joyride down memory lane. Rudd, 50, replaces Dale Jarrett, his former teammate at RYR for three seasons starting in 2000. Jarrett has since joined Michael Waltrip Racing but Butch Hylton will continue in his role as the Yates' team's Crew Chief. It is most likely that Rudd will revive up his former car number - - - the 28 - - - one of the most popular numbers in NASCAR. The candy giant Mars, which already sopnsors Yates' Number 38 M&M Ford, also will back Rudd's effort. I personally wish Ricky Rudd the best for the 2007 Season. I guess I have a soft spot for the veterans, it could have something to do with my age ! ! !
Chex Most Popular Driver Award
Am I the only one confused by this award. Last year the folks at Chex were extremely late in announcing the winner. In fact I heard through the "grapevine" that Michael Waltrip had won the award.
Then a day or so ago I happen to notice that the posted the official winner of the 2006 Award, that of Dale Earnhardt, Jr. , they say for the fourth consecutive year. So how can that be if Michael Waltrip won last year. I realize that this is not a huge deal - - - but you would think that they could get a simple contest done right, wouldn't you??? I don't care who wins - - - obviously the driver with the most votes wins - - - there's no rocket surgery here. I find this interesting to say the least.
That's all for now.
The Wal-NutzManiac
Monday, December 11, 2006
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
NASCAR News - - Post Homestead-Miami Speedway
"Congratulations To Jimmie Johnson"
Okay, now I've said it, those were the toughest words that have ever come out of my mouth/keyboard, but at least he finally won his championship and maybe, just maybe we won't have to hear all the whinning about it now. I just, for the life of me, cannot understand how it is that a cheating crew chief can spend several weekends on suspension, working from home, which should NOT be allowed, and still pull off a championship. Especially since this was not the first time he was caught cheating !!! There seems to be something wrong with the justice system in this country, that has even spilled over into what used to be my favorite sport. But I guess the new way of life is that "right is now wrong and wrong is now right". I'm sorry, I just don't get it. Kasey Kahne wins six races, Johnson wins five, yet Johnson is crowned the Champion ? ? ?
Don't get me wrong, I used to be one of Johnson's fans, although not to the extent that I am Mikey's Fan. But I am seeing that he has taken on the same attitude as his four time championship holder, teammate, and I find that disgusting. And while I'm on this rant, I think that Johnson has a "wimpy" way of driving a racecar. I ask you, who else gets out there and drives like "the little old lady from Pasadena"??? He says, right out, that he doesn't want to mess up his car, well, if you don't want to mess up your car, get it off the racetrack, Pal. I have to tell you that I could not believe my ears when I heard him say, on Sunday, that he was just laying back, making laps, from the comfortable points position, God forbid he would mess up his car. Well, let me tell you that that is NOT why I am a fan, to watch someone taking a "Sunday afternoon run around the track". Oh yeah, and don't let the other 33 "non-chase drivers" touch my car, PLEASE. Yeah right.
Like I said, what a disgrace to my sport. I won't even to into how I feel about NASCAR, except to say that they are ONLY looking for the almighty dollar, and they seem to have a different standard, depending on thich race team (i.e. "The Golden Boys") you are talking about, but then what do I know, I'm only a fan, or soon to be former fan of NASCAR. (???)
Race and Commercial Breakdown Of The FORD 400
Total number of commercials: 151
Total number of Companies or entities advertised: 76
Total number of brief promos of products/services during the race broadcast: 25
Restarts missed due to being away at commercials: 0 (???)
Total minutes: 221
Minutes of race broadcast: 147
Minutes of commercials: 74
Dale Jarrett To Michael Waltrip Racing, Inc. ! ! !
After concluding his run in the #88 FORD for Robert Yates Racing on Sunday, Dale Jarrett will be going to Baltimore next week where he's scheduled to have surgery on his left hand. Jarrett broke his hand in a crash at Infineon Raceway last June, apparently it has not healed properly. Dale also has a birthday coming up on November 26th. I want to extend my well wishes on his surgery and also wish him a Happy Birthday. As most of you know, Dale is moving over to Michael Waltrip Racing in 2007 and I couldn't be any happier. I know Dale will only be an asset to our organization, he is a Class Act, in my humble opinion. Welcome Aboard Dale ! ! !
Pain Relief, Anyone ? ? ?
Goody's Headache Powders, a staple in NASCAR since 1977, will be replaced by Tylenol next season as the sport's official pain reliever. It's yet another break the stock car racing series is making from its longtime partners. But Goody's plans to stay involved with Petty Enterprises and continue its relationship with Martinsville Speedway, where thay sponsored a Busch Series race this season. I'm sure that the drivers and teams that have fallen outside of the Top 35 in owner points, appreciate knowing where to go for some much needed pain relief. I know, I know, MY Driver is sadly on of them, though no fault of his own, I might add.
15 of 16 COT's Rejected ? ? ?
Only one of 16 "Car Of Tomorrow" entries submitted to NASCAR by the Nextel Cup Series teams for pre-certification as received clearence so far. It looks, to me, as if its going to be a busy off-season, Boys. NASCAR is currently going down a list by car owner points and allowing teams to take completed version of the COT- - - which will be used in 16 Cup races next season - - - to its Research and Development Center in Concord, N.C. for pre-certification. This process is REQUIRED for any car of tomorrow to be used next season and must be completed before the car appears at the track for a race, said Brett Bodine, a member of NASCAR's R&D team and director of cost containment.
Congratulations To Kevin Harvick ! ! !
As if it came as any surprise, Kevin Harvick was handed the NASCAR Busch Series Championship Trophy, Saturday night. Like I said before, I have really enjoyed watching Kevin "spank them" this season, with, what was it 874 points ahead of second place ??? Although I know he's a "Buschwacker" and something needs to be done about that situation, yet and still Kevin got the job done in style, and you gotta love that smile ! ! !
Speaking of the Busch Series, did I hear correctly, that they are going to lower the driver age to sixteen ? ? ? At first I thought that that was awful young, but then again some of these "kids" have been racin' since they were four or five years old. I guess it only proves that the author of this blog is showing her age, again ! ! !
My "Better Luck Next Season" List
Okay, here's my Better Luck Next Season List. Boy, has this been a tough blog to write, or what??? And of course you know who is on my list and what I've about to say, in that some of them need improvement through no fault of their own. Let's just call it bad circumstances, shall we ???
Driver Finishing Position
1. Carl Edwards 12th
2. Gregg Biffle 13th
3. Ryan Newman 18th
4. Jamie McMurray 25th
5. Michael Waltrip 37th
Michael has already admitted that this has been the worst season of his career. But I want to go on the record as saying that I still stand behind MY Driver, this guy has worked and driven his big ol' heart out this season and I for one appreciate all of his efforts and as I have said so many times - - - I will still be his fan, if he were to be driving the Pace Car, the Tow Truck or even the Emergency Vehicle ! ! !
I am excited and looking forward to the 2007 Season and seeing first hand what the TOYOTA Camry can do on the racetrack. I'm NOT saying that we will win the 2007 Championship - - but at least we will be headed in the right direction, for a change AND we won't be relying on someone else to supposedly get the job done. Best of luck to MY Driver and all the rest of the drivers that finished outside of the Top 35 in owner points, a new day and a new season is fast approaching, at least I hope it is fast approaching, cause I miss the races already ! ! !
Changes To Be Made In 2007
Jimmy Spencer behind the wheel, again ??? I read an article that I just can't get my head around. Jimmy Spencer going to the #73 team. The #73 team, you ask ??? I'm hearing that Spencer is back in 2007 on a part-time basis for Revelocity Racing, a new team in the Nextel Cup Series, formed by a group of four businessmen from West Verginia, they plan to run all of the Car Of Tomorrow races in 2007. All I can say is there must not be any other drivers left on the planet ! ! !
Casey Mears to Hendrick Motorsports - - All I can say is, "Why Casey Why???"
Jeremy Mayfield to Bill Davis Racing - - - All I can say is, "What were YOU thinkin' ?"
I realize that I've only scratched the surface of the "Silly Season", but I will be back during the off-season, as more news becomes available. After all, I'm "The Wal-NutzManiac", with a nose for news ! ! !
Learn Something New Every Day
I was not aware of the fact that all the winner of "The Pole" gets, besides the pole, is the first dibbs on the Pit Stalls. I guess I just assumed that there were points involved somewhere along the way. So now I'm thinking about the possible changes to "The Chase" format to - - increase the number of points for the WIN and adding points for winning the pole. Oh yeah, and by the way, they can DO AWAY with "The Chase" altogether and go back to the "Olden Days" where a race was - - well, A RACE ! ! !
Don't Forget To Mark Your Calendars
The Awards Banquet for the Nextel Cup Series will be held at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City on Friday, December 1st, 2006 at 9:00 PM Eastern Time to be seen on TNT.
The Awards Banquet for the Craftsman Truck Series will be held at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort on Friday, December 29th at 9:00 PM Eastern Time to be seen on SPEED.
The Awards Banquet for the Busch Series will be also be held at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort, but the date has not been announced as of yet. I will keep you posted as soon as I hear.
Congratulations To Todd Bodine ! ! !
I almost forgot to offer my congratulations to Todd Bodine for winning the Craftsman Truck Series Championship.
I am a fan of Johnny Benson, when it comes to the trucks, and needless to say, I was disappointed to see him get wrecked in the final race of the season, but I thought he has an awesome year inspite of it. Good Job, JB ! ! !
That's all I have for you today. I hope you all have a wonderful off-season, especially with all the Holidays coming up. Like I said, I'll be around here during the off-season, as long as there is news to report and discuss, so check back and see what's happening ! ! !
Happy Holidays to all ! ! !
The Wal-NutzManiac
"Congratulations To Jimmie Johnson"
Okay, now I've said it, those were the toughest words that have ever come out of my mouth/keyboard, but at least he finally won his championship and maybe, just maybe we won't have to hear all the whinning about it now. I just, for the life of me, cannot understand how it is that a cheating crew chief can spend several weekends on suspension, working from home, which should NOT be allowed, and still pull off a championship. Especially since this was not the first time he was caught cheating !!! There seems to be something wrong with the justice system in this country, that has even spilled over into what used to be my favorite sport. But I guess the new way of life is that "right is now wrong and wrong is now right". I'm sorry, I just don't get it. Kasey Kahne wins six races, Johnson wins five, yet Johnson is crowned the Champion ? ? ?
Don't get me wrong, I used to be one of Johnson's fans, although not to the extent that I am Mikey's Fan. But I am seeing that he has taken on the same attitude as his four time championship holder, teammate, and I find that disgusting. And while I'm on this rant, I think that Johnson has a "wimpy" way of driving a racecar. I ask you, who else gets out there and drives like "the little old lady from Pasadena"??? He says, right out, that he doesn't want to mess up his car, well, if you don't want to mess up your car, get it off the racetrack, Pal. I have to tell you that I could not believe my ears when I heard him say, on Sunday, that he was just laying back, making laps, from the comfortable points position, God forbid he would mess up his car. Well, let me tell you that that is NOT why I am a fan, to watch someone taking a "Sunday afternoon run around the track". Oh yeah, and don't let the other 33 "non-chase drivers" touch my car, PLEASE. Yeah right.
Like I said, what a disgrace to my sport. I won't even to into how I feel about NASCAR, except to say that they are ONLY looking for the almighty dollar, and they seem to have a different standard, depending on thich race team (i.e. "The Golden Boys") you are talking about, but then what do I know, I'm only a fan, or soon to be former fan of NASCAR. (???)
Race and Commercial Breakdown Of The FORD 400
Total number of commercials: 151
Total number of Companies or entities advertised: 76
Total number of brief promos of products/services during the race broadcast: 25
Restarts missed due to being away at commercials: 0 (???)
Total minutes: 221
Minutes of race broadcast: 147
Minutes of commercials: 74
Dale Jarrett To Michael Waltrip Racing, Inc. ! ! !
After concluding his run in the #88 FORD for Robert Yates Racing on Sunday, Dale Jarrett will be going to Baltimore next week where he's scheduled to have surgery on his left hand. Jarrett broke his hand in a crash at Infineon Raceway last June, apparently it has not healed properly. Dale also has a birthday coming up on November 26th. I want to extend my well wishes on his surgery and also wish him a Happy Birthday. As most of you know, Dale is moving over to Michael Waltrip Racing in 2007 and I couldn't be any happier. I know Dale will only be an asset to our organization, he is a Class Act, in my humble opinion. Welcome Aboard Dale ! ! !
Pain Relief, Anyone ? ? ?
Goody's Headache Powders, a staple in NASCAR since 1977, will be replaced by Tylenol next season as the sport's official pain reliever. It's yet another break the stock car racing series is making from its longtime partners. But Goody's plans to stay involved with Petty Enterprises and continue its relationship with Martinsville Speedway, where thay sponsored a Busch Series race this season. I'm sure that the drivers and teams that have fallen outside of the Top 35 in owner points, appreciate knowing where to go for some much needed pain relief. I know, I know, MY Driver is sadly on of them, though no fault of his own, I might add.
15 of 16 COT's Rejected ? ? ?
Only one of 16 "Car Of Tomorrow" entries submitted to NASCAR by the Nextel Cup Series teams for pre-certification as received clearence so far. It looks, to me, as if its going to be a busy off-season, Boys. NASCAR is currently going down a list by car owner points and allowing teams to take completed version of the COT- - - which will be used in 16 Cup races next season - - - to its Research and Development Center in Concord, N.C. for pre-certification. This process is REQUIRED for any car of tomorrow to be used next season and must be completed before the car appears at the track for a race, said Brett Bodine, a member of NASCAR's R&D team and director of cost containment.
Congratulations To Kevin Harvick ! ! !
As if it came as any surprise, Kevin Harvick was handed the NASCAR Busch Series Championship Trophy, Saturday night. Like I said before, I have really enjoyed watching Kevin "spank them" this season, with, what was it 874 points ahead of second place ??? Although I know he's a "Buschwacker" and something needs to be done about that situation, yet and still Kevin got the job done in style, and you gotta love that smile ! ! !
Speaking of the Busch Series, did I hear correctly, that they are going to lower the driver age to sixteen ? ? ? At first I thought that that was awful young, but then again some of these "kids" have been racin' since they were four or five years old. I guess it only proves that the author of this blog is showing her age, again ! ! !
My "Better Luck Next Season" List
Okay, here's my Better Luck Next Season List. Boy, has this been a tough blog to write, or what??? And of course you know who is on my list and what I've about to say, in that some of them need improvement through no fault of their own. Let's just call it bad circumstances, shall we ???
Driver Finishing Position
1. Carl Edwards 12th
2. Gregg Biffle 13th
3. Ryan Newman 18th
4. Jamie McMurray 25th
5. Michael Waltrip 37th
Michael has already admitted that this has been the worst season of his career. But I want to go on the record as saying that I still stand behind MY Driver, this guy has worked and driven his big ol' heart out this season and I for one appreciate all of his efforts and as I have said so many times - - - I will still be his fan, if he were to be driving the Pace Car, the Tow Truck or even the Emergency Vehicle ! ! !
I am excited and looking forward to the 2007 Season and seeing first hand what the TOYOTA Camry can do on the racetrack. I'm NOT saying that we will win the 2007 Championship - - but at least we will be headed in the right direction, for a change AND we won't be relying on someone else to supposedly get the job done. Best of luck to MY Driver and all the rest of the drivers that finished outside of the Top 35 in owner points, a new day and a new season is fast approaching, at least I hope it is fast approaching, cause I miss the races already ! ! !
Changes To Be Made In 2007
Jimmy Spencer behind the wheel, again ??? I read an article that I just can't get my head around. Jimmy Spencer going to the #73 team. The #73 team, you ask ??? I'm hearing that Spencer is back in 2007 on a part-time basis for Revelocity Racing, a new team in the Nextel Cup Series, formed by a group of four businessmen from West Verginia, they plan to run all of the Car Of Tomorrow races in 2007. All I can say is there must not be any other drivers left on the planet ! ! !
Casey Mears to Hendrick Motorsports - - All I can say is, "Why Casey Why???"
Jeremy Mayfield to Bill Davis Racing - - - All I can say is, "What were YOU thinkin' ?"
I realize that I've only scratched the surface of the "Silly Season", but I will be back during the off-season, as more news becomes available. After all, I'm "The Wal-NutzManiac", with a nose for news ! ! !
Learn Something New Every Day
I was not aware of the fact that all the winner of "The Pole" gets, besides the pole, is the first dibbs on the Pit Stalls. I guess I just assumed that there were points involved somewhere along the way. So now I'm thinking about the possible changes to "The Chase" format to - - increase the number of points for the WIN and adding points for winning the pole. Oh yeah, and by the way, they can DO AWAY with "The Chase" altogether and go back to the "Olden Days" where a race was - - well, A RACE ! ! !
Don't Forget To Mark Your Calendars
The Awards Banquet for the Nextel Cup Series will be held at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City on Friday, December 1st, 2006 at 9:00 PM Eastern Time to be seen on TNT.
The Awards Banquet for the Craftsman Truck Series will be held at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort on Friday, December 29th at 9:00 PM Eastern Time to be seen on SPEED.
The Awards Banquet for the Busch Series will be also be held at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort, but the date has not been announced as of yet. I will keep you posted as soon as I hear.
Congratulations To Todd Bodine ! ! !
I almost forgot to offer my congratulations to Todd Bodine for winning the Craftsman Truck Series Championship.
I am a fan of Johnny Benson, when it comes to the trucks, and needless to say, I was disappointed to see him get wrecked in the final race of the season, but I thought he has an awesome year inspite of it. Good Job, JB ! ! !
That's all I have for you today. I hope you all have a wonderful off-season, especially with all the Holidays coming up. Like I said, I'll be around here during the off-season, as long as there is news to report and discuss, so check back and see what's happening ! ! !
Happy Holidays to all ! ! !
The Wal-NutzManiac
Thursday, November 16, 2006
As The 2006 NASCAR Season Closes - - - Was It All Too Much Of A Good Thing ??
The hottest topic of debate on the NASCAR circut as the season drags to an end is whether or not the format for the Chase for the Nextel Cup should be altered.
Many of the ideas being thrown around supposedly have merit, awarding more points for a victory and the Pole Sitter ??? I don't see where that's going to help the situation. Am I missing something??? And here's the one I've heard the longest, allowing more drivers into the Chase. Why??? So that there will be more drivers that the "non-chasers" are supposed to "roll over and play dead" for??? In other words, their supposed to "clear the way" for "The Chasers", I'm sorry, I thought these were races where every body was supposed to "drive like they stole it". Unlike the points leader, who has to worry about taking care of his equipment. I'm not saying to go out there and race a demolition derby, but I also don't think you need to go out there and drive like a senior citizen either (Sorry Mom & Dad!). What, is he afraid to get his white gloves dirty or what??? If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen, Jimmie !!!
Some folks see NASCAR on a totally negative side, teams are using too much technology, whatever that means, they are spending too much money, the season drags out over the entire year (February to November) with little time off for the Holidays. I think anyone who has any of these complaints needs to go do something else with their time and leave the AVID fan, like myself, alone to watch our races in peace.
Less than half of the races this season have been sell-outs with crowds at California Speedway especially disappointing. Even the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard had empty seats in 2006, producing the smallest crowd in its 13 year history. Even television ratings have been down, with 16 races showing a decline of more than 10%. NASCAR officials say part of the problem is that NBC was a lame-duck broadcasting partner, as the sport switches TV contracts during the upcoming offseason, ABC and ESPN are part of the new package and of course they expect them to "do a Golden Job" of cross-marketing their telecasts. Yeah right !!! Don't worry, race fans, at the end of their contracts - - they will be dogs too !!!
NASCAR's most popular driver held court on the subject over the weekend in Phoenix. He suggested that NASCAR shorten it's 400-mile and 500-mile races perhaps to 300-miles. In theory, a tighter show would be a more exciting one. In my opinion, this would only cause complaints form the fans that they are then not getting their monies worth, unless of course they lowered the cost of admission, and we all KNOW that ain't gonna happen. The France Family never met a dollar that they didn't like !!! A shorter schedule would produce smaller venues, leaving plenty of tracks at even bigger losses.
That's right, race fans, you guessed it. NASCAR's answer for all of this is the Car Of Tomorrow. The goal being to get a common template for the cars, lower the impact of technology and reduce costs so that more teams will have a chance (and the qualifying lines could go clear off the track). And they call all of this "keeping it simple". This will also increase the competition and give fans the side-by-side racing that has them already hooked on stock cars. The COT debuts at approximately half the tracks in 2007, so the progress begins soon, are we ready race fans ??? Personally, what I'm most interested in seeing is the TOYOTA Camry, either in qualifying trim or race trim. I think that the 2007 NASCAR Season will be the most exciting one that I have seen yet.
Govenor Jeb Bush Promotes NASCAR - - - Way To Go Jeb ! ! !
Tallahassee- Gov. Jeb Bush shifted gears early yesterday morning from Chief Executive to Head Cheerleader for NASCAR.
Gov. Bush joined Nextel Cup Series driver Kasey Kahne, 1989 NASCAR Champion Rusty Wallace and Robin Braig, president of Daytona International Speedway at a brief ceremony in the Capital Courtyard.
Forty minutes later, Gov. Bush presided over a Cabinet meeting, where he declared "NASCAR/Nextel Cup Series Championship Week" in Florida.
Michael Waltrip Racing Signs Josh Wise
Michael Waltrip Racing congratulates Josh Wise on USAC Championship and welcomes him to their organization.
PHOENIX, Ariz. (November 13, 2006) Michael Waltrip Racing, Inc. announced today that Josh Wise, who was crowned the 2006 USAC National Sprint Car Series champion on Saturday night, will drive in a variety of series for their organization in 2007.
"Michael Waltrip Racing is proud to be associated with Josh Wise not only for his ability to win championships, but also because of his humble personality," Waltrip said, "We have already tested Josh in a NASCAR Craftsman Truck a couple of times and have been impressed with his ability to get around the track and provide input to the team."
"We have plans to keep Josh busy in the off-season to help prepare him for the 2007 season," Waltrip continued, "Josh will run in a variety of venues for Michael Waltrip Racing, Inc. including the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and ARCA as well as the short track racing that he has brought him so much success."
"Josh is a quality individual from a quality family and we knew it the moment we met him," said Ty Norris, General Manager for Michael Waltrip Racing. "I was able to watch him race for the first time this weekend and it's easy to see why Tony Stewart believes Josh is the next great driver to come through the USAC ranks. We're proud to have a two-time USAC champion in our camp."
"Without Tony, I wouldn't be where I'm at," said Wise, who is a two-time Belleville Midget Nationals Champion (2003, 2006), 1999 USCA TQ Midget Car Series champion and 2005 USAC National Midget Car Series champion. "He took a shot in the dark on me, I was living on the West Coast with my parents and racing my family car. I got a call from him out of the blue one day to come out to the Midwest and drive for him. The experience I have gotten and the success that I have had with the team has been huge for me."
The 23 year old Wise said, "I really want to perform for everyone at Michael Waltrip Racing, I'm ready to get started. I've already tested a NASCAR Craftsman Truck twice. The first time I didn't run many laps and the other time was on a half-mile track. I was nervous about the first truck test because it was a fast track, but the guys made me feel real comfortable and we had a lot of fun. Adapting to a truck is going to be a different challenge because of the principles and the characteristics of the way they drive." As an AVID Michael Waltrip fan, this is just another reason to be excited about the 2007 NASCAR Season. Come on Mikey, bring on your TOYOTA and your Racing Team and let's go kick some behinds !!!
Thats all I have for you for this week. I know I missed the Racin' Birthdays but I will try to get them all on the next blog, the final blog of the 2006 Season. Have a wonderful weekend and enjoy the races from Homestead-Miami Speedway !!!
Later.
The Wal-NutzManiac
The hottest topic of debate on the NASCAR circut as the season drags to an end is whether or not the format for the Chase for the Nextel Cup should be altered.
Many of the ideas being thrown around supposedly have merit, awarding more points for a victory and the Pole Sitter ??? I don't see where that's going to help the situation. Am I missing something??? And here's the one I've heard the longest, allowing more drivers into the Chase. Why??? So that there will be more drivers that the "non-chasers" are supposed to "roll over and play dead" for??? In other words, their supposed to "clear the way" for "The Chasers", I'm sorry, I thought these were races where every body was supposed to "drive like they stole it". Unlike the points leader, who has to worry about taking care of his equipment. I'm not saying to go out there and race a demolition derby, but I also don't think you need to go out there and drive like a senior citizen either (Sorry Mom & Dad!). What, is he afraid to get his white gloves dirty or what??? If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen, Jimmie !!!
Some folks see NASCAR on a totally negative side, teams are using too much technology, whatever that means, they are spending too much money, the season drags out over the entire year (February to November) with little time off for the Holidays. I think anyone who has any of these complaints needs to go do something else with their time and leave the AVID fan, like myself, alone to watch our races in peace.
Less than half of the races this season have been sell-outs with crowds at California Speedway especially disappointing. Even the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard had empty seats in 2006, producing the smallest crowd in its 13 year history. Even television ratings have been down, with 16 races showing a decline of more than 10%. NASCAR officials say part of the problem is that NBC was a lame-duck broadcasting partner, as the sport switches TV contracts during the upcoming offseason, ABC and ESPN are part of the new package and of course they expect them to "do a Golden Job" of cross-marketing their telecasts. Yeah right !!! Don't worry, race fans, at the end of their contracts - - they will be dogs too !!!
NASCAR's most popular driver held court on the subject over the weekend in Phoenix. He suggested that NASCAR shorten it's 400-mile and 500-mile races perhaps to 300-miles. In theory, a tighter show would be a more exciting one. In my opinion, this would only cause complaints form the fans that they are then not getting their monies worth, unless of course they lowered the cost of admission, and we all KNOW that ain't gonna happen. The France Family never met a dollar that they didn't like !!! A shorter schedule would produce smaller venues, leaving plenty of tracks at even bigger losses.
That's right, race fans, you guessed it. NASCAR's answer for all of this is the Car Of Tomorrow. The goal being to get a common template for the cars, lower the impact of technology and reduce costs so that more teams will have a chance (and the qualifying lines could go clear off the track). And they call all of this "keeping it simple". This will also increase the competition and give fans the side-by-side racing that has them already hooked on stock cars. The COT debuts at approximately half the tracks in 2007, so the progress begins soon, are we ready race fans ??? Personally, what I'm most interested in seeing is the TOYOTA Camry, either in qualifying trim or race trim. I think that the 2007 NASCAR Season will be the most exciting one that I have seen yet.
Govenor Jeb Bush Promotes NASCAR - - - Way To Go Jeb ! ! !
Tallahassee- Gov. Jeb Bush shifted gears early yesterday morning from Chief Executive to Head Cheerleader for NASCAR.
Gov. Bush joined Nextel Cup Series driver Kasey Kahne, 1989 NASCAR Champion Rusty Wallace and Robin Braig, president of Daytona International Speedway at a brief ceremony in the Capital Courtyard.
Forty minutes later, Gov. Bush presided over a Cabinet meeting, where he declared "NASCAR/Nextel Cup Series Championship Week" in Florida.
Michael Waltrip Racing Signs Josh Wise
Michael Waltrip Racing congratulates Josh Wise on USAC Championship and welcomes him to their organization.
PHOENIX, Ariz. (November 13, 2006) Michael Waltrip Racing, Inc. announced today that Josh Wise, who was crowned the 2006 USAC National Sprint Car Series champion on Saturday night, will drive in a variety of series for their organization in 2007.
"Michael Waltrip Racing is proud to be associated with Josh Wise not only for his ability to win championships, but also because of his humble personality," Waltrip said, "We have already tested Josh in a NASCAR Craftsman Truck a couple of times and have been impressed with his ability to get around the track and provide input to the team."
"We have plans to keep Josh busy in the off-season to help prepare him for the 2007 season," Waltrip continued, "Josh will run in a variety of venues for Michael Waltrip Racing, Inc. including the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and ARCA as well as the short track racing that he has brought him so much success."
"Josh is a quality individual from a quality family and we knew it the moment we met him," said Ty Norris, General Manager for Michael Waltrip Racing. "I was able to watch him race for the first time this weekend and it's easy to see why Tony Stewart believes Josh is the next great driver to come through the USAC ranks. We're proud to have a two-time USAC champion in our camp."
"Without Tony, I wouldn't be where I'm at," said Wise, who is a two-time Belleville Midget Nationals Champion (2003, 2006), 1999 USCA TQ Midget Car Series champion and 2005 USAC National Midget Car Series champion. "He took a shot in the dark on me, I was living on the West Coast with my parents and racing my family car. I got a call from him out of the blue one day to come out to the Midwest and drive for him. The experience I have gotten and the success that I have had with the team has been huge for me."
The 23 year old Wise said, "I really want to perform for everyone at Michael Waltrip Racing, I'm ready to get started. I've already tested a NASCAR Craftsman Truck twice. The first time I didn't run many laps and the other time was on a half-mile track. I was nervous about the first truck test because it was a fast track, but the guys made me feel real comfortable and we had a lot of fun. Adapting to a truck is going to be a different challenge because of the principles and the characteristics of the way they drive." As an AVID Michael Waltrip fan, this is just another reason to be excited about the 2007 NASCAR Season. Come on Mikey, bring on your TOYOTA and your Racing Team and let's go kick some behinds !!!
Thats all I have for you for this week. I know I missed the Racin' Birthdays but I will try to get them all on the next blog, the final blog of the 2006 Season. Have a wonderful weekend and enjoy the races from Homestead-Miami Speedway !!!
Later.
The Wal-NutzManiac
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Fight To The Finish ! ! !
The Chase has reached "Crunch Time", accourding to Tim Tuttle at SI.com. With TWO races left before the NASCAR Champ is crowned, the leader, by 17 points over Matt Kenseth, is Jimmie Johnson. God help us all if Johnson were to become the 2006 Champion, if you've read my blog for any length of time, you know I don't want that to happen. Then Tim says, trailing a little further back are Dale Earnhardt, Jr. (at 78 points) and Denny Hamlin (at 80 points). With Kevin "Happy" Harvick rounding out the top five drivers. These are the top five horses, turning the corner heading for the home stretch in the Kentucky Derby, a couple of lingths apart, for the two race stretch run.
Who will take command? Who will face the challenge head on? Who will stumble and fall? Or, will this be five-wide to the wire? This is the most exciting Chase yet, the Nextel Cup Champion decided in a photo finish ! ! !
Gordon- Vandebosch Nuptials ? ? ?
While I'm on the subject of "The Golden Boys", NASCAR star (???) Jeff Gordon married Belgian model Ingrid Vandebosch on Tuesday in Mexico. Inquiring minds are wondering why they couldn't have held out another TWO WEEKS, to the end of the 2006 Season. Hmmmm??? I guess it's really none of my business, but still, those inquiring minds do want to know !!!
That's all I have for now. I hope you all enjoy the races this weekend from Phoenix International Raceway !!!
The Wal-NutzManiac
The Chase has reached "Crunch Time", accourding to Tim Tuttle at SI.com. With TWO races left before the NASCAR Champ is crowned, the leader, by 17 points over Matt Kenseth, is Jimmie Johnson. God help us all if Johnson were to become the 2006 Champion, if you've read my blog for any length of time, you know I don't want that to happen. Then Tim says, trailing a little further back are Dale Earnhardt, Jr. (at 78 points) and Denny Hamlin (at 80 points). With Kevin "Happy" Harvick rounding out the top five drivers. These are the top five horses, turning the corner heading for the home stretch in the Kentucky Derby, a couple of lingths apart, for the two race stretch run.
Who will take command? Who will face the challenge head on? Who will stumble and fall? Or, will this be five-wide to the wire? This is the most exciting Chase yet, the Nextel Cup Champion decided in a photo finish ! ! !
Gordon- Vandebosch Nuptials ? ? ?
While I'm on the subject of "The Golden Boys", NASCAR star (???) Jeff Gordon married Belgian model Ingrid Vandebosch on Tuesday in Mexico. Inquiring minds are wondering why they couldn't have held out another TWO WEEKS, to the end of the 2006 Season. Hmmmm??? I guess it's really none of my business, but still, those inquiring minds do want to know !!!
That's all I have for now. I hope you all enjoy the races this weekend from Phoenix International Raceway !!!
The Wal-NutzManiac
Monday, October 30, 2006
Tragic News For Bill Davis Racing/NASCAR Community
I'm quoting from the Bill Davis Racing statement, regarding Steve Spahr, 48, Jackman for the #55 NAPA Auto Parts Team, who passed away suddenly Friday evening.
"Obviously our thoughts and prayers are with Steve's family," said Bill Davis, owner of Bill Davis Racing. "Steve was an important part of the Bill Davis Racing family for many, many years. He was a quiet mentor to his peers and was both respected and well-liked by everyone on our race team and many others in the NASCAR Nextel Cup garage. He will be missed and remembered fondly by everyone associated with our team." Steve worked both at the shop and at the track performing a wide range of tasks from engine tuning to suspension work in the shop and in the past had served as jackman for the #22 team. Most recently, Spahr was the jackman for the #55 NAPA Auto Parts Racing team. A long-time employee of Bill Davis Racing, Spahr had recently been hospitalized with a tear of the aorta and had undergone surgery in the Greensboro, N.C. area. Steve was recovering at home with his family when he passed away suddenly Friday evening.
I am sure that I speak on behalf of all "The Wal-Nutz" (Michael Waltrip's Fan Club Members)when I say that Steve's family will be in our thoughts and prayers, as well, as they go through this extremely difficult time.
Harvick Wins The Sam's Town 250 ! ! !
Kevin "Happy" Harvick won his eighth Busch Series race of the season at Memphis on Saturday. Has Kevin been "on it", as Michael Waltrip would say, or what ??? He's already won the Busch Series Championship, in record time, I might add !!! I would have to say that "Happy" Harvick looked like he was having a GREAT time "spanking them boys" on that track !!! Or was he just teaching a clinic on how to win a Busch Series race for the likes of David Regan and the rest of the younger than the "Young Guns" crowd ??? Either way, this NASCAR fan has really enjoyed watching Kevin "Mr. Reese's Pieces" Harvick come to life in 2006. Sort of like another driver, who shall remain nameless, tried to do in 2005 ! ! !
Juan Pablo Montoya's NASCAR Debut
I have purposefully stayed away from this subject, because I'm really not quite sure how I feel about drivers from other forms of auto racing, coming into OUR NASCAR, especially those from a foreign land. To be honest, I think it has a lot to do with the whole immigration issue in our country today, but that's a subject for another blog, and/or another day. Speaking of the race Montoya said, "It was pretty wild, to be honest. I learned today you have to pace yourself."
As Chip Ganassi surveyed his damages to the #42 Texaco Dodge, he declared it "mission accomplished" for the former Formula One star and didn't seem to mind the crushed fenders.
Montoya qualified ninth and spent the first 148 laps of the race running in the Top-10, until Jason Keller tagged him from behind, but all in all he finished the race in 11th position - - not too bad for the first NASCAR race.
General Motors NASCAR Roundup
General Motors is taking advantage of the introduction of NASCAR's new Car of Tomorrow in 2007 by expanding it's marketing program. Hmmmmm ??? Why am I not surprised ???
GM's Chevrolet Division will field it's COT as an Impala SS, while continuing to use the current Monte Carlo SS in the rest of the Nextel Cup races. This announcement was made Friday at "Hot-lanta" Motor Speedway. NASCAR's plan is to phase in the bigger, bulkier and maybe safer and LESS EXPENSIVE Car of Tomorrow over the next three years, starting with 16 races in 2007, with the first race at Bristol Motor Speedway in March.
Dodge reportedly is also jumping into the frey, retaining the current Charger for the bulk of the schedule. In my humble opinion, that is a joke because MY favorite driver currently drives a Charger and I would not give Bill Davis a dollar for it !!! Okay, that said, where was I ??? Oh, Dodge will also be using a brand new "Avenger" model for it's COT, but Dodge officials said Friday that they cannot comment on any model until it is in production and the "Avenger" is currently just a concept car. May I ask a question Gentlemen ??? WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR ??? The next NASCAR Season rolls around every year in February, I think even the public, in general, is aware of that fact. And you ask me why I think TOYOTA will kick some serious butt in the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series ??? DUH !!! Like the Boy Scouts - - - they will be prepared !!!
Jack Roush Is Still Whinning ? ? ?
I see Mr. Roush is still whinning, but then I guess he wasn't the one who admitted on national television that he does, in fact, whine. Now Jack says that he needs to increase the amount of research and development he does, away from the track, in order to make his full-fleet of NASCAR teams more competitive, which what he's really saying is that he has to spend more of those all mighty dollars, that he hates to part with so much !!!
I have a plan for you Mr. Roush !!! Why don't you cut back on the number of teams you are currently running, to four teams, which is what NASCAR asked you to do in the first place. That would certainly save you some of that money, you refuse to part with. What do you think, Jack ??? Sound like a plan to you ???
A. J. Allemindinger Jumps To NASCAR ? ? ?
Well, looky here, NASCAR fans, we have yet another defector from open-wheel competition, headed to the "sheet metal" of NASCAR.
A. J. failed to qualify on Friday, due to the "Rain-Out", I guess he'll have to wait now until 2007 to run with the boys at Team Red Bull, but don't you dare worry yourselves now, cause I happen to know that my pal Brian Vickers will be over there, to hold down the fort until A.J. can come make his splashing debut. I just want to know, who opened the flood gates to all these drivers ??? Did NASCAR send out an "invite" that we, the fans, were not made aware of, or something ???
Kudos To The Man ! ! !
Tony "Smoke" Stewart wins the Bass Pro Shops 500 race in "Hot-lanta" Motor Speedway yesterday. But that's not all !!! Tony also won the IROC Championship for 2006 !!! How cool is that ??? I don't think there could be too many more Championships that this guy hasn't won, but if you run out of room for all your trophies, Tony, let me know, I have lots of room over here to display them all !!! Way to go "Smoke" !!!
Race Birthdays For The Week (Oct. 29th thru Nov. 4th)
10/29 Teresa Earnhardt, Billy Woodriff, Steadman Marlin, Joseph "Papa Joe" Hendrick, Bob Dotter, Roseanne Adamczyk, Nicole Belber & Sandy 'the dog' Adamczyk
10/30 Linda Rudd & Tony Bennenhausen, Jr.
10/31 Kip Childress
11/1 Jayski, Eric Vance, Larry Flynt, Doug Ingerson & Marissa Garrow
11/2 Larry Pearson & Judy Allison
11/3 Derrike Cope, Tony Gibson & Greg Sacks
11/4 Charley Pressley
Happy Birthday To All ! ! (Obviously, some of these are "In Memory Of")
That's all for now. Have a Great Week. Enjoy the races this weekend at Texas Motor Speedway !!! I'll see you all there (from my recliner, of course).
GO MIKEY GO ! ! ! ! ! ! !
Later !!!
The Wal-NutzManiac
I'm quoting from the Bill Davis Racing statement, regarding Steve Spahr, 48, Jackman for the #55 NAPA Auto Parts Team, who passed away suddenly Friday evening.
"Obviously our thoughts and prayers are with Steve's family," said Bill Davis, owner of Bill Davis Racing. "Steve was an important part of the Bill Davis Racing family for many, many years. He was a quiet mentor to his peers and was both respected and well-liked by everyone on our race team and many others in the NASCAR Nextel Cup garage. He will be missed and remembered fondly by everyone associated with our team." Steve worked both at the shop and at the track performing a wide range of tasks from engine tuning to suspension work in the shop and in the past had served as jackman for the #22 team. Most recently, Spahr was the jackman for the #55 NAPA Auto Parts Racing team. A long-time employee of Bill Davis Racing, Spahr had recently been hospitalized with a tear of the aorta and had undergone surgery in the Greensboro, N.C. area. Steve was recovering at home with his family when he passed away suddenly Friday evening.
I am sure that I speak on behalf of all "The Wal-Nutz" (Michael Waltrip's Fan Club Members)when I say that Steve's family will be in our thoughts and prayers, as well, as they go through this extremely difficult time.
Harvick Wins The Sam's Town 250 ! ! !
Kevin "Happy" Harvick won his eighth Busch Series race of the season at Memphis on Saturday. Has Kevin been "on it", as Michael Waltrip would say, or what ??? He's already won the Busch Series Championship, in record time, I might add !!! I would have to say that "Happy" Harvick looked like he was having a GREAT time "spanking them boys" on that track !!! Or was he just teaching a clinic on how to win a Busch Series race for the likes of David Regan and the rest of the younger than the "Young Guns" crowd ??? Either way, this NASCAR fan has really enjoyed watching Kevin "Mr. Reese's Pieces" Harvick come to life in 2006. Sort of like another driver, who shall remain nameless, tried to do in 2005 ! ! !
Juan Pablo Montoya's NASCAR Debut
I have purposefully stayed away from this subject, because I'm really not quite sure how I feel about drivers from other forms of auto racing, coming into OUR NASCAR, especially those from a foreign land. To be honest, I think it has a lot to do with the whole immigration issue in our country today, but that's a subject for another blog, and/or another day. Speaking of the race Montoya said, "It was pretty wild, to be honest. I learned today you have to pace yourself."
As Chip Ganassi surveyed his damages to the #42 Texaco Dodge, he declared it "mission accomplished" for the former Formula One star and didn't seem to mind the crushed fenders.
Montoya qualified ninth and spent the first 148 laps of the race running in the Top-10, until Jason Keller tagged him from behind, but all in all he finished the race in 11th position - - not too bad for the first NASCAR race.
General Motors NASCAR Roundup
General Motors is taking advantage of the introduction of NASCAR's new Car of Tomorrow in 2007 by expanding it's marketing program. Hmmmmm ??? Why am I not surprised ???
GM's Chevrolet Division will field it's COT as an Impala SS, while continuing to use the current Monte Carlo SS in the rest of the Nextel Cup races. This announcement was made Friday at "Hot-lanta" Motor Speedway. NASCAR's plan is to phase in the bigger, bulkier and maybe safer and LESS EXPENSIVE Car of Tomorrow over the next three years, starting with 16 races in 2007, with the first race at Bristol Motor Speedway in March.
Dodge reportedly is also jumping into the frey, retaining the current Charger for the bulk of the schedule. In my humble opinion, that is a joke because MY favorite driver currently drives a Charger and I would not give Bill Davis a dollar for it !!! Okay, that said, where was I ??? Oh, Dodge will also be using a brand new "Avenger" model for it's COT, but Dodge officials said Friday that they cannot comment on any model until it is in production and the "Avenger" is currently just a concept car. May I ask a question Gentlemen ??? WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR ??? The next NASCAR Season rolls around every year in February, I think even the public, in general, is aware of that fact. And you ask me why I think TOYOTA will kick some serious butt in the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series ??? DUH !!! Like the Boy Scouts - - - they will be prepared !!!
Jack Roush Is Still Whinning ? ? ?
I see Mr. Roush is still whinning, but then I guess he wasn't the one who admitted on national television that he does, in fact, whine. Now Jack says that he needs to increase the amount of research and development he does, away from the track, in order to make his full-fleet of NASCAR teams more competitive, which what he's really saying is that he has to spend more of those all mighty dollars, that he hates to part with so much !!!
I have a plan for you Mr. Roush !!! Why don't you cut back on the number of teams you are currently running, to four teams, which is what NASCAR asked you to do in the first place. That would certainly save you some of that money, you refuse to part with. What do you think, Jack ??? Sound like a plan to you ???
A. J. Allemindinger Jumps To NASCAR ? ? ?
Well, looky here, NASCAR fans, we have yet another defector from open-wheel competition, headed to the "sheet metal" of NASCAR.
A. J. failed to qualify on Friday, due to the "Rain-Out", I guess he'll have to wait now until 2007 to run with the boys at Team Red Bull, but don't you dare worry yourselves now, cause I happen to know that my pal Brian Vickers will be over there, to hold down the fort until A.J. can come make his splashing debut. I just want to know, who opened the flood gates to all these drivers ??? Did NASCAR send out an "invite" that we, the fans, were not made aware of, or something ???
Kudos To The Man ! ! !
Tony "Smoke" Stewart wins the Bass Pro Shops 500 race in "Hot-lanta" Motor Speedway yesterday. But that's not all !!! Tony also won the IROC Championship for 2006 !!! How cool is that ??? I don't think there could be too many more Championships that this guy hasn't won, but if you run out of room for all your trophies, Tony, let me know, I have lots of room over here to display them all !!! Way to go "Smoke" !!!
Race Birthdays For The Week (Oct. 29th thru Nov. 4th)
10/29 Teresa Earnhardt, Billy Woodriff, Steadman Marlin, Joseph "Papa Joe" Hendrick, Bob Dotter, Roseanne Adamczyk, Nicole Belber & Sandy 'the dog' Adamczyk
10/30 Linda Rudd & Tony Bennenhausen, Jr.
10/31 Kip Childress
11/1 Jayski, Eric Vance, Larry Flynt, Doug Ingerson & Marissa Garrow
11/2 Larry Pearson & Judy Allison
11/3 Derrike Cope, Tony Gibson & Greg Sacks
11/4 Charley Pressley
Happy Birthday To All ! ! (Obviously, some of these are "In Memory Of")
That's all for now. Have a Great Week. Enjoy the races this weekend at Texas Motor Speedway !!! I'll see you all there (from my recliner, of course).
GO MIKEY GO ! ! ! ! ! ! !
Later !!!
The Wal-NutzManiac
Friday, October 27, 2006
NASCAR News From The Wal-NutzManiac
My Kudos For The Week
Bobby Labonte - - Bobby finished third in Sunday's Subway 500 Nextel Cup race at Martinsville Speedway to record his fourth Top-10 finish in the last five races. Way to go Bobby !!!
Tony Stewart - - "Smoke" finished fourth in the Subway 500, no surprise there !!!
Casey Mears - - Casey finished sixth on Sunday !!! After some "bump-drafting" between him and Ryan Newman. I'm surprised at Ryan Newman, I thought he had more class than that on the race track. So much for "Professional" race car drivers.
Jeff Green - - Jeff finished eighth at Martinsville !!!
Kyle Petty - - Kyle finished 10th Sunday, putting both Petty Enterprises drivers in the Top-10 for the first time since the fall of 1999!!! Way to go, Guys !!!
In case you are wondering, I like to give my kudos the the non-chase drivers, who are out there on the race track busting it - - - week end and week out with little or no recognition for doing so. No television coverage, not even an "oh by the way", that's why I choose to acknowledge these guys !!! Someone else can provide you with the "Atta Boys" for the chasers.
NASCAR-themed Playground Built in Greensboro
The slides, swings and seesaws are for children. But on Thursday, when about a hundred volunteers - - including NASCAR driver J.J. Yeley - - built a playground in the Stonegate Crossing community in six hours, it was grown-ups who were playing. Sort of.
There was a "huge-pile-of-mulch" game that most of the volunteers took a turn at. Or Yeley's favorite, mixing and pouring cement.
The playground was built by volunteer from Home Depot stores, Joe Gibbs Racing, Greensboro's Habitat for Humanity, the Children's Home Society and KaBOOM!, a national non-profit group that builds playgrounds.
But the bad news was that the kids couldn't play on the NASCAR-themed equipment until Saturday, to give the cement time to harden.
I love to hear about something good happening, for a change !!!
Kenny Wallace Signed A NASCAR Nextel Cup Deal
Kenny signs a two year deal with Furniture Row Racing, commencing in 2007. Here are Wallace's comments regarding the deal" "It really makes me feel good to have a Nextel Cup team that is this dedicated, and has the funds to go the long haul. I really want th thank everyone at Furniture Row Racing, and the 300 Furniture Row stores throughout the U.S. for choosing me as the driver for the next two years. With a new era of Nextel Cup entering in 2007, where there will be no less than 50 cars every week trying to qualify, I am really excited to help build this new team. It will not be easy!!! But this is the biggest form of racing in the world, I don't expect it to be easy. I am ready to go."
Apparently his Crew Chief Joe Garone feels the same way, as he explains the strategy for continuing the Cup program with Wallace: "Kenny's experience will help build the team, and enhance our level of competition in the next couple of years. We're very excited and honored to have him involved with our program."
Nemechek Visits U.S. Troops
Joe Nemechek not only raced 500 miles at Lowe's Motor Speedway last Saturday, he followed that with a 2,100-mile, round-trip visit to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, on Sunday.
The MB2 Motorsports driver, sponsored by the U.S. Army, visited with troops at the military base there. Ashton Lewis, Jr., driver of the Team Marines car in the Busch Series, also made the trip.
The six-hour tour included authgraph and photo sessions at different points of the base, including one for non-military personnel in the downtown area.
"Every time I visit our troops it's a special feeling," Nemechek said. "These people are making a sacrifice to protect our freedom and the freedom for future generations. It's difficult not to get overwhelmed by what you see and what you hear. It was an honor to make the visit." Way to go Front Row Joe !!!
Nextel Cup Going To Unleaded Fuel In 2007
NASCAR will make the transition to unleaded fuel one year earlier than previously announced as it plans to have all three series run almost the entire 2007 season on unleaded fuel. The lone exception, involving the Nextel Cup Series, will be the season-opening Daytona 500.
Crew Chiefs said at Martinsville Speedway they were informed of the decision this week, and the NASCAR officials confirmed the move.
Busch Series and Craftsman Truck Series teams have tested the unleaded fuel at several events this year. Teams have reported few problems with the Sunoco fuel.
"We run a lot of unleaded in a lot of our grass-roots programs," Toyota Racing Development Senior Vice President Lee White said. "We have a lot of experience with it. We have been running it in our truck engines for about half of the season off and on. To be honest with you, a lot of the durability work on the new Cup motor has been done with unleaded fuel already, so we're not really concerned with it."
As an avid fan of Michael Waltrip, this was certainly music to my ears !!! I am extremely excited about the beginning of the 2007 NASCAR Season - - - -and seeing the Toyota Camry on the race track ! ! ! Is it February 2007 yet ? ? ?
Racing Birthdays Of The Week (Oct. 22nd to Oct. 28th)
10/22 Ed Dybalski, Milan Garrett & Rick Benjamin
10/23 Humpy Wheeler
10/24 Dave Blaney, Patrick Lawler, Jim France, Brian Vickers, Tracy Leslie & Jeff Price
10/25 Ward Burton, Jon Wood, Taylor Lane Stricklin
10/26 Jim Pardue
10/27 Robin Miller, Dick Trickle, Tommy Baldwin, Jr. & Richard Brickhouse
10/28 Joe Ruttman & Debrah Renshaw
Happy Birthday to one and all ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
That's it for now. Hope you have a wonderful weekend. Enjoy the races @ Atlanta Motor Speedway. Don't forget to tighten them seat belts on your recliners one more time. We could be in for a WILD ride, as The Chase for the Nextel Cup continues !!!
The Wal-NutsManiac
My Kudos For The Week
Bobby Labonte - - Bobby finished third in Sunday's Subway 500 Nextel Cup race at Martinsville Speedway to record his fourth Top-10 finish in the last five races. Way to go Bobby !!!
Tony Stewart - - "Smoke" finished fourth in the Subway 500, no surprise there !!!
Casey Mears - - Casey finished sixth on Sunday !!! After some "bump-drafting" between him and Ryan Newman. I'm surprised at Ryan Newman, I thought he had more class than that on the race track. So much for "Professional" race car drivers.
Jeff Green - - Jeff finished eighth at Martinsville !!!
Kyle Petty - - Kyle finished 10th Sunday, putting both Petty Enterprises drivers in the Top-10 for the first time since the fall of 1999!!! Way to go, Guys !!!
In case you are wondering, I like to give my kudos the the non-chase drivers, who are out there on the race track busting it - - - week end and week out with little or no recognition for doing so. No television coverage, not even an "oh by the way", that's why I choose to acknowledge these guys !!! Someone else can provide you with the "Atta Boys" for the chasers.
NASCAR-themed Playground Built in Greensboro
The slides, swings and seesaws are for children. But on Thursday, when about a hundred volunteers - - including NASCAR driver J.J. Yeley - - built a playground in the Stonegate Crossing community in six hours, it was grown-ups who were playing. Sort of.
There was a "huge-pile-of-mulch" game that most of the volunteers took a turn at. Or Yeley's favorite, mixing and pouring cement.
The playground was built by volunteer from Home Depot stores, Joe Gibbs Racing, Greensboro's Habitat for Humanity, the Children's Home Society and KaBOOM!, a national non-profit group that builds playgrounds.
But the bad news was that the kids couldn't play on the NASCAR-themed equipment until Saturday, to give the cement time to harden.
I love to hear about something good happening, for a change !!!
Kenny Wallace Signed A NASCAR Nextel Cup Deal
Kenny signs a two year deal with Furniture Row Racing, commencing in 2007. Here are Wallace's comments regarding the deal" "It really makes me feel good to have a Nextel Cup team that is this dedicated, and has the funds to go the long haul. I really want th thank everyone at Furniture Row Racing, and the 300 Furniture Row stores throughout the U.S. for choosing me as the driver for the next two years. With a new era of Nextel Cup entering in 2007, where there will be no less than 50 cars every week trying to qualify, I am really excited to help build this new team. It will not be easy!!! But this is the biggest form of racing in the world, I don't expect it to be easy. I am ready to go."
Apparently his Crew Chief Joe Garone feels the same way, as he explains the strategy for continuing the Cup program with Wallace: "Kenny's experience will help build the team, and enhance our level of competition in the next couple of years. We're very excited and honored to have him involved with our program."
Nemechek Visits U.S. Troops
Joe Nemechek not only raced 500 miles at Lowe's Motor Speedway last Saturday, he followed that with a 2,100-mile, round-trip visit to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, on Sunday.
The MB2 Motorsports driver, sponsored by the U.S. Army, visited with troops at the military base there. Ashton Lewis, Jr., driver of the Team Marines car in the Busch Series, also made the trip.
The six-hour tour included authgraph and photo sessions at different points of the base, including one for non-military personnel in the downtown area.
"Every time I visit our troops it's a special feeling," Nemechek said. "These people are making a sacrifice to protect our freedom and the freedom for future generations. It's difficult not to get overwhelmed by what you see and what you hear. It was an honor to make the visit." Way to go Front Row Joe !!!
Nextel Cup Going To Unleaded Fuel In 2007
NASCAR will make the transition to unleaded fuel one year earlier than previously announced as it plans to have all three series run almost the entire 2007 season on unleaded fuel. The lone exception, involving the Nextel Cup Series, will be the season-opening Daytona 500.
Crew Chiefs said at Martinsville Speedway they were informed of the decision this week, and the NASCAR officials confirmed the move.
Busch Series and Craftsman Truck Series teams have tested the unleaded fuel at several events this year. Teams have reported few problems with the Sunoco fuel.
"We run a lot of unleaded in a lot of our grass-roots programs," Toyota Racing Development Senior Vice President Lee White said. "We have a lot of experience with it. We have been running it in our truck engines for about half of the season off and on. To be honest with you, a lot of the durability work on the new Cup motor has been done with unleaded fuel already, so we're not really concerned with it."
As an avid fan of Michael Waltrip, this was certainly music to my ears !!! I am extremely excited about the beginning of the 2007 NASCAR Season - - - -and seeing the Toyota Camry on the race track ! ! ! Is it February 2007 yet ? ? ?
Racing Birthdays Of The Week (Oct. 22nd to Oct. 28th)
10/22 Ed Dybalski, Milan Garrett & Rick Benjamin
10/23 Humpy Wheeler
10/24 Dave Blaney, Patrick Lawler, Jim France, Brian Vickers, Tracy Leslie & Jeff Price
10/25 Ward Burton, Jon Wood, Taylor Lane Stricklin
10/26 Jim Pardue
10/27 Robin Miller, Dick Trickle, Tommy Baldwin, Jr. & Richard Brickhouse
10/28 Joe Ruttman & Debrah Renshaw
Happy Birthday to one and all ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
That's it for now. Hope you have a wonderful weekend. Enjoy the races @ Atlanta Motor Speedway. Don't forget to tighten them seat belts on your recliners one more time. We could be in for a WILD ride, as The Chase for the Nextel Cup continues !!!
The Wal-NutsManiac
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
My Kudos For The Week ! ! !
Michael Curtis Waltrip - - - For his second place finish in the Dollar General 300, Busch Series Race last week at Charlotte. Way to go Mikey and your entire crew!!!
Kasey Kahne - - - Kasey beat Jimmie Johnson by 1.624 seconds, in the Bank of America 500. This is Kahne's series-high sixth victory of the season. I guess Lowe's Motor Speedway is "Kasey's House" now, eh?
Darrell Waltrip - - - Darrell was inducted into the North Carolina Motorsports Hall of Fame on Wednesday night, Ocotober 11, 2006. Darrell said, :I have to tell you, that was pretty neat! I can't imagine there being to many more Halls of Fame that Darrell hasn't been inducted into !!! Congratulations DW !!!
Kevin "Happy" Harvick - - - For winning the Busch Series Championship four weeks early !!! Now Mrs. Kevin "Happy" Harvick can really go shopping, right DeLana ??? Congratulations to Kevin, he has just set a new record for NASCAR, since this has never been done before. Personally I'm pulling for him winning both Championships in the same year. GO KEVIN !!!
I'm Shocked ! ! !
Kurt Busch's qualifying time was disallowed because the right-rear shock on the "Blue Duce" Dodge from Penske's Racing stable did not conform with the NASCAR rules, according to Jim Hunter, NASCAR's Vice-President of Corporate Communications. Busch qualified third fastest, but started 42nd when the Green Flag fell, Saturday night at Lowe's Motor Speedway.
What is Jeffey Pooh Whinning about NOW ? ? ?
I personally think that Mr. Jeffey needs to get a life and quit the whinning, we have all had more than ENOUGH whine !!! I find it rather humorous that when bump-drafting is to his advantage, he loves bump-drafting, but when it works against him then he cries fowl. Gordon now calls for NASCAR to reduce bump-drafting. Gordon is again ADAMANT about halting the practice of bump-drafting. Here's a quote from Mr. Gordon for you to consider. "If NASCAR doesn't stop bump-drafting, then those things are going to continue to happen. They are not doing anything about bump-drafting. Because the track had more grip, the cars were more under control, they thought, well, OK, it's OK to do it." Okay, so which is it Jeffey, do you want bump-drafting reduced or halted?? My suggestion to Jeffey is this - - - YOU get a grip, Dude !!!
Does Anyone Remember Jerry Nadeau ? ? ?
Jerry Nadeau made 177 starts in NASCAR's Premier Series, capturing one win, nine Top-Five finishes and 19 Top-Ten finishes. He drove for some of NASCAR's top teams, including Petty Enterprises and Hendrick Motorsports. Before his NASCAR Cup Series career begain in 1997, he excelled in other racing series. This driver from Danbury, Conn., began racing go-karts at age 4 and finished second in a kart race on ice at St. Petersburg, Russia in 1992. He was the World Karting Association Gold Cup Champion for three years (1988 to 1990) and he captured the World Karting Association Grand National Title in 1991.
Jerry will be instructing in the Endurance Karting's Race School to be held at Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord, North Carolina. Nadeau and the other talented instructors will teach lucky students both in the classroom and on the track in an exciting learning environment. The school will be held November 11th and 12th. Way to go, Jerry. We miss you and wish you the very best !!!
Racing Birthdays For This Week (Oct. 15th thru Oct. 21st)
10-15 Roland Wlodyka, Red Farmer & Chris Economaki
10-16 Mark Petty, Mae Beaty & Tim Packman
10-17 Chocolate Myers, Doug Randolph & Tim Kendall
10-18 Bart Creasman, Edward Adamczyk, Sr. & Billy Myers
10-19 Brian Rose, Tom Wilsey, Mark Dyer & Lisa Price
10-20 Fred Wanke, Wally McCarty & Clifford Allison
10-21 Pete Wright & David Gebhardt
Happy Birthday To Each And Every One Of You ! ! !
That's all I have for now. Have a Great Week and Enjoy the Races in Martinsville this weekend. Pull them belts tight one more time cause we are off for another wild ride in NASCAR as The Chase continues !!! Good Luck to all of your favorite "Chasers" ! ! !
The Wal-NutzManiac
Michael Curtis Waltrip - - - For his second place finish in the Dollar General 300, Busch Series Race last week at Charlotte. Way to go Mikey and your entire crew!!!
Kasey Kahne - - - Kasey beat Jimmie Johnson by 1.624 seconds, in the Bank of America 500. This is Kahne's series-high sixth victory of the season. I guess Lowe's Motor Speedway is "Kasey's House" now, eh?
Darrell Waltrip - - - Darrell was inducted into the North Carolina Motorsports Hall of Fame on Wednesday night, Ocotober 11, 2006. Darrell said, :I have to tell you, that was pretty neat! I can't imagine there being to many more Halls of Fame that Darrell hasn't been inducted into !!! Congratulations DW !!!
Kevin "Happy" Harvick - - - For winning the Busch Series Championship four weeks early !!! Now Mrs. Kevin "Happy" Harvick can really go shopping, right DeLana ??? Congratulations to Kevin, he has just set a new record for NASCAR, since this has never been done before. Personally I'm pulling for him winning both Championships in the same year. GO KEVIN !!!
I'm Shocked ! ! !
Kurt Busch's qualifying time was disallowed because the right-rear shock on the "Blue Duce" Dodge from Penske's Racing stable did not conform with the NASCAR rules, according to Jim Hunter, NASCAR's Vice-President of Corporate Communications. Busch qualified third fastest, but started 42nd when the Green Flag fell, Saturday night at Lowe's Motor Speedway.
What is Jeffey Pooh Whinning about NOW ? ? ?
I personally think that Mr. Jeffey needs to get a life and quit the whinning, we have all had more than ENOUGH whine !!! I find it rather humorous that when bump-drafting is to his advantage, he loves bump-drafting, but when it works against him then he cries fowl. Gordon now calls for NASCAR to reduce bump-drafting. Gordon is again ADAMANT about halting the practice of bump-drafting. Here's a quote from Mr. Gordon for you to consider. "If NASCAR doesn't stop bump-drafting, then those things are going to continue to happen. They are not doing anything about bump-drafting. Because the track had more grip, the cars were more under control, they thought, well, OK, it's OK to do it." Okay, so which is it Jeffey, do you want bump-drafting reduced or halted?? My suggestion to Jeffey is this - - - YOU get a grip, Dude !!!
Does Anyone Remember Jerry Nadeau ? ? ?
Jerry Nadeau made 177 starts in NASCAR's Premier Series, capturing one win, nine Top-Five finishes and 19 Top-Ten finishes. He drove for some of NASCAR's top teams, including Petty Enterprises and Hendrick Motorsports. Before his NASCAR Cup Series career begain in 1997, he excelled in other racing series. This driver from Danbury, Conn., began racing go-karts at age 4 and finished second in a kart race on ice at St. Petersburg, Russia in 1992. He was the World Karting Association Gold Cup Champion for three years (1988 to 1990) and he captured the World Karting Association Grand National Title in 1991.
Jerry will be instructing in the Endurance Karting's Race School to be held at Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord, North Carolina. Nadeau and the other talented instructors will teach lucky students both in the classroom and on the track in an exciting learning environment. The school will be held November 11th and 12th. Way to go, Jerry. We miss you and wish you the very best !!!
Racing Birthdays For This Week (Oct. 15th thru Oct. 21st)
10-15 Roland Wlodyka, Red Farmer & Chris Economaki
10-16 Mark Petty, Mae Beaty & Tim Packman
10-17 Chocolate Myers, Doug Randolph & Tim Kendall
10-18 Bart Creasman, Edward Adamczyk, Sr. & Billy Myers
10-19 Brian Rose, Tom Wilsey, Mark Dyer & Lisa Price
10-20 Fred Wanke, Wally McCarty & Clifford Allison
10-21 Pete Wright & David Gebhardt
Happy Birthday To Each And Every One Of You ! ! !
That's all I have for now. Have a Great Week and Enjoy the Races in Martinsville this weekend. Pull them belts tight one more time cause we are off for another wild ride in NASCAR as The Chase continues !!! Good Luck to all of your favorite "Chasers" ! ! !
The Wal-NutzManiac
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