Bumpin' Crunchin' And Drafting........

This Talladega race should be 'exciting' now than last year

2008-04-22T06:57:00.011-05:00

It's going to Be Hendrick Motorsports (One of those Drivers) win this Sunday

Danica is the First Woman to Win IRL Race!

2008-04-22T06:44:00.002-05:00

now that Patrick has won a race, IRL is sure to crank up the hype machine ahead of the Indy 500. In two more tries at Indy since the fourth place finish in 2005 where she led for 19 laps, she has finished in 8th twice. (I remember that) If anything, the greatest regret the circuit probably has right now is that Patrick's win had to come on the circuit's one stop in Japan, where the race could never draw a large North American television audience.

Finally, now that she's won a race, one wonders just how much longer it will be before Patrick says goodbye to IRL, and takes a hard look at NASCAR. (NASCAR did want her to join it as she turn down as not ready to do it yet) As well as she's done sponsor-wise in IRL, there's little doubt in my mind that a hop with a NASCAR team would be far more lucrative, a move that many of her former IRL confederates like Dario Franchitti and Sam Hornish, Jr., have already made.

Mo: I knew she will get the win someday and she did it (I'm Proud) !!!!!
Dang! I would love to watch the race (I probably will watch the reply race) and honestly Im not big IRL fan as know few driver names (IRL)
Anyway there are one or two ladies still drives in IRL all I can remember but not as popular like Danica is

Drivers find heartbreak at PIR..............

2008-04-19T19:00:00.000-05:00

- the (last)weekend's Top 10 Tums' honors - for Heartbreak.- Let's start with the most obvious: Fox TV forced NASCAR to postpone the already late starting time of the Saturday night race an extra 15 minutes while wading through the final innings of the Red Sox-Yankees baseball game. That meant that the race didn't start until nearly 9 p.m.

So much for NASCAR racing as family-time entertainment; the race didn't finish until after midnight on the East Coast.

NASCAR finally started the race without waiting for Fox to close out the Sox-Yankees game, so TV fans missed the start of the race as well as the last out of the ballgame.

- Hometown hero J.J. Yeley likewise got double-burned when he got caught up in the crash and finished 39th. His team owners also own the Arizona Diamondbacks, and Yeley had been part of the Diamondbacks' pre-race cross-promotion. Yeley dropped out of the top 35 after his finish.

- For the third straight week Kyle Petty's team failed to make the field. He missed Martinsville; substitute driver Chad McCumbee failed to put the No. 45 car in the field at Texas.

- Carl Edwards, the hottest driver on the tour, with three wins going into the Subway Fit Fresh 500, had one of the best cars at the Arizona track until a pit-road penalty put him in a difficult position. He did salvage a fourth.

- And Ryan Newman just can't buy a break. Newman, the Daytona 500 winner, whose fourth at Texas was marred by a post-race inspection violation, rallied to win the Subway Fit Fresh 500 pole - only to trigger a five-car crash and wind up last.

- Elliott Sadler had similar heartburn: His ailing back seems to have healed, he put Ray Evernham's Dodge on the front row, but his motor broke less than halfway through the race and he crashed.

- And there was more bad luck for Matt Kenseth, with a blown right-front tire. He limped home 38th and fell to 15th in the standings.

-That dandy duel between Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mark Martin, the man who has taken his place at DEI, fizzled in the final miles when they both had to stop for gas.

is winless next? Hope not!
Earnhardt is winless in his last 70 races. On the plus side, he's moved up to third in the standings.

And, while teammate Jimmie Johnson finally got car owner Rick Hendrick on the board for the first time this season with the win - by stretching his gas mileage better than everyone else - Jeff Gordon appears to be legitimately in a slump. Gordon was a zero at Texas, in one of the worst performances of his career, and he was never in the game at Phoenix. He finished 13th, a lap down.

For the year Gordon's average finish is a painful 18.9, though he's led 183 laps. Maybe Gordon can bounce back at Talladega, where he's won six times. He swept both Talladega races last year.

And if the Hendrick bunch doesn't pick things up in the next few weeks, well, the questions may become even more pointed, because Hendrick drivers have done exceptionally well at Talladega (10 wins), Richmond (nine wins), Darlington (12 wins) and Concord's Lowe's Motor Speedway (15 wins), the next four tour stops.

And then perhaps it's a bit too tough to question the Hendrick camp that hard. After all, this season Hendrick Chevys have led 949 laps, more than any other team owner. Joe Gibbs' Toyotas are second, with 887 laps led. Jack Roush's Fords have led 468 laps, and Richard Childress' Chevys have led 230.

Nevertheless, Hendrick conceded that Johnson's win was a relief: "It feels good, and I think it's a sign of things to come.

"But we know there's still work to do. When you're a little behind, it's real easy to get down on yourself, but no one has had that attitude. Everyone has approached it the right way and pushed forward.

"We've been working hard, testing and doing all the things we need to be doing. One win doesn't change that. The big focus is making the (playoff) chase and competing for the championship. We want to be in position to make a push in those last 10 races."

The slump?

"Well, I don't think we went anywhere," Hendrick said. "But it's difficult to come off a season like we had last year, and live up to all the hype and expectations. It's not like we finished up 2007 and said 'OK, we won 18 races ... so now we've got to win 19.' You can't set goals that way.

"We know we won some races last season we shouldn't have. And we knew coming into this year it would be nearly impossible to continue that pace. We had a horseshoe - and held onto it as long as we could ... I'm really proud of our restrictor-plate program and everything our guys have accomplished on that side, so we're looking forward to Talladega. Richmond and Darlington are great tracks. And we always love running at Lowe's.

"We have more testing to do, and more gains to make, with this new car. But we'll be ready."

Newman bounced back Thursday with his 43rd career pole

2008-04-11T11:22:00.007-05:00

Winning poles never gets old for Ryan Newman, NASCAR's Rocketman.

Still smarting from the indignity of being penalized 25 points after his fourth-place car was found to be an eighth of an inch too high after last Sunday's race at Texas.

The Daytona 500 winner will start Saturday night's Subway Fresh Fit 500 from the front, a solid chance to get back to Victory Lane.

Newman, who drives for Penske Racing, has won at least one pole in each of his eight seasons in NASCAR and moved into a tie with NASCAR pioneer Buck Baker for 10th on the career qualifying list.

Asked if the thrill of winning poles has lessened over the years, Newman, whose last pole came at Charlotte last October, shook his head and said, `No. It's been a while for me.

"I was really happy. I was as happy after practice as I am now because it's been a while since, even in practice, we were P1 (position one). We've won some poles but we hadn't been P1 in practice. To be P1 in practice and then back it up in qualifying, that shows consistency and I that's a good thing for the race this weekend."

Newman's fast lap on the mile Phoenix oval was 133.457 mph, just 0.045 faster than runner-up Elliott Sadler's 133.412.

"I thought it was a good lap, a bit conservative, but a good lap," Newman said. "Obviously, it wasn't too conservative because it was good enough. I think we've got a good car. It's been a while since we've had a car this good around this racetrack."

Being docked 25 points dropped Newman from eighth to 10th in the standings, but he said that he and the No. 12 Dodge team have put it behind them.

"We learn from our mistakes," he said. "You have to think positive and go forward.

"You never make up points that you lost, but you can make the effort, obviously, to put yourself in position so those points didn't matter," Newman added. "Obviously, we're trying to do that."

Mo: Yeah I saw him won at Michigan International Speedway in 2003
Good Luck Ryan at PIR on Saturday!

#12 team gets 25-point deduction

2008-04-09T07:52:00.002-05:00

Ryan Newman and crew chief Roy McCauley got hit by NASCAR with penalties yesterday for their Dodge being too high on the right-rear quarterpanel in post-race inspection after they finished fourth in the Texas Samsung 500.

The sanctions: a $25,000 fine, fairly standard these days; a 25-point deduction, relatively light, all things considered; and McCauley will be on probation the rest of the season, but he got no suspension.

25 point seem not much but it's does hurt drop points
The penalty dropped Newman from eighth to 10th in the Sprint Cup standings.

This Be Dale Jr's Weekend?

2008-04-05T08:06:00.002-05:00

Dale Earnhardt Junior and his huge loyal fan base are smiling after Friday's performance at Texas Motor Speedway. Earnhardt Jr. captured the pole for Sunday' Samsung 500.

Junior posted a lap at 190.907 mph to earn his 8th career top spot for a cup race.

The Driver of the #88 car hopes to snap his current winless streak. Junior's last victory was in May of 2006 in Richmond, Virginia.

WOW!
McDowell after his horrifying crash during qualifying at Texas Motor Speedway. He is okay without being hurt. Im sure He will be very sore today!

Quietly, Earnhardt Jr. is living up to all the hype

2008-04-03T06:53:00.002-05:00

No wins, but five top-10s have No. 88 firmly in top 12

Jeff Burton and Kevin Harvick are surging, Jeff Gordon and Jimmie Johnson are regrouping, the bunch at Roush Fenway Racing is on its feet again after starting so unsteadily last year. A new car and an old tire are struggling to adapt to one another, familiar faces risk missing races, and a kid from Las Vegas is proving he can win in almost any vehicle on four wheels. Eclipsed by all these dominant storylines from the first few months of the 2008 season, NASCAR's most popular driver goes quietly about his business, each week continuing to live up to the hype.

Last Sunday at Martinsville Speedway brought an under-the-radar sixth-place finish, Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s fifth result of ninth or better in six Sprint Cup starts this year. Everybody's waiting for the end of that now 68-race-long winless streak, which dates back to Junior's last victory at Richmond International Raceway almost two years ago. That will come, eventually. Right now, he's doing the less glamorous but absolutely necessary under-the-basket dirty work of getting himself in contention for the championship, churning out top-10 after top-10 to solidify his place in the Chase.

"The wins will come," Earnhardt said after the Martinsville race. "We just have to be patient and be happy and mindful about the points we are getting in this stretch. We have a little bit of a period in the summer where we go to tracks that we are off and on, hot and cold at. We need to get a good base of points built up as early as we can, in case we have any kind of struggles in mid-season, so we're just trying to be guarded and smart."

Denny Hamlin's bad luck finally ran out

2008-03-31T06:37:00.004-05:00

With his win Sunday, Denny Hamlin jumped from 15th to eighth in the Sprint Cup standings

.

No driver has been more snake-bitten this season than Hamlin, who won his first race of 2008 on Sunday. Two weeks ago at Bristol, Hamlin held the lead with two laps to go, but on the final restart he had a problem with his fuel pickup, and he wound up sixth. Before that, on March 9 in Atlanta, he was running in second midway through the race when he experienced trouble with his power steering, which caused him to come in 15th. Plus his hometown too SMILE!

Junior's fans blame crew chief

2008-03-25T06:50:00.000-05:00

There are a lot of tough jobs in NASCAR, but one of the toughest continues to be the one Tony Eury Jr. has. When Dale Earnhardt Jr. doesn't win, some of his most loyal fans look for somebody to blame. His crew chief is often handy, and there have been times when Eury Jr.'s strategy has been debatable. But there's hardly anybody in racing who gets thrown under the bus faster by his team's fans. At Bristol, Eury Jr. had Earnhardt Jr. stay out on a late caution. When the race restarted with five laps left, the car was third but last among those on old tires. Everybody behind Earnhardt Jr. came in, and that put the No. 88 Chevrolet team in a bad spot. Earnhardt Jr. managed a fifth-place finish, which under the circumstances wasn't terrible. The worst part about Eury Jr.'s call was that it was a defensive move. Instead of making trying to win, Eury Jr. chose to try to protect a decent finish by keeping track position. That's points racing, and fans justifiably hate that, even if it is Earnhardt Jr.

Mo: Yeah I was not happy about that too but he still was top five but could done better if He went in to change at least two right tires (maybe it is the right call who know)

The new Sprint Cup car has reached its first birthday (COT).

2008-03-24T15:50:00.004-05:00

(Car for Tomorrow)

2008-03-17T09:16:00.001-05:00

Myspace Graphics | St Patricks Day Images | Myspace layouts

RCR goes 1-2-3

2008-03-17T08:51:00.004-05:00

Richard Childress Racing pulled off a feat Sunday that's not quite as easy as 1-2-3. With its first sweep in team history, RCR also became the first team to finish in the top three spots since Roush Fenway Racing did so four times in '05.

The win was Burton's first of 2008 and his 20th of his career. Additionally, it was Chevrolet's first win of 2008

Dale Jarrett's last ride

2008-03-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

It is no surprise that a Joe Gibb's car won the Kobalt Tools 500.

2008-03-10T04:40:00.005-05:00

Kyle Busch celebrates winning the Kobalt Tools 500 in victory lane at the Altanta Motor Speedway. Busch, who drives a Toyota Camry, became the first driver of a foreign manufactured car to win a U.S. stock-car race since 1954.
that it was Kyle Busch. But seem no surprise to see a less than for Kyle by fans in attendance and at the track.

What this man doing to UPS #44
With a 2.8 second lead over his closest 2nd place in the final lap of the race
What an idiot Kyle decided to take issue with UPS driver, Dale Jarrett, almost wrecking the driver in the turn just to get him out of his way.
Now Kyle was probably in the hurry and wanted to win that race so badly but could have cost him the race and took out him out the race.

He may be fun to watch but still fans or drivers will say something {complaining} to him very soon

Congrat to Kyle

Is that Checker flag or Checkered win?

2008-03-03T19:22:00.004-06:00

First, the oil cooler lid incident.

In postrace inspection, NASCAR found the lid in Edwards' oil cooler "off." That's how it was explained. Off.

That means Edwards could have had an advantage. No oil cooler lid means more air, which could mean more speed

I bet Carl & Roush will lose 25 to 100 points each, Osborne is looking at a 6 week suspension. Roush will appeal....stay tuned.

{UPDATE}

Edwards' Penalties Include:

* 100 driver points
* 100 owner points
* 10-point Chase bonus for winning a race
* Six week suspension for crew chief Bob Osbourne
* $100,000 fine for Osbourne
* Probation until Dec. 31 for Osbourne

Fontana, Calif. Washout {and cold} all weekend but

2008-02-27T07:07:00.006-06:00

The 72 Hours of Michigan
3M Performance 400

That was hell weekend last year August 2007 in Michigan....

Just last year, on California's sister track in Michigan, what is typically a clean, quick event served up more false starts than a Pop Warner offensive line.

Sunday was a total washout, with so much green on the radar that the normally overly patient NASCAR officials announced a one-day postponement early enough that the 145,000 in attendance still had time to find somewhere in the Irish Hills to have dinner.

On Monday, it was more of the same and another delay.

On Tuesday morning, drivers woke to the promise of rising temperatures and a forecast of clearing skies. But when the green flag finally fell, the Michigan fog was so dense that the spotters and remaining 40,000 fans (the message boards were jammed with fans saying, "I know I'm going to get fired for calling in sick, but what the hell") couldn't see the cars as they disappeared into Turn 1. Nine laps later, the red flag was shown. "Holy crap," Kevin Harvick said over the radio as the cars came down pit road. "Can we just throw the checkers now and go home?"

Thirty-two minutes later, the race resumed under the forecast clearing skies and Kurt Busch survived a green-white-checkered finish to hold off Martin Truex Jr. "Of course we had to run three extra laps,"

Back to Fontana

Slip Slidin' Away was big problem

After waiting nearly five hours for the track to dry, NASCAR officials decided to postpone the remaining 163 laps of the Sprint Cup Series Auto Club 500 until 1 p.m. (ET) on Monday.

The long day began when the start of the race was pushed back to over two hours because of showers over the Auto Club Speedway.

The first red flag of the night, which lasted a little over an hour, was thrown on lap 21 for an incident involving Casey Mears, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Sam Hornish Jr. and Reed Sorenson. The crash started in Turn 2 when Mears lost control and then clipped his teammate Earnhardt Jr. Mears came to a rest on his side after Hornish collided with the back of his No. 5 Chevrolet. A fire erupted in Hornish's No. 77 Dodge, but both drivers escaped unharmed.

That was scary part
car did get on fire

Hey Kerri is that Newman car? LOL

While the cars of Mears and Hornish were destroyed, Earnhardt Jr. and Sorenson were able to rejoin the race later on.

Anyway I missed the race on Monday due work

Edwards finally shines in California (On Monday Afternoon from Sunday delayed) and won the race Notes: Lap 250: CHECKERED FLAG! Carl Edwards wins under caution after Dale Jarrett spins.

He still continues to flip everytime he win the race

Sorry guys

2008-02-26T19:47:00.013-06:00

I haven't post for a while

Well I'm here now

Hey NASCAR turn out great at Daytona 500 with the COT &
what a great finished end race too

Newman wins Daytona 500:
#12-Ryan Newman won the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway, getting pushed by his teammate #2-Kurt Busch for the first Daytona 500 winner for owner Roger Penske, first restrictor plate win for Penske and first ever 1-2 finish for Penske Racing in a Cup race. It is Newman's first win since Sept 18, 2005 at New Hampshire, 80 races ago and his 13th career win. #20-Tony Stewart finished 3rd, followed by #18-Kyle Busch, #41-Reed Sorenson, #19-Elliott Sadler, #9-Kasey Kahne, #7-Robby Gordon, #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr. and #16-Greg Biffle

I give a A PLUS for Ryan Newman and Kurt Busch :-)

Thanks lot no one helped Jr to get draft
He got hung dry draft but ended up 9th place :-/

ARGH! I can't change black font color for now {got fixed)
Also I will work on new layout on the web site real soon

I'm Back!

2008-01-16T11:57:00.001-06:00

I had a great holiday, it's nice to get away from it all every now and then....

Jennifer gave me the best christmas gifts , and .............

I did hate the zune 30 at first because I didn't know the hell how to work with it.........

Now I love it not because the musics only. It's also have the Podcasts on it...

Jennifer like the podcast video too and she keep telling me to rewind it when I'm on the bed watching the shows.. LOL!

Jennifer do hate the Zune when I downloading the shows on the zune software from the computer. It's does slow down or freeze up the computer... oops

Jr and Kenseth are big football fans

2007-10-16T15:59:00.000-05:00

Skins/Packers game

I goes WHAT! still traffic next day (On Monday morning)

2007-10-11T17:38:00.000-05:00

We wasn't going back home and on way to Tennessee......

Dale, Jr new sponsor on the golf cart (ALREADY!)

2007-10-11T17:33:00.001-05:00

Dale, Jr isn't driving this sponsor until next year! Fans couldn't wait

Thank to my friend took the pic

Friend of mine took a pic of behind us from rows up

2007-10-11T17:16:00.001-05:00

Mo with grey and black cap - Jennifer with cowgirl hat

Here's my camp out & race {pics} at Ala"BAMA"

2007-10-11T15:50:00.001-05:00

First day camp out (by turn two) and Cup Race @ Dega

Green Flag ...........................................................Vroooms!

Fun race .................Very Hot day......... 2nd nite camp out

Far away from the track to the campground
(We went other place campground)..Mo clean up the gas grill

Talladega on Chasers' minds

2007-09-27T12:40:00.000-05:00

Those 12 Chase for the Nextel Cup drivers are thinking about the dangers that await them at Talladega Superspeedway next weekend.

"I see a real risky situation at Talladega," defending NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson said earlier this week. "I think everybody is talking about that right now. Everybody will take a nice, deep breath once Talladega is over and start again."

Race No. 3 of the Chase is this weekend at Kansas. Talladega hosts the fourth Chase race Oct. 7.

NASCAR teams will race the Car of Tomorrow at Talladega, the stock car's first outing on an oval track longer than a mile. There is so much concern about this event that the sanctioning body held a two-day, COT test at Talladega. Attendance was mandatory.

Johnson said the draft effect felt much different in the COT than cars used in previous seasons.

The major differences between the "car of today" and the COT are the front bumper, which is fitted with a "splitter," and a rear wing instead of spoiler. Johnson said the COT is more stable which could lead to risky behavior behind the wheel.

"You can push and bump-draft even harder than what we're used to in dealing with the old car," Johnson said. "But you can't pull out and pass them. You can't get away from anybody; even more so than what we had before.

"So I think it's going to be challenging and risky and dangerous. You're going to have guys that have a ton of grip in the car, be very comfortable, change lanes from top to bottom -- wherever they want to go. You're going to see a lot of risks, a lot of chances being taken throughout the race."

Johnson knows far too well the dangers that can spring from the 2.66-mile tri-oval, which is shaped like Daytona but is bigger and faster.

In the fall race at Talladega last year, Johnson was running second exiting Turn 4. As he attempted to pass Dale Earnhardt Jr. for the win, Johnson tangled with Brian Vickers. Johnson and Earnhardt crashed sending Vickers to victory.

Johnson finished 24th and dropped to eighth in the Chase standings. He rallied for the championship thanks to five consecutive top two finishes.

Ever the optimist, Johnson said everyone has to deal with the terrors of this Talladega.

"I don't feel like the ball is being changed in the World Series," Johnson said, quickly adding, "it's just going to be hairy."

Talladega COT Testing Video Recap

2007-09-26T09:45:00.000-05:00

@ Talladega Superspeedway Will Be "Twice As Exciting"

2007-09-26T09:36:00.000-05:00

As drivers and crew chiefs prepare for Talladega Superspeedway and the first Car Of Tomorrow (COT) race on the massive 2.66 mile tri-oval, one notion is becoming prevalent. The UAW-Ford 500 on Oct. 7 is going to be exciting.

The COT is the culmination of a seven-year project undertaken at NASCAR's Research and Development Center in Concord, N.C. While safety is the number one reason the COT was built, during the development process NASCAR also discovered ways in which the COT could improve competition and allow teams to be more cost efficient.

When asked about what he expects from the COT at Talladega Superspeedway, 2004 Series champion Kurt Busch exclaimed, "It's going to change the element of how Talladega races, and I think it will be twice as exciting."

After posting a disappointing 25^th at New Hampshire last weekend, Busch should be anxiously awaiting his Oct. 7 return to NASCAR's Most Competitive Track. Of all the Chase contenders, Busch currently has the best average finish at Talladega Superspeedway with an average finishing position of 10^th. In fact, Busch has not finished lower than 8^th at Talladega since the Aaron's 499 in April of 2004. And while he hasn't visited Gatorade Victory Lane in a NEXTEL Cup car, Busch does have a win at Talladega, coming by way of the IROC Series in April 2003.

It may not seem like success in an IROC car would translate into success in a COT, but Busch sees it differently. "The larger the wicker is, the larger the drag that's built into the car, and it's easier for the car behind to catch up. It reminds me a little of the IROC cars, the way the cars are drafting right now. If you get cut off from the draft, you lose it in a hurry. But if you stay in it, it's a very aggressive draft. It's going to be exciting."

NASCAR League for Dodge Dealers 400 | Dover International Speedway

2007-09-23T12:23:00.000-05:00

DEnnIs picks 8, 01, 99, 44, & 20 Total Points 698 (WINNER)

Mo Bud picks 00, 6, 43, 2 & 48 Total Points 489

Brian M.G.D. 2, 78, 10, 11 & 48 Total Points 422

Mike Smoke picks 20, 29, 43, 2 & 70 Total Points 444 (He didn't pick today so same pick from last week)

Transcript: Press Conference in Dallas 9-19-2007

2007-09-20T06:26:00.000-05:00

TRANSCRIPT: MOUNTAIN DEW AMP ENERGY & THE NATIONAL GUARD TO SPONSOR DALE EARNHARDT JR.'S #88 CHEVROLETS IN 2008

LOCATION: DALLAS CONVENTION CENTER (DALLAS, TEXAS)

PARTICIPANTS:

- DALE EARNHARDT JR. (#88 AMP ENERGY/NATIONAL GUARD CHEVROLETS)

- RICK HENDRICK (OWNER, HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS)

- DAWN HUDSON (PRESIDENT AND CEO, PEPSI -COLA NORTH AMERICA)

- LT. GEN. CLYDE A. VAUGHN (DIRECTOR, ARMY NATIONAL GUARD)

- EDDIE GOSSAGE (PRESIDENT, TEXAS MOTOR SPEEDWAY)

- WINSTON KELLEY (MODERATOR)

Click Here:http://jayski.com/teams/dalejr-HMS-88-sponsor-transcript2007.htm

Dale Earnhardt Jr. will have two 8's on his new car

2007-09-20T06:22:00.000-05:00

Mountain Dew AMP Energy & the National Guard to Sponsor Earnhardt Jr.: Mountain Dew AMP Energy and the Army National Guard will sponsor Dale Earnhardt Jr. when the popular stock-car driver joins Hendrick Motorsports for the 2008 Sprint Cup Series campaign, it was announced Wednesday at the Dallas Convention Center. Earnhardt, who helped design his two primary paint schemes and red car-number graphic, will drive the #88 AMP Energy/National Guard Chevrolets next season. The cars will see racing action for the first time in February during season-opening Speedweeks at Daytona International Speedway. "To be able to announce our new sponsorship partners, car number and paint schemes for 2008 is a big relief for me, and I know it is for my fans as well," said Earnhardt, 32, winner of 17 Cup-level races and two NASCAR Busch Series championships. "This year has been full of major decisions and changes, and I'm really happy with the outcome. We are aligned with powerful brands, Mountain Dew AMP Energy and the National Guard, each with traits that everybody can identify with. And we are racing with a number that's very relevant to me, the #88. It's hard not to already be excited for the 2008 season."Pepsi-Cola North America, the maker of Mountain Dew AMP Energy, has been involved in racing since NASCAR introduced its premier division, now known as the Nextel Cup Series, in 1949. Mountain Dew was the lead sponsor on Darrell Waltrip's championship-winning Cup entries in 1981 and 1982. The Mountain Dew AMP Energy sponsorship will provide opportunities for driver-branded products and prominently feature Earnhardt's image in television, radio, print and online advertising, along with at-track activation and in-store marketing. Mountain Dew AMP Energy is charged with an energizing blend of B-vitamins, taurine, caffeine, ginseng and guarana geared to help keep consumers focused and in control. "Dale Earnhardt Jr. is one of the most popular athletes in the world and his talent is as big as his following," said Dawn Hudson, president and CEO of Pepsi-Cola North America. "Mountain Dew's racing heritage runs deep and in many ways it is the original energy drink. AMP is the next evolution of Dew and now it's entering a new exciting chapter with Dale. We couldn't be more thrilled to be partnering with Dale, Hendrick Motorsports and the National Guard. We look forward to joining them in victory lane."The oldest component of the Armed Forces of the United States, the National Guard has a longstanding dual mission: to provide the states with units trained and equipped to protect life and property, while serving the nation with units ready to defend the country and its interests around the world. An active NASCAR sponsor for more than five years, the National Guard's racing initiative focuses on three primary areas: recruiting, retention and branding. The Guard also leverages its program by honoring exceptional soldiers through NASCAR-focused recognition programs. "Dale Jr. is the real deal," said Lt. Gen. Clyde A. Vaughn, director, Army National Guard. "He is authentic, talented and focused on victory, which mirrors what America's National Guard Soldier is all about. Every mission, every time America calls on us, whether at home or abroad, victory is the only goal that matters. We are proud to be partnered with PepsiCo, a great American company that has done so much for the Soldiers of the National Guard, and Rick Hendrick, a NASCAR icon who knows how to win. It is an honor to be a part of one of the greatest teams in the greatest sport in America."Both sponsors of the #88 Chevrolets are established Hendrick Motorsports partners, as 2008 will mark PepsiCo's 12th season with the organization and the National Guard's second. "Having a pair of sponsors like Mountain Dew AMP Energy and the National Guard supporting the #88 team is just unbelievable," said Hendrick Motorsports owner Rick Hendrick, who has scored a NASCAR-best 161 Cup-level victories since 1984. "It's a fantastic combination that fits Dale Jr.'s personality and will allow him to be successful at Hendrick Motorsports for many years to come. We have terrific sponsors, talented people and sharp-looking cars, so we think Dale Jr.'s fans can really get excited about the future. Now that we've got everything set for 2008, there's a lot to look forward to." With 65 wins and 52 poles since 1949, cars carrying the #88 have started 1,264 Cup-level events with multiple drivers, including Earnhardt's legendary grandfather, Ralph Earnhardt. The number is currently campaigned by Yates Racing, which has released it for the 2008 season

Earnhardt Jr. Launches Own Candy Bar, Big Mo'

2007-09-18T15:22:00.001-05:00

"Big Mo'ment" sweepstakes to give lucky winner once-in-a-lifetime chance to hang with Junior

CHICAGO, Sept. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Dale Earnhardt Jr. is bringing his heavy-hitting brand and high-profile name to the candy business, announcing today the launch of his new candy bar, "Dale Jr.'s Big Mo' " through R.M. Palmer Company.

The eight-year NASCAR NEXTEL Cup driver and former winner of the Daytona 500 introduced Big Mo' to buyers and industry media today at the 2007 Candy Expo at McCormick Place. The name Big Mo' is a play off Earnhardt Jr.'s hometown of Mooresville, N.C., and the longtime moniker used for he and his closest friends, the Dirty Mo' Posse. The milk chocolate candy bar will come in two flavors -- creamy caramel and peanut butter. It is scheduled to hit stores nationwide in January 2008.

"At one point or another everyone has had their own idea of making the perfect candy bar, and this was my chance to do it," Earnhardt Jr. said. "It's really cool to have my name on a candy bar, and it's a pleasure to partner with R.M. Palmer Company in putting this product on the shelves. I think Big Mo' will be widely accepted, not just by racing fans but by everyone who enjoys a good candy bar."
Heres the pic of the candy bar..

Click here: Big Mo'

Dale Earnhardt Jr., of course,

2007-09-17T17:47:00.000-05:00

is moving from Dale Earnhardt Inc. to Hendrick Motorsports next year, and the final pieces of that puzzle will come together in Dallas, Texas. The Hendrick team has schedule a news conference on Wednesday to announce Earnhardt Jr.'s primary sponsor and to reveal the car number and paint scheme. Why Dallas? ESPN.com reported Thursday that there is a major meeting of Pepsi Cola Company executives there on Wednesday. That would jibe with sources who have told the Observer that Pepsi-owned Mountain Dew and Amp, an energy drink affiliated with the Mountain Dew brand, will be featured on Earnhardt Jr.'s cars.

So Pepsi brands will to sponsor Junior?

Junior to test Hendrick car early?

2007-09-17T17:40:00.000-05:00

Dale Earnhardt, Jr. know to be with new team next year, and he know where Jr. headed, but he can't escape his contract until season's end. There's a possibility Jr. could get a chance to at least test with their future team in a few weeks, when there's an open trial at Atlanta, though a series of dominos would have to fall if that's to happen. But in order for that to take place Earnhardt would have to be allowed to take Busch's seat in a Hendrick Motorsports machine. Whether that'll happen, however, remains in question. Dale Earnhardt, Inc. president Teresa Earnhardt has already said Regan Smith will test with Junior's current team at Atlanta, but hasn't yet released her stepson to test with Hendrick, so the whole equation may break down and leave the lame ducks with their soon-to-be defunct teams.

NASCAR League for Sylvania 300 | New Hampshire International

2007-09-16T20:35:00.000-05:00

DEnnIs picks 8, 11, 15, 24, & 96 Total Points 599 (WINNER!)

Mo Bud picks 2, 5, 7, 22 & 48 Total Points 531

Brian M.G.D. 2, 20, 22, 41 & 48 Total Points 592

Mike Smoke picks 20, 29, 43, 2 & 70 Total Points 546 (He didn't pick today so same pick from last week)

Lights at Chicago? But it's has been talking since

2007-09-14T04:27:00.000-05:00

2003 to now

Sources have told 1340 WJOL that Chicagoland Speedway has been given a 12 million dollar check from NASCAR [actually ISC - International Motor Sports...not NASCAR] to install lights for the 2008 racing season. This would make Joliet's track the 10th Nextel Cup facility able to run night races. There is no confirmation from Chicagoland Speedway, nor any word on how this would affect the now traditional season ending IRL race. Questions also exist on whether this could increase the possiblity of a Craftsman Truck race coming to Chicagoland Speedway.(1340 WJOL)

You also have to remember that lights on the track means lights all around the facility, staffing , parking etc."

Dale Junior Fails To Make Chase

2007-09-09T00:04:00.001-05:00

NASCAR's most popular driver won't be one of them.

Earnhardt will watch the Chase from the sidelines for the second time in three years, failing to race his way into the event. He ran in the top three late in the race, but his fifth motor failure with just a few laps to go sealed his fate.

He finished 30th, and was clearly dejected as he shared a brief hug with crew chief Tony Eury Jr. The two are leaving Dale Earnhardt Inc. at the end of the season and will join Hendrick Motorsports.

"We've run good every week. We just can't finish races," Earnhardt said. "We love racing. We'll be all right. This is disappointing, these dang motors."

Earnhardt started the race as the only driver mathematically eligible to race into the Chase, but the odds were stacked against him. Kevin Harvick, the driver on the bubble, had to finish 33rd or worse, combined with a flawless Earnhardt run, for Junior to make it.

He knew it long before he arrived in Richmond, and he seemed almost resigned to his fate from the start. It means Earnhardt won't win a championship with DEI, his late father's company.

Although he won two Busch Series championships while his father was still alive, he's never been higher than third in the Cup standings.

Earnhardt was solid at times this season, but the motor failures derailed his efforts.

"We deserved to be in the Chase," he said. "We ran top-five almost every week."

Although the drama was gone, the new format put a premium on wins and drivers went hard for them every week. Although Jeff Gordon dominated the standings all season long, his points lead is gone because Johnson, his teammate, won two more races than he did.

Johnson surged into the top seed by winning last week in California and Saturday night in Richmond to give him a season sweep on the Virginia short track. He said that momentum will be key to winning a second championship.

"Momentum means a lot, it really does," he said. "We've seen that time and time again with different race teams. We're happy to be hitting our stride now and we had a great 26. Now it's about these last 10 and we'll see what we can do."

NASCAR League for Chevy Rock & Roll 400

2007-09-08T23:00:00.000-05:00

DEnnIs picks 01, 8, 11, 43 & 78 Total Points 477

Mo Bud picks 5, 10, 22, 24 & 48 Total Points 582

Brian M.G.D. 2, 20, 22, 41 & 99 Total Points 493

Mike Smoke picks 20, 29, 43, 2 & 70 Total Points 734 (He didn't pick today so same pick from last week) WINNER!

NASCAR League for The Sharp Aquos 500 (California)

2007-09-02T23:27:00.000-05:00

DEnnIs picks 48, 1, 8, 43 & 15 Total Points 731 (WINNER)

Mo Bud picks 48, 5, 2, 7 & 22 Total Points 597

Brian M.G.D. picks 20, 2, 9, 12 & 38 Total Points 545

Mike Smoke picks 20, 29, 43, 2 & 70 Total Points 6 (He didn't pick today so same pick from last week)

NASCAR League for Bristol Motor Speedway

2007-08-25T22:40:00.000-05:00

DEnnIs picks 20, 29, 8, 42 & 55 Total Points 641

Mo Bud picks 31, 20, 8, 9 & 22 Total Points 697 (WINNER)

Brian M.G.D. picks 24, 17, 2, 10, & 55 Total Points 515

Mike Smoke picks 20, 29, 43, 2 & 70 Total Points 609 (He didn't pick today so same pick from last week)

Monday and NASCAR Not Looking Good

2007-08-20T06:34:00.000-05:00

Rain at Michigan could mean change in Chase run?

2007-08-20T06:22:00.001-05:00

BROOKLYN, Mich. — Sunday's postponement of the NASCAR race and the forecast for more rain this week opens the possibility of an altered Chase for the Nextel Cup race lineup.

The race at Michigan International Speedway was rescheduled for noon Monday.

BEFORE THE RAIN: Gordon claims pole

It's not the first time NASCAR has had to deal with weather issues this season. This marks the fourth time in 23 races weather has forced a postponement. Events at Richmond International Raceway and Darlington Raceway, scheduled for Saturday nights, were moved to Sunday. Dover International Speedway's scheduled Sunday event was run the next day.

"If we can't get it in (today), we will look to Tuesday," said Ramsey Poston, NASCAR's managing director of corporate communications.

As of Sunday evening, the National Weather Service was calling for an 80-percent chance of rain on Monday, but dropping to 40-percent on Tuesday and to 30-percent on Wednesday, according to the Associated Press

Poston said NASCAR would consider Wednesday, although he acknowledged it might not be feasible because teams need time to move equipment to Bristol, Tenn., to prepare for Saturday's race.

"The weather has really let everyone down, and it doesn't look much better for (today)," said Frank Kerr, crew chief for Toyota driver David Reutimann. "It's frustrating. I just hope we get it in before the end of the year."

If the race can't be held this week, Poston said it would be rescheduled for the Friday after Thanksgiving.

If that occurs, it would affect the Chase lineup because the rulebook states the Chase standings are finalized after the 26th event and the winner is determined by the results of the final 10 races.

The Richmond race Sept. 8 is scheduled to be the final race in determining the 12-driver standings. If the 3M Performance 400 is moved to the end of the schedule, the Sylvania 300 at New Hampshire International Speedway on Sept. 16 would become the final race for determining the Chase standings and the race at Michigan would be the last event.

Sunday's postponement is the first Cup race postponement at MIS since Aug. 21, 1977.

Even amid constant rain Sunday, NASCAR and track officials waited until 3 p.m., one hour after the scheduled start, to postpone, knowing today's forecast calls for rain.

If the race can't be held until after Thanksgiving, it would mark the latest a Cup race has been run at MIS. A Thanksgiving week race at MIS certainly would be different from one in August: the average temperature about that time would be just above freezing.

"Whatever happens you adapt to," said Eddie Wood, co-owner of the No. 21 Ford. "If we have to stay here until Wednesday, it's OK."

NASCAR has not had a race rained out on back-to-back days since Talladega Superspeedway in 1997.

Credit: USA Today

NASCAR League for Michigan International Speedway

2007-08-19T10:15:00.000-05:00

The 3M Performance 400-

DEnnIs picks 99, 1, 8, 01 & 55 Total Points 528

Mo Bud picks 24, 17, 19, 9 & 22 Total Points 539

Brian M.G.D. picks 48, 5, 2, 9, & 70 Total Points 635

Mike Smoke picks 20, 29, 43, 2 & 70 Total Points 661 (WINNER)

Is Junior in danger of missing Chase?

2007-08-18T03:51:00.000-05:00

Yes, with four races left to go and need to makes NASCAR's Chase for the Nextel Cup playoff, Dale Earnhardt Jr. is in serious danger of missing the show right now. The top 12 drivers in points qualify for the Chase, but Earnhardt -- whose legion of fans wear red to match the car color of the sport's most popular driver -- is 14th in the standings and running out of time.

Junior loses the 8....

2007-08-17T10:30:00.000-05:00

It was also announced Thursday that Earnhardt Jr. will not be driving the 8 car at Hendrick Motorsports next year. It might have assuaged some fans' ill feelings toward Dale Earnhardt Inc. and Teresa Earnhardt if a deal could have been reached for Junior to take the 8.
Fans can now look forward to a new car number and a new sponsor for the soon-to-be former Driver 8.

Riding with Junior: Watkins Glen

2007-08-14T08:04:00.000-05:00

Best Radio Chatter

Dale Jr. and the No. 2 car of Kurt Busch were the focus of a lot of pre-race attention because of their close battle for 12th place in the point standings. The two cars got very, very close early in the race, as Dale Jr. pushed Busch down the frontstretch on lap seven to pass Matt Kenseth, then Busch swung wide in turn one, allowing the Bud car to slice past...

Dale Jr. (five laps later under caution): "Wow. It's been a show in here!"

Tony Eury Jr: "You're doin' good."

Dale Jr.: "The 2 (Busch) is quick. He's hard to beat."

Eury Jr: "On the timing charts, he's a little quicker. The leaders are quicker - but you've got the rest of the field covered on lap times. Just run your own pace."

Dale Jr.: (to spotter Steve Hmiel) "Tell the 2 spotter that I didn't mean to push him into (turn) one. I was bump-drafting him to try to get by the 17 (Kenseth). I was trying to push him and he ran wide in turn one. I'm sure I didn't help."

Hmiel.: "June, he said it's all good..."

A caution flag flew on lap 39 while Dale Jr. was running third.

Hmiel.: "Caution's out June - debris in turn 11."

Dale Jr.: "Yeah, there's oil or something there. I about busted my ass !"

Eury Jr: "What did you think of the changes (on the last pit stop)?"

Dale Jr.: (surprised) "Did you change something?!?"

Eury Jr: (sheepishly) "A lil'..."

Dale Jr.: "Why?! It felt better before, I guess... For me, it's all about catching people. If I'm catching the guys in front of me, I'm happy as (expletive deleted). I'm cool. I'm doin' what I can do. It was a little tight at the start of the run, but there was better forward bite as the run went along."

Dale Jr. ran second to Jeff Gordon for several laps, closing slightly each lap with quicker lap times.

Eury Jr: "You're clear by 15 (car lengths). Just take it easy."

Dale Jr.: "Tell the 24 (Gordon) I wanna lead a lap!"

Hmiel.: "10-4."

Dale Jr.: "I mean, I'm trying to catch him - but he ain't gonna let me by! I'd better take it a little easier here because I'm gonna get myself in trouble if I push too hard..."

Today's StatsStarted: 14th (based upon owner's points)

Finished: 42ndLaps Led: ---

Money: $103,788

Points: 14th place (-100 pts. to 12th place)

Best Pit Stop: Stop #2 of 2 / Lap 53 / four tires and fuel / 14.34 seconds*(*Watkins Glen is the only circuit where the cars run clockwise, which means the fueling and the tire changes are reversed from their usual routine, so stops are traditionally slower than normal. The 14 second stops don't seem fast compared to the standard 12-second stops the team have been making, but the team gained four positions on the first stop and two on the second.)

Jr. suffered an engine failure and watched his "Chase" chances dwindle

2007-08-14T07:56:00.001-05:00

His motor decided the show was over the Centurion Boats at the Glen (Watkins Glen International )

Now Earnhardt and his crew find themselves in serious jeopardy of missing the Chase for the Nextel Cup playoffs.Earnhardt came to Watkins Glen International in 13th place, just seven points behind the final Chase spot. He leaves sitting 14th, 100 points back of Kurt Busch. His was the first hauler to pull out of the garage area on Sunday evening.
With four races left before the playoff shootout, Junior may need a miracle."It won't be easy, but we've done a whole lot harder stuff than that," Earnhardt said.

NASCAR League for Watkins Glen

2007-08-11T21:37:00.000-05:00

DEnnIs picks 20, 29, 8, 42, & 10 Sorry DEnnIs you are last place (430 Points)

Mo Bud picks 7,26, 29, 42 and 96 Guess what I'm the winner again YAHOO! (482 Points)

Brian M.G.D. picks 11, 26, 2, 42 and 45 (446 Points)

Mike Smoke picks 20, 29, 8, 66 & 88 (434 Points)

Rainy Day

2007-08-10T20:32:00.000-05:00

Rain washed out qualifying at Watkins Glen, putting Jeff Gordon on the pole for Sunday's race.

Carl Edward #99

Jeff Gordon started from the back of the field in NASCAR's first road race of the Nextel Cup season after his team was penalized for a technical violation. This time, he'll start from the pole.
A misting rain that hovered above Watkins Glen International on Friday became too heavy mid-afternoon and forced NASCAR to cancel qualifying for Sunday's Centurion Boats at The Glen.

It's the third time qualifying has been rained out this season in Cup and the third time in four years it's been washed out at Watkins Glen International.

About Three week ago DEI & Ginn Racing merges

2007-08-09T07:05:00.000-05:00

Well really I think Ginn Racing didn't merge, they shut down (Bobby Ginn, His 1st year team owner. 121 guys out of jobs. & in August when they have little chance of finding a team in need of their help. Empty promises from a guy that never should have been in racing to begin with) and DEI bought the points. Now that Dale Earnhardt Inc. has completed the merger with Ginn Racing to become a four-car Nextel Cup organization, finding a replacement for Dale Earnhardt Jr. (DEI having hard time to replace the driver) becomes the top priority.
Max Siegel, the president of global operations at DEI, said on Wednesday the team remains hopeful of signing Kyle Busch. (FAILED to signed with him!) Anyway DEI drivers Earnhardt Jr. and Martin Truex Jr. will be joined by Mark Martin and Aric Almirola, who will split the remainder of this year in the No. 01 car. DEI driver Paul Menard will inherit the owner points of former Ginn driver Sterling Marlin, whose car was inside the top 35, while the No. 13 formerly piloted by Ginn driver Joe Nemechek will be eliminated. With Paul Menard (Before the merge, Paul had to make the qualifying top 35) picking up the owner's points held by Ginn's No. 14 car that was 29th to locked in so he guaranteed starting spot qualifying (rule) all the race.
But Siegel said the move had nothing to do with owner's points and everything to do with the long-term future of the company that will move into Ginn's 180,000-square foot Mooresville, N.C., shop by the end of the season.
The acquisition of Ginn's operation and surrounding property was a major part of the deal because DEI has no room to expand at its current shop five miles away.

Riding with Junior: Roaring back after slow start

2007-08-06T13:27:00.000-05:00

Kurt Busch dominated a mundane Pennsylvania 500 at Pocono Raceway Sunday, leading a track-record 174 of the 200 laps. Dale Earnhardt Jr. and the No. 8 Budweiser team recovered from a lengthy mid-race pit stop to change the left-front shock absorber to lead eight laps and finish a season-best second place. It matches Dale Jr.'s best Pocono finish - equaling his finish in July, 2001. Denny Hamlin finished third. The No. 8 team started from the Bud Pole for the first time since the race at Kansas in Sept. 2002, and ran among the top-10 for the first 110 laps until severely deteriorating handling sent Dale Jr. for a spin while coming to the pit lane on lap 123. After several stops - including changing the left-front shock in slightly more than 90 seconds - Dale Jr. restarted in 26th then barreled through the field until taking the lead on lap 145. Ironically, despite the season-best finish, Dale Jr. dropped one position in the Nextel Cup standings, falling to 13th place with five races remaining before the start of the Chase for the Championship. This is the first top-three tally of the season for Dale Jr., who scored his fourth top-five and eighth top-10 in 21 starts this year. The team has now started in sixth-place or better in five of the last six races.

Key Moments

Dale Jr., starting from his seventh career Bud Pole position, ran in the top-three for the first 30 laps despite complaints about the handling of the No. 8 racecar. After several adjustments during pit stops, the car continued to be a handful for Junior, as he struggled to get the car to turn down into each of Pocono's three odd and distinct corners. Despite a less-than-happy driver, the lap times and pit stops remained quick, and the team held their place in the top-five until the car worsened just past the halfway point of the race. The handling became so bad, Dale Jr. believed he had a flat tire and spun on his way to pit lane on lap 123. The team changed tires, then brought him back to the pit lane to change the left-front shock absorber. The dramatic change showed immediate results, as Junior launched himself from 26th place to 13th place in only nine laps, and then improved further when the team made a strategic move, changing only two tires on a lap 139 pit stop. Dale Jr. restarted third on lap 142, and needed only three laps to sweep into the lead. It was the first time the No. 8 Bud car had led at Pocono since July, 2003. Even though Kurt Busch was able to get around Dale Jr. for the lead, the Bud car remained fast and held the second position to the finish line.

Dale Jr. Quotes

"I'm thrilled. It's great to come home with such a great finish after we started the day with a crazy set of front shocks. (Crew chief) Tony (Eury) Jr. and the guys made a great call to change that shock. That's a helluva job right there. The car was traveling (up and down) too much in the corners, and it was bouncing all over the place. It was terrible and I was a pretty angry and frustrated driver the first half of the race. But, once we made the change - and didn't lose a lap - we were great. The car really responded and I was really happy we were able to show our speed. We were a top-five car easily but we busted our ass to get the track position and hang onto second place.
"We're not worried about the point standings - I'm driving as hard as I can every lap. And, if we all work as hard as we can, where we finish, we finish. We're way better than a 13th-place team, we've just had bad luck all year. My guys really deserve this finish because we've been a top-five car almost every week but we were falling victim to engine failures and things like that. We finally had a chance to make it to the finish to prove it. I can't worry about finishing behind the #2 car (Kurt Busch). They were just too good today - far faster than anyone else. You follow him and you just hope to see some smoke coming outta his car, ya know?! No one was going to catch him so you kind of sit back there and hope something happens. I really drove the last 50 laps in the mirror, watching the cars behind me and hangin' onto second.

Best Radio Chatter

Dale Jr. ran among the top-five for the first half of the race, but became increasingly agitated and frustrated as the handling deteriorated on the Bud car...

Dale Jr. (on lap 37): "It's real real real tight. It's about a '20' on a '10' scale! There ain't no way I can get through turn one. I've tried every way I can and there ain't no way I can get through it. It's bouncy bouncy bouncy bouncy! We gotta do something to turn without being so bouncy in the corners. It's coil-binding like hell - it just wants to go straight. I've gotta stay on the brakes just to get it into the middle of the corner..."

The dissatisfaction continued on lap 64...

Dale Jr.: (to crew chief Eury Jr.) "I don't wanna bitch about it anymore. It'll just piss ya off. If we can't change it, I'll have to deal with it. Just tell me there's no alternative to what we got and I'll quit bitchin...' I get so frustrated because I'm not doing anything. I'm not even sweating. I have to ease it in every corner. I can't drive it hard - I have to back up my entry and just ease it down into the corner. It's frustrating because I can't make a difference."

Tony Eury Jr.: "We could change a shock, but I don't wanna lose all that track position."

The driver continued to struggle - even believing he had a flat tire - before spinning out coming to pit lane on lap 123. The loss of positions finally convinced Eury Jr. to make the decision to change the left front shock.

Dale Jr.: (lap 106) "It's way worse - which I didn't think was possible - but it is..."

After the shock change - and a banzai run up the standings, the driver was again energized...

Dale Jr. (lap 137 after gaining 13 positions in less than 10 laps): "Hell yeah! It's way better, way better now. I lost a little right-side grip after awhile, but it's a small issue now. Not like it was."

After sweeping into the lead, Dale Jr. held off Busch until lap 153.

Eury Jr.: "You're doing really good, Junebug. He's (Busch) got four fresh tires and it's about five seconds back to the next car. Doin' real good!"

Dale Jr. "10-4. Thanks. Now, I'll get back to work..."

Eury Jr.: "OK, pit next time by..."

Dale Jr.: (to his pit crew) "Alright - gimme a fucking good one!"(the final stop of the day saw the team change four tires and add fuel in 12.77 seconds.)

Today's StatsStarted:

1st (first Bud Pole of 2007, seventh career pole, first since Sept. 2002)Finished: 2nd (best finish of the season)Laps Led: 8 lapsMoney: $218,708Points: 13th place (dropped one position, -7 behind 12th place and -42 behind 11th)Best Pit Stop: Stop #1 of 9 / Lap 31 / four tires and fuel / 12.75 seconds

KH #21 won & Marcos Ambrose vs. Robby Gordon

2007-08-05T09:31:00.000-05:00

What happened yesterday (on Saturday) Busch Series NAPA Auto Parts 200.
It was the ugly by Robby Gordon. Did Robby Gordon get robbed by NASCAR? Maybe.
Did Marcos Ambrose get robbed of what could have been his first Busch Series victory? Possibly.

Ambrose and Gordon were battling for the lead when the caution flew on lap 72. Gordon had seemingly passed Ambrose, before Ambrose seemingly intentionally turned him, while the caution flag was waving.
Under caution Gordon ran into the back of Ambrose’s car.
NASCAR said Ambrose was still the leader and instructed Gordon to fall back to 13th in the restart order. Gordon disregarded the directive from NASCAR, remaining second in line on the track for the restart for the green-white-checkered finish.
“You always go back to your position, if you get spun out and Marcos spun me under the caution,” Gordon said. “. . . They originally told me to go back to second place and I went back to second place. Then they said to go back to 13th place or 14th place or something like that. I was never running 13th or 14th, so I don’t know what to say.”
Just after the green Gordon drove into Amrbose, turning him on the track, before continuing on. At that point NASCAR officials directed Gordon off the track.
“I knew that he was going to try and hit me,” said Ambrose, the only Australian regular in NASCAR’s three national touring divisions. “We were talking whether we should pull over and let him pass, but you know, I’ve got two laps to go and I’m trying to win the race. If somebody is going to take me out, they’re going to take me out. If they feel strong enough, they’re going to do it. I’m not going to go into it. I’m disappointed; I promised myself that I wouldn’t get mad. This is an opportunity for me over here. I’m thankful for what I’ve been given and today is a bad day, but tomorrow we’ll look to next week. I’m pleased that I’m here and holding my own against some of America’s best.”
“Once the caution came out on Lap 72 the field was frozen. Once the field is frozen, all cars must maintain cautious pace in order to be scored.,” Poston said. “At the time that the field was frozen, [Ambrose] was in the lead. [Gordon] did not maintain cautious pace and by NASCAR rule, cars not maintaining cautious pace are scored only when they blend back into the continuous line. [Gordon] based on our scoring was ordered to blend back in behind [Ron Fellows and] in front of [Mike Wallace].
“The tower ordered the [Gordon] multiple times to get in to position. The directive was acknowledged by [Gordon’s crew chief] and the crew chief also communicated the order [to Gordon]. The driver ignored NASCAR’s directive.
“He was warned that he would be black flagged if he did not comply. Once [Gordon] crossed the start-finish line he was posted per the NASCAR rule book and at that time the directive to display the black flag was given.
“After contact with [Ambrose] on Lap 73, NASCAR took emergency action per the rule book Section 12-2 thus parking [Gordon], which was also ignored. The black flag with the white cross was displayed to [Gordon] when [he] crossed the start-finish line on lap 74.”
Ambrose was able to come back and finish seventh. Gordon was scored with an 18th place finish.

NASCAR League for Pennsylvania 500 at

2007-08-05T09:10:00.000-05:00

DEnnIs picks 20, 29, 8, 01 & 15 Total Point 660

Mo Bud picks 12, 2, 8, 20 & 15 Total Point 756 {WINNER!}

Brian M.G.D. picks 5, 2, 42, 6 & 10Total Point 597

Mike Smoke picks 17, 20, 29, 88 & 10Total Point 603

Just wondering what the #'s style of the 8 is gonna be next year?

2007-08-04T11:33:00.000-05:00

Is it gonna be like this like the other hendrick cars?

I know that Dale Jr can't bring with him for the style of the 8 right now is trademarked by DEI

Earnhardt Jr...good news: claims pole...bad news: car gets hit by John Deer Gator...!

2007-08-04T11:27:00.000-05:00

Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s pole-winning car was involved in a minor collision with a track vehicle following post-qualifying inspection at Pocono Raceway Friday.

Crew chief Tony Eury Jr. said that Earnhardt Jr.'s crew was pushing the car off the scales and down a ramp when medical personnel stopped their Gator vehicle directly in front of the car. The vehicles collided, and Earnhardt's car sustained front-end damage.

"It hit pretty good," crew chief Tony Eury Jr. said. "It smashed the nose back. It had a Gator tire print in it."

The crew worked to repair the damage and is expected to complete the work once the garage opens in the morning.

"It's pretty much fixed," Eury said. "I just gotta put these braces on underneath it in the morning."

There was nothing his crew could have done to avoid the collision, he said.

"There ain't no way," he said. "When you come off of those ramps, you ain't stopping it."

Earnhardt was not in the car at the time and no injuries were reported.

Nicknaming the drivers of this...

2007-08-02T21:41:00.000-05:00

Current Drivers:
Kurt Busch - "Ears" {he just had his ears trims last summer}
Kyle Busch - "Shrub"
Dale Earnhardt Jr. - "Junior," "Junebug," "Little 'E'"
Jeff Gordon - "Wonder Boy," "The Kid," "The Rainbow Warrior"
Robby "Flash" Gordon
Kevin "Happy" Harvick {I don't agree}
"Front Row Joe" Nemechek
Ryan "Rocketman" Newman- "Racin'Ryan - Friday Pole Man {used to be}
Ricky "Rooster" Rudd - "Ironman"
Tony "Smoke" Stewart
Kenny Wallace - "Herman"

Past Drivers:
Elzie Wylie "Buck" Baker Sr.
Elzie Wylie "Buddy" Baker Jr. - "The Gentle Giant"
James Ronald "Runkie" Blackburn
Curtis "Crawfish" Crider
Dale Earnhardt - "The Intimidator," "The Man In Black," "Ironhead," "One Tough Customer"
Ralph Earnhardt - "Ironheart"
"Million Dollar Bill" Elliott - "Aweomse Bill from Dawsonville"
Charles "Red" Farmer
"Handsome Harry" Gant - "Mr. September" (earned in 1991 when he won four consecutive races in September)
"Gentleman Jimmy" Hensley
"Gentleman Ned" Jarrett
Junior Johnson - "The Ronda Road Runner"
Roy "Buckshot" Jones
Fred Lorenzen - "The Golden Boy"
DeWayne "Tiny" Lund
MIke "Magic Shoes" McLaughlin
Everett "Cotton" Owens
David Pearson - "The Silver Fox"
Richard Petty - "The King," "King Richard"
"Duffle bag Doug" Richert
Glenn "Fireball" Roberts
"Alfalfa Jim" Roper
Wayman "Hut" Stricklin
Curtis "Pops" Turner
Darrell Waltrip - "DW," "Jaws"
"Little Joe" Weatherly - "The Clown Prince of Racing"
Cale Yarborough - "The Timmonsville Flash"
Henry "Smokey" Yunick
Ron Hornaday - "Master of the Restart"
"Texas Terry" LaBonte - "Ice Man"
Jimmy Spencer - "Mr. Excitement" {what a jerk man}
"Big Track Jack" Sprague

Multiple Drivers:
"Alabama Gang" - Bobby Allison, Donnie Allison, Red Farmer, Jimmy Means, Davey Allison, Neil Bonnett, David Bonnett and Hut Stricklin
"Double Bud Thunder" - Darrell Waltrip and Neil Bonnett

Pit Crews:
#3 - The Flying Aces
#8 - Brew Crew
#17 - The Killer Bees
#24 - The Rainbow Warriors
#38 - M&M's Chocolate Thunder

Crew Chiefs:
Robert "Bootie" Barker
"Suitcase Jake" Elder
Tony "Pops" Eury
Tony "Stiffy" Eury Jr.
Richard "Slugger" Labbe
Kevin "Bono" Manion
Mike "Fatback" McSwain
Jack Roush - "The Cat in the Hat"
Craig "Frosty" Smokstad
Kevin "Cowboy" Starland
Greg "Zippy" Zipadelli
Scott "Saki" Zipadelli

Pit Crew Members:
Danny "Chocolate" Myers - former #3 gasman
Brian "Shaggy" Larson - #20 catch can man
Mitch Lash, #12 jackman - "Frank the Tank"
Scott "Scooter" Crowell - #20 2nd gasman/backup truck driver

Owners:
Roger Penske - "The Captain"
Jack Roush - "The Cat in the Hat"
Glen Wood - "Woodchopper"

Tracks:
Bristol Motor Speedway - "Thunder Valley"
Chicagoland Speedway - "D Cookie Cutter"
Darlington Raceway - "The Lady in Black," "The Track Too Tough To Tame"
Daytona International Speedway - "World Center of Racing"
Dover International Speedway - "The Monster Mile," "White Lightning"
Indianapolis Motor Speedway - "The Brickyard"
Martinsville Speedway - "The "Augusta National" of race tracks, "The Paperclip"
New Hampshire International Speedway - "The Magic Mile"
Phoenix International Speedway - "Jewel of the Desert"
Pocono International Raceway - "The Bermuda Triangle" {HUH??}
Richmond International Speedway - "The Action Track"
Rockingham Motor Speedway - "The Rock"
Talladega Superspeedway - "Dega", "The Big One"
Texas Motor Speedway - "Texas 500," "The Great American Speedway"
Watkins Glen International - "The Glen"

Know of a nickname that is missing or adding this ...?

Last week DEI merger to Ginn Racing...

2007-08-02T05:53:00.000-05:00

The team will continue to be known as Dale Earnhardt Inc., though Bobby Ginn will be listed as an ownership partner. His will serve as owner of record for the #01 US Army Chevrolet driven by Mark Martin and the #15 Menard’s Chevrolet driven by Paul Menard. DEI owner Teresa Earnhardt will continue as owner for the #8 Budweiser car driven (for now) by Dale Earnhardt, Jr., and the #1 Bass Pro Shop/Tracker Boats Chevy of Martin Truex, Jr. All four cars will compete under the DEI banner.

Menard’s #15 car will assume the owner’s points from the Ginn Racing #14 formerly driven by Sterling Marlin, putting Menard in the Top-35 in owner’s points and guaranteeing him a spot in Sunday’s race. The #14 car is currently ranked 30th in Nextel Cup owner’s points.

Little E not the first driver to leave family team...

2007-07-31T05:49:00.000-05:00

Jr.'s decision to walk away from DEI at the end of the season. It wasn't an easy one for Jr.

Do you want to know the answer who left the team in the old day???

It's Richard and Kyle Petty

Both men, at one point in their careers, had to walk away from the race team their father created. Richard's decision to leave Petty Enterprises came in 1983 at age 46, leaving him outside the family fold when he recorded his historical 200th win at Daytona in July 1984. That same year, then 24-year-old Kyle, Petty Enterprises' primary driver, announced he was leaving to join the Wood Brothers. Richard's brother, Maurice, attempted to keep Petty Enterprises open in 1985, but without sponsorship, it was impossible.Both men eventually returned. Richard reopened Petty Enterprises in 1986. Kyle came home in 1999.
Maybe Little E reopen DEI after 2012?

Credit: Go Fast News

Watch that language, Mr. Stewart

2007-07-30T21:50:00.000-05:00

During his post-race interview he once again got all defensive about the fence-climbing – as if it was something he created – and how the TV guys apparently talk too much smack about him doing it.
Then he thanked his fans for sticking by him despite all the bulls— people say about him. But he makes it so easy.

That will be 25 points or more, PLEASE! and 10 grand

Tony Stewart gets cusses vs ESPN after Indy Allstate 400 win

2007-07-30T07:58:00.000-05:00

Stewart’s mouth likely has gotten him in a bit of trouble again...

During the live interview under the Indianapolis Motor Speedway flagstand Stewart said: “This one is for everyone in the stands who pull for me and have to take the bullshit from everyone else.”

In 2004 NASCAR fined Dale Earnhardt Jr. and docked him 25 points in the standings after he swore during a national broadcast.

In the immediate spotlight of celebration, Stewart seemed far from concerned about what might happen because of his utterance. “A little late to be concerned about it now, isn't it?” Stewart said. “It pretty much is what it is. Whatever happens, they still can't take this trophy away from me today. Whatever happens, happens.”

Dale Earnhart, Jr. Radio Scanner Indy, Allstate 400

2007-07-29T22:55:00.000-05:00

Here's Best Radio Chatter

Dale Jr. made an aggressive move to pass Tony Stewart for the lead on lap 20. Soon after assuming the top spot, the yellow flag came out.

Dale Jr.: "Heh heh. That was FUN.

"Steve Hmiel (spotter): "That was fun to watch too..."

Shortly after taking the lead, Dale Jr. ran too low in turn two and wrinkled the left-front bodywork when running over the rumble strips on the inside edge of the track.

Dale Jr.: "I think the left front is buckled! I hit the rumble strips... (no immediate response) Can ya hear me?!"

Tony Eury Jr. (crew chief): "Yeah, it's turned under a little bit."

Dale Jr.: "Talk to me here.

"Eury Jr.: "Yes sir, it is bent in a bit, but we'll fix you up on the next stop. You're still three-tenths of a second (per lap) better than the the 20 car (Stewart)."

During the next yellow-flag period, after repairs were made...

Dale Jr.: "I'll probably keep hitting it. Those rumble strips are made for the open-wheel cars - they're not made for stock cars. It's like hitting a two-by-four that's on top of the asphalt. I do it every year and I suppose I'll keep hitting them because I like being down there near the grass."
As he slowed on lap 135 and smoke billowed from the racecar...

Dale Jr.: "It's blown up! A pulley came off or something. Or maybe the harmonic balancer — but it's done."

Today's StatsStarted: 4th (seventh top-five start of the 2007 season)

Finished: 34thMoney: $203,658

Laps Led: 33 laps

Points: 12th place (no change)

Best Pit Stop: Stop # 5 of 5 / Lap 126 / four tires and fuel / 13.00 seconds

NASCAR League for Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Allstate 400

2007-07-29T11:28:00.000-05:00

Congratulation! DEnnIs

DEnnIs picks 20, 29, 8, 01 & 15 $30.00 {WINNER!} 665 Points

Mo Bud picks 12, 2, 8, 20 & 21 $29.50 (Thrid Place) 522 Points

Brian M.G.D. picks 2, 11, 25, 19 & 33 $27.00 (Last Place) 434 Points

Mike Smoke picks 48, 20, 29, 14 out / 88 in & 70 (Second Place) 535 Points

(#14 Sterling Marlin isn't driving today) $30.75 over budget

I correct it for Mike. I add driver #88 (I deteted Sterling Marlin #14) $30.00

Allstate 400, Indianapolis Motor Speedway need unbrellas today....

2007-07-27T16:01:00.000-05:00

NASCAR fans huddle under their unbrellas as the safety trucks attempt to dry the track Friday afternoon during the practice for the Allstate 400, Indianapolis Motor.

It's gonna be real pressure situation for HMS

2007-07-27T15:30:00.000-05:00

Hendrick team lands Earnhardt, but it better be able to win with him next season...

If he's not winning, it's going to be my fault," Hendrick said the day his five-year agreement with Earnhardt was announced. "If he's winning, it's going to be because of his talent. If he's not, it's going to be because of not giving him good stuff.

"That's the way a lot of fans look at it. So that pressure is there. That's the competitive side of me that I want to deliver what we said we could deliver and what he's expecting."

Now that his future, which won't include Budweiser as his sponsor and likely won't be in a car carrying his trademark No. 8, is set, the immediate challenge is to stay loyal to DEI and concentrate on the task at hand. It's not always easy.

"It means something personally to me to continue to run good the rest of this year," Earnhardt said. "But you look around and see the Hendrick bunch and your mind wonders what it is going to be like working with those guys, getting to know those guys.
"It's just a good feeling knowing there are a lot of great things around the corner."

Terms of Earnhardt's deal were not released. According to Sports Illustrated, his current contract is worth $7.1 million in salary and winnings. Even with the loss of Budweiser, recent marketing deals with Sony and Adidas should move him well past his current $20 million in endorsements.

And predicted Dale Earnhardt will make as much as $40 million next year
WOW!!!

Credit: Indystar.com

Infield Parking Photo taken @ Chicagoland Speedway

2007-07-26T23:04:00.001-05:00

Click to see full image

I still want to meet Dale, Jr in person..

This will be his last Budweiser sponsor car for 2007.. So I grab it for my good memory photo with the Bud and #8 car.

Anyway Dale, Jr. run the {I.P.} blog and for any fans join IT'S FREE

Click Here

Dale Earnhardt Inc.'s Garage to Become Museum

2007-07-26T22:47:00.000-05:00

I remember Tony Stewart said on his radio show in February
that without Dale Earnhardt Jr. DEI will become a museum.... But with the acquisition of Ginn Racing, DEI will move it's Nextel Cup operations down the road to Ginn's shop, leaving the DEI shop to serve as a museum and souvenir shop.

I predict that sometime this weekend

2007-07-26T04:06:00.000-05:00

either Friday or Saturday, Dale Jr and Hendrick Motorsports will make their much anticipated sponsor announcement will be.............

08.14.07 UPDATE:

I was wrong that they didn't announcement that weekend

I believe will be sometime in late August or early September

Fans still can't wait !

dit Photo: L3gacyRacing

Don't forget Juan Pablo Montoya

2007-07-24T21:18:00.000-05:00

Pablo back to the Speedway to make history. He races in Indy for the eighth time, but he's a Brickyard rookie. He drank milk in victory lane in 2000 in his only Indy 500. He raced six times on Indy's road course in the US Grand Prix. Now he heads to the Brickyard in a stock car. Pablo becomes the first driver to race IndyCar, Formula One and NASCAR at the Speedway. " Pablo first NASCAR win came in March at the Busch race in Mexico. He won his first Cup race last month in Sonoma, another road course.

The 42 Dodge sits 20th in the points standings, tops among rookies.

Primary sponsors for Dale, Jr next year?

2007-07-24T21:04:00.000-05:00

Mountain Dew More than one driver has had this beverage, a Pepsi brand, on his hood. Despite its longtime presence in NASCAR, though, Mountain Dew isn't a primary sponsor this season. {I think Dale, Jr. will get this sponsor}

AMP Energy A relatively new beverage from Mountain Dew, AMP is part of the booming energy drink market and could expand Earnhardt's appeal among younger fans. {I'm not sure this one too new sponsor}

Kellogg's Now driven by Kyle Busch, the Kellogg's car -- barring a change in sponsorship deals -- would be the open car after Busch leaves Hendrick Motorsports to make room for Earnhardt {I think Ceasy Mears #25 will get this sponsor to replace National Guard/GMAC}

As you know recent announcement that Budweiser will not return with Dale Earnhardt Jr. in 2008

2007-07-24T12:50:00.000-05:00

Dale Earnhardt Inc has put Dale Jr. on the 50% off signs up at the Chicagoland Speedway track last week. Yes I did buy stuffs at the No. 8 merchandise hauler...I got backpack cooler & baseball cap with #8... Jennifer refusing to buy any driver's sponsors she is netural fans so I got her pink NASCAR baseball cap and NASCAR logo tee shirt

There is a special stickers on the side front of all the #8 merchandise haulers.

Earnhardt Jr’s final campaign in the Budweiser has decal on it “A Ride to Remember".

D.E.I. has paid tribute to a driver that would be leaving them at seasons end.

And I will "always" be a fan of Dale Earnhardt Junior!!!

My Sunday without NASCAR wasn’t bad at all…

2007-07-23T09:00:00.000-05:00

NASCAR NEXTEL CUP had a day off. Yesterday morning, I went looked in the storage box to check it out my electric and nitro gas powered radio control cars . Wow I haven't touch that thing last four years. GASP! I still have my nitro gas and I was wondering if bad nitro gas. NOT! So I recharge batteries for electric car and prepare for my nitro car. I had hard time to start it up. In few minutes finally fired it up. Sad that my electric car didn't last long with the batteries. It's short out due four year old and it's caused my motor heat sink smoke {Overheated}. Need to replace it...

Yes, I had good time to play with it. At least I able to run with my r/c cars.....

Life in the fast lane

2007-07-21T23:15:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, Ever hear the revving engines as you're parking your car at Chicagoland Speedway. I've heard them for few year ago but did went check it out until this weekend when we finally checked it out. There's no charge to watch. You'll sit in the infield near where the cars start and end. I was suit up and riding with Richard Petty Ride-Along , I wound up grabbing two metal bars and squeezing in Tony Stewart car. It’s my first time Ride-Along so Richard Petty Ride-Along staff, who was strapping me in.
We took off from Pit Road and made for Turn 1 — made straight for yonder wall, it looked to me — and it felt as if someone was shoving my lungs into the back seat. We whipped into Turn 2, and I was ready to close my eyes. But, for reasons still unclear, I kept looking.
The ride got smoother on the back straightaway. By the time we passed the pits, I’d collected myself enough to think, Two laps to go. I might make it.
The second lap was better than the first. By now I was alert enough to note how close we were to the wall. (VERY!) Then third lap, because it was the last, was the best of all. I felt whew when driver geared down to end, not because I’d been in a car going really fast but because I’d been in a car going really fast and now I was about to get out of it.
And again get through out the window. I did get a tiny wobbly-legged.

Jennifer wanted to know how it felt. I said, “It a big wow and love it.

Later on I told Jennifer that can you imagine doing that for 267laps?” I couldn’t

I got some pictures here

I was pretty close to pick Matt Kenseth to win..He got second place

2007-07-20T10:53:00.000-05:00

Older post://bumpincrunchinanddrafting-mo.blogspot.com/2007/07/i-think.html
Tony Stewart wasn't about to let Matt Kenseth get around him in the waning laps of Sunday's Sheetrock 400, even though Kenseth got three excellent shots on restarts after late caution flags. Whether it's been fuel mileage or bad luck, we just haven't been able to close one off."The race really belonged to Stewart after Kenseth's first shot at him, on a restart with 37 laps remaining of the 267. That caution had come out due to the elimination of their only serious competitor, Jimmie Johnson, who crashed after leading the second-most laps to Stewart for the day.For two laps, Stewart in a Chevrolet and Kenseth in a Ford dueled side by side, and at one point Kenseth almost completed the pass."There very easily could have been a different outcome if he'd cleared us on that restart," Stewart admitted. Turbulence is a major factor in passing at the 1.5-mile Joliet track, and the duel was for the "clean air."But Stewart drifted high to block Kenseth."As long as I didn't give him the outside I felt like I was in good shape," Stewart said.Then Kenseth drove low, and "I stayed under him for about two laps," Kenseth said, "and I was so loose I was afraid I was going to wipe us both out, so I had to get back behind him."And that was it, even through two more restarts and two more Kenseth challenges. Stewart was in front for keeps."I ran the bottom to try to disturb the air on his car," Stewart said.

Tony takes "pep talk" to the flag stand

2007-07-20T09:59:00.000-05:00

Credit: ccrnascar

Contrary to prior public statements by both drivers made earlier in the week, the chill continues between Stewart and Hamlin following their wreck in Daytona and Stewart's comments during the race.
During an interview in his car prior to qualifying in Chicago with Lindsay Czarniak on SPEED, Stewart was asked if he had a chance to speak with Hamlin, Stewart very tersely replied, "I've been busy this week."
Stewart didn't even reply to Czarniak's first follow up question. After Hamlin's qualifying run, Hamlin was asked how things were between him and Stewart and Hamlin said, "We're at the track, so we're teammates."The tension between the two was palpable.This has to raise major questions as to what this driver fight is going to do to these two during the chase. Sponsors should also be scratching their heads as to where the leadership is at JGR............ Thanks for the great picture to my friend Dennis and later that day after the race SMOKE got the checker flag.................. Congrat Tony!

Budweiser's still Junior's beer

2007-07-20T09:25:00.000-05:00

Dale, Jr. says he will not have a personal services agreement with Budweiser next season as originally planned. Now, he'll end all association with Budweiser at the end of this season - but he doesn't plan to cut off the company. "You don't have to pay me to drink the beer, it's good beer and I'll always drink it and I enjoy it."

I still missed him!

2007-07-20T08:54:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite Nascar announcers and former race car driver, Benny Parsons, has passed away due to complications from his lung cancer. Benny, who was 65, always seemed a genuine guy; he had the knowledge from years of driving and the good old boy image, making him a great personality to talk about the race for three hours. A lot of former athletes turned commentators, while Benny seemed the type who could have a nice conversation with anyone. Benny won the Nascar championship in 1973.

Sadly it’s not yet known for great racing at the Chicagoland Speedway...

2007-07-17T12:21:00.000-05:00

Chicago fans known for football, baseball, deep dish pizza, shopping, and the Sears Tower.............

I heard some of people was at the track and watched tv @ home for the Durrock 300 & Sheetrock 400 Chicagoland Speedway was boring...Once the race was over I realized, it may have been boring from a race viewer fans was not too many crashes, hardly any side-by-side racing worth talking about, no controversial spin outs, no photo finish but it was a pretty exciting race for me..................

{Busch Series}

Brad Keselowski

The JR Motorsports’ No. 88 Navy Accelerate Your Life Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS started the race from 33rd position and finished at 14th in a field filled with 23 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series drivers. It was a career-best for Brad Keselowski in the Busch Series. The finish also garnered Keselowski the top Raybestos Rookie award. Yahoo!

{Nextel Cup Series}

Dale Earnhardt Jr. experiences a myriad of problems from missing pit road

to brushing the wall to finally seeing the power steering give away. Jr. managed to finish 19th in the Bud Chevrolet.

Martin Truex Jr. starts off strong but fails to make it to the finish as his engine gave up the ghost in the later stages of the race.

Tough season for Robby Gordon gets tougher as he crashes out the Jim Beam machine.

Dave Blaney and Ward Burton are victims of a late-race crash that takes out two drivers that really need to just finish races.

The Dominos Toyota of David Reutimann overcooks an engine, bringing on a serious case of heartburn.

Millions of Dale Earnhardt Jr. fans now have to find a new favorite brew after they learn that Budweiser will not follow Jr. to Hendrick Motorsports.

Jimmie Johnson experiences a hard crash after the right rear tire gives away; the Lowe’s Chevrolet was running second at the time of the crash.

(Dale Jr best chatter)

Radio chatter can be explicit and NSFW

Here's Mo listened the radio scanner on all drivers (mostly 0n #8)

Listen the scanner

or

Text from the scanner (not all of them)

Dale Jr. struggled early in each run following a pit stop, but once the tires came to the proper temperatures and pressures, the Bud car was a rocket in the high lane, often slinging around other cars while only inches from the wall - or less.

Dale Jr. (on lap 105, after repeatedly 'brushing' a segment of the wall at the exit of turn four): "STUPID WALL!"
Steve Hmiel (spotter): "I've seen that. You're doin' good June. You've gained two seconds on the leader the last 20 laps."
Dale Jr.: "That damn wall (off of turn four) sticks out there like a knot! It's fuckin stupid!"
Hmiel (reassuring the crew) : "No damage to the car, Tony Jr."

Lap 148, and seemingly out of nowhere:
Dale Jr.: "Sometimes I think about it and I can't believe I'm a race car driver..." (Mo is laughing)

Lap 185, and a potential problem developed...
Tony Eury Jr. (crew chief): "Just so you're aware, you have a small piece of paper on the top grill. See if you can use the 07 car (Clint Bowyer) to help that." (A driver can pull close behind another car, and the change in air pressure will blow the paper off before the car overheats.)
Dale Jr.: "If I get to him..."
Tony Jr.: "You'll get to him eventually. At your convenience."
Dale Jr.: "Where is it?"
Tony Jr.: "It's in the upper right hand corner."

After a few laps and a close call with Bowyer...
Dale Jr.: (to his spotter) "Damn! You might wanna tell him what I want to do! DAMN!"
Hmiel: "We're talking to him. He's ready for it."
Dale Jr.: "I don't think I can get it off there..."
Eury Jr.: "You got it. It's gone. Now, GO!"
Dale Jr.: "It's gone?"
Eury Jr.: "Yes sir. You're good."
Dale Jr.: "10-4. Tell him (Bowyer) thanks! The temperature was at 250 (degrees) and it's already down to 245..."

The team had one of their best pit stops of the season on lap 203, pulling Dale Jr. from sixth place to third. Unfortunately, while fighting to gain second place on lap 210, the power steering pump locked up, and Dale Jr. dropped six spots in one lap, and eventually fell to the final spot on the lead lap.

Dale Jr.: "LOST THE POWER STEERING! Sorry about that!"
Eury Jr.: "It's alright. 10-4. Do what you can."
Dale Jr.: "It's pretty hard to drive it!"
Eury Jr.: "Drive in your high line - that'll be a little easier on you... Just put them guns of yours up on the steering wheel and get on with it!"
Dale Jr.: (laughing) "I'll try to go where ya want me to go. I've never driven a car like this! This is funny!"

Under a lengthy yellow flag period that began on lap 223...
Dale Jr.: "Sorry. No power steering. The steering wheel just locked up. I had to slow down. It's hard getting into the corners, but I thought it would be harder... but I feel like I'm slingin' a ten-pound hammer everytime I turn down in. I never "
Eury Jr.: "It's cool. We ain't never had that happen. Do what you can do."
Dale Jr.: "It's OK. I ain't never driven one like this... I'm about to take the gloves off, but this (stuff's) about to get serious."
Eury Jr.: (teasing) "The boys say they wanna see those forearms when ya get out of the car."
Dale Jr.: (laughing) "If I was Ryan Newman I'd be able to drive the (stuff) out of it! I was OK, wasn't I?... I'll do the best I can. But it might be the ugliest (stuff) you've ever seen."
Eury Jr.: "10-4. Do whatcha can do."
Dale Jr. (looking for his teammate Martin Truex Jr.) "Where's Martin?"
Eury Jr.: "He blew up..."
Dale Jr.: 'Why didn't you tell me?!"
Hmiel: "We figured - both literally and figuratively - that you had your hands full."
Dale Jr.: "Ah! 10-4..."

Impressive & Unimpressive: Chicagoland Speedway

2007-07-16T10:34:00.000-05:00

Impressive:

Tony Stewart: Another fence climb for Stewart, seems he needs a little controversy to help him to get a win…

Dale Earnhardt Jr.: Dale Earnhardt Jr. finishes 19th… without the power steering, just controlling that car was a very impressive move on his part and jr kept positive.

Unimpressive:

Budweiser: Earnhardt Jr. ending sponsorship deal with the Budweiser adter 2007 season......

Kyle Busch: He vows to not help his teammates after they did not help him last week (his words not mine). I don’t see him finishing out the year in the 5 car........

Matt Kenseth’s favorite track: With Matt Kenseth still has not won in Chicagoland Speedway yet..... :-(

Ginn Racing: Cutting people and regrouping has to make one think that team owner Bobby Ginn came in to NASCAR with his large $ wallet $ and no direction. Now he has found out that throwing money around is not the answer. Mark Martin has improved his teams but they need to take it slow and build, and in 5 years or less perhaps contend for a championship with a young driver.

NASCAR League for USG Sheetrock 400

2007-07-16T07:18:00.000-05:00

DEnnIs picks (Second Place) 515 20,8,01,1 & 15

Mo Bud picks (Last Place) 474 Points 17,1,8,15 & 88

Brian M.G.D. picks (Winner) 671 Points 2,17,99,88 & 13

Mike Smoke picks (3rd Place) 477 Points 31,48,20, 44, & 21

(Mike didnt pick this weekend so I use his pick from last week)

Joliet Race Fan Rally in downtown by Harrah's Casino

2007-07-13T00:00:00.000-05:00

Race Fan Rally is an absolutely free event and promises plenty of interactive fun for die-hard NASCAR race fans and receive a bag of goodies........

Casey Mears #25 We got stand by him for Photo
Really nice guy!

If you ain't first, you're last!

I'm a huge Dale, Jr. #8 Fan!

I had good time with my wife @ the race fest last nite!

I think

2007-07-12T12:13:00.000-05:00

will pick up the win this weekend

WOW! What a great race finished

2007-07-08T07:41:00.000-05:00

Jamie McMurray ended a massive losing streak in dramatic fashion, beating Kyle Busch by a bumper to the finish line of the Pepsi 400 on Saturday night.

McMurray ended a 166-race winless streak by drag racing with Busch for much of the final two laps at Daytona International Speedway. The cars appeared to touch several times on their final trip around the famed track, and McMurray nosed across the finish line a mere 0.005 seconds ahead of Kyle Busch.

Close Finish

'Cool Globes' on Parade

2007-07-07T12:34:00.000-05:00

Reduse, Reuse, Recycle

Artists: Mitch Levin and Baris Taser

Traditionally, the three Rs meant reading, 'riting, and 'rithmetic. Now many people interpret it as an environmental axiom: reduce, reuse, and recycle. Practicing the three Rs means producing less waste and greenhouse gas, purchasing only what is needed and using all of what is purchased, as well as choosing reusable products and finding new uses for old goods.

In a playful application of the three Rs, Mitch Levin and Baris Taser attached over 2,000 used toy cars, donated by children, to create the black-and-white checkered pattern on their globe. The artists reduced their electricity consumption by using pneumatic tools whenever possible. The continents are made from recycled, polished aluminum and include environmental facts etched on the land to encourage everyone to join the race to save the planet.

Sponsor: General Iron Industries, Inc.

I like this globe because of the checkered flag. It has the matchbox cars all over on the earth

The location is "exhibition" by the Field & Shedd Museums

NASCAR League for Daytona 400

2007-07-07T09:48:00.001-05:00

DEnnIs picks (Last Place) 451 points
20,8,01,1 & 25

Mo Bud picks (Second Place) 499 Points
2,29,8,01 & 21

Brian M.G.D. picks (Winner) 566 Points
5,2,12,43 & 41

Mike Smoke picks (3rd Place) 476 Points

X31,48,20, 25, & 10 (over budget)X
31,48,20, 44, & 21 Mike told Mo to change the pick drivers (Fixed budget)

Rubbin' is Racin': NASCAR v. Crew Chiefs

2007-07-06T11:02:00.000-05:00

Last week, on "As NASCAR Rulebook Turns:"

NASCAR Vice President of Competition Robin Pemberton said in an interview on Sunday on TNT that suspended crew chiefs were prohibited from being in the pits and the garage area at the race track -- two places which require possession of a NASCAR license -- but beyond that there was little officials could do.

Now, it seems that watching the race from atop your own motorhome requires a NASCAR license. Or, maybe that rule just didn't play out as intended, so NASCAR will have to change it.

Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s suspended crew chief took full advantage of the freedom the rule allowed and got himself a prime trackside view at New Hampshire International Speedway. It was like the team had another spotter with Tony Eury Jr.'s bird's eye view, except that alternative methods of communication took a tad longer than in-car audio would. It also gave him a lot of time to plot and plan.

But the #8 team's "circumvention of the penalties" seems to have rubbed NASCAR the wrong way. This week, NASCAR officially changed its mind and the rulebook, spoiling any advantage for all other teams going forward:

NASCAR has changed its policy and will not allow crew chiefs to attend races while they are suspended, NASCAR Vice President Jim Hunter said Thursday at Daytona International Speedway.

Duh. Wouldn't you think that by now NASCAR would be getting better about the use of unambiguous language in the rulebook and not rely on things being "understood?"

Credit: AOL Sport

Earnhardt Jr. Sponsor Update:

2007-06-30T12:03:00.000-05:00

Budweiser Out, Monster Energy In????????

Since signing with Hendrick, the focus regarding Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s future has been on what number, sponsor, and colors he might be sporting for the next few years.

Regarding the number, it appears as though that subject is dead... the No. 8 will stay with DEI...

Though it won't be dead among those who follow Junior closely.

On the sponsor front, negotiations with Budweiser had seemed to stop when Anheuser-Busch was thought to be wondering if Junior had become a bit too old for the beer brand's target market.

But Forbes.com has some very interesting speculation straight from Wall Street.

According to the story, Anheuser-Busch may be preparing to buyout the company that owns Monster Energy - a drink they already redistribute. Monster Energy is a direct rival to Red Bull, and they've been targeting series where Red Bull already is.. such as a personal sponsorship with Paul Tracy in the Champ Car World Series, and rumors that the company may brand the entire team.

Thus, a possible link to NASCAR via the Bud parent.

The though is that with Monster Energy, Anheuser-Busch may be able to market with Dale Jr. in a way they never could with Budweiser.

As for Dale Earnhardt Jr., he had this to say when asked if there was any update on crew chiefs, car numbers, or sponsors for next season....

“No update.”

It's Monty's fault. He was not watching where he was going

2007-06-30T11:20:00.000-05:00

The camera man was stationary and filming something else..

Warning

Juan Pablo Montoya

NASCAR League for New Hampshire International Speedway

2007-06-30T10:36:00.000-05:00

DEnnIs picks (Winner)
20, 29, 8, 1 & 01

Mo Bud picks (3rd Place)
1, 2, 8, 16 & 41

Brian M.G.D. picks (2nd Place)
2,8, 1, 42 & 7

Mike Smoke picks (4th Place)
2, 20, 24, 25, & 44

Toyota finally got the BUD POLE today

2007-06-29T16:44:00.000-05:00

Dave Blaney #22

New Hampshire International Speedway

Our Drivers qualified position:

2 Kurt Busch Miller Lite Dodge

6 Dale Earnhardt Jr. Budweiser Chevy

14 Tony Stewart The Home Depot Chevy

Did make to the race:

#22-Dave Blaney, 129.437mph

#00-David Reutimann, 127.962mph

#4-Ward Burton, 127.397mph

#83-Brian Vickers, 127.338mph

#36-Jeremy Mayfield, 127.180

#15-Paul Menard, 126.842mph

#21-Bill Elliott [PC], 126.783mph

#37-Kevin Lepage, 126.433

Did not make the race:

#49-Chad Chaffin, 126.421mph

#55-Michael Waltrip, 126.144mph

#78-Kenny Wallace, 126.090mph

#44-Dale Jarrett, 125.848mph

#10-Scott Riggs, 125.732mph

#84-A.J. Allmendinger, 125.302mph

Free the #8 ( I think it's silly)

2007-06-29T16:29:00.000-05:00

About the Free the 8 Campaign
The Free the 8 Campaign is a fan initiated effort, whose goal is for NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt, Jr. to be allowed to continue to use his #8 car number, currently assigned to DEI Motorsports, next year at his new team, Hendrick Motorsports. Both Dale Earnhardt, Jr. and his future car owner, Rick Hendrick, have stated that they would like to have the #8 to continue Jr.'s legacy in 2008. We, as supporting fans, and wanting everything our driver wants to make him happy in 2008, have devised a petition to make our wishes known to all parties involved: Brian France (CEO of NASCAR), Teresa Earnhardt (Car Owner at DEI), Rick Hendrick (Car Owner at Hendrick Motorsports), and even Dale Earnhardt, Jr.
The petition being used is a Certified Petition, where all IP addresses, dates, and times will be recorded, then sent to the above intended targets, as well as the Mass-Media, for review. Our hope is that, even if DEI will not free the #8, Brian France (NASCAR CEO) might step in to reassign the number to Hendrick Motorsports. For more information on the assignment of car numbers, the history of the #8 car, and why it is important to not only Dale Jr., but his fans as well, check out the History of the #8 section. Also, make sure to check out and sign the petition.

Dale Earnhardt Jr for President?

2007-06-29T16:19:00.000-05:00

Oh that...

Dale Earnhardt Jr's own the company - JR Motorsports (No. 88 Navy Accelerate Your Life Chevrolet Monte Carlo in the NASCAR Busch Series)

Click it or ticket!

2007-06-27T20:48:00.001-05:00

smart move Dale, Jr.

Drive safe

Dale Earnhardt Inc New Driver

2007-06-27T20:38:00.001-05:00

2008

BREAKING NEWS Tony Eury Sr leaves DEI

2007-06-26T23:04:00.000-05:00

On Clarie B's show (XM Radio) heared that (Dale Jr's Uncle) Tony Eury Sr to be Director of Competition at Jr Motorsports. Clarie said she had heard for weeks that he NEVER actually took that position he was offered, as DEI tried to say. He had just been staying home. Not going to DEI to work at all. However JR Motorsports was unable to make a comment. Clarie said maybe tomorrow will have a forumal announcement about it

Hendrick can't buy the No. 8

2007-06-26T00:33:00.000-05:00

Hendrick Motorsports will not be able to purchase the No. 8 from Dale Earnhardt Inc., nor is DEI allowed to sell it to Hendrick or any other team.

Credit: thatsracin.com

Kyle Petty Cusses On National Television

2007-06-25T12:07:00.000-05:00

Driver Matt Kenseth and Petty collided in the second lap in an accident that included driver Marc Goossens. TNT analyst Wally Dallenbach speculated Petty "had no clue" Kenseth was nosing in on him. On a replay of the view out of Petty's windshield, the driver-analyst seemed to confirm that: As Kenseth came into view, viewers heard a clear exclamation of surprise that seemed to come from Petty — "What the f—-!"

TNT's Bill Weber immediately apologized "for that language," and Petty, who stayed in the race and finished 39th, came back on-air to say that "was not the kind of excitement I wanted" and later apologized on-air for the accident.

No Video show? Click the link here

Be Careful What You Wish For....

2007-06-25T07:54:00.001-05:00

Riding with Junior: Sonoma

2007-06-25T07:48:00.000-05:00

Best Radio Chatter

Dale Jr. was easily one of the fastest cars on the track all afternoon - but it often took a lap or two on each restart for the Bud machine to really get to full-speed.

Dale Jr: (during a yellow flag on lap 56 - after holding off eventual winner Montoya on several restarts): "Hell yeah! (to spotter Steve Hmiel): "If you've got Juan's spotter, tell him thanks for being patient with me. He makes me nervous on these restarts."

Hmiel: "I'm with him. You're doing great. And now you've got the 41 car (Reed Sorenson) between you and him for this restart."

Dale Jr: "We're quicker once we get going, but on the restarts he tries really hard to out-brake you in a straight line."

A few laps later, Dale Jr, reiterated his goal of a top-10 finish.

Dale Jr: (proudly) "Write this down - it's past halfway and I'm still in the top-10."

Tony Gibson (interim crew chief): "You're doin' great. You've got a top-two car based on lap times. Once the field spreads out, you can really show the speed."

When many cars pitted on lap 68 under a yellow-flag, Dale Jr. seemed shocked that the teams would gamble on fuel mileage with so many laps remaining:

Dale Jr: (surprised) "God dang!!"

Gibson: "We'll be OK."

Dale Jr: (still shocked) "They obviously think they can make it!"

Gibson: "Well, we can't make it from here - and we're a faster car than all of them. They'll need a ton of cautions to make it."

Today's Stats

Started: 3rd (career-best start at Infineon, matched career-best road course start)
Finished: 13th
Laps Led: --
Points: 12th place (no changes)
Money: $125,808
Best Pit Stop: Stop 2 of 2 / lap 72 / Four tires and fuel / 13.12 seconds

Mike is the winner ! {NASCAR League}

2007-06-24T19:47:00.000-05:00

CONGRATULATION!!!!!!!!

Mike
657 points

Brian
636 points

Mo
633 points

Dennis
607

A RACE WINNER:

2007-06-24T19:30:00.000-05:00

#42-Juan Pablo Montoya!

They practice for the Toyota/Save Mart 350 at Infineon Raceway on June 23, 2007

2007-06-24T14:26:00.000-05:00

Dale Earnhardt Jr. goes airborne on turn 7 during morning practice in the Toyota/ Save Mart Nascar Nextel cup auto race in Sonoma, Calif., Saturday, June 23, 2007.

Kurt Busch, driver of the #2 Miller Lite Dodge, sits in his car during practice for the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series Toyota/Save Mart 350 at Infineon Raceway on June 23, 2007 in Sonoma, California.

Tony Stewart, driver of the #20 The Home Depot Chevrolet, drives during practice for the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series Toyota/Save Mart 350 at Infineon Raceway on June 23, 2007 in Sonoma, California.

Mountain Dew #5 Fictional Scheme

2007-06-23T21:20:00.001-05:00

It would be nice see Dale, Jr. use different sponsor Mountain Dew & #5 (with Hendrick Motorsports) for now since He had Budweiser & #8 for many years with Dale Earnhardt Inc.