Danica Schmanica

I don't know about the rest of y'all, but if I hear one more story about Danica Patrick, I'm going to scream and have to be taken away, ha ha, hee hee, ho ho.  So why am I writing this?  To prove a point.  Plus, it's my blog.  LOL

Danica Patrick is arguably a star.  She's an IRL driver with one win, and in her last three IRL races this year, her finishes were all top ten.  She's a model and a spokesperson.  But does she belong in NASCAR?  Yes, but not right now.  As I pointed out in another blog, she has one ARCA race, and four Nationwide races to her credit.  And she's only managed to finish two of the Nationwide races.  So, when it came time to choose an in-race reporter, so us fans can get expert front row analysis of what's going on in the race, ESPN, naturally chose Patrick.  That made about as much sense as leaving a drunk the keys to the liquor cabinet to make sure the booze is safe.  So why did ESPN do it?  Simple.  It sells.

Now, before all you conspiracy theorists, start screaming that I'm a male chauvinist pig, let me say this:  Patrick is a very talented driver.  You don't run Indy cars at 235 mph and have a top ten in the Indy 500 unless you are talented.  But Indy racing, and NASCAR are two very different animals, as Patrick, is learning the hard way.  What gripes me about Patrick's presence in NASCAR right now, is that she's here because of who she is, and not what she's earned or accomplished.  And she's taking seat time away from drivers who have earned that right.

Patrick will one day, have a legitimate place in NASCAR, and I'm all for it.  But, she should work her way up the ladder, just like everyone else did.  Not simply have it handed to her.  When and if she does get how NASCAR works, she'll be very good for the sport.  In terms of marketability, fan base, and more than likely Soap Opera drama every time she gets wrecked, or wrecks someone else. 

Welcome to NASCAR, Ms. Patrick. You will one day, be very good for our sport.  But please, come back when you have earned it, and not had it handed to you because you look good in a bikini.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author.

Credit Shout Out:  Photo courtesy of Yahoo! Sports and Getty Images.

Playing Catch Up

Since we were down with technical issues, a lot has happened in our world of NASCAR, so let's play some catch-up:

Burton Smith, owner of Speedway Motorsports, INC., could be playing a bit of poker with the New Hampshire Raceway in Loudon.  But let's start at the beginning.  Smith is at odds with the city over a $170,000 bill for police and fire protection.  He's responding by threatening to take away one of Loudon's two dates, and give one to Kentucky, where he's wanted a race for a long time.  Now here's the catch:  New Hampshire and Atlanta, are the two lowest-drawing tracks that SMI owns.  The racing at New Hampshire is, well, boring, and Atlanta keeps you on the edge of your seat.  So who wins?  I hate to say it, but I'm betting on Atlanta.  And in my opinion, as far as exciting racing, that would be a stupid, stupid move.  But, hey?  This is a business, right?  Don't forget when Smith threatened Charlotte with the loss of a date.  He got tax credits, and a new drag strip.  The man knows how to play the game.

In a recent poll, Jimmie Johnson, has surpased Dale Earnhardt, Jr., as NASCAR's Most Popular Driver.  HUH?  Speaking of Junior, he's only three points out of the 12th and final spot for the chase.  Unfortunately, the resources that have gone to improve him, have hurt Mark Martin something awful.  I hope they can find a balance there.  Martin deserves better than that.  Oh, in other Junior news, he said that when he drives the 3 car in the Nationwide race at Daytona this weekend, it will be his last time behind the wheel of that car saying, "It's time to put it to rest."

NASCAR has suspended the gasman for AJ Allmendinger’s Sprint Cup team for violating the sport’s substance abuse policy.  Richard Petty Motorsports says it in turn released Chris Moore from the organization.  Moore was suspended indefinitely Tuesday by NASCAR.  Moore failed a random drug test given two weeks ago at Infineon Raceway.  Idiots.

Jamie McMurray is really excited about returning to Daytona for the Coke Zero 400.  But the Daytona 500 Champion has even more to be excited about.  He and wife, Christy, are expecting their first child in December.


Woes continue for Rousch-Fenway racing and the Fords.  The speed and handling, just aren't there.  Only Greg Biffle, of the four Rousch drivers, finished on the lead lap at New Hampshire.  Anybody out there see Rousch going to another brand?  Hmmmmmmm????

With all the threats of retalliation, New Hampshire turned out to be a pretty quiet (read: Boring) race.  Everyone pretty much played nice all day.  That will change this weekend at Daytona, trust me.  My Pick:  I'm gonna go way out on a limb and choose Dale Earnhardt, Jr.  He's hungry, he's due, and this is one of his best tracks.

On a quick Nationwide Note, Danica Patrick returned to the series.  She finished 34th, three laps down.  Naturally, ESPN made her one of the in-race reporters, with all of four races under her belt, only two of which, she's managed to finish.  Yeah, I get that, don't you?  Until she gets some more experience, this is nothing but a marketing ploy, and I'm sick of hearing about it, and it distracting from the race.

We'll see you all after the race, and of course, we'll have another edition of the RJ's.  Enjoy the race and have a happy and safe holiday!!!

Credit Shout Out:  Photos courtesy of NASCAR.com, and Yahoo! Sports.

Technical Issues Are Fixed!!! (I Think)

Hey Gang, I'm pretty sure that all my technical issues are repaired and we're going to get back on the ball this week!!!!   Sorry for the delays.

Ross

NATIONWIDE New Hampshire

I had a great piece prepared on today's Nationwide race, but blogspot ate it for some reason and I can't find it.  As soon as I discover the problem, I'll get it up ASAP.  Welcome to the new follower!!!!

The Pole Is A Juan-derful Thing

Juan Pablo Montoya has won the pole for Sunday's Lenox Tools 301 at Loudon, New Hampshire.  Complete qualifying results are below:

1 Juan Pablo Montoya (42)


2 Kasey Kahne (9)

3 Kurt Busch (2)

4 Mark Martin (5)

5 Ryan Newman (39) 

6 David Reutimann (00)

7 Joe Nemechek (87)

8 Sam Hornish Jr. (77)

9 Clint Bowyer (33)

10 Jimmie Johnson (48)

11 Joey Logano (20) 

12 Marcos Ambrose (47)

13 Paul Menard (98) 

14 Brad Keselowski (12)

15 Scott Speed (82)

16 Jeff Gordon (24) 

17 Jeff Burton (31)

18 Regan Smith (78)

19 David Ragan (6) 

20 Denny Hamlin (11)

21 Carl Edwards (99) 

22 Kyle Busch (18)

23 Casey Mears (36)

24 Kevin Harvick (29)

25 Tony Stewart (14)

26 Martin Truex Jr. (56)

27 Jamie McMurray (1)

28 A J Allmendinger (43)

29 Reed Sorenson (83) 

30 Elliott Sadler (19)

31 Dale Earnhardt Jr. (88)

32 Max Papis (13)

33 Matt Kenseth (17)

34 Greg Biffle (16)

35 J.J. Yeley (46)

36 Dave Blaney (66)

37 Michael McDowell (55)

38 David Stremme (26)

39 David Gilliland (37)

40 Andy Lally (71)

41 Kevin Conway (34)

42 Bobby Labonte (7) 

43 Todd Bodine (164)

Credit Shout Out:  Photo courtesy of Yahoo! Sports.

BREAKING NEWS: NEW HAMPSHIRE

Qualifying has begun in Loudon, NH, for Sunday's Lenox Tools 300.  Complete reults later today, right here.

SONOMA: WTF WAS THAT?!?!

Marcos Ambrose, is crushed.  And he sould be.  Martin Truex, Jr., is pissed, and he should be.  Ditto for Elliott Saddler.  Jeff Gordon is probably in hiding.  And he should be.  Jimmie Johnson.......well, don't get me started on that one.

Before I get started, let me say, that I like Marcos Ambrose.  But, to silence all you conspiracy theorists, about NASCAR handing Jimmie Johnson his first road course win, I will say this:  The rule is plainly stated.  Cars must maintain a reasonable speed behind the pace car.  Ambrose, did not.  For some inexplicable reason, he shut his car off going UPHILL, and got passed by seven other cars.  So, NASCAR, doing the right thing, put him in eighth place.  The rule is plainly stated, Ambrose, broke the rule and was punnished accordingly.  End of story.  Or is it?

It was painfully obvious that JJ was not going to catch Ambrose.  The 47 was just too good.  But what baflles me is the caution that was thrown.  Brad Keselowski spun out.  Yes, there was some fluid on the track, but why didn't NASCAR throw the caution when there was a five car spin in the middle of a turn?  Simple.  It wouldn't have helped pretty boy out.  I don't personally think NASCAR throws cautions to benefit certian drivers, but that one, was highly questionable to say the least.  I can not stand seeing Jimmie Johnson win, but it really boils my water when one is handed to him, as today's was.  Ambrose, broke the rules, yes.  But, if that ridiculous caution hadn't been thrown, he wouldn't have had a chance to do so and would have won the race.  This one, in JJ's win column, should have an asterisk beside it.  He didn't earn it.  It was given to him.

Jeff Gordon, was not driving the 24 car today.  I don't know who was, but he hit everything out there except the Pace Car.  That was very uncharacteristic racing from him, and He manned up and admitted it.  But, I don't expect he'll be on Martin Truex, Jr. or Elliott Saddler's Christmas Card lists, this year.



I'm not a fan of road courses, but this one was pretty entertaining, if not, one the weirdest races I've seen in a long time.  Now, on to this week's edition of the RJ's:

THE WHO THE @#$& WAS THAT IN THE 24 CAR? AWARD:  Jeff Gordon.  When a driver admits he was racing wrong, you gotta respect that.  But, you gotta expect better from a four-time champion.

THE WHERE THE @#$& DID HE COME FROM? AWARD:  Dale Earnhardt, Jr.  11th?  At a road course?  Great run for the 88 crew, and Lance McGrew didn't screw up one single time.  Things might be looking up.

THE WHAT THE @#$& WAS HE SMOKING, IT WASN'T MARLBOROS AWARD:  Marcos Ambrose.  Saving fuel, I get.  But shutting off your car, going uphill, when you don't need to save fuel, leading with ten laps to go?  Bad move, Marcos.  But nobody feels for you like I do.

THE I'M GOING TO KICK HIS @#$&ING A$$ AWARD:  Tie.  Martin Truex, Jr. and Elliott Saddler.  Jeff Gordon had better stay low this week.  He got two for one in that deal, and was clearly in the wrong.

THE I THINK I'M GONNA BARF AWARD:  Jimmie Johnson.  This one was handed to him.  He didn't earn a damn thing.  Period.

On to New Hampshire next week.  My pick:  Ryan Newman.  He's good at this joint, and will prove it again.

I'm taking the next couple of days off to deal with funeral arrangements and stuff.  Ya'll have a great week and we'll see you soon here, for more Beatin' and Bangin'.

Credit Shout Out:  Photos and Vidieo courtesty of Yahoo! sports and NASCAR.com

NATIONWIDE ALERT

Hi Gang:

There will be no blogs on the Nationwide race in Wisconsin on Saturday, as I've had a death in the family.   I should be back for Sunday's cup race.  Thanks for your understanding.

Ross

Khane Pole

Kasey Khane has won the pole for Sunday's Toyota/Save Mart 350 at Sonoma Raceway in California.  Khane is the defending race winner, also.  Complete qualifying results are below:

1 Kasey Kahne (9)

2 Jimmie Johnson (48)

3 Kurt Busch (2)

4 Kevin Harvick (29)

5 Jeff Gordon (24) 

6 Marcos Ambrose (47)

7 Tony Stewart (14)

8 Bobby Labonte (71)

9 Greg Biffle (16) 

10 Martin Truex Jr. (56)

11 Mark Martin (5)

12 Denny Hamlin (11)

13 Ryan Newman (39)

14 Juan Pablo Montoya (42)

15 A J Allmendinger (43)

16 Robby Gordon (7)

17 Boris Said (26)

18 Paul Menard (98)

19 Carl Edwards (99)

20 Joey Logano (20)

21 Elliott Sadler (19)

22 Clint Bowyer (33)

23 Scott Speed (82)

24 Dale Earnhardt Jr. (88)

25 Jamie McMurray (1)

26 David Gilliland (38)

27 Kyle Busch (18)

28 Joe Nemechek (87)

29 Max Papis (13)

30 Jeff Burton (31)

31 Regan Smith (78)

32 Jan Magnussen (09)

33 David Reutimann (00)

34 Matt Kenseth (17)

35 P.J. Jones (207)

36 Brad Keselowski (12)

37 J.J. Yeley (46)

38 Mattias Ekstrom (83)

39 Sam Hornish Jr. (77)

40 Travis Kvapil (37)

41 Kevin Conway (34)

42 David Ragan (6)

43 Dave Blaney (66)

Enjoy the race, and we'll see you here afterward with our thoughts, a chance to post yours, and of course, this week's edition of the RJ's.
 
Credit Shout Out:  Photo courtesy of NASCAR.com.

King Of The Road

With the Nationwide and Cup series hitting the road this week, (pun intended) I was just curious:

Who do you think is the best road course racer out there today?  Is it a cup regular, or a "ringer" like Boris Said?  Have your say now, Beatin' and Bangin'.

Debris, Or Not Debris? That Is The Question

There has been lots of debate on what some are referring to as "Phantom Cautions" towards the end of races, when someone is dominating, or a very popular driver needs a break.  True?  Let's look at it:

Denny Hamlin was leading by over ten seconds with just a few laps to go at Michigan.  BAM! (apologies to Chef Emeril Lagasse) out comes a caution for "debris".  Leader Hamlin, says he never saw the debris.  Kasey Khane, who was second, swore up and down he saw it.  What gives?  Obviously, Hamlin, didn't want to see it, and Khane, desperately did.  In my eyes, this is a simple question of credibility on NASCAR's part.  The answer?  VERY simple.  SHOW IT TO US, ALREADY!!!!

If the network can't show it to us on the track, (makes you wonder if it's really there, huh?)  then at least spare us one of the hundred cut-aways to Larry McReynolds and his mindless chatter and replace it with one from a NASCAR official telling, and more importantly, SHOWING us what it was.  For NASCAR to have made all the right moves, as far as trying to put on better racing for us fans, I'd hate to see all that go to waste over them trying to manipulate a finish.  I'm not accusing them of that, yet, but it's sure pointing in that direction.  Have your say now, Beatin' And Bangin'.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the Author.

Credit Shout Out:  Photo courtesy of Getty Images and Yahoo! Sports.

MICHIGAN: Hamlin, FedEx, Deliver Again

Denny Hamlin and FedEx made it two races in a row and five on the season, as they took the win at Michigan.  Kasey Khane was second, Kurt Busch, Jeff Gordon and Tony Stewart rounded out the top five.  Jimmie Johnson was sixth, Dale Earnhardt, Jr. was seventh (HUH?) Jeff Burton, Greg Biffle and Joey Logano rounded out the top then.



Ford looked pretty strong with the debut of it's new engine.  The drivers are saying that the power is there, but the handling leaves a lot to be desired.  It was a pretty ho-hum race, really.  No one really got mad at anyone, Kevin Harvick and Joey Logano gave each other room like they were on two different tracks, and there really wasn't any contact to speak of.  In other words, it was Michigan.  Now, on to this week's RJ's:

THE YAAAAAAWN AWARD:  Denny Hamlin.  He won this race with dominance. 

THE WHO THE @#$& WAS THAT IN THE TOP TEN? AWARD:  Dale Earnhardt, Jr.  VERY nice to see, but he'd better keep it up if he's going to make the chase and keep his job.

THE WHERE THE @#$& WAS HE AWARD:  Tom Logano.  It was nice not to have to see or hear about him for a change.  But, Mommy Logano was still there.  Cut the apron strings, already.

THE YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT THE @#$& YOU'RE TALKING ABOUT! AWARD:  Me.  I picked Jeff Burton to win, but he did get a Top Ten.

THE SOMMINEX AWARD:  Michigan International Racway.  I understand that this track is in the backyard of the manufacturing community, but the racing there is BORING and it doesn't deserve two dates.  You will note that there were lots of empty seats.

Next week, it's on to Infenion.  Look for lots of road race ringers in the feild.  My Pick:  Tony Stewart.  Despite his slump, make no mistake about it.  This is one of the best drivers in the world, period.  If it's got wheels, he can make it go fast, and do it well.

See you later this week, so we can do some beatin' and bangin'!

Courtesy Shout Out:  Photos and videos courtesty of Yahoo! Sports and NASCAR.com.

Michigan Cup Post

My coverage of today's race at Michigan will be posted ASAP.  I'm waiting on clearance to use the photos and videos I've requested.

Sorry for the delay.

Ross

Reader's Notice

Hi Gang,

I'm sorry to have to tell you that unless we get some more followers by the Chase for The Cup, I'm going to have to close my blog.  It's just too time-consuming and I spend some money on it too, as I love doing it, for just five followers.  So, please spread the word and let's get some more folks in here.  I'd really hate to have to stop doing this!  And, should we be allowed to continue, it WILL remain free for all followers!!!!

Thanks,
Ross

NATIONWIDE: History At Kentucky

Joey Logano, made history in Kentucky tonight, when he became the first driver ever to win three straight races, at the same track, and all from the pole.  Scary.

History was also made at Kentucky when the Pre-Race driver's meeting was streamed live online.  Weather was a threatening factor all night, and we had a race-record eleven cautions.  All in all, not a bad race at all.  Carl Edwards was second, Brad Keselowski was third, retaining his Points Lead, Brenden Gaughn and Reed Sorenson, rounded out the top five. 

There were, as I stated a record-setting number of cautions.  One of them, was the "Big One" which Kentucky is not noted for. 



Pretty exciting stuff, and thankfully, no one was hurt.  Unless you count the poor cars, of course.  On to Historic Road America in Wisconsin, for the first ever NASCAR sanctioned race at that track next week.  A four-mile road course that outta make for a blast of a race.  We'll see you from Michigan for tomorrow's cup race, and of course, we'll have this week's edition of the RJ's.  Enjoy!

Credit Shout Out: Photo and video, courtesy of NASCAR.com.

Logano Vs. Harvick: Time To Grow Up

OK, I will admit, other than what I said in my blog on race day, I was pretty much going to stay out of this one, as I'm sure you all know, it's been beaten to death, and will probably continue to be.  But, after what I read today, I decided to have my say as well.

Before we go any further, understand that I like and admire both Kevin Harvick and Joey Logano. Tom Logano, and DeLana Harvick, not so much. But I digress.

I've blasted both drivers in the past, and I've stood up for both drivers in the past.  Just last week, I jumped all over Harvick for causing the spin. This time, I'm on his side, for being the better man.

You all know the story.  Harvick and Logano have a history in both Nationwide and Cup of "trading paint" and not exactly giving each other a lot of room.  Last Sunday at Pocono, Harvick got in to Logano again, who was at the time running fifth, and spun him out, dropping him to a 13th place finish, while Harvick held on for fourth.  Afterward, Logano tried to confront Harvick on Pit Road and was restrained.  Logano, afterward made some not-so-kind remarks about Mrs. Kevin Harvick, aka, DeLana.

Fast-Forward to today.  Harvick said, that he tried to approach Logano, to clear the air.  He offered the advice, "You need to get your Dad under control."  Whereupon, Logano, according to Harvick, simply laughed at him and stated, "Do you really think it was that big of a deal?"  Whoa.  Wait a minute.  The kid's Father was all but telling him to go fight you, a guy twice his size, with much more experience and his whole pit crew, and it's not that big a deal? 

I stated last Sunday that I thought Harvick was in the wrong for the accident a Pocono, and I stand by that.  I thought Logano's remarks, were a little out of line, but he was mad and had a right to be.  Harvick, has chalked the whole incident up to immaturity on Logano's part.  And you know what?  Except for the part where Logano finally stood up for himself, Harvick, is right.

Logano is a lot closer to puberty, than professional right now, and still has a lot to learn.  I stand by my statements that he will be a superstar and will make the chase this year.  But hey, when you're a Second-year-guy and a ten-year veteran tries to clear the air with you and offer some advice, you just don't laugh at him and blow him off.  And you sure as hell don't talk smack about his family. (But I thought it was funny and classy as hell, when DeLana responded by making up T-Shirts, and selling them for charity) That was childish and immature on Logano's part, and I lost a lot of the respect I'd gained for him when I read that.

Now, let's turn the steak over.  Harvick didn't exactly have high praise for Tom Logano, Joey's father.  But, Harvick tried to do it man to man, in the garage, and not in the media.  The only thing Harvick said is, "Joey's Dad needs to let him run his own racing career.  He's a grown man now, and this isn't little league baseball anymore.  He should act like the rest of the Dads and just sit back and watch, and be happy his Son is here."  I think it's great that Mr. Logano wants to be a part of his Son's life.  But he's got to let him be his own man sometime, and encouraging a fight on pit road, isn't the way to do it.  Let me remind you of something:  When Harvick and Carl Edwards got in to it in the garage, Cousin Carl couldn't whip Harvick.  So this skinny little runt is gonna do it?  I don't think so.

What I'm trying to say in a long-winded way, is leave families and personal barbs out of it.  Settle it on the track like men, then shake hands, have a cold one, and move on.  But in Logano's case, he has to wait a year for the cold one.  At least Harvick tried to handle it like a man and even help the kid out with some advice, which is probably a lot more charitable that I would have been toward him.  As for Logano, I was starting to respect you and I've always supported you.  Until you put this mess behind you, and apologize to Mrs. Harvick (the only thing she's guilty of is supporting her husband, so who gives a damn how she chooses to dress at the track?) you're just a kid in my eyes again.

Credit Shout Out:  Photo courtesy of Yahoo! Sports and Getty Images.

Pole, Man, Pole

Kurt Busch has won the pole for Sunday's NASCAR race at Michigan International Raceway.  Here are the complete qualifying results:

1 Kurt Busch (2) Dodge 189.984

2 Jamie McMurray (1) Chevrolet 189.788

3 Jimmie Johnson (48) Chevrolet 189.668

4 Kasey Kahne (9) Ford 189.623

5 Jeff Burton (31) Chevrolet 189.474

6 Jeff Gordon (24) Chevrolet 189.359

7 Denny Hamlin (11) Toyota 189.145

8 Ryan Newman (39) Chevrolet 189.051

9 David Reutimann (00) Toyota 188.907

10 Juan Pablo Montoya (42) Chevrolet 188.655

11 Elliott Sadler (19) Ford 188.521

12 Joey Logano (20) Toyota 188.314

13 Martin Truex Jr. (56) Toyota 188.309

14 David Ragan (6) Ford 188.270

15 Kyle Busch (18) Toyota 188.245

16 Greg Biffle (16) Ford 188.245

17 Tony Stewart (14) Chevrolet 188.221

18 Sam Hornish Jr. (77) Dodge 187.867

19 Carl Edwards (99) Ford 187.813

20 Robby Gordon (7) Toyota 187.642

21 Mark Martin (5) Chevrolet 187.603

22 Paul Menard (98) Ford 187.603

23 Regan Smith (78) Chevrolet 187.593

24 Marcos Ambrose (47) Toyota 187.529

25 Clint Bowyer (33) Chevrolet 187.480

26 AJ Allmendinger (43) Ford 187.437

27 Dale Earnhardt Jr. (88) Chevrolet 187.393

28 Bill Elliott (21) Ford 187.251

29 Scott Speed (82) Toyota 187.246

30 Bobby Labonte (71) Chevrolet 186.848

31 Kevin Harvick (29) Chevrolet 186.616

32 Casey Mears (83) Toyota 186.398

33 Brad Keselowski (12) Dodge 186.292

34 Travis Kvapil (38) Ford 186.191

35 Landon Cassill (09) Chevrolet 186.090

36 David Gilliland (37) Ford 185.946

37 Joe Nemechek (87) Toyota 185.922

38 Max Papis (13) Toyota 185.821

39 Matt Kenseth (17) Ford 185.538

40 J.J. Yeley (46) Dodge 185.209

41 Todd Bodine (164) Toyota 184.914

42 Kevin Conway (34) Ford 183.271

43 David Stremme (26) Ford 184.862

Credit Shout Out: Photo courtesy of NASCAR.COM

BREAKING NEWS: Michigan: Rain, Rain, Go Away

After a rain-delay, which cancelled truck practice, the track is now dry and qualifying for Sunday's race at Michigan, is now underway.  Juan Pablo Montoya, was fastest in practice, and Jammie McMurray, will qualify first out of the box.  Results will be posted here later!

Credit Shout Out: Photo courtesy of NASCAR.com.

BREAKING NEWS: Michigan Practice

The first practice session at Michigan International Raceway for Sunday's race has ended.  Here are your top ten:
1 42 Juan Montoya

2 48 Jimmie Johnson

3 2 Kurt Busch

4 16 Greg Biffle

5 24 Jeff Gordon

6 1 Jamie McMurray

7 78 Regan Smith

8 00 David Reutimann

9 56 Martin Truex Jr.

10 6 David Ragan

Plus, a couple of surprises:  Dale Earnhardt, Jr., was 13th, and Kyle Busch was 42nd.  Qualifying is later this afternoon.

Beatin' And Bangin' With Our First Follower

Lee, from Longview, Texas had some responses to my POC-OH-NO piece.  So, here we go, this is part of all the fun.  My responses, where warranted, are in italics.

I agree, no surprise on Denny winning. I just hope that is luck doesn't turn in the chase like Kyle's did.

Kyle Busch is a jerk, and brings on his own bad luck.  When and if, he ever grows up, he'll be a Hall of Fame Driver one day.  Right now, he makes me wanna hurl.

As for Joey, I really wanted to see him get in Harvick's face. I am not a fan of Harvick and was so glad to see Joey finally stand up. He went from white bread to wheat bread. You know, a little more substantial that plain old white.

It was unfair that Joey got called to the "trailer". There were so many people holding him back he didn't even get near Harvick. Excuse me Nascar but didn't you say the gloves are off? Oh and Joey's comments about the Delana had me laughing so hard. Can't wait to hear what Harvick has to say about that.....

Harvick, is not allowed to speak, without permission or unless DeLana is pulling his string.  Logano should've been allowed to whip his ass.  I like Harvick, but he was a total ass in that situation.  Logano, earned mega-brownie points in my eyes, and the eyes of tons of fans with his reaction to the incident.  I totally agree, it's about time, and I'll bet you my next paycheck, that he doesn't have much more trouble from here on out.  Mark my words, this kid is gonna be a superstar one day, and he WILL make the chase this year.  Now, if we could just get Daddy to mind his own damn beeswax........

Was horrified to see that big wreck. So glad everyone was OK. Was glad Newman was able to make it across the finish line.

Rubbin' is racin', as Harry Houge said in Days of Thunder.  And Allmendinger raced like an idiot kid on the go-kart track.  But, Khane, doesn't have much of a team-player history either.

Kasey's comments were great too. Sorry but Almendinger is a pompous a@@ and Kasey's comments confirm that he is not a team player. Of course that was obvious when he let his PR people spread the rumor that he was taking over Elliott's ride. I hate to see Kasey leaving the #9 but I totally understand why. I love Petty but I am afraid that they are fading to the wayside.

The King is actually talking about taking his driving experience to the MIDDLE EAST!!!!  That shows you how hard up they are for cash.  I sadly, predict, that Richard Petty Motorsports is done after this year.

You really think that Jr. could be let go? He is the most marketable driver and I don't see Hendrick letting that get away from them but I do agree that his performance has been pretty bad. Don't think he can blame it on the car's performance anymore.

Unfortunately, Yes, I can see it.  Despite being life-long friends, Junior is simply not getting the job done.  He's also in the last year of his contract.  Kasey Khane needs a ride next year, and he's doing a better job than Junior is, in sub-standard equipment.  Hendrick, wants results, and obviously has some of, if not the best stuff out there.  Junior is not giving satisfactory results to him, and regardless of his marketability, he's most likely going to be looking for a job next year.  Look for him to hook up at RCR, but probably not in the #3.  But, that WOULD be cool, huh?  Besides, (and I am a Junior fan) you can only tolerate losing for so long, before it's time to move on.  Or will Lance McGrew, be the scapegoat here?  From what I've seen, McGrew is an idiot, as far as being a Crew Chief goes.  Don't be surprised if Junior, is updating his resume.

One last thing, so sad to see that Mark (Martin) will not be getting that elusive championship. Last year was his best chance.

That's as good as a benediction as I can think of, and I agree totally.  Amen.

Thanks for writing in, Lee.  Please do so anytime.  The rest of you, now that you see how it's done, I hope to hear from you all soon, too!!!

As The Lug Nut Turns

Boy, NASCAR is just about to turn in to a Soap Opera this year, huh?  But ain't it a blast?!?!  So, I thought it would be fun to make it a Soap Opera.  Like Such:

As we enter the beautiful mountainous area of Long Pond, PA, the drama of the Gillette ProGlide 500 is about to unfold when Mother Nature says: "I'm gonna by golly get my TV time and subject you all to two hours of mindless conversation with Larry McReynolds." 

And Larry responded by telling us stories of the old days, which may or may not be fantasy.

Enter the pothole, who under his breath lightly whispers:  "If Mr. Cone and Mr. Jack can get more TV time, why can't I?  I've got a new sponsor, QUICK-SET CONCRETE FIX IT, and am gonna show up at every race, every time NASCAR needs a phantom debris caution."

Sam Hornish, Jr. enters the lead saying, "HOLY CRAP!!!!  I AM IN FRONT!!!!!  DO I HIT THE WALL NOW, OR LATER????"

Joey Logano and Kevin Harvick have words with their bumpers on the track, and on pit road afterward, and Logano blew up.  Is this really a secret behind-the-scenes lover's quarrel?

A.J. Allmendinger and teammate Kasey Khane dust it up and take out half the field.  Richard Petty is smiling and saying, "If they could have saved them, we'd have gotten a top twenty for a change."

Denny Hamlin, hoists the trophy and is secretly thinking, "BITE ME.  I'm gonna whip Jimmie Johnson's ass this year.  Then, I will send Kyle Busch another bag of M&Ms."

Tune in next week at Michigan when we'll hear DeLana Harvick say:

"Joey Logano is a love God!"

Dale Earnhardt, Jr, will say:  "Is this the track I'm supposed to be at, or should I be at the Whelen Series?"

Carl Edwards will say: "THIS IS CONCRETE!!!  I WIN, I WIN!!!!  So, why am I listed in 45th place?"

ANNOUNCER:  Will Jimmie Johnson ever win again?  Will Brad Keselowski find out that it's OK to give some room on the track?  Will Kurt and Kyle Busch find out that they're really not brothers?  Will Sam Hornish, Jr. apologize to all things painted?  These questions and more, will be answered on the next episode of:  AS THE LUG NUT TURNS!!!!!

Author's Note:  What a fun piece to write.  Sick I admit, but FUN!!!!!!!  This is just my strange sense of humor, folks, and not to be taken seriously.

POC-OH-NO!!!

There is only one way to describe the Gillette Fusion ProGlide 500:  It was UGLY!!

It started with a 90-minute rain delay, before the green flag even dropped.  Then, right before they were finally about to get it started, the infamous pothole (a la Daytona) reared it's ugly head at the end of pit road, and that took another ten minutes or so to fix.  Long story short, the race was two hours late getting started.
But, there were some very interesting moments, some fresh leaders, and a potential new feud could have gotten started.

Denny Hamlin (I hate to say I told you so) took the checkered flag.  Kyle Busch was second, Tony Stewart was third, Kevin Harvick fourth, and Jimmie Johnson was fifth.  But, one driver who should have been in the top five, was not.

Joey Logano, got spun by Kevin Harvick with one lap to go, bringing out the caution, and setting up NASCAR's sixth Green-White-Checkered of the year.  I am not usually one to point fingers, but Logano was hot, I mean HOT, and I don't blame him one bit.  When the race was over, he pulled up beside Harvick's car, and got out with the intention of giving Mr. Harvick a piece of his mind, and from the look on his face, possibly an ass-whipping.  He was held back, and that's a shame.  He's only 20 years old I grant you, but he has to learn to stand up for himself sometime.  And this was a perfect opportunity, denied.

What baffles me is Logano, not Harvick, was called to the NASCAR bad boy hauler.  HUH?  Check out the video of the incident at www.nascar.com/tnt.  I don't have permission to use TNT video yet, but I'm working on it.

Sam Hornish, Jr., actually led some laps in this race, and had a shot to win it, until his car faded and got loose on him at the end.  That's a shame.  Would've been nice to see a new winner for a change.  Dale Earnhardt, Jr., started third and finished 18th.  The rumor in the garage is, if he doesn't get it together, he'll be out of the 88 next year, and Kasey Khane will be in.  Don't be a bit surprised if that happens, folks. And let's not forget the HORRIFIC wreck during the Green-White-Checkered that literally took out half the field.  It was nasty and thank God, no one was hurt.    Now, on to this week's edition of the RJ's:

THE WHO THE @#$& WAS THAT LEADING? AWARD:  Sam Hornish, Jr.  Strongest run of the year for that team, and I really would've liked to have seen them bring it home.  Great run, Guys.

THE A$$HOLE OF THE RACE AWARD:  Kevin Harvick.  I like Harvick, but he was totally to blame for ruining Joey Logano's day.  That spin could have been 100% avoided, and not hurt Harvick at all.

THE I'M GOING TO KICK HIS @#$&ING A$$ AWARD:  Joey Logano.  They should've let the kid go and speak his peace.  It's about time he stood up for himself, and after his bone-head move, Harvick's got a whoopin' coming, if you ask me.

THE I'M BAAAAACK AWARD:  The Pothole.  If at Daytona, why not at Pocono?  Maybe we could get Mr. Pothole sponsored and have even more commercials during the race.

THE I HATE TO SAY I TOLD YOU SO AWARD:  ME!!!! I told ya'll Hamlin was good at this track!!!

On to Michigan next week.  My Pick:  Jeff Burton.  RCR is headed in the right direction and will win some races and contend for a championship.  Don't forget, you're always welcome to send in your comments or questions at anytime so we can do some Beatin' and Bangin'!  See you at Michigan!!!

Credit Shout Out:  Photos courtesy of Yahoo! Sports, and NASCAR.com

Technical Issues

Hi Gang:

I finally got my technical issues worked out, and will begin working on my Cup Post presently.  A little too late for the Nationwide, but at least I know how to repair the problem now, should it occur again.  By the way, Brad Keselowski won the Nationwide race.  Hope this didn't inconvenience anyone.  This week's RJ's will of course, be in the Cup Post.

Thanks!
Ross

NATIONWIDE: NASHVILLE DELAY

Hi Gang:

My Nationwide report blog from Nashville will be posted ASAP.  I've encountered some technical difficulties with video, and I'm not going to give my followers anything but the best, and that means, photos and videos.

Thank you for your patience.

Ross

And We Think Racing Is Tough

 This happened in my hometown, today.  I did not write this, but I wanted to share it with you.  It shows you that there is more to life than a damned checkered flag, as much as we love the sport:


She was 26 and had everything to live for. But a complication in her pregnancy cost her life. Now, what she left behind is what her family wants East Texans to remember.




The family of Jessica Walls she was a good mother who had so much to live for.



"Jessica was a wonderful woman with a wonderful spirit a love for life and burning in her heart," said her husband Sammy Stephenson. "Her desire was to have a family and to be the best mother she could be."



Walls had complications to her second pregnancy My 24th, that endangered her life and the life of her unborn child. But she was undeterred.



"So they were both in danger, and Jessica was going to die or he was going to die," says Jessica's mother Rhonda Kurkendahl. "She says, 'Momma I'm going to tell you right now, God's got a purpose for this baby, he's a special baby,' and he is."



"She said you know I love you Sam, but our family's not done yet," Stephenson said.



She had an emergency C-Section at Good Shepherd Hospital. Her son Ethan survived.



Jessica died from a seizure due to a blood clot, and her organs were harvested for donation.



Her family says that part of her will live on in a life saved by her organ donation.



"I hope every single organ that she donates saves someone's life," Stephenson said. "Or gives them sight, allows them to live longer with their loved ones, to be with their children."



"Every moment is precious, every moment."



"Her heart was bigger than her body," Kurkendahl added.



Jessica would have turned 27 on June 5th.



Walls leaves behind her two sons. One-year-old Perrin, and two-week-old Ethan, who remains in the NICU at Good Shepherd.

Credit Shout out:  That story belongs to Bob Halmark of KLTV in Tyler, Texas.

BREAKING NEWS: POCONO

Kyle Busch,(above) who will make his 200th Cup start on Sunday, has won the pole at Pocono for the Gillette Fusion ProGlide 500.  Clint Bowyer(L) was second, and Dale Earnhardt, Jr., (below)was third.

Credit Shout Out: Photo courtesy of Getty Images.

Ladeeeeeeees And Gentlemen: In This Corner........

When NASCAR, stated right before the Daytona 500, "have at it, boys" I wonder if what we've seen so far this season is what they had in mind?  I sure as hell hope so, because it's made for some great racing and some interesting quotes.  Not to mention, giving us a reason to stay awake on race day.  A-plus to NASCAR for that decision.

Now, on to the rivalries, some rivalries I'd like to see, and your chance to chime in:

Jimmie Johnson vs. Jeff Gordon:  This one was starting to be a lot of fun, watching two Superstar teammates go at it.  But Jimmie kinda spoiled this one when he hit his slump.  Whatcha wanna bet when Jimmie gets it back together, that round three or more of this one is on the horizon?

Carl Edwards vs. Brad Keselowski:  This one would have been kick-ass all year long.  But this is the only time NASCAR has really stepped in all season, and that was only two week's probation.  Had Keselowski's car not gone airborne, NASCAR probably wouldn't have said a thing.  But, I could be wrong:  Driver's ain't much on forgetting, especially if the opportunity presents itself at the right time.

Kyle Bush vs. Jeff Burton:  I don't see much coming of this one either.  Burton felt the Kyle raced him wrong last Sunday and let him know about it.  LOUDLY.  Which is uncharacteristic of Burton.  He's the gentleman, the race me clean I'll race you clean guy, but if you mess with him, he WILL use his bumper to speak his peace.  I've seen him do it.  But, I think this was an isolated incident, Burton had his say, lost his temper probably due to frustration, and that will be the end of it.  But, I could be wrong: Driver's ain't much on forgetting, especially if the opportunity presents itself at the right time.

Kyle Busch vs. Kyle Busch:  Will his Mr. Rodgers, or Jack The Ripper personality show up this week?

Kyle Busch (See a theme here?) vs. Denny Hamlin:  Teammates at it again.  This would be a blast to watch, but Coach Joe Gibbs, will put this one to rest quickly.  Shame.

Now, for some fantasy ones, that I think would be a hoot:

Author's Note: I ain't trying to start anything here, I'm just saying that some of this would be fun to watch, provided nobody gets hurt.

Mark Martin vs. Bill Elliot:  We could get Geritol to sponsor it.  Talk  about some Old-School Fun!!!!

Jimmie Johnson vs. Kyle Busch:  There's not enough body shop specialists in NASCAR to repair the damage this one would cause.  But, it would be awesome to watch!!!

Kyle Busch vs. Kurt Busch:  These two have dusted up in the past.  Brotherly love, my ass.  But Grandma Busch will ruin this one, if it ever happened.

Sam Hornish, Jr., vs. The Wall:  Oh, wait, this one is happening already.

Kyle Busch vs. Everyone:  All of the other 42 drivers get together and just beat the hell out of him for two or three weeks, until he gets the message and learns some manners.  I would be peeing my pants laughing at this one.

I promise, I was cold-stone sober when I wrote this.  It just got me to thinking, that with NASCAR letting the boys have at it, it's made for a hell of a lot of fun so far, this year, and some much better racing.

On to Pocono.  11am Central Time, Sunday.  My Pick:  Denny Hamlin.  This kid is hot, and very, very good at this track.

Enjoy the race, and send your comments anytime, so we can do some Beatin' and Bangin'!!

These are my opinions, and mine alone, figments of my sometimes strange sense of humor.

Credit Shout Out:  Photo courtesy of Getty Images.

Changes Are A Coming

Hi Gang!

Due to a copyright infringement that I was unaware of, I'm going to have to change the name of our little blog group here.  In order to cooperate fully with the rightful copyright owner, and be advised, this is a voluntary change on my part, as I am the one who caught the error, Victory Lane will now be known as Beatin' and Bangin'.  Please update your personal files and settings as needed, and I am sorry for any inconvenience, and publicly apologize for any unintentional infringements.

Ross Jackson