THE FRONTSTRETCH NEWSLETTER
Presented by Frontstretch.com
The Best Seat at the Track, The Best View on the Net!
July 11th, 2012
Volume VI, Edition CXXIX
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Top News
by Brad Morgan
NASCAR Issues Several Penalties after Daytona
Tuesday turned out to be a busy day for NASCAR officials as they handed down penalties to three different teams following rules infractions that occurred during last weekend's racing events at Daytona International Speedway. Perhaps the most visible occurred on the Sprint Cup level, where Tony Stewart's race-winning Chevrolet was tabbed with a heavy price for failing post-qualifying inspection.
The No. 14 Stewart-Haas Racing Sprint Cup Series entry was ruled to be in violation of Sections 12-1: Actions detrimental to stock car racing; 12-4J: Any determination by NASCAR officials that the race equipment used in the event does not conform to NASCAR rules detailed in Section 20 of the NASCAR Rule Book); and 20-2.1J after an unapproved open vent hose was discovered inside of the car. As a result of that infraction, Crew Chief Steve Addington has been fined $25,000. Car chief Jeff Meendering and Addington have also been placed on probation until Aug. 22 while driver Tony Stewart and owner Margaret Haas will lose six driver and six owner points, respectively. The consequences were in addition to being forced to start from the rear of Saturday night's field, a disadvantage Stewart was able to overcome as he fought his way to Victory Lane by the checkered flag.
An official statement from Stewart-Haas Racing Competition Director Greg Zipadelli indicated that the infraction was not an attempt to gain a competitive advantage. "While we respect and accept NASCAR's decision, we want to be clear that there was no malicious intent," he said in a press release Tuesday. "In a rush to replace a cracked rear windshield that happened during tech inspection prior to qualifying, we jostled a cooling hose that was behind the seat. We understand NASCAR's position and will abide by its decision."
In other penalties handed down, one of the Nationwide Series championship contenders finds himself without his full-time crew chief for two weeks. The No. 3 Nationwide Series team was found to be in violation of Section 20-2.1J as well after a similar unapproved open vent hose was found inside that car during post-qualifying inspection, an infraction that proved costly considering crew chief Danny Stockman was already on probation.
Driver Austin Dillon and owner Morgan Shepherd have each been penalized six points each in the owner and driver standings for the problem. Meanwhile, Stockman has been fined $10,000, while he and Car chief Robert Strmiska will be suspended until July 25 due violations of their earlier probations. Earlier this season, they were placed on probation until Dec. 31 for violations that occurred at Richmond International Raceway.
Last but not leadt, the No. 18 Nationwide Series car run by Joe Gibbs Racing was found to be in violation of Sections 12-1; 12-4J; and 20A-12.8.1(B): Failure to meet minimum front car heights, when the car was examined during post-race inspection on July 6. Crew chief Adam Stevens has been fined $10,000, while he and car chief Christopher Landis were placed on NASCAR probation until Aug. 22. Car owner Joe Gibbs lost six championship owner points as a result of the infractions.
Penalties Upheld Against Rick Ware Racing
Also on Tuesday, the National Stock Car Racing Appeals Panel has upheld penalties against the No. 41 Nationwide Series car owned by Rick Ware Racing for infractions that occurred during the post-race inspection process after the May 26 race at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
The penalties coincide with Section 12-1: Actions detrimental to stock car racing; Section 12-4J: Any determination by NASCAR Officials that Race Equipment used in the Event does not conform to the NASCAR Rules detailed in Section 20-A of the NASCAR Rule Book, or has been approved by NASCAR prior to the Event; Section 20A-12.8.1(B): Cars must be constructed with the front fender height for both right and left front fenders of 30 inches, with the main frame rails set at six inches in the front and eight inches in the rear above the construction surface. The height of the front of the car will be measured using NASCAR-approved front height gauges. The gauges will contact the front fenders at a designated location at the intersection of the NASCAR C (Front Hood Lateral) template and the hood seam. For inspections prior to competition, the front car heights will be a minimum of 29-5/8 inches and a maximum of 30 inches. For inspections after competition, the minimum front car heights permitted will be 29-1/4 inches, and the maximum front car heights permitted will be 30-1/2 inches.
Because the car failed to meet the minimum front car height requirements, several penalties issued by NASCAR will now be enforced. The penalties upheld include: a deduction of six Nationwide Series owners points from Rick Ware, a $10,000 fine for Crew Chief George Church, and a deduction of six driver points from Timmy Hill.
The team still holds the right to appeal this decision to the National Stock Car Racing Chief Appellate Officer.
Blankenship Joins TBR for Four Races
Former Late Model Dirt Series Rookie of the Year John Blankenship is joining forces with Tommy Baldwin Racing (TBR) to drive one of the team's cars in four Nationwide Series races later this year, TBR announced on Tuesday.
"I want to give John the best opportunity possible to succeed in the Nationwide Series," said team owner Tommy Baldwin. "A technical alliance with Richard Childress will allow us to use Richard Childress Racing chassis, along with Earnhardt-Childress Racing engines. These resources will allow a talented driver such as John to be able to come into the series and be competitive immediately."
Although the driver has never raced in any of NASCAR's top three series, Blankenship has competed in two ARCA Series races this season, recording a sixth-place finish at Michigan on June 15.
"The opportunity to race in the NASCAR Nationwide Series is a dream come true for me, and to be able to drive for an owner who has been in the sport as long as Tommy is just a plus," said Blankenship.
TBR has raced a number of drivers in a limited schedule behind the wheel of the No. 36 Chevrolet in Nationwide this season.
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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 Thursday with a whole new set of Fan Questions and Answers!
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Today's Featured Commentary
Silencing the U.S. Army's Sponsorship Guns
Full Throttle
by Mike Neff
Different branches of the military have maintained sponsorships in auto racing and other forms of sports for years. The military presence at race tracks is unmistakable on any given race weekend, from the men and women in uniform in the stands and pits, to the honor guards bearing our nation's colors, to the fly-overs that take place at just about every national touring series race. Military sponsorship not only puts the service branches on the hoods of the cars but also is represented in tents and displays in the fan zones at every track. That presence translates into NASCAR fans supporting the military and ultimately signing up to participate in the armed forces. The ongoing debate among the people in Washington, D.C. though is whether the millions of dollars spent to activate the sports sponsorships translates into more people joining the military than spending that money in other recruiting efforts across the country.
Earlier in 2012, Reps. Betty McCollum (D-Minn.) and Jack Kingston (R-Ga.) began an effort to try and halt government spending on sports sponsorships by military services, maintaining that the cost/benefit did not justify the money and time spent. Dale Earnhardt, Jr. and Ryan Newman both spoke out during their driver availability at Charlotte during the race weekends there and fought back; they beamed about the work they do for the military appearances that translate into benefits they see by interacting with troops around the world. The leaders of the armed forces continue to maintain that the dollars spent far outweigh the benefits in signing up new recruits. Unfortunately, it appears as though McCollum and Kingston are going to succeed in pushing through legislation that will eliminate military sponsorship starting next season.
As a result of the impending legislation, it was announced that the U.S. Army will not be back on the No. 39 car of Ryan Newman in 2013. Stewart-Haas Racing has been working hard to try and fill the holes in their schedule that already existed for the 2013 season with the Army on the hood but will now have to replace even more sponsorship. With Newman's contract expiring at the end of the 2012 racing season, there are huge implications for both Newman and SHR if the organization is unable to sell the full 38-race season on the hood of the No. 39. While Newman has maintained that he wants to remain at SHR, he obviously has to look out for himself and, if another opportunity presents itself before sponsorship has been secured, he is going to be hard-pressed not to take it. Danica Patrick is going to be moving to SHR full-time in 2013 with GoDaddy.com as her primary sponsor and the plans have been for the organization to transition to a three-car team next year. This loss of sponsorship could ultimately result in SHR staying as a two-car team with Newman taking his talents elsewhere.
The cost of sponsorship for a NASCAR team varies by organization, but the cost to be the primary sponsor on the hood of a top car is somewhere in the $20 million range. Complementing the sponsorship at the race track is going to run another $10 million or so over the 38-race schedule between displays, merchandise, travel and overhead. Even assuming that the total cost to sponsor a single Cup team is $30 million, that is a miniscule drop in the bucket when looking at the budget of the Department of Defense of the United States.
The DOD budget request that was submitted to congress for the 2013 fiscal year totaled almost $614 billion. Advertising for recruits is a part of that budget, but only a small part of that money is made up of sports sponsorships. Even if the total sponsorships accounted for $600 million across multiple sports, it would still be less than .1% of the budget. To put that in understandable numbers, if a family had a $50,000 annual budget, it would be the equivalent of $50 spent on the sponsorship. The numbers are simply statistically insignificant in relation to the total budget that is utilized for the military.
Unfortunately for race teams and NASCAR fans, one benefit of cutting this portion of the budget is that it is very visible. McCollum and Kingston come across looking like they have made a major step toward saving taxpayer dollars by eliminating millions of dollars when, in reality, it is simply not a very significant amount of money at all.
Meanwhile, the armed services are going to have to attempt to come up with other methods for recruiting new members to the all-volunteer force that makes up our armed services. In the next couple of years, the branches of the military will be able to compare their recruiting numbers in 2013 and beyond to the numbers over the last 10+ years of sponsorship in NASCAR and prove or disprove the success that they were able to achieve through it. Once that time comes, perhaps they'll be able to once again put the Army on the hood of a Cup car. In the meantime, Stewart-Haas will have to figure out another company -- or five -- to put on the hood of the No. 39 before Newman is lured away to another race team.
Mike Neff is a Senior Writer for Frontstretch.com. He can be reached via e-mail at mike.neff@frontstretch.com
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Tweet 'N' Greet
by Summer Bedgood
Editor's Note: With the NASCAR Twitter community expanding by leaps and bounds, it remains a place for instantaneous news, reactions, and a whole lot of inside jokes. We understand if you don't want to join the Twitter community - but as a fan, it's important to know the news and info you're missing out on! That's why, every week, Summer Bedgood will sort through the thousands of messages and give us a little taste of what's going on each Wednesday.
So, without further ado, here's a look at what those in NASCAR were thinking over the past seven days...
@JimmieJohnson: Lucky Charms or Frosted Flakes. "@volkman2016: @JimmieJohnson What's your favorite kind of cereal?"
@JimmieJohnson: Take a leak.. "@KyleBusch2012: @JimmieJohnson whats the first thing you do when you wake up on raceday?"
@GrahamRahal: @JimmieJohnson do you wake up and piss excellence?!
@JimmieJohnson: I had that look as an early teen... #NFG "@Fordfanhz17: @JimmieJohnson ...any chance you grow out that Unibrow?"
@JimmieJohnson: The connection I have with Evie. "@skylarhamlin: @JimmieJohnson what's the best part about being a dad?"
@AndyLally: Instead, just tune into FOX for best fictional material...RT @AP HBO abandons plans for film on Fox News Channel: apne.ws/NEVqNJ –CC
@JaritJohnson: Danica is chasing some Busch lol.
@Kenny_Wallace: Brother Mike is OK! yfrog.com/kg5cchxj
@Jeff_Gluck: The temporary Nationwide Series patch on Kurt's uniform keeps falling off. He apologized for Sprint Cup champion patch making it not stick.
@ClintBowyer: Had a great time at our @MWRteam win party. So good to see the families behind the guys that work on our cars. Proud to be a part of it...
@jeff_gluck: Wow, @dariangrubb is on Twitter. And it's really him, according to spotter @3widemiddle. Cool to see more and more CCs on here. #NASCAR
@shanamayfield: Went and saw Ted last night. @jermayfield and I laughed so hard. If you haven't seen it yet, go! It is a must see! #happy4th
@SamHornish: Daddy daughter ferris wheel ride tonight. Lots of fun and sweet listening to Addie try and sing call me maybe... https://twitter.com/SamHornish/status/221068457087733761/photo/1
@patisouzapaludo: Oli, Mimo & the fireworks! http://instagram.com/p/Mu5052vcHr/
@Patricia_AFF (Patricia Driscoll): The tandem draft is scary but the "threesomes" I don't care for at all -- just like my rule at home:)
@KevinHarvick: We ran a whole race & the Yankees & red sox are only into the 7th inning.. Could be an all nighter at Fenway!
@JennaFryer: Stenhouse rolls in and steals a red velvet cupcake. #KidsTheseDays #NASCAR https://twitter.com/JennaFryer/status/221425668221710337/photo/1/large
@TheOrangeCone: BREAKING: @stenhousejr stole a cupcake in media center. Possible penalties to be announced on Tuesday. #nascar
@JennaFryer: I love watching drivers after races stand around and, with great animation, break down the race.*
@JennaFryer: Dillon doing his Dash 4 Cash liners, complains to production crew "it's choppy. It's a run-on sentence." https://twitter.com/JennaFryer/status/221429603766517760/photo/1/large
@ClintBowyer: Boy, it was a wild one! Whoever was in the 01 car was a weapon. Really wanted to make more of the opportunity in the @DGRacing car. Damn!!!
@CandiceSpencer: "I've never been part of post race media like this," Nick Harrison, crew chief of the Phoenix Racing team #NASCAR
@Patricia_AFF: "@ivandebosch: Congratulations @Patricia_AFF". Thank you!!! Xoxoxo
@31n2Spotter (Brett Griffin): Some drivers need: better mirror. Better spotter. Better ears. Better reaction. Or a new job.
@Patricia_AFF: Victory!!! @KurtBusch @PhoenixRacing51 https://twitter.com/Patricia_AFF/status/221433848922255360/photo/1/large
@KyleBusch: Really? Again! Suggestions on how to get some good luck please!
@Patricia_AFF: Victory lane @KurtBusch http://bit.ly/RBwgEu
@31n2Spotter: Anybody in a good effin mood should give a good interview. #duh watch the guy who just got screwed give one. That's class #NASCAR RT that
@JimmieJohnson: My sweet Genevieve turns two today. Thank you everyone for her birthday wishes.
@mpuccia16 (Matt Puccia, Greg Biffle's crew chief): Daytona beach on this Saturday morning of Raceday http://bit.ly/M8keUz
@MikeMassaroESPN: In 1985 I attended my first Cup race. It was @DISupdates. Today I pass that experience to my boys. Tonight is their 1st race. #Daytona
@Kenny_Wallace: Good Morning and I Love you ALL :) This view is for You :) http://yfrog.com/ocw1ufyj
@bobpockrass: Did pace car ride with Brett Bodine. Can't even feel patch where jet dryer fire was. Car easily rolls over other bumps on track. #nascar
@TheFrontstretch: Just did a pace car ride in a Ford Taurus SHO. That thing was planted like nothing I've ever been in.
@TheFrontstretch: 130 miles an hour felt like nothing in that car. Quite an achievement. So smooth. I'm not sore at all, unlike two years ago. Footage soon.
@Kenny_Wallace: This is a Very Rare Sight, @RutledgeWood is Very Serious in our @NASCARonSPEED meeting http://yfrog.com/kku2aqsmj
EyeInTheSky14 (Bob Jeffrey): Do we really need to go to @DISupdates now.. http://bit.ly/MaRTYn
@dennyhamlin: Feeling a better everyday. Can't wait to get racing tonight.
@JamieLittleESPN: Been chatting with @ariejr here at the track. He felt my baby kick and was so intrigued. @emilymaynard, I think he's ready for babies! LOL
@SSPakeESPN (Shannon Spake): I had to buy this for @JamieLittleESPN ...her little man is going to rock this onesie! bit.ly/N8ZwRu
@DeLanaHarvick: Back in NC 4 precautionary reasons, but all is well w/ #babyotis & i! plan is 4 @KevinHarvick to race tonight, w/ @austindillon3 on standby
@jeff_gluck: RCR confirms Austin Dillon has returned to Daytona where he will be on standby for Kevin Harvick tonight (DeLana expecting baby soon).
@keselowski: Walking thru the cup garage, great to see all the members of the military that came out to watch. Nobody supports the military like #NASCAR
@NewmanKrissie: no they r working on sponsors n contract "@monster4824: @newmankrissie is ryan leaving the 39 car after this year that's what everyone's saying
@austindillon3: Just landed back in @DISupdates with @KevinHarvick back up driver for tonight #OperationBabyOtis love you @DeLanaHarvick
@austindillon3: Well scratch the back up driver I'm not eligible because I'm a Rookie oh well that stinks I've already ran two cup races
@KevinHarvick: Operation #BabyOtis in full effect today.. Had to take @DeLanaHarvick home this am all is good she is home & we just landed back in Daytona.
@TheFrontstretch: Weather update: Its 87 degrees here at the track with sunny skies, high humidity and not much in the way of clouds.
@TheFrontstretch: In other words, I just spent a couple of hours outside and completely perspired through my shirt. Its embarrassing.
@Kenny_Wallace: I just received a call from Mike Dillon and I am on "Stand By" for @KevinHarvick I Will gear up after @NASCARonSPEED
@PPistone: #NASCAR confirms Allmendinger suspended for failing drug test - he can request "B" sample within 72 hours
@TheFrontstretch: Obviously, that is Super Duper Big News. Test was administered in Kentucky, and it was a random test.
@queers4gears: that will teach me to stop watching twitter for 5 minutes.... #NASCAR
@JennaFryer: Key wording from OD was "temporary" suspension. Should the B sample also fail, or Dinger refuse to have B tested, it would be "indefinite"
@jeff_gluck: We don't know what Allmendinger tested positive for. Could be alcohol, drugs, anything. #NASCAR
@31n2spotteR: Apparently today is a good day to be a sub. Those are two premium rides that may need help. a lot of drivers wishin they were here #NASCAR
@shanamayfield: Yeah let's test the b sample at the same lab? NO WAY, that is purpose of b sample..donors right to have it test at facility of your choice. That way there are no questions. Need to keep it fair and square!RT @mikemulhern: DAYTONA: NASCAR annx AJ Allmendinger has been temp suspended, positive A test. can request B sample to be tested. no questions taken.
@shanamayfield: @JennaFryer atleast there a list now. #changessince2009
@nascarcasm: BREAKING: AJ Allmendinger wakes up in the morning and allegedly p-sses negligence. Details forthcoming. #NASCAR #CokeZero400
@shanamayfield: I know, believe me it happens. RT @CDuplessis22: @shanamayfield it's crazy...so much speculation. I've failed a random for prescribed Adderall and used Afrin and popped for methamphetamine http://tl.gd/i7fho
@shanamayfield: B test was already opened by the time we git it, so had no sample to send on our own. Many tests after that he was clean, but you never heard about those.RT @RollTide_1971: @shanamayfield If that "B-Test" passes, JM ought to have NASCAR by the balls! Hope y'all r doing well. God bless. :)
@JennaFryer: Few updates: @TimCindric says NASCAR notified Penske officials within the last few hours. Focus became getting Sam back from NC
@JennaFryer: Yes, Penske officials have spoken to Dinger, and because it's "been such a whirlwind" and the rush was on to get Sam back to Daytona, (cont)
@JennaFryer: I don't know why it took #NASCAR until today to notify Penske, it was same timeline on Mayfield in 2009. He was race day suspended
@shanamayfield: Also on payroll. Donors should be known by numbers not names. Shouldn't call operator of lab when you have questions about medications etc. Testing and physicians aspect should be kept separate RT @Fisha695: @shanamayfield @reddog94 Aegis is the lab #NASCAR uses, 99% of other major sports across the world use it as well.
@TheFrontstretch: Note: I was actually walking in the pits when the Allmendinger news broke. Hustled to the team's garage as soon as I could (they're stall 1)
@jeff_gluck: Some people pointed out that by #NASCAR saying "A" and "B" samples, that does not involve alcohol.
@shanamayfield: Thank u. I believe AJ could be innocent too, not passing judgment. Aegis labs does their testing RT @TerieV: @shanamayfield always believed JM was innocent. can't see AJ doN drugs either!! Who does their testing anyway? insanity
@jim_utter: AJ was not at #NASCAR drivers meeting ... Not that anyone noticed
@shanamayfield: All I'm trying to do is educate people on the real process, don't know AJ's situation and will not speculate. RT @jkasler14: @shanamayfield I appreciate your insight!! If anyone knows about this situation you guys do. Thanks for being so strong!!!
@keselowski (Brad Keselowski): Is this Clint or @DeLanaHarvick ? @ClintBowyer: Finally.......the time is here!!! Let's get this baby started... #daytona"
@scottspeed: Don't think it can be alcohol because I believe it is a Pee test and I don't think u can test alcohol in pee
@KurtBusch: Thanks for all of the nice comments and well wishes for the win. Really appreciate it
@JennaFryer: On Mayfield, he said on Day 1 it was sudafed and claritin. We shouldn't try to guess on AJ.
@KrisJohnson_NI: Was gonna grab a sudafed and claritin for this cold, but think I'll hold off... #nascar
@shanamayfield: Jeremy had a doctors script too, but that didn't seem to matter RT @tabtanta: @shanamayfield @NASCARRT @TerieV Wouldnt be that he has a DOCTOR'S orders...
@nascarcasm: During intros, Hornish will be introduced via awkward TwitVid of him half-dressed trying to hurriedly change into a firesuit on a plane.
@KimWallace_36: I haven't heard from Kenny today! Was thinking his phone must be dead from tweeting. But from the sounds of things he is just real busy. :)
@WendyVenturini: Hornish had not landed yet. ETA 725pm our boy Kenny Wallace gets the 2nd call of the day to fill-in. #crazy #NASCAR
@DavidStremme: Wish we had some $ to race. We have a great speedway car.
@SherryPollex: TNT's wide open coverage is awesome!! Kudos for showing the crew guys names during pit stops too! They deserve it :)
@jeff_gluck: People in fan zone watching Jimmie Johnson wreck http://bit.ly/NfP76O
@Kenny_Wallace: What a crazy night for ME, I am Thankful to RCR and Penske for asking me to drive their cars, they thought of me and that's a honor.
@MartySmithESPN: Asked Hornish to describe his day: "Different. It's weird to land in an airplane and see cop lights waiting for you."
@austindillon3: So much smoke might not be able to take off #Fireworks
@jeff_gluck: Dale Jr. said something surprising: They weren't riding around. He would have liked to lead laps, but rules package didn't allow for passing
@kaseykahne: Had a great car, just wish the rules allowed more passing on this type of a track. Friday night cars can pass like crazy.
@JennaFryer: Hornish tells @bobpockrass "It's always better to get escorted into the track than out of it."
@jeff_gluck: Don't want anyone to get the wrong idea: Harvick/Biffle wasn't a "confrontation." Harvick just went to his car to ask what was up.
@bobpockrass: I think when Hornish was talking about better to be escorted into track, not out - escort out typically happens when injured. #nascar
@ClintBowyer: All I can think to say is..........SHIT!!!!!!!!
@TimCindric: Appreciate every1's support 2nite. Thanks 2 @SamHornish and the @penskeracing 22 team 4 helping us thru a real tough siuation.
@dennyhamlin: Tough ending to our night tonight. Had a good shot to win. Went to inside of 16 and he came down into our rf... End of story.
@JennaFryer: When Hornish got call to come here, he thought it was a call to harass him about the tie he was wearing on Speed.
@dennyhamlin: Feeling OK after the wreck. Should be 100 percent by midweek. Thanks for everyone's concerns
@DanicaPatrick: Congrats to my fellow @CocaColaRacing family driver Tony, and boss! Damn what a sweet move! I have so much to learn.
@keselowski: first time I've ever wrecked standing still! "@HamlinFan54: Ummmm.... Any thoughts on this race? Other than, it had a lot of wrecks??"
@KyleBusch: Ran smart, clean race; upfront all nite to b wrecked w 5 to go. Not really surprised right now. ?
@twoninereyes (Billy O): Feel like we had it won comin off 4 til biffle wrecked us.He said he had nowhere 2 go. Wish he would have just stayed where he was #nascar
@GZipadelli (Greg Zipadelli): We are just leaving the race track a Great night for SHR Good job guys Thanks for all your hard work.
@2Spotter (Joey Meier): 1st and foremost, thoughts are with @AJDinger . Hope this works out. 2nd: VERY glad no one on pit raid got hurt. 3rd: A TOP 10? RUFKM?
@keselowski: Just saw replay of the #39 car hitting my car on pit road. All I have to say is "WOW, I wanna meet that official who high jumped the wall"!
@EyeInTheSky14: Uh we on the top @DISupdates Congrats to all the boy's & girl's @StewartHaasRcng http://bit.ly/N9uqYh
@jamiemcmurray: Been sick all weekend. Thanks the the medical staff at Daytona for taking care of me. Hard to pass for everyone last night
@MonteDutton: #NASCAR morning after: trying to get my dadgum engine started.
@johnkingracing: Blows my mind to think my name is gonna be hanging up with all the rest of the winners at Daytona USA.
@laregna: Just turned on to route 106. @NHMS is almost in sight!
@JimmieJohnson: The crew! A successful day for all. http://instagram.com/p/M0lBxBkpXQ/
@MartySmithESPN: Tri went awesome!!!! Check @JimmieJohnson feed for photography of us in way too little clothing!
@MikeMassaroESPN: Gr8 night at the track with my family! Loved watching a @DISupdates race from the grandstands again.
@MikeMassaroESPN: My view last night. http://lockerz.com/s/223321912
@RB_Mrs: Happy last race, pre-baby, to my girl @JamieLittleESPN ? Let the baby watch begin!
@JimmieJohnson: Transition station... http://instagram.com/p/M0u8zmkpb0/
@JimmieJohnson: The bike http://instagram.com/p/M0vMOAkpb-/
@kaseykahne: Thanks to @JimmieJohnson for getting us all pumped up for our first sprint tri. Really enjoyed it. Looking forward to more down the road
@JimmieJohnson: Even the media came out. I finished in 1:11:57. I cramped on the run and missed my goal by 2 mins. http://instagram.com/p/M0w7hFkpdD/
@gbiffle: final lap when everyone is trying to win the 17 and I hit a little as the 17 came down just a bit I move down and the 29 had filled the hole
@nascarcasm: Reminder to Sam Hornish Jr. - you have totally, undeniably and inarguably earned right to leave your cell phone turned off today. #nascar
@kaseykahne: Finished in 1:11:30 fifth in my age group. Really cool event! Can't wait to beat my time at the next one.
@KevinHarvick: @DeLanaHarvick and I just welcomed our son Keelan Paul Harvick (pronounced Keylan) into the world. Baby and mommy are doing good.
@JennaFryer: Waiting on Keelan was the longest nine months of my entire life," Kevin Harvick said. "But time literally stood still when I held our baby for the first time. I've accomplished a lot in my life that I'm proud of, but those moments don't hold a candle to becoming a father and seeing that little face looking up at you. DeLana and I are just amazed by how special and rewarding this is."
@DeLanaHarvick: Tk u all so much for all the kind words. @KevinHarvick & I have a completely diff appreciation for what love means now that Keelan is here!
Presented by Frontstretch.com
The Best Seat at the Track, The Best View on the Net!
July 11th, 2012
Volume VI, Edition CXXIX
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Top News
by Brad Morgan
NASCAR Issues Several Penalties after Daytona
Tuesday turned out to be a busy day for NASCAR officials as they handed down penalties to three different teams following rules infractions that occurred during last weekend's racing events at Daytona International Speedway. Perhaps the most visible occurred on the Sprint Cup level, where Tony Stewart's race-winning Chevrolet was tabbed with a heavy price for failing post-qualifying inspection.
The No. 14 Stewart-Haas Racing Sprint Cup Series entry was ruled to be in violation of Sections 12-1: Actions detrimental to stock car racing; 12-4J: Any determination by NASCAR officials that the race equipment used in the event does not conform to NASCAR rules detailed in Section 20 of the NASCAR Rule Book); and 20-2.1J after an unapproved open vent hose was discovered inside of the car. As a result of that infraction, Crew Chief Steve Addington has been fined $25,000. Car chief Jeff Meendering and Addington have also been placed on probation until Aug. 22 while driver Tony Stewart and owner Margaret Haas will lose six driver and six owner points, respectively. The consequences were in addition to being forced to start from the rear of Saturday night's field, a disadvantage Stewart was able to overcome as he fought his way to Victory Lane by the checkered flag.
An official statement from Stewart-Haas Racing Competition Director Greg Zipadelli indicated that the infraction was not an attempt to gain a competitive advantage. "While we respect and accept NASCAR's decision, we want to be clear that there was no malicious intent," he said in a press release Tuesday. "In a rush to replace a cracked rear windshield that happened during tech inspection prior to qualifying, we jostled a cooling hose that was behind the seat. We understand NASCAR's position and will abide by its decision."
In other penalties handed down, one of the Nationwide Series championship contenders finds himself without his full-time crew chief for two weeks. The No. 3 Nationwide Series team was found to be in violation of Section 20-2.1J as well after a similar unapproved open vent hose was found inside that car during post-qualifying inspection, an infraction that proved costly considering crew chief Danny Stockman was already on probation.
Driver Austin Dillon and owner Morgan Shepherd have each been penalized six points each in the owner and driver standings for the problem. Meanwhile, Stockman has been fined $10,000, while he and Car chief Robert Strmiska will be suspended until July 25 due violations of their earlier probations. Earlier this season, they were placed on probation until Dec. 31 for violations that occurred at Richmond International Raceway.
Last but not leadt, the No. 18 Nationwide Series car run by Joe Gibbs Racing was found to be in violation of Sections 12-1; 12-4J; and 20A-12.8.1(B): Failure to meet minimum front car heights, when the car was examined during post-race inspection on July 6. Crew chief Adam Stevens has been fined $10,000, while he and car chief Christopher Landis were placed on NASCAR probation until Aug. 22. Car owner Joe Gibbs lost six championship owner points as a result of the infractions.
Penalties Upheld Against Rick Ware Racing
Also on Tuesday, the National Stock Car Racing Appeals Panel has upheld penalties against the No. 41 Nationwide Series car owned by Rick Ware Racing for infractions that occurred during the post-race inspection process after the May 26 race at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
The penalties coincide with Section 12-1: Actions detrimental to stock car racing; Section 12-4J: Any determination by NASCAR Officials that Race Equipment used in the Event does not conform to the NASCAR Rules detailed in Section 20-A of the NASCAR Rule Book, or has been approved by NASCAR prior to the Event; Section 20A-12.8.1(B): Cars must be constructed with the front fender height for both right and left front fenders of 30 inches, with the main frame rails set at six inches in the front and eight inches in the rear above the construction surface. The height of the front of the car will be measured using NASCAR-approved front height gauges. The gauges will contact the front fenders at a designated location at the intersection of the NASCAR C (Front Hood Lateral) template and the hood seam. For inspections prior to competition, the front car heights will be a minimum of 29-5/8 inches and a maximum of 30 inches. For inspections after competition, the minimum front car heights permitted will be 29-1/4 inches, and the maximum front car heights permitted will be 30-1/2 inches.
Because the car failed to meet the minimum front car height requirements, several penalties issued by NASCAR will now be enforced. The penalties upheld include: a deduction of six Nationwide Series owners points from Rick Ware, a $10,000 fine for Crew Chief George Church, and a deduction of six driver points from Timmy Hill.
The team still holds the right to appeal this decision to the National Stock Car Racing Chief Appellate Officer.
Blankenship Joins TBR for Four Races
Former Late Model Dirt Series Rookie of the Year John Blankenship is joining forces with Tommy Baldwin Racing (TBR) to drive one of the team's cars in four Nationwide Series races later this year, TBR announced on Tuesday.
"I want to give John the best opportunity possible to succeed in the Nationwide Series," said team owner Tommy Baldwin. "A technical alliance with Richard Childress will allow us to use Richard Childress Racing chassis, along with Earnhardt-Childress Racing engines. These resources will allow a talented driver such as John to be able to come into the series and be competitive immediately."
Although the driver has never raced in any of NASCAR's top three series, Blankenship has competed in two ARCA Series races this season, recording a sixth-place finish at Michigan on June 15.
"The opportunity to race in the NASCAR Nationwide Series is a dream come true for me, and to be able to drive for an owner who has been in the sport as long as Tommy is just a plus," said Blankenship.
TBR has raced a number of drivers in a limited schedule behind the wheel of the No. 36 Chevrolet in Nationwide this season.
Have news for Brad 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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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 Thursday with a whole new set of Fan Questions and Answers!
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Today's Featured Commentary
Silencing the U.S. Army's Sponsorship Guns
Full Throttle
by Mike Neff
Different branches of the military have maintained sponsorships in auto racing and other forms of sports for years. The military presence at race tracks is unmistakable on any given race weekend, from the men and women in uniform in the stands and pits, to the honor guards bearing our nation's colors, to the fly-overs that take place at just about every national touring series race. Military sponsorship not only puts the service branches on the hoods of the cars but also is represented in tents and displays in the fan zones at every track. That presence translates into NASCAR fans supporting the military and ultimately signing up to participate in the armed forces. The ongoing debate among the people in Washington, D.C. though is whether the millions of dollars spent to activate the sports sponsorships translates into more people joining the military than spending that money in other recruiting efforts across the country.
Earlier in 2012, Reps. Betty McCollum (D-Minn.) and Jack Kingston (R-Ga.) began an effort to try and halt government spending on sports sponsorships by military services, maintaining that the cost/benefit did not justify the money and time spent. Dale Earnhardt, Jr. and Ryan Newman both spoke out during their driver availability at Charlotte during the race weekends there and fought back; they beamed about the work they do for the military appearances that translate into benefits they see by interacting with troops around the world. The leaders of the armed forces continue to maintain that the dollars spent far outweigh the benefits in signing up new recruits. Unfortunately, it appears as though McCollum and Kingston are going to succeed in pushing through legislation that will eliminate military sponsorship starting next season.
As a result of the impending legislation, it was announced that the U.S. Army will not be back on the No. 39 car of Ryan Newman in 2013. Stewart-Haas Racing has been working hard to try and fill the holes in their schedule that already existed for the 2013 season with the Army on the hood but will now have to replace even more sponsorship. With Newman's contract expiring at the end of the 2012 racing season, there are huge implications for both Newman and SHR if the organization is unable to sell the full 38-race season on the hood of the No. 39. While Newman has maintained that he wants to remain at SHR, he obviously has to look out for himself and, if another opportunity presents itself before sponsorship has been secured, he is going to be hard-pressed not to take it. Danica Patrick is going to be moving to SHR full-time in 2013 with GoDaddy.com as her primary sponsor and the plans have been for the organization to transition to a three-car team next year. This loss of sponsorship could ultimately result in SHR staying as a two-car team with Newman taking his talents elsewhere.
The cost of sponsorship for a NASCAR team varies by organization, but the cost to be the primary sponsor on the hood of a top car is somewhere in the $20 million range. Complementing the sponsorship at the race track is going to run another $10 million or so over the 38-race schedule between displays, merchandise, travel and overhead. Even assuming that the total cost to sponsor a single Cup team is $30 million, that is a miniscule drop in the bucket when looking at the budget of the Department of Defense of the United States.
The DOD budget request that was submitted to congress for the 2013 fiscal year totaled almost $614 billion. Advertising for recruits is a part of that budget, but only a small part of that money is made up of sports sponsorships. Even if the total sponsorships accounted for $600 million across multiple sports, it would still be less than .1% of the budget. To put that in understandable numbers, if a family had a $50,000 annual budget, it would be the equivalent of $50 spent on the sponsorship. The numbers are simply statistically insignificant in relation to the total budget that is utilized for the military.
Unfortunately for race teams and NASCAR fans, one benefit of cutting this portion of the budget is that it is very visible. McCollum and Kingston come across looking like they have made a major step toward saving taxpayer dollars by eliminating millions of dollars when, in reality, it is simply not a very significant amount of money at all.
Meanwhile, the armed services are going to have to attempt to come up with other methods for recruiting new members to the all-volunteer force that makes up our armed services. In the next couple of years, the branches of the military will be able to compare their recruiting numbers in 2013 and beyond to the numbers over the last 10+ years of sponsorship in NASCAR and prove or disprove the success that they were able to achieve through it. Once that time comes, perhaps they'll be able to once again put the Army on the hood of a Cup car. In the meantime, Stewart-Haas will have to figure out another company -- or five -- to put on the hood of the No. 39 before Newman is lured away to another race team.
Mike Neff is a Senior Writer for Frontstretch.com. He can be reached via e-mail at mike.neff@frontstretch.com
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Tweet 'N' Greet
by Summer Bedgood
Editor's Note: With the NASCAR Twitter community expanding by leaps and bounds, it remains a place for instantaneous news, reactions, and a whole lot of inside jokes. We understand if you don't want to join the Twitter community - but as a fan, it's important to know the news and info you're missing out on! That's why, every week, Summer Bedgood will sort through the thousands of messages and give us a little taste of what's going on each Wednesday.
So, without further ado, here's a look at what those in NASCAR were thinking over the past seven days...
@JimmieJohnson: Lucky Charms or Frosted Flakes. "@volkman2016: @JimmieJohnson What's your favorite kind of cereal?"
@JimmieJohnson: Take a leak.. "@KyleBusch2012: @JimmieJohnson whats the first thing you do when you wake up on raceday?"
@GrahamRahal: @JimmieJohnson do you wake up and piss excellence?!
@JimmieJohnson: I had that look as an early teen... #NFG "@Fordfanhz17: @JimmieJohnson ...any chance you grow out that Unibrow?"
@JimmieJohnson: The connection I have with Evie. "@skylarhamlin: @JimmieJohnson what's the best part about being a dad?"
@AndyLally: Instead, just tune into FOX for best fictional material...RT @AP HBO abandons plans for film on Fox News Channel: apne.ws/NEVqNJ –CC
@JaritJohnson: Danica is chasing some Busch lol.
@Kenny_Wallace: Brother Mike is OK! yfrog.com/kg5cchxj
@Jeff_Gluck: The temporary Nationwide Series patch on Kurt's uniform keeps falling off. He apologized for Sprint Cup champion patch making it not stick.
@ClintBowyer: Had a great time at our @MWRteam win party. So good to see the families behind the guys that work on our cars. Proud to be a part of it...
@jeff_gluck: Wow, @dariangrubb is on Twitter. And it's really him, according to spotter @3widemiddle. Cool to see more and more CCs on here. #NASCAR
@shanamayfield: Went and saw Ted last night. @jermayfield and I laughed so hard. If you haven't seen it yet, go! It is a must see! #happy4th
@SamHornish: Daddy daughter ferris wheel ride tonight. Lots of fun and sweet listening to Addie try and sing call me maybe... https://twitter.com/SamHornish/status/221068457087733761/photo/1
@patisouzapaludo: Oli, Mimo & the fireworks! http://instagram.com/p/Mu5052vcHr/
@Patricia_AFF (Patricia Driscoll): The tandem draft is scary but the "threesomes" I don't care for at all -- just like my rule at home:)
@KevinHarvick: We ran a whole race & the Yankees & red sox are only into the 7th inning.. Could be an all nighter at Fenway!
@JennaFryer: Stenhouse rolls in and steals a red velvet cupcake. #KidsTheseDays #NASCAR https://twitter.com/JennaFryer/status/221425668221710337/photo/1/large
@TheOrangeCone: BREAKING: @stenhousejr stole a cupcake in media center. Possible penalties to be announced on Tuesday. #nascar
@JennaFryer: I love watching drivers after races stand around and, with great animation, break down the race.*
@JennaFryer: Dillon doing his Dash 4 Cash liners, complains to production crew "it's choppy. It's a run-on sentence." https://twitter.com/JennaFryer/status/221429603766517760/photo/1/large
@ClintBowyer: Boy, it was a wild one! Whoever was in the 01 car was a weapon. Really wanted to make more of the opportunity in the @DGRacing car. Damn!!!
@CandiceSpencer: "I've never been part of post race media like this," Nick Harrison, crew chief of the Phoenix Racing team #NASCAR
@Patricia_AFF: "@ivandebosch: Congratulations @Patricia_AFF". Thank you!!! Xoxoxo
@31n2Spotter (Brett Griffin): Some drivers need: better mirror. Better spotter. Better ears. Better reaction. Or a new job.
@Patricia_AFF: Victory!!! @KurtBusch @PhoenixRacing51 https://twitter.com/Patricia_AFF/status/221433848922255360/photo/1/large
@KyleBusch: Really? Again! Suggestions on how to get some good luck please!
@Patricia_AFF: Victory lane @KurtBusch http://bit.ly/RBwgEu
@31n2Spotter: Anybody in a good effin mood should give a good interview. #duh watch the guy who just got screwed give one. That's class #NASCAR RT that
@JimmieJohnson: My sweet Genevieve turns two today. Thank you everyone for her birthday wishes.
@mpuccia16 (Matt Puccia, Greg Biffle's crew chief): Daytona beach on this Saturday morning of Raceday http://bit.ly/M8keUz
@MikeMassaroESPN: In 1985 I attended my first Cup race. It was @DISupdates. Today I pass that experience to my boys. Tonight is their 1st race. #Daytona
@Kenny_Wallace: Good Morning and I Love you ALL :) This view is for You :) http://yfrog.com/ocw1ufyj
@bobpockrass: Did pace car ride with Brett Bodine. Can't even feel patch where jet dryer fire was. Car easily rolls over other bumps on track. #nascar
@TheFrontstretch: Just did a pace car ride in a Ford Taurus SHO. That thing was planted like nothing I've ever been in.
@TheFrontstretch: 130 miles an hour felt like nothing in that car. Quite an achievement. So smooth. I'm not sore at all, unlike two years ago. Footage soon.
@Kenny_Wallace: This is a Very Rare Sight, @RutledgeWood is Very Serious in our @NASCARonSPEED meeting http://yfrog.com/kku2aqsmj
EyeInTheSky14 (Bob Jeffrey): Do we really need to go to @DISupdates now.. http://bit.ly/MaRTYn
@dennyhamlin: Feeling a better everyday. Can't wait to get racing tonight.
@JamieLittleESPN: Been chatting with @ariejr here at the track. He felt my baby kick and was so intrigued. @emilymaynard, I think he's ready for babies! LOL
@SSPakeESPN (Shannon Spake): I had to buy this for @JamieLittleESPN ...her little man is going to rock this onesie! bit.ly/N8ZwRu
@DeLanaHarvick: Back in NC 4 precautionary reasons, but all is well w/ #babyotis & i! plan is 4 @KevinHarvick to race tonight, w/ @austindillon3 on standby
@jeff_gluck: RCR confirms Austin Dillon has returned to Daytona where he will be on standby for Kevin Harvick tonight (DeLana expecting baby soon).
@keselowski: Walking thru the cup garage, great to see all the members of the military that came out to watch. Nobody supports the military like #NASCAR
@NewmanKrissie: no they r working on sponsors n contract "@monster4824: @newmankrissie is ryan leaving the 39 car after this year that's what everyone's saying
@austindillon3: Just landed back in @DISupdates with @KevinHarvick back up driver for tonight #OperationBabyOtis love you @DeLanaHarvick
@austindillon3: Well scratch the back up driver I'm not eligible because I'm a Rookie oh well that stinks I've already ran two cup races
@KevinHarvick: Operation #BabyOtis in full effect today.. Had to take @DeLanaHarvick home this am all is good she is home & we just landed back in Daytona.
@TheFrontstretch: Weather update: Its 87 degrees here at the track with sunny skies, high humidity and not much in the way of clouds.
@TheFrontstretch: In other words, I just spent a couple of hours outside and completely perspired through my shirt. Its embarrassing.
@Kenny_Wallace: I just received a call from Mike Dillon and I am on "Stand By" for @KevinHarvick I Will gear up after @NASCARonSPEED
@PPistone: #NASCAR confirms Allmendinger suspended for failing drug test - he can request "B" sample within 72 hours
@TheFrontstretch: Obviously, that is Super Duper Big News. Test was administered in Kentucky, and it was a random test.
@queers4gears: that will teach me to stop watching twitter for 5 minutes.... #NASCAR
@JennaFryer: Key wording from OD was "temporary" suspension. Should the B sample also fail, or Dinger refuse to have B tested, it would be "indefinite"
@jeff_gluck: We don't know what Allmendinger tested positive for. Could be alcohol, drugs, anything. #NASCAR
@31n2spotteR: Apparently today is a good day to be a sub. Those are two premium rides that may need help. a lot of drivers wishin they were here #NASCAR
@shanamayfield: Yeah let's test the b sample at the same lab? NO WAY, that is purpose of b sample..donors right to have it test at facility of your choice. That way there are no questions. Need to keep it fair and square!RT @mikemulhern: DAYTONA: NASCAR annx AJ Allmendinger has been temp suspended, positive A test. can request B sample to be tested. no questions taken.
@shanamayfield: @JennaFryer atleast there a list now. #changessince2009
@nascarcasm: BREAKING: AJ Allmendinger wakes up in the morning and allegedly p-sses negligence. Details forthcoming. #NASCAR #CokeZero400
@shanamayfield: I know, believe me it happens. RT @CDuplessis22: @shanamayfield it's crazy...so much speculation. I've failed a random for prescribed Adderall and used Afrin and popped for methamphetamine http://tl.gd/i7fho
@shanamayfield: B test was already opened by the time we git it, so had no sample to send on our own. Many tests after that he was clean, but you never heard about those.RT @RollTide_1971: @shanamayfield If that "B-Test" passes, JM ought to have NASCAR by the balls! Hope y'all r doing well. God bless. :)
@JennaFryer: Few updates: @TimCindric says NASCAR notified Penske officials within the last few hours. Focus became getting Sam back from NC
@JennaFryer: Yes, Penske officials have spoken to Dinger, and because it's "been such a whirlwind" and the rush was on to get Sam back to Daytona, (cont)
@JennaFryer: I don't know why it took #NASCAR until today to notify Penske, it was same timeline on Mayfield in 2009. He was race day suspended
@shanamayfield: Also on payroll. Donors should be known by numbers not names. Shouldn't call operator of lab when you have questions about medications etc. Testing and physicians aspect should be kept separate RT @Fisha695: @shanamayfield @reddog94 Aegis is the lab #NASCAR uses, 99% of other major sports across the world use it as well.
@TheFrontstretch: Note: I was actually walking in the pits when the Allmendinger news broke. Hustled to the team's garage as soon as I could (they're stall 1)
@jeff_gluck: Some people pointed out that by #NASCAR saying "A" and "B" samples, that does not involve alcohol.
@shanamayfield: Thank u. I believe AJ could be innocent too, not passing judgment. Aegis labs does their testing RT @TerieV: @shanamayfield always believed JM was innocent. can't see AJ doN drugs either!! Who does their testing anyway? insanity
@jim_utter: AJ was not at #NASCAR drivers meeting ... Not that anyone noticed
@shanamayfield: All I'm trying to do is educate people on the real process, don't know AJ's situation and will not speculate. RT @jkasler14: @shanamayfield I appreciate your insight!! If anyone knows about this situation you guys do. Thanks for being so strong!!!
@keselowski (Brad Keselowski): Is this Clint or @DeLanaHarvick ? @ClintBowyer: Finally.......the time is here!!! Let's get this baby started... #daytona"
@scottspeed: Don't think it can be alcohol because I believe it is a Pee test and I don't think u can test alcohol in pee
@KurtBusch: Thanks for all of the nice comments and well wishes for the win. Really appreciate it
@JennaFryer: On Mayfield, he said on Day 1 it was sudafed and claritin. We shouldn't try to guess on AJ.
@KrisJohnson_NI: Was gonna grab a sudafed and claritin for this cold, but think I'll hold off... #nascar
@shanamayfield: Jeremy had a doctors script too, but that didn't seem to matter RT @tabtanta: @shanamayfield @NASCARRT @TerieV Wouldnt be that he has a DOCTOR'S orders...
@nascarcasm: During intros, Hornish will be introduced via awkward TwitVid of him half-dressed trying to hurriedly change into a firesuit on a plane.
@KimWallace_36: I haven't heard from Kenny today! Was thinking his phone must be dead from tweeting. But from the sounds of things he is just real busy. :)
@WendyVenturini: Hornish had not landed yet. ETA 725pm our boy Kenny Wallace gets the 2nd call of the day to fill-in. #crazy #NASCAR
@DavidStremme: Wish we had some $ to race. We have a great speedway car.
@SherryPollex: TNT's wide open coverage is awesome!! Kudos for showing the crew guys names during pit stops too! They deserve it :)
@jeff_gluck: People in fan zone watching Jimmie Johnson wreck http://bit.ly/NfP76O
@Kenny_Wallace: What a crazy night for ME, I am Thankful to RCR and Penske for asking me to drive their cars, they thought of me and that's a honor.
@MartySmithESPN: Asked Hornish to describe his day: "Different. It's weird to land in an airplane and see cop lights waiting for you."
@austindillon3: So much smoke might not be able to take off #Fireworks
@jeff_gluck: Dale Jr. said something surprising: They weren't riding around. He would have liked to lead laps, but rules package didn't allow for passing
@kaseykahne: Had a great car, just wish the rules allowed more passing on this type of a track. Friday night cars can pass like crazy.
@JennaFryer: Hornish tells @bobpockrass "It's always better to get escorted into the track than out of it."
@jeff_gluck: Don't want anyone to get the wrong idea: Harvick/Biffle wasn't a "confrontation." Harvick just went to his car to ask what was up.
@bobpockrass: I think when Hornish was talking about better to be escorted into track, not out - escort out typically happens when injured. #nascar
@ClintBowyer: All I can think to say is..........SHIT!!!!!!!!
@TimCindric: Appreciate every1's support 2nite. Thanks 2 @SamHornish and the @penskeracing 22 team 4 helping us thru a real tough siuation.
@dennyhamlin: Tough ending to our night tonight. Had a good shot to win. Went to inside of 16 and he came down into our rf... End of story.
@JennaFryer: When Hornish got call to come here, he thought it was a call to harass him about the tie he was wearing on Speed.
@dennyhamlin: Feeling OK after the wreck. Should be 100 percent by midweek. Thanks for everyone's concerns
@DanicaPatrick: Congrats to my fellow @CocaColaRacing family driver Tony, and boss! Damn what a sweet move! I have so much to learn.
@keselowski: first time I've ever wrecked standing still! "@HamlinFan54: Ummmm.... Any thoughts on this race? Other than, it had a lot of wrecks??"
@KyleBusch: Ran smart, clean race; upfront all nite to b wrecked w 5 to go. Not really surprised right now. ?
@twoninereyes (Billy O): Feel like we had it won comin off 4 til biffle wrecked us.He said he had nowhere 2 go. Wish he would have just stayed where he was #nascar
@GZipadelli (Greg Zipadelli): We are just leaving the race track a Great night for SHR Good job guys Thanks for all your hard work.
@2Spotter (Joey Meier): 1st and foremost, thoughts are with @AJDinger . Hope this works out. 2nd: VERY glad no one on pit raid got hurt. 3rd: A TOP 10? RUFKM?
@keselowski: Just saw replay of the #39 car hitting my car on pit road. All I have to say is "WOW, I wanna meet that official who high jumped the wall"!
@EyeInTheSky14: Uh we on the top @DISupdates Congrats to all the boy's & girl's @StewartHaasRcng http://bit.ly/N9uqYh
@jamiemcmurray: Been sick all weekend. Thanks the the medical staff at Daytona for taking care of me. Hard to pass for everyone last night
@MonteDutton: #NASCAR morning after: trying to get my dadgum engine started.
@johnkingracing: Blows my mind to think my name is gonna be hanging up with all the rest of the winners at Daytona USA.
@laregna: Just turned on to route 106. @NHMS is almost in sight!
@JimmieJohnson: The crew! A successful day for all. http://instagram.com/p/M0lBxBkpXQ/
@MartySmithESPN: Tri went awesome!!!! Check @JimmieJohnson feed for photography of us in way too little clothing!
@MikeMassaroESPN: Gr8 night at the track with my family! Loved watching a @DISupdates race from the grandstands again.
@MikeMassaroESPN: My view last night. http://lockerz.com/s/223321912
@RB_Mrs: Happy last race, pre-baby, to my girl @JamieLittleESPN ? Let the baby watch begin!
@JimmieJohnson: Transition station... http://instagram.com/p/M0u8zmkpb0/
@JimmieJohnson: The bike http://instagram.com/p/M0vMOAkpb-/
@kaseykahne: Thanks to @JimmieJohnson for getting us all pumped up for our first sprint tri. Really enjoyed it. Looking forward to more down the road
@JimmieJohnson: Even the media came out. I finished in 1:11:57. I cramped on the run and missed my goal by 2 mins. http://instagram.com/p/M0w7hFkpdD/
@gbiffle: final lap when everyone is trying to win the 17 and I hit a little as the 17 came down just a bit I move down and the 29 had filled the hole
@nascarcasm: Reminder to Sam Hornish Jr. - you have totally, undeniably and inarguably earned right to leave your cell phone turned off today. #nascar
@kaseykahne: Finished in 1:11:30 fifth in my age group. Really cool event! Can't wait to beat my time at the next one.
@KevinHarvick: @DeLanaHarvick and I just welcomed our son Keelan Paul Harvick (pronounced Keylan) into the world. Baby and mommy are doing good.
@JennaFryer: Waiting on Keelan was the longest nine months of my entire life," Kevin Harvick said. "But time literally stood still when I held our baby for the first time. I've accomplished a lot in my life that I'm proud of, but those moments don't hold a candle to becoming a father and seeing that little face looking up at you. DeLana and I are just amazed by how special and rewarding this is."
@DeLanaHarvick: Tk u all so much for all the kind words. @KevinHarvick & I have a completely diff appreciation for what love means now that Keelan is here!
Summer Bedgood is a Senior Writer for Frontstretch.com. She can be reached via email at summer.bedgood@frontstretch.com.
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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.
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TODAY ON THE FRONTSTRETCH:
Did You Notice? ... Military Matters, Kicked To The Curb, And It Doesn't Pay To Finish First... On Friday
by Tom Bowles
Beyond the Cockpit: Jeff Burton On How To Save A Struggling Season~~~~~~~~~~
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.
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TODAY ON THE FRONTSTRETCH:
Did You Notice? ... Military Matters, Kicked To The Curb, And It Doesn't Pay To Finish First... On Friday
by Tom Bowles
by Phil Allaway
An Open Letter to NASCAR Teams: Part-Timers to Consider
by Kevin Rutherford
IndyCar In 2013: A Look Ahead
by Matt Stallknecht
Top Ten Items NASCAR Hasn't Caught This Year During Post-Race Inspection
by the Frontstretch Staff
NASCAR Sprint Cup Power Rankings: Top 15 After Daytona
compiled by Summer Bedgood
Mirror Driving: NASCAR's Scarlet Letter, Qualifying Questions And Title Talk
by the Frontstretch Staff
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FRONTSTRETCH TRIVIA:
FRONTSTRETCH TRIVIA:
Q: In July, 1999 Tony Stewart was staring down his first career victory at New Hampshire before he snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. What happened?
Check back Thursday for the answer, here in the Frontstretch Newsletter!
Tuesday's Answer:
Tuesday's Answer:
Q: In 2000, New Hampshire was in the spotlight because of the crashes that took the lives of both Adam Petty and Kenny Irwin, Jr. in Turn 3. Those incidents were likely due to stuck throttles. Unfortunately, the Truck Series was not immune from that problem on the 1.058-mile oval although thankfully, in their series no one passed away. What happened early on in the 2000 race?
A: Dennis Setzer, sadly much like Petty and Irwin, appeared to have a stuck throttle at the end of the backstretch. Setzer locked the truck's brakes down but could do nothing to keep his Dodge from hitting the wall hard. The truck eventually moved down the track, where it was hit by Rob Morgan and Jack Sprague. The crash can be seen in this clip. Mike Joy, Buddy Baker and Ned Jarrett have the call for CBS. Setzer and Sprague were out on the spot, while Morgan required repairs behind the wall. He eventually finished 56 laps down in 23rd.
Frontstretch Trivia Guarantee: If we mess up, you get 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 tomorrow in the Frontstretch Newsletter:
-- Top News from Phil Allaway
-- What's Vexing Vito by Vito Pugliese
-- Critic's Annex by Phil Allaway
-- Links to your favorite Frontstretch articles, the Line of the Week and more!
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Tomorrow on the Frontstretch:
MPM2Nite by Matt McLaughlin
Matt McLaughlin is back again this season with his usual sarcastic sense of humor ... and incomparable insight.
Potts' Shots by John Potts
Fanning the Flames has become Potts' Shots, and John Potts is here to answer your questions in our weekly Fan Q & A. Do you have something you'd like to ask John? Don't sit on the sidelines! Send it to john.potts@frontstretch.com and you just may see your question in print next week!
Professor Of Speed by Mark Howell
What will be the reaction if and when Richard Childress brings the No. 3 back to Sprint Cup competition? Mark analyzes the impact of Austin Dillon's possible "Earnhardt link" and the superstition numbers have come to represent on NASCAR's top-level circuit.
Dollars And Sense by Jesse Medford
The newest addition to the Fronstretch family takes a look at the business side of NASCAR.
Truckin' Thursdays by Beth Lunkenheimer
Beth is back this year on a new night, but it's the same great commentary you've come to enjoy on NASCAR's Truck Series! This week, with the series headed to a short track in Iowa Beth previews the latest standalone race for this division and some of the new faces coming out of the woodwork for their Midwestern debuts.
Frontstretch Trivia Guarantee: If we mess up, you get 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 tomorrow in the Frontstretch Newsletter:
-- Top News from Phil Allaway
-- What's Vexing Vito by Vito Pugliese
-- Critic's Annex by Phil Allaway
-- Links to your favorite Frontstretch articles, the Line of the Week and more!
~~~~~~~~~~
Tomorrow on the Frontstretch:
MPM2Nite by Matt McLaughlin
Matt McLaughlin is back again this season with his usual sarcastic sense of humor ... and incomparable insight.
Potts' Shots by John Potts
Fanning the Flames has become Potts' Shots, and John Potts is here to answer your questions in our weekly Fan Q & A. Do you have something you'd like to ask John? Don't sit on the sidelines! Send it to john.potts@frontstretch.com and you just may see your question in print next week!
Professor Of Speed by Mark Howell
What will be the reaction if and when Richard Childress brings the No. 3 back to Sprint Cup competition? Mark analyzes the impact of Austin Dillon's possible "Earnhardt link" and the superstition numbers have come to represent on NASCAR's top-level circuit.
Dollars And Sense by Jesse Medford
The newest addition to the Fronstretch family takes a look at the business side of NASCAR.
Truckin' Thursdays by Beth Lunkenheimer
Beth is back this year on a new night, but it's the same great commentary you've come to enjoy on NASCAR's Truck Series! This week, with the series headed to a short track in Iowa Beth previews the latest standalone race for this division and some of the new faces coming out of the woodwork for their Midwestern debuts.
-----------------------------
Talk back to the Frontstretch Newsletter!
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©2012 Frontstretch.com
-- 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
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