THE FRONTSTRETCH NEWSLETTER
Presented by Frontstretch.com
The Best Seat at the Track, The Best View on the Net!
November 18th, 2011
Volume V, Edition CCXLVI
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Top News
by Summer Dreyer
Addington, Grubb Possibly Switching Teams
Silly season has gone to the crew chiefs. While Tony Stewart's crew chief Darian Grubb has remained silent on his future with Stewart-Haas Racing, Sirius Speedway is reporting that Grubb is expected to be promoted Director of Competition within the organization with Steve Addington moving over from Penske Racing to take his place atop the pit box as crew chief.
However, Jayski is reporting that Grubb could be making a return to Hendrick Motorsports to replace Chad Knaus as Jimmie Johnson's crew chief with Knaus serving as Director of Competition at HMS. Grubb served as Johnson's crew chief back in 2006 while Knaus was serving a suspension.
Stewart and Grubb are racing for the championship this weekend, as they sit only three points behind leader Carl Edwards heading into the final race of the season.
Brad Keselowski Fined For Negative Comments
The AP's Jenna Fryer is reporting that Penske Racing driver Brad Keselowski has been fined around $25,000 for disparaging remarks made about NASCAR's move to electronic fuel injection.
While making an appearance at the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Keselowski said of the move, "We're not doing this because it's better for the teams. I don't think we're really going to save any gas. It's a media circus, trying to make you guys (the media) happy so you write good stories. It gives them something to promote. We're always looking for something to promote, but the honest answer is it does nothing for the sport except cost the team owners money."
NASCAR Spokesman Kerry Tharp did confirm a conversation with Keselowski but wouldn't speak on the penalty assessed.
"We did talk to Brad following his recent comments that were highly critical of the series moving to electronic fuel injection next season," Tharp said. "We made it clear to him that these kind of comments are detrimental to the sport, and we handled it accordingly with him."
NASCAR is making a move to EFI as part of their ongoing green initiatives.
Keselowski is the third known driver to have received secret fines from NASCAR for negative comments about the sport. Ryan Newman was once fined for comments regarding restrictor plate racing, and Denny Hamlin was penalized for posts he put up on Twitter.
Edwards, Stewart Talk Some Trash
During a pre-championship weekend press conference on Thursday, Tony Stewart and Carl Edwards talked about the upcoming weekend, the pressures of the championship, and … exchanged some choice words. While all in good fun, Stewart and Edwards didn't hesitate from talking trash to one another, while sitting side-by-side and taking questions from the press.
One of the highlights of the conversation was when Stewart was asked if he'd consider wrecking Edwards to win. Stewart responded, "I'd wreck my mom to win a championship!"
Edwards, who appeared to be unimpressed, responded: "Did you say something?"
The banter continued on afterwards, with Stewart pointing out his two previous championships as an advantage and Edwards mentioning Stewart's brief appearance at the top of the standings as opposed to Edwards' stranglehold on the top spot.
Throughout the conference, Stewart maintained that he had "nothing to lose and everything to gain", and saying that the two make for "a dangerous combination."
What was Edwards' response?
"I'm not really buying it."
If the championship race is even half as good as the press conference, fans are in for a great show. Coverage starts at 3PM ET on ESPN this Sunday.
For the full transcript of the banter between the two, click here.
Have news for Summer and The Frontstretch? Don't hesitate to let us know; email us at phil.allaway@frontstretch.com with a promising lead or tip.
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Who would make a better champion?
Readers, we asked and you delivered! Thank you to everyone who took the time to respond to our question of who would make a better champion. Did you get your voice heard? If not, you can still vote in the poll on our Facebook page throughout the weekend. In our unofficial poll, Tony Stewart and Edwards came out tied with a few votes that neither would make a good champion.
Stewart - 6 votes; Edwards - 6 votes; Neither - 2 votes
Your Comments
I don't care about either one, but cannot stand carl,for what he did to brad k. and wish brad would take him out at homestead! nascar racing is not worth watching on t.v much less buying a ticket and spend all that money! I started going to races in the 60's and used to go to a lot of races, but stopped going to all of them except bristol and won"t be renewing my tickets there for next year! -JSMelser
Stewart is a smarta*s crybaby and Edwards is a two faced jerk. -Joe
Stewart need I say more? -Bill
Carl Edwards because he has been consistently good this year. Besides, Tony's already been a champion, and I'd like to see a new one crowned. Plus, Concrete Carl is my man! -Janice Marler
I truly believe Stewart would be the much better representative of the sport - for all of his outbursts over the years, he is at least honest about it, up front and in your face. Edwards on the other hand I find to be less than honest - for all of his "public appearance" he has a very nasty side which isn't shown to the public very often (attack on Harvick, attack on Kenseth, intentional wrecking, and many other incidents which seem to be quickly forgotten). For all his talk, I don't see him as a team player - as evidenced by film clip on RaceHub last night where he refused to give Kenseth the lead to collect a point for leading race - and his prolonged whine about why he wouldn't/couldn't - and it was not lost on me Kenseth's comment about Kenseth giving Carl the lead to collect a point at a prior race. I find Edwards devious. And, I agree the the comments that he only wants to be the champion - doesn't care about the winning part as long as he can squeak in any way he can. Oh yeah, and I find Edwards Overload thanks to ESPN's having him on camera entirely too much. Makes my teeth hurt! Go Kyle!!!! -Judith Young
Edwards has champion written all over him, Stewart is a loser. -KLM
My vote would go to Tony Stewart. He has cooled down and only stands his ground. He is a genuine racer and tells it like it is instead of being a actor like Edwards. I can not forget Edwards actions against Brad and would like to see Brad return the favor. To me Edwards is a bully and a show off. -Sharon Brown
Edwards....better driver, better personality, better for sponsors...plus back him in a corner and he will whip your butts, unlike all the other sissyman drivers out there!! -John Sanders
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Hey, Frontstretch Readers!
We know you love the roar of raw horsepower under the hood that powers 43 of the best drivers in the world every weekend, but did you ever wonder how the sponsor on top of that hood also contributes to keeping the sport moving? What about the contributions of official NASCAR companies? If you think they are simply writing checks, think again. Check out our special feature - Sunday Money. This weekly Frontstretch exclusive provides you with a behind the scenes look at how NASCAR, its affiliates and team sponsors approach the daunting task of keeping fans interested and excited about the sport for 38 weeks of the year.
~~~~~~~~~~
In Case You Missed It
by Brett Poirier
First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden Named Ford 400 Grand Marshals
As part of the Joining Force initiative, Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden will honor military families this weekend while serving as the Grand Marshal's of the Sprint Cup Series finale, The Ford 400. Obama and Biden will hold a lunch recognizing service members and military families from the South Florida community. They will also invite one family to join them as Grand Marshals for Sunday's race.
Walmart and NASCAR have partnered with the initiative and developed a Public Service Announcement campaign designed to recognize military families for the sacrifices they make when troops are called into action. The announcements feature Jeff Gordon, Kasey Kahne Carl Edwards and Parker Kligerman and will be featured at Homestead-Miami Speedway.
Marlin and Investors Interested in Nashville Track
Two-time Daytona 500 winner Sterling Marlin and a group of investors are interested in taking over operations of Fairgrounds Speedway in Nashville. There is one year remaining on the current two-year lease granted by the city. Marlin won three championships at the track in the 1980s and his father Coo Coo won four titles at the track in the 1960s. Marlin has helped promote racing at his former proving ground in recent years.
Bobby Hamilton, Jr. is currently in control of the city-owned facility, but the head of the Metro Fair Board said that after one frustrating season, Hamilton, Jr. will not be back in 2012. He cancelled the track's premier event at the end of this season, the All-American 400, season finale. Hamilton, Jr. also operates the Highland Rim Speedway, about 20 miles north of Nashville, and will continue to do so next year. A decision on the track's future operator is expected to be made by the end of year by the Fair Board.
Police Vehicles Will Pace Races at Homestead
Ford has announced that it will debut its new Police Interceptors as the pace cars of the Ford 200, Ford 300 and Ford 400 races this weekend at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Fans will see both the Police Interceptor Sedan and Utility. The Sedan has a 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine with 365 horsepower. The car can reach a top speed of 148 mph. The Utility is the first pursuit-rated utility vehicle made by Ford, and will serve as the lead pace car in all three races.
Presented by Frontstretch.com
The Best Seat at the Track, The Best View on the Net!
November 18th, 2011
Volume V, Edition CCXLVI
~~~~~~~~~~
Top News
by Summer Dreyer
Addington, Grubb Possibly Switching Teams
Silly season has gone to the crew chiefs. While Tony Stewart's crew chief Darian Grubb has remained silent on his future with Stewart-Haas Racing, Sirius Speedway is reporting that Grubb is expected to be promoted Director of Competition within the organization with Steve Addington moving over from Penske Racing to take his place atop the pit box as crew chief.
However, Jayski is reporting that Grubb could be making a return to Hendrick Motorsports to replace Chad Knaus as Jimmie Johnson's crew chief with Knaus serving as Director of Competition at HMS. Grubb served as Johnson's crew chief back in 2006 while Knaus was serving a suspension.
Stewart and Grubb are racing for the championship this weekend, as they sit only three points behind leader Carl Edwards heading into the final race of the season.
Brad Keselowski Fined For Negative Comments
The AP's Jenna Fryer is reporting that Penske Racing driver Brad Keselowski has been fined around $25,000 for disparaging remarks made about NASCAR's move to electronic fuel injection.
While making an appearance at the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Keselowski said of the move, "We're not doing this because it's better for the teams. I don't think we're really going to save any gas. It's a media circus, trying to make you guys (the media) happy so you write good stories. It gives them something to promote. We're always looking for something to promote, but the honest answer is it does nothing for the sport except cost the team owners money."
NASCAR Spokesman Kerry Tharp did confirm a conversation with Keselowski but wouldn't speak on the penalty assessed.
"We did talk to Brad following his recent comments that were highly critical of the series moving to electronic fuel injection next season," Tharp said. "We made it clear to him that these kind of comments are detrimental to the sport, and we handled it accordingly with him."
NASCAR is making a move to EFI as part of their ongoing green initiatives.
Keselowski is the third known driver to have received secret fines from NASCAR for negative comments about the sport. Ryan Newman was once fined for comments regarding restrictor plate racing, and Denny Hamlin was penalized for posts he put up on Twitter.
Edwards, Stewart Talk Some Trash
During a pre-championship weekend press conference on Thursday, Tony Stewart and Carl Edwards talked about the upcoming weekend, the pressures of the championship, and … exchanged some choice words. While all in good fun, Stewart and Edwards didn't hesitate from talking trash to one another, while sitting side-by-side and taking questions from the press.
One of the highlights of the conversation was when Stewart was asked if he'd consider wrecking Edwards to win. Stewart responded, "I'd wreck my mom to win a championship!"
Edwards, who appeared to be unimpressed, responded: "Did you say something?"
The banter continued on afterwards, with Stewart pointing out his two previous championships as an advantage and Edwards mentioning Stewart's brief appearance at the top of the standings as opposed to Edwards' stranglehold on the top spot.
Throughout the conference, Stewart maintained that he had "nothing to lose and everything to gain", and saying that the two make for "a dangerous combination."
What was Edwards' response?
"I'm not really buying it."
If the championship race is even half as good as the press conference, fans are in for a great show. Coverage starts at 3PM ET on ESPN this Sunday.
For the full transcript of the banter between the two, click here.
Have news for Summer and The Frontstretch? Don't hesitate to let us know; email us at phil.allaway@frontstretch.com with a promising lead or tip.
~~~~~~~~~~
Who would make a better champion?
Readers, we asked and you delivered! Thank you to everyone who took the time to respond to our question of who would make a better champion. Did you get your voice heard? If not, you can still vote in the poll on our Facebook page throughout the weekend. In our unofficial poll, Tony Stewart and Edwards came out tied with a few votes that neither would make a good champion.
Stewart - 6 votes; Edwards - 6 votes; Neither - 2 votes
Your Comments
I don't care about either one, but cannot stand carl,for what he did to brad k. and wish brad would take him out at homestead! nascar racing is not worth watching on t.v much less buying a ticket and spend all that money! I started going to races in the 60's and used to go to a lot of races, but stopped going to all of them except bristol and won"t be renewing my tickets there for next year! -JSMelser
Stewart is a smarta*s crybaby and Edwards is a two faced jerk. -Joe
Stewart need I say more? -Bill
Carl Edwards because he has been consistently good this year. Besides, Tony's already been a champion, and I'd like to see a new one crowned. Plus, Concrete Carl is my man! -Janice Marler
I truly believe Stewart would be the much better representative of the sport - for all of his outbursts over the years, he is at least honest about it, up front and in your face. Edwards on the other hand I find to be less than honest - for all of his "public appearance" he has a very nasty side which isn't shown to the public very often (attack on Harvick, attack on Kenseth, intentional wrecking, and many other incidents which seem to be quickly forgotten). For all his talk, I don't see him as a team player - as evidenced by film clip on RaceHub last night where he refused to give Kenseth the lead to collect a point for leading race - and his prolonged whine about why he wouldn't/couldn't - and it was not lost on me Kenseth's comment about Kenseth giving Carl the lead to collect a point at a prior race. I find Edwards devious. And, I agree the the comments that he only wants to be the champion - doesn't care about the winning part as long as he can squeak in any way he can. Oh yeah, and I find Edwards Overload thanks to ESPN's having him on camera entirely too much. Makes my teeth hurt! Go Kyle!!!! -Judith Young
Edwards has champion written all over him, Stewart is a loser. -KLM
My vote would go to Tony Stewart. He has cooled down and only stands his ground. He is a genuine racer and tells it like it is instead of being a actor like Edwards. I can not forget Edwards actions against Brad and would like to see Brad return the favor. To me Edwards is a bully and a show off. -Sharon Brown
Edwards....better driver, better personality, better for sponsors...plus back him in a corner and he will whip your butts, unlike all the other sissyman drivers out there!! -John Sanders
~~~~~~~~~~
Hey, Frontstretch Readers!
We know you love the roar of raw horsepower under the hood that powers 43 of the best drivers in the world every weekend, but did you ever wonder how the sponsor on top of that hood also contributes to keeping the sport moving? What about the contributions of official NASCAR companies? If you think they are simply writing checks, think again. Check out our special feature - Sunday Money. This weekly Frontstretch exclusive provides you with a behind the scenes look at how NASCAR, its affiliates and team sponsors approach the daunting task of keeping fans interested and excited about the sport for 38 weeks of the year.
~~~~~~~~~~
In Case You Missed It
by Brett Poirier
First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden Named Ford 400 Grand Marshals
As part of the Joining Force initiative, Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden will honor military families this weekend while serving as the Grand Marshal's of the Sprint Cup Series finale, The Ford 400. Obama and Biden will hold a lunch recognizing service members and military families from the South Florida community. They will also invite one family to join them as Grand Marshals for Sunday's race.
Walmart and NASCAR have partnered with the initiative and developed a Public Service Announcement campaign designed to recognize military families for the sacrifices they make when troops are called into action. The announcements feature Jeff Gordon, Kasey Kahne Carl Edwards and Parker Kligerman and will be featured at Homestead-Miami Speedway.
Marlin and Investors Interested in Nashville Track
Two-time Daytona 500 winner Sterling Marlin and a group of investors are interested in taking over operations of Fairgrounds Speedway in Nashville. There is one year remaining on the current two-year lease granted by the city. Marlin won three championships at the track in the 1980s and his father Coo Coo won four titles at the track in the 1960s. Marlin has helped promote racing at his former proving ground in recent years.
Bobby Hamilton, Jr. is currently in control of the city-owned facility, but the head of the Metro Fair Board said that after one frustrating season, Hamilton, Jr. will not be back in 2012. He cancelled the track's premier event at the end of this season, the All-American 400, season finale. Hamilton, Jr. also operates the Highland Rim Speedway, about 20 miles north of Nashville, and will continue to do so next year. A decision on the track's future operator is expected to be made by the end of year by the Fair Board.
Police Vehicles Will Pace Races at Homestead
Ford has announced that it will debut its new Police Interceptors as the pace cars of the Ford 200, Ford 300 and Ford 400 races this weekend at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Fans will see both the Police Interceptor Sedan and Utility. The Sedan has a 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine with 365 horsepower. The car can reach a top speed of 148 mph. The Utility is the first pursuit-rated utility vehicle made by Ford, and will serve as the lead pace car in all three races.
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Hey Frontstretch Readers!
Did you know The Frontstretch has a weekly podcast? Hosted by Doug Turnbull, the latest podcast comes out every Friday. This week, Doug and columnist Mike Neff discuss the championship battle, the futures of Darian Grubb and Chad Knaus, testing at Daytona and much more! Also, don't miss out on special guest Cale Gale as he weighs in on his full-time Truck Series ride with Eddie Sharp Racing next season. Check it out here!
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Keepin' It Short: More Than 20 Years of Civil War
by Mike Neff
For some reason there is no shortage of Civil War references in the South. The people below the Mason-Dixon line, especially in the Carolinas and Georgia, always seem to get a little more worked up about things if there is some sort of North vs. South angle. Just a couple of weeks ago was the North-South Shootout at Caraway Speedway for the Modifieds. This weekend will be the Blue Gray 100 at Cherokee Speedway in Gaffney, South Carolina.
This race has run on for more than twenty years and has seen some of the biggest names in dirt Late Model racing grace its winner's circle. Not only does the 21st Annual Blue Gray promise to be another great race in the history of Cherokee Speedway, it will also settle the season long points battle for the Ultimate Super Late Models. Coming into the race the top three drivers in the points, Chris Ferguson, Casey Roberts and Chip Brindle are separated by a mere four points. If any of these three drivers is able to win the $10,000 to win race on Sunday, they'll also take home an extra $25,000 for winning the series championship.
All three of the top point drivers have taken trophies home from Cherokee this season. For Roberts a victory would be extra special as he is trying to lay a Jimmie Johnson on the Ultimate Super Late Model series. Roberts scored the series title in 2007 and has not let go of it since. Should he win the title this season that will give him five consecutive Ultimate Super Late Model Championships.
Not only will fans and drivers be winners after this weekend's activities at Cherokee, but the Gaffney Meals on Wheels organization will also win this weekend thanks to the Speedway, Dirtfans.com and the Ultimate Super Late Model Series. Cherokee Speedway will be donating 100 cans of food to the group that helps feed the needy in the area. Dirtfans.com and Ultimate Super Late Models will be matching that donation with 50 cans each. Fans in attendance for the race are encouraged to bring their own canned food donations or non-perishable food items to help out the noble cause.
Whether you're a fan of the Union or the Confederacy, or you just like to see some great dirt racing action, head a little south of Charlotte, North Carolina on Interstate 85 into South Carolina and check out the Blue Gray 100. It won't settle who is the winner of the war, but it will certainly settle who is the best Super Late Model dirt racer on Sunday.
Past Winners of the Blue Gray 100
Freddy Smith (3)
Scott Bloomquist (3)
Donnie Moran (2)
Clint Smith
Jack Pennington
Steve Lucas
Jeff Cooke
Petey Ivey
Chris Madden (3)
Randy Weaver
Jimmy Owens
Randall Chupp
Dale McDowell
This Weekend's Racing Schedule
Fri : Nov 18th - USA Race Park ; Tucson : AZ - ASCS / Canyon Region
Fri : Nov 18th - USA Race Park ; Tucson : AZ - ASCS / Southwest Region
Fri : Nov 18th - USA Race Park ; Tucson : AZ - Lucas Oil ASCS Sprint Car Series
Fri : Nov 18th – New Smyrna Speedway ; New Smyrna Beach : FL – Governor's Cup Limited Late Models
Fri : Nov 18th - Screven Motor Speedway ; Sylvania : GA - Georgia Outlaw Championships
Fri : Nov 18th - Royal Purple Raceway ; Houston : TX - USMTS Modifieds
Sat : Nov 19th - USA Race Park ; Tucson : AZ - ASCS / Canyon Region
Sat : Nov 19th - USA Race Park ; Tucson : AZ - ASCS / Southwest Region
Sat : Nov 19th - USA Race Park ; Tucson : AZ - Lucas Oil ASCS Sprint Car Series
Sat : Nov 19th - Ventura Raceway ; Ventura : CA - USAC Western Midgets
Sat : Nov 19th – New Smyrna Speedway ; New Smyrna Beach : FL – Governor's Cup Super Late Models
Sat : Nov 19th - Screven Motor Speedway ; Sylvania : GA - National Late Model Series
Sat : Nov 19th - Screven Motor Speedway ; Sylvania : GA - Georgia Outlaw Championships
Sat : Nov 19th - Circuit Grand Bayou ; Belle Rose : LA - ChumpCar World Series
Sat : Nov 19th – Whynot Motorsports Park ; Meridian : MS – Nesmith Late Models
Sat : Nov 19th – Orange County Speedway ; Rougemont : NC – CCS Limited Late Models
Sat : Nov 19th – Orange County Speedway ; Rougemont : NC – Street Stocks
Sat : Nov 19th - Cleveland Speedway ; Cleveland : TN - Southern All Star Racing Series
Sat : Nov 19th - Royal Purple Raceway ; Houston : TX - USMTS Modifieds
Sun : Nov 20th - Circuit Grand Bayou ; Belle Rose : LA - ChumpCar World Series
Sun : Nov 20th – Magnolia Motor Speedway ; Columbus : MS – Nesmith Late Models
Sun : Nov 20th – Cherokee Speedway ; Gaffney : SC – Blue/Gray Ultimate Super Late Models
Sun : Nov 20th – Myrtle Beach Speedway ; Myrtle Beach : SC – Late Models
Sun : Nov 20th – Myrtle Beach Speedway ; Myrtle Beach : SC – Southeast Limited Late Models
Thu : Nov 24th - Toyota Speedway at Irwindale ; Irwindale : CA - USAC National Midgets
Thu : Nov 24th - Toyota Speedway at Irwindale ; Irwindale : CA - USAC Western Clasic Racing Series
Thu : Nov 24th - Toyota Speedway at Irwindale ; Irwindale : CA - USAC Western Midgets
Thu : Nov 24th - Toyota Speedway at Irwindale ; Irwindale : CA - USAC Western Sprint Cars
Thu : Nov 24th – Concord Motorsports Park ; Concord : NC - PASS Southern Late Model Series
Mike Neff is a Senior Writer for Frontstretch.com. He can be reached via email at mike.neff@frontstretch.com.
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Hey Frontstretch Readers!
Get THE ANNUAL, 2011 Racing Preview for your mobile device!
Go to Frontstretch.com and click on "The Annual" link on the right side to order and download this special issue that includes: Track Information, Driver profiles and In-Depth Features.
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Frontstretch Folio: Ford 400
by Summer Dreyer
This weekend, the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series heads to Homestead-Miami Speedway for the Ford 400. Sunday's race will be the 36th and final race of the season and will be broadcast live Sunday, November 20th, at 3 PM ET on ESPN. Drivers will compete for 267 laps (400.5 miles) before taking the checkered flag.
Records and Facts
Jamie McMurray holds the track qualifying record, with a lap of 29.816 sec at 181.111 mph 2003 Ford 400. McMurray finished ninth in the race and failed to lead any laps. Bobby Labonte went on to win the race. The pole was McMurray's only one of the season and he acquired a total of five top 5s, 10 top 10s, and an average finish of 19th to finish 13th in points that season.
Tony Stewart holds the record for the fastest race run at this racetrack, with a speed of 140.335 mph in the 1999 Pennzoil 400 presented by Kmart. Stewart led 44 of the 267 laps to win the race by 5.289 sec over second-place Bobby Labonte. Jeff Burton finished third, followed by Mark Martin in fourth, and Dale Jarrett in fifth. Stewart won a total of three races during the 1999 season and finished fourth in points.
Carl Edwards is the defending race winner of this event, leading 190 of the 267 laps in the 2010 Ford 400. Edwards won by 1.608 sec over second-place Jimmie Johnson. Kevin Harvick finished third, followed by Aric Almirola in fourth and A.J. Allmendinger in fifth. Edwards won a total of two races in 2010 and finished fourth in points.
Track Facts
Track/Race Length: 1.5.-mile oval, 267 laps (400.5 miles)
Banking: 18-20 degrees in the corners
Frontstretch: 1,760 ft., banked 4 degrees
Backstretch: 1,760 ft., banked 4 degrees
Grandstand Seating: 65,000
Pre-race Schedule
Practice: Friday, November 18, 3:00 – 4:20 PM ET on ESPN2
Happy Hour: Friday, November 18, 6:05 – 7:25 PM ET on SPEED
Qualifying: Saturday, November 19, 2:40 PM ET on SPEED
VIPs
Grand Marshal: First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden
Honorary Starter: Mark Fields, President of the Americas, Ford
Honorary Race Chairman: Edsel Ford, III, Member, Board of Directors, Ford
Invocation: Pastor Scott Claunch, Calvary Chapel, Kendall, FL
National Anthem: American Idol finalist Pia Toscano
God Bless America: Johnny Holliday, international jazz artist, Homestead 482nd Security Forces Unit
Military Flyover: 482nd Fighter Wing, Homestead Reserve AFB
Race Day Forecast
Sunday: Scattered showers, 30% chance of rain
High: 80
Low: 72
Say What?!
"It's been a good racetrack for us. We were good on the flat surface. Obviously with the new surface, it's gone well. It's just been one of those racetracks we've been fortunate to go to that everything kind of fits the styles of the way our cars are built to run and my driving style. It's definitely been a good racetrack for us and we're looking forward to going down there and closing out the season strong this week." -Kevin Harvick on racing at Homestead
"That track hasn't been great to me. I've run well there in the Truck Series. I won the Nationwide race there the last two years. Homestead is a fun racetrack. It's real challenging because of the way the race changes from the beginning to the end, and the way things change from the beginning to the end of your runs. You run the bottom, then you go to the top. You're always moving around. You're always thinking. It's a cool racetrack. The sun is going to play havoc on our eyes getting down into turn one during the race." -Kyle Busch
"I know it's all about the Chase this weekend, but for me, my season isn't over because I'm not in it. I still have a job to do and that's to get the NAPA AUTO PARTS Toyota into victory lane or finish as strong as I can. I truly believe we can be a threat this weekend. I get kind of tired of saying a win is right around the corner because we've been close several times this season. But I really do feel good about going down to Homestead. I was fortunate enough to have a really fast car last year and led a bunch of that race. Carl (Edwards) was right there. It was me and him battling for the first 300 miles. We got a flat tire and he ended up winning. Now it's time for us to get it done and I hope I'll be racing Carl again for the win. We're taking our Texas car with us. It's the new MWR chassis. The MWR guys have been working on some new things so I hope it all works out." -Martin Truex, Jr.
Summer Dreyer is a Senior Writer for Frontstretch.com. She can be reached via email at summer.dreyer@frontstretch.com.
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COME JOIN THE FRONTSTRETCH FAMILY!
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TODAY ON THE FRONTSTRETCH:
Let The Games Begin
by Tom Bowles
Of Dreams and Nightmares, A Chase Clinch Scenario
by Jeff Meyer
Four Burning Questions: Revealing South Florida "Secrets" - Including Keselowski's
by Bryan Davis Keith and Brody Jones
Casey Mears Driver Diary: Winding Up 2011, Twitter and Looking Ahead
as told to Amy Henderson
Tearing Apart the Trucks: Memorable Moments of the 2011 Season
by Beth Lunkenheimer
Frontstretch Podcast: November 18th Edition
hosted by Doug Turnbull
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FRONTSTRETCH TRIVIA:
Q: The 2002 Ford 300 at Homestead-Miami Speedway was won by Scott Wimmer for Bill Davis Racing. However, the event also marked the one and only Busch Series start for a soon to be infamous organization. Name it.
Check back Monday for the answer, here in the Frontstretch Newsletter!
Thursday's Answer:
Q: Grand-Am has rather draconian rules on avoidable contact that more or less eliminate casual bumping and banging from regular racing. Those rules were created due to an incident that occurred at Homestead in 2004. What happened?
A: Essentially, Max Papis and Jan Magnussen got into the grandpappy of bumping matches while fighting for the lead late in the race. After hitting each other roughly half a dozen times in half a lap, the two drivers took themselves out entering the Infield Section. Andy Wallace (sharing the CITGO-sponsored No. 2 Pontiac Crawford with Milka Duno) was able to drive right by the damaged duo to claim the lead and eventual victory. The shenanigans can be seen in this clip with very lively commentary provided by Leigh Diffey and Dorsey Schroeder for SPEED.
Frontstretch Trivia Guarantee: Take the shirt off our backs! If we've provided an incorrect answer to the Frontstretch Trivia question, be the first to email the corrected trivia answer to trivia@frontstretch.com and we'll send you a Frontstretch T-Shirt ... FREE!
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Coming Monday in the Frontstretch Newsletter:
-- Ford 400 Race Recap by Brody Jones
-- Top 12 / 35 Wrapup: 2011 Season by Garrett Horton
-- Secret Star Of The Race / Stat of the Week by Tom Bowles
-- Running Their Mouth: Ford 400 by Brody Jones
-- Links to your favorite Frontstretch articles, and more!
Monday on the Frontstretch:
Matt McLaughlin's Thinkin' Out Loud: Ford 400 by Matt McLaughlin
Matt will be here with his overall thoughts about the action from Sunday afternoon's season finale from Homestead-Miami Speedway.
David vs. Goliath by Bryan Davis Keith
Who's hot and who's not towards the back end of the owner points battle? Bryan brings the stories you didn't hear about into print from Sunday's race from Homestead as teams fight to lock themselves in for the first five races next season.
Monday Morning Teardown by Ron Lemasters
Ron returns for a website look at one of the big stories from Sunday's race from Homestead.
Bowles-Eye View by Tom Bowles
Tom brings back his weekly post-race commentary with all of the insight you need from a weekend of racing from Homestead.
Big Six: Ford 400 by Amy Henderson
Looking for all you need to know leaving the final Sprint Cup race of the season? Amy has your who, what, when, where, why and how from a weekend of racing at Homestead.
Nationwide Series Breakdown: Wypall 200 by Bryan Davis Keith
Bryan has all the post-race analysis you need after Saturday afternoon's Nationwide Series finale from Homestead.
Tracking the Trucks: Ford 200 by Beth Lunkenheimer
Beth has all the post-race analysis you need after Friday night's Camping World Truck Series finale from Homestead-Miami Speedway.
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Talk back to the Frontstretch Newsletter!
In response to What's Vexing Vito: Kyle's Crimes Against Humanity by Vito Pugliese in Thursday's Frontstretch Newsletter:
Got something to say about an article you've seen in the newsletter? It's as easy as replying directly to this message or sending an email to editors@frontstretch.com. We'll take the best comments and publish them here!
©2011 Frontstretch.com
Hey Frontstretch Readers!
Did you know The Frontstretch has a weekly podcast? Hosted by Doug Turnbull, the latest podcast comes out every Friday. This week, Doug and columnist Mike Neff discuss the championship battle, the futures of Darian Grubb and Chad Knaus, testing at Daytona and much more! Also, don't miss out on special guest Cale Gale as he weighs in on his full-time Truck Series ride with Eddie Sharp Racing next season. Check it out here!
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Keepin' It Short: More Than 20 Years of Civil War
by Mike Neff
For some reason there is no shortage of Civil War references in the South. The people below the Mason-Dixon line, especially in the Carolinas and Georgia, always seem to get a little more worked up about things if there is some sort of North vs. South angle. Just a couple of weeks ago was the North-South Shootout at Caraway Speedway for the Modifieds. This weekend will be the Blue Gray 100 at Cherokee Speedway in Gaffney, South Carolina.
This race has run on for more than twenty years and has seen some of the biggest names in dirt Late Model racing grace its winner's circle. Not only does the 21st Annual Blue Gray promise to be another great race in the history of Cherokee Speedway, it will also settle the season long points battle for the Ultimate Super Late Models. Coming into the race the top three drivers in the points, Chris Ferguson, Casey Roberts and Chip Brindle are separated by a mere four points. If any of these three drivers is able to win the $10,000 to win race on Sunday, they'll also take home an extra $25,000 for winning the series championship.
All three of the top point drivers have taken trophies home from Cherokee this season. For Roberts a victory would be extra special as he is trying to lay a Jimmie Johnson on the Ultimate Super Late Model series. Roberts scored the series title in 2007 and has not let go of it since. Should he win the title this season that will give him five consecutive Ultimate Super Late Model Championships.
Not only will fans and drivers be winners after this weekend's activities at Cherokee, but the Gaffney Meals on Wheels organization will also win this weekend thanks to the Speedway, Dirtfans.com and the Ultimate Super Late Model Series. Cherokee Speedway will be donating 100 cans of food to the group that helps feed the needy in the area. Dirtfans.com and Ultimate Super Late Models will be matching that donation with 50 cans each. Fans in attendance for the race are encouraged to bring their own canned food donations or non-perishable food items to help out the noble cause.
Whether you're a fan of the Union or the Confederacy, or you just like to see some great dirt racing action, head a little south of Charlotte, North Carolina on Interstate 85 into South Carolina and check out the Blue Gray 100. It won't settle who is the winner of the war, but it will certainly settle who is the best Super Late Model dirt racer on Sunday.
Past Winners of the Blue Gray 100
Freddy Smith (3)
Scott Bloomquist (3)
Donnie Moran (2)
Clint Smith
Jack Pennington
Steve Lucas
Jeff Cooke
Petey Ivey
Chris Madden (3)
Randy Weaver
Jimmy Owens
Randall Chupp
Dale McDowell
This Weekend's Racing Schedule
Fri : Nov 18th - USA Race Park ; Tucson : AZ - ASCS / Canyon Region
Fri : Nov 18th - USA Race Park ; Tucson : AZ - ASCS / Southwest Region
Fri : Nov 18th - USA Race Park ; Tucson : AZ - Lucas Oil ASCS Sprint Car Series
Fri : Nov 18th – New Smyrna Speedway ; New Smyrna Beach : FL – Governor's Cup Limited Late Models
Fri : Nov 18th - Screven Motor Speedway ; Sylvania : GA - Georgia Outlaw Championships
Fri : Nov 18th - Royal Purple Raceway ; Houston : TX - USMTS Modifieds
Sat : Nov 19th - USA Race Park ; Tucson : AZ - ASCS / Canyon Region
Sat : Nov 19th - USA Race Park ; Tucson : AZ - ASCS / Southwest Region
Sat : Nov 19th - USA Race Park ; Tucson : AZ - Lucas Oil ASCS Sprint Car Series
Sat : Nov 19th - Ventura Raceway ; Ventura : CA - USAC Western Midgets
Sat : Nov 19th – New Smyrna Speedway ; New Smyrna Beach : FL – Governor's Cup Super Late Models
Sat : Nov 19th - Screven Motor Speedway ; Sylvania : GA - National Late Model Series
Sat : Nov 19th - Screven Motor Speedway ; Sylvania : GA - Georgia Outlaw Championships
Sat : Nov 19th - Circuit Grand Bayou ; Belle Rose : LA - ChumpCar World Series
Sat : Nov 19th – Whynot Motorsports Park ; Meridian : MS – Nesmith Late Models
Sat : Nov 19th – Orange County Speedway ; Rougemont : NC – CCS Limited Late Models
Sat : Nov 19th – Orange County Speedway ; Rougemont : NC – Street Stocks
Sat : Nov 19th - Cleveland Speedway ; Cleveland : TN - Southern All Star Racing Series
Sat : Nov 19th - Royal Purple Raceway ; Houston : TX - USMTS Modifieds
Sun : Nov 20th - Circuit Grand Bayou ; Belle Rose : LA - ChumpCar World Series
Sun : Nov 20th – Magnolia Motor Speedway ; Columbus : MS – Nesmith Late Models
Sun : Nov 20th – Cherokee Speedway ; Gaffney : SC – Blue/Gray Ultimate Super Late Models
Sun : Nov 20th – Myrtle Beach Speedway ; Myrtle Beach : SC – Late Models
Sun : Nov 20th – Myrtle Beach Speedway ; Myrtle Beach : SC – Southeast Limited Late Models
Thu : Nov 24th - Toyota Speedway at Irwindale ; Irwindale : CA - USAC National Midgets
Thu : Nov 24th - Toyota Speedway at Irwindale ; Irwindale : CA - USAC Western Clasic Racing Series
Thu : Nov 24th - Toyota Speedway at Irwindale ; Irwindale : CA - USAC Western Midgets
Thu : Nov 24th - Toyota Speedway at Irwindale ; Irwindale : CA - USAC Western Sprint Cars
Thu : Nov 24th – Concord Motorsports Park ; Concord : NC - PASS Southern Late Model Series
Mike Neff is a Senior Writer for Frontstretch.com. He can be reached via email at mike.neff@frontstretch.com.
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Hey Frontstretch Readers!
Get THE ANNUAL, 2011 Racing Preview for your mobile device!
Go to Frontstretch.com and click on "The Annual" link on the right side to order and download this special issue that includes: Track Information, Driver profiles and In-Depth Features.
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Frontstretch Folio: Ford 400
by Summer Dreyer
This weekend, the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series heads to Homestead-Miami Speedway for the Ford 400. Sunday's race will be the 36th and final race of the season and will be broadcast live Sunday, November 20th, at 3 PM ET on ESPN. Drivers will compete for 267 laps (400.5 miles) before taking the checkered flag.
Records and Facts
Jamie McMurray holds the track qualifying record, with a lap of 29.816 sec at 181.111 mph 2003 Ford 400. McMurray finished ninth in the race and failed to lead any laps. Bobby Labonte went on to win the race. The pole was McMurray's only one of the season and he acquired a total of five top 5s, 10 top 10s, and an average finish of 19th to finish 13th in points that season.
Tony Stewart holds the record for the fastest race run at this racetrack, with a speed of 140.335 mph in the 1999 Pennzoil 400 presented by Kmart. Stewart led 44 of the 267 laps to win the race by 5.289 sec over second-place Bobby Labonte. Jeff Burton finished third, followed by Mark Martin in fourth, and Dale Jarrett in fifth. Stewart won a total of three races during the 1999 season and finished fourth in points.
Carl Edwards is the defending race winner of this event, leading 190 of the 267 laps in the 2010 Ford 400. Edwards won by 1.608 sec over second-place Jimmie Johnson. Kevin Harvick finished third, followed by Aric Almirola in fourth and A.J. Allmendinger in fifth. Edwards won a total of two races in 2010 and finished fourth in points.
Track Facts
Track/Race Length: 1.5.-mile oval, 267 laps (400.5 miles)
Banking: 18-20 degrees in the corners
Frontstretch: 1,760 ft., banked 4 degrees
Backstretch: 1,760 ft., banked 4 degrees
Grandstand Seating: 65,000
Pre-race Schedule
Practice: Friday, November 18, 3:00 – 4:20 PM ET on ESPN2
Happy Hour: Friday, November 18, 6:05 – 7:25 PM ET on SPEED
Qualifying: Saturday, November 19, 2:40 PM ET on SPEED
VIPs
Grand Marshal: First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden
Honorary Starter: Mark Fields, President of the Americas, Ford
Honorary Race Chairman: Edsel Ford, III, Member, Board of Directors, Ford
Invocation: Pastor Scott Claunch, Calvary Chapel, Kendall, FL
National Anthem: American Idol finalist Pia Toscano
God Bless America: Johnny Holliday, international jazz artist, Homestead 482nd Security Forces Unit
Military Flyover: 482nd Fighter Wing, Homestead Reserve AFB
Race Day Forecast
Sunday: Scattered showers, 30% chance of rain
High: 80
Low: 72
Say What?!
"It's been a good racetrack for us. We were good on the flat surface. Obviously with the new surface, it's gone well. It's just been one of those racetracks we've been fortunate to go to that everything kind of fits the styles of the way our cars are built to run and my driving style. It's definitely been a good racetrack for us and we're looking forward to going down there and closing out the season strong this week." -Kevin Harvick on racing at Homestead
"That track hasn't been great to me. I've run well there in the Truck Series. I won the Nationwide race there the last two years. Homestead is a fun racetrack. It's real challenging because of the way the race changes from the beginning to the end, and the way things change from the beginning to the end of your runs. You run the bottom, then you go to the top. You're always moving around. You're always thinking. It's a cool racetrack. The sun is going to play havoc on our eyes getting down into turn one during the race." -Kyle Busch
"I know it's all about the Chase this weekend, but for me, my season isn't over because I'm not in it. I still have a job to do and that's to get the NAPA AUTO PARTS Toyota into victory lane or finish as strong as I can. I truly believe we can be a threat this weekend. I get kind of tired of saying a win is right around the corner because we've been close several times this season. But I really do feel good about going down to Homestead. I was fortunate enough to have a really fast car last year and led a bunch of that race. Carl (Edwards) was right there. It was me and him battling for the first 300 miles. We got a flat tire and he ended up winning. Now it's time for us to get it done and I hope I'll be racing Carl again for the win. We're taking our Texas car with us. It's the new MWR chassis. The MWR guys have been working on some new things so I hope it all works out." -Martin Truex, Jr.
Summer Dreyer is a Senior Writer for Frontstretch.com. She can be reached via email at summer.dreyer@frontstretch.com.
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COME JOIN THE FRONTSTRETCH FAMILY!
Hey Frontstretch Readers,
We are looking for someone who shares our enthusiasm for NASCAR and has an experienced background in web design. Specifically, we are looking for someone who can help maintain and enhance our website, increase our SEO, and upgrade our publishing platform while producing a limited amount of content throughout the season. This job presents a perfect opportunity for someone with a technical background, a person who wants their work to gain national exposure.
If you are interested, contact frontstretcheditors@googlegroups.com. Please include references to your past work in your e-mail.
Frontstretch will also be looking to add 3-5 writers for the 2012 season. Details to come in the next few weeks.
Frontstretch will also be looking to add 3-5 writers for the 2012 season. Details to come in the next few weeks.
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TODAY ON THE FRONTSTRETCH:
Let The Games Begin
by Tom Bowles
Of Dreams and Nightmares, A Chase Clinch Scenario
by Jeff Meyer
Four Burning Questions: Revealing South Florida "Secrets" - Including Keselowski's
by Bryan Davis Keith and Brody Jones
Casey Mears Driver Diary: Winding Up 2011, Twitter and Looking Ahead
as told to Amy Henderson
Tearing Apart the Trucks: Memorable Moments of the 2011 Season
by Beth Lunkenheimer
Frontstretch Podcast: November 18th Edition
hosted by Doug Turnbull
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FRONTSTRETCH TRIVIA:
Q: The 2002 Ford 300 at Homestead-Miami Speedway was won by Scott Wimmer for Bill Davis Racing. However, the event also marked the one and only Busch Series start for a soon to be infamous organization. Name it.
Check back Monday for the answer, here in the Frontstretch Newsletter!
Thursday's Answer:
Q: Grand-Am has rather draconian rules on avoidable contact that more or less eliminate casual bumping and banging from regular racing. Those rules were created due to an incident that occurred at Homestead in 2004. What happened?
A: Essentially, Max Papis and Jan Magnussen got into the grandpappy of bumping matches while fighting for the lead late in the race. After hitting each other roughly half a dozen times in half a lap, the two drivers took themselves out entering the Infield Section. Andy Wallace (sharing the CITGO-sponsored No. 2 Pontiac Crawford with Milka Duno) was able to drive right by the damaged duo to claim the lead and eventual victory. The shenanigans can be seen in this clip with very lively commentary provided by Leigh Diffey and Dorsey Schroeder for SPEED.
Frontstretch Trivia Guarantee: Take the shirt off our backs! If we've provided an incorrect answer to the Frontstretch Trivia question, be the first to email the corrected trivia answer to trivia@frontstretch.com and we'll send you a Frontstretch T-Shirt ... FREE!
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Coming Monday in the Frontstretch Newsletter:
-- Ford 400 Race Recap by Brody Jones
-- Top 12 / 35 Wrapup: 2011 Season by Garrett Horton
-- Secret Star Of The Race / Stat of the Week by Tom Bowles
-- Running Their Mouth: Ford 400 by Brody Jones
-- Links to your favorite Frontstretch articles, and more!
Monday on the Frontstretch:
Matt McLaughlin's Thinkin' Out Loud: Ford 400 by Matt McLaughlin
Matt will be here with his overall thoughts about the action from Sunday afternoon's season finale from Homestead-Miami Speedway.
David vs. Goliath by Bryan Davis Keith
Who's hot and who's not towards the back end of the owner points battle? Bryan brings the stories you didn't hear about into print from Sunday's race from Homestead as teams fight to lock themselves in for the first five races next season.
Monday Morning Teardown by Ron Lemasters
Ron returns for a website look at one of the big stories from Sunday's race from Homestead.
Bowles-Eye View by Tom Bowles
Tom brings back his weekly post-race commentary with all of the insight you need from a weekend of racing from Homestead.
Big Six: Ford 400 by Amy Henderson
Looking for all you need to know leaving the final Sprint Cup race of the season? Amy has your who, what, when, where, why and how from a weekend of racing at Homestead.
Nationwide Series Breakdown: Wypall 200 by Bryan Davis Keith
Bryan has all the post-race analysis you need after Saturday afternoon's Nationwide Series finale from Homestead.
Tracking the Trucks: Ford 200 by Beth Lunkenheimer
Beth has all the post-race analysis you need after Friday night's Camping World Truck Series finale from Homestead-Miami Speedway.
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Talk back to the Frontstretch Newsletter!
In response to What's Vexing Vito: Kyle's Crimes Against Humanity by Vito Pugliese in Thursday's Frontstretch Newsletter:
I just became a serious race fan in the last few years ...... and guess why? I was watching a young driver by the name of Kyle Busch, and was so taken with this driver that I have become a die-hard race fan ever since. He is definitely the most exciting driver to appear on the scene in the last few years. A race without Kyle in it is just not an exciting race to watch. No one can come from the back like Kyle. Drivers like this just do not come along every day.
You are right on the money when you say that Kyle appears to be judged by a different set of rules. As for me, and a large number of Kyle fans that I know, let Kyle stay the same. I love his explosive personality. I love the enthusiasm he shows when he races. That's what make racing fun to watch! You can always count on Kyle to make the race exciting. Without the adrenalin pumping in racing, fans will eventually dwindle and fall by the wayside.
As for Sponsors, M & M has slipped a rung in my books, and Interstate Batteries has come up several notches! Not only should the Drivers be loyal to their Sponsors, but the Sponsors should also be loyal to their Drivers. I would have much more respect for M & M had they stood by their man. I'll think twice next time I consider buying an M & M product.
Can you tell that I'm a Kyle Busch fan? You bet! ..... and wherever Kyle races, I'll be there watching him and cheering him on, no matter who his Sponsor is and no matter what kind of car/truck he drives.
Elaine Allen-Gray
Got something to say about an article you've seen in the newsletter? It's as easy as replying directly to this message or sending an email to editors@frontstretch.com. We'll take the best comments and publish them here!
©2011 Frontstretch.com
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