THE FRONTSTRETCH NEWSLETTER
Presented by Frontstretch.com
The Best Seat at the Track, The Best View on the Net!
May 10th, 2013
Volume VII, Edition LXXVIII
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Presented by Frontstretch.com
The Best Seat at the Track, The Best View on the Net!
May 10th, 2013
Volume VII, Edition LXXVIII
~~~~~~~~~~
Friday Racing Schedule: Darlington
Sprint Cup and Nationwide teams are back in action at the 1.33-mile speedway that's steeped in tradition. Here's a TV schedule to get you primed for the upcoming weekend...
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM Sprint Cup Series Practice No. 1 SPEED
2:00 - 3:00 PM Sprint Cup Series Happy Hour SPEED
3:30 - 5:00 PM Nationwide Series Qualifying ESPN 2
5:00 - 6:30 PM Sprint Cup Series Qualifying SPEED
7:30 - 10:00 PM Nationwide Series VFW Sport Clips Help a Hero 200 ESPN 2
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM Sprint Cup Series Practice No. 1 SPEED
2:00 - 3:00 PM Sprint Cup Series Happy Hour SPEED
3:30 - 5:00 PM Nationwide Series Qualifying ESPN 2
5:00 - 6:30 PM Sprint Cup Series Qualifying SPEED
7:30 - 10:00 PM Nationwide Series VFW Sport Clips Help a Hero 200 ESPN 2
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Top News
by Justin Tucker
by Justin Tucker
Busch Tests for Andretti Autosport at Indy
Kurt Busch is no stranger to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway but he was a rookie on Thursday as he tested an Indy Car for Andretti Autosport. Busch drove defending champion, Ryan Hunter-Reay's No. 1 car Thursday, during a test around the famed 2.5-mile oval. Busch, who went through a simulated rookie orientation program, had no problems getting the car over 200 MPH early in the test and was giddy after getting out of the car.
"I'm just a kid in a candy store," said Busch after climbing out of the No. 1 car. "I have to pinch myself to know that this is Michael Andretti's INDY CAR. These guys are champions. To have a chance to drive a car here at Indy in the month of May is pretty special."
Busch received coaching from Michael Andretti and James Hinchcliffe, who has won two out of the four races run this season in the Indy Car Series.
"He came into it with a really open mind and was really receptive to the feedback we were giving him," Hinchcliffe said of Busch after Thursday's session ended. "The guy's a natural. He jumped in, was comfortable right away, was eager to keep improving. He's doing a really good job."
The test raised speculation as to whether or not Busch would attempt the Indy 500 /Coc a Cola 600 double on May 26th but Busch quieted that speculation quickly.
"This year would be tough with the way the schedule is laid out," he said. "I'm not pushing them to move things around. But it's tough logistically. For me, mentally as well as physically, I don't think that I'm prepared to run this month. Is this a 13-month journey? Quite possibly."
Busch has raced in NASCAR's Brickyard 400 12 times with a best finish of fifth in 2001.
Brown to Serve as Crew Chief for Kenseth
Joe Gibbs Racing announced on Thursday evening that Wally Brown will serve as the interim crew chief for Matt Kenseth in this weekend's Bojangles Southern 500. Brown is no stranger to being on top of the pit box, serving as the crew chief for Carl Edwards during the 2006 season for 27 races. He's also worked with Jamie McMurray, Joey Logano and David Gilliland in the Sprint Cup Series.
Kenseth's regular crew chief Jason Ratcliff is suspended for this weekend's race at Darlington for violations stemming from April's STP 400 at Kansas Speedway. The original six-race suspension was reduced in Wednesday's appeal hearing. Ratcliff will return for next weekend's All Star Race at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
Nemechek Lands Sponsor for Darlington
Joe Nemechek's No. 87 Toyota will sport a brand new sponsor this weekend at Darlington Raceway. Royal Teak Collection.com will make their debut as a primary sponsor in Saturday night's Bojangles' Southern 500.
"I am very excited to have RoyalTeakCollection.com on our No. 87 car and look forward to promoting the premium brand of teak wood casual furniture," Nemechek said.
Royal Teak Collection.com is celebrating their first race as primary sponsor by offering a special promotion for race fans on their web site. Royal Teak is one of the world's largest manufacturers of patio/casual furniture,offering a range of solid teak and all weather wicker collections.
Have news for Justin and the Frontstretch? Don't hesitate to let us know; email us at phil.allaway@frontstretch.com with a promising lead or tip.
~~~~~~~~~~
ADVERTISEMENT
Race fans, do you love Frontstretch.com's coverage of NASCAR's top 3 series, IndyCar, Formula One and Short Track Racing? Do you want to read even more about your favorite sport? Then check out the industry's newest racing publication, Motorsport Illustrated News!, which is available both in print and in digital format! As one of our loyal readers, you'll receive 15% off any subscription when you use the coupon code fs2013.
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In Case You Missed It
by Beth Lunkenheimer
Kurt Busch is no stranger to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway but he was a rookie on Thursday as he tested an Indy Car for Andretti Autosport. Busch drove defending champion, Ryan Hunter-Reay's No. 1 car Thursday, during a test around the famed 2.5-mile oval. Busch, who went through a simulated rookie orientation program, had no problems getting the car over 200 MPH early in the test and was giddy after getting out of the car.
"I'm just a kid in a candy store," said Busch after climbing out of the No. 1 car. "I have to pinch myself to know that this is Michael Andretti's INDY CAR. These guys are champions. To have a chance to drive a car here at Indy in the month of May is pretty special."
Busch received coaching from Michael Andretti and James Hinchcliffe, who has won two out of the four races run this season in the Indy Car Series.
"He came into it with a really open mind and was really receptive to the feedback we were giving him," Hinchcliffe said of Busch after Thursday's session ended. "The guy's a natural. He jumped in, was comfortable right away, was eager to keep improving. He's doing a really good job."
The test raised speculation as to whether or not Busch would attempt the Indy 500 /Coc a Cola 600 double on May 26th but Busch quieted that speculation quickly.
"This year would be tough with the way the schedule is laid out," he said. "I'm not pushing them to move things around. But it's tough logistically. For me, mentally as well as physically, I don't think that I'm prepared to run this month. Is this a 13-month journey? Quite possibly."
Busch has raced in NASCAR's Brickyard 400 12 times with a best finish of fifth in 2001.
Brown to Serve as Crew Chief for Kenseth
Joe Gibbs Racing announced on Thursday evening that Wally Brown will serve as the interim crew chief for Matt Kenseth in this weekend's Bojangles Southern 500. Brown is no stranger to being on top of the pit box, serving as the crew chief for Carl Edwards during the 2006 season for 27 races. He's also worked with Jamie McMurray, Joey Logano and David Gilliland in the Sprint Cup Series.
Kenseth's regular crew chief Jason Ratcliff is suspended for this weekend's race at Darlington for violations stemming from April's STP 400 at Kansas Speedway. The original six-race suspension was reduced in Wednesday's appeal hearing. Ratcliff will return for next weekend's All Star Race at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
Nemechek Lands Sponsor for Darlington
Joe Nemechek's No. 87 Toyota will sport a brand new sponsor this weekend at Darlington Raceway. Royal Teak Collection.com will make their debut as a primary sponsor in Saturday night's Bojangles' Southern 500.
"I am very excited to have RoyalTeakCollection.com on our No. 87 car and look forward to promoting the premium brand of teak wood casual furniture," Nemechek said.
Royal Teak Collection.com is celebrating their first race as primary sponsor by offering a special promotion for race fans on their web site. Royal Teak is one of the world's largest manufacturers of patio/casual furniture,offering a range of solid teak and all weather wicker collections.
Have news for Justin and the Frontstretch? Don't hesitate to let us know; email us at phil.allaway@frontstretch.com with a promising lead or tip.
~~~~~~~~~~
ADVERTISEMENT
Race fans, do you love Frontstretch.com's coverage of NASCAR's top 3 series, IndyCar, Formula One and Short Track Racing? Do you want to read even more about your favorite sport? Then check out the industry's newest racing publication, Motorsport Illustrated News!, which is available both in print and in digital format! As one of our loyal readers, you'll receive 15% off any subscription when you use the coupon code fs2013.
~~~~~~~~~~
In Case You Missed It
by Beth Lunkenheimer
Peanut Patch Returns as Ragan's Sponsor
Just days removed from Front Row Motorsports' victory at Talladega Superspeedway, McCall Farms, Inc. announced that Peanut Patch would sponsor David Ragan's No. 34 Ford in Saturday night's Bojangles' Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway. The company made its debut last season at Darlington.
"It's great to have Peanut Patch back on our car this year, especially here in Darlington for their first primary race of the season," Ragan said. "Not only is the Southern 500 one of the most prestigious and historical races in NASCAR, but Darlington is right up the road from McCall Farms' headquarters. So you could say that Peanut Patch is the home team at this race."
Prior to his victory last weekend, Ragan's best finish on the season came in the form of a 20th-place result at Richmond under the lights. He currently sits 26th in the points standings.
Gresham Picks Up Two Race Sponsor
Earlier this week, Eddie Sharp Racing announced a new partnership at the National Hardware Show in Las Vega. Trimmer Assist, a "revolutionary new string trimmer and blower suspension system," will partner to serve as primary sponsor for Max Gresham's Chevrolet for two races. The Georgia-based company is scheduled to back the No. 8 team for next weekend's North Carolina Education Lottery 200 at Charlotte and at Dover on May 31st.
"We are so proud to partner with Max Gresham in the No. 8 Chevrolet for Eddie Sharp Racing," Tony Hanes, inventor of Trimmer Assist said. "Gresham represents the same fundamental principles of our Trimmer Assist brand--cleverness, strong work ethics, and commitment to success."
In 20 career Truck Series starts, Gresham boasts a best finish of 11th at Martinsville last fall. He currently sits 19th in the points standings after four events.
Just days removed from Front Row Motorsports' victory at Talladega Superspeedway, McCall Farms, Inc. announced that Peanut Patch would sponsor David Ragan's No. 34 Ford in Saturday night's Bojangles' Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway. The company made its debut last season at Darlington.
"It's great to have Peanut Patch back on our car this year, especially here in Darlington for their first primary race of the season," Ragan said. "Not only is the Southern 500 one of the most prestigious and historical races in NASCAR, but Darlington is right up the road from McCall Farms' headquarters. So you could say that Peanut Patch is the home team at this race."
Prior to his victory last weekend, Ragan's best finish on the season came in the form of a 20th-place result at Richmond under the lights. He currently sits 26th in the points standings.
Gresham Picks Up Two Race Sponsor
Earlier this week, Eddie Sharp Racing announced a new partnership at the National Hardware Show in Las Vega. Trimmer Assist, a "revolutionary new string trimmer and blower suspension system," will partner to serve as primary sponsor for Max Gresham's Chevrolet for two races. The Georgia-based company is scheduled to back the No. 8 team for next weekend's North Carolina Education Lottery 200 at Charlotte and at Dover on May 31st.
"We are so proud to partner with Max Gresham in the No. 8 Chevrolet for Eddie Sharp Racing," Tony Hanes, inventor of Trimmer Assist said. "Gresham represents the same fundamental principles of our Trimmer Assist brand--cleverness, strong work ethics, and commitment to success."
In 20 career Truck Series starts, Gresham boasts a best finish of 11th at Martinsville last fall. He currently sits 19th in the points standings after four events.
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Got NASCAR-related questions or comments?
Send them Summer Bedgood's way at summer.bedgood@frontstretch.com; and, if you're lucky, you'll get your name in print when she does her weekly column answering back to you – the fans that keep Frontstretch afloat. Frontstretch Fan Q & A will run on Thursdays with a whole new set of Fan Questions and Answers!
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Keepin' It Short: Spring Nationals Coming to an End
by Mike Neff
Ray Cook's Summer Nationals have been a welcome addition to the Summer racing schedule immediately after the Hell Tour. This year he put together a smaller version to run in the Spring. This weekend that tour is coming to an end. So far the tour has run races in Tennessee, Kentucky and North Carolina. This weekend it will wrap up with back-to-back events in Georgia. After seven races, Steve Casebolt holds a 30 point lead over Billy Ogle, Jr and a 52 point lead over David Payne.
Casebolt has four top-5 finishes in the six races that have been contested. While he has not managed to break into Victory Lane, his consistency (the other two finishes are top 8s) is what has put him at the top of the point standings. The six races completed have seen six different winners. Dale McDowell opened the tour with a win at Volunteer Speedway on March 15th. John Blankenship took the trophy home from the second race of the doubleheader weekend at Volunteer. Casey Roberts was victorious at Tri-County Race Track on April 12th before Tommy Kerr grabbed the win at Smoky Mountain Speedway. Eddie Carrier, Jr. won the Thursday night show on April 18th at 201 Speedway. April 19th was rained out before Randy Weaver took home the big check from Cleveland Speedway.
Boyd's Speedway, that started hosting races in 1952, will run 40 laps to pay $4,000 on the penultimate night of the tour. The final race will take place at Dixie Speedway in Woodstock, GA. It is a 50 lap race that will pay $6,000 to win and $500 to start. Friday night the gates open at 4:00 PM. Admission is $15 with pit passes going for $30. Saturday fans can enter that track at 5:00 PM for $20. An extra $5 will get you into the tailgate section while $30 can purchase a pit pass.
Boyd's Speedway is located at 1481 Scruggs Road in Ringgold, GA 30736. Their web site is www.boydsspeedway.net .
Dixie Speedway is located at 150 Dixie Drive in Woodstock, GA. Their web address is www.dixiespeedway.com .
For additional information on the Spring Tour, go to http://www.southernnationalsseries.com/
This Weekend's Racing Schedule
Friday 05/10/13 Boyd's Speedway Ringgold GA Southern Spring Nationals – Dirt Late Models
Friday 05/10/13 Jacksonville Speedway Jacksonville IL 305 Winged Sprints
Friday 05/10/13 Jacksonville Speedway Jacksonville IL Hornets
Friday 05/10/13 Jacksonville Speedway Jacksonville IL Modifieds
Friday 05/10/13 Jacksonville Speedway Jacksonville IL Stock Cars
Friday 05/10/13 Kankakee County Speedway Kankakee IL I-Mods
Friday 05/10/13 Kankakee County Speedway Kankakee IL Pro Late Models
Friday 05/10/13 Kankakee County Speedway Kankakee IL UMP Modifieds
Friday 05/10/13 Kankakee County Speedway Kankakee IL UMP Sport Compacts
Friday 05/10/13 Kankakee County Speedway Kankakee IL UMP Stock Cars
Friday 05/10/13 Kankakee County Speedway Kankakee IL UMP Super Late Models
Friday 05/10/13 LaSalle Speedway LaSalle IL Hornets
Friday 05/10/13 LaSalle Speedway LaSalle IL Street Stocks
Friday 05/10/13 LaSalle Speedway LaSalle IL UMP Late Models
Friday 05/10/13 LaSalle Speedway LaSalle IL UMP Modifieds
Friday 05/10/13 Tri-City Speedway Pontoon Beach IL UMP Factory Stocks
Friday 05/10/13 Tri-City Speedway Pontoon Beach IL UMP Late Models
Friday 05/10/13 Tri-City Speedway Pontoon Beach IL UMP Modifieds
Friday 05/10/13 Tri-City Speedway Pontoon Beach IL UMP Pro-Crate Late Models
Friday 05/10/13 Tri-City Speedway Pontoon Beach IL UMP Sport Compacts
Friday 05/10/13 Hartford Motor Speedway Hartford MI Lucas Oil Dirt Late Models
Friday 05/10/13 Elko Speedway Elko MN World of Outlaw Sprint Cars
Friday 05/10/13 RPM Speedway Crandall TX Factory Stocks
Friday 05/10/13 RPM Speedway Crandall TX Limited Modifieds
Friday 05/10/13 RPM Speedway Crandall TX Sprint Cars
Friday 05/10/13 RPM Speedway Crandall TX Street Stocks
Friday 05/10/13 RPM Speedway Crandall TX USRA Modifieds
Friday 05/10/13 Manitowoc County Fairgrounds Manitowoc WI Grand Nationals
Friday 05/10/13 Manitowoc County Fairgrounds Manitowoc WI MSA 360 Sprints
Friday 05/10/13 Manitowoc County Fairgrounds Manitowoc WI Street Stocks
Friday 05/10/13 Manitowoc County Fairgrounds Manitowoc WI WDLMA Late Models
Friday 05/10/13 Oshkosh Speedzone Oshkosh WI Dirt Devils
Friday 05/10/13 Oshkosh Speedzone Oshkosh WI Grand Nationals
Friday 05/10/13 Oshkosh Speedzone Oshkosh WI Modifieds
Friday 05/10/13 Oshkosh Speedzone Oshkosh WI Sport Mods
Friday 05/10/13 Oshkosh Speedzone Oshkosh WI Street Stocks
Friday 05/10/13 Beckley Motorsports Park Beckley WV FASTRAK Pro Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Dixieland Dirt Track Cottonwood AL 4-Cylinders
Saturday 05/11/13 Dixieland Dirt Track Cottonwood AL Bombers
Saturday 05/11/13 Dixieland Dirt Track Cottonwood AL Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Dixieland Dirt Track Cottonwood AL Limited Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Dixieland Dirt Track Cottonwood AL Stockers
Saturday 05/11/13 Dixieland Dirt Track Cottonwood AL Vintage
Saturday 05/11/13 Riverside International Speedway West Memphis AR 305 Winged Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 Riverside International Speedway West Memphis AR 360 Winged Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 Riverside International Speedway West Memphis AR Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Riverside International Speedway West Memphis AR Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Riverside International Speedway West Memphis AR Stock Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Sixty-Seven Texarkana Speedway Texarkana AR ASCS Winged Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 Arizona Speedway Queen Creek AZ USAC Southwest Sprint Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Canyon Speedway Park Peoria AZ Challenge Cup Sprint Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Canyon Speedway Park Peoria AZ Dwarf Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Canyon Speedway Park Peoria AZ IMCA Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Canyon Speedway Park Peoria AZ Pure Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Canyon Speedway Park Peoria AZ Southwest Mod Lites
Saturday 05/11/13 Bakersfield Speedway Bakersfield CA California Lightning Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 Bakersfield Speedway Bakersfield CA Mini Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Bakersfield Speedway Bakersfield CA Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Bakersfield Speedway Bakersfield CA Sport Mods
Saturday 05/11/13 Bakersfield Speedway Bakersfield CA Street Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Kings Speedway Hanford CA USAC West Coast Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 Madera Speedway Madera CA 4-Cylinders
Saturday 05/11/13 Madera Speedway Madera CA Hobby Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Madera Speedway Madera CA Limited Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Madera Speedway Madera CA MST
Saturday 05/11/13 Madera Speedway Madera CA Toyota Sedans
Saturday 05/11/13 Placerville Speedway Placerville CA 360 Winged Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 Placerville Speedway Placerville CA Dwarf Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Placerville Speedway Placerville CA Limited Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Placerville Speedway Placerville CA Pure Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Santa Maria Speedway Santa Maria CA USAC Western Dirt Ignite Midgets
Saturday 05/11/13 Santa Maria Speedway Santa Maria CA USAC Western States Midgets
Saturday 05/11/13 Dixie Speedway Woodstock GA Southern Spring Nationals – Dirt Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 34 Raceway Burlington IA 305 Sprint Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 34 Raceway Burlington IA 4-Cylinders
Saturday 05/11/13 34 Raceway Burlington IA IMCA Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 34 Raceway Burlington IA IMCA Stock Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 34 Raceway Burlington IA Mod Lites
Saturday 05/11/13 34 Raceway Burlington IA Sport Mods
Saturday 05/11/13 Knoxville Raceway Knoxville IA 360 Winged Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 Knoxville Raceway Knoxville IA World of Outlaw Sprint Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Meridian Speedway Meridian ID Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Meridian Speedway Meridian ID Legends
Saturday 05/11/13 Meridian Speedway Meridian ID Pro-4s
Saturday 05/11/13 Meridian Speedway Meridian ID Super Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Fairbury American Legion Speedway Fairbury IL UMP Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Fairbury American Legion Speedway Fairbury IL UMP Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Fairbury American Legion Speedway Fairbury IL UMP Sportsman
Saturday 05/11/13 Fairbury American Legion Speedway Fairbury IL UMP Street Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Highland Speedway Highland IL Outlaw Micros
Saturday 05/11/13 Highland Speedway Highland IL UMP Kidzmods
Saturday 05/11/13 Highland Speedway Highland IL UMP Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Highland Speedway Highland IL UMP Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Highland Speedway Highland IL UMP Sport Mods
Saturday 05/11/13 Highland Speedway Highland IL UMP Street Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 LaSalle Speedway LaSalle IL Hornets
Saturday 05/11/13 LaSalle Speedway LaSalle IL Lucas Oil Dirt Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 LaSalle Speedway LaSalle IL Street Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 LaSalle Speedway LaSalle IL UMP Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Spoon River Speedway Canton IL Spoon 6-Shooters
Saturday 05/11/13 Spoon River Speedway Canton IL Street Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Spoon River Speedway Canton IL UMP Hornets
Saturday 05/11/13 Spoon River Speedway Canton IL UMP Limited Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Spoon River Speedway Canton IL UMP Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Spoon River Speedway Canton IL UMP Pro-Crate Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Tri-State Speedway Haubstadt IN Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Tri-State Speedway Haubstadt IN MSCS Sprint Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Tri-State Speedway Haubstadt IN USAC Sprint Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Twin Cities Raceway Park North Vernon IN Sunoco American Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Springfield Raceway Springfield MO MARS DIRTCar Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 County Line Raceway Elm City NC Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 County Line Raceway Elm City NC Pure Stock 4 Cylinder
Saturday 05/11/13 County Line Raceway Elm City NC Pure Stock V-8
Saturday 05/11/13 County Line Raceway Elm City NC Super Stock 4 Cylinders
Saturday 05/11/13 East Lincoln Speedway Stanley NC Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 East Lincoln Speedway Stanley NC Limited Sportsman
Saturday 05/11/13 East Lincoln Speedway Stanley NC Micro Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 East Lincoln Speedway Stanley NC Renegades
Saturday 05/11/13 East Lincoln Speedway Stanley NC Stock 4
Saturday 05/11/13 East Lincoln Speedway Stanley NC Super Stock 4 Cylinders
Saturday 05/11/13 Hickory Motor Speedway Newton NC Limited Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Hickory Motor Speedway Newton NC Renegades
Saturday 05/11/13 Hickory Motor Speedway Newton NC Street Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Hickory Motor Speedway Newton NC Whelen All-American Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Monadnock Speedway Winchester NH Whelen Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Southern New Mexico Speedway Las Cruces NM Legends
Saturday 05/11/13 Southern New Mexico Speedway Las Cruces NM Sprint Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Southern New Mexico Speedway Las Cruces NM USRA Limited X-Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Southern New Mexico Speedway Las Cruces NM USRA Street Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway Las Vegas NV SRL Southwest Tour Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Columbus Motor Speedway Columbus OH USAC Eastern Ignite Midgets
Saturday 05/11/13 Columbus Motor Speedway Columbus OH USAC Midwest Pavement Ignite Midgets
Saturday 05/11/13 Hermiston Super Oval Hermison OR Bombers
Saturday 05/11/13 Hermiston Super Oval Hermison OR Hornets
Saturday 05/11/13 Hermiston Super Oval Hermison OR Rolling Thunder Big Rigs
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Half Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Heavy 160 Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Heavy Honda Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Heavy World Formula Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Jr. Animal Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Jr. Honda Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Jr. Novice Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Light 160 Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Sr. Honda Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Sr. Novice Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 Cleveland Speedway Cleveland TN Southern All Stars Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Houston Motorsports Park Houston TX Ecostocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Houston Motorsports Park Houston TX NASCAR BWFS Coke Trucks 2X
Saturday 05/11/13 Houston Motorsports Park Houston TX NASCAR Fiesta Modifieds 2X
Saturday 05/11/13 Houston Motorsports Park Houston TX NASCAR Stock Cars 2X
Saturday 05/11/13 Rocky Moutain Raceways West Valley City UT ASA Pro Trucks
Saturday 05/11/13 South Boston Speedway South Boston VA Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 South Boston Speedway South Boston VA PASS South Super Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Skagit Speedway Alger WA 360 Winged Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 Skagit Speedway Alger WA USAC Midgets
Saturday 05/11/13 LaCrosse Fairgrounds Speedway LaCrosse WI Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 LaCrosse Fairgrounds Speedway LaCrosse WI Sportsman
Saturday 05/11/13 LaCrosse Fairgrounds Speedway LaCrosse WI Thunderstox
Saturday 05/11/13 I-77 Raceway Park Ripley WV Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 I-77 Raceway Park Ripley WV Mini-Wedges
Saturday 05/11/13 I-77 Raceway Park Ripley WV Mod Lites
Saturday 05/11/13 I-77 Raceway Park Ripley WV Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 I-77 Raceway Park Ripley WV Semi-Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 I-77 Raceway Park Ripley WV Semi-Mods
Saturday 05/11/13 West Virginia Motor Speedway Mineral Wells WV FASTRAK Pro Late Models
Sunday 05/12/13 Quincy Raceways Quincy IL IMCA Northern Sport Mods
Sunday 05/12/13 Quincy Raceways Quincy IL IMCA Sport Compacts
Sunday 05/12/13 Quincy Raceways Quincy IL IMCA Stock Cars
Sunday 05/12/13 Quincy Raceways Quincy IL UMP Late Models
Sunday 05/12/13 Quincy Raceways Quincy IL UMP Modifieds
Sunday 05/12/13 Oxford Plains Speedway Oxford ME Mini Stocks
Sunday 05/12/13 Oxford Plains Speedway Oxford ME Outlaw Sportsman
Sunday 05/12/13 Oxford Plains Speedway Oxford ME Pro Late Models
Sunday 05/12/13 Oxford Plains Speedway Oxford ME Street Stocks
Sunday 05/12/13 Sunset Speedway Banks OR USAC Northwest Ignite Midgets
Wednesday 05/15/13 Millbridge Speedway Salisbury NC 125 Mini Outlaw
Wednesday 05/15/13 Millbridge Speedway Salisbury NC Beginner Box Stock Mini Outlaw
Wednesday 05/15/13 Millbridge Speedway Salisbury NC Box Stock Mini Outlaw
Wednesday 05/15/13 Millbridge Speedway Salisbury NC NBA Clone Go-Karts
Wednesday 05/15/13 Millbridge Speedway Salisbury NC Open Mini Outlaw
Wednesday 05/15/13 Lincoln Speedway Abbottstown PA World of Outlaw Sprint Cars
Thursday 05/16/13 Batesville Motor Speedway Batesville AR Lucas Oil Dirt Late Models
Thursday 05/16/13 Charleston Speedway Charleston IL Sunoco American Late Models
Casebolt has four top-5 finishes in the six races that have been contested. While he has not managed to break into Victory Lane, his consistency (the other two finishes are top 8s) is what has put him at the top of the point standings. The six races completed have seen six different winners. Dale McDowell opened the tour with a win at Volunteer Speedway on March 15th. John Blankenship took the trophy home from the second race of the doubleheader weekend at Volunteer. Casey Roberts was victorious at Tri-County Race Track on April 12th before Tommy Kerr grabbed the win at Smoky Mountain Speedway. Eddie Carrier, Jr. won the Thursday night show on April 18th at 201 Speedway. April 19th was rained out before Randy Weaver took home the big check from Cleveland Speedway.
Boyd's Speedway, that started hosting races in 1952, will run 40 laps to pay $4,000 on the penultimate night of the tour. The final race will take place at Dixie Speedway in Woodstock, GA. It is a 50 lap race that will pay $6,000 to win and $500 to start. Friday night the gates open at 4:00 PM. Admission is $15 with pit passes going for $30. Saturday fans can enter that track at 5:00 PM for $20. An extra $5 will get you into the tailgate section while $30 can purchase a pit pass.
Boyd's Speedway is located at 1481 Scruggs Road in Ringgold, GA 30736. Their web site is www.boydsspeedway.net .
Dixie Speedway is located at 150 Dixie Drive in Woodstock, GA. Their web address is www.dixiespeedway.com .
For additional information on the Spring Tour, go to http://www.southernnationalsseries.com/
This Weekend's Racing Schedule
Friday 05/10/13 Boyd's Speedway Ringgold GA Southern Spring Nationals – Dirt Late Models
Friday 05/10/13 Jacksonville Speedway Jacksonville IL 305 Winged Sprints
Friday 05/10/13 Jacksonville Speedway Jacksonville IL Hornets
Friday 05/10/13 Jacksonville Speedway Jacksonville IL Modifieds
Friday 05/10/13 Jacksonville Speedway Jacksonville IL Stock Cars
Friday 05/10/13 Kankakee County Speedway Kankakee IL I-Mods
Friday 05/10/13 Kankakee County Speedway Kankakee IL Pro Late Models
Friday 05/10/13 Kankakee County Speedway Kankakee IL UMP Modifieds
Friday 05/10/13 Kankakee County Speedway Kankakee IL UMP Sport Compacts
Friday 05/10/13 Kankakee County Speedway Kankakee IL UMP Stock Cars
Friday 05/10/13 Kankakee County Speedway Kankakee IL UMP Super Late Models
Friday 05/10/13 LaSalle Speedway LaSalle IL Hornets
Friday 05/10/13 LaSalle Speedway LaSalle IL Street Stocks
Friday 05/10/13 LaSalle Speedway LaSalle IL UMP Late Models
Friday 05/10/13 LaSalle Speedway LaSalle IL UMP Modifieds
Friday 05/10/13 Tri-City Speedway Pontoon Beach IL UMP Factory Stocks
Friday 05/10/13 Tri-City Speedway Pontoon Beach IL UMP Late Models
Friday 05/10/13 Tri-City Speedway Pontoon Beach IL UMP Modifieds
Friday 05/10/13 Tri-City Speedway Pontoon Beach IL UMP Pro-Crate Late Models
Friday 05/10/13 Tri-City Speedway Pontoon Beach IL UMP Sport Compacts
Friday 05/10/13 Hartford Motor Speedway Hartford MI Lucas Oil Dirt Late Models
Friday 05/10/13 Elko Speedway Elko MN World of Outlaw Sprint Cars
Friday 05/10/13 RPM Speedway Crandall TX Factory Stocks
Friday 05/10/13 RPM Speedway Crandall TX Limited Modifieds
Friday 05/10/13 RPM Speedway Crandall TX Sprint Cars
Friday 05/10/13 RPM Speedway Crandall TX Street Stocks
Friday 05/10/13 RPM Speedway Crandall TX USRA Modifieds
Friday 05/10/13 Manitowoc County Fairgrounds Manitowoc WI Grand Nationals
Friday 05/10/13 Manitowoc County Fairgrounds Manitowoc WI MSA 360 Sprints
Friday 05/10/13 Manitowoc County Fairgrounds Manitowoc WI Street Stocks
Friday 05/10/13 Manitowoc County Fairgrounds Manitowoc WI WDLMA Late Models
Friday 05/10/13 Oshkosh Speedzone Oshkosh WI Dirt Devils
Friday 05/10/13 Oshkosh Speedzone Oshkosh WI Grand Nationals
Friday 05/10/13 Oshkosh Speedzone Oshkosh WI Modifieds
Friday 05/10/13 Oshkosh Speedzone Oshkosh WI Sport Mods
Friday 05/10/13 Oshkosh Speedzone Oshkosh WI Street Stocks
Friday 05/10/13 Beckley Motorsports Park Beckley WV FASTRAK Pro Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Dixieland Dirt Track Cottonwood AL 4-Cylinders
Saturday 05/11/13 Dixieland Dirt Track Cottonwood AL Bombers
Saturday 05/11/13 Dixieland Dirt Track Cottonwood AL Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Dixieland Dirt Track Cottonwood AL Limited Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Dixieland Dirt Track Cottonwood AL Stockers
Saturday 05/11/13 Dixieland Dirt Track Cottonwood AL Vintage
Saturday 05/11/13 Riverside International Speedway West Memphis AR 305 Winged Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 Riverside International Speedway West Memphis AR 360 Winged Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 Riverside International Speedway West Memphis AR Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Riverside International Speedway West Memphis AR Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Riverside International Speedway West Memphis AR Stock Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Sixty-Seven Texarkana Speedway Texarkana AR ASCS Winged Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 Arizona Speedway Queen Creek AZ USAC Southwest Sprint Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Canyon Speedway Park Peoria AZ Challenge Cup Sprint Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Canyon Speedway Park Peoria AZ Dwarf Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Canyon Speedway Park Peoria AZ IMCA Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Canyon Speedway Park Peoria AZ Pure Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Canyon Speedway Park Peoria AZ Southwest Mod Lites
Saturday 05/11/13 Bakersfield Speedway Bakersfield CA California Lightning Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 Bakersfield Speedway Bakersfield CA Mini Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Bakersfield Speedway Bakersfield CA Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Bakersfield Speedway Bakersfield CA Sport Mods
Saturday 05/11/13 Bakersfield Speedway Bakersfield CA Street Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Kings Speedway Hanford CA USAC West Coast Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 Madera Speedway Madera CA 4-Cylinders
Saturday 05/11/13 Madera Speedway Madera CA Hobby Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Madera Speedway Madera CA Limited Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Madera Speedway Madera CA MST
Saturday 05/11/13 Madera Speedway Madera CA Toyota Sedans
Saturday 05/11/13 Placerville Speedway Placerville CA 360 Winged Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 Placerville Speedway Placerville CA Dwarf Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Placerville Speedway Placerville CA Limited Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Placerville Speedway Placerville CA Pure Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Santa Maria Speedway Santa Maria CA USAC Western Dirt Ignite Midgets
Saturday 05/11/13 Santa Maria Speedway Santa Maria CA USAC Western States Midgets
Saturday 05/11/13 Dixie Speedway Woodstock GA Southern Spring Nationals – Dirt Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 34 Raceway Burlington IA 305 Sprint Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 34 Raceway Burlington IA 4-Cylinders
Saturday 05/11/13 34 Raceway Burlington IA IMCA Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 34 Raceway Burlington IA IMCA Stock Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 34 Raceway Burlington IA Mod Lites
Saturday 05/11/13 34 Raceway Burlington IA Sport Mods
Saturday 05/11/13 Knoxville Raceway Knoxville IA 360 Winged Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 Knoxville Raceway Knoxville IA World of Outlaw Sprint Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Meridian Speedway Meridian ID Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Meridian Speedway Meridian ID Legends
Saturday 05/11/13 Meridian Speedway Meridian ID Pro-4s
Saturday 05/11/13 Meridian Speedway Meridian ID Super Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Fairbury American Legion Speedway Fairbury IL UMP Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Fairbury American Legion Speedway Fairbury IL UMP Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Fairbury American Legion Speedway Fairbury IL UMP Sportsman
Saturday 05/11/13 Fairbury American Legion Speedway Fairbury IL UMP Street Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Highland Speedway Highland IL Outlaw Micros
Saturday 05/11/13 Highland Speedway Highland IL UMP Kidzmods
Saturday 05/11/13 Highland Speedway Highland IL UMP Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Highland Speedway Highland IL UMP Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Highland Speedway Highland IL UMP Sport Mods
Saturday 05/11/13 Highland Speedway Highland IL UMP Street Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 LaSalle Speedway LaSalle IL Hornets
Saturday 05/11/13 LaSalle Speedway LaSalle IL Lucas Oil Dirt Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 LaSalle Speedway LaSalle IL Street Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 LaSalle Speedway LaSalle IL UMP Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Spoon River Speedway Canton IL Spoon 6-Shooters
Saturday 05/11/13 Spoon River Speedway Canton IL Street Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Spoon River Speedway Canton IL UMP Hornets
Saturday 05/11/13 Spoon River Speedway Canton IL UMP Limited Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Spoon River Speedway Canton IL UMP Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Spoon River Speedway Canton IL UMP Pro-Crate Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Tri-State Speedway Haubstadt IN Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Tri-State Speedway Haubstadt IN MSCS Sprint Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Tri-State Speedway Haubstadt IN USAC Sprint Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Twin Cities Raceway Park North Vernon IN Sunoco American Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Springfield Raceway Springfield MO MARS DIRTCar Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 County Line Raceway Elm City NC Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 County Line Raceway Elm City NC Pure Stock 4 Cylinder
Saturday 05/11/13 County Line Raceway Elm City NC Pure Stock V-8
Saturday 05/11/13 County Line Raceway Elm City NC Super Stock 4 Cylinders
Saturday 05/11/13 East Lincoln Speedway Stanley NC Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 East Lincoln Speedway Stanley NC Limited Sportsman
Saturday 05/11/13 East Lincoln Speedway Stanley NC Micro Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 East Lincoln Speedway Stanley NC Renegades
Saturday 05/11/13 East Lincoln Speedway Stanley NC Stock 4
Saturday 05/11/13 East Lincoln Speedway Stanley NC Super Stock 4 Cylinders
Saturday 05/11/13 Hickory Motor Speedway Newton NC Limited Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Hickory Motor Speedway Newton NC Renegades
Saturday 05/11/13 Hickory Motor Speedway Newton NC Street Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Hickory Motor Speedway Newton NC Whelen All-American Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Monadnock Speedway Winchester NH Whelen Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Southern New Mexico Speedway Las Cruces NM Legends
Saturday 05/11/13 Southern New Mexico Speedway Las Cruces NM Sprint Cars
Saturday 05/11/13 Southern New Mexico Speedway Las Cruces NM USRA Limited X-Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 Southern New Mexico Speedway Las Cruces NM USRA Street Stocks
Saturday 05/11/13 The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway Las Vegas NV SRL Southwest Tour Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Columbus Motor Speedway Columbus OH USAC Eastern Ignite Midgets
Saturday 05/11/13 Columbus Motor Speedway Columbus OH USAC Midwest Pavement Ignite Midgets
Saturday 05/11/13 Hermiston Super Oval Hermison OR Bombers
Saturday 05/11/13 Hermiston Super Oval Hermison OR Hornets
Saturday 05/11/13 Hermiston Super Oval Hermison OR Rolling Thunder Big Rigs
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Half Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Heavy 160 Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Heavy Honda Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Heavy World Formula Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Jr. Animal Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Jr. Honda Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Jr. Novice Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Light 160 Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Sr. Honda Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 West End Raceway Gilbert PA Sr. Novice Quarter Midget
Saturday 05/11/13 Cleveland Speedway Cleveland TN Southern All Stars Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Houston Motorsports Park Houston TX Ecostocks
Saturday 05/11/13 Houston Motorsports Park Houston TX NASCAR BWFS Coke Trucks 2X
Saturday 05/11/13 Houston Motorsports Park Houston TX NASCAR Fiesta Modifieds 2X
Saturday 05/11/13 Houston Motorsports Park Houston TX NASCAR Stock Cars 2X
Saturday 05/11/13 Rocky Moutain Raceways West Valley City UT ASA Pro Trucks
Saturday 05/11/13 South Boston Speedway South Boston VA Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 South Boston Speedway South Boston VA PASS South Super Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 Skagit Speedway Alger WA 360 Winged Sprints
Saturday 05/11/13 Skagit Speedway Alger WA USAC Midgets
Saturday 05/11/13 LaCrosse Fairgrounds Speedway LaCrosse WI Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 LaCrosse Fairgrounds Speedway LaCrosse WI Sportsman
Saturday 05/11/13 LaCrosse Fairgrounds Speedway LaCrosse WI Thunderstox
Saturday 05/11/13 I-77 Raceway Park Ripley WV Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 I-77 Raceway Park Ripley WV Mini-Wedges
Saturday 05/11/13 I-77 Raceway Park Ripley WV Mod Lites
Saturday 05/11/13 I-77 Raceway Park Ripley WV Modifieds
Saturday 05/11/13 I-77 Raceway Park Ripley WV Semi-Late Models
Saturday 05/11/13 I-77 Raceway Park Ripley WV Semi-Mods
Saturday 05/11/13 West Virginia Motor Speedway Mineral Wells WV FASTRAK Pro Late Models
Sunday 05/12/13 Quincy Raceways Quincy IL IMCA Northern Sport Mods
Sunday 05/12/13 Quincy Raceways Quincy IL IMCA Sport Compacts
Sunday 05/12/13 Quincy Raceways Quincy IL IMCA Stock Cars
Sunday 05/12/13 Quincy Raceways Quincy IL UMP Late Models
Sunday 05/12/13 Quincy Raceways Quincy IL UMP Modifieds
Sunday 05/12/13 Oxford Plains Speedway Oxford ME Mini Stocks
Sunday 05/12/13 Oxford Plains Speedway Oxford ME Outlaw Sportsman
Sunday 05/12/13 Oxford Plains Speedway Oxford ME Pro Late Models
Sunday 05/12/13 Oxford Plains Speedway Oxford ME Street Stocks
Sunday 05/12/13 Sunset Speedway Banks OR USAC Northwest Ignite Midgets
Wednesday 05/15/13 Millbridge Speedway Salisbury NC 125 Mini Outlaw
Wednesday 05/15/13 Millbridge Speedway Salisbury NC Beginner Box Stock Mini Outlaw
Wednesday 05/15/13 Millbridge Speedway Salisbury NC Box Stock Mini Outlaw
Wednesday 05/15/13 Millbridge Speedway Salisbury NC NBA Clone Go-Karts
Wednesday 05/15/13 Millbridge Speedway Salisbury NC Open Mini Outlaw
Wednesday 05/15/13 Lincoln Speedway Abbottstown PA World of Outlaw Sprint Cars
Thursday 05/16/13 Batesville Motor Speedway Batesville AR Lucas Oil Dirt Late Models
Thursday 05/16/13 Charleston Speedway Charleston IL Sunoco American Late Models
Mike Neff is a Senior Writer and the Short Track Reporter for Frontstretch.com. He can be reached via email at mike.neff@frontstretch.com. Follow him on Twitter at @MNeffShortTrack.
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Hey Frontstretch Readers! While NASCAR has been hard at work for almost three months now, we've been working hard on our own project, designed especially for you. With the help of webmaster Marc Lemay, We're getting close to debuting our brand new website, so we'd like to share a little taste of what you can expect. Click here to see just a few of the special projects we've been working on!
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Frontstretch Folio: Bojangles' Southern 500
by Beth Lunkenheimer
The Sprint Cup Series heads to Darlington Raceway this weekend for a Saturday night showdown. The Bojangles' Southern 500 is the 11th race of the 2013 season and will be broadcast live on FOX at 6:45 PM ET. The race can also be heard on your local MRN affiliate or SiriusXM Radio Channel 90. Drivers will compete for 367 laps (501.322 miles) en route to the checkered flag.
Records and Facts:
Kasey Kahne holds the record for fastest qualifying lap with a speed of 181.254 mph, set for the 2011 Showtime Southern 500. Kahne led a race-high 124 laps but was left to settle for a fourth-place finish. Regan Smith went on to take the win, just 0.196 seconds ahead of Carl Edwards. Brad Keselowski and Ryan Newman finished third and fifth, respectively.
Jimmie Johnson is the defending winner of this weekend's race. After starting on the outside pole, the driver of the No. 48 Chevrolet led a race-high 134 laps en route to his third career win at the storied track. Denny Hamlin, Tony Stewart, Kyle Busch and Martin Truex, Jr. rounded out the top 5.
Track Facts:
Track / Race Length: 1.366-mile egg-shaped oval, 367 laps, 501.322 miles
Degree of Banking: Turns 1 and 2: 25 degrees; Turns 3 and 4: 23 degrees
Frontstretch: 1,229 feet, banked 3 degrees
Backstretch: 1,229 feet, banked 2 degrees
Grandstand Seating: 68,000
Pit Road Speed: 45 mph
Opened: 1950
Pre-Race Schedule
Practice: Friday, May 10, 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM ET on SPEED
Happy Hour: Friday, May 10, 2:15 - 3:00 PM ET on SPEED
Qualifying: Friday, May 10 at 5:10 PM ET on SPEED
VIPs
Grand Marshal / Command: Cup drivers' mothers plus Stephanie Decker, a mother who lost both of her legs shielding her children from a tornado that destroyed their home in March, 2012
National Anthem: Outshyne's lead singer Waylon Owings
Race Day Forecast
Saturday: PM Thunderstorms; Chance of Rain 50%
High: 85
Low: 64
They Said It:
"We're still all smiling and in a great mood from Talladega. Darlington is an awesome race track. It's unique. Richmond you can relate to Phoenix, Bristol you can kind of relate to Dover. Darlington you can't relate to anywhere. It's its own plas, and there's no other race track in the country, at least that I've ever raced on, that's even close. It's a tough track. It definitely lives up to its nickname each and every year. It's very challenging, but it's a lot of fun." David Gilliland
"I love tracks with character and Darlington certainly has it. Tire wear used to be a big deal there, but not so much now with the track trying to come back in. It's aging slowly. It's still not quite like the old track. Track position and strategy will be very important. If actually has the highest sensation of speed. It was build in the '40s and '50s for cars to go 120 mph, and we are going 200. It's also very narrow. I'm looking forward to it. It's one of my favorite tracks." Jimmie Johnson
"[Darlington is] one of the places we go to where you have to race the track. If you get caught up in racing someone too hard or lose focus for just a second, you are int he fence. I think that's why I love the place so much. It is definitely one of my favorites. I love the challenge and running up against the fence. I love everything Darlington throws at us. I mean, when you go into Turn 1, the car slides. You don't know when the car is going to stop. We are so close to the wall. There are parts of that track where you feel like you are out of control. I think that's why it is so fun to be able to go out and do that for 500 miles. I'm not superstitious, but whatever we've been doing of late seems to work so we aren't changing anything and if it takes a troll riding on the dashboard, I don't mind the company in the car." Martin Truex, Jr.
Records and Facts:
Kasey Kahne holds the record for fastest qualifying lap with a speed of 181.254 mph, set for the 2011 Showtime Southern 500. Kahne led a race-high 124 laps but was left to settle for a fourth-place finish. Regan Smith went on to take the win, just 0.196 seconds ahead of Carl Edwards. Brad Keselowski and Ryan Newman finished third and fifth, respectively.
Jimmie Johnson is the defending winner of this weekend's race. After starting on the outside pole, the driver of the No. 48 Chevrolet led a race-high 134 laps en route to his third career win at the storied track. Denny Hamlin, Tony Stewart, Kyle Busch and Martin Truex, Jr. rounded out the top 5.
Track Facts:
Track / Race Length: 1.366-mile egg-shaped oval, 367 laps, 501.322 miles
Degree of Banking: Turns 1 and 2: 25 degrees; Turns 3 and 4: 23 degrees
Frontstretch: 1,229 feet, banked 3 degrees
Backstretch: 1,229 feet, banked 2 degrees
Grandstand Seating: 68,000
Pit Road Speed: 45 mph
Opened: 1950
Pre-Race Schedule
Practice: Friday, May 10, 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM ET on SPEED
Happy Hour: Friday, May 10, 2:15 - 3:00 PM ET on SPEED
Qualifying: Friday, May 10 at 5:10 PM ET on SPEED
VIPs
Grand Marshal / Command: Cup drivers' mothers plus Stephanie Decker, a mother who lost both of her legs shielding her children from a tornado that destroyed their home in March, 2012
National Anthem: Outshyne's lead singer Waylon Owings
Race Day Forecast
Saturday: PM Thunderstorms; Chance of Rain 50%
High: 85
Low: 64
They Said It:
"We're still all smiling and in a great mood from Talladega. Darlington is an awesome race track. It's unique. Richmond you can relate to Phoenix, Bristol you can kind of relate to Dover. Darlington you can't relate to anywhere. It's its own plas, and there's no other race track in the country, at least that I've ever raced on, that's even close. It's a tough track. It definitely lives up to its nickname each and every year. It's very challenging, but it's a lot of fun." David Gilliland
"I love tracks with character and Darlington certainly has it. Tire wear used to be a big deal there, but not so much now with the track trying to come back in. It's aging slowly. It's still not quite like the old track. Track position and strategy will be very important. If actually has the highest sensation of speed. It was build in the '40s and '50s for cars to go 120 mph, and we are going 200. It's also very narrow. I'm looking forward to it. It's one of my favorite tracks." Jimmie Johnson
"[Darlington is] one of the places we go to where you have to race the track. If you get caught up in racing someone too hard or lose focus for just a second, you are int he fence. I think that's why I love the place so much. It is definitely one of my favorites. I love the challenge and running up against the fence. I love everything Darlington throws at us. I mean, when you go into Turn 1, the car slides. You don't know when the car is going to stop. We are so close to the wall. There are parts of that track where you feel like you are out of control. I think that's why it is so fun to be able to go out and do that for 500 miles. I'm not superstitious, but whatever we've been doing of late seems to work so we aren't changing anything and if it takes a troll riding on the dashboard, I don't mind the company in the car." Martin Truex, Jr.
Beth Lunkenheimer is a Managing Editor for Frontstretch.com. She can be reached via email at beth.lunkenheimer@frontstretch.com. Follow her on Twitter at @Beth_Frntstrtch.
~~~~~~~~~~
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:
by Ellen Richardson
by Amy Henderson
by the Frontstretch Staff
Nuts for Nationwide: Forget the Circumstances, Underdog Wins Always Possible
Nuts for Nationwide: Forget the Circumstances, Underdog Wins Always Possible
by Kevin Rutherford
as told to Beth Lunkenheimer
by Andy Hollis
~~~~~~~~~~
FRONTSTRETCH TRIVIA:
FRONTSTRETCH TRIVIA:
Q: The 1979 CRC Chemicals Rebel 500 at Darlington was the final race of the association between David Pearson and the Wood Brothers. What incident in the race caused the association to come to a screeching halt?
Check back Monday for the answer, here in the Frontstretch Newsletter!
Thursday's Answer:
Thursday's Answer:
Q: Jeff Burton swept the 1999 races at Darlington, which were both rain-shortened. However, his car was not in the best shape at the end of the spring race. What happened?
It should be noted that the race had already been red-flagged earlier in the afternoon due to rain. As a result, it did not take very long for the situation to deteriorate to the point of NASCAR being unable to dry the track before dark (remember, lights weren't installed at Darlington until 2004), forcing NASCAR to call the race official and Burton to the makeshift Victory Lane despite his car being a rolling wreck.
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!
~~~~~~~~~~
Monday on the Frontstretch:
Thinkin' Out Loud: Bojangles' Southern 500 by Mike Neff
Mike is back with his overall thoughts from Saturday night's race from Darlington.
Commentary by Summer Bedgood
Summer takes a look at one of the biggest stories to come out of Darlington.
Commentary by TBA
One of the Frontstretch Staff members will stop by with their thoughts on Saturday afternoon's action from Darlington.
Big Six: Bojangles' Southern 500 by Amy Henderson
Amy has your weekly look at the Who, What, When, Where, Why and How from a weekend of racing at Darlington.
Pace Laps: Darlington Weekend by the Frontstretch Staff
It's back again this season! The staff gets together to help you catch up on the latest and greatest going on in each series coming out of a weekend at Darlington.
Nationwide Series Breakdown: VFW Sports Clips Help a Hero 200 by Kevin Rutherford
Kevin has all the post-race analysis you need following Friday night's Nationwide Series race from Darlington.
-----------------------------
-----------------------------
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!
©2013 Frontstretch.com
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!
©2013 Frontstretch.com
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