The NASCAR news is picking up speed, and we’ll do our best to have it all for you right here in the Stock Car Gazette, our daily e-zine.
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E d i t o r ‘ s * N o t e s
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Be sure to check out my experience meeting the King yesterday.
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Stock Car Gazette Columnists Speak Out!
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The day I met “The King”
by: Mike Irwin
Photo by Steve Langley
So, what do you say when you meet a king? Find out at http://motorsportsnews.net/archives/2645
For more articles by Mike, visit http://motorsportsnews.net/archives/category/mikes-musings
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MotorSportsNews.Net(work) web site features
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Photos from the 2009 NASCAR Nationwide Series Media Tour
Nancy from Nationwide Insurance graciously made these photos available for you to see from the 2009 NASCAR Media Tour, focusing specifically on the NASCAR Nationwide Series.
http://motorsportsnews.net/archives/2633
DRIVE FOR DIVERSITY INTRODUCES 2009 DRIVER LINEUP
CONCORD, N.C. (Jan. 22, 2009) – The Drive for Diversity (D4D) initiative continues to move forward in 2009 with an expanded driver lineup and a new management group. Twelve drivers will participate in the sixth season of Drive for Diversity – four in the NASCAR Camping World Series and eight in the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series.
http://motorsportsnews.net/archives/2637
… still a pretty hot read… nearly 4000 as of this posting …
“Trackside” Blunder… Whose Head Will Roll?
by Steve Langley
http://motorsportsnews.net/archives/2607
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Courtesy of www.Catchfence.com
Dale Earnhardt to be remembered at Candlelight Tribute: Fans of Dale Earnhardt are being asked to pay tribute on Wednesday February 18th in honor and memory of the legendary driver. A guest book will be available throughout the day at Dale Earnhardt Inc. for those wishing to document their memories of Dale, while a candlelight tribute will be held outside the headquarters on Hwy #3 in Mooresville from 6:00 -8:30 PM.. The facility will be illuminated with candles while commemorative decals, prayer cards and hand held candles will be distributed to everyone in attendance. The facility’s gates will remain open through 10 p.m. for those that cannot attend the candlelight portion but still want to pay tribute to the legendary Dale Earnhardt. Those unable to attend are encouraged to light a candle in remembrance of Dale Earnhardt at home that evening. – Earnhardt Ganassi Racing With Felix Sabates, Press Release
Johnson Earns Third Consecutive SPEED Performer of the Year: Three-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion Jimmie Johnson earned his third consecutive SPEED Performer of the Year award, edging out NHRA Top Fuel champ Tony Schumacher and Formula One phenom Lewis Hamilton to earn the prestigious Mario Andretti Trophy, a unique bronze sculpture by artist Elie Hazak depicting Andretti’s career and heritage. The award, part of the annual SPEED Performance Awards (air date Feb. 5 at 10 p.m. ET), was voted on by a 15-member SPEED panel, headlined by Andretti, “Wind Tunnel” host Dave Despain, veteran broadcasters Bob Varsha and Ralph Sheheen, SPEEDtv.com writers Robin Miller and Tom Jensen and versatile racers Tommy Kendall and Dorsey Schroeder. Andretti, named the “Driver of the Century” by the Associated Press, and SPEED President Hunter Nickell surprised Johnson with the award during today’s Lowe’s Motor Speedway NASCAR Media Tour stop at Hendrick Motorsports. Johnson finished the voting with an average ballot position of 3.2, followed by Schumacher (3.7), Hamilton (3.7), IRL champ Scott Dixon (4.4), MotoGP racer Valentino Rossi (5.1) and F1’s Felipe Massa (6.9). SPEED is the nation’s first and foremost cable television network dedicated to motor sports and the passion for everything automotive. From racing to restoration, motorcycles to movies, SPEED delivers quality programming from the track to the garage. Now available in more than 78 million homes in North America, SPEED is among the fastest-growing sports cable networks in the country and, the home to NASCAR on SPEED and an industry leader in interactive TV, video on demand, mobile initiatives and broadband services. For more information, please visit SPEEDtv.com, the online motor sports authority. – SPEED TV, Press Release
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Courtesy of Stock Car Gazette subscriber Ed B. – thanks!
Wondering how long it’ll take Stewart-Haas Racing to get up to speed? Jeff Hammond says some may not keep up.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nascar/story/9112516/Media-Tour-Preview:-Stewart-Haas-Racing
A NASCAR shakeout would be tramatic
http://www.kansascity.com/sports/story/994679.html
If Dale Earnhardt were alive today..
http://www.intersportswire.com/archives/208
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Your ad could be displayed here… very reasonable rates. E-mail Mike@MotorSportsNews.Net
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Courtesy of Google Alerts
NASCAR notebook: Bobby Labonte speaks about new job
AutoWeek – USA
Multi-time motocross champion Ricky Carmichael realizes that he faces a huge learning curve in his rookie season in the Camping World Truck Series. …
http://www.autoweek.com/article/20090120/FREE/901209972
Super Cup Stock Car Series Coming To Shenandoah Speedway
Harrisonburg Daily News Record – Harrisonburg,VA,USA
HICKORY, NC — A new racing series will be introduced at the Shenandoah Speedway in 2009. The Super Cup Stock Car Series has reached an agreement with the …
http://www.dnronline.com/pnc_details.php?AID=34867&CHID=42
Penske ramps up effort to thwart Ganassi four-peat at Rolex 24
AutoWeek – USA
But while most fights between the racing giants occur in the stock-car and open-wheel ranks, the front lines have moved to sports-car competition. …
http://www.autoweek.com/article/20090121/FREE/901219989
Labonte finds new groove
FayObserver.com – Fayetteville,NC,USA
They got a rude awakening in 2008 as to just how difficult it is to be a frontrunner in stock car racing’s premier division. “Certainly, our performance …
http://www.fayobserver.com/article?id=316354
Stewart puts his stamp all over new NASCAR team
The Associated Press
But the chance to run his own organization at the highest level in NASCAR was too great to pass up, so the two-time series champion left the cozy confines …
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5j_gGo0CCvIBTo91ezlCjHbCugIDgD95RQBSO0
NASCAR notebook: Labonte gets Hall of Fame ride
Kansas City Star – MO,USA
But on Tuesday, Labonte said that he was “freaking excited” about the upcoming NASCAR season. Labonte will drive the No. 96 car of Hall of Fame Racing. …
http://www.kansascity.com/sports/story/993021.html
Mario Andretti makes a surprise appearance at Hendrick Motorsports …
The award honors the best driver of the past year in all forms of motor racing, including F1, NASCAR, Motop GP, etc. Andretti also took the time to comment on the idea currently being floated in F1 by bernie Ecclestone to replace the …
http://blog.al.com/blogoftomorrow/2009/01/mario_andretti_makes_a_surpris.html
Stewart celebrating a new start, Hendrick celebrating 25 years …
Gaston Gazette – Gastonia,NC,USA
If you’re keeping a scorecard at home, that’s eight Cup (five Winston, two Nextel, one Sprint), three Craftsman (now Camping World) Truck and one Busch (now …
http://www.gastongazette.com/sports/stewart_29566___article.html/year_years.html
Brother of Jimmie Johnson to make racing debut
USA Today – USA
Vowing to run a full scheduled in both the Nationwide and Camping World truck series, Shelton, who is black, becomes one of the few minority owners in the …
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/motor/nascar/2009-01-21-jarit-johnson_N.htm
Five questions that need answers
FOXSports.com – USA
What’s the status of the Sprint Cup Series car? Is NASCAR willing to listen to drivers and crew chiefs in order to make the Sprint Cup Series race car …
http://msn.foxsports.com/nascar/story/9116358/Five-questions-that-need-answers
NASCAR won’t budge on Roush Fenway’s 4-car limit
The Associated Press
A 48th ballot will represent the results of a nationwide fan ballot. To be eligible, former drivers must have competed 10 years in NASCAR and be retired for …
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5i1uFqvtd3N4d7IJNGlwFeqtJLR2gD95SFMBG0
NASCAR forges ahead, aims to help teams adapt to hardships
USA Today – USA
Perhaps NASCAR’s strategy for surviving the economic downturn could be summarized more succinctly another way. Managing costs and making a firmer commitment …
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/motor/nascar/2009-01-22-initiatives_N.htm
Fargo driver gets NASCAR chance
USA Today – USA
But she’s one of 12 drivers selected for NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity program, which seeks to develop minority and female drivers and crew members. …
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/motor/2009-01-22-2671619092_x.htm
Q&A: Stewart discusses ownership, NASCAR, Brett Favre
SportingNews.com – USA
More and more people who don’t know a thing about NASCAR now recognize you. A: It’s always been something that NASCAR has worked really hard at. …
http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=509876
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Courtesy of Insider Racing News
http://www.insiderracingnews.com
Motorcraft Back With Wood Brothers
Wood Brothers Racing announced Thursday that Motorcraft will be the primary sponsor for the team’s No. 21 Ford for nine NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races, beginning with the season-opening Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on Feb. 15. Bill Elliott, the 1988 NASCAR Cup champion and three-time Daytona 500 winner, will be the driver for all of Motorcraft’s races. Elliott, Motorcraft and the Wood Brothers first joined forces in 2007. The other eight Cup races that Elliott will compete in are March 8, Atlanta Motor Speedway; April 5, Texas Motor Speedway; May 24, Lowe’s Motor Speedway; June 14, Michigan International Speedway; July 11, Chicagoland Speedway; July 26, Indianapolis Motor Speedway; Sept. 6, Atlanta; and Nov. 22, Homestead Miami Speedway.
Ford Building New Engine
Ford NASCAR Sprint Cup teams will begin using a new engine later this season, but the exact rollout hasn’t been determined, Roush Yates Engines President Doug Yates said Thursday. The FR9 engine is the first purpose-built NASCAR racing engine ever built by Ford and the first new piece for the manufacturer since 1991. It has been in development for three years. Ford is the last of the four manufacturers to introduce a new engine as NASCAR has pushed for a more common engine in recent years. It meets all of the new NASCAR engine rules. “The best part about our approach is we’re the last guys in, so we get to see what everybody else did, but at the same time we remained very competitive with our current engine,” Yates said.
Roush Lobbies To Keep Five Teams
Roush Fenway Racing President Geoff Smith thinks NASCAR should rescind or at least delay implementation of a rule that would force the outfit to cut one of its Sprint Cup teams after the 2009 season. A NASCAR spokesman said Thursday morning that there will be no reconsideration. Smith called attention to the number of mergers and new affiliations that have taken place in the last year as a sign of the changes in the sport since NASCAR announced plans for the rule change. NASCAR announced a four-team limit in November 2005 but gave Roush Fenway until the end of 2009 to make its cut because of the contracts the organization already had in place.
Kvapil In For Only Five Races
Yates Racing is committed to running the first five NASCAR Sprint Cup races with Travis Kvapil, with any races of the season beyond that still to be determined, team general manager Max Jones said Thursday. For Kvapil, it’s déjà vu as he was in a similar position a year ago but ended up running a full Cup schedule in the No. 28 car. “A year ago we didn’t really have a great idea of what we were going to do,” Kvapil said Thursday during the Sprint Media Tour. “It is five for sure [this year]. At least I’m getting an opportunity to go out there and try to run up front, try to compete and get some recognition. It’s kind of a bummer how it all played out. I completely understand how and why it all fell into place. But as a race-car driver and what we did with Yates Racing and the [No.] 28 team throughout 2008, I’m kind of bummed out we’re in the same spot we were a year ago.” Jones said he hopes that sponsorship can be found, much like the team did last year when it ran an unsponsored car in several races and had several occasional primary sponsors.
Mike Wallace Finds Daytona Ride
TRG Motorsports officials announced plans today to enter the season-opening NASCAR Sprint Cup Daytona 500, with veteran Mike Wallace driving the team’s No. 71 Chevrolet. TRG Motorsports has purchased a speedway car from Richard Childress Racing. Through their association with Chevrolet, TRG and RCR have entered into a technical alliance. A team news release says that the company expects more than 55 entries to compete for the 43 starting positions in the race, so they turned to Wallace. Wallace has three career wins at Daytona, including victories in the ARCA Re/Max Series and the inaugural Truck race at the track. He also won there in 2004 in what is now known as the Nationwide Series. Butch Hylton, who won at Daytona with Kevin Harvick Inc.’s No. 33 Nationwide team in 2005 and helped Yates Racing put two cars on the front row for the 2007 Daytona 500, will be the crew chief.
Investment Group Buys Hooters Pro Cup Series
Interstate Investment Group (IIG) has acquired all assets of the U.S.A.R. stock car series from Hooters of America, the organization announced on Wednesday. The new investment group has acquired all tangible assets including trademarks, website, naming rights and contractual privileges. The new racing venture will be known as USA RACING, Inc. and John L. “Jack” McNelly will serve as president. Interstate Investment Group is comprised of Jack McNelly, owner of MacHill Motorsports, Mooresville, N.C.; Gary Kale and Carl Hubbard, owners of Heritage Truck Centers, Beckley, W.Va.; Chip Lofton, owner of Strutmasters, Roxboro, N.C.; and Larry Camp, President of Camp & Associates, Inc., Concord, N.C.
Andretti Surprises Johnson
On Wednesday, shortly after being introduced at the Hendrick Motorsports stop on the NASCAR Sprint Media Tour hosted by Lowe’s Motor Speedway, Johnson was surprised by another legendary driver – Mario Andretti. — Andretti was there to present Johnson with the Speed Performer of the Year award, which Johnson won for third straight year. He edged National Hot Rod Association Top Fuel champ Tony Schumacher and Formula One phenom Lewis Hamilton to earn the Mario Andretti Trophy. The award was voted on by a 15-member panel that included Andretti and several broadcasters and analysts who work for Speed.
Smith Calls For Blackouts
Bruton Smith says NASCAR should black out the races in local markets to help tracks sell all their tickets. NFL games are not shown in a home market unless they are sold out about 72 hours before the game. Thus, if Smith had his way, if Lowe’s Motor Speedway couldn’t sell out for a Cup race, then Charlotte would not be shown the race on TV. Or if Richmond did not sell out, then that market would not get to see the race aired live. Smith says a blackout could help ensure more tickets being sold. Smith notes that TV does too good of a job broadcasting the races, so it’s easier for a fan to decide to stay home and watch it on TV instead of going to the event and paying for tickets, concessions and other items.
Stewart Signs Burger King
Stewart-Haas Racing announced Wednesday that Burger King has signed a multiyear sponsorship agreement with the organization, beginning with the 2009 NASCAR Sprint Cup season. The sponsor will be featured twice as the primary paint scheme on team co-owner/driver Tony Stewart’s No. 14 Chevrolet – at Daytona International Speedway on July 4 and at Dover International Speedway on Sept. 27. Additionally, Burger King will become the exclusive quick-service restaurant sponsor of Eldora Speedway, the dirt track Stewart owns in Rossburg, Ohio.
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Courtesy of Jayski
http://www.jayski.com
Daytona 500 entry list: it’s rough, it’s crude, it’s probably incomplete BUT getting better, but see the Totally Unofficial 2009 Daytona 500 Entry List page also it explains the Daytona 500 qualifying format, different then all the other races of the season.
http://www.jayski.com/stats/2009/entries/1dis2009-entry.htm
Donohue on pole for Rolex 24: David Donohue edged Timo Bernhard by 0.001 seconds Thursday to take the pole position for the 47th Rolex 24 At Daytona, breaking the Daytona Prototype track record. Donohue turned a lap in 1 minute, 40.540 seconds — averaging 127.472 mph — in the #58 Brumos Porsche Riley he will share with Darren Law, Buddy Rice and Antonio Garcia in the race. “Actually, winning the pole was a bit of a surprise,” Donohue said. “We had a bit of a problem with traffic on what I thought was my fastest lap. We were having an electrical gremlin, so I didn’t know how quick I was running. The team told me I was P-1, but I didn’t know by how much and what to do with the tires. But I said it before, all that counts is where you are at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday.” Donohue joined his father, the late Mark Donohue, as a pole winner in the event. The elder Donohue won the pole for Penske Racing in 1971. They joined Dan and Alex Gurney as father-son pole winners.(ESPN/AP)(1-23-2009)
NASCAR Drivers kick off 2009 season in Rolex 24 at Daytona: The Daytona 500 and the start of the 2009 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season is less than three weeks away but a number of drivers and owners will make an early visit to Daytona International Speedway for Saturday’s Rolex 24 at Daytona. Since 1962, NASCAR stars have been a part of the historic, twice-around-the-clock sports car race. A Sprint Cup competitor has shared the winning Grand-Am Daytona Prototype in each of the past three seasons: Casey Mears in 2006 and Juan Pablo Montoya in 2007-08. Both return for this year’s race along with 2006-08 NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion Jimmie Johnson, AJ Allmendinger, Colin Braun and Kyle Petty. A number of NASCAR national series owners also stand out among an expected entry of more than 50 Daytona Prototype and GT cars. Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates seeks a record fourth consecutive Rolex 24 at Daytona victory. Richard Childress, Roger Penske and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series owner Kevin Buckler also have submitted entries. The race is set for 3:30pm/et Saturday and ends at the same time on Sunday. FOX will broadcast the Rolex 24 at Daytona from 3-4:30pm/et Jan. 24. SPEED coverage continues from 4:30-10pm/et and continues live through post-race beginning at 7:00am/et Jan. 25.(NASCAR PR)(1-23-2009)
Many New Teams for 2009 UPDATE: NASCAR says that 15 new teams have submitted Sprint Cup cars to be certified this year. According to Sprint Cup Series Director John Darby and other recent announcements, those teams would include Tommy Baldwin Racing [#36 Toyota], TRG Motorsports [#71 Chevy], Nemco Motorsports [#87 Chevy], Mayfield Motorsports [?-Toyota], R3 Motorsports [#23-Chevy], Germain Racing [#13-Toyota]], Phoenix Racing [#09-Chevy] and others.(SceneDaily)(1-22-2009)
UPDATE: Jeremy Mayfield is among 15 people who have applied for ownership in the Sprint Cup series this season, NASCAR officials said on Thursday. Among the others are Tommy Baldwin, Joe Nemechek, Kevin Butler, Buddy Cisco and Larry Gunselman. A full list was not available. NASCAR officials have no idea how many races the teams will run or under what manufacturer they will run. Only Tommy Baldwin, a former crew chief, has said he plans to run a full season with Toyota support. “It could be a one-shot Hail Mary for the Daytona 500,” Cup series director John Darby said of the others.
Mayfield, who made the Chase in 2004 and 2005 at Evernham Motorsports, is optimistic he’ll be at next month’s opener in Daytona Beach and many more races. “We’ve applied and we’re 99.9% sure it’s going to be a really, really good deal and work out for us,” he said. “I always said I didn’t want to own my own team. But everything that has come together, I feel like it’s an opportunity I cannot do.” (ESPN.com)(1-23-2009)
Phoenix Racing announces 2009 plans: Phoenix Racing announced today that they are expanding their Sprint Cup schedule to include the entire 2009 season. Driver announcement will be forth coming. Miccosukee Resorts and Gaming will continue their partnership with James Finch and Phoenix Racing as primary sponsor of the #1 Nationwide Chevrolet driven by Mike Bliss and the #09 Chevy for ten Sprint Cup races starting with the Daytona 500.(Phoenix Racing PR)(1-22-2009)
Ford to debut new ‘FR9′ engine this season: Ford and Roush Yates Engines latest NASCAR-approved engine will debut this season. Code-named “FR9,” this new piece is the first purpose-built NASCAR racing engine to ever come out of Ford Motor Company. Its design has been spearheaded and developed by Ford Racing engineer David Simon, and famed engine builder Doug Yates, along with input from legendary Ford Racing engine engineer Mose Nowland. “This is an exciting time for us to say the least, especially with the way our two companies have worked so well together on this project,” said Yates. “I’ve never had the opportunity to work on a NASCAR engine with a clean sheet of paper, but that’s basically what we’ve done and I’ve enjoyed every second. We feel we’ve got a piece that will not only be better than what we’ve got now, but will give us room to grow. With the exception of a few cylinder head changes through the years, we’ve had the same engine since 1991 and have been able to squeeze out every ounce of power and speed possible. What’s got me so excited is we’ve won races and championships with an engine many consider old, and this new piece is definitely a notch above, so we’ve got a lot to look forward to for years to come.” There are three key differences between “FR9” and the current engine. First, the cooling system has been re-worked and will allow teams to optimize the amount of tape they can put on the front grille and improve downforce. Second, the valve train has been improved, and, third, the production and assembly of “FR9” will be much easier than today’s model. Just when “FR9” is ready for competition remains to be seen, but a tentative target date is the second-half of the 2009 season. “We’re not going to rush this engine into competition until we’re 100% sure it’s going to meet our strict standards,” said Yates. “We don’t feel a need to rush because our current engine is still strong and that gives us the luxury to take our time and make sure we do “FR9” right. I know we’ve got a winner here, and I can’t wait to see it on the track.”(Ford Racing)(1-22-2009)
Motorcraft to sponsor Wood Bros for 9 races: For the ninth consecutive year, Ford Customer Service Division’s Motorcraft brand will team with legendary Wood Brothers Racing to compete in the highest form of stock car racing. Motorcraft, a Ford Motor Company brand of automotive parts ranging from filters and spark plugs to engines and transmissions, will be the primary sponsor on the Wood Brothers #21 Sprint Cup Ford Fusion for nine races (see schedule below), beginning in February at the Daytona 500 and culminating with the season-ending Ford 400 at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Bill Elliott, the 1988 NASCAR champion driving a Coors/Motorcraft Thunderbird, is scheduled to be the driver for all of Motorcraft’s races. Elliott, Motorcraft and the Wood Brothers first joined forces in 2007. “We are very proud to continue our long-standing relationship with Wood Brothers Racing and Bill Elliott,” said Darryl Hazel, Ford Customer Service Division Vice President. “The Woods are synonymous with Ford, and we are thrilled to be associated with such a tremendous group of people.”
“We are very pleased to have Motorcraft back with us for the 2009 season,” said Wood Brothers Racing co-owner Eddie Wood. “Motorcraft first sponsored us in 2001 and we value their involvement in the sport for the past nine years. They have been loyal to us, we have always been loyal to them and Ford. It makes you feel good. It makes you feel like family. Without Ford Motor Company, the outlook for this season would probably be different.” The Wood Brothers are acknowledged pioneers in the sport of stock-car racing, and have earned 96 wins in over 50 years of NASCAR competition – second most in Ford Racing history. “Ford’s appreciation for our loyalty throughout the years is what kept us going, and, in turn, we keep on going for them, too,” said Wood Brothers Racing co-owner Len Wood. The nine races: Daytona, Atlanta [both], Texas [Apr], Charlotte [May], Michigan [June], Chicago, Indy and Homestead. Motorcraft offers a complete line of original equipment-approved parts that are designed, engineered, and recommended by Ford Motor Company. From routine maintenance to underhood and powertrain repairs, Motorcraft parts offer exceptional value with the highest quality and right fit at competitive prices. Motorcraft parts are available locally and are backed nationwide by Ford Motor Company’s Service Parts Limited Warranty. For more information, visit www.motorcraft.com.(PCG Campbell/Motorcraft/Quick Lane PR), see an image of the car on my #21 Team Schemes page.(1-22-2009) http://www.jayski.com/schemes/2009/21cup.htm
Burger King to sponsor Stewart for 2 races – image posted:
see an image of the scheme on my #14 Team Schemes page.(1-21-2009)
http://www.jayski.com/schemes/2009/14cup.htm
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Your ad could be displayed here… very reasonable rates. E-mail Mike@MotorSportsNews.Net
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Courtesy of Jayski
http://www.jayski.com
Dave Rogers could be crew chief on #20 team: UPDATE 2: Brad Coleman expects that Dave Rogers will be his crew chief for the races he runs in the #20 Joe Gibbs Racing Nationwide Series car this year. That would only happen, of course, if Rogers gets reinstated by NASCAR. Rogers, fellow crew chief Jason Ratcliff and five other Joe Gibbs Racing crewmen were indefinitely suspended for manipulating the throttle of their cars prior to a test to determine their engine horsepower following the race in Michigan last August. The team is expected to apply for their reinstatement prior to the beginning of the 2009 season.(Scene Daily)(1-20-2009)
UPDATE: Joe Gibbs Racing hopes to have currently suspended Dave Rogers and Jason Ratcliff resume their Nationwide Series crew chief roles in time for the second race of the 2009 season, which comes at Auto Club (Calif.) Speedway. For the organizaiton to do that, NASCAR would have to reinstate the crew chiefs prior to the start of the season, team president J.D. Gibbs said Tuesday night. “When NASCAR officially says – which they haven’t – [that] it’s over, we’ll hold them one more race,” Gibbs said. “They haven’t said what they’re going to do. Hopefully they will say they’re reinstated for next year and we’ll probably hold them from Daytona.”(Scene Daily)(1-21-2009)
UPDATE 2: NASCAR has reinstated Joe Gibbs Racing Nationwide Series crew chiefs Dave Rogers and Jason Ratcliff as well as five other team crewmen who were suspended indefinitely last August. The NASCAR suspensions lasted 10 races. They were part of a penalty for attempting to limit the car’s throttle response during a horsepower test following the event at Michigan International Speedway.(Sceme Daily)(1-22-2009)
Hearing that JTG will have Michael McDowell driving the #47 at Daytona and there is sponsorship with him for a partial schedule. Gene Nead will be the crew chief for the team. JTG Daugherty continues to work with Kelly Bires to run a limited number of races.(1-20-2009)
UPDATE 2: Bires could race in the second half of the year if the team finds money, but he also is free to pursue other opportunities. As consolation prizes go, though, Bires’ is not bad. He will drive for Blackjack Racing, a new, part-time team out of the ARCA series, [in the Daytona 500]. “If we make the race, we’ll probably get more publicity out of that than I did out of a whole year and a half in the Nationwide Series.” Blackjack plans a limited schedule for its regular driver, Westby native Dexter Bean, but with only one NASCAR short-track race to his credit, Bean has not been approved by NASCAR to race on a superspeedway.(Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)(1-20-2009)
UPDATE 3: McDowell will run for Raybestos Rookie of the Year honors and plans to enter at least the first 16 races. By mid-summer, McDowell hopes team owner Tad Geschickter will have found funding to allow the team to continue further. McDowell hopes that with some solid performances, he’ll be able to work toward 2010 in securing funding to go Cup racing with JTG.(Scene Daily)(1-22-2009)
Hooters Pro Cup Series Purchsed by Group, Including McNelly: Interstate Investment Group (IIG) has acquired all assets of the U.S.A.R. stock car series from Hooters of America, the organization announced. The new investment group has acquired all tangible assets including trademarks, website, naming rights and contractual privileges. The new racing venture will be known as USA RACING, Inc. and John L. “Jack” McNelly will serve as president. Interstate Investment Group is comprised of Jack McNelly, owner of MacHill Motorsports [#56 in the Nationwide Series], Mooresville, N.C.; Gary Kale and Carl Hubbard, owners of Heritage Truck Centers, Beckley, W.Va.; Chip Lofton, owner of Strutmasters, Roxboro, N.C.; and Larry Camp, President of Camp & Associates, Inc., Concord, N.C. “I am truly honored to have been chosen to be the President of USA Racing,” McNelly said. “I do realize we have a long road before us, but with the trust and dedication of IIG, the expertise possessed by the Board of Directors of USA Racing, the cooperation of our competitors and the extreme loyalty of all our fans, we will complete our journey.”(Camp & Associates PR)(1-21-2009)
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Courtesy of The Hot Lap
http://www.TheHotLap.com
Jimmie Johnson s younger brother, Jarit Johnson, was introduced Wednesday as a driver for Trail Motorsports, a new race team unveiled by owner Art Shelton with backing from long-time racing investor Armando Fitz.
“He’s done it the hard way,” Jimmie Johnson said. “It looks like he might have some opportunities coming along.”Vowing to run a full scheduled in both the Nationwide and Camping World truck series, Shelton, who is black, becomes one of the few minority owners in the sport. Read more (USAToday)
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/motor/nascar/2009-01-21-jarit-johnson_N.htm
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C A M P I N G * W O R L D * T R U C K * S E R I E S
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Courtesy of Jayski
http://www.jayski.com
TRG enters Daytona 500; readying 2 truck entries: TRG Motorsports has announced their entry in the 51st running of the Daytona 500. The team will have veteran driver Mike Wallace pilot the #71 TRG Motorsports Chevrolet on Sunday, February 15 at Daytona Int’l Speedway. The next 30 days will be a busy for TRG. The company has five cars entered in this weekend’s Grand-Am Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona and the finishing touches are going on the company’s two Camping World Truck Series entries as well as their two ARCA cars for next month.(TRG Motorsports PR)(1-22-2009)
Austin to Truck Series: UPDATE 2 New team formed; more info: Negotiations were ongoing late Tuesday night to put 19-year-old African-American driver Chase Austin into a full-time Truck series ride this season with a newly forming team. Austin’s mother and business manager, Marianne Austin, said details of a multi-year contract had not been finalized, but that the potential deal would take him into Trucks, then into the Nationwide Series and eventually to Cup. Austin is scheduled to participate in a press conference here Wednesday morning called by Fitz Motorsports, an existing organization which is expected to be revamped and enhanced into Trail Motorsports, with new majority ownership. “What we’re carving out with them would be full time for 2009 and beyond,” Marianne Austin said.(ESPN.com)(1-21-2009)
UPDATE: Former owner of the #22 Fitz Motorsports Dodge team, Armando Fitz, co-announced the birth of Trail Motorsport, LLC., with owner Arthur Shelton. The team laid out an all new look, competitive approach, and driver line-up for the 2009 NASCAR Nationwide Series. Chase Austin will drive the new team’s Camping World Truck while Jarit Johnson takes the reigns of the team’s Camping World East Series ride. A driver for the #22 Nationwide Series entry will be announced in the next couple of weeks. No sponsors where unveiled, but the team does have verbal agreements on some with announcements to come. With the unveiling came the Trail Motorsport “Fan Forward” philosophy that stresses the role of the average fan in the path this team will take. With unprecedented access to the team, fans will experience the opportunity to have their “voice” truly heard. The Team has made the commitment to ensure that a fan-member of the Trail Motorsport will be featured on the side of the car in every race, beginning in their first at Daytona.(RacingOne.com)(1-21-2009)
UPDATE 2: [Arthur] Shelton said he has a five-year commitment of his own finances, and “a five-year plan,” for the team. He will return mainly to his Chicago businesses, while Trail will be run day-to-day by his son, Patrick Shelton, who has extensive experience in motorsports marketing and business.(ESPN.com)(1-21-2009)
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New Driver Introduced In NCWTS
Nascar – USA
The NASCAR Nationwide Series and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series took center stage on Day Two of the NASCAR Sprint Charlotte Media Tour hosted by Lowe’s …
http://community.nascar.com/blogs/60976
GEICO Announces Six Race Truck Deal For Papis And Germain
FanZone Sports — NASCAR – Centerville,IA,USA
“The opportunity to drive the GEICO Toyota Tundra in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series will give me great experience at tracks where we will be racing …
http://fanzonesports.net/nascar/2009/01/geico-announces-six-race-truck-deal-for-papis-and-germain/
Chase Austin to drive the No. 32 truck in ’09
Rotoworld.com – USA
Chase Austin will drive the new team’s Camping World Truck while Jarit Johnson takes the reigns of the team’s Camping World East Series ride. …
http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/playerbreakingnews.asp?sport=NAS&id=409&line=8976&spln=1
Q&A: NASCAR Media Day – Miscellaneous Comments From Tuesday
PaddockTalk – USA
NASCAR Camping World Truck Series owners Kevin and DeLana Harvick unveiled their team’s No. 33 Longhorn Moist Snuff Chevrolet driven by Ron Hornaday and the …
http://paddocktalk.com/news/html/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=101056&newlang=&topic=11&catid=21
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A R C A (Automobile Racing Club of America)
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Courtesy of ARCA
http://www.arcaracing.com
Ken Weaver Returns; Signs With Cunningham Motorsports; Veteran Paul Andrews to Crew Chief
STATHAM GA (1-22-09) – Cunningham Motorsports announced today that veteran ARCA RE/MAX Series driver Ken Weaver will be the driver of the team’s no. 4 Dodge Chargers in 2009.
Weaver, who has 49 career series starts over a four-year span, finished third in national championship points in 2005. However, the Dallas, Texas driver hasn’t raced in nearly three years. Suffice it to say, he is eager to get back in the groove.
[Read More] – http://www.arcaracing.com/news.cfm?contentid=7567
DiCarlo, Brent, Keselowski Part of Racing Day this Friday in Detroit
DETROIT MI (1-22-09)–ARCA RE/MAX Series drivers Gabi DiCarlo, Robb Brent and Brian Keselowski will join the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, IndyCar Series, Firestone Indy Lights Series, American Le Mans Series and the NHRA in celebrating Racing Day at the North American International Auto Show at Cobo Center in Detroit, Michigan on Friday, January 23rd. Several current and future stars of racing will meet race fans for autograph sessions and interactive Q & A Sessions throughout the day.
[Read More] – http://www.arcaracing.com/news.cfm?contentid=7566
Featured Driver: Tayler Malsam
TOLEDO OH (1-22-09)–Tayler Malsam drove the No. 4 Dodge Development Dodge to ninth in the final 2008 ARCA RE/MAX Series point standings. The Washington native is today’s featured driver.
[Read More] – http://www.arcaracing.com/news.cfm?contentid=7559
ARCA Trucker Gullatta Tops Speed Charts in Prep for Koni Challenge Road Course Race at Daytona
DAYTONA BEACH FL (1-21-09) – The ARCA RE/MAX Series isn’t the only connection an ARCA entity has with Daytona Int’l Speedway. As it turns out, the ARCA Lincoln Welders Truck Series is part of the show too, compliments of ARCA Truck veteran Nick Gullatta, who is burning up the speed charts in the Koni Sports Car Challenge practice sessions in preparation for Saturday’s “Roar Before the Rolex 24″ at the World Center of Racing.
[Read More] – http://www.arcaracing.com/news.cfm?contentid=7558
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Q&A: NASCAR Pre-Season Comments By The Penske Organization
PaddockTalk – USA
Justin Allgaier, the 2008 ARCA RE/MAX Series champion, will drive the No. 12 Verizon Wireless Dodge. Justin Allgaier, No. 12 Verizon Wireless Dodge: (ON …
http://paddocktalk.com/news/html/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=101044&newlang=&topic=11&catid=21
The Final Lap with Kerry Murphey » Podcast: Kerry Interviews Nur Ali
Nur Ali is competing in the ARCA RE/MAX Series and is the first and only Asian-American (Pakistani) to compete in the series. On February 7, he will be competing in Lucas Oil 200 at Daytona International Speedway. …
http://finallapradio.com/2009/01/22/nascar-podcast-kerry-murphey-interviews-nur-ali-first-and-only-pakistani-american-stock-car-driver/
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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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NASCAR ‘brings clout’
London Free Press – Canada
By JIM CRESSMAN The NASCAR Canadian Tire Series is coming to Delaware Speedway — if not this year, then for sure in 2010. The track has laid the groundwork …
http://lfpress.ca/newsstand/Sports/Motorsports/2009/01/21/8094991-sun.html
Big changes at Delaware Speedway
By GREGM
Race Director Jeff Wilcox said the track is willing to consider a NASCAR Canadian Tire Series race in 2009 if available, but it’s a more realistic goal to look ahead to 2010 for that series. Facility upgrades are also in the works for …
http://insidetracknews.blogspot.com/2009/01/big-changes-at-delaware-speedway.html
Delaware Speedway, long a 2 race track in the old CASCAR Series in Canada, but with no races there in the last two years, is making many improvements in order to garner a NASCAR CANADIAN TIRE SERIES race for 2010, if not one in 2009. See attached article below.
http://lfpress.ca/newsstand/Sports/Motorsports/2009/01/21/8094991-sun.html
(thanks, Matt)
Pro experience awaits at CPT show
London Free Press – Canada
NASCAR Canadian Tire Series champion Scott Steckley of Milverton is at Toyota Speedway in Irwindale, Calif., this weekend for the NASCAR Toyota All-Star …
http://lfpress.ca/newsstand/Sports/Motorsports/2009/01/22/8108131-sun.html
No typical off-season for Steckly
The Beacon Herald – Stratford,Ontario,Canada
But for Milverton’s Scott Steckly, the 2008 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series champion, this winter has been as busy and eventful as the race season. …
http://www.stratfordbeaconherald.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1399852
Stock car team turns to St. Clair for testing
Windsor Star – Ontario, Canada
A local stock car racing team enlisted the help of St. Clair College’s automotive department Wednesday to test the car they hope will win a major race in …
http://www.canada.com/windsorstar/news/story.html?id=090553f8-0159-4505-a1f4-2e34bf564052
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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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The Nascar Insiders
Ask The Insiders Wednesday #7
After a light edition last week, we are back this Wednesday with another full plate of questions for “Ask The Insiders.”
http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheNascarInsiders/~3/518289112/
Insider Racing News
http://insiderracingnews.com/Writers/DD/012209.html
Some Observations From The NASCAR Sprint Cup Media Tour
by Doug Demmons
Insider Racing News
http://insiderracingnews.com/Writers/BW/012209.html
Nationwide Series COT First Victim of Poor Economy
by Brian Watkins
Insider Racing News
http://insiderracingnews.com/Writers/RG/012309.html
NASCAR’s Success Dependent on Big Three’s Success
by Rebecca Gladden
The Nascar Insiders
Teams Putting The Cart Before The Horse
How many times in the last couple of days have we heard, “we have sponsorship commitments, but we’re not ready to announce anything yet.” Sure they had flashy presentations and innovative new ideas, but is there any substance behind their deals?
http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheNascarInsiders/~3/520567920/
Darrell Waltrip Finally Gets Honest With The Fans
The Thursday edition of Preseason Thunder on SPEED promised to be a good show. John Roberts hosted with Darrell Waltrip as his co-host via satellite from his home in Tennessee.
http://dalyplanet.blogspot.com/2009/01/darrell-waltrip-finally-gets-honest.html
France Talks Everything But TV In Thursday Remarks
Thursday afternoon at 1pm ET brought the annual “state of the sport” address from NASCAR Chairman Brian France.
http://dalyplanet.blogspot.com/2009/01/france-talks-everything-but-tv-in.html
NASCAR.com To Compete With NASCAR TV Partners
The dirty little word in the struggle for media access to your home is “convergence.”
http://dalyplanet.blogspot.com/2009/01/nascarcom-to-compete-with-nascar-tv.html
ESPN’s Feinberg Confirms No Side-By-Side Commercials In 2009
Here we go again. Thanks to reporter Dustin Long, ESPN’s top motorsports executive has spoken about the topic no network will touch. That is why side-by-side commercials work on the IRL races but not on NASCAR events.
http://dalyplanet.blogspot.com/2009/01/espns-feinberg-confirms-no-side-by-side.html
“NASCAR Wives” Will Not Follow Miss America On TLC
There is a buzz in the air about the new TV series debuting on the TLC network called NASCAR Wives.
http://dalyplanet.blogspot.com/2009/01/nascar-wives-will-not-follow-miss.html
NASCAR Brass And Media Collide On Thursday
This season has been very strange for NASCAR since the first day of January.
http://dalyplanet.blogspot.com/2009/01/nascar-brass-and-media-collide-on.html
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T V * L I S T I N G S
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Courtesy of Jayski
http://www.jayski.com/pages/tv.htm
Fri Jan 23
7:00 pm Trackside at Daytona SPEED
7:30 pm NASCAR PreSeason Thunder SPEED
10:00 pm NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown Qualifying SPEED
Sat Jan 24
4:30 pm ROLEX Sports Car Series: 24 Hours of Daytona, Part 1 SPEED
10:00 pm NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown SPEED
Sun Jan 25
7:00 am ROLEX Sports Car Series: 24 Hours of Daytona, Part 2 SPEED
8:00 am NASCAR Angels HALL
2:00 pm Whelen Geoff Bodine Bobsled Challenge SPEED
Mon Jan 26
7:00 pm NASCAR PreSeason Special SPEED
11:00 pm NASCAR PreSeason Special SPEED
Jayski does not list all the programming offered by SPEED; for complete listings go to their website, http://www.speedtv.com/schedule/
Always CHECK YOUR LOCAL LISTINGS!
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The Stock Car Gazette
Copyright 2002-2009 by MotorSportsNews.Net
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