Bleacher Report - Articles by Ron Ripple

No Meth, Just Wine To Celebrate Tony Stewart's Indy Win This Weekend

Ron Ripple — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 10:03:00 -0400

Tony Stewart might be one of the most talked about drivers of the year. He started the season with speculation that he would only be middle of the pack, but he’s surpassed everyones doubts and has done something not many drivers could have imagined. He’s created a winning team straight out the box…yes it was an existing team, but he took it from zero to hero.

Tony Stewart is going to dominate at Indinapolis this year and drive around Dale Earnhardt Jr as if he was tied to Terry Labontes car. Oucchhhhhhh… sad but true! My boy Tony fell asleep last year but he’s wide awake now, trying to make up for lost time.

I’m not going to brown nose too much on my boy Tony… because I have a feeling the boy is starting to take a turn in his “social life.” I’ve noticed he’s somewhat lost his badboy attitude, and he’s starting to pick up some of Jeff Gordon’s bad habbits.

Now I’m only speculating this, but I have a feeling the man is starting to drink white wine. Who drinks white wine other than sissy boys? Is it because he’s a team owner and he’s just trying to follow a trend?

Anyway… Tony Stewart is going to dominate this weekend in Indy. Take your picks my fellow Ron Ripplers…whoever makes the right pick this weekend will get a Ron Ripple gift certificate to 7-11…and there will be enough money on it to buy a 12 pack of Budweiser.

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!

Tony Stewart - My pick to win this weekend in Indy!

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Ron Ripple Is Back in Action…Where Did He Go?

Ron Ripple — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:53:24 -0400

There’s nothing like talking about myself in third person…it almost makes me feel like a big shot. So where did Ron Ripple go?

I could make up this elaborate story about how I was in Dubai working for a new race team. I could also tell you how the team was planning to debut in the NASCAR world and that I (Ron Ripple) was their new driver…but then I’d be lying.

So to tell you the truth, I’ve been sitting on my big leather couch drinking case after case of budweiser. I’ve been drinking with my buds every Saturday and Sunday watching the biggest baddest sport on earth, NASCAR. I know everyone is sick of hearing about the economy but because of it, I couldn’t make it to one race this season.

I decided to save my money (unfortunately). But Good News for my fellow Ron Ripplers! I hit five or six numbers in powerball (kidding) and I’m BACK in action. I’ll be attending the rest of the races and reporting right here at www.RonRipple.com!

If anyone else wants to complain about the economy, HAVE AT IT! Because you won’t hear another peep about it after this post. From now on…the only thing you’ll be reading will be pure “NASCAR’s No. 1 Fan” opinion and of course…the hot wives and women of NASCAR.

I’m going to post a few pictures of some of the recent e-mail I’ve received from these infamous NASCAR Girls of the Week!

SNEAK PREVIEW OF WHAT’S TO COME!

The Girls

Lais De Leon

Vera Milli

An Original Post by Ron Ripple-NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

Who Am I Picking to win The NASCAR Sprint Cup Race in Bristol on March 22nd?

Ron Ripple — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 09:45:02 -0400

Bristol is the next race, a place that separates the boys from the men, a place built for speed, and a place known for having over 130,000 people fired up in the Grand Stands cheering for their favorite driver.

Who’s going to be the driver to take home this year’s first race at Bristol? Get your wallets out boys because we’re taking bets.

As you all know… they don’t call me Ron Ripple—Nascar’s Biggest Fan for nothing. I’m the kind of fan that every driver dreams of, I’m the kind of fan that every driver prays for. I wouldn’t say that I can technically help a driver win a race, but I can basically help a driver win a race.

I’m known around the pits as being somewhat of a “sh!t talker,” so If you’re on my bad side, I’ve been known to “get in your head.”

Last year when the Race for the Chase started, I just so happened to be hovering around Kyle Busch’s camp for the first 4 races in the chase. You tell me if I got in his head or not, he went from being first, to being last!

So who am I picking to win the first race at Bristol this year? CARL EDWARDS. I repeat… CARLLL EDWARRDDSS.

Carl Edwars is my pick for Bristol. He won the last race there in August of ‘08 and he’s going to win there again on March 22nd of ‘09. He’s started this season out showing he’s going to be a front runner, and I have all the confidence in the world for him.

Who’s head am I going to get in this coming weekend? Mark my words… When the haulers start rolling in and get set up, I’m going to be all over Kurt Busch like white on rice. He might as well kiss his chances of winning Bristol good bye.

So all my fellow NASCAR Fans… who are you picking to win at Bristol? And who do you want to be in the back of the pack?

Below is another Ron Ripple Endorsement to help out my fellow Nascar fans.

If it aint NASCAR, it aint worth nothin!

I just got me an ASK NASCAR Toolbar!

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

Who Am I Picking to win The NASCAR Sprint Cup Race in Bristol on March 22nd?

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Kyle Busch Starts His Year Off the Same Way He Ended Last Year!

Ron Ripple — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 10:34:22 -0500

Kyle Busch, who ended his day at the Daytona 500 mixed up in a crash that would take his chances of winning away, dominated the race by leading 76 out of 124 laps. It was an unfortunate day for Kyle Busch, but a very fortunate day for Mr. Matthew Kenseth, who went on to win the race after officials called the race due to rain.

Kyle Busch, who was last year's wonder boy at the beginning of the season, looked like he was going to do it once again. He was driving around these guys as if they were glued to the cement. His pit crew changed tires quicker than I can shotgun a beer (I’m South Carolina’s No. 1 Beer Shotgunner). Kyle Busch was running a phenomenal race until Dale Earnhardt Jr. decided he wasn’t very happy being a lap down.

Here’s the story, if you didn’t get a chance to watch the race. Brian Vickers and Dale Earnhardt Jr. were racing for the “lucky dog” position at the front of the pack. Brian Vickers was in front of Earnhardt Jr who went down on the low side to try and pass him. Brian Vickers went down to the yellow line to block him which pushed Earnhardt Jr. out, and then Earnhardt intentionally came up and tapped Vickers on the left rear corner which caused him to spin out and take out half the pack.

Click on the video below if you want to see.

If you watched the post race interviews you’ll wonder what was wrong with Kyle Busch, and I think I have the answer. Kyle Busch, for some odd reason, was extremely nice and didn’t have that negative, whiny tone he usually portrays when he gets wrecked or doesn’t win.

My speculation is that he either got “neutered” (my dog relaxed after I get him neutered) or he had a hot date after the race. Hopefully it was the hot date because if I continue to see Kyle Busch be that respectful and nice after a race I may stop writing about him.

Overall I thought the Daytona 500 was a fun race to watch given the circumstances we were dealt. The whole race everyone was worried about the rain so it made the drivers drive a little bit more aggressively. Unfortunately none of the big names finished in the top 10 due to the wreck, but we’ve got plenty more races for these guys to show us what they’ve got.

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

Kyle Busch Starts His Year Off The Same Way He Ended Last Year!

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Jennifer Myers - Girl of the Week

Ron Ripple — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 11:39:50 -0500

My friends, this is the beautiful Jennifer Myers. I met this young lady surprisingly not at a NASCAR race in Tallahassee, FL where I was for a Florida State Football game. So After the game I went to the Hooters off of Monroe Street and ran into this beautiful girl who claimed she was NASCAR’s biggest fan at FSU. Of course I didn’t believe her so I started quizzing her on Driver’s name and car numbers and she got 9 out of 10 which was extremely impressive. From that point on I knew it was love at second site, but here’s some more information about her. Make sure you go visit her at Model Mayhem and Myspace.

Name: Jennifer L. Myers

Age: 21

School or Occupation: FSU; Hooters Girl at Hooters of Tallahassee!

Hometown: Boynton Beach, FL

Favorite NASCAR racer: Kasey Kahne of course!

What’s your favorite track? Daytona

What’s your favorite part about NASCAR? I know that most people might say the crashes are the best but not in my case! My favorite part is when the cars are coming around the bend and it sounds like the most ridiculous swarm of bees and in an instant they are gone and your looking at the backs of their cars, I get the chills EVERY time!

What’s the fastest you’ve ever been in a car? I would have to say about 110 or so, I was losing my mind!

What are your hobbies? Anything outdoors! Softball, soccer, volleyball, fishing, hiking, camping, boating, surfing; Pretty much anything that I can get dirty doing!

Favorite Drink: Whiskey & Coke; is there anything else?!

What is the worst pick up line a guy has ever used on you? “So what would it take for me to get you home with me in this TO-GO box?”

What do you look for in a guy? Nice teeth and the ability to make me laugh within 5 minutes of talking to you =D

What is a turn off? Pick-up lines, bad teeth, lack of personality

Are you a fan of my mullet? Abso-friggen-lutely! The longer the party the better!

Are you single? He has my heart.

Website where fans can find you? Model Mayhem Page or My Myspace Page

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

Jennifer Myers - Girl of the Week

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Kevin Harvick Sneaks Up From Behind to Win the Bud Shootout

Ron Ripple — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 09:14:59 -0500

The Budweiser Shootout was an intense race to watch from start to finish With 14 different leaders, 23 lead changes, and eight cautions, it was one for the record books.

Kevin Harvick started the evening in the back of the pack due to a few minor mechanical challenges. Luckily for him, with the way these races are set up, he was able to get them fixed and then work his way back to the front.

With only four laps remaining, Jamie McMurray lead the pack down the track with Jimmy Johnson, K. Busch, Casey Mears, Denny Hamlin and Harvick not far behind. On the last lap, McMurray decides to cover his inside lane, when out of no where Kevin Harvick takes the high side and drives right by him.

It was almost as if he dropped it into “seventh” gear and said, "Sorry, buddy. You thought you had me, but I’m checkin out.” Click on the video below to watch this incredible finish.

If the Bud Shootout speaks for what’s to come throughout the rest of the season, I would have to say we’re going to have another wild season. Get excited because the biggest race of the year is only one week away.

My fellow race fans, clean out your keggerator lines and start ordering some extra kegs because the Daytona 500 is getting closer. For any of you attending the race, make sure you e-mail me so we can get together.

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

Kevin Harvick Sneaks Up From Behind to Win the Bud Shootout!

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NASCAR Fan Casting Call

Ron Ripple — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 08:48:01 -0500

Alright all my fellow NASCAR fans, now is the time to get recognized. I was contacted this week by a national network looking for the Biggest NASCAR Fans that will be attending the Daytona 500.

Now, I know I’m NASCAR’s biggest fan, but I know there are a lot of you out there who are just as big of fans, but just don’t have a blog to claim the spot. Now is your chance.

A national network is casting a national ad campaign to promote NASCAR’s “Nationwide” Series. Each fan chosen will be featured in your own 30 second spot to explain what you’ve done to show your devotion to your favorite driver that’s above and beyond the normal. (If you’re a Jeff Gordon Fan, and you painted your room pink, then please don’t respond to this, because that’s not out of the norm)

You must be an adult, 18 - 55, man or woman, and of course, a fanatic! Once chosen, the director and a film crew will interview you at the Daytona International Speedway in February.

I know a lot of you fellow NASCAR fans might be afraid of cameras, but let me tell you from personal experience that there’s nothing to be afraid of. Just make sure you do what I do when ever I hear there’s going to be a camera around…throw down a six pack of Bud Lite and pretend like you’re standing in the winners circle naked. It works every time!

So, if you are a true die-hard in some way and ideally have a story you’d like to share, these guys want you! Make sure you contact me at ron@ronripple.com and I’ll make sure you get signed up. Time is a wasting and this is an urgent deal, so make sure you contact me soon, because casting is right around the corner.

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!

NASCAR FAN CASTING CALL

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Jena Mc: Girl of the Week

Ron Ripple — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 08:57:03 -0500

Jena McMillan isssss smokin…

I met the lovely Jena McMillan one day at the Daytona 500. It was an extremely cold day but for some odd reason when I laid eyes on Ms. Jena I had to take off my Home Depot Jacket and get a beer.

So I walked up to Jena and got on one knee and said, ”Hi… my name is Ron Ripple, NASCAR’s biggest fan…will youuuuu…drink a beer with me?”

When she replied with “Yes, I would love to drink a beer with you,” I thought I was in heaven. We finished about a case together and for some odd reason it seemed as though I was “the lightweight” in the group.

So all of you readers make sure you say Hi to Jena…she’s one of my favorites.

Name: Jena Mc

Age: 28..Although everyone thinks I am younger..I hope! lol

School or Occupation: I sell construction and erosion control fabric and am a part-time model.

Hometown: Tifton, GA

Favorite NASCAR racer: I have to say Carl Edwards! I met him in Atlanta, GA one year and he was friends with one of the girls I was with. Super nice guy and cute too

What’s your favorite track? I have been to Daytona and Atlanta! I choose Atlanta because it was freezing in Daytona!!

What’s your favorite part about NASCAR? I love being in the stands when the cars are up to full speed and the stands start vibrating from the cars and the excited fans! The excitement is contagious!

What’s the fastest you’ve ever been in a car? One hundred mph-plus in a BMW M-5…yeah, it was a friend’s car and I was driving!

What are your hobbies? Modeling, working out, shopping, fishing, traveling, going to the beach & making rhinestone covers for phones.

Favorite Drink: Mojito or a Woo Woo (Cranberry, Peach Schnapps, and Vodka...in case you were wondering) and I have to say water too (I drink a gallon a day).

What is the worst pick up line a guy has ever used on you? Are you from Tennessee? Because you are the only 10-I-see! HAHA

What do you look for in a guy? I like a guy that works out! I am very much into fitness and eating healthy and like for someone I date to have the same interests. I am attracted to dark haired guys with light blue or green eyes and tanned skin! I am into the metro kind of guys with a little gel in their hair! I like someone who can make me laugh!

What is a turn off? Guys who are insensitive, liars, cocky, and all about themselves!

Are you a fan of my mullet? Oh heck yeah! I want to run my fingers thru it!

Are you single? Yep…any good guys left out there?

Website where fans can find you? www.myspace.com/jenamc123

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

Jena Mc - Girl of the Week

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Rebecca Richards: Girl of the Week!

Ron Ripple — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 09:03:37 -0500

Rebecca Richardssss...ow, owww! I first laid eyes on Ms. Richards a couple years ago at The Atlanta Motor Speedway. This young lady was cheering for Kasey Kahne as if he was her boyfriend. I kept looking over there and, every single time Kahne went by, she was on her feet cheering.

So, of course, me being the gentleman that I am...when I saw the guy she was with walk away, I walked up to her and told her I was Kahne’s crew chief. Obviously, she didn’t believe me, and it could have been because I was wearing a Tony Stewart shirt and drinking a beer, but I ended up hanging out with her and her boyfriend the rest of the race. She’s an incredible girl...so make sure you go say "Hi" to her on her website!

Name: Rebecca Richards

Age: 23

School or Occupation: I am a full time student at American InterContinental University seeking a bachelor’s degree in Visual Communications. Aside from school, I work full time for the city. Very Busy!

Hometown: A small town in South Georgia called Thomasville

Favorite NASCAR racer: Kasey Khane!!! I have been a fan of Kasey since his rookie year! I picked him out at the race in Atlanta. He was second behind Jr. majority of that race and I kept telling the guy I was there with (who is a big Jr. fan) that Kasey was going to beat Jr. Unfortunately he didn’t that particular race, but he has been my favorite ever since.

What’s your favorite track? Atlanta Motor Speedway! It is actually the only one I have had the privilege of watching a race at but it is in my home state!

What’s your favorite part about NASCAR? There is absolutely nothing in this world better than being at the track and smelling the tires burning, having the wind blow your hair, and feeling the noise vibrate the whole stand as the cars wisp by lap after lap! It literally gives me chills!

What’s the fastest you’ve ever been in a car? haha not NASCAR fast but about 100 mph and that was probably on the interstate of all places!

What are your hobbies? My most time consuming hobby is modeling! Other than that I enjoy watching NASCAR on Sundays and watching my boyfriend ride motocross. I also enjoy fishing, fresh and salt water. I love spending a day at the beach and when there is time left over I like to just hang out!

Favorite Drink: Budlight in the bottle! (Ron: My kind of girl!)

What is the worst pick up line a guy has ever used on you? Your dad must be in jail…why… Cause he stole stars and put them in your eyes! The funny thing is the guy that said this to me; I ended up dating him for 2 years!

What do you look for in a guy? First and foremost, I am completely attracted to guys with blue eyes! Next I want someone with a good personality that can make me laugh and cut up and have a good time! I also like a guy with a sort of hard side to them… I think I like the chase! Finally, I am really attracted to guys with nice backs!!!

What is a turn off? A turn off is a guy that cant handle what he starts or cant keep the promises that he makes!

Are you a fan of my mullet? There is no one else in the world that looks as sexy in a mullet as Ron Ripple!

Are you single? No, I’m not single! I am happily in a relationship of two and a half years.

Website where fans can find you? I would love for everyone to stop by myspace and check out more photos of me and please leave me a comment! www.myspace.com/beckster416

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

Rebecca Richards - Girl of the Week!

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The NASCAR Chase for Second Place

Ron Ripple — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 08:26:44 -0500

The NASCAR chase for second place is the new excitement in NASCAR. I’m tired of hearing the name Jimmie Johnson… so let’s talk about who’s going to earn the second place position… a.k.a. the first loser? Will it be Carl Edwards, Greg Biffle, or Jeff Burton? Make your predictions!

The way this year has been going, I would think Carl Edwards is going to earn the “first loser” position. He’s been in contention all year… from chasing Kyle Busch at the beginning of the season… to chasing Jimmie Johnson at the end.

He’s had an incredible year but unfortunatley it just wasn’t good enough. With only one more race left in the season, Mr. Edwards has given it all he’s got. He turned that “nice guy” image into a well…“nice guy” image who got second place.

If anyone was going to beat Jimmie Johnson this year, it was going to be either Kyle Busch or Carl Edwards. Kyle made his bed early, but Carl Edwards went down fighting.

Another racer who I put all my money on before the chase began was Greg Biffle. I picked “The Biff” as an underdog to win the Championship, but the S.O.B. just couldn’t get ‘er done.

He fought a good fight, but just didn’t have that winning edge to pull through. He won a couple races at the end, but he just didn’t have that winning streak he needed in order to take home the title.

Who was the biggest disappointment?

In my opinion the biggest disappointment this year had to go to two drivers. Now these two drivers I tend to make fun of in one way or another, but it’s only because they’re incredible racers and I have to make fun of someone.

Kyle Busch… I can’t say it enough! Kyle Busch absolutely dominated the 2008 Season up until the chase. He was the “bad guy” of the season and brought a lot of attention to the sport.

If I were a race God, I would have restructured the Chase and made these last final races a battle between the good and the bad. Jimmie Johnson vs. Kyle Busch. But unfortunately for me, I’m not a race God and can’t restructure the ending.

Kyle Busch is just gonna have to start over next year and prove himself again. If anyone can do it… it’s him.

Jeff Gordon… the guy is one of the best racers to date. He’s won championships and has beat some of the best drivers that have ever walked into the NASCAR world.

But unfortunately for Jeff Gordon, he got owned in the 2008 season. He’s had a winless year thus far, and with only one race left, it doesn’t look good. Lucky for him, he’s got a ridiculously good looking wife to go home to.

Who do you think is going to earn the “first loser” title? Who do you think was the biggest dissapointment?

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

The NASCAR Chase for Second Place…

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Kyle Busch is My Hero!

Ron Ripple — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 08:54:06 -0500

Kyle Busch is my hero…did I just say that? Yes, I did! Anyone who reads my articles knows I either love Kyle Busch or I hate him. He’s either a winner to me…or a whiner. Well, this article is going to explain why I think Kyle Busch has a great heart and is a racer to look up to.

If you haven’t heard of Sam Ard, you need to go check out his website www.SamArd.com. He was an incredible racer from 1983-1984. He was a hero in his day…many looked up to him, and many envied him. He was a warrior on the race track and he fought for every win. He had over 20 wins in his Busch career and was running strong until he had a career ending crash on Oct. 10th, 1984, which resulted in a major head injury.

He was a hero to many. Well, now Sam Ard HAS a new hero. His name is Kyle Busch!

Ard, now 69, suffers from a moderate stage of Alzheimer's disease that leaves him asking his wife if “she’d be pissed if he started racing again.” Because of his Alzheimer's disease, he sometimes gets trapped in the past and doesn’t realize he’s a 69-year-old past legend who has Alzheimer's and is in financial trouble.

This past weekend, Kyle Busch was racing the Nationwide Series race to try and tie Sam Ard’s record of 10 wins within a Nationwide/Busch Series Season. He ended up getting the win, which leaves him in the record books with his name right there next to Mr. Sam Ard.

Kyle Busch made an incredible decision this past weekend and dedicated his Nationwide Series win to Sam Ard. With that win, he donated $100,000 to the Sam Ard Fund, which helps him and his family with their finances.

Back in Sam Ard’s day, the most a Busch Series winner ever received was $25,000 and that was at Daytona. So to say the least, Sam Ard didn’t make multi-millions off his racing career, but he is remembered as a legend.

Here’s an excerpt from Nascar.com that explains Ard’s feelings during this past weekend’s race…

Ard watched Saturday’s race at Texas with his grandson, aware that Busch was chasing his 1983 mark for wins in a season. Jo was with her sister for a rare dinner out when son, Robert, called her.

“Mama, are you sitting down?” Robert told her. “Well, Kyle tied Daddy’s record, and I had someone call me and tell me that Kyle is going to give Daddy $100,000.”

Hours later, when a fidgety Ard kept Jo up talking until 2:30 a.m., she sensed he understood Busch’s contribution.

“I guess his mind was just thinking because he said ‘I’ve been praying that something could come along that we could pay the bills and you can get a car,’ ” Jo said. “So he’s aware of what’s going. I asked him what he wanted to do with Kyle’s money, and he said for me to do whatever I wanted. He just wanted a couple hundred dollars to put in his wallet.”

When I read this it gave me goose bumps. It just shows you that Kyle Busch has a big heart and is not all about himself. He respects the past, and even though he’s out there breaking records…he’s breaking records with a good heart.

I’m extremely happy that the Ard family is getting help. It makes me think there should be some sort of NASCAR fund that donates to the fallen racers. If it weren’t for these past legends, the sport wouldn’t be where it is today.

If you get a chance, make sure you visit www.SamArd.com and if you have a few extra bucks, make a donation. We need to support our past racers and show them our appreciation. Who knows…maybe Kyle Busch will need some help when he’s older. He’ll definitely be a legend to remember.

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!

Kyle Busch Is My Hero!!!

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NASCAR Hot Wives Club: Connie Freydell (Juan Montoya’s Wife)

Ron Ripple — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 09:54:40 -0400

Helloooooooo Connie Freydell! Who is Connie Freydell? She is one of the hottest NASCAR wives that has ever walked into a NASCAR garage. Who’s the lucky racer to have this little hottie strapped to his arm? Mr. Juan Pablo Montoya! Allow myself to introduce Mrs. Freydell. Here’s a picture of the lovely lady!

I always heard F1 had some of the hottest women, and when Juan Pablo Montoya showed up with her, I had to agree. Montoya dated Connie for quite a long time and finally popped the question and married Connie in October 26th, 2007. Since then, the couple has welcomed two beautiful babies into the world, Sebastian (born April 11, 2005) and Paulina (born September 5th, 2006).

Connie is what most men like to consider a MILF (Mother I‘d Like to Funnel a beer with). She’s ridiculously hot and it’s hard to believe this beauty has popped out two children. When I see her around the pits I always make sure I say hello to her; I sometimes ignore Montoya just get a conversation going with her. She’s definitely in my top three of Hottest NASCAR Wives.

Below are more photos so make sure you check them out!

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

NASCAR Hot Wives Club: Connie Freydell (Montoya’s Wife)

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Carl Edwards WOn the Race, Jimmie Johnson Winning the War

Ron Ripple — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 10:12:56 -0400

The most recent race in Atlanta saw more than one winner: Carl Edwards took home the checkered flag, but Jimmie Johnson took home an even greater lead in the race for the Championship.

Yesterday’s race was very intense. For a while, it looked like one of the bridesmaids I mentioned in my previous post was going to win the race. Matt Kenseth was up there leading a number of laps and Jeff Gordon was in the top three as well, trying to set himself up for the win. But, unfortunately the win went to a typical Bride: Carl Edwards.

Edwards won the race with Jimmie Johnson right behind him. And, as I mentioned in the previous post, Jimmie Johnson was the biggest media whore of the day. If we weren’t watching the leaders of the race, our attention was on Jimmie Johnson as he picked off drivers like he was at the shooting range.

I hate to admit it, but if you were to ask me who the real winner of the weekend was, I would have to say Jimmie Johnson. He took his unfortunate mishap in the pits (speeding while entering the pits on lap 89) and turned it around to earn him a second place finish at the end of the day.

If I told you at the beginning of the season that a driver would from 30th place, to second in Atlanta, you probably would have guessed it would Kyle Busch. Well the tables have turned and Nascar's new "wonder boy" is Jimmie Johnson. The guy oozes excellence and there really isn’t anyone who can touch him right now.

Another driver who drove his tail off was Juan Pablo Montoya. He was shocking the NASCAR world by hanging in the top five for most of the day until he got involved in an accident that took away his chances.

Because Montoya did such a great job this weekend, I think I'll do a Hot Wives' Club post about his wife. Good job Montoya, it looks like you’re becoming a true NASCAR racer.

Other than that, it was an exciting race and showed that the real racing doesn’t start until the last 10 races, when it counts.

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

Carl Edwards won… but Jimmie Johnson was the REAL winner!

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Always the Bridesmaid, Never the Bride: NASCAR's 2008 "Almost" Drivers

Ron Ripple — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 09:40:16 -0400

To say the least, 2008 has been a wild season when it comes to winning and coming up short. There are a number of drivers this year we never in our lifetime would have imagined went winless. I know this article is premature, but I feel the need to write it anyway.

Jeff Gordon: WOWWWW! Who would have thought that the young wine drinker wouldn’t even have a chance to pop a bottle of champagne this year? He hasn’t gone winless since August 4, 1971, the day he was born. I think that, when he came out of his mother’s womb, he jumped on his big wheel and raced his 13-year-old neighbor around the block.

Many drivers would see Jeff Gordon’s year as a dream come true. He has 11 top fives, 16 top tens, and is currently sitting seventh in the overall standings. But, because he's Jeff “the wine drinker” Gordon, he’s got to be a little disapointed.

As much as I make fun of the guy, I really do respect him. He only has four races left in which to break in winless skid and I would never count the guy out.

2008’s Bridesmaids in full gear!

Kevin Harvick, Matt Kenseth, David Ragan, Brian Vickers, Martin Truex Jr., and Jamie McMurray, are only a few of the several bridesmaids this season has created. All those names are HUGE in the NASCAR world and not a single one of them has a win for the season.

This season has been so thoroughly dominated by a few drivers, which might have prevented these guys from finding that extra “umphhhh” (a new expression I made up) to get that WIN.

For those of you not able to make the race this coming week, make sure you call my boys over at DirectTV. They have the best NASCAR viewing you could ask for on TV. If you’re not at the race, at least pretend like you are; call 1-866-938-8469 and let them know Ron Ripple Sent you.

If you want to check out what they’ve got, visit their website at DirectTV. I just got off the phone with my boys over there and they told me that if you add NASCAR HotPass™ to your DIRECTV base package order, they’ll give you the rest of the season for just $29.99.

You can’t beat that, so hurry up and call 866-938-8469 because the Sale ends November 16th!

So who’s going to be the biggest Bridesmaid of the year? Unfortunately I think the biggest whiner, I mean winner, might be the biggest loser of them all: Kyle Busch.

Before the Chase, not a single driver could touch Kyle Busch; He’d come from the back of the pack and drive around everyone as if he was the professor making his way up to the front of the class.

If he got a second place finish, he’d pout as if he didn’t deserve second. The guy was on fire and nobody could touch him. However, the momentum changed and Kyle Busch’s wins soon became losses.

If you had to pick anyone to be the Bridesmaid of the Season so far, who would you pick and why? Craig, we already know who you’re going to pick and I have a feeling it rhymes with Shontoya. But I’d love to hear who came up short and why.

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

Always the Bridesmaid and never the Bride - NASCAR 2008

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I’m Still Picking “The Biff” To Win The Championship!

Ron Ripple — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 10:26:41 -0400

We’re getting close to the end of the season and, as I said at the beginning of the Chase, my money is on Greg Biffle. Yeah yeah yeah, Jeff Gordon has a 7.0 rating at Martinsville, and blah blah blah...Jimmie Johnson has a 6.0 rating at Martinsville.

Well, I’m not saying ”The Biff” is going to win Martinsville, but I am saying he’s going to be the champ at the end of the season.

As usual, the press constantly talks about Jimmie Johnson, Carl Edwards, Kyle Busch, or Jeff Gordon. They’re always talking about “what color underwear they wear… what they ate for breakfast… how many times they dropped the kids off at the pool… who they’re dating… blah blah blah.”

And if you haven’t noticed, but before every race people are betting on these guys to win, and when they don’t, they still always seem to talk about what went wrong and why they should have won.

Jimmie Johnson… the Media Hound!

After my last Gas Card Giveaway contest, I realized there are a number of drivers who don’t get the credit they deserve. When I picked ”The Biff” to win the Championship at the beginning of the Chase, I picked him because I thought he was an incredible driver and he was an underdog in the eyes of the media.

So far, ”The Biff” has been showing strong and staying in the hunt. He is right where he needs to be.

Another underdog who should never be considered down and out is Jeff Burton. The only time this guy gets any attention from the media is when he wins. We never hear about his hobbies outside of racing, or his garage drama at the race track.

I’m almost wondering if I should create rumors for these guys so they get more attention and get more fans behind them.

How about this one: “Jeff Burton lost 12 lbs for his Lowe’s win this past weekend. Rumors are going around that he is throwing up his lunches just to stay thin and give him a weight advantage.”

Pretty scary when the man only weighs 158 lbs, hopefully he passes his physical in the pre-race exam at Martinsville.

Ron Ripple has the pictures to Prove it!

Anyway, “The Biff” is still my pick. If I have to make up rumors for him then I will. Martinsville isn’t his track of choice, but if he stays consistent and gets a top five finish, then he’ll still be sitting pretty.

Obviously this is Jeff Gordon and Jimmie Johnson’s track. I think we need Jeff Gordon to get the win this weekend and make sure Jimmie Johnson stays out of the top 5. Anything’s possible.

Who do you all think the Dark Horse is in the Race for the Championship? Jeff Burton, Greg Biffle, Clint Boyer, Kevin Harvick? Hey, we haven’t heard about Kyle Busch as much as we used to!

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

I’m Still Picking “The Biff” To Win The Championship!

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Jeff Burton Throws New Wrench Thrown in the Chase Mix

Ron Ripple — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 10:27:18 -0400

Just when you thought the chase was dominated by Jimmie Johnson, Carl Edwards, or even Greg Biffle, Jeff Burton decides he’s not going to let it go that easily. Burton won at Lowe’s to put himself in second place in the standings. The Championship keeps getting that much more interesting. Boy do I love NASCAR!

Jeff Burton and Jimmie Johnson battled it out late in the race on Saturday night at the Bank of America 500. Jimmie Johnson ended up having handling issues, which pushed him back into the sixth position and allowed Jeff Burton to take the win. Finishing in second was Kasey Kahne, who just didn’t have enough for Jeff Burton late in the race.

One driver who I was impressed with Saturday night was Jeff Gordon. You all know Jeff Gordon is a sissy boy in my eyes. But on Saturday night, the guy came out and had more difficulty on the track than most, yet still pulled off a top ten finish.

After the race, I watched the team load the car into the hauler, and they resembled "the little engine that could.” Even though he didn’t win the race, he did a hell of a job in my opinion.

So Jeff Gordon: I won’t make fun of you in this post. I’ll let you drink your Pinot Grigio in peace because you’re a warrior. If warriors drink wine, then go for it.

One driver who had a tough night was Carl Edwards. Early in the race, the kid decided to pit, only for a caution to come out as he pitted. Well, Carl Edwards was knee deep in doo doo and couldn’t change the outcome, as an electrical problem sent him back further.

S$!t happens, literally, so what are you going to do? He left the track in fourth place in the standings.

Those of you who attempted to win the Gas Card in this past week’s contest obviously lost. Nobody expected Burton to win, so we’re going to leave the contest up for next weekend. So make sure you pick a winner for the next race. I’ll post the contest again so we can start fresh.

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

The Chase Gets A New Wrench Thrown In The Mix…

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Greg Biffle Not Taking Off His “First Place Panties” Yet

Ron Ripple — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 10:35:50 -0400

Greg Biffle continues to make me look good by winning races and getting that much closer to winning the Championship. He gets his second win in a row by taking home the checkered flag at Dover’s Monster Mile.

After winning his second race of the year, and it being the second race in a row, I have a feeling Mr. Greg Biffle won’t be taking off those “First Place Panties” for the rest of the year… and I don’t blame him!!!!!

The Monster Mile was an intense race yesterday, as a lot of players that could have taken home the win. Matt Kenseth, Carl Edwards, and Jimmie Johnson all led the race; but when it came down to the final laps, it was Biffle’s race.

Watching Greg Biffle consistently be in the hunt all day yesterday almost makes you wonder if he was doing what he claimed he did at the Sylvania 300. He sat back until the end of the race and, as if he turned it on with the flick of a switch, charged forward to take home the win.

His team mates Matt Kenseth and Carl Edwarsd didn’t make it easy for him, and created one of the most instense finishes of the year. There was bumping and grinding between all three that must have had Mr. Roush “sh*@ing a brick.”

Check out this video to see the finish. It’ll keep you on the edge of your seats.

DOVER NOTES

Jimmie Johnson played his cards right this weekend by making a very risky decision earlier in the day. He was playing the “Caution Card” and didn’t get fresh tires or fuel when many of the other teams did. He ended up getting the caution when he needed it which kept him on the lead lap and earned him a fifth place finish.

Kyle Busch did a great job yesterday by keeping his whiney attitude. But, to be honest with you guys, I can’t blame the guy this time for being upset and bummed.

I actually do feel bad for him considering the luck he’s had this late in the season. He ended the race in 43rd place and had to call it quits due to a blown engine early in the race. I don't want to say a negative thing about him in this post.

Alright I can’t help it… did anyone see his interview after he got out of the car? Kyle Busch basically called it quits, saying his season is over. Why would you be so negative getting out of the car? I would have gotten out of the car, cracked open a beer, and said “Well I guess I can start drinking.”

Kyle Busch has a ridiculous amount of talent and can easily get top five finishes over the next eight races to win the Championship. I dont know if the kid was a Drama Major in school or if he just likes attention, but come on… he’s one of the best racers out on the track. I wouldn’t count him out for the rest of the season!

What did you all think of the race? Isn’t the chase exciting as hell? I wish all the races were this exciting.

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

Biffle Hasn’t Taken Off His “1st Place Panties” Yet!!!

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NASCAR's Monster Mile…Here Come the Boys!

Ron Ripple — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 10:27:33 -0400

(Sound my music! Hit this play button –> while you read this article…. Sweet Home Doverbamaaa!)

This weekend, the boys are headed to the Monster Mile in Dover, Del., for the last time this season. Who’s pumped? I can’t even sit still to write this post, I’m so jacked up.

It could be this Dale Earnhardt AMP energy drink or it could be the fact that we’re well into the start of the Chase for the Points! This track has broken many hearts and has also made many racer’s dreams come true.

Dover seems to have been a “Make or Break” for so many drivers in the past. From 1969 to 1980, 21 of the 22 races were won by drivers who either already had or would go on to win championships in NASCAR’s top series.

This week, the rumors have been flying, stating “Kyle Busch is losing his MOJO.” What’s a MOJO? God only knows what a MOJO is and my definition is… something a racer has when he’s winning a lot and whining at the same time.

So by my definition, I find it hard to believe Kyle Busch is losing his MOJO, especially since I can’t see the kid stop his whining, and I have a feeling he’s not going to stop winning either.

Kyle Busch looking his best!

Last week I picked Greg Biffle to win because I had that “Gut Feeling,” well this weekend I think Kyle Busch is going to win. He won in Dover earlier this year and it’s his time to win again. He had a rough start in the Chase, but he’s ruthless and will do whatever it takes to win.

Carl Edwards is going to be another guy to watch this weekend. Obviously he’s leading the points but regardless of where he sits, the guy always does extremely well in Dover. He’s got a great track record and obviously has the skill and drive to win. He’s one guy I can never say anything bad about…

So unfortunately, I won’t be attending the race in person this weekend, but luckily for me, I’ll be watching it on my Direct TV.

Right now, Direct TV has a great promotion going on that if you sign up now they will include a NASCAR Hot Pass that allows you to listen to 5 individual driver’s channels as well as a number of other things. Make sure you call them today at 1-866-938-8469 to get signed up and let them know Ron Ripple sent you (I’m trying to get my name out to just about everyone).

The one thing I’m excited about is the ability to listen and watch Kyle Busch whine while he’s crossing the finish line. As we all know, my picks are the kind most bookies hate…

Hopefully, Kyle Busch reads this post before he gets out there on the track so that when he’s giving his post race interview he can start out by saying… “I’d like to thank the infamous RON RIPPLE for telling everyone I was going to win, it seems as if he’s got some kind of psychic ability to KNOW who wins.”

Unfortunately we all know this won’t happen, but I’ll probably get a call from the goofy kid thanking me OFF camera. I wouldn’t want to steal the spotlight anyways!

Who do you think is going to win this weekend? Be sure to check back after the race, as we’ll be giving away the gas cards next week. Also I have some great opportunities in the works, so also check back as I’ll be revealing this next week as well..

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

Monster Mile… Here Come the Boys!

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Greg Biffle Decides to Put on His “First Place Panties”

Ron Ripple — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 10:08:54 -0400

Last week, I had this incredible gut feeling that Greg Biffle was going to do some “surprising” this weekend, and boy was my gut right. Biffle raced his ass off and won his first race of the season this weekend in Louden, N.H. (it took him long enough)

Biffle has had a great year setting himself up for the Chase but hasn’t won a race all year. If Biffle was going to win a race, this was the race to win.

The race in New Hampshire was an exciting one at that. Early in the race, it looked like it was going to be all about Jimmie Johnson and Carl Edwards…but on lap 65, Johnson took over and Biffle started charging through the pack.

Just when you think Jimmie Johnson is going to hold off Biffle, Biffle shows up knockin' on his bumper screaming at the top of his lungs… “Excuse me Mr. Johnson, but I wore my 'first-place panties' today and I just really need to get by you.”

Johnson tried to answer by driving with his mirrors but it’s an extremely tough thing to do when Biffle had not only the fast car and driving skills, but his green “first-place panties.”

After the race, Biffle went on to explain he was holding off until the end and knew he had a winning car, which made me a bit nervous. It’s not every day that I go on the "long shot-12th place in points-solid top 5 but no win finisher," so I was excited as can be for the guy.

Some racers who couldn’t find the spotlight this past weekend were Kyle Busch and Dale Earnhardt Jr. Kyle Busch had one of the worst days of the year… and ended up finishing in 34th. He started strong but lost a part early in the race that created havoc for him throughout the day.

After spinning out and a one-lap penalty for coming in the pits when the pits were closed, the first place in points Kyle Busch is now sitting in eighth place, 70 points behind the leaders.

Dale Jr. had a decent day but was extremely upset with the results. After leading midway through the race, the team put on a fresh set of tires that as Dale would say, were [Bleepin bullbleep].”

He lost 10 positions after putting those tires on, and he was fuming. Here’s what he had to say over the radio during the race…

“We need a security guard over there watching those [bleeping tires], I can’t figure out why we keep [bleeping] up in the middle of all these races. Every [bleeping] time.”

I can’t blame the guy for getting upset especially after running that well. I would have thrown a few [Bleep] Bombs over the radio as well. I can’t [bleeping] stand a set of [bleeped] up tires. When I put on a pair of [bleeped] up tires on my truck that make me lose a few positions at the stop light, I get [bleeping] fired up.

Overall, I’m impressed with how my pick Greg Biffle did this weekend and I’ve got an incredible feeling he’s going to continue it. It’s almost like all of NASCAR read’s my predictions prior to each race because I’m like a “picking Machine.”

I’m just shocked I haven’t been hired over at hatepicks or another sports picking website. I think it’s going to come down to Jimmie Johnson and Greg Biffle over the next nine races…and so far Greg Biffle has Johnson’s [bleeping] number.

Make sure you keep checking back this week because we’re going to have a “Gas Card” giveaway and other special offers!

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

Greg Biffle decides to put his “1st place panties on”

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NASCAR’s Sprint Cup Chase Is Underway, And the Winner Is...

Ron Ripple — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 09:37:23 -0400

Well, it’s finally here. The start of the “Chase for the Sprint Cup.” From here on out, it’s anyone’s game; they all have a fresh start, and the only thing that seperates the first place guy from the 12th place guy is 80 points. Who’s going to go home with the Championship title and who’s going to be lost in history?

Well, the favorites this year are quite obvious going into the chase. You’ve got Kyle Busch, who has been called the new “NASCAR God” (though I prefer whiner). You’ve also got Jimmie Johnson, who is looking for his third title in a row. Finally, you've got Carl Edwards, who has been unstoppable late in the season.

However, if you were to ask me who I think is going to take the Championship home, I’d have to say I’m going with one of the “Dark Horses.”

I have a gut feeling there’s going to be an upset this year. Typically when I have this gut feeling, it means I either ate too much Beano last night or I’m going to make a really important statement.

I’m not quite sure which one it is this time, but I’m going to have to call it right now: I, Ron Ripple, think the driver who will take home the Sprint Cup Championship is…. (Drum roll please)… Greg Biffle.

Hopefully my predictions are right and we see
this the rest of the season!

I’m the kind of guy who votes for the under dog and one who hopes that David whoops the crap out of Goliath. So, I’m going on record here and now and saying I think Greg Biffle is going to run these last few races strong. You don’t hear much about him, but he’s always there, he’s always in the top, and he’s always working hard to finish strong.

Biffle is starting the “Chase” 80 points behind the leader. If he’s going to win the Championship this year, he'll have to start strong. He hasn’t had a win all year but he’s been the second best or even third best in a number of races.

Going into New Hampshire, he’s going to have to put his “first place panties” on; earlier this year, he only finished 21st at the LENOX Industrial tools 301 hosted at the New Hampshire Speedway in June.

I know I’m picking a long shot but like I said earlier, I’ve got that gut feeling and I’m just praying it’s not the Beano!

I know I know I know, I’m a big Tony Stewart fan, and to tell you the truth, I feel pretty guilty for not picking him to win this season, but the boy has changed.

Tony Stewart is not the same guy from seasons' past, and I just don't think he has that drive so many of these other drivers have.

He probably has a lot on his mind, especially with the new team he’s joining/owning next year. I just haven’t seen the Tony Stewart I’ve known and loved (in a straight way).

The Championship Chase is underway and I can’t wait to see what happens. For all of you readers, let me know who you think is going to win this season. I’m going to host a giveaway starting next week, I'll be handing out Free Gas Cards so you all can fill up those tanks.

So make sure you check back.

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

The NASCAR’s Sprint Cup Chase is officially underway!!!!

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Company Offers Rings for “Biggest NASCAR Fans!”

Ron Ripple — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 09:47:30 -0400

Hey everyone… Ron Ripple here. I wanted to introduce everyone to our new sponsor, JustMensRings.com. These guys are serious NASCAR fans and have taken it to a whole new level by designing racing-inspired rings.

Just Mens Rings contacted me about a week ago telling me they’ve created a ring designed for only the “biggest NASCAR fans.” At first I was skeptical because of course… I’m NASCAR’s Biggest Fan and the only way a ring could be considered good enough for NASCAR fans is if they got my approval.

Yep, that’s me, RON RIPPLE, representing my new kick-ass ring!

So JustMensRings.com sent me a ring and I was honestly shocked when I received it. They sent me the #18 Kyle Busch ring and it was not what I expected. The ring is a stainless steel ring that is made of stock car grade stainless steel.

The outer band spins around the inner track which is a lot of fun because I find myself messing around with it when I’m bored or in deep thought. The ring is definitely Ron Ripple Approved… I highly recommend you go to their site and pick one up yourself.

So far since I’ve been wearing it I’ve received nothing but compliments and other fans asking where I got it. I also ran into my boy Tony Stewart the other day and he surprisingly noticed it… so he wasn’t happy to see I wasn’t representing him.

Make sure you go check out JustMensRings.com and let me know what you guys think. They’re only $24 a pop and well worth it. Make sure you tell them Ron Ripple sent you.

An Original Post by Ron Ripple, NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

Rings for only the “BIGGEST NASCAR FANS!”

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Is Jimmie Johnson going to make it a three-peat?

Ron Ripple — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 09:54:50 -0400

Jimmie Johnson dominated this past weekend’s race at Fontana by leading 228 of 250 laps.

He led the race from the drop of the green flag and only lost the lead on pit cycling.

From the start of the season, Jimmie Johnson had more hype from the fans than Kyle Busch had kleenex boxes after the Bristol night race.

Johnson may have started out the season a little slower than expected, but is finally living up to his hype. He's showing the fans he’s working on making it a three-peat.

(Photo Compliments of NASCAR.com)

If you remember correctly, this is exactly what he did last season coming into the chase.

He won the labor day race in Fontana and then won at Richmond. Those victories gave him momentum and confidence, which carried over into The Chase. He won four straight races in that ten race stretch to win a second straight championship.

The kid is on fire and if you still don’t think the momentum is in his favor, then you better start figuring it out.

Momentum plays a big role with the drivers these days.

Carl Edwards has it, Kyle Busch has it, and now Jimmie Johnson has it. These three are going to be the drivers to watch out for, mark my words.

Kyle Busch will be starting out with 80 extra points, Carl Edwards will be starting with 50 extra points, and Jimmie Johnson will be starting with 30 extra points.

Obviously, things may change depending on who wins Richmond, but it’s going to be quite the battle, especially if Jimmie Johnson races like he did this past weekend in Fontana. Busch and Edwards are going to have a tough time competing against him.

Not to get off subject, but another area in which Johnson dominates is his significant other. Jimmie Johnson is “dominating” the field with his wife Chandra Johnson. You all know I have a little thing for her, so writing about Jimmie just gives me another reason to post a link to her infamous bio. Check her out!

Ok… back on subject! Jimmie Johnson did a great job this weekend and it only makes the Chase that much more interesting. I can’t wait for the chase to start and I don’t know who to bet on.

Who would you bet on to win the Championship?

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

Is Jimmie Johnson going to make it a three-peat?

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Carl Edwards and Kyle Busch Express Their Love!

Ron Ripple — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 10:40:37 -0400

Last weekend, in the final laps of the Sharpie 500, Carl Edwards and Kyle Busch decided they wanted to start showing each other how they really feel.

Carl Edwards worked all night, trying to pass Kyle Busch, but just couldn’t seem to get him on the high side.

During the last few laps, Carl Edwards dipped into the corner and taped Kyle’s left rear bumper, causing him to momentarily lose control and allow Carl to slide by, gaining the lead.

Carl Edwards went on to win the race, but not without getting into a little pushing match with Kyle Busch.

After Carl Edwards got the checkered flag, Kyle Busch drove up beside him and rubbed the side of his car. “The Nice Guy” Carl Edwards immediately drove into Busch and spun him out.

The crowd went absolutely CRAZY. It was awesome to see some drama go down on the track. It’s not too often these days you see emotion on the track.

In a postrace interview Carl Edwards said, “It’s one of those deals where I couldn’t get by him, I couldn’t get by him, and I just had to ask myself, ‘Would he do that to me?’"

Of course Kyle Busch would do that to him; he’s been doing it all season.

The funniest part about this little drama is that after the race, Kyle Busch was seen whining like a little girl saying, “wittle Cawl Edwads pwushed me.”

If you ask me, I think Kyle Busch got what he deserved...karma’s a b&%$#, and if you can dish it out, then you need to learn how to take it.

Check out the drama unfold

NASCAR just announced that both drivers were slapped on the hand and were given probation for the next six races.

If anything, I think the two should be patted on the back for creating an exciting ending to an awesome race.

NASCAR needs to commend these two racers for showing their feelings and creating an exciting rivalry. NASCAR needs more moments like this; this is what gets fans on their feet.

Kyle Busch is an incredible racer, but if you haven’t noticed, when he’s the bad guy, he’s loving life.

He’ll go out there tap bumpers, spin people out, race rough, and walk around the pits like he’s God’s gift to NASCAR.

But the minute someone else bumps him or passes him aggressively, the kid starts whining.

“Cawl Edwads, Cawl Edwads...he bumped me, he bumped me!”

Save the drama for the track and show “Cawl Edwads” that you’re supposed to be the “bad guy” and that he needs to go back to being the “Nice Guy.”

I’m jacked up to watch the rest of the season; it’s going to be an awesome race for the chase.

I think Carl Edwards is going to be a force to be reckoned with. It seems as though he’s the only one that has Kyle Busch’s number.

I can’t wait to watch the rest of the season unfold. So what do you guys think? Is Kyle Busch a whiner or is he in the “right” here?

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

Carl Edwards and Kyle Busch express their Love!

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Why Carl Edwards Has Kyle Busch’s Number

Ron Ripple — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 08:59:12 -0400

Just when you thought Kyle Busch was going to dominate again, Carl Edwards takes the checkered flag. I’ve said this before—nice guys don’t always finish last, especially when it comes to Carl Edwards. He’s making this his fifth Sprint Cup win of the season and has backed up the reason he’s sitting pretty in second place overall.

Edwards lifted his leg this weekend and “marked” his territory after winning both the Nationwide series race as well as the Sprint Cup race. He becomes the second driver to ever win both races in one weekend at the Michigan track—Mark Martin did it in 1993.

Kyle Busch ran an incredible race yesterday afternoon and set himself up to win until they pitted on lap 180 out of 200. Just when you think NASCAR is only about RACING on the track…nope…yesterday’s advantage went to Edwards because his crew ”out-raced” Busch’s crew and got Edwards out on the track quicker.

After Edwards' and Busch's pit, they entered the track with Dale Earnhardt, Jr. and David Ragan running 1-2. Once Edwards passed them, he continued to stay in front and held Busch off till the end.

Busch said in his post-race interview that he had nothing for Edwards. He said, “Carl came off the corners a lot quicker and he did his best to stay close to him. Overall we just didn’t have the car this weekend, Carl Edwards ran a great race.

It was another great win for Edwards and it allowed him to execute his famous backflip he’s been performing all year. There’s a rumor going around the pits that Edwards has been training with the U.S. Olympic team of Paul and Morgan Hamm, which has allowed him to perfect his backflip.

Also there are rumors going around that if Edwards wins the Championship this year, he will attempt a double-back-handspring-with-a-flip into a twist-double-double-twist-flip and land on his hands (I hope he wins because I can’t wait to see what the hell this is).

All I know is that yesterday was a great race and I was glad to see Carl Edwards out there winning. Whatever flips he attempts, it’s better than what I can do. The only hand stands you’ll be seeing me do is one off a keg…we call it the keg stand.

Great racing to all. There were a lot of disappointments this weekend for the top-12 racers. Kasey Khane had engine failure, which caused him to finish in fourth place, dropping him down to 11th overall in the points standings.

Denny Hamlin, who finished in 39th, dropped down to 12th position in the points standings, now on the bubble.

Jeff Gordon and Jimmie Johnson had a rough weekend as well. Both were involved in a three-car fender bender that punctured Johnson’s tire, giving him a 17th place finish.

Gordon didn’t feel the fender bender drama until later in the race when his tire punctured, making him hit the wall. He finished 42nd, which dropped him in the overall points from sixth place down to ninth place.

There was a lot of movement in the overall standings.

An Original Post by Ron Ripple - NASCAR's Biggest Fan!!!

Carl Edwards has Busch’s number!

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Kyle Busch Was in a Slump?

Ron Ripple — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 09:09:23 -0400

Just when you think Kyle Busch is in a so called “slump” the kid comes out and dominates another road course. Watkins Glen was an incredible race and one you did not want to miss.

So we all know Jimmie Johnson and Jeff Gordon were saying they saw weakness in the No. 18 car over the past couple races. Well, let me just say...they were wrong.

Just because Busch didn’t dominate the field in the last couple races doesn’t mean the driver is in a slump. He came out this weekend and showed the field exactly what they didn’t want to see...“the back of Kyle Busch’s no. 18 car!”

Watkins Glen was a pretty tame race overall, until lap 86 when there was a huge pile up that sent Bobby Labonte to the hospital and caused a 45-minute race delay. Labonte was complaining of sore ribs and was later released.

The wreck started when contact was made by Michael McDowell which sent David Gilliland’s Ford spinning out of control and into the guardrail. Sam Hornish, Jr. slid sideways into the barrier of sand barrels dividing the racetrack from pit road.

The pile up included Michael Waltrip, Dave Blaney, Joe Nemechek, Max Papis, and Reed Sorenson.

All were released from the infield medical center but it delayed the race 45 minutes. The race then re-started on lap 86 with Kyle Busch racing to the finish and getting the win on the 90th and final lap.

About three seconds behind Kyle Busch was his teammate Tony Stewart. He was a solid finish, but still continues his 36-race winless streak.

You all know Stewart is one of my favorite drivers of all time, even though he hasn’t won a race in the last 36. I do have to admit though, he seems to be losing his attitude and his “I’ll say what’s on my mind” reputation. I think he’s setting himself up to be a leader for his new team, Stewart-Haas Racing.

It seems as though Stewart is not only losing his attitude but it’s almost as though he’s giving it to Kyle Busch. Kyle Busch comes off the track and says, “Tony was faster than me only at the 'bus stop' chicane, but nowhere else on the track.”

And Tony Stewart comes off the track saying, “I’m real happy with this second place finish, I didn’t have anything for my teammate Kyle Busch, he ran a great race.”

I don't know who’s telling my boy Tony Stewart to be nice and respectful, but whoever it is needs to let him be who he is. Overall it was a good race to watch. Kyle Busch obviously made the chase. Stewart also bettered himself in the points, so overall I’m a happy fan.

By the way, Craig, I’m sure you’re happy with Montoya’s finish this weekend. He finally finished better than 41st place. Ha Ha!

Who’s your team and who are you rooting for to make the chase?

An original post by Ron Ripple—NASCAR's Biggest Fan!

Kyle Busch was in a slump?

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Matt Kenseth’s Race for the Chase!

Ron Ripple — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 17:02:58 -0400

We’re getting down to the wire in the Chase and it seems as though there are some “great” drivers who have not yet secured their spot. You’ve got Kevin Harvick, Clint Boyer, Matt Kenseth, and David Ragen all within 54 points of each other.

Kevin Harvick is sitting in the 11th position but still needs to race well these last races in order to secure his spot. It’s anyone’s game…

One driver I was 100 percent sure was going to secure himself a spot was Matt Kenseth.

In the beginning of the season he didn’t do so well. If you asked me after 10 races if he was going to make it in the chase I would have said, “Fat chance.” In his first 10 races he averaged about 23.5th position which in my opinion is just straight up NASTY!

Now in these past 10 races he’s done a complete 180 and has done nothing but impress me. In the second half of this season he’s turned that average finish of 23.5th into 10.1.

Matt Kenseth looked like he was securing his position in the chase, but these last two races (Brickyard and Pocono) looked worse than his first 10. He went from being in eighth position overall in points to 13th position. If he plans on racing for the money, he better figure out what he’s going to do.

It seems to me as though Kenseth is either hot or cold and nothing in between. He either has a top five car or he has a car that won’t get any camera time come race day.

These last five races are going to be tough for Mr. Kenseth. I’ve got a strategy I think he needs to hear in order to make it into the chase, so he might want to e-mail me or call me to find out what it will take.

(I’ll give you all a hint. My strategy consists of him finishing top 10 within the next five races and praying that Tony Stewart, Denny Hamlin, Clint Boyer, and Kevin Harvick have a horrible day. If he’s not close with God…maybe now’s the time.)

Haha. Sorry, gotta cut this article short. There's a keg party I need to make an appearance at.

An original post by Ron Ripple—NASCAR's Biggest Fan!

Matt Kenseth’s race for the chase!

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Poconooooo—Here We Come!

Ron Ripple — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 16:21:29 -0400

This weekend the boys will be hitting the Pocono track and boy am I excited. I didn’t post much this week because frankly I was tired of everyone talking about the tire issues NASCAR dealt with last weekend.

Just my .02 cents…NASCAR needs to start testing tires there for next year—otherwise we’re going to run into this issue year after year. Ryan Newman seems to be the only one voicing his opinion, which as you all know, I love. Maybe he’s starting to speak out because he’s going to be one of Stewart’s boys next year.

Anyway, Pocono is always a blast of a race to watch. It’s a funky triangular shaped track that makes for great racing. I think there’s going to be a lot of competitive racing here, especially with us getting so close to the final 12 races.

Who are my picks for this weekend? I think there’s going to be a lot of top contenders out there, especially since we saw a few guys from the Hendrick team out in front last weekend.

I have a feeling it’s going to be a couple guys out there dominating…Kyle Busch of course…Jeff Gordon again this weekend (he always seems to do well here)…and I think we may see Carl Edwards back up there in the front.

Edwards has been impressing me with his intense driving on the course even though he has that “nice guy” attitude off the track. He’s been showing the world that not all “nice guys finish last.” One thing is for sure—he’s gonna have to show Kyle Busch this is true because if he’s wrong, Kyle Busch (cocky guy) is going to finish first.

Great racing to come…I look forward to discussing this race with you all on Monday. Make sure you guys drink a bunch of beer this weekend because POCONOOOO…HERE WE COMMEEEE!

Allstate 400 Was More Like Heat Racing

Ron Ripple — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 10:33:35 -0400

The Allstate 400 was an interesting race to say the least. It came down to who had the fastest pit times and who could keep their tires from exploding.

NASCAR dealt with a tough situation this past Sunday and took the race into their own hands. I think they did a great job preventing further wrecks from taking place and I’m glad to see they were taking this seriously.

NASCAR officials implemented scheduled cautions that required teams to come in and make adjustments and tire changes. As much as I love to see racers race, I don’t like to see teams race their butts off only to have a tire explode, blowing their chances.

At the beginning it looked like it was going to be a Hendrick Motorsports race from start to finish. Jimmie Johnson and Jeff Gordon were driving around the track as if they had about 1,000 extra horse power.

In some of the scheduled pit stops they would come out fourth or fifth and immediately make their way back to the front. They had a lot of great teamwork and were extremely dominant for most of the race.

Another driver that impressed me was Carl Edwards. He has been a competitive driver this year and has shown the world he’s a contender. This weekend he ran with great strength and had one of the fastest cars of the day. I thought he almost had it after the last pit stop, but like I said before, Jimmie Johnson was strong and held him off.

This was a tough weekend for NASCAR officials and for the crews. The tires only lasted about seven laps before you saw cord. To run a race where every seven laps you need a new set of tires—well, that isn’t really racing.

Obviously the racers are watching what they say about Goodyear, especially since Tony Stewart created drama at the beginning of the year. But Goodyear needs to start testing tires at Indy considering they run into this problem every single season.

I must applaud the teams and NASCAR for turning the situation into a positive. Every single team owner interviewed said positive things about the actions NASCAR was taking and didn’t place any blame on Goodyear. I thought what Joe Gibbs said was perfect: “every team is going through this so not one team is at an advantage.”

It was just another day of racing and another race closer to the Sprint Cup Championship.

P.S. Look out for our “Girl of the Week” later today.

An original post by Ron Ripple—NASCAR's Biggest Fan!

Allstate 400 was more like heat racing!

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Converting Jeff Gordon to Beer—Increasing His Popularity Along the Way

Ron Ripple — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 13:30:34 -0400

As much as I call Jeff Gordon out for being a wine drinker, I figured I could help change my own feelings about him by converting him into a beer drinker.

Jeff Gordon is an incredible racer and is one of the best NASCAR drivers that ever lived. He’s married to an absolutely gorgeous wife, Ingrid Vandebosch, and has an absolutely beautiful little daughter.

The guy is defintiely living the life, but for some odd reason I just can’t get over the fact that he is a wine drinker and won’t convert himself over to beer.

If you walk into a NASCAR event and walk up to the concession stands you’re not going to find any wine—it’s strictly beer. Going into the infield where the fans are, you see nothing but keg stands and beer funnels. I can guarantee you, not one person will be doing a wine stand or wine funnel. It’s just not the way us NASCAR fans live.

This Seven-Step Program is Written to Jeff Gordon.

I’ve created “Ron Ripple’s Seven-Step Program of Converting YOU (Jeff Gordon) Into a Beer Drinker.” When I’m done with you Jeff, you’re not only going to be drinking beer, but you’ll also be drinking beer with cheese. haha!

Ok here we go….

Step 1: Buy a Few Cases of Different Beer

The world is filled with a ton of different brands of beer. You’ve got Budweiser, Miller, Natural Light, Millwaukee’s Best, and of course you’ve got the snobs who drink Corona Light, Amstel, and the list goes on.

The point of buying multiple cases of beer is everyone has their own flavor and you don’t want to get the wrong impression of beer just because you don’t like one! It’s not true that you try one, you’ve tried em all.

Step 2: Find the Beer You Dislike the Least and Buy a Keg of It

The point of buying a keg is that we’re going to be taste testing and I’ll be teaching you the different techniques that will help you “acquire” the taste of beer. (I reckon I was born with the acquired taste—it’s unfortunate you weren’t)

Step 3: Study the Keg…Become One With the Keg

Jeff…this is a very important part about learning to love beer. You first have to sit with the keg and understand its fundamentals and functionality of it. You must be one with the beer…and when I say this I really mean SIT with the beer. Enjoy its company. Start a relationship with the beer, talk to it—go deep Jeff.

You want to form the type of relationship where you miss it even making a trip to the little boys room.

Jeff Taking Step Three Very Seriously!

Step 4: Do Your First Keg Stand

Grab your wife and kids and have them hold your feet above the keg while you do a hand stand. Place the spout in your mouth and count in “mississippi seconds” until your little frame can’t take any more…the longer the better.

I currently hold the NASCAR Fan record for most time. Back in '99 I was able to take a keg stand while Jeff and the rest of the racers ran nine laps during the Daytona 500. Nobody has beaten the record to this day!

This step is important because by now you already have a buzz and the taste is starting to get better. Jeff, I know this is a buzz you’re not used too, but just remember you won’t have the so called “wine headache” in the morning.

Step 5: Funnel a Beer

This sounds very easy and it actually is. Mr. Gordon, I’ve mailed you your first beer funnel, so now is the time to use it. No, it wasn’t meant to siphon gas. It’s meant to get you to the next level!

I know you’re not used to drinking quickly, especially when you’re sipping on wine, but this is a crowd pleaser and helps you get accepted by peers. (I’ll accept you.)

Side note: Driving a NASCAR racecar isn’t the only way to get people out of their seats. The more beer you funnel, the more fans you’ll have and the louder the chant.

Another positive spin is the effect it has on your vision—women look more attractive. Obviously you don’t have to worry about that, considering you’re married to a super model, but it sure as hell helps me out.

Jeff Finally Acquiring the Taste!

Step 6: Now That You’ve Somewhat Acquired the Taste, Invite Friends Over for a Game of Beer Pong

Jeff,you probably don’t know what beer pong is, so let me explain it to you. Beer pong is a game where “skilled beer drinkers” compete with each other by setting up about 15 cups filled half full of beer half way on each side of a ping pong table. You then pick a partner and hope for the best. Try to pick a partner who is the least drunk, because the object of the game is to aim for the cups and sink as many ping pong balls as you can.

You’re probably a little overwhelmed right now because you’re pretty drunk, but aren’t you having more fun with your friends than usual? Sit back and take this in…it’s a new lifestyle.

Step 7: Continue Drinking Till You Pass Out…You’ll Sleep a Lot Better

Mr. Gordon, this is the last and final step that cannot be forgotten. It’s quite simple I reckon—just continue drinking until you pass out. This step takes a long time for someone like me who has been drinking beer all my life. But for you, I can guarantee you’ll probably pass out around 9:00 pm if you started at 7:00 pm.

You’ll be amazed with the quality sleep and the amount of sleep you get when passing out after drinking. No interruptions, the dog barking won’t faze you, the wife nagging will be automatically ignored…it’s just the best sleep you’ll ever get. Nighty Night Jeff.

Conclusion

Jeff, I hope you take my seven steps seriously and give it a try. If you need a few drinking partners, feel free to e-mail me. I really think you’re a great racer and I want to see you out there with the boys drinking beer instead of wine. Leave the wine to who it’s made for—the women!

I’ve heard it from a number of the different drivers the reason why they don’t invite you out for a beer: It’s simply because they think the wine drinking is too girly.

Image is everything.

E-mail me back when you get a chance… I want to know your thoughts.

Joey Logano Hoping To Take Advantage of Tony Stewart's Departure

Ron Ripple — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 09:39:31 -0400

Since Tony Stewart will be leaving the Joe Gibbs Racing at the end of the season, Gibbs now has an available seat that is in need of a fresh driver. Is Joey Logano the man, or shall I say “boy”, for the job? He has proven his ability in the Nationwide Series, but does he have the experience to play with the big dogs?

Logano is an incredibly talented driver who has proved to the world that he can compete with the Nationwide Series drivers at the young age of 18.

When he turned 18-years old, he raced his first race with the Nationwide series and ended up with a 6th place. Nobody expected him to do as well as he did, and he’s been proving himself ever since with two poles and one win, having only competed in a total of five races.

Logano is the real deal…but does he have enough experience to compete with the big dogs in the Sprint Cup?

I think Logano is a great driver but personally don’t think he has enough experience to compete with the Sprint Cup racers. On Sunday the top racers in the world drive out on the track and every one of them has the ability and talent that Logano has. The difference between Joey Logano and Tony Stewart is experience, and the only way to gain experience is to continue to race with the Nationwide guys.

If I were Joe Gibbs I would weigh out my options and make sure I’m making the right decision. Joey Logano is an incredible racer and will one day be on top in the Sprint Cup Series—but now is not the time. There are so many great drivers out there jockeying for position and trying to secure a spot for next year.

Ryan Newman, for example, is one of those great drivers looking to make a decision on where he’s going to be racing next year. We all know rumors are stating he’s looking to join Tony Stewart in his venture, but why would you, as an experienced and top driver, pick a team who will be going through growing pains for the next year or so?

Newman should join a team that knows how to win and who has the formula to win, that team being Joe Gibbs in the No. 20 car.

The Man, the Myth, the Legend, GREGGGG ZIPADELLLLIIIII

Whoever drives the No. 20 car next year is going to be sitting in a proven car. The 20 car is a winning car that has not only won races but has also won Championships. It’s a car that comes with an experienced crew led by crew chief Greg Zipadelli—so the future of this car is in good hands and will have the ability to win.

It has to be tough as a crew chief not knowing who your driver will be next year. I’m sure he’s focused on this year, but with all the hype and rumors going around about the No. 20 car, I’ll bet he’s anxious to find out.

Who knows—maybe he already knows who will be racing with him. I guess the only thing we can do is wait and see.

I feel like the only thing we hear these days are rumors…the only FACTS out there is Tony Stewart changing teams and Jeff Gordon popping more wine bottles. One of these days I’m going to get Gordon to do a keg stand…So if you’re out there reading this Jeff, you better start practicing.