Ryan Newman gets screwed again!

I've watched the replays, heard the interviews, and read the reviews. Ryan Newman got screwed again.

Newman did everything right. He drove the wheels off his Quicken Loans Chevrolet. He was so close to winning the race that he could probably taste it. Then something went horribly wrong!

First: With Newman leading and less than ten laps to go, Clint Bowyer spins, seemingly out of nowhere. His teammate, Martin Truex, Jr., who drove a mediocre race all night, was the beneficiary when the field was reconfigured.

Rumors are flying in this Monday morning quarterbacking session. Are there suspicions that Bowyer's spin was a 'team order' issued by Michael Waltrip Racing in order to tip the scales of a very tight contest in favor of their driver--Truex.

Considering both Truex and Bowyer work for Michael Waltrip Racing, that is not much of a stretch. Waltrip has a history of cheating. Who can forget what has been called the biggest cheating scandal in NASCAR, when Waltrip was penalized for a jet fuel additive in his race car before his new Toyota team even took to the track at Daytona. NASCAR had to do something. Waltrip was penalized heavily, but he was still allowed to race. He isn't a stranger to the kind of behavior that could derail a seemingly good run either, evident in the incident in 2007 when he rolled his car not far from his home and cut out quick, being charged with leaving the scene of the accident. Who doesn't think Waltrip lied about being drunk to avoid the penalty? He was charged with reckless driving and leaving the scene of an accident.

Newman and Waltrip are not friends. When Waltrip was driving, there were numerous racing incidents that caused bad blood between them.

Then there was the interview with Clint Bowyer. He looked guilty as sin when he was asked point blank if he spun out on purpose.

"No, I think we had a flat tire or something,..." as he changed the subject and refused to look Jamie Little in the eye or at the camera.

That combined with Dale Earnhardt, Jr. who said, "He just spun right out. It was the craziest thing I ever saw."

It was common knowledge--even to Waltrip who wanted his driver to excel-- that a second win would ensure Newman made the Chase.

Second: Had there not been a caution, Newman, who was leading the race with nine laps to go, likely would have sailed to the finish. He had the fastest car on the track and already passed all the leaders. A win would have ensured a wildcard in the Chase. It should have stayed green. But it didn't. There is no question that Newman's pit crew dropped the ball, which left Newman to try to fight his way back with not enough time to do it. Stuff happens!

Third: It would have been one thing if Martin Truex, Jr. drove a competitive race with Newman. But that wasn't the case. Newman drove a near flawless race. The two tied in the points, but the tie went to Truex. Given the race to decide a winner, that was unfair. Newman finished ahead of Truex and he led laps. Those criteria should have been used to determine the tiebreaker.

Instead, NASCAR used the number of 2nd place finishes as the tiebreaker. Truex had one; Newman had none. However, if NASCAR would have followed their own rules and black-flagged Carl Edwards for jumping the restart, which is clearly visible on the replay, Newman would have finished second instead of third and would have tied Truex.

NASCAR's inconsistent race calls may also be responsible for Truex being in the chase instead of Newman.

In addition, NASCAR's bogus criteria for the tiebreaker leads much to be desired as well. It is not an easy thing for the public to review second-place finishes throughout the year. NASCAR doesn't even include that as a category on its statistics page. That may explain why they used to determine a tiebreaker by top 5's and top 10's. If that were the criteria, Newman would have edged out Truex.

Martin Truex Jr. in the 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup

Statistics for Martin Truex Jr. in 2013 Final Rank    Points  747 High Finish  1 Races  26 Bonus Points  11 Low Finish  41 Wins  1 Poles  0 Total Laps Led  255 Top 5 Finishes  6 Average Finish  15.69 % of Laps Led  3.45% Top 10 Finishes  11 Average Start  12.8 Total Laps  6,998 Top 20 Finishes  19 DNF's  3 % of Laps  94.77% Ryan Newman in the 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Statistics for Ryan Newman in 2013 Final Rank    Points  741 High Finish  1 Races  26 Bonus Points  13 Low Finish  40 Wins  1 Poles  1 Total Laps Led  84 Top 5 Finishes  6 Average Finish  16.00 % of Laps Led  1.14% Top 10 Finishes  12 Average Start  16.7 Total Laps  6,972 Top 20 Finishes  19 DNF's  5 % of Laps  94.42%

Newman had 12 top 10 finishes and one pole, while Truex had 11 top 10's and no poles. They each had 6 top 5's.

Isn't it time NASCAR polices its own sport before it ceases to exist?

Fun with Ryan Newman rumors

Rumors are flying about where NASCAR driver Ryan Newman will drive next year.

Newman learned in July that he would no longer be driving for Stewart-Haas Racing when this year concludes. He has been working toward a deal for next year, but the results are not yet known.

The speculation is running rampant, so let me add my two-cents worth.

According to the latest news and information, Jeff Burton, driver of the #31 car, has announced he will no longer drive for Richard Childress Racing, (RCR). His car was sponsored by Caterpillar, which has allegedly said they will stay with RCR. The nickname for Caterpillar is CAT. Rumors have been swirling about Newman driving for RCR next year.

My cat, above, is named Ryan Newman. I have three others named for NASCAR drivers, but that is another story for another day. You have to see where I'm going here...

So, according to my deduction, Ryan Newman will drive the Cat car in 2014. Oh yeah! I'd be good with that!

Gene Haas showed no class in fast-tracked racing deal

For all intents and purposes, Stewart-Haas Racing, (SHR) has sewn up the  oose ends on the 2014 racing season, long before this season has concluded. If nothing else, the timing of this deal and the publicity surrounding it, does not show much class on the part of team co-owner Gene Haas. 

Did he have to sign Kurt Busch for next year even while Ryan Newman, SHR's only chance for a run at a championship THIS YEAR fights to make the Chase for the Championship? At the moment, Newman is 15th in points, but holds one of the wildcard spots because he won the race at Indianapolis at the end of last month. Newman's points status does not reflect his driving ability. It more closely reflects his bad luck. Saturday night at Bristol, Newman was in great contention for a top-five or better showing until he got caught up in a bizarre wreck toward the end of the night--typical Newman luck.

Apparently Newman has been written off by his owner

Despite company claims that boast "teamwork and family," the Busch deal shows none of that. 

SHR's purpose "to deliver excellence to fans, partners and employees," as well as conducting themselves with "professionalism and integrity," seems to have taken a backseat as well. 

Haas is obviously not a team player, evidenced not only by what was done to Newman, who was told there was no money for a fourth team just weeks before Busch was hired to drive a fourth car, but what was done to Haas' co-owner Tony Stewart. 

According to reports from the press conference to announce the deal, competition director Greg Zipadelli said Stewart was in the hospital and didn't even know the Kurt Busch deal was happening. This entire thing took place after Stewart broke his right leg in a Sprint Car crash Aug. 5 in Iowa. 

It is easy to see that Ryan Newman/Stewart-Haas fans feel not only that SHR failed to deliver to its employees and fans, but that Newman and his fans were betrayed. The forums at SHR are filled with disgruntled, disappointed race fans that vow they will follow Newman wherever he lands in 2014. 

As a Newman fan, I wish him the best of luck to finish out this season with the kind of dignity he continues to display. He deserves better than he's gotten. 

I look forward to a good run at Atlanta and Richmond, and a successful Chase for the Championship. I remain anxious to hear how next season will play out for Newman. 

I wish Tony well in his recovery. A broken leg is a very painful experience with a long healing time. 

As for Haas and Busch, I just hope Gene has lots of money invested for damaged race cars. Busch is certainly a capable driver, albeit a tad wreckless. All this just adds to the drama that is NASCAR.

Stewart-Haas Racing really did screw Ryan Newman

I'm shocked.

So the rumors are true. Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) really is wooing Kurt Busch to be the driver for a fourth team in 2014. This was just weeks after Tony Stewart, the "S" in SHR told his friend Ryan Newman they were letting Newman go because they had no interest in starting a fourth team. I didn't believe the rumors. I wouldn't believe that Stewart was capable of screwing his friend that way.

I was so wrong. I've seen the video of Greg Zipadelli, SHR competition director admit that Gene Haas, the "H" in SHR wanted Kurt Busch to drive for him. Apparently Newman was a second choice; Haas wanted Busch last year.

I refused to believe that any business as public as Stewart-Haas Racing, one that is so reliant on the public for support, would screw one of their own in the full light of day. By all appearances, Stewart-Haas Racing, for which I once held in such high esteem, now appears to be nothing more than any other ruthless, heartless company that puts its bottom line high over the people it employs.

This move certainly puts a great big black mark on my view of NASCAR, racing, and SHR.

I know I am nobody in the large scheme of things; but I am just like all the other nobodies out there that claim to be racing fans, but dislike this way of doing business. Putting dollar signs over personnel is just bad business in the long run.

I admit it; I'm a fool for not seeing the handwriting on the wall

When the talk about Kurt Busch being offered a deal with SHR began, I refused to believe it. I figured this was just more of Kurt Busch grandstanding; staging a publicity stunt to make himself more marketable because he knew he was going to be a free agent.

I admit; I'm a fool. The handwriting was on the wall, but I refused to see it.

When Stewart left Joe Gibbs Racing to co-own SHR, he left behind his long time friend, Greg Zipadelli. I should have known then that loyalty didn't matter.

When SHR fired Darian Grubb in 2011 even after Tony Stewart earned the Championship trophy Grubb helped him win, I should have known.

When Stewart offered Newman only a one year contract last year, I should have known.

Then earlier this year when talk of Kevin Harvick replacing Newman began; I should have known.

According to the latest information, Busch is also being courted by Furniture Row Racing, where he now works. This one will be interesting to follow.

And where does that leave Ryan Newman?

I can tell you this, wherever Newman lands next year, this 'nobody' will still be a fan!

C'mon media, give Ryan Newman a break!

Ryan Newman 

One week ago, Ryan Newman beat Jimmy Johnson to the checkered flag. The media seemed to roll all over itself with glee at the possibility that Newman could perform such an awesome feat. That just shows how little they know about him. Perhaps if they weren't so busy fawning all over Johnson, Danica, and Junior, they might notice the effort made by some of the other drivers.

I'm here to tell you, that it was not a colossal feat that Newman won the prestigious Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis last week. For those of us that follow his career, we know that it was just a matter of time before he bested the field. We were pleased as punch, though not surprised at all. Newman has far more talent than anyone in the broadcasting booth apparently recognizes.

That said, it was wonderful to finally watch the media not ignore Newman, which is usually the case, or worst yet, accentuate instances like his dust-up with Kyle Busch recently when Busch called Newman an ogre. Often times Newman is involved in a racing incident that is not of his making. The media is quick to assign blame only to clarify it later after the damage has been done.

Their latest harangue is about Newman being congratulated by well-wishers, but receiving no sponsorship offers. Oh please! This is barely August. There is lots of racing to go. Anyone who thinks potential sponsors are going to call Newman on the phone to play 'let's make a deal' in the middle of the racing season is fooling themselves. Any deals will be made among the driver, a potential team, and the sponsor's go-to guy, will take place long before it is ever made public. Give the guy a break for pete's sake. Let him enjoy his win and work on the next one before adding to the pressure of a very pressured situation. Newman is thoroughly engaged in the 2013 racing season. That has to be his priority for now.

Offers will come when the time is right. Ryan Newman will be just fine. He is a talented driver, even when the media doesn't notice.

Related articles

• Indiana's Newman wins at Brickyard from pole
• First at the start, first at the finish; Ryan Newman wins at the Brickyard
• MST: Ryan Newman wins Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis
• Ryan Newman wins the 2013 Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway
• Newman: Indy win "gives us more hope" of making Chase

First at the start, first at the finish; Ryan Newman wins at the Brickyard

Sweet victory! 

Ryan Newman wins at the Brickyard

All members of the media flocked to interview Ryan Newman after his stellar performance Sunday that resulted in a win at the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway. They had all but written Newman off for this season, fresh on the news that he was losing his ride at Stewart-Haas Racing next year. They barely even mentioned his name week after week. 

That fact has been bothersome to me, as someone who has watched Newman's career over the last ten years. I've written about it often in CHonTrack. While I will admit that--as Newman alluded to in his post-race statement, the moons have not always been aligned--a lackluster finish isn't always a question of driving prowess. I have never doubted his ability. Newman always gives it his all. He always gets the most out of his race car, but admittedly he doesn't always have a winning car nor does he have the greatest luck. The moons were certainly right on Sunday. 

Newman has a trifecta or sorts

Ryan Newman had a great week that began Wednesday with a really good finish at Eldora Speedway, the Ohio track owned by Tony Stewart, when Newman drove a truck there as NASCAR returned to racing's dirt track roots. Then on Friday, Newman set a new track record at Indianapolis Motor Speedway's 2.5-mile track in 47.992 seconds. That translated to 187.531 mph. He topped Jimmy Johnson's qualifying effort which was also record-breaking by .024 seconds, to put him in the pole position for Sunday's race. Then on Sunday he won the race in spectacular fashion.

Johnson didn't lose the race in the pits; Newman simply beat him

Television pundits couldn't help themselves. More than once, in the same breath that they reported Newman's victory, they attributed it to Jimmy Johnson's final pit stop, a few seconds longer than normal. They audaciously claimed it was just enough to allow Newman to win. 

That certainly isn't my perspective. Not only did Newman drive his heart out, but he bested Johnson's lap times often in those closing laps just as he did in qualifying. Best commentator--Dale Jarrett, who fairly reported on Ryan's run. Not so much for Rusty Wallace, Newman's former teammate who flat out doesn't like Newman. 

To be a Ryan Newman fan

There is no better feeling than watching those moons align. There was something about watching the race Sunday that was magical. It felt just right. Watching Ryan leading laps from the start, getting shuffled back during green-flag pit stops, only to return to the lead, was a thrill. If someone would ask me what else went on during the race, I wouldn't be able to answer. I was completely fixated to the television, as I listened to Ryan's radio, watched his travel times, monitored Twitter, and tuned into Race Buddy to watch Jimmy Johnson's camera feed. Through Johnson's windshield I could watch Ryan motor his Quicken Loans Chevy far ahead of the field. 

Watching those final laps were similar to those at Daytona in 2008 when Ryan won the Daytona 500. 

Ryan's father Greg was spotting for him, just like at Daytona. To hear the excitement in Greg's voice as he told his son, "You've got this," was so exhilarating. 

I've never met Ryan Newman, but as a fan who has followed his career for ten years, I almost feel as if I know him. There is a familiarity that is almost akin to a close friendship or family member. The feelings are similar; they just aren't reciprocated. The empathy is certainly the same. The tears flowed because someone I am fond of, was experiencing a great moment. So, for me, it was a great moment too.

Ryan Newman is a graceful winner. 

Once Ryan was directed to Victory Lane and he emerged from his car, he demonstrated his humility and character. Ryan is well-spoken, respectful, a smile that is so genuine. He has an exceptional sense of humor and knows how to express himself. When asked what those last laps were like, he likened the last ten to his daughter, Brooklyn's learning her numbers. He said counting down from 10 laps to go was so slow and he lost track of which lap he was on. 

It was wonderful to see Ryan, his wife Krissie, their two daughters, Brooklyn and Ashlyn, the reaction from Tony Stewart, congratulations from other drivers, the often elusive media as they followed his every move, the traditional kissing of the bricks. I can only imagine the family celebration that would follow.

Ryan didn't just win a race; he won a race at the Brickyard

Winning his first race of the year was of course memorable. But winning a race at the Brickyard, (Indianapolis Motor Speedway) was a dream come true for Newman. He is an Indiana native, growing up in South Bend, less than 200 miles from the famed race track. The Brickyard is his home track. He attended races there as a boy. It was also Greg's dream to see his son win at Indy. That has to be part of the joy for Newman, to do this for his dad. From all appearances, the Newmans are a close, loving family that sacrificed plenty for their son's racing career. 

More than that, Newman is awed by this race track and the drivers that have crossed that same finish line before him--some of his heroes and mentors. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the oldest race track in the country and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 

Ryan Newman wins in spectacular fashion as this year marked the 20th anniversary of NASCAR at Indy. The first race was held there in 1994, so Newman won the 20th running at the Brickyard to go with his 50th running of the Daytona 500. 

When Newman was asked in Victory Lane what it felt like to achieve his dream, he said it didn't sink in yet. I just hope he can revel in it as long as possible because in so many ways, I've always known that Ryan Newman is a winner!

Ryan Newman speaks his peace at Talladega; is he right?

Who can blame Ryan Newman for being upset when a car once again lands on top of his race car after doing barrel rolls in the last laps of the race Sunday at Talladega Superspeedway? 

In a crazy closing laps crash caused by Ricky Stenhouse misjudging 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 in the melee.

"They can build safer race cars, they can build safer walls. 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. 

"That's no way to end a race. Our car was much better than that. That's just poor judgment in restarting the race, poor judgment ... I mean, you got what you wanted but poor judgment and running in the dark and running in the rain. That's it, thank you," Newman said.

NASCAR will likely not take kindly to Newman's remarks following the race at Talladega. They will probably attribute his statement to his anger over a poor finish that resulted in Newman's top 5 potential turning into a 32nd place finish. Undoubtedly there is that, but that is only part of it. Newman has long been frustrated about NASCAR's inability to keep the cars from getting airborne. Indeed there have been numerous instances of racecars flying into other cars and even with parts flying into the stands injuring fans. There seems to be no real solution in sight--just bandaid fixes. 

NASCAR has a history of penalizing and fining drivers that make remarks they deem to be disparaging. They have been wrong in the past and they will likely be wrong again if they penalize Newman for speaking the truth. 

Perhaps it is time for NASCAR to stop worrying so much about appearances, stop thinking about racing as just another stunt show, and start getting concerned with the safety and the future of racing in general. 

Ryan Newman showed finesse at Fontana

Photo, courtesy of Jerry Conner

This season's California race was the best I've seen in years. While it was not without drama, it was filled with excellent side-by-side racing and passing, which is something that races have lacked of late. Not the case Sunday at Fontana.

The finish was in the hands of the drivers, which was all too evidenced by my fave, Ryan Newman, driver of the #39 Wix Chevrolet. Newman had a hard day at the beginning with a fast car but some handling issues. He overcame a speeding penalty on pit road as well as a boneheaded mistake when his pit crew that not only negated the chassis changes he needed, but they turned the track bar the wrong way, worsening the handling. Newman and his team persevered though, turning it around with a tenth-place finish. Not only that, his crew chief Matt Borland won the season's first MOOG Problem Solver of the Race award. The award is sponsored by global vehicle components manufacturer Federal-Mogul Corporation.

According to Market Watch in the Wall Street Journal, "the award is presented to the crew chief whose car posts the greatest improvement in average lap time during the second half of the race while finishing on the lead lap. Newman and the 39 Chevrolet topped the field with a 0.354-second improvement over the final 100 laps to finish 10th at Fontana."

Congratulations to Ryan Newman and Matt Borland, his crew chief. The two were reunited at the end of last season. Newman, with Borland on the pit box won 12 races together at Penske Racing between 2002 and 2005. 

Since coming together at Stewart-Haas Racing, the duo has earned three top-10s in five starts - including a fifth-place finish in this year's Daytona 500. They have much to overcome however, since the races at Phoenix and Las Vegas ended with DNF's due to tire issues and an engine failure. 

Newman now stands in 20th position, up three spots and on the rise.

Getting accustomed to empty Sundays

NASCAR's off-season this year, seems a little less painful than in years past when I couldn't stand waking up on a Sunday morning without the prospect of satisfying my racing fix. This year was different. I almost relished the end to this racing year. There was plenty of aggravation during the 2012 season. 

Perhaps my disfavor can be explained by the less than stellar performance of my favorite driver--Ryan Newman. Don't get me wrong--I am as big a Newman fan as ever--but I recognize that everybody has an off year sometimes. After all, he had plenty going on to distract him this year. Not only was he in line for a new contract with Stewart-Haas Racing, but sponsorship for the 2013 season was precarious when the U.S. Army decided not to back the #39 car due to budget constraints. I'm really not too upset about that, by the way. He and Krissie were also preparing for a new addition to their family. All that can weigh on a guy. Once Ryan's contract was settled, sponsors stepped up and Ashlyn, the Newmans' second child was born, Ryan seemed to be back to his old self, ending the season with four top 15 races; the last two were top fives.

I have to say that despite Newman's end-game rally, I did not enjoy the 2012 Chase for the Sprint Championship. Though I continued to watch each race, it was not with my normal enthusiasm. In fact I even wrote recently about favoring an end to the Chase. During this season, and frankly leading up to it, NASCAR rulings haven't always been fair or consistent; results of the championship run were way too predictable; and Ryan didn't make the chase. Truthfully, by the time the season concluded, I was actually ready for a racing respite.

I must have gotten over it, because sometime after Homestead I input Feb. 24, 2013 into my desktop calendar. I am counting down to the start of the season and the Daytona 500, just 48 days away now.

I just learned however, that due to NASCAR's latest rules, not only will Newman not be participating in the Shootout, but neither will this year's champion, Brad Kezelowski or Clint Bowyer, who finished second in points. What is up with that? NASCAR seems to go out of its way to make aggravating decisions--at least as far as I'm concerned.

I just can't help but wonder, if Dale Earnhardt, Jr. hadn't won a pole in 2012, I wonder how the rules would have been tweaked to accommodate...just sayin!

It is one thing for my personal disappointment that Newman won't be included in the Shootout, but the Champion?

While the Shootout isn't a points race, it is a fan favorite. I'm just not so sure this year, this fan will be watching!

Newman and Borland back together again

NASCAR driver Ryan Newman
gets ready to race
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I couldn't be more excited about the news that Matt Borland will once again team up with Ryan Newman in 2013. This has been my hope since Borland came to Stewart-Haas Racing. See: Who lit the match igniting the fire in Stewart-Haas Racing?

I don't for one minute expect instant success here, but I do see the potential to ramp up to that--perhaps to the level the two enjoyed in the past. They have a track record--pun intended--as a very successful team.

Normally, the notion of starting with a brand new team would be a frightening prospect. But in this case, I think a change was in order. While I don't know and can't even speculate about the cause, I have detected a lack of cohesiveness between Newman and his team. Blunders on pit road have cost Newman precious spots on the track; changes to balance the car have often resulted in worsened conditions; and Newman has even become rather testy on the radio. That is totally uncharacteristic for him which indicates there is a real problem.

While Crew Chief Tony Gibson will be moving to the #10 car as Crew Chief for Danica Patrick, the entire #39 team is going with him. There still has been no mention about who will make up the other members of the #39 race team. This will probably mean a longer transition. I can wait.

Basically, Newman will be starting from scratch next year. With a few more races this season and the change taking place this weekend at Martinsville, we may get a sneak peek at what he will be up against.

This won't be a slam-dunk for Borland. As competition director at Stewart-Haas Racing, I wonder if he has physically had his head and hands under the hood. I hope he can adapt easily to the every-changing landscape that is NASCAR's new car. He will have to play catch up for a while since all the other crew chiefs that have been working with the COT (car of tomorrow). Then there are all the changes implemented by NASCAR's iron-fisted control of the sport along with mandates and rule changes. Borland will have to learn to cope with the changing priorities that has caused the cars to be virtually identical, resulting in boring racing, and evidenced by the number of empty seats at the track.

Still, I happen to like watching racing. And I love watching Ryan Newman race.  I see challenges ahead, but overall, I'm excited to watch these two work together. I want to see Newman back in Victory Lane. If Borland can help get that done, that would be ideal.

Time for a Ryan Newman win!

Ryan Newman stands beside his #39 Army Chevrolet Impala.  (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

As far as I'm concerned, I don't care about the Chase for the Sprint Cup Championship.

It was several weeks ago, at Bristol when I the wind left my sails. When Juan Pablo Montoya wrecked Ryan Newman, I knew Newman's chances to compete for a championship were over. Up until that point, every moment of every race was exciting.

Now that I'm over it, I'm excited again. Since Bristol, Newman was wrecked at Atlanta when Jimmy Johnson got into him, but in the last three races, Newman has finished in the top 5 and twice in the top 10. In my psyche, I am treating these last races like any other. I really don't care who wins the championship. All of the drivers are potential winners. It would be nice to be Tony Stewart, but to do it, he'd have to repeat his performance from last season--winning five of the ten chase races. I can't see anyone, not even him, ever doing that again.

I was really concerned before Newman signed his contract with Stewart-Haas Racing, but in reality, Stewart wouldn't let him go. Gene Haas has already sponsored Newman's car several times in the last several years. He can afford it, so I'm not really worried that Newman will not have sponsored races. Newman is personable, jovial, and any sponsor would be proud to have him for a spokesman.

As a Ryan Newman fan, I'm all good with what is going on. I will be sorry to see this season end, but there is always that excitement when Speed weeks comes along. In the meantime, I'm looking for another win. Newman seems to be itching for it; so is Tony Gibson. The performance on pit road seems to have improved. Pit stops are competitive. The finishes are there. The drive is there. It is time for a win!

Ryan Newman is off the charts; not a good thing!

Ryan Newman courtesy of Quicken Loans

Despite a streak of hideously bad luck in the last two races that virtually destroyed Newman's chances at a place in the Chase for the Sprint Cup Championship, there is good news for Ryan Newman this week.

It has just been reported that he will sign a one-year extension with Stewart-Haas Racing.

That has to be a load off Newman's mind, given the fact that his primary sponsor, the U.S. Army has gone AWOL on him. To further complicate issues, last week Office Depot announced they will no longer sponsor Tony Stewart's #14 car. This leaves a giant hole in the money side of things at Stewart-Haas Racing. Speculation was high that Stewart would abandon Newman's #39 car and use his Newman's other sponsors--Tornado, WIX Filters, and Quicken Loans on the #14.

It has been reported however, that Stewart-Haas will continue its plan to sponsor three cars in the 2013 season. The third will be driven by Danica Patrick, who comes with her already pre-ordained sponsor, GoDaddy.

There is still one more chance, albeit a long shot, that Newman can make the Chase. The only way is for him to win this, the final race of the regular season, at Richmond. It is certainly possible and he will certainly give it his best shot.

Newman has won a race at Richmond, though not since 2004. He has, however, led 437 laps in 21 starts, with no DNF's.

Newman finds himself in this untenable position because of the circumstances at Bristol two weeks ago when Juan Pablo Montoya stole his chances in an intentional shove that sent Newman spinning. Then last week at Atlanta, Newman was squeezed into the wall by Jimmy Johnson who as Newman put it, 'ran out of talent.'

Prior to the first incident, Newman was poised to get into the Chase on points. His DNF (do not finish) relegated him to 15th in the standings. That dropped further after his race car was destroyed in the second incident.

Good luck and may the force be with Ryan Newman Saturday night at Richmond.

Bristol larceny by Juan Pablo Montoya

The night started out with such promise. Night races at Bristol are always exciting. I never dreamed that less than 200 laps into it, all hope and promise would be dashed.

I am a Ryan Newman fan and Saturday night was devastating! Not only did my favorite driver, Ryan Newman, driver of the Stewart-Haas Racing #39 car get wrecked, but his chances to make the Chase for the Sprint Cup Championship were likely wrecked as well.

It would be one thing if it were as crew chief Tony Gibson had noted in the aftermath of the melee, which included a desperate attempt to repair the devastated race car, but I just don't think he or Newman really knew what had happened.

When asked what Ryan had said, Gibson replied, "Well he just said somebody got into the left-rear of him and cut the left-rear tire. The lap before that he started getting really loose and then the very next lap, it just turned around on him. So, he didn’t say anything about the No. 42 car. I think we were going to spin out no matter what with that left-rear tire. By the time we saw it he has already spun. It’s a shame.

The following video of the incident tells a very different story.

I heard the radio transmission and can verify that is what Newman said, but that isn't what my eyes saw.

We all saw Juan Pablo Montoya intentionally run into Newman. And it isn't the first time. It also happened last year at Darlington. This time though, Montoya's antics were really costly to Newman, probably costing him a spot in the Chase.

Newman isn't the only Target of the driver of the Target car. Montoya, in my view, is a menace!

Ryan Newman holds wildcard

Ryan Newman prepares to race
photo courtesy of Quicken Loans

Even while battling a bout with the flu, Ryan Newman wheeled his way to an impressive 8th place finish Sunday at Michigan International Speedway. It was enough to put an exclamation point on his hard-earned  wildcard spot as he contends for the Chase for the Sprint Cup Championship.

I admit feeling a little queasy when I learned Newman had the flu and that a backup driver was standing by. My nerves were settled however when I heard his resolve during a pre-race interview with Wendy Venturini. He sounded la bit under the weather but said he would feel better when settled into the seat behind the wheel of his race car.

As I listened to most of the pre-race coverage, I was struck by the total lack of coverage about Newman being in the wildcard spot. After all, he had the most points of drivers outside the top 10 that had won a race. He was among good company; most notably Jeff Gordon and Kyle Busch. Even Joey Logano and Marcos Ambrose were considered in close contention. Nearly all of them were mentioned extensively, except for Newman who actually held the spot. It was almost as if Newman was just simply replaceable by one of those other elite drivers.

It kinda ticks me off to hear this kind of banter. It is blatantly unfair to Newman who is certainly as capable, if not more so, than any of those other drivers.

That's OK; he showed them as he fought his way to finish in the top 10 which keeps him in the wildcard spot.

I think I would fall off my chair if I ever heard Newman's name uttered in any sort of positive light by his former teammate Rusty Wallace, who is now an ESPN commentator. We all know that Ryan and Rusty are not friends, but Rusty is in the news business now. He should put his personal feelings aside and man up to a little journalistic integrity. His bias shouldn't be so blatant.

I wonder what races would be like if real sports journalists called races instead of guys with long histories and relationships with specific drivers or teams. Never mind--NASCAR won't let that happen.

It is worth saying that while Rusty Wallace is an example of the most biased, I think Kyle Petty does a decent job. He is probably the most fair of the talking heads.

Still, I can't help but wonder how many times during race day coverage is the name "Jeff Gordon" or "Dale Earnhardt, Jr." invoked, in comparison with mention of "Ryan Newman."

Congratulations to Greg Biffle, who won the Michigan race. Biffle tries hard and is deserving. Not only was it nice to see Greg Biffle in Victory Lane, but it was very sweet to see Ryan Newman remain in the Chase standings.

Dale Earnhardt, Jr. to benefit from Federal spending

Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s #88 Nat'l Guard car

It seemed almost certain that the U.S. House of Representatives would nix federal spending in the form of military sponsorships in NASCAR.

After all, a House committee in a bi-partisan effort voted to ban such multi-million dollar frivolities. At the eleventh hour though, the amendment was withdrawn and spending for NASCAR sponsorships were allowed to continue.

While Dale Earnhardt, Jr. whose #88 car is sponsored by the National Guard, was a major beneficiary of the House of Representatives' change in thinking, that wasn't the case with Ryan Newman's #39 U.S. Army-sponsored race car.

Too late for Ryan Newman

Ryan Newman's #39 U.S. Army carJust a week before the final vote was taken on Capital Hill, the U.S. Army decided to withdraw sponsorship at Stewart-Haas Racing, the team that fields Newman's car, at the end of this season.

It is true that Junior's season has been the best he's had in recent years. He even won a race in June at Michigan, the first since 2008. He has shown consistency this season, evident by his being in second place in the points standings.

It is also true that even though Newman won at Martinsville in April, he has been in a slump since then.

Junior has one thing Newman will never have though--his infamous father. Dale Earnhardt has arguably been called the greatest NASCAR driver ever. He was certainly the most popular driver, which is a title his son has inherited.

Dale Earnhardt, Jr. has received benefits before because of his last name. He is looked upon as the golden boy. NASCAR announcers rarely miss an opportunity to sing his praises, sometimes when they are not even deserved.

Newman is the polar opposite; his achievements often go unnoticed.

I make no accusations, but it is not out of the realm of possibility that a little lobbying by NASCAR brass on Junior's behalf could have taken place just to keep him in the National Guard car. This wouldn't be the first time NASCAR has exerted favortism Junior's way.

The bottom line is that Newman is again the guy on the outside looking in--the one who has to try harder, just to achieve that equal footing. Not only is the loss of the U.S. Army as a sponsor troublesome for Newman, but the loss could be career-changing. Newman's contract is up at the end of this season. He has already been warned that if sponsorship cannot be found for next year, he may lose his ride at Stewart-Haas Racing.

There are certainly places he could go, and with his driving abilityt, he would be able to land a premier ride, but if nothing else, such uncertainty is a major distraction for someone on the border line of not making the top 12 in the NASCAR points ranking.

As a Newman fan, this is all just disheartening, especially since I know what my favorite driver is capable of. There remains plenty of time to turn it around before the Chase for the Championship is set. I can only feel for what Newman must be going through.

U.S. Army to retire as NASCAR sponsor

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The handwriting has been on the wall, though it has been made official that at the end of this year, NASCAR sponsorship by the U.S. Military will end. Though it has only been the U.S. Army that has made the announcement, other branches of the armed forces will probably follow soon.

The U.S. Army has been a primary sponsor for Ryan Newman's #39 car since 2009 when he came to drive for the fledgling Stewart-Haas Racing, (SHR) team The U.S. Army had participated in sponsorship in some capacity for the past 10 years.

The end to the army's sponsorship in NASCAR comes about as the House Appropriations Committee last month approved an amendment to the Defense Authorization Bill to end military sponsorship in sports venues in an effort to trim military spending. A similar effort in the previous bill failed, but this year has gotten traction.

Newman's contract is up at the end of this year

With the end of Newman's contract with SHR in sight, his future is uncertain. Co-owner Tony Stewart has already said signing a contract with Newman in 2013 is dependent on sponsorship. He already gave Newman the option to explore other opportunities.

While I'm not worried that Newman will find a ride next year, anything other than SHR would be less than desirable in my view. He and Stewart work well together. SHR seemed the ideal fit for Newman.

I have to admit that I have never been comfortable with the U.S. Army or any other tax-supported sponsorship in NASCAR. But, you pick your battles; so I admit compromising my principles on this one, since Newman is my favorite driver.

Principally, I oppose spending tax dollars for sports in any capacity. I  was also against the GOP giving track owners $100 million in perks through earmarks in the stimulus bill in 2008.

In NASCAR, it really is all about the money. 

I don't believe money is solely the driving force behind Newman. He is a racer; motivated by his life-long love of racing. That is why it is ironic and sad that money and ultimately the sponsorship of his race team must now take such a high profile in his career.

By the way, remember how great it looked to see Bass Pro Shops on Newman's car at Darlington earlier this year? Could there be a better fit for Ryan Newman than Bass Pro Shops? Fishing is his go to activity when he isn't on the race track? Ryan has such a love of outdoors and has donated so much of his own time and money to the these activities, not to mention the work his foundation does with dogs and cats. Therefore, wouldn't it be logical to see his race car sponsored by a Cabelas or Lowrance, Ranger Boats, Triton Boats, Evinrude, Mercury Marine or a myriad other companies that have to do with his favorite pastime?

Perhaps other companies that he deals with could also lend a hand; companies like Iams, Purina, Eukanuba, and others that reflect his personal and professional interests.

Newman has done plenty to promote his favorite products Perhaps it is time for them all to return the favor.


Related articles at chontrack

• Ryan Newman belongs in the #39 car 
• Congress may kill NASCAR's military sponsorships 
• Could Ryan Newman find himself a free agent again? 

Congress may kill NASCAR's military sponsorships

NASCAR may fall victim to the government's effort to whittle its spending. 

The House Appropriations Committee approved an amendment to the defense authorization bill Thursday that would prohibit military sponsorships in NASCAR and other sporting venues. If the bill is signed into law with the amendment in-tact, it would directly impact NASCAR's most popular driver Dale Earnhardt, Jr., who relies on the National Guard to partially sponsor his car; Ryan Newman's #39 U.S. Army Car; and Aric Amirola's Air Force sponsorship. All of the armed forces over the years have participated in NASCAR sponsorship.

House Republicans are in budget-slashing mode. 

U.S. Rep. Jack Kingston, R-Georgia, followed his party line when he offered the amendment to ban the pentagon's spending for NASCAR sponsorships. It is ironic that such a proposal would come from a congressman from the south, where NASCAR originated and still holds a high ranking. There is an tendency for NASCAR fans to be the God  and guns crowd, evidenced by the opening prayer before each race, and a preponderance of right-wing politicians who often times make an appearance in front of the camera on race day.

Kingston seems to think NASCAR fans will understand the cost-cutting measure, though he may underestimate their loyalty to the sport. Already Earnhardt, Jr. has invited Kingston to the track to learn more about how sponsorship benefits the military.

Kingston's bill is bi-partisan, and is co-sponsored by Betty McCollum, D-Minnesota, who attempted to ban the NASCAR funding last year, but failed. See my previous post: Ryan Newman's U.S. Army sponsorship questioned.

In 2010, not only were race teams sponsored by the military, but congressional earmarks provided perks to NASCAR track owners. 

Irreparable harm to Ryan Newman.

If the defense cuts remain in-tact, it could complicate what appears to be Ryan Newman's already tenuous sponsorship position at Stewart-Haas Racing. Just last week, the public learned that co-owner Tony Stewart told Newman he was free to pursue other options at the end of this, the final year of his contract, if sponsorship for his race car for 2013 was not settled. Stewart did say he wanted Newman back next year.

I can only hope that Stewart's remarks were based on prior knowledge of the potential loss of the U.S. Army's sponsorship status. I'd hate to think Stewart learned about this funding situation on top of an existing problem. Stewart said at the time that Newman's team had not been fully funded during the three years he has raced for Stewart-Haas Racing. Co-owner Gene Haas of Haas Automation picked up the unfunded races. Stewart-Haas is a fledgeling company co-owned by Stewart, who also performs as a driver, for which he has earned his third championship. Stewart and Newman are personal friends, which has to complicate this situation.

As a Ryan Newman fan, I'm torn

As a Newman fan, it is hard to imagine Newman not driving for Stewart-Haas, should the worst case scenario actually occur. I admit that I had some reservations when Stewart announced the U.S. Army would sponsor Newman's race team. I am a big Newman fan, but I am also a taxpayer whose personal budget is much more precarious than that of the country. This presents a real dilemma for me. I'm sure others feel the same way. I am torn between wanting to see Newman on the track, with the best equipment, winning races. But there is also that ill feeling I get when I think about my tax dollars helping to support  multi-million dollar race teams. As much as I adore Ryan Newman, affording to live must take precedence over my enjoyment of watching Newman race. 

Money is reality

Newman is a racer; motivated by his life-long love of racing. I do not believe money is what drives him, so it is ironic and very sad that money and ultimately the sponsorship of his race team must now take a high profile in his career. It is also sad that money has to play a part of my enjoyment in watching him race. I would hate to see Newman have to settle for a less than superior race team or equipment. He's one of the best and works for one of the best. I cannot imagine what his options are, because he is in such a good place right where he is. Yet, I understand Stewart's position as well. I am just hopeful that one of the gazillion products we see and use every day will pony up to get their name plastered all over the #39 car. Perhaps I will start writing a few letters. 

By the way, it was great to see Bass Pro Shops on Newman's car at Darlington. Could there be a better fit for Ryan Newman than Bass Pro Shops?

In addition, there is always Cabelas or Lowrance, Ranger Boats, Triton Boats, Evinrude, Mercury Marine or a myriad other companies that have to do with fishing and hunting, which Newman enjoys so much. Then there are his other interests, like Iams, Purina, Eukanuba, and other companies that might want to support not just his racing venture, but his other interests as well.

Newman has done plenty to promote his favorite products Perhaps it is time for them all to return the favor.

Could Ryan Newman find himself a free agent again?

Will Ryan Newman drive for Stewart-Haas Racing next year?

There have been hints that the unthinkable--Ryan with a different race team--could become reality, if permanent sponsorship for Newman's race team isn't found. Tony Stewart has apparently told Ryan that he is free to keep his options open. Newman's contract expires at the end of this season. SB Nation reported that Stewart wants to keep Ryan as his teammate, but that in the three years Newman has been at Stewart-Haas, his races have never been fully funded. Haas Automation, owned by Gene Haas, the team owner, has picked up the races that remained without a sponsor. Various companies have offered sponsorship for a limited number of races, but no one sponsor exists for the entire racing schedule.

I admit--I didn't see this one coming.

The added pressure of uncertainty about next year might explain the underlying frustration affecting the #39 team. It is difficult to say, however, because the #39 team's performance hasn't been up to its usual caliber either. The question then is, did frustration affect the team's performance or did poor performance result in the team's frustration?

There have been 11 races run so far in the 2012 season. With one win, two top 5's and three top 10's, the team's average finish was only 16.5. Of those, one was a DNF (did not finish) when an engine blew at Talladega early into the race.

Newman had a rough start to the season, finishing 21st at Daytona and Phoenix. At Las Vegas though, he finished 4th, followed by a 12th place finish at Bristol and 7th place at California and the win at Martinsville. Since that time though, there have been issues.

Newman was in the position to win at Martinsville, but he pulled it off by capitalizing on mistakes made by Clint Bowyer, Jeff Gordon, and Jimmy Johnson.

At Texas, Johnson complained that Newman was racing him too hard. See: Still complaining? Give me a break Jimmy Johnson. Newman finished 21st. At Kansas Newman made an unscheduled pit stop to change tires. He was unable to advance further than a 20th place finish. Newman eaked out a 15th place finish at Richmond, despite an ill-handling race car. Engine troubles ended the race for the #39 team early at Talladega. Darlington resulted in a 23rd place finish, thanks in part to a crash late in the race.

It was at Darlington that an incident involving Kurt Busch has brought further frustration to the race team.

Busch crashed his Phoenix Racing Team #51 car late in the race. As part of that incident, Newman checked up to avoid hitting him, causing Newman to get hit from behind, sending his #39 car spinning into the inside wall.

While Newman was on the track, Busch allegedly did a burnout through Newman's pit box, while the crew was still on pit road, which could have compromised the safety of some of the crew members from the #39 team. Following the race, #39 team members went looking for Busch.

As a result of his actions, Busch was fined $50,000 by NASCAR and put on probation, for wreckless driving. One of his crew members was fined $5,000 and put on probation until Dec. 31 for interfering with a cameraman. In the melee that followed, NASCAR fined Newman's gas man Andrew Rueger $5,000. He too was put on probation as was Newman's Crew Chief who according to NASCAR should be responsible for the team's actions.

Again, I'm stunned. I felt that Stewart-Haas Racing, Tony Stewart, and Ryan Newman were an excellent fit.

I just can't help but wonder about the timing of this "sponsorship" issue, which has never been a problem. There was always a non-committal, almost lackadaisical attitude about it.

I can't help but wonder, in revisiting the above story about Jimmy Johnson crying over Newman racing him too hard. When I was researching articles to write about Johnson, I came across one that indicated that Tony Stewart was in a tenable position because Jimmy Johnson has such a good relationship with Rick Hendrick.

Not only was the racing incident at issue, but the fact that Johnson or Gordon didn't win the 200th race for Hendrick; Newman won instead.

Hendrick does supply engines and parts for Stewart-Haas Racing. I dismissed it at the time, but is it possible that the writer knew something the rest of us didn't? I assumed that Stewart would never throw Newman under the bus to keep Hendrick happy. But now I am starting to wonder.

Related articles

• Will Ryan Newman Return To Stewart-Haas Racing In 2013?

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• Ryan Newman calls out Kurt Busch for Darlington fireworks

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• NASCAR fines Kurt Busch $50,000

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Still complaining? Give me a break Jimmy Johnson!

RYAN NEWMAN AT TEXAS
 (Image credit: Getty Images via @daylife)

I couldn't believe Jimmy Johnson's initial response after the Texas race when he complained that Ryan Newman raced him too hard. It is even more amazing that almost a week later, Johnson is still in a snit about it.

Get over yourself Jimmy.

You didn't win because you made mistakes. Not only that, Greg Biffle, who actually won the race, was better than you. Newman raced him hard too, but he isn't crying about it!

You wanna be a champion again, act like one, Jimmy.

NASCAR drivers are said to be among the finest drivers in the world. So why is one of them being criticized for doing his job?

Must Jimmy Johnson and his fans be reminded that Newman won the race at Martinsville after being a lap down. Newman is the Bill Clinton of racing; he is a real comeback kid. It is not inconceivable that given the right circumstances, Newman could have ended up with a top-5 or top-10 finish. With 20 laps to go, anything can happen, and often does. With the surprise endings to races, often times with unlikely winners, numerous late-race cautions, and a performance-sensitive points system, every lap, every position is vital.

While it is true that Newman battled an unwieldy race car, throughout the race, it is his job to race. It is in his DNA to race hard every single lap. He should be praised for his fortitude, not criticized.

On a really sad note, I actually read one news item that said Tony Stewart, Ryan's boss and team mate, was in a tenable position because Jimmy Johnson has such a good relationship with Rick Hendrick. Hendrick supplies engines and parts for Stewart-Haas Racing. I couldn't believe my eyes when the writer suggested that Stewart would throw Newman under the bus to keep Hendrick happy. He questioned whether Ryan's job could be in jeopardy because of this incident. All I can say is, what a stretch! What an irresponsible piece of work!