THE FRONTSTRETCH NEWSLETTER
Presented by Frontstretch.com
The Best Seat at the Track, The Best View on the Net!
July 25th, 2012
Volume VI, Edition CXL
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BREAKING NEWS: Allmendinger Fails "B" Sample Drug Test
by Beth Lunkenheimer
NASCAR has announced that AJ Allmendinger's "B" sample that was tested earlier today has come back as positive. As a result, his temporary suspension has been upgraded to indefinite. NASCAR explained Allmendinger's next step in a statement released late Tuesday evening.
"On July 24, Allmendinger was found to have violated Sections 12-1 (actions detrimental to stock car racing) and 19 (NASCAR's substance abuse policy) of the 2012 NASCAR rule book.
"As outlined in the rule book, NASCAR next will provide Allmendinger a letter outlining a process for reinstatement. By agreeing to the letter, he will be allowed to participate in the Road to Recovery Program."
Not long after NASCAR's announcement, Waldinger Racing representative Tara Ragan released a statement on Allmendinger's behalf.
"This was not the news we wanted to hear and we will work to get to the source of what may have caused this. To that end, we have secured the services of an independent lab to conduct thorough testing on every product within AJ's home and motor coach to find what might collaborate with his test, which created results that were within nanograms of accepted standards.
"We are working closely with NASCAR and Penske Racing to identify the next action steps in this process. We continue to be extremely grateful by the breadth and scope of support for AJ from his fans and partners. We would like to again thank NASCAR, Penske Racing and all our sponsor partners for the open communication, and for helping us at every step in this process. We expect to have further updates in the upcoming days."
Allmendinger was placed on a temporary suspension just hours before the Coke Zero 400 at Daytona International Speedway when the results from a random test taken at Kentucky Speedway came back with a positive result. Penske Racing flew Sam Hornish, Jr. in to fill the open No. 22 Dodge seat, spot he maintained at New Hampshire Motor Speedway the following weekend.
Penske Racing also released a statement on their "website":http://www.penskeracing.com regarding the result.
"In accordance with NASCAR's Substance Abuse Policy, Penske Racing was notified today of AJ Allmendinger's positive B sample test. We respect NASCAR's policy and the process they have taken with this matter. Penske Racing is very disappointed with the result of the B sample test and will evaluate its course of action as it pertains to AJ over the coming week."
Sam Hornish, Jr. is set to pilot the No. 22 Dodge at Indianapolis this weekend and Pocono next weekend.
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Top News
by Brad Morgan
France Backs NASCAR Drug Policy
NASCAR CEO Brian France remained confident of the sport's current drug testing policy during a press conference in London on Tuesday.
"We believe it's a strong testing system that works,'' France told The Associated Press. "We've got the best guy (David Black) running the program, and it's a solid system that we believe does the job intended."
Questions have arisen amid AJ Allmendinger's current situation following a second positive test and indefinite suspension on Tuesday.
Allmendinger had recently signed a sponsorship deal with energy supplement Fuel in a Bottle, leading to rampant speculation that one of the ingredients in the drink caused the positive test; this was one reason why the current policy has come under fire.
Even though the final test came back positive, NASCAR will not publicly reveal the banned substance due to a part of its current policy. France told reporters that it's a policy he wouldn't consider altering.
Under the terms of NASCAR's drug abuse policy, Allmendinger will need to complete the Road to Recovery program if he wishes to be reinstated. According to the policy, he could be required to complete a rehab program and/or counseling and also be subject to random testing going forward after reinstatement, including supervised tests, in which an official will directly observe the sample being given.
France to Talk NASCAR at Social Summit
In preparation for the Summer Olympics, Beyond Sports, a global organization that utilizes sport as a vehicle for social change, will hold its annual summit in London. NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France will be present to talk on Wednesday about his sport's work to create driver diversity, environmental awareness, and charitable efforts.
France will communicate these advances as a member of the "Mobilizing Millions" panel along with Dr. Robin Peterson, CEO of the South African Football Association; Jamie Oliver, celebrity chef, Emmy Award-winning television personality and health advocate; and Paddy Harverson, spokesperson for Prince Charles.
Together the members of the panel will discuss how different sports have taken strides to make positive changes in issues such as the advancement of green energy. Those partaking in the discussion will examine various sports organizations' ability to use their influence to incite improvements for humanity.
"A key part of Beyond Sport's mission is to bring together people from different spheres to share their experiences and to learn from each other," said Nick Keller, founder of Beyond Sport. "Between them, through inspiration and education, these people and their organizations have changed the outlooks, perspectives and even living habits of millions of people around the world, and their insights are invaluable."
NASCAR became the first motorsports organization to join the coalition after accepting an invitation in May 2012, joining leagues such as the NFL, Major League Baseball, the NBA and WNBA, the NHL, and Major League Soccer.
Familiar Colors for Wood Brothers at Indy
When the Wood Brothers iconic No. 21 arrives at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in preparation for the Brickyard 400, fans will be treated to a throwback look from the days of old. The car will don a familiar "candy apple" color, a shade of red made popular during the 60's by former Ford racing director Jacque Passino.
The move was made to honor long-time crew chief and engine builder Leonard Wood and his recent induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame. It should also be noted that Wood and his family helped guide Ford to its first Indianapolis 500 victory in a candy apple-colored car in 1965. For these accomplishments, the auto racing legend will have his face painted on the hood of Trevor Bayne's Motorcraft / Quick Lane Ford Fusion this weekend.
"It's beautiful, really nice looking," Wood said.
The scheme was designed by Mike Smith who drew upon classic designs by Orphus Agnew, the team's old artist, for inspiration.
Marvin Panch, Dan Gurney, Dave MacDonald, and team founder Glen Wood, as well as Sonny Hutchins and Donnie Allison were drivers to race in the "candy apple" colored car.
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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
Chopping Off the Nationwide Series' Roots
Full Throttle
by Mike Neff
From the drop of the green flag on the Budweiser Late Model Sportsman Series and the Kroger 200 during the 1982 inaugural season until the checkered flag fell on the 2011 Kroger 200 Benefitting Riley Hospital for Children, Raceway Park in Indianapolis hosted a national touring series race for NASCAR. As the green flies over the unsponsored Nationwide Indy 250 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the 30 years of support for NASCAR's second tier series at the 0.686-mile oval on the west side of Indianapolis will officially be cast aside for the almighty dollar. Consistently great racing and large crowds for 13 years before the Cup series came to town followed by 17 years of support races was rewarded by the dates being ripped away from the track with no option to keep them. This Saturday we'll find out if the decision was brilliance or folly.
What is now the Nationwide Series was founded as a development series in 1982 and has evolved into a support series that simply runs on the same tracks the day before the Cup series. Of the tracks on that initial 1982 schedule, there are a total of six race tracks that still host Nationwide races. Richmond and Bristol are the only two that are less than a mile in length. The inaugural schedule had a total of 23 races that took place on tracks less than a mile in length, and of the 29 races competed during the first year of the series, just 14 of them were contested on tracks that hosted Cup races. Martinsville races, all three of them, were held on weekends different from their Cup weekends. Rockingham Speedway also hosted the Nationwide boys on a June weekend which was nowhere near their Cup races at the time, and one of Richmond's three races was on a May weekend while the Cup series was at Talladega. That means only nine of the 29 races were held as companion events.
Fast forward to 2012 and you'll find a total of six races that take place in the Nationwide series at tracks away from the Cup series. Two races at Iowa, a visit to Elkhart Lake and Montreal are all on tracks where the Cup boys do not visit. That leaves two races, a run at Kentucky while the Cup teams are racing at Loudon during the Chase and this past weekend's visit to Chicago while the Cup series was off. Just over 18% of the schedule was held away from the Cup series while the inaugural season saw 69% stand alone events. Not only is the schedule basically a mirror of the Cup schedule, it is also equally devoid of short track races. A grand total of six races are taking place on tracks that are less than a mile in length. That is a full 17 races less than the first year while the schedule itself is four races longer. The series, quite similarly to the Cup series that it has so obviously been mated to, has all but completely abandoned its short track roots for the sake of chasing the big money that is offered by the bigger tracks. That abandonment of the smaller venues has most certainly played a role in the drop off of the attendance at Nationwide races.
Interestingly, the Truck Series is also absent from Raceway Park this weekend. The venue chose not to have the trucks return as a stand alone event, quite to the disappointment of fans. In the all-too-familiar fashion that NASCAR has displayed with the Cup and Nationwide series, the Trucks have also left their short track roots, which is even more of a shame considering the fact that the basic "mission statement" of the Trucks, when they debuted in 1995 was to bring NASCAR national touring racing back to its short track roots. The 20-race schedule was competed on two road courses, three one-mile tracks and 15 short tracks. 2012 sees a 22 race schedule with zero road courses and a whopping five races on tracks that are less than a mile in length. Goodbye short tracks, hello money grabs at tracks where the big boys are racing.
Short tracks have smaller grandstands. They have fewer amenities and the infields and pits can be a rather difficult situation for multi-million dollar race haulers. As a result, the ticket revenues and advertising dollars are lower than they can be at bigger venues. Short tracks are also generally run by families or smaller companies rather than the billion-dollar corporations that run the vast majority of the race tracks on the current national touring series' schedules. As a result, they have been priced out of the big-time racing business. Sanctioning fees that are closer to a million dollars than zero can make it difficult to put on a race when the stands have 30,000 people in them and the sanctioning body expects the tracks to foot a large part of the purse for races. In fact, the amount of money that the tracks have to pay just for the privilege of putting on the races combined with the money they have to pay out for the purses results in difficult times for tracks to make money on the races.
Martinsville Speedway no longer hosts a Nationwide race. They have politely declined over the last few years because they simply can't make any money because of the sanctioning fees. 2012 saw Darlington Raceway pass on a Truck race, again due to the fact that the track cannot make money after the costs associated with just putting on the race. The continuously underlying theme in this entire story is that NASCAR has abandoned their short track roots while chasing the big money.
Raceway Park in Clermont, Indiana will be dark on Saturday night for the first time in 31 years on a midsummer night that has hosted the best racing in any national touring series over that time. Instead, the Nationwide Series will be trying to drum up the excitement about the first time one of their own has just finished kissing the bricks at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The question for now is, how many fans will be there to watch it--and will anyone outside of the sport or the stands really care?
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...
@TimothyPeters17: Waiting in the lobby before @SaraPeters17 and I are called to the back to find out if it's a boy or girl! #exciting #nervous
@DeLanaHarvick: There is nothing better than snuggling keelan and looking into his eyes... ❤❤❤
@Patricia_AFF (Patricia Driscoll): #kurtBusch deep sea fishing in Sitka Alaska http://instagram.com/p/NOknvupTCx/
@JeffGordonWeb: Amazing day in Rwanda celebrating Butaro Cancer Center of Excellence opening. Thank u @agnesbinagwaho @ClintonTweet @PIH 4 the opportunity.
@NewmanKrissie: Thank you for your Congrats. Ashlyn is such a little blessing. We are both doing well and Brooklyn is a great big sister
@KurtBusch: We are in Sitka b/c @Patricia_AFF loves "The Proposal". We found out the day before we left that the movie was shot in Rockport, MA- DANG
@KimBurton31: @DeLanaHarvick snuggle hard and long. You will blink and he will be grown up. :). Enjoy.
@TheOrangeCone: To remind themselves of the old days, Cup drivers doing double duty @ims will take helicopters back and forth to NNS garage nxt wknd #nascar
@nateryan: Presented without comment: Rep. Steve Palazzo says he heard #nascar fans are up to 70 million, "and that might be a low number."
@bobpockrass: Sanford Bishop (D-Ga.) talks about suspension on military vehicles helped with technology from Joe Gibbs Racing. #nascar
@MartySmithESPN: Rep. Bill Posey from Melbourne Fla. calls em out for "micromanaging" as it pertains to the NASCAR military sponsorships. Word!
@Amanda_Speed: So Jules sits like this all the time. No feet or hands on the ground, balancing act... LOL http://lockerz.com/s/226206604
@TimothyPeters17: Very excited about @SaraPeters17 and I expecting our baby BOY in December
@BrianLVickers: As someone who helped bring Army to #NASCAR years ago- really hope this amendment does NOT pass. We are all huge supporters of military!!
@AmberAngelaCope: Ok @KevinHarvick #NASCAR #nns give me reason to appologize...u bet on the wrong pony!!
@DeLanaHarvick: thoughts & prayers go out to the victims & their families in CO shooting... i just can't comprehend why something like this happens.
@pkligerman (Parker Kligerman): Woah! Who's this guy? I think he's taller in person tho.... #NASCAR #NCWTS http://t.co/aq7P8ty5
@DeLanaHarvick: As I look at my precious, sweet, innocent baby I wonder how it can go so wrong for some people... #heartbreaking #hurtinginnocentpplsucks
@NewmanKrissie (Krissie Newman): At the baby doc for Ms Ashlyn's first check up...
@DeLanaHarvick: how can one little guy create so much laundry and dirty dishes!! i'm spending every waking moment in the laundry room & cleaning bottles! :)
@DeLanaHarvick: Watching keelan smile and laugh as @KevinHarvick "tries" to rap to him is priceless!! Even at almost 2 weeks old he knows dad has no skillz.
@Elliott_Sadler: Getting fluids in the infield care center..Getting my body ready for tomorrow.. But actually feel better after being in the car!! It's fast
@newmanKrissie: Having a nice eve at home with family and some friends. Ashlyn and Brooklyn are doing great and B is such a good big sister! #blessed
@WendyVenturini: Aww thank you DAD for the words in Victory Lane...Jarrad & I wished we were there too!!
@WendyVenturini: My 18-month-old son was SO excited to see Grandpa in Victory Lane interview on @NASCARonSPEED! He kept pointing & laughing "Papa! Papa!"
@keselowski (Brad Keselowski): At crew chief Paul Wolfe's wedding tonight, Looking for updates of @NASCAR_Trucks from Chicago on @SPEED Any helpers!
@Kris_Buescher: No matter what I am so proud of @JamesBuescher and his amazing team! They will overcome this no matter what.
@Beth_Frntstrtch (Beth Lunkenheimer): Did @SPEED really have @Brendan62's name spelled wrong? Looked to me like they had Gaughn...shame on them! #NASCAR
@keselowski: Thank u everyone for the @NASCAR_Trucks updates I'm 3 miller lites in and feeling pretty good about our chances.
@Kris_Buescher: And that right there is why @JamesBuescher is amazing and God is GOOD!!!!
@NelsonPiquet: When things happens like tonight there is NO worse feeling and pain in the world for me as a driver! Its hard to pick yourself up after this
@JamesBuescher: We. Never. Quit. Came back from 2 laps down! Incredible. #winning http://lockerz.com/s/227191087
@scottspeed: <----- this guy just ran a sub 1h10m sprint tri!! First try ;) so damn pumped pretty sure I finished 29th overall out of 300
@nascarcasm: PIC: When you win the pole on a windy day, the backdrop blows down. Don't win the pole on a windy day... #nascar http://twitpic.com/aakaoh
@keselowski: Fully recovered from last nights party and ready to watch nationwide race from @ChicagolndSpdwy Cheering on @penskeracing #nascar
@joeylogano: Just watched the special make a wish with @KyleBusch on espn really cool. That is the best of part being a race car driver
@DeLanaHarvick: poor keelan, dad thinks it's funny 2 blame him when he burps/toots. i'd b quite concerned if noises like that came out of something so small
@AmberAngelaCope: Angela: hoping to raise $100k for the charlotte race so I can be in good equipment with a leased motor!!
@keselowski: Just thinking, 5 years ago this weekend I got my big break to drive the #88 navy car for Dale jr. What a ride it's been... #nascar
@Elliott_Sadler: Don't know where to start with all the emotions I got right now.... Thanks to all you guys for the support and the tweets!! You fans rock
@Brendan62 (Brendan Gaughan): Well, almost had a great weekend. Came up just a little short... Did you know that we can't see our hoodpins while sitting in our seat?
@KyleBusch: No @espn interview cause I got wrecked on the straightaway. Pretty sure Ray Charles saw that. Tough day again... 8th week and counting.
@Brendan62: I just heard @kylebusch 's motor and he got turned, knew it wasn't his fault. Be willing to bet he has never looked for his hood pins also
@Brendan62: My @RCRracing teammates say that a better excuse would have been that he was trying to text. Each excuse is just about as lame
@nascarcasm: Update: Penalized $122 for speeding. Will be setting up Cope-style GoFundMe page so you can help me pay it, and I can show my true skills.
@Elliott_Sadler: One awesome pic!!!! https://twitter.com/Elliott_Sadler/status/227219160768327680/photo/1
@J_Allgaier (Justin Allgaier): For the record..#1 I am happy to finish 3rd today! I wanted to win more than anyone I can promise that #2 I may have too much energy but...
@SherryPollex: What a perfect lazy Sunday. We did nothing but lay by the pool, lay on the couch, watch racing & eat! Is this what normal ppl do? #awesome
@NASCAR_REALTIME: A friend owns some gas stations. He recieved these from Fuel in a Bottle this weekend. #Nascar
@Elliott_Sadler: @J_Allgaier One last tweet before bed... Gotta give a big thanks to Justin for the push... I owe you one
@J_Allgaier: I only accept large bills!! Lol RT @Elliott_Sadler: @J_Allgaier One last tweet.Gotta give a big thanks to Justin for the push..I owe you one
@jeff_gluck: NASCAR estimated yesterday's Chicagoland Nationwide race attendance at 25,000, FWIW.
@TheMiniChad: NASCAR estimated yesterday's Chicagoland Nationwide race attendance at 25,000. (Note to self, don't ask NASCAR to do my taxes)
@Kenny_Wallace: Honestly all it takes to run GOOD is a "LOT OF Money Honey" ha ha ha! To do what we did yesterday cost 100 Thousand Dollars. Others 150.
@DeLanaHarvick: Diaper=clean, keelan=fed...why so fussy?? Where's the owner's manual for this little dude?
@DeLanaharvick: ahhhhh... thank you musical swing. you've made mom and dad AND keelan happy!
@Regan_Smith_: I am so ready to be at Indy! Off weekends are great but I wanna get back racing!
@AmberAngelaCope: Help & Donate to stick up for all those who have been at the hands of unwarrented sexist comment. I just want to run.
@NewmanKrissie: Can't believe it was a week ago today we welcomed baby Ashlyn into the world- #lifeisgood so to celebrate I am having cake for lunch-lol
@Brendan62: You know it's been too long when, while watching the replay of the truck race, @speed spells your name wrong! #gaughan not #gaughn
@Kenny_Wallace: PRESS RELEASE: Just got a call from "Jim Cassidy" from NASCAR, I am NOT eligible for "Dash For Cash" I will eXplain through neXt tweet.
@Kenny_Wallace: My race team @RAB_Racing filed a LATE entry for the Chicago race for car #09! Therefore you DO NOT receive Points. I am OK with it :)
@Kenny_Wallace: Sooooo! Congrats to Michael Annett who will get in the "Dash For Cash" on default. I just wanted to run INDY, NO DRAMA for ME :) The END.
@Brendan62: @JamesBuescher called me out about the slow restart in Victory lane, & did a great job explaining it.Nice comeback,I won't do that again:-)
@Kenny_Wallace: I Kinda like being a "Outlaw Racer" I don't race for points! Ha ha! I just show up and Race BECAUSE I am a Racer! Let's RACE this Race :)
@TravisPastrana: Getting ready with @jayleno. https://twitter.com/TravisPastrana/status/227529297009704960/photo/1
@BubbaWallace (Darrell Wallace, Jr.): Can't tell you how pumped I am to climb back in the @NASCAR_NNS car w/ @JoeGibbsRacing at @iowaspeedway in 2 wks! Going for top 5 this time!
@KellyBires: Finally back at the house after being in about 7 different states the last 3 days. It's what racers do!
@aric_almirola: ready to tour the new born section of the hospital @JaniceAlmirola plans to deliver at. #shitsgettinreal
@JennaFryer: Umm, I'm back ... We have a mechanical issue and have returned to the gate. What would KuBu call this?
@AmberAngelaCope: Ok folks just poured second glass of wine let's talk ab racing #NASCAR against @KevinHarvick. Give me sum good questions?
@AmberAngelaCope: U know.....lots of people saying I m trying to get attention over this @KevinHarvick thing...dah
@MartySmithESPN: AJ Allmendinger B Sample test occurs this morning at 8a CDT (9ET) at Aegis Lab in Nashville, TN.
@MartySmithESPN: Expected within 48 hours. Possibly much sooner. RT @Drive32: @MartySmithESPN how long do we wait for the results?
@jeff_Gluck: Official Indy race title (no joke): "Crown Royal Presents the Curtiss Shaver 400 at the Brickyard Powered by http://BigMachineRecords.com" #NASCAR
@jeff_gluck: I dunno about you, but I prefer calling it the "Brickyard 400." #NASCAR
@jamiemcmurray: I have been at the shop all morning preparing for Indy. Big weekend for Juan and I getting to run both the Grand Am and Cup cars.
@jeff_gluck: All those panicked tweeters asking about Hendrick "announcement," fear not. Announcement was about team's new app.
@nascarcasm: The Hendrick app is significantly more user-friendly than the John Wes Townley app, which just repeatedly crashes your IPhone. #nascar
@nascarcasm: Best feature of the Hendrick Motorsports app by far is the addictive Dale-Jr.-based game, "Angry Beards." #nascar
@StewartHaasRcng (Stewart Haas Racing): DYK? #TonyStewart's grandfather, Gaylord Marshall, was a deliveryman for Mobil. Check out his pic: http://yfrog.com/obueqdij
@PPistone: ESPN VP reports "not everyone is on board" with side by side race coverage #nascar
@bobpockrass: Not making this up. Kansas Pieroguys Pierogies named the Official Pierogie of Kansas Speedway. #nascar
@DGodfatherMoody: When you think Kansas, you think pierogies.
@jim_utter: Attendance was down at #NASCAR Nationwide race at Chicagoland, but ESPN rating was up 57 percent over last year (which was a night race)
@Amanda_Speed: Had a rough day today... Thank goodness for insurance...
@Amanda_Speed: RT @t0759: @Amanda_Speed What happened? -- lost my main diamond on my engagement ring. Gone! :(
@Kenny_Wallace: My official quote on Chicago Penalty: "The Penalty does NOT affect ME, I feel bad for @RAB_Racing for the 10 thousand dollar fine"
@Kenny_Wallace: My Quote on Chicago Penalty: I LOve @NASCAR because it's my life but this fine has Nothing to do with ME, I LOve you ALL :)
Presented by Frontstretch.com
The Best Seat at the Track, The Best View on the Net!
July 25th, 2012
Volume VI, Edition CXL
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BREAKING NEWS: Allmendinger Fails "B" Sample Drug Test
by Beth Lunkenheimer
NASCAR has announced that AJ Allmendinger's "B" sample that was tested earlier today has come back as positive. As a result, his temporary suspension has been upgraded to indefinite. NASCAR explained Allmendinger's next step in a statement released late Tuesday evening.
"On July 24, Allmendinger was found to have violated Sections 12-1 (actions detrimental to stock car racing) and 19 (NASCAR's substance abuse policy) of the 2012 NASCAR rule book.
"As outlined in the rule book, NASCAR next will provide Allmendinger a letter outlining a process for reinstatement. By agreeing to the letter, he will be allowed to participate in the Road to Recovery Program."
Not long after NASCAR's announcement, Waldinger Racing representative Tara Ragan released a statement on Allmendinger's behalf.
"This was not the news we wanted to hear and we will work to get to the source of what may have caused this. To that end, we have secured the services of an independent lab to conduct thorough testing on every product within AJ's home and motor coach to find what might collaborate with his test, which created results that were within nanograms of accepted standards.
"We are working closely with NASCAR and Penske Racing to identify the next action steps in this process. We continue to be extremely grateful by the breadth and scope of support for AJ from his fans and partners. We would like to again thank NASCAR, Penske Racing and all our sponsor partners for the open communication, and for helping us at every step in this process. We expect to have further updates in the upcoming days."
Allmendinger was placed on a temporary suspension just hours before the Coke Zero 400 at Daytona International Speedway when the results from a random test taken at Kentucky Speedway came back with a positive result. Penske Racing flew Sam Hornish, Jr. in to fill the open No. 22 Dodge seat, spot he maintained at New Hampshire Motor Speedway the following weekend.
Penske Racing also released a statement on their "website":http://www.penskeracing.com regarding the result.
"In accordance with NASCAR's Substance Abuse Policy, Penske Racing was notified today of AJ Allmendinger's positive B sample test. We respect NASCAR's policy and the process they have taken with this matter. Penske Racing is very disappointed with the result of the B sample test and will evaluate its course of action as it pertains to AJ over the coming week."
Sam Hornish, Jr. is set to pilot the No. 22 Dodge at Indianapolis this weekend and Pocono next weekend.
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Top News
by Brad Morgan
France Backs NASCAR Drug Policy
NASCAR CEO Brian France remained confident of the sport's current drug testing policy during a press conference in London on Tuesday.
"We believe it's a strong testing system that works,'' France told The Associated Press. "We've got the best guy (David Black) running the program, and it's a solid system that we believe does the job intended."
Questions have arisen amid AJ Allmendinger's current situation following a second positive test and indefinite suspension on Tuesday.
Allmendinger had recently signed a sponsorship deal with energy supplement Fuel in a Bottle, leading to rampant speculation that one of the ingredients in the drink caused the positive test; this was one reason why the current policy has come under fire.
Even though the final test came back positive, NASCAR will not publicly reveal the banned substance due to a part of its current policy. France told reporters that it's a policy he wouldn't consider altering.
Under the terms of NASCAR's drug abuse policy, Allmendinger will need to complete the Road to Recovery program if he wishes to be reinstated. According to the policy, he could be required to complete a rehab program and/or counseling and also be subject to random testing going forward after reinstatement, including supervised tests, in which an official will directly observe the sample being given.
France to Talk NASCAR at Social Summit
In preparation for the Summer Olympics, Beyond Sports, a global organization that utilizes sport as a vehicle for social change, will hold its annual summit in London. NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France will be present to talk on Wednesday about his sport's work to create driver diversity, environmental awareness, and charitable efforts.
France will communicate these advances as a member of the "Mobilizing Millions" panel along with Dr. Robin Peterson, CEO of the South African Football Association; Jamie Oliver, celebrity chef, Emmy Award-winning television personality and health advocate; and Paddy Harverson, spokesperson for Prince Charles.
Together the members of the panel will discuss how different sports have taken strides to make positive changes in issues such as the advancement of green energy. Those partaking in the discussion will examine various sports organizations' ability to use their influence to incite improvements for humanity.
"A key part of Beyond Sport's mission is to bring together people from different spheres to share their experiences and to learn from each other," said Nick Keller, founder of Beyond Sport. "Between them, through inspiration and education, these people and their organizations have changed the outlooks, perspectives and even living habits of millions of people around the world, and their insights are invaluable."
NASCAR became the first motorsports organization to join the coalition after accepting an invitation in May 2012, joining leagues such as the NFL, Major League Baseball, the NBA and WNBA, the NHL, and Major League Soccer.
Familiar Colors for Wood Brothers at Indy
When the Wood Brothers iconic No. 21 arrives at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in preparation for the Brickyard 400, fans will be treated to a throwback look from the days of old. The car will don a familiar "candy apple" color, a shade of red made popular during the 60's by former Ford racing director Jacque Passino.
The move was made to honor long-time crew chief and engine builder Leonard Wood and his recent induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame. It should also be noted that Wood and his family helped guide Ford to its first Indianapolis 500 victory in a candy apple-colored car in 1965. For these accomplishments, the auto racing legend will have his face painted on the hood of Trevor Bayne's Motorcraft / Quick Lane Ford Fusion this weekend.
"It's beautiful, really nice looking," Wood said.
The scheme was designed by Mike Smith who drew upon classic designs by Orphus Agnew, the team's old artist, for inspiration.
Marvin Panch, Dan Gurney, Dave MacDonald, and team founder Glen Wood, as well as Sonny Hutchins and Donnie Allison were drivers to race in the "candy apple" colored car.
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.
~~~~~~~~~~
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
Chopping Off the Nationwide Series' Roots
Full Throttle
by Mike Neff
From the drop of the green flag on the Budweiser Late Model Sportsman Series and the Kroger 200 during the 1982 inaugural season until the checkered flag fell on the 2011 Kroger 200 Benefitting Riley Hospital for Children, Raceway Park in Indianapolis hosted a national touring series race for NASCAR. As the green flies over the unsponsored Nationwide Indy 250 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the 30 years of support for NASCAR's second tier series at the 0.686-mile oval on the west side of Indianapolis will officially be cast aside for the almighty dollar. Consistently great racing and large crowds for 13 years before the Cup series came to town followed by 17 years of support races was rewarded by the dates being ripped away from the track with no option to keep them. This Saturday we'll find out if the decision was brilliance or folly.
What is now the Nationwide Series was founded as a development series in 1982 and has evolved into a support series that simply runs on the same tracks the day before the Cup series. Of the tracks on that initial 1982 schedule, there are a total of six race tracks that still host Nationwide races. Richmond and Bristol are the only two that are less than a mile in length. The inaugural schedule had a total of 23 races that took place on tracks less than a mile in length, and of the 29 races competed during the first year of the series, just 14 of them were contested on tracks that hosted Cup races. Martinsville races, all three of them, were held on weekends different from their Cup weekends. Rockingham Speedway also hosted the Nationwide boys on a June weekend which was nowhere near their Cup races at the time, and one of Richmond's three races was on a May weekend while the Cup series was at Talladega. That means only nine of the 29 races were held as companion events.
Fast forward to 2012 and you'll find a total of six races that take place in the Nationwide series at tracks away from the Cup series. Two races at Iowa, a visit to Elkhart Lake and Montreal are all on tracks where the Cup boys do not visit. That leaves two races, a run at Kentucky while the Cup teams are racing at Loudon during the Chase and this past weekend's visit to Chicago while the Cup series was off. Just over 18% of the schedule was held away from the Cup series while the inaugural season saw 69% stand alone events. Not only is the schedule basically a mirror of the Cup schedule, it is also equally devoid of short track races. A grand total of six races are taking place on tracks that are less than a mile in length. That is a full 17 races less than the first year while the schedule itself is four races longer. The series, quite similarly to the Cup series that it has so obviously been mated to, has all but completely abandoned its short track roots for the sake of chasing the big money that is offered by the bigger tracks. That abandonment of the smaller venues has most certainly played a role in the drop off of the attendance at Nationwide races.
Interestingly, the Truck Series is also absent from Raceway Park this weekend. The venue chose not to have the trucks return as a stand alone event, quite to the disappointment of fans. In the all-too-familiar fashion that NASCAR has displayed with the Cup and Nationwide series, the Trucks have also left their short track roots, which is even more of a shame considering the fact that the basic "mission statement" of the Trucks, when they debuted in 1995 was to bring NASCAR national touring racing back to its short track roots. The 20-race schedule was competed on two road courses, three one-mile tracks and 15 short tracks. 2012 sees a 22 race schedule with zero road courses and a whopping five races on tracks that are less than a mile in length. Goodbye short tracks, hello money grabs at tracks where the big boys are racing.
Short tracks have smaller grandstands. They have fewer amenities and the infields and pits can be a rather difficult situation for multi-million dollar race haulers. As a result, the ticket revenues and advertising dollars are lower than they can be at bigger venues. Short tracks are also generally run by families or smaller companies rather than the billion-dollar corporations that run the vast majority of the race tracks on the current national touring series' schedules. As a result, they have been priced out of the big-time racing business. Sanctioning fees that are closer to a million dollars than zero can make it difficult to put on a race when the stands have 30,000 people in them and the sanctioning body expects the tracks to foot a large part of the purse for races. In fact, the amount of money that the tracks have to pay just for the privilege of putting on the races combined with the money they have to pay out for the purses results in difficult times for tracks to make money on the races.
Martinsville Speedway no longer hosts a Nationwide race. They have politely declined over the last few years because they simply can't make any money because of the sanctioning fees. 2012 saw Darlington Raceway pass on a Truck race, again due to the fact that the track cannot make money after the costs associated with just putting on the race. The continuously underlying theme in this entire story is that NASCAR has abandoned their short track roots while chasing the big money.
Raceway Park in Clermont, Indiana will be dark on Saturday night for the first time in 31 years on a midsummer night that has hosted the best racing in any national touring series over that time. Instead, the Nationwide Series will be trying to drum up the excitement about the first time one of their own has just finished kissing the bricks at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The question for now is, how many fans will be there to watch it--and will anyone outside of the sport or the stands really care?
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...
@TimothyPeters17: Waiting in the lobby before @SaraPeters17 and I are called to the back to find out if it's a boy or girl! #exciting #nervous
@DeLanaHarvick: There is nothing better than snuggling keelan and looking into his eyes... ❤❤❤
@Patricia_AFF (Patricia Driscoll): #kurtBusch deep sea fishing in Sitka Alaska http://instagram.com/p/NOknvupTCx/
@JeffGordonWeb: Amazing day in Rwanda celebrating Butaro Cancer Center of Excellence opening. Thank u @agnesbinagwaho @ClintonTweet @PIH 4 the opportunity.
@NewmanKrissie: Thank you for your Congrats. Ashlyn is such a little blessing. We are both doing well and Brooklyn is a great big sister
@KurtBusch: We are in Sitka b/c @Patricia_AFF loves "The Proposal". We found out the day before we left that the movie was shot in Rockport, MA- DANG
@KimBurton31: @DeLanaHarvick snuggle hard and long. You will blink and he will be grown up. :). Enjoy.
@TheOrangeCone: To remind themselves of the old days, Cup drivers doing double duty @ims will take helicopters back and forth to NNS garage nxt wknd #nascar
@nateryan: Presented without comment: Rep. Steve Palazzo says he heard #nascar fans are up to 70 million, "and that might be a low number."
@bobpockrass: Sanford Bishop (D-Ga.) talks about suspension on military vehicles helped with technology from Joe Gibbs Racing. #nascar
@MartySmithESPN: Rep. Bill Posey from Melbourne Fla. calls em out for "micromanaging" as it pertains to the NASCAR military sponsorships. Word!
@Amanda_Speed: So Jules sits like this all the time. No feet or hands on the ground, balancing act... LOL http://lockerz.com/s/226206604
@TimothyPeters17: Very excited about @SaraPeters17 and I expecting our baby BOY in December
@BrianLVickers: As someone who helped bring Army to #NASCAR years ago- really hope this amendment does NOT pass. We are all huge supporters of military!!
@AmberAngelaCope: Ok @KevinHarvick #NASCAR #nns give me reason to appologize...u bet on the wrong pony!!
@DeLanaHarvick: thoughts & prayers go out to the victims & their families in CO shooting... i just can't comprehend why something like this happens.
@pkligerman (Parker Kligerman): Woah! Who's this guy? I think he's taller in person tho.... #NASCAR #NCWTS http://t.co/aq7P8ty5
@DeLanaHarvick: As I look at my precious, sweet, innocent baby I wonder how it can go so wrong for some people... #heartbreaking #hurtinginnocentpplsucks
@NewmanKrissie (Krissie Newman): At the baby doc for Ms Ashlyn's first check up...
@DeLanaHarvick: how can one little guy create so much laundry and dirty dishes!! i'm spending every waking moment in the laundry room & cleaning bottles! :)
@DeLanaHarvick: Watching keelan smile and laugh as @KevinHarvick "tries" to rap to him is priceless!! Even at almost 2 weeks old he knows dad has no skillz.
@Elliott_Sadler: Getting fluids in the infield care center..Getting my body ready for tomorrow.. But actually feel better after being in the car!! It's fast
@newmanKrissie: Having a nice eve at home with family and some friends. Ashlyn and Brooklyn are doing great and B is such a good big sister! #blessed
@WendyVenturini: Aww thank you DAD for the words in Victory Lane...Jarrad & I wished we were there too!!
@WendyVenturini: My 18-month-old son was SO excited to see Grandpa in Victory Lane interview on @NASCARonSPEED! He kept pointing & laughing "Papa! Papa!"
@keselowski (Brad Keselowski): At crew chief Paul Wolfe's wedding tonight, Looking for updates of @NASCAR_Trucks from Chicago on @SPEED Any helpers!
@Kris_Buescher: No matter what I am so proud of @JamesBuescher and his amazing team! They will overcome this no matter what.
@Beth_Frntstrtch (Beth Lunkenheimer): Did @SPEED really have @Brendan62's name spelled wrong? Looked to me like they had Gaughn...shame on them! #NASCAR
@keselowski: Thank u everyone for the @NASCAR_Trucks updates I'm 3 miller lites in and feeling pretty good about our chances.
@Kris_Buescher: And that right there is why @JamesBuescher is amazing and God is GOOD!!!!
@NelsonPiquet: When things happens like tonight there is NO worse feeling and pain in the world for me as a driver! Its hard to pick yourself up after this
@JamesBuescher: We. Never. Quit. Came back from 2 laps down! Incredible. #winning http://lockerz.com/s/227191087
@scottspeed: <----- this guy just ran a sub 1h10m sprint tri!! First try ;) so damn pumped pretty sure I finished 29th overall out of 300
@nascarcasm: PIC: When you win the pole on a windy day, the backdrop blows down. Don't win the pole on a windy day... #nascar http://twitpic.com/aakaoh
@keselowski: Fully recovered from last nights party and ready to watch nationwide race from @ChicagolndSpdwy Cheering on @penskeracing #nascar
@joeylogano: Just watched the special make a wish with @KyleBusch on espn really cool. That is the best of part being a race car driver
@DeLanaHarvick: poor keelan, dad thinks it's funny 2 blame him when he burps/toots. i'd b quite concerned if noises like that came out of something so small
@AmberAngelaCope: Angela: hoping to raise $100k for the charlotte race so I can be in good equipment with a leased motor!!
@keselowski: Just thinking, 5 years ago this weekend I got my big break to drive the #88 navy car for Dale jr. What a ride it's been... #nascar
@Elliott_Sadler: Don't know where to start with all the emotions I got right now.... Thanks to all you guys for the support and the tweets!! You fans rock
@Brendan62 (Brendan Gaughan): Well, almost had a great weekend. Came up just a little short... Did you know that we can't see our hoodpins while sitting in our seat?
@KyleBusch: No @espn interview cause I got wrecked on the straightaway. Pretty sure Ray Charles saw that. Tough day again... 8th week and counting.
@Brendan62: I just heard @kylebusch 's motor and he got turned, knew it wasn't his fault. Be willing to bet he has never looked for his hood pins also
@Brendan62: My @RCRracing teammates say that a better excuse would have been that he was trying to text. Each excuse is just about as lame
@nascarcasm: Update: Penalized $122 for speeding. Will be setting up Cope-style GoFundMe page so you can help me pay it, and I can show my true skills.
@Elliott_Sadler: One awesome pic!!!! https://twitter.com/Elliott_Sadler/status/227219160768327680/photo/1
@J_Allgaier (Justin Allgaier): For the record..#1 I am happy to finish 3rd today! I wanted to win more than anyone I can promise that #2 I may have too much energy but...
@SherryPollex: What a perfect lazy Sunday. We did nothing but lay by the pool, lay on the couch, watch racing & eat! Is this what normal ppl do? #awesome
@NASCAR_REALTIME: A friend owns some gas stations. He recieved these from Fuel in a Bottle this weekend. #Nascar
@Elliott_Sadler: @J_Allgaier One last tweet before bed... Gotta give a big thanks to Justin for the push... I owe you one
@J_Allgaier: I only accept large bills!! Lol RT @Elliott_Sadler: @J_Allgaier One last tweet.Gotta give a big thanks to Justin for the push..I owe you one
@jeff_gluck: NASCAR estimated yesterday's Chicagoland Nationwide race attendance at 25,000, FWIW.
@TheMiniChad: NASCAR estimated yesterday's Chicagoland Nationwide race attendance at 25,000. (Note to self, don't ask NASCAR to do my taxes)
@Kenny_Wallace: Honestly all it takes to run GOOD is a "LOT OF Money Honey" ha ha ha! To do what we did yesterday cost 100 Thousand Dollars. Others 150.
@DeLanaHarvick: Diaper=clean, keelan=fed...why so fussy?? Where's the owner's manual for this little dude?
@DeLanaharvick: ahhhhh... thank you musical swing. you've made mom and dad AND keelan happy!
@Regan_Smith_: I am so ready to be at Indy! Off weekends are great but I wanna get back racing!
@AmberAngelaCope: Help & Donate to stick up for all those who have been at the hands of unwarrented sexist comment. I just want to run.
@NewmanKrissie: Can't believe it was a week ago today we welcomed baby Ashlyn into the world- #lifeisgood so to celebrate I am having cake for lunch-lol
@Brendan62: You know it's been too long when, while watching the replay of the truck race, @speed spells your name wrong! #gaughan not #gaughn
@Kenny_Wallace: PRESS RELEASE: Just got a call from "Jim Cassidy" from NASCAR, I am NOT eligible for "Dash For Cash" I will eXplain through neXt tweet.
@Kenny_Wallace: My race team @RAB_Racing filed a LATE entry for the Chicago race for car #09! Therefore you DO NOT receive Points. I am OK with it :)
@Kenny_Wallace: Sooooo! Congrats to Michael Annett who will get in the "Dash For Cash" on default. I just wanted to run INDY, NO DRAMA for ME :) The END.
@Brendan62: @JamesBuescher called me out about the slow restart in Victory lane, & did a great job explaining it.Nice comeback,I won't do that again:-)
@Kenny_Wallace: I Kinda like being a "Outlaw Racer" I don't race for points! Ha ha! I just show up and Race BECAUSE I am a Racer! Let's RACE this Race :)
@TravisPastrana: Getting ready with @jayleno. https://twitter.com/TravisPastrana/status/227529297009704960/photo/1
@BubbaWallace (Darrell Wallace, Jr.): Can't tell you how pumped I am to climb back in the @NASCAR_NNS car w/ @JoeGibbsRacing at @iowaspeedway in 2 wks! Going for top 5 this time!
@KellyBires: Finally back at the house after being in about 7 different states the last 3 days. It's what racers do!
@aric_almirola: ready to tour the new born section of the hospital @JaniceAlmirola plans to deliver at. #shitsgettinreal
@JennaFryer: Umm, I'm back ... We have a mechanical issue and have returned to the gate. What would KuBu call this?
@AmberAngelaCope: Ok folks just poured second glass of wine let's talk ab racing #NASCAR against @KevinHarvick. Give me sum good questions?
@AmberAngelaCope: U know.....lots of people saying I m trying to get attention over this @KevinHarvick thing...dah
@MartySmithESPN: AJ Allmendinger B Sample test occurs this morning at 8a CDT (9ET) at Aegis Lab in Nashville, TN.
@MartySmithESPN: Expected within 48 hours. Possibly much sooner. RT @Drive32: @MartySmithESPN how long do we wait for the results?
@jeff_Gluck: Official Indy race title (no joke): "Crown Royal Presents the Curtiss Shaver 400 at the Brickyard Powered by http://BigMachineRecords.com" #NASCAR
@jeff_gluck: I dunno about you, but I prefer calling it the "Brickyard 400." #NASCAR
@jamiemcmurray: I have been at the shop all morning preparing for Indy. Big weekend for Juan and I getting to run both the Grand Am and Cup cars.
@jeff_gluck: All those panicked tweeters asking about Hendrick "announcement," fear not. Announcement was about team's new app.
@nascarcasm: The Hendrick app is significantly more user-friendly than the John Wes Townley app, which just repeatedly crashes your IPhone. #nascar
@nascarcasm: Best feature of the Hendrick Motorsports app by far is the addictive Dale-Jr.-based game, "Angry Beards." #nascar
@StewartHaasRcng (Stewart Haas Racing): DYK? #TonyStewart's grandfather, Gaylord Marshall, was a deliveryman for Mobil. Check out his pic: http://yfrog.com/obueqdij
@PPistone: ESPN VP reports "not everyone is on board" with side by side race coverage #nascar
@bobpockrass: Not making this up. Kansas Pieroguys Pierogies named the Official Pierogie of Kansas Speedway. #nascar
@DGodfatherMoody: When you think Kansas, you think pierogies.
@jim_utter: Attendance was down at #NASCAR Nationwide race at Chicagoland, but ESPN rating was up 57 percent over last year (which was a night race)
@Amanda_Speed: Had a rough day today... Thank goodness for insurance...
@Amanda_Speed: RT @t0759: @Amanda_Speed What happened? -- lost my main diamond on my engagement ring. Gone! :(
@Kenny_Wallace: My official quote on Chicago Penalty: "The Penalty does NOT affect ME, I feel bad for @RAB_Racing for the 10 thousand dollar fine"
@Kenny_Wallace: My Quote on Chicago Penalty: I LOve @NASCAR because it's my life but this fine has Nothing to do with ME, I LOve you ALL :)
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.
~~~~~~~~~~
TODAY ON THE FRONTSTRETCH:
Did You Notice? ... Silly Season Swung Wide Open By One Bad NASCAR Drug Test
by Tom Bowles
IndyCar Round Table: Push to Pass, More Ovals, and Ending Under Yellow
by the Frontstretch Staff
Mirror Driving: Head Wrench Head Scratchers, Missing IRP And Buescher's Title Push
by the Frontstretch Staff
Childress Keeping Dillon in Nationwide a Smart Move~~~~~~~~~~
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.
~~~~~~~~~~
TODAY ON THE FRONTSTRETCH:
Did You Notice? ... Silly Season Swung Wide Open By One Bad NASCAR Drug Test
by Tom Bowles
IndyCar Round Table: Push to Pass, More Ovals, and Ending Under Yellow
by the Frontstretch Staff
Mirror Driving: Head Wrench Head Scratchers, Missing IRP And Buescher's Title Push
by the Frontstretch Staff
by Kevin Rutherford
Beyond the Cockpit: How NASCAR Helps Jeremy Burnett Promote Millbridge Speedway
by Mike Neff
~~~~~~~~~~
FRONTSTRETCH TRIVIA:
FRONTSTRETCH TRIVIA:
Q: Casey Mears currently holds the NASCAR track record for Indianapolis Motor Speedway with a lap of over 186 mph. What unusual tactic did Mears use in that lap?
Check back Thursday for the answer, here in the Frontstretch Newsletter!
Tuesday's Answer:
Tuesday's Answer:
Q: Other than Jeff Gordon winning the inaugural Brickyard 400 in 1994, the biggest story to come out of Indianapolis was a rather unusual feud. What happened to cause this feud, and who was it between?
A: This feud was between Geoff and Brett Bodine, and started when the two drivers were battling for the lead just after a restart on Lap 100. Brett held the lead, while Geoff was pressuring. A good run off of Turn 3 (along with a bump to Brett's rear bumper) allowed Geoff to take the lead, however, Brett got through Turn 4 better and got into the back of Geoff, who then spun in front of the entire field and hit the outside wall. Everyone scattered, with multiple drivers going into the pits and avoided the spinning Exide Batteries Ford, except for Dale Jarrett, who hit Geoff head-on. The crash can be seen here.
Both Geoff and Jarrett were out of the race on the spot, but Brett ended up finishing a season-best second to Jeff Gordon. The anger only continued in subsequent weeks. In fact, the feud even ended up in the pages of the National Enquirer, a rarity for the early-to-mid 1990's. The brothers eventually made up, but it took a long time for reconciliation.
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:
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!
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
Miguel Paludo is back with the latest edition of his diary. Topics this week include Chicagoland, a look ahead to Pocono, birthday fun and more!
Other Columns TBD
Both Geoff and Jarrett were out of the race on the spot, but Brett ended up finishing a season-best second to Jeff Gordon. The anger only continued in subsequent weeks. In fact, the feud even ended up in the pages of the National Enquirer, a rarity for the early-to-mid 1990's. The brothers eventually made up, but it took a long time for reconciliation.
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:
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!
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
Miguel Paludo is back with the latest edition of his diary. Topics this week include Chicagoland, a look ahead to Pocono, birthday fun and more!
Other Columns TBD
-----------------------------
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©2012 Frontstretch.com
-- Talk back to the Frontstretch Newsletter!
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©2012 Frontstretch.com
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