Nascar Thread part II

[Not4you]

Nice win last night.

http://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/05/2017-May20-KyleBuschMonsterGirls.jpg

meh. he's still a ****.

I loved Larson's pass on the last lap, working that high line for a few laps, figured it out and made it stick when it had to. that was cool to see. hopefully he can do the same this weekend when 2nd may actually matter. lol

[Not4you]

Oh dear, the 500 mile race next season at Charlotte is going to be using the road course? Please tell me I heard that wrong. What a brutal track. It is barely suitable for little cars like the Conti GS class, and they want to let a bunch of 800hp oval cars loose on there? There is only one place to pass (T1) and 9 times out of 10 that ends with someone in the wall hard. I get that they can only make track changes among the tracks already selected, but this is a horrible idea.

[ZR]

Did you misunderstand what they meant Matt?

Charlotte Motor Speedway’s fall race will be run on the “ROVAL,” a combination of the track’s trioval and the infield road course. And it gets a new date. Courtesy Charlotte Motor Speedway


http://www.wcnc.com/img/resize/content.wcnc.com/photo/2017/05/23/Roval-Map-BoA-Date_1495578015403_9539938_ver1.0.jpg?preset=534-401

[RedSN]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DAW8n7IXcAA7KQP.jpg
That picture has cool written all over it.
Not sure what wreck I want more?

[ZR]

Def the truck for me.

[Not4you]

Did you misunderstand what they meant Matt?

Charlotte Motor Speedway’s fall race will be run on the “ROVAL,” a combination of the track’s trioval and the infield road course. And it gets a new date. Courtesy Charlotte Motor Speedway

http://www.wcnc.com/img/resize/content.wcnc.com/photo/2017/05/23/Roval-Map-BoA-Date_1495578015403_9539938_ver1.0.jpg?preset=534-401

Yup, that's the one. It's brutal. Keep in mind that this track is half the size of Daytona, so that infield track is super tiny. Barely more than a tight autocross in a parking lot. And with the addition of T8 (the track used to just go fron T7 out onto the oval at T9 in that image) it is even tighter. Its fine for little cars like a Miata or A skip Barber F2000 or the SCCA Spec Fords or the like, but massive Cup car beasts will be nuts. No passing at all but lots of wrecking. Im not even sure the Cup cars will have enough steering lock to make it around T9 as it is now. For example T3 + T4 is just a bit bigger than T5 at Mosport. Now think of that and look at T7, T8 and T9 ...

Its cool that from the start/finish or the oval T1/T2 seats you'll be able to see the entire track (unlike the Daytona road course), and the Charlotte oval is great, but this infield track is a terrible configuration for these stock cars.

Hop on Zippy's sim and try it out, and that will be the old configuration ...

[RedSN]

Im not even sure the Cup cars will have enough steering lock to make it around T9 as it is now.
rally car drift

[ZR]

Still leaves the oval for passing, infield does look small though.

[1BAD92LX]

I do think they need a road course in the chase, but this may not be the best track.
They should go to Mosport in the summer and save Infinion for the chase.
Oh, and they should do the boot at Watkins Glen too.

[ZR]

^ Absolutely.

[mavrrrick]

Hmmmm.....could be interesting.....have to wait and see.

[Not4you]

Maybe when the 5yr contracts are up with the existing tracks on the schedule they can work in Rd America, Rd Atlanta or some other road course. For now the Charlotte Infield is better than not having one at all, but damn it is not suited to these cars and drivers.

[ZR]

^ Agreed, only real option for now but definitely better options out there.

[ZR]

Although, with it's current downward spiral, will anyone care about Nascar in 5 years?

[ZR]

http://bf19d0142b960c98204c-6849f9022b05f72b83236695aa4e9a0a.r50.cf2.rackcdn.c om/uploads/articles/2017/540104/nhof-class-of-2018-5-24_p3.jpg

[mavrrrick]

Ya.....may not even watch next year with the exiting of Dale Jr. Missed last 2 races.

[ZR]

On the pole.

http://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/05/harvick-hero.jpg

[ZR]

The Coca-Cola 600 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race at Charlotte Motor Speedway is in a delay because of inclement weather in the area around the 1.5-mile track in Concord, North Carolina.
A storm moved over the track after 143 of a scheduled 400 laps, bringing out the red flag when lightning was reported in the area. The race was under caution at the time due to an on-track incident.
NASCAR Air Titans are at the ready to dry the track, and NASCAR.com will be your source for updates. According to NASCAR officials there are 12 Air Titans and 10 jet driers on location.
At nearly the midway point of Stage 2, Martin Truex Jr. is your leader. Truex, who led 392 laps and won this event last year, has led a race-high 53 laps. Second at the time of the red flag is Jimmie Johnson, followed by Kyle Larson, Kyle Busch and Matt Kenseth.

[ZR]

#3 car to victory lane.

https://www.gannett-cdn.com/-mm-/cf5193e78fb285318a28a1baba7dc146beb617ba/c=34-0-942-683&r=x404&c=534x401/local/-/media/2017/05/29/USATODAY/USATODAY/636316195104061918-USP-NASCAR-COCA-COLA-600-91283786.JPG

[Not4you]

I stopped watching when Larson was out. After the Nurburgring 24hr, Monaco, Indy 500 I kinda had enough racing for one day.

When I turned on Seinfeld and the race was still going I watched the end. It was cool to see the #3 back in victory lane. Strange that it had been so long.

I like Dillon, he's not as douchey as some other guys in the series at the moment. Always nice to see a first win too, so much emotion.

[Not4you]

NASCAR Considering Using VHT/PJ1 Trackbite For Dover Races This Weekend After Charlotte "Success" (Credit to NBC Sports):

After a positive reception at the Coca-Cola 600, NASCAR could apply VHT this weekend at Dover International Speedway. Chief racing development officer Steve O’Donnell said the 1-mile oval’s concrete surface – similar to Bristol Motor Speedway, where VHT was used in the past – makes it an obvious candidate.

VHT, which is intended to promote multiple grooves to enhance passing, made its asphalt debut with NASCAR at Charlotte Motor Speedway this past weekend. O’Donnell said its success led to NASCAR being contacted by “a lot of interested parties” about its usage at more tracks in the future.

“It’s something for sure you could see” in the future, O’Donnell said Tuesday morning during his weekly “The Morning Drive” appearance on SiriusXM’s NASCAR channel. “We have to break down what did we see from the asphalt application, what’s it doing to the track vs. the tire vs. the racing. There are a lot of things to digest.

“Going into Dover, you’ve got that one-off where you ran it at Bristol on a similar surface. It is something we could look at and then beyond that have, we have to analyze what happens in terms of the asphalt surface.”

Dover spokesman Gary Camp said Tuesday that VHT usage has been discussed, but no decision had been made. Camp said if NASCAR believes the compound would enhance Dover’s racing, the track “would certainly be supportive.”

O’Donnell said NASCAR also would be consulting with Goodyear, but that such a decision wouldn’t necessarily require much lead time.

“The good news is it’s just enhancing what they have,” he said. “It’s not something that if we apply this next week, we need a different tire. So far it’s helped whatever tire they’ve brought to the track.”

O’Donnell praised Charlotte Motor Speedway owner Marcus Smith for lobbying to use the VHT, which had been used successfully at its adjacent NHRA-affiliated drag racing track.

NASCAR applied the traction compound twice on Charlotte’s 1.5-mile oval, before practice and qualifying Thursday and again on Saturday night. Drivers who competed in the Cup and Xfinity races asked NASCAR to reapply the VHT for the Coca-Cola 600.

“I think it had an impact,” O’Donnell said. “We’ll continue to learn and work with tracks. This was the first time on asphalt and the second time we used it. As we see multiple grooves open up earlier, I think it’s something you could see us apply in the future at other tracks.

http://nascar.nbcsports.com/2017/05/30/nascar-says-using-vht-at-dover-is-a-possibility-after-charlotte-success/

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61kgm8rd8yL._SL1000_.jpg

[StAnger]

With the results she's had, or lack thereof in this case. I can't say I'm surprised by this possibly being Danica's last season.


Patrick's Future at SHR Uncertain after 2017 Season (http://www.espn.com/jayski/cup/2017/story/_/id/19531408/patrick-future-shr-uncertain-2017-season)

[ZR]

Like her or not, fact of the matter, she's done nothing in spite of piloting a top tier ride.



Stewart-Haas Racing and Danica Patrick are reviewing their options about whether she will continue on as a driver for the team after this year, according to sources. Patrick is signed with SHR through '18, but there are clauses in her contract that could see the relationship end after this year, and the sides are discussing their choices, sources said. Patrick's nearly decade-long relationship with GoDaddy that spanned back to her time in IndyCar ended after '15, and SHR has run into challenges securing primary sponsorship. Nature's Bakery earlier this year backed away from its three-year, $45M deal after one season.

[Not4you]

The team needs a better driver in her seat, she wants out due to lingering health issues from multiple concussions and diminishing desire to continue, and sponsors are no longer flocking to her like they did before. With so many factors pointing to retirement I'd say its a sure thing.

But if nothing else, she did help raise interest in racing for my daughter.

[ZR]

Wallace to pilot the 43 car.

The significance of Darrell “Bubba” Wallace Jr.’s new job driving the iconic No. 43 Ford for Richard Petty this summer has not been lost on the young driver … or his closest friends.
After five determined years climbing NASCAR’s national series ladder, the 23-year-old makes his Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series debut this weekend at Pocono Raceway (Sunday at 3 p.m. ET on FS1, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio) – the ultimate opportunity on NASCAR’s biggest stage.
One of his best friends – 23-year-old Ryan Blaney – drives another of the sport’s most historic cars, the Wood Brothers’ No. 21 Ford. Like most other 20-somethings, that mutual, happy circumstance is something the pair plan to savor and remember by capturing and sharing the moment on social media.
This isn’t just historic. It’s really cool.
“Yeah, that’s huge,” Wallace said Tuesday. “It’s funny, Blaney texted me this morning, actually woke me up this morning, he wants a picture this weekend.
“I was like, OK. He was like, ‘We’re driving the two most iconic cars in the sport this weekend. We definitely have to capitalize on that.’ ”
And so Wallace will be steering a car number used by the sport’s “King,” the 79-year-old Petty, responsible for seven Cup championships and a historic 200-win total. He’ll line up with Blaney, whose number has been campaigned by 105-race winner David Pearson, Cale Yarborough, Dale Jarrett and Junior Johnson – like Petty, all NASCAR Hall of Famers.
<figure id="attachment_13186" class="wp-caption alignright" style="margin: 7px 0px 7px 14px; max-width: 100%; float: right; color: rgb(118, 118, 118); clear: right; font-family: Stainless-Regular, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; width: 300px;">http://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/06/june08-petty-pearson-main-image-300x169.jpg<figcaption class="wp-caption-text" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; font-style: italic; line-height: 1.5; margin: 9px 0px; padding-right: 10px;">ISC Archives via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Undoubtedly the best way for the friends to capitalize on their history-rich rides would be for either Blaney’s No. 21 Motorcraft/Quick Lane Ford or Wallace’s No. 43 Smithfield Ford to wind up in Victory Lane after 400 tough miles at Pocono on Sunday afternoon.
But Wallace knows he doesn’t necessarily have to win this weekend to benefit both his career and the team, in the interim. In fact, he doesn’t “have to win” at all.
This is widely considered to be Wallace’s big-league audition, giving him the chance to show he also belongs with the drivers in their talented 20s crowding the Cup grid.

[Stephen06GT]

Go Bubba go!

[Stephen06GT]

Congrats to Ryan Blaney and the #21 Wood Brothers Ford on their victory in Pocono. Awesome to see the famed #21 in victory lane.

[ZR]

Very cool to see him win.

[ZR]

http://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/06/2017-June12-RyanBlaneycar-hero-922x510.jpg

[ZR]

On pole.

http://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/06/2017-June16-KyleLarsonOwenpole-922x510.jpg

[ZR]

Takes the win, nicely done.

http://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/06/2017-June18-larson-son922-mich-gallery-922x510.jpg

[Not4you]

I am really loving this guy. I became a fan instantly a number of years ago when he won that short track event on the back straight of Daytona during Speed Week. I think it was called the Battle on the Beach or something like that. He was too young to have a drivers license at the time but still pushed his way to the front against a lot of really experienced guys. His interview after was awesome too. Now that he is in a strong car and placing well its awesome that he has made it too the top.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4BPVmoxRuW0

[Not4you]

And next on the list of up and coming kid stars is Ty Majeski who will me making his first Xfinity start this weekend ...

http://autoweek.com/article/nascar/roush-racing-development-driver-ty-majeski-sets-nascar-xfinity-debut-date

https://nesncom.files.wordpress.com/2017/03/ty-majeski1.jpg?w=640


He is absolutely dominant in iRacing series as well and they are going to be his main sponsor for the Xfinity race.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3O3mPlghV_U

[StAnger]

Pussification has reached Australia. - Robby Gordon banned from racing for doing donuts.

http://www.espn.com/jayski/cup/2017/story/_/id/19707435/robby-gordon-banned-racing-australia-darwin-donut-session

[Not4you]

well it was on a busy public street so a pretty big bonehead move.

[StAnger]

well it was on a busy public street so a pretty big bonehead move.

He should have been punished, but I don't think the punishment fit the crime.

[G-ForceJunkie]

Thought I'd give a little update on my trip to MIS last weekend. There is lots to do outside the track, just walking all the temporary shops and seeing other exhibits built by Ford/GM/etc. Watched the Xfinity race from row 2 at the start line for a bit, then headed up to row ~40 something for the rest, since it was general admission tickets. First impression was blown away how loud the cars were. Lasted 4 laps before running for ear plugs. It's almost like NHRA nitro car loud. We had row 29 seats for the Monster race, seats were great, race wasn't the greatest, but had enough action to keep it interesting. Still used the ear plugs up there, but more for comfort than absolute necessity. Went to the Henry Ford museum on the Monday - highly recommended, lots of neat stuff in there - way more than cars.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v331/G-ForceJunkie/IMG_4196_zpskl4drxfk.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v331/G-ForceJunkie/IMG_4425_zpsnsggnsjp.jpg

[ZR]

Ford Museum has been on our must attend list pretty much every year we did Woodward, love the place. Only been to one race but Ross n I had an epic good time at Daytona opener couple or three years back.

[ZR]

All Hendrick front row.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sped to the Coors Light Pole Award in Friday’s qualifying for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series at Daytona International Speedway.
Earnhardt guided the Hendrick Motorsports No. 88 Chevrolet to a best lap of 190.973 mph, securing the top starting spot for Saturday’s Coke Zero 400 Powered by Coca-Cola (7:30 p.m. ET, NBC, MRN, SiriusXM). His first pole of the season was his second at the 2.5-mile track and the 14th of his Monster Energy Series career.
Earnhardt, preparing for the last Daytona start in his final full-time season, backed up his speed from preliminary practice sessions. The four-time Daytona winner was fastest in Thursday’s lightly participated final practice and also topped the first round of single-car qualifying runs Friday.
“I don’t do anything in qualifying but just hold the wheel and just make sure I don’t hit the apron,” Earnhardt told NBCSN after his lap. “Otherwise, the car does everything. A lot of credit to the power, the body man back at the shop. All that stuff’s so critical and they did a good job today.”
Chase Elliott, Earnhardt’s Hendrick Motorsports teammate, will start alongside on the front row after pushing the No. 24 Chevrolet to a second-fastest lap of 190.795 mph. Both cars also started on the front row in the season-opening Daytona 500, but in the reverse order.


http://images.performgroup.com/di/library/omnisport/b4/35/chase-elliott-dale-earnhardt-jr_1ehj1ddjygz8vzam3p8bii7oi.jpg?t=1479428274&w=960&quality=70

[ZR]

Shiat show of a race but certainly entertaining. Congrats to the winner.

http://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/07/stenhouse-hero-winner-daytona.jpg

[StAnger]

I wonder how much of this is due to Nascar's idiotic rules changes vs Tony Stewart's and Jeff Gordon's retirements. I'm sure they're going to take another huge hit next year when Jr retires at the end of this season.



Fox sees 12% decline in ratings. (http://www.espn.com/jayski/cup/2017/story/_/id/19901611/fox-sees-12-decline-last-year-ratings)

[ZR]

I'm betting it's more about Nascars nonsense vs anything else. For me, stage racing this year has at least kept the action up the entire race, win for us the fans. Overall though, just not feeling it anymore, if I miss a race here n there really don't care. Guess too many years of their ever changing rules and selective enforcement has me beat down. Doesn't help watching the never ending 500 milers.

[StAnger]

I honestly can't remember the last race I watched.

[Stephen06GT]

I saw a blurb somewhere that Matt Kenseth is not sure where he will be next season.

[ZR]

First it was Carl suddenly stepping away n now it looks like Matt's being shown the door. Sign of a problem over there or team is doing a change of direction, certainly can't be due to lack of talent or desire on his part.

[StAnger]

First it was Carl suddenly stepping away n now it looks like Matt's being shown the door. Sign of a problem over there or team is doing a change of direction, certainly can't be due to lack of talent or desire on his part.

JGR probably wants to make room for their Busch series drivers to come up.

[ZR]

Sure seems that way.

[StAnger]

It would make sense that Carl was asked to step aside.

[ZR]

totally disrespectful how it's played out with no announcement from the team itself, shame on them.

[ZR]

http://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/07/2017-July-9-Martin-Truex-Jr1.jpg

[Not4you]

I heard today Penske is going to be fielding a team in the IMSA Sportscar series running a Honda powered DPI Prototype. Lead driver is going to be Helio Castroneves. That is pretty cool to see them branching out further to IMSA.

[fast Ed]

They ran a Porsche P2 car in ALMS a few years back before that class went away with the merger. Penske doesn't mess around, I'm sure it won't be long before it's a competitive team.


cheers
Ed

[ZR]

Ricky the Ninja, did well.

http://www.nascar.com/en_us/news-media/franchises/all-videos.monster-energy-nascar-cup-series-crew-ryan-blaney-and-ricky-stenhouse-jr-take-on-american-ninja-warrior.5500825536001.html

[ZR]

It's official.

Erik Jones will drive the No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series starting in 2018, Joe Gibbs Racing announced on Tuesday.
Jones, 21, currently drives the No. 77 Toyota for Furniture Row Racing. He will take over for Matt Kenseth, 45, who has driven the No. 20 for JGR since 2013. According to a Joe Gibbs Racing statement, Kenseth will not be back with the organization following the 2017 season.

[ZR]

http://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/07/jones-hero31.jpg

[ZR]

Back in the car this weekend.


Aric Almirola said he hadn’t lost his love of racing, but admitted that after six years of competing in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, things had become somewhat “routine.”
It took a broken back to remind the Richard Petty Motorsports driver how much he enjoyed what he did for a living.
“Getting back in the race car yesterday was an awesome feeling,” Almirola said Wednesday, “because you miss how you feel when you get that adrenaline rush of running 200 miles an hour in a stock car.”
Almirola took part in a closed test at Charlotte Motor Speedway Tuesday to obtain medical clearance to return to competition. The 33-year-old Tampa, Florida, native suffered a compound fracture of the T5 vertebra in a crash this past May at Kansas Speedway. He was sidelined for eight weeks, missing seven points races, while recovering from the injury.
“In the very beginning it was all very new and very exciting and after a while it was just what I did,” Almirola, a one-time winner in the series, said. “I got on an airplane on Thursday, flew to the race track and I raced that weekend; we did the best we could and we came home. It got very routine, very monotonous – not that I ever lost my passion or lost my love of racing but it just became sort of routine and I somewhat took it for granted.
“Then just in a moment it got taken away and you realize ‘Wow I miss it; I love it. I want to go back. I want to race again.'”

[ZR]

Larson wins then looses pole to rule infraction.

Martin Truex Jr. was declared the Coors Light Pole Award winner Friday at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, taking the No. 1 starting position after Kyle Larson’s apparent pole-winning lap was disallowed.
Larson’s speed of 133.324 mph was thrown out after NASCAR officials discovered an unapproved rear deck fin on his Chip Ganassi Racing No. 42 Chevrolet. That elevated Truex’s Furniture Row Racing No. 78 Toyota (133.077 mph) to the first starting spot for Sunday’s Overton’s 301 (3 p.m. ET, NBCSN, PRN, SiriusXM) at the 1.058-mile track.
Larson, who had swept all three rounds of qualifying, will now start at the rear of the 39-car field.
Truex had qualified second five times this year, and it initially appeared he would make it six. After the lineup shuffle, he was credited with his first Coors Light Pole of the year, his first at New Hampshire and the 13th in his Monster Energy Series career.
“Not the way we wanted to get our first pole of the year,” Truex said in a release provided by his Furniture Row team. “But looking forward to starting front and having a good pit selection.”
Seven-time series champ Jimmie Johnson (132.688 mph) rose to the second starting spot after Larson’s penalty. Matt Kenseth, Jamie McMurray and Kasey Kahne completed the top five.

[Stephen06GT]

Watching the New Hampshire race. What did they put in the 18 and 78 to make them so much faster than everyone else? Lots of empty seats also. Wasn't many years ago when I wouldn't miss a race, now it's meh. I thinks I'll switch to the Toronto Indy coverage.

[ZR]

Race after race, 42 and 78 dominate.

[Stephen06GT]

Hinchcliffe in 3rd with 7 to go.

[Stephen06GT]

Newgarden, Rossi, and Hinchcliffe is on the podium for 3rd. Way to go HINCH!!!

[ZR]

Hendrick Motorsports officials announced Thursday that Alex Bowman will replace Dale Earnhardt Jr. in the organization’s No. 88 Chevrolet for the 2018 season, with sponsorship from Nationwide and Axalta.

Bowman, 24, drove 10 races with the team in 2016 while Earnhardt was recovering from a concussion that caused him to miss the final 18 races of the season.
Nationwide, which became a primary sponsor of the No. 88 in 2015, will have a 19-race majority sponsorship in 2018. Axalta will increase its number of races featured as the primary sponsor of the No. 88 team by two, bringing its total to 15.
MORE: Reaction pours into Bowman news; see 48/88 shop response (http://www.nascar.com/news-media/2017/07/20/alex-bowman-in-no-88-nascar-nation-reaction)
“Ever since I was a kid, racing is all I’ve wanted to do,” Bowman said in a team release. “I’ve had so many people believe in me along the way. My family has sacrificed a lot and always been behind me. I would never have this chance without the support of Dale and everyone involved with the No. 88 team. To be part of Hendrick Motorsports and for Mr. Hendrick to have this confidence in me, it’s just amazing.
“The No. 88 team is such a great group of people. I know we can pick up where we left off last year, and I truly believe we can win races and contend for a championship. I’m excited to build on the relationship with Nationwide and all of our partners. It means the world that they have faith in me, and I’m thankful to have them on my side. Now I just want to go win.”
Bowman, a member of the first NASCAR Next class, currently is employed by Hendrick Motorsports and does much of the simulation work for the organization as well as testing with the wheel force transducer car for Chevrolet. He competed full time in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series in 2014 for BK Racing and ’15 for Tommy Baldwin Racing but found himself out of a ride prior to the start of the 2016 season.
He ran select races for JR Motorsports, the NASCAR XFINITY Series organization co-owned by Earnhardt, in 2016 and was one of two drivers that filled in for the injured Earnhardt following his mid-season injury.
Bowman earned three top-10 finishes with the team, including a career-best sixth at Phoenix, during his brief tenure behind the wheel. He also scored his first pole, also at Phoenix, and as a result earned a berth in this year’s Advance Auto Parts Clash at Daytona. He finished third in that non-points race.
RELATED: Recap every Earnhardt win (https://galleries.nascar.com/gallery/182/all-of-dale-earnhardt-jr.s-monster-energy-nascar-cup-series-victories) | See Bowman’s career stats (http://racing-reference.info/driver/Alex_Bowman)
Earnhardt, the son of seven-time champion Dale Earnhardt and a 26-time winner in the series, announced in April that he would retire from Cup competition at the end of this season.
He is a 14-time winner of the National Motorsports Press Association’s most popular driver award. Earlier this year, he endorsed Bowman as his replacement during one of his post-race Periscope video chats, saying it “would be pretty awesome to see Alex in that car. That’s the plan, I hope.”
In addition to Earnhardt, HMS also fields entries for seven-time series champion Jimmie Johnson, Kasey Kahne and Chase Elliott.

“Alex impressed the heck out of us last year with his talent, poise and professionalism,” said Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports. “He stepped up in a very demanding situation and showed that he can run with the best and compete for wins. His ability to stay focused through it all, and the way he’s handled himself since then, has shown a lot of character. Greg and the team loved working with Alex, and that dynamic will get even better with more time together.
“Our relationship with Nationwide is unbelievable. They have a true passion for NASCAR and our fans, and to have them extend with us is gratifying for our whole team. It’s also a credit to the way Alex carried himself last season and built lasting relationships. We’re fortunate to work with partners like Nationwide and Axalta that have built impactful, enduring programs around the countless opportunities our sport provides.”

[StAnger]

Good. The kid deserves it.

[ZR]

He surely does but I was still rooting for Kenseth. Perhaps they'll put him in the 5.

[StAnger]

Ya. Not like Kahne has done much in the 5 car.

[ZR]

I'm a fan of his but for some reason he's done little to nothing in spite of a first class ride.

[mavrrrick]

Happy for him to....just not sure i'll be watching....have not watched since jr announced he is retiring.

[ZR]

Wow, the 5 car pulls off a much deserved win.

[ZR]

For the record, in spite of the dribble coming out of the announcers mouths, Nascar has not been consistent on how the restarts are to play out. To me, he had a legit complaint.

[ZR]

BREAKING NEWS..................


<header class="entry-header" style="position: relative; z-index: 1; margin-top: 0px; color: rgb(10, 10, 10); font-family: Stainless-Regular, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Dale Earnhardt Jr. signs multiyear deal with NBC
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By Holly Cain NASCAR.com July 24, 2017 at 10:07 am

</header>NBC Sports Group announced Monday morning that retiring NASCAR superstar Dale Earnhardt Jr. will join the company on a multiyear deal beginning in 2018.
The two-time Daytona 500 winner Earnhardt, 42, who is retiring from full-time competition at the end of the season, has worked in the live television booth a handful of times — including at this year’s “The Clash” preseason opener during Daytona Speedweeks — as well as some XFINITY Series races over the last two years.
NBC broadcasts the second half of the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR XFINITY Series seasons. NBC also is partnering with Earnhardt on Dirty Mo Media and Hammerhead Entertainment.
“It is a tremendous honor not only to join NBC Sports next year but to begin a new career alongside people who love NASCAR as much as I do,” Earnhardt said in an NBC release. “To be reunited with Steve Letarte, to be able to call legends like Jeff Burton, Dale Jarrett and Kyle Petty teammates rather than just friends, to be able to continue going to the track and connecting with race fans, it’s a privilege I don’t take lightly. I will devote my heart and soul to this broadcast team and pledge my very best to the millions who watch it.”
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[Stephen06GT]

^^Good for him and I'm sure NASCAR is jumping for joy.

[ZR]

You can guarantee they are.

[Not4you]

I was kinda enjoying the second half of the season not having to listen to a twang-y southern redneck voices on the broadcast. They should switch him with JG and keep all the guys that sound the same on the same broadcast team. lol

[Not4you]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oRl1nPtF5Xs

[Stephen06GT]

Just read a post that said Ryan Blaney will be joining Team Penske in a third car and Paul Menard will join the Wood Bros. to drive the famed #21 next season.

[ZR]

Crazy season is in full swing.

[Not4you]

Doesn't Penske own some or most of Wood Brothers, so this move is sort of an internal one.

[ZR]

I believe your correct.

[ZR]

Coach is a dick, sure the guys went off but WTF was the crew chief thinking wandering into another teams area like that???

LONG POND, Pa. – Martin Truex Jr.’s collision with Kyle Busch as the two drivers battled for the lead last Sunday at Indianapolis Motor Speedway produced ramifications that extended well beyond the race.
After the wreck, which Truex triggered when his No. 78 Toyota got loose beneath Busch’s No. 18 Camry, Truex’s tire changers Chris Taylor (front) and Lee Cunningham (rear) were involved in a heated confrontation with Busch’s crew chief, Adam Stevens, who strode into the No. 78 pit area after receiving taunts from the rival crewmen.
Just one problem. The No. 78 crew is actually assembled by Joe Gibbs Racing (Busch’s team) and is outsourced to Furniture Row Racing (Truex’s team) as part of the alliance between the two Toyota organizations.
RELATED: See the wreck that ended Truex and Busch’s race at Indianapolis (http://www.nascar.com/en_us/news-media/franchises/monster-energy-nascar-cup-highlights.monster-energy-nascar-cup-series-brickyard-400-truex-busch-wreck.5518454148001.html)
Team owner Joe Gibbs opted to suspend the two tires changers for three races each because they had initiated the controversy. The complication is that Truex is competing against Busch for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series championship, and the suspensions could have a profound effect, Truex believes.
“It’s a tough situation for us to be in — there’s no doubt about that,” Truex told reporters after a Fan Fest appearance at Pocono Raceway on Friday night. “I’m obviously not happy about how it all went down. I’m disappointed that I made a mistake, and it got us kind of in this position. I guess it is what it is, and we’ll deal with it the best we can, and we’ll go forward.”
Making the suspensions all the more costly is the excellence of his crew.
“It’s a big impact when they’re two of the best out there,” Truex said. “Our pit crew has been amazing this year, putting us in position to win multiple races, not making mistakes — they’ve got everything. Those two guys are unbelievable, what they do. We’re obviously at a disadvantage without them.”
Truex hopes, however, that the altercation won’t have a negative effect on the strong working relationship between the two organizations.
“I hope not,” Truex said. “I don’t think so. Again, it’s unfortunate that the mistake I made on the race track caused all this stuff to blow up. I’m proud of our pit crew guys and what they’ve done this year and what they continue to do for us. And like I said, we’ll just get through the next couple weeks as best we can.”

[ZR]

So got your wish coach, fucking baby in the 18 got his win, happy now!!!

[ZR]

LONG POND, Pa. – After news that two Furniture Row Racing No. 78 crew members were suspended by Joe Gibbs Racing for a trio of races for an altercation with JGR crew chief Adam Stevens, the No. 18 crew chief has offered his comments on his role in the incident.
MORE: JGR suspends two No. 78 crew members (http://www.nascar.com/news-media/2017/07/27/joe-gibbs-racing-suspends-two-crewmembers-furniture-row-racing/)
“I waited four or five minutes before I even left the box and was 100 percent focused on getting back to our trailer — I had no intention of stopping anywhere along the way,” Stevens told ESPN (http://www.espn.com/racing/nascar/story/_/id/20192136/nascar-adam-stevens-defends-role-confrontation-truex-crew). “I was approached with some inappropriate comments and communication from a Joe Gibbs Racing employee and it rubbed me the wrong way.
“I took an opportunity to tell him what I thought about it.”
The No. 78 of Martin Truex Jr. and No. 18 of Kyle Busch crashed on Lap 112 of the Brickyard 400 while racing for the lead entering Turn 1, ending the day for both teams. Video from pit road captured an incident between the two crews, one in which Busch’s crew chief Stevens was involved.
Furniture Row gets its pit crew from JGR as part of their alliance, thus the suspension from the parent organization.
As the video shows, Truex’s tire changer Lee Cunningham clapped at Stevens and said, “Tell Kyle way to go,” prompting Stevens to enter the box.
RELATED: Truex discusses crewmen suspensions (http://www.nascar.com/news-media/2017/07/29/martin-truex-jr-discusses-pit-crew-suspensions/)
In an earlier statement from Furniture Row Racing team owner Barney Visser, he said, “Our No. 78 pit crew is hired, trained and managed by Joe Gibbs Racing. They are one of the best pit crews on the circuit and have kept us up front all season. We admire the talent and dedication of our pit crew and support all of the decisions and actions taken by Joe Gibbs Racing.”

[ZR]

Happy Birthday Jeff Gordon.

[ZR]

Weather forecasts for Sunday’s I Love New York 355 at The Glen call for a chance of rain at Watkins Glen International — most likely late in the race.
Should it rain, NASCAR and Monster Energy Cup Series teams are prepared to use rain tires on the 2.45-mile road course in upstate New York.
According to the NASCAR rulebook, should the race start under dry conditions and then it become rainy, “the rear flashing light must be activated on all vehicles for the remainder of the race.”
Rules state that during the caution period, cars may “elect to pit and change tires (‘wet’ or ‘dry’), install ‘wet’ weather condition equipment” or they may remain on the race track at their “sole discretion.”
And the crew chief is “solely responsible for the decision of when to change or utilize ‘dry’ or ‘wet’ condition equipment.”
Should it rain before the green flag is waved to start the race, all vehicles “will return to their assigned pit stall and must install the “wet” weather tires and activate the rear flashing light for the race.
“Windshield wipers may be installed. No other adjustments or refueling will be permitted at this time.”

So far the Cup Series has never raced a points-paying event in the rain. But the XFINITY Series has contested four races under wet conditions — twice in Montreal (2008 and 2009) and 2014 at Road America in Elkhart, Wisc. and 2016 at the Mid-Ohio Sport Car Course in Lexington, Ohio.

[fast Ed]

Have the Cup guys ever raced in the rain? I know there have been rain races in the other NASCAR series ... would make it very interesting!! I've not been on the Glen since it got resurfaced a few years ago, not sure how it is in the wet for grip.


cheers
Ed

[ZR]

Not the Cup guys (as far as I know). Should be interesting to see how it plays out.

[ZR]

Making his final Nascar start today.
We'll miss you big guy.

https://cdn-4.motorsport.com/images/amp/YEeWNBqY/s6/nascar-cup-sonoma-2017-boris-said-circle-sport-the-motorsports-group-chevrolet.jpg

[ZR]

Will not be driving the 5 car for Hendrick next year.

https://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/08/aug7-kasey-kahne-2nd-hero-625x340.jpg

[StAnger]

Will not be driving the 5 car for Hendrick next year.

https://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/08/aug7-kasey-kahne-2nd-hero-625x340.jpg


Called it.

[ZR]

As did most of us. Seems like a super nice guy but he's just not producing in the 5 car.
Rumor mill says this is his replacement.

According to multiple reports, 19-year-old NASCAR XFINITY Series standout William Byron will drive Hendrick Motorsports No. 5 Chevrolet in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series next year.
Motorsport.com, NBC Sports and ESPN are reporting via sources that Byron has been tabbed to take over for veteran Kasey Kahne.
Kahne has driven the No. 5 since 2012. Hendrick Motorsports announced Monday that the team would not retain Kahne in 2018.
MORE: Silly Season key players (https://galleries.nascar.com/gallery/1245/key-players-in-nascars-silly-season)
Byron is a three-time winner in the XFINITY Series this season driving for Earnhardt’s JR Motorsports team. Rick Hendrick signed the prospect in 2016.
Byron won seven times and finished fifth in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series last year as an 18-year old in his first full-time season of competition in NASCAR’s national series.

[bluetoy]

No one has ever performed in the number 5 car since Terry Labonte. Kyle Bush had minor success in it.

[ZR]

Mark Martin did pretty well.

[ZR]

Kasey Kahne will be out of his Hendrick Motorsports ride at the end of 2017, but that doesn’t mean the Enumclaw, Washington, native will no longer be affiliated with the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series organization.
Hendrick Motorsports team owner Rick Hendrick said Wednesday that he is working with Kahne to possibly secure a ride for the 37-year-old for the 2018 season. That ride could have an affiliation with HMS through a possible technical alliance.
The organization announced Monday that Kahne, whose contract was scheduled to end after the ’18 season, would not return to drive the group’s No. 5 Chevrolet next year.
It announced Wednesday that NASCAR XFINITY Series competitor William Byron will replace Kahne.
MORE: Kahne out at Hendrick (http://www.nascar.com/news-media/2017/08/06/kasey-kahne-hendrick-motorsports-part-ways-2018/) | Byron in (https://www.nascar.com/news-media/2017/08/09/william-byron-hendrick-motorsports-5-car/)
“I have an obligation to Kasey so I’m paying two drivers next year and I’m also trying to help Kasey in another situation that we could be involved with helping another team,” Hendrick said Wednesday during a teleconference.
“I’m not going to mention the team but I know there are several situations … kind of an alliance, which would be good for everyone. We’re working on it, we’ve been working on it and we’ll just see how it develops.”

[StAnger]

No one has ever performed in the number 5 car since Terry Labonte. Kyle Bush had minor success in it.

Didn't Bodine have moderate success in the 5 car during the 80's?

[ZR]

Not sure without looking it up.

[StAnger]

Not sure without looking it up.

I believe he won 7 races, including Hendrick's first Cup win and the '86 Daytona 500.

[ZR]

Roger that.

[Not4you]

Camaro will be the 2018 Chevy entry ... too bad it still looks like a 4-door sedan tho.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DG4VYk7WAAAaZj7.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DG4VYlOWsAEiNEU.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DG4VYlKXoAEAhp2.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DG4VYe6XUAAO5gQ.jpg

[ZR]

^ Nothing but extra cool looking in my eyes.

[Not4you]

At least from the front it resembles an actual 2 door RWD car so that part is cool. And going this route lets them copy the aero from the Toyotas as well ;)

[ZR]

OMG, this kid showed how to steal a race, major kudos.


https://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/08/2017-august-13-larson-jubo-625x340.jpg

[ZR]

https://images-galleries.nascar.com/gallery-images/2017/01/11/big_thumbnail/EdwardsTTY.jpg

Happy Birthday.

[ZR]

This makes more sense.


Joe Gibbs Racing has transferred management responsibility of the pit crews for the Nos. 77 and 78 Toyotas to Furniture Row Racing, a JGR spokesperson confirmed on Wednesday. Gibbs provides the pit crews for the two Furniture Row cars driven by rookie Erik Jones and Martin Truex Jr. as part of its technical alliance with the Denver, Colorado-based organization.
However, while management decisions for the Furniture Row pit crews will now be made in-house, the crewmembers will continue to train at JGR.
The arrangement between the two organizations was cast into a new light last month at Indianapolis.
Kyle Busch and Truex crashed while racing for the lead in Turn 1 off a restart on Lap 112 of the Brickyard 400. Following a confrontation between Busch’s crew chief Adam Stevens and several members of Truex’s team, JGR suspended two No. 78 crewmembers – front tire changer Chris Taylor and rear tire changer Lee Cunningham, JGR employees – for three weeks.
Those suspended crewmembers return to action Saturday night (7:30 p.m. ET, NBC, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio) at Bristol Motor Speedway.

[ZR]

Very cool indeed.

BRISTOL, Tenn. — Of all the gifts presented thus far to Dale Earnhardt Jr. as he winds down his career as a full-time competitor in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, Thursday’s announcement by Bristol Motor Speedway officials seemed to truly take the Hendrick Motorsports driver by surprise.
The speedway, which will host the Bass Pro Shops NRA Night Race on Saturday (7:30 p.m. ET, NBC, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR), announced the endowment of the Dale Earnhardt Jr. Scholarship to be presented annually to the Sullivan County (Tenn.) high school student demonstrating outstanding commitment in the field of automotive technology.
“That’s what I’m talking about,” an obviously excited Earnhardt said after track general manager Jerry Caldwell made the announcement. “That’s awesome. … That is exactly the kind of thing that gets me excited, and I appreciate you guys doing that.”
Officials said the scholarship is for $2,088, a nod to Earnhardt’s No. 88 car number.
As a teen, Earnhardt worked at his father’s car dealership. He lists “Retired automotive service mechanic” on his Twitter bio.
“You have meant so much to this place … we love you, the fans love you here and the Earnhardt name has such a legacy at this place,” Caldwell said. “We felt like it was appropriate for us to be able to honor (Dale) but also be able to honor a bright young student that has an interest in the automotive industry.”

[ZR]

Hendrick Motorsports made a landmark announcement Tuesday night, choosing to let legacy live on by putting Chase Elliott behind the wheel of a newly numbered Chevrolet ( No. 9 ) and William Byron in the No. 24 starting in 2018.
Elliott will now be wheeling the same number his father, Bill, drove to a NASCAR Hall of Fame career, while Byron will carry on the legacy that Jeff Gordon started at Hendrick Motorsports in 1992.
After the news broke, Hendrick drivers chimed in with their thoughts on the announcement — and they were stoked.

[ZR]

Now this is flat out awesome.


Wearing a Hawaiian-print shirt with old-fashioned cars on it, a smiling Joe Smith accepted the keys to a 2017 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Convertible Collector Edition 3LT Wednesday afternoon at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
The car’s previous owner? None other than Jeff Gordon.
<figure id="attachment_31661" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="margin: 7px 14px 7px 0px; max-width: 100%; float: left; color: rgb(118, 118, 118); clear: left; font-family: Stainless-Regular, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; width: 221px;">https://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/08/gordon-corvette-221x300.jpg<figcaption class="wp-caption-text" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; font-style: italic; line-height: 1.5; margin: 9px 0px; padding-right: 10px;">Gordon signs the inside of the Corvette on Wednesday</figcaption></figure>Gordon was on hand at the Hall of Fame as well, as he presented the keys to his personal Corvette — and then signed the inside of the car — to Smith, who was the winner of the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation raffle that raised $1 million for pediatric cancer this year. Gordon has given away a Corvette for the contest every year for 12 years, but this year marks the first that the foundation has broken $1 million in the contest alone.
That makes the four-time Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series champion proud.
“Over the years, shoot, I think we’re up to 10 or 12 million dollars with just this program alone,” Gordon told NASCAR.com after the event. “So, it’s obviously been very successful – that money plays a big impact on pediatric cancer research. But it’s also a very fun and exciting event where we got to bring today to the NASCAR Hall of Fame a lot of, not just fans, but people that have contributed to the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation, maybe through the program trying to win the Corvette, but also wanting to give back to a great cause.”
Founded in 1999 by Gordon, the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation has worked to fund childhood cancer research, raising more than $16 million for the cause. The organization also helped open the Jeff Gordon Children’s Hospital in Concord, North Carolina, and the Butaro Cancer Center of Excellence in Rwanda.
Gordon’s inspiration to start the foundation came after watching his then-crew chief Ray Evernham’s son battle leukemia.
“That was the first time that it really impacted me on a personal level and (Evernham) started getting more awareness toward the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and I kind of joined forces with him,” Gordon said. “I finally formed my own foundation in 1999 and through meeting kids through Make-a-Wish, different hospitals, I realized just how many children are suffering from cancer. And while the success rate for cures has gone up, the long-term effects from that treatment, as well as those (cancers that) are rare that there aren’t cures for, has really driven me to get behind it even more and get more people involved.”
Gordon began his work with pediatric cancer as a young adult. Now married, he has two young children of his own, Ella and Leo. Having children makes him empathize with what the parents of young cancer patients go through.
“I started this work before I was a father and I connected to maybe a family,” Gordon said. “And I thought of myself when I was a kid and when I got the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a race car and live out my passion, how was one of these kids not able to do that because of cancer? And that’s what drove me before I had my own children.
“Now that I have children, I realize as a parent, you’ll do anything for them. And to see them suffer, to see them go through something that is out of their control is a terrible thing to experience. I can’t imagine it. But I can now as a parent, know that it could happen to me – it could still happen to me – and that if it does happen, I want to make sure I’m doing everything I can. That they have a future ahead of them because of research, because of a treatment that could save their lives.”
With only three drugs specifically developed for children with cancer in the last 20 years, the mission to fight childhood cancer is very much ongoing with work to be done. The supporters of the Jeff Gordon Foundation are working to advance that cause every year, Gordon said. Supporters like contest winner Smith and his wife, who presented Gordon with a check for $10,000 at the end of the program to go toward the foundation.
“Every year that we’ve handed over the keys and given this Corvette away, the individuals are special people,” Gordon said. “They’re special because they’re not always just NASCAR fans or fans of mine – they really stand for something greater, they really want to do something to give back to something that they’re passionate about or that we’re passionate about with the foundation.
“So, to know that Joe’s a car enthusiast, that he’s excited to be here, that he’s having a great experience, that he’s passionate about the car but more importantly that he really believes in the cause. …. Here we are giving him a Corvette and he’s giving us a check for $10,000 to only encourage others of the important work that we’re doing.”
“I can’t do it alone,” he said later. “We’ve done great work through some great programs out there. But the work doesn’t stop there, you’ve got to keep going.”

[ZR]

CONCORD, N.C. — There’s plenty of “new” to be found in the new flange-fit composite body that will be phased into the NASCAR XFINITY Series starting later this season. New technology, new cost-cutting measures and conveniences, plus new officiating fail safes are on tap.
But it’s also worth noticing what hasn’t changed, NASCAR’s senior director of team efficiencies Brett Bodine explained in a Thursday walk-through with a Toyota Camry test mule at the NASCAR Research & Development Center.
The car, Bodine said, retains the same dimensions as its steel-bodied predecessor. Plus, at a casual glance either 50 feet away or from the middle of the grandstands, the car offers no obvious visual cues that its body is composed of 13 interlocking laminate panels.
“It doesn’t look any different,” Bodine said, noting that the basic shapes and surfaces carry over from car to car. After those first-blush appearances, the differences become clearer.
The car received its first close-up for the media Thursday at the NASCAR R&D Center, just two weeks before the first of this season’s three scheduled races for the technology. XFINITY Series teams will have the option of racing the composite bodies at Richmond (Sept. 8), Dover (Sept. 30) and Phoenix (Nov. 11) as the season winds down. The current plan is to introduce the new body style at all tracks except Daytona and Talladega next year, with a full-fledged implementation in 2019.
GMS Racing tested at Richmond Raceway last week, using a rookie test for Spencer Gallagher to allow the team to get accustomed to the new body style. Bodine said the team reported a “virtually seamless” transition, keeping the timetable for a gradual phasing-in on a steady track.
“The decision process was really all on the teams,” Bodine said of the timing. “We presented them with several options through the collaboration throughout the process, the timing of when the panels would be ready out of production in a large enough supply. Certainly, the teams wanted to run it a few races on smaller tracks to get an understanding of how durable the car was going to be. All of those factors went into the teams’ and industry’s decision on this rollout plan.”
Wisconsin-based Five Star RaceCar Bodies produces the composite-material panels, which are all implanted with an RFID transponder, similar to how pets are micro-chipped. That feature helps NASCAR competition officials track inventory.
MORE: Take a 360-degree tour of the flange-fit XFINITY Series car body (http://www.nascar.com/video/franchise/up-to-speed/360-degree-tour-flange-fit-xfinity-series-car-body/)
Savings in time and cost come with the design. Instead of a steel body welded onto the chassis, parts lock and bolt on, making it far easier to replace damaged panels. Today’s crash in practice that might be an automatic decision to unload a backup car could become tomorrow’s repair or replacement for an individual panel, a process that could lead teams to keep fewer cars in stock. Furthermore, the process to hang a composite body will take far less time — an estimated two days versus the nearly two weeks to form, shape and weld the current steel-body style.
A closer inspection reveals a built-in anti-tampering detail, a raised honeycomb pattern on the surface of panels in the most aero-sensitive areas. If a team tries to sand or otherwise massage the aerodynamics, blemishes to the pattern will reveal the infractions.
While the new body style won’t stop crew chiefs from pushing the boundaries of the rules to gain an advantage, Bodine said the project was developed with fair play in mind.
“That’s their job,” Bodine said, noting crew chiefs’ long history of experimentation. “Their job is to try to be better than the other team. Our responsibility to the industry is to be stewards of the sport, create as level a playing field as possible, and we feel this flange-fit composite body will provide the officials with more tools to ensure that level playing field.”
Bodine said he expected nearly 85 to 90 percent of the field for the XFINITY Series’ trip to Richmond to be using the flange-fit body. There are competitive incentives for doing so; the steel-body cars will be 150 pounds heavier than their composite-bodied counterparts and they will also race without the aero benefit of a radiator pan.
Those decisions and others were reached through collaboration among NASCAR competition officials and team technical directors.
“They asked us to make sure the flange-fit body was the body of choice,” Bodine said, noting that teams wanted to concentrate their resources on a single body style.
Teams in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series have used the Five Star composite bodies since 2015, providing a time for competition officials to learn the ins and outs of the body style before elevating them to a NASCAR national series. That evolution raises the question of whether composite bodies are in the development pipeline for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series.
“Right now, our main concern is making it successful in XFINITY,” Bodine said. “We’ve got to get them on the race track, get them running side by side, we’ve got to understand the durability of the car, and then we’ll evaluate the future of a project like this once we’ve got all the information we need.”

[ZR]

https://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/09/sept8-richmond-hero-bubble-watch-625x340.jpg

[ZR]

New driver for the 10 SHR car next year, Danica is not returning.


https://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/09/danica-patrick-will-not-return-SHR1-625x340.jpg

[StAnger]

New driver for the 10 SHR car next year as Danica is now returning.

I hope where ever she ends up has deep pockets to pay for all the wrecked race cars.

[ZR]

Roger that Mr.

[ZR]

Smithfield Foods, the primary team sponsor for the Richard Petty Motorsports No. 43 Ford with driver Aric Almirola, will not return to the organization in 2018 and instead join Stewart-Haas Racing, according to a post Tuesday morning on the company’s Facebook page.
“We are excited to announce today that Smithfield Foods will join Stewart-Haas Racing as a primary team sponsor beginning in 2018,” the post stated. “The decision to leave Richard Petty Motorsports and join Stewart-Haas Racing was difficult but we feel this move will improve our competitiveness on the track and strengthen our position as a leading consumer packaged goods company.
“Further details of our agreement with Stewart-Haas Racing will be provided at a later date.”
Smithfield has been affiliated with RPM in a sponsor role since 2012.
SHR officials confirmed the addition of Smithfield to its sponsor lineup for the four-team organization. According to a team release, details of the agreement, including the driver who will be added to SHR’s Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series lineup in 2018, will be provided at a later date.

[Not4you]

New driver for the 10 SHR car next year, Danica is not returning.


https://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/09/danica-patrick-will-not-return-SHR1-625x340.jpg

Sure she didn't match her open wheel results in stock cars and sure she had a lot of rough races against guys that targeted her, and sure she ran her mouth a lot after races, but if nothing else she brought a lot of new fans to the sport. Including my daughter. For that I admire her.

[ZR]

She did exactly that, still kinda cool.

[ZR]

Round one = Truex gets it done.

https://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/09/2017-Sep-17-Truex-Jr-hero-625x340.jpg

[ZR]

Landed a new ride, good to hear.
Leavine Family Racing announced Tuesday that 18-time Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series winner Kasey Kahne is coming aboard as the organization’s new driver beginning next season.
It will be the fifth organization for Kahne, the 2004 Rookie of the Year. His current team, Hendrick Motorsports, revealed last month that Kahne would not return in 2018.
“I feel like (Leavine has) really made a lot of gains in the past couple years,” Kahne told NASCAR.com of his new team. “It’s pretty cool to watch, any time you see a small team do what they’ve done in our sport.
“The opportunity will be a challenge, but also a lot of fun. I enjoy a challenge and I enjoy working with people. The best part about it is us all being a team and trying to improve every single weekend and learning from what we do one week and improving the next. I think that’s something we’ll be able to do. And I’m really excited about it.

https://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/09/Kasey-Kahne-hero1-091917-625x340.jpg

[ZR]

R.I.P. ROBERT YATES.

Robert Yates, a master engine builder and longtime NASCAR team owner, died Monday. He was 74.
In May, Yates was selected for induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame’s Class of 2018. He had been battling liver cancer, requiring multiple rounds of immunotherapy treatment. His son, Doug Yates, announced his father’s passing on social media Monday night.
“Hero — my dad’s my hero,” his son, Doug Yates, said in a post from his Twitter account Monday night. “My dad’s the toughest guy you’ve ever met. Never give up, always looking for the positive and looking for a competitive advantage, and that’s the way he raised myself and our family and everybody at Roush Yates.”

[ZR]

Truex Jr showing how it's done yesterday, kudos Mr.

[ZR]

CONCORD, N.C. – As he moves through his final season of Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series racing, Dale Earnhardt Jr. has had one consistent request — that gifts and recognition in his honor have a broader societal impact.
On Friday, Charlotte Motor Speedway honored Earnhardt’s wishes — and then some — with a gift of $100,000 to establish and underwrite the Dale Earnhardt Jr. Concussion Research Fund at the Carolinas Healthcare System’s Levine Children’s Hospital.
During two separate seasons, Earnhardt missed races because of concussion symptoms. In 2012 he was sidelined for two events, and last year he sat out the final 18 races after his symptoms from a wreck at Michigan worsened drastically in subsequent weeks.
During Friday’s presentation, the football team from Mooresville High School, Earnhardt’s alma mater, was ushered into the media center as part of the surprise.
“We have a lot of history with concussions and awareness and rehab and all that good stuff, so this is something that is actually very close to my heart,” Earnhardt said. “I hope to be able to continue to help others going forward. This is a great way to do that, so thanks again.”
MORE: Tracks’ farewell gifts for Earnhardt Jr. (https://galleries.nascar.com/gallery/1271/track-gifts-for-dale-earnhardt-jr#/0)
Earnhardt didn’t play football at Mooresville. In fact, his Twitter profile lists him as “Former backup fullback for Mooresville Blue Devils varsity soccer.”
“I was four 4-feet-10-inches tall at the time,” Earnhardt said of the year he entered high school. “I think I was 5-foot-3 when I got my driver’s license. So I was real short, and we were driving by the football field — well, the practice field — and they were out there practicing, and I said, ‘I want to play football.’ And the guy said, ‘I’m going to take you down and introduce you to the soccer coach, because I don’t think you need to be playing football.’
“So I played soccer anyways. I got me a letter jacket and all that. We went to State and lost, but it was a lot of fun. I played one year, and I was the back-up, so I sat on the bench all year and I got to play a couple of games. We were a pretty good team, so we would get a big lead, I would get in a couple of games.”

[ZR]

Happy Birthday Dale Jr.

https://images-galleries.nascar.com/gallery-images/2017/10/10/big_thumbnail/HBD_DaleJr_WEB.jpg

[ZR]

WOW.............Jr on pole for todays race.

[ZR]

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Amy expecting first child

[1BAD92LX]

Not sure I'll be watching many more races this year now that Larson is out of the Chase. I don't think anyone has anything for Truex Jr

[Stephen06GT]

Not sure I'll be watching many more races this year now that Larson is out of the Chase. I don't think anyone has anything for Truex Jr

I haven't watched a complete race all season, and probably won't for the remainder but I'm cheering for the 21 team.

[ZR]

Denny Hamlin jacking up the 24 going into the corner n wrecking the race leader, just wow buddy.

Fans relentlessly booed Denny Hamlin after he wrecked Chase Elliott in closing laps

[1BAD92LX]

I understand he was leading the race and had no business taking him out but it's not like nobody has ever spun a guy out at Martinsville before. Every one is over reacting. It's like Dale Jr got spun on the last lap or something

[ZR]

To me, if it had been the same beating n banging etc that had gone on much of the race vs driving under him down the straight n into the corner so he wrecked, no one would have said boo. Felt it was just about the same when he made contact with the 21 at the end n kept his foot in it crashing himself and a good chunk of the field. Again, thought he was a cleaner / more intelligent racer vs that.

[ZR]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DNWFcIkXUAEj1Cd.jpg:large

[Not4you]

BHhahahahaha ... 10,000 races. So like one race every day of his life since he was a kid. Lots sure, but not 10,000.

Nice of him to man up tho.

[ZR]

Sorry state of affairs in the Nascar world when a dude with this much talent does not have a ride for next year.

NASCAR veteran and 2003 Monster Energy Series champion Matt Kenseth revealed Saturday at Texas Motor Speedway that he does not expect to race full-time in 2018 after 18 accomplished seasons in NASCAR’s premier ranks.
Kenseth, 45, didn’t want to go so far as to call it “retirement” in the truest sense of the word, but he did say he fully intended to take time off to spend with his family, in a story first reported by NBC Sports (http://nascar.nbcsports.com/2017/11/04/matt-kenseth-will-step-away-from-cup-in-2018-its-probably-time-to-go-do-something-different/). It may be a year or more, or, he said, it could be only three or four months should the right situation arise.
“I don’t know if I’d necessarily call it an announcement,” Kenseth said after final practice for Sunday’s AAA Texas 500. “I’m not looking at anything for 2018, the retirement word doesn’t really make a lot of sense in this sport really because you don’t officially retire and get a pension.
“Mostly, that’s for people like Junior, when you have to fill a seat and find a sponsor. For me it’s different, I didn’t really have that option. My seat got filled before I had that option.”
Kenseth is referring to the decision this summer that his Joe Gibbs Racing team made to replace him in the No. 20 Toyota with 21-year-old driver Erik Jones beginning next year

[Not4you]

Too old? It is turning into a young mans game, that's where the marketing is now. Guys are moving out of Xfinity and the Trucks so quickly now just to get into the big show as young as possible. Its crazy nobody wants the veteran on a team.

[ZR]

Too old by sponsor standards maybe but more than capable to win races week in and week out.

[ZR]

KANNAPOLIS, N.C. — Acknowledging that it was perhaps the worst-kept secret in NASCAR, Stewart-Haas Racing co-owner Tony Stewart officially introduced Aric Almirola as the driver of the organization’s No. 10 Ford for 2018 in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series on Wednesday.
Almirola will replace Danica Patrick, who has driven for SHR full time since 2013. Smithfield Foods will provide sponsorship for the No. 10 team.

[Stephen06GT]

Congrats to Matt Kenseth. Way to go!!!

[ZR]

If Chase had to loose hard to be disappointed coming in second to a class act like Matt Kenseth. Never seen him so emotional, great guy n one hell a racer.........he deserves better.

[ZR]

Jr's paint scheme for this weekend. OMG thats cool.

https://images-galleries.nascar.com/gallery-images/2017/11/15/big_thumbnail/88dale_earnhardtjr_2017_Axalta_1200x520.jpg

[Stephen06GT]

Last race of the season. Who is your pick to take home the cup? Not a big fan of any of the final four, but I would like to see a Ford driver be the new champ.

[bluetoy]

I'm watching the race. I can't believe how bored I am. I can't believe how empty the stands are. This is supposed to be the big hype championship deciding race. Dale Jr last ride etc. No one cares. Take notice nascar, your format and stuff is stupid. Cool camera on the back stretch though.

[StAnger]

I'm watching the race. I can't believe how bored I am. I can't believe how empty the stands are. This is supposed to be the big hype championship deciding race. Dale Jr last ride etc. No one cares. Take notice nascar, your format and stuff is stupid. Cool camera on the back stretch though.

I debated watching the race, but I'm glad I chose not to. For the first time since I started watching, I didn't even turn a race on, even if only for a few minutes. Nascar is dead.

[ZR]

Truex for me please n thanks.

[ZR]

Ten car crashed, nice interview.

[ZR]

Congrats to Martin Truex and his entire team on a job well done.

[ZR]

KB's interview, good grief buddy.
Major kudo's to Kevin Harvick and Brad K on being so gracious.

[mavrrrick]

Other than a Toyota winning, I'm very happy for Truex... Well done and well deserved!!!


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[ZR]

Exactly that.

[ZR]

https://images-galleries.nascar.com/gallery-images/2017/11/20/big_thumbnail/GettyImages-876418284.jpg

[ZR]

https://images-galleries.nascar.com/gallery-images/2017/11/20/big_thumbnail/GettyImages-876406088.jpg

[ZR]

https://images-galleries.nascar.com/gallery-images/2017/11/20/big_thumbnail/GettyImages-876405914.jpg

[ZR]

https://images-galleries.nascar.com/gallery-images/2017/11/20/big_thumbnail/GettyImages-876406578.jpg

[ZR]

https://images-galleries.nascar.com/gallery-images/2017/11/19/big_thumbnail/Rich-Hendrick-Junior-postrace.jpg

[WTF]

was nice to see Truex get it done...seems like a good dude

I was watching on the US station (TSN said they were running it but had a fucking tennis match going) and Budweiser ran an old spot from back when they were Jr's lead sponsor as a way of paying tribute.....very classy thing to do

[ZR]

Loved it as well.

[ZR]

This was cool as well.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kidyez6z84U

[ZR]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tl_1Fgs2fy8

[Not4you]

I'm glad MTJ was able to hold off the 18 at the end. It was cool that Larson was able to make a good fight in the closing laps too after 3 or 4 really bad races in a row.

I was driving home from Ottawa so I caught the last 50 or so laps on NASCAR Radio. Those guys make it really exciting. I may have enjoyed listening to it more than if I was watching on TV. They do a great job of covering races.

[ZR]

https://images-galleries.nascar.com/gallery-images/2017/11/29/big_thumbnail/GettyImages-881244860.jpg

[ZR]

Dale Earnhardt Jr. will have a prominent role in next year’s Daytona 500 after all.
Daytona International Speedway announced Wednesday that the two-time winner of “The Great American Race” is set to serve as Grand Marshal for the 60th running of the Daytona 500, scheduled Feb. 18, 2018.
The recently retired Earnhardt won the Daytona 500 in 2004 and 2014. Come February, his duties will include giving the command to start engines to the field.
“I was humbled when asked to be the Grand Marshal of next season’s Daytona 500,” Earnhardt said in a release provided by the track. “The race has so much history and being a two-time winner of the event is something I am extremely proud of. The list of names who have Grand Marshaled the race is one I’m honored to add my name to. Speedweeks is an exciting time for our sport, and this assures me an opportunity to witness the thrills of it all.”

[ZR]

Kurt Busch remains confident and optimistic that a new contract with Stewart-Haas Racing for the 2018 season will be forthcoming, the driver said during Champion’s Week.
“It’s all a work in progress,” Busch said. “Monster has stood by my side and Ford has been supportive. I like the way the two sides are coming together. My focus has been more about the people and personnel and how we’re going to make this work to be more successful next year. Winning Daytona was great, but we want more.”

[Stephen06GT]

This just in...

Richard Petty Motorsports (RPM) to team up with Richard Childress Racing (RCR) and switch to Camaro.

[ZR]

Good for both teams.

[Not4you]

I was holding out for a Dodge announcement ...

[ZR]

That would have been cool.

[Not4you]

Mustang, Camaro, Challenger! Bring it on!

[ZR]

Daytona 500 winner Kurt Busch will return to the Stewart-Haas Racing stable in 2018, filling one of the final few remaining pieces of NASCAR’s “Silly Season.”
Busch, in a statement provided to motorsport.com (https://www.motorsport.com/nascar-cup/news/nascar-kurt-busch-stewart-haas-racing-contract-988142/?s=1) and kickinthetires.net (http://kickinthetires.net/index.php/2017/12/12/kurt-busch-and-stewart-haas-racing-have-a-deal/), said:
“Having my hard work pay off by winning the … 2017 Daytona 500 has given me the drive to continue conquering the NASCAR world. I am excited to enter the 2018 racing season as a Monster Energy athlete where I will continue to drive my favorite manufacturer, the Ford Motor Company

[Not4you]

JHN signed with Chip Ganassi to share the Xfinity #42 with Larson. That's pretty cool. It'd also be neat if he and Larson get to run some IMSA or WEC events.

[ZR]

https://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/12/dale-bestseller-diecast-625x340.jpg

[ZR]

The die-cast car from Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s final race as a full-time Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series driver was the best-selling paint scheme for Lionel Racing in 2017.
Lionel Racing released its top 10 list Thursday. Earnhardt paint schemes take up five of the 10 spots. The Axalta/Last Ride car at Homestead-Miami Speedway consisted of a design Earnhardt drove early in his career.
Not only was it this year’s top seller, Lionel Racing says the car is now the best-selling die-cast in the company’s history.
“The demand for this car has been simply astounding,” said Lionel Racing president Howard Hitchcock. “The fan response to this die-cast is a true measure of how much Earnhardt has meant to both casual NASCAR fans and serious die-cast collectors.”
MORE: Dale Jr. die-cast deals (http://store.nascar.com/Dale_Earnhardt_Jr_Diecast/source/BM-NAScom-NASCAR.comArticle-12.14.17)
The 2017 top 10 best-selling cars:
1.Dale Earnhardt Jr. Axalta/Last Ride Chevrolet SS
2. Dale Earnhardt Jr. Nationwide Darlington Chevrolet SS
3. Dale Earnhardt Jr. Nationwide Chevrolet SS
4. Chase Elliott NAPA Chevrolet SS | SHOP: Elliott’s new number (http://store.nascar.com/Chase_Elliott_Diecast/source/BM-NAScom-NASCAR.comArticle-12.14.17)
5. Dale Earnhardt Jr. Axalta/Ducks Unlimited Chevrolet SS
6. Ryan Blaney Motorcraft/Pocono win Ford Fusion | SHOP: New look for Blaney (http://store.nascar.com/Ryan_Blaney_Diecast/source/BM-NAScom-NASCAR.comArticle-12.14.17)
7. Kyle Busch M&M’s Caramel/Bristol Win Toyota Camry
8. Dale Earnhardt Jr. Axalta Chevrolet SS
9. Chase Elliott Hooters Chevrolet SS
10. Dale Earnhardt Jr. Mountain Dew/Talladega raced version Chevrolet SS

[Not4you]

I love how you can use merch sales as a gauge for ranking drivers popularity. There is no question Dale Jr and Chase are fan favourites, then you see that list and it is confirmed so clearly.

[ZR]

My money's on Chase becomes the new most popular driver n see's a good part of Jr Nation jump over to his camp.

[ZR]

Super cool new paint scheme, hope he does well there.

https://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/12/2017-Dec19-Kahne95-main1-625x340.jpg

[ZR]

NASCAR’s power couple has called it quits, PEOPLE confirms.
Danica Patrick and Ricky Stenhouse Jr. have ended their romance nearly five years after they began dating ahead of their NASCAR Cup Series rookie seasons in 2013, a rep for Patrick confirms to PEOPLE.
A spokeswoman for Patrick confirmed on Monday that the athletes are “no longer in a relationship.”
Neither Patrick, 35, nor Stenhouse Jr., 30, have publicly commented on the split. Stenhouse Jr. made the NASCAR playoffs for the first time in 2017 and is expected to race for Roush Fenway Racing next season, ESPN (http://www.espn.com/racing/nascar/cup/story/_/id/21803723/danica-patrick-ricky-stenhouse-jr-end-relationship-5-years)reports.
Breakup rumors began circulating after Stenhouse Jr. showed up at NASCAR’s annual awards last month without Patrick, according to the Charlotte Observer (http://www.charlotteobserver.com/sports/nascar-auto-racing/thatsracin/article190309114.html).

[StAnger]

Don't try breaking into Richard Childress's house.


DAVIDSON COUNTY, N.C. -
Authorities continue to search for three masked men who allegedly attempted to break into the home of Hall of Fame NASCAR driver and team owner Richard Childress.

The incident happened at about 10:30 p.m. Sunday in the Reedy Creek community in Davidson County.

Deputies with the Davidson County Sheriff's Office said three people attempted to gain entry into the home while the residence was occupied.

Deputies said Childress and his wife heard a crash at a door on the lower level of their residence. Childress armed himself with a handgun and investigated.

The three people had the majority of their faces covered and appeared to be carrying firearms, deputies said.

Deputies said Childress fire gunshots at the suspects before they fled.

The sheriff said that a window glass beside a door knob on the lower level of the residence was broken and the alarm was activated.

[ZR]

Good on him for defending.

[StAnger]

Good on him for defending.

Unfortunately he'd be the one arrested here in this shithole of a country.

[Zippy]

Danica will be missed. loooool


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7h93JxHHlc

[Redfire427]

She certainly kept fabricators and body men busy.

Carmen

[ZR]

Most certainly did.

[ZR]

https://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2018/01/Junior-Redskins-jacket-main-625x340.jpg

[StAnger]

Found this on Youtube. First time in many years that I watched a race from start to finish.

No silly rules, cars that looked similar to what they represented, and Dale Earnhardt won.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPa2GDegKCw

[ZR]

One less over the wall this year.

In the years since, the evolution has grown. NASCAR organizations have assembled full-time teams of athletes, trainers and coaches for the purpose of trimming precious seconds from pit-stop times. The next evolution will come this upcoming season in the form of a rules change, limiting the number of over-the-wall crew from six people to five.

[bluetoy]

One less over the wall this year.

In the years since, the evolution has grown. NASCAR organizations have assembled full-time teams of athletes, trainers and coaches for the purpose of trimming precious seconds from pit-stop times. The next evolution will come this upcoming season in the form of a rules change, limiting the number of over-the-wall crew from six people to five.

Huh? 2 tire changers, 2 carriers, 1 jackman and 1 gas man. Who are they going to cut?

[ZR]

Not sure.

[ZR]

Danica Patrick will drive in the Daytona 500 for Premium Motorsports, finalizing the first stage in her plan to compete in the “Danica Double” in 2018. She will pilot the No. 7 GoDaddy Chevrolet for Premium Motorsports with Tony Eury Jr. atop the pit box, reuniting her with both the number and crew chief with which she began her NASCAR career.

[Stephen06GT]

Danica Patrick will drive in the Daytona 500 for Premium Motorsports, finalizing the first stage in her plan to compete in the “Danica Double” in 2018. She will pilot the No. 7 GoDaddy Chevrolet for Premium Motorsports with Tony Eury Jr. atop the pit box, reuniting her with both the number and crew chief with which she began her NASCAR career.

Read about this the other day. What's the point?

[ZR]

Exactly what I was thinking.

[Not4you]

Her retirement tour. At least it's only 2 races. I'm a Jeff Gordon fan but it was bloody annoying when every week was his last race here and last race there. Same with Dale Jr and others. Its good marketing and IMO for all she did for the sport for awareness among a female audience, let her have her 2 swan songs.

Her interview on Joe Rogan's podcast last week was pretty interesting.

[ZR]

Qualifying today

https://images-galleries.nascar.com/gallery-images/2017/02/06/big_thumbnail/1959%20Bob%20Welborn.jpg

[Mellow Yellow]

Qualifying today

https://images-galleries.nascar.com/gallery-images/2017/02/06/big_thumbnail/1959%20Bob%20Welborn.jpg


The days when the cars were not cookie cutter.

[CDNfyrfytr]

These were the days...

RIP Davey

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180211/e242762968576143ee91b478823d766a.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[bluetoy]

Loving Chase Elliots paint scheme.
http://racedayct.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Chase-elliott-Daytona-Practice--300x200.jpg

[92redragtop]

Her retirement tour. At least it's only 2 races. I'm a Jeff Gordon fan but it was bloody annoying when every week was his last race here and last race there. Same with Dale Jr and others. Its good marketing and IMO for all she did for the sport for awareness among a female audience, let her have her 2 swan songs.

Her interview on Joe Rogan's podcast last week was pretty interesting.

She was on Lewis Howe's podcast a couple weeks ago as well - interesting, sometimes odd discussion also. There is a link to the interview on Youtube at the link below.



https://lewishowes.com/podcast/i-danica-patrick-mindset-spirituality-living-fully/



Show notes:

Some Questions I Ask:
How Danica feels on the paleo diet (11:49)
You’ve become more about spirituality lately, right? (15:26)
What’s the biggest take away since you started going down that rabbit hole? (22:22)
How did you arm yourself against criticism throughout your career? (25:22)
What is the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome? (26:44)
Do you feel like people attack you in the races? (29:11)
How do you handle your ego? (31:15)
What’s the question you’ve never been able to answer for yourself? (38:37)
How do you condition yourself before practice or a big competition?
What’s the greatest moment for you in the last 20 years [in terms of racing] (47:25)
How do you condition yourself to believe in yourself? (48:27)
What’s the greatest lesson your father taught you? (50:48)
If you could give yourself advice when you started, what would it be? (52:38)
What are 3 things you want to manifest this year? (55:00)

In This Episode, You Will Learn:
The things Danica and I have in common (9:10)
When she started lifting for fitness (13:48)
Why she started getting into spirituality and healing with the mind (20:39)
How she conditions her mind against the intense pressure of competing (23:34)
How she gets people to believe in her (27:25)
Battles she’s had with her ego throughout the last 20 years (30:05)?
What she would do if she could do anything in the world (36:34)
What she’s revealed about herself last year that she hadn’t revealed before (41:51)
How long races are (46:23)
The message she gives to women who aren’t as confident in themselves (47:56)
Who inspired her the most growing up (50:18)
The greatest lesson her mom taught her (51:08)
What she has to open up about during this year (54:16)
Plus much more…

[ZR]

Loving Chase Elliots paint scheme.
http://racedayct.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Chase-elliott-Daytona-Practice--300x200.jpg


Car is epic cool
Back to old school sling shot engage passin n the such.

[StAnger]

Good on Bowman.

[StAnger]

20 years, but it seems like just yesterday.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifsF6QEi7x4

[StAnger]

The sad state of one of Nascar's best short tracks, North Wilkesboro.



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfM95OEug2I

[ZR]

I've watched that episode a few times, in it's current state, hard to remember what it once was.

[StAnger]

I'd rather have North Wilkesboro than any of the cookie cutter tracks.

[ZR]

Austin Dillon.........you sir are a prick. Hope you choke on the victory.

[StAnger]

Austin Dillon.........you sir are a prick. Hope you choke on the victory.

What did he do?

[ZR]

“I had a ton of momentum, caught him and turned him,” Dillon said. “He should do the same thing to me in the same situation.”

[Stephen06GT]

Austin Dillon.........you sir are a prick. Hope you choke on the victory.
Yup.

[StAnger]

Just saw. He's a tool, he even "dabed" whatever the fuck that stupid ass shit is supposed to symbolize.

[92redragtop]

“I had a ton of momentum, caught him and turned him,” Dillon said. “He should do the same thing to me in the same situation.”

Almirola ws pretty gracious about it afterwards given what happened.

[ZR]

Came away thinking the same Richard, he's a good guy who deserved better.

[ZR]

Just saw. He's a tool, he even "dabed" whatever the fuck that stupid ass shit is supposed to symbolize.

Makes zero sense to me as well.

[G-ForceJunkie]

I'm a little more split on it than you guys. I think if you're going to throw blocks on the last lap of the Daytona 500 in hopes of not even letting anyone along side, you better be prepared to get a tap. I would've liked to have seen that tap be a little smaller, and maybe after showing a bit more patience but....I agree with Dillon, there are very few racers out there who lift with a run like that on the last lap of the Daytona 500.

[bluetoy]

I didn't watch any of it. Didn't miss it. Went sledding instead. I'm actually surprised how little I care.

[WTF]

I'm a little more split on it than you guys. I think if you're going to throw blocks on the last lap of the Daytona 500 in hopes of not even letting anyone along side, you better be prepared to get a tap. I would've liked to have seen that tap be a little smaller, and maybe after showing a bit more patience but....I agree with Dillon, there are very few racers out there who lift with a run like that on the last lap of the Daytona 500.

agree

pretty sure the guy who drove the #3 into Victory Lane at Daytona the last time would have no problem with that move

was a shame so many good cars were taken out early....

I was rooting for Elliot.....the kid sure can drive

[Not4you]

Rusty Wallace would certainly agree Tim, and that was for 3rd or 4th I think, while Sr was running out of gas. This has been a part of restrictor plate racing since, well, when restrictor plates came to be a thing. And this year more than ever you don't even need to contact the leading car, just get the air moving right and they'll come around and wreck. With both the blocking and the punting its now a "well everyone else is doing it so I will too" sort of thing.

I'd like to see the repeated blocking get removed from the race. In all other racing you can make one defensive move but after that it is illegal. So why not in NASCAR? They are encouraged to swerve lane to lane over and over lap after lap to maintain the lead. Its BS IMO and too dangerous on the plate tracks. If you are leading and the other lane gets a run block it once. If your first lane builds speed, tough shit, do something to time things better next time or position yourself elsewhere to be leading the correct lane when it matters. That is racing to me. Instead of repeatedly block knowing it is just a matter of time before the field wrecks.

The #10 should not have made multiple blocks. The #3 should have lifted. But both were playing within the same set of rules accepted for this race and both knew the consequences. So the 3 wins and the 10 tips his hat with class after leaving the care center. It is what it is. But I don't like it.

And the Dab is just a dance move that some rappers started in Atlanta I think. A quarterback in the NFL made it most popular as his TD celebration and it spread like wildfire through pre-teen kids. They all love it for some reason. Its not a symbol for anything really, just confidence and winning I guess.

[RioCobra]

FOX needs to move on from Darrell Waltrip. I’m so sick of boogity boogity.
And then he yammers on about air guns while everyone else is talking.

[reggies]

FOX needs to move on from Darrell Waltrip. I’m so sick of boogity boogity.
And then he yammers on about air guns while everyone else is talking.

I'm glad I'm not the only one who wants him gone.

[IanGTCS]

We've decided to take my father in law to Michigan for the June race for his 75th birthday. How many rows up should we get tickets? Keep in mind that we are casual fans so price is a factor. Is 14 or 15 rows high enough?

[StAnger]

And the Dab is just a dance move that some rappers started in Atlanta I think. A quarterback in the NFL made it most popular as his TD celebration and it spread like wildfire through pre-teen kids. They all love it for some reason. Its not a symbol for anything really, just confidence and winning I guess.

Rap... No wonder... Enough said.

[Mellow Yellow]

We've decided to take my father in law to Michigan for the June race for his 75th birthday. How many rows up should we get tickets? Keep in mind that we are casual fans so price is a factor. Is 14 or 15 rows high enough?

Check this out. It's an interactive site that lets you see your sightlines from your selected seat area.

http://www.seats3d.com/international_speedway_corporation/michigan_international_speedway/#/

[ZR]

Todays race, let's all join hands n repeat after me.................... B O R I N G!!!

[ZR]

Pre race interview with Bubba, seems like one heck of a nice guy.

[G-ForceJunkie]

We've decided to take my father in law to Michigan for the June race for his 75th birthday. How many rows up should we get tickets? Keep in mind that we are casual fans so price is a factor. Is 14 or 15 rows high enough?
I honestly can't remember where I sat last year, but I believe I posted some pics in this thread. (along with a couple others)

If I remember right, at row 15ish, you won't see any of the backstraight (not that you see much there on the higher seats either)

[92redragtop]

I think you need to be at least 20-25 to see the entire track at MIS....If it's hot you don't want to be too high up (given his age). I've seen people carried down on stretchers (from heat I think or maybe heat/alcohol mix). Anywhere across from pit lane is pretty good for pit road and track action.

[IanGTCS]

Check this out. It's an interactive site that lets you see your sightlines from your selected seat area.

http://www.seats3d.com/international_speedway_corporation/michigan_international_speedway/#/

I tried that yesterday when I was getting tickets and it didn't work. Of course it works tonight.

Went row 14 section 8. Fits the budget and should be good enough. I'm sure no matter what we will have fun.

[bluetoy]

After watching parts of the snooze fest yesterday I will predict that you will have your choice of seats once you get in.

[G-ForceJunkie]

I tried that yesterday when I was getting tickets and it didn't work. Of course it works tonight.

Went row 14 section 8. Fits the budget and should be good enough. I'm sure no matter what we will have fun.
Bring ear plugs!

[92redragtop]

Bring ear plugs!

I found sitting that low less enjoyable than sitting a few rows higher. One year I was around that row on Saturday and was about 10 rows higher on Sunday. I preferred the higher Sunday location, and didn't have a headache at the end of the race.

[IanGTCS]

Bring ear plugs!

Oh I will. I figure my hearing already has issues from 100+ concerts but I've always been pretty good around loud machinery.

[ZR]

The seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champions No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports team with driver Jimmie Johnson will have a new primary sponsor beginning next season. Lowe’s Companies Inc., which has been the No. 48 team’s only primary sponsor since 2001, will not return to Hendrick Motorsports in 2019.

[Stephen06GT]

The seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champions No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports team with driver Jimmie Johnson will have a new primary sponsor beginning next season. Lowe’s Companies Inc., which has been the No. 48 team’s only primary sponsor since 2001, will not return to Hendrick Motorsports in 2019.




Wow! The guy doesn't win his 8th ring and they bail on him. ;)

[Intmdtr]

He hasn’t been performing all that well as of late.

[ZR]

Except for Chase, Hendrick camp has been well off the pace.

[Not4you]

In decisions like this about 0% is directly related to his performance on track. It will have everything to do with the direction of their marketing, budgets, brand health. With stores closing across the US it is difficult to justify the investment in top tier sponsorship especially when leveraging Jimmy has subsided in recent years. It has been a long time since the huge campaigns like Boom Confetti. It is entirely a business decision.

But fans are gonna fan so yeah, must be because he sucks now.

[ZR]

Loose your cool n it's to the wall ye shall go.

https://brightcove.nascar.com/meta/1677257476001/201803/3562/1677257476001_5753815092001_5753771398001-vs.jpg?pubId=1677257476001

[ZR]

Snow at the track overnight.

https://www.nascar.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2018/03/snow-martinsville-3-625x340.jpg

[ZR]

Does anyone else find it odd how few cars continue to be on the lead lap race after race?

[Stephen06GT]

I didn't watch any of it.

[bluetoy]

I watched a bit. Stands were empty. Nascar is on it's way out unless they make huge changes. Including getting rid of the retarded "Chase"

[ZR]

There can be no doubt broadcasters have been directed to limit camera shots of the stands but yes watch close enough and clear to see stands were partially full at best. So many things wrong in Nascar today, while I think stages have dramatically cut down on cars riding around the back on longer races, the gap between teams and their performance continues to grow. Cluster fuck they've created with these spec air guns, what the hell happened there. Are they failing / having issue at an alarming rate or are broadcasters only bringing it to our attention because of the change when in fact guns have always seen failure rates that high?
Race entry might as well be limited to a dozen or fifteen cars as thats about the max we see with any hope of contending for lead lap status with far too many races coming down to a fight for second or third with the win predetermined too damm early. Yes something like that is going to happen from time to time but in the modern Nascar it's become more the norm.

[ZR]

When even sex isn't helping, your in trouble.

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/73/ca/0e/73ca0e8104e200ae0cd06c32695263cd.jpg

[StAnger]

Well when they shoot themselves in the foot constantly.

Restrictor plates at All-Star Race? (http://www.espn.com/jayski/cup/2018/story/_/id/23106353/restrictor-plates-all-star-race)

[machzilla]

Congrats to #18 on the pole!!:thumbsup:

[bluetoy]

Well when they shoot themselves in the foot constantly.

Restrictor plates at All-Star Race? (http://www.espn.com/jayski/cup/2018/story/_/id/23106353/restrictor-plates-all-star-race)

I've been done with nascar for over a year now. Couldn't care less if I watch a race. If there's nothing else to do I might watch it for a bit. I do enjoy watching nascar flush itself down the toilet though.

[StAnger]

Noticed this the other day. Ford is planning to run the "Mustang" in Nascar in 2019 replacing the "Fusion" now all we need is Dodge to come back and enter the "Challenger" to compete with the "Camaro" and "Camry".

http://www.espn.com/jayski/cup/2018/story/_/id/23213881/ford-switching-mustang-cup-2019

[ZR]

Be cool to see them back.

[bluetoy]

You can already see camaros and mustangs in the xfinity series. They look terrible.

[Old Fart]

That's the thing that gets me with NASCAR and car names. Wouldn't it be great if they were racing "real" Mustangs and Camaros...heavily modified, but an actual Mustang or Camaro chassis. Right now, I can compare them to RC cars...same chassis but a different body cover, lol.

[StAnger]

They already have that. It's called the Continental Tire SportsCar Challenge.

[fast Ed]

I'd say that Pirelli World Challenge would be more like that, since they are using FIA GT4 spec cars now which are typically a bit more modified than the Continental series cars.


Great racing in both of those series regardless and some awesome cars. Pirelli WC will be at Mosport on the May long weekend.

[bluetoy]

Nascar's idea of a mustang and a camaro.

http://thenewswheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Chris-Buescher-No.-60-Ford-Mustang-760x406.jpg

https://www.automobilesreview.com/uploads/2016/07/2017-Chevrolet-NASCAR-XINFINITY-Camaro-SS-side.jpg

[StAnger]

Yep. "Mustang" and "Camaro"

[ZR]

Matt Kenseth............back at Roush.

[Stephen06GT]

Matt Kenseth............back at Roush.

That's gotta suck for Trevor Bayne.

[ZR]

He will be sharing the car with him. IMHO, good for Bayne which = good for Roush.

[StAnger]

I wonder if this is the end of Nascar, or if fresh blood will help revive the sport.


France family exploring potential sale of NASCAR (http://www.espn.com/auto/story/_/id/23435578/france-family-exploring-sale-nascar)

[ZR]

CONCORD, N.C. — On Friday at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Matt Kenseth put an exclamation point on his return to racing at NASCAR’s highest level, winning the pole for Saturday night’s Monster Energy NASCAR All-Star Race (6 p.m. ET on FS1, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio).
In the unique All-Star qualifying format, which features three laps and a four-tire stop with no pit road speed limit, Kenseth posted a total time of 2:07.644 for an average speed of 126.915 mph to edge Roush Fenway Racing teammate Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (126.427 mph) for the Monster Energy Pole Award in the exhibition race that pays $1 million to win.