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.

Related articles

• First time winner: AJ Allmendinger gets career win
• Ryan Newman critical of Watkins Glen after crash
• Nascar Driver Tony Stewart Strikes & Kills Driver In Dirt Race

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!

Still a NASCAR fan but with caveats

When people ask me if I am a NASCAR fan, I'm really not sure what to say. I often hesitate before saying yes, but with caveats.

nascar (Photo credit: rogerblake2)

The truth of the matter is that I have watched every NASCAR race since I became interested in auto racing in 2004. That is, I've watched every race but the recent Texas race sponsored by the NRA, (National Rifle Association). My disgust for NASCAR seemingly siding with the NRA at a time when the entire country was reeling over the escalation of gun violence in this country was like a slap in the face to caring, thinking individuals who recognize that something must be done to stem the rise in violent behavior.

Whatever NASCAR was thinking, and I assume it was profit-motivated, sent a chilling message to me and apparently many others that have apparently stopped filling the stands at various race venues. Since the death of Bill France, Jr. in 2007, the decisions that have been made in this sport have come at a high cost. I'm not sure he would approve. While Brian France has every right to carry on the family business, he apparently has his own ideas and his own agenda. He is clearly not motivated by the same passions of his father and grandfather before him, who is credited with starting the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing.

There are still many good things that I like about NASCAR that keep me coming back every weekend, despite often finding myself aggravated or worse during and after a race. Usually, that annoyance stems from an out-of-left field decision, a ruling on issues never before considered, or a penalty levied against a driver or team for no good reason. Admittedly I also get aggravated when my favorite driver has an off-day. Since that is Ryan Newman, I haven't been a happy camper lately. I still have hope for Ryan's season though. And wasn't it awesome to watch Tony Stewart smoke 'em all last Sunday at Dover? There is nothing better than a surprise finish by someone that deserves it and works hard for it.

Like the rest of us, it is clear that NASCAR has favorite drivers that can do no wrong, while others can't do anything right. I'm of the belief that as the sanctioning body, NASCAR should not have favorite drivers. They should treat all drivers the same. I dare anyone to claim they do that.

It seems Brad Keselowski, who is ironically NASCAR's reigning 2012 champion is the one on the hot seat these days. Brad better not turn around too fast for fear he will be penalized for it.

The bottom line for me, is that I used to proudly proclaim to be a NASCAR fan. That isn't really the case anymore.

From political affiliation which continues to espouse non-secular leanings, biased announcers that call the race, favoritism for specific drivers, inconsistent to unfair rule interpretation, and its public relations policies based on only offering the 'good' stories, NASCAR does not really stand for anything I believe in.

If it wasn't for driver personalities and the dynamic of auto racing, that offers such an emotional connection, I would be gone too. When NASCAR controls what drivers can and cannot say, and they have come close, that's my line in the sand.

No fines by NASCAR--how consistently inconsistent

NASCAR failed to issue a fine following the California race at Fontana Sunday, March 23, 2013. This is surprising and totally inconsistent given that a fight broke out between Tony Stewart and Joey Logano and Denny Hamlin ended up in the hospital with a potentially serious injury.

With all that going on, NASCAR decided not to issue any fines. What?

Just after the race, Stewart got out of his race car and went after Logano, fists high in an obvious attempt to clean his clock. Then during a post-race interview, Stewart used some pretty colorful language in his criticism of the way Logano blocked him on a restart after according to Stewart, Logano spun his tires.

The more serious incident was the way Logano raced Denny Hamlin on the last lap sending Hamlin's car head-on into a concrete wall. There was no safer barrier where he hit, so his body took the impact, which has resulted in his cracking a vertebrae in his back. Hamlin is expected to be out of the car for the next six weeks, missing five races, at least.

Little would be made of this beyond calling it simply a racing incident, had it not been for the remarks Logano made after the race when he told reporters, Hamlin got what he deserved. To be fair, there was no way Logano knew Hamlin had suffered such a serious injury at the time.

No one will ever know if Logano hit Hamlin on purpose, following up on previous incidents and some sniping via Twitter, or if his car simply got loose and drifted up the track into Hamlin. I suppose as far as us race fans are concerned, it doesn't matter. Everyone will believe what they want anyway. What does matter is that Hamlin will recover, Stewart let Logano know how not to behave, and all is good.

In my opinion, NASCAR was right not to issue a fine to any of the participating drivers. But that is only because they have been wrong all the other times  they issued fines.

See the following headlines that have appeared in the last couple of years;

• Hamlin fined $25,000 for post-race comments
• NASCAR fines Jeff Gordon $100,000, docks him 25 points...
• NASCAR fines, penalizes Robby Gordon for New Hampshire temper tantrum
• Gordon, Keselowski fined, placed on probation
• NASCAR fines Kurt Busch $50,000 for behavior
• Keselowski fined $25,000 for in-car tweeting
• NASCAR fines Kyle Busch $50,000, warns of indefinite suspension...
• NASCAR fines Kyle Busch $25,000 for gesture
• Secret fines shrouded in mystery...Ryan Newman and Brad Keselowski were beneficiaries of these

These are not inclusive--they were obtained through a quick Google search. With all this fining going on, it is no wonder there were expectations that fines would have been announced in the way of fines after California. But that didn't happen.

If there is one thing NASCAR is consistent with, it is inconsistency!

I'd like to know where all those thousands of dollars in fines have ended up. The bucks have obviously not gone toward installing safer barriers around race tracks. Why is that, since NASCAR boasts about its keen interest in safety? At the California race track, NASCAR definitely has a corporate connection.

The California track is called the Auto Club Speedway. It is owned by the International Speedway Corporation, (ISC). Brian France, NASCAR's CEO and Chairman sits on the board of that corporation along with other family members. His brother James, also a NASCAR board member is President of ISC.

I can't help but wonder why members of the media haven't bothered to ask the France brothers why there are still places on race tracks they own that are not fitted with safer barriers.

At least one thing is known for sure. It is good to know that Denny Hamlin was not more seriously injured than he was, though a broken back is nothing to sneeze at. Ouch--I can't imagine that!

Related articles

• Auto Club 400 Ends With Denny Hamlin In An Ambulance And Tony Stewart Brawling With Joey Logano
• Hamlin has lower-back compression fracture
• Busch wins Fontana after Hamlin-Logano wreck
• Auto Club 400 Recap
• Denny Hamlin airlifted to hospital after NASCAR crash
• Angry Tony Stewart goes after Joey Logano after race at California
• Tony Stewart Punched Joey Logano At The End Of Today's NASCAR Race [VIDEO - UPDATED]

Race day must overcome crash coverage

Race day is finally here, as we anticipate the 55th running of the Daytona 500, but because of the horrific accident at the conclusion of yesterday's Nationwide race where nearly 30 spectators were injured by flying car parts and other debris in a last lap crash, every effort is being made to tear away any dark curtain over today's event. 

Despite yesterday's incident, today is a new day. It is exciting to realize the seemingly endless off-season for NASCAR's Sprint Cup series is finally over. There will be no more counting down to the Daytona 500. TODAY IS THE DAY! The race will run in just a few hours. 

The excitement is palpable, despite yesterday's horror, the fans involved in the melee are receiving the best care possible, drivers are uninjured, and NASCAR is trying to move on. 

The accident itself was very troubling because it is so easy to imagine what it was like to be in the stands as fans enjoyed the final laps of an exciting race. In an instant lives were changed. There will likely be other changes that grow out of this event--additional safety features perhaps--but those will remain to be seen. 

It bears stating that this was an accident, an unpredictable moment in time that could not have been prevented. There is no question that NASCAR is cognizant of the safety issues associated with driving cars at speeds often times in excess of 200 mph. NASCAR has taken as many precautions to protect everyone associated with the sport--both drivers and spectators. The fact that those drivers involved in the melee emerged from their destroyed race cars unhurt is a testament to that. 

I was impressed with how several people have reacted to this event. 

First, when Tony Stewart won the race, his reaction in victory lane couldn't have been more correct. He was soft-spoken, thoughtful, and despite his excitement at winning the race, he shoved that emotion into the shadow in favor of the obviously injured spectators. Stewart's reaction was as an appropriate champion of the sport. 

Another reaction that was laudable was that of Kyle Petty. Petty is a NASCAR commentator and spokesman. He is in my view, one of the best. He is honest, truthful, and pulls no punches. Petty pointed out that drivers are aware of the risk they take when they put on a helmet and climb into their race car, but spectators shouldn't be at risk when they come to a race. He indicated that fans should feel safe when they sit in the stands and prepare to enjoy a race. In my view, Petty is such a class act. I believe he is one of the finest spokespersons for the sport.

As the day wore on and videotapes of the incident became available, I couldn't help but notice the quick reactions of both spectators and track personnel when it was realized there were injuries. There were heroes in the stands and heroes that work at the track. 

I can't help but question NASCAR's official reaction. While it is appropriate to report news in a timely manner, so as to make certain facts are provable, and correct, NASCAR takes that a step too far. They attempt to control the news.

As an organization, NASCAR's priority appears to be to protect its brand rather than to allow the news media to do its job to report news. This fits with NASCAR's attempts to direct every aspect of the public's perception of motor sport racing. It was very disturbing to learn that NASCAR attempted to censor fan videos of the accident, requesting You Tube to remove them from public view. NASCAR claimed it was a copyright infringement. Later, it was stated that it was to protect those involved.

NASCAR officials need to realize that this is the 21st century when citizen journalists and fans with cell phone cameras fill the stands. Their efforts to censor such events will never occur. They have much to be proud of, so there is no danger in resting on their laurels. 

In my view, not only does NASCAR need to continue to work on safety issues, and other things under their control, they need to work on their own attitudes. 

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.

Ryan, Krissie Newman have second child

MARTINSVILLE, VA - APRIL 03: Ryan Newman, driver of the #39 car, stands with wife Krissie and their daughter Brooklyn Sage Newman on the grid prior to the start of a NASCAR Sprint Cup Race. (Image credit: Getty Images via @daylife)

Congratulations to NASCAR race car driver Ryan Newman and his wife Krissie on the birth of their second child, a daughter.

Ashlyn Olivia Newman was born in the afternoon Monday, July 16 just after her daddy raced his way to the Top 10 at New Hampshire the day before. Ashlyn has a big sister. Brooklyn Sage, the Newman's first child is just 20 months older than the baby.

Ashlyn's birth came just eight days after Kevin and DeLana Harvick had their first child, baby boy Keelan Paul Harvick.

Almost as if there was a pro-ordained schedule, neither driver--Newman nor Harvick--missed a step in the busy NASCAR race schedule. Newman had an especially busy week in New Hampshire, as he raced Saturday in the Whelen Series and in the NASCAR Sprint Cup series Sunday. Practice and qualifying filled any gaps in his busy schedule.

Race fans who follow Twitter on race day were well aware of both ladies' pregnancies, as DeLana and Krissie are both avid tweeters. They keep race  fans on top of the action on the track. At times, the two who are personal friends, they often shared messages with each other.

Congratulations to both the Newmans and the Harvicks.

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? 

Junior won at Michigan; he won it for himself, not for his father

Dale Earnhardt, Jr. on pit road

Congratulations to Dale Earnhardt, Jr. for his win at Michigan International Speedway Sunday. He drove a good race, led plenty of laps, and held off Champion Tony Stewart for the win.

A Dale Earnhardt Jr. autograph (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Maybe now everyone will get off Junior's back and leave the poor guy alone. I have for some time, felt sorry for Dale Earnhardt, Jr. In all the years I've watched NASCAR, and I admit I'm a newbie by most standards, at only eight years, but I have yet to see Junior live up to the enormous expectations and hype laid upon his head by fans, the pundits, and NASCAR brass. I'm not sure anyone could live up to that, (except maybe for Tony Stewart's herculean performance last year, when he won five out of ten races.)

So much pressure has been put on Junior that it has obviously had a negative effect. His name is evoked by announcers dozens of times during every race, pre-race, or post-race show, no matter what he does. Clearly, evoking Dale Earnhardt, Jr.'s name is a mandate by NASCAR itself, since as a fan favorite, to NASCAR, that translates into dollars.

No matter what Junior does on the track, his name is mentioned--a lot! Excuses are made for his doing things like driving by his pit stall or making some other boneheaded move that only a rookie would make. After a few of those, the hype seemed to tone down a little. That all changed with Junior's latest run of obvious good luck. Junior has been running well, leading laps and being consistent enough to earn points. Finally NASCAR is getting what it wants. Maybe they will back off a little now that Junior has won a race.

Who am I kidding? They will never leave him alone. Now we will be hearing, and it has already begun, Junior can be the champion. There will likely be more pressure on him to not just win again, but to lead the points battle now and during the Sprint Cup Series Chase for the Championship. Yes, Junior has a big fan base, so he is NASCAR's favorite son. Let's face it--as the son of the late Big E, Junior will never be left alone to be his own person.

Not only does that affect him, but it also affects the other 42 drivers who are unable to compete on a level racetrack, so to speak. And it is so unfair to those of us who are not card-carrying members of Junior Nation.

We are called haters. We are not haters. We are just not blinded by the BS.

Funny, Junior's big win came on Father's Day, yet I didn't hear anything in post race interviews with Junior about winning this one for his father's memory, except by the media. It seems clear to me that Junior is very uncomfortable with the position he has been put into--living in his father's shadow. It has obviously been very difficult for Dale Earnhardt, Jr. to live up to they hype. It would be difficult for anyone. I'd love it if they would leave him alone, for his sake as well as ours.

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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Two stereotypical forces come together at the White House

It was nice to see the top 12 NASCAR drivers hangin' at the White House. 

Both NASCAR and President Barack Obama have something in common. Both are misunderstood because of groundless, long held stereotypes. 

There is no question that President Obama has been viewed by some as a polarizing force, though not by his own deeds. Often times, President Obama is being judged by a perception of him--manifested by systemic racism and bigotry--as the first African-American to serve in the nation's highest office. He has undergone scrutiny from members of the black and white communities, progressive and conservative political bases, as well as by members of his own party.

NASCAR has suffered some of the same kinds of stereotypical misconceptions. There are some who believe NASCAR isn't even a sport. While admittedly racing around a track does not involve a ball or stick like baseball or football its players are athletes just the same. NASCAR can stack up with any nine-innings on a diamond or four quarters on the gridiron. It takes physical endurance to drive 500 white-knuckle miles on a short track, for instance. It is not an easy feat to change four tires, fill a car with gas, and make chassis adjustments in under 13 seconds, which is a typical pit stop. Yet, NASCAR critics claim the sport is nothing more than a bunch of rednecks  making left turns. They have obviously never watched a race! 

It is ironic that NASCAR and President Obama should be victims of stereotypes, albeit on opposite sides. 

The crowd that supports Obama likely consists of the same folks who know nothing about NASCAR, its drivers, crews, teams, or the rich history rooted in American ingenuity. 

Likewise, supporters of NASCAR, many of whom hail from the southern states, include tea party patriots who despise this president for no better reason than their own misguided sense of self-prescribed morality. An intelligent black man is just not in their level of understanding or tolerance. 

I happen to fall on the side that supports both my president and my favorite sport. I love NASCAR. I  voted for President Obama and plan to vote for him again. 

For me, it was a pleasure to see President Obama greet Tony Stewart and the other eleven of NASCAR's best drivers, on the south lawn of the White House Tuesday. While supporters of each may think these two have as little in common as the two sides of the aisle in Congress, that is not necessarily the case. They don't have to be the odd couple. In fact, perhaps we have witnessed history here. 

It was nice of the President to reach out to NASCAR just as it was when the First Lady attended last year's race at Homestead.

I challenge supporters of both President Barack Obama and NASCAR to reach beyond your own limitations. Consider that President Obama and Tony Stewart are symbolic of a country that is in dire need of coming together again; to reunite the United States of America.

Ryan Newman scores 4th place finish at Vegas, but no interview on Fox

Ryan Newman pits at Las Vegas--photo compliments of Jerry Conner

It was so exciting when Ryan Newman crossed the finish line at Las Vegas in  fourth-place that I can almost overlook the fact that Fox Sports didn't bother to interview him.

They interviewed winner Tony Stewart, (Congratulations for running a great race); second place finisher Jimmie Johnson; third and fifth place drivers Greg Biffle and Carl Edwards; and of course Dale Earnhardt, Jr., who finished tenth. But they just skipped right over Ryan Newman.

This is not the first time Newman has earned a top five finish only to be ignored by TV commentators--I know because I watch such things.

Newman was interviewed by Wendy Venturini during Speed TV's Victory Lane show. The coverage on Speed TV seems to be so much more professional and less biased than that of the networks.

Finally, for the first race of the year, Lady Luck didn't bite Newman. So after only the third race of 2012, Newman is already overcoming a tough start to his season--through no fault of his own--by the way. His fans are grateful.

I'm sure many of Newman's fans are pleased to collect on their free Bloomin' Onion being given away at Outback Steakhouse, his sponsor this week. Sadly, I don't have an Outback Steakhouse near where I live, so I won't be partaking in that taste treat.

Nonetheless, I'm thrilled just to revel in the fact that Ryan has moved up five places in the points standings, from 18th to 13th, just one place and one point out of 12th. In fact, the #39 team is just 39 points behind the leader.

Newman is oh so close to the top 12. I'm already thinking about his Chase potential. One more good finish should clinch it.

Ryan can get it done at Bristol. Though he has not yet won at Bristol, he has led 112 laps there. He has earned a top-5 finish and 12 times has finished in the top10. He has also earned the pole there three times.

Can't wait for next weekend--its Bristol baby!

What a weekend!

Image by Getty Images via @daylife

What a weekend! The start of the 2012 NASCAR season has so far, been extraordinary. And the biggest race of the year hasn't even happened yet. It isn't even until tomorrow.

My heart skipped a beat when Jeff Gordon flipped during the Budweiser Shootout last Saturday night. I'm glad he walked away from that one. What a wild ride! In a way, that set the stage for what was to follow. 

Tony Stewart's wreck during practice this week gave us another hint. Then there was Danica Patrick's hard crash during the Duel races. It all led up to the first competitive race of the season--the truck race Friday night. 

Wow! It was a wreckfest. It is no wonder cup drivers were a little squeamish about pack racing during their two Daytona 500 practices. When final practice was reduced to just a handful of laps by a only a few drivers, Ryan Newman noted that there was simply more to lose than to learn by riding around in the pack. I'm sure he was right, given what kind of action has already been seen on the race track.

It isn't clear how the racing will look on Sunday for the Great American Race. I suspect it will be pretty mundane until the last few laps. At that point, there will probably be so much happening, we will be very grateful for the many camera angles because it is likely there will be too much to take it all in. 

For me it isn't all about the wrecks

This weekend certainly had some highlights--the kind of moments in racing that keep me coming back for more. Racing isn't just about the wrecks; not for me anyway. I like the human relations side of the sport. And there was certainly some of that. 

How about the fact that Danica Patrick's return to the race track after an earlier head-on collision with the wall resulted in earning the pole position for the Nationwide race? She is the first woman to do so. 

I stand by my earlier prediction that Danica is going to be a force to be reckoned with this season.

Another feel-good moment occurred Friday night when a rookie, who, in only his eighth career start--John King--won the truck race and is now leading the points in the series. 

If this is a promise of things to come, don't call me on Friday night, Saturday, or Sunday. I'm busy!

Bud Shootout did not disappoint

Image by Getty Images via @daylife

Not only did the Bud Shootout not disappoint, but it probably breathed new life into NASCAR's 2012 season.

For anyone who didn't watch the Bud Shootout, you really missed something. Hurry over to NASCAR.com and catch the highlights, or watch the video of the entire race. It is well worth your time.

The race was certainly a nail biter from start to finish.

For me, the most memorable part involved two incredible saves by Kyle Busch. Ordinarily what occurred on the track would have resulted in the "big one," except that Busch saved it; not once, but twice. He did an incredible job and has certainly earned my respect for his driving ability.

Sparks flew as his car was literally sideways, seemingly taking on a life of its own, as it hurled itself back and forth between the racing surface and the apron. Then, as it was completely sideways, what seemed impossible, Busch saved it and got it headed in the right direction. He didn't even lose too many spots as he fought his way back up to draft with Tony Stewart. That same kind of driving allowed him to finish the race just inches ahead of Stewart. It was amazing--almost as amazing as how Stewart won five of the ten final  races that secured him the 2011 Championship title.

The wrecks were nothing short of spectacular. Personally my heart was in my throat. I admit being more than a little nervous as the cameras panned in on the cars wobbling perilously close to one another at such breakneck speeds. Those camera angles illustrate just how challenging it would be to drive a race car.

Needless to say Saturday night saw plenty of on-track wrecking action,. It was scary to watch Kevin Harvick's flaming race car unable to stop because he had no brakes. The worst though was when Jeff Gordon's car, was lifted by several others, causing it to do a pirouette several times only to land upside down on its roof. Thankfully Gordon was okay. And so were all the other drivers involved in one melee or another. There was not one "big one" but several. This was only 75 miles with 25 drivers. I shudder to think of what will happen on Sunday with 43 drivers in 500 miles. I can just about guarantee it will be a wreckfest.

Some of the wrecks were due to the changes made by NASCAR this year, with the hope of putting an end to the much maligned tandem racing. Both fans and drivers alike felt the two-car draft racing was boring. Saturday night, the tandem racing was minimized in favor of pack racing, which was their intent.

In accomplishing their goal however, another problem surfaced. In changing the size of the spoiler, the side fin, and other rule changes, caused it to be really easy to turn a car in front around simply by touching the left bumper. It was evident not just during the race but in practice when Tony Stewart got into Kurt Busch.

One other change this year, is that drivers are no longer able to communicate with one another on the track. Previously, if a driver changed his line, he could warn the driver behind him. He could also communicate if a driver is slow in front. That is no longer the case and it seems to have added to the chaos.

The racing season has begun and we now look forward to the biggest race of the year--the Daytona 500--now just days away. I'm a little on edge, but excited just the same.

Carl Edwards and Greg Biffle will start on the front row. The remaining field will be set by the Duels races on Thursday. Those two races promise to be exciting as well. It is all in preparation for Sunday, the day we have all been waiting for, probably since the last Great American Race.

It will be Stewart-Haas Racing's championship to lose in 2012

Image by sidehike via Flickr

Never mind what I said about Denny Hamlin kicking butt in 2012. This time I will make a prediction--sthe Sprint Cup will stay in the possession of Stewart-Haas Racing in 2012!

I was pretty pumped about Championship Crew Chief Darian Grubb's move to Joe Gibbs Racing as Crew Chief for Denny Hamlin. But now, I take it all back after reading this little tidbit: Greg Zipadelli Named Competition Director for Stewart-Haas Racing, reported this morning. This changes the whole scenario in my mind.

This puts all the pieces of the puzzle in place; the stars are aligned; it's karma! Tony Stewart's success with Zippy was almost legendary. Now with the two former teammates back on the same team, it will be a beautiful thing to watch. Steve Addington as Stewart's new Crew Chief, with his obvious talent will round out the championship-in-the-making potential.

Image via Wikipedia

Waiting in the wings to make Stewart-Haas Racing the team of the year is its other potential winner--the other (full-time) half of Stewart-Haas Racing. Ryan Newman has been way under-appreciated, though not by me. I've been in his corner for years and plan to stay right there--one day soon with the ability to say, "I told you so!" Newman and Tony Gibson have been on an up and down ride, but I expect to see lots more ups this season.

While discussing former teammates let us not forget that Matt Borland, who temporarily filled the position Zipadelli will now occupy, was once Newman's Crew Chief at Penske Racing. The two were wildly successful in 2003 with eight wins and 11 poles. I'm ready to see that again.

Related articles

• JGR tabs Darian Grubb for Denny Hamlin (seattletimes.nwsource.com)
• Zipadelli well aware of job opening at Stewart-Haas (aol.sportingnews.com)
• Sources: Stewart's crew chief fielding job offers (espn.go.com)
• Addington denies reports he's leaving Penske (espn.go.com)
• Denny Hamlin, the one to watch in '12 (chontrack.blogspot.com)
• Bruce Martin: Hamlin, Grubb hope to be a winning combination in 2012 (sportsillustrated.cnn.com)

Denny Hamlin, the one to watch in ‘12

Image by RiverRatt3 via Flickr

I just heard that Championship Crew Chief Darian Grubb will be Denny Hamlin’s Crew Chief at Joe Gibbs Racing next year.

While I’m not making any predictions, I believe this could put Hamlin right where he wants to be at the 2012 season’s end.
Hamlin has surprised me in the last couple years. For some reason I still think of Hamlin as one of the new kids on the block, though he certainly hasn’t performed like a new kid.

I admit I wasn’t even real fond of Denny until he started drafting with Ryan Newman at Daytona and Talladega. Anybody who works with Ryan is OK in my eyes. I’m a fan, what can I say?

I sure hope Tony Stewart doesn’t have regrets at the end of the next season at the hands of his former Crew Chief and former team mate. No predictions on champions, but I do see this as a happy marriage, so to speak.

I believe Denny will be a force to be reckoned with this year, even though my heart still belongs to Stewart-Haas Racing.