Sunday's race at Talladega Superspeedway was by far a disgrace. Traditionally one of the most popular and most exciting races on the NASCAR circuit, this race was probably the worst in the track's history. It all began when NASCAR's Mike Helton announced at the drivers' meeting before the race that bump-drafting would not be allowed. This rightly infuriated most of the drivers and many fans. Dale Earnhardt Sr must have been laughing from beyond the grave as this is how he won many races at Talladega and other tracks. It's called racing, Mr.Helton.
Now, NASCAR races must be as exciting as maypole dances and everybody must be nice and sweet so they don't upset the sponsors. Drivers are no longer allowed to be human. The Car of Tomorrow,or COT,has also made the racing quite boring, unless of course you're the driver of the #48 car. Most people like variety and are bored with the same driver winning nearly every race and consecutive championships. NASCAR just looks the other way despite the consistent cheating or at least "envelope pushing" by the crew chief of the #48 car. The Chase is another exercise in idiocy. The old points system was much more fair. 43 drivers competed for the championship instead of 12. Playoff systems make sense for stick and ball sports,but not for racing. The top 35 rule should be scrapped. All 43 drivers should qualify on speed in order to create a level playing field.
After a boring session of follow the leader and no real racing,it culminated with a string of accidents,the most shocking involving Ryan Newman,who fortunately walked away safely from his mangled car. I agree very strongly with Newman's post-accident comments when he rightly took NASCAR to task for their idiotic rules and making the racing boring for the fans.
Hopefully this will serve as a wake-up call for NASCAR to shape up or the downward spiral will continue as race attendance keeps declining along with TV ratings. Mr.Helton's actions along with a weak defense of the status quo by Ramsey Poston against a refreshingly honest assessment of the state of NASCAR by commentators Kyle Petty,Jimmy Spencer,and Larry McReynolds indicate that NASCAR has yet to come out of its state of denial.
UPDATE : It appears,according to Joe Gibbs Racing driver Denny Hamlin and published reports, that Hendrick Motorsports driver Jeff Gordon appeared to have a lot of influence in getting NASCAR to ban bump-drafting during the Talladega race. If this is true,it confirms suspicions that Hendrick Motorsports and apparently one of their drivers have a great deal of pull with NASCAR. Isn't it convenient that Jeff Gordon is listed as owner of the #48 car driven by teammate Jimmie Johnson,who is poised to win his fourth straight Cup championship? If these reports are true, NASCAR has no credibility left. It also shows that Hendrick Motorsports will stop at nothing, regardless of how unscrupulous, to win races and championships. This will only cause NASCAR to lose even more fans as I am sure the Talladega fiasco itself has already caused and deservedly so.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Good Night,Uncle Walter
Walter Cronkite, legendary TV journalist,died Friday in New York City. He was 92. Mr.Cronkite was an American institution and the dean of American television journalism.
Walter Leland Cronkite,Jr was born in St.Joseph,Missouri. He lived in Kansas City,Missouri,in his early years and moved with his parents to Houston, Texas,when he was ten. Early in his career,he took a job with the Houston Post.
During World War II, he served as a war correspondent. In 1950,he took a job with CBS-TV and the rest is journalistic history. His mentor was the great Edward R. Murrow.
Mr.Cronkite was among the first to report that President John F. Kennedy had been shot and choked back tears when he reported the President's death to a national television audience. Though Cronkite was impartial during his newscasts, he was not shy about making some of his opinions known. During the Vietnam War, Cronkite came out in opposition to the war. The response of President Lyndon B. Johnson was reported to have been, "If I lose Cronkite,I've lost Middle America". Cronkite is well remembered for his coverage of the first time humans walked on the moon. In the 1970s, Cronkite brought the Watergate scandal to the forefront that ultimately resulted in the resignation of President Richard M. Nixon. Cronkite's last newscast came in 1981. In the years since, Cronkite served as the elder statesman of American journalism. He coined the word "anchor" for television newscasters.
I grew up watching Walter Cronkite and have always had a tremendous respect for Mr.Cronkite. I will always remember his signing off with the statement "And that's the way it is". Even if I did not agree with Mr.Cronkite on every issue, he was still a fine man of integrity. Mr.Cronkite was voted the Most Trusted Man In America. He set the standard and helped shape television journalism. Cronkite lost his wife of 65 years in 2005. He is survived by two daughters and a son. Good night,Uncle Walter. You will be missed.
Walter Leland Cronkite,Jr was born in St.Joseph,Missouri. He lived in Kansas City,Missouri,in his early years and moved with his parents to Houston, Texas,when he was ten. Early in his career,he took a job with the Houston Post.
During World War II, he served as a war correspondent. In 1950,he took a job with CBS-TV and the rest is journalistic history. His mentor was the great Edward R. Murrow.
Mr.Cronkite was among the first to report that President John F. Kennedy had been shot and choked back tears when he reported the President's death to a national television audience. Though Cronkite was impartial during his newscasts, he was not shy about making some of his opinions known. During the Vietnam War, Cronkite came out in opposition to the war. The response of President Lyndon B. Johnson was reported to have been, "If I lose Cronkite,I've lost Middle America". Cronkite is well remembered for his coverage of the first time humans walked on the moon. In the 1970s, Cronkite brought the Watergate scandal to the forefront that ultimately resulted in the resignation of President Richard M. Nixon. Cronkite's last newscast came in 1981. In the years since, Cronkite served as the elder statesman of American journalism. He coined the word "anchor" for television newscasters.
I grew up watching Walter Cronkite and have always had a tremendous respect for Mr.Cronkite. I will always remember his signing off with the statement "And that's the way it is". Even if I did not agree with Mr.Cronkite on every issue, he was still a fine man of integrity. Mr.Cronkite was voted the Most Trusted Man In America. He set the standard and helped shape television journalism. Cronkite lost his wife of 65 years in 2005. He is survived by two daughters and a son. Good night,Uncle Walter. You will be missed.
Friday, July 10, 2009
More Thoughts About Kyle Busch
Will Kyle Busch ever grow up? He never takes responsibility for anything. Now he blames Tony Stewart for Busch's last lap crash at Daytona International Raceway in last week's Coke Zero 400 Sprint Cup race. Busch was a victim of his own impatience and made a poorly calculated move. Busch only has himself to blame. Stewart thought he was in the clear but Busch abruptly cut in front of Stewart and ended up against the wall and in the infield. Stewart tried avoiding contact with Busch but Busch's sudden move seemingly caught Stewart off guard.
Busch showed at Thursday's press conference at Chicagoland Speedway that he was still upset with Stewart and blamed him for the wreck. Busch seems to have contradicted himself. Busch said earlier this week that he and Stewart were "on the same page", then Busch later blamed Stewart for the incident. Tony Stewart took the high road. He even called Kyle Busch after the race and asked him if he was OK . Busch's immature and ungrateful attitude showed at the press conference. Kyle Busch is an immensely talented driver but he needs an attitude adjustment. He must become man enough to admit when he makes a mistake and not always blame others for his own actions. Kyle Busch has not completely matured. He has shown this week that he still has a long way to go.
Busch showed at Thursday's press conference at Chicagoland Speedway that he was still upset with Stewart and blamed him for the wreck. Busch seems to have contradicted himself. Busch said earlier this week that he and Stewart were "on the same page", then Busch later blamed Stewart for the incident. Tony Stewart took the high road. He even called Kyle Busch after the race and asked him if he was OK . Busch's immature and ungrateful attitude showed at the press conference. Kyle Busch is an immensely talented driver but he needs an attitude adjustment. He must become man enough to admit when he makes a mistake and not always blame others for his own actions. Kyle Busch has not completely matured. He has shown this week that he still has a long way to go.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Congratulations, Joey Logano
I must admit I was skeptical at the beginning of the 2009 NASCAR Sprint Cup season, when the media kept talking about a new young sensation from Middletown,Connecticut,named Joey Logano. I thought it was mostly hype and some of Logano's early season finishes convinced me of that even more but recently, Logano has impressed me with his finishes. On Sunday at his home track at a race shortened by rain, Logano won his first NASCAR Sprint Cup race at New Hampshire International Raceway. Logano is the driver of the number 20 Home Depot Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing,previously driven by Tony Stewart,who came to Victory Lane to congratulate Logano, and Logano's crew chief Greg Zipadelli,who was Stewart's crew chief for ten NASCAR Cup seasons.
I am glad that Logano has proven me wrong. I expressed that hope before the season began. Congratulations,Joey Logano. May this be the first of many wins for Logano in the NASCAR Sprint Cup series. At 19, Logano is the youngest winner ever in the NASCAR Cup series.
I am impressed by Logano's classy and grateful attitude along with his humility. He never lashes out at his pit crew or other drivers. Some drivers could learn a few things from Logano.
I am glad that Logano has proven me wrong. I expressed that hope before the season began. Congratulations,Joey Logano. May this be the first of many wins for Logano in the NASCAR Sprint Cup series. At 19, Logano is the youngest winner ever in the NASCAR Cup series.
I am impressed by Logano's classy and grateful attitude along with his humility. He never lashes out at his pit crew or other drivers. Some drivers could learn a few things from Logano.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Goodbye,Ed,Farrah,And Michael
This week,we lost three well-known people whose lives were part of ours. Ed McMahon, Johnny Carson's longtime sidekick,died at age 86. Actress Farrah Fawcett,probably best known for her work on the TV series "Charlie's Angels", lost her courageous battle with cancer at age 62. Pop icon Michael Jackson died Thursday in a death that shocked the world. He was 50.
I grew up watching Ed McMahon on "The Tonight Show" when Johnny Carson was host. I loved the sound of Mr.McMahon's laugh and the chemistry he and Johnny Carson had made them bond well with each other and their audience. Mr. McMahon also hosted the syndicated program "Star Search", a sort of forerunner to "American Idol". Of course, Mr. McMahon will also be remembered for saying "Heeeere's Johnny!" at the beginning of every show Johnny Carson hosted. Rest In Peace, Ed. Thanks for the laughs and the memories.
Farrah Fawcett died on Thursday after a battle with cancer and after the courage and fighting spirit she showed during her final months. Probably best known for her work on the 1970s detective series "Charlie's Angels", Ms. Fawcett's poster hung in the rooms of many teenage boys. She also starred in many dramatic works that earned her praise for her strong performances. In the final months of her life, Ms. Fawcett showed courage,determination,and strength in the face of life-threatening illness. She shared her struggle in the program "Farrah's Story". Rest in peace,Farrah. Your story inspires us all.
I was deeply shocked when I learned of Michael Jackson's death on Thursday. I like his earlier music,as he did with his brothers as part of the Jackson Five, along with his popular songs of the late 1970s and early 1980s. In more recent years, Mr.Jackson dealt with controversy such as his trial on child molestation charges,of which he was cleared. He was planning a tour of Europe in July, including a string of concerts in London. Rest in peace,Michael. Thanks for the music and the memories.
I grew up watching Ed McMahon on "The Tonight Show" when Johnny Carson was host. I loved the sound of Mr.McMahon's laugh and the chemistry he and Johnny Carson had made them bond well with each other and their audience. Mr. McMahon also hosted the syndicated program "Star Search", a sort of forerunner to "American Idol". Of course, Mr. McMahon will also be remembered for saying "Heeeere's Johnny!" at the beginning of every show Johnny Carson hosted. Rest In Peace, Ed. Thanks for the laughs and the memories.
Farrah Fawcett died on Thursday after a battle with cancer and after the courage and fighting spirit she showed during her final months. Probably best known for her work on the 1970s detective series "Charlie's Angels", Ms. Fawcett's poster hung in the rooms of many teenage boys. She also starred in many dramatic works that earned her praise for her strong performances. In the final months of her life, Ms. Fawcett showed courage,determination,and strength in the face of life-threatening illness. She shared her struggle in the program "Farrah's Story". Rest in peace,Farrah. Your story inspires us all.
I was deeply shocked when I learned of Michael Jackson's death on Thursday. I like his earlier music,as he did with his brothers as part of the Jackson Five, along with his popular songs of the late 1970s and early 1980s. In more recent years, Mr.Jackson dealt with controversy such as his trial on child molestation charges,of which he was cleared. He was planning a tour of Europe in July, including a string of concerts in London. Rest in peace,Michael. Thanks for the music and the memories.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Thoughts About Kyle Busch
I am sure that most people who saw the aftermath of Saturday night's Nationwide series race at Nashville Speedway in Lebanon,Tennessee,must have been shocked,saddened,and angered by the appalling and outrageous conduct shown by Kyle Busch when he smashed a Gibson guitar that he was given after winning the race.
Artist Sam Bass,contrary to earlier reports that said he was "OK with it", was actually crushed and heartbroken by the irresponsible and stupid act committed by Kyle Busch. Sam Bass,unlike Kyle Busch,has too much class to make a scene,but Mr. Bass was obviously saddened by what had happened. Mr. Bass put much time and effort into his work,along with Gibson employees. Gibson executives and Speedway officials were also upset by Busch's punk behavior. Officials from race sponsor Federated Auto Parts walked out in disgust. Kyle Busch apparently lied when he said that Sam Bass,along with Gibson and Speedway officials, along with race sponsor Federated Auto Parts, were OK with Busch destroying an object,an object extremely valuable into which much time and effort were put. Mr.Bass and others have said they were not told this would happen. This is an insult to Sam Bass,Gibson Guitar Company, Federated Auto Parts,Nashville Speedway, NASCAR, NASCAR fans, and the city of Nashville.
What is so idiotic is that Kyle Busch's defenders say that rock stars destroy guitars all the time. To begin with,Kyle Busch is not a rock star. Secondly, the rock star thing is no excuse. The gleeful destruction of objects or property is never a good thing. Kyle Busch has no respect for people or property and has shown it time and again. Kyle Busch's parents obviously did not raise their son properly. They apparently never taught him to respect others,not destroy objects or property,and that the world does not revolve around him. Kyle Busch has acted like a jerk many times and thrown childish tantrums when things do not go his way.
Kyle Busch's values are apparently different from the values of practicing Christian Joe Gibbs,who should release Kyle Busch from Joe Gibbs Racing. I know it will not happen but as far as I am concerned,it would be the right thing to do.
Information from Scene Daily at www.scenedaily.com.
Opinions expressed are strictly my own.
Artist Sam Bass,contrary to earlier reports that said he was "OK with it", was actually crushed and heartbroken by the irresponsible and stupid act committed by Kyle Busch. Sam Bass,unlike Kyle Busch,has too much class to make a scene,but Mr. Bass was obviously saddened by what had happened. Mr. Bass put much time and effort into his work,along with Gibson employees. Gibson executives and Speedway officials were also upset by Busch's punk behavior. Officials from race sponsor Federated Auto Parts walked out in disgust. Kyle Busch apparently lied when he said that Sam Bass,along with Gibson and Speedway officials, along with race sponsor Federated Auto Parts, were OK with Busch destroying an object,an object extremely valuable into which much time and effort were put. Mr.Bass and others have said they were not told this would happen. This is an insult to Sam Bass,Gibson Guitar Company, Federated Auto Parts,Nashville Speedway, NASCAR, NASCAR fans, and the city of Nashville.
What is so idiotic is that Kyle Busch's defenders say that rock stars destroy guitars all the time. To begin with,Kyle Busch is not a rock star. Secondly, the rock star thing is no excuse. The gleeful destruction of objects or property is never a good thing. Kyle Busch has no respect for people or property and has shown it time and again. Kyle Busch's parents obviously did not raise their son properly. They apparently never taught him to respect others,not destroy objects or property,and that the world does not revolve around him. Kyle Busch has acted like a jerk many times and thrown childish tantrums when things do not go his way.
Kyle Busch's values are apparently different from the values of practicing Christian Joe Gibbs,who should release Kyle Busch from Joe Gibbs Racing. I know it will not happen but as far as I am concerned,it would be the right thing to do.
Information from Scene Daily at www.scenedaily.com.
Opinions expressed are strictly my own.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
David Poole 1959-2009
I was saddened to learn of the sudden death on Tuesday of motorsports journalist David Poole, who suffered a fatal heart attack just hours after completing his morning radio show on Sirius.
Mr.Poole's last column happened to run on the day of his death. A longtime motorsports columnist at the Charlotte Observer, David Poole was the NASCAR fan's journalist. Mr.Poole was never a politically correct patsy. He was not shy about letting his opinions be known.
I will miss Mr.Poole's commentaries and his keen insight on news of interest in racing. He was very passionate about NASCAR and about the sport staying true to its roots. The racing world has lost a great journalist. NASCAR fans have lost an effective spokesperson. Rest in peace,David Poole. You will be greatly missed.
Mr.Poole's last column happened to run on the day of his death. A longtime motorsports columnist at the Charlotte Observer, David Poole was the NASCAR fan's journalist. Mr.Poole was never a politically correct patsy. He was not shy about letting his opinions be known.
I will miss Mr.Poole's commentaries and his keen insight on news of interest in racing. He was very passionate about NASCAR and about the sport staying true to its roots. The racing world has lost a great journalist. NASCAR fans have lost an effective spokesperson. Rest in peace,David Poole. You will be greatly missed.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Speedweeks 2009
The 31st running of the Budweiser Shootout took place Saturday night at Daytona International Speedway. Kevin Harvick, who was almost written off as a having been competitive,won the Shootout. Bobby Labonte had a competitive car until a wreck knocked Labonte's #96 Ask.com Ford out of contention when Labonte's teammate Paul Menard drove his #98 Ford into the #88 Chevy driven by Dale Earnhardt Jr,which got into Labonte's car. Greg Biffle had problems as well with his #16 Ford. Robby Gordon,Scott Speed,and Joey Logano were involved in a wreck that took out all three drivers for the evening. So far Logano is doing about as I expected if not worse,causing wrecks during Shootout practice and making other drivers nervous during the Shootout itself. If Logano drives like this the rest of the season,those media pundits who have overhyped him,will be eating their words by the end of the season.
As the race went on,the excitement intensified. Several drivers fiercely vied for the lead in the closing laps with Jamie McMurray leading the way but suddenly out of the blue, Kevin Harvick came charging through the field and by the final lap,took the lead from McMurray. It was a truly exciting race. Congratulations to Kevin Harvick for his bold move and winning the race.
On Sunday, Martin Truex Jr and Mark Martin were the top two qualifiers for next Sunday's Daytona 500. The rest of the field will be determined in the Twin 150s on Thursday. The 2009 NASCAR Season has begun. Let's go racing.
As the race went on,the excitement intensified. Several drivers fiercely vied for the lead in the closing laps with Jamie McMurray leading the way but suddenly out of the blue, Kevin Harvick came charging through the field and by the final lap,took the lead from McMurray. It was a truly exciting race. Congratulations to Kevin Harvick for his bold move and winning the race.
On Sunday, Martin Truex Jr and Mark Martin were the top two qualifiers for next Sunday's Daytona 500. The rest of the field will be determined in the Twin 150s on Thursday. The 2009 NASCAR Season has begun. Let's go racing.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Rest In Peace,Kay Yow
Kay Yow,longtime head women's basketball coach at North Carolina State University and a former U.S. Olympic team coach,passed away Saturday after a long bout with cancer. She was 66. Just this week,there was talk that Yow might return to her coaching job at N.C. State but sadly it will not happen. Yow had 737 wins in her coaching career,including conference titles. Yow coached teams that played in NCAA tournaments. She won a gold medal as an Olympic coach in 1988. Ms. Yow was a deeply dedicated Christian. Ms.Yow's faith sustained her through the hard times in her life. She is definitely in a much better place now. Ms.Yow's character, courage, and determination were an inspiration to many. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1987 but fought the good fight with class and dignity. Ms.Yow's friend and N.C. State men's basketball coach Jim Valvano died of cancer in 1993. The V Foundation For Cancer Research was started by Valvano and ESPN,where Valvano was an analyst. Ms.Yow served on the Foundation's board. ESPN remains committed to a research fund established in Ms.Yow's name. Rest in peace,Kay Yow. Well done,thou good and faithful servant.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
A Big Week
It has been a big week for sure. On Tuesday,the 44th and first African American president of the United States,Barack Obama,was sworn in. Congratulations to our new president. Regardless of party affiliation or ideology,I wish the new president well and hope that he does great things for our nation. In NASCAR, driver Elliott Sadler married his girlfriend Amanda Prince last Saturday. Congratulations to the newlyweds. In Charlotte,N.C.,it was the NASCAR Media Tour,in which media from around the nation and the world converged on the Charlotte area and were given tours of race shops along with Q&A sessions with drivers and team owners. As a Bobby Labonte fan,I am very excited about his new ride with Hall of Fame Racing,though technically he will be a Robert Yates Racing driver. Labonte will drive the #96 Ask.com Ford for Hall of Fame Racing,which receives engines from Roush Fenway Racing and Robert Yates Racing. Also,Tony Stewart is well underway with getting Stewart/Haas Racing ready for the 2009 season. Stewart annouced a new sponsor for SHR this week-Burger King,in addition to Stewart's main sponsor,Office Depot,and the U.S. Army,which will sponsor teammate Ryan Newman's car for a number of races this season.
In college basketball, the North Carolina Tarheels got their game back this week when they defeated Miami on Sunday 82-65 and delivered an impressive game on Wednesday when the Tarheels defeated Clemson 94-70. Tyler Hansbrough sustained injuries during the Clemson game when he was accidentally hit in the mouth during a scramble under the basket and had a tooth loosened. Hansbrough wore a mouthpiece the rest of the game. I pray that he has a speedy recovery. The Tarheels' next game will be at Florida State next Wednesday.
In college basketball, the North Carolina Tarheels got their game back this week when they defeated Miami on Sunday 82-65 and delivered an impressive game on Wednesday when the Tarheels defeated Clemson 94-70. Tyler Hansbrough sustained injuries during the Clemson game when he was accidentally hit in the mouth during a scramble under the basket and had a tooth loosened. Hansbrough wore a mouthpiece the rest of the game. I pray that he has a speedy recovery. The Tarheels' next game will be at Florida State next Wednesday.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
A Big Event
Something big is taking place next week. No, I'm not talking about the Presidential Inauguration. I'm talking about the NASCAR Media Tour. Sports journalists and motorsports reporters from around the United States and other nations will converge on Charlotte,N.C.,and the surrounding area,as NASCAR teams will offer sneak previews of the upcoming season by having Q and A sessions with drivers,team owners,and others. It gets me excited because I know the Daytona 500 is just around the corner.
What makes it even more special for me this year is that my sentimental favorite,Bobby Labonte,has a ride that I know he will do well in,unlike the past three seasons in the subpar ride he had at Petty Enterprises. Labonte has joined Hall of Fame Racing,which will partner up with Robert Yates Racing and Roush Fenway Racing as those teams race Fords as HOF will also when Labonte races in the #96 Ford. I have a feeling that with the support Labonte receives from teammates (HOF has essentially merged with Yates),the engine-building program that Yates and Roush Fenway Racing are in involved in,among other factors,that Labonte will do well in the 2009 season. NASCAR media pundits agree that Labonte made the right move by joining HOF.
Another favorite of mine,Tony Stewart,has started his own team at Stewart/Haas Racing. Stewart's teammate is fellow Indiana native Ryan Newman. Stewart has already been testing along with Newman for the upcoming season. Even though SHR is a new team,it should do well in its first year. Stewart,a two-time NASCAR Cup champion,has the experience,know-how,and has already shown himself to be a hands-on team owner. Stewart has been praised by more seasoned team owners for his keen business sense. Look for SHR to be a factor this season. Do not be surprised if Stewart or Newman,or both drivers make the Chase.
Don't expect miracles from Joey Logano. Logano was given the #20 Home Depot Toyota at Joe Gibbs Racing after ten-year Cup veteran and two-time Cup champion Tony Stewart left to start his own team. Here's why I think Logano won't win a ton of races if any at all in his first full Sprint Cup season. While Logano was a phenomenal standout in ARCA and in the Nationwide series during the 2008 season,I think he needs more time in Nationwide before even being considered for the Cup series. A stint in the Camping World Truck series would not be a bad idea either. Also, a heaping helping of humble pie would be in order. The statements Logano made after finishing some races last season indicated a little smugness on his part. Logano is 18,and that in my opinion is too early to start a driver in the Cup series.
There are those who argue that Ricky Rudd started in the Cup series when he was 18 and he turned out being a great driver. That is true but Rudd's immense talent came into full manifestation when he was a little older and more experienced. It's a different,more corporate driven NASCAR today than it was in the 1970s and 1980s. Sponsors want drivers to win almost as soon as they strap themselves into their cars for the first time. Remember Casey Atwood? He was touted as the next Jeff Gordon and he might have been but he was moved to Cup too soon like Logano and as a result,Atwood never got to show his full potential. Atwood was hyped much the same way Logano has been. As a result, Atwood's performance disappointed many fans who expected too much. Now, Atwood has faded away. My concern is that Logano could be headed the same way. I sincerely hope not. I hope Logano proves me wrong and is a tremendous success in the Cup series but his finishes in some races last season seem to indicate otherwise.
Another overrated driver is A.J. Allmendinger. While he got lucky in the #10 Gillett Evernham Motorsports Dodge in the last five races of the 2008 season, he will probably go back to having mediocre finishes as a part-time driver in the #10 GEM Dodge like he had when he raced for Red Bull Racing, which released Allmendinger because of his lackluster finishes. Also,Allmendinger has a habit of causing wrecks on the track. He showed this trait during the last five races of the 2008 season when he was touted as the greatest driver since "Sliced Bread" Logano. I know this is a likely bone of contention with some who read this blog, but in my opinion Elliott Sadler was right in threatening legal action against Gillett Evernham Motorsports. Sadler signed a new contract in good faith with GEM. In December, GEM kicked Sadler out of his ride and was in the process of giving it to Allmendinger. GEM cried uncle and gave Sadler back his ride. I am glad they did. Sadler has three NASCAR Cup wins. I have a feeling there will be more. Some people might ask why Sadler would want to drive for somebody who wanted him fired? I have no idea. Things probably happen behind the scenes that we'll never know about. Perhaps it was a matter of principle with Sadler or maybe George Gillett did not have the money to buy out Sadler's contract as Gillett reportedly has financial troubles. Whatever the reason,I'm just glad Sadler has his ride back.
Another overrated driver without a doubt is Scott Speed. Speed has one win in the Formula One series and suddenly he's NASCAR material. Like Logano and Allmendinger, Scott Speed is overhyped and overrated. Speed's arrogance rubs many NASCAR fans the wrong way. Only time will tell if Speed is as good as his media boosters say he is. Speed's showings in the races he ran last season indicate that he likely won't measure up to expectations.
What makes it even more special for me this year is that my sentimental favorite,Bobby Labonte,has a ride that I know he will do well in,unlike the past three seasons in the subpar ride he had at Petty Enterprises. Labonte has joined Hall of Fame Racing,which will partner up with Robert Yates Racing and Roush Fenway Racing as those teams race Fords as HOF will also when Labonte races in the #96 Ford. I have a feeling that with the support Labonte receives from teammates (HOF has essentially merged with Yates),the engine-building program that Yates and Roush Fenway Racing are in involved in,among other factors,that Labonte will do well in the 2009 season. NASCAR media pundits agree that Labonte made the right move by joining HOF.
Another favorite of mine,Tony Stewart,has started his own team at Stewart/Haas Racing. Stewart's teammate is fellow Indiana native Ryan Newman. Stewart has already been testing along with Newman for the upcoming season. Even though SHR is a new team,it should do well in its first year. Stewart,a two-time NASCAR Cup champion,has the experience,know-how,and has already shown himself to be a hands-on team owner. Stewart has been praised by more seasoned team owners for his keen business sense. Look for SHR to be a factor this season. Do not be surprised if Stewart or Newman,or both drivers make the Chase.
Don't expect miracles from Joey Logano. Logano was given the #20 Home Depot Toyota at Joe Gibbs Racing after ten-year Cup veteran and two-time Cup champion Tony Stewart left to start his own team. Here's why I think Logano won't win a ton of races if any at all in his first full Sprint Cup season. While Logano was a phenomenal standout in ARCA and in the Nationwide series during the 2008 season,I think he needs more time in Nationwide before even being considered for the Cup series. A stint in the Camping World Truck series would not be a bad idea either. Also, a heaping helping of humble pie would be in order. The statements Logano made after finishing some races last season indicated a little smugness on his part. Logano is 18,and that in my opinion is too early to start a driver in the Cup series.
There are those who argue that Ricky Rudd started in the Cup series when he was 18 and he turned out being a great driver. That is true but Rudd's immense talent came into full manifestation when he was a little older and more experienced. It's a different,more corporate driven NASCAR today than it was in the 1970s and 1980s. Sponsors want drivers to win almost as soon as they strap themselves into their cars for the first time. Remember Casey Atwood? He was touted as the next Jeff Gordon and he might have been but he was moved to Cup too soon like Logano and as a result,Atwood never got to show his full potential. Atwood was hyped much the same way Logano has been. As a result, Atwood's performance disappointed many fans who expected too much. Now, Atwood has faded away. My concern is that Logano could be headed the same way. I sincerely hope not. I hope Logano proves me wrong and is a tremendous success in the Cup series but his finishes in some races last season seem to indicate otherwise.
Another overrated driver is A.J. Allmendinger. While he got lucky in the #10 Gillett Evernham Motorsports Dodge in the last five races of the 2008 season, he will probably go back to having mediocre finishes as a part-time driver in the #10 GEM Dodge like he had when he raced for Red Bull Racing, which released Allmendinger because of his lackluster finishes. Also,Allmendinger has a habit of causing wrecks on the track. He showed this trait during the last five races of the 2008 season when he was touted as the greatest driver since "Sliced Bread" Logano. I know this is a likely bone of contention with some who read this blog, but in my opinion Elliott Sadler was right in threatening legal action against Gillett Evernham Motorsports. Sadler signed a new contract in good faith with GEM. In December, GEM kicked Sadler out of his ride and was in the process of giving it to Allmendinger. GEM cried uncle and gave Sadler back his ride. I am glad they did. Sadler has three NASCAR Cup wins. I have a feeling there will be more. Some people might ask why Sadler would want to drive for somebody who wanted him fired? I have no idea. Things probably happen behind the scenes that we'll never know about. Perhaps it was a matter of principle with Sadler or maybe George Gillett did not have the money to buy out Sadler's contract as Gillett reportedly has financial troubles. Whatever the reason,I'm just glad Sadler has his ride back.
Another overrated driver without a doubt is Scott Speed. Speed has one win in the Formula One series and suddenly he's NASCAR material. Like Logano and Allmendinger, Scott Speed is overhyped and overrated. Speed's arrogance rubs many NASCAR fans the wrong way. Only time will tell if Speed is as good as his media boosters say he is. Speed's showings in the races he ran last season indicate that he likely won't measure up to expectations.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Finally,A New Team For Labonte
After leaving Petty Enterprises in December, fans of driver Bobby Labonte had been wondering where the 2000 NASCAR Cup champion would drive next. The most prominent rumor was that Labonte would be driving the #41 at Earnhardt/Ganassi Racing,then as recently as Monday, rumors had Labonte driving the #8 EGR ride. Then late Tuesday in a sudden and surprising turn of events,came the annoucement that Labonte will drive the #96 Ford for Hall Of Fame Racing. HOF recently merged with Robert Yates Racing. HOF will have the benefit of the engine-building program shared by RYR and Roush Fenway Racing. Ask.com has reportedly been named the sponsor of the #96 car.
With the 51st running of the Daytona 500 on February 15th approaching, fans were becoming concerned about whether Labonte would have a Cup ride this season. Fortunately,the waiting is over. Bobby Labonte is not the first person in his family to drive the #96. Bobby's brother Terry Labonte,the 1984 and 1996 Cup champion, drove the car (though it was then a Chevrolet) for a few races in the 2006 or 2007 season if memory serves.
I am so happy not only as a Bobby Labonte fan but also for Bobby Labonte himself. I wish Bobby well in the #96. Bring on the 2009 season. Go Bobby!!!!
With the 51st running of the Daytona 500 on February 15th approaching, fans were becoming concerned about whether Labonte would have a Cup ride this season. Fortunately,the waiting is over. Bobby Labonte is not the first person in his family to drive the #96. Bobby's brother Terry Labonte,the 1984 and 1996 Cup champion, drove the car (though it was then a Chevrolet) for a few races in the 2006 or 2007 season if memory serves.
I am so happy not only as a Bobby Labonte fan but also for Bobby Labonte himself. I wish Bobby well in the #96. Bring on the 2009 season. Go Bobby!!!!
Monday, January 12, 2009
Sports Notes
NFL
This was not a good weekend for me as far as sports goes. On Saturday night,my Carolina Panthers lost at home to the Arizona Cardinals 33-13. The Cardinals were simply better prepared and ready to play. Kurt Warner played a magnificent game. I hope the Cardinals make it to the Super Bowl. As for the Panthers,better luck next season. They have made it to the Super Bowl before and they will again.
ACC BASKETBALL
On Sunday night,in college hoops,the #3 ranked North Carolina Tarheels lost to the #4 ranked Wake Forest Demon Deacons on the Deacons' home court 92-89. This is the Tarheels' second consecutive loss,having lost to Boston College at home last week. Hopefully,the Tarheels will rebound with a win when UNC plays at Virginia on Thursday night.
This was not a good weekend for me as far as sports goes. On Saturday night,my Carolina Panthers lost at home to the Arizona Cardinals 33-13. The Cardinals were simply better prepared and ready to play. Kurt Warner played a magnificent game. I hope the Cardinals make it to the Super Bowl. As for the Panthers,better luck next season. They have made it to the Super Bowl before and they will again.
ACC BASKETBALL
On Sunday night,in college hoops,the #3 ranked North Carolina Tarheels lost to the #4 ranked Wake Forest Demon Deacons on the Deacons' home court 92-89. This is the Tarheels' second consecutive loss,having lost to Boston College at home last week. Hopefully,the Tarheels will rebound with a win when UNC plays at Virginia on Thursday night.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)