THE FRONTSTRETCH NEWSLETTER
Presented by Frontstretch.com
The Best Seat at the Track, The Best View on the Net!
May 4th, 2012
Volume VI, Edition LXXVI
~~~~~~~~~~
Editor's Note: Frontstretch has a brand new, redesigned Facebook page. Click Here to "Like" Us and get a direct connect to all your Frontstretch favorites along with polls, interaction with fans and so much more.
~~~~~~~~~~
Top News
by Jeff Wolfe
Furniture Row Racing Confirms Conversation With Kurt Busch
Furniture Row Racing is apparently trying to get its ducks in a row in order to put together a second team for the 2013 season. In an interview on the GodfatherMotorsports.com's Dave Moody the team's general manager Joe Garone said he has talked with Busch but made it clear the discussions are "not about being unhappy with [current driver] Regan Smith."
"I have talked to Kurt Busch but it was about a team we don't even have yet," Garone said. "We are working diligently on getting a second (Sprint Cup) car for next year, and I'm trying to get my hands around some of the guys that will be available going onto 2013. I wanted to make an introduction to Kurt, and just let him know what our plans are for the future."
Busch is currently driving for James Finch's Phoenix Racing team, however the team owner has acknowledged financial struggles, admitting last month that the one-car operation might not be able to run a full schedule this season. Busch later said that the team is hoping to run a full schedule. Busch sits 26th in points and has just one top-10 finish in the first nine races this season.
Regan Smith sits just 14 points ahead of Busch in 25th has yet to finish in the top 10 heading into Sunday's superspeedway race at Talladega; his season-high finish is 15th at Las Vegas.
"Kurt and Regan have worked well together on the superspeedways in the past," Garone said. "They have drafted well together and talked well back and forth. Adding a second team would be a major boost for Furniture Row Racing, and we're all working hard to try and make that happen."
Golden Corral, Tommy Baldwin Racing Agree to Three More Races
Tommy Baldwin Racing is reunited with Golden Corral for the three remaining superspeedway races this season. And while it's good news for Baldwin and the No. 36 car driven by Dave Blaney, it could be good news for families who live near a Golden Corral restaurant. If Blaney finishes in the top 10 in any of the superspeedway races, including this weekend at Talladega, kids can eat free at the Golden Corral the Monday following the race. The free meal comes when an adult purchases a buffet and there is a two-child limit per adult.
"Golden Corral was a great partner for us last year," team owner Tommy Baldwin said. "Not only were they a pleasure to work with, but their support got us to where we are today. We are pleased that they decided to have a program with us this year as well. We love racing to feed America's families and hope we can bring awareness to Camp Corral as well."
Golden Corral also is promoting its Camp Corral program, a free summer camp for children of wounded, fallen or disabled military families that will launch this summer.
"We are pleased to be back on the track with the No. 36 team and to share our Camp Corral initiative and Kids Eat Free promotion with race fans," said Shelley Wolford, Vice President of National Marketing and Media at Golden Corral.
Golden Corral sponsored Blaney for 21 races last season where he led 25 laps combined in the four superspeedway events. This season, Blaney sits 32nd in points and does not have a top-10 finish. He did, however, finish 15th at Daytona in February where he led six laps.
Fastenal to Sponsor Roush Fenway at Charlotte
Current Roush Racing sponsor Fastenal has signed on to back all three Roush Fenway Fords in the Coca-Cola 600 May 27 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Greg Biffle's No. 16, Carl Edwards' No. 99, and Matt Kenseth's No. 17 will feature a "NASCAR Unites – An American Salute'' with a red, white and blue theme for the traditional Memorial Day weekend event.
"As a sponsor, it doesn't get any better than this," said Cory Jansen, Fastenal's Executive Vice president of Operations. "Not only are we the primary for three legitimate championship contenders, but we'll be helping Roush Fenway Racing shine a spotlight on our military and their families. It's going to be a huge honor to see the No. 99, the No. 17 and the No. 16 covered from spoiler to splitter in red, white and blue."
Fastenal sponsored Roush's three Nationwide teams--Kenseth, Edwards and Ricky Stenhouse, Jr.--last year at Charlotte; Kenseth snagged the victory with Edwards and Stenhouse finishing second and fourth, respectively.
Have news for The Frontstretch? Don't hesitate to let us know; email us at phil.allaway@frontstretch.com with a promising lead or tip.
~~~~~~~~~~
Got NASCAR-related questions or comments?
Send them John Potts' way at john.potts@frontstretch.com; and if you're lucky, you'll get your name in print when he does his weekly column answering back to you – the fans that keep Frontstretch afloat. Potts' Shots will run on Thursdays with a whole new set of Fan Questions and Answers!
~~~~~~~~~~
In Case You Missed It
by Nick Schwartz
Clint Bowyer's Car to Honor Alabama's National Championship Football Team
The Alabama Crimson Tide took home the BCS National Championship this year, beating rival LSU in the title game, and with NASCAR coming to Alabama this weekend, Clint Bowyer's No. 15 car will sport a special paint scheme to honor the team. Bowyer, who has won the last two Fall races at Talladega, will also wear a specially designed firesuit and helmet, honoring former Alabama coach Paul "Bear" Bryant.
"I'm certainly a [Kansas] fan but respect all athletics and certainly respect what [Alabama has] accomplished in the past year," Bowyer said. "It's going to be fun to have the Alabama colors… for one day."
Rheem to Sponsor Kevin Harvick's No. 29 at Talladega
Rheem, a nationwide company which specializes in eco-friendly home heating systems, water heaters and generators, will sponsor Kevin Harvick's No. 29 Chevrolet at Talladega Superspeedway this weekend for the Aaron's 499. Rheem has a history of serving as Harvick's primary sponsor, and appeared on the No. 29 at Phoenix and Kansas earlier this season.
~~~~~~~~~~
COME JOIN THE FRONTSTRETCH FAMILY!
If you are interested, contact frontstretcheditors@googlegroups.com. Please include references to your past work in your e-mail.
~~~~~~~~~~
Keepin' It Short: Shining the Spotlight on Pine Hall, NC
by Mike Neff
Dirt track racing is popular throughout the United States, but it's exceptionally well received in the Southeast. Pine Hall, NC is the home of 311 Speedway which, like many other tracks, bills itself as the fastest half-mile in the South. While there will certainly be debate about whether that statement is true, one thing is certain, the half-mile facility just South of the border between North Carolina and Virginia will put on a hell of a show when the World of Outlaws make their first visit to the track tonight.
311 has seen several national touring series races in the past, but it has been eight years since the track saw the haulers of a road warrior series roll through the gates. With the World of Outlaws coming, it will be the first time since 2010 that the Late Models have run in North Carolina, other than at Charlotte. If this weekend's race goes well, 311 could end up being an annual stop on the World of Outlaw schedule.
The track is currently owned by Mike Fulp, who purchased the track two years ago and has been working hard to get it back on the national stage. For several years the track focused on weekly racing and Carolina Crash races, with no effort made to draw in the 'Big Dogs' of the Late Model racing world. Fulp is a former racer who competed in Late Models as recently as September, 2010. This race is easily the biggest event since Fulp took over the reins of the track with the prize money more than doubling the previous high purse under Fulp's watch.
"This World of Outlaws show is the biggest thing for dirt-track racing in this area in a long time," Fulp said of the facility located 35 minutes northeast of Winston-Salem and two hours northeast of Charlotte. "With (forecasts) talking about great weather on Friday (sunny with highs in the upper 80s and lows in the 60s), I think this can be huge for 311 Motor Speedway – a race that really showcases the track and puts it back on the map."
Prior to this weekend's big race, the last national touring race to take place at 311 was a date from the former Hav-A-Tampa racing series. 311 was a staple on the Hav-A-Tampa schedule from 2002 through 2004. According to the World of Outlaw's Late Model PR director Kevin Kouvac, several of the drivers have past experience at 311.
The track won't be familiar territory to most of the WoO LMS regulars, however. The traveler with the most experience at 311 would be Clint Smith of Senoia, Georgia, who enjoyed success there during the '90s driving for Carlton Lamm's North Carolina-based team; his last start at the speedway was in 2007.
For WoO LMS drivers like defending champion Rick Eckert of York, Pennsylvania, and current fourth-place points driver Chub Frank of Bear Lake, PA, Friday's race will be their first appearances at 311 since 2003 when they competed in HAT / UDTRA and Renegade STARS events, respectively. Shane Clanton of Fayetteville, GA, who is third in the points race, will also return to the track after an absence of nearly a decade. Meanwhile, for other WoO LMS followers – like points leader Darrell Lanigan of Union, Kentucky, former champ Tim McCreadie of Watertown, New York, and top Rookie of the Year contender Bub McCool of Vicksburg, Mississippi, who won his first tour A-Main on April 28 at Tazewell (Tenn.) Speedway – the track will be a new adventure.
Creating a challenge for the Outlaws is the fact that Friday's field will feature several standouts from the Southeast who have proven their mettle at 311 by winning touring-series events. The group includes Chris Madden of Gray Court, South Carolina (HAT/UDTRA '03, Carolina Clash '01); Dale McDowell of Chickamauga, GA (Clash '09, HAT/UDTRA '02); Dennis 'Rambo' Franklin of Gaffney, SC (Clash '11 and '09); and Billy Hicks of Mount Airy, North Carolina (Clash '05 and STARS '94).
Tonight's field is also expected to include 2011 ARCA Racing Series champion and current NASCAR Camping World Truck Series competitor Ty Dillon of Welcome, NC, the grandson of NASCAR team owner Richard Childress. Dillon's older brother, Austin, who captured the 2011 NASCAR Truck Series championship and is currently a NASCAR Nationwide Series regular, won two Carolina Clash events at 311 in 2010. Other drivers with plans to compete on Friday include Steve Shaver of Vienna, West Virginia, Johnny Pursley of Clover, SC, Donald Bradsher of Burlington, NC, Chris Ferguson of Mt. Holly, NC, Daniel Baggerly of Rural Retreat, Virginia, and Ross Bailes of Clover, SC.
Pit gates at 311 Motor Speedway are scheduled to open at 3 PM and the grandstands will be unlocked at 4 PM for Friday's program, which also includes a $1,500-to-win crate Late Model feature (311 Motor Speedway rules) and a $400-to-win Stock Four event. Practice is set to start at 7:30 PM with on-track action to immediately follow. Grandstand admission is $30, with children 6-15 charged $15 and kids under 6 admitted free. Pit passes will be $40 (kids under 6 are free).
If you're in the Carolina/Virginia area this evening, make the trip up to the Northeast of Winston-Salem to the fastest half mile track in the South, 311 Speedway. The World of Outlaw Late Models will be turning laps under 16 seconds on a half-mile track and laying it all on the line for the $10,000 that will be paid to the winner.
This Weekend's Race Schedule:
Fri : May 4th – Stafford Speedway ; Stafford Springs : CT – 5 Star Series Opening Act Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Stafford Speedway ; Stafford Springs : CT – 5 Star Series Opening Act Limited Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Stafford Speedway ; Stafford Springs : CT – 5 Star Series Opening Act SK Lights
Fri : May 4th – Stafford Speedway ; Stafford Springs : CT – 5 Star Series Opening Act SK Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Boyd's Speedway ; Ringgold : GA – Southern Regional Racing Series
Fri : May 4th – Tri-City Speedway ; Pontoon Beach : IL – Lucas Oil Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Speedrome ; Indianapolis : IN – Hornets
Fri : May 4th – Speedrome ; Indianapolis : IN – Legends
Fri : May 4th – Speedrome ; Indianapolis : IN – Roadsters
Fri : May 4th – Dodge City Raceway Park ; Dodge City : KS – USAC MOPAR National Midgets
Fri : May 4th – USA Speedway ; Sterlington : LA – Comp Cams Super Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Chateau Raceway ; Lansing : MN – USRA Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Chateau Raceway ; Lansing : MN – IMCA Stock Cars
Fri : May 4th – Chateau Raceway ; Lansing : MN – WISSOTA Midwest Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Chateau Raceway ; Lansing : MN – WISSOTA Street Stocks
Fri : May 4th – LA Raceway ; La Monte : MO – USMTS National Championship Series Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Malden Speedway ; Malden : MO – NeSmith Touring Series Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Malden Speedway ; Malden : MO – Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Malden Speedway ; Malden : MO – Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Malden Speedway ; Malden : MO – Street Stocks
Fri : May 4th – 311 Motor Speedway ; Pine Hall : NC – World of Outlaws Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Ace Speedway ; Altamahaw : NC – Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Ace Speedway ; Altamahaw : NC – Limited Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Ace Speedway ; Altamahaw : NC – Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Carolina Speedway ; Gastonia : NC – Open Wheel Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Carolina Speedway ; Gastonia : NC – Street Stocks
Fri : May 4th – Eldora Speedway ; Rossburg : OH – World of Outlaws Sprint Cars
Fri : May 4th – Jackson County Speedway ; Jackson : OH – Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Jackson County Speedway ; Jackson : OH – Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Jackson County Speedway ; Jackson : OH – Street Stocks
Fri : May 4th – Big Diamond Speedway ; Minersville : PA – 358 Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Big Diamond Speedway ; Minersville : PA – Sportsman
Fri : May 4th – Black Hills Speedway ; Rapid City : SD – Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Black Hills Speedway ; Rapid City : SD – Street Stocks
Fri : May 4th – Black Hills Speedway ; Rapid City : SD – Super Stocks
Fri : May 4th – Kingsport Speedway ; Kingsport : TN – UARA Stars Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Smoky Mountain Speedway ; Maryville : TN – USCS 600 Sprint Cars
Fri : May 4th – Smoky Mountain Speedway ; Maryville : TN – USCS Outlaw Thunder Sprint Cars
Fri : May 4th – Mountain Creek Speedway ; Grand Prairie : TX – IMCA Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Mountain Creek Speedway ; Grand Prairie : TX – IMCA Sport Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Mountain Creek Speedway ; Grand Prairie : TX – IMCA Stock
Fri : May 4th – Mountain Creek Speedway ; Grand Prairie : TX – Street Stock
Fri : May 4th – Langlade Speedway ; Antigo : WI – Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Langlade Speedway ; Antigo : WI – Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Manitowoc County Fairgrounds ; Manitowoc : WI – Season Opener Wisconsin Dirt Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Manitowoc County Fairgrounds ; Manitowoc : WI – Season Opener Sprint Cars
Fri : May 4th – Manitowoc County Fairgrounds ; Manitowoc : WI – Season Opener Street Stock
Fri : May 4th – Oshkosh Speedzone Winnebago County Fairgrounds ; Oshkosh : WI – IMCA Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Oshkosh Speedzone Winnebago County Fairgrounds ; Oshkosh : WI – IMCA Sport Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Oshkosh Speedzone Winnebago County Fairgrounds ; Oshkosh : WI – Street Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Talladega Short Track ; Eastaboga : AL – Southern All Star Dirt Super Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Green Valley Speedway ; Glencoe : AL – Crate Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Green Valley Speedway ; Glencoe : AL – KMSA
Sat : May 5th – Green Valley Speedway ; Glencoe : AL – Outlaw Thunder
Sat : May 5th – Green Valley Speedway ; Glencoe : AL – Sportsman
Sat : May 5th – Green Valley Speedway ; Glencoe : AL – Street Stock
Sat : May 5th – Green Valley Speedway ; Glencoe : AL – Super Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Huntsville Speedway ; Huntsville : AL – Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Huntsville Speedway ; Huntsville : AL – Outlaw Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Huntsville Speedway ; Huntsville : AL – Sportsman
Sat : May 5th – Havasu 95 Speedway ; Lake Havasu City : AZ – ASA Street Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Havasu 95 Speedway ; Lake Havasu City : AZ – Factory Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Riverside International Speedway ; West Memphis : AR – 305 Winged Sprints
Sat : May 5th – Riverside International Speedway ; West Memphis : AR – 600 Mini Sprints
Sat : May 5th – Riverside International Speedway ; West Memphis : AR – Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Riverside International Speedway ; West Memphis : AR – Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Madera Speedway ; Madera : CA – Vukovich Classic USAC Sprint Cars
Sat : May 5th – Madera Speedway ; Madera : CA – Vukovich Classic 410/360 Super Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Madera Speedway ; Madera : CA – Vukovich Classic BCRA/USAC Midgets
Sat : May 5th – Madera Speedway ; Madera : CA – Vukovich Classic USAC Focus Midgets
Sat : May 5th – Madera Speedway ; Madera : CA – Vukovich Classic NCMA Sprint Cars
Sat : May 5th – Madera Speedway ; Madera : CA – Vukovich Classic Vintage Super Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Madera Speedway ; Madera : CA – Vukovich Classic BCRA Vintage Sprints
Sat : May 5th – Madera Speedway ; Madera : CA – Vukovich Classic BCRA Vintage Midgets
Sat : May 5th – New Stockton 99 Speedway ; Stockton : CA – NASCAR K&N Pro West Series
Sat : May 5th – Desoto Speedway ; Bradenton : FL – Open Wheel Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – New Smyrna Speedway ; New Smyrna Beach : FL – Super Late Models
Sat : May 5th – New Smyrna Speedway ; New Smyrna Beach : FL – Sportsman
Sat : May 5th – Orlando Speedworld ; Orlando : FL – Florida United Promoters Late Models
Sat : May 5th – New Senoia Raceway ; Senoia : GA – Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Swainsboro Raceway ; Swainsboro : GA – World of Outlaws Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Watermelon Capital Speedway ; Cordele : GA – Super Streets
Sat : May 5th – South Bend Speedway ; South Bend : IN – 2nd Annual Ralph Yarbrough Memorial Late Models
Sat : May 5th – South Bend Speedway ; South Bend : IN – 2nd Annual Ralph Yarbrough Memorial Sportsman
Sat : May 5th – South Bend Speedway ; South Bend : IN – 2nd Annual Ralph Yarbrough Memorial Street Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Speedrome ; Indianapolis : IN – 4th Annual Brian Luttrell Memorial Stock Figure 8
Sat : May 5th – Speedrome ; Indianapolis : IN – Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Speedrome ; Indianapolis : IN – Hornets
Sat : May 5th – Speedrome ; Indianapolis : IN – Super Cups
Sat : May 5th – Independence Motor Speedway ; Independence : IA – IMCA Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Independence Motor Speedway ; Independence : IA – IMCA Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Independence Motor Speedway ; Independence : IA – IMCA Stock Cars
Sat : May 5th – Independence Motor Speedway ; Independence : IA – IMCA Sport Mods
Sat : May 5th – Dodge City Raceway Park ; Dodge City : KS – USAC MOPAR National Midgets
Sat : May 5th – Corbin Speedway ; Corbin : KY – USDCS Dirt Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Corbin Speedway ; Corbin : KY – Outlaw Mini Cup
Sat : May 5th – Corbin Speedway ; Corbin : KY – Baby Grand
Sat : May 5th – Paducah International Raceway ; Paducah : KY – Lucas Oil Late Models
Sat : May 5th – ArkLaTex Speedway ; Vivian : LA – Comp Cams Super Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Beech Ridge Motor Speedway ; Scarborough : ME – PASS North Super Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Hagerstown Speedway ; Hagerstown : MD – Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Hagerstown Speedway ; Hagerstown : MD – Pure Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Berlin Raceway ; Marne : MI – Outlaw Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Kalamazoo Speedway ; Kalamazoo : MI – Outlaw Super Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Kalamazoo Speedway ; Kalamazoo : MI – Super Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Kalamazoo Speedway ; Kalamazoo : MI – Pro Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Springport Motor Speedway ; Springport : MI – Opening Night Super Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Springport Motor Speedway ; Springport : MI – Opening Night Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Deer Creek Speedway ; Spring Valley : MN – Wissota Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Deer Creek Speedway ; Spring Valley : MN – Wissota Midwest Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Deer Creek Speedway ; Spring Valley : MN – Wissota Street Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Deer Creek Speedway ; Spring Valley : MN – Wissota Super Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Deer Creek Speedway ; Spring Valley : MN – USRA Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – North Central Speedway ; Brainerd : MN – Wissota Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – North Central Speedway ; Brainerd : MN – Wissota Midwest Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – North Central Speedway ; Brainerd : MN – Wissota Street Stocks
Sat : May 5th – North Central Speedway ; Brainerd : MN – Wissota Super Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Columbus Speedway ; Columbus : MS – Super Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Columbus Speedway ; Columbus : MS – NeSmith Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Columbus Speedway ; Columbus : MS – Street Stocks
Sat : May 5th – I-44 Speedway ; Lebanon : MO – ASA Late Models
Sat : May 5th – I-44 Speedway ; Lebanon : MO – Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – I-44 Speedway ; Lebanon : MO – Sportsman
Sat : May 5th – I-44 Speedway ; Lebanon : MO – Road Warriors
Sat : May 5th – I-44 Speedway ; Lebanon : MO – Chargers
Sat : May 5th – Lucas Oil Speedway ; Wheatland : MO – ASCS Winged Sprints
Sat : May 5th – Lucas Oil Speedway ; Wheatland : MO – POWRI Lucas Oil Midgets
Sat : May 5th – Lucas Oil Speedway ; Wheatland : MO – B-Mods
Sat : May 5th – West Plains Motor Speedway ; West Plains : MO – USMTS National Championship Series Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Concord Motorsports Park ; Concord : NC – Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Hickory Motor Speedway ; Newton : NC – Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Hickory Motor Speedway ; Newton : NC – Limited Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Hickory Motor Speedway ; Newton : NC – Street Stock
Sat : May 5th – Orange County Speedway ; Rougemont : NC – CARS Pro Cup Series
Sat : May 5th – Red River Valley Speedway ; West Fargo : ND – NLRA Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Red River Valley Speedway ; West Fargo : ND – Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Red River Valley Speedway ; West Fargo : ND – Super Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Eldora Speedway ; Rossburg : OH – World of Outlaws Sprint Cars
Sat : May 5th – Lincoln Speedway ; Abbottstown : PA – 410 Sprints
Sat : May 5th – Lincoln Speedway ; Abbottstown : PA – 358 Sprints
Sat : May 5th – Lincoln Speedway ; Abbottstown : PA – Thundercars
Sat : May 5th – Estevan Motor Speedway ; Estevan : Saskatchewan – IMCA Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Estevan Motor Speedway ; Estevan : Saskatchewan – IMCA Street Stocks
Sat : May 5th – 411 Motor Speedway ; Seymour : TN – USCS 600 Sprint Cars
Sat : May 5th – 411 Motor Speedway ; Seymour : TN – USCS Outlaw Thunder Sprint Cars
Sat : May 5th – Clayhill Motorsports ; Atwood : TN – Nesmith Dirt Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Nashville Fairgrounds ; Nashville : TN – Ken Ten Pro Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Newport Motor Speedway ; Newport : TN – Southeast Limited Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Rocky Mountain Raceway ; West Valley City : UT – Rocky Mountain Challenge Series Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Motor Mile Speedway ; Radford : VA – Late Models x2
Sat : May 5th – Motor Mile Speedway ; Radford : VA – Limited Sportsman
Sat : May 5th – Motor Mile Speedway ; Radford : VA – Street Stock
Sat : May 5th – Shenandoah Speedway ; Shenandoah : VA – Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Shenandoah Speedway ; Shenandoah : VA – Sportsman
Sat : May 5th – Shenandoah Speedway ; Shenandoah : VA – 4c Super Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Cedar Lake Speedway ; New Richmond : WI – Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Cedar Lake Speedway ; New Richmond : WI – Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Cedar Lake Speedway ; New Richmond : WI – Midwest Modifieds
Sun : May 6th – Winchester Speedway ; Winchester : IN – Jeg's All Stars Pro Late Models
Sun : May 6th – Mountain Speedway ; St. John's : PA – Modifieds
Sun : May 6th – Mountain Speedway ; St. John's : PA – Street Stocks
Sun : May 6th – Mountain Speedway ; St. John's : PA – TQ Midgets
Sun : May 6th – Devil's Bowl Speedway ; West Haven : VT – Spring Green 112 ACT Late Models
Sun : May 6th – Madison International Speedway ; Oregon : WI – ASA Midwest Tour Joe Shear Classic 136
Thu : May 10th – Lincoln Speedway ; Abbottstown : PA – Sprint Car Spectacular 410 Sprints
Thu : May 10th – Lincoln Speedway ; Abbottstown : PA – Sprint Car Spectacular 358 Sprints
Thu : May 10th – Heart O' Texas Speedway ; Elm Mott : TX – USMTS Casey's Cup Qualifier Modifieds
Mike Neff is a Senior Writer for Frontstretch.com. He can be reached via email at mike.neff@frontstretch.com.
~~~~~~~~~~
Fantasy Friday: Aaron's 499
by Jeff Wolfe
Editor's Note: Welcome to the newest feature in the Frontstretch Newsletter where Jeff Wolfe takes a look at your best bets when it comes to picking your fantasy racing teams. Each week, Jeff will have your top 5 best bets along with a bonus pick just in time to finalize your lineup and settle in for a weekend full of action.
The Sprint Cup hits a restrictor plate track for the second time this season with Sunday's 1 PM FOX race at Talladega. There's been some debate in recent weeks on the long green-flag runs that have occurred in races this year. Some like it because the actual best car gets to win, but others like to see more action (translate that to wrecks for some) and closer side-by-side racing. Well, one reason to watch at Talladega is that there is a possibility for both. The fact that the cars will be running in tight packs at nearly 200 mph for much of the race makes it exciting enough. However, there is always a possibility for the "the big one" as its called, that can wipe out big chunks of the field.
The unpredictability is one of the things that makes Talladega great. Just as a warning, or sign of hope, depending which side of the fence you're on, that long green flag run is possible, too. In fact, in 1997, Mark Martin won a caution-free race at Talladega with a NASCAR Sprint Cup record average speed of 188.354 mph in a race that took 2 hours, 39 minutes and 18 seconds to complete. So, really, no one knows for sure what's going to happen Sunday. That's great as a race fan. Not so great in trying to pick who will win. But at any rate, here we go:
Top 5 Picks
Dale Earnhardt, Jr. - Yes, it's been a long time, 138 races, since Junior pulled into Victory Lane, but I say that streak's going to end Sunday. If I had just one pick for Sunday's race, Junior is my pick with five wins at the 2.66-mile oval, and as a bonus, Talladega fans love the Earnhardts. No better place for the losing streak to end other than here.
Brad Keselowski - The Penske cars have raced well on restrictor plate tracks for a while now. Keselowski has calmed down down a bit since he sent Edwards airborne to win at Talladega and then Edwards returned the favor. And besides, if there's a red flag with drivers having to stay in their cars, we know who to follow on Twitter to find out what's going on.
Jimmie Johnson - Five-timer comes in looking for his first win of the season. He's won here once before and been close to victory several times this season.
Kevin Harvick - He's truly one of the guys who knows how to hang around until the end and then finish strong and contend for the win. He's also got one win here and if by some miracle Junior doesn't win this race, the next best thing for fans might be seeing the guy who took over Dale Earnhardt's seat win it. And besides, you've got to pick at least one Childress car on this kind of track.
Juan Pablo Montoya - OK, this is a bit of an upset special. But after the jet dryer accident at Daytona, don't you have to give this guy a chance on a plate track? Well maybe not, but it would make for a great storyline. Too bad though that the 88 winning will make a better one.
Shoulda, woulda, coulda - Jeff Gordon's numbers jump off the charts at Talladega. Mainly, it's the six wins. But lady luck has not been on his side this year, even though most weeks he's unloaded at the track with a fast car. It would be interesting to see the amount of trash thrown in the track though, if he does pull off the victory.
ACCOUNTABILITY GROUP
Here's a look at how last week's picks fared at Richmond.
Denny Hamlin - 4th. Never led a lap, but hung around for a nice finish on his home track. Jeff Gordon - 23rd. Had early issues and never recovered, finishing a lap down.
Jeff Gordon - 23rd. Yet another sub-par performance from the No. 24 team, but this time it was thanks to a cut tire Gordon was never able to recover from.
Kyle Busch - 1st. That's four straight spring wins at Richmond for Rowdy, and though he didn't start off all that strong, he was right there at the end (even if there was some question about the final caution).
Kevin Harvick - 19th. He was a contender early leading 13 laps, but adjustments backfired and the team spent the rest of the race trying to get back what it lost.
Dale Earnhardt, Jr. - 2nd. He never really got close enough to win it, but it was such a wacky race anything could have happened at the end.
Season Stats
45 picks
3 wins
15 top 5s
17 top 10s
Grade for the week: B+. Not a bad day with three top 5s, including the winner.
One Last Thing: When scrolling down through the standings, starting at the top, who is the first driver to not lead a lap this year? You'd have to go all the way down to 23rd where Kasey Kahne sits tied with Aric Almirola just 13 points outside the top 20. Kahne did help his cause with a fifth-place finish Sunday at Richmond.
Jeff Wolfe is a Contributor for Frontstretch.com. He can be reached via email at jeff.wolfe@frontstretch.com.
~~~~~~~~~~
ADVERTISEMENT
Are you looking to advertise your website, product or brand? A good way to get your name out there is via direct advertising here in the Frontstretch Newsletter! Interested parties can contact us at tony.lumbis@frontstretch.com for details.
~~~~~~~~~~
Frontstretch Folio: Aaron's 499
by Nick Schwartz
After a weekend of short track racing in Virginia, the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series heads south for the Aaron's 499 at Talladega Superspeedway in Alabama. The Aaron's 499 will be broadcast live Sunday, April 6, on FOX at 12:00 PM EDT and MRN Radio at 12:00 PM EDT. Drivers will compete for 188 laps (500.08 miles) before taking the checkered flag.
Records and Facts
Jimmie Johnson is the defending champion of the Aaron's 499, having won his second career race at Talladega Superspeedway last Spring. Johnson also won the Aaron's 499 in 2006, but he has never won at the track in the Fall. Johnson will be hoping to improve after a disappointing result at the first restrictor-plate race of the year at Daytona, where he finished 42nd.
Dale Earnhardt holds most of the most coveted records at Talladega Superspeedway, having enjoyed tremendous success at the track. Earnhardt leads all drivers with 10 career victories at Talladega, with his last coming in October, 2000. Earnhardt also recorded 23 career top-5 finishes and 27 career top 10s. Jeff Gordon leads all active drivers with six wins at Talladega, while Dale Earnhardt, Jr. has five.
Track Facts
Track/Race Length: 2.66-mile quad oval, 188 laps (500.08 miles)
Pit Road Speed: 55 mph
Degree of Banking: 18 degrees in the tri-oval, 33 degrees in the corners
Frontstretch: 4,300 ft., 16.5 degrees of banking
Backstretch: 4,000 ft. 2 degrees of banking
Grandstand Seating: 143,231
Grand Marshal: Comedian Ron White
Pre-race Schedule
Practice: Friday, April 4, 2:00 – 2:45 PM EST on SPEED
Happy Hour: Friday, April 4, 3:30 – 4:30 PM EST on SPEED
Qualifying: Saturday, April 5, 11:35 AM EST on SPEED
Race Day Forecast
Sunday: Isolated thunderstorms, chance of precipitation 30%
High: 85
Low: 64
They Said It
"I think that the pack-racing that we had at Daytona was amazing. I thought it was great racing. The two car tandem didn't win the race — that's a good thing. Really, they got us to where we were running a fast enough speed that handling became somewhat of an issue. So, all those things I think will equal good racing at Talladega if they keep everything the way that it was. In Daytona, we kind of did our own thing and obviously I had a great shot to win. If the rules stay the same it will be a pack mostly because the temperatures were just so high at Daytona. So, I think that you really won't have a partner until the very end when you try to link up on the last restart or something like that — like we tried to do at Daytona." -Denny Hamlin
"I feel like the style of racing we had in the Daytona 500 this year suits me better. I feel more confident in that style than I do the tandem. With the tandem, it is difficult to commit to someone all day long. The way we did it in the (2012 Daytona) 500 was nice, but the tandem is going to win the race, which is fine with me. I do like having more control of my destiny and making my own decisions for myself. I want to look out for No. 1 and my team all day long and try to do whatever I can to put myself in position to win the race. That is really what I feel like I have been doing all my life. To do anything different just doesn't feel comfortable. It feels odd to me." -Dale Earnhardt, Jr.
"I like racing at places like Talladega (Superspeedway), you spend a lot of time anticipating the other guy's next move, so you have to be mentally prepared for a race like this. This a good track for me, and we've done well in the past. As a team we need to remain focused, and as long as we don't make any little mistakes, I think we have a good shot to put the Rheem Chevrolet in victory lane this weekend." -Kevin Harvick
Nick Schwartz is a Contributor for Frontstretch.com. He can be reached via email at nick.schwartz@frontstretch.com.
~~~~~~~~~~
TODAY ON THE FRONTSTRETCH:
A Sport Without Heroes, A Sport Without Identity: Four Subtle Reasons for the Backlash
by Amy Henderson
Four Burning Questions: Team Ownership, Debris, and Restarts
by Summer Dreyer
Kenny Wallace Driver Diary: Getting Dirty and The Hometown Nine
as told to Amy Henderson
NASCAR's Plate Races the Place for Drivers to Debut, Develop
by Bryan Davis Keith
Formula 1 Friday: Memories of Senna
by Andy Hollis
~~~~~~~~~~
This Weekend on the Frontstretch:
Nationwide Breakdown: Aaron's 312 by Bryan Davis Keith
Bryan has all of the post race analysis you need following Saturday afternoon's Nationwide Series race from Talladega.
~~~~~~~~~~
FRONTSTRETCH TRIVIA:
Q: The 1999 Touchstone Energy 300 for the Busch Series at Talladega is likely best known for the photo finish for the win between Terry Labonte and Joe Nemechek (Labonte was declared the winner with a margin of victory of .002 seconds). However, a number of the contenders were eliminated shortly after halfway. What happened?
Check back Monday for the answer, here in the Frontstretch Newsletter!
Thursday's Answer:
Q: We're going a little bit obscure for this question. The 1993 Winston 500 at Talladega is undoubtedly best known for Rusty Wallace's barrel roll at the finish. However, it also marked a first for ESPN. What was this first?
A: After Martinsville, ESPN chose to ditch their computerized intro that they had been using since 1993. In addition, they debuted a brand new theme for their Speedworld coverage. The graphics for their overlays remained the same through the end of 1993.
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!
~~~~~~~~~~
Coming Monday in the Frontstretch Newsletter:
-- Aaron's 499 Race Recap by Jeff Wolfe
-- Secret Star and Stat of the Race by Tom Bowles
-- Links to your favorite Frontstretch articles, and more!
Monday on the Frontstretch:
Matt McLaughlin's Thinkin' Out Loud: Aaron's 499 by Matt McLaughlin
Matt will be here with his overall thoughts about the action from Sunday afternoon's action from Talladega.
Monday Morning Teardown by Ron Lemasters
Ron returns for a website look at one of the big stories from Sunday's race from Talladega.
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 at Talladega.
Big Six: Aaron's 499 by Amy Henderson
Looking for all you need to know leaving Sunday's event at Talladega? Amy has your who, what, when, where, why and how from a weekend of racing.
Pace Laps: Talladega Weekend by the Frontstretch Staff
In our newest column this season, we'll take a look at the biggest stories to keep an eye on in each series after a weekend at Talladega.
-----------------------------
Talk back to the 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!
©2012 Frontstretch.com
-- Presented by Frontstretch.com
The Best Seat at the Track, The Best View on the Net!
May 4th, 2012
Volume VI, Edition LXXVI
~~~~~~~~~~
Editor's Note: Frontstretch has a brand new, redesigned Facebook page. Click Here to "Like" Us and get a direct connect to all your Frontstretch favorites along with polls, interaction with fans and so much more.
~~~~~~~~~~
Top News
by Jeff Wolfe
Furniture Row Racing Confirms Conversation With Kurt Busch
Furniture Row Racing is apparently trying to get its ducks in a row in order to put together a second team for the 2013 season. In an interview on the GodfatherMotorsports.com's Dave Moody the team's general manager Joe Garone said he has talked with Busch but made it clear the discussions are "not about being unhappy with [current driver] Regan Smith."
"I have talked to Kurt Busch but it was about a team we don't even have yet," Garone said. "We are working diligently on getting a second (Sprint Cup) car for next year, and I'm trying to get my hands around some of the guys that will be available going onto 2013. I wanted to make an introduction to Kurt, and just let him know what our plans are for the future."
Busch is currently driving for James Finch's Phoenix Racing team, however the team owner has acknowledged financial struggles, admitting last month that the one-car operation might not be able to run a full schedule this season. Busch later said that the team is hoping to run a full schedule. Busch sits 26th in points and has just one top-10 finish in the first nine races this season.
Regan Smith sits just 14 points ahead of Busch in 25th has yet to finish in the top 10 heading into Sunday's superspeedway race at Talladega; his season-high finish is 15th at Las Vegas.
"Kurt and Regan have worked well together on the superspeedways in the past," Garone said. "They have drafted well together and talked well back and forth. Adding a second team would be a major boost for Furniture Row Racing, and we're all working hard to try and make that happen."
Golden Corral, Tommy Baldwin Racing Agree to Three More Races
Tommy Baldwin Racing is reunited with Golden Corral for the three remaining superspeedway races this season. And while it's good news for Baldwin and the No. 36 car driven by Dave Blaney, it could be good news for families who live near a Golden Corral restaurant. If Blaney finishes in the top 10 in any of the superspeedway races, including this weekend at Talladega, kids can eat free at the Golden Corral the Monday following the race. The free meal comes when an adult purchases a buffet and there is a two-child limit per adult.
"Golden Corral was a great partner for us last year," team owner Tommy Baldwin said. "Not only were they a pleasure to work with, but their support got us to where we are today. We are pleased that they decided to have a program with us this year as well. We love racing to feed America's families and hope we can bring awareness to Camp Corral as well."
Golden Corral also is promoting its Camp Corral program, a free summer camp for children of wounded, fallen or disabled military families that will launch this summer.
"We are pleased to be back on the track with the No. 36 team and to share our Camp Corral initiative and Kids Eat Free promotion with race fans," said Shelley Wolford, Vice President of National Marketing and Media at Golden Corral.
Golden Corral sponsored Blaney for 21 races last season where he led 25 laps combined in the four superspeedway events. This season, Blaney sits 32nd in points and does not have a top-10 finish. He did, however, finish 15th at Daytona in February where he led six laps.
Fastenal to Sponsor Roush Fenway at Charlotte
Current Roush Racing sponsor Fastenal has signed on to back all three Roush Fenway Fords in the Coca-Cola 600 May 27 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Greg Biffle's No. 16, Carl Edwards' No. 99, and Matt Kenseth's No. 17 will feature a "NASCAR Unites – An American Salute'' with a red, white and blue theme for the traditional Memorial Day weekend event.
"As a sponsor, it doesn't get any better than this," said Cory Jansen, Fastenal's Executive Vice president of Operations. "Not only are we the primary for three legitimate championship contenders, but we'll be helping Roush Fenway Racing shine a spotlight on our military and their families. It's going to be a huge honor to see the No. 99, the No. 17 and the No. 16 covered from spoiler to splitter in red, white and blue."
Fastenal sponsored Roush's three Nationwide teams--Kenseth, Edwards and Ricky Stenhouse, Jr.--last year at Charlotte; Kenseth snagged the victory with Edwards and Stenhouse finishing second and fourth, respectively.
Have news for The Frontstretch? Don't hesitate to let us know; email us at phil.allaway@frontstretch.com with a promising lead or tip.
~~~~~~~~~~
Got NASCAR-related questions or comments?
Send them John Potts' way at john.potts@frontstretch.com; and if you're lucky, you'll get your name in print when he does his weekly column answering back to you – the fans that keep Frontstretch afloat. Potts' Shots will run on Thursdays with a whole new set of Fan Questions and Answers!
~~~~~~~~~~
In Case You Missed It
by Nick Schwartz
Clint Bowyer's Car to Honor Alabama's National Championship Football Team
The Alabama Crimson Tide took home the BCS National Championship this year, beating rival LSU in the title game, and with NASCAR coming to Alabama this weekend, Clint Bowyer's No. 15 car will sport a special paint scheme to honor the team. Bowyer, who has won the last two Fall races at Talladega, will also wear a specially designed firesuit and helmet, honoring former Alabama coach Paul "Bear" Bryant.
"I'm certainly a [Kansas] fan but respect all athletics and certainly respect what [Alabama has] accomplished in the past year," Bowyer said. "It's going to be fun to have the Alabama colors… for one day."
Rheem to Sponsor Kevin Harvick's No. 29 at Talladega
Rheem, a nationwide company which specializes in eco-friendly home heating systems, water heaters and generators, will sponsor Kevin Harvick's No. 29 Chevrolet at Talladega Superspeedway this weekend for the Aaron's 499. Rheem has a history of serving as Harvick's primary sponsor, and appeared on the No. 29 at Phoenix and Kansas earlier this season.
~~~~~~~~~~
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.
~~~~~~~~~~
Keepin' It Short: Shining the Spotlight on Pine Hall, NC
by Mike Neff
Dirt track racing is popular throughout the United States, but it's exceptionally well received in the Southeast. Pine Hall, NC is the home of 311 Speedway which, like many other tracks, bills itself as the fastest half-mile in the South. While there will certainly be debate about whether that statement is true, one thing is certain, the half-mile facility just South of the border between North Carolina and Virginia will put on a hell of a show when the World of Outlaws make their first visit to the track tonight.
311 has seen several national touring series races in the past, but it has been eight years since the track saw the haulers of a road warrior series roll through the gates. With the World of Outlaws coming, it will be the first time since 2010 that the Late Models have run in North Carolina, other than at Charlotte. If this weekend's race goes well, 311 could end up being an annual stop on the World of Outlaw schedule.
The track is currently owned by Mike Fulp, who purchased the track two years ago and has been working hard to get it back on the national stage. For several years the track focused on weekly racing and Carolina Crash races, with no effort made to draw in the 'Big Dogs' of the Late Model racing world. Fulp is a former racer who competed in Late Models as recently as September, 2010. This race is easily the biggest event since Fulp took over the reins of the track with the prize money more than doubling the previous high purse under Fulp's watch.
"This World of Outlaws show is the biggest thing for dirt-track racing in this area in a long time," Fulp said of the facility located 35 minutes northeast of Winston-Salem and two hours northeast of Charlotte. "With (forecasts) talking about great weather on Friday (sunny with highs in the upper 80s and lows in the 60s), I think this can be huge for 311 Motor Speedway – a race that really showcases the track and puts it back on the map."
Prior to this weekend's big race, the last national touring race to take place at 311 was a date from the former Hav-A-Tampa racing series. 311 was a staple on the Hav-A-Tampa schedule from 2002 through 2004. According to the World of Outlaw's Late Model PR director Kevin Kouvac, several of the drivers have past experience at 311.
The track won't be familiar territory to most of the WoO LMS regulars, however. The traveler with the most experience at 311 would be Clint Smith of Senoia, Georgia, who enjoyed success there during the '90s driving for Carlton Lamm's North Carolina-based team; his last start at the speedway was in 2007.
For WoO LMS drivers like defending champion Rick Eckert of York, Pennsylvania, and current fourth-place points driver Chub Frank of Bear Lake, PA, Friday's race will be their first appearances at 311 since 2003 when they competed in HAT / UDTRA and Renegade STARS events, respectively. Shane Clanton of Fayetteville, GA, who is third in the points race, will also return to the track after an absence of nearly a decade. Meanwhile, for other WoO LMS followers – like points leader Darrell Lanigan of Union, Kentucky, former champ Tim McCreadie of Watertown, New York, and top Rookie of the Year contender Bub McCool of Vicksburg, Mississippi, who won his first tour A-Main on April 28 at Tazewell (Tenn.) Speedway – the track will be a new adventure.
Creating a challenge for the Outlaws is the fact that Friday's field will feature several standouts from the Southeast who have proven their mettle at 311 by winning touring-series events. The group includes Chris Madden of Gray Court, South Carolina (HAT/UDTRA '03, Carolina Clash '01); Dale McDowell of Chickamauga, GA (Clash '09, HAT/UDTRA '02); Dennis 'Rambo' Franklin of Gaffney, SC (Clash '11 and '09); and Billy Hicks of Mount Airy, North Carolina (Clash '05 and STARS '94).
Tonight's field is also expected to include 2011 ARCA Racing Series champion and current NASCAR Camping World Truck Series competitor Ty Dillon of Welcome, NC, the grandson of NASCAR team owner Richard Childress. Dillon's older brother, Austin, who captured the 2011 NASCAR Truck Series championship and is currently a NASCAR Nationwide Series regular, won two Carolina Clash events at 311 in 2010. Other drivers with plans to compete on Friday include Steve Shaver of Vienna, West Virginia, Johnny Pursley of Clover, SC, Donald Bradsher of Burlington, NC, Chris Ferguson of Mt. Holly, NC, Daniel Baggerly of Rural Retreat, Virginia, and Ross Bailes of Clover, SC.
Pit gates at 311 Motor Speedway are scheduled to open at 3 PM and the grandstands will be unlocked at 4 PM for Friday's program, which also includes a $1,500-to-win crate Late Model feature (311 Motor Speedway rules) and a $400-to-win Stock Four event. Practice is set to start at 7:30 PM with on-track action to immediately follow. Grandstand admission is $30, with children 6-15 charged $15 and kids under 6 admitted free. Pit passes will be $40 (kids under 6 are free).
If you're in the Carolina/Virginia area this evening, make the trip up to the Northeast of Winston-Salem to the fastest half mile track in the South, 311 Speedway. The World of Outlaw Late Models will be turning laps under 16 seconds on a half-mile track and laying it all on the line for the $10,000 that will be paid to the winner.
This Weekend's Race Schedule:
Fri : May 4th – Stafford Speedway ; Stafford Springs : CT – 5 Star Series Opening Act Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Stafford Speedway ; Stafford Springs : CT – 5 Star Series Opening Act Limited Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Stafford Speedway ; Stafford Springs : CT – 5 Star Series Opening Act SK Lights
Fri : May 4th – Stafford Speedway ; Stafford Springs : CT – 5 Star Series Opening Act SK Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Boyd's Speedway ; Ringgold : GA – Southern Regional Racing Series
Fri : May 4th – Tri-City Speedway ; Pontoon Beach : IL – Lucas Oil Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Speedrome ; Indianapolis : IN – Hornets
Fri : May 4th – Speedrome ; Indianapolis : IN – Legends
Fri : May 4th – Speedrome ; Indianapolis : IN – Roadsters
Fri : May 4th – Dodge City Raceway Park ; Dodge City : KS – USAC MOPAR National Midgets
Fri : May 4th – USA Speedway ; Sterlington : LA – Comp Cams Super Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Chateau Raceway ; Lansing : MN – USRA Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Chateau Raceway ; Lansing : MN – IMCA Stock Cars
Fri : May 4th – Chateau Raceway ; Lansing : MN – WISSOTA Midwest Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Chateau Raceway ; Lansing : MN – WISSOTA Street Stocks
Fri : May 4th – LA Raceway ; La Monte : MO – USMTS National Championship Series Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Malden Speedway ; Malden : MO – NeSmith Touring Series Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Malden Speedway ; Malden : MO – Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Malden Speedway ; Malden : MO – Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Malden Speedway ; Malden : MO – Street Stocks
Fri : May 4th – 311 Motor Speedway ; Pine Hall : NC – World of Outlaws Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Ace Speedway ; Altamahaw : NC – Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Ace Speedway ; Altamahaw : NC – Limited Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Ace Speedway ; Altamahaw : NC – Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Carolina Speedway ; Gastonia : NC – Open Wheel Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Carolina Speedway ; Gastonia : NC – Street Stocks
Fri : May 4th – Eldora Speedway ; Rossburg : OH – World of Outlaws Sprint Cars
Fri : May 4th – Jackson County Speedway ; Jackson : OH – Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Jackson County Speedway ; Jackson : OH – Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Jackson County Speedway ; Jackson : OH – Street Stocks
Fri : May 4th – Big Diamond Speedway ; Minersville : PA – 358 Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Big Diamond Speedway ; Minersville : PA – Sportsman
Fri : May 4th – Black Hills Speedway ; Rapid City : SD – Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Black Hills Speedway ; Rapid City : SD – Street Stocks
Fri : May 4th – Black Hills Speedway ; Rapid City : SD – Super Stocks
Fri : May 4th – Kingsport Speedway ; Kingsport : TN – UARA Stars Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Smoky Mountain Speedway ; Maryville : TN – USCS 600 Sprint Cars
Fri : May 4th – Smoky Mountain Speedway ; Maryville : TN – USCS Outlaw Thunder Sprint Cars
Fri : May 4th – Mountain Creek Speedway ; Grand Prairie : TX – IMCA Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Mountain Creek Speedway ; Grand Prairie : TX – IMCA Sport Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Mountain Creek Speedway ; Grand Prairie : TX – IMCA Stock
Fri : May 4th – Mountain Creek Speedway ; Grand Prairie : TX – Street Stock
Fri : May 4th – Langlade Speedway ; Antigo : WI – Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Langlade Speedway ; Antigo : WI – Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Manitowoc County Fairgrounds ; Manitowoc : WI – Season Opener Wisconsin Dirt Late Models
Fri : May 4th – Manitowoc County Fairgrounds ; Manitowoc : WI – Season Opener Sprint Cars
Fri : May 4th – Manitowoc County Fairgrounds ; Manitowoc : WI – Season Opener Street Stock
Fri : May 4th – Oshkosh Speedzone Winnebago County Fairgrounds ; Oshkosh : WI – IMCA Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Oshkosh Speedzone Winnebago County Fairgrounds ; Oshkosh : WI – IMCA Sport Modifieds
Fri : May 4th – Oshkosh Speedzone Winnebago County Fairgrounds ; Oshkosh : WI – Street Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Talladega Short Track ; Eastaboga : AL – Southern All Star Dirt Super Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Green Valley Speedway ; Glencoe : AL – Crate Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Green Valley Speedway ; Glencoe : AL – KMSA
Sat : May 5th – Green Valley Speedway ; Glencoe : AL – Outlaw Thunder
Sat : May 5th – Green Valley Speedway ; Glencoe : AL – Sportsman
Sat : May 5th – Green Valley Speedway ; Glencoe : AL – Street Stock
Sat : May 5th – Green Valley Speedway ; Glencoe : AL – Super Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Huntsville Speedway ; Huntsville : AL – Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Huntsville Speedway ; Huntsville : AL – Outlaw Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Huntsville Speedway ; Huntsville : AL – Sportsman
Sat : May 5th – Havasu 95 Speedway ; Lake Havasu City : AZ – ASA Street Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Havasu 95 Speedway ; Lake Havasu City : AZ – Factory Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Riverside International Speedway ; West Memphis : AR – 305 Winged Sprints
Sat : May 5th – Riverside International Speedway ; West Memphis : AR – 600 Mini Sprints
Sat : May 5th – Riverside International Speedway ; West Memphis : AR – Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Riverside International Speedway ; West Memphis : AR – Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Madera Speedway ; Madera : CA – Vukovich Classic USAC Sprint Cars
Sat : May 5th – Madera Speedway ; Madera : CA – Vukovich Classic 410/360 Super Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Madera Speedway ; Madera : CA – Vukovich Classic BCRA/USAC Midgets
Sat : May 5th – Madera Speedway ; Madera : CA – Vukovich Classic USAC Focus Midgets
Sat : May 5th – Madera Speedway ; Madera : CA – Vukovich Classic NCMA Sprint Cars
Sat : May 5th – Madera Speedway ; Madera : CA – Vukovich Classic Vintage Super Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Madera Speedway ; Madera : CA – Vukovich Classic BCRA Vintage Sprints
Sat : May 5th – Madera Speedway ; Madera : CA – Vukovich Classic BCRA Vintage Midgets
Sat : May 5th – New Stockton 99 Speedway ; Stockton : CA – NASCAR K&N Pro West Series
Sat : May 5th – Desoto Speedway ; Bradenton : FL – Open Wheel Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – New Smyrna Speedway ; New Smyrna Beach : FL – Super Late Models
Sat : May 5th – New Smyrna Speedway ; New Smyrna Beach : FL – Sportsman
Sat : May 5th – Orlando Speedworld ; Orlando : FL – Florida United Promoters Late Models
Sat : May 5th – New Senoia Raceway ; Senoia : GA – Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Swainsboro Raceway ; Swainsboro : GA – World of Outlaws Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Watermelon Capital Speedway ; Cordele : GA – Super Streets
Sat : May 5th – South Bend Speedway ; South Bend : IN – 2nd Annual Ralph Yarbrough Memorial Late Models
Sat : May 5th – South Bend Speedway ; South Bend : IN – 2nd Annual Ralph Yarbrough Memorial Sportsman
Sat : May 5th – South Bend Speedway ; South Bend : IN – 2nd Annual Ralph Yarbrough Memorial Street Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Speedrome ; Indianapolis : IN – 4th Annual Brian Luttrell Memorial Stock Figure 8
Sat : May 5th – Speedrome ; Indianapolis : IN – Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Speedrome ; Indianapolis : IN – Hornets
Sat : May 5th – Speedrome ; Indianapolis : IN – Super Cups
Sat : May 5th – Independence Motor Speedway ; Independence : IA – IMCA Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Independence Motor Speedway ; Independence : IA – IMCA Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Independence Motor Speedway ; Independence : IA – IMCA Stock Cars
Sat : May 5th – Independence Motor Speedway ; Independence : IA – IMCA Sport Mods
Sat : May 5th – Dodge City Raceway Park ; Dodge City : KS – USAC MOPAR National Midgets
Sat : May 5th – Corbin Speedway ; Corbin : KY – USDCS Dirt Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Corbin Speedway ; Corbin : KY – Outlaw Mini Cup
Sat : May 5th – Corbin Speedway ; Corbin : KY – Baby Grand
Sat : May 5th – Paducah International Raceway ; Paducah : KY – Lucas Oil Late Models
Sat : May 5th – ArkLaTex Speedway ; Vivian : LA – Comp Cams Super Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Beech Ridge Motor Speedway ; Scarborough : ME – PASS North Super Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Hagerstown Speedway ; Hagerstown : MD – Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Hagerstown Speedway ; Hagerstown : MD – Pure Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Berlin Raceway ; Marne : MI – Outlaw Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Kalamazoo Speedway ; Kalamazoo : MI – Outlaw Super Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Kalamazoo Speedway ; Kalamazoo : MI – Super Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Kalamazoo Speedway ; Kalamazoo : MI – Pro Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Springport Motor Speedway ; Springport : MI – Opening Night Super Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Springport Motor Speedway ; Springport : MI – Opening Night Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Deer Creek Speedway ; Spring Valley : MN – Wissota Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Deer Creek Speedway ; Spring Valley : MN – Wissota Midwest Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Deer Creek Speedway ; Spring Valley : MN – Wissota Street Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Deer Creek Speedway ; Spring Valley : MN – Wissota Super Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Deer Creek Speedway ; Spring Valley : MN – USRA Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – North Central Speedway ; Brainerd : MN – Wissota Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – North Central Speedway ; Brainerd : MN – Wissota Midwest Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – North Central Speedway ; Brainerd : MN – Wissota Street Stocks
Sat : May 5th – North Central Speedway ; Brainerd : MN – Wissota Super Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Columbus Speedway ; Columbus : MS – Super Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Columbus Speedway ; Columbus : MS – NeSmith Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Columbus Speedway ; Columbus : MS – Street Stocks
Sat : May 5th – I-44 Speedway ; Lebanon : MO – ASA Late Models
Sat : May 5th – I-44 Speedway ; Lebanon : MO – Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – I-44 Speedway ; Lebanon : MO – Sportsman
Sat : May 5th – I-44 Speedway ; Lebanon : MO – Road Warriors
Sat : May 5th – I-44 Speedway ; Lebanon : MO – Chargers
Sat : May 5th – Lucas Oil Speedway ; Wheatland : MO – ASCS Winged Sprints
Sat : May 5th – Lucas Oil Speedway ; Wheatland : MO – POWRI Lucas Oil Midgets
Sat : May 5th – Lucas Oil Speedway ; Wheatland : MO – B-Mods
Sat : May 5th – West Plains Motor Speedway ; West Plains : MO – USMTS National Championship Series Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Concord Motorsports Park ; Concord : NC – Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Hickory Motor Speedway ; Newton : NC – Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Hickory Motor Speedway ; Newton : NC – Limited Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Hickory Motor Speedway ; Newton : NC – Street Stock
Sat : May 5th – Orange County Speedway ; Rougemont : NC – CARS Pro Cup Series
Sat : May 5th – Red River Valley Speedway ; West Fargo : ND – NLRA Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Red River Valley Speedway ; West Fargo : ND – Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Red River Valley Speedway ; West Fargo : ND – Super Stocks
Sat : May 5th – Eldora Speedway ; Rossburg : OH – World of Outlaws Sprint Cars
Sat : May 5th – Lincoln Speedway ; Abbottstown : PA – 410 Sprints
Sat : May 5th – Lincoln Speedway ; Abbottstown : PA – 358 Sprints
Sat : May 5th – Lincoln Speedway ; Abbottstown : PA – Thundercars
Sat : May 5th – Estevan Motor Speedway ; Estevan : Saskatchewan – IMCA Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Estevan Motor Speedway ; Estevan : Saskatchewan – IMCA Street Stocks
Sat : May 5th – 411 Motor Speedway ; Seymour : TN – USCS 600 Sprint Cars
Sat : May 5th – 411 Motor Speedway ; Seymour : TN – USCS Outlaw Thunder Sprint Cars
Sat : May 5th – Clayhill Motorsports ; Atwood : TN – Nesmith Dirt Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Nashville Fairgrounds ; Nashville : TN – Ken Ten Pro Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Newport Motor Speedway ; Newport : TN – Southeast Limited Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Rocky Mountain Raceway ; West Valley City : UT – Rocky Mountain Challenge Series Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Motor Mile Speedway ; Radford : VA – Late Models x2
Sat : May 5th – Motor Mile Speedway ; Radford : VA – Limited Sportsman
Sat : May 5th – Motor Mile Speedway ; Radford : VA – Street Stock
Sat : May 5th – Shenandoah Speedway ; Shenandoah : VA – Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Shenandoah Speedway ; Shenandoah : VA – Sportsman
Sat : May 5th – Shenandoah Speedway ; Shenandoah : VA – 4c Super Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Cedar Lake Speedway ; New Richmond : WI – Late Models
Sat : May 5th – Cedar Lake Speedway ; New Richmond : WI – Modifieds
Sat : May 5th – Cedar Lake Speedway ; New Richmond : WI – Midwest Modifieds
Sun : May 6th – Winchester Speedway ; Winchester : IN – Jeg's All Stars Pro Late Models
Sun : May 6th – Mountain Speedway ; St. John's : PA – Modifieds
Sun : May 6th – Mountain Speedway ; St. John's : PA – Street Stocks
Sun : May 6th – Mountain Speedway ; St. John's : PA – TQ Midgets
Sun : May 6th – Devil's Bowl Speedway ; West Haven : VT – Spring Green 112 ACT Late Models
Sun : May 6th – Madison International Speedway ; Oregon : WI – ASA Midwest Tour Joe Shear Classic 136
Thu : May 10th – Lincoln Speedway ; Abbottstown : PA – Sprint Car Spectacular 410 Sprints
Thu : May 10th – Lincoln Speedway ; Abbottstown : PA – Sprint Car Spectacular 358 Sprints
Thu : May 10th – Heart O' Texas Speedway ; Elm Mott : TX – USMTS Casey's Cup Qualifier Modifieds
Mike Neff is a Senior Writer for Frontstretch.com. He can be reached via email at mike.neff@frontstretch.com.
~~~~~~~~~~
Fantasy Friday: Aaron's 499
by Jeff Wolfe
Editor's Note: Welcome to the newest feature in the Frontstretch Newsletter where Jeff Wolfe takes a look at your best bets when it comes to picking your fantasy racing teams. Each week, Jeff will have your top 5 best bets along with a bonus pick just in time to finalize your lineup and settle in for a weekend full of action.
The Sprint Cup hits a restrictor plate track for the second time this season with Sunday's 1 PM FOX race at Talladega. There's been some debate in recent weeks on the long green-flag runs that have occurred in races this year. Some like it because the actual best car gets to win, but others like to see more action (translate that to wrecks for some) and closer side-by-side racing. Well, one reason to watch at Talladega is that there is a possibility for both. The fact that the cars will be running in tight packs at nearly 200 mph for much of the race makes it exciting enough. However, there is always a possibility for the "the big one" as its called, that can wipe out big chunks of the field.
The unpredictability is one of the things that makes Talladega great. Just as a warning, or sign of hope, depending which side of the fence you're on, that long green flag run is possible, too. In fact, in 1997, Mark Martin won a caution-free race at Talladega with a NASCAR Sprint Cup record average speed of 188.354 mph in a race that took 2 hours, 39 minutes and 18 seconds to complete. So, really, no one knows for sure what's going to happen Sunday. That's great as a race fan. Not so great in trying to pick who will win. But at any rate, here we go:
Top 5 Picks
Dale Earnhardt, Jr. - Yes, it's been a long time, 138 races, since Junior pulled into Victory Lane, but I say that streak's going to end Sunday. If I had just one pick for Sunday's race, Junior is my pick with five wins at the 2.66-mile oval, and as a bonus, Talladega fans love the Earnhardts. No better place for the losing streak to end other than here.
Brad Keselowski - The Penske cars have raced well on restrictor plate tracks for a while now. Keselowski has calmed down down a bit since he sent Edwards airborne to win at Talladega and then Edwards returned the favor. And besides, if there's a red flag with drivers having to stay in their cars, we know who to follow on Twitter to find out what's going on.
Jimmie Johnson - Five-timer comes in looking for his first win of the season. He's won here once before and been close to victory several times this season.
Kevin Harvick - He's truly one of the guys who knows how to hang around until the end and then finish strong and contend for the win. He's also got one win here and if by some miracle Junior doesn't win this race, the next best thing for fans might be seeing the guy who took over Dale Earnhardt's seat win it. And besides, you've got to pick at least one Childress car on this kind of track.
Juan Pablo Montoya - OK, this is a bit of an upset special. But after the jet dryer accident at Daytona, don't you have to give this guy a chance on a plate track? Well maybe not, but it would make for a great storyline. Too bad though that the 88 winning will make a better one.
Shoulda, woulda, coulda - Jeff Gordon's numbers jump off the charts at Talladega. Mainly, it's the six wins. But lady luck has not been on his side this year, even though most weeks he's unloaded at the track with a fast car. It would be interesting to see the amount of trash thrown in the track though, if he does pull off the victory.
ACCOUNTABILITY GROUP
Here's a look at how last week's picks fared at Richmond.
Denny Hamlin - 4th. Never led a lap, but hung around for a nice finish on his home track. Jeff Gordon - 23rd. Had early issues and never recovered, finishing a lap down.
Jeff Gordon - 23rd. Yet another sub-par performance from the No. 24 team, but this time it was thanks to a cut tire Gordon was never able to recover from.
Kyle Busch - 1st. That's four straight spring wins at Richmond for Rowdy, and though he didn't start off all that strong, he was right there at the end (even if there was some question about the final caution).
Kevin Harvick - 19th. He was a contender early leading 13 laps, but adjustments backfired and the team spent the rest of the race trying to get back what it lost.
Dale Earnhardt, Jr. - 2nd. He never really got close enough to win it, but it was such a wacky race anything could have happened at the end.
Season Stats
45 picks
3 wins
15 top 5s
17 top 10s
Grade for the week: B+. Not a bad day with three top 5s, including the winner.
One Last Thing: When scrolling down through the standings, starting at the top, who is the first driver to not lead a lap this year? You'd have to go all the way down to 23rd where Kasey Kahne sits tied with Aric Almirola just 13 points outside the top 20. Kahne did help his cause with a fifth-place finish Sunday at Richmond.
Jeff Wolfe is a Contributor for Frontstretch.com. He can be reached via email at jeff.wolfe@frontstretch.com.
~~~~~~~~~~
ADVERTISEMENT
Are you looking to advertise your website, product or brand? A good way to get your name out there is via direct advertising here in the Frontstretch Newsletter! Interested parties can contact us at tony.lumbis@frontstretch.com for details.
~~~~~~~~~~
Frontstretch Folio: Aaron's 499
by Nick Schwartz
After a weekend of short track racing in Virginia, the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series heads south for the Aaron's 499 at Talladega Superspeedway in Alabama. The Aaron's 499 will be broadcast live Sunday, April 6, on FOX at 12:00 PM EDT and MRN Radio at 12:00 PM EDT. Drivers will compete for 188 laps (500.08 miles) before taking the checkered flag.
Records and Facts
Jimmie Johnson is the defending champion of the Aaron's 499, having won his second career race at Talladega Superspeedway last Spring. Johnson also won the Aaron's 499 in 2006, but he has never won at the track in the Fall. Johnson will be hoping to improve after a disappointing result at the first restrictor-plate race of the year at Daytona, where he finished 42nd.
Dale Earnhardt holds most of the most coveted records at Talladega Superspeedway, having enjoyed tremendous success at the track. Earnhardt leads all drivers with 10 career victories at Talladega, with his last coming in October, 2000. Earnhardt also recorded 23 career top-5 finishes and 27 career top 10s. Jeff Gordon leads all active drivers with six wins at Talladega, while Dale Earnhardt, Jr. has five.
Track Facts
Track/Race Length: 2.66-mile quad oval, 188 laps (500.08 miles)
Pit Road Speed: 55 mph
Degree of Banking: 18 degrees in the tri-oval, 33 degrees in the corners
Frontstretch: 4,300 ft., 16.5 degrees of banking
Backstretch: 4,000 ft. 2 degrees of banking
Grandstand Seating: 143,231
Grand Marshal: Comedian Ron White
Pre-race Schedule
Practice: Friday, April 4, 2:00 – 2:45 PM EST on SPEED
Happy Hour: Friday, April 4, 3:30 – 4:30 PM EST on SPEED
Qualifying: Saturday, April 5, 11:35 AM EST on SPEED
Race Day Forecast
Sunday: Isolated thunderstorms, chance of precipitation 30%
High: 85
Low: 64
They Said It
"I think that the pack-racing that we had at Daytona was amazing. I thought it was great racing. The two car tandem didn't win the race — that's a good thing. Really, they got us to where we were running a fast enough speed that handling became somewhat of an issue. So, all those things I think will equal good racing at Talladega if they keep everything the way that it was. In Daytona, we kind of did our own thing and obviously I had a great shot to win. If the rules stay the same it will be a pack mostly because the temperatures were just so high at Daytona. So, I think that you really won't have a partner until the very end when you try to link up on the last restart or something like that — like we tried to do at Daytona." -Denny Hamlin
"I feel like the style of racing we had in the Daytona 500 this year suits me better. I feel more confident in that style than I do the tandem. With the tandem, it is difficult to commit to someone all day long. The way we did it in the (2012 Daytona) 500 was nice, but the tandem is going to win the race, which is fine with me. I do like having more control of my destiny and making my own decisions for myself. I want to look out for No. 1 and my team all day long and try to do whatever I can to put myself in position to win the race. That is really what I feel like I have been doing all my life. To do anything different just doesn't feel comfortable. It feels odd to me." -Dale Earnhardt, Jr.
"I like racing at places like Talladega (Superspeedway), you spend a lot of time anticipating the other guy's next move, so you have to be mentally prepared for a race like this. This a good track for me, and we've done well in the past. As a team we need to remain focused, and as long as we don't make any little mistakes, I think we have a good shot to put the Rheem Chevrolet in victory lane this weekend." -Kevin Harvick
Nick Schwartz is a Contributor for Frontstretch.com. He can be reached via email at nick.schwartz@frontstretch.com.
~~~~~~~~~~
TODAY ON THE FRONTSTRETCH:
A Sport Without Heroes, A Sport Without Identity: Four Subtle Reasons for the Backlash
by Amy Henderson
Four Burning Questions: Team Ownership, Debris, and Restarts
by Summer Dreyer
Kenny Wallace Driver Diary: Getting Dirty and The Hometown Nine
as told to Amy Henderson
NASCAR's Plate Races the Place for Drivers to Debut, Develop
by Bryan Davis Keith
Formula 1 Friday: Memories of Senna
by Andy Hollis
~~~~~~~~~~
This Weekend on the Frontstretch:
Nationwide Breakdown: Aaron's 312 by Bryan Davis Keith
Bryan has all of the post race analysis you need following Saturday afternoon's Nationwide Series race from Talladega.
~~~~~~~~~~
FRONTSTRETCH TRIVIA:
Q: The 1999 Touchstone Energy 300 for the Busch Series at Talladega is likely best known for the photo finish for the win between Terry Labonte and Joe Nemechek (Labonte was declared the winner with a margin of victory of .002 seconds). However, a number of the contenders were eliminated shortly after halfway. What happened?
Check back Monday for the answer, here in the Frontstretch Newsletter!
Thursday's Answer:
Q: We're going a little bit obscure for this question. The 1993 Winston 500 at Talladega is undoubtedly best known for Rusty Wallace's barrel roll at the finish. However, it also marked a first for ESPN. What was this first?
A: After Martinsville, ESPN chose to ditch their computerized intro that they had been using since 1993. In addition, they debuted a brand new theme for their Speedworld coverage. The graphics for their overlays remained the same through the end of 1993.
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!
~~~~~~~~~~
Coming Monday in the Frontstretch Newsletter:
-- Aaron's 499 Race Recap by Jeff Wolfe
-- Secret Star and Stat of the Race by Tom Bowles
-- Links to your favorite Frontstretch articles, and more!
Monday on the Frontstretch:
Matt McLaughlin's Thinkin' Out Loud: Aaron's 499 by Matt McLaughlin
Matt will be here with his overall thoughts about the action from Sunday afternoon's action from Talladega.
Monday Morning Teardown by Ron Lemasters
Ron returns for a website look at one of the big stories from Sunday's race from Talladega.
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 at Talladega.
Big Six: Aaron's 499 by Amy Henderson
Looking for all you need to know leaving Sunday's event at Talladega? Amy has your who, what, when, where, why and how from a weekend of racing.
Pace Laps: Talladega Weekend by the Frontstretch Staff
In our newest column this season, we'll take a look at the biggest stories to keep an eye on in each series after a weekend at Talladega.
-----------------------------
Talk back to the 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!
©2012 Frontstretch.com
Feel free to forward this newsletter if you have any friends who loves
NASCAR and great NASCAR commentary. They can subscribe to the Frontstetch by visiting http://www.frontstretch.com/notice/9557/.
If you want to stop your Frontstretch Newsletter subscription, we're sorry
to see you go. Just send an email to
TheFrontstretch+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com from the address that you
recieve the Frontstretch Newsletter.
No comments:
Post a Comment