I’m glad to see the weekend approaching. Sprint Cup and Nationwide are racing at Talladega this weekend, and the Craftsman Trucks are at Kansas (Point of No Return?… some of you near my age might get that). ARCA RE/MAX is off, but the USAR Hooter’s Pro Cup series is racing at Concord.
Check all the latest info out here in the Stock Car Gazette… we may not be the biggest e-zine/newsletter, but we do try to be the best.
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E d i t o r ‘ s * N o t e s
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Yaay, the weekend’s here.
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Stock Car Gazette Columnists Speak Out!
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Stewart to Hass-CNC? The Rumors Fly…
by: Doug Turnbull
Two-time Sprint Cup champion Tony Stewart has driven for Joe Gibbs Racing his entire stock car career and is slated to through at least 2009
MORE: http://motorsportsnews.net/archives/1214
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MotorSportsNews.Net(work) web site features
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Old School Racing Postpones Inaugural Season, New Partnership to Make It Bigger and Better in 2009
Mooresville, NC (April 24, 2008) – Old School Racing announced today a new plan for the series. Under the new plan The Old School Racing (OSR) Series will launch its inaugural season in the spring of 2009 and not in the spring of 2008 as originally planned.
MORE: http://motorsportsnews.net/archives/1213
Michelle Theriault To Run Truck At Kansas
http://motorsportsnews.net/archives/1212
Cup or Nationwide?
http://motorsportsnews.net/archives/1210
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N A S C A R * S P R I N T * C U P * S E R I E S
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New car a handful at the Speedway
Two days of testing at Indianapolis Motor Speedway were enough to show Kurt Busch that drivers will have to relearn how to drive the track when they return in July for the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard. Busch, Brian Vickers and Dale Earnhardt Jr. concluded a Goodyear tire test at the Speedway on Wednesday before heading [...]
http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/autoracingsport/~3/276987649/
Will Dale Jr get “the call” after Patrick’s IRL win?
If there is a such thing as “the call” in NASCAR, now is the time for Earnhardt Jr. to get that call. Danica Patrick no doubt feels like the weight of the world is off her shoulders after she finally scored her first career IndyCar win over the weekend. But while Patrick’s load has lightened, [...]
http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/autoracingsport/~3/277135939/
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Courtesy of www.Catchfence.com
NASCAR Fans Brake for Rising Costs (And More Are Staying Home): A soft economy and record gas prices have NASCAR fans weighing the wisdom of fueling their cars and campers to watch other vehicles race. TV ratings for the Sprint Cup Series, down the last two years, are up 2% this season while attendance at the tracks has dropped or remained flat. Many who attend seem to decide at the last minute, unable or unwilling to shell out for rising gas prices and average hotel room rates of $200 with three- or four-night minimums. That might also explain a spike in demand for camp sites at places such as Talladega Superspeedway, site of Sunday’s Aaron’s 499 Cup race. Operators of the Alabama track, mindful fans travel an average of 300 miles to the race, have opened more space for campers and expanded free parking. Efforts to offset costs for fans have begun at such tracks as Lowe’s Motor Speedway outside Charlotte, promoting its $39 tickets for the 165,000-seat Coca-Cola 600 on May 25 as part of affordable packages. – AOL Money & Finance
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Courtesy of Stock Car Gazette subscriber Ed B. – thanks!
Ragan to run in Watermelon Bowl Saturday race
http://www.cordeledispatch.com/sports/local_story_114231030.html
Tony Stewart could create a NASCAR Sprint Cup super team for the ages
Imaging Tony Stewart the car owner. Or, better yet, Tony Stewart the car owner with Hendrick Motorsports support behind him.
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/sports_nascar/2008/04/tony-stewart-co.html
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Courtesy of Insider Racing News
http://www.insiderracingnews.com
Stewart Ready To Leave Gibbs Racing?
Two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Tony Stewart has begun discussion with Joe Gibbs Racing officials about his future with the company, ESPN.com has learned. And that future, sources say, is questionable. Multiple sources close to the situation who spoke on condition of anonymity said Stewart told Gibbs officials that he’d like to be released from the final year of his current driving contract, which expires at the conclusion of the 2009 season. “He definitely has some options,” JGR president J.D. Gibbs said. “To me it’s no different than any of the the options he’s had before. The reality is he’s racing here through 2009. There’s no ifs, ands or buts about that one. Our stance is he’s racing for us through 2009.”
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Courtesy of Jayski
http://www.jayski.com
Stewart to leave JGR? UPDATE 3 statements Gibbs and Stewart: Sources tell Sports Illustrated that #20-Tony Stewart is working on the final stages of a deal to move from Joe Gibbs Racing to Haas CNC next season. Considering the ramifications of such a move, no one’s admitting anything quite yet, as you’d expect. When reached for comment, Haas CNC Racing spokesman Ron Mench claims there’s been no communication between Stewart and the organization. Stewart’s PR spokesman Mike Arning was noncommittal (“I’ve heard what you’ve heard,” when asked about Haas CNC) but he reminded SI [Sports Illustrated] that Stewart’s contract with Gibbs runs through the 2009 season. “He’s there this year and he’s there next year,” claimed Arning. “And I know for a fact that JGR is interested in retaining Tony for ’10 and beyond. They’d like him to retire at Joe Gibbs Racing. As Tony’s said many times, ‘Nothing’s broke. Why change it?’ Tony’s going to have a lot of options in front of him; why wouldn’t he? But I don’t see [an early out happening] … everyone is going to live up to the terms of the contract that runs through ’09.” However, sources are adamant that not just the talking, but deal-making is already taking place for Stewart to go elsewhere. And, while sometimes a formidable opponent, contracts can be easily bought out, as Jamie McMurray and Kurt Busch have shown us in recent years.(Sports Illustrated)(4-23-2008)
UPDATE: Tony Stewart has begun discussion with Joe Gibbs Racing officials about his future with the company, ESPN.com has learned. And that future, sources say, is questionable. Multiple sources close to the situation who spoke on condition of anonymity said Stewart told Gibbs officials that he’d like to be released from the final year of his current driving contract, which expires at the conclusion of the 2009 season. “He definitely has some options,” JGR president J.D. Gibbs said. “To me it’s no different than any of the the options he’s had before. The reality is he’s racing here through 2009. There’s no ifs, ands or buts about that one. Our stance is he’s racing for us through 2009.” Stewart’s publicist, Mike Arning, said “Tony’s contract is through the 2009 season. When that is up he’ll have a lot of options for 2010 and beyond. But in terms of what he’s going to do, or might do, for now and in between, as far as JGR is concerned he’s their driver for 2009.” Sources said Stewart is intrigued by the thought of team ownership. One potential scenario mentioned was a partnership with Haas/CNC Racing, under which Stewart would own as much as a 50% stake in the race team that currently fields the #66 and #70 Chevys. Under that scenario he would drive one of those two machines. Haas GM Joe Custer said he has spoken with several people about the future status of his team, including Stewart’s group. He was adamant that his team has reached no deal with Stewart, but would “by all means be interested in discussing a partnership with a driver of his caliber.” Such a move would reunite Stewart with Chevrolet, which sources said was of the utmost importance to the driver, given that he’s driven for General Motors for most of his career, and that GM sponsors Stewart’s open wheel sprint car program. Gibbs switched to Toyotas from Chevrolets in 2008. Haas/CNC Racing currently fields cars built and powered by Hendrick Motorsports, the organization that has won four Cup championships in the past 10 years, including the past two.(ESPN.com)
UPDATE 2: The following is a statement from J.D. Gibbs, president of Joe Gibbs Racing, regarding the contract status of driver Tony Stewart: “There has been much speculation regarding the future of our driver, Tony Stewart. Tony is currently here through 2009, and from a Joe Gibbs Racing standpoint, we hope he drives for us longer than that and retires here. Tony is a great partner and a huge asset to Joe Gibbs Racing. Right now, we are focused on winning races and winning the next two NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championships under his current contract.”(Joe Gibbs Racing/True Speed Communication)(4-24-2008)
UPDATE Stewart speaks: Tony Stewart has several different offers to leave Joe Gibbs Racing, and he is considering every option – including ones that could make him the owner of his own NASCAR team. “We’ve got multiple offers on the table right now, and there’s a couple in particular that really have caught our interest,” Stewart told reporters Thursday after Nationwide Series practice at Talladega Superspeedway. “We haven’t made a 100% decision yet on what we’re going to do, but we’re going to look at all the options. And the options are exciting, all the way around.” Stewart’s deal with JGR runs through 2009, and he said last summer he was interested in signing an extension with the team he’s driven for since 1998. But contract talks moved slowly, with Stewart saying in January he was in no rush to get a deal done. Stewart said Thursday he has not ruled out staying with JGR, but when he began negotiating a new contract, other teams approached him with new opportunities. The same thing happened back in 2003, when Stewart was able to leverage several deals – including one from Chip Ganassi – to secure a more lucrative contract with Gibbs. “A wise person told me it never cost a dime to listen, so right now we’re all ears,” Stewart said of the latest offers. “Right now it’s just a matter of figuring out what we want to do, and being smart. We’ve had a great run at Joe Gibbs Racing. It doesn’t mean it’s over. We’re just going to look at everything that’s out there.” Stewart said Thursday he has informed Gibbs officials of his offers, and there were discussions of potentially leaving the team early depending on what deal he agreed to. But he said “a couple offers” included ownership, and the thought of running his own team excited him. Stewart said he has not discussed owning a portion of JGR with owner Joe Gibbs. “Right now we’ve not asked to be released out of our contract,” he said. “They know there are other offers on the table and we’ve said, `What if this is the case? And what if this is presented to us? Is there a possibility we could be released from our contract early?’ But we have not asked to be released from our contract.” Cary Agajanian, who represents Stewart through the Motorsports Management Int. agency, cited the sensitivity of contract talks in declining to comment. “His contract is through 2009 with Joe Gibbs Racing,” said Agajanian, “that’s about all we know, and all we can say.”(Associated Press)(4-25-2008)
Polaroid on the #41: Reed Sorenson will document his Talladega weekend through a Polaroid Photo Diary. Polaroid will be making its NSCS debut on the #41 Dodge this weekend in the Aaron’s 499. Sorenson’s diary will be showcased on Polaroid.com.(CGRFS), see images of the scheme on my #41 Team Schemes page.(4-25-2008) http://www.jayski.com/schemes/2008/41cup.htm
Burton is it: #31-Jeff Burton is the lone driver who has completed every lap of competition this season in the Sprint Cup Series. Burton also has completed 82.8% of the total laps (2,235 of 2,699) running in the top 15 and leads all drivers with the most runs on the lead lap (2,694 of 2,699). Burton has finished 14 straight races on the lead lap.(RCR)(4-25-2008)
Talladega Goodyear Tire Notes: This weekend will be the first time that Goodyear has run a race on these tire codes . . . compared to last year at Talladega, there are two changes of note on this tire set-up . . . first, this left-side code (D-4138) is slightly taller to adjust the stagger and align this set-up with what was run at Daytona in February . . . second, this right-side code (D-4140) has a slight design modification to help reduce the operating temperature of the tire. . the compounds on both sides of the car are the same as in 2007 . . . this is the only track at which these tire codes will be run this season . . .teams in the NASCAR Sprint Cup will run different tire codes than those in the Nationwide Series at Talladega this weekend . . . as on all NASCAR ovals greater than one mile in length, teams are required to run inner liners in all four tire positions at Talladega . . . air pressure in those inner liners should be 12-25 psi greater than that of the outer tire.(Goodyear), see full report, pressures, codes and more on my Talladega Race Info page.(4-25-2008) http://www.jayski.com/next/2008/9tss2008.htm#goodyear
Juicy Fruit colors for Montoya: The Wrigley’s Juicy Fruit brand will adorn the hood of the #42 Dodge this weekend at Talladega Superspeedway with Juan Pablo Montoya.(CGRFS), see images of the scheme on my #42 Team Schemes page.(4-25-2008) http://www.jayski.com/schemes/2008/42cup.htm
DIRECTV returns to the #07: For the second race in a row, Clint Bowyer’s #07 Chevy will feature a blue and white DIRECTV paint scheme. Jack Daniel’s, Bowyer’s traditional primary sponsor, will be featured on the car’s deck lid and lower-rear quarter panels.(RCR), see images of the scheme on my #07 Team Schemes page.(4-25-2008) http://www.jayski.com/schemes/2008/07cup.htm
Tums scheme for Franchitti at ‘dega: This weekend the all-new TUMS QuikPak instant dissolve powder will serve as the primary sponsor of the #40 CGRFS Dodge Charger at Talladega Superspeedway fro Dario Franchitti. TUMS first became a CGRFS partner in 2007, as an associate sponsor of the #40 and #41 cars. This will be Franchitti’s first time representing the TUMS brand. The #40 TUMS QuikPak Dodge team is taking on the identity of its primary sponsor by renaming the pit crew “The TUMS QuikPak” for this weekend’s Aaron’s 499 Sprint Cup series race.(CGRFS), see images of the scheme on my #40 Team Schemes page.(4-25-2008) http://www.jayski.com/schemes/2008/40cup.htm
Movie to film at Alabama speedway: The latest installment of New Line Cinema’s popular horror/thriller franchise, Final Destination 4, will film racing sequences at Mobile International Speedway [AL] from Monday, May 26th to Saturday, May 31st. The Ronald McDonald House Night race, scheduled for 8:00pm on May 31st, has been moved to a 3:00pm start to accommodate filming. The film crew will be shooting crowd scenes and reactions during the racing program on Saturday, May 31st. Final Destination 4 stars a fresh ensemble cast that includes Bobby Campo, Shantel Van Santen, Haley Webb, Nick Zano, Krista Allen, Andrew Fiscella and Mykelti Williamson. Final Destination 4 is being shot in High Definition with the most advanced form of stereoscopic image capture yet invented – Fusion 3D. It utilizes the dynamic PACE camera system to ensure a rich visual experience matched only by reality.(MIS)(4-25-2008)
Stewart going for ‘a record’: Tony Stewart, the driver of the #20 Home Depot Toyota, has finished second six times but never won in 18 Cup races at Talladega. He’s tied with Bobby Allison at Martinsville and Mark Martin at Pocono for NASCAR’s record for single-track second-place finishes without a victory.(Alabama Live), Talladega is one of four Cup tracks that Stewart has never won a CUP race at: California, Las Vegas and Darlington.(4-24-2008)
Kentucky Speedway met the deadline to file a “proof” brief in its appeal of a federal judge’s decision to dismiss the track’s antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR and International Speedway Corp. Lawyers representing Kentucky Speedway had until Monday to file the paperwork with the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. NASCAR and ISC now have until June 25 to file their initial response to the speedway’s brief. Final briefs are due Aug. 11. The sides also filed a joint motion Monday to seal the briefs. That motion is awaiting a ruling.Kentucky Speedway notified the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on Jan. 11 that it wanted to challenge U.S. District Court Judge William Bertelsman’s decision Jan. 7 to dismiss the track’s antitrust suit against NASCAR and ISC.(Cincinnati Enquirer)(4-25-2008)
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Courtesy of www.motorsport.com
Mark Martin to miss Talladega
Talladega Unlikely to Return to Martin’s Schedule Any Time Soon
Veteran enjoyed up and down affair with ‘big ol’ track during Sprint Cup Career
Mooresville, N.C. (April 24, 2008) — This weekend the NASCAR circuit rolls into Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway for one of the fastest …
http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=286547
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Courtesy of Race Fans Stockcar News
http://www.nascarnutscanada.com/
CUP: Burton Looks to Dodge Bullet in Talladega
Written by: Tom Jensen 04/23/2008 – 03:50 PM
Jeff Burton has driven his Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet to one victory and the lead in the NASCAR Sprint Cup points, with eight of 36 points races in the books.
http://nascar.speedtv.com/article/cup-burton-looks-to-dodge-bullet-in-talladega/
TALLADEGA NOTEBOOK: Stewart hoping to avoid record Thursday, April 24, 2008
As a two-time Cup champion, Tony Stewart has had plenty of success on the track. And on Sunday in the Aaron’s 499 at Talladega Superspeedway, he could break a NASCAR record if he finishes second.
http://snipurl.com/25mlw-beckyd
As Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s losing streak grows, so do his fans’ expectations that he’ll end skid at Talladega
Thursday, April 24, 2008 MIKE BOLTON News staff writer
Dale Earnhardt Jr. knows that the kingdom over which he reigns is restless. Mired in a 70-race losing streak that is now just weeks away from celebrating its second birthday, Earnhardt also knows the Junior Nation expects him to finally end the misery at Sunday’s Aaron’s 499. http://snipurl.com/25mm9-beckyd
2008 International Motorsports Hall of Fame inductees
Thursday, April 24, 2008 CARY ESTES For The Birmingham News
The International Motorsports Hall of Fame is reaching deep into the past for its induction class of 2008.
http://snipurl.com/25mnn-beckyd
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Courtesy of Scene Daily
http://www.scenedaily.com
Waltrip looks for more restrictor-plate success
Michael Waltrip might have a little extra spring in his step for this weekend’s Aaron’s 499 Sprint Cup race at Talladega Superspeedway. After all, his Michael Waltrip Racing organization appears to have the horsepower and talent to perform well on restrictor-plate tracks
http://snipurl.com/25qu0-gazete
Talladega sometimes requires patient strategy, which isn’t always fun
At most race tracks, NASCAR Sprint Cup teams work from the drop of the green flag until the end of the race to get up front. If a driver and team could lead every lap, they would. If not, they’re doing everything they can to do so.
http://snipurl.com/25qu9-gazete
Petty ready to make the climb back into top 35
Kyle Petty knows he likely won’t get into the top 35 in Sprint Cup owners points after this weekend’s Aarons 499 at Talladega Superspeedway, but the veteran driver figures Talladega would be a good place to start the climb back up
http://snipurl.com/25qua-gazete
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Courtesy of That’s Racin’
http://www.thatsracin.com
Kyle Busch on top of the wheel, on top of his game
With victories in all three of NASCAR’s top series, driver is flourishing
There is little doubt Kyle Busch saw an opportunity when he elected to move to Joe Gibbs Racing.
http://www.thatsracin.com/topstories/story/13269.html
Contract? Yeah, but Stewart says he’s still looking
Tony Stewart has several different offers to leave Joe Gibbs Racing, and the two-time champion is considering every one of them.
http://www.thatsracin.com/topstories/story/13273.html
Formula One launches anti-racism campaign
http://www.thatsracin.com/topstories/story/13267.html
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Team Dakar USA Rides Roller Coaster in Central Europe Rally
Veszprem, Hungary – The course was once again centered around the ex-military base outside of Veszprem, which provided an emotional rollercoaster ride for Robby Gordon and Andy Grider’s. Stage five started out strong with the Monster Energy Hummer taking its first special win in the Central Europe Rally. With that strong performance the team moved to within three minutes of the top spot held by Carlos Sainz. Fortunes turned quickly on the second special for Gordon and Grider when they experienced mechanical problems with the rear wheel assembly of the Hummer.
“After the special win we were pumped up because we had fought our way back into this thing. The only thing left to do was to go hard and keep pace with the leaders. I’m very disappointed after the second special. We flew a decent size jump and the truck just came down wrong on the rear and damaged the rear hub. We finally managed to get it fixed but at that point it was too late. Our chances on this rally are over but I’m really proud of this effort. We are competing against the best off-road teams in the world and they knew we were here! On the bright side BJ has done a fantastic job in the Vanguard Hummer. Both Hummers have really performed very well.” explained Gordon.
The bright spot for Team Dakar USA was another couple of strong specials for BJ Baldwin. Baldwin managed ninth in the first special, fifth in the second and seventh on the day. His showing has earned the Ronn Bailey’s Vanguard Hummer a spot in the top-ten in the overall classification.
Once again tomorrows tracks can be found in Veszprem where there will be two specials. The first special in the morning will be 157km while the afternoon special will be 54km. From there the rally goes to Balaton Lake for the final stage in the 2008 Central Europe Rally.
Coverage of the rally can be seen in the United States on DirecTV. The half hour show will be aired twice – first at 7p.m. EST and then again at 12:30a.m. Additional rally coverage can also be found on robbygordon.com and robbysuprising.com where Team Dakar USA will have daily updates, the twitter micro blog feed, and videos.
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N A S C A R * N A T I O N W I D E * S E R I E S
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Courtesy of Jayski
http://www.jayski.com
Leffler Paces Happy Hour: #38-Jason Leffer’s speed of 194.342mph was tops in Happy Hour at Talladega. #1-Mike Bliss was second, followed by #59-Marcos Ambrose, #33-Cale Gale, #7-Mike Wallace, #81-D.J. Kennington, #64-David Stremme, #21-Stephen Leicht, #2-Clint Bowyer, and #16-Greg Biffle. Only 34 drivers practiced during the session. Complete speed are available on the Talladega Race Page.(4-24-2008) http://www.jayski.com/nationwide/2008/next/10talladega.htm#practice
Wallace Leads Opening Practice in Talladega: #66-Steve Wallace was fastest in opening practice for the Aaron’s 312 with a top speed of 191.996mph. He was followed by: #38-Jason Leffler, #59-Marcos Ambrose, #99-David Reutimann, #6-David Ragan, #27-Brad Coleman, #2-Clint Bowyer, #81-D.J. Kennington, #1-Mike Bliss, and #32-Denny Hamlin. There are 43 cars at the track. Not making it on the track during the session were #0-Dwayne Leik and #61-Kevin Lepage. Complete speed are available on the Talladega Race Page.(4-24-2008) http://www.jayski.com/nationwide/2008/next/10talladega.htm#practice
MACtac Sponsorsing Rensi: MACtac a leading provider of pressure sensitive materials, announced that it will sponsor The Team Rensi Motorsports’ # 25 Smithfield Foods Ford, driven by Bobby Hamilton Jr., for the 2008 Nationwide Series season. MACtac has been indirectly involved with NASCAR for many years as a provider of graphics materials, initiating a formal NASCAR sponsorship in 2007 as a primary sponsor for a Busch Series car. MACtac is an associate sponsor of the Smithfield Foods # 25 car. The MACtac corporate logo will appear on the car, as well as on the hauler, racing jerseys and all team communications.(MacTac PR)(4-24-2008)
Wolfe Back at Track After Legal Dispute: Paul Wolfe is back at the race track working as crew chief for Braun Racing’s Jason Leffler after missing the trip last week to Mexico City because of a legal dispute with former employer Fitz Motorsports. Wolfe left Fitz Motorsports on March 25 for Braun, and Fitz Motorsports sued Braun and Wolfe in North Carolina Superior Court on April 11. Fitz Motorsports obtained a temporary restraining order to keep Wolfe from making the trip to Mexico City. Wolfe prevailed in a preliminary injunction hearing Monday that allowed him to return to the track, his attorney Clifton Homesley said Wednesday. Homesley had argued in court documents that Wolfe’s contract called for disputes to be decided by arbitration and not in the courts. In the complaint, Fitz alleges that Wolfe had ended the Nationwide Series team’s test session March 24-25 at Richmond International Raceway early, kept confidential testing data and used that information at Braun. Not only do the two teams compete on the track, they also have competing sponsors in Great Clips (Braun) and Supercuts (Fitz). The suit is still pending in the courts in Statesville, N.C. Wolfe’s contract called for him to get paid $130,000 in 2007 with a $10,000 bonus for a win, $5,000 for places of second through fifth, $2,500 for places sixth through 10th, $1,000 for places 11th through 15th and $1,000 for a pole. A series title was worth a $100,000 bonus, with second-fifth in points $50,000 and sixth-10th in points worth $25,000. He also got $500 a weekend when he used his motorhome instead of a hotel room. There was an owner’s option for the 2008 season that increased his salary to $156,000 and increased the bonuses by 10 percent.(SceneDaily.com)(4-24-2008)
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Practice speeds | Leffler fastest in Thursday’s final Nationwide session
http://www.thatsracin.com/topstories/story/13275.html
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Courtesy of The Hot Lap
http://www.TheHotLap.com
Steve Wallace Paces First Practice at Talladega – On the heels of his first career top-ten finish last weekend in Mexico City, Team Atreus Homes & Communities Rusty Wallace Racing driver, Steve Wallace and his No. 66 Atreus Homes & Communities Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS posted the fastest time in this afternoon’s first practice for Saturday’s Aaron’s 312 at Talladega Superspeedway. Wallace’s best lap of 49.876 seconds (191.996 MPH) was the fastest of the 39 cars taking time in the session and placed him as the only driver in the 49-second bracket. Second-place Jason Leffer was over one-tenth of a second slower than Wallace, with a lap of 50.04 seconds. Noted Wallace, “We made a lot of changes on our car in the first practice and managed to actually get it a lot better than it was when we unloaded. Hopefully, this is an indication of good things to come for us this weekend. To be able to keep the momentum up from last weekend is really important to our team and so far, we’ve been able to do that. If we can just stay out of the “big one” on Saturday, we should have a good run.” Wallace’s teammate, No. 64—David Stremme, was also among the top-25 in this afternoon’s first session. Stremme’s best lap placed his No. 64 Atreus Homes & Communities Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS 21st fastest of the 39 cars in the session. (PR-RWR) (04-24-08)
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C R A F T S M A N * T R U C K * S E R I E S
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Courtesy of Jayski
http://www.jayski.com
Free day at Kansas Speedway: There may not be any such thing as a free lunch, but there is going to be free auto racing on Friday at Kansas Speedway. Free parking and free access to the Fan Walk area, too. Earlier this year, officials at Kansas Speedway announced that they are throwing open the gates for their annual ARCA Series race. Fans are invited to drive out and walk in. In addition to the ARCA activities, fans will also get to see a practice session for Saturday’s NASCAR Craftsman Truck series race.(Kansas City Star)(4-24-2008)
Mario Gosselin with be making his Craftsman Truck Series debut at Kansas in the #12-CrashedToys.com Chevy. Image of the truck can be seen on the 2008 Paint Scheme Gallery.(4-24-2008) http://www.jayski.com/schemes/2008trucks.htm#gosselin
Jennifer Jo Cobb and Derrike Cope Inc. are pleased to announce Scottsdale-based The Annexus Group will serve as the primary sponsor for the team’s #74 Dodge at this weekend’s NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race being held at Kansas Speedway. The race will serve as Cobb’s first in the NCTS, but her second with sponsor The Annexus Group on the hood.(Diamond Lee Sports Mgmt./DCI PR)(4-24-2008)
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Courtesy of TruckSeries.Com
http://www.truckseries.com
Wildcard Action Heats Up Kansas
04-24-2008 | Tom Jensen, TruckSeries.com
Wildcard Action Heats Up Kansas After a season-high four-week break, the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series returns to action this weekend at Kansas Speedway for the O’Reilly Auto Parts 250, race No. 5 in the 25-race 2008 schedule. For the first time all season, NCTS points leader and two-time race winner Kyle Busch is skipping this weekend’s Truck race to concentrate on the NASCAR Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series festivities at Talladega Superspeedway. Busch’s seat in the all-conquering Billy Ballew Racing Toyota Tundra will be filled this weekend by 25-year-old Georgia native Shane Sieg. And while the Truck regulars will still have to deal with what so far has been the most successful vehicle in the series, at least they won’t have to deal with the winningest driver in NASCAR. Sieg has competed in 27 races since 2003 with a best finish of eighth at The Milwaukee Mile. He drove Ballew’s No. 15 truck three times last season, finishing 10th at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. “With Kyle’s schedule at Joe Gibbs Racing this weekend, there was no way he could make the race in Kansas,” Ballew said. “We looked at all the scenarios but it just wasn’t feasible. Shane has driven for us before and is familiar with the equipment.”
http://www.truckseries.com/cgi-script/NCTS_08/articles/000005/000563.htm
Live! Online Qualifying – http://www.truckseries.com/qualify/
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A R C A (Automobile Racing Club of America)
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Courtesy of ARCA
http://www.arcaracing.com
From Kansas to Rockingham to ???, Big Question Marks Still Hang over Kimmel Camp in 2008
(4-24-08) – Defending ARCA RE/MAX Series national champions Frank and Bill Kimmel are headed for Rockingham Speedway. That is, if they get out of Kansas Speedway without tearing the fenders off their unsponsored no. 44 Ford Taurus.
[Read More] – http://www.arcaracing.com/news.cfm?contentid=6414
Sheltra Goes Dodge for Kansas; Aaron’s Outdoors to Sponsor in Kansas Lottery $150 Grand
KANSAS CITY KS (4-24-08) – Sheltra Motorsports, a professional three-tier Motorsports operation, announced today its plan to run a Dodge Charger in a minimum of 10 ARCA RE/MAX Series events this season beginning with Friday’s Kansas Lottery $150 Grand at Kansas Speedway.
[Read More] – http://www.arcaracing.com/news.cfm?contentid=6412
ESR Unloads 4 for Kansas
KANSAS CITY KS (4-24-08) – Eddie Sharp Racing unloads four teams this weekend at Kansas Speedway. Already scoring a Top-5 at Salem and two Top-10′s at Iowa this season, the ESR squad is a good bet to hit the Kansas Lottery $150 Grand. Having previously found victory lane at similar 1.5-mile tracks such as Kentucky and Chicagoland speedways, ESR looks to add Kansas Speedway to that list.
[Read More] – http://www.arcaracing.com/news.cfm?contentid=6402
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U S A R (United Speed Alliance Racing)
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Courtesy of USAR
http://usarprocup.com
Racing Electronics Re-Ups through 2012
At-track communication leader remains prominent part of Pro Cup
Myrtle Beach, S.C.-The Hooters Pro Cup Series and Racing Electronics (RE) have come to an agreement that will keep Racing Electronics the “Official Communication Equipment Supplier” of the Hooters Pro Cup Series through the 2012 season.
“It’s great to have Racing Electronics continue its support of our series,” said Tony Cox, USAR Series Director. “Over the years, RE has been a big part of our success as a series. We’re happy that they have decided to add a five-year extension to our contract.”
As part of the agreement, RE will continue to provide its new Race Safe System to the drivers and offer support through the at-track RE support vehicle. Hooters Pro Cup officials will continue to use the newest in RE communications at each event. The agreement will kick off this weekend with the running of the Racing Electronics 250 at Concord (N.C.) Motorsport Park.
Read more – http://usarprocup.com/view_article.asp?id=2671
Pro Cup Stars and Cars Hit Charlotte Area
Show Cars Schedule for Racing Electronics 250
Myrtle Beach, S.C.-The Hooters Pro Cup race at Concord Motorsport Park has turned into one of the biggest races of the year. With so many drivers living in the Charlotte area, the fans flock to see their favorites.
But fans in the Charlotte area will be able to catch some of the hottest Pro Cup drivers before Saturday night’s race.
Bobby Gill, a three-time Concord winner, Frank Deiny Jr., Travis Kittleson and Drew Herring will all be making appearances on Thursday and Friday.
Show Car Schedule Below
Read more – http://usarprocup.com/view_article.asp?id=2670
Racing Electronics 250 Set for CMP
Ritch on a roll, wants more
Myrtle Beach, S.C.-Michael Ritch wears his heart on his sleeve. And after last year’s Concord Motorsport Park event, it was easy to see.
After starting from the pole and leading a race-high 108 laps, Ritch was dismayed with his eighth-place finish in the Naturally Fresh 250. A late-race penalty for rough driving sent Ritch to the rear of the field on Lap 184, and he wasn’t happy about it. But Ritch plans to get even this weekend’s running of the Racing Electronics 250 presented by BTS Tire&Wheel Distributors at CMP.
“There were two races that I thought I should have won last season that I didn’t,” said Ritch, driver of the No. 28s Racing For Veterans Ford. “One was South Georgia, and the other one was Concord. I had both of them marked on my schedule this year.”
Read more – http://usarprocup.com/view_article.asp?id=2658
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N A S C A R * C A N A D I A N * T I R E * S E R I E S
http://localracing.nascar.com/news/6
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Tagliani pushes for Canadian content in Edmonton race
Canada.com – Don Mills,Ontario,Canada
This season, Tagliani plans to race full-time on the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series. He participated in two Quebec races on the Canadian stock car circuit last …
http://snipurl.com/25quf-gazete
The hands-off guy
Hamilton Spectator – Hamilton,ON,Canada
As owner and team manager of a four-car NASCAR Canadian Tire Series effort, the Empire Corners resident is constantly speaking with his two drivers, …
http://www.thespec.com/Sports/article/359046
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C O L U M N S / C O M M E N T A R I E S
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Insider Racing News
http://insiderracingnews.com/Writers/RG/042508.html
NASCAR – You Either Get It, Or You Don’t
by Rebecca Gladden
SPEED Answers ESPN With “Big Friday”
After all the buzz going-on this week surrounding NASCAR Now on ESPN2, SPEED returns to the TV spotlight with a full day of Talladega action.
http://dalyplanet.blogspot.com/2008/04/speed-answers-espn-with-big-friday.html
ESPN Chases Tony Stewart Across TV Networks
The day after the Marty Smith’s NASCAR Now story about Tony Stewart and his possible changes for next season, things continued to develop at a rapid pace. These days, ESPN’s new commitment to NASCAR is paying-off like never before.
http://dalyplanet.blogspot.com/2008/04/espn-chases-tony-stewart-across-tv.html
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T V * L I S T I N G S
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Courtesy of Race Fan TV
http://www.racefantv.com
FRIDAY, APRIL 25
12:00m-12:30A espn2 NASCAR Now, HD
12:30A-1:00 DTV 101 Central Dakar Rally, R
8:00A-9:30 SPEED FIA Formula One PRACTICE, Gran Premio De Espana Telefonica, Barcelona,
Spain, L
9:30P-10:00 SPEED Inside Grand Prix, preview of the Spanish Grand Prix, N
11:00A-12:00 ESPN-CL 2003 MAC Tools NHRA Gatornationals, Gainesville, FL, Mar 16/03
12:00n-1:00 SPEED AMA Monster Energy Supercross Series, Edward Jones Stadium, St. Louis, MO, Apr
19/08, HD, R-CBS
1:00P-2:00 SPEED NASCAR Confidential, R
2:00P-2:30 SPEED NASCAR Live at Talladega Superspeedway, HD
2:30P-3:30 SPEED NASCAR Sprint Cup PRACTICE, Aaron’s 499, Talladega Superspeedway,
Talladega, AL, HD, L
3:30P-4:00 SPEED NASCAR Live at Talladega Superspeedway, HD
4:00P-5:00 SPEED NASCAR Sprint Cup FINAL PRACTICE, Aaron’s 499, Talladega Superspeedway,
Talladega, AL, HD, L
5:00P-7:30 SPEED NASCAR Nationwide Series QUALIFYING, Aaron’s 312, Talladega
Superspeedway, Talladega, AL, HD, L
7:00P-7:30 DTV 101 Central Dakar Rally. Daily coverage of the off-road rally through Hungary and Romania
which is standing in as a replacement for the 2008 Dakar Rally which was cancelled in
January
7:30P-8:30 SPEED Trackside at Talladega Superspeedway, HD, N
8:30P-9:30 SPEED NASCAR Sprint Cup PRACTICE, Aaron’s 499, Talladega Superspeedway, Talladega, AL,
HD, R
9:30P-10:00 SPEED NASCAR Live at Talladega Superspeedway, HD, R
10:00P-11:00 SPEED NASCAR Sprint Cup FINAL PRACTICE, Aaron’s 499, Talladega Superspeedway,
Talladega, AL, HD, R
11:00P-12:00m SPEED Trackside at Talladega Superspeedway, R
SATURDAY, APRIL 26
12:00m-1:00A SPEED Formula 1 Debrief, Bahrain
12:30A-1:00 DTV 101 Central Dakar Rally, R
1:00A-1:30 SPEED Inside Grand Prix, preview of the Spanish Grand Prix, R
8:00A-9:30 SPEED FIA Formula One QUALIFYING, Gran Premio De Espana Telefonica, Barcelona,
Spain, L
11:00A-2:00P SPEED NASCAR Sprint Cup QUALIFYING, Aaron’s 499, Talladega Superspeedway,
Talladega, AL, HD, L
2:00P-3:00 SPEED AMA Monster Energy Supercross LITES Series, Edward Jones Stadium, St. Louis, MO,
Apr 19/08, N
2:30P-3:00 ABC NASCAR Nationwide Series COUNTDOWN Aaron’s 312, Talladega
Superspeedway, Talladega, AL, HD, L
3:00P-6:00 ABC NASCAR Nationwide Series Aaron’s 312, Talladega Superspeedway, Talladega,
AL, HD, L
3:30P-5:30 SPEED CHAMPIONSHIP OFF ROAD RACING, Fairplex in Pomona, CA, L
5:00P-6:00 VS Lucas Oil Motorsport Hour: SNORE off-road Mint 400, Las Vegas, NV, Mar 29/08
5:30P-6:00 SPEED NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series SETUP, O’Reilly Auto Parts 250, Kansas
Speedway
6:00P-8:30 SPEED NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series O’Reilly Auto Parts 250, Kansas Speedway,
Kansas City, KS, HD, L
6:00P-8:00 espn2 NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series QUALIFYING, Summit Racing Equipment
Southern Nationals, Atlanta, GA, HD, SDD
7:00P-7:30 DTV 101 Central Dakar Rally. Daily coverage of the off-road rally through Hungary and Romania
which is standing in as a replacement for the 2008 Dakar Rally which was cancelled in
January
8:30P-10:30 SPEED ARCA RE/MAX Series Kansas Lottery $150 Grand, Kansas Speedway, Kansas
City, KS, Apr 25/08, N
10:30P-11:00 SPEED NASCAR Performance at Talladega Superspeedway, HD, N
11:00P-11:30 SPEED Tradin’ Paint at Talladega Superspeedway, HD, N
SUNDAY, APRIL 27
12:30A-1:00 DTV 101 Central Dakar Rally, R
2:00A-5:00 SPEED NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series O’Reilly Auto Parts 250, Kansas Speedway, Kansas
City, KS, Apr 26/08, HD, R
4:00A-6:00 espn2 NASCAR Nationwide Series Aaron’s 312, Talladega Superspeedway, Talladega, AL, Apr
26/08, HD, R-ABC
6:00A-7:30 SPEED GP2 Championship Series, Barcelona, Spain, Apr 26-27/08, N
7:30A-10:00 SPEED FIA Formula One Gran Premio De Espana Telefonica, Barcelona, Spain, L
10:00A-11:00 espn2 NASCAR Now, Nicole Manske, HD, L
10:30A-11:00 SPEED NASCAR Performance at Talladega Superspeedway, HD, N
11:00A-11:30 SPEED NASCAR in a Hurry, N
11:00A-11:30 espn2 NHRA Raceday, Atlanta, GA, HD
11:30A-1:30P SPEED NASCAR RaceDay, preview of today’s Aaron’s 499 at Talladega
Superspeedway, HD, L
1:00P-6:00 FOX NASCAR Sprint Cup PRE-RACE SHOW, Aaron’s 499, Talladega Superspeedway,
Talladega, AL, HD, L
2:00P-3:00 SPEED FIM World Superbike, Assen, Netherlands, Race #1, SDD, N
3:00P-4:00 SPEED AMA Monster Energy Supercross Series, Quest Field, Seattle, WA, Apr 26/08,
N
4:00P-5:00 SPEED AMA Superbike, Auto Club Speedway, Fontana, CA, Day #1, Apr 26/08, N
5:00P-6:00 SPEED AMA Superbike, Auto Club Speedway, Fontana, CA, Day #2, SDD, N
5:00P-7:00 espn2 IRL IndyCar Series Roadrunner Turbo Indy 300, Kansas Speedway, Kansas
City, KS, HD, L
6:00P-7:00 SPEED AMA Supersport motorcycles, Auto Club Speedway, Fontana, CA, L
7:00P-10:00 espn2 NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series ELIMINATIONS, Summit Racing
Equipment Southern Nationals, Atlanta, GA, HD, SDD, N
7:00P-8:00 SPEED SPEED Report, N
8:00P-9:00 SPEED NASCAR Victory Lane, Aaron’s 499 at Talladega Superspeedway, SDD, N
9:00P-10:00 SPEED Wind Tunnel with Dave Despain, L
MONDAY, APRIL 28
2:00A-3:00 SPEED SPEED Report, R
4:00A-5:00 SPEED NASCAR Victory Lane, Aaron’s 499 at Talladega Superspeedway, Apr 27/08, R
8:00A-9:00 SPEED NASCAR Victory Lane, Aaron’s 499 at Talladega Superspeedway, Apr 27/08, R
9:00A-10:00 SPEED Wind Tunnel with Dave Despain, R
9:00A-11:00 ESPN-CL IRL IndyCar Series Roadrunner Turbo Indy 300, Kansas Speedway, Kansas City, KS,
Apr 27/08, HD, R-espn2
11:00A-12:00 ESPN-CL Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals, Atlanta Dragway Atlanta, GA, Apr
27/04
12:00n-3:00P SPEED NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series O’Reilly Auto Parts 250, Kansas Speedway, Kansas
City, KS, Apr 26/08, HD, R
4:00P-5:00 VS USAR Hooters Pro Cup, Concord, Motorsport Park, Concord, NC, Apr 26/08
5:30P-6:30 espn2 NASCAR Now, Allen Bestwick, HD, L
8:00P-9:00 SPEED This Week in NASCAR, N
Race Fan TV does not list all the programming offered by SPEED; for complete listings go to their website, http://www.speedtv.com/schedule/
DISC-HDT = Discovery HD Theatre
ESPN-CL = ESPN Classic, US
HDNet = High Definition Network available on DirecTV (Channel 79) and DISH, etc.
Outdoor = Outdoor Channel (US)
VS = Versus (formerly known as OLN, Outdoor Life Network)
Always CHECK YOUR LOCAL LISTINGS!
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The Stock Car Gazette
Copyright 2002-2008 by MotorSportsNews.Net
All Rights Reserved
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