Bleacher Report - Articles by Mary Jo Buchanan

Tiffany Daniels: Adventures of a Female Race Car Driver

Mary Jo Buchanan — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 07:44:23 -0500

Tiffany Daniels is one of NASCAR's up and coming female racers, participating in the Drive for Diversity Program and the Camping World Series East.

She has recently been invited to race in South Africa and contacted Bleacher Report to share her personal diary as she makes her most exciting trip to South Africa, representing herself and her country in one of the world's most prestigious races.

The following is Tiffany's first installment from her diary as she and her team prepare themselves and the car for the big trip across the world.

Stay tuned for regular updates right here on Bleacher Report as Tiff shares her exciting South Africa racing adventures:

A few short weeks ago, I received a phone call from Dennis Huth, the President of ASA, inviting me to drive in the ASA Transcontinental Series Freestate 500 on January 31, 2010 in Welkom, South Africa. What a great opportunity!

My invitation to enter the event was the result of Harry Davis, NASCAR Nationwide Series driver Marc Davis’ dad and manager, deciding that I would be a good candidate to drive the second entry for Marc Davis Motorsports in the race as a teammate to Marc, and I was quick to jump at the chance.

Since that phone call, there has been a whirlwind of activity as we worked to get the race cars ready to leave for South Africa. They had to be ready to ship approximately six weeks before the race because it is such a long trip.

The Spraker Racing team had the cars at their shop in Mooresville, NC, and we all had to come together to get the cars prepared.

Preparing a race car for an event like South Africa takes quite a bit of time, from installing the engine and transmission to setting the car up to race with the proper suspension settings to fitting the seat.

Luckily, Jeff Spraker and his team were willing to work long hours over the past week and we were able to help them with most of the tasks.

Besides Spraker Racing, I also have to thank Earnhardt Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates and D’Hondt Motorsports for letting us borrow some of the parts we needed to complete the cars.

Both cars were loaded on a container today that will be transported to Charleston, SC and then shipped to South Africa. The containers will then be transported to the racetrack and we will work out of the containers as we would our haulers for a regular race.

We won’t see the cars again until we arrive in South Africa in January for the race!

In the meantime, I still have work to do before the race with media and marketing/PR.

I gave an interview on the Kickin’ Asphalt radio show last night, I have another interview Saturday morning with In the Pits radio, and one next Tuesday with The NASCAR Insider.

We are also still actively seeking partners for the South Africa race. For more information on the South Africa race, visit www.tiffdaniels.com and www.asa-racing.com .

On a side note, Saturday will be a meaningful and fun day as we are hosting our second annual Toys for Tots event at the Charlie Daniels Racing shop in Smithfield, VA and trying to surpass the number of toys we collected last year!

More details on the Toys for Tots event can be found on www.tiffdaniels.com , or by following me on Twitter twitter.com/TiffDRacing .

NASCAR Issues "Rules" for Vegas Victory Lap

Mary Jo Buchanan — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 07:15:58 -0500

With the move of the championship banquet from New York City to Las Vegas, NASCAR has announced the return of the Victory Lap as part of Champion's Week celebration. The top 12 drivers in the final points standings will take a Victory Lap along Las Vegas Boulevard on Thursday, Dec. 3 from 3:15 - 4:00 PM.

The procession of the Champion and his 11 merry followers will begin at the MGM Grand and continue along Las Vegas Boulevard to Spring Mountain Road. The Victory Lap will include a Burn Out by the Champion and also a pit stop for all of the cars participating in the event.

"Mr. Las Vegas" Wayne Newton will have the honor of waving the green flag to start the Victory Lap event. Newton is celebrating 50 years on the strip with his show at the Tropicana entitled, "Once Before I Go."

With the return of the Victory Lap, NASCAR also announced several rule changes applicable to the event. First, NASCAR advised that there will be no bump drafting, especially in the corners of the intersection of the Boulevard and Spring Mountain Road.

NASCAR requires that the officials at least see daylight between each and every race car throughout the Victory Lap. Any driver bump drafting or racing too closely will have to go to the tail end of the cars on the lead lap.

While NASCAR has suspended the double file restart for the Victory Lap in celebration of the champion Jimmie Johnson, they will permit Hendrick teammate Jeff Gordon to use the guns he won in his only victory at Texas to make sure any restarts are "shootout style." NASCAR has, however, warned Gordon that he may not point the guns at Johnson at any time.

NASCAR has granted special dispensation to the sport's elder statesman and runner-up Mark Martin so he can assist his fellow AARP recipient Wayne Newton with the drop of the green flag. Special accommodations have been made to ensure that the aerobic activity of waving the flag will not be detrimental to anyone's health during the Victory Lap.

While a Champion's burn out is part of the Victory Lap, NASCAR has advised Jimmie Johnson that he may emit only two seconds of burn out smoke in order to comply with the new "greening" of the Las Vegas Strip.

NASCAR has already called both Tony Stewart and Juan Pablo Montoya to the NASCAR hauler to ensure the "disagreements" between the drivers will not carry over from the regular season into the Victory Lap. Both drivers have received written warnings and will be suspended for the rest of the season if there is any trouble on the Boulevard.

NASCAR has allowed Kasey Kahne special dispensation. He can put whatever motor he can find left at Petty Motorsports into his car for the Victory Lap.

NASCAR has also announced that any missed lugnuts on the required pit stops during the Victory Lap may be used by teams and fans as skipping stones in the Bellagio fountain. There is a limit of two per person, however, to ensure that no pipes become clogged.

For the Victory Lap only, all drivers will be permitted two posts to their Facebook pages and a maximum of five twitters. NASCAR has warned Juan Pablo Montoya that they will especially be monitoring his Twitter activity.

NASCAR has also granted Kurt Busch's request, made at the Charity Roast of champion Jimmie Johnson, to put Chad Knaus' name into a hat. A special drawing will be made prior to the drop of the green flag and whoever pulls Knaus can have him as their team's crew chief on the box for the Victory Lap.

NASCAR will allow Carl Edwards to do whatever victory celebration he so chooses if he wins the Victory Lap on the strip. Back flips and somersaults are acceptable, however, NASCAR has drawn the line about stripping off the fire suit and any bare-chested activities of any kind.

NASCAR has also warned Chase driver Denny Hamlin that he is not permitted to veer off the Victory Lap course in any way. That includes not veering off the Boulevard even if Brad Keselowski is standing on the sidewalk.

NASCAR has issued a blanket advisory to all competitors, as well as fans, to report any sighting of Sam Hornish, Jr., Michael Waltrip, or Robby Gordon to NASCAR as soon as possible. The sanctioning body is committed to no spin outs or other disruptions during the Victory Lap.

President Mike Helton encourages all fans and competitors to enjoy the resurrection of this special Champion's Week celebration, the Victory Lap in Vegas. He reminded all of the Chase finalists and the Champion that whatever happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.

Danica Patrick: You Are the "Dangling" Queen

Mary Jo Buchanan — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 22:01:38 -0500

Love her or hate her, the Danica Patrick "coming to NASCAR buzz" continues without ceasing or final resolution. The most recognized female race car driver in the country seems determined to keep the NASCAR world dangling in anticipation of her announcement of whether or not she will join the ranks of NASCAR racing.

The Associated Press today reported that one day after signing her three year contract extension with team Andretti in the IndyCar racing league, Patrick is still trying to finalize a deal to also drive part-time in NASCAR.

"I can’t say. I’ve made no mystery about the fact that I’m curious about it, and I’m interested, and I want to do it," Patrick said. "I’ve been to Charlotte a few times. But as a driver, if I got the chance to race in both series, that’s what I would want to do."

Yet again, however, Patrick seems to be toying with NASCAR nation. In fact, each time her IndyCar contract comes due, Patrick seems to magically appear in the world of NASCAR, dangling her potential interest in stock car racing in front of NASCAR teams as well as her current IndyCar team.

This summer, with her IndyCar contract up for renewal, Patrick once again began to tantalize the NASCAR world with her interest in at least driving part-time at one of the lower levels of the sport. She reportedly wants to put her "toe into the water" to test her ability and capacity in the sport.

Throughout the summer, Patrick continued her blitz of visiting many NASCAR teams, from JR Motorsports to Michael Waltrip Racing. She also talked with some of the sport's most notable drivers, including Dale Earnhardt, Jr. and Tony Stewart.

"She doesn't have some misguided idea that it's going to be easy," Stewart said. "She wants to do it the right way. She has the intention of doing everything right."

"She's looked me straight in the eye and said, 'Hey, this is what I want to do,'" Stewart said.

Patrick continued to toy with the world of NASCAR throughout the fall. The most persistent rumor being dangled recently is that Patrick is close to signing with JR Motorsports to drive a limited schedule in the Nationwide Series.

In a visual tease, an image of Patrick in a JR Motorsports fire suit briefly made an appearance on the team website before just as quickly disappearing. Both JR Motorsports and Patrick herself, however, deny that either have formally "signed on the bottom line."

Negotiations have been so secretive in fact that Patrick's father is not even sure what is going on. Although he has urged his daughter to go to NASCAR due to increased ratings, money, and sponsorship, he too has been under a gag order from his daughter during the negotiation phase.

Patrick has made clear that she intends to balance NASCAR racing with her IndyCar responsibilities. Her intentions are to run about a dozen NASCAR races before and after her IRL season, probably kicking off her stock car season by jumping into an ARCA car at Daytona in February 2010.

While Patrick has dangled herself as a potential prize in NASCAR before, this time seems a bit different and definitely more serious. She has done her homework, is bringing some lucrative sponsorship dollars with GoDaddy.com, and most important, is adding into the equation her own unique combination of sexiness and powerful racer to the table.

At a time in NASCAR history when the recession has hit hard, sponsorship dollars have dried up and the sport's favorite driver, Dale Jr., has had a most miserable season, the possibilities of Danica Patrick coming to NASCAR has set tongues wagging and rumors flying.

NASCAR leadership is most likely salivating at the thoughts of not only attracting increased media attention, improving sagging television ratings, and putting more fans in the seats if this "racing queen" comes into the racing series.

So, Danica, what is it going to be? Are you coming to NASCAR or not? It is now time to stop tantalizing NASCAR nation and seal the deal already one way or the other.

In the immortal words of ABBA in their song "Dancing Queen" , with a bit of poetic license a la Danica:

You're a teaser, you turn 'em on

Leave them burning and then you're gone

Looking out for another, anyone will do

You're in the mood for a dance

And when you get the chance...

You can dance, you can jive, having the time of your life.

See that girl, watch that scene, dig in the "dangling" queen.

Jimmie Johnson Be On The Lookout; Carrot Top Is Coming For You

Mary Jo Buchanan — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 09:26:02 -0500

Jimmie Johnson, four-time NASCAR Cup Champion, best be looking out for his next big challenge. Comedian Carrot Top, an avid NASCAR fan, will be gunning for Johnson next in an inaugural charity event prior to the banquet in Las Vegas.

The well-known comedian will be on hand to toast and roast the Champion, as well as the eleven other Chase contenders in a charity event dubbed "Chasers for Charity Fanfest". The day-long event will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 2 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

The event will begin that morning, when the gate to the Neon Garage opens at 10:00 AM. There will be entertainment by a country group called Tabor Dame, an interview session with NASCAR legend Dale Jarrett, autograph sessions with the Sprint Cup girls, and ride-a-longs with the Richard Petty Driving Experience.

ESPN's Jamie Little will host the events for the day. At around 2:00 PM, the Chase contenders will walk the "red carpet" of the Neon Garage. A reception will follow, giving credentialed fans the opportunity to mix and mingle with the elite drivers of NASCAR's 2009 season, including the likes of Jeff Gordon, native Las Vegas son Kurt Busch, Tony Stewart and Juan Pablo Montoya.

The "Chasers for Charity Fanfest" will culminate in the roast, hosted by Carrot Top, which will take place in the Black Jack Club. Admission to the reception and roast is a $250 donation which will benefit Speedway Children's Charities.

"One of the key elements to bringing NASCAR Champion's Week to Las Vegas was creating an event for race fans," said Las Vegas Motor Speedway president Chris Powell.

"This event will bring the drivers and the fans closer together and raise money for charity in the process," Powell continued. "We're very appreciative of NASCAR's efforts to make this a special fan event that we hope becomes a tradition during Champion's Week."

Carrot Top is well-known for his NASCAR fandom, attending many races, as well as his zany comedy, wild props and wild inventions. Jimmie Johnson and friends, as well as the race fans, are forewarned to come prepared to be dazzled and razzed by the comedian dubbed, "Entertainer and Comedian of the Year."

Fans interested in attending this first-ever "Chasers for Charity Fanfest" should log on to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway's website at lvms.com or call them at 1-800-644-4444.

Black Friday Signals Formal End of NASCAR Season, But Wait There's More

Mary Jo Buchanan — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:16:43 -0500

Black Friday signals not only the end of Thanksgiving, but also the formal end of the NASCAR season. But it also signals the start of some of the most interesting offseason racing throughout the country.

One of the best-known postseason races is the Turkey Night racing at Toyota Speedway at Irwindale, California. One NASCAR driver, A.J. Allmendinger, was one of the notables planning to attend the race this year.

Irwindale hosts the 69th running of the Lucas Oil Turkey Night Grand Prix, a postseason favorite. There are races scheduled for midgets, as well as USAC sprint cars.

One of the Black Friday traditions in the tri-state New York area is the annual Turkey Derby at Wall Stadium in southern New Jersey. Wall Stadium is the track where several NASCAR notables got their start, including Ray Evernham and the Truex brothers, Martin Jr. and Ryan.

The Turkey Derby at Wall features short track racers from throughout the northeast and Mid-Atlantic states. Racing starts on Black Friday and this year, for the first time, will continue throughout Sunday afternoon.

Three of the top drivers on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour have entered the weekend's 36th annual Turkey Derby at Wall. Donny Lia, 2009 NASCAR Modified champion, will be wheeling the Blewett Motorsports No. 1 race car.

Ted Christopher, who finished third in the 2009 NASCAR Whelen Series, will also race, as well as Rowan Pennick, wheeling a lucky No. 13.

The big kahuna of post-Black Friday racing, however, is the Snowball Derby. The 42nd annual running of the Derby will be held in early December at 5 Flags Speedway in Florida.

NASCAR Nationwide Champion Kyle Busch will be running the Derby, as well as the Allen Turner Hyundai Snowflake 100 race. Busch has also entered another car, which will be driven by up-and-comer Brian Ickler.

NASCAR driver David Stremme plans to run, as well as Camping World Truck Series driver Brian Scott. Rusty Wallace's son and Nationwide driver Steven Wallace also plans to race in the December classic.

The Snowball Derby will kick off on Thursday, Dec. 3rd, with qualifying on Dec. 4th. The Snowflake 100 is Dec. 5th and the Derby is scheduled for Dec. 6th.

So forget shopping at the malls this Black Friday, as well as your post-NASCAR season depression. Plan instead to take in a little post-Black Friday racing action at one of your closest NASCAR short tracks to beat the post-Thanksgiving and postseason blues.

Ryan Truex Hopes To Follow In Joey Logano's Footsteps at Irwindale

Mary Jo Buchanan — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 09:44:30 -0500

Ryan Truex, Camping World Series East Champion, hopes to follow in Joey Logano's footsteps with a win at the Toyota All-Star Showdown in Irwindale, California this January. Just like Logano, Truex hopes to follow up his championship with a win at the race dubbed the "Daytona 500 of short track racing."

"I'm really excited about the Showdown," Truex said. "You're racing against some of the best drivers in the country."

"All of those guys can drive and they have the records to prove it," Truex continued. "If you win the Showdown, you can say you've beaten the best of the best."

Truex is the first driver from the East Series to confirm that he will complete in the prestigious race. Other eligible drivers include those who won a race in either the Camping World East or West Series, as well as the champions from the six regional touring series and the Whelen All-American Series national champion.

The starting grid will be set by time trials, including limited provisions for Camping World Series regulars who can make the trip to Toyota Speedway at Irwindale. There is also a last-chance "Open" race to allow drivers one final opportunity to race their way into the show.

As one of NASCAR'S youngest champions, Truex, currently 17 years old, will visit the track for the first time. "I've never raced at Irwindale before," Truex said. "So that adds another level of excitement for me."

"Everyone talks about how great the track is," Truex continued. "I can't wait to get the NAPA Auto Parts Camry out there and see what we can do."

Truex is one of the developmental drivers for Michael Waltrip Racing. He is also the younger brother of Martin Truex, Jr., who will be joining MWR for the 2010 Cup season.

Waltrip has decided to go all out for his young champion at the Showdown. The team and NAPA are designing an entirely new paint scheme for the car, replacing the white No. 00 Toyota that Truex raced in the East Series with a blue, NAPA-themed scheme.

After competing in the Showdown, Truex will get back to business, defending his title in the Camping World Series East in 2010. As soon as he turns 18 years of age in March, MWR also plans to race Truex in select Nationwide Series races, specifically paired with his older brother Martin.

"We're going to have some fun with that," Martin Truex. Jr. said. "I'm excited to race with my brother. It will be fun racing and sharing things about our cars."

While all of this excitement will occur for Ryan Truex in the New Year, the young driver is still celebrating his accomplishments from this past season. Truex won three races and had eight top ten finishes.

Along with Joey Logano, Truex became just the second driver in the Camping World Series to win the championship, as well as Sunoco Rookie of the Year honors, in the same season.

The 2010 Toyota All-Star Showdown will take place on January 29th to January 30th at the Toyota Speedway in Irwindale, California. In addition to the Showdown, the race weekend will also include a 100-lap Whelen All-American Series Super Late Model race, as well as a 75-lap Late Model race.

Both nights of racing will air live on SPEED.

Four-Time Champ Jimmie Johnson Is in a New York State of Mind

Mary Jo Buchanan — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:39:14 -0500

Although NASCAR's championship banquet is no longer in New York City, the four-time champion of the Sprint Cup Series finds himself smack dab in the middle of the city that never sleeps this week.

Johnson is making the rounds, participating in talk shows and other media experiences to talk about his place in history with four consecutive championships in NASCAR.

Johnson started off his post-championship visit to the tri-state region with a visit to the ESPN studios in Bristol, CT. Looking slightly weary from his celebration the night before, Johnson also was a guest on the Mike and Mike in the Morning radio show on ESPN2 and ESPN Radio.

Johnson then found his way to Jersey, visiting with one of the City's biggest sports icons, Yogi Berra. A 10-time Yankee champion, Berra showed Johnson around his museum in Little Falls, NJ.

On his visit, Johnson presented the Yankee legend with a diecast of the No. 48 Lowes Chevrolet. In exchange, Berra shared story after story in his own inimitable style with the new NASCAR champion.

Johnson will be participating in many of the news shows in the City this morning. But the highlight of his visit will most certainly be flipping the switch to light the Empire State Building to show the colors blue, white and yellow in celebration of "Jimmie Johnson Day" in New York City.

Johnson will be introduced by baseball great Johnny Damon. Damon is a two-time Major League Baseball World Series champion.

In addition to his visit to the "Big Apple", Johnson is also reveling in his place in history. He now joins the company of others with multiple champions in sports, including Yogi Berra, Tiger Woods, Bill Russell, Carl Lewis, and Lance Armstrong.

The next stop for Johnson and his No. 48 Lowes race team will be in Las Vegas for the Championship banquet. Events will begin on Dec. 2 and lead up to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Award Ceremony on Dec. 4, where Johnson will be officially crowned champion.

Denny Hamlin Settles Score With Brad Keselowski—Maybe

Mary Jo Buchanan — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 20:56:28 -0500

On lap 35 of the final Nationwide race at Homestead, Denny Hamlin made good on his promise to get even with Brad Keselowski. Hamlin hooked Keselowski in the rear and spun him out.

The feud between both drivers has been longstanding. In fact, Hamlin and Keselowski have tangled at various times since the 2008 season.

By Hamlin's count, Keselowski has wrecked him once at Watkins Glen last year and again at Dover this year. Hamlin also contends that Keselowski forced him into a three-wide wreck at California this season, as well as blatantly wrecking him at last weekend's Nationwide race at Phoenix International Raceway.

Keselowski on the other hand downplays his confrontations with Hamlin, stating that most of the issues are "just racing deals." Of their most recent confrontation at Phoenix International Raceway, Keselowski said, "We just got in a pushing match. I don’t really hold any grudges."

"I don’t know why he wanted to do that," Keselowski continued. "It’s just the way racing is, I guess.”

But Hamlin was not willing to let the issue go, vowing to "get even" with Keselowski the next chance that he could. His opportunity came in the early laps of the Ford 300, the season finale for the Nationwide Series.

On lap 35, Hamlin found himself right where he wanted to be, directly behind the No. 88 GoDaddy.com Chevrolet of his nemesis Keselowski. And Hamlin took full advantage, hitting Keselowski in the rear and sending him spinning.

Over his car radio, Hamlin said, "Look at this, all the guys down pit road are laughing at me. Every guy from every team that he ever took out is laughing. This is hilarious."

Even Keselowski seemed a bit amused saying to his crew over his radio, "That was fun. Give me four tires."

NASCAR, however, did not find the incident the least bit funny and deemed the pay back spin as intentional. NASCAR officials penalized the No. 11 of Hamlin one lap for rough driving.

In spite of the penalty, Hamlin finished the race in the fifth position. Keselowski also battled back from his spin, finishing in the 12th position.

After the race, Keselowski did not even acknowledge the confrontation with Hamlin until pressed by the media. He focused instead on congratulating race winner and Nationwide Series champion Kyle Busch.

When asked specifically about the incident on lap 35 between himself and Hamlin, Keselowski reiterated that he thought it was "pretty funny." But then he continued philosophically saying, "You know, I don't really hold any grudges. I'm ready to move on. Hell, I've already moved on."

"Hopefully, he feels the same way," Keselowski said of Hamlin. "I have a feeling when he wakes up in the morning, he's not going to feel any better about himself."

"He's got a lot of problems on and off the race track and I don't think spinning me is going to make him happy," Keselowski said. "That's just my take on it."

Hamlin had his own take on the incident and it was, of course, a bit different. "I feel great right now," Hamlin said enthusiastically. "It was well worth it."

"The sun was bad at that point and I'll use that as my excuse," Hamlin continued. "The fact is, I wasn't going to give him an inch."

"I thought when I went down pit road after the race that I had won," Hamlin said. "I've never seen so many crews applaud and give the 'thumbs up' on the way by."

"It just shows you all the cars he's torn up in the past," continued Hamlin. "All the teams, they feel a little redemption anyway."

"We'll never be even in that sense," Hamlin said. "I'm grateful to CJ giving me the opportunity to race this weekend and pay back my debts."

Hamlin acknowledged that while NASCAR is a self-policing sport, they also had to penalize him for the "deliberate" retaliation. "I wasn't mad about that at all," Hamlin said of his one lap penalty. "My objective was to win the race first and take care of him (Keselowski) second."

"There's going to be other days when we're racing and he's still going to think about it when I'm in his rear view mirror," Hamlin continued. "Obviously the scales are tipped a little bit more in my favor but still tipped a little bit too much."

After the race, NASCAR President Mike Helton was asked about the confrontation and NASCAR's reaction. "Our job is to maintain law and order," Helton said. "We honestly want the spirit and the character and the enthusiasm to come out but there is a point where NASCAR says 'enough is enough' and that's just the order part."

While Keselowski and Hamlin are finished with their Nationwide battles, the two are set to take the track together for the Cup finale Sunday afternoon at Homestead. Keselowski qualified in the 27th position, while Hamlin is well behind him, starting the race in the 38th spot.

Is the Hamlin vs. Keselowski battle over? It may be for now, but most likely this ongoing feud between these two drivers will not only continue but also carry over into next year's competition.

Tiffany Daniels Invited to ASA Race in South Africa

Mary Jo Buchanan — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:24:58 -0500

Tiffany Daniels, who competed most recently in the Camping World Series East, is one of two female racers invited to the ASA Transcontinental Series Free State 500 in South Africa in January 2010.

Tiff, as she is nicknamed, will join fellow female competitor Toni McCray to compete at the Phakisa Freeway Circuit oval in Welkom, Free State South Africa on January 31.

"I am really excited," Daniels said of her invitation. "This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to go over to South Africa and run a race."

"I think it's going to be so much fun," Daniels continued. "It will be really great racing with drivers from the US and South Africa and that is something that we normally don't get to to in our racing careers."

"I'm really looking forward to it."

Daniels began her racing career in Legend cars, finishing third at Lowe's Motor Speedway in the Summer Shootout Series and third in the Winter Heat Series points. Daniels then graduated to late models, where she had six Top Five and nine Top 10 finishes in 2007.

In 2008, Daniels participated in Lyn St. James Driver Development Program, a well-known development program focusing on bringing females to the top levels of the sport. In that program, Daniels won the Kara Hendrick Memorial Award for her spirit and talent.

In 2009, Daniels competed in five Camping World Series East races, with her best finish at the Monster Mile. Daniels took the checkered flag in the 14th position, an impressive showing on her first attempt at the Dover International Speedway.

Daniels currently lives in North Carolina, having graduated from the University of North Carolina-Charlotte with a Mechanical Engineering degree. In addition to her own racing, Daniels works full-time with Earnhardt Ganassi Racing, supporting the teams of Juan Pablo Montoya and Martin Truex, Jr.

As well as competing with one other female in the ASA South Africa event, Daniels will be teammate to Marc Davis, a familiar competitor and a good friend. The two racers grew up together on the short tracks of North Carolina and Virginia.

"She is more than a competitor and teammate, Tiffany is a friend," Davis said. "We are both excited to represent Team USA in the ASA Free State 500."

"We will be the youngest team and hopefully the fastest," Davis continued. "Our goals are to make new friends see what a wonderful country South Africa is, and finish first and second."

With a friend as a teammate and another female racer in the competition, Daniels is a bit torn as to who she would really like to win the race. "That would be great to have the girls show up the guys over in South Africa," Daniels said. "But really as long as I'm finishing first I don't care what the rest of the field looks like."

Daniels continued, "I'm going to be completely honest about it. It would be great for the girls to get a one-two finish and also going as a teammate to Marc Davis, I'm also hoping our cars finish one-two as well."

Daniels is no stranger to ASA racing, particularly through a friendship she developed with Reed Sorenson. "I raced with Reed in Legends," Daniels said. "And our families became good friends. I remember going to watch Reed race at ASA events at Concord and Berlin and learned a lot about ASA from that."

"There have been some huge changes in the ASA program and they have done so much to expand, especially to come up with a race over in South Africa," Daniels said. "That is really impressive and its definitely a good series to be a part of."

Dennis Huth, ASA President, has good things to say about Daniels and her participation in the series. "Tiff has a great personality and talent and we're excited to have her as part of this event," Huth said. "Her enthusiasm shows every time I talk to her."

Not only is Daniels looking forward to the ASA race in South Africa in the New Year, but she is also anticipating another milestone in her life. She will be celebrating her 25th birthday on January 6, 2010, prior to going overseas.

Jeff Gordon Chases His Own Bit of History at Homestead

Mary Jo Buchanan — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:40:19 -0500

While Hendrick teammate Jimmie Johnson will most likely make history with his fourth consecutive NASCAR Sprint Cup championship, Jeff Gordon is looking to make a little history of his own.

Gordon is attempting to win at Homestead, the only active Cup track where he has competed but not taken the checkered flag.

"A win, you know, is huge, especially at Homestead because it is the final race," Gordon said. "We've never won there before."

"It would be huge for us," continued Gordon. "I think everybody feels that way."

Homestead is the only speedway where Gordon has failed to secure a win. He has won 82 races, finally conquering Texas Motor Speedway with his win in the spring race.

Gordon has been to victory lane at 21 of the 22 tracks in the NASCAR circuit since coming to the Cup level in 1993. It has taken an average of 6.4 starts at each track for Gordon and his Dupont Chevrolet team to check almost all of the tracks off their win list.

Gordon has also won at North Carolina Motor Speedway as well as North Wilkesboro.

"It would be nice to say we've won on all the tracks, but we want to do it for ourselves, not because of a statistic," Gordon said. "It's a victory that has eluded us so far."

For several of the past seasons, the intermediate tracks have been the thorn in the side of the No. 24 team. Gordon, however, feels that the team has stepped up that aspect of their racing program.

"Our mile and a half program has been good this year," Gordon said. "We are definitely looking forward to this event and possibly battling for the win."

Gordon has another goal for the race finale weekend at Homestead. He hopes to improve his points standing from third to second.

Gordon realizes that he is out of the championship hunt. In fact, his teammate Jimmie Johnson will simply have to take the track on Sunday in order to eliminate his teammate, friend and mentor.

One of Gordon's other teammates, Mark Martin, currently sits in the second position. Gordon trails Martin for the second spot by just 61 points.

"We could possibly finish second in final points," Gordon said. "We know that a Hendrick Motorsports driver will be this year's champion. Hopefully we can make it a 1-2-3 finish in the final standings for HMS."

Gordon's team will also be competing at Homestead for the Tissot Pit Road Precision Award. Gordon's crew is currently in the second position for the challenge, trailing the No. 16 team piloted by Greg Biffle.

Although Gordon will not take the top honors, with good pit stops and a win he could make history of his own at Homestead, notching the final track win and perhaps even the Tissot award.

Newbie News: Austin Langenstein and Chase Elliott Updates

Mary Jo Buchanan — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 07:32:06 -0500

Newbie News is a series that introduces the next generation of up-and-coming racers in NASCAR. This edition will provide some updates on two of the most promising "newbies," Austin Langenstein and Chase Elliott.

Langenstein, whose father Charlie has been recently honored as the Northeast Modified Hall of Fame Mechanic of the Year and who currently works in the No. 48 and No. 24 shop of Hendrick Motorsports, has been forging his own path in racing over the summer at Lowe's Motor Speedway.

Langenstein competed most recently in the Ninth Annual Spooktacular, a 100-lap race on the 1/5 mile oval at Lowe's. The field had over 85 cars, with drivers and teams from seven different states as well as Canada.

Langenstein had a solid practice session, turning in a fourth fastest time. He then raced in the first 50 lap segment, starting in eighth, falling back to 11th and then charging back up to fourth place.

"A lot of those guys tried to win the race on the first lap," Langenstein said. "I just kept my composure and took care of business. My plan was to save my car and be sure that we had something for the finish."

Langenstein's plan worked well. On the second 50-lap segment, he moved into third and then second, settling in behind Legends graduate Dillon Bassett.

Try as he might, Langenstein was unable to pass Bassett so took the checkered flag in second. "I could close the gap in the corners, but in the front and back stretches, he just ran away from me," Langenstein said of the race winner.

The race ending was not without controversy. Several competitors protested the finish, saying that Bassett had gone a lap down and had been black flagged for contact with another racer.

But when all was said and done, the race results stood and Langenstein took home the second place honors. Langenstein's father counseled his son, "You have to trust the officials to get it right. Besides we wouldn't want our team to win a race that way."

While Langenstein was pleased with his finish, he was most happy that his grandfather got to see it and enjoy the race. "This was the first time he had seen me race because lately he's been a little under the weather," Langenstein said.

"The support we get is amazing," Langenstein continued. "We counted well over 60 people, friends, relatives and sponsors attending this one raace just to support me and my team."

"It makes me want to do my best, to be the best, and that's what it's all about."

While Langenstein was running the Spooktacular, Chase Elliott, son of famed Awesome Bill from Dawsonville, was making his World Crown Debut. In his No. 9 Ford, Elliott participated in the annual World Crown 300 at the new Gresham Motorsports Park in Jefferson, GA.

Thirteen-year-old Elliott was the youngest driver in the 38-car field for the race. Elliott showed his skill, starting the race from the pole and running up front for much of the competition.

Unfortunately, Elliott felt a tire vibration and had to make several pit stops. This took the young driver off the lead lap and he finished in the 13th position.

"Our race strategy was great and we were right up front with 50 to go, exactly as planned when I felt the vibration," Elliott said. "I knew I had to bring the car in. It just wasn't worth taking a chance of wrecking."

"I am disappointed," Elliott continued. "I think I had something for them and would have liked nothing better than to show them that here at home. But it just wasn't my day."

Elliott's father Bill spotted for his protege. "I was proud of how Chase ran with mainly veteran competition," the elder Elliott said. ""He really showcased our team's ability and equipment all weekend."

Both "newbies" will continued their racing in the upcoming weeks. Langenstein is headed off to Rockingham Speedway for a two day road course event. This will be his first time racing at "The Rock."

Elliott will next compete in the legendary Snowball Derby in early December at Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola, Florida. Elliott, who will turn 14 years old on Nov. 28, will be his first attempt to qualify for this prestigious Late Model race.

Stay tuned for future updates on both Langenstein and Elliott, as well as introductions to other "newbies" making their way up in NASCAR.

It's Official: Dale Earnhardt Jr. Is Cursed

Mary Jo Buchanan — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 21:54:53 -0500

From the Andretti curse to the "Curse of the Bambino", sports curses have often been used to explain the misfortunes of particular players or teams. With Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s performance at the most recent race at Phoenix International Raceway, as well as an overall terrible season, there can be no other explanation than that he is just plain cursed.

Dale Jr. and the No. 88 AMP team had high hopes coming into this race weekend at Phoenix. They practiced well and Junior and his team were confident that they could finally pull off a good finish.

Unfortunately, the curse of the Dale Jr. struck during one of the restarts. The front of the field stacked up, causing Junior to jump out of line, hook the apron and lose control of his car.

Junior's car was then hit by Ryan Newman and the rest of the field stacked up in a wad behind him. Tony Stewart, Joey Logano, Bobby Labonte, and a host of other drivers were involved in the melee.

Rather than a good race finish as anticipated, Junior finished in the cursed 35th position, many laps down.

Earnhardt's over the wall crew members also experienced the curse. The team was involved in a car accident on the way to the track.

The team vehicle was T-boned by by another vehicle at an intersection close to the track. All six team members were shaken up by the incident, but were checked out in the infield care center and reported to work.

Their work ethic was put to the test as they had to put their sore, aching bodies aside as they tried to repair Junior's car after this spin and wreck, which did major damage to the race car.

This most recent race finish and on-track incident with the No. 88 team is just the icing on the cake of the miserable season that Junior has endured. In spite of his teammates all being in the championship chase, Dale Jr. has instead lagged behind, currently sitting in the 23rd position in the points.

Earnhardt is winless in the 2009 season, and will end the season that way unless he takes the checkered flag at the final race in Homestead next weekend. He has only two top-fives and five top-ten finishes to show for the 2009 season.

So, who on earth is responsible for the curse of the Dale Jr.? After all, the man is NASCAR's most popular driver and has been tapped to carry on the racing legacy of his most beloved father.

There is, however, bad blood in the family, with Dale Sr.'s widow Teresa releasing Junior from the family company and ending his dream to own a piece of his father's company. Could the curse of the Junior come from such a close family member?

Perhaps it is that voodoo product that shines his cars that is responsible for the curse of the Dale Jr.? One only needs to look at that product logo, which is basically a skull inside a "V", to wonder if there is somehow something cursed associated with it.

Or maybe there is some disgruntled customer of Junior's bar Whiskey River that had a little too much to drink and put the whammy on the driver. Another possibility is a rival on I-racing who is just fed up with Junior's dominance in on-line racing, and is sticking pins into an No. 88 Cabbage Patch doll.

Maybe Junior is experiencing a curse similar to the John Madden curse, where players that appear on Madden's video games suffer injuries or setbacks. There is a similar Sports Illustrated cover curse that also may be affecting NASCAR's most popular driver.

With no other explanation available for this continuing bad luck that Junior and his team are suffering, it comes down to simply being cursed.

Instead of going directly to Homestead, Earnhardt and company may just want to book an appointment with a priest for an exorcism or consult the nearest shaman.

Starbucks and NASCAR Are Perfect Together

Mary Jo Buchanan — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:33:15 -0500

Starbucks announced that they will make their NASCAR debut at Phoenix International Raceway as a sponsor for Martin Truex, Jr. this race weekend. Starbucks will be an associate sponsor on Truex's Earnhardt Ganassi Inc. No. 1 Sprint Cup Chevrolet.

The Seattle-based coffee chain plans to use their NASCAR sponsorship to introduce a new version of their instant coffee, Starbucks VIA Ready Brew. The company plans to distribute samples of their new product via a fleet of Starbucks-branded golf carts.

While the NASCAR world rejoices with the addition of a new sponsor in these tough economic times, a bit of controversy about the sponsorship has been stirred up by a Seattle-based author.

Caleb Hannan, writing for the Seattle Weekly , shared his view of the Starbucks sponsorship in an article entitled, "Attention Starbucks: NASCAR Fans Might Not Be in Your Target Market."

The thesis of Hannan's article is basically that "hick" NASCAR fans have no idea what Starbucks is all about, much less patronizing the gourmet coffee maker.

From the picture of a hairy-backed NASCAR fan with a No. 3 shaved into his back to his notion that NASCAR fans would only use a Starbucks coffee cup for a spittoon, Hannan pulled out every stereotype about NASCAR fans that he could to ridicule Starbucks for investing in a target market that he perceives is clueless about the brand.

The following is one snippet from Hannan's dissing of NASCAR fans based on an experience he had in college standing outside the Richmond International Raceway:

"And if the people tailgating there were any indication of the sport's primary clientele, I've got a bit of unfortunate news for Starbucks...$4 doesn't describe what NASCAR's Average Fan might spend on a cup of coffee so much as it describes what he might spend on an outfit ."

While Hannan is totally off base about the characteristics of NASCAR fans, the most serious inaccuracy of his article is the mismatch he writes about between the upscale Starbucks and what he sees as ignorant, redneck NASCAR fans.

Contrary to what Hannan thinks, Starbucks and NASCAR are actually the perfect match between sport and sponsor. While there are many reasons for this, one of the most important synergies between Starbucks and NASCAR is their appreciation for their customers and fans respectively.

Starbucks has this to say about their customers, "When we are fully engaged, we connect with, laugh with, and uplift the lives of our customers—even if just for a few moments."

NASCAR has the same appreciation of their fans, with their mission of creating entertainment that lifts the spirits for as long as the cars are on the track. In fact, NASCAR was recently honored with two awards for their Fan Council and for focusing on the fans in making changes to the sport.

NASCAR and Starbucks are also perfect together because of the camaraderie created by both. Just listen to what Starbucks says about their stores, "When our customers feel this sense of belonging, our stores become a haven, a break from the worries outside, a place where you can meet with friends."

NASCAR can make the same claim as a safe haven, from the bleachers to the infield, for fans and friends from around the country who come together on race weekends. NASCAR fans are instant friends and become family, often meeting each other in the campgrounds and at the tracks year after year, race after race.

Starbucks and NASCAR are also both deeply committed to their communities. Starbucks philosophy of helping the community as follows is echoed in every race team, garage and track across the country.

"We can be a force for positive action—bringing together our partners, customers, and the community to contribute every day."

Both NASCAR and Starbucks are focused on diversity as part of their mission statements. As Starbucks says, "It’s only natural that as a guiding principle, diversity is integral to everything we do."

NASCAR also focuses on diversity, particularly through their Drive for Diversity program. In fact, ten drivers from this program will soon be chosen to compete in the driver development programs that will race in the Whelen All-American Series and the Camping World Series East around the country.

Needless to say, both Starbucks and NASCAR also focus on speed. While NASCAR focuses on the speed of the race cars and who is fastest on the track, Starbucks focues on speed in a slightly different way.

"It’s about enjoyment at the speed of life—sometimes slow and savored, sometimes faster. Always full of humanity."

Starbucks, welcome to NASCAR. And by the way, with Martin Truex, Jr. carrying you on the car, welcome to your first NASCAR pole.

There is no doubt that my NASCAR and your coffee are indeed perfect together. Now, I'm off to get my Cinnamon Dolce Latte with Sugar-Free Syrup.

A Tribute To My Favorite Veteran and Race Fan

Mary Jo Buchanan — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 07:02:17 -0500

Today is Veteran's Day and we must all take a moment to honor and thank all of the veterans who have served this country and kept us free. On this day, I'd like to pay a personal tribute to my favorite veteran and race fan, Gary Buchanan.

For most NASCAR fans, patriotism and racing are intertwined. Gary's story as a race fan and veteran is no different.

Buchanan grew up in rural West Virginia. He was raised as the only son and the middle child between two sisters.

In his growing up years, he was a Boy Scout, then an Eagle Scout. And in West Virginia, you couldn't help but tinker with old cars, laying the foundation for his future love of racing.

He decided at a very young age and right out of high school, to enlist in the Army. As he had in Scouting, he progressed quickly, becoming a member of the fighting elite, the Green Beret.

After spending tours of duty all over the world and in missions too sensitive to talk about even now, he returned stateside. He then began one of his favorite assignments, guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

It was there in Arlington Cemetery that we met. Although he was "off duty" at the time, he showed our group all around the cemetery and the town.

He adopted our class of students there for a semester and was involved in almost every event. We adopted him as well and a friendship, and then something further began.

Gary then decided to leave the service and pursue his college education. He did so, graduating and then going to law school at West Virginia University. We got married shortly thereafter and have stayed together for almost 30 years.

While Gary never grew up as a NASCAR fan, he soon caught the bug. After spending several nights at Selinsgrove Speedway and picking the dirt from the track from his hair for days afterwards, he was hooked.

Several summers ago, we were fortunate enough to befriend a Camping World East team and driver and that solidified his fandom. Gary spent a glorious summer helping out in the pits and even serving as catch-can man for many of the team's races.

Gary is now a passionate race fan, hardly missing a race on television or in person. His first pick as a driver was Michael Waltrip, and Gary shows his loyalty every day by continuing to root his "Mikey" around the track, no matter what predicament his driver gets himself into.

He loves the fact that NASCAR is filled with patriotism. Yes, he gets a little misty as we all do during the national anthem and cheers madly for every fly over.

Gary enjoys the strategy of the race, but most important the people he has met along the way. He talks to anyone, from Cup drivers to the young newbies coming up.

He seems to love talking to the up-and-comers the best, spending hours with them and their family members.

Gary has favorite NASCAR media members as well. When he travels to the races in person, he always makes a point of taking snacks to ones that he is especially fond of to sustain them in their work.

Gary has won more medals in his service than perhaps any of his family will ever know. And he has shared them with friends who have battled cancer, as well as his sister who wore one for her funeral after losing her battle to breast cancer.

He is a veteran and he is race fan through and through.

So, on this Veteran's Day, I pay personal tribute to my favorite veteran and my best NASCAR fan partner.

Happy Veteran's Day, Gary Buchanan!

Sam Hornish Has "My Head Down a Little Bit" After Wrecking Johnson

Mary Jo Buchanan — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 06:50:14 -0500

No matter what, you've got to feel just a little bit sorry for Sam Hornish, Jr. He just wanted to stay out of trouble at the Dickies 500 at Texas Motor Speedway and instead wrecked the points leader Jimmie Johnson on lap three of the race.

Hornish went on to wreck another time during the race, finally putting himself and others out of his misery. But the damage was done and he had cost Johnson over 100 points in the championship chase.

“I got my head down a little bit because I had a really good car," Hornish said. "All we wanted to do is make it so we could race the last three laps like that and not the first three."

“It's just, what do you do?" Hornish continued. "Try to play the game the way you think it should be played and get hit on lap three.

"It sucks.”

Hornish entered the race with a renewed focus on being patient and staying out of the chase contenders' ways. "One of the things I've been trying to work on the last couple weeks is patience," Hornish said. "I was working on doing what we can to make it to the end."

"Instead, we get run into from behind."

Hornish was referring to getting tapped by the No. 00 of David Reutimann, who slipped up the track to get into Hornish, which started the fiasco of wrecking with points leader Johnson.

"I got hit by the 00 and didn't even have time to correct before I got into Jimmie," Hornish said. "I don't ever want to feel like I've affected the outcome of the championship when I'm not in it."

Hornish said he was trying to just stay out of trouble, especially when he was racing with Mark Martin in front of him and Jimmie Johnson to his outside. He tried to back off a bit, hoping to let the contenders sort it out.

"It's unfortunate, you get somebody behind you that's got a good car and runs into you on lap three," Hornish said of Reutimann. "It's no fun."

Johnson did not think his entanglement with Hornish or the inside wall was very fun either. "I just wish he would have waited a little longer and didn't take me out in the process," Johnson said of Hornish.

"We were just in the wrong place at the wrong time."

With a yoeman's job by his crew, and assorted crew members from his fellow Hendrick teammates, Johnson was able to re-take the track and log laps. He finished in the 38th position.

Hornish was not so fortunate. After another accident, his car went to the garage, with the driver and team finishing in the 40th spot.

As much as Hornish hated it, his wreck into Johnson did tighten up the championship points battle. While Johnson remains in the lead, he is now just 73 points ahead of Mark Martin going into the final two races of the season.

Heavy Hearts and Heroes Are Real Story at Texas Motor Speedway

Mary Jo Buchanan — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 20:11:44 -0500

While Kyle Busch attempts to win all three races in a weekend and Jimmie Johnson continues to solidify his historic fourth championship in a row run at Texas Motor Speedway, hearts will be heavy and heroes will be on everyone's mind.

Just 178 miles south of the speedway, a massacre took place this week at Fort Hood. A deranged Army psychiatrist, Major Nidal Malik, fired on his comrades, killing thirteen and injuring twenty-eight.

"This was a kick in the gut," General George Casey, the Army Chief of Staff said. His words no doubt summarized the feelings of Americans across the country.

In spite of the carnage, heroes emerged. One of the most prominent has turned out to be a civilian police woman, Officer Kimberly Munley, who shot Malik four times in spite of being shot by him several times, with wounds to her legs and wrist.

"She walked up and basically engaged him," base commander at Fort Hood Lt. General Robert Cone said. "I think, certainly, this could have been far worse."

President Obama ordered that flags be flown at half staff on all federal buildings until next Wednesday, Veteran's Day, in tribute to the victims.

"We don't know all the answers yet," said Obama, who intends to attend the memorial service at the base. "What we do know there are families, friends, and an entire nation grieving right now."

While the President leads the nation in mourning, Eddie Gossage, President of Texas Motor Speedway, struggled with how to best handle the tragedy during the race weekend.

One of the ways the track will do so is to have a moment of silence prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup race, in remembrance of the fallen soldiers.

All Texas Motor Speedway employees will also wear black armbands during the race to remember those affected. Gossage wanted every one of his staff to do so, saying poignantly, "NASCAR fans bleed red, white and blue."

Along with the Army logo, a remembrance has been painted on the front stretch grass of the speedway. The remembrance reads, "God bless our Fort Hood troops."

NASCAR, as well as its drivers, teams and race tracks, have strong ties to the military, with those serving the country as a major part of the sport's fan base. NASCAR CEO Brian France affirmed this unique relationship.

"Our fans are the people who go out and win wars for this country," France said.

Ryan Newman, whose car is sponsored by the U.S. Army, was deeply affected by the tragedy. "To be here, in the big picture, think about everybody down in Fort Hood with the U.S. Army and their families that are going through some very difficult times," Newman said.

"Big picture here," Newman continued, "We’re racing in Texas but our thoughts and prayers go out to other places as well.”

Newman's boss and team owner Tony Stewart also expressed deep feelings about the tragedy. He has grown to know and appreciate the military, especially the Army, through his teammate's Army sponsorship.

"Obviously, that's something nobody would have dreamed could happen, but it did," Stewart said. "You just think about all the families and wish them the best."

With the tragedy at Fort Hood looming large, the drama of the Cup race, whoever stands in victory lane, is truly put in perspective.

There are more important things in life, even in a die-hard NASCAR fan's life, than who is wearing the Stetson hat and firing off the pistols in celebration at the end of the Dickies 500.

So, this race weekend, instead of focusing on those four most famous words in racing, let us focus on these four words instead.

God bless our soldiers. God bless their families. God bless the U.S.A.

Photo Credit: Raedle/Getty

Grandma Ruby's Sweetly Supports NASCAR's Female Racers

Mary Jo Buchanan — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 18:41:18 -0500

Grandma Ruby's prides itself on its homemade fudge, but this family-owned business can now also say that they have entered the world of racing by agreeing to support up-and-coming women in motorsports.

The company, run by Kari Carpenter and her family, support Johanna Long, the 2009 Gulf Coast Champion, who just won her second Super Late Model championship this year.

In addition to Long, Grandma Ruby's supports another driver, Tiffany Daniels, a Drive for Diversity candidate who has recently run in NASCAR's Camping World Series East.

When asked how her company discovered the world of NASCAR and stock car racing, Carpenter advised it was "quite by accident." As part of a networking group, Carpenter met Demi Knight Clark, a promoter of women in motorsports.

Clark convinced Carpenter to include her fudge in gift baskets containing products from women-owned businesses to promote female drivers trying to make their way in the sport.

They partnered with D'Hondt Racing, who as a team has worked with both Long and Daniels at various ARCA races this year.

"It seemed a good opportunity to get Grandma Ruby's name out there so we sent several boxes of fudge to include in the gift baskets," Carpenter said. "Next thing we heard from Demi was how successful the promotion was and that our fudge was a huge hit!"

Carpenter created gift baskets for the next race event, which were again well-received. The principals of Grandma Ruby's then decided to go to the ARCA race in Chicago, with their company's name on the car as one of the co-sponsors.

"So, off we went to Chicago with lots of fudge we passed out in the garage," Carpenter said. "That was our first race and we were hooked."

"We had a great time behind the scenes meeting people at the heart of the sport and were so comfortable in the environment that our passion for the success of the D'Hondt race team began to grow."

Carpenter admits that she is not necessarily a feminist, or an "I am woman, hear me roar" type of person as she puts it.

But she has enjoyed interacting with the team, learning about the sport and seeing the passion of the young women who want to pursue their racing dreams.

"It's impossible not to support them," Carpenter said.

Grandma Ruby's is admittedly in its infancy stages as a racing sponsor. Carpenter realizes that it takes time and perseverance to get the return on their investment, something they are willing to do.

Carpenter and Grandma Ruby's has had an interesting history as they moved toward growing their business through racing. Carpenter's parents and sister started the gift and candy store, called Rocky Top Country Store in Tennessee, in 1993.

Last year, Carpenter's parents wanted to retire so she and her sister got together and developed a plan where her sister would keep the storefront in Tennessee while she developed an on-line extension of the business.

"My husband and son found space in an industrial park and built a commercial kitchen," Carpenter said. "They do all the fudge-making with my sister and brother-in-law to come up with new flavors we can offer."

"We named the store after our grandma, who was such an inspiration to us in growing our faith and pursuing our dreams."

Carpenter has both a Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree in Business Administration. She works in corporate America in addition to running the Grandma Ruby's business.

Carpenter admits that, like the female racers she supports, it is often difficult to manage all of the many tasks and responsibilities on her plate.

"My greatest reward, however is seeing the fruits of our labor and perseverance when we find success in establishing mutually beneficial relationships (like we have with D'Hondt Racing) and some other companies," Carpenter said.

Carpenter's advice for up and coming female drivers in NASCAR and motorsports is simple. "Be true to yourself, celebrate the smallest of victories and remember, male-dominated only means there are more men in the sport, it doesn't mean they are better at it!"

If Carpenter has anything to do with it, Grandma Ruby's will be involved with promoting female race car drivers and teams for many years to come.

"Our entire family has definitely caught the racing bug," Carpenter said. "We want to be the sponsor the team can count on to support what they do best."

"Plus, how cool will it be to see Grandma Ruby's on the side of a hauler driving on highways across the country?"

For more information about Grandma Ruby's and their racing sponsorship, visit http://grandmarubys.com/ .

Awesome Bill's Son Chase Elliott Wins GAS Championship and Rookie Honors

Mary Jo Buchanan — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:34:42 -0500

Chase Elliott, 13-year-old son of "Awesome Bill from Dawsonville," is following in his father's championship footsteps.

The young driver was named the Georgia Asphalt Series (GAS) Champion, as well of Rookie of the Year in that series.

Elliott, with two wins and nine top-ten finishes in nine series starts, finished the season just five points ahead of Casey Roderick, his Bill Elliott Racing teammate. This is Elliott's first Late Model title.

Unfortunately, Elliott did not get to race his No. 9 Aaron's Dream Machine for the championship as the final GAS race was cancelled. By virtue of his points standings, however, Elliott was named the champion of the series.

"I'm a little disappointed not to race for the championship in the final race," Elliott said. "But we had a good competitive season, and I'm thrilled to end up with the championship title."

"This was my rookie season, and to do this well was more than I ever expected, so to also win the Rookie of the Year is awesome."

Well-spoken as his father and mother, Elliott thanked his sponsors and recognized his team for his success this season. "I can't thank Aaron's enough for all their support," Elliott said. "I wouldn't be out here doing what I love to do without them on board."

"And thanks to my mom and dad, Ricky Turner, Jim Barfield, and all of the guys on the team," Elliott continued. "This has been an awesome season."

Elliott will next be racing at the North-South Shootout at Concord Speedway in North Carolina this weekend. This start will mark the young driver's seventh Super Late Model run and his fourth start in the CRA Super Series.

The 125-lap race will also be Elliott's first trip to that half-mile, tri-oval track. Speed51.com and RaceTalkRadio.com will be providing live Internet coverage beginning at 2:00 p.m. this Saturday.

Elliott then plans to finish out the racing year at Gresham Motorsports Park in the World Crown Series and then the Snowball Derby at Five Flags Speedway.

"I'm looking forward to wrapping up the year with good runs at the North-South Shootout, World Crown and Snowball Derby," Elliott said.

For more information about Chase Elliott or to vote for him as the 2009 Late Model Most Popular Driver Award presented by Aluminum Racing Products, visit www.ChaseElliott.com.

Newbie News: Austin Geer Wins Candy Trophy at Halloween Classic

Mary Jo Buchanan — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:08:52 -0500

Seven year old Austin Geer not only took the checkered flag at The Halloween Classic, but he also won the top prize, two large bags of candy. The win capped Geer's second season of quarter midget racing at his home track in Atlanta.

"It meant a lot to win this race because I want to be the points champion next year," said the young driver. "This win makes me feel like I am going to win every race next year."

"What I like most about winning is driving around the track holding the checkered flag," Geer continued. "It's hard to hold it if you drive too fast but I still do it anyway."

"Next year when I win, I'm going to slide my car through the infield grass."

The Halloween Classic fielded drivers between the ages of 5 to 16 years old. Geer, along with his race buddies actually had to help dry the track after a rain delay, grabbing leaf blowers and brooms to get the track ready for racing.

Once the track dried and the green flag flew, Geer was all business. His father Charles shared that his son Austin was solely focused on getting "his two bags of candy."

Geer led early in the race, driving a perfect line and controlling his loose race car like a pro. He was challenged only once for the lead with six laps to go, but refused to give up his position.

Geer and his challenger bumped through the turn and both cars began to spin. But Geer was determined to hang on to his lead and saved the car, maintaining his lead and even beginning to lap the field.

When the checkered flag flew, the young winner beat his steering wheel in celebration. His father advised that his son said, "I knew I had him once we got to lapped traffic because I never lift."

Geer celebrated his first year this season in the Junior Honda Division, which focuses on drivers between the ages of 6 and 8 years. Geer's home track is a competitive one, known not only for being the track where Reed Sorenson grew up racing and but also for its history and stiff competition.

Geer's father Charles was most pleased with his son's performance at this competitive track. "I enjoyed seeing my son get this win because Austin really works hard and this allows him to see his hard work pay off."

With the win under his belt, young Austin and his family will close out the racing season next week in Charlotte, North Carolina.

"I can't wait to race in North Carolina," Geer said. "This is my first time going there."

Geer, who has nicknamed his car "Myrna" said, "Myrna likes cold weather and has been fast in the last four races. Dad thinks he is going to make the car competitive for this race."

Geer will also be visiting family friends Charlie Langenstein, mechanical director for the No. 24 and No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports teams, and his racer son, also named Austin. Geer will get a tour around the Hendrick shop, which the young racer is very much looking forward to seeing.

Geer and his family will next visit with Ken Ragan of 600 Racing and will see the shop where they build the Bandolero and Legends cars. The young racer, who loves to watch the "older kids" race, also plans to attend a race in Concord, North Carolina to watch Chase Elliott, Bill Elliott's son, race late models, as well as checking out Austin Langenstein run in the Bandoleros at Lowe's Motor Speedway.

"I think we will be a little tired after that," shared Austin's parents.

On the completion of this racing season and their race visits, the Geers intend to take some family time off. Their plans include mountain biking, fishing, and camping.

Geer will then get back to racing in 2010 with a new quarter midget chassis. He looks forward to competing at the national championships at "Indy" and preparing his move to Bandoleros in the fall of 2010.

"He just loves being at the track all the time," Geer's proud parents said. And Austin keeps telling anyone that will listen, "I want to be a race car driver when I grow up."

David Poole's Words Ring True When It Comes to Talladega

Mary Jo Buchanan — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 20:24:45 -0500

Shortly before his passing at the age of 50, David Poole shared his feelings about the April race at Talladega Superspeedway in his Life in the Turn Lane column for the Charlotte Observer.

"The problem is and always has been this race track," said Poole.

After watching the Amp Energy 500 at the Superspeedway, many would agree that Poole's words again rang true this weekend at the fall Talladega race.

In his April 26, 2009 column, Poole shared his concerns about the track, especially in light of the terrible crash involving Carl Edwards. Brad Keselowski and Edwards were racing for the win when they wrecked. The wreck sent Edwards airborne and he crashed into the catch fence.

Although Edwards was able to get out of the car and run across the finish line a la Ricky Bobby in Talladega Nights , several fans were hurt from debris that came through the catch fence.

Poole railed against NASCAR for allowing this kind of racing to occur. He hearkened back to the 40-year history of problems at Talladega, from the tire issues in the inaugural race that caused the drivers to boycott the competition, to Bobby Allison's terrible crash that sent him flying into the catch fence.

"The real problem is the same as it has been for the 40 years this track has existed," Poole said. "From the very first weekend of racing held there, when speeds were too fast for tires to withstand and anybody with any regard for what's really safe would have called off the race, the problem is and always has been this race track."

Poole continued, "It was crazy—and I mean that word literally—to ever let things get to a point where Bill Elliott could run 215 mph here. It was crazy to react to Bobby Allison's wreck into the fence, one that looked entirely too much like the wreck Carl Edwards had here Sunday for the comfort of anybody with good sense, by trying to write rules and change the cars to make this place safe."

But NASCAR seemed to do just that, trying to make the racing safer at Talladega. From the practice session, where the sanctioning body black flagged Michael Waltrip for aggressive driving, to the drivers' meeting where they warned drivers that they would be penalized for bump drafting in the turns, NASCAR appeared to be warning the drivers that hard racing that might cause "the big one" would not be tolerated this time around.

The drivers seemed to heed NASCAR's warnings at the beginning and through the mid-point of the fall race at Talladega. The field went single file around the track, logging laps and causing several of the drivers like Tony Stewart to beg his pit crew to either tell him stories or find him some "No Doze" to keep him awake.

But as the laps turned and patience wore thin for many of the drivers, it was just a matter of time before someone got racy and the wreck was on. The first major accident of the day was not the "big one" per se, but was a terrible crash nonetheless.

The wreck involved a number of cars, including Kevin Harvick and Marcos Ambrose. Ryan Newman, however, bore the brunt of the crash, pirouetting wildly, flipping and flying through the air, and sliding all over the track and the infield on his roof.

With the top of his car pancaked in, Newman came to rest upside down. For many long and excruciating minutes that seemed like forever, the safety crews were able to peel away the "top/bottom" of the car so that Newman could safely crawl out.

Of the April race, Poole said, "It's crazy to ask drivers to participate in the kind of racing that goes on at Talladega today and it's crazy for them to willingly do so."

After this weekend's fall race at Talladega, several of the drivers echoed Poole's sentiments almost word for word.

"I knew I was going upright," said Ryan Newman of his crash. "Damn near did a pirouette and came back down on four wheels."

"I respect NASCAR but I just wish they'd respect me," he added.

"You can't ask 43 human beings to be perfect for four hours at a half inch apart from each other," Elliott Sadler said. "We hate it that we're in this box but there's no alternative."

"As long as we keep the banking here at Talladega, we're going to have to keep racing like this...it's not fun by no means," continued Elliott. "The happiest day of the weekend is when you can walk away from this place when the race is over."

With the race red flagged for Newman's wreck, the field was set for a green, white checkered finish. Several drivers ran out of gas and others had to pit in order to make the additional laps.

In the final laps, Brad Keselowski got into Kurt Busch and the "big one" was on. This wreck sent Mark Martin, who was sitting second in the points, flipping through the air.

"I don't know what happened," Martin said. "That's what we do here."

"Congratulations to Jamie McMurray, I'm pretty sure he won," Martin continued. "And that's about all I know about the race."

Poole not only ranted about the racing at Talladega, but also about the reactions of the fans.

"It's also sad that fans who profess to love this sport and the people who compete in it not only tolerate this madness, but embrace it and celebrate it," Poole said. "Instead of talking about how 'cool' Sunday's race was with all of its wrecks and the near disaster that happened on the final lap, fans ought to be screaming their demands that NASCAR and International Speedway Corporation do something to make this race track safe to race on."

It will be interesting to hear the fans' reactions to the racing at Talladega this weekend. If Facebook and Twitter postings are any indication, it would seem that fans are beginning to share their disgust and their concern for the safety of the drivers that they follow so fiercely.

But as Poole so wisely concluded his column on the spring race at Talladega, written shortly before his death, he urged all to dialogue about this problem. In Poole's words, "If you want to talk about the problem, that is the only conversation worth having."

Poole, I couldn't agree with you more. Let's get this conversation started.

Talladega Speedway Tries to Tame the Demons That "Haunt" the Track

Mary Jo Buchanan — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 22:16:09 -0400

In addition to Halloween weekend, replete with tricks and treats, Talladega Superspeedway has always been known for its weird happenings since the first race was run 40 years ago. Some might even called it cursed.

With this "jinxed" history hanging over Talladega's head, track President Rick Humphrey took matters into his own hands. He contacted Creek Medicine Man Robert Thrower to perform a traditional Native American balancing ceremony prior to the race weekend.

Thrower performed the ceremony on the start-finish line of the race track. He asked specifically for balance to be restored to the land.

"Most everything in Native American belief is about keeping balance," Thrower said. "Sometimes people and places can get out of balance, and that unbalance may be perceived as something bad."

"What we did was to bless the track and ask for reconciliation so that balance can be restored."

Talladega Superspeedway indeed needs some adjustment in its "balance." Since its inception 40 years ago, the track seems to have been almost cursed.

In fact, the first race at Talladega was mired in controversy. Because of the high speeds and problems with the tires giving way, the Professional Drivers Association, led by President Richard Petty, boycotted the race, packed their race cars onto their trailers, and headed home.

Bill France, the founder of NASCAR who had built the Talladega track, convinced replacement drivers to race instead. One of the replacement drivers who made their debut at that race was Richard Childress, now owner of Richard Childress Racing.

Talladega has also had its share of spectacular wrecks, often involving the "big one," caused by the cars running so closely together in a pack. One of the worst wrecks at the track was in 1987, when Bobby Allison's car went airborne, hitting the catch fence and spewing debris into the crowd.

In 1993, Bobby Allison was involved in another of Talladega's "curses." His son, Davey, was killed in a helicopter crash in the infield of the Talladega Superspeedway.

Most recently, in the spring race of this year, Carl Edwards suffered the same fate as Bobby Allison. His car was hit, went airborne, and flew into the catch fence, again injuring several fans in the stands.

Many believe the Talladega jinx goes all the way back to before the track was even built. One legend has it that a Native American tribe raced horses in the valley where the track was built and that their chief was killed when thrown from one of the race horses.

Another tale is told that claims the track was built on an Indian burial ground. Still another has it that the Creek nation drove out another tribe for collaborating with Andrew Jackson and one of their shamen cursed the land.

Given these legends, the notion of having a Native American balancing ceremony seemed like a natural to the track's President Humphrey. "It was a very moving ceremony," Humphrey said.

Thrower, who is from the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, presided over the track balancing ceremony.

He opened with a prayer in his native Muscogee language, asking for reconciliation and the restoration of balance while burning a collection of ceremonial offerings in a small bowl. He then closed the ceremony with another prayer.

Thrower has a long history of performing traditional medicine and has been a medicine man for nine years. His great-grandmother was the last tribal medicine woman.

All of the NASCAR Cup drivers participating in the running of the AMP Energy 500 certainly hope that the curse is gone, thanks to the re-balancing ceremony. Luck did not hold out, however, for Cup qualifying, as it was cancelled due to rain.

The two drivers who will lead the field to green, Jimmie Johnson on the pole and Mark Martin on the outside pole, hope that no weird things will happen.

Unfortunately, they have some strange history together the last time they started in those positions at Talladega.

At that race, Martin ran into Johnson on the pace laps while warming up for the green flag. Martin's steering pump locked up on him and he drove directly into Johnson, putting him laps down in the race.

"I remember thinking what the hell just happened?" Johnson said. "Initially, I saw him coming at me and we made contact."

"And then he pushed us into the grass, and kept going on a line to hit the inside wall," continued Johnson. " It was really easy to know then that something went wrong."

There is no doubt that drivers and track officials alike hope that nothing further goes wrong this race weekend. And they are hoping that the balancing ceremony arranged by Talladega Superspeedway President Humphrey will indeed do the trick.

"Sometimes things just need to be brought back into balance," Humphrey said. "With the controversy that surrounded Talladega when we first opened, it's a possibility that there has always been some unbalance here."

"I'm confident in saying that after this ceremony, we don't have to worry about that anymore," concluded Humphrey. "We are looking forward to a great AMP Energy 500 race weekend."

Austin Dillon Disqualified From Truck Race At Talladega

Mary Jo Buchanan — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 20:15:39 -0400

Austin Dillon, grandson of Richard Childress and son of racer Mike Dillon, was disqualified from the NASCAR Camping World Truck race at Talladega.

His No. 3 race truck failed post-qualifying inspection due to not meeting the height requirements.

Dillon will be replaced by Jennifer Jo Cobb, who had thought she was packing her bags to go back home after failing to qualify.

This is not the first time the 18 year-old Childress progeny has been disqualified from a race venue. Dillon's development team had a win taken away from them at Green Valley Speedway in the GVS Crate Nationals in July.

The Speedway ruled that the crankshaft in the No. 3 late model that Dillon had driven had been illegally modified. Dillon and Richard Childress Racing appealed the decision but the appeal was denied and the win went to Shannon Buckingham.

Dillon has been poised to break into NASCAR's upper echelon of racing by attempting to qualify for several Nationwide and Truck races this season. Prior to 2009, Dillon had raced in the Camping World Series East Series, finishing second in the points standings and winning the Sunoco Rookie of the Year honors.

Dillon had been running in the 21st position in practice at Talladega Superspeedway. He had a good qualifying run at the fast track, until he was repeatedly sent through post-qualifying inspection.

After several times through the inspection station and under intense NASCAR official scrutiny, it was determined that Dillon's race truck did not meet the template specifications and was disqualified from the race.

Colin Braun took the pole honors for Saturday's Camping World Truck Series Mountain Dew 250.

This article is also featured on speedwaymedia.com.

NASCAR Driver AJ Allmendinger Pays High Price for DUI

Mary Jo Buchanan — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 07:01:24 -0400

AJ Allmendinger, driver of the No. 44 Richard Petty Motorsports Cup car, is the latest NASCAR driver to experience the high cost of driving while under the influence.

Allmendinger was arrested in Mooresville, N.C., after being stopped for a sobriety test, where he blew a .08 in the breathalyzer test, the threshold for drunk driving in that state.

NASCAR reacted swiftly, putting Allmendinger on probation until the end of the year. Ramsey Poston, NASCAR spokesperson advised that, under the terms of his probation, another infraction by the driver would result in serious penalties and ramifications.

While this is an important penalty, Allmendinger no doubt will face the even higher costs of a DUI charge, one that every person who is arrested for this reason experiences. That penalty is the shame and humiliation factor.

The actual experience of being arrested is one that is frightening, humiliating and traumatic, all at the same time.

When the police put the handcuffs on and the ride in the back of the police car commences, it is one of the most humbling experiences for anyone who has been caught drinking and driving.

For Allmendinger, the shame factor is even more pronounced, given his visibility as a NASCAR driver. The news was immediately broadcast and the Facebook links and tweets came out fast and furious.

Another major penalty that comes out of a DUI is the knowledge that others are now disappointed in you or the feeling that you have let those that you know and love down. Allmendinger certainly must be experiencing this, especially driving for one of the biggest names in motorsports, Richard Petty.

Petty had this to say, "I am deeply disappointed this has happened. A.J. has accepted full responsibility for his actions and will work to make this right."

There are also real consequences of a DUI. One of the most important for many is the loss of your driver's license, a penalty that often hits those charged hard, as they are unable to work.

Allmendinger has indeed lost his driver's license for 30 days. NASCAR has confirmed, however, that its race car drivers do not need a valid driver's license in order to participate, so Allmendinger will race this weekend at Talladega.

Other penalties for DUI are financial in nature, including fines, attorney fees, insurance surcharges, the cost of participating in mandatory DUI classes, and paying for possible treatment options. In most states, the total "cost" of a DUI can add up to well over $10,000 for all of these charges.

While Allmendinger may not have to worry so much about the financial implications as others, there still may be ramifications in the driver's pocket book.

While he will have to shell out additional dollars through the process, the biggest financial impact may be on his marketability and loss of attraction to sponsors and others willing to support his race car and career.

Allmendinger was fortunate in that no one was hurt or killed as a consequence of his choice of drinking and then driving. Unlike the situation for many others, this driver will at least not have to bear the penalty of guilt for the rest of his life for his actions.

There is no doubt that AJ Allmendinger will now begin the retribution phase of his DUI penalty. He has already done so, apologizing to his fans and supporters, and urging all to learn a lesson from his actions.

"It was a bad judgment call and I apologize for that… to my fans, sponsors, team and NASCAR," Allmendinger said. "... Hopefully I can be an example of being more aware of drinking responsibly and even if you feel fine, take a cab, call a friend. Just don't risk it."

Paul Harraka and Jessica Brunelli Headline Drive for Diversity Final 10

Mary Jo Buchanan — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 16:09:46 -0400

While over 30 drivers from all different forms of racing competed this month in the Drive for Diversity Combine, only 10 drivers made the final cut for the 2010 Class. Headlining the group is Paul Harraka, the Rookie of the Year in the Camping World West Series in 2009, and a newcomer Jessica Brunelli, from Hayward, CA.

Harraka, the first Drive for Diversity participant to win a race, emerged as the front runner for the 2010 class after two days of intensive try outs. A native New Jerseyan of Syrian descent, Harraka won two races in the Camping World West Series under the auspices of Bill McAnally Racing.

"I've certainly tried to do whatever I can to help out the younger drivers," Harraka said. "I was in their shoes just a few years ago."

Joining Harraka as finalists are four other drivers who participated in this year's Drive for Diversity Program. They are as follows:

*Mackena Bell, who ran the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series Late Model and finished eighth in the points standings.

*Michael Cherry, who ran the Late Model Division at Greenville-Pickens Speedway and had 19 top-10 finishes.

*Katie Hagar, who ran the Whelen All-American Series and set a track qualifying record at 99 Speedway in Stockton, CA.

*Juan Pitta, who had 12 top-five finishes in the Late Model Division at All-American Speedway.

The other five finalists chosen from the Drive for Diversity Combine are newcomers to the program. They are as follows:

*Jessica Brunelli of Hayward, CA

*Ryan Gifford of Winchester, TN

*Rebecca Kasten of Mequon, WI

*Sergio Pena of Catharpin, VI

*Darrell Wallace, Jr. of Mobile, AL

One of these "newbies", Jessica Brunelli began racing was she was 10 years old. Now that she turned "sweet 16," she decided to try out for the Drive for Diversity combine in earnest.

"I am the third generation of family involved in racing," Brunelli said. "My grandfather crewed on drag cars and my dad raced for three years when I was younger."

"I remember the race car being on a trailer in the back yard so I could play in it."

Brunelli's short-term goal was to make the 2010 Drive for Diversity cut, which she has accomplished. Her long-term goal is to be in the Cup Series in the next few years.

When asked about her racing idols, Brunelli replied, "Dale Earnhardt, Sr. was my favorite driver," But I"m very inspired by Tony Stewart in the fact that he can drive anything."

Brunelli, Harraka and the rest of the finalists will be the first members of the newly revamped Drive for Diversity program. The 2010 program will be under the auspices of the 909 Group, a sports marketing agency run by Max Siegel, formerly of Dale Earnhardt, Inc.

Siegel has created his own team, Revolution Racing, that will field all 10 drivers in the Drive for Diversity program in the upcoming year. Four of the drivers will compete in the Camping World Series East and six drivers will compete in the Whelen All-American Series.

The Camping World Series East drivers will be mentored by Andy Santerre, four-time champion of the Series. Santerre is known for his talent in nurturing new drivers to the top levels of the sport.

The drivers who were chosen for the 2010 inaugural class under this new format had to compete on and off the track at the combine. They were evaluated for their media skills, sponsor skills, and driving skills on the track at the Motor Mile Speedway.

They were also filmed during the tryout process. Their stories will be featured in a television series called "Changing Lanes", an eight-part series which will air in early 2010 on BET.

"We are confident that these drivers will raise the bar in terms of talent and competition," Siegel said of his finalists.

Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Just Needs His Own Country Song (Satire)

Mary Jo Buchanan — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 17:21:22 -0400

Dale Earnhardt, Jr., NASCAR's most popular driver, will be one of the celebrities attending the upcoming CMA awards on Nov. 11 in Nashville. Junior admits to being a lover of country music since his upbringing in North Carolina.

"I remember listening to all the greats, Johnny Cash, Wille Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Hank Williams, Jr.", Junior said. "Dwight Yokum is also really cool."

One of the highlights for Junior has been meeting country star Dierks Bentley. "Dierks was great, and we've become really good friends," Junior said.

"I think he came to a race or two and we walked up on pit road."

Junior, who just turned 35 years old, admits that he has a number of country songs that he listens to on his Ipod. Some of the songs include "I'm Gonna Hire a Wino (To Decorate Our Home)," "Redneck Girl," and "Louisiana Saturday Night."

While Junior is a country music fan, his life and race career lately could also be the fodder of a good country music song. NASCAR's most visible driver is currently mired in the 22nd position in the points standings and has finished no higher than 17th in the last seven races.

While Junior watches his three other Hendrick Motorsports teammates competing for the championship, he continues to struggle. Even a crew chief change, from his cousin Tony Eury, Jr. to Lance McGrew, has not seemed to improve Junior's performance on the track.

Junior has also had terrible luck in many of the races. From electrical problems to issues in the pits, he and his No. 88 AMP Energy drink team have not been able to secure any consistency to get even one good race finish late in the season.

So, what does Junior need to turn his season around? Since he is such a country music fan, maybe Junior just needs his own country song to pour out his frustrations.

To that end, here is the musical styling and lyrics to my country western song, entitled "Driving at the End of My Rope," dedicated to Dale Earnhardt, Jr. May it make him at least smile and perhaps even put a spring back in his step.

"Driving at the End of My Rope"

I'm driving, yes I'm driving

With all my heart and soul.

I'm driving yes I'm driving

But I can't get out of this hole.

This season has been a nightmare

With ups and downs galore.

I've even changed my crew chief

I just can't take much more.

My teammates all surpass me

And get to run the Chase.

I'd give anything to beat them

And actually win a race.

I've had so many problems

It's almost like a curse.

My car has broke; my wires are crossed

It just can't get much worse.

And then I miss my pit stall

Start at the back of the pack.

I can't believe I'm out again

And moving further back.

I'm driving, yes I'm driving

With all my heart and soul.

I'm driving, yes I'm driving

But I can't get out of this hole.

I'm driving, yes I'm driving

But I'm at the end of my rope.

Please God give me a good finish

Then maybe I'll have some hope.

Rumor has it that Carrie Underwood will perform this one at the upcoming CMA awards ceremony. There is no doubt that she will take home the CMA Entertainer of the Year award with this new Junior song.

Juan Pablo Montoya May Need Some Tums with His "Taco"

Mary Jo Buchanan — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 11:59:34 -0400

While Montoya focused on getting his car ready for the Tums Fast Relief 500 race at Martinsville Speedway, attention turned from race preparations to the former Formula One now NASCAR driver due to a remark made by an announcer during a college football game.

Bob Griese, ESPN football analyst, made what many considered a racially stereotypical remark about Montoya. While the network was promoting the NASCAR race coverage, a graphic with the top five drivers in the Chase was displayed.

Color commentator and ESPN colleague Chris Spielman asked Griese, "Where's Montoya?"

Griese responded, "Out eating a taco."

Griese apologized twice during the broadcast about the remark he made while broadcasting the football game between Ohio State and Minnesota.

"Juan Pablo Montoya is one of the best drivers in NASCAR. I just want to apologize for the comment I made earlier in the ballgame," Griese stated in his apology.

ESPN released a statement shortly afterward.

"During today's telecast of the Ohio State-Minnesota college football game on ESPN, analyst Bob Griese made an inappropriate comment when discussing NASCAR driver Juan Pablo Montoya."

The statement continued, "Bob apologized during the telecast, and plans to apologize again during ESPN's college football programming after his plane lands. ESPN has spoken to Bob and he understands that his comment was uncalled for."

NASCAR media reported that Griese had contacted Montoya directly and also issued his apologies for his off-hand, yet potentially discriminatory remark.

While Griese may need a Tums or two of his own, Juan Pablo Montoya no doubt needed a Tums Fast Relief 500 after his run at Lowe's Motor Speedway last weekend. A spin and crash in that race sent Montoya from third to sixth in the points standings.

Prior to the Charlotte race, Montoya had been stout in each of the Chase races. He was one of the only Chasers to finish in the top ten consistently.

Montoya, however, refused to be discouraged by the poor performance or his drop in the points standings. He maintained that his primary focus was continuing to run well, be competitive, and enjoy the remaining races of the season.

“We came here, we made the Chase and we’ve been competitive, we had a bad week," Montoya said. "You’ve got to look at the positives. The positives were we probably had the second fastest car last week."

Montoya continued, "I would say the No. 11 (Denny Hamlin) had a faster car than us. Apart from that nobody had a faster car than us. Neither the No. 11 or myself had a good week. What can you do? We lost a ton of points, you move on."

Montoya seemed indeed ready to tackle Martinsville this weekend, a short track which is admittedly not one of his best. The driver of the No. 42 Target Chevrolet openly stated that he struggles sometimes with figuring out how to get around the track shaped like a paper clip.

“I would love to know that," said Montoya of how to master Martinsville. "This place is hard because it’s always a tough balance between how much the car turns through the center of the corner and how much traction you’ve got off the corner."

"If you can have a car that turns well and puts the power down good you can have a chance of winning this," Montoya continued. "Last time we were here, we were really fast because the car turned through the center, you could get on the gas."

"By the time race came we couldn’t turn through the center and it wouldn’t put the power down so what do you do?”

In the only practice at Martinsville, Montoya did well, scoring in the second position with a time of 19.698 seconds and a speed of 96.132 miles per hour.

Unfortunately, Montoya was not able to back up his practice time with his qualifying run. He qualified in the 21st spot, with a time of 19.819 seconds and a speed of 94.545 miles per hour.

Yet Montoya, as is his custom, put it all behind him and remains singularly focused on the sixth race in the championship chase this weekend. And in spite of Griese's remark or the media circus that it has created, Montoya only has eyes for running well in the Tums Fast Relief 500 at Martinsville Speedway.

“It’s the same thing we’ve been doing," Montoya said. "Have fun, run hard, make sure everybody sees that Target car running hard and up front and see what happens."

"If we can go out and win some races that would be awesome," Montoya continued, "I think we’re way overdue but as I say that it could take a year before I win a freaking race so I don’t know.”

Depending on how it goes for Montoya at Martinsville, he and many of the other competitors may just want to keep those extra-strength Tums close at hand. And Montoya might just want to share one or two of them with ESPN analyst Bob Griese.

Joey Logano and Justin Allgaier Currently Rule Rookie Of The Year Honors

Mary Jo Buchanan — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 21:00:42 -0400

Joey Logano and Justin Allgaier are currently ruling the Rookie of the Year battles in the NASCAR Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series respectively.

Both drivers are having excellent seasons so far, with Logano scoring six top-ten Cup finishes and Allgaier securing his first pole of his Nationwide career at Memphis Motorsports Park.

In the Cup Series, Logano has been battling Scott Speed for Rookie of the Year honors. They are the only two drivers in 2009 eligible for ROTY honors this season.

Many predicted Speed, a former Formula One driver, to take the NASCAR rookie stage by storm. On the contrary, many thought that Logano, the teenage phenomenon, deemed "Sliced Bread" by Joe Gibbs Racing, was more hype than talent.

Logano was not even supposed to "graduate" to the Cup Series when he did. But all that changed when Tony Stewart, who had been running in the Joe Gibbs Racing No. 20 car, decided to leave the team and start his own racing venture.

Yet with just five more races to go in the 2009 Cup season, Logano is the ROTY leader by an overwhelming points margin. Logano leads Speed by 129 points prior to the race this weekend at Martinsville.

Logano is coming off a great rookie finish at Lowe's Motor Speedway, where he scored the Raybestos Rookie of the Race honors. Logano battled against four-time Cup champion Jeff Gordon to finish in the fifth position.

At Martinsville, Logano qualified in the seventh position for the Tums Fast Relief 500. This starting spot was impressive, especially since this was only the second time the youngster has visited the track.

“The Farm Bureau Insurance Toyota was decent in the first practice," Logano said. "Since I only have one race here I spent a majority of the practice getting a better understanding of what works and what lines on the track are fast."

While Logano dominates the ROTY battle in the Cup Series, Justin Allgaier is battling mightily in the Nationwide Series to take that honor. Allgaier is in a closer struggle, just 18 points ahead of Rusty Wallace Racing competitor Brendan Gaughan, prior to the Memphis race.

Allgaier is also battling for the fifth position in points, the last podium position, in the Nationwide standings.

At Memphis Motorsports Park, Allgaier secured his first ever career pole. It was his first pole in 36 races.

Allgaier, who goes by the nickname “Little Gator” in honor of his father, is no stranger to achieving race honors. Prior to coming to the Nationwide Series, Allgaier was the champion of the ARCA/REMAX Series.

For both the Cup and Nationwide Series, the Rookie of the Year honors are calculated using a points system, based on qualifying, finishes, and wins, as well as conduct on and off the track as determined by a Rookie of the Year panel.

Rookie of the Year honors have been awarded since 1958. Ryan Newman holds the Rookie record for most poles, top five and top ten finishes.

The record for most wins by a Raybestos Rookie of the Year is three. This record is shared by Tony Stewart and Jimmie Johnson.

Both Logano and Allgaier hope to join those storied Cup drivers by making history of their own. The two drivers hope to be holding their own Rookie of the Year trophies when the 2009 season comes to a close.

Dale Earnhardt Jr.: Calling All Armchair Psychiatrists

Mary Jo Buchanan — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 22:02:17 -0400

It is no secret that Dale Earnhardt, Jr. has had a miserable 2009 season so far. While Junior watches his three Hendrick teammates lead the points race, he languishes in the 22nd position in the points standings.

Junior's teammates have eleven wins amongst the three of them. Junior has no win yet this season.

Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, and Mark Martin, Junior's Hendrick peers, lead laps almost every race. Dale Earnhardt, Jr. has led a lap only twice in the past 21 races.

This past week, Junior's frustrations spilled over and he shared it with the world.

"There comes a point where you don't want to ride it out no more," Earnhardt said. "So you just have had enough. It's been a long year."

"It's like really encouraging one day and the next day it's equally discouraging," Earnhardt, Jr. continued. "That gets really old."

"I'm about to the end of my rope on it."

These stark, candid and honest remarks from NASCAR's most popular driver have many fans and supporters alike wondering about the state of Junior's mental health.

And that has brought out the many armchair psychiatrists to speculate on possible diagnoses, as well as treatments might be needed to make Junior whole.

Arm Chair Psychiatrist's First Potential Diagnosis: Major Depressive Disorder DSM IV Code 296.2x. Many arm chair psychiatrists think that Junior is just depressed. And of course Junior's comment "I'm about to the end of my rope" just seemed to highlight how down in the dumps this driver really is.

One of the other characteristics of a major depressive disorder is the feeling that one is out of control. Again, Junior's comments mirror this sentiment.

"Yeah, I feel like I don't have any control, you know," Earnhardt said. "We're just not getting it done."

"I don't know what to do."

Arm Chair Psychiatrist's Second Potential Diagnosis: Generalized Anxiety Disorder DSM IV Code 300.02. Another potential diagnosis may be that Junior is just plain anxious.

The driver of the No. 88 AMP Energy Chevy admits that he is frustrated, as well as dreading his life in the garage area. Again, Junior's comments seem to verify this potential diagnosis.

"It's not a very fun place," Junior said of the Cup garage. "It takes a lot to be here. It's really, really ... for anybody to work in it around this garage it's really frustrating and really hard."

Arm Chair Psychiatrist's Third Potential Diagnosis: Adjustment Disorder DSM IV Code 309.9. One of Junior's biggest issues seems to be his lack of adjustment to his new crew chief Lance McGrew.

While Junior enjoys being with McGrew, he seems unsure if his crew chief has what it takes to reign in NASCAR Nation's most famous legacy driver.

"If I told you that I wanted to be with Lance next year I wouldn't be telling you that out of my knowledge of expertise and talent," Junior said. "I'd be telling because it's fun hanging out with him."

"Hell, you don't even know if Lance wants to do it," Junior said of McGrew's willingness to continue on as his crew chief. "Hell, I wouldn't want it. It's a tough job."

Arm Chair Psychiatrist's Fourth Potential Diagnosis: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder DSM Code 309.81. Many arm chair pyschiatrists still speculate that Junior has not recovered from the loss of his father, which haunts him.

While Junior seems to try to resist the "Oh, I lost my Daddy, woe is me," mentality, he still seems to be grieving his loss.

"When my dad died, I was numb, blind," Junior said. "I just kept moving. Going. Doing. It was horrible."

Junior has acknowledged Senior's death as a major loss in his life. "The further away from it I get, the more I understand how I went through it," Junior said wistfully.

Other arm chair psychiatrists, while unwilling to make a "diagnosis" have also weighed in on his malaise. Many have stated that they believe Junior may just feel too much pressure, trying to live up to his namesake.

Others feel that Junior may have a touch of Attention Deficit Disorder, attending to the many demands in his life, from his music and his Whiskey River bar to his many charitable activities.

Plus, Junior is a young man, although he just turned 35 years old, who seems to just want to have fun.

Regardless of the "diagnosis", the "treatment" scenarios are even more varied.

Some of the arm chair psychiatrists feel certain that Junior is in need of some serious counseling, if not some good medication.

Others feel that he just needs to focus.

Others recommend that Junior should eliminate all other distractions in his life and just focus on his racing.

There is no doubt that Junior is in pain. And he even seems to be "crying out for help", as per his most recent soul-baring comments.

But the next step for Dale Earnhardt, Jr. is most certainly in his own hands. He must decide if indeed he has a problem and how he will help himself.

After all, every arm chair psychiatrist will acknowledge that the "patient" must hit bottom and be willing to change. Is Junior at that point?

Only Dale Earnhardt, Jr. can answer that question.

Will Flu Impact NASCAR's Final Chase Races?

Mary Jo Buchanan — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 18:37:28 -0400

With the Center for Disease Control reporting widespread flu symptoms in 41 states, including North Carolina (host to the fifth race in NASCAR's Chase for the Championship), it is no wonder that the illness is starting to impact the garage area.

Last week, Kyle Busch, driver of the No. 18 M&M's/Susan G. Komen for the Cure Toyota, was so sick with the flu and other complications, that he had to step out of the car for both the Nationwide and Cup races.

“It felt like a cold was coming on and then I got a really, really bad fever and then got cold chills and everything and had a hard time sleeping all week because of the cold chills and stuff,” Busch said about the week leading up to the California races.

“I don’t know if it was the swine flu, I don’t know if it was H1N1. It was the flu."

It was just announced today that David Reutimann, driver of the Aaron's Dream Machine Toyota, is the most recent driver that has fallen ill with flu-like symptoms.

Like Busch, Reutimann will most likely need a substitute driver and it has been reported that Dave Blaney, who came in third in the Nationwide Race last night at Lowe's Motor Speedway, will be standing by to step in as needed.

"David got an IV this morning and has been resting," Michael Waltrip Racing's general manager Ty Norris said. "We're going to have Dave Blaney standing by just in case."

Blaney had to take a detour as he had been traveling to South Boston, Virginia to watch his son race. He turned his car around to be ready to fill in for Reutimann if needed.

Reutimann is the defending race winner at Lowe's Motor Speedway. He won the spring race at Charlotte, the Coca Cola 600, by virtue of a good strategy call in the rain-shortened race.

The Michael Waltrip Racing driver was very much looking forward to defending his title at this year's Banking 500 at NASCAR's "home track."

"David had a really fast car in practice yesterday and was real excited about the race today," Norris said.

Norris said that Reutimann began feeling ill last night before the Nationwide race. The decision about stepping out of the car will most likely be made at the time of the driver's meeting.

While neither Reutimann and Busch are in the Chase for the Championship, both have been felled by the flu. And in the confined garage area, with a group of people that travel together from race to race, there is indeed the possibility that the flu may spread to others, including the Chase contenders.

Reutimann is blaming his father for his illness. David's father "Buzzy" had suffered with the flu the week before.

Many drivers not only have families, but have children as well. Drivers with children are at even greater risk, as children can shed flu virus for days before and after any symptoms appear.

Some people may even be infected with the flu but show no symptoms. Yet during this time, they still may be contagious and passing on the virus, which is an even greater danger to the garage area.

The media who follow the NASCAR beat are reporting that crew members and drivers alike are following universal precautions to prevent the spread of the flu. Many are coughing into their sleeves and washing their hands more often.

But that is just one variable. Hundreds of thousands of fans also converge at every NASCAR race, again a virtual petrie dish of germ breeding and infection.

So what would happen if the unthinkable occurred and an epidemic of the flu ran rampant throughout the garage? And what would happen if some of the championship contenders were sidelined?

With the CDC tracking increased flu activity throughout the country and sadly, with the proportion of deaths being attributed to the flu above the epidemic threshold, there is a chance that H1N1 flu may spread throughout the NASCAR ranks during these final critical races.

If that is the case, this year's Sprint Cup Championship may not be determined by pit strategy or the fastest car on the track. It may be determined instead by who is healthy and who got sick.

NASCAR's Inaugural Hall of Fame Class Announced But Who Really Cared?

Mary Jo Buchanan — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 21:55:50 -0400

For NASCAR, this week was set to be one of the best ever for the sport. Not only was the fifth race in the Chase scheduled for the home track of Charlotte, N. C., but the NASCAR leadership was set to announce the five candidates for the inaugural class of the sport's new Hall of Fame.

The beat reporters and bloggers held their collective breaths while NASCAR 's CEO and Chairman Brian France received the five envelopes. Slowly and carefully, France opened each envelope, revealing the names of the five chosen ones, Dale Earnhardt, Bill France, Bill France, Jr., Junior Johnson, and Richard Petty.

Since the announcement was made on Wednesday of this week, Sirius Satellite Radio has been alive with debate about who got in and who did not. Every NASCAR website, including Bleacher Report , has had article after article debating the inaugural choices.

After the announcement was made, I must admit that I spent most of Wednesday evening reading all of the articles online, commenting vociferously and sharing my opinions. I couldn't wait to get up the next day and check out the coverage in my hometown paper, New Jersey's Star Ledger .

Yes, I admit, my favorite read with my Dunkin' Donuts coffee has not been stellar in their NASCAR coverage. But surely they would do a great write-up on this historic moment in NASCAR history, right?

I eagerly opened the sports section and began searching for that coverage. And I continued searching and searching, only to realize that there was not a single word mentioned about NASCAR, let alone the Hall of Fame picks.

I then went online and searched the New York Times to see what their coverage of the induction results looked like. The following is what I found there, two whole sentences as follows:

By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS Published: October 15, 2009

Bill France Sr., Nascar ’s founder, and his son Bill Jr., who ran it for nearly 30 years, were among the first five inductees of the Nascar Hall of Fame. Also selected were three drivers: Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt and Junior Johnson.

Now, I am bright enough to recognize that I live in one of the most sports saturated marketing areas of the country. And I also understand that the Yankees are in the playoffs.

But really, that's it? Is that the extent of the interest from the "outside" world in one of NASCAR's most stellar moments?

With that unhappy thought in mind, I began to wonder if it was only the true, die-hard NASCAR fans who cared about this announcement. Perhaps even the casual stock car racing fan did not care so much either about this moment in history.

But then I began to worry that the malaise was even more endemic. Perhaps there was no coverage in the mainstream media because interest in NASCAR overall was waning.

There may just be hard evidence that many in the fan base are losing interest in the sport. From empty seats at the tracks to sinking television ratings, NASCAR fans seem to be voting with their feet, showing their lack of interest in what they are seeing on the track.

Even the sport's CEO and Chairman Brian France seems puzzled by the sagging ratings. NASCAR's Chase for the Championship opening race received only a 3.2 television rating, down 16 percent from the previous season, and ratings have been sagging since.

There was, however, a glimmer of hope in the ratings with the most recent race at Auto Club Speedway. The broadcast garnered a 3.6 rating, the highest so far for the races in the Chase.

Whether or not interest is slowing, I at least had expected the Hall of Fame announcement to spark interest, inside and outside the sport. I had looked forward to reading some interesting coverage with my coffee and pumpkin spice donut.

Unfortunately, it seems that many outside of the walls of NASCAR fandom simply yawned when the envelopes were opened and the Hall of Fame results revealed.