THE FRONTSTRETCH NEWSLETTER
Presented by Frontstretch.com
The Best Seat at the Track, The Best View on the Net!
October 6th, 2013
Presented by Frontstretch.com
The Best Seat at the Track, The Best View on the Net!
October 6th, 2013
Volume VII, Edition CLXXXV
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Frontstretch LIVE: Summer Bedgood, Beth Lunkenheimer and Rick Lunkenheimer are live from Kansas Speedway today. Follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@TheFrontstretch, @SummerBedgood, @Beth_Frntstrtch and @FrntstretchRick) for all of the latest and greatest to come out of the race weekend.
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What's On Tap This Weekend: Racing On Television
by Phil Allaway
TODAY
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM NASCAR Countdown ESPN
1:00 - 4:00 PM IZOD IndyCar Series Shell Grand Prix of Houston, Race 2 NBC Sports Network
2:00 - 5:30 PM Sprint Cup Series Hollywood Casino 400 ESPN
3:00 - 5:00 PM Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge: Lime Rock Street Tuner Race FOX Sports 1
4:00 - 5:00 PM Firestone Indy Lights: Houston NBC Sports Network
5:00 - 7:00 PM Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge: Lime Rock Grand Sport Race FOX Sports 1
7:00 - 7:30 PM NASCAR Victory Lane FOX Sports 1
11:00 PM - 12:00 AM NASCAR Now, Post-Race ESPN2
TODAY
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM NASCAR Countdown ESPN
1:00 - 4:00 PM IZOD IndyCar Series Shell Grand Prix of Houston, Race 2 NBC Sports Network
2:00 - 5:30 PM Sprint Cup Series Hollywood Casino 400 ESPN
3:00 - 5:00 PM Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge: Lime Rock Street Tuner Race FOX Sports 1
4:00 - 5:00 PM Firestone Indy Lights: Houston NBC Sports Network
5:00 - 7:00 PM Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge: Lime Rock Grand Sport Race FOX Sports 1
7:00 - 7:30 PM NASCAR Victory Lane FOX Sports 1
11:00 PM - 12:00 AM NASCAR Now, Post-Race ESPN2
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Kenseth Takes Nationwide Race; Busch, Keselowski Feud
by the Frontstretch Staff
By the end of Saturday's Kansas Lottery 300, it wasn't about who won but who lost.
Victory Lane, as it has been too often this season in the series was predictably filled by a Cup veteran. Matt Kenseth emerged atop the leaderboard with 35 laps to go and stayed there, winning his second Nationwide Series race of the season.
However, it was Kenseth's Joe Gibbs Racing teammate, Kyle Busch, who received the brunt of the media attention shortly before and after the finish, as well as Busch and Kenseth's fellow Cup regular in the race, Brad Keselowski. Kenseth had established a solid lead when Keselowski and Busch, running for second with 11 laps to go, made contact after the former's No. 22 was clipped by the latter's No. 54 exiting turn 2. Keselowski was sent spinning down the track before swerving back up and into the outside wall, ending his day.
What followed was a dash to the infield care center by the defending Cup champion, who was hoping to be checked in and out by physicians so that he could return to his car to finish the race. The Nos. 22 and 54, as you've undoubtedly heard, are locked in this thing called an owners' points championship battle, after all.
In the end, it was all for naught, as Keselowski's car was too damaged to return to the track in time and was credited with a 28th-place finish. Meanwhile, Busch bobbled on the restart with five laps to go and finished fourth, unable to catch his JGR teammate for the win.
More on their post-race comments a little later, along with an owner's battle that has now closed to five points with four races left.
What about the rest of the field? Well, the race was marred by a flurry of caution flags -- 11 total, for 50 laps (a fourth of the race as a whole). It also saw many different leaders through the 200-lap event, first place changing hands 17 times among ten different drivers in what proved to be a very competitive event.
With the Busch/Keselowski duo knocked back Paul Menard, in a fairly uncommon series start for Richard Childress Racing, ducked below Regan Smith to finish second at the line. Smith would settle for third. Justin Allgaier, who briefly looked like he had a car that could challenge Kenseth, faded to fifth.
Austin Dillon, Parker Kligerman, Brad Sweet, Trevor Bayne and Elliott Sadler rounded out the top 10. Dillon's sixth-place finish earned him the points lead with four races to go. After entering the race four points behind Sam Hornish Jr., he emerged eight ahead of Hornish after the Penske driver's disappointing 17th-place finish. The Penske Racing veteran hit the wall, hard then spent the rest of the day trying to recover, pushing for the best finish possible while Dillon and RCR remained consistent on the intermediate, 1.5-mile ovals.
The Good
It was nice to see Justin Allgaier battling for the lead at different points today. Allgaier, who entered 2013 with a three-year streak of winning at least one race, has yet to do so this season and, despite a strong start to the year, has only five top-5 finishes through 29 races. A start on the outside pole, coupled with 14 laps led and a hard charge for the win on the final restart, made Allgaier seem like he was really a top competitor in the series, something he's shown in years past but has lacked a bit in 2013.
The Bad
Oh, Brian Vickers. The driver, who entered Kansas still with a fighting chance for the title, was involved in two separate incidents Saturday afternoon. First, the former champion looped his No. 20 through the infield grass, which was costly but didn't end his day. The nail in the coffin? Vickers was involved in Chris Buescher's spin on lap 146, causing a great deal of damage that required repair. All told, he ended up 29th, 21 laps down, and dropped to 67 out of the points lead. So much for a Hail Mary.
The Ugly
Let's talk about the spin. Kyle Busch shouldn't have gotten into Brad Keselowski; the incident seemed avoidable in theory. Busch was quick to accept blame due to losing control of his race car, though such a revelation absolved him -- at least, if you believe his comments -- from the possibility that he spun Keselowski to swing the owners' championship in the favor of the No. 54.
Words won't prevent future actions, though. The former Cup champ has vowed vengeance, which could spill over into tomorrow's Sprint Cup race or other races moving forward. Either way, Busch's move has paid great dividends for his team; the No. 54 sits only five points behind Penske's No. 22 with four races left.
Regardless of intent, it will be interesting to see how the owners' points battle unfolds following Kansas. Yeah, I know, it's kind of a pointless distinction and one that about 10 people care about. However, Busch and Keselowski's run-in Saturday afternoon does add a tiny bit of prestige to the title chase, as well as the Chase battle in the Cup Series. Keselowski isn't one to back down, and despite Busch's apology, the ill wishes shared between the two doesn't bode well for an incident-free finish to the season.
Chances are the payback -- if it comes -- could happen at Sunday's Cup race, but if it doesn't, keep a close eye on the Nos. 22 and 54 with four races to go. Busch will be in the car every race, and you can bet Keselowski will be in his more than a few times as well.
Underdog Performer of the Race: So at one point, he was two laps down and well into the 30s in position. By the end of the race, he was 13th and on the lead lap. Sure, the glut of cautions helped, but just how does Mike Bliss do it with the unsponsored No. 19 of TriStar Motorsports?
by the Frontstretch Staff
By the end of Saturday's Kansas Lottery 300, it wasn't about who won but who lost.
Victory Lane, as it has been too often this season in the series was predictably filled by a Cup veteran. Matt Kenseth emerged atop the leaderboard with 35 laps to go and stayed there, winning his second Nationwide Series race of the season.
However, it was Kenseth's Joe Gibbs Racing teammate, Kyle Busch, who received the brunt of the media attention shortly before and after the finish, as well as Busch and Kenseth's fellow Cup regular in the race, Brad Keselowski. Kenseth had established a solid lead when Keselowski and Busch, running for second with 11 laps to go, made contact after the former's No. 22 was clipped by the latter's No. 54 exiting turn 2. Keselowski was sent spinning down the track before swerving back up and into the outside wall, ending his day.
What followed was a dash to the infield care center by the defending Cup champion, who was hoping to be checked in and out by physicians so that he could return to his car to finish the race. The Nos. 22 and 54, as you've undoubtedly heard, are locked in this thing called an owners' points championship battle, after all.
In the end, it was all for naught, as Keselowski's car was too damaged to return to the track in time and was credited with a 28th-place finish. Meanwhile, Busch bobbled on the restart with five laps to go and finished fourth, unable to catch his JGR teammate for the win.
More on their post-race comments a little later, along with an owner's battle that has now closed to five points with four races left.
What about the rest of the field? Well, the race was marred by a flurry of caution flags -- 11 total, for 50 laps (a fourth of the race as a whole). It also saw many different leaders through the 200-lap event, first place changing hands 17 times among ten different drivers in what proved to be a very competitive event.
With the Busch/Keselowski duo knocked back Paul Menard, in a fairly uncommon series start for Richard Childress Racing, ducked below Regan Smith to finish second at the line. Smith would settle for third. Justin Allgaier, who briefly looked like he had a car that could challenge Kenseth, faded to fifth.
Austin Dillon, Parker Kligerman, Brad Sweet, Trevor Bayne and Elliott Sadler rounded out the top 10. Dillon's sixth-place finish earned him the points lead with four races to go. After entering the race four points behind Sam Hornish Jr., he emerged eight ahead of Hornish after the Penske driver's disappointing 17th-place finish. The Penske Racing veteran hit the wall, hard then spent the rest of the day trying to recover, pushing for the best finish possible while Dillon and RCR remained consistent on the intermediate, 1.5-mile ovals.
The Good
It was nice to see Justin Allgaier battling for the lead at different points today. Allgaier, who entered 2013 with a three-year streak of winning at least one race, has yet to do so this season and, despite a strong start to the year, has only five top-5 finishes through 29 races. A start on the outside pole, coupled with 14 laps led and a hard charge for the win on the final restart, made Allgaier seem like he was really a top competitor in the series, something he's shown in years past but has lacked a bit in 2013.
The Bad
Oh, Brian Vickers. The driver, who entered Kansas still with a fighting chance for the title, was involved in two separate incidents Saturday afternoon. First, the former champion looped his No. 20 through the infield grass, which was costly but didn't end his day. The nail in the coffin? Vickers was involved in Chris Buescher's spin on lap 146, causing a great deal of damage that required repair. All told, he ended up 29th, 21 laps down, and dropped to 67 out of the points lead. So much for a Hail Mary.
The Ugly
Let's talk about the spin. Kyle Busch shouldn't have gotten into Brad Keselowski; the incident seemed avoidable in theory. Busch was quick to accept blame due to losing control of his race car, though such a revelation absolved him -- at least, if you believe his comments -- from the possibility that he spun Keselowski to swing the owners' championship in the favor of the No. 54.
Words won't prevent future actions, though. The former Cup champ has vowed vengeance, which could spill over into tomorrow's Sprint Cup race or other races moving forward. Either way, Busch's move has paid great dividends for his team; the No. 54 sits only five points behind Penske's No. 22 with four races left.
Regardless of intent, it will be interesting to see how the owners' points battle unfolds following Kansas. Yeah, I know, it's kind of a pointless distinction and one that about 10 people care about. However, Busch and Keselowski's run-in Saturday afternoon does add a tiny bit of prestige to the title chase, as well as the Chase battle in the Cup Series. Keselowski isn't one to back down, and despite Busch's apology, the ill wishes shared between the two doesn't bode well for an incident-free finish to the season.
Chances are the payback -- if it comes -- could happen at Sunday's Cup race, but if it doesn't, keep a close eye on the Nos. 22 and 54 with four races to go. Busch will be in the car every race, and you can bet Keselowski will be in his more than a few times as well.
Underdog Performer of the Race: So at one point, he was two laps down and well into the 30s in position. By the end of the race, he was 13th and on the lead lap. Sure, the glut of cautions helped, but just how does Mike Bliss do it with the unsponsored No. 19 of TriStar Motorsports?
Cup News 'N' Notes
Edwards Leads Happy Hour
Carl Edwards led Saturday afternoon's Sprint Cup Series final practice session for Sunday's Hollywood Casino 400 with a fastest lap of 184.982 mph (29.192 sec.). Paul Menard posted the second-quickest lap at 29.335 seconds (183.955 mph). Brad Keselowski, Matt Kenseth and Jimmie Johnson rounded out the top 5.
The track was nearly 20 degrees warmer than the first session that saw three Chase drivers--Kyle Busch, Kurt Busch and Matt Kenseth-- have issues. Practice was slowed briefly when Aric Almirola spun coming out of the Turn 2. He managed to avoid any contact and was able to continue.
Top 10 Practice Speeds
1. Carl Edwards - 184.982 mph (29.192 sec.)
2. Paul Menard - 183.955 mph (29.335 sec.)
3. Brad keselowski - 183.905 mph (29.363 sec.)
4. Matt Kenseth - 183.874 mph (29.368 sec.)
5. Jimmie Johnson - 183.811 mph (29.378 sec.)
6. Juan Pablo Montoya - 183.780 mph (29.383 sec.)
7. Kevin Harvick - 183.474 mph (29.432 sec.)
8. Jeff Burton - 183.430 mph (29.439 sec.)
9. Brian Vickers - 183.349 mph (29.452 sec.)
10. Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. - 183.331 mph (29.455 sec.)
Carl Edwards led Saturday afternoon's Sprint Cup Series final practice session for Sunday's Hollywood Casino 400 with a fastest lap of 184.982 mph (29.192 sec.). Paul Menard posted the second-quickest lap at 29.335 seconds (183.955 mph). Brad Keselowski, Matt Kenseth and Jimmie Johnson rounded out the top 5.
The track was nearly 20 degrees warmer than the first session that saw three Chase drivers--Kyle Busch, Kurt Busch and Matt Kenseth-- have issues. Practice was slowed briefly when Aric Almirola spun coming out of the Turn 2. He managed to avoid any contact and was able to continue.
Top 10 Practice Speeds
1. Carl Edwards - 184.982 mph (29.192 sec.)
2. Paul Menard - 183.955 mph (29.335 sec.)
3. Brad keselowski - 183.905 mph (29.363 sec.)
4. Matt Kenseth - 183.874 mph (29.368 sec.)
5. Jimmie Johnson - 183.811 mph (29.378 sec.)
6. Juan Pablo Montoya - 183.780 mph (29.383 sec.)
7. Kevin Harvick - 183.474 mph (29.432 sec.)
8. Jeff Burton - 183.430 mph (29.439 sec.)
9. Brian Vickers - 183.349 mph (29.452 sec.)
10. Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. - 183.331 mph (29.455 sec.)
Chad Johnston Moving On For 2014
Another Michael Waltrip Racing crew chief is jumping ship. Chad Johnston, whose No. 56 race team has been the epicenter of controversy post-"Spingate" has asked for and been granted a release from the team. He'll leave MWR following the conclusion of the season-ending race at Homestead.
Johnston, who sources say is tied to any potential deal with Truex and NAPA, did not want to risk remaining with the No. 56 when sponsorship was in question for 2014. NAPA, who is supposedly shopping their package elsewhere has made it clear they will not return to the MWR organization.
The Johnston-Truex duo has been effective together, winning twice since the two were paired together midway through the 2011 season and making the Chase in 2012. There's no word from MWR on any possible replacement at this time.
Johnston, who sources say is tied to any potential deal with Truex and NAPA, did not want to risk remaining with the No. 56 when sponsorship was in question for 2014. NAPA, who is supposedly shopping their package elsewhere has made it clear they will not return to the MWR organization.
The Johnston-Truex duo has been effective together, winning twice since the two were paired together midway through the 2011 season and making the Chase in 2012. There's no word from MWR on any possible replacement at this time.
Current TV Deals To Stay In Place Through 2014
For those hoping NBC would hop on board, covering NASCAR a year early think again. The current three-network package involving FOX, TNT, and ESPN will continue to fulfill their eight-year deal, which ends through the conclusion of the 2014 season. In a soft, yet stern statement Saturday, NASCAR Vice President of Broadcasting Steve Herbst made it clear the sanctioning body has no plans of abandoning the current contract despite behind-the-scenes negotiating by outgoing partners, TNT and ESPN to bail out.
"While we were humbled by the desire of NBC and FOX to start 12 months early," Herbst claimed. "We now consider this matter closed and look forward to finishing our current agreement in 2014 with our great partners at FOX, Turner and ESPN."
"While we were humbled by the desire of NBC and FOX to start 12 months early," Herbst claimed. "We now consider this matter closed and look forward to finishing our current agreement in 2014 with our great partners at FOX, Turner and ESPN."
ESPN, in particular had been rumored to be losing several million dollars annually on the current deal. While FOX's ratings, under the current contract have held steady the Nielsen numbers for the other two networks have declined considerably.
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.
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TODAY ON THE FRONTSTRETCH:
Will Busch And Keselowski Tensions Spill Over to Cup?
~~~~~~~~~~
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.
~~~~~~~~~~
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:
Will Busch And Keselowski Tensions Spill Over to Cup?
by Beth Lunkenheimer
Nationwide Breakdown: Kansas Lottery 300
by Summer Bedgood
Mirror Driving: Slurs, Slumps, And Silly Mistakes
by Summer Bedgood
Mirror Driving: Slurs, Slumps, And Silly Mistakes
by the Frontstretch Staff
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FRONTSTRETCH TRIVIA:
FRONTSTRETCH TRIVIA:
Q: The 2004 Banquet 400 is best known for the race for victory between Joe Nemechek and Ricky Rudd (both non-Chasers). For Chaser Ryan Newman, he ran well during the race, but his day ended early. What happened?
Check back Monday for the answer, here in the Frontstretch Newsletter!
Frontstretch Trivia Guarantee: If we mess up, you get the shirt off our backs! If we've provided an incorrect answer to the Frontstretch Trivia question, be the first to email the corrected trivia answer to trivia@frontstretch.com and we'll send you a Frontstretch T-Shirt ... FREE!
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Monday on the Frontstretch:
One of your favorite Frontstretch staff members will swing by with their overall thoughts from Sunday afternoon's race from Kansas.
Commentary by Summer Bedgood
We'll take a look at one of the biggest stories to come out of Kansas.
Bowles-Eye View by Tom Bowles
Tom gives his thoughts on how the third race of the Chase unfolded out at Kansas.
Big Six: Hollywood Casino 400 by TBA
Amy has your weekly look at the Who, What, When, Where, Why and How from a weekend of racing at Kansas.
Pace Laps: Kansas 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 of racing from Kansas.
IndyCar Breakdown: Grand Prix of Houston by Matt Stallknecht
Matt has all the post-race analysis you need following this weekend's dual IZOD IndyCar Series races from Houston.
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©2013 Frontstretch.com
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