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