THE FRONTSTRETCH NEWSLETTER
Presented by Frontstretch.com
The Best Seat at the Track, The Best View on the Net!
March 28th, 2012
Volume VI, Edition XLIX
Presented by Frontstretch.com
The Best Seat at the Track, The Best View on the Net!
March 28th, 2012
Volume VI, Edition XLIX
~~~~~~~~~~
EDITOR'S NOTE: FRONTSTRETCH HAS A BRAND NEW, REDESIGNED FACEBOOK PAGE! CLICK HERE TO "LIKE" US AND GET A DIRECT CONNECT TO ALL YOUR FRONTSTRETCH FAVORITES ALONG WITH POLLS, INTERACTION WITH FANS AND SO MUCH MORE.
Top News
by Brad Morgan
NASCAR Changes All-Star Race Format
Once the field is set for the 28th Sprint All-Star Race on May 19, NASCAR hopes the series' best drivers will go all out for the entirety of the event due to format changes introduced on Tuesday. Under the new setup, the winners of four 20-lap segments (each separated by five laps under caution) will be placed at the front of the field for a mandatory pit stop before the final 10-lap shootout that will determine the winner of both the race and a cool $1 million. The strategy of the pit stop will be left entirely up to the crew chiefs and drivers, making this crucial portion of the event far more unpredictable than the previous configuration's required four-tire stop.
"This new addition to the format is going to provide even greater incentive for the drivers to go all out to win one of the four segments," claimed NASCAR's Robin Pemberton, Vice President of Competition. "It also puts even more focus on the pit crews and how they perform during that final pit stop. The team aspect of the sport will be highlighted more than ever and it helps set the stage for an exciting race and an exciting evening for the fans."
The rules that determine which drivers are entitled to run in the weekend's All-Star competition remain unchanged. Winners from every Sprint Cup event in 2011 and 2012 up to May 12th are eligible for the race in addition to any past All-Star or Sprint Cup champions within the last 10 years, the top 2 finishers in the 40-lap Sprint Showdown, and the winner of the Sprint Fan Vote.
So far, the following drivers have qualified for the 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup All-Star Race: Marcos Ambrose, Trevor Bayne, Kurt Busch, Kyle Busch, Clint Bowyer, Carl Edwards, Jeff Gordon, Denny Hamlin, Kevin Harvick, Jimmie Johnson, Kasey Kahne, Matt Kenseth, Brad Keselowski, Mark Martin, Paul Menard, Ryan Newman, David Ragan, Regan Smith and Tony Stewart.
Kenseth to Honor Wounded Marine at Martinsville
Roush Fenway Racing and driver Matt Kenseth will honor wounded U.S. Marine Josh "J.B." Kerns by running a special paint scheme on the No. 17 Ford Fusion during the Goody's Fast Relief 500 at Martinsville Speedway on April 1. The car will be sponsored by the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation and the Gary Sinise Foundation, with the design featuring an acknowledgment of Kerns' outstanding military service to the United States. Kerns lost both legs and his right arm on his third tour of duty, after an improvised explosive device (IED) blew up near him during a mine sweeping operation in Afghanistan on April 7, 2011.
"It's an honor for us to run this paint scheme," said Kenseth regarding his car's new look. "We have a lot to be thankful for in this country, and a lot we take for granted on a daily basis. Our soldiers like J.B. make sacrifices every day that I don't think anyone can truly comprehend, so I am grateful for the bravery he has shown. By running this paint scheme, I hope that people will support this great organization in order to build J.B. the home that he deserves for his service."
The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation and the Gary Sinise Foundation have teamed up in an effort to build Kerns a smart home in his hometown of Ararat, Virginia. Lionel NASCAR Collectables will make a diecast version of the No. 17 Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation / Gary Sinise Foundation Ford Fusion and a large portion of the earnings will go towards the construction of Kerns' new house.
"J.B. Kerns is a true American hero, and we can never totally repay him for everything that he has done to keep our country free and strong," said Frank Siller, Chairman of The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation. "But with the help of wonderful people such as Matt Kenseth and organizations such as Roush Fenway Racing, Lionel NASCAR Collectables, Martinsville Speedway, and the folks at Goody's, we can show J.B. how much we truly value his courage."
STP To Celebrate 40 Years with Richard Petty
To commemorate the historical partnership between STP and Richard Petty, the company announced Tuesday they will sponsor the No. 43 Ford Fusion during the STP 400 at Kansas Speedway on April 22. Aric Almirola's car will join in the "throwback theme," featuring the familiar Petty Blue and STP Day-Glo Red scheme made famous by "The King" beginning in 1972.
"When I signed with Richard Petty Motorsports for the 2012 season, I was honored to be driving for a legend of our sport," said Almirola. "Being able to sit in the driver's seat of the No. 43 STP car with an iconic paint scheme, just like 'The King' himself did, is the icing on the cake and it would be amazing to drive it to Victory Lane on April 22."
"I've been an STP man since '72 and it's hard to believe that it has been 40 years since I started working with STP," said Petty. "They have remained a big part of my career and it's been great having them back at the track. I look forward to seeing Aric in the driver's seat at the STP 400 as we celebrate 40 years with STP."
The STP 400 is part of the company's multi-year title sponsorship of the Cup and Nationwide races at Kansas Speedway and Chicagoland Speedway.
~~~~~~~~~~
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!
~~~~~~~~~~
Today's Featured Commentary
Can Penske Build Dodge Power And Stay Impartial?
Full Throttle
by Mike Neff
At the beginning of March, Penske Racing announced that the team was switching from Dodge to Ford cars for the 2013 racing season. Since that announcement, there has been quite a bit of discussion about whether Penske will build their own engines or get their powerplants from Roush Yates as the other Ford teams do. The engine shop at Penske Racing employs 70 people and the organization's owner, Roger Penske, has vowed that they will be unaffected by the switch to Ford - even if it means building Dodge engines long after they've ditched the car itself. But while Penske's dedication to his employees is admirable, it seems like it would be a difficult marriage to have members of a team that races Fords building engines for teams that run Dodges. When the rubber meets the road, especially during the final ten races of the season, it would seem that the potential for a conflict of interest would be rather intense.
The initial thought that crossed people's minds when Penske made the announcement about the switch to Ford was that the horsepower battle between longtime Ford engine builders Roush Yates and Penske could be a fabulous subplot to the 2013 season. Unfortunately, after taking a step back and examining the situation a little more closely, it became a little more obvious that Penske would be starting out at a deficit to Roush Yates and would probably spend quite some time catching up. If the people from Penske want to start off 2013 in competitive fashion, they're most likely going to have to acquire their race engines from Roush, at least initially. That would mean that the 70 employees in the engine shop would be out of work.
That leads to the latest option that is being discussed, which is for Penske's engine shop to continue building Dodge powerplants. While there has not been an announcement yet about which team or teams will be running Dodge name plates in 2013, the auto manufacturer seems to be committed to continuing their presence in the sport.
"Our motorsports involvement isn't limited to NASCAR," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO. "We do value our NASCAR program and will be evaluating the opportunities available moving forward. As those opportunities materialize, we'll reveal our 2013 plans, not only in NASCAR but in other forms of motorsports."
With Penske being the primary source of Sprint Cup level Dodge race engines, the need for a manufacturer to take over their role as the engine provider is obvious. The other engine builders who do assemble Dodge engines do not have the infrastructure to churn out the volume of these powerplants that will be demanded by a major race team or multiple teams. That void is most likely why Penske is thinking about having his engine department continue to align itself with Dodge.
Should Penske continue with that portion of the Dodge partnership, that will ensure that the employees in the engine department remain employed. However, it will also immediately lead to debate about what information is being shared with the engine department and the race teams. With Roush Yates spending millions of dollars to squeeze every last bit of horsepower out of their engines, they are not going to be too eager to share that information with teams "competing" in the Dodge camp. The legal paperwork that is going to be involved in an attempt to protect each side from stealing information from the other is going to be voluminous.
On top of the potential for knowledge and information leaking from one engine shop to the other, the potential for a conflict of interest, especially at the end of the 2013 season, is going to be very real. Imagine if a team is running Dodges and the title race comes down to the final laps of the season with that team and one of Penske's dueling it out for the championship. If an engine failure befalls the Dodge team, the cries of "foul" will be heard from the highest of mountain tops. At the same time, should the Dodge actually beat the Penske Ford, how awkward would life in both shops be during the off-season?
While the odds are minimal that a team that chooses to make the jump to Dodge will be championship-caliber, the possibility of a conflict still exists. If Penske does make the decision to go with Roush Yates engines, there is going to have to be a very clear delineation between the Penske Cup teams and the Penske engine shop. Without that distinct separation between the two operations, the whispering and rumors will be endless and will undermine anything that either group is able to accomplish on their own.
Mike Neff is a Senior Writer for Frontstretch.com. He can be reached via e-mail at mike.neff@frontstretch.com.
~~~~~~~~~~
COME JOIN THE FRONTSTRETCH FAMILY!
EDITOR'S NOTE: FRONTSTRETCH HAS A BRAND NEW, REDESIGNED FACEBOOK PAGE! CLICK HERE TO "LIKE" US AND GET A DIRECT CONNECT TO ALL YOUR FRONTSTRETCH FAVORITES ALONG WITH POLLS, INTERACTION WITH FANS AND SO MUCH MORE.
Top News
by Brad Morgan
NASCAR Changes All-Star Race Format
Once the field is set for the 28th Sprint All-Star Race on May 19, NASCAR hopes the series' best drivers will go all out for the entirety of the event due to format changes introduced on Tuesday. Under the new setup, the winners of four 20-lap segments (each separated by five laps under caution) will be placed at the front of the field for a mandatory pit stop before the final 10-lap shootout that will determine the winner of both the race and a cool $1 million. The strategy of the pit stop will be left entirely up to the crew chiefs and drivers, making this crucial portion of the event far more unpredictable than the previous configuration's required four-tire stop.
"This new addition to the format is going to provide even greater incentive for the drivers to go all out to win one of the four segments," claimed NASCAR's Robin Pemberton, Vice President of Competition. "It also puts even more focus on the pit crews and how they perform during that final pit stop. The team aspect of the sport will be highlighted more than ever and it helps set the stage for an exciting race and an exciting evening for the fans."
The rules that determine which drivers are entitled to run in the weekend's All-Star competition remain unchanged. Winners from every Sprint Cup event in 2011 and 2012 up to May 12th are eligible for the race in addition to any past All-Star or Sprint Cup champions within the last 10 years, the top 2 finishers in the 40-lap Sprint Showdown, and the winner of the Sprint Fan Vote.
So far, the following drivers have qualified for the 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup All-Star Race: Marcos Ambrose, Trevor Bayne, Kurt Busch, Kyle Busch, Clint Bowyer, Carl Edwards, Jeff Gordon, Denny Hamlin, Kevin Harvick, Jimmie Johnson, Kasey Kahne, Matt Kenseth, Brad Keselowski, Mark Martin, Paul Menard, Ryan Newman, David Ragan, Regan Smith and Tony Stewart.
Kenseth to Honor Wounded Marine at Martinsville
Roush Fenway Racing and driver Matt Kenseth will honor wounded U.S. Marine Josh "J.B." Kerns by running a special paint scheme on the No. 17 Ford Fusion during the Goody's Fast Relief 500 at Martinsville Speedway on April 1. The car will be sponsored by the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation and the Gary Sinise Foundation, with the design featuring an acknowledgment of Kerns' outstanding military service to the United States. Kerns lost both legs and his right arm on his third tour of duty, after an improvised explosive device (IED) blew up near him during a mine sweeping operation in Afghanistan on April 7, 2011.
"It's an honor for us to run this paint scheme," said Kenseth regarding his car's new look. "We have a lot to be thankful for in this country, and a lot we take for granted on a daily basis. Our soldiers like J.B. make sacrifices every day that I don't think anyone can truly comprehend, so I am grateful for the bravery he has shown. By running this paint scheme, I hope that people will support this great organization in order to build J.B. the home that he deserves for his service."
The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation and the Gary Sinise Foundation have teamed up in an effort to build Kerns a smart home in his hometown of Ararat, Virginia. Lionel NASCAR Collectables will make a diecast version of the No. 17 Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation / Gary Sinise Foundation Ford Fusion and a large portion of the earnings will go towards the construction of Kerns' new house.
"J.B. Kerns is a true American hero, and we can never totally repay him for everything that he has done to keep our country free and strong," said Frank Siller, Chairman of The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation. "But with the help of wonderful people such as Matt Kenseth and organizations such as Roush Fenway Racing, Lionel NASCAR Collectables, Martinsville Speedway, and the folks at Goody's, we can show J.B. how much we truly value his courage."
STP To Celebrate 40 Years with Richard Petty
To commemorate the historical partnership between STP and Richard Petty, the company announced Tuesday they will sponsor the No. 43 Ford Fusion during the STP 400 at Kansas Speedway on April 22. Aric Almirola's car will join in the "throwback theme," featuring the familiar Petty Blue and STP Day-Glo Red scheme made famous by "The King" beginning in 1972.
"When I signed with Richard Petty Motorsports for the 2012 season, I was honored to be driving for a legend of our sport," said Almirola. "Being able to sit in the driver's seat of the No. 43 STP car with an iconic paint scheme, just like 'The King' himself did, is the icing on the cake and it would be amazing to drive it to Victory Lane on April 22."
"I've been an STP man since '72 and it's hard to believe that it has been 40 years since I started working with STP," said Petty. "They have remained a big part of my career and it's been great having them back at the track. I look forward to seeing Aric in the driver's seat at the STP 400 as we celebrate 40 years with STP."
The STP 400 is part of the company's multi-year title sponsorship of the Cup and Nationwide races at Kansas Speedway and Chicagoland Speedway.
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!
~~~~~~~~~~
Today's Featured Commentary
Can Penske Build Dodge Power And Stay Impartial?
Full Throttle
by Mike Neff
At the beginning of March, Penske Racing announced that the team was switching from Dodge to Ford cars for the 2013 racing season. Since that announcement, there has been quite a bit of discussion about whether Penske will build their own engines or get their powerplants from Roush Yates as the other Ford teams do. The engine shop at Penske Racing employs 70 people and the organization's owner, Roger Penske, has vowed that they will be unaffected by the switch to Ford - even if it means building Dodge engines long after they've ditched the car itself. But while Penske's dedication to his employees is admirable, it seems like it would be a difficult marriage to have members of a team that races Fords building engines for teams that run Dodges. When the rubber meets the road, especially during the final ten races of the season, it would seem that the potential for a conflict of interest would be rather intense.
The initial thought that crossed people's minds when Penske made the announcement about the switch to Ford was that the horsepower battle between longtime Ford engine builders Roush Yates and Penske could be a fabulous subplot to the 2013 season. Unfortunately, after taking a step back and examining the situation a little more closely, it became a little more obvious that Penske would be starting out at a deficit to Roush Yates and would probably spend quite some time catching up. If the people from Penske want to start off 2013 in competitive fashion, they're most likely going to have to acquire their race engines from Roush, at least initially. That would mean that the 70 employees in the engine shop would be out of work.
That leads to the latest option that is being discussed, which is for Penske's engine shop to continue building Dodge powerplants. While there has not been an announcement yet about which team or teams will be running Dodge name plates in 2013, the auto manufacturer seems to be committed to continuing their presence in the sport.
"Our motorsports involvement isn't limited to NASCAR," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO. "We do value our NASCAR program and will be evaluating the opportunities available moving forward. As those opportunities materialize, we'll reveal our 2013 plans, not only in NASCAR but in other forms of motorsports."
With Penske being the primary source of Sprint Cup level Dodge race engines, the need for a manufacturer to take over their role as the engine provider is obvious. The other engine builders who do assemble Dodge engines do not have the infrastructure to churn out the volume of these powerplants that will be demanded by a major race team or multiple teams. That void is most likely why Penske is thinking about having his engine department continue to align itself with Dodge.
Should Penske continue with that portion of the Dodge partnership, that will ensure that the employees in the engine department remain employed. However, it will also immediately lead to debate about what information is being shared with the engine department and the race teams. With Roush Yates spending millions of dollars to squeeze every last bit of horsepower out of their engines, they are not going to be too eager to share that information with teams "competing" in the Dodge camp. The legal paperwork that is going to be involved in an attempt to protect each side from stealing information from the other is going to be voluminous.
On top of the potential for knowledge and information leaking from one engine shop to the other, the potential for a conflict of interest, especially at the end of the 2013 season, is going to be very real. Imagine if a team is running Dodges and the title race comes down to the final laps of the season with that team and one of Penske's dueling it out for the championship. If an engine failure befalls the Dodge team, the cries of "foul" will be heard from the highest of mountain tops. At the same time, should the Dodge actually beat the Penske Ford, how awkward would life in both shops be during the off-season?
While the odds are minimal that a team that chooses to make the jump to Dodge will be championship-caliber, the possibility of a conflict still exists. If Penske does make the decision to go with Roush Yates engines, there is going to have to be a very clear delineation between the Penske Cup teams and the Penske engine shop. Without that distinct separation between the two operations, the whispering and rumors will be endless and will undermine anything that either group is able to accomplish on their own.
Mike Neff is a Senior Writer for Frontstretch.com. He can be reached via e-mail at mike.neff@frontstretch.com.
~~~~~~~~~~
COME JOIN THE FRONTSTRETCH FAMILY!
Hey Frontstretch Readers,
We are looking for someone who shares our enthusiasm for NASCAR and has an experienced background in web design. Specifically, we are looking for someone who can help maintain and enhance our website, increase our SEO, and upgrade our publishing platform while producing a limited amount of content throughout the season. This job presents a perfect opportunity for someone with a technical background, a person who wants their work to gain national exposure.
If you are interested, contact frontstretcheditors@googlegroups.com. Please include references to your past work in your e-mail.
~~~~~~~~~~
Tweet 'N' Greet
by Summer Dreyer
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 Dreyer 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...
@JaritJohnson: WOW. What a great day. Love it. We We Weeeeeee
@scottspeed: Regarding socks and flip flops ;) there is a time and a place to look good! And be comfortable... At 8:30am I'm choosing comfy every time ;)
@JimmieJohnson: It's so cool to watch your child grow and advance. Swim class made the crossover today. It went from WTH are we doing here to fun time.
@JimmieJohnson: I can only imagine... "@briscoe48: @JimmieJohnson just wait till she wants to borrow the car. Scary stuff"
@dennyhamlin: The Saints.. OUCH!! I guess there's always appeals right?? LOL
@Brendan62 (Brendan Gaughan): Really bummed about the news from @BMSupdates I blame most of the impulsive media trying to blame the track for the empty seats! How about
@Brendan62: looking at the hard, never wearing out Goodyear tire? Or maybe the exorbitant gouging hotel prices or fuel costs?
@nascarcasm: Night Ranger will peform pre-race show & anthem at Auto Club Speedway race, which will apparently take place Sunday, March 25, 1983. #nascar
@Tymwr (Ty Norris): Why does everyone want to bitch about Bristol because we didn't tear up half the field in crashes? Everyone bitched when it was 1 groove
@JLogano (Joey Logano): Just got a last minute call to go to American idol tonight. I'm pretty pumped I heard it was Billy Joel night too
@RB_Mrs (Nicole Briscoe): Dog ate my homework or this... dog ate my wallet. Little sh$@! Is gonna be the death of me!
@MikeCalinoff: If Bruton feels the need to spend money fixing a racetrack, he should put progressive banking at NHMS.
@ClintBowyer: As usual for out here. Wide awake at 5 AM stared at the ceiling for couple hrs before u finally just give up. This is where twitter comes in.
@jamiemcmurray: Packing my bag for California. I can't wait for the 3 hour time difference. Nothing like being up at 2 or 3 in the morning.
@JimmieJohnson:I hope your car has 4 flat tires. :) "@DukeRulz24: @JimmieJohnson I'm glad to see you're not winning as many races"
@Kenny_Wallace: My BIG brother Rusty Wallace just called, BIG News! He said I've had enough I am coming out of retirement...WOW!
@Samantha_Busch: @KyleBusch and I causing trouble @MonsterEnergy HQ today! http://twitpic.com/90052e
@DanicaPatrick: Here's a little peek into my awesome day shooting for @tissot! http://t.co/LtG94oZC
@Mother_Function: Only in LA can 2 people have sex in a bathroom stall @ Staples Center & everyone just continues w/ their business. DeLana & I were speechless!
@31n2Spotter (Brett Griffin): @Mother_Function you and DeLana were in a bathroom together? Smh
@DeLanaHarvick: @Mother_Function & I were waiting for the bathroom and "heard" the show... Carts please hurry up!
@TheOrangeCone: Tomorrow is @danicapatrick's b-day. No other birthday is allowed to be celebrated or else Dr. Bob Parsons will shoot an elephant.
@nascarcasm: Careful, Bruton. It starts with "I just want Bristol back where it was a few years ago," and next thing you know, it looks like Joan Rivers.
@JimmieJohnson: I'm ready to watch my friends in the #IndyCar series this weekend. #HeavyHearts
@MartySmithESPN: Helton says Middlebrook pragmatic approach to biz and relationships w/teams is why he was chosen [to hear final appeals]. Says faith in him hasn't changed.
@AllWaltrip (Darrell Waltrip): it's important to remember, 48's penalty was reduced, not completely over turned, the 100,000 grand still stood, in line with the infraction!
@TheOrangeCone: Just saw female fan w/botched boob job. Fined her $100k and suspended her 6 weeks for "not looking right."
@bobpockrass: Is Middlebrook biased toward GM teams in #nascar appeals? Before deciding, Google: Middlebrook General Motors lawsuit pension benefits
@austindillon3: Been watching Cup practice from the infield I've never seen so many bicycles in my entire life crazy beach cruisers
@nascarcasm: "There is no immediate need to reconfigure Auto Club Speedway," says spokesman for United Giant-Empty-Seat-Covering Tarp Makers of America.
@RyanMcGeeESPN: 3 Stooges are #NASCAR grand marshals this wkd. I guess that's better than Hunger Games people there shooting fans w/arrows.
@RB_Mrs: It's crazy how just a wee 3 hour time difference can totally mess with ya! That or I'm getting old!
@Kenny_Wallace: OMG, I had to tell you all this, the movie "The Hunger Games" the 1st part is all about getting SPONSORS, True!
@Kenny_Wallace: Unless you see "Hunger Games" for yourself you won't believe it, They needed Sponsors and Parachutes to survive, Like me:) ha ha!
@ClintBowyer: LMAO! There is a line of NASCAR officials and race teams 50 ft long standing outside In-N-Out... I'm not talking any marathon runners either!
@PPistone (Pete Pistone): According to @SBJSBD the average age of Daytona 500 viewer was nearly 51 years old - don't knock any attempt to get a younger #NASCAR fan
@JeffGordonWeb: One of my favorite things about Twitter is knowing my followers r just as upset as I am when we qualify bad. #refusetolose
@MikeCalinoff: It'd be nice of the National Weather Service to say that there's a 95% chance of rain Sunday instead of 100% -- just to give us some hope.
@PPistone: Based on this "celebrity" list for tomorrow's race I can't tell if they're racing near Hollywood or Peoria
@nascarcasm: Tomorrow's starter will be Kristy Swanson. Just searched her name on IMDB, and it returned a "HTTP ERROR 404: WHO THE HELL IS THAT?" error.
@Kenny_Wallace: DO NOT complain a whole bunch about the price of YOUR Gas, Look at this in Caleeefornia :( http://yfrog.com/odzk9pjj
@BJewkes (Brett Jewkes): Always cool to see first-time visitors to the garage freak out with excitement when one of the cars fires the engine. #NASCAR
@KeselowskiBrian: You know watching this race makes me wonder why we don't return to some of the old school tracks. The attendance would be the same at worst
@Kenny_Wallace: I am more excited about passing Kyle Busch 4 wide on the apron than I am finishing 7th today!
@KevinHamlin: Not the end of the race we wanted. And I left my rain boots, jacket and sweatshirt on the stand. FML.
@JLogano: Wooooooooooooo
@pkligerman (Parker Kligerman): Now that was an awesome @NASCAR_NNS race this evening. I think you're seeing this track really coming into its own. #NASCAR #realtalk
@Elliott_Sadler: Last caution killed us... But proud of my guys... Worked really hard all weekend.... Little time off next few weeks..
@jeff_gluck: Mr. @RBINDYCAR taking a bunch of media people out to dinner. First day I've ever met this guy and at dinner. Can't believe the access here!
@JamesBuescher: Gambled our tire strategy towards the end... 12th place not bad! Looking forward to a couple days of relaxing with @Kris_Buescher
@DNewtonESPN (Dave Newton): Maybe @DennyHamlin could do a "Dougie'' rain dance. #nascar
@JimmieJohnson: Anyone have a few quarts of oil I can borrow?
@kaseykahne: Pissed I ran bad. Happy my car is in one piece.
@MartySmithESPN: Makeshift Victory Lane... http://t.co/KBQSoy2l
@JeffGordonWeb: No one wanted race restarted more than me but it's pouring right now so @NASCAR made right decision.
@EmmaBlaney: Well, it will feel really good knowing that dad is locked in for next weekend. Now, we don't have to completely dread qualifying days.
@dennyhamlin: Boy did that suck or what... Unless you're a Tony fan, that is. Never seen a race called at 2 PM before. 1st time for everything. Strong weekend.
@ClintBowyer: It's a humbling sport this auto racing. Had a good car all weekend, just went the wrong way today. Nice to call 13th a bad day!
@mattkenseth: Frustrating and disappointing day. Ran bad, then pitted at the end hoping for sunshine. Off to my favorite track...
@gbiffle (Greg Biffle): Well another descent day but not happy unless we're winning!!!! Too tight and didn't adjust on it enough coming on at the end!!
@gbiffle: Decent !!!!! Love my phone
@ClintBowyer: Probably going to get shot tomorrow! I'll be the one guy in NC head-to-toe in KU... #braggingrights
@JLogano: Just found out I was speeding on pit road yesterday by 0.05 mph. Tough to swallow
@keselowski (Brad Keselowski): .006 here. #goodtimes What sector? @JLogano: Just found out I was speeding on pit road yesterday by 0.05 mph. Tough to swallow"
@Samantha_Busch: Going to @DancingABC tonight!!!! Beyond excited! Ha maybe some1 there will like my dancing w the stars n 1 super fan idea lol #DWTS
@DanicaPatrick: Thank you all so much for the birthday wishes yesterday! It was a great day and I am really looking forward to my 30s!
@TravisPastrana: Finally driving American! Let's do this @Dodge http://t.co/76XOwKt5
~~~~~~~~~~
Tweet 'N' Greet
by Summer Dreyer
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 Dreyer 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...
@JaritJohnson: WOW. What a great day. Love it. We We Weeeeeee
@scottspeed: Regarding socks and flip flops ;) there is a time and a place to look good! And be comfortable... At 8:30am I'm choosing comfy every time ;)
@JimmieJohnson: It's so cool to watch your child grow and advance. Swim class made the crossover today. It went from WTH are we doing here to fun time.
@JimmieJohnson: I can only imagine... "@briscoe48: @JimmieJohnson just wait till she wants to borrow the car. Scary stuff"
@dennyhamlin: The Saints.. OUCH!! I guess there's always appeals right?? LOL
@Brendan62 (Brendan Gaughan): Really bummed about the news from @BMSupdates I blame most of the impulsive media trying to blame the track for the empty seats! How about
@Brendan62: looking at the hard, never wearing out Goodyear tire? Or maybe the exorbitant gouging hotel prices or fuel costs?
@Kenny_Wallace: My Opinion on John Elway: John is "ALL IN" with this NO Class move he did to Tebow! Retired athletes have clouded judgment ALWAYS!
@Kenny_Wallace: My feelings about "GREAT" retired athletes is they expect others to be as GREAT as them and it clouds their judgment.
@nascarcasm: Night Ranger will peform pre-race show & anthem at Auto Club Speedway race, which will apparently take place Sunday, March 25, 1983. #nascar
@Tymwr (Ty Norris): Why does everyone want to bitch about Bristol because we didn't tear up half the field in crashes? Everyone bitched when it was 1 groove
@JLogano (Joey Logano): Just got a last minute call to go to American idol tonight. I'm pretty pumped I heard it was Billy Joel night too
@JaritJohnson: My buddy Blaise going into PA sports hall of Fame. We miss you Every day BR congrats. http://www.arcaracing.com/news.php?contentid=12527
@RB_Mrs (Nicole Briscoe): Dog ate my homework or this... dog ate my wallet. Little sh$@! Is gonna be the death of me!
@MikeCalinoff: If Bruton feels the need to spend money fixing a racetrack, he should put progressive banking at NHMS.
@ClintBowyer: As usual for out here. Wide awake at 5 AM stared at the ceiling for couple hrs before u finally just give up. This is where twitter comes in.
@jamiemcmurray: Packing my bag for California. I can't wait for the 3 hour time difference. Nothing like being up at 2 or 3 in the morning.
@JimmieJohnson:I hope your car has 4 flat tires. :) "@DukeRulz24: @JimmieJohnson I'm glad to see you're not winning as many races"
@Kenny_Wallace: My BIG brother Rusty Wallace just called, BIG News! He said I've had enough I am coming out of retirement...WOW!
@Samantha_Busch: @KyleBusch and I causing trouble @MonsterEnergy HQ today! http://twitpic.com/90052e
@DanicaPatrick: Here's a little peek into my awesome day shooting for @tissot! http://t.co/LtG94oZC
@Mother_Function: Only in LA can 2 people have sex in a bathroom stall @ Staples Center & everyone just continues w/ their business. DeLana & I were speechless!
@31n2Spotter (Brett Griffin): @Mother_Function you and DeLana were in a bathroom together? Smh
@DeLanaHarvick: @Mother_Function & I were waiting for the bathroom and "heard" the show... Carts please hurry up!
@TheOrangeCone: Tomorrow is @danicapatrick's b-day. No other birthday is allowed to be celebrated or else Dr. Bob Parsons will shoot an elephant.
@nascarcasm: Careful, Bruton. It starts with "I just want Bristol back where it was a few years ago," and next thing you know, it looks like Joan Rivers.
@JimmieJohnson: I'm ready to watch my friends in the #IndyCar series this weekend. #HeavyHearts
@MartySmithESPN: Helton says Middlebrook pragmatic approach to biz and relationships w/teams is why he was chosen [to hear final appeals]. Says faith in him hasn't changed.
@AllWaltrip (Darrell Waltrip): it's important to remember, 48's penalty was reduced, not completely over turned, the 100,000 grand still stood, in line with the infraction!
@TheOrangeCone: Just saw female fan w/botched boob job. Fined her $100k and suspended her 6 weeks for "not looking right."
@bobpockrass: Is Middlebrook biased toward GM teams in #nascar appeals? Before deciding, Google: Middlebrook General Motors lawsuit pension benefits
@austindillon3: Been watching Cup practice from the infield I've never seen so many bicycles in my entire life crazy beach cruisers
@nascarcasm: "There is no immediate need to reconfigure Auto Club Speedway," says spokesman for United Giant-Empty-Seat-Covering Tarp Makers of America.
@RyanMcGeeESPN: 3 Stooges are #NASCAR grand marshals this wkd. I guess that's better than Hunger Games people there shooting fans w/arrows.
@RB_Mrs: It's crazy how just a wee 3 hour time difference can totally mess with ya! That or I'm getting old!
@Kenny_Wallace: OMG, I had to tell you all this, the movie "The Hunger Games" the 1st part is all about getting SPONSORS, True!
@Kenny_Wallace: Unless you see "Hunger Games" for yourself you won't believe it, They needed Sponsors and Parachutes to survive, Like me:) ha ha!
@ClintBowyer: LMAO! There is a line of NASCAR officials and race teams 50 ft long standing outside In-N-Out... I'm not talking any marathon runners either!
@PPistone (Pete Pistone): According to @SBJSBD the average age of Daytona 500 viewer was nearly 51 years old - don't knock any attempt to get a younger #NASCAR fan
@JeffGordonWeb: One of my favorite things about Twitter is knowing my followers r just as upset as I am when we qualify bad. #refusetolose
@HermieSadler: Had a nice meal with @Elliott_Sadler. If tomorrow's race comes down to gas, he gonna kill 'em.
@Elliott_Sadler: that's just wrong... "@HermieSadler: Had a nice meal with @Elliott_Sadler . If tomorrow's race comes down to gas, he gonna kill 'em."
@MikeCalinoff: It'd be nice of the National Weather Service to say that there's a 95% chance of rain Sunday instead of 100% -- just to give us some hope.
@PPistone: Based on this "celebrity" list for tomorrow's race I can't tell if they're racing near Hollywood or Peoria
@nascarcasm: Tomorrow's starter will be Kristy Swanson. Just searched her name on IMDB, and it returned a "HTTP ERROR 404: WHO THE HELL IS THAT?" error.
@Kenny_Wallace: DO NOT complain a whole bunch about the price of YOUR Gas, Look at this in Caleeefornia :( http://yfrog.com/odzk9pjj
@BJewkes (Brett Jewkes): Always cool to see first-time visitors to the garage freak out with excitement when one of the cars fires the engine. #NASCAR
@KeselowskiBrian: You know watching this race makes me wonder why we don't return to some of the old school tracks. The attendance would be the same at worst
@Kenny_Wallace: I am more excited about passing Kyle Busch 4 wide on the apron than I am finishing 7th today!
@KevinHamlin: Not the end of the race we wanted. And I left my rain boots, jacket and sweatshirt on the stand. FML.
@JLogano: Wooooooooooooo
@pkligerman (Parker Kligerman): Now that was an awesome @NASCAR_NNS race this evening. I think you're seeing this track really coming into its own. #NASCAR #realtalk
@Elliott_Sadler: Last caution killed us... But proud of my guys... Worked really hard all weekend.... Little time off next few weeks..
@jeff_gluck: Mr. @RBINDYCAR taking a bunch of media people out to dinner. First day I've ever met this guy and at dinner. Can't believe the access here!
@JamesBuescher: Gambled our tire strategy towards the end... 12th place not bad! Looking forward to a couple days of relaxing with @Kris_Buescher
@DNewtonESPN (Dave Newton): Maybe @DennyHamlin could do a "Dougie'' rain dance. #nascar
@JimmieJohnson: Anyone have a few quarts of oil I can borrow?
@kaseykahne: Pissed I ran bad. Happy my car is in one piece.
@MartySmithESPN: Makeshift Victory Lane... http://t.co/KBQSoy2l
@JeffGordonWeb: No one wanted race restarted more than me but it's pouring right now so @NASCAR made right decision.
@EmmaBlaney: Well, it will feel really good knowing that dad is locked in for next weekend. Now, we don't have to completely dread qualifying days.
@dennyhamlin: Boy did that suck or what... Unless you're a Tony fan, that is. Never seen a race called at 2 PM before. 1st time for everything. Strong weekend.
@ClintBowyer: It's a humbling sport this auto racing. Had a good car all weekend, just went the wrong way today. Nice to call 13th a bad day!
@mattkenseth: Frustrating and disappointing day. Ran bad, then pitted at the end hoping for sunshine. Off to my favorite track...
@gbiffle (Greg Biffle): Well another descent day but not happy unless we're winning!!!! Too tight and didn't adjust on it enough coming on at the end!!
@gbiffle: Decent !!!!! Love my phone
@ClintBowyer: Probably going to get shot tomorrow! I'll be the one guy in NC head-to-toe in KU... #braggingrights
@JLogano: Just found out I was speeding on pit road yesterday by 0.05 mph. Tough to swallow
@keselowski (Brad Keselowski): .006 here. #goodtimes What sector? @JLogano: Just found out I was speeding on pit road yesterday by 0.05 mph. Tough to swallow"
@Samantha_Busch: Going to @DancingABC tonight!!!! Beyond excited! Ha maybe some1 there will like my dancing w the stars n 1 super fan idea lol #DWTS
@DanicaPatrick: Thank you all so much for the birthday wishes yesterday! It was a great day and I am really looking forward to my 30s!
@TravisPastrana: Finally driving American! Let's do this @Dodge http://t.co/76XOwKt5
Summer Dreyer is a Senior Writer for Frontstretch.com. She can be reached via email at summer.dreyer@frontstretch.com.
~~~~~~~~~~
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~~~~~~~~~~
TODAY ON THE FRONTSTRETCH:
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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? ... Jeremy's Junked Case, All-Star Ignorance And NASCAR Conservatism Kills
by Tom Bowles
Strong Start Means Make Or Break Year For Addington
by Garrett Horton
Landon Cassill On Goals, Golf... And Why He Doesn't Envy Jimmie Johnson
by Amy Henderson
Mirror Driving: Adjusting Auto Club, Points vs. Wins And Martinsville Maniacs
by the Frontstretch Staff
NASCAR Sprint Cup Power Rankings: Top 15 After Fontana
compiled by Summer Dreyer
Top Ten Rejected Changes for the All-Star Race
by the Frontstretch Staff
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FRONTSTRETCH TRIVIA:
FRONTSTRETCH TRIVIA:
Q: During the inaugural season for the now-Camping World Truck Series in 1995, incidents on track were generally mild in nature. Of course, there were exceptions to this rule (Wayne Jacks' roll in Portland, Oregon and Kerry Teague's bad wreck at Heartland Park, Topeka chiefly among them). Rick Carelli had a nasty incident in Martinsville that year, too. What happened?
Check back Thursday for the answer, here in the Frontstretch Newsletter!
Tuesday's Answer:
Tuesday's Answer:
Q: During the 1995 Goody's 500 (then the Fall race), Ted Musgrave finished 29th after getting involved in an unusual wreck on the backstretch. What happened?
A: On Lap 232, Musgrave was spun out exiting Turn 2 by Robert Pressley. The No. 16 Ford spun and ended up climbing on top of the inside wall. The car did not go over the wall and into the backstretch pits, luckily. After sliding on the wall, the car slid back onto the racing surface before coming to a halt. Meanwhile, Pressley spun on his own in Turn 4 and nosed into the outside wall. Both drivers were OK, but Musgrave was very angry at Pressley and proceeded to lean into Pressley's disabled car on the backstretch pit road and give him the what for. The incident can be seen at the 51:00 mark of this clip.
Both drivers were forced to go behind the wall for extensive repairs. Musgrave came back out and finished the race in 29th, 66 laps down. Pressley came back out as well, but pulled out later on. He was credited with a 34th-place finish, having completed 368 laps.
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:
Bowles-Eye View by Tom Bowles
Tom steps in for Matt McLaughlin, who's off this week, with a commentary that will get you thinking just a couple days before Martinsville. At the center of it all: the original Four-Time. Why is he not getting the breaks his teammate, Jimmie Johnson, seemingly earns every week?
Potts' Shots by John Potts
Fanning the Flames has become Potts' Shots, and John Potts is here to answer your questions in our weekly Fan Q & A. Do you have something you'd like to ask John? Don't sit on the sidelines! Send it to john.potts@frontstretch.com and you just may see your question in print next week!.
Professor Of Speed by Mark Howell
Our professor of racing history "has at it" with another column pertinent to the sport at large. This week, Mark takes a closer look at some of the ideas and philosophies at work behind tracks that don't seem to need any changes.
Dollars and Sense by Jesse Medford
The newest addition to the Frontstretch family will take a look at the business side of NASCAR.
Truckin' Thursdays by Beth Lunkenheimer
Beth is back this year on a new night, but it's the same great commentary you've come to enjoy! This week, Beth previews Saturday afternoon's Truck Series race at Martinsville Speedway.
Both drivers were forced to go behind the wall for extensive repairs. Musgrave came back out and finished the race in 29th, 66 laps down. Pressley came back out as well, but pulled out later on. He was credited with a 34th-place finish, having completed 368 laps.
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:
Bowles-Eye View by Tom Bowles
Tom steps in for Matt McLaughlin, who's off this week, with a commentary that will get you thinking just a couple days before Martinsville. At the center of it all: the original Four-Time. Why is he not getting the breaks his teammate, Jimmie Johnson, seemingly earns every week?
Potts' Shots by John Potts
Fanning the Flames has become Potts' Shots, and John Potts is here to answer your questions in our weekly Fan Q & A. Do you have something you'd like to ask John? Don't sit on the sidelines! Send it to john.potts@frontstretch.com and you just may see your question in print next week!.
Professor Of Speed by Mark Howell
Our professor of racing history "has at it" with another column pertinent to the sport at large. This week, Mark takes a closer look at some of the ideas and philosophies at work behind tracks that don't seem to need any changes.
Dollars and Sense by Jesse Medford
The newest addition to the Frontstretch family will take a look at the business side of NASCAR.
Truckin' Thursdays by Beth Lunkenheimer
Beth is back this year on a new night, but it's the same great commentary you've come to enjoy! This week, Beth previews Saturday afternoon's Truck Series race at Martinsville Speedway.
-----------------------------
Talk back to the Frontstretch Newsletter!
Got something to say about an article you've seen in the newsletter? It's as easy as replying directly to this message or sending an email to editors@frontstretch.com. We'll take the best comments and publish them here!
©2012 Frontstretch.com
Talk back to the Frontstretch Newsletter!
Got something to say about an article you've seen in the newsletter? It's as easy as replying directly to this message or sending an email to editors@frontstretch.com. We'll take the best comments and publish them here!
©2012 Frontstretch.com
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