Motorsports FanHouse http://motorsports.fanhouse.com Motorsports FanHouse http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/media/feedlogo.gif Motorsports FanHouse http://motorsports.fanhouse.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Injured Fan, 17, Leaves Alabama Hospitalhttp://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/04/29/injured-fan-17-leaves-alabama-hospital/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/04/29/injured-fan-17-leaves-alabama-hospital/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/04/29/injured-fan-17-leaves-alabama-hospital/#commentsFiled under: , ,

For Blake Bobbitt, 187 laps of last Sunday's Aaron's 499 at Talladega Superspeedway were pretty much the same as the rest of the 142,000 fans on hand -- fast and exciting. Then, on the lap 188, Carl Edwards' No. 99 flew into the catch fence in front of her, ripping apart and spewing a chunk of metal into her face and shattering her jaw.

Talk about a bad experience at your first NASCAR race.

The 17-year-old Bobbitt was released from a Birmingham, Ala., hospital Wednesday according to the Associated Press, but not before having her jaw wired shut for up to six weeks, said a Florence, Ala., newspaper.

Bobbitt's father Terry was interviewed in the article and talked about seeing the wreck start to happen and trying to first warn then protect his daughter.
Terry Bobbitt said he pointed toward Edwards' car to alert his daughter as the vehicle flipped across the track.

"I pointed down the track and, all in that same motion, I grabbed her and took her down to the ground," [Bobbitt] said. "I covered her, and the only thing I didn't get covered was the side of her face that got hit. Nothing hit me. I couldn't believe anything even hit her."

Blake Bobbitt was knocked unconscious, Emma Bobbitt said. "They immediately got her on the backboard and took her to the medical house there and flew her out."

She said her daughter doesn't remember the wreck.

"She just remembers standing up to see the last lap," Emma Bobbitt said. "Everybody's talked about it so much since then that she's starting to put the pieces together."
That's definitely some pretty scary stuff, and from the sound of it both Blake and her father were lucky nothing more serious happened. That's not to say, of course, that a broken jaw is just a bump or a bruise -- especially for a high school senior preparing to graduate in the next few weeks.

The article said that Bobbitt went through a long reconstructive surgery on her lower jaw on Monday and that Edwards called her to apologize for the incident, and even added that he himself has broken his jaw before and understands the associated problems.

Fortunately, Bobbitt is expected to fully recover from her injuries despite more scheduled surgeries. However, its probably going to be a hard sell for her to ever attend a NASCAR race again -- which is a part NASCAR needs to recognize.

Having fans get hurt is just simply not a "part of the game" as many folks have argued in the past few days. People won't come to race tracks anymore, let alone buy up the cheap seats that are the lowest and closest to the action if they think there's a realistic possibility of injury.

Do accidents happen? Sure they do. But to think that there's nothing else anyone can do to keep potential lifelong fans like Blake Bobbitt from getting hurt is close-minded at best and ignorant at worst.

Injured Fan, 17, Leaves Alabama Hospital originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Wed, 29 Apr 2009 21:32:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Aarons 499Aarons499Carl EdwardsCarlEdwardsSprint CupSprintCupTalladega SuperspeedwayTalladegaSuperspeedwayGeoffrey MillerWed, 29 Apr 2009 21:32:00 EST Live Updates From the Daytona 500http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/15/follow-our-daytona-updates-on-twitter/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/15/follow-our-daytona-updates-on-twitter/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/15/follow-our-daytona-updates-on-twitter/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The cars are in motion, and Geoffrey Miller is in Daytona, following all of the action of the Daytona 500.

You might not be getting the full live experience, the roar of the engines, the drama in the air, but you can follow Geoffrey's updates live from the race with FanHouse's Twitter (after the jump) and be closer to the track than anywhere else on the Internet. Lead changes, wrecks, weird sights in the stands -- none of it is off-limits for Geoffrey.




Live Updates From the Daytona 500 originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Sun, 15 Feb 2009 16:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>daytona 500Daytona500FanHouseinDaytonaTom MantzouranisSun, 15 Feb 2009 16:25:00 EST FOX's 'Digger' Gets Friends, Gear in '09http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/12/foxs-digger-gets-friends-gear-in-09/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/12/foxs-digger-gets-friends-gear-in-09/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/12/foxs-digger-gets-friends-gear-in-09/#commentsFiled under: ,

DAYTONA BEACH, FLA.-- NASCAR on FOX is making no bones about it: Digger's a money-making tool.

Digger, an animated gopher that made his first appearance on the network's Sprint Cup broadcasts in 2008, is hitting the prime time starting with this weekend's season-opening Daytona 500 with a slew of new co-conspirators and a host of available merchandise items.

FOX announced the move and how they plan to make a few dollars off it during a press conference Thursday at Daytona International Speedway.

According to a press release, FOX is teaming up with Motorsports Authentics to create everything from t-shirts to disposable cameras surrounding the character born after FOX began using cameras embedded in the racing surface last season.

The press conference centered heavily on two facets: Digger's merchandise sales will benefit FOX's bottom line and it will, according to past experience from FOX Sports Chairman David Hill, help increase the NASCAR television audience.

The gopher will also find some more TV time in his expanded role. Starting Sunday during the 500 pre-race telecast, Digger will star in the first of six two-minute vignettes titled "The Adventures of Digger and Friends" with new chums Annie, Lumpy, Marbles and Gramps.

Will you be on-board with FOX's increased gopher coverage, albeit a "infinitesmally small" chunk of the broadcast? Or have you had enough of the racing gopher?

Me? It seems a little bit like Digger is just another tool FOX is using to spice up a racing broadcast that might be a little more exciting if NASCAR made a few changes to its current package for Sprint Cup cars at the cookie-cutter tracks. But hey, there's a nothing a gopher can't fix, right?

Someone call Bill Murray.

FOX's 'Digger' Gets Friends, Gear in '09 originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Thu, 12 Feb 2009 11:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>DaytonaDaytona500FanHouseinDaytonaFoxSportsSprintCupGeoffrey MillerThu, 12 Feb 2009 11:25:00 EST Join FanHouse for All Things Daytonahttp://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/11/join-fanhouse-for-all-things-daytona/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/11/join-fanhouse-for-all-things-daytona/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/11/join-fanhouse-for-all-things-daytona/#commentsFiled under: ,

It's been a darn good week to be a NASCAR FanHouser.

Joey Logano talked about his possible life as a garbage collector, Kyle Busch chatted us up and then two NASCAR Sprint Cup champions (do the names Jeff Gordon and Tony Stewart ring a bell?) spent time answering your questions during a pair of live chats on Wednesday.

And now, your co-hosts of this little portion of the internet blogosphere -- motorsports veteran Holly Cain and myself -- are now both trackside for NASCAR's season-opening Daytona 500.

"Winner, winner chicken dinner!" might be what you're thinking, but wait! There's more!

There's only one good way to make sure you're getting all you can out of your 2009 Daytona 500 experience. And for that, we need to know what you want to know about any and all of the happenings in the general vicinity of The House that France Built.

Got it? Good. Leave us a comment or shoot us an e-mail with your comments and suggestions to let us know what you want to know more about.

We're excited to hear from you!

Join FanHouse for All Things Daytona originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Wed, 11 Feb 2009 23:18:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>DaytonaDaytona500FanHouseinDaytonaJeffGordonJoeyLoganoKyleBuschSprintCupTonyStewartGeoffrey MillerWed, 11 Feb 2009 23:18:00 EST Tony Stewart Chats About Chevies, Shaving, Classic Rock and Morehttp://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/11/tony-stewart-live-chat-7-30-pm-et/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/11/tony-stewart-live-chat-7-30-pm-et/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/11/tony-stewart-live-chat-7-30-pm-et/#commentsFiled under: ,

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- On the heels of the Jeff Gordon chat, Tony Stewart hung out with FanHouse for a live chat from Florida on Wednesday. "Smoke" answered your questions about everything from being buds with Junior to missing the old Dairy Queen in Columbus, Ind. Read the full transcript below.

Tony Stewart: Hi everyone. Thanks for waiting. Let's go. ...

Linda: Do you have any hobbies that have nothing to do with car racing??

Tony Stewart: Fishing and hunting.

Linda: Was there unexpected surprises to becoming an owner??

Tony Stewart: The cost of everything involved in it.

Guest: Hey Tony how many fences do you think you will be climbing this season

Tony Stewart: I don't want to climb fences anymore but I want to win races instead.

billymccolle: tony are you gonna still race on dirt at eldora since your a owner and driver in cup series

Tony Stewart: Yes, 360 winged sprint car and late model.

Joe Casciari: Whon do you race against do you considers friends?

Tony Stewart: Kevin Harvick and Ryan Newman and Kasey Kahne and Dale Jr.

Linda: What do you like to eat and drink the day of the race??

Tony Stewart: Steak and potatoes.

fayanne: How is the engine in your 14? No troubles like Ryan I hope. Do you have a concern about your engine blowing like his?

Tony Stewart: Ours is fine, it was just a parts failure.

Guest: Tony what do you think about Kyle B saying he would not mind trading paint with you this year

Tony Stewart: Kyle and I get along great so I know he was having fun with it.

Linda: If you were not a race car driver, what do you think you would be doing with your life right??

Tony Stewart: I'd still be a team owner and a track owner.

Sylvia Hazelwood: What track do you look forward to the most to race? Win? I look forward to seeing you in Bristol!

Tony Stewart: I'm looking forward to all mile-and-a-halfs this year with the new Hendrick chassis.

Hummer: Tony, whats on your iPod?

Tony Stewart: I have a little bit of everything on my iPod. But mostly classic rock.

Sherri D: Good evening Smoke ~ excluding any and ALL dirt tracks you own, what would be considered other favorite dirt tracks to run at? (I happen to be a fan of Manzy myself)

Tony Stewart: Knoxville, Williams Grove, and Macon, Ill.

Eric Knapp: Tony is your old rubin is racing attitude back since you can't be fired now?

Tony Stewart: Of course I can be fired. The sponsors could fire me.

jkricke: Do you miss the Dairy Queen in Columbus ?

Tony Stewart: Yes, I would love a chocolate shake right now.

mark allan: what race track do you have the most fun at ?

Tony Stewart: Vegas, of course.

Brian: was it your choice to not bring Zippy with you

Tony Stewart: He chose to stay at Gibbs. He has 10 years of sweat equity with the company.

gladys: Lets make a deal: Door # 1 has another championship for you Door#2 has a championship for Newman

Tony Stewart: Either way I win.

Wanda: How is the log house coming together.

Tony Stewart: They dug my basement last week.

Tina: What got you so interested in cars and racing

Tony Stewart: My father when he was a baby.

Anne: What is the most favorite commercial you ever made? I like the one where they run over you toy car, and the one where you yell 'run for your life'

Tony Stewart: The Coke commercials when we raced the R/C cars.

Joe Casciari: is your relationship with jeff gordan as heated as it seems on tv?

Tony Stewart: No we get along great actually. And it's been fun working with him.

Kristin: Have you put in an order for Krissie's Cookies for this weekend? Good Luck!

Tony Stewart: Absolutely. She's all set to make them Saturday night.

Paul: How does the Chevy cot compare to the toyota?

Tony Stewart: We haven't had but one test session and one race to work with it. We'll have to see.

Fran: which do you like more pavement or dirt

Tony Stewart: No doubt, dirt.

Tina: Do you have special plans for Valentines Day?

Tony Stewart: I'm watching movies in the coach with the cats.

Joe Casciari: any future plans in doing the indy500/nascar race the same day?

Tony Stewart: No. It's a part of my life that's passed. I chose my path and that's the way I'm going.

Kevin Armour: What is your favorite short, super, or road?

Tony Stewart: Short tracks.

Karen W: Who is your favorite drafting partner or doesn't it matter, as long as it helps you to get up front?

Tony Stewart: It doesn't matter as long as it's helping.

Tony: Did you get your deer this year ?

Tony Stewart: I saw some good deer but didn't get one this year.

Jerry: Jeff Gordon said he could type faster than you.

Tony Stewart: Then go to his chat.

Andrew: Who was your favorite driver growing up?

Tony Stewart: A.J. Foyt.

Donna: Did your Mom beat you over the Rolling stone article???

Tony Stewart: She might have been a little upset.

Sylvia Hazelwood: Are you a Colts fan?

Tony Stewart: Yes, I'm a Colts fan.

Guest: we were just in indianapolis at your racing shop, when will you have your new merchandise in ?

Tony Stewart: It keeps coming in a little at a time.

Linda: Do you like to cook??

Tony Stewart: No. I can screw up cereal.

mrs kravitz: What did you think of Michael Phelps bong gate?

Tony Stewart: I think people need to mind their own business when it comes to what athletes do in their private lives. I"m not condoning what he did, though.

Cheryl: Are you going to shave before the race Sunday?

Tony Stewart: Yes ... Wake up, Shirley.

Guest: How bout a hot dog eating contest at Martinsville with Jimmy Spencer.

Tony Stewart: I think he might win because he practices with cigars all day.

Kevin: what do you think about NASCAR adding another road course(i.e. Mid-Ohio)?

Tony Stewart: I think it would be great.

Ryan: HI Tony, DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR A 9YR WHO WANTS TO BE A RACE CAR DRIVER? I CURRENTLY RACE JUNIOR 1 GO KARTS. DO YOU KNOW ANDRE TOMAS? HE IS MY FRIENDS UNCLE. GOOD LUCK IN THE DAYTONA.

Tony Stewart: Win races and have fun in the go-karts before you try to move up. Do it because you want to do it, not because your parents want you to be the next Tony Stewart or Jeff Gordon.

Tony Stewart: Have to go and do Eli's radio show. Thanks for putting up with me. Sorry we bored Shirley to death.

Tony Stewart Chats About Chevies, Shaving, Classic Rock and More originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Wed, 11 Feb 2009 20:11:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>fanhouseindaytonatony stewarttonystewartHolly CainWed, 11 Feb 2009 20:11:00 EST Jeff Gordon Chats About Daytona, Valentine's Day, Morehttp://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/11/jeff-gordon-live-chat-4-30-pm-et/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/11/jeff-gordon-live-chat-4-30-pm-et/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/11/jeff-gordon-live-chat-4-30-pm-et/#commentsFiled under: ,

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- Jeff Gordon was kind enough to sit down with FanHouse Wednesday for a live chat from Florida. The following is the full transcript of what Jeff had to say about everything from new paint schemes to a recent trip to Disney with his family. Enjoy. (And don't forget about the Tony Stewart chat taking place at 7:30 PM ET today.)

Jeff Gordon: Hey everybody thanks for all the questions. Just finished up with practice; we have a great Dupont Chevrolet for tomorrow's race. Let's get started.

LC: Jeff, which race win would mean more to you a 5th Daytona or your first win at Texas Motor Speedway?

Jeff Gordon: First of all, it would be a 4th Daytona 500. Daytona is biggest race we have, even as special as Texas would be since I've never won there -- Daytona is the ultimate and I'd have to go with Daytona.

Guest: Why does it seem that Jimmie, and Dale Jr. leave you out there alone they don't seem to draft with you? Although you help them.

Jeff Gordon: I didn't have many friends out there in the shootout, that was obvious to me as well. my crew chief steve says its because I've won too many restrictor plate races and not to take it personally. winning these races is all about getting those pushes, whether it's a teammate or any other competitor. hopefully, we can make that happen sunday.

Diane: Hi Jeff - How was Disney World with Ella and Ingrid? Also, I already have my tickets for the Labor Day night race at Atlanta Motor Speedway (my first night race). What are your thoughts on running that night race at that track this year?

Jeff Gordon: Disney was fantastic. We had a great time. Be looking to jeffgordon.com for some pics and future chats. I'm very much looking forward to Atlanta race being at night - no matter what, that race track is fun, one of my favorites and it works really well on the schedule. Most importantly, hopefully the fans will really enjoy it.

Brenda Newman: If you weren't a super nascar driver what would you have wanted to be instead?

Jeff Gordon: There's a difference between what I want to be and what I'm capable of being. ...my parents had a manufacturing company, if racing hadn't worked out - since I used to sweep floors there in the summer - I probably would have worked for them.

Kathy: In the past you have stated that your driving style was different in so much that you preferred not to drive a "loose" race car like Stewart, Kyle Busch, Jimmie etc. It appears that those drivers that prefer that set up seem to win and/or finish in the top ten quite often. Have you considered changing your driving style? Also, no one wants to draft with you...why?

Jeff Gordon: I don't mind driving a loose car - never had. But this is not Days of Thunder, Loose isn't necessarily fast. The most important thing we look for is well-balanced car. With this new car, it's much tighter in the middle of the corner, so in order to get it to turn, you have to settle for being a little looser in and off the corners - something we're going to work on this year.

john from vernon: how long do you plan to drive & what will you do when you retire from drive-in full time , you have a life- time contract with mr hendricks .

Jeff Gordon: I do have lifetime contract - I'm still trying to figure out exactly what that means. It last until Rick Hendrick wants to get rid of me (laughing). ... no date has been thought about. I'm just going to keep going as long as I can. Still enjoying it and certainly very motivated by our winless season last year

NASCARGirl: What is your favorite track to race at?

Jeff Gordon: I've always liked Michigan because it's just really wide, fast. It's hard to pick just one. If I had to pick just one, that would be it.

mike: jeff, how come your car seems not to be as good as jimmy's each week. you come from the same shop,same parts and etc.

Jeff Gordon: Every driver and crew chief has their own way of going about it and their own theories. My driving style is different and my set-ups don't necessarily work for them, and their set-ups don't necessarily work for us .. but we both have great teams and give them credit for the great job they've done over the last several seasons

David: Jeff, I thought you had the race the other night. Do you feel you would have won it if it had not been for that caution with two laps to go? It really looked as though you were reeling in Jamie.

Jeff Gordon: I felt like we had a very competitive car. I think there were several cars that could have won that race and we were one of them. as I mentioned earlier it's about getting that push and on last restart I didnt' get the push I was needing. And the guy that did won

dr. k: any plans to take over regis' job after your career is over?

Jeff Gordon: That's not my next job. She's fantastic to work with, but i have a hard time seeing myself going from a race car driver to co-hosting Jeff and Kelly or. ... Kelly or Jeff, I'm not sure how that would work exactly

Shawnafrc: What is the best advice you have received about how to carry yourself in the spotlight as a professional Nascar driver and who was it from?

Jeff Gordon: I learned pretty much everything from my parents - especially my step-father. He always taught me to be professional, humble, and to treat other people the way you'd like to be treated.

CP: My mom is always talking about what a nice haircut you have, do you go anywhere particular to get it cut or have someone special cut it for you in your busy schedule. Also I enjoyed you and your mother on rachel ray.

Jeff Gordon: I had a blast doing that with my mom. I'm so proud of her doing the cookbook with Martha. Just to kind of change roles and be there supporting her was unique and fun for me. And thank you for the compliment. I will do my best to keep my hair well-groomed.

Mike DeGasparro: Jeff, What do you plan on getting/doing with Ingrid for Valentines Day?

Jeff Gordon: I'll be at the track and have an appearance that night. Unfortunately I have an appearance that night. But she's very understanding. I'll keep the tradition alive, cards, flowers and treat her like gold and hope she doesn't have to cook that night since I have an appearance and I'll be getting home late

ELOISE: DO YOU PLAN TO HAVE ANY MORE CHILDREN. YOU HAVE A BEAUTIFUL CHILD!

Jeff Gordon: I think we'd love to have another one. We have not planned that out yet.

Corey: Is staying at the front your thing for Daytona or are you just going to lay back and wait with 10 laps to go and go for the win. I enjoy looking to see if you can win this year and I hope to eventually meet you someday.

Jeff Gordon: Every race plays out differently. Obviously, the Daytona 500 is a long race and you need a lot of patience, but I certainly want to be up front with 10 to go if it's possible. If the caution came out, that could hurt us, but I'd rather be leading and hoping caution doesn't come out. Basically my goal is to get up front any chance I can and maintain it - 50 to go, 10 to do, 1 to go. Doesn't matter

Jim: will you be running any special paint schemes this year

Jeff Gordon: one of our new sponsors this year is National Guard. ... we'll run 8 races with them this year as well as our traditional two Pepsi races. We'll have one special Pepsi paint scheme but I dont' think they've announced it yet.

Jeff Gordon: So many great questions as well as well wishes. ... thank you so much. We have an awesome opportunity to win races this year, starting right here in Daytona.

Jeff Gordon Chats About Daytona, Valentine's Day, More originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Wed, 11 Feb 2009 17:02:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>jeffgordontony stewartTonyStewartHolly CainWed, 11 Feb 2009 17:02:00 EST Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart Chat With FanHouse on Wednesdayhttp://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/10/jeff-gordon-tony-stewart-chat-with-fanhouse-on-wednesday/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/10/jeff-gordon-tony-stewart-chat-with-fanhouse-on-wednesday/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/10/jeff-gordon-tony-stewart-chat-with-fanhouse-on-wednesday/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We're looking forward to a big 2009 covering motorsports here at FanHouse, so how about this for introducing the new year in grand fashion? With drivers, crews, and fans gearing up for Daytona, we're excited to bring you two of the biggest names in NASCAR -- and sports in general.

On Wednesday, February 11, Jeff Gordon and Tony Stewart will be gracing our pages to chat with race fans and answer questions on the upcoming race, what they expect from 2009, hot topics on the track, and anything else that may come to mind.

Remember to stop by and read what the two megastars have to say. We'll be talking with Jeff Gordon at 4:30PM ET and Tony Stewart at 7:30PM ET.

Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart Chat With FanHouse on Wednesday originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:35:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Tom MantzouranisTue, 10 Feb 2009 13:35:00 EST Drivers Talk NASCAR Drug Testinghttp://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/06/nascars-drug-testing-has-drivers-talking/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/06/nascars-drug-testing-has-drivers-talking/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/06/nascars-drug-testing-has-drivers-talking/#commentsFiled under: , ,

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- Ironically, in the week one of America's great Olympic champions is embroiled in a drug controversy, another of its favorite pasttimes is conducting its first large scale drug testing.

NASCAR finished its first round of mandatory drug tests and will continue to conduct random tests throughout the season. It's a big step for the series, which has only tested with probable suspicion for the previous 59 years of its history.

But in this sport, being under the influence of a drug could mean death for you or another - there's no gray area at 200 mph.

In a magazine article last year, former series driver Aaron Fike claimed he competed in a 2007 Truck Series race under the influence of heroin. The news outraged drivers and drew widespread attention to what seemed an outdated and perhaps unrealistic policy.

Drivers themselves publicly called for tougher policing by NASCAR, which ultimately re-examined and modified its drug policy.

"I honestly doubt anyone is using drugs to improve their performance," said Sprint Cup Series rookie Scott Speed, sharing that he was never drug tested while competing in Formula One. "I don't even know what you would take to become a better race car driver.

"I think with the stuff that has happened, finding out that people were using recreational drugs before driving is a bit scary. This is a step in the right direction.''

NASCAR isn't just testing the drivers, but the entire teams, from the tire changers on pit road to the engineers who don't even come to race track.

As far as anyone knew this week, no one had been suspended because of a positive test.

"I passed - I think I got a 98," owner/driver Michael Waltrip said half-jokingly.

"I love the fact that NASCAR stepped up and said that's what we have to do. Everyone needs to be held accountable.

"Sometimes when race car drivers are independent contractors, that in itself says, 'I'm independent,' and the truth is whether it's me or some kid just starting up - a lot of people's livelihoods depend on what you do and how you act."

The amazing thing isn't that NASCAR hasn't found any violations, but that it's taken so long to realize this basic and small step was so necessary.

"We need to be proactive, we need to separate ourselves from other sports," said three-time reigning champ Jimmie Johnson.

Drivers Talk NASCAR Drug Testing originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Fri, 06 Feb 2009 13:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>fanhouseindaytonajimmiejohnsonmichaelwaltripscottspeedHolly CainFri, 06 Feb 2009 13:15:00 EST NASCAR's Elite Feeling Economic Pinchhttp://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/05/nascars-elite-feeling-economic-pinch/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/05/nascars-elite-feeling-economic-pinch/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/02/05/nascars-elite-feeling-economic-pinch/#commentsFiled under: , ,

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- I went to the race track Thursday and an economic forum broke out. NASCAR Chairman Brian France addressed reporters during the annual season-opening Media Day at Daytona International Speedway and reiterated his concern that his sport be "sensitive'' to the tough economic times.

Drivers were talking about testing restrictions, marketing cutbacks, team layoffs and the future of Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge and Toyota - before getting to the usual nuts and bolts of championship favorites and drafting Daytona -- site of the Daytona 500 on Feb. 15.

Greg Biffle considered the plausibility of racing hybrid cars one day (good idea, but no time soon).

And four-time Cup champ Jeff Gordon shared that he'd been flying commercial when practical instead of using his private jet - joking he may need to borrow his dad's frequent flyer miles for the upgrades.

Gordon paid $69 for a one-way ticket from New York City to Charlotte last month, the day before the same U.S. Air flight ended in the Hudson River.

"I was like, I'm flying commercial more often," Gordon said. "They just landed in the Hudson and everyone walked off. That's impressive."

Unlike Gordon, France didn't offer up a lot of specifics. He's NASCAR's big picture guy trying to manage the family business that is literally fueled by the country's biggest economic worries - automobile manufacturers, corporate support and consumer (fan) spending.

"Our business models are changing, that's what's happening," said France, who took the helm of the sanctioning body from his father Bill France Jr. in 2003.

"We will try to earn everybody's business. ... but we'll have to adjust to what the economy gives us."

That's meant slashing the price of some Daytona 500 tickets in half and offering cheap hot dogs and free parking. Still, NASCAR's version of the Super Bowl isn't a sellout yet and races that come later on the schedule in places like Las Vegas and Los Angeles may be harder sells. NASCAR is a tough draw in those venues anyway, so this year's races will be important tests. And the drivers know it too.

When's the last time a sport's biggest stars voluntarily offered to take a pay cut or forgo a luxury Lear jet in the name of doing "the right thing."

Americans won't have the same kind disposable income to spend on sports fixes. Groceries or a Laker game? Doctor bills or Spring Training? Think Kobe Bryant or Alex Rodriquez feel the pain? These NASCAR guys get it and that's what has always separated them from other pro athletes. Yes, they own private jets, huge homes and big boats - but most of them came from the same kind of modest roots as their fans.

They know that NASCAR's gold rush is still fresh and tenuous -- even 10 years ago it was a different, more humble existence around here. No need for a national media day.

"We've all gotten pretty spoiled over the last several years and with good reason," Gordon said. "The whole sport has grown and you know I've been successful and my salary has been incredible - something I never dreamed it would be.

"But you know, that doesn't mean I couldn't live with less. I could. I'll do whatever it takes. It's tough when you get adjusted to a certain income and lifestyle it isn't an easy thing to do, but it doesn't mean it can't be done."

"Everyone's trying.''

NASCAR's Elite Feeling Economic Pinch originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Thu, 05 Feb 2009 19:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>brian franceBrianFrancefanhouseindaytonagreg biffleGregBifflejeff gordonJeffGordonHolly CainThu, 05 Feb 2009 19:15:00 EST Patrick Dempsey, aka 'Dr. McDreamy', Uses His Name for Good Causehttp://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/01/24/patrick-dempsey-takes-on-daytona/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/01/24/patrick-dempsey-takes-on-daytona/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/01/24/patrick-dempsey-takes-on-daytona/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Patrick DempseyDAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- They stood in line for an hour in the toasty Florida sun, cameras ready, pens in hand. For at least one diehard race fan there was no choice in the matter.

"I'm here waiting like this for Patrick Dempsey's autograph because he does a great job racing,'' one man explained from his place in line in the Daytona International Speedway infield.

Then he came clean.

"OK, OK the real reason I'm in line is because my wife said, 'Don't come home unless you get Patrick Dempsey's autograph and a picture.' The reality is I'm doing this for my wife.''

Either explanation would be acceptable for Dempsey.

The very personable and famously handsome "Dr. McDreamy" from television's hit show Grey's Anatomy is gracious to fans, especially attentive to kids and so down-to-earth you forget he's a movie star.

A self-proclaimed "car guy" Dempsey, 43, got the racing bug years ago and turned it into a serious pursuit. He wants nothing more than to be "one of the guys" in a drivers' meeting or a race favorite on the starting grid.

This weekend, he's the lead driver of his own Dempsey Racing team which is competing in the grueling Rolex 24 at Daytona, a 24-hour sports car endurance race around America's hallowed speedway.

Helmet on, inside his No. 40 Mazda RX-8, Dempsey is just another eager driver hoping to win one of the world's most prestigious races.

But with the crowd of photographers surrounding his every move and the security needed to keep the star-struck fans at bay when he climbs into his car, Dempsey is hardly "just another driver." Only two other starters in the field -- IndyCar star Danica Patrick and NASCAR champ Jimmie Johnson -- drew crowds similar to Dempsey's autograph line on Saturday.


Celebrity is hard to escape so Dempsey doesn't try. He puts it to good use instead.

This weekend his race car is trimmed in pink with signage advertising the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer -- a cause he is passionately supporting.

"I think fame in itself is quite empty unless you use it for something that's benefiting other people,'' said Dempsey. "Otherwise you are really wasting an opportunity that you have been given.

"I think it's a certain obligation that you have when you reach a certain level, that you need to start giving back and using that celebrity and that voice so that you are out there promoting and giving the energy to the right places.''

It is also very personal for Dempsey, who founded and help fund the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing at the Central Maine Medical Center after his mother was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. He's intent on helping people and their families navigate the complex medical world that becomes a harsh new reality with each cancer diagnosis.

Dempsey may play a doctor on television, but he's truly intent on saving lives in real life.

The Dempsey Racing Challenge is rewarding the top fundraiser from Avon's nine two-day Walk for Cancer events around the country with a chance to meet him and be guests of his race team at next year's Rolex 24 at Daytona.

Million-dollar fundraiser Barbara Jo Kirschbaum, a 70-year-old Californian, sat next to Dempsey at a press conference before the race started on Saturday. She's done 100 long-distance walks -- the equivalent of 5,000 miles -- and raised $1,046,000 for breast cancer research.

"As a top fundraiser, believe me the prize was not what it is this year,'' said Kirschbaum, smiling and nodding toward Dempsey. "The motivation will be much different now.''

For all the good he is doing away from the track, Dempsey couldn't be more committed on track.

"When I first met him, I didn't even know who he was,'' said his co-driver Jep Thornton, explaining Dempsey's regular-guy demeanor. "He's been doing this for several seasons now and he's really worked his way up. I give him credit with the way he's gone about this. And every time he moved up a series, he's improved.''

In nine starts last season he recorded his first top-10 finish (ninth) in the Grand-Am Series production-based GT-class. His success and progress is impressive considering his day job as one of Hollywood's most-sought actors often interferes with the racing schedule.

He's expecting to run the entire 12-race 2009 season. "We are working on the insurance policy to make that happen,'' Dempsey said with a grin.

He isn't the first celebrity to compete in this historic Daytona event. Lorenzo Lamas and Craig T. Nelson have raced and the late Academy Award-winning actor Paul Newman won in class in 1995 -- at the age of 70.

Although Dempsey had his car in 13th place among the 29 GT entries when he ended his first driving stint Saturday, Thornton had an accident during his time behind the wheel later and the crew spent much of the evening making repairs.

"I felt good in the car, just trying to get a good pace,'' Dempsey said. "It certainly helps to get more experience like that. Every race you walk away learning a little more. I'm out here competing against guys who have been doing this for 20 years.''

"The goal is to really be taken seriously and go out there and prove myself,'' Dempsey said. "Every time I come to the track, I want to present myself professionally and earn my way through.

"I'm proud to be a part of this series. I want to win a race. I want to win a championship. ... and we'll get there.''

And a lot of people will be cheering him along the way.

For more information about the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer or the Dempsey Racing Challenge, visit www.avonwalk.org.

Patrick Dempsey, aka 'Dr. McDreamy', Uses His Name for Good Cause originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Sat, 24 Jan 2009 21:40:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>daytonafanhouseindaytonapatrick dempseyPatrickDempseyHolly CainSat, 24 Jan 2009 21:40:00 EST Stories for '09: The Biggest Questionhttp://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/01/23/10-for-09-the-real-question/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/01/23/10-for-09-the-real-question/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/01/23/10-for-09-the-real-question/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Here's what everyone will be talking about as the NASCAR haulers roll into Daytona International Speedway next month for the start of one the most unpredictable seasons in recent memory.

What will we be talking about when the winning Daytona 500 car is being wheeled out of victory circle and the blue collar portion of the schedule kicks in? Daytona is an anomaly -- a one-of-a-kind, everybody's all-in race. The true tests of NASCAR viability will come in late spring and summer away from locales like Daytona, Las Vegas and Los Angeles and into the backcountry of Darlington, S.C. and Martinsville, Virginia; into hard-hit economies in places like Pocono, Pa. and Detroit.

Even with blue-light ticket specials at many tracks, will fans still be willing to spend money on race tickets and tacky t-shirts?

For the week-to-week field filler teams, prize money from just entering the Daytona 500 isn't going to sustain them into the meat of the Cup schedule. That's when lack of sponsorship and budget-tightening are inescapable. Although it's doubtful a venue might not offer a full 43-car field (the start-and-parkers will make sure of that), it's safe to say qualifying will be a formality at many places.

But the ever optimistic owner-driver Michael Waltrip said he doesn't necessarily think a short field is a negative.
"It's not a bad thing at all,'' said the two-time Daytona 500 winner and driver of the No. 55 NAPA Toyota. "There's always waves of cars come and cars go.

"All you need is enough people for Dale (Earnhardt) Jr. and Jeff Gordon to pass and everybody will be happy.''

We're going to find out.

Stories for '09: The Biggest Question originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Fri, 23 Jan 2009 15:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>10for09jeffgordonmichaelwaltripstoriesfor09Holly CainFri, 23 Jan 2009 15:30:00 EST Stories for '09: Will Fans Show Up?http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/01/22/10-for-09-will-the-fans-show-up/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/01/22/10-for-09-will-the-fans-show-up/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2009/01/22/10-for-09-will-the-fans-show-up/#commentsFiled under:

Here's what everyone will be talking about as the NASCAR haulers roll into Daytona International Speedway next month for the start of one the most unpredictable seasons in recent memory.

The last time backstretch tickets to the Daytona 500 were this cheap, Sterling Marlin pulled into Daytona victory lane to collect his second consecutive 500 trophy and a young Jeff Gordon went on to finish the season 34 points ahead of Dale Earnhardt to claim his first Winston Cup championship.

That was 14 years ago and America's interest in NASCAR was just being piqued. Corporate America was figuring out the sport's massive potential. Drivers were accessible, candid, genuinely grateful for any media coverage they could generate and still a bit surprised to be recognized by fans West of the Mississippi or north of the Mason Dixon.

It was NASCAR on-the-verge. Just as it is now.

Only now NASCAR is clinging onto the good will it's generated in the previous decade. And say what you want, no sport cares for its fans more.

Sure it's largely out of self-interest and sustainability, but give credit where it's due. NASCAR's approach is to earn your hard-earned dollar. As important as it is to weather the economic storm with its product, it's vital to keep the fans engaged - preferably by filling grandstands but also by keeping the television ratings high enough to attract sponsors and justify network coverage.

One after another, NASCAR's most celebrated venues - Las Vegas, Darlington, Atlanta, Charlotte, Richmond - have announced ticket discounts, payment plans and package deals to entice fans. In addition to its $55 Daytona 500 ticket, speedway president Robin Braig is working with local hotels to eliminate minimum-stay requirements. Daytona, like so many tracks already offered free parking and allows fans to bring in their own food and drinks.

Attendance had been waning even before the economy started to tank, but at least NASCAR is reacting and its venues are being pro-active.

Or as former Cup champion Dale Jarrett explained last fall, "We saw so much success and upswing lately, we might have gotten a little excessive about some things,'' the ESPN analyst said.

"There might have to be a little cut back, but the teams are going to survive.

"And as we cut back and they talk about our stands aren't filled, remember it's still the biggest sporting event in every single state we go.

"Even though we've had a bit of a back slide, we're still the biggest thing happening there. The growth just made us just that much larger. You have to put things in perspective.''

Stories for '09: Will Fans Show Up? originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Thu, 22 Jan 2009 15:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>10for09daleearnhardtdalejarrettjeffgordonsterlingmartinstoriesfor09Holly CainThu, 22 Jan 2009 15:30:00 EST FanHouse Talks to Dale Earnhardt Jr. About Amp, the Chase and Ride-Alongshttp://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/11/05/fanhouse-talks-to-dale-earnhardt-jr-about-amp-the-chase-and-ri/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/11/05/fanhouse-talks-to-dale-earnhardt-jr-about-amp-the-chase-and-ri/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/11/05/fanhouse-talks-to-dale-earnhardt-jr-about-amp-the-chase-and-ri/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Recently, Wrangler Jeans was kind enough to invite FanHouse down to Charlotte to interview Dale Earnhardt, Jr., and -- I kid you not -- ride a couple laps in the 88 car. (Watch the full video of Will Brinson's ride with Dale Jr.) What follows is the conversation between Junior and myself about Hendrick Motorsports, Jimmie Johnson's dominance and how Amp is secretly a better post race drink than Budweiser.

Will Brinson: Thanks for having us down here to hang out, ride around in cars, and get our NASCAR feet wet.

Dale Earnhardt, Jr.: Yeah, man, good to have you.

WB: I want to talk about the Sprint Cup for just a second. Jimmie [Johnson] is locked up, right? He's got his third straight title? What are your thoughts on that?

DE: Yeah, I think Jimmie's on record to set a new record, even to write history. I said to him the other day, "Man you're writing history". And I'm happy for him, he's a great guy ... I say to him all the time: "If people only knew who you are ...". But I think people do know Jimmie is and know he's a good guy. But man, he really deserves it; he works the hardest of any driver I know to stay in shape, to understand what's going on out there and to be ready do his job every Sunday. They're hard to beat man, and they earned it.

WB: Well, considering just how good Jimmie's been over the past three years, do you think there are any changes that need to be made in terms of how the Chase is setup?

DE: I don't think that the Chase needs any changes. I think you gotta give Jimmie credit for being that good under these circumstances this year. Sure, people are going to say he made a mockery of the Chase and this and that and the other, but he was just that good.

Give the guy credit; I don't think any changes really need to be made. NASCAR made a playoff system, it's very exciting and we had a guy run away with it -- we had a dominant team. But you have that in all sports, even with great playoff structures, you still get the dominant teams every once in a while. And we really are witnessing one of the greatest performances of this decade, if not the sport itself. So, I just think a lot of credit goes to Jimmie and the Chase is really in good shape the way it's setup right now.



WB: All right, cool, well, switching back to Hendrick -- you guys had an overall team that did really well in the regular season -- you think the change gives you a shot at a Championship in the future?

DE: Yeah, my switch gives me a great opportunity, not only in working with Rick as an owner, but he also takes really good care of his employees. He does such a great job as an owner, and makes you really proud to be a part of the team. He makes you feel like family and you really enjoy working for a guy like that and it makes you want to go out and work really hard. Aside from that, performance-wise and professionally, it gives me an opportunity to be in the Chase this year. If I have a couple other things that go differently, we're out there battling for a top-five finish in the points. We still have that opportunity, but we had a pretty good season up until the Chase started and we're proud of what we were able to do. We started this year saying "Alright, I'm a good race driver ... I got a good team ... I'm going into a program that's proven ... What's gonna happen?" We really didn't know. So we saw we can make it happen, we saw we can race well, so we're looking forward to next year.

WB: Right on ... I actually thought the toughest part of that transition, you know, not that Amp isn't a great product, but you had to go from Budweiser to Amp, which makes the post-race celebration a little tougher.

DE: A little different. But it's a mixer, man, you can make it whatever you want. It actually goes pretty well with vodka. [Laughter fills the room.] So the post-race stuff is still pretty fun. But it was different. I had a great relationship with Budweiser and I'd been with them for so long -- and it's different -- you know, it's weird to be used to doing things one way and totally change up. But it's been a great experience for me.



WB: Sure, well that's the nice thing about Wrangler -- you've been with them five years now, and they're your longest running sponsor. You want to give us a little background on how, you know, working with the Pettys and Victory Junction you guys put this event on today.

DE: Yeah, what we're doing today is basically the result of an auction we did online where the proceeds went to Victory Junction Gang, which is a camp for terminally ill kids that Kyle Petty runs. They're building a new camp in Kansas, and they've got one here in North Carolina -- and both camps are doing really well. Wrangler puts on the auction and they're auctioning off a ride in a racecar with me -- I'm gonna take a guy around the track for a few laps. He paid over $15,000 to do this, so we'll scare the heck out of him if we can ... give him a good little experience about what it's like to be inside the car. And we'll have a lot of fun with that, and he'll hopefully enjoy it.

We've done this auction several years in a row, it's worked very well so far, and we put a couple other items up there and it raises somewhere around $20,000 each year. And the people that are really solely responsible for this auction are Wrangler Jeans. And like you said, they've been with me for five years, they've been with my family working with my dad in the past ... literally they've been with me for almost 25, 30 years. It's been a great experience, they're great people, and I have a lot of fun doing these type of things.

I do a lot of these appearances all year long and one of the best ones is being able to take someone around a racetrack and see what you're doing. So I'm gonna take about 15 people for rides today and you're one of them (Ed. Note: *gulp*)... and also I have the opportunity to take a couple friends around the track and sneak them in for a couple laps.

WB: Nice, yeah, so Whiskey River, what's up with that ... downtown Charlotte?

DE: Yeah, I got into the bar business, and I've been looking to get into the bar business for about 10 years. But you've got to meet the right people and doing this with the right person -- you can certainly get in some shady deals. And I was able to get up with the right group and we partenered up with a good vision of what we wanted to create ... we created like a sports-rock, well, a country-rock bar. And there's no sign of racing, and you wouldn't ever know -- there's nothing sports affiliated in the thing, unless you count the mechanical bull -- we have a lot of fun with that thing, you know, the girls love it.



The bar's been open for about eight months, and we had Gary Allen open it up for us and he came back again and played it for a charity auction, and Dierks Bentley (above) used it for a CD release party, so that was a heck of a compliment, I was really excited about that. It's a lot of fun, I go about once or twice a month, get in there and see what's going on, see if we need to change anything up.

WB: Alright, well, I'm getting in the car with you in a few minutes, so I'm curious to find out what's the worst experience you've ever had in a ridealong before ...

DE: I haven't really had any bad ones before ... I guess the worst part is when you get someone who's really kind of freaking out and getting too nervous ... you don't want to scare anyone, obviously, don't want to really give anyone a bad experience (Nervous laughter ensues) ... my crew chief's wife, Amy, she's a little tiny thing and she was petrified and so that was tough and so I don't know if I was helping her out ... (More nervous laughter from both sides) ... I don't know if she'd every do it again. But I've never had anyone lose any bowels or lose any fluids out any, uh, end of their bodies.

(Entire room fills with laughter)

WB: Alright, Dale, well, thanks again for taking the time to talk to us and, uh, I'll try not to lose my bowels out there.

DE: Aw, man, don't worry, you'll be fine.

FanHouse Talks to Dale Earnhardt Jr. About Amp, the Chase and Ride-Alongs originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:40:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>dale earnhardtdale earnhardt jr.DaleEarnhardtDaleEarnhardtJr.dierks bentleyDierksBentleygary allenGaryAllenJimmie JohnsonJimmieJohnsonjr.Will BrinsonWed, 05 Nov 2008 12:40:00 EST Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Takes Will Brinson, Blogger, and FanHouse for a Ride in His Stock Carhttp://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/11/05/dale-earnhardt-jr-takes-will-brinson-blogger-and-fanhouse-fo/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/11/05/dale-earnhardt-jr-takes-will-brinson-blogger-and-fanhouse-fo/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/11/05/dale-earnhardt-jr-takes-will-brinson-blogger-and-fanhouse-fo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

When the guy at the Richard Petty School of Racing said that "this will change your life" while referring to hopping in a stock car and making a bunch of left turns, I snickered. I'm sorry, I did. How on Earth can you possibly justify moving at a rapid speed in an automobile as something that would alter the course of your existence? Exactly. You can't.

Or can you? Check the vid below to see what happens when Dale Earnhardt, Jr., allows a blogger (yours truly) in his 88 car for a few turns around Lowe's Motor Speedway. (Oh, and make sure to read the interview with Dale too, where he talks about Amp, the Chase, Jimmie Johnson and his new bar in Charlotte.)



Okay, so "life changing" is kind of a stretch ... but, as you can tell from my Brah-ed out reaction to the whole thing -- "IN-TENSE", etc. -- it was a pretty ridiculous experience.

Should you ever have the opportunity, I would highly recommend it.

(Also, read Will Brinson's interview with Dale Earnhardt Jr. where they talk about whether the Cup needs to be fixed, the legend of Jimmie Johnson, and what Amp mixes best with for big post-race celebrations.)

Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Takes Will Brinson, Blogger, and FanHouse for a Ride in His Stock Car originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:38:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>dale earnhardt jr.daleearnhardtjrDaleEarnhardtJr.Will BrinsonWed, 05 Nov 2008 12:38:00 EST Scenes From the Sprint Cup: Kansashttp://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/09/30/scenes-from-the-sprint-cup-kansas/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/09/30/scenes-from-the-sprint-cup-kansas/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/09/30/scenes-from-the-sprint-cup-kansas/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Cameras have had staying power in the world because they are able to do something humans can't. Simply, cameras can stop action in ways we don't see. Here's some of the best shots from a fast-paced weekend at Kansas Speedway as FanHouse brings you another edition of "Scenes From":



Guys... A Little Help Here? Smoke was in supply and vision was in high demand for Kyle Busch during Saturday's Nationwide Series race at Kansas after he was involved in a wreck. Unfortunately, it was just the start of his bad weekend.




Catch Me If You Can - Jimmie Johnson leads fellow Chase for the Sprint Cup competitor Carl Edwards into Kansas Speedway's turn one during the Camping World RV 400. Edwards nearly edged out Johnson on the race's final lap in a dramatic finish.



I'm Planning On Being Here All Day - Jimmie Johnson leads the Camping World RV 400 across the start/finish to get the 400-mile race underway with Mark Martin just to his outside on a beautiful, sunny.



Ear Plugs, Anyone? - Actor/singer Elijah Kelly apparently was taking in his first NASCAR race after singing the national anthem during the Camping World RV 400 pre-race festivities. Kelly's latest role was in the movie "Hairspray".



Make It Quick - Several Sprint Cup teams hit pit road during Sunday's race for four tires and gasoline.

Scenes From the Sprint Cup: Kansas originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Tue, 30 Sep 2008 19:10:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>CampingWorld400ChasefortheSprintCupJimmieJohnsonKansasSpeedwayKyleBuschNationwideSeriesScenesFromSprintCupGeoffrey MillerTue, 30 Sep 2008 19:10:00 EST Scenes From the Sprint Cup: Doverhttp://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/09/23/scenes-from-the-sprint-cup-dover/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/09/23/scenes-from-the-sprint-cup-dover/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/09/23/scenes-from-the-sprint-cup-dover/#commentsFiled under: ,

Note: Thanks to FanHouse's alliance with Getty Images, yours truly gets to gaze through many fantastic photos taken by the Getty team each weekend at the race track. "Scenes From" is a new (hopefully regular) feature that will recap some of the best shots and best stories from each Sprint Cup weekend. Enjoy!



Racing Towards the Sun I'm always a big fan of this type of photo that helps the viewer really get a feel for the setting of the race. Dover seems to have quite a few cloudy races, but Sunday's event was far from that with that beautiful sky above the cars and crowd all afternoon.





Chase Chances Go Up in Smoke What could be more telling for how poorly Kyle Busch has performed in the first two races of the Chase for the Sprint Cup? You've got the championship battle logo in the background as one of the odds-on favorites -- Busch -- sputters by with smoke pouring from the exhaust pipes.



Not a Good Day for Buschwacking Kyle Busch's brother Kurt took a sliding trip into the turn one wall in the early laps of Sunday's Camping World 400, starting off an ominous day for the Las Vegas natives. A.J. Allmendinger and Scott Riggs narrowly squeak by above.



Feels Good Again Hendrick Motorsports' Jeff Gordon had the best view in the house for the start of Sunday's race after he won the pole for the 400 lap event. Simply, its been a tough season for the Chase-contending Gordon as he approaches nearly one entire year since his last win at Lowe's Motor Speedway in October.



Beer + Dover + NASCAR = WOO! Maybe he's cheering as Dale Earnhardt Jr. jumps in the spin cycle along the frontstetch or maybe he's just exacted for the green flag, but one thing is for sure -- this fan is enjoying himself, NASCAR-style.



Who's the King? NASCAR's Richard Petty -- or, rather, "The King" -- was honored Friday afternoon by Dover International Speedway's officials as "Miles" the monster looked on above him. I'd take Richard in a stock car race any day, but in an action flick? That's up for grabs.

Scenes From the Sprint Cup: Dover originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Tue, 23 Sep 2008 16:10:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>CampingWorld400DaleEarnhardtJr.DoverJeffGordonKurtBuschKyleBuschRichardPettyScenesFromSprintCupGeoffrey MillerTue, 23 Sep 2008 16:10:00 EST The Dangers of the Sprint Cup Garagehttp://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/07/10/the-dangers-of-the-sprint-cup-garage/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/07/10/the-dangers-of-the-sprint-cup-garage/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/07/10/the-dangers-of-the-sprint-cup-garage/#commentsFiled under: , ,



There's a reason why only a few people are allowed into the Sprint Cup garage, or any garage area for that matter, during a practice session -- it's a dangerous place.

There's race cars not obeying speed limits, blind corners, and speedy golf carts. And oh yeah, lots and lots of metal. From the transporters to the fences to the light poles to that giant piece of metal everyone sits on for the race, metal is everywhere.

Why is metal so dangerous, you ask?

Well in the case here at Chicagoland Speedway Thursday afternoon, metal is a nice conductor of electricity. And when lightning is dancing across the sky thanks to a looming thunderstorm well, you start realizing that the metal is not your best friend.

The metal, though, wasn't the biggest cause of concern to a number of fans watching drivers pull back into the garage after mock-qualifying runs. Instead, it was the raw fuel that trickles into the exhaust pipes after a driver shuts down the engine.

This leftover fuel isn't so bad until drivers need an extra boost to make it back to the garage stall, just as Kyle Busch did in the picture above. When the driver fires up the engine, the fuel ignites in the exhaust and blows out a flame that can be minor to as tall as six feet.

And that's what those unlucky fans got to deal with as a driver (I couldn't catch the car after he turned the corner) pulled back in, fired up the car next to the fans, and shot a fireball into a group of about 6 people. Luckily, the flame was quick, but a fireman rushed over anyway to make sure everyone was OK.

What was the reaction of the fans with the newly-singed eyebrows and nose hair, and possible ?

It sounded, and looked, like a collective "Woooo!"

And no, there hardcore fans -- men and women alike -- didn't move from their precious viewing location.

It's going to be a great weekend.

The Dangers of the Sprint Cup Garage originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 20:20:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>ChicagoChicagolandSpeedwayFanHouseinChicagoFeaturedStoriesKyleBuschLifeLock400NASCARFansSprintCupGeoffrey MillerThu, 10 Jul 2008 20:20:00 EST Andy Roddick Doesn't Get NASCARhttp://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/04/11/andy-roddick-doesnt-get-nascar/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/04/11/andy-roddick-doesnt-get-nascar/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/04/11/andy-roddick-doesnt-get-nascar/#commentsFiled under: , ,

I always love it when I hear my friends or other people that aren't NASCAR fans put down all of racing with reasons that just don't have much merit. "It's not a sport" they say.

Andy Roddick, welcome to that list.

Roddick, to the best of my Wikipedia knowledge, is currently ranked as the 6th-best tennis player in the world and is competing in the Davis Cup in the heart of NASCAR country, Winston-Salem, N.C.

During an interview there, Roddick was asked about tennis not being as popular as football or NASCAR in the area.
"It's a little disappointing that we're behind a sport that you turn left for four hours," Roddick said. "But it's pretty easy to have American superstars in sports that only Americans play. We're not concerned. Around the world, it's probably just behind soccer as the biggest sport in the world."
So Roddick played the "oversimplification" card against NASCAR and racing in general.

Well, Andy, what exactly is tennis? Is it nothing more than two or four people hitting a little yellow ball back and forth for a few hours? Or would that be as ignorant as his view on NASCAR?

The last time I caught a NASCAR race, I'm pretty sure there was a little more involved than just "turning left for four hours", but I must not have been watching the same thing as Roddick.

Ah, roasting professional athletes for their views. It's a great fun.

Andy Roddick Doesn't Get NASCAR originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Fri, 11 Apr 2008 17:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>AndyRoddickDavisCupGeoffrey MillerFri, 11 Apr 2008 17:45:00 EST Give Martinsville Fans Two Thumbs Uphttp://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/03/31/give-martinsville-fans-two-thumbs-up/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/03/31/give-martinsville-fans-two-thumbs-up/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/03/31/give-martinsville-fans-two-thumbs-up/#commentsFiled under: ,

When Jeff Gordon got out of his No. 24 Chevrolet following Sunday's Goody's Cool Orange 500 at Martinsville Speedway, he was wondering why he had lost so much grip over the last 50 laps.

Then, he felt the pavement and saw just how moist it was, and immediately understood why.

Nearly all day, a heavy mist hung over the track -- wreaking havoc with on-board cameras, windshields, and FOX's rooftop cameras. Throw in temperatures in the low 40's, cloud cover, and a cool breeze and the conditions were just plain horrible.

But yet, nearly 60,000 race fans made it to Martinsville and stuck around for 500 laps of Sprint Cup action, and they should be applauded.

Let's face it -- sitting in aluminum grandstands elevated off the ground wouldn't be most people's cup of tea on a blustery, rainy, early spring afternoon.

If you're starting to shiver a little bit at your keyboard right now, then you're starting to get the feeling.

Those conditions didn't faze the fans that were there, and they were rewarded with another classic NASCAR short track race.

Martinsville has one of the lowest attendance configurations of any track on the Sprint Cup circuit, and it doesn't sit anywhere near any major economic centers. In fact, the local area has been hit especially hard by layoffs and the overall downturn in the economy.

Those factors play heavily on those decision-makers of NASCAR who field each season's schedule, but I'd like to think another factor that Martinsville has in its favor is its history.

Since the track was opened, fans have known what to expect. Side-by-side, bang 'em up, hot tempered short track racing is a staple of old time NASCAR that is disappearing much too easily. The drivers love the place, as do fans and teams.

But the one thing that will keep two dates alive and kicking at NASCAR's oldest track are the fans who fill the stands. And when those fans still manage to hang in even on the worst days of weather to see some racing, it makes a big statement towards keeping the beloved Virginia venue.

Here's to you, Martinsville fans

Give Martinsville Fans Two Thumbs Up originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Mon, 31 Mar 2008 10:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>GoodysCoolOrange500MartinsvilleSpeedwayNASCARFansGeoffrey MillerMon, 31 Mar 2008 10:15:00 EST Toyota Win Shows NASCAR's Ugly Sidehttp://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/03/13/buschs-toyota-win-shows-nascars-ugly-side/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/03/13/buschs-toyota-win-shows-nascars-ugly-side/http://motorsports.fanhouse.com/2008/03/13/buschs-toyota-win-shows-nascars-ugly-side/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The seas had quieted and the new day had dawned. The thunder was off in the distance and clear skies were seemingly prevailing.

Then, Kyle Busch won Sunday's Kobalt Tools 500.

Nope, Busch himself didn't cause problems and neither did his actions on track. It wasn't something he said or did, but rather, something he drove.

Busch won with the No. 18 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota -- a shot that rang loud and clear over the heads of the purest of NASCAR fans. Or purists, would you say?

Just check some of the comments here at the FanHouse to understand what I'm talking about.

This one wants NASCAR boycotted, this one says that NASCAR is hurting the "integrity" of the sport, and this one says NASCAR should sell their tickets to the "japs and koreans".

And all of these, mind you, came in the first fifteen comments to the post about Kyle Busch's Atlanta Motor Speedway win.
The haters of Toyota, the manufacturer that started competing with Ford, Chevy, and Dodge in Sprint Cup in 2007, were back and in full force. Seemingly they had hid in the darkness like those creepy computer-generated people in I Am Legend and then all pounced at once on the scent of Kyle Busch's win.

According to these so-called NASCAR fans (I say so-called because I don't know how well I want to associate with people who discriminate on the basis of nationality, much less anything), Toyota is signaling the doom of all things red, white, and blue. NASCAR, they say, has always been about the "good-ol boys" who drive nothing but Detroit power because this sport is solely for Americans to enjoy, not anyone else.

In America, apparently, we don't share the wealth.

These "fans" draw comparisons to Pearl Harbor in their reasoning as to why a Toyota Camry shouldn't compete in NASCAR because somehow, someway, an act of war 66 years ago that killed 2,500 American people can be directly connected with driving race cars around a track at fast speeds.

I suppose I don't see the connection between men and women giving their lives for this country and drivers today racing for entertainment. They aren't exactly on the same level importance, if you ask me.

It's irrelevant too, they say, that Japan and United States are two of each other's closest allies today.

Or they say that Toyota is just a mirror-image of everything that's wrong with corporate America because jobs and manufacturing are being shipped off to other countries. The dynamic of what let this country happen -- opportunity -- is a bad one to support for others.

American NASCAR drivers -- Busch, Tony Stewart, Michael Waltrip, Brian Vickers, Johnny Benson, etc. -- then take the brunt of this anger. And yes, these teams are made up American pit crew members, sponsors, owners, and more. All because of what?

NASCAR allowing a top-selling car company in the United States to "go fast" like Ricky Bobby says.

This list of top-selling cars for January 2008 in America reads by make like this: Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Honda, Toyota, Chevrolet, Chevrolet, Chevrolet, Pontiac, Ford.

But yet Toyota racing in this country is a horrible thing for too many vocal fans.

Isn't that kind of the point of NASCAR? To race "stock" cars? Or to coin the old adage, "to race Sunday and sell Monday"?

Sure, today's NASCAR machines hardly resemble anything you'll see on the street, but one thing is still clear.

Manufacturers get into NASCAR to sell their pieces primarily in America. If no one in the States bought a Toyota, it wouldn't make sense to race them here. That's just bad marketing.

Stop buying Toyota, and you won't see Toyota.

That won't happen though considering how poorly things seem to be run in Detroit for the "Big Three" combined with the top quality cars from foreign manufacturers being sold in head-to-head competition.

Don't forget either that places across the American heartland like Marysville, Oh., Greensburg, Ind., Georgetown, Ken., Huntsville, Ala., and plenty of others all employ Americans building Hondas, Toyotas, and so much more. You can bet, too, that there are plenty of restaurants, housing, automotive shops, retailers, etc. that all make a living by operating in a town where these plants are operating.

Is that not American?

All of this moaning and groaning about Toyota does make me wonder, though. Where were all of these haters during 2004 when a Toyota Tundra started racing the Craftsman Truck Series?

And what happened to them when Toyota struggled so mightily nearly all of last season?

I've got your answer: they were non-existent. These "fans" favorite drivers weren't getting beat in NASCAR's top series by a new manufacturer, so they didn't care who was in the field. Now, after getting their tails practically whipped at Daytona and Busch's win on Sunday at Atlanta, the haters are back in force using the only crutch they can muster against Toyota -- nationality.

Don't get me wrong, I can see that Toyota's entrance into Sprint Cup could have some drawbacks for competition if NASCAR isn't careful on the allowances they give to the manufacturer. And if NASCAR allows the deep-pocketed company to undermine all of the other teams by buying out the best talent, that's a problem, too.

But those aren't problems because of who Toyota is or where they're from.

It's a problem with NASCAR's management of one its competitors, nothing else.

Problems like this are exactly what keep NASCAR from fully entering the mainstream, I'd believe. NASCAR is truly national these days, but what happens when a corporation sees the treatment that Toyota receives as a new competitor?

Does that make NASCAR appealing? Would sponsors with no NASCAR experience want to face that kind of negative music about a team that simply wants to go fast and sell cars? Fat chance.

I'll knowingly admit that I'm as big of a fan of Darlington, Rockingham and Lowe's Motor Speedway as you'll meet, and I deeply understand the roots that NASCAR came from. And I'll gladly say they are just as important as the future directions that the sport wants to grow in.

But roots are just that, they are the basis of growth for anything, and if a sport can't build on them in a positive fashion without tearing down the new growth, there's no use in having them at all.

(Note: To anyone who made it this far, I applaud you. If you couldn't tell, I feel pretty strongly about this one. Thanks for reading, and enjoy the FanHouse. Got an idea, tip, or comment? Drop it in the comment box below!)

Toyota Win Shows NASCAR's Ugly Side originally appeared on Motorsports FanHouse on Thu, 13 Mar 2008 09:01:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>AtlantaMotorSpeedwayKyleBuschNASCARFansSprintCupTonyStewartToyotaGeoffrey MillerThu, 13 Mar 2008 09:01:00 EST