Bleacher Report - Articles by Christopher Smith

One Fan's Opinion: Michael Waltrip Runs Limited Schedule in 2010

Christopher Smith — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 10:31:12 -0400

I was sort of sad to hear about Michael Waltrip’s semi-retirement next year. I came to NASCAR a little late in life. I’ve only been a fan for about seven years, so I haven’t been there to witness all the classic rivalries and the winning seasons of some of the great drivers who have become legends.

I’ve never really seen Michael win too many races. I know him more as a commentator than a driver. I used to love Speed Channel’s “Mikey Miked” segments! He’s hilarious, and a lot smarter than most people give him credit for being.

Growing up in it as he has, he knows a great deal about this sport. I have a feeling that he will end up a commentator part time, kind of like what happened with Kyle Petty when he went to a limited driving schedule.

Michael is also a pretty astute businessman. Have you ever seen his race shop? It’s part race shop, part carnival! He has interactive stuff everywhere that really draws the fans in and gets them excited. He actually makes money at his shop by catering to the tourists. Hey, if the fans are coming, you might as well make some money and give them their money’s worth!

I thought it was awesome! My husband is rather old `school, and was shocked and appalled that it was more like Disney than NASCAR. I was reminded of P.T. Barnum, and laughed myself silly!

I’m truly sorry for the fans who love to see him race. I agree with those who say that he might be like Mark Martin, and come out of retirement to race more after he gets things squared away on the business side of his teams. Remember, at heart, he’s a racer. That’s what he has done all his life. It’s the family business, so to speak.

He will not be able to stay out of the car for long. You might not see him as much in Sprint Cup, but I’m willing to bet that he might run a few Nationwide races at some point, just to get his racing fix. Nothing is set in stone. Mikey fans, just keep saying to yourself, "Limited Schedule."

He hasn’t totally shut the door. I’m sorry for his fans, but he is making a great business decision. He has picked up a pretty fine driver in Martin Truex, Jr. for the No. 56 car, and he has a great crew chief in Bootie Barker. I wish Michael Waltrip Racing much success in 2010.

Johnny Benson: Out on the Streets Again

Christopher Smith — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 20:12:18 -0400

Johnny Benson is out of yet another driving job. And again, it is not based on skill or competitive nature, it is a lack of sponsorship funding.

Benson, defending Truck Series Champion, is out indefinitely due to sponsorship woes, despite the fact that he currently sits seventh in the overall points. Red Horse Racing, Benson’s team, has decided to shut down the No. 1 team's operations, instead of holding tight to one of the best drivers in not only the Truck series, but in all of NASCAR.

It is a shame that it looks like Benson will not be able to run at his own home track at Michigan International Speedway, due to the short time to work out an arrangement.

Benson came up through the ASA circuit winning the championship, then moving to the Nationwide Series, where he won the “Rookie of the Year” (ROY) in 1994 and followed it up with the Championship in 1995. Then Benson made the leap to the Cup Series, where he again won ROY honors and then seemed to never get a car or team behind him enough for him to make the impact I was sure that he would make.

His big break appeared to come when he was pulled into the Rousch Racing team, but his years at Rousch didn’t fare well for him. I believe he was the testing car, given experimental parts to work out the kinks, for the top drivers in that organization. And all other teams he has driven for have been either start-ups, floundering, or downright bad organizations.

Once Benson moved to the Truck Series, he has been a solid competitor and last year won the Championship outright.

Why Benson has had such a rocky road with sponsorships, owners, etc. is beyond me. He has great charisma, is well-versed and performs on the track. What more can you ask for, as an owner or sponsor?

Johnny B Good…We are pulling for you. You’re one of the good guys.

Danica Patrick: Could She Make It in NASCAR?

Christopher Smith — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 21:00:14 -0400

Well, every year right after the Indy 500, it becomes a big topic to talk about: will Danica Patrick make the leap to NASCAR? There is a part of me that just wants this discussion to go away, but alas, I have no control over that, so let me add to the discussion.

NASCAR’s Facebook page has put the question out there: “Do you think Danica Patrick can survive in NASCAR?” Well, here is my opinion in a nutshell: no.

Now, that is not to say that Patrick is a bad driver, she’s not. Right now she sits in fourth place in the overall Indy points.

That’s also not to say that she can’t handle the pressure and the limelight. She had proved that she can by being on the cover of just about every magazine out there and been on the celebrity circuit without even flinching.

And, that’s not to say that her whining will keep her out. NASCAR has plenty of whiners in the sport already, so that wouldn’t be an issue, should she make the move.

No, Danica won’t survive in NASCAR for the same reason that so many other Indy drivers who have tried to make the leap to NASCAR can't...they are two different sports with completely different demands, and totally different mindsets.

First of all, Indy cars are completely different, in the fact that you can do things in an Indy car that you cannot even dream about doing in a stock car. Now, I don’t need to rehash “Days of Thunder.” If you don’t know the reference, then I am surprised that you are even listening to our show.

Second of all, Indy drivers are only required to race in 17 races each year. NASCAR has a much more grueling schedule, with 36 commitments per year, and forget about testing; not only will you have no more testing for three weeks at a track before you actually have to compete, but now you won’t have testing at all.

And finally, you have the fact that qualifying becomes much more important in NASCAR. There are only 35 drivers in the Indy Car series, so if you are a driver, you are guaranteed a spot, where you have up to 60 drivers who at any given time are qualifying for a spot in the crown jewel of NASCAR. Just ask Kenny Wallace how many go or go homers there are each and every week.

No, it’s not that seats wouldn’t be filled if Patrick made the move, but I just don’t think it would be successful. If she had a multitude of years in modified racing, I would say her chances would be improved, but only slightly.

Make sure you check out the latest “Gas and Go” to hear this discussion, as well as many others. You can pick that show up right here.

Gas And Go: Episode 4

Christopher Smith — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 20:06:33 -0400

Welcome back to another edition of Gas and Go, the sister podcast to Over the Wall. It is Tuesday, June 2, 2009, I am your host Chris Smith, managing editor at RubbingsRacing.com.

Well, “The Franchise” has two big weeks in a row, “Smoke” does something that hasn’t been done in over 16 years, and you get my take on the latest hot topics.

Topics covered during the podcast were the following:

“The Franchise” wins the 600 and follows with Pole at Dover.
Tony Stewart does something that hasn’t been done in 16 years.
Tony Eury Jr. out, what this does for Earnhardt Jr?
Would Danica Patrick survive in NASCAR if she made the move?
The latest NAACP action and how this benefits Bruton Smith.
New Facebook Discussion topics
Music this episode “Mark My Words” from Granian on the Podsafe Music Network.
Exit Bumpers courtesy of PhilX of Powder PowderMusic.com Link.
Be sure to check us follow us on Twitter Link.
Be sure to join our Facebook group and leave comments on our wall Facebook Link.

Enjoy the podcast. We’ll put a new one up soon. Please let us know how you like it and what changes you would recommend. Again, your comments will drive the content. Get in there and join in on the conversation.

Join in the Conversation

Circuit Breaks: Lowes Motor Speedway

Christopher Smith — Tue, 12 May 2009 01:00:29 -0400

Information about Lowes Motor Speedway, as well as other attractions, lodging, and restaurants in the area around the track. Also, specials offered to save some money while attending the race.

Track Facts

1.5 miles quad-oval
400 laps = 600 miles
24 degrees banking in turns, 5 degrees on straights
165,000 seats
The speedway’s racing surface came apart badly during the first World 600, designed to be NASCAR’s ultimate endurance test, with Joe Lee Johnson surviving to win on June 19, 1960.
Bobby Allison and Darrell Waltrip are tied with most wins at six; Gordon and Johnson are active drivers with most wins at five.

Top Rated Hotels (per TripAdvisor.com)

Suburban Extended Stay Concord
SpringHill Suites Charlotte Concord Mills Speedway
Comfort Suites
Hampton Inn and Suites Charlotte at Concord Mills
Wingate Inn Concord

Dining Recommendations Away from Track (per TripAdvisor.com)

The Little Dooey Barbeque & Blues—8524 Pit Stop Ct, Concord, (704) 979-5400
Emma’s Carolina Cuisine—11 Union St S Ste 108, Concord, (704) 788-1098
Romano’s—349 Copperfield Blvd NE, Concord, (704) 782-5020

Other Area Attractions

Race shops—visit the following Web sites to find the race shops open to the public around Charlotte:
All drivers—www.raceshops.com
Mooresville NC—www.racecityusa.org
Carowinds—14523 Carowinds Blvd Charlotte, NC 28241, (704) 588 2600; Amusement park; Open daily March 28 – Aug 23. Regular admission $46.99.

Specials

Charlotte-Area Hotels Reduce Race Week Room Rates: In a collaborative effort, regional tourism bureaus and officials at Lowe’s Motor Speedway have worked with area hotel operators to secure lower room rates for race fans attending the 25th running of the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race on May 16, and the 50th Coca-Cola 600 on May 24. More than 80 hotels within approximately one hour of the 1.5-mile superspeedway have agreed to reduce their race week room rates by 15 percent and waive their minimum stay requirements. The full list of participating hotels is available online for fans to reference at www.lowesmotorspeedway.com/hotels. In addition to the lower hotel rates, cost savings extend to the speedway as well. The Coca-Cola 600 Family Four Pack, which includes four race tickets to the Coca-Cola 600, four hot dogs and four Coca-Cola brand soft drinks, is available for just $39.75 a person. Similarly, the Rite Aid Family Four Pack includes four tickets to the Sprint All-Star Race, four hot dogs and four Coca-Cola brand soft drinks for the low price of $24.75 a person. The May Super Ticket special is also available, allowing fans the opportunity to see Windstream Pole Night qualifying, the CARQUEST Auto Parts 300 Nationwide Series race and the Coca-Cola 600, all for as low as $89.

Circuit Breaks: Darlington

Christopher Smith — Mon, 04 May 2009 01:00:20 -0400

Information about Darlington Raceway as well as other attractions, lodging and restaurants in the area around the track. Also, specials offered to save some money while attending the race.

Track Facts

1.366 miles oval
367 laps = 501 miles
25 degrees banking in turns 1 & 2, 23 degrees in turns 3 & 4, 3 degrees front-stretch, 2 degrees back-stretch
63,000 seats
The first race was scheduled for Labor Day 1950 and was not expected to draw more than 10,000 fans, but a crowd of more than 25,000 showed up. Californian Johnny Mantz drove to victory that day in the first Southern 500. The race took more than six hours to complete.
David Pearson is all-time winner with 10 races; Jeff Gordon is active driver with most wins at seven.

Top Rated Hotels (per TripAdvisor.com)

Best Value Inn

Dining Recommendations Away from Track (per TripAdvisor.com)

Boss Hog Smokehouse – 1536 S. Main St, Darlington, (843) 393-9534
Country Barn Restaurant - 2233 W. Harry Byrd Blvd, Darlington, (843) 395-2257
Raceway Grill - 1207 Harry Byrd, Darlington, (843) 393-7339

Other Area Attractions

Darlington Raceway Stock Car Museum – 301 Harry Byrd Hwy, Darlington, SC , (843) 395-8821; The Darlington Raceway Stock Car Museum and NMPA Hall of Fame offer those who are interested in the history of stock car racing an in-depth look at the roots of the sport, and has a lot to pique the interest of newer fans as well. 9AM – 5PM Mon – Sat; Adults $5.40, children under 12 free.

Specials

All You Can Eat Tix Package returns at Darlington: The immensely popular all-you-can-eat Colvin Grill ticket package will return for the 2009 Southern 500. Ticket packages start at $50 and can be purchased by calling 1-866-459-RACE or logging onto DarlingtonRaceway.com. Each package includes seating in the Colvin grandstand and unlimited hamburgers, hot dogs, potato chips and soft drinks in the Colvin Grill. Additionally, fans who have already purchased tickets for the 2009 Southern 500 or plan to purchase tickets in a grandstand other than Colvin may add the all-you-can-eat package to their existing ticket for only $15 per person. Each fan who takes advantage of this unique offer will receive a special wristband valid for admission to the Colvin Grill adjacent to the Colvin grandstand outside of turn 2 at Darlington Raceway. The grill will open at 5:00 p.m. on May 9th and will close at 7:00 p.m. Fans are encouraged to act quickly as only a limited number of Colvin Grill ticket packages are available. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway PR)(3-10-2009)

Over The Wall: Episode 8

Christopher Smith — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 14:22:46 -0400

Episode eight of “Over The Wall” is now available. Again all about NASCAR’s Cup series, we have a shortened show this week. This week we welcome back our esteemed panel, Myself, Chris Smith and Fluid Media’s Cameron Watson and Joe Magennis.

We start out talking about the race at Texas, and discuss the type of racing we are seeing across the board, as well as the dominance of the Hendrick organization—or should I say, the Hendrick duo of Johnson/Gordon.

We also look at Dale Earnhardt Jr., and try to figure out where his head has been this season.

Finally we discuss the sponsorship problems with the No. 8 car, as well as Allmendinger picking up sponsorship until September.

We also preview discussions for our show next week. We are going to talk about two major things. Should Cup drivers be allowed to drive in the lower tier series, and who exactly wears the black hats in NASCAR?

Please enjoy and comment either here, Twitter, or Facebook. We need your thoughts on these topics. Your comments will help drive future shows.

So sit back and enjoy the show.

Topics covered during the podcast were the following:

Texas Recap
Gordon/Johnson Domination
Where is Earnhardt Jr’s Head?
Sponsorship Woes Continue
Song: “Junior in the Winners Circle” by the Redneck Beerdrinkers Located on the Podsafe Music Network
Intro and Exit Bumpers courtesy of PhilX of Powder PowderMusic.com Link
Be sure to check us follow us on Twitter Link
Be sure to join our Facebook group and leave comments on our wall Facebook Link

Enjoy the podcast. We’ll put a new one up next week. Please let us know how you like it and what changes you would recommend. Again, your comments will drive the content.

Get Involved. Be Heard.

Join in the Conversation

Circuit Breaks: Phoenix

Christopher Smith — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 08:54:40 -0400

Information about Phoenix International as well as other attractions, lodging and restaurants in the area around the track.

Track Facts

One mile tri-oval
500 laps = 500 miles
11 degrees banking in turns one and two, nine degrees turns three and four, three degrees front-stretch, nine degrees back-stretch
76,800 seats
The Nov. 6, 1988, wound up being the first Cup victory for Alan Kulwicki, the tough-minded independent driver who would go on to win the 1992 Cup Series title. Upon taking the checkered flag that day, Kulwicki turned around and took his victory lap backward, going clockwise around the track, giving birth to his now famous “Polish victory lap.”
Jimmie Johnson is active driver with most wins of three races.

Top Rated Hotels (per TripAdvisor.com)

Homewood Suites Phoenix-Avondale
Best Western Phoenix Goodyear Inn
Quality Inn & Suites Goodyear
Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Goodyear - West Phoenix Area
Holiday Inn Express Goodyear

Dining Recommendations Away from Track (per TripAdvisor.com)

One Brother’s Pizza Inc. - 11435 W Buckeye Rd, Avondale (623) 936-9797
Rumbi Island Grill - 9915 W. Mcdowell Rd, Avondale (623)-936-1527

Other Area Attractions

Desert Botanical Gardens - 1201 N Galvin Pkwy Phoenix, AZ 85008, (480) 941-1225; Located in Papago Park, these gardens offer visitors an opportunity to learn about desert flora.
Heard Museum - 2301 North Central Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85004, (602) 252-8848; The foremost showcase of Native American art and culture in the U.S., the Heard Museum reveals the cultures of tribes in the region through exhibits, demonstrations and live performances and displays the work of contemporary Native American artists.

Circuit Breaks: Texas

Christopher Smith — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 06:00:51 -0400

Information about Texas Motor Speedway as well as other attractions, lodging and restaurants in the area around the track.

Track Facts

1.5 mile Tri-Oval
334 laps = 501 miles
24 degrees banking in the turns, 5 degrees on the straight-aways
191,122 track capacity
On April 5, 1997, Mark Martin won the first NASCAR event at TMS, a Busch Series event. Jeff Burton won the inaugural Cup Series race in front of a sellout crowd on the next afternoon.
Carl Edwards is active driver with most wins of 3 races.

Top Rated Hotels
Per TripAdvisor.com

Marriott Hotel & Golf Club at Champions Circle
Dallas/Fort Worth Marriott Hotel & Golf Club
Sleep Inn & Suites Speedway
Hampton Inn and Suites North Fort Worth - Alliance Airport
Residence Inn Fort Worth Alliance/Airport

Dining Recommendations Away from Track
Per TripAdvisor.com

Cristina’s Mexican Restaurant - 2003 E Hwy 114, Roanoke
(817) 430-4545
Sonny Bryans Smokehouse Westport Pkwy - 2421 Westport Pkwy. Fort Worth
(817) 224-9191
Snooty Pig Cafe - 2401 Westport Pkwy Ste 120, Fort Worth
(817) 837-1077

Other Area Attractions

Bureau of Engraving and Printing - 9000 Blue Mound Rd, Fort Worth, (817) 231 4000; The free, 45-minute guided tours are available Monday through Friday. Tour features include displays and exhibits showing the history of U.S. paper currency, the production process and its technology, an informative 15-minute film of the production process, a quarter-mile long elevated walkway tour overlooking the currency production floor, the Moneyfactory Gift Shop, and three live demonstration exhibits; a turn-of-the century spider press, a mutilated currency redemption desk, and an engraver’s bench. Mon-Fri 8:30 – 3:30, last tour at 2 PM.
Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District - 131 E Exchange Ave Fort Worth, TX 76106, (817) 624-4741; Historic site, History museum, Town center/square/plaza, Scenic/historic walking area, Mall, Museum, Neighborhood, Historic walking area.

In Memoriam: Lloyd Ruby

Christopher Smith — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 15:05:25 -0400

Image Credit: Richard Cleaver. Used with Permission.

I know that we always focus on NASCAR and don’t report any news on Indy, but we felt it was appropriate to pay tribute to the “Best Driver to Never Win the Indy 500″, Lloyd Ruby.

Ruby died March 23, 2009 at the age of 81 in Wichita Falls, Texas.

Most famous for having driven in 18 consecutive Indy 500s from 1960 until 1977, Ruby was also instrumental in Ford Motor Company’s GT40 program in the mid-60’s.

Endurance Racing at the 24 Hours of Daytona and winning the 1966 12 Hours of Sebring celebrated his spectacular racing career outside of the Indy Car Series.

Cameron Watson from Fluid Media, and panelist on our “Over the Wall” podcast, informed me that his brother Chris worked on Ruby’s Indy team in the 70s.

In 2005, Ruby was honored with the Bruton Smith Legends Award at the Texas Motor Sports Hall-of-Fame, as well as being inducted into the Midget Auto Racing Hall-of-Fame and the Auto Racing Hall-of-Fame in Indianapolis.

It seems fitting that April 5 is the NASCAR race at Bruton Smith’s Texas Motor Speedway.

Ruby is survived by his wife, Peggy and two children, John and Mary Ann.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Ruby family.

Circuit Breaks: Martinsville

Christopher Smith — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 09:19:22 -0400

By DJ
Here are some great tidbits about Martinsville as well as other things around the track.

Track Facts

.526 mile oval
500 laps = 263 miles
12 degrees banking in the turns, flat on the straight-aways
65,000 seats
H. Clay Earles built Martinsville Speedway in 1947 as a dirt track before the formation of NASCAR. The first race was run on September 7, 1947 and Robert “Red” Byron won $500 out of a $2,000 purse. The track hosted the sixth race in the NASCAR series (Strictly Stock) that eventually became the NEXTEL Cup Series. It was won by Byron as well in a 1949 Oldsmobile on September 25, 1949.
Richard Petty is all-time leader of wins with 15 races.
Jeff Gordon is active driver with most wins at seven.

Top Rated Hotels
Per TripAdvisor.com

Jameson Inn Martinsville
Holiday Inn Express Martinsville
Hampton Inn Martinsville
Super 8 Martinsville
Best Western Martinsville Inn

Dining Recommendations Away from the Track (Make sure you get a Hotdog at the track!)
Per TripAdvisor.com

Dixie Pig Barbecue—817 N. Memorial Boulevard, Martinsville
(276) 632-9082
Rania’S Best Bar And Grill Restaurant Inc—147 E Main St, Martinsville
(276) 638-4462
Captain Tom’s Seafood—2615 Greensboro Rd, Martinsville
(276) 666-0326

Other Area Attractions

If you are going to be in the Martinsville area more than just the race, here are some other area attractions.

Virginia Museum of Natural History—21 Starling Avenue, Martinsville, VA 24112. Tuesday-Saturday 9 AM to 5:30 p.m. $9 for Adults; $7 for College Students, Seniors (60 and older), and Active Duty Military; $5 for Youth and Children 3 to 18; Free for Members and Children under 3; AAA/AARP discounts available.

Jeff Gordon: Not Going for Fifth Sprint Cup Championship

Christopher Smith — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:04:41 -0400

That’s it—I can’t bite my tongue any more.

Jeff Gordon is NOT going for his fifth Sprint Cup Championship! ARRRRGH!

Nobody else has the guts to say it, but I said it!

Jeff has four Winston Cup Championships and is going for his first Sprint Cup Championship. Two totally different accomplishments.

The biggest and most important difference… the points system. Gordon has never won in the chase format. Back when he won his four championships, consistency throughout the entire year was king, and he ruled the roost. But now, it’s critical just to be in the top 12 to make the chase, then make your move.

Perfect example is two years ago when Gordon had everything locked up and Jimmie Johnson took the brass ring because he squeaked into the chase and ran consistent to finish the year out.

Not only that, but there have been changes to the points system since the inception of the chase. Now wins get more points, so how can you compare championships at all. So really, Johnson’s championships should be distinguished as Nextel Cup and Sprint Cup due to the differences in their point structures.

Then you have the most obvious difference, the constant name changes. First it was the Strictly Stock Series, then Grand National Series, then the Winston Cup Series, then the Nextel Cup Series and now it’s the Sprint Cup Series. Who knows next year it may be the Verizon Cup Series. So many people still perceive it as the Winston Cup simply for the longevity of their title sponsorship.

Let’s quit bowing down to sponsors to the point that it distorts history.

When commentators talk in the booth and when you see the stitched logo on past champions chest, it gives the perception, especially to all of the newly found NASCAR fans, that this is the way it has always been.

Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt have 14 Winston Cup Championships combined. Awsome Bill from Dawsonville and Alan Kulwicki are also famous Winston Cup Champions. I am just waiting for the Sprint executives to sit around a table and one will actually say, ”Hey I got a great idea to help promote our brand. Let’s use Photoshop and put our slick, silver wave trophy in the hands of King Richard in place of that old, tired wooden trophy they used to use. Especially since they are now Sprint Cup Champions…”

We cannot change history just because the title sponsor changes.

Let’s face it, if Winston wasn’t forced out due to advertising regulations, we wouldn’t even be having this conversation. But since they were pushed out, Nextel took over the top spot. Well Nextel gets purchased. Now we have to switch the name again to Sprint (a horrible choice for the sponsor name due to the lower level Sprint Car Series). Now that Verizon has purchased Sprint, are we going to have to go through this arduous process again next year?

If we have to acknowledge the title sponsor, let’s at least be fair and honest about it. When talking to DW in the booth, acknowledge that he is a three-time Winston Cup Champion. Don’t try to put your marketing spin on everything.

History of the sport is more important than the title sponsorship name.

Joe Gibbs: Back On Top or Just Average?

Christopher Smith — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:40:51 -0400

Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) gets their second victory this season and finally gets into victory lane at “Thunder Valley” after many years of dominating races at Bristol. Not only does Kyle Busch get his second win, but Denny Hamlin finishes out the one-two punch for JGR.

But the question has to be, is JGR still the team to beat, or are they now just an average team?

With Tony Stewart, the last patriarch of the Gibbs Racing Family, leaving to form his own team, it was obvious after last years success that Busch would replace Stewart in that role. But to have a dominate “team”, there must be more than one dominating.

History has always put JGR right there at the top of the mountain of great teams in NASCAR, but outside of the No. 18, they have not flexed their muscles much. Yes, Hamlin has performed fairly consistent over the past few years, but this year, this is the first real showing for the No. 11.

The buzz before the season started was the new kid on the block, Joey Logano. So far this season though, Logano has struggled in the No. 20 car and finds itself on the cusp of being outside of the Top 35. Having to qualify at Martinsville on time as a rookie is a daunting task.

So, JGR emerged as the flagship team for Toyota since they made the jump from Chevy last year, but other Toyota teams are making strong showings this year.

Michael Waltrip Racing (MWR) has David Reutimann in the top 12 and Michael Waltrip in the top 25 in points so far this year, a far cry from where this team has lived for the past few years. Not only has MWR racing stepped up their game, but look at the Red Bull Racing team with Brian Vickers finding himself just outside of the top 12 and rookie Scott Speed is on the bubble a the magic 35 spot.

I don’t want to say that JGR has lost a step, but they are not the only ones crawling up that mountain anymore, especially in the Toyota teams.

Gas and Go: Episode Three

Christopher Smith — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 23:47:21 -0400

Welcome back to another edition of Gas and Go, the sister podcast to Over the Wall. It is Tuesday, March 24, 2009, I am your host Chris Smith, managing editor at RubbingsRacing.com.

Well we have a lot to cover today, Bristol’s bumps, Martinsville’s Dogs, a new segment and some events this weekend you don’t know about…

Topics covered during the podcast were the following:

Bristol Motor Speedway, Kyle Busch dominates the day, Joe Gibbs Racing gets the one-two punch
Circuit Breaker: New segment for track facts, lodging and dining info as well as some history for each track
Martinsville Speedway events at the track for both Saturday and Sunday you don’t know about yet
New Facebook Discussion topics
Music this episode 3 Legged Dog on the Podsafe Music Network
Exit Bumpers courtesy of PhilX of Powder PowderMusic.com Link
Be sure to check us follow us on Twitter Link
Be sure to join our Facebook group and leave comments on our wall Facebook Link

Over The Wall, Episode Six: NASCAR's Future And More

Christopher Smith — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 13:23:53 -0400

Episode Six of “Over The Wall” is now available. This week we go into an in-depth discussion of the future of NASCAR with the France family, as well as look into the possibility of franchising in the future. All of this conversation has been building as we have had these podcasts and came to a head with an article off of Forbes.com. |

We also quickly recap the Atlanta race, give thoughts on the Jimmy Watts tire-chasing incident, and finish the day off with Bristol predictions and discussion of the upcoming Legends race. Please enjoy and comment either here, Twitter, or Facebook. Your comments will help drive future shows.

This week we welcome back our esteemed panel—myself, Chris Smith, and Fluid Media’s Cameron Watson and Joe Magennis. Topics covered during the podcast are the following:

Quick Atlanta recap
In-Depth discussion of the France family and possibilities of franchising NASCAR in the future
Bristol preview
Predictions
Song: “No More Mr. Nice Guy” by Alice Cooper, located on the Podsafe Music Network
Intro and exit bumpers courtesy of PhilX of Powder PowderMusic.com Link
Be sure to check us on Twitter
Be sure to join our Facebook group and leave comments on our wall

Enjoy the podcast. We’ll put a new one up next week. Please let us know how you like it and what changes you would recommend. Again, your comments will drive the content. Get in there and join in on the conversation.

Gas and Go Episode Two

Christopher Smith — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 13:17:21 -0400

Welcome back to another edition of Gas and Go, the sister podcast to Over the Wall.

It is Saturday, March 14, 2009, I am your host Chris Smith, managing editor at RubbingsRacing.com.

Well it’s an off week, but we did want to put a quick show out there to recap last weeks events as well as hear a bit from Jerry Gappens, Executive Vice President & General Manager of New Hampshire Motor Speedway, as well as alert you to a special that Martinsville Speedway now has available.

Please enjoy and comment either here, Twitter or Facebook. Your comments will help drive future shows.

Topics covered during the podcast were the following:

Atlanta Motor Speedway Recap, Busch wins, Ambrose steals story
Thoughts from Jerry Gappens, Executive Vice President & General Manager of New Hampshire Motor Speedway, with regards to Jimmy Watts and NASCAR’s penalty
Martinsville Speedway promotion for their fans and upcoming race. Discounted ticket prices here.
New Facebook Discussion topic, “Your thoughts on the France Family Running NASCAR”
Exit Bumpers courtesy of PhilX of Powder PowderMusic.com Link
Be sure to check us follow us on Twitter Link
Be sure to join our Facebook group and leave comments on our wall Facebook Link

Enjoy the podcast.

We’ll put a new one up soon. Please let us know how you like it and what changes you would recommend.

Again, your comments will drive the content. Get in there and join in on the conversation.

Elder Busch Wins, Watts Steals the Show

Christopher Smith — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 13:16:51 -0400

The elder Busch, Kurt, dominated the day at Atlanta, capped off with a backwards victory lap.

Now, I’ve seen the famed “Polish Victory Lap,” made famous by the late Alan Kulwicki, but I’ve never seen somebody drive in reverse the entire way around a mile-and-a-half track.

As much noise as Busch made though, the story of the day had to be Marcos Ambrose. Actually, Marcos Ambrose’s crew member, Jimmy Watts.

Watts ran out onto the track to chase down an errant tire on lap 67, causing a caution right in the middle of green flag stops.

This action put nearly 20 cars a lap down. NASCAR’s response to this little field trip across the infield: a four race suspension.

Mark Martin, who sat on the pole for the 100th race at Atlanta Motor Speedway, lost a rear tire with 110 laps to go, completely ripping the rear end off his No. 5 Chevy, thus continuing his woes in what was supposed to be his dream season.

In the end, Brian Vickers gave Busch a run for his money, but with late caution, caused by Robby Gordon, everyone pitted. This put Vickers back into sixth place and Carl Edwards out in front.

With a green and white checkered finish, Busch and Jeff Gordon passed Edwards to finish first and second respectively.

Mark Martin Captures the Pole at Atlanta Motor Speedway

Christopher Smith — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 20:45:02 -0500

Mark Martin becomes the second oldest driver to sit on the pole, second only to Harry Gantt. Not only this, but this is his 42nd career pole, moving him to 12th all-time, right behind “Rocket Man”, Ryan Newman.

After fighting with his car for the first three races of the season, Martin gets to show his Hendrick chops and sit in the front spot. Kurt Busch gets the second spot.

"Even though I did run out of talent on that lap, at least, uh we made to the line faster, sooner than anybody else, so I’m really proud for this team," Martin said after qualifying.

After multiple engine troubles the past few races, this is a nice break for the Hendrick organization. So far this season, only Jeff Gordon has had consistent showings and results. Jimmie Johnson, Dale Earnhardt Jr., and Martin have all had their fair share of troubles.

Remaining top 12 in qualifying:

Mark Martin
Kurt Busch
Jamie McMurray
Juan Pablo Montoya
Greg Biffle
Denny Hamlin
Jimmie Johnson
Joe Nemechek
Kyle Busch
Kevin Harvick
Tony Stewart
Ryan Newman

The State of NASCAR: Latest Podcast and Your “Call to Action”

Christopher Smith — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 14:18:32 -0500

Welcome back, guys.

We are excited about our latest episode of Over The Wall with my buddies Cameron Watson and Joe Magennis. On today’s episode, we recap the Las Vegas race, preview the Atlanta race, and discuss some of our favorite tracks and memories. We want to hear some of your favorite tracks and what makes them so special.

Join in on this discussion as well as others located on our discussion board. Links are below to both the podcast as well as our discussion board topic.

You can pick up the latest podcast at the following links:

Website

iTunes

You can contribute to our discussion board at the following link:

Discussion

We have been working hard to provide you with our opinions and insights on the state of NASCAR, and we challenge you to get involved, as well. Add comments, feedback, and most importantly, promote our page to get more fans.

The more fans we get, the better, more comprehensive content we can provide. We want to make this your place to get your opinions heard and discussed.

Thanks again for your support and as usual, give us feedback and topic suggestions you would like to hear or items you would like to see discussed on the website and here on Facebook.

Christopher Smith
Managing Editor
RubbingsRacing.com

Over The Wall Episode No. 5

Christopher Smith — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 13:03:59 -0500

Episode No. 5 of “Over The Wall” is now available. Please enjoy and comment either here, Twitter or Facebook. Your comments will help drive future shows.

This week we welcome back our esteemed panel, myself, Chris Smith, and Fluid Media’s Cameron Watson and Joe Magennis. Topics covered during the podcast were the following:

Las Vegas Recap
Some of Our Favorite Tracks, Memories
Atlanta Preview
Predictions
Song: “First Date” by Danko Jones Located on the Podsafe Music Network
Intro and Exit Bumpers courtesy of PhilX of Powder PowderMusic.com Link
Be sure to check us follow us on Twitter Link
Be sure to join our Facebook group and leave comments on our wall Facebook Link

NASCAR's Substance Abuse Policy Claims First Victim

Christopher Smith — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:50:09 -0500

In the wake of all of the discussions of substance abuse and steroids in sports today, NASCAR’s new drug policy claimed it’s first victim.

Paul Chodora of Mayfield Motorsports has been suspended indefinitely by NASCAR.

You can see the entire story here on NASCAR.com. This is a shame to see happen, but I applaud NASCAR’s very strict stance on substance abuse.

Jim Hunter from NASCAR announced the new drug policy back in September while at Dover International Speedway, citing it’s stringent penalties.

Unlike the other major sports, NASCAR’s policies punish the first-time offender far more.

Major League Baseball having had so many headlines lately regarding “roids”, shows how slack their policy is. The NFL seems to have a little stiffer policy, but each of these leagues offer multiple offenses before suspensions actually take place.

NASCAR’s position?

Use drugs, go home. Simple and to the point.

If there is one thing NASCAR has done right by being autonomous with their rules and policies, it's their drug policy.

You have a couple of these types of suspensions for first-time offenders and that will virtually eliminate substance abuse from this sport.

This is more fuel to get rid of player’s unions having so much authority almost to the detriment of the sport. Another reason I am glad that the drivers have not formed a driver’s union.

You can see an earlier post from last year regarding those discussions here.

I hope that this action ends this discussion. NASCAR has prided itself as being a “Family-Friendly” sport and it desperately needs to preserve that image even more in today’s world.

With major athletes who have been perceived as role-models falling by the wayside, let’s make sure we can still point our kids to look up to these drivers and crew members.

"Gas and Go" Podcast, Episode 1

Christopher Smith — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 14:35:27 -0500

Here is the first episode of “Gas and Go,” the sister podcast to “Over The Wall.” Please enjoy and comment either here, Twitter, or Facebook. Your comments will help drive future shows.

Topics covered during the podcast were the following:

Daytona 500 Recap
Matt Kenseth wins
Kyle Busch’s misfortune
Earnhardt vs. Vickers
“Over The Wall” preview
Exit Bumpers courtesy of PhilX of Powder PowderMusic.com Link
Be sure to check us follow us on Twitter
Be sure to join our Facebook group and leave comments on our wall Facebook Link

Mark Kenseth Wins Daytona 500: Recap

Christopher Smith — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 14:15:59 -0500

Rain came before the checkered flag at the 51st running of the Daytona 500. With 48 laps remaining, the red flag dropped for good—the beneficiary, Matt Kenseth. This is only the fourth time in the history of this storied event for rain to play such a large part in the outcome.

Kenseth managed to only lead one green flag lap during the course of the day, but in the end, it’s the only one that mattered. Not only was this Kenseth’s first Daytona 500 win, but it was the first 500 win for his car owner, Jack Rousch.

As all manufacturers were well-represented, one particular driver didn’t have a stellar day—Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Earnhardt couldn’t seem to find his bearings at all on the track, first missing his pit all together, then pitting outside of his pit box, causing a one lap black flag penalty.

This put Earnhardt and Brian Vickers in a duel for the “Lucky Dog,” which created the misfortune for the one driver who dominated the day by leading 88 of the laps, Kyle Busch. Earnhardt went below the yellow line and came up on Vickers, causing a big pileup, which included Busch, who later said he had no doubt that they were the car to beat.

The top 12 finishers were Kenseth, Kevin Harvick, A.J. Allmendinger, Clint Bowyer, Elliott Sadler, David Ragan, Michael Waltrip, Tony Stewart, Reed Sorenson, Kurt Busch, Martin Truex, Jr., and David Reutiman.

Other notables, Jeff Gordon 13th, Mark Martin 16th, Carl Edwards 18th, Bill Elliott 23rd, Earnhardt 27th, and Jimmie Johnson 31st.

The next event is in Fontana, California. Check out “Over The Wall” later this week to listen to our panel discuss the Daytona 500, the impact of the smaller, single-car teams vs. the giants, and preview the California race. Have a great week!

NASCAR's New Rule for Restarts

Christopher Smith — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 12:15:47 -0500

NASCAR is implementing a new rule starting this weekend at Daytona that will cross all major series. The restarts will be single-file in all restarts from 20 laps or less. In the past, this rule has been in effect for the final 10 laps, but in an effort to let the leaders duke it out up front by themselves, they have extended this. This will not affect the “Lucky Dog.” You will still be able to get the Lucky Dog pass until there are 10 laps or less.

Seeing as this is not a major change, I would still like to see double-file restarts for the entire race. The difference I would like to see would be having all of the leaders up front double-file, and then all lapped cars in the rear of the pack, also double-file.

This would provide the same result that NASCAR is trying to achieve, by keeping the lapped cars separate from the contenders. It would create a more exciting finish. It seems they are changing too much to make everything wrap itself up in a nice little bow, so they don’t have to do as much time in the trailer after each race.

Let’s see how this new rule works out. I know it’s safer, but NASCAR, don’t forget my suggestion!

Stewart-Haas Off to Rough Start

Christopher Smith — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 11:31:08 -0500

In the final practice session before the Daytona 500, Ryan Newman blows a right rear tire right in front of his drafting partner….his boss, Tony Stewart. Taking both cars out forces Newman to his third backup car and Stewart into his backup car used in the Bud Shootout. Stewart’s comments in the garage after the incident were very similar to many comments from Stewart over the past few years after a wreck,

“Ah, just a Goodyear right rear tire, the same thing everybody’s been talking about all week. The same stuff we always talk about every year, the failures that Goodyear have. So. I think that is part of their marketing campaign is, the more we talk about it, the more press they get, but, I think they forget that it’s supposed to be in a good way, not a bad way…”

Stewart is not happy as usual with Goodyear and he is not happy about having to give up the car he really felt could give him the Daytona 500 win. The big pain point is not just the loss of the cars, but you are also now looking at $18,000 worth of inspection fees. Now we get to see how Stewart-Haas overcomes adversity for the first time.

Jeremy Mayfield Pulls Off a Miracle

Christopher Smith — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 17:47:38 -0500

Jeremy Mayfield pulled off the impossible. He made the Daytona 500 with only 23 days of preparation.

Mayfield’s story is quite a feel-good story. Not only has he been kicked to the side time after time, but he is racing with a brand new, single-car team. The team's entire pit crew consists of all laid-off workers from other shops over the past six months. Mayfield was extremely emotional after the race, as he rightfully should have been.

I hope this shows that smaller teams can compete in NASCAR. The super-teams do have rivals, but only time will tell. This may also be a silver lining to the economy currently looming over NASCAR.

Congratulations to Jeremy and the entire team.

Gatorade Duels Over—What Do We Take Away?

Christopher Smith — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 17:23:49 -0500

Now that the duels are over, it’s time to see who has made the cut. The Hendrick and Gibbs cars were pretty tough, as seen in each of the duels.

In Duel No. 1, Gordon won. Joey Logano finished fourth—a nice surprise—and Tony Stewart made a run at the end, but finished in second place.

Scott Riggs raced his way to eighth place, and the wait began for “Front Row” Joe Nemechek. Due to Tony Stewart finishing second, Regan Smith was locked in based on his time. Even though Bill Elliott did not finish his Duel, he was still locked in for the Wood Brothers based on time.

In Duel No. 2, Boris Said hit the wall, and had to wait to see if his speed would get him in.

Juan Pablo Montoya did everything in his power to take Mark Martin out, but Martin’s experience prevailed. After lap 14, things really settled down. Everyone fell in line with Martin running up front.

With 14 laps to go, tire problems strike, and Martin pitted to get new ones. Dale Earnhardt, Jr. and Brian Vickers followed suit. While all of this was going on, David Reutimann got in the back of Ryan Newman, and sent hims spinning hard into the wall. Newman was taken out of the race.

Lucky for Martin, pit schedules kept him out front. Newman was cited as saying “…wrong place at the wrong time.” Newman had a few choice words for Reutimann, calling him “Rudeman.”

With five to go, the Gibbs boys teamed up. Denny Hamlin and Kyle Busch moved past Martin, but the No. 5 didn’t give up, staying right there in the mix.

On the last lap, Martin passed Hamlin for second, but couldn’t get to Busch. AJ Allmendinger and Jeremy Mayfield raced their way in. Bill Elliott, Travis Kvapil, and Regan Smith made it in on speed, while Terry Labonte will take the past champions' provisional.

Great racing today. Both Duels were exciting and should make for a great Daytona 500 on Sunday.

Over The Wall Podcast—Episode 1

Christopher Smith — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 15:15:39 -0500

Here is the first podcast produced by RubbingsRacing.com. It is called “Over The Wall.” Please enjoy and comment either here, Twitter, or Facebook. Your comments will help drive future shows.

This week, we have a great panel to kick things off—Myself, Chris Smith, and Fluid Media’s Cameron Watson and Joe Magennis. Topics covered during the podcast are the following:

Bud Shootout 2009 format changes
Overall state of the economy with NASCAR
Introduction of smaller teams
Is NASCAR achieving the overall parity they are working so hard to get?
Song: “NASCAR Man” by Junior from “Are We Famous Yet”—located on the PMN Link
"Intro and Exit Bumpers," courtesy of PhilX of Powder PowderMusic.com Link
Be sure to follow us on the Twitter Link
Be sure to join our Facebook group and leave comments on our wall. Facebook Link

Enjoy the podcast. We’ll put a new one up next Friday. Please let us know how you like it and what changes you would recommend. Again, your comments will drive the content. Get in there and join in on the conversation.