No regrets

Chicagoland Speedway, Joliet, IL

It isn't often that I regret no longer living in Illinois. I love my home in the Ozarks, living among the hardwoods and enjoying the scenery and watching birds and other wildlife right in my own backyard. Ah, retirement. 

Yet this is one time I'd consider sacrificing it all to be back in Illinois, where I used to live, not far from Chicagoland Speedway. I'd gladly dust off my press badge and would thrill to write about the weekend festivities at the track for the first race of the Chase for the 2015 Championship.  

I watched the Chicagoland Speedway being built. In fact I wrote about it once or twice for the paper I worked for in those days. I even recall a huge controversy about locating that track a few miles further east. I was against it, as were so many other folks; it really was the wrong location. That was the early 1990's, long before I ever watched a race or knew much of anything about NASCAR. My, how times have changed!

If I was still there, I would love to watch the first race of the Chase. I'd be there for practice and qualifying and I'd take lots of pictures. I'd have to put on my reporters' hat, so I'd have to balance coverage for the entire process and to all of the teams. Perhaps I could write a story about how the two Richard Childress teams--#31 Ryan Newman and #27 Paul Menard feel about being eligible for the 10-race Chase by making it in on points rather than conventionally, with a win. Perhaps I could write a first person story about being at the track for the first time. I'd undoubtedly find some way to meet my favorite driver and to interview him. 

Ryan doesn't get interviewed often, but I can guarantee I'd do him proud. After all, I'm a fan. 

But wait, that was my old life. And I don't believe in regrets. So, I will be content to just watch the race on TV, perhaps making a little snack--Race-Day Guacamole--. I always keep an eye on NASCAR's Live Leaderboard and listen to Ryan and Luke on the radio.

I have high hopes that Ryan will get all the resources necessary to make his race car fast enough to compete. If the car is good, there is no doubt Ryan can wheel it right to the front. 

Ryan knows his way around Chicagoland Speedway. He won in 2003 and has had three top-5s and eight top-10 finishes. He's led 182 laps there. 

While he raced his way into the Chase on points, he's proven once again that winning a race isn't the only prescription for success. His consistency has been outstanding, except perhaps for Richmond. Not sure what happened, except that the handling of the car just wasn't there. It was a nail-biter, as I watched his points total stuck failing to add up. But as always, Ryan pulled it off, securing enough points to remain in the Top 16.  This is the second time he's made the Chase without winning a race to get there, but he knows what he has to do. His team is willing to do their part to put the #31 in Victory Lane. 

So, I plan to just enjoy the race. 

I don't mind at all that I don't have to work on the weekend, take notes, photos, and put all the words together to come up with a story. There will be no traffic, no sunburn, no expensive ticket price, no missing aspects of Ryan's race because I'd have to concentrate on the job done by all the drivers. I rather enjoy being a no pressure spectator with a focus on just one driver. And as always, I have very high hopes.  

NASCAR and NBC

It is time to say something nice about NASCAR. I haven't done that in a while.

I know, I've been a bad blogger; I haven't written a thing here in several weeks. Thing is, as a retired journalist, I relish the fact that I no longer have to meet deadlines, so I write when I am inspired. I just haven't felt like it lately, but there was something I wanted to say after watching some of this afternoon's practice at Darlington.

I think #NASCAR did a good thing, by getting NBC to cover the sport. Adding Jeff Burton as an analyst has been a real plus. I enjoy his coverage of the races. Burton is intelligent, experienced, and he explains what is going on from a drivers' perspective. 

Burton is fair in his treatment of all the drivers, not singling out any one of them. He is honest about them and isn't so syrupy that it is nauseating. I'm especially impressed at how Burton has spoken honestly about Ryan Newman's performance, specifically citing Newman's potential to make the Chase for the Sprint Cup Championship this year. Burton has been there; in fact he used to drive Newman's car, prior to Newman's joining Richard Childress Racing. Other commentators have avoided coverage of Newman as if he is contagious; especially those from FOX and ABC. I think they are intimidated by Ryan's intellect and skittish about what he might say. Ryan speaks his mind and isn't going to be controlled by NASCAR or anyone. I don't think they get his dry sense of humor either. 

I have seen more interviews of Newman in recent weeks on NBC, which is heartening, since he does have a fascinating story to tell. He is a championship-caliber driver who makes the most out of what every situation. Whether it be a crash not of his doing, a poor performing race car, or even making a mistake himself, which he has no problem owning up to, Newman does the best he can with what he's got. His performance last year, finishing less than a second behind Kevin Harvick for the championship, should have shown the kind of stuff he is made of. Yet it was so often ignored. Instead, so much was made of his not winning a race last year, or this year either, for that matter, that what he has done has been ignored. Burton gets it, however. He understands the challenges of race car drivers, because he's done it for years. 

Burton respects Newman recognizes that Newman is not reckless, nor does he retaliate against other drivers. He has his own race to run and doesn't let pettiness get in his way. When he is wronged on the track, he doesn't focus on retaliation as some drivers have done. He has better things to do. Newman can think his way out of a situation and now seems to have the team to back him up. He and Crew Chief Luke Lambert seem to work very well together--in fact as well as Newman and Matt Borland from those early days when he drove for Roger Penske. 

With the Chase for the Championship nearly upon us, I have no doubt that Newman will participate. I'm hoping for nearly as much excitement as last year, which was a nail biter. 

So, way to go NASCAR, you finally did something I can agree with.

Ryan Newman consistent, even in criticism

I'm a blogger, but as a retired writer, I have afforded myself the luxury of writing when I feel like it. Today, I definitely feel like it after reading way too many disparaging remarks aimed at Ryan Newman who was critical of NASCAR after Sunday night's race.

I haven't posted lately because I've just been a little disgusted with NASCAR.

First there was that whole controversy regarding Ryan Newman's penalty that left him without a crew chief and several of his seasoned crew members for weeks. NASCAR penalized the #31 Richard Childress Racing team for tinkering with tires. Since then there have been other "cheating" incidents, but no one has had the proverbial book thrown at them as Newman has. Typical!

I cannot remain silent as Newman is defamed by so many NASCAR fans who seemingly enjoy bashing him. The comments I've read are positively ugly, mean-spirited, off-base, and in the view of anyone who has followed Newman, completely wrong.

Numerous ignorant comments have responded to Newman's remarks after the last lap crash at Daytona that started Sunday night, July 5 and finished early Monday morning, July 6 at 3 a.m. eastern time. I'm lucky to live in the central time zone, so it was only 2 a.m. for me.

Following the wreck which sent Newman's teammate Austin Dillon into the catch fence upside down and wrecked nearly every remaining car left in the field, Newman was quoted as saying, "NASCAR got what they wanted." He went on to criticize restrictor plate racing when he said. "Cars getting airborne, unsafe drivers, same old stuff. They just don't listen."

Fortunately Dillon wasn't seriously injured. A few fans in the grandstands were hit by flying debris, but none were seriously hurt.

Congratulations to Dale Earnhardt, Jr., who won the race after dominating the entire night.

First of all, as pointed out by Kyle Petty the following day, Newman spoke not long after the wreck occurred. Petty explained Newman's words as being said in the heat of the moment, intimating that emotions have to be taken into consideration when analyzing what Newman said.

When the wreck happened, Newman could see his teammate, Dillon, flying through the air just past his own rear quarter panel. Newman had been riding around in the back of the pack for most of the race, which is common practice for him, just to stay out of the melee that always ensues at restrictor plate tracks. The strategy paid off too, because Newman dodged three big wrecks Sunday night.

It is no secret that Newman has never been a fan of restrictor plate racing. As a race car driver, he wants to be the one to wheel his race car, to be in complete control of it. At Daytona and Talladega, there are plenty of times the driver is not in control of his own race car. Rather drivers are at the mercy of other drivers, some which aren't always very experienced. Let's face it, when 40 plus cars are driving nose to tail in three-wide conditions at 200 mph plus, one miniscule move can affect them all and often does.

Newman has been involved in numerous incidents at those two tracks that are just as horrific as the most recent wreck. Customarily, the wrecks are not of his own doing. Ryan Newman has certainly 'flown' before. See this story. To see other related stories, just type Talladega into the search box. 

Newman has consistently been outspoken about restrictor plate racing.

Back in the Fall of 2009 at Talladega, Newman's car was launched backwards into the air, did a back-flip onto the hood of Kevin Harvick's car, skidded upside down into the wall, where it rolled several times, finally coming to rest in the grass, on its roof.

This incident was the return to Talladega when just that Spring, a last lap crash caused Carl Edwards' car to flip into the catch fence. Newman was involved in that incident as well, as Edwards' airborne car flew into Newman's windshield as he raced for the checkered flag.

"It's just a product of this racing and what NASCAR has put us into with this box and these restrictor plates with these types of cars," Newman said after that Fall race. "The more rules, the more NASCAR is telling us how to drive the race cars, the less we can race, and the less we can put on a show for the fans."

"I will go back in the day, Richard Petty, Bobby Allison, Dale Earnhardt, Darrell Waltrip, all those guys, they respected each other. In the end there were some big accidents, but geez, we don't need the cars getting upside down like this. This is ridiculous." Newman, who holds a degree in mechanical engineering at Purdue University, said, "There is technology available that can help." He said it was a shame that not more is being done.

Following Newman's remarks, NASCAR levied a $50,000 fine against him for speaking out "against the brand." The fine was only made public after reporters discovered it. There have been no other 'secret' fines since that time, that anyone is aware of.

Newman has been consistent in his criticism of NASCAR as it relates to flying race cars. So, it is within this context of his experience and education that his comments must be considered.

In the closing laps at Talladega in 2013, when Ricky Stenhouse misjudged the distance to take his car four-wide, numerous cars were sent spinning, Kurt Busch's car flipped over and landed on top of Newman's car. Thankfully, no one was hurt.

"They can build safer race cars, they can build safer walls," Newman said at that time. "But they can't get their heads out of their asses far enough to keep them on the race track, and that's pretty disappointing. I wanted to make sure I get that point across. Y'all can figure out who 'they' is," Newman said. He was critical of NASCAR, citing poor judgement for starting the race in the dark and letting it continue when it was clearly raining.

Rain seems to be a real issue for NASCAR. That was the case Sunday night as well. The Daytona race was delayed because of rain. When it finally did begin, it started at about the time it normally would have finished. The race ended in the early morning hours, which might also have contributed to the plethora of bad crashes.

Even commentators acknowledged prior to the race that the lateness of the hour could cause more mistakes than usual.

Surprisingly, few comments have been made about the late hour. I can't help but wonder how many Newman haters even watched the entire race, or were they merely reacting to what others said. There definitely seems to be a trend lately, where comments are geared toward other comments, rather than in response to real facts.

I suppose the most galling for me is that when Newman criticized NASCAR about safety issues, he wasn't referring to overall safety issues. He has been very supportive of the work NASCAR has done in regard to safety.

After his own crash at Talladega in 2009, when he landed on his roof, it was recognized that more support was needed. NASCAR added an additional forward roof bar to the center roof support bar that intersects near the front center of the roll cage. The bar has been dubbed the Newman Bar.

While raucous fans are eager to spread their vitriol toward Ryan Newman, his remarks have been well-placed. Television news has started talking about restrictor plate racing. NASCAR is on the defensive, as they have gone out of their way to defend their efforts to make racing safer for drivers and fans alike. They speak about all that has been done since the 2001 crash ended the life of Dale Earnhardt.

It is amazing and wonderful that Austin Dillon walked away from what years ago could have been a life-ending wreck. So, yes, safety is being enhanced. But is it good enough? A different angle; a different speed? Safer barriers and the reinforced catch fence are better, but are they good enough? Flying debris should never hurt a race fan. Perhaps Newman is right, in that cars are still going airborne into the catch fence. For now, injuries have been relatively minor. But when planning for the protection of people's lives, there have to be what-if scenarios. Every angle must be considered. Good planning starts with asking all the right questions. Newman is asking them. It is time someone at NASCAR listens and uses its vast resources to act.

There's cheating and then there's cheating

So what exactly is cheating?

NASCAR tires (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

It seems the answer to this question depends on who you ask. In essence, cheating is in the eye of the beholder.

More and more it seems that once-perceived black and white issues, really are anything but. I have always seen varied shades of gray when I have to make up my mind about how I feel about things. I tend to put careful thought into all my decision-making processes before I consider passing judgement.

Such is the case with the "cheating" allegations in NASCAR.

Huge penalties and fines were levied against the #31 team team following the California race held March 22. Crew Chief Luke Lambert was fined $125,000, and was suspended for six races, including the All Star Race next month. Also suspended were Tire Technician James Bender and Engineer Philip Surgen. The three would be on probation for the rest of 2015. Both owner Richard Childress and driver Ryan Newman were docked 75 points each.

The penalty hit Newman hard, dropping him from sixth in the points standings to 26th. A board of appeals dropped the fines for Newman and Childress to 50 points each following a ruling that NASCAR had no written policy for pre-race inspections. The suspensions were deferred during the appeals process and Lambert's fine was reduced to $75,000. Restoring Newman's points put him into 20th place in the points standings. A final appeal is pending.

The #31 team has been accused by NASCAR of altering their tires in an effort to improve their performance on the race track. The technical explanation, according to my inexperienced understanding, relates to how tire pressure builds during a long green flag run. Apparently it is enough to alter the shape of the tire, which results in less rubber coming in contract with the race track. By bleeding off some of the pressure buildup, the tire remains consistent. Problem solved. Well, not according to NASCAR.

Whether or not the #31 team altered their tires remains a question. Apparently NASCAR thinks so. The appeals board apparently thinks so. The outcome of the final ruling on the appeal is as yet unknown.

When I first heard about this issue, I was shocked that Ryan Newman, a driver who I respect as being honest, thoughtful, and diligent would ever engage in such an activity. At the same time, I also entertained the idea that it wasn't a big deal since NASCAR removed rules on tire pressure this year. I don't claim to completely understand all the gazillions of rules NASCAR attempts to enforce, but it seemed to me that if they were relaxing the minimum tire pressure rules, altering the tire pressure during the race would be no big deal. Apparently I was wrong. 

That brings us to the cheating allegation.

If the #31 team manipulated the tire pressure by inserting minuscule holes in the tires, and we really don't know if that was done, was that cheating? And was it a bad thing? NASCAR says it is. Yet, other drivers, including Richard Petty, Darrell Waltrip, and Kenny Wallace, to name a few who have clocked thousands of miles on the NASCAR circuit, have gone on the record to say cheating is necessary to win races. If you aren't cheating, you aren't trying hard enough, they say. 

First of all, 'cheating' has occurred as long as the sport itself. Personally, I dislike the term, since 'cheating' has very negative connotations. Technically, bending arbitrary rules and taking best advantage of what you are given is not cheating. It is working smart. Trying to excel at your sport isn't negative. It is what teams are paid to do. Being the best is their job. 

Consider that what NASCAR calls 'cheating' is merely a non-compliance of their rules from their perspective. NASCAR is attempting to downgrade any team that doesn't comply with their view; a view they are hell bent on imposing. 

NASCAR has done everything in its power of late to regulate, manipulate, and control racing. They want to limit all advantage, yet want good racing, refusing to realize that such a juxtaposition isn't possible. If all their rules were followed, races would resemble a high speed interstate highway traffic jam much like the kind of racing at Daytona and Talladega where cars lined up one behind the other, unable to pass. They would finish in the same position in which they started. The only variable would be when there is a caution. And NASCAR has been accused of manipulating those as well. NASCAR has a hand in nearly every aspect of the sport, from the race tracks, the cars, the vendors, the sponsors, and most of all the marketing and public relations. They have even tried to regulate driver personalities by controlling what drivers can say. Remember the secret fines against Ryan Newman and Denny Hamilton after the two spoke out about safety at Talladega? 

All I can say about this 'cheating' scandal is that it should be called something else. This is only cheating to NASCAR. To the teams and the fans, this is just another aspect of racing. It would be nice if teams could go back to regulating their own behavior, using their own tires, doing away with restrictor plates and mandated tire pressures. Keep only safety rules and standards. Now that would be fun to watch--a real boys have at it. 

I finally reached a conclusion. It has taken me a long time to think about all this and with lots of study, but I'm convinced that Ryan and the #31 team did nothing wrong, except maybe piss off NASCAR. To me, Tiregate is just one more made-up controversy like mystery cautions and secret fines, bogus rules and other questionable actions.

One more thing--to really be guilty of cheating, there has to be a motive. There is no negative motive here, just like there is no negative action here. The desire to win is exactly what a race team is supposed to do. NASCAR on the other hand--its motive is to look good and make money. There was lots of egg on its face when they proclaimed that winning was the only way to become a champion. Then along came Newman who nearly won it all without winning a race during the regular season. Ryan Newman used the system to his advantage, being consistent throughout the season. Winning was merely a way to keep score, but it is consistency that determines real driving prowess. 

So there is one more appeal before we know how Ryan and the #31 team will fare in NASCAR's Tiregate controversy before it can be put to rest. 

Personally, I have already moved past this. The reality is that with a fifth place finish at Bristol Sunday, Newman has worked his way back up to the 16th place in points, up ten since he was initially charged with the Tiregate penalty. He will be in the Chase, whether he wins a race or not. Of course, it would be superior for him to win races, but if not, he's still a damn good driver.

Just one more day...

NASCAR tires (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

We only have to wait one more day before we learn the results of the Richard Childress Racing appeal following NASCAR's heavy-handed penalties for tire tampering against Ryan Newman and the #31 team.

The team was accused of altering their tires, possibly with one or more minuscule holes in the tires in an effort to bleed off some of the pressure that naturally builds up during long racing runs. 

Huge penalties and fines were levied against the team following the California race held March 22. Crew Chief Luke Lambert was fined $125,000, and was suspended for six races, including the All Star Race next month. Also suspended were Tire Technician James Bender and Engineer Philip Surgen. The three would be on probation for the rest of 2015. Both owner Richard Childress and driver Ryan Newman were docked 75 points each.

The penalty hit Newman hard, dropping him from sixth in the points standings to 26th. 

NASCAR has been confiscating tires from various teams, but the #31 team was the only one penalized.

According to NASCAR, the violations included three infractions of its rule book.

• 12.1 - Actions detrimental to stock car racing
• 20.16 Any device, modification, or procedure to the tire or wheel, including the valve stem hardware, that is used to release pressure, beyond normal pressure adjustments from the tire and/or inner shield, will not be permitted.
• 20.16.2 Modifications to the tires, by treatment or any other means, will not be permitted.

These infractions are considered very serious by NASCAR. On a scale of 1 to 6, this violation ranks fifth. 

An appeal will be held Thursday. NASCAR complied with RCR's request to defer suspensions, (but not points), pending the outcome of the appeal. If RCR wins the appeal, the points would be reinstated or they could possibly be reduced.

"We feel confident we have a very compelling case to present to the appeals panel," Childress said in a press release. "We strongly believe in the intent of the rules and integrity of our own teams while following those same rules." 

Childress was mum however on any further explanation in an effort to "respect the appeals process."

NASCAR has also said nothing more, which makes it difficult to know just what the case is against the #31 team.  

Go Danica!

It seems NASCAR now has not just the golden boy--Dale Earnhart, Junior, but it also has a golden girl in Danica Patrick.

There seems to be an emphasis lately on Danica, underscored by the almost gushing praise from Darrell Waltrip. Ya know what though--I have to agree.

Danica has run well this season, finally achieving a top 10 finish. She has even tempered the high testosterone level of her all-boy workplace. And she has proven that she can handle the pressure of dating a co-worker. I like her sense of humor, her ability to communicate, and most of all, that the girl has attitude. 

As a woman myself, I recognize that NASCAR's glass ceiling is a little thicker than most. It is nice to see a few cracks in it. Danica appears to be fearless. The remainder of the season will be interesting to watch as she closes in on Chase eligibility. Currently, she is 17th in points, just out of range, but there is lots of racing to go in the 2015 season. If Danica continues to clock fast speeds, finish races, and either stay consistent or score a victory, she would be eligible for the Chase for the Sprint Cup Championship. And wouldn't that just be a hoot?

While I haven't written a word since the 2015 NASCAR season began, it isn't for a lack of interest. My husband had a stroke in January and we are working to regain his strength and mobility. Things are progressing nicely, and we haven't missed a beat with our race viewing.

A little confusion about the Daytona 500

When I tweeted that I wanted a repeat of the 50th running of the Daytona 500 this year, I didn't mean that I wanted Penske Racing to win; I meant that I wanted Ryan Newman to win. Perhaps I just didn't make myself clear enough.

Daytona wasn't a total loss for Ryan Newman fans, yet it was hardly what we were hoping for. The take away is that this was not a DNF, though points were scarce 19 laps down. It is impossible not to sum up this year's experience as "that's Daytona!" Still, the #31 team is all about teamwork and hard work as they managed to repair Newman's wrecked race car and eek out 6 points for the effort.

Another hit at Atlanta

Sunday's race in Atlanta fared much better, despite another late race wreck. While it is always exhilarating to write about Ryan Newman's grit and determination which is always evident, a shout out has to go to the whole #31 team. During the race, the pit crew's performance was stellar, with fast enough pit stops to gain positions. They outdid themselves when they repaired Ryan's wrecked race car following his getting caught up in Denny Hamlin's dust up. Luke Lambert and his crew managed to keep the #31 on the lead lap while making repairs where possible, giving Newman the chance to race his way to a top 10 finish.

If this is a window into the 2015 season, it appears this will be marked by strength and determination. An obvious continuation of last year's hard-fought conclusion that was just a whisper away from a championship, a racing season is made up of many moments. Points are not the end-all be-all. They simply keep track. It is the strength and determination that win championships. Given the teamwork, and grit that has already been shown, the start of this season shows great promise.

The magic number is 40!

Or is the magic number really 31?

The green flag will drop to start the 2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup Season in just 40 days!

Oh how long it seems since that gut-wrenching moment in Homestead, Florida when Kevin Harvick crossed the finish line with Ryan Newman just a half-second behind him. What a season for the two of them, after seemingly switching rides. It appears that both made the right decision; Harvick to Stewart-Haas Racing and Newman to Richard Childress Racing.

For me, the best part of Harvick's win was when Newman came up to him in Victory Lane, wearing that characteristic smile Newman Nation has come to know and love, congratulated his friend on winning the race and the championship that Newman wanted so badly he could taste it.

The best part of Newman's season was his stellar performance in the Chase, as he raced his way to the season climax. Some of the ugly remarks during the controversy that surrounded Newman's nail-biting upset to make the final round without winning a race during the regular season was galling, but in the long run may prove the point Newman fans have always known; Newman is a top-notch driver who is capable of winning a championship. Now, everyone else knows what we know!

In the past, little has been said about Newman during the course of a race. Sure, his performance was talked about during career extremes, like when he won the Daytona 500 or the Brickyard 400, but rarely does he fly on the radar screen of television analysts. Someone should compare the times his name is mentioned in comparison to that of Dale, Jr. or Jimmy Johnson. The difference would be stunning. Even as a Newman fan, it is sometimes difficult to follow his progress on the track because the guys and gals in the booth don't follow him. Without gadgets like in-car radio and cameras, it would be next to impossible to follow Newman's progress during a race. Instead of unbiased coverage, certain TV personalities simply gush over their favorite drivers.

As an example, Newman was pretty much written off by them in the first elimination of the chase. Hah!

Newman Nation know what Newman is capable of. His driving prowess came as no surprise to us. We knew how hard he was driving his race car, every single lap. We heard the frustration in his voice when things went awry during a pitstop for example, or in the rare instances when he made a costly mistake. We paid attention when Newman was three laps down yet finished the race on the lead lap in the top 15. So, when it looked like Newman was surprising everyone with his awesome run during the Chase, those of us that have followed him were not surprised at all. We were just pleased.

So to say that there is great anticipation for the 2015 season, is putting it mildly. So, on to February 22, 2015, the first race of the season--the Daytona 500.

It is just 40 days away. It won't be long now!

My NASCAR history penned by my own husband; Go Ryan Newman

I've been a Ryan Newman fan for so long that I thought I'd look back at some of the stories I was able to get into print when I worked for a local newspaper in the small Illinois town where I lived.

I tried to get my boss to let me cover NASCAR on a regular basis but my wrestler-friendly, stick-and-ball aficionado owner hated the idea. Every now and then though, I did sneak in a story or two. Here's one from 2007, but I didn't write it. My husband did, as he wrote about my new-found obsession.

This was as close as I've ever been to a race car. It was the thrill of my life when
I heard the Alltel Dodge would be in my own home town for the opening of the new Alltel store. 

The Fast Lane, Realities of a NASCAR husband

by John Henrichs

I’ll be the first to admit that I love auto racing, but my love of the sport is now rivaled by that of my wife.

Growing up in the 50’s, there was no other subject that my friends and I would discuss more than cars, and how fast they could go.

On some occasions, my dad took me to a race at the now-defunct Raceway Park in Blue Island. The sights, sounds, and smells will live with me forever. A pack of cars racing around a quarter-mile asphalt track at 60 mph was a spectacle that I can still recall with near perfect detail. My personal favorite was James Bond driving the 007 Studebaker Hawk. I wanted to be just like him someday.

My wife, Carol was always a bit tepid about car racing. But a few years ago, after our son Chris became enamored with the sport, she began to take an interest in it.

Today, I find myself married to a NASCAR fanatic. Who would have imagined that after 30 years together that she would finally come around to my way of thinking?

Oh, but it’s more than just an interest with her. When she likes something, she becomes intensely immersed in it. It could be considered an obsession. She studies the issues, learns about the racetracks, conditions, even technicalities related to the cars. But mostly, she knows about the drivers, their crew chiefs and even some of the team members. Some she likes. Others she does not.

Through the magic of satellite television, there’s enough NASCAR programming to keep our interest peaked long into December and on most weekends. However, race day is the pinnacle of the week.

Carol’s favorite driver is Ryan Newman, who drives the #12 Alltel Dodge. On race day, we even set up a “shrine” to him on the wood stove (when it’s not in use, of course.) It contains a book about Newman’s racing career, given to her at Christmas, a small replica of the #12 car, a Ryan Newman hat, and some other small things.

She was a fan of Rusty Wallace, before he retired. He and Ryan were not-so-compatible teammates.

When we moved to Arkansas, we brought with us a life-size cutout of Rusty that was given to us, where it watches over our garage area.

As the hours tick by before the race begins, there’s a ritual that must take place. First, she has to make her “lucky” guacamole dip.

Then our aging laptop computer is set up to receive the in-car audio from the Internet, always set to the #12 team. It must all be done during the pre-race shows so we can catch the first radio checks between Ryan and Crew Chief Mike Nelson.

By the time the green flag has waved, we’re ready for whatever will be, always with the hope that the #12 will charge out to the front and make it to Victory Lane. That hasn’t happened in a long time.

Newman, who is nicknamed “Rocket Man,” has had a run of bad luck, but Carol always has high hopes of a comeback.

One of the main rules during the race is “No talking.” She doesn’t want to miss a thing on the track. And heaven help the driver that runs into Newman, or causes him to spin out.

As the race rolls along, she remains glued to the television, while we both curse the endless stream of commercials that obscure what’s happening on the track.

When the race is over, it’s time for the post-race wrap-up shows that continues on for at least another hour.

People that know us know better than to invite us over on race days. We already have plans for the afternoon or evening.

It’s funny how, for years, auto racing has always been considered a man’s sport.

All I have to say is “Think Again.”

The emotional ride of a NASCAR fan

Following the harrowing news about Tony Stewart striking and killing fellow Sprint car driver Kevin Ward, Jr. Saturday night, I felt distracted as my husband and I settled in to watch Sunday's road course race at Watkins Glen. Then when Ryan Newman was involved in that scary crash, I lost all focus. After the lengthy red flag condition, I considered not even finishing the rest of the race. I'm so glad I did because it was positively joyous to watch A. J. Allmendinger battle for the win.

Tony Stewart is responsible for the death of a young man

No matter what the circumstances, a young, vital person, a mother's son, is dead. I can not imagine how horrifying it had to be to watch that happen. I know nothing of this young man. I don't follow the sport, but that doesn't lessen the sadness I feel for this young man's family.

While Tony Stewart may be responsible for the death of this young driver, and any official conclusion remains to be seen, I can't help but think about what Tony may be feeling. No matter what the circumstances, Tony will have to live with the knowledge that he was involved in an incident that resulted in someone's death. That is a monumental burden to carry for a lifetime. Even in the short term, Stewart has no control over his own life. The uncertainty of what may happen because of this--possible criminal or civil charges--has to be suffocating. And it could go on for months, years. Therefore, my heart goes out to him. One moment will undoubtedly, change him forever. That moment Kevin Ward got out of his race car, certainly changed everything.

Responsibility dictates that we must all be cognizant of the potential of our actions.

I don't know Tony Stewart personally, but from what I have seen and observed over years of watching, reading, and learning, I find it impossible to believe that Tony Stewart intended to harm anyone. I hate that so many people--people who don't know any more about him or the facts surrounding this incident than I do--are saying such horrible, judgmental things. It is fine to have an opinion, but only when all the facts are known.

Ryan Newman's wreck was scary

It was reported that Newman said hitting the wall paled in comparison to his being slammed by Michael McDowell. That was obviously a hard hit because it sent McDowell flying. It was so good to see Newman get out of his mangled race car and walk away on his own power.

I also enjoyed his speaking out about the barriers at the race track. Someone has to speak out about such things. No one else seems to have the chops to open their mouths. Many of the other drivers agreed with him, but not as blatantly. It was a little disingenuous for Dale Earnhardt, Jr. to bring up the cost factor of creating safer barriers. Of course it would be costly, but NASCAR can certainly afford it. How many track owners receive public money as incentives to upgrade their facilities? How big is the tax break owners get as compared to the ticket holders who scrape together enough coin for a ticket or merchandise? NASCAR always preaches about safety, so perhaps they should put their money where there mouths are by leaning on track owners to make necessary improvements. I don't care if there is just one race per year Kerry Tharp, NASCAR Director of Competition. Cars can race at any track in the country. Only the best and safest should host racing events. If a track doesn't want to spend the money, go someplace else!

I wonder if Newman will be fined for speaking out, as he was not long ago, when he was critical of the safety issues at Talladega. He had a microphone shoved in his face minutes after flying through the air and landing on his roof? NASCAR wrongly criticized and penalized him for 'harming the brand.' Newman was right; NASCAR was wrong. At the same time they criticized Newman, they approved the use of an added safety feature--the Forward Roof Bar--which has been added to the roll cage that failed in Newman's crash. It has been nicknamed the Newman bar.

The best part, and perhaps only good part of the weekend's racing was when A. J. Allmendinger battled Marcos Ambros to win the first Sprint Cup race of his career. Seeing that young man with all his enthusiasm take the checkered flag and celebrate his win was the way winning a race is supposed to be. It was good, clean, exciting, and just plain exhilarating. That may have something to do with A. J. himself. He takes nothing for granted, has fought hard to get to the top, and is just plain deserving. I feel a little sad for Ambrose, since he ran such a great race, but A.J., the underdog; well, it just was a good win.

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Ryan Newman is NASCAR's Rodney Dangerfield

Ryan Newman #31 (Photo credit: CANDID1PHOTO)

 Ryan Newman gets no respect

When Ryan Newman ran his qualifying lap Saturday, who knew? Despite posting the second fastest run at the time, Newman was one of the few, if not the only driver that wasn't shown on television. 

I was watching, waiting for him, but never did get a glimpse of the red and white #31. It was merely announced that Newman placed second. I an so tired of not seeing his lap. And, this isn't the first time.


As usual, Newman's on-track performance took a back seat to other more important broadcasting priorities. There must have been a commercial or a vital interview.  ESPN is not the only network; FOX likes to ignore Newman too. I wish Newman's fans would start calling them on it. 

NASCAR broadcasters need to do a better job, to at least appear unbiased, if they ever expect to be taken seriously. A reputation in journalism, like any other profession, needs to be earned. 

Indianapolis Motor Speedway (Photo credit: kagilbert45)

Newman is smart and witty. He has an incredible sense of humor that I, for one, would like to see more of. Newman speaks his mind though, NASCAR doesn't like that. For NASCAR, it is all about control. Perhaps NASCAR should realize that attitude lacks traction with the viewing public. Perhaps it is NASCAR itself that keeps fans from filling those seats at race venues. It was shocking how many empty seats there were at Indy during the Brickyard 400.


It is somewhat ironic that ESPN should ignore Newman, since he was last year's Brickyard winner. Until Kevin Harvick qualified, Newman held the track speed record. Imagine this year's coverage, had Dale Earnhardt, Jr. won last year...

Sunday's race

While Sunday's race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway did not end quite the way I wanted--with a second consecutive victory for Ryan Newman and his #31 Quicken Loans car--Jeff Gordon deserves congratulations for a well-executed race. His fifth career win at Indy is impressive.

Newman, who ultimately finished in the top 12 fought hard to better his track position all day. With an error in his first green flag pit stop, he lost positions that were difficult to make back up. But, his perseverance will keep him eligible to make the Chase for the Championship, as of now. 

NASCAR Qualifying rules still confound me

While I admit that the new qualifying procedure is growing on me, this week's Daytona qualifying was a train wreck. 

Granted it rained. It always rains in Florida in the summertime. But, for NASCAR to arbitrarily say, that's it--we're done now seems a little heavy-handed to me. But then, that is what NASCAR does. That is why fans have a problem with NASCAR. Why is NASCAR trying to kill this sport?

Let the tweaking begin

Now that drivers have figured out the best strategy to achieve the fastest speed in qualifying, NASCAR wants to change the rules--rules it just made up. NASCAR just hates it when drivers and teams are smarter than they are. Sorry guys, but that is just how it is. Some of teams ARE really smarter than you. 

NASCAR has done everything in its power to control every aspect of racing, much to the chagrin of those who really love racing. Here we have another example. If NASCAR wasn't so bent on making everything equal for all the teams, racing might be a little more interesting and exciting. 

The irony is that NASCAR's efforts have caused teams to be more strategic rather than simply allowing them to race for a win, which is the way it should be. And now, NASCAR has to make up more rules to prevent the very thing they are responsible for creating in the first place. Sheesh!

NASCAR needs less predictability; this weekend had it

Aric Almirola (Photo credit: purduenila)

Seeing the reaction of Aric Almirola when he was credited with the win at Daytona was almost worth the wait. His excitement was contagious. As a driver for Richard Petty, Almirola's sentiment at winning on Petty's 25th anniversary of his 200th win at Daytona, was genuine.

I was a little surprised at my own positive charge of emotion when the race was called. I suppose that is because Almirola's win was unexpected. Despite the fact that NASCAR called the race when it did, there was a real feel of spontaneity in the final result. That doesn't happen often in NASCAR. I dislike the predictable; it seems that NASCAR has too heavy a hand to expect real spontaneity. 

It was also pretty cool for Kasey Kahne, who hasn't won in a while, to eek out a win at the last second in the Nationwide Race. That was pretty spontaneous as well.

Other than that, the weekend was pretty much a bust. I can only imagine how the drivers, crews, and fans in the stands felt. For me though, in the comfort of my living room, I can take away only positive feelings about the outcome of the weekend at Daytona. 

Could it have been better? Absolutely! Would I have been happier to see Ryan Newman win it? Oh yeah! But once his car was so damaged and he was multiple laps behind the leader, ending the race sooner rather than later worked for me. It is no fun to watch Ryan limping along in a wounded race car. Kudos though to the guys in the #31 team for their diligence in trying to get Ryan's car back to racing form. It just wasn't meant to be.

A day off may cure my NASCAR addiction

nascar (Photo credit: rogerblake2)

For the first time since the 2004 season, I missed a race--on purpose!

I have been too obsessed for too long. I'm starting to control my addiction. I did record the race, so when I got home I watched it. It was a totally different experience.

Normally, when I watch a race, I have a certain procedure to follow. I generally start up my aged laptop so I can listen to my favorite driver, Ryan Newman's radio traffic. Without that, it is often difficult to know anything about any driver that isn't Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Danica Patrick, Kevin Harvick, or Tony Stewart, the most popular drivers. Now and then other drivers are mentioned briefly, but it just so happens that Ryan is one of the least mentioned. That makes it really difficult to follow his racing progress, unless he is leading the race. That hasn't been an issue lately, but then he is in his first year with a new team which is still trying to iron out the bugs.

I try to watch Race Buddy, but that is pretty taxing for my old laptop. It doesn't always work. Of course I monitor the live leaderboard to fill in some of the blanks about how Ryan is doing in terms of speed, position, and potential to pass other cars. 

Since I recorded the race yesterday on the DVR (digital video recorder), my normal multi-dimensional experience was greatly reduced, which resulted in a very different viewing experience. 

The most glaring difference was that I wasn't just watching Ryan's race, as I usually do. I watched the whole race, in its entirety. I don't think that was a plus, as it was hard to follow Ryan on the track. I had to rely on the crawl line for his position. While I watched, I found I had unanswered questions. I wanted to know why his position changed so drastically from one point to another during the race, exactly what was done in pit stops, what the handling was like in his car, how his speed compared to the drivers around him. None of those things were available to me. All I really learned from announcers were predictions that Jimmy Johnson could win his first Michigan race and how great Dale Earnhardt, Jr. was doing. 

There was one good thing about my single-dimensional viewing of the race however. I was able to fast-forward through the commercials. I knew there were lots of commercials, but I rarely paid much attention to how much time is squandered by the enormous number of them. I was stunned to learn that races don't take up an entire afternoon when you take away all the network garbage. 

Since I've never actually been to a race, I never realized they weren't as long as I thought. I was shocked at how little time is actually spent on racing. 

Jayski's Silly Season Site (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

In fact, according to Jayski's Silly Season Site, 132 minutes of racing took place. That is a little over two hours. Add in the 118 commercials and the 64 companies and entities advertised, and the time actually broadcast was 187 minutes, or just over three hours. That translates into almost an hour of garbage I didn't need to see. So, on a given day, as much as one-third of the race is squandered by marketing. Isn't it enough that car bodies and driver bodies are covered in advertisements and products have their logos splashed on the walls and in the grass?

I don't know about anyone else, but I'm sick to death of everyone from politicians with their constant barrage of letters and phone calls to NASCAR and television in general vying for my limited funds. 

While Jayski's didn't have the stats for this, there is always a gushing factor--the time spent when announcers make the equivalent of goo-goo eyes over certain drivers. I was thrilled to be able to skip over that. That said, I genuinely enjoy listening to Kyle Petty, because I think he does a decent job as a broadcaster. While I don't always agree with his opinions, I think he is the closest thing to a professional that NASCAR employs. I also like Dale Jarrett and Larry McReynolds. The two of them seem to try to be relatively fair-minded in their coverage. 


I have to say, skipping my Sunday race ritual was eye-opening. I may become a little less rigid in my NASCAR obsession. I may even opt for NASCAR lite in the future.

Race Buddy rocks!

I just love Race Buddy!

And, thanks to Race Buddy, wasn't it nice to be able to watch NASCAR driver Ryan Newman, in his #31 WIX Chevrolet, drive at Pocono?

I love Race Buddy, despite the fact that my old laptop computer has a hard time keeping up. I spent most of the race fiddling with it, trying to get a picture. When I did get a picture though, it was great to watch Ryan driving through the field. He is seldom shown on Race Buddy, so it is such a thrill when he is. 

Funny though, with the live action on television, the race day scanner, and Race Buddy video, I had three different races going. I suspect the problem is at my end. I am just grateful to TNT for providing this free and excellent tool.

I have long complained about how announcers tend to ignore Ryan on the race track. With Race Buddy and the live leaderboard, I can keep track of where he is, who is around him, and what kind of progress he is making. 

As it turned out, he did a fine job, finishing seventh. It is all practice for that elusive win.

Congratulations to Dale Earnhardt, Jr. on his second win!

NASCAR qualifying rules confound me

Being a Ryan Newman fan has taught me so much about the inner workings of NASCAR. More than not, Newman is affected by a rule here, a policy there, or an arbitrary action by the sanctioning body. More often than not, it is detrimental to him.

The latest question I have, is in regards to qualifying at Richmond. In particular, since qualifying was rained out, how did it happen that Kyle Larson earned the top starting spot for Saturday night's race. Per NASCAR's rule book, "Section 9-5 of the 2014 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Rule Book (in 2013, if qualifying was cancelled, the rule was to set the field by the practice speeds in the first practice)," according to Jayski's Silly Season Site. 

I wonder why that is. Wouldn't it make more sense to set the field according to the fastest speed in the final practice--the one closest to when qualifying would have taken place? That is where Ryan Newman comes in, since he drove the fastest lap in that session. When I heard that he was fastest in Happy Hour, I wrongly assumed he would be on the pole for the race. I was stunned to see he started, what 18th!

Wouldn't it make more sense for the starting position to more closely approximate actual qualifying? After all, a fast car right off the truck is a great luxury, but should that rare happenstance be rewarded over the work done by crews and drivers to perfect their times? Shouldn't the time closest to when qualifying actually take place be the time to be rewarded in case of a rainout?

Using the practice speeds in the first practice makes no sense to me. It would even make more sense to use a cumulative speed, awarding the pole to the fastest average speed. 

NASCAR has completely revamped its qualifying format, which gives teams a chance to better themselves during the course of the qualifying session. NASCAR seems to reward consistency, except in this case. Their own rule to set the running order by the first practice is simply not consistent with teams bettering themselves. I think a change is in order. What do you think?

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Ryan Newman finally interviewed by Fox Sunday during rain delay

Ryan Newman (Photo credit: purduenila)

The best part of the Texas weekend for me was the rain delay video of Ryan Newman on Fox Sports I, a rare occasion, prompted I'm sure, by the need to kill some time while the rain fell.

Rarely is Ryan interviewed. It is not uncommon for Newman to be completely ignored by race 'reporters' even when drivers before him and after him get TV time. I've seen so many instances over the years when it would be appropriate to interview Newman, but instead, he is ignored.

I can only speculate as to why that is. 

I think I get why Michael Waltrip doesn't interview Ryan. In my mind, it is a case of Ryan talking over Michael's head. I don't know if Michael is really as dumb as he lets on or if that is just an act, but clearly, Ryan is intellectually superior.

Also, the two plainly don't like one another. There have been past on-track incidents where Michael's driving abilities have cost Newman a good finish or completely ruined his day. Also, their dislike for one another is just obvious. For example, just recently when Waltrip was walking through the pit road crowd pretending to be a reporter, he happened to come up to Ryan. From a slight distance, Michael made some remark about having to go, in an effort to acknowledge but not confront Newman but rather to explain his quick exit. Newman simply smiled and told him something to the effect of, the bathrooms are that way, Michael. 

Now I'm sure Waltrip doesn't know how to take that kind of humor.

I admit that I have never met Ryan Newman; I've never even seen him in person. But, I've watched him and read about him enough to know that he isn't mean-spirited; he's just quick-witted and painfully honest. His dry sense of humor reminds me of my father who used to make me laugh over the silliest things. 

Newman is also generally much smarter than the guys asking him questions. They don't interact with him well because without meaning to, he talks over their heads. Now that I think about it, perhaps much of the viewing audience who doesn't follow Newman as closely as his fans do, probably don't get him either.

There didn't seem to be hard feelings between the two, even after what transpired after the last race of the 2013 season. Newman was on his way to winning at Richmond to cinch a spot in the Chase for the Championship when Clint Bowyer spun out in what has been alleged to be, team orders, putting Bowyer's teammate Martin Truex, Jr. into the chase instead. Bowyer and Truex drove for Michael Waltrip Racing. The incident changed the face of the Chase, NASCAR put Newman in, took Truex out, and huge fines were levied against Waltrip's entire race team. 

This interview was also epic because John Roberts, Michael and Darrell Waltrip seemed to hang on Newman's every word. He provided good information about racing conditions, the car, its behavior, and the track. It interested them. He was sharing information with them in a way that they could relate to. It was a very good interview. 

Interestingly, Newman has had a reputation, dating way back to his Penske Racing days, of not sharing information with his team mate, Rusty Wallace. Yet, Ryan shared information without reservation in this interview. He responded honestly to all the questions, without hesitation. Perhaps this will lay to rest in the minds of some of the old school NASCAR drivers-turned-analyst who have long held the wrong-headed notion that all the problems back then were of Newman's doing. 

I've always found Newman's interviews to be informative and light-hearted. Even when a microphone is stuck into his face after an emotional incident, he is thoughtful as he speaks the unvarnished truth.

I'll never forget when NASCAR fined Newman for his critical remarks about the unsafe racing at Talladega, just after his car came to rest on its hood following several barrel rolls. The momentum was broken when he landed on the front end of Kevin Harvick's racecar. Had Harvick not been there, who knows what the impact would have been, since the roll cage that was designed to protect the driver was compromised. Newman merely stated that NASCAR had to keep the cars from going airborne. Newman paid a huge fine for what NASCAR deemed dissing the brand. I lost all respect for them at that point. That was the scariest crash I'd ever seen, holding my breath until we heard Ryan was OK.

Interestingly, I attempted to post a link to this interview. But I can't seem to find it, on Fox Sports I or Fox Sports, or NASCAR.com. The only place I've found it is on Ryan Newman's facebook page, and my own of course, since I was happy to share it.

Post by Ryan Newman.

Post by Ryan Newman.

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Rain dampened Daytona 500

Dale Earnhardt, Jr. wins at Daytona (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I have to give NASCAR credit for hanging in there to run the race on the day it was meant to be, despite the long rain delay. Of course it was a disappointment that the skies refused to clear for so many hours. The race was a tad disappointing for many reasons, though the rain was likely the least of them.

NASCAR just can't help but interfere in racing

I started my Sunday with a bitter taste in my mouth, left over from the Nationwide race. It was a pretty good race until NASCAR's interference.

I refer to the tandem drafting penalty leveled against James Buescher that all but destroyed his momentum as he slowly made his way down pit road. With all the pre-season noise NASCAR made about fairness in assessing penalties and procedures they would follow, that all but went out the window in this judgmental call. they apparently can't help but stick their two-cents worth in the middle of things, refusing to allow racing to follow a natural progression, whereby drivers will do whatever they can to advance. What is wrong with tandem racing anyway? So much has been done to equal the playing field, despite the forgotten goal that THIS IS SUPPOSED TO BE A RACE! I think NASCAR set a bad precedent by singling out Buescher in a field where he was far from the only driver whose bump draft resulted in a push.

Commentators explained NASCAR's "rule" by saying there had to be light between the two cars. Yet in the next breath they talked about how expertly Kyle Busch was bump drafting because he let up at the last second. Oh please. He was pushing too. Lots of them were pushing. NASCAR has once again, inserted themselves into the actual race, where they don't belong.

Congratulations to Dale Earnhardt, Jr.

I'd be much happier about his win if I didn't have to hear about it for two years before it happened.

While I enjoyed watching the genuine joy Dale exhibited at the conclusion of the Daytona 500, I only wish that everyone around him would stop droning on and on about him. It would be nice if his winning this race would end the gushing over him, but I fear it will only be heightened. And that is a shame. Not only do I understand that Dale Jr. has inherited the exposure he receives, but even HE seems to be sick to death of it. I'm not sure that NASCAR needs a poster child--especially one that isn't comfortable in that position.

This race just didn't measure up for me personally

It will be difficult for any race to measure up to what I consider the ideal. I've mentioned this before. To me, there was no better moment than the end to the 2008 Daytona 500 when Ryan Newman crossed the finish line in his #12 Alltel Dodge, giving Roger Penske his first Daytona 500 win. That was a benchmark that will forever be tough to eclipse.

Last night's race was a far cry from that moment, as Newman got wrecked by his own teammate. It was far from the finish I wanted to see.

This was the Daytona 500 though. And, it is always a crap shoot. At least Ryan finished the race. And, his car was fast.

The finish was epic for Earnhardt, and therefore for his fans, of which there are a gazillion, which deems the race a success. As far as Ryan is concerned, I remain hopeful. I like some of the things I've seen. Even though my high anticipation took a slight hit, there was plenty to be proud of in watching Ryan interact with his new team. I do expect good things. There is speed; there is good communication. I like how Richard Childress is a hands-on owner, attending every race and talking to the team on the radio. I liked the interaction between Newman and his team. I have high hopes.

So, all-in-all, I am pleased that the 2014 season has begun. It seems like a very long off-season, as it usually does. But that is behind us. Looking forward, I expect to watch some really good racing in the coming days.