While change is inevitable in all sports,complete change is not a good thing. Nascar is quickly turning itself into one giant over commercialized wreck.They are no longer concerned with the actual drivers,teams or racing,but are more interested in media attention and sleeping with the big corporations.There was a time when you had to earn sponsorship through performance and drivers worked on the very cars they drove on race day.These things have been kicked to the side in favor of multi million dollar super powers who give the proverbial little guy no chance.

We were told that the COT or current car would make racing more “affordable” and help the smaller teams ,yet all we have seen is smaller teams have to merge or bring in financial partners.Where is the relief?I’ll tell you it’s in the pockets and garages of the four car super teams.While there are smaller teams who get engines and chassis from these larger than life mega garages does anyone really believe for one second that teams like Hendrick or RCR are actually sending out their best stuff?

Before long it’s headed the way of one big garage for each of the manufacturers and one big stable of drivers controlled completely by the “ADOLF” France family and their “Nazi”book of rules and regulations.They are completely disenfranchising the fan base and many of what used to be stand up sponsors in favor of what they see as the corporations who will lead them to the promise land.The main problem with this is that they are completely blind to the fact that they are pushing the sport to the brink of self destruction.

In their desire for complete control and “world” domination the France family has decided it’s in their best interest to screw over the original fan base that made the sport what it is,the teams that built the sport and the very drivers who gave their blood,sweat ,tears and even some their lives to build this thing we call Nascar.

My only hope is that they realize the path they are on before the destruction is complete or to far gone to come back.

Article written by boogss03 from rootzoo.com
Boogss03 is a huge nascar fan and can be found sharing his love for nascar talk and more regularly at RootZoo.com, a sports community for fans.

The Mark Martin cornhole set is the latest tribute to a driver that currently holds the record for most Nationwide Series wins, with 48. He has raced for Roush Racing, Hendrick Motorsports, and DEI/Ginn Racing over the course of his lucrative career. Nearly as an after thought, he has won 5 IROC titles and a record 13 races in that series. Overall he has 35 NASCAR cup wins and several second place finishes in the Sprint Cup points standings. Although he is splitting time for this season, he made his 700th career start at the 2008 Auto Club 500.

A driver known for his consistent performance should be proud to have his likeness displayed on something like the Mark Martin cornhole set, or any other merchandise that honors him. There is no doubt that you can find his merchandise in any department store in America. The cornhole set, like the driver, delivers hours of fun and enjoyment for everyone in your family. Mark Martin has always stressed the importance of NASCAR as a family oriented business for the fans to enjoy.

Article written by Jerry Coffey
Jerry Coffey is a cornhole enthusiast and a webmaster at http://www.cornholegameinfo.com

Basically, the original concept of NASCAR was that the car should be composed of only stock parts or the parts that you would normally buy in auto parts store. However, this is true but not entirely. The race car in NASCAR is a high performance racing machine that is specifically designed to withstand high G-forces when banking on turns and also achieve high speeds while giving the driver total control of the car.

The first part that you might be interested in is the engine of a NASCAR race car. Basically, the engine is very close to what you have in your garage provided that you have a car with a big engine. However, the engine in NASCAR race cars is customizes so that it can withstand high temperatures and high torque that is normally found in race cars. Also, the components in the engine are precision-made in a very tight specification so that there is minimum amount of friction and provide the car with the maximum performance.

The carburetor is also designed to let a volume of fuel and air mixture that is required to sustain high speeds and maximum acceleration at lengthy spans of time. In NASCAR race cars, there are no fuel injectors in the engines.

The body of the car is also another aspect that you need to consider. Although it looks like your regular street car, the body is made to look that way but with roll bars. The inside of the car is also very basic. You won’t find any car stereos here or fancy leather seats, but just the basics. You have gauges, the seat, seatbelts roll bars, and pedals. That’s about it. In fact, you won’t even find a glove compartment in NASCAR race cars. Everything that is not important to the performance of the vehicle is removed as this is considered to be adding to the weight which will decrease the performance.

These are the main components of the NASCAR race car. Although it may look fancy on the outside with all the sponsor stickers, it’s a high performance machine that has the components to achieve maximum speed and performance.

Article written by Miodrag Trajkovic
Miodrag Trajkovic is an accomplished writer who specializes in car sports and recreations. For more information on NASCAR, just visit us at About Nascar.

What goes around comes around, the old saying goes.

Kyle Busch got a taste of his own medicine at New Hampshire when, during the final yellow flag of the day, Juan Pablo Montoya drove his No. 42 Dodge into Busch’s No. 18 Toyota during the Lenox Industrial Tools 301. The hard contact occurred in full view of the front grandstand along the straightaway. Montoya admits it was intentional and in retaliation for Busch’s side bump of the 42 during the same caution period. Montoya’s payback sent the Interstate Batteries car spinning back into Montoya’s black-and-red ride.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. fans are praising Montoya, no fan favorite before the incident with Busch. The former Indianapolis 500 winner and Formula One star is expected to have more souvenir sales and vocal support in the coming weeks.

In post-race remarks, Montoya almost seemed to accuse Busch of steering his spinning car into Montoya’s path. The two drivers had collided several times earlier, more blatantly with 50 laps left when Montoya ran his car up the left rear of the 18 Camry after a wide pass near Turn 4.

Ongoing debate has centered on whether the Chip Ganassi driver should be punished beyond what he received during the race-a two-lap penalty that took him out of the running, eventually toward a 32nd-place finish. Busch came in 25th. Montoya was summoned to the NASCAR hauler to explain his actions, and mute officials evidently consider the incident a closed issue.

In the Colombian’s version, he says he tried to get around Busch on the outside of Turn 2 with 20 laps remaining. Busch-similar to what happened with Junior at Michigan-crowded the 42 car toward the outside wall and repeatedly bumped the side of the Texaco/Havoline Dodge along Turn 3, creating a caution. Settling scores during the period, Montoya said, was necessary to protect himself.

Busch’s explanation for the earlier impact was that Montoya, no fan favorite himself, would not give ground when the 18 had passed, but continued to come up on the inside. After minor contact on the 42’s quarter panel, he says Montoya drove up and purposely hit the left rear of the 18.

Montoya apparently felt he had out-positioned Busch during the restart, according to Busch. The Sprint Cup Series points leader added that he and Montoya bumped under yellow while Busch was maneuvering to get around Dario Franchitti, accidentally provoking Montoya.

No injuries were reported by either team.

So far this season, Busch has bumped and spun Johnny Benson and Ron Hornaday Jr. in separate truck races, and nudged Steven Wallace out of the way in a Nationwide event. He was not given extra penalties by NASCAR, although he never said those moves were premeditated on his part.

NASCAR told its drivers to express themselves freely this season, to let their personalities come out and show more emotion without fear of retribution-but not under caution. In situations similar to what occurred on June 29, the sanctioning body has acted with strict punitive measures, and Montoya’s action was deliberate, he admits.

When the yellow flag flies, the hard racing and paint-trading is on pause. Junior was allowed to pass the pace car multiple times at Michigan. Montoya was pushed back in the field for an intentional wreck under caution at New Hampshire. Other drivers-Kurt Busch for one-have made similar moves that jeopardized the safety of drivers, and were disciplined further.

NASCAR’s silence on Montoya’s admission speaks volumes. It could also trigger retaliatory action by drivers in future races-even under green.

Article written by Mel Kizzidek
More articles about NASCAR news and auto racing can be found at http://www.speedweekly.net

The best way to watch NASCAR can be found at http://www.watchautoracing.com

The NASCAR Hall Of Fame groundbreaking ceremony was held on January 25, 2007 in Charlotte,North Carolina.The actual construction began in May of the same year. It is projected that it will officially open some time in the first quarter of 2010 and NASCAR fans are looking forward to a place dedicated to their sport.

Why Charlotte? One reason being it has been the “Mecca” of racing for so many years. The area is rich with racing history. Most of the NASCAR team headquarters are located there as well as three driving experiences and numerous driving schools. It is the home of Lowe’s Motor Speedway - The Beast of the Southeast. Area businesses are in strong support of the Hall of Fame. The city has pledged to be in full support of the project as well. Imagine the lure of the fan to Charlotte, the area businesses will boom as well as an increase in the job market. It is a win win for the city as well as NASCAR.

The features planned at this time promise to be a dream come true for any fan who just can’t get enough of racing. It will include:

• Approximately 50,000 square feet of exhibit space showcasing the history and heritage of the sport.
• Ceremonial Plaza: Exterior site for induction ceremonies.
• Full Throttle Theater: A 250-seat state-of-the-art theatre featuring informational film about the history of NASCAR.
• The Great Hall: Large, open, greeting area just inside the facility which will include rotating displays and lively video scenes and graphics.
• Glory Road: Banked ramp leading to the second floor of the facility featuring 15-18 historic cars.
• Hall of Honor: Space where NASCAR Hall of Fame inductees will be honored.
• NASCAR Vault: Glass-enclosed section of the facility housing historic artifacts from NASCAR’s past.
• A Week in the Life: A behind-the-scenes look of what a NASCAR team goes through to prepare a car for raceday.
• Transporter Simulator: A full-size transporter, giving visitors a first-hand look at the team’s nerve-center at the track.
• Racing Simulator: A state-of-the-art attraction giving visitors a driver’s experience and perspective on raceday.
• Heritage Speedway: Individual galleries telling the story of NASCAR’s exciting 60+ year history.
• Tribute Space: A memorial area where visitors can honor and reflect on heroes no longer with us.
• Restaurant and Retail Outlets.
• TV & Radio Studios and NASCAR Newsroom

The fan will even have a chance to support the Hall of Fame and be a part of it by purchasing commemorative brick pavers which will be placed in the courtyard of the main entrance of the building. How much of a die hard fan are you? Prices and details will be presented to the public in the near future. It will be interesting to see how many bricks can be placed in a courtyard. I would easily say that this promotion may be more popular then expected and hope they are considering another area to expand on this idea should the courtyard get sold out.

NASCAR has begun the process of developing a method of how to select inductees to the Hall of Fame. They have been investigating how other halls of fame select their members and hopes to come up with a way that will be upstanding and provide the best of the sport for the fan.

Who will the first inductees be? Many names run through my mind, drivers, crew chiefs, pit crews, administrators, owners, teams but the name that stands out to me the most would be Bill France Sr. - the father of NASCAR. What a wonderful way to honor a man who organized stock car racing enabling it to become one of the biggest spectator sports in our country. I do think this honor of being the first inducted to the hall of fame should be his and I will be surprised if it doesn’t happen.

I have been to Daytona and have taken the tour of the track and visited the museum. It was an experience that I would highly recommend to any NASCAR fan. The banking of the track amazed me, watching it on TV doesn’t compare to seeing it in person. More respect needs to be given to drivers who make this look so easy week after week. It was great to see so much history of NASCAR on display and to enjoy the simulator attractions it offered. I was awe struck standing in front of the statue of Dale Earnhardt Sr. outside of the track. At that time, 5 years had gone by since this legendary driver was tragically killed at this racetrack. Fans still place mementos at and around his statue leaving me to wonder why, what significance did the pair of racing gloves mean, the flowers. Even though it is only a statue it almost radiated honor to a man who gave so much to the sport.

With this in mind, the opportunity of having a NASCAR Hall of Fame, with its state of the art technology construction, conversation of a trip to Charlotte has already stirred in my family. I envy our southern neighbors who have easy access to this attraction but in all fairness, have a right to have it in their backyard. If it is as much as promised, it will be one attraction NASCAR fans will not want to miss.

Article written by patiiee
patiiee is one of the many nascar fans on rootzoo.com. She loves nascar, and could talk about it all day. But she also enjoys all kinds of sports talk.

With the Nextel Cup coming up on August 10, I am sure that you would like to watch the race with as much quality as possible. Now there is a way that you can watch an intense race between the top racers like Jimmie Johnson, Jeff Gordon, and Kyle Busch in HD all on your PC!

With the Sprint Series Cup standings getting closer and closer On July 15th 2008, you do not want to miss one minute of this head-to-head action.

Are you a huge NASCAR fan, looking for a great place to watch all of the races in 2008? Well then you have come to the right place. I am here to tell you how you can Watch NASCAR Races 2008 live online on your PC. After all, if you are going to watch NASCAR, you are going to want the best of HDTV, and the ability to pause TV as you are watching it for a much cheaper price than DVR.

Well how can this help me?

As a NASCAR fan I know that I would like to catch every race. With this program, you can record all of the races on your PC. The great part about this is you will only have to pay ONE FEE. No more monthly fees that slowly tear a hole in your wallet.

Maybe you don’t want to watch NASCAR Races 2008 live online on your PC, with satellite TV for PC elite edition 2008, you will have access to over 3000 channels for one low price of $49.99. Here are some of the sports channels that you will get; ESPN News, EuroSports TV, GameSports TV, WHL TV, Fox Network, and Sport Star.

Advantages to watch NASCAR Races 2008 live online on your PC

1. Imagine yourself sitting at home watching a big race on your TV. What if you would like to check your email at the same time? Now you will have to completely leave the room, missing key points to the race. With satellite TV for PC Elite Edition 2008, you will be able to watch NASCAR Races 2008 live online on your PC, while checking your email or doing other business online.

2. Are you tired of your outdated TV? With this program, you will have HDTV, and be able to see the closest details throughout the entire race.

3. With satellite TV for PC, you will be able to not only watch NASCAR online, but pause and record live TV without the hassle of DVR.

4. NASCAR is important to you, but not important enough to spend hundreds of dollars on your cable bill right? With this program, you will have to pay only ONE payment for instant access to over 3000 channels.

5. Are you tired of the many distractions of a normal household holding you back from fully enjoying the big NASCAR race on your TV? Many people view their computer as their escape place, where they do not have to deal with the mayhem of their household. You can now watch NASCAR Races 2008 live online on your PC distraction free.

Article written by Krishna
Discover the advantages of watching NASCAR Races 2008 live online on your PC. Not only is it much cheaper, but you can do business on your computer at the same time. If you are interested in learning more, Review Here For More Exciting Information

In fact, Junior hasn’t won a race in over 2 years and has never won a championship. So, what exactly is it that makes him so popular? This is one of the most common questions asked among those who aren’t big Junior fans. As a Dale Jr. fan myself, let me answer this for you, from my perspective.

Many people believe that Jr. inherited a lot of fans from his father, Dale Earnhardt Sr., a NASCAR legend, after his father was killed in a racing accident. Some people think he’s only popular because of his last name.

Would he be as popular if his last name wasn’t Earnhardt? Probably not, to be honest, but his last name is a part of his family’s racing legacy. Junior is carrying on that legacy, and there’s nothing wrong with that.

But his last name will only get him so far. While it may be true that Jr. inherited a lot of fans from his father and grandfather, it’s also true that he couldn’t have kept these fans if he didn’t deserve them.

If Junior’s last name wasn’t Earnhardt, I’d still be a fan of the guy. But there are other drivers racing today that if their name *was* Earnhardt, I still wouldn’t like them no matter how many races they won.

Dale Jr. is popular because he has talent and personality. People are drawn to him. He’s a regular guy who could be your buddy. He’s not polished or image conscious. He’s the real deal. He’s not a pretender or a pretty boy. He has a country boy image that guys can relate to and women are attracted to.

He is young, energetic, and good looking (or so I’m told). He has a Southern drawl and a twinkle in his eye. He is a humble and down-to-earth race car driver of the people. He has done a lot for the sport and he is active in charity work, as well, being very generous with his time and money.

He is a good business man and has been very smart about the way he markets himself.

He is a great race car driver. He won 2 Busch championships. That takes a lot of talent. He also won some big races in the past, such as Daytona and Talladega.

Older fans like him because they liked his father. Middle age fans like him and link him to Budweiser and dirt tracks. The younger crowd likes the fact that he’s single, good-looking, and makes tons of cash driving real fast!

He’s also popular with NASCAR itself, because he fills the seats at the races. They love his popularity and marketability. He brings in more merchandising sales than any other driver. The bottom line is that Jr. makes money for NASCAR and they love him for it. Do they want him to win? Yes they do. Because when Jr. wins, everyone wins. In fact, it’s been said that you can shut your eyes at a race and tell if Jr. is leading by the roar from the crowd.

Not a bad gig, if you can get it!

That’s one guy’s opinion, worth what you paid for it!

Chris M. Smith owns DaleJr88FanGear.com, a Dale Earnhardt Jr. fan and memorabilia site. He specializes in the new line of Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 merchandise, including shirts, jackets, hats, decals, flags, cars, and other Dale Jr. #88 gear. He also features the latest in Dale Jr. news, videos, articles, race standings, and more. Visit his site: http://www.DaleJr88FanGear.com

Copyright 2008 Chris M. Smith

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_M_Smith

The Red Cross, Metropolitan Lincoln Mercury in Garden City, WDIV-TV Local 4 and Smooth Jazz V98.7 are teaming up through Sept. 19 by making donors eligible to win a lease on a new Lincoln MKZ.

Donors also become eligible to win one of two all-expense paid trips to NASCAR races in Arizona and Florida and to earn points redeemable for Red Cross Racing collectibles.

For more information visit www.givelife.org.

Source: Red Cross chases donors with NASCAR contest | Freep.com | Detroit Free Press

Earnhardt Jr. would like his race team to join the top-level series by the start of next season if the pieces fit-i.e., if a proven driver emerges and if his handlers can land a backer with deep enough pockets. A top-of-the-line racer seems unlikely, as Junior sees his team’s first year at the Cup level as a season of struggles.

JRM started out as a small shop in Mooresville with minimal expectations in 2005. The program merged with Hendrick Motorsports at the end of last season as a package deal when Junior left Dale Earnhardt Inc. Earnhardt Jr. expanded to three cars in ‘08, the No. 88 Chevrolet driven full time by Brad Keselowski, the 83 that Junior occasionally drives, and the 5 car shared by Junior, Casey Mears, Jimmie Johnson, Mark Martin, Landon Cassill, Ron Fellows and Martin Truex Jr. The team has been stronger from the start and runs consistently up front in every race. It got its first victory in March when Martin won at Las Vegas, and ran all three cars for the first time last weekend at Lowe’s Motor Speedway.

Ignoring the learning curve, a new twist has Tony Stewart becoming a partner with Earnhardt Jr. and driving for JRM next year if he gets out of his Joe Gibbs Racing contract-an unlikely event according to JGR president J.D. Gibbs. Stewart will not confirm discussions with Earnhardt Jr., saying only that Hass CNC racing is one of several racing organizations offering him limited partnership and a chance to drive for his own team. Unless further developments occur, a Stewart-Junior pact is more probable in 2010.

Driving for one race team while owning another is nothing new in NASCAR. Dale Earnhardt Sr. drove for Richard Childress Racing while he owned DEI. Junior could do the same with his arrangement, although HMS is co-owner of JRM, making a perceived conflict of interest minimal on Dale Jr.’s part.

If JRM moves up, what will other Nationwide teams do? And if Dale Earnhardt Jr. has trouble finding backers for his Nationwide program, what kind of financial shape are others in?

Since Truex Jr. won back-to-back Busch Series crowns in 2004-05, Cup regulars have dominated the series and remain the only true contenders for a Nationwide championship. Assuming Junior follows through and other teams follow suit, NASCAR may want to rethink pushing the COT on its “minor league” circuit so soon, or else make the series a true farm system for aspiring drivers. That would make profitability an issue, and Nationwide Insurance Co. could threaten to pull out.

Brian France has some very hard decisions ahead.

More articles about NASCAR news and auto racing can be found at http://www.speedweekly.net

The best way to watch NASCAR on your TV can be found at http://www.watchautoracing.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mel_Kizzidek

With only one win and four top-five finishes through four months of racing, Jimmie Johnson’s two-year reign as king of NASCAR could be coming to a close were it not for the controversial Chase format. Johnson was a firm ninth in the standings prior to Dover and trailed leader Kyle Busch by 367 points.

Lofty expectations bring a series of disappointments if the rate of success dips, and Johnson’s grip is getting slippery. After a series leading 10 wins in ‘07, including four of the last five Nextel Cup events, the 48 Chevrolet was the logical choice to win again in ‘08. That dominance is no longer there and teammates Jeff Gordon, Casey Mears, and newcomer Dale Earnhardt Jr. are winless as well in ‘08.

JJ doesn’t seem worried.

The El Cajon, Californian also has two career series runner-ups and 34 wins to his credit, and a long history of rising to the top. Considering the incredible run he had in last year’s Chase, as long as he’s in the field he remains a solid contender.

His atypical troubles continued recently at Lowe’s Motor Speedway, a track he has mastered in previous years. Career-wise, Johnson is peerless at LMS, statistically speaking. He ranks first in every major category at the Concord venue, besting rivals so convincingly that claims of a conspiracy-i.e., a Lowe’s car crushing the competition at a Lowe’s facility-routinely emerged. On May 25, the 48 car finished 39th in a field of 43 after engine trouble knocked JJ out of a race for the first time this season. Previously he had won seven times at the SMI-owned track and took three straight Coca-Cola 600s in 2003 - ‘05.

After rebounding in late March from a slow start, he came in fourth at Martinsville, followed by a runner-up spot at Texas and a win at Phoenix. He has slid again since then, and a general consensus is building that he’s mired in a season-long slump, much like his majority car owner (Gordon). Johnson says the reason for his drop is the Car of Tomorrow, now run at every series event. Gordon has also struggled in the wider car after Hendrick drivers won the first five COT races in ‘07. Johnson points out that his early wins from a year ago were in the old car and on shorter tracks. His five COT victories last season came at Richmond (.75-mile) and Martinsville (.526-mile)-two wins each-and at Phoenix (1-mile). He and the 48 crew are still figuring out how the heavier car handles on the bigger tracks in ‘08.

The edge Hendrick Motorsports had last season seems to be gone, through Johnson points out that other teams have simply caught up. If he can’t fare better at LMS of all places, where he has frequently excelled (he finished fourth in the May 17 All-Star race), he may be content to complete each race the rest of the way, win if he can, and qualify for NASCAR’s version of the postseason before making a strong move to the front.

Johnson has started well in previous years before going through a similar slide during the summer. He went 11 consecutive events without a win when the temperature rose in ‘06, and 14 straight weeks without a checkered flag in ‘07 before a late August win at California. This isn’t his first drought, but he has never struggled like this so soon. Still, he’s the only HMS driver with a win thus far.

Keep watch. The Hendrick team has never been down for too long.

More articles about NASCAR news and auto racing can be found at http://www.speedweekly.net

The best way to watch NASCAR on your TV can be found at http://www.watchautoracing.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mel_Kizzidek

The major factor I would like to discuss is the fact that each series offers different features for different skilled drivers and so forth. So would you come to the conclusion to say that series interchangeable drivers is fair? or unfair? By this I simply mean should drivers like Kyle Busch or Kevin Harvick be able to drive in both the Sprint, and Nationwide Series (Also Craftsman, if applied)?

It has been my opinion for years that each series is different so that other people can get into the certain series and gain coverage to someday race the highest series which is currently the Sprint Cup Series. Although with that being said we still see a few drivers that race both series simultaneously and have been for years.

This factor seems very unfair in my eyes due to the conclusion and assumption that higher ranked series drivers have more of an edge due to their somewhat of a veteran status with the Nascar sport. Meaning that they have more track time, and ultimately more practice and expertise under their belt then the drivers in the Nationwide and Craftsman Nascar series. Seeing that all these variables are arguable I would like to hear your responses on the topic and if you think it is fair or unfair? So before you take off, let me outline the major reasons why I think interchangeable driving in multiple Nascar series (Sprint, Nationwide, and Craftsman) seems unfair.

-Higher series drivers seem to have a veteran status with the Nascar sport and may have expertise when it comes to certain instances, like tracks, care handling etc.

-Each series of Nascar (Sprint, Nationwide, and Craftsman) have their own individual sponsors, shouldn’t they have their own drivers? not repeats, this would be to allow talent to flow through the sport at a somewhat higher rate with more driver openings.

-Each series is meant for a certain driver, and if they made it into the Sprint, Nationwide, or Craftsman cup series then aren’t they where they are supposed to be?

-If each driver who interchanged or raced both stayed in only one Nascar Series (Sprint, Nationwide, or Craftsman) then they could better their chances of winning races by having more time to practice and optimize one car at one track instead of multiples.

-And lastly opportunity, give other rising Nascar race car drivers the ability to get into the Nascar series by sticking to one series to offer more open positions for upcoming drivers.

So what do you think? Comments are appreciated and will be responded to. Thanks for your patronage!

http://www.NascarCollector.blogspot.com
Check us out and give Pit Pass Diecast a try! For all your Nascar collecting needs!

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Clint Bowyer fell victim to overheating issues in the early goings of Sunday night’s Coca-Cola 600 at Lowe’s Motor Speedway, forcing the Jack Daniel’s Chevrolet to pit under green-flag conditions, just 18 laps in to the longest race on the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series schedule.

Bowyer’s black and white No. 07 Chevy picked up debris that had blown on to the race track blocking the front grill openings and causing the water and oil temperatures to spike. The untimely trip to pit lane ultimately cost him two laps that, despite a yeoman’s effort, he was unable to reclaim.

“We picked up some trash on the nose of the Jack Daniel’s Chevrolet, had to pit under green and lost two laps. In all honesty, going two laps down early is almost as bad as wrecking. All things considered, 25th isn’t too bad. Gil (crew chief Gil Martin) and all the guys did a great job getting the car to where I could drive it. We struggled during the All-Star race and really didn’t have a good handle on the car for most of this weekend. But, when the green flag dropped, the Jack Daniel’s Chevy was easily a top-10 car. If we wouldn’t have had that bad luck, I feel like we could have raced for the win. We’re going to Dover next weekend and that’s a track I really enjoy. We’re taking a good car so this team is looking to rebound from a tough couple of weeks.” - Clint Bowyer

Still, Bowyer held on to fifth in the Sprint Cup Series point standings where he holds a 40-point advantage over Carl Edwards in sixth and a 61-point margin over Richard Childress Racing teammate Kevin Harvick in seventh. Meanwhile, Bowyer is just 18 points behind Denny Hamlin in fourth.

There are different types of camping that can be done at a NASCAR race. Most people have RVs that they like to camp with because they can hook them up and be able to use the water, the facilities, and have electricity in the camper. There are also camping sites for NASCAR races that do not offer hook ups at all, although many of these facilities will make other arrangements for you to dispose of your waste and get clean water. Of course, there is always the option of camping in a tent and that is often the favorite option amongst those who would rather do things simply. Whichever method of camping you choose should not be hard to accommodate.

Why Bother Camping at NASCAR Races?
Many people who travel to NASCAR don’t see the point in camping, and the truth is that it is not for everyone. There are many people who make a tradition out of traveling to races like the Coca Cola 600 and the Daytona 500 and camping with a huge group of friends and associates. Then there are people who fly to town and stay in luxury suites; obviously the latter group might not appreciate the experience. There is a camaraderie to be had at camp sites that goes well with the vibrant NASCAR atmosphere.

Camping at NASCAR Is One Big Party
People choose to camp at NASCAR rather than get a room or stay at a bed and breakfast because of the type of experience it offers. It is a great way for a lot of people who are interested in one thing to get together and celebrate it. There is often drinking, cookouts, parties, games, activities—you name it, it is done at a NASCAR campout. It is a good place to bring little ones who you want to enjoy the races with you and teach them how to have some good, wholesome fun.

Where to Camp at NASCAR
Depending on what race you are attending and what track you will be at, there are several different places to camp. Some tracks allow camping on the infield only, while some tracks allow camping inside the track and outside it as well. Other places have campsites very close to the track that are designated for camping NASCAR fans as well, so the venue can change accommodations from place to place and race to race. Check with your race in advance so that you can reserve a spot, and let your friends and loved ones know in advance, especially if there is a distance to be traveled to the race itself.

Something to keep in mind about camping out at NASCAR races is that the more popular the race is and the bigger of a deal the event is, the harder it is going to be to get a space. Sometimes, they require that you reserve a camping space a year in advance or more and that is a bit too long for some people. A lot of things can change in a year, but usually the cost of reserving the space is not too much to ask to have the space reserved when demand for it is going to be so high once the event rolls around.

Camping at NASCAR takes organization. It takes planning, and most of all it takes the will to have a good time. There should only be one rule at a NASCAR camping event and it should be that non race fans and party poopers are not allowed!

About the Author
Steve Godlewski travels all over the country with his wife Jen, 2 Kids, 2 Dogs, and the cat. Feel free to join us and ride shotgun. Ride with us: http://www.roadwarriorslive.com

Aflac, the Georgia company known for humorous commercials starring its signature duck, would not disclose the terms of its multiyear deal with Roush Fenway Racing, Edwards’ race team. But it is believed to be for three years and worth $78 million.

Delray Beach-based Office Depot will continue as primary sponsor of Edwards’ car for the rest of this season, which runs until mid-November, including its fourth “Official Small Business of NASCAR” sweepstakes.

Dale Earnhardt Sr. was born on April 29th, 1951 in Kannapolis, North Carolina and sadly died at aged 49 on February 18th, 2001 as a result of massive head trauma from a crash in the final lap of 2001 Daytona 500. Dale Sr. was also known as The Intimidator but those who knew him, would say differently. He was a philanthropist and never found the need for media coverage of his donations.

His father, Ralph Earnhardt, was one of the best known short-track drivers in North Carolina. He was not very encouraging of his son’s ambition of racing cars as well and even when he dropped out of high school to race, Ralph was hard on his son. Ralph did teach his son everything he knew and set the stage to make him the driver he turned into. His father realized that his driving skill came naturally and as such made his son view his mistakes as open mindedly as possible. Earnhardt Sr. appreciated everything his father did for him and missed his presence sorely when he died of a heart attack in 1973.

Although Sr. started racing professionally at age 23, he ran his first race at Metolina Fairgrounds in Charlotte in the 1970 season where he finished in 10th place. In 1971, he finally won his first race which would then bring about 26 more wins while still racing at Metolina and Concord Motor Speedway. After he had quit school, he worked at several places like for an insulation company and he was also a welder who did brake jobs as well. Dale’s decision to race for a career came about after his father’s death. He bought an asphalt-track car while still competing at Metrolina. Although money was tight, Earnhardt Sr. always found away to get through it.

He began his Winston Cup career in 1975. In 1978, things took a turn for the better when he met Teresa Houston who then helped pave the way for Dale’s path to NASCAR success. Once out of his rookie season, he started the season off with a win in the Busch Clash. He became the first and only driver thus far to have won Rookie of the year and then winning the NASCAR Winston Cup Championship. He eventually went on to race for Richard Childress Racing in 1981 and then joined Bud Moore during the 1982 and 1983 season. After that he went back to Richard Childress Racing and in that time, managed to secure victory 6 times at Talladega, Atlanta, Richmond, Bristol and Martinsville.

He went on to carve NASCAR history in the following two decades. It is talked about the bigger things that could have been achieved had Earnhardt Sr. survived the fatal crash that took away a NASCAR legend. His #3 car was retired by his team owner who has promised never to let another car on his team be designed similarly. Although he was both loved and hated in NASCAR, he has remained one of the sport’s most popular drivers. Dale made sure his private life was kept private. When he wasn’t on the tracks, he was with his family, hunting, fishing, working on his farm and known as generous giver amongst his friends. In 2004, his life story was made into a television movie, titled “3: The Dale Earnhardt Story” and in 2007, a documentary-style movie was released into theaters. Even in death, many still remember the great things Dale Sr. accomplished and tributes in song, movies and books have been dedicated to the passing to the brightest star of NASCAR.

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To quote NEXTEL Cup driver Robert Pressley, a family friend of the Ragan family
“It’s like there’s a blood line down here with the Ragans and racing. They’re good. And whether you’re in Legends, or Busch, or NEXTEL cup, they take everything serious and that’s exactly right. If you take it serious, you’re going to be successful.” David, son of famed Ken Ragan, was born on December 24, 1985 in Unadilla, Georgia. The 6’s father is a former Winston Cup journeyman so it does not faze NASCAR enthusiasts that the younger Ragan has the same fire for racing as his father. Ragan is currently the director of 600 Racing and was a former NEXTEL Cup driver. During his career, Ken Ragan, made 50 Cup starts from 1982 to 1990. Ken also made five Busch Series starts in 1982 and 1983.

The younger Ragan started racing when he was 11 years old at the Atlanta Motor Speedway in the Bandoleer Series in 1997. He has been blessed with an extremely fruitful career ever since then. When he was 12 in 1998, he went on to win the National Champion Bandoleer Bandits division under the sponsorship of Rudy’s Farm. At the Atlanta Motor Speedway, he came in 2nd in the Thursday Thunder Series and won 12 Bandoleer features. From ages 13 to 14 (1999-2000), David won the National Champion in the Bandoleer Yu-Guns division, he came in 1st at the Wendy’s Summer Shootout at the Lowes Motor Speedway, managed to grab 19 Bandoleer wins, competed in Legends Cars, won the Young Lions division for the state of Georgia, the Semi-Pro Championship at Atlanta Motor Speedway, purchased Nascar Goods Dash car and won 17 Legend Car features. For someone so young, David achieved a lot in the short span of two years and went on to get more for himself. He gained experience working in Cam Strader’s Goodys Dash shop while on the tracks, he also worked on #6 NASCAR’s Goodys Dash car. On several occasions, he tested the Dash car. Later on, David and Strader’s team worked on two NASCAR Late Models that was used by him in 2002 during his first NASCAR series division. He continued to help Strader in the NASCAR Goodys Dash, Busch and ARCA events and raced ten Legends events at Lowe’s Motor Speedway.

By the time he was 18 and eligible for NASCAR divisions, he had driven for Mark Martin, won the “King of the Oval” thunder Roadster series championship with the national title. David Ragan became the youngest driver during Speedweeks in Daytona and he proved his nettle after getting a best finish of 2nd at the subsequent ARCA/Remax series at Kentucky Speedway. He gained a lot of experience when he qualified to compete in eight NASCAR Craftsman Truck events the year he reached the minimum age limit.

Even though he was a terror on the tracks, Ragan’s family made sure he was doing well in school. He was a student at the Eagle’s Landing High School which subsequently led him to a place in the UNC Motorsports Engineering program. He balanced both his professional and student life immaculately. Besides his father, David looks up to Mark Martin on the track. He regards Martin as a mentor who has along the way, given him advice especially when he was preparing for his shot in the Scotts truck.

As David Ragan matures and becomes more experienced on the NASCAR tracks, he is building a sound reputation on the tracks and he keeps looking forward to the next race. He has father, Ken Ragan, with him during all his races as Ken Ragan is also his manager. They share a tight bond, one that is cemented with the love of racing.

For NASCAR Merchandise, Up to the minute News, and everything NASCAR including NASCAR Figures , NASCAR Baby Items and NASCAR Jacket we have put together the largest selection all in one place! Not only am I the owner of NASCARsupershop.com but I am also the senior editor, website developer and a HUGE fan that loves NASCAR!

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Born on the 2nd of March in 1970, David Reutimann grew up in Zephyrhills, Florida with the zeal of driving inborn within him. David’s family name resounds strongly within the old school races and various fans throughout the east coast. Their family name is notorious on the race tracks of Orlando, Florida. Buzzie and Wayne (David’s father and uncle) were legends amongst the old school racers throughout the east coast. Their presence commands respect on and off the tracks and such a tradition was instilled in young David. David was brought up with racing in his blood and he has made sure to continue the bloodline on the tracks.

David’s grandfather and father would tear down the tracks in their early 30s Chevys, trimmed in blue and white with the famous “00″ painted on red. They brought their game to the track and had their trophy in tow. Buzzie had the DIRT world in his hands after storm winning events all over the Eastern seaboard. David, at the beginning was very much like his father. He was driving modifieds and late models on dirt and paved tracks while building up his own reputation.

Although the transition from weekly tracks to big competitions was extremely hard, David proved the critics wrong. He was able to make the change smoothly and after getting noticed by Darrell Waltrip, the pieces fell into place. All of this took place when He moved up to the Slim Jim all Pro Series in 1997. He won Rookie of the year, finished in the top-ten eight times and had a fifth-place points finish. One would conclude that that was pretty good for such a large change in a short period of time. At the next season’s end, Reutimann grabbed a hold of the Sportsmanship award.

What probably was his biggest win was his daughter’s birth in 2001. Reutimann who now resides in Mooresville, North Carolina, set up house with his wife Lisa and young daughter Emilia with their mini-dachshunds, Roxie and Daisy.

It took him a few years after his debut onto the professional scene before he got his three wins in 2002 and with that, finished second in the overall championship standings. It was also that same year that the Florida native entered his first of four NASCAR Busch Series races. The car he raced in was owned by Joe Nemechek after getting some help from an old friend called Brian Pattie. Reutimann went on to finish at the 16th spot when he debuted at the Richmond International Raceway and later finished in the top 15 twice that same season. The next seasons, he ran seven Busch races for NEMCO. He also participated in the New England 300 and the Brickyard 400 in the Winston Cup Series in the #04 for Morgan-McClure Motorsports, but unfortunately failed to make the cut to qualify at both times.

David then signed on with Darrell Waltrip Motorsports in 2004 to race the NTN Bearings truck in the Craftsman Truck series. He won the pole in his second race at the Atlanta Motor Speedway, David had four top-fives and with his finish in 14th place in points, he managed to snatch Rookie of the Year again into his bag. His first career race was won in 2005 at the Nashville Superspeedway. He then went on to make his cup debut at Lowe’s Motor Speedway and continued to make fifteen Busch starts and had four top tens.

Buzzie Reutimann still races till this very day. David Reutimann, though a third generation racer in his family, proved that racing can be strong within one’s genes and that it is possible to go to the big time even if you start out small.

For NASCAR Merchandise, Up to the minute News, and everything NASCAR including NASCAR Barbecue Items , NASCAR Blankets and NASCAR Sunglasses we have put together the largest selection all in one place! Not only am I the owner of NASCARsupershop.com but I am also the senior editor, website developer and a HUGE fan that loves NASCAR!

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It happens every year: NASCAR dominates your life every Sunday (and sometimes other days) from February through November. But what do you do when someone you live with is a Race Fan (RF) and you’re not? From coping with the temporarily impaired ability to carry on a coherent conversation (don’t worry - it usually is just temporary) to wondering why a 39 year old suddenly starts to behave like a 12 year old every time a race is on, here are some tips to help you cope with your very own RF, whether they’re 10 or 90 or somewhere in between.

Heather L. Clark is a Web writer and researcher who enjoys birthday cards, NASCAR and basketball.

Robby Gordon, the owner and driver of the number 7 Dodge Charger sponsored by Jim Beam, has found himself in the spotlight once again. Gordon is the last single car owner and driver left in the Sprint Cup Series. Gordon is known as “the guy who will drive anything that has wheels.” He has raced in the Baja 1000, Indy 500, but lately has spent most of his time racing in NASCAR.

Around the pits Gordon is respected for the drive and desire he shows week in and week out, however to Nascar fans he more known for his aggressive driving and constant run-ins with NASCAR. In the 50th running of the Daytona 500 Gordon surprised many people by posting a top 10 finish in what is called the Super Bowl of Auto Racing. The celebration didn’t last long as Gordon was slapped with a $100,000 fine and docked 100 points in the Championship points race. NASCAR determined that Gordon’s front nose on his Dodge Charger to be illegal. Gordon has maintained his innocence this week stating that he has already filed an appeal. Gordon claims that the nose on his car is exactly the way he received it, directly from Dodge and if it is illegal he shouldn’t be held responsible for their mistake.

Unfortunately, this penalty puts the team at Robby Gordon racing in a tremendous hole. Gordon needs every point he can get to keep his sponsors happy and race his way into the Sprint Cup Chase. Until NASCAR hears Gordon’s appeal it will be up to the man behind the wheel to race his way back into championship contention. Robby Gordon with extra pressure to win, the next few races should be very interesting.

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Marshall Teague and the Hudson Hornet

February 11 was a big day for the car and the driver. On that day in 1951, NASCAR driver Marshall Teague drove a Hudson Hornet to victory in the 160-mile Daytona Grand National at Daytona Beach, Florida. It was a preview of things to come for both. The Hornet had an innovative “step down” chassis design, and lower center of gravity which improved handling. In 1951, the manufacturer outfitted the car with a bigger engine. The Hornet was a powerhouse on the NASCAR circuit until 1955, when rule changes emphasized horsepower over handling.

The Hudson Motor Company

Founded on February 24, 1909 by eight Detroit businessmen

Company was named after J.L.Hudson, a Detroit department store entrepreneur and one of the original founders.

Roy Chapin, Sr., the investor with the industry experience, had been a young executive with Ransom E. Olds.

In 1929, Hudson produced 300,000 cars, making it the third largest car maker in the U.S

On January 14, 1954, Hudson Merged with Nash-Kelvinator to become American Motors.

In the 2006 animated feature, “Cars”, Paul Newman provided the voice for the character, “Doc Hudson”. Doc was once known as the Fabulous Hornet, with a record for the mosts wins-27- in a single season. His license plate was 51HHMD.

Marshall Teague, who was known as the “King of the Beach” for his races at his hometown track, won seven NASCAR Grand National Races between 1949 and 1952. Before the 1951 season, he traveled to Michigan to Hudson, where he showed up without an appointment. By the end of the visit, he had laid the foundation for a relationship with the company that would make the car and driver dominant in the circuit until 1953. Teague left NASCAR that year, in a dispute with the circuit founder, Bill France, Sr. He went on to drive in the AAA and USAC circuits.

Nine years to the day after his historic race in the Hudson Hornet, on February 11, 1959, he was back at Daytona. It would be his last run. Teague was killed trying to set a closed court record in a reconfigured Indy car at the newly opened Dayton Interantional Speedway. The test session was just prior to the April debut of the USAC championship in Indy-styled roadsters, and eleven days before the first Daytona 500. Marshall’s death bothered Bill France so much that he never again held Indy-style racing at the Daytona Speedway.

Marshall Teague’s career highlights

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Statistics

23 races run over 4 years.

Best Cup Position: 62nd - 1949 (Strictly Stock)

First Race: 1949 Daytona Beach Road Course

First Win: 1951 Daytona Beach Road Course

Last Win: 1952 Speedway Park (Jacksonville)

Wins-7 Top Tens-11 Poles-3

National Motorsports Press Association’s Hall of Fame (1968)

1951 AAA Stock Car Driver of the Year

1952 & 1954 AAA National Stock Car Champion

National Auto Racing Hall of Fame (1988)

TRS/NASCAR Mechanics Hall of Fame (1989)

Marsha Newsom
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