“…It doesn’t get us in the Chase yet, but it definitely helps with a win today and the win in Charlotte. I can’t wait for some of these other tracks coming up.” – Kasey Kahne after winning the LENOX Industrial Tools 301 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway – July 15, 2012

News & Views – Volume 35 For the week of July 16 – 22, 2012

Kasey Kahne is hitting his stride at a great time leading up to the Chase.  With his NHMS win, his second of the season, he’s now placed his team securely into the first wild card spot, giving his team a great chance to contend for the 2012 championship.


Expect the next seven events in the Race to the Chase to be intense with drivers chasing either their first win of the season or another win to advance their position for the first Chase race at Chicagoland in September. 


On Fan4Racing, we’ve brought this up before and in Sunday’s race I noticed it again. Have you noticed it too? There’s an intense competition going on between Tony Stewart’s SHR team and Denny Hamlin’s JGR team this season. When either team gets a win, the other team steps up their game for their next win. Currently, the Stewart/Addington team leads with three wins – along with Brad Keselowski – to the Hamlin/Grubb team with two so far. 


In the LENOX 301 race, Hamlin was the man on a mission, similar to Tony’s championship run in the 2011 Chase. Even with the mis-communication between crew chief and driver, Hamlin managed to pass several cars – on a “hard to pass” track – to the second place position – his four tires certainly helped his cause. It’s going to be fun to watch these teams in the next seven races as they compete for their best Chase position going into the final ten for the season.  Stay tuned.


This week the Nationwide and Camping World Truck series teams are headed to Chicagoland Speedway, while the Sprint Cup teams get a weekend off.  The truck teams will race Saturday night under the lights, and we’ll see the Nationwide teams race on Sunday afternoon.  


Let’s begin with news for today…


Sunday, July 22, 2012
2012 NNS STP 300 Race Results

Sadler in VL at Chicagoland Photo – Nam Y. Huh/AP

The current NNS points leader, Elliott Sadler, was able to hold off the dominating car of pole-sitter, Ricky Stenhouse Jr – who led the most laps – 135 of 200 – by 0.331 seconds to win the STP 300 at Chicagoland Speedway.


Sadler, who extends his points lead over Austin Dillon to 11-points and wins a $100,000 Dash4Cash bonus, received his third series win of the 2012 season, his eighth series career win and his first series win at Chicagoland Speedway.


Following Sadler and Stenhouse to the drop of the checkered flag were Justin Allgaier finishing third, Kenny Wallace fourth and Michael Annett finished fifth.


NNS Sunoco Rookie of the Year contender, Austin Dillon, finished in the sixth position, while Parker Kligerman finished seventh, Sam Hornish Jr eighth, rookie contender Cole Whitt ninth and Ryan Truex rounding out the top-ten finishing positions.


Race Notes
Average Speed – 130.929-mph
Time of Race – 2 hrs, 18 mins, 10 secs
Margin of Victory – 0.331 seconds
Lead Changes – 13 among 8 drivers
Cautions – 5 for 25 laps
Attendance – 25,000


Race Results
Point Standings


Next Up – The inaugural Indy 250 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Saturday, July 28th, with an approximate starting time of 4:50pm ET and television coverage provided by ESPN beginning with their 4:00pm ET pre-race show.


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


2012 NNS STP 300 Starting Lineup
After a rare Sunday morning qualifying session for the 2012 NNS STP 300 at Chicagoland Speedway, it was Ricky Stenhouse Jr with a lap speed of 176.916-mph, capturing the Coors Light Pole Award.


This was Stenhouse’s third series pole of the 2012 season, his seventh series career pole and his first series pole at Chicagoland Speedway.


Starting second on the outside pole with a lap speed of 176.783-mph, will be NNS Sunoco Rookie of the Year contender Austin Dillon, followed by Sam Hornish Jr 176.367-mph starting third, Kyle Busch 175.833 fourth and Parker Kligerman 175.804 will start fifth.


Rounding out the top-ten starting positions will be Brian Scott 175.667-mph starting from sixth, Mike Bliss 175.285 seventh, Cole Whitt 175.222 eighth, Ryan Truex 174.865 ninth and Brendan Gaughan 174.492 will start from the tenth position.


There were only 43 drivers/teams attempting to fill the 43 starting positions; therefore no one failed to make the starting lineup.


Weather permitting – as approaching rains may be upon the track around start time and force a delay – the 12th annual STP 300 is scheduled to get started at approximately 3:20pm ET this afternoon, and ESPN will begin their pre-race coverage at 2:00pm ET.


Race Lineup


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


Penske Racing to get Allmendinger’s drug screen results by Thursday
AJ Allmendinger’s test results on his “B Sample” will be known within 24-48 hours after Tuesday’s test, according to Bud Denker, Senior Vice President of Penske Corporation. Denker is in Edmonton for Sunday’s IZOD IndyCar Series Edmonton Indy and confirmed that the second test for the suspended NASCAR Sprint Cup driver of the No. 22 Shell/Pennzoil Dodge will be known prior to next Sunday’s first practice session for the Crown Royal at the Brickyard at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.


Read more from Motorsport.com


Saturday, July 21, 2012
2012 NCWTS American Ethanol 225 Race Results

Buescher in VL at Chicagoland Photo – Nam Y Huh/AP

With a two-lap dash to the finish, it was James Buescher holding off Brendan Gaughan by 0.247 seconds to win the 2012 NCWTS American Ethanol 225 at Chicagoland Speedway.


Buescher who came back after being two-laps down for a carburetor change, received his third series win of the 2012 season, his third series career win and his first win at Chicagoland Speedway.


Following Buescher and Gaughan to the drop of the checkered flag were last week’s winner, Timothy Peters – who now leads the point standings with a 23-point lead over Ty Dillon – finishing third, Matt Crafton fourth and pole-sitter Parker Kligerman finished fifth.


NCWTS Sunoco Rookie of the Year contender, Cale Gale finished in the sixth position, while Ron Hornaday Jr finished seventh, Jason Leffler eighth, Jason White ninth and David Starr rounding out the top-ten finishing positions.


Race Notes
Average Speed – 119.363-mph
Time of Race – 1 hr, 53 mins, 6 secs
Margin of Victory – 0.247-seconds
Lead Changes – 16 among 10 drivers
Cautions – 7 for 31 laps
Attendance – N/A


Race Results
Point Standings


Next Up – Teams take a weekend off before heading to Pocono Raceway for the 3rd annual Pocono Mountains 125 on Saturday, August 4th, with an approximate starting time of 1:20pm ET and television coverage provided by SPEED beginning  at 12:30pm ET.


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


2012 NCWTS American Ethanol 225 Starting Lineup
Justin Lofton, with a qualifying lap speed of 174.154-mph, recorded his first NCWTS career pole with winning the American Ethanol 225 Keystone Light Pole Award at Chicagoland Speedway. Note: Lofton did start from the “pole” for this past June’s Texas Motor Speedway event, but due to rain setting the field.


Sharing the front row and starting second with a qualifying lap speed of 173.997-mph, will be Joey Coulter followed by series Sunoco Rookie of the Year contender Ty Dillon 173.667 starting third, Timothy Peters 173.566 starting fourth and Jason Leffler 173.477 will start fifth.


Rounding out the top-ten starting positions will be Brendan Gaughan 173.349-mph who will start sixth, “The Onion,” Todd Bodine 173.310 seventh, rookie contender Cale Gale 173.288 eighth, Matt Crafton 173.094 ninth and Miguel Paludo 172.850 will start from tenth position.


Failing to make the starting lineup were the #74 driven by Mike Harmon and #65 Chris Lafferty.


The 4th annual American Ethanol 225 is set to get underway at approximately 8:20pm ET this evening and television coverage will be provided by SPEED beginning with their pre-race show at 7:30pm ET.


Starting Lineup


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


2012 NNS STP 300 Final Practice Session Speeds
In the closing minutes of the final NNS STP 300 practice session at Chicagoland Speedway, it was Parker Kligerman with a lap speed of 172.695-mph, posting the fastest lap  of the session.


Danica Patrick, with a lap speed of 172.601-mph, was the second fastest and was followed by NNS Sunoco Rookie of the Year contenders Austin Dillon 171.799-mp and Cole Whitt 171.641 who were third and fourth fastest respectively, and Kyle Busch 171.510 was the fifth fastest.


Rounding out the top-ten fastest during the “Happy Hour” – final – practice session were Brendan Gaughan 171.429-mph who was sixth fastest, Justin Allgaier 171.342 seventh, Michael Annett 171.227 eighth, Ryan Truex 170.568 ninth and Mike Bliss 170.503 posting the tenth fastest lap speed.


The teams will return Sunday morning for their 11:35am ET qualifying session to determine that afternoon’s STP 300 starting lineup. The race is scheduled to get underway around 3:20pm ET and ESPN will provide television coverage beginning with their 2:00pm ET pre-race show.


Final Practice Speeds
Qualifying Order


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


2012 NNS STP 300 First Practice Session Speeds
Kyle Busch with a lap speed of 171.450-mph, was the quickest during the first NNS STP 300 practice session at Chicagoland Speedway.


The current series points leader, Elliott Sadler with a lap speed of 171.021-mph, was second quickest and was followed by Sam Hornish Jr 170.951-mph who was third quickest, Ricky Stenhouse Jr 170.740 fourth and Parker Kligerman 170.622 was fifth quickest.


NNS Sunoco Rookie of the Year contender Cole Whitt 170.159-mph was sixth quickest, while Ryan Truex 170.025 was seventh quickest, rookie contender Austin Dillon 169.651 eighth, Brian Scott 169.634 ninth and James Buescher 169.566 rounds out the top-ten quickest during the session.


The teams will have their “Happy Hour” – final – practice session – weather permitting – this afternoon from 2pm to 3:20pm ET before returning Sunday morning for their 11:35 AM ET qualifying session.


The 12th annual STP 300 is scheduled to get underway around 3:20pm ET Sunday afternoon, and ESPN will provide television coverage beginning with their 2:00pm ET pre-race show.


First Practice Speeds


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


Andretti says Cup in 2013 ‘highly unlikely’
Michael Andretti says time is running out for his Indianapolis-based racing organization to join NASCAR for next season.


The owner of Andretti Autosport said it’s now “highly unlikely” that he’ll be involved with the Sprint Cup Series in 2013.


Read more from USA Today/Indianapolis Star


Friday, July 20, 2012
2012 NCWTS American Ethanol 225 Final Practice Session Speeds
Matt Crafton showed the fastest way around Chicagoland Speedway with a lap speed of 174.014-mph, during the final NCWTS American Ethanol 225 practice session.


Second fastest was Joey Coulter with a lap speed of 173.527-mph, and was followed by Justin Lofton 173.116-mph who was third fastest, Todd Bodine 172.961 fourth and Nelson Piquet Jr 172.938 was fifth fastest.


Rounding out the top-ten fastest during the “Happy Hour” – final – practice session were James Buescher 172.894-mph who was sixth fastest, Parker Kligerman 172.706 eighth, Jason Leffler 172.590 ninth and Ron Hornaday Jr 172.073 posting the tenth fastest lap speed.


The teams will return Saturday afternoon at 3:35pm ET for their scheduled qualifying session to determine the starting lineup for the 4th annual American Ethanol 225. The race is set to get underway at approximately 8:20pm ET Saturday evening, and television coverage will be provided by SPEED beginning with their pre-race show at 7:30pm ET.


Final Practice Speeds
Qualifying Order


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


2012 NCWTS American Ethanol 225 First Practice Session Speeds
Justin Lofton, with a lap speed of 174.132-mph, posted the quickest lap during the first NCWTS American Ethanol 225 at Chicagoland Speedway.


Second quickest with a lap speed of 173.762-mph, was Joey Coulter, and he was followed by Jason Leffler 173.433-mph who was third quickest, NCWTS Rookie of the Year contender Cale Gale 173.010 fourth quickest and Brendan Gaughan 172.900 was fifth quickest.


Rounding out the top-ten quickest during the session were Matt Crafton 172.491-mph who was sixth quickest, James Buescher 172.315 seventh, Miguel Paludo and Timothy Peters with the identical lap speed 172.068 eighth and ninth quickest respectively, and rookie contender Ty Dillon 172.013 posting the tenth quickest lap speed.


The teams will have their “Happy Hour” – final – practice session later this evening from 9:10 to 10:00pm ET before returning Saturday afternoon at 3:35pm ET for their scheduled qualifying session.


The 4th annual American Ethanol 225 is set to get underway at approximately 8:20pm ET Saturday evening, and SPEED will begin their television coverage with their pre-race show at 7:30pm ET.


First Practice Speeds


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


NASCAR Announces Groundbreaking Fan Event: ‘NASCAR Contenders Live’ 

Fans Have Opportunity to Interact with Top-12 Chase For The NASCAR Sprint Cup Drivers in Chicago, Enter Sweepstakes to Win 2012 Toyota Camry SE


Friday, at a press conference outside the House of Blues in Chicago, NASCAR announced the launch of the inaugural interactive fan event: NASCAR Contenders Live sponsored by Toyota and Sprint. The event will allow fans to interact directly with the 12 Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Contenders at the House of Blues on Wednesday, Sept. 12 at 1:30pm.


Present at the announcement of the launch were Joe Gibbs Racing driver of the No. 18 Toyota Camry Kyle Busch; Toyota National Manager of Motorsports and Engagement Marketing Keith Dahl; NASCAR Senior Director of Partnership Marketing Lou Garate; Chicagoland Speedway President Scott Paddock and 2012 Miss Sprint Cup Jaclyn Roney.


NASCAR Contenders Live sponsored by Toyota and Sprint will signify the start of the most intense and competitive time of the NASCAR season, the 2012 Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. The 12 Chase contenders will interact onstage with NASCAR’s biggest supporters – the fans – and share their strategies and insight on how they plan to win the ultimate prize: the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship.


This is an extremely rare opportunity for NASCAR fans as it will be the first time the top-12 Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers will be in one room at the same time answering fan questions.


In conjunction with the event launch, the first NASCAR Contenders Live sponsored by Toyota and Sprint Sweepstakes kicks off Friday by giving fans a chance to win an ultimate package that includes a 2012 Toyota Camry SE, two tickets to the first-ever NASCAR Contenders Live sponsored by Toyota and Sprint fan event, two VIP tickets and two VIP passes to attend the NASCAR Sprint Series race at Chicagoland Speedway on Sunday, Sept 16, a one-year subscription to SiriusXM Satellite radio and $500 cash.


Fans can visit NASCAR.com/ContendersLive to enter the “Contenders Live” Sweepstakes until Aug. 30th at 3pm ET. Additionally, fans can visit the site to purchase tickets to NASCAR Contenders Live sponsored by Toyota and Sprint beginning on July 27.


“NASCAR has the most passionate fans in all of sports,” said Norris Scott, NASCAR vice president of partnership marketing and business solutions. “What better way to kick-off the Chase than with an event that gives fans exclusive access inside a room with the sports’ top 12 drivers. This also serves as a unique program for Toyota and Sprint who support the sport heavily.”


“Contenders Live on September 12 provides Toyota with an exceptional platform from which to partner with NASCAR, and the visibility to interface with the sport’s enthusiastic fan base,” said Dahl. “Toyota has connected with fans in many different ways since we began competing in NASCAR in 2004, and this event will provide still another opportunity for fans to get a glimpse behind-the-scenes.”


“We always strive to deliver experiences to fans that create memories that will last a lifetime, and this event will do just that,” said Tim Considine, director of sports and entertainment marketing for Sprint. “NASCAR’s most important asset is the fans as they are the most loyal in all of sports. NASCAR Contenders Live will bring fans an incredible opportunity to interact with this season’s top drivers as we kick-off the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup in Chicago.”


“We are privileged to kick-off the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup in Chicago this September, and NASCAR Contenders Live will provide our fans with unprecedented access to the sport’s best and brightest as they begin their run towards the championship,” said Paddock. “The addition of Contenders Live to an already exhilarating Chase week lineup only adds to the excitement which culminates on Sunday with the GEICO 400 and the start of the Chase for the Sprint Cup.”


For tickets to this weekend’s American Ethanol 225 or the STP 300 on July 21-22 at Chicagoland Speedway or for tickets to the September 15-16 race weekend, visit ChicagolandSpeedway.com or call 1-888-629-RACE (7223). Single-day tickets are available, beginning at $25 in July and $40 in September.


From NASCAR-PR


Two-Time Academy Award-Winning Filmmaker Ron Howard to Drive ‘400’ Pace Car at IMS
Director of Upcoming Epic Action-Drama ‘Rush’ Visits Track as Guest of Four-Time IMS Winner Jeff Gordon


Two-time Academy Award-winning director Ron howard will drive the Pace Car and lead the field of NASCAR Sprint Cup Series superstars to the green flag at the Crown Royal Presents the Curtiss Shaver 400 at the Brickyard powered by BigMachineRecords.com on Sunday, July 29, at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, it was announced July 20.


Howard has become an entertainment legend as a director, producer and actor. He has directed worldwide blockbusters including “A Beautiful Mind,” “Angels & Demons,” “Apollo 13,” “Backdraft,” “Cinderella Man,” “Cocoon,” “Parenthood,” “Splash,” “The Da Vinci Code,” “Willow” and many more. He received Oscars for Best Director and Best Picture in 2001 for “A Beautiful Mind” and was nominated for Best Director in 2008 for “Frost/Nixon.”


Howard will be making his first visit to the historic speedway as a guest of, and to shadow, four-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jeff Gordon and his No. 24 Drive to End Hunger team.


Howard’s upcoming epic-action drama, “Rush,” stars Chris Hemsworth (“The Avengers”) as the charismatic Englishman James Hunt and Daniel Bruhl (“Inglorious Basterds”) as the disciplined Austrian perfectionist Niki Lauda, whose clashes on the Grand Prix race track epitomized the contrast between these two extraordinary characters, a distinction reflected in their private lives. “Rush” is currently in post-production and will be released in 2013.


“It’s a great honor to welcome a true legend, Ron Howard, to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the annual NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race,” said Jeff Belskus, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corporation president and chief executive officer. “Ron has become immersed in motorsports’ culture and history through the filming of ‘Rush,’ so he’s an ideal person to pace the field for one of NASCAR’s biggest races at ‘The Greatest Race Course in the World.'”


The Pace Car for the 19th annual NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at IMS will be announced soon.


“I’ve been a longtime admirer of Jeff’s work both on and off the track,” Howard said. “Not only is he a stellar driver, but his commitment to ending older hunger in America shows his passion for helping others. I’m honored to drive the Pace Car at IMS, and I thank NASCAR for giving me this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”


Howard made his screen acting debut when he was 18 months old in the 1956 movie “Frontier Woman,” which led to a role for Howard at the age of 2 in a stage production of “The Seven-Year Itch.”


He was introduced to America on a much grander scale at age 6 when in 1960 he was cast in the role of Opie Taylor on “The Andy Griffith Show,” which led to major motion-picture appearances in the “The Music Man” in 1962 and “The Courtship of Eddie’s Father” in 1963.


Following his run with “The Andy Griffith Show” that ended in 1968, Howard starred with Henry Fonda in “The Smith Family” before entering the University of Southern California’s film school in 1972. Howard’s role in the 1973 George Lucas film, “American Graffiti,” led him to the leading role of Richie Cunningham in the hit television sitcom “Happy Days” from 1974-84.


Additional film roles came Howard’s way, including a starring role in John Wayne’s final movie, “The Shootist,” in 1976 that wrapped in time for Howard to direct his first motion picture, “Grand Theft Auto,” in 1977.


Howard met Academy Award-winning producer Brian Grazer in 1981, and they produced and directed “Night Shift,” a comedy featuring Howard’s “Happy Days” co-star Henry Winkler. Two years later, the duo created the hit film “Splash,” starring Tom Hanks, Darryl Hannah and John Candy. Howard and Grazer created Imagine Films Entertainment, which produced such hit films as “Willow” (1988), “Parenthood” (1989), “Backdraft” (1989), “Apollo 13” (1995) and “Ransom” (1996), all directed by Howard.


IMS will be the epicenter of American stock car racing and North American sports car racing July 26-29, 2012, as the NASCAR Nationwide Series and Grand-Am Road Racing will join the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series for four exciting races during the inaugural Kroger Super Weekend at the Brickyard.


It will be the first time in IMS history that races will take place on the 2.5-mile oval and 2.534-mile Grand Prix road course during the same weekend, and Grand-Am Road Racing and the NASCAR Nationwide Series will make their IMS racing debuts, respectively, Friday, July 27 and Saturday, July 28. The weekend will culminate Sunday, July 29, with the running of the 19th annual Crown Royal Presents the Curtiss Shaver at the Brickyard powered by BigMachineRecords.com.


From Indianapolis Motor Speedway-PR


Revolutionary HANS Adjustable Announced
HANS Performance Products, the inventors of the head and neck restraint, todya announced the HANS Adjustable – a revolutionary new safety device.


The HANS Adjustable, which meets the SFI Foundation’s Spec 38.1 for head and neck restraints, enables all drivers to purchase a HANS with full confidence of a comfortable fit no matter what type of car or racing seat they use. Previously, customers ordered a HANS Device in a fixed angle according to the driver’s physical size and type of seating position in the car – such as an upright seat in stock cars or a reclined seat in open-wheels machines.


“Because it’s adjustable in five-degree increments, this new HANS will improve the fit and comfort for all racers.” said HPP co-founder Jim Downing. “Our goal is to bring the award-winning safety of HANS to all drivers in any type of car, especially the weekend warriors who too often put themselves and their families at risk.”


A study conducted by the Charlotte Observer found that racing deaths in the US actually increased in the decade after Dale Earnhardt Sr’s fatal accident at Daytona in 2001 due to fatalities on weekly short tracks and drag strips.


“We believe the new HANS is going to create another revolution in head and neck restraints, especially for the weekend warrior,” said Downing. “For over a decade, the HANS has demonstrated its ground-breaking safety technology all over the world in all types of crashes, including multiple impacts and oblique impacts. The HANS Adjustable is another huge step forward. There’s no reason why every driver should not be wearing a HANS head and neck restraint.


The HANS Adjustable is eligible for use in most US racing series. NASCAR, which conducts its own evaluations, currently has the HANS Adjustable under consideration for approval. After passing all the required strength tests, the new device is under final consideration by the safety committee of the FIA, the international sanctioning body.


Priced at $795, the HANS Adjustable sustains HPP’s reputation as a leader in motor racing safety technology. The new device is made by an injection molded process using a metal alloy before a fire-resistant nylon coating is applied. Metal fasteners that employ Spiralock technology enable a driver to adjust the legs of the HANS to alter the angle of the collar in five-degree increments. A detailed description of the latest HANS and technical details can be found here.


The new device joins a product line including the HANS Professional, used by pro drivers worldwide, and the HANS Sport II models. 


From HANS Performance Products-PR


National Guard urged to prove value of sponsorships
The National Guard Association’s president says the Guard must do a better job of proving the value of its sports sponsorships, including with Dale Earnhardt Jr. in NASCAR, or it should get out of them.


Read more from USA Today


Junior expands brand beyond racing
Nestled in a garage at Charlotte Motor Speedway, a makeshift set provides the backdrop for Dale Earnhardt Jr’s latest commercial shoot for the Nationwide Insurance “Join the Nation” campaign.


Read more from FOX Sports


NASCAR official speaks at White House event
A White House event on sports and sustainability Thursday morning showcased many of NASCAR’s green initiatives over the past several years.


Mike Lynch, the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing’s managing director of green innovation, participated in a panel discussion with three other professional sports officials. Lynch is based at NASCAR’s headquarters in Daytona Beach.


Read more from News-Journal Online


German Quiroga: NASCAR Mexico champ to run Trucks with KBM
Three-time NASCAR Mexico Series champion German Guiroga will run four races in the NASCAR Truck Series this season with Kyle Busch Motorsports beginning with the Oct 6 race at Talladega, AL.


Read more from News Observer


Thursday, July 19, 2012
In wake-up call, teams must forget politics, figure out why sponsors are leaving
NASCAR survived a major scare Wednesday thanks to a 216-202 vote in the House of Representatives that will allow the military to continue sponsoring race teams.


To some, it’s a time to celebrate and a time to label the politicians who championed the ban on military sponsorships as jerks.


But his is not a time for a lot of congratulations and pats on the back for surviving another round with Congress, or for name-calling by NASCAR fans that staunchly opposed the amendment that might have forced the National Guard and other military sponsors out of the sport.


Read more from Sporting News


Bodine Makes History Times Three in Saturday’s Truck Series Race at Chicagoland
Youngest member of famed racing family gunning for second win of 2012 live on SPEED.


What exactly is in a number?


While success in NASCAR relies heavily on numbers and stats, for two-time NASCAR Camping World Truck Series champion Todd Bodine, the true significance of a number is found when multiplied by three.


The No. 11 Red Horse Racing driver makes history in Saturday’s Truck Series race at Chicagoland Speedway – live at 8pm ET on SPEED; NCWTS Setup with Krista Voda live at 7:30pm ET – because not only does he mark his 200th Truck Series start, he earns the distinction as the only driver with at least 200 starts in each of NASCAR’s three national series.


Get your calculators out because that’s 200 Truck Series starts, 241 NASCAR Sprint Cup and 325 NASCAR Nationwide Series starts for a grand total of 766, placing Bodine 20th all-time in combined NASCAR national series starts.


“You get into this sport because you love it, want to go in circles, win races and have fun, and her we are 21 years later with all these starts, and a lot of wins, good times and great friends,” Bodine said. “It seems just like yesterday I was running my first race at Stafford Springs.”


Although he fell shy of winning with a fourth-place finish in his Truck Series debut for Jack Roush at Topeka in 1995, Bodine has a bull’s eye on Victory Lane in his 200th start. The stats are in his favor too, as he owns a pair of runner-up finishes in three Truck Series starts at Chicagoland, in addition to one pole each in the Truck, Nationwide and Cup Series. Bodine, who won at Dover this year, says a win this weekend would carry a little more weight than most victories.


“While winning on Saturday is high on his list, Bodine, who owns 22 Truck victories, points to a moment that helped define the entire Bodine racing family as the highlight of his career.


“Winning the first – Truck – championship was pretty special for me and more special for my family being that at the time, it was the only championship we had,” recalled the youngest of NASCAR’s three Bodine brothers. “Then to come back and get another one – championship – really was validation that we didn’t luck into our first one but were good enough to do it again.”


“His championship meant the world to the Bodine family and all the fans who watched Geoff and Brett try so desparately to get one,” SPEED reporter Ray Dunlap said. “Beyond that, everyone loves working with Todd not only because of his great personality but also because of his grasp of racing and his commitment to it. He’s a joy to work with and there are some drivers you wouldn’t say that about.”


Bodine’s truck owner, Tom DeLoach, has been thoroughly pleased with his new hire for the No. 11 Red Horse Racing Toyota.


“Todd’s background lifts the bar,” DeLoach said. “He has a different insight. The organization says, ‘We’ve got to perform a little better because this guy knows what he’s looking for.’ We’ve got a senior driver who knows what the feel ought to be, and frankly, I think it has helped Timothy – Peters, teammate and series points leader – …Instead of Timothy comparing himself against a rookie in the organization, now he gets to compare himself against a two-time champion.”


When asked if there is something he has yet to accomplish that would complete his career, Bodine readily mentions the void in his Cup Series points race win column.


“I won two Winston Opens, but to not have that points-race win is pretty disappointing,” he stated. “I came close two times. We had a lot of great runs but never got it done. That’s the one thing that’s lacking.”


Perhaps a more realistic goal for the 48-year-old driver at this stage in his 26-year NASCAR career would be matching or surpassing Rick Crawford’s record of 334 all-time Truck starts. Does Bodine have another 134 starts in him?


“I’d like to have that,” the New York native said of Crawford’s numbers. “I feel like I’ve got another 10 years left … Three-hundred and thirty-four is doable.”


And when those hypothetical 10 years or so have come and gone and Bodine finally hangs up his helmet, he hopes his biggest legacy has nothing to do with a race car or truck.


“The one thing our parents instilled in us, and to me is very important, is that I was a good guy, a good person, honest, treated everybody fairly and would help anybody with anything I could help them with,” Bodine expressed.


Spoken like a true champ, both on and off the track…


From SPEED-PR


NASCAR Selects Ogilvy & Mather as Advertising Agency of Record
NASCAR today concluded a comprehensive agency review that spanned nearly four months, by selecting Ogilvy & Mather as Agency of Record – AOR – to service the sport’s evolving advertising and marketing needs. The agency will help NASCAR and the industry to execute a Five-Year Industry Action Plan to engage and excite existing fans, while creating new ones.


NASCAR embarked on a review to secure a class-leading, full-service advertising agency in early 2012 in order to expand the sport’s marketing efforts and provide an integrated solution to help NASCAR grow its audience in Youth, Gen Y and Hispanic. As AOR, Ogilvy & Mather’s responsibilities will also target segmentation, brand vision/storytelling, media strategy, promotions and support for the growing NASCAR Digital team.


NASCAR received 110 inquiries and 75 sets of credentials from a host of agencies of all sizes and expertise. The list was carefully analyzed and narrowed to a field of fewer than 10 firms, each of which were visited by a cross-functional team of executives from key business areas across NASCAR. In June, a trio of finalists – Leo Burnett, Ogilvy & Mather and McCann Erickson North America – presented to a group of senior leaders, including NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France.


“Significant changes in our ecosystem impacted how we deliver our message and position our brand to existing fans while increasing the appeal of NASCAR to new audiences,” said Kim Brink, NASCAR managing director of brand consumer and series marketing. “We were thoroughly impressed with the caliber of all three finalists; but Ogilvy’s consistency, creativity and dynamic leadership were the key differentiators. We’re delighted to join the agency’s roster of big consumer brands.”


“We view NASCAR as a lighthouse brand,” said John Seifert, chairman and CEO of Ogilvy & Mather North America. “The sport blends marquee stars, jewel events, and some of the fiercest competition on the planet with an intricate ecosystem comprised of historic tracks and compelling personalities. From the beginning of the agency review process, it was clear to us that NASCAR was looking for a true business partner. We firmly believe that NASCAR is a valuable tool in the marketing mix and a place where big brands get high return on investment. We couldn’t be more proud to add the sport to our portfolio of global brands.”


Ogilvy & Mather will complete a comprehensive on-boarding process in 2012, as the agency prepares to help NASCAR launch a new brand platform at the 55th running of the Daytona 500 in February 2013.


From NASCAR-PR


Military to continue sports spending
NASCAR and bass fishing can count on the military to keep the sponsorship money coming.


The house voted Wednesday night to continue spending millions for the military to back sports to attract recruits for the all-volunteer force.  On a vote of 216 – 202, the House rejected an amendment by Reps. Jack Kingston, R-GA and Betty McCollum, D-MN, that would have trimmed $72.3 million for sports sponsorships from a $608 billion defense bill for fiscal 2013.


Read more from ESPN/Associated Press


Wednesday, July 18, 2012
JJ Yeley moving to Tommy Baldwin Racing
Wednesday morning at 7:09am, JJ Yeley tweeted, “Making some positive changes for the remainder of 2012. Moving over to TBR.”


From @jjyeley1


Jimmie Johnson Wins Third Quarterly Driver of the Year Award
Jimmie Johnson on Wednesday was named the Driver of the Year Award winner for the second-quarter of 2012 racing season.


The award, which was voted upon by an elite panel of 18 broadcasters and journalists, covered racing in American-based series during the period running from April 22nd to July 1st.


Read more from Racin’ Today


Fans Get Chance to Ride Shotgun with Dale Earnhardt Jr
Ask a group of NASCAR fans whom they’d most like to ‘ride shotgun’ with at a race track and chances are, most of them will say Dale Earnhardt Jr – NASCAR’s nine-time most popular driver.


On October 15, 2012, thanks to Lionel NASCAR Collectables – LNC – and the Racing Collectables Club of American – RCCA – one lucky fan will get to do just that.


The ‘Dale Jr Ride of Your Life!’ sweepstakes kicks off Wednesday, July 18th. Fans can enter to win by logging on to LionelNASCAR.com/ridewithdalejr and answering a NASCAR-themed trivia question. The jam-packed grand prize includes:

• Three laps around the track with Dale Earnhardt Jr at Charlotte Motor Speedway on October 15
• Dale Jr autographed exclusive skeleton gloves
• Two tickets to the NASCAR Nationwide Series race on October 12 with VIP area tour prior to race
• Two tickets to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on October 13
• Question and Answer session with Dale Jr, followed by autograph and photograph opportunity
• Food and beverage at the Ride Along event
• One room, three-night stay at Hampton Inn and Suites
• DVD of this once-in-a-lifetime experience
• VIP Swag Bag

Ryan Blaney to Race in Penske Racing No. 22 NNS Dodge this Season
Penske Racing announced Tuesday that third-generation race car driver Ryan Blaney has joined the organization and he will compete in the No. 22 Dodge in selected NASCAR Nationwide Series events over the balance of the 2012 season.


Blaney, the 18-year-old son of current Sprint Cup Series driver Dave Blaney, will make his Penske Racing debut in the No. 22 Discount Tire Dodge Challenger in the Nationwide Series race at Iowa Speedway on Saturday, August 4th. Blaney will also drive for the team in at least two other races this season. He will race the No. 22 Snap-on Dodge at Richmond International Raceway and he’ll drive the No. 22 Discount Tire Dodge at Kentucky Speedway.


“Ryan is a driver with a great pedigree and we believe he has a very bright future in NASCAR,” said Tim Cindric, President of Penske Racing. “We’ve been keeping an eye on Ryan’s development and we feel he’ll be a great addition to the No. 22 Nationwide Series team.”


With a winning junior development track record established in Quarter Midgets, Bandolero and Legends cars, Blaney has also raced successfully in Super Late Models and the ARCA Series as well as the NASCAR K&N Pro Series. Continuing his development in 2012, Blaney has made three Nationwide Series starts this season for Tommy Baldwin Racing and he was impressive in a seventh-place finish at Richmond earlier this year.


“I’m very excited about the opportunity to drive for Penske Racing for the rest of this season,” said Blaney. “With the team’s strong tradition of success and the winning program they’ve established in the Nationwide Series, I believe I can learn a lot and hopefully we can produce some strong finishes in the No. 22 car.”


Penske Racing is one of the most successful teams in the history of professional sports. Competing in a variety of disciplines, cars owned and prepared by Penske Racing have produced 359 major race wins, 419 pole positions and 23 National Championships. 


From Penske Racing-PR


Cabarrus YMCS camp lets youngsters suit up and take the wheel at CMS
A group of seven local kids suited up, got strapped in and drove Bandolero cars around one of the tracks at Charlotte Motor Speedway as they participated in a different kind of camp this week.


The camp was the second of four sessions this summer that have been put on through a partnership between Cannon Memorial YMCA and Charlotte Motor Speedway.


Read more from Independent Tribune


One In Five Fortune 500 Companies Invest in NASCAR
More Fortune 500 companies are involved in NASCAR than in 2008, according to recent review of brands currently using the sport to drive business. 


The analysis looked at companies that either sponsor NASCAR teams, tracks, the sanctioning body, or are media partners. The number of current Fortune 500 companies invested in NASCAR – 114 – remains higher than any other sport. 


In 2012 alone, more than 24 brands entered the sport, including a handful of Fortune 500 companies. 


“Some of the world’s most profitable and successful corporations choose NASCAR to help drive their businesses,” said Brian France, NASCAR chairman and CEO


“These companies bring a great amount of rigor to where they make investments. This is especially true when it comes to marketing – and the sponsorship channel in particular – where they are looking for strong return on investment.”


Although being a Fortune 500 company is the gold standard of success for publicly-traded companies in the United States, there are several global corporations currently involved in NASCAR that were not included in the review because they do not meet Fortune’s domestic criteria. 


“There are more opportunities for companies to become involved as sponsors in NASCAR now than there were four years ago, when there was a different dynamic in both the economy and chief marketing officer for NASCAR.


To be eligible for the Fortune 500, a company must be based in the US and be publicly traded. The companies in consideration actively utilize NASCAR as a marketing vehicle through a team, track or NASCAR official sponsorship, licensing agreement and/or a media partnership.


From NASCAR-PR


Tuesday, July 17, 2012
NASCAR releases timeline of Allmendinger events
NASCAR has been informed by the NASCAR Substance Abuse Policy program administrator – Dr. David Black of Aegis Sciences Corportation – that the test of AJ Allmending’s B sample will take place on Tuesday, July 24. The test will be conducted in Nashville, TN, at Aegis headquarters, per the NASCAR rule book.


Review of timeline
 – On June 29, Allmendinger, driver of the No. 22 car in the Sprint Cup Series, was randomly tested by Aegis at the NASCAR event in Kentucky, per Section 19-6C.
 – On July 4, the program administrator – PA – sent a positive “A” sample test result to the program’s medical review officer – MRO – Dr. Douglas Aukerman, MD, and on July 5, Aegis sent final paperwork to the MRO, per Section 19-11, which allows him to begin his review.
 – On July 6, the MRO and competitor exchanged phone messages.
 – On July 7, the MRO connected by phone with Allmendinger and informed him of the positive “A” test. The MRO also informed him he could choose to have the “B” sample tested, per Section 19-11A, B. 
 – Later that day, July 7, the MRO notified NASCAR of the positive “A” test, and NASCAR temporarily suspended the NASCAR member, as stated in Section 19-11B(6,7).
 – Allmendinger officially notified the MRO on July 9 of his request to have his “B” sample tested, which was within the allotted 72-hour window from the time he was informed that his “A” sample was positive, per Section 19-11B.
 – Once a member requests to have the “B” sample tested, NASCAR’s substance abuse policy provides its members up to 30 business days to have the “B” sample test conducted and results finalized, per Sec. 19-11B(5). These 30 days are designed to provide the member with reasonable time to prepare to attend the “B” sample test or be represented by a qualified toxicologist, per Sec. 19-11B(2).
 – On July 17, the PA informed NASCAR that Allmendinger made the decision to select July 24 for the “B” test and has designated an independent toxicologist to be present on his behalf.


By Official Release/NASCAR.com


Allmendingers ‘B’ sample test set for July 24
AJ Allmendinger will send his own expert toxicologist to the July 24 test of the ‘B’ urine sample collected June 29 under NASCAR’s substance abuse policy, Allmendinger’s business manager, Tara Ragan, confirmed Tuesday.


Read more from NASCAR Wire Service/NASCAR.com


B Sample Test Set for Allmendinger
Statement from Tara Ragan, Vice President, Walldinger Racing Inc.


“We now have a confirmed date for the testing of AJ’s “B” – split specimen – Sample. The test will take place on Tuesday, July 24 at 8am CDT and be conducted at the Aegis Analytical Laboratories in Nashville. Pursuant to the 2012 NASCAR Rulebook and in line with the procedures, we have elected to have a designated independent toxicologist present on AJ’s behalf. Along with everyone else, we are looking forward to hearing the results as quickly as possible. AJ and all of us at Walldinger Racing have truly appreciated the outpouring of support from our fans, partners, and colleagues. It has meant a lot to us during this difficult time. We are also grateful to Mr. Penske and his management team for their patience and respect of the process we are going through.” – Tara Ragan, Vice President, Walldinger Racing Inc.


From Walldinger Racing Inc-PR


Chad Norris Named Crew Chief of No. 99 Fastenal Sprint Cup Team
Bob Osborne is transitioning away from his role as crew chief of the No. 99 Fastenal Sprint Cup team at Roush Fenway Racing, team owner Jack Roush announced Tuesday. Roush Fenway veteran Chad Norris will be the crew chief for the No. 99 effective immediately. Osborne will remain with the organization as a senior member of the organization’s management team and steering committee.


“I have had the pleasure of working with Carl Edwards for the past nine years and, during that time, my focus has been building a championship-caliber program,” Osborne said. “I’m proud of the 18 wins we’ve had together in Sprint Cup Series competition and our two second-place points finishes.”


“At this time in my life, however, concerns with my health have necessitated that I change my role within the organization,” Osborne added. “This transition is not an easy one, but I’m thankful to have the full support of Jack, Carl and the entire organization. I also have every confidence in Chad Norris, and I look forward to working with him as we continue to pursue a championship in 2012. I also appreciate the privacy and respect that the community will give me and my family during this difficult time.”


Osborne was Edwards’s first crew chief for his Sprint Cup debut in 2004, and the two have combined for 18 wins and two runner-up finishes in season-ending Sprint Cup Series point standings.


“I cannot say enough good things about Bob Osborne,” added driver Carl Edwards. “I’m so thankful for what he’s done for me as a driver, and he is without a doubt one of the smartest guys in the sport. I’m also appreciative of the fact that he’ll continue to be a resource for me and our team as we focus on these final races. We’re very fortunate to have Chad Norris as part of our organization to take over for the No. 99. I’ve known Chad for a long time and he is a fierce competitor. We’ve got our work cut out for us over the next seven races, and I’ve got every confidence Chad can lead our team to where we need to be.”


Norris has been with Roush Fenway Racing since 2005, and since 2011 has led Roush Fenway’s research and development test program that has seen him serve as crew chief for Ricky Stenhouse Jr, in his limited Sprint Cup Series schedule and Trevor Bayne in his limited Nationwide Series schedule.


Norris’ first role as crew chief at Roush Fenway came in 2005 with the No. 17 Nationwide Series team. In his eight years with Roush Fenway, Norris has led multiple teams to victory lane, including Bayne’s inaugural Nationwide Series win at Texas Motor Speedway in November of 2011.


“Our commitment to winning a championship with the No. 99 in 2012 has not waivered,” said team owner Jack Roush. “I’m committed to providing the resources to Carl and to his team to do that, and this restructuring of Bob’s role and the introduction of Chad Norris as the crew chief for the No. 99 will put us in the best possible position for these final seven races before the Chase begins.”


From Roush Fenway Racing-PR


NASCAR, leagues ask Speaker to intervene on bill
NASCAR has joined with other major sports leagues in sending an open letter to the Speaker of the House in an attempt to table an amendment that would restrict branches of the military from using sports sponsorships as a recruitment tool.

Read more from NASCAR.com


Monday, July 16, 2012
Congratulations to the Newmans’
At 12:20pm Monday, Ryan Newman announced via twitter… “Krissie and I welcomed Ashlyn Olivia today at 12:20pm. Mom and baby are doing well.”


From @RyanNewman39


Is Amber Cope, Kevin Harvick Battle a Boon to NASCAR?
Rookie NASCAR driver Amber Cope is the object of criticism from racing star Kevin Harvick and many of his fans who say she got in Harvick’s way during NASCAR’s Nationwide Series race on Saturday at New Hampshire Motor Speedway and cost him a win.


Read more from Wall Street Journal


Jeff Gordon to help open cancer center in Rwanda during off week
Jeff Gordon will spend part of his off week at the opening of a cancer wing at a hospital. 


It won’t be the first time he’s done that through the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation. It will be the first time he does it, though, in Rwanda.


Read more from Sporting News


Richard Childress Racing Minority Partner Considering Selling Equity Position
Richard Childress Racing has advised its employees, drivers and key sponsors that Chartwell Investments is considering exiting its minority equity position at RCR.


“Since 2003, I have had a minority partner at RCR in Chartwell Investments,” said Richard Childress, president and CEO of Richard Childress Racing. “Like any private equity business, Chartwell has a duty to its investors to return capital and maximize profits in a reasonable timeframe. With my support, they have determined that now is an appropriate time to exit their investment in RCR. Chartwell has been a great partner and I will always be appreciative of our partnership. We will remain good friends.


“We have informed the key people and sponsors of RCR about Chartwell’s decision and assured them this will have no impact on the current affairs at RCR or our continued vision for strong performance on and off the track.  We have advised them that if a new investor comes on board as RCR’s new partner they will be strategically chosen to help RCR continue to grow. Our family of corporate partners has all been very appreciative of our letting them know and remain committed to moving forward. I love what I do and plan to be involved in NASCAR and in running RCR for many years to come.”


“RCR is one of the elite NASCAR organizations and we are honored to be a part of the RCR family and partners with racing icon Richard Childress for close to ten years,” said Michael Shein, Managing Partner of Chartwell Investments. “During this period, RCR has continued to prosper, more than doubling the size of its business. We are equally optimistic about RCR’s future performance both on and off the track, remaining confident in NASCAR’s long-term potential. We have engaged The Raine Group to explore the potential sale of our interest in RCR in order to monetize our investment.”


The Raine Group is a global merchant bank focused exclusively on the digital, media & entertainment and sports & lifestyle sectors.


From Richard Childress Racing-PR


Bonus NASCAR! More than 20 teams expected for July 30 tire test
Michigan International Speedway will be the center of NASCAR on Monday, July 30 when Goodyear holds a one-day tire test for all NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams.


The best drivers will once again descend on the Irish Hills to continue their preparations for the Pure Michigan 400. It is expected that more than 20 teams will take advantage of the extra time.


“This test will help Goodyear select a tire that is more compatible with the fast Michigan racing surface, and improve an already competitive race weekend from start to finish,” NASCAR Vice President of Competition Robin Pemberton said, “Goodyear invited a majority of teams to Michigan, and we’ll work together on all elements to put on the best show possible for our fans.”


The track will open the Turn 1 Grandstands from 9am to 5pm on July 30 for fans to watch the test free of charge.


“This is a unique opportunity for fans to see the drivers again test the repaved racing surface,” MIS President Roger Curtis said. “We expect to see numerous drivers and teams continue to prepare for the upcoming Pure Michigan 400. The test falls at a perfect time for our fans as they get a chance to see cars on track between our two races.”


Testing times, track schedule and drivers are subject to change due to weather or other circumstances.


Fans are asked to park in Lot 10 off US 12 and enter the grandstands through Gate 17, just behind the water tower. The restroom facilities will be open and concession stands will be available. Fans are also allowed to bring in coolers that meet the MIS grandstand gate policies for any race weekend.


From Michigan International Speedway-PR


That’s a First! Kahne Wins 20th annual LENOX Industrial Tools 301
Denny Hamlin’s car was good. Real good. But in the end it still wasn’t good enough to catch Kasey Kahne, who picked up his first-career NASCAR Sprint Cup Series win a “The Magic Mile” on Sunday in the 20th annual LENOX Industrial Tools 301.


With his second victory of the season, Kahne now moves into the top Wild-Card spot for one of the final two spots in the Chase for the championship.


“The luck changed today – I will take them any way I can,” said Kahne, who won at Charlotte Motor Speedway back in May. “It feels good to finish one off today.”


Kahne celebrated in Victory Lane with “Loudon the Lobster,” an 18-pound crustacean that was caught 150 miles off the coast of Maine. “Loudon” was presented to Kahne by 12-year-old Ella Lange of Bedford, NH.


Kahne’s previous best New Hampshire finish was fourth in 2004.


Clint Bowyer, Dale Earnhardt Jr and Brad Keselowski round out the top-five.


Hamlin – second – posted his ninth top-ten finish in 13 races at NHMS. It’s his 10th top-ten finish of 2012. A second-career win a NHMS looked very realistic for much of the race, as Hamlin led a race-high 150 laps. But a mis-communication between Hamlin and Crew Chief Darian Grubb during a late caution led to a four-tire change rather than a two, and the No. 11 FedEx Freight Toyota was forced to play catch-up for the final 50 laps.


“We had a little mis-communication, and that one little mistake cost us the race today,” said Hamlin. “We didn’t get the trophy and we missed out on three points, but that was it. When we come back again in September we will be pretty strong.”


Bowyer knows all about strong Septembers. Bowyer has two wins in September at NHMS, and his third-place finish on Sunday gives him four top-fives in 14 starts at “The Magic Mile.”


“It’s a humbling sport, you go from a win to getting knocked out of the next couple of races,” said Bowyer, who followed his win at Sonoma with a 16th at Kentucky and a 29th last week at Daytona. “It feels good to reach the podium.”


While Hendrick failed to have another driver other than Kahne reach the podium, it was a strong overall day for Hendrick, with, with Earnhardt, Jeff Gordon – sixth and Jimmie Johnson – seventh all finishing inside the top-ten.


“We run better at this track for whatever reason the second time in the season,” said Earnhardt, who now sits 16 points behind Matt Kenseth for the points lead. “I like coming here and I love running here.”


The Cup Series will return to New Hampshire on September 23 for the SYLVANIA 300, the second race in the Chase for the championship.


From New Hampshire Motor Speedway


Feel free to express your views of this week’s news.  As always, Thanks for reading and participating. 

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“I’d trade ’em all for one Daytona 500.” – Tony Stewart after winning the Coke Zero 400 at Daytona International Speedway July 7, 2012

News & Views – Volume 34 For the week of July 9 – 15, 2012

The records keep racking up with Tony Stewart becoming second only to Dale Earnhardt Sr – 34 wins – with his 18th Daytona win this weekend. And similar to Dale Sr, Tony is finding the Daytona 500 win ever-so-elusive. 


But Tony also broke Bill Elliott’s record by charging from 42nd at the start of the race to first by the checkered flag. In 1988 Bill Elliott’s charge to the win was from the 38th position. 


With only eight races left in the Race to the Chase, the wild card spots are heating up and will be fun to watch who steps up their game in the next few weeks. Game On!  


The Nationwide and Sprint Cup teams are headed to Loudon, NH for their races on Saturday and Sunday afternoon, respectively.  The Camping World Truck series teams are  back in Iowa this weekend for their Saturday night race under the lights. Looks alike another great weekend of racing is shaping up!


Let’s begin with news for today…


Sunday, July 15, 2012
2012 NSCS LENOX Industrial Tools 301 Race Results

Kahne w/Lobstah at NHMS Photo – Todd Warshaw/Getty Images

Outside pole-sitter for Sunday’s 2012 NSCS LENOX Industrial Tools 301 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Kasey Kahne, held off Denny Hamlin – who led the most laps – 150 of 301 – by 2.738-seconds for the victory at “the Magic Mile.”


This was Kahne’s 2nd series win of the 2012 season, his 14th series career win and his 1st series win at New Hampshire.


Following Kahne and Hamlin at the drop of the checkered flag were Clint Bowyer finishing third, Dale Earnhardt Jr – now sits 16-points behind the series points leader, Matt Kenseth who finished 13th – fourth and Brad Keselowski finished fifth.


Rounding out the top-ten finishing positions were Jeff Gordon coming in sixth, Jimmie Johnson seventh, Kevin Harvick eighth, Greg Biffle ninth and Ryan Newman finishing in the tenth position.


Race Notes 
Average Speed – 116.226-mph
Time of Race – 2 hrs, 44 mins, 24 secs
Margin of Victory – 2.738 seconds
Lead Changes – 16 among 8 drivers
Cautions – 3 for 15 laps
Attendance – 95,000


Race Results
Point Standings


Next Up – The series will take a weekend off before they tangle with Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Brickyard 400 on Sunday, July 29th, with the green flag set to drop around 1:20pm ET. Television coverage for the rest of the season will be provided by ESPN – and ESPN on ABC – and they will start off their coverage with their 12:00pm ET pre-race show.


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


Wild Card Question Is a Big One
The wild-card is getting…well…wild.


Two drivers within one racing organization – Joe Gibbs Racing – currently hold the two wild-card invitations to the Chase for the Sprint Cup. But eight races remain until they are officially presented, and much can change between now and then.


Read more from SPEED


Penske’s phone is ringing while Allmendinger awaits fate
Penske Racing hasn’t been in touch with NASCAR about AJ Allmendinger since his temporary suspension, but many drivers are trying to get in touch with the Sprint Cup team.


Penske Racing president Tim Cindric said the phone began ringing not long after Allmendinger was yanked from the No. 22 Dodge hours before the Coke Zero 400 at Daytona International Speedway.


Read more from USA Today


Saturday, July 14, 2012
NCWTS – Iowa Speedway Notes ‘n Nuggets

• Timothy Peters earned his fourth career victory in his 127th start
• Three of Timothy Peters’ four career victories have come on short tracks
• Timothy Peters is the eighth different winner of 2012
• Timothy Peters worst finish this season is 11th at Texas and this is his first career win from the pole
• Timothy Peters becomes the fourth different winner in four races at Iowa
• Red Horse Racing scored its third victory in 2012, eighth Truck Series victory and first win at Iowa
• Toyota earned its second victory at Iowa and fourth of 2012
• Ron Hornaday – second – scored his best Iowa finish in his fourth start. This is only his second top-five finish of the season.
• Matt Crafton – third – has top-ten finishes in all four Iowa races. This is his fifth top-ten finish of 2012 including the past four
• Johnny Sauter – fourth – is the only driver to finish in the top-five in all four races at Iowa. This is his fourth top-ten of the season including the past three
• Justin Lofton – fifth – has top-ten finishes in eight of the nine races this season. This is his first Iowa top-ten in this third start
• Jason Leffler – sixth – earned his fourth consecutive top-ten of the season
• Ty Dillon – seventh – has top-ten finishes in the past 11 races
• James Buescher finished 30th after leading 91 laps – most. He is now fourth in points, 40 behind Timothy Peters
• Jeff Choquette – 11th, Justin Jennings – 23rd, Travis Miller – 31st all made their Truck Series debuts

2012 NCWTS American Ethanol 200 Race Results

Timothy Peters at Iowa Photo – Charlie Neibergall/AP

NCWTS American Ethanol 200 pole-sitter, Timothy Peters, was able to hold off series veteran Ron Hornaday Jr – by 1.586 seconds – to bring home the victory at Iowa Speedway.


With the victory, Peters received his first series win of the 2012 season, his fourth series career win, his first series win at Iowa Speedway and extends his points lead – from a 3-point lead – to a 12-point lead over Justin Lofton.


Following Peters and Hornaday to the drop of the checkered flag were Matt Crafton finishing third, Johnny Sauter fourth and Justin Lofton finished in fifth.


Rounding out the top-ten finishing positions were Jason Leffler who finished sixth, NCWTS Rookie of the Year contender, Ty Dillon seventh, Joey Coulter eighth, Nelson Piquet Jr ninth and Parker Kligerman finishing in the tenth position.


Race Notes 
Average Speed – 96.419-mph
Time of Race – 1 hrs, 48 mins, 54 secs
Margin of Victory – 1.586 seconds
Lead Changes – 6 among 3 drivers
Cautions – 7 for 39 laps
Attendance – 24,000


Race Results
Point Standings


Next Up – The series will join the NASCAR Nationwide Series at Chicagoland Speedway – NSCS teams will have the weekend off – with the American Ethanol 225 on Friday, July 21st, with an approximate starting time of 8:20pm ET and television coverage provided by SPEED beginning with their 7:30pm ET pre-race show.


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


Ricky Stenhouse Jr gets intravenous fluids after collapsing
Ricky Stenhouse Jr did a television interview right after the Nationwide Series race Saturday at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.


About 45 minutes later, he jokingly admitted he never even saw the camera.


Stenhouse, who had battled the flue all week, passed out on pit road after that interview. Medics quickly attended to him, put him on a stretcher and got him to the track’s infield medical center.


Read more from Sporting News


Tim Cindric says comments ‘harsh’
Penske Racing president Tim Cindric isn’t ready to say the Sprint Cup career of suspended driver AJ Allmendinger is done as one of his other drivers implied.


Brad Keselowski said on Friday that watching Allmendinger deal with the failed drug test that will force him to miss his second straight race on Sunday at New Hampshire is “like watching somebody get killed.”


Read more from ESPN


Despite troubles, Jeff Burton isn’t going to quit
Jeff Burton isn’t going to quit. If he goes down – and that’s a big ‘if’ – it will be swinging, perhaps flailing away.


Once again this weekend, Burton and his No. 31 Richard Childress Racing team have struggled as they prepare for Sunday’s Lenox industrial Tools 301 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. It’s become an all-too common refrain this past year and a half.


Read more from That’s Racin


2012 NCWTS American Ethanol 200 Starting Lineup
Timothy Peters, with a qualifying lap speed of 136.210-mph, captured the 2012 NCWTS American Ethanol Keystone Light Pole Award at Iowa Speedway.


This was Peter’s first series pole of the 2012 season, his fifth series career pole and his first series pole at Iowa Speedway.


Starting second on the outside pole and with a qualifying lap speed of 135.852-mph, will be Nelson Piquet Jr followed by Justin Lofton – 135.829-mph starting third, James Buescher – 135.829 fourth and Johnny Sauter – 135.793 will start fifth.


NCWTS Rookie of the Year contender, Cale Gale – 135.531-mph starts from sixth, while Matt Crafton – 135.478 will start seventh, Ron Hornaday Jr – 135.397 eighth, Jason Leffler – 135.054 ninth and Miguel Paludo – 135.042 rounding out the top-ten starting positions.


Failing to make the starting lineup were the #96 driven by Todd Peck; #47 driven by Benjamin Reynolds and the #50 driven by Natalie Sather.


The 4th annual American Ethanol 200 is scheduled to get underway around 8:50pm ET this evening with television coverage provided by SPEED beginning with their 8:00pm ET pre-race show.


Starting Lineup


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


2012 NNS F.W. Webb 200 Race Results

Keselowski celebrates NNS Victory at NHMS Photo – Associated Press

Brad Keselowski went from the pole to victory lane in dominate fashion at New Hampshire Motor Speedway early Saturday evening, as he led 131 laps of the 200 that were run in the 2012 NNS F.W. Webb 200.


This was Keselowski’s 2nd series win of the 2012 season, his 19th series career win and his 1st series win at “the Magic Mile.”


Coming 0.717 seconds behind Keselowski for second was Kevin Harvick, and they were followed to the drop of the checkered flag by NNS Sunoco Rookie of the Year contender, Austin Dillon, finishing third, Sam Hornish Jr fourth and Ricky Stenhouse Jr finished fifth.


Rounding out the top-ten finishing positions were Kasey Kahne finishing sixth, Elliott Sadler seventh, Justin Allgaier eighth, Jamie McMurray ninth and Ryan Truex finished in the tenth position.


With Austin Dillon’s third-place finish and Elliott Sadler’s seventh-place finish, Sadler now leads Dillon by 3-points in the series point standings.


Race Notes
Average Speed – 106.899-mph
Time of Race – 1 Hrs, 58 mins, 46 secs
Margin of Victory – 0.717 seconds
Lead Changes – 7 among 5 drivers
Cautions – 4 for 23 laps
Attendance – 42,000


Race Results
Point Standings


Next Up – The 12th annual STP 300 at Chicagoland Speedway on Sunday, July 22nd, with an approximate starting time of 3:20pm ET and television coverage provided by ESPN beginning with their 2:00pm ET pre-race program.


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


2012 NCWTS American Ethanol 200 Final Practice Session Speeds
Nelson Piquet Jr with a lap speed of 135.496-mph, showed the fastest way around Iowa Speedway during the final NCWTS practice session.


Second fastest with a lap speed of 134.037-mph, was Justin Lofton, followed by Johnny Sauter and Ron Hornaday Jr with the identical lap speed – 134.886 third and fourth respectively, while Timothy Peters – 134.834 was fifth fastest.


One of the truck series’ Sunoco Rookie of the Year contenders, Cale Gale – 134.748-mph was sixth fastest, while Miguel Paludo – 134.644 was seventh, Jeff Choquette – 133.254 eighth, Brennan Newberry – 132.693 ninth and another rookie contender, Paulie Harraka – 132.481 rounds out the top-ten fastest during “Happy Hour.”


Qualifying is set to get started at 6:00pm ET this evening, and then the 4th annual American Ethanol 200 is scheduled to get underway around 8:50pm ET with television coverage provided by SPEED beginning with their 8:00pm ET pre-race show.


Final Practice Speeds
Qualifying Order


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


2012 NSCS LENOX Industrial Tools 301 Final Practice Session Speeds
Once again, Denny Hamlin was at the top of the speed charts, as he posted a lap speed of 131.383-mph, to close out the final NSCS LENOX Industrial Tools 301 practice session at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.


Pole-sitter, Kyle Busch, with a lap speed of 131.243-mph, posted the second fastest lap speed and was followed by Brad Keselowski – 130.936-mph who was third fastest, Clint Bowyer – 130.837 fourth and Jimmie Johnson – 130.743 was fifth fastest.


Rounding out the top-ten fastest during the “Happy Hour” – final – practice session were Brian Vickers – 130.698-mph who was sixth fastest, Martin Truex Jr – 130.693 seventh, Kasey Kahne – 130.653 eighth, while Carl Edwards and Joey Logano with the identical lap speed – 130.479 posting the ninth and tenth fastest lap speeds respectively.


All that is left for the drivers now is the 20th annual LENOX Industrial Tools 301, which is set to get underway at round 1:20pm ET Sunday afternoon. And, TNT will, conclude their series of television coverage beginning with their 12:00pm ET “Countdown to Green” pre-race show.


Final Practice Speeds


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


SRT Motorsports – Dodge – Keys for Success – LENOX Industrial Tools 301
Howard Comstock – SRT Motorsports Engineering


Getting Through the Corners – “The problem her – the tight corners. People compare this to a big Martinsville. What’s big about it is the straightaways are longer which allows the cars to gain more speed so you’ve got more speed on corner entry.  The corners here are tight relative to the size of the track, so the cars are always tight in the middle of the corner. So what the teams fight year after year is tight in the middle of the corner. To get the car to turn in the middle, you loosen the chassis up. Then, not only are the cars too loose coming off the corner but they tend to get loose getting into the corner. With the relatively high speeds that we see here, loose into the corner is a bad situation. It’s hard on the driver.”


Brakes – “Brakes are important, they really are, but they should last 300 miles. The advantage we have here is that the race is only 300 miles, so the brakes will last 300 miles even though they get a really great workout. Remember at Martinsville we go 500 laps. Here we only go 300 laps so if you have to brake hard a thousands times at Martinsville you only have to brake 600 times here. That makes a big difference.”


Fuel Mileage – “Fuel mileage is always a factor here because everybody has to play the track position game. That’s how mileage comes into it. It’s hard to pass so you have to time your pit stops and try to make as few stops as possible. Consequently, everybody is stretching everything. They start from the beginning of the race looking at the end of the race and working the race backwards. So, when is the first possible time we can pit to get to the end of the race? That’s why fuel economy comes into it. That’s why people are afraid of green-white-checkers here.”


Both Dodges wills start outside the top-20. What can they do to gain track position early? – “It immediately forces you into a strategy where you have to take advantage of early cautions and get your pit work done – make adjustments, get fuel in the car – and if another caution comes relatively soon, you’ve got to stay committed, skip that pit stop, keep your track position and hope that the race will go long enough that everybody will have to pit that next caution.”


From Darnell Communications for SRT Motorsports – Dodge-PR


2012 NNS F.W. Webb 200 Starting Lineup
The 2010 NASCAR Nationwide Series champion, Brad Keselowski, with a qualifying lap speed of 131.035-mph, captured the 2012 F.W. Webb 200 Coors Light Pole Award at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.


Keselowski, with a new series qualifying track record – previously held by Kevin Harvick with a speed of 130.716-mph in 2001, received his 1st series pole of the 2012 season, his 13th series career pole and his 3rd series pole at “the Magic Mile.”


Sharing the front row with Keselowski to start second and with a qualifying lap speed of 130.788-mph, will be Kasey Kahne – who will start from the same position in Sunday’s Cup event – and they will be followed by Ricky Stenouse Jr – 130.765-mph starting third, Kevin Harvick – 130.590 fourth, and Kyle Busch – 130.144 starting fifth.


Rounding out the top-ten starting positions will be Sam Hornish Jr – 130.140-mph starting sixth, Elliott Sadler – 129.630 seventh, Brian Scott – 129.613 eighth, Jamie McMurray – 129.481 ninth and NNS Sunoco Rookie of the Year contender, Cole Whitt – 129.327 will start from the tenth position.


With only 43 drivers/team attempting to qualify for the 43 starting positions, no one failed to make the starting lineup.


Today’s 23rd annual F.W. Webb 200 is scheduled to get started at approximately 3:50pm ET with ESPN providing television coverage beginning with their 2:30pm ET pre-race show.


Starting Lineup


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


2012 NSCS LENOX Industrial Tools 301 Second Practice Session Speeds
The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams were on the track early Saturday morning at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, as Denny Hamlin, with a lap speed of 131.478-mph, was the fastest during the second LENOX Industrial Tools 301 practice session.


Jeff Gordon, with a lap speed of 131.370-mph, was the second fastest, and was followed by Martin Truex Jr – 131.193-mph who was third fastest, Aric Almirola – 131.094 fourth and Clint Bowyer – 131.004 was fifth fastest.


Outside pole-sitter, Kasey Kahne – 130.927-mph was sixth fastest, while pole-sitter Kyle Busch and Jimmie Johnson with the identical lap speed – 130.909 were seventh and eighth fastest respectively, Brian Vickers – 130.878 ninth and Jeff Burton – 130.756 rounding out the top ten fastest in the session.


The teams will return to the track for “Happy Hour” – final – practice session from 11:20am to 12:20pm ET before returning on Sunday for the 20th annual LENOX Industrial Tools 301, which is set to get underway at around 1:20pm ET Sunday afternoon. And, TNT will conclude their series of television coverage beginning with their 12:00pm ET “Countdown to Green” pre-race show.


Second Practice Speeds


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


Friday, July 13, 2012
2012 NCWTS American Ethanol 200 First Practice Session Speeds
NCWTS Sunoco Rookie of the Year contender Dakoda Armstrong, with a lap speed of 134.956-mph, was the quickest during the first American Ethanol 200 practice session at Iowa Speedway.


Second quickest with a lap speed of 134.008-mph, was Joey Coulter, followed by Matt Crafton – 133.946-mph who was third quickest, Justin Lofton – 133.650 fourth and Jeff Choquette – 133.650 was fifth quickest.


Rounding out the top-ten quickest during the practice session were rookie contenders, John Wes Townley and Ty Dillon with the identical lap speed – 133.333-mph who were sixth and seventh quickest respectively, Johnny Sauter – 133.187 eighth, Miguel Paludo – 133.097 ninth and Jason Leffler – 133.012 posting the tenth quickest lap speed.


The teams will return Saturday afternoon for the 1:30 to 2:30pm ET scheduled “Happy Hour” – final – practice session, and then qualifying at 6:00pm ET.


The 4th annual American Ethanol 200 is set to get underway around 8:50pm ET Saturday evening, and television coverage will be provided by SPEED beginning with their 8:00pm ET pre-race show.


First Practice Speeds


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia

2012 NNS F.W. Webb 200 Final Practice Session Speeds
During the final NNS F.W. Webb 200 practice session at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, it was Kyle Busch, with a lap speed of 129.498-mph, showing the fastest way around “the Magic Mile.”


Kevin Harvick was second fastest with a lap speed of 129.243-mph, and was followed by Kasey Kahne – 129.151-mph who was third fastest, Sam Hornish Jr – 128.885 fourth and NNS Sunoco Rookie of the Year contender Austin Dillon – 128.824 was fifth fastest.


Rounding out the top-ten fastest during the “Happy Hour” – final – practice session were Brian Scott – 128.519-mph who was sixth fastest, Danica Patrick – 128.493 seventh, the current series points leader, Elliott Sadler – 128.333 eighth, Ricky Stenhouse Jr – 128.199 ninth and Jamie McMurray – 128.135 posting the tenth fastest lap speed.


The teams will return Saturday morning at 10:05am ET for qualifying to determine the starting lineup for the 23rd annual F.W. Webb 200, which is scheduled to get underway around 3:50pm ET that afternoon. Television coverage will be provided by ESPN beginning with their pre-race coverage at 2:30pm ET.


Final Practice Session Speeds


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia

2012 NSCS LENOX Industrial Tools 301 Q&A with Team Chevy Driver Tony Stewart
Tony Stewart met with members of the media at New Hampshire Motor Speedway and discussed the first practice session, winning the ESPY for Best Driver and other topics.


Q: Momentum is on your side coming off a win at Daytona and you guys were pretty good in practice. Tell us about your practice session.
“We’re decent I think. We have been pretty good here both races last year so I’m pretty excited about coming back here. We definitely have a good start to the day for sure.”


Q: Why do you think you guys have been so good here both you and Ryan – Newman – and can you carry any of that over?
“I wish I knew, but it seems like where we were last year it’s continuing on so far even though we’ve got a little bit different tire it sounds like. I’m pretty happy with it. I mean the car right off the first lap felt like it had really good balance to it. Just got to keep working with it and see if we can keep making it better all weekend.”


Q: Did you expect the decision from the Army that you heard this week?
“We knew that it was a possibility. It was a little bit of a surprise, but it is what it is.”


Q: Were you surprised at all about the penalty to your team, the points…?
“No NASCAR has been consistent about that and like I said last week I support them 100 percent on that. It was a mistake on our teams’ part and we deserve the penalty for it. Like I say I would rather them be consistent than not be consistent.”


Q: Wouldn’t you trade a win for a six point penalty anytime?
“No, because I mean luckily it was in qualifying so it wasn’t something that made us win the race, we didn’t win the race because of that. Like I said, it was just a mistake on our part and we just got to make sure we don’t overlook that again.”


Q: I wanted to ask you about – AJ – Allmendinger. Did that surprise you and the fact that NASCAR suspended somebody a few hours before a race is that concern you?
“I don’t know that it’s concern I mean NASCAR has got their policies in place and it was a little bit of a shock I think to all of us that it happened when it did. That is not in AJ Allmendinger’s character so I don’t know what is going on there. It’s unfortunate because he’s a good guy and he’s a really good race car driver so i mean I would say there is probably a logical explanation for it. It is what it is.”


Q: After the race last Saturday in Daytona, Jimmie – Johnson – and Kasey – Kahne – went and did a triathlon in South Carolina. Were you disappointed your weren’t invited?
“No, definitely not disappointed at all. The only thing I would have been invited to do is stand on the side of the road and hand them water as they went by. They’re pretty tough. It’s pretty cool to see those guys do that. I mean you’ve got guys like Carl – Edwards – and Mark – Martin – that are probably the two most fit guys we’ve go. Then you’ve got Jimmie – Johnson – and Kasey – Kahne – doing events like that, it’s pretty neat to see those guys do something different like that.”


Q: Can you talk about winning an ESPY for Best Driver?
“That was awesome. The other drivers that were in that category it’s just an honor to be nominated let alone to actually win it. I’m really proud of that.”


Q: Did you watch the show?
“I was racing actually I was in Ohio racing. I didn’t even get to see it. I’ll get to watch the replay.”


From Team Chevy-PR


Tony Stewart OK with points penalty for Daytona infraction
Tony Stewart expected the points penalty his team received this week for a technical violation during qualifying at Daytona last week.


“NASCAR has been pretty consistent on that – penalty,” Stewart said six days after his victory. ” I support them 100 percent on that. It was a mistake on our team’s part and we deserved a penalty for it.


“I’d rather them to be consistent than not be consistent.”


Read more from Sporting News


2012 NSCS LENOX Industrial Tools 301 Starting Lineup
Kyle Busch, with a qualifying lap speed of 133.417-mph, captured the 2012 NSCS LENOX Industrial Tools 301 Coors Light Pole Award at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.


This was Busch’s first series pole of the 2012 season, his ninth series career pole and his first series pole at “the Magic Mile.”


Starting second on the outside pole with a qualifying lap speed of 133.403-mph, will be Kasey Kahne, followed by Denny Hamlin – 133.399-mph starting third, Martin Truex Jr – 133.338 fourth and Clint Bowyer 133.319 will start fifth.


Rounding out the top-ten starting positions will be Ryan Newman – 133.277-mph who will start sixth, Jimmie Johnson – 133.254 seventh, Jeff Gordon – 133.198 eighth, Dale Earnhardt Jr – 133.045 ninth and the defending series champion, Tony Stewart – 132.938 will start from the tenth position.


Failing to make the starting lineup was the #19 driven by Mike Bliss


The teams will return to the track Saturday for two practice sessions – 9am to 10:30am & “Happy Hour” 11:20am to 12:20pm ET – before returning on Sunday for the 20th annual LENOX Industrial Tools 301. The race is set to get underway at around 1:20pm ET Sunday afternoon, and TNT will conclude their series of television coverage beginning with the 12pm ET “Countdown to Green” pre-race show.


Starting Lineup


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


Did Carl Edwards suggest a driver’s union?
Is Carl Edwards advocating the creation of a driver’s union in NASCAR?


It sure sounds like it.


In response to questions Friday at New Hampshire Motor Speedway about NASCAR’s drug testing program, Edwards said he thought it would be a good idea for drivers to get together as a group and collectively pay for independent testing at the same time as NASCAR’s test is conducted.


Read more from That’s Racin


2012 NNS F.W. Webb 200 Final Practice Session Speeds
During the final NNS F.W. Webb 200 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, it was Kyle Busch, with a lap speed of 129.498-mph, showing the fastest way around “the Magic Mile.”


Kevin Harvick was second fastest with a lap speed of 129.243-mph, and was followed by Kasey Kahne – 129.151-mph who was third fastest, Sam Hornish Jr – 128.885 fourth and NNS Sunoco Rookie of the Year contender Austin Dillon – 128.824-mph was fifth fastest.


Rounding out the top-ten fastest during the “Happy Hour” – final – practice session were Brian Scott – 128.519-mph who was sixth fastest, Danica Patrick – 128.493 seventh, the current series points leader, Elliott Sadler – 128.333 eighth, Ricky Stenhouse Jr – 128.199 ninth and Jamie McMurray – 128.135 posting the tenth fastest lap speed.


Final Practice Speeds
Qualifying Order


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


Raceway Recycles Nearly 11,000 Pounds of Materials During NASCAR Race Weekend
The raceway in Sonoma has reaffirmed its position as an industry leader in recycling, collecting nearly 11,000 pounds of materials during the Toyota/Save Mart 350 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event, June 22-24.


The raceway partnered with the Conservation Corps North Bay to collect more than five tons of material throughout the race weekend, including aluminum, glass, plastic and mixed materials – 545,745 pounds – since the inception of its recycling program in 2004.


“one of the most obvious and effective steps we can take in maintaining a sustainable business operation is to ensure the tremendous volume of packaging and other materials that come through this facility find their way into the recycling stream,” said Steve Page, raceway president and general manager. “We don’t get 100 percent, but that’s our goal, and we’re pushing hard.”


Below is a breakdown of the recycling totals from the NASCAR race weekend 
Aluminum – 2,009.5 pounds
Glass – 5,623 pounds
Plastic – 2,434 pounds
Mixed material – 864 pounds


In addition, the raceway partners with NASCAR on the Green Clean Air program, which is designed to help capture the carbon emissions produced by racing. NASCAR will donate a minimum of 50 trees following this year’s Toyota/Save Mart 350 event.


Through a partnership with Safety-Kleen, the raceway also recycled 750 gallons of oil, 30 gallons of oil filters, and another 110 gallongs of miscellaneous contaminants during the NASCAR race weekend. Safety-Kleen, a leading provider of environmental services, oil-re-fining and responsible cleaning solutions, facilitates recycling year-round at the Sonoma Valley facility.


The raceway’s recycling efforts are part of its larger Accelerating Sustainable Performance program. By featuring elements including a 1,700 panel Panasonic solar installation at the raceway to electric motorcycles zooming around the circuit, the raceway has continued to prove that you don’t have to sacrifice performance for sustainability. In addition, the raceway will host the 2nd annual Accelerating Sustainable Performance Summit on Sept 7 – the event brings together industry leaders from sports, engineering, technology, business and government sectors.


For more information about the raceway’s sustainability efforts, visit acceleratingsustainableperformance.com. You can also follow the program at Facebook.com/acceleratingsustainableperformance or on Twitter @SustainableRace.


From Sonoma-Toyota/Save Mart 350-PR


NASCAR Licensing Launches New ‘NASCAR Classics’ Line of Apparel and Die Casts
NASCAR announced today the creation of NASCAR Classics, a new brand identity withing the licensing division. From the renegades who blazed the trail on country roads and the hard-packed beaches of Daytona, to the asphalt legends of later decades, NASCAR classics represents the era that NASCAR established itself as the best racing in the world. NASCAR Classics is a brand that embodies the roots and heritage of NASCAR through high-end t-shirts, hats and original die casts.


NASCAR Classics enriches the NASCAR fan’s experience by providing a sense of tradiiton, meaning and heritage for the sport. And while it’s a throwback brand that encapsulates NASCAR’s history, it also represents the values that are still present in NASCAR today. The NASCAR Classics line provides a rich and extensive portfolio of textures and logos that bridges the NASCAR of today with its history.


“NASCAR Classics is a callback to an era of unbreakable men, fast cars, and the guts, glory and go-for-broke attitude many of NASCAR’s classic drivers embodied,” said Blake Davidson, vice president licensing and consumer products at NASCAR. “We believe both NASCAR fans and non-fans will enjoy this great new line of vintage products that captures the spirit and flavor of NASCAR through the decades.”


The current product line includes t-shirts and hats, produced by Delta Apparel, featuring iconic imagery and fonts from the 1940’s, 50’s, 60’s and 70’s that creat a sense of nostalgia. The collection’s apparel line includes logos and program covers from historic venues such as Daytona International Speedway, Darlington Raceway, North Carolina Speedway and Talladega Superspeedway.


In addition to apparel, NASCAR Classics also features a line of historic die-cast cars from Lionel NASCAR Collectables. Included in the die-cast collection are Dale Earnhardt’s 1989 No. Goodwrench Chevrolet, Junior Johnson’s 1965 No. 26 Holly Farms Ford, Richard Petty’s 1986 No. 6 STP Monte Carlo, Tim Flock’s 1940 No. 92 Taft Sloan Garage Ford and Ned Jarrett’s 1965 No. 22 Ford, among others.


NASCAR Classics apparel and die-casts are available at launch, with plans to expand with other vintage equities of the sport, including historical drivers, sponsors, tracks, etc.


NASCAR Classics apparel is available for purchase at the NASCAR.com Superstore and Americrown haulers during all NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race weekends. However, the NASCAR Classics die-casts are only available at the NASCAR.com Superstore.  NASCAR Classics will expand to other retail locations later in the year.


From NASCAR-PR


2012 NSCS LENOX Industrial Tools 301 First Practice Session Speeds
Kyle Busch, with a lap speed of 133.385-mph, was the fastest during the first NSCS LENOX Industrial Tools 301 practice session at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.


Second fastest with a lap speed of 133.119-mph, was Greg Biffle, followed by Kurt Busch – 133.086-mph who was third fastest, Kasey Kahne – 132.966 fourth and Paul Menard – 132.822 was fifth fastest.


Rounding out the top-ten fastest during the practice session were Martin Truex Jr – 132.739-mph who was sixth fastest, Brian Vickers – 132.715 seventh, Dale Earnhardt Jr – 132.641 eighth, Denny Hamlin – 132.715 ninth, and defending series champion, Tony Stewart – 132.393 posting the tenth fastest lap speed.


The teams will return to the track this afternoon for their 3:40pm ET scheduled qualifying session, and then return Saturday for two practice session – 9:00 to 10:30am & “Happy Hour” 11:20am to 12:20pm ET.


The 20th annual LENOX Industrial Tools 301 is set to get underway on Sunday at around 1:20pm ET and TNT will conclude their series of television coverage beginning with their 12:00pm ET “Countdown to Green” pre-race show.


First Practice Speeds
Qualifying Order


From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


2012 NNS F.W. Web 200 First Practice Session Speeds
NNS Sunoco Rookie of the Year contender, Cole Whitt, with a lap speed of 128.070-mph, was the quickest during the first F.W. Webb 200 practice session at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.


Kevin Harvick was the second quickest with a lap speed of 127.915-mph, and was followed by Brad Keselowski – 127.372-mph who was third quickest. Ricky Stenhouse Jr – 127.180 fourth and Elliott Sadler – 126.947 was fifth quickest.


Rounding our the top-ten quickest during the session were rookie contender Austin Dillon – 126.669-mph who was sixth quickest, Kasey Kahne – 126.433 seventh, Sam Hornish Jr – 126.425 eighth, Kyle Busch ninth and Ryan Truex – 126.178 posting the tenth quickest lap.


The teams will return this afternoon for their 1:40 – 3:00pm ET scheduled “Happy Hour” – final ‘ practice session, before returning Saturday morning at 10:05am ET for qualifying.


The 23rd annual F.W. Webb 200 is scheduled to get underway around 3:50pm ET Saturday afternoon, and ESPN will begin their pre-race coverage at 2:30pm ET.


First Practice Speeds

From Timing & Scoring provided by NASCARmedia


Jimmie Johnson Kicks Off ESPN Sprint Cup Campaign
ESPN has re-launched its “Nothing Beats First Place” marketing campaign with NASCAR drivers Jimmie Johnson, Carl Edwards, Denny Hamlin and Brad Keselowski. The campaign promotes ESPN’s coverage of the final 17 NASCAR Sprint Cup races of the season, beginning with the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis on July 29. In the first spot, Johnson demonstrates why there is nothing more painful than losing, not even making lemonade after getting a paper cut or saving a baby porcupine from a thorn bush. Additional spots by creative agency Wieden + Kennedy New York will be revealed in the coming weeks. 




From ESPN YouTube.com


Victory means a lot to NASCAR drivers in Cup
The past two winners on the Sprint Cup circuit have been demonstrating for the past year that victories tend to forgive a host of setbacks in NASCAR’s premier series.


Tony Stewart, who won Saturday night at Daytona International Speedway, was victorious in half of last year’s 10 races in the Chase for the Sprint Cup to capture his third championship despite a lackluster regular season. Brad Keselowski, who won two weeks ago at Kentucky Speedway, made the Chase despite an erratic record by locking down a wild card with three victories.


Read more from Florida Today


National Guard wants to keep sponsoring NASCAR
Two days after the US Army announced it would no longer sponsor a Sprint Cup race team, the Army National Guard announced it has no plans to drop its sponsorship.


Retired Maj. Gen. Gus L. Hargett Jr, the US National Guard Association president, released a statement Thursday indicating that it wanted to stay in the sport.


Read more from Sporting News


Irvan’s win at NH remains a most inspiring moment
It forever will be ranked high among the most inspiring, touching and dramatic developments in NASCAR history.


The tears-in-the-eyes and lumps-in-the-throat event took place on July 15, 1996 at New Hampshire International Speedway, a track where the Cup Series teams presently are gathered once again for Sunday’s Lenox Tools 300.


Read more from That’s Racin’


Thursday, July 12, 2012
RCR won’t appeal Dillon penalties at Daytona
Richard Childress Racing will not appeal the recent penalties levied against the Nationwide Series team of Austin Dillon, and former Sprint Cup crew chief Gil Martin will work atop the No. 3 pit box while regular signal-caller Danny Stockman is serving a suspension.


Read more from NASCAR.com


AJ Allmendinger to bring own experts
Suspended NASCAR driver AJ Allmendinger has elected to bring his own experts to the testing of his “B” urine sample, The Associated Press has learned.


Under NASCAR’s drug testing policy, an individual can bring in experts for the second test and Allmendinger wants his own toxicologist and attorney present, two people familiar with the case told the AP on condition of anonymity Thursday because the process is confidential.


Read more from ESPN


Race Fans Can Select Design of the 55th Annual Daytona 500 Ticket
Race fans can have a voice in the design of the commemorative ticket for the 55th annual Daytona 500, NASCAR’s prestigious season-opening race scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 24.


Through Daytona International Speedway’s Facebook page facebook.com/daytonainternationalspeedway, Twitter twitter.com/DISUpdates and Google+ gplus.to/daytonainternationalspeedway sites – race fans will be able to select their favorite commemorative ticket among three different choices.


Voting begins on Thursday, July 12 and will run through Thursday, July 19 at 5pm EST.


Two of the commemorative tickets feature the Harley J. Earl trophy – awarded annually to the Daytona 500 champion – while the third commemorative ticket showcases Matt Kenseth celebrating his second triumph in the “Great American Race” earlier this year.


Tickets for NASCAR’s biggest, richest and most prestigious race – the 55th annual Daytona 500 on Sunday, Feb 24 – start at $65 and are available at daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.


From Daytona International Speedway-PR


Matt Puccia & Greg Biffle – What a Difference a Year Makes
This weekend at New Hampshire Motor Speedway will mark the one-year anniversary of Roush Fenway crew chief Matt Puccia being teamed up with driver Greg Biffle. After a rock start to 2011 for Biffle, Puccia was brought in to take over as the crew chief on the No. 16 3M team. Immediately the two clicked. From this race a year ago, up until now, the two have tallied one win, five poles, 10 top-fives and 15 top-ten finishes. They kicked off the 2012 season with three third-place finishes in a row, took over the NASCAR point lead in Vegas and held it for 11 weeks straight. Currently they are sitting third in points and looking towards making a run for the 2012 Sprint Cup Championship.


“This weekend is the one-year anniversary with what my wife calls ‘my boyfriend’ and I call my crew chief,” Biffle said. “We have an excellent relationship and work well together. It’s been a lot of fun so far; we’ve won a race and led the points for 11 weeks. It’s been good and we are lined up to make a run at the title in our first full season together. I’m pretty excited about it.”


“It’s been a year full of ups and downs, but it’s one of my best years out of my 17 or 18 years doing this full time,” Puccia said. “It’s been the most enjoyable year for me in the sport. We’ve accomplished a lot and it’s a great opportunity for me to be able to be able to work with Greg. It’s the relationship we’ve built, and the relationship we’ve built with the team that has gotten us to where we are today. We’ve accomplished a good amount, but we still need to take it to the next step to be able to run for the championship at the end of the season. It would be most rewarding at the end of the day to be able to give Greg his first championship in Sprint Cup.”


Roush Fenway Racing is the winningest team in NASCAR history, fielding multiple teams in the Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series with championship drivers, Carl Edwards, Matt Kenseth, Greg Biffle, Ricky Stenhouse Jr and Trevor Bayne. Celebrating 25 winning years in 2012, Roush Fenway is the leader in NASCAR marketing solutions, pioneering its exclusive Roush Fenway OnTrack sponsorship measurement services, motorsport’s first team-focused TV show and its award-winning social marketing channel RickyvsTrevor.com.


Visit RoushFenway.com circle on Google+ at +Roush Fenway Racing, become a fan on Facebook at facebook.com/roushfenway and follow on Twitter at @roushfenway. For sponsorship inquiries call John Bauersfeld at 704.720.4621


From Roush Fenway Racing-PR


Craven to Drive Pace Car at 20th Anniversary Cup Race
The year was 1993. Bill Clinton was president. Tom Hanks won his first Academy Award. And Alan Kulwicki was the defending NASCAR Cup Series champion. It was also the year that the Cup Series debuted at New Hampshire Motor Speedway – July 11, 1993 to be exact. On Sunday, “The Magic Mile” will celebrate the 20th anniversary of that first race with the LENOX Industrial Tools 301, which will be paced by New England’s own Ricky Craven.


“I watched as the track was being built – competed in its first event and celebrated a few times in victory lane,” said Craven. “The 20th anniversary represents a great opportunity for all of us to reflect on the many races, and events. I’m proud to have been a member of several and I’m excited to be coming home.”


Craven – Newburgh, Maine – will drive the Toyota Camry pace car, leading the field around the 1.086-mile oval before the green flag drops. Craven is currently an ESPN in-studio analyst for the “NASCAR Now” show and a part-time color analyst for the Nationwide Series.


Craven retired from full-time racing in the Cup Series in 2004. He finished his Cup career with two wins, 17 top-fives and 41 top-tens. He also has six-career poles, including two in New Hampshire.


Rusty Wallace was the first July winner at NHMS, edging Mark Martin in the Slick 50 300. There have been 14 winners in the 19 July races at NHMS, including Jeff Burton – three times, Tony Stewart – twice, Jimmie Johnson – twice, and Kurt Busch – twice, each of whom will be in the field on Sunday.


For more details on our 20th anniversary celebration and ticket information on events at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, or to purchase tickets to the LENOX Industrial Tools 301 and SYLVANIA 300 NASCAR weekends, please stop by our Ticket Office, visit the speedway website at nhms.com, or call our Ticket Hotline at 603-783-4931.


From New Hampshire Motor Speedway-PR


Sprint Celebrating Five-Year Anniversary of Miss Sprint Cup Program
This weekend’s NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway marks the five-year anniversary of the founding of the Miss Sprint Cup program.


On July 13, 2007, at Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, IL, a brand ambassador stepped into a firesuit representing Sprint for the first time. That role eventually grew into Miss Sprint Cup – a Victory Lane staple seen by millions each week. Since this program’s inception, eight women have served in the role and have become some of the most recognizable personalities in the world of NASCAR Sprint Cup Series racing.


The program began as a small part of a promotion and has grown exponentially during the last five years. In 2009, Miss Sprint Cup embraced social media and now boasts more than 1.26 million fans and followers on Facebook and Twitter. Miss Sprint Cup currently has the third-most fans on Facebook behind only NASCAR and Dale Earnhardt Jr.


As the ultimate racing insider, Miss Sprint Cup takes fans behind-the-scenes of each race weekend via constant updates on Facebook.com/MissSprintCup and Twitter.com/MissSprintCup. Fans are invited to follow Miss Sprint Cup on Face and Twitter for a unique real-time view behind-the-scenes and inside the garage of the NASCAR Sprint Cup series.


To commemorate Miss Sprint Cup’s five-year anniversary, followers on Facebook and Twitter can participate in numerous giveaways and posts commemorating the history of the program. Those fans attending the race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway should stop by the Sprint Experience for special contests, tributes and a look back at the program’s history.


Originally known as Sprint Speed Ambassadors, Tabitha Andretti and Anne-Marie Rhodes were the first to adorn the Sprint firesuit. Monica Palumbo, who served the longest in the Miss Sprint Cup role, joined Rhodes in 2008. During her four seasons, Palumbo, became synonymous with the Sprint brand and was a major factor in the evolvement of the Miss Sprint Cup program.


After the 2009 season ended, Sprint decided to expand the program from two to three spokespersons. Two members of the Miss Sprint Cup team now travel to each race market, making appearances at various hospitality areas and local media outlets, all while being the main attraction at the Sprint Experience, the mobile marketing display Sprint brings to every NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event. There they talk with fans about the latest Sprint products and offerings and help emcee the weekend’s various contests and giveaways. On the Sprint Experience stage, they also interview celebrities and the sport’s top drivers and personalities.


The NASCAR industry has also embraced the program and understands the valuable nature that it carries. Miss Sprint Cup accompanied Carl Edwards to ESPN for the launch of a national promotion, has appeared on ESPN’s “Pardon the Interruption,” and is a fixture on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. Numerous drivers, teams, tracks, sponsors, and the governing body itself routinely request Miss Sprint cup to be a part of charitable events, corporate appearances and fan activities. For the last three years, the women have had the honor of visiting the wounded warriors at the now-closed Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC. In 2011 alone, the Miss Sprint Cup ambassadors participated in more than 600 appearances and interviews.


The complete Miss Sprint Cup roster: Andretti, Kristen Beat – 2012-present, Kim Coon – 2011-present, Paige Duke – 2010-11, Palumbo 2008-11, Rhodes – 2007-09, Jaclyn Roney – 2011-present, and Amanda Wright 2010.


From Sprint Nextel-PR


Reigning NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion Tony Steward Wins 2012 Best Driver ESPY Award
Tony Stewart, three-time and reigning NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champ, last night took home the 2012 ESPY for ‘Best Driver’ at the 20th annual ESPY Awards on ESPN, beating out four-time IZOD IndyCar Series champion, Dario Franchitti, F1 champion Sabastian Vettel and NHRA champion Del Worsham.


Steward put together an epic Chase for the NASCAR Sprint cup in what proved to be one of the most exciting seasons in NASCAR history last year. Stewart won five of the 10 races in the Chase, narrowly edging out Carl Edwards in the season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway to take home the title.


“I am thrilled to win the ‘Best Driver’ award after what turned out to be a great NASCAR season last year. I was fortunate enough to be able to take the checkered flag when it mattered most,” said Stewart. “There were some great drivers and great champions in this category, so I cannot thank the NASCAR fans and everyone who voted enough for their unbelievable support.”


It is the third time Stewart has taken home “Best Driver” honors, winning in 2003 and 2006. Stewart was also nominated in the “Best Championship Performance” category this year.


“I want to congratulate Tony on winning the ESPY for ‘Best Driver’ last night,” said NASCAR Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Steve Phelps. “His dramatic run to the championship highlighted his overall performance on the track last season, and we’re thrilled the sports world recognized this achievement. Hats off to Tony Stewart and the entire Stewart Haas Racing organization.”


Jimmie Johnson, who was a presenter for the “Best Comeback Athlete” award during last night’s show, won the “Best Driver” award in each of the four previous seasons.


NASCAR Nationwide Series star Danica Patrick also presented the “Best Team” award along with Steve Nash at last night’s show to the Miami Heat. She teamed up with Justin Beiber to present the “Best Team” award at last year’s ESPYs to the Dallas Mavericks.


Be sure to tune in and watch the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series in the LENOX Industrial Tools 301 live from New Hampshire Motor Speedway on Sunday, July 15, at 1pm ET on TNT.


From NASCAR-PR


Long road ahead for Allmendinger?
One person came to mind immediately as news surfaced Saturday that AJ Allmendinger had been temporarily suspended and pulled from the Sprint Cup race at Daytona International Speedway because of a failed drug test:


Jeremy Mayfield


Read more from ESPN


A Season of Discontent
This Sunday will mark my final “RaceDay” show on SPEED for awhile. As has been the case the past few years, when NASCAR on FOX’s broadcasts schedule is complete and TNT takes over the race broadcasts, Kyle Petty and Larry McReynolds move from SPEED to TNT. To replace them on the “RaceDay” show, SPEED then has Jeff Hammond and myself take the spots they vacated.


Read more from SPEED


SRT Motorsports – Dodge – Presents The Numbers – LENOX Industrial Tools 301
1 – fewest lead changes – 9/17/00
1 – fewest leaders – Jeff Burton 9/17/00
2 – fewest cautions – 7/13/97
2 – fewest laps led by race winner – Jeff Burton, 7/11/99
3 – wins by Dodge at NHMS since manufacturer’s return to NASCAR in 2001
4 – drivers that have competed in all 34 races – Jeff Burton, Jeff Gordon, Bobby Labonte and Joe Nemechek
4 – most wins – Jeff Burton
5 – wins from the pole; seven from the front row
5 – number of jet dryers available for track drying this weekend
6 – most poles – Ryan Newman
7 – fewest cars on the lead lap at finish – 7/11/93
7 – drivers with more than one win
8 – races won from outside a top-20 starting position
10 – fewest caution laps – 7/13/97
17 – most cautions – 7/10/94
17 – different pole winners
20 – different race winners
23 – most lead changes – twice, most recent 7/21/02
30 – most cars on lead lap at finish – 7/21/02
38 – deepest in the field race winner has started – Jeff Burton, 7/11/99
43 – most cars running at finish – 9/16/07
79 – most caution laps – 7/10/94
120 minutes – approximate amount of time it takes to dry the 1.058-mile track after a significant rainfall
300 – most laps led by race winner – Jeff Burton, 9/17/00


2012 Caution Update
1 – fewest cautions this season – Fontana
5 – races extended beyond scheduled distance – Daytona1, Martinsville, Talladega, Darlington and Sonoma
10 – most cautions this season – Daytona1
100 – cautions in the first 18 races of 2012; includes 43 for accidents, 29 for debris and 12 for spins
526 of 5,187 – laps under caution in 2012
760.001 of 7,056.498 – miles under caution in the first 18 races


From Darnell Communications for SRT Motorsports – Dodge-PR


Trumanburg man’s NASCAR dream comes at a cost
For area stock car racer Ben Reynolds and his family, competing in a top level NASCAR series has been a long-time dream.


Reynolds, 27, of Trumansburg, will have that opportunity this weekend when he plans to make his NASCAR debut in the Camping World Truck Series event with the No. 47 Diversified Consulting Solutions Chevrolet at Iowa Speedway in Newton.


Read more from Star Gazette


Carpentier comes out of retirement for Montreal
NASCAR Nationwide Series team, RAB Racing announced Tuesday that Patrick Carpentier will be called on to drive the team’s No. 99 Toyota when the Nationwide Series heads to Montreal for a road course race at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve on Aug. 18.


Read more from Examiner


Penske Team Must Ignore Distractions
When I was a crew chief, I experienced a similar incident to what the Penske Racing No. 22 team is facing in terms of preparing for a race with a substitute driver.


Now, my situation wasn’t exactly the same, because my driver had been injured and not suspended under the substance abuse policy, as AJ Allmendinger has been.


Read more from SPEED


Wednesday, July 11, 2012
AJ Allmendinger say stimulant caused positive drug test
Suspended NASCAR driver AJ Allmendinger tested positive for a stimulant, a wide-ranging category of drugs outlined in the NASCAR rule book, according to his business manager.


Allmendinger was suspended just hours before the start of Saturday’s Spring Cup race at Daytona International Speedway for failing a random drug test administered on June 29 at Kentucky Speedway.


Read more from Sporting News


“25 Winning Years” – RFR, Burton make it four in a row with Dominating Loudon Performance – Sept. 17, 2000
RFR led 805 laps of Sprint cup action in four-year span at Loudon
Roush Fenway Racing has tallied a NASCAR-record 304 victories over its exalted “25 Winning Years” history, with none more dominating than its Sept. 17, 2000 win at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. In the first – an only – restrictor-plate race at Loudon, Jeff Burton, driving the No. 99 RFR Ford, qualified on the front row, took the lead from Terry Labonte before the field came around for the first lap and went on to lead all 300 laps of the event.


It was one of the most dominating performances in NASCAR history and a feat that had not occurred since 22 years prior to that day and has never occurred in a NASCAR Sprint cup race again. It was the third of four wins for the No. 99 RFR team in 2000 and one of six total Sprint Cup victories for the organization that season.


Furthermore, the win marked the fourth-consecutive season that Burton and RFR had driven into victory lane at New Hampshire. During the string, Roush Fenway led 805 laps of the NASCAR Sprint Cup action at Loudon.


Burton’s four victories make up exactly half of the eight NASCAR races RFR has won at New Hampshire. The wins are split between four drivers – Burton, Kurt Busch, Greg Biffle and Carl Edwards – and span over all three of NASCAR’s major series. In addition to Burton’s dominance, Kurt Busch won three times – twice in Cup and one in the truck series – in Roush Fenway Fords at Loudon. Of Roush Fenway’s current roster both Edwards – NNS – and Biffle – Cup – boast wins at NHIS. Biffle is the last RFR driver to win there, via his Sprint Cup win in the fall of 2008.


Roush Fenway Racing is the winningest team in NASCAR history, fielding multiple teams in the Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series with championship drivers Carl Edwards, Matt Kenseth, Greg Biffle, Ricky Stenhouse Jr and Trevor Bayne. Celebrating 25 winning years in 2012, Roush Fenway is the leader in NASCAR marketing solutions, pioneering its exclusive Roush Fenway OnTrack sponsorship measurement services, motorsport’s first team-focused TV show and its award-winning social marketing channel RickyvsTrevor.com. 


From Roush Fenway Racing-PR 


The NASCAR Foundation Finalizes Single Largest Donation to Pediatric Oncology Unit
The NASCAR Foundation announced today its final installment of $100,000 as part of a record donation to Shands Hospital for Children at the University of Florida in Gainsville. In partnership with the V Foundation for Cancer Research, the commitment totaled $500,000 – the single largest donation that The NASCAR Foundation has been a part of to support a new pediatric oncology unit.


Each foundation committed $250,000 toward the 18-bed inpatient unit that serves approximately 14 pediatric patients a day. The unit cares for an estimated 288 patients annually. Among the diseases treated and operations performed in the unit are cancer, bone-marrow transplants, organ transplants, rheumatology/immunology conditions and sickle cell disease.


“The NASCAR Foundation is proud to continue making a difference in the lives of children who are battling cancer and other serious health issues,” said Betty Jane France, The NASCAR Foundation chairwoman. “The direct impact that this contribution is making to Shands Hospital for Children is evident. We are helping improve the quality of care through this donation. …from providing a cleaner and safer environment for children to delivering specialized nursing and promising new medications and treatments.”


“The V Foundation remains committed to fighting pediatric cancer,” said Nick Valvano, CEO of The V Foundation. “We are thrilled to partner with The NASCAR Foundation to beat this disease.”


The new unit, which is now fully operational, allows young patients to have easier access to their primary care physicians during treatments at the facility. The University of Florida Division of Hematology/Oncology at Shands Hospital for Children sees nearly 100 new cancer patients per year, with a significant number participating in clinical trials.


Among the direct benefits, the donation has helped fund the construction of an inpatient unit that allows more efficient treatment and communication among staff, patients and their families. The gift has also assisted in funding for training for a specialized corps of pediatric oncology nurses dedicated to the unit.


“When a parent learns that their child has cancer, their world is changed forever,” said Scott A. Rivkees, MD, Nemours eminent scholar, professor and chair, department of pediatrics, University of Florida College of Medicine. “Through the wonderful support of The NASCAR Foundation, we help brighten the lives of the families touched by this tough disease and other immunodeficiencies. The NASCAR Foundation’s support has allowed us to provide top-level cancer care that is world-class for boys and girls in their own backyard and from throughout Florida. We are very grateful for our fantastic partnership with The NASCAR Foundation which touches lives every day and turns tears into smiles.”


The V Foundation, a charitable organization dedicated to saving lives by helping to find a cure for cancer, has a well-established record of supporting cancer research.


For more information please visit NASCAR.Com/Foundation or UFandShands.org


From NASCAR Foundation-PR


Stewart Haas Racing Statement Regarding NASCAR Penalty against No. 14
The following is a statement from Greg Zipadelli, competition director at Stewart Haas Racing, regarding the penalty levied by NASCAR against the team’s No. 14 Sprint Cup Series entry driven by Tony Stewart for a post-qualifying rules infraction July 6 at Daytona, (FL) International Speedway.


“While we respect and accept NASCAR’s decision, we want to be clear that there was no malicious intent. In a rush to replace a cracked rear windshield that happened during tech inspection prior to qualifying, we jostled a cooling hose that was behind the seat. We understand NASCAR’s position and will abide by its decision.” – Greg Zipadelli, Competition Director, Stewart Haas Racing


NASCAR disallowed the second-place qualifying time of Stewart when it was discovered the team had an open cooling hose in the cockpit, which is in violation of Sections 12-1 – actions detrimental to stock car racing; 12-4J – an determination by NASCAR officials that the race equipment used in the event does not conform to NASCAR rules detailed in Section 20 of the NASCAR Rule Book; and 20-2.1J – unapproved open vent hose inside of the car. Instead of starting second, Stewart was forced to start 42nd.


From True Speed Communications for Stewart Haas Racing-PR


Katie Couric, Danica take a spin at Indy
Katie Couric feels bad for Ann Curry.


The former co-host of NBC’s “Today” show was in Indianapolis on Tuesday to take a drive around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway with Danica Patrick. The feature will air sometime after Couric’s syndicated talk show called “Katie,” debuts in September.


Read more from That’s Racin’/AP


NASCAR could be better
The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series isn’t as exciting as it could be, which means the sport needs to make a change in an effort to gin up “the show.” Obviously, this means inverting the field at the halfway mark of each race or enable the drivers with Mario-Kart-like abilities on their cars.


Read more from Galesburg Register Mail


Danica Patrick bumped by IndyCar driver from GoDaddy homepage
Danica Patrick, one of racing’s biggest stars, has been bumped from sponsor GoDaddy.com’s homepage.


IndyCar Series driver James Hinchcliffe bumped the NASCAR star from the homepage of the popular website Monday night. The 25-year-old Canadian driver replaced Patrick at Andretti Autosport this season following her full-time move to NASCAR.


Read more from Sporting News


Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Sam Hornish Jr wants to drive 22 car
Sam Hornish Jr has let Penske Racing officials know he is interested in driving the No. 22 Sprint Cup car full time if AJ Allmendinger’s suspension becomes lengthy.


Allmendinger was “temporarily suspended” by NASCAR prior to Saturday night’s Spring Cup race at Daytona International Speedway because he failed a drug test. He has requested a test of the “B” sample of the test he took the previous week at Kentucky.


Read more from ESPN


No. 14 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Team; No. 3 & No. 18 Nationwide Series Teams Penalized
NASCAR has issued penalties to three of its race teams as a result of rules infractions committed during last weekend’s events at Daytona International Speedway.


The No. 14 team in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series was found to be in violation of Sections 12-1 – actions detrimental to stock car racing; 12-4J – any determination by NASCAR officials that the race equipment used in the event does not conform to NASCAR rules detailed in Section 20 of the NASCAR Rule Book; and 20-2.1J – unapproved open vent hose inside of the car. The violation occurred during post-qualifying inspection July 6.


As a result, crew chief Steve Addington has been fined $25,000 and placed on NASCAR probation until Aug. 22. Car chief Jeff Meendering has been placed on NASCAR probation until Aug. 22. Driver Tony Stewart and owner Margaret Haas have been penalized with the loss of six championship driver and six championship owner points, respectively.


The No. 3 team in the NASCAR Nationwide Series was found to be in violation of Sections 12-1; 12-4J and 20A-2.1J – unapproved open vent hose inside of the car. This violation occurred during post-qualifying inspection on July 6.


Crew chief Danny Stockman has been fined $10,000 and due to the violation of his probation, has been suspended from NASCAR until July 25. Car chief Robert Strmiska has also been suspended from NASCAR competition until July 25 due to the violation of his probation. This past May 1, both Stockman and Strmiska were placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31, for rules violations committed at Richmond International Raceway.


Driver Austin Dillon and owner Morgan Shepherd have been penalized with the loss of six championship driver and six championship owner points, respectively.


The No. 18 car in the NASCAR Nationwide Series was found to be in violation of Sections 12-1; 12-4J; and 20A-12.8.1(B) – car failed to meet minimum front car heights. This violation occurred during post race inspection July 6.


Crew chief Adam Stevens has been fined $10,000 and placed on NASCAR probation until Aug 22. Car chief Christopher Landis has been placed on NASCAR probation until Aug. 22. Owner Joe Gibbs has been penalized with the loss of six championship owner points.


From NASCAR-PR


Danica Patrick won’t run Brickyard 400 at Indy, finalizes 2012 Cup schedule
Danica Patrick has added the Oct 21 race at Kansas Speedway to her 2012 Sprint Cup schedule, putting her in seven of the final 13 cup events of the season.


She will skip the July 29 Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the track where she made a name for herself in the IndyCar Series.


Read more from Sporting News


Statement from AJ Allmendinger
“I have informed NASCAR that I have requested that the “B” sample be tested, following the steps according to NASCAR’s 2012 rule book regarding this situation. I fully respect NASCAR’s drug usage policy and the reasons they have it. I am hoping this can get resolved as quickly as possible so that I can get back to driving the No. 22 Penske Racing Dodge. I am sorry that this has caused such a distraction for My Penske Racing team, our sponsors and fans. Obviously I would never do anything to jeopardize my opportunity here at Penske Racing or to my fellow drivers. I am very conscious about my training and health and would never knowingly take a prohibited drug.”


For additional information and interaction, visit – twitter.com/ajdinger, facebook.com/ajallmendinger and ajallmendinger.com


From Walldinger Racing, Inc/AJ Allmendinger-PR


Statements Regarding 2013 Sponsorship Status of Stewart-Haas Racings No. 39
The US Army has decided not to renew its sponsorship with Stewart Haas Racing – SHR – in 2013 as a primary sponsor of the No. 39 Chevrolet driven by Ryan Newman due to a reallocation of its marketing budget that will not include a presence in NASCAR.


SHR is actively pursuing a strong brand to partner with the team and its roster of sponsors that also includes Office Depot, Mobil 1, Quicken Loans, GoDaddy.com, Haas Automation, Chevrolet, WIX Filters, Outback Steakhouse, Aspen Dental, Tornados, Coca-Cola, Oreo, Ritz, Bass Pro Shops and Code 3 Associates.


“The US Army has been a great partner of Stewart Haas Racing since the team’s inception. It has been a mutually beneficial relationship, with the US Army introducing training regimens that improved our pit crews while instilling the mental, physical and emotional strength of the US Army Soldier in all of us. We remain very proud of our representation of the US Army and its brave Soldiers who are 100 percent committed to our country. We will continue to activate on behalf of the US Army for the rest of 2012, while also growing our other dynamic partnerships at Stewart Haas Racing for the future.”
                            -Brett Frood, Executive Vice President, Stewart Haas Racing


“The US Army has worked with Stewart Haas Racing in a mutually beneficial and highly successful relationship for the past four seasons, and they’ve performed superbly as our partner on and off the track. The same can be said of other members of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series family we have sponsored during the past 10 seasons. The sport, our drivers and the passionate NASCAR fans embraced the Army’s participation and created a tremendous opportunity for Americans to learn more about the profession of the Army Strong Soldier.”
-John Myers, Director, Marketing Support Element, Army Marketing and Research group


From True Speed Communication for Stewart Haas Racing-PR


US Representative McCollum 
US. Rep. Betty McCollum has won her two-year fight to get the Army to “stop wasting taxpayer dollars” on sponsoring a NASCAR racing team. The Army announced Tuesday that it would stop sponsoring the Stewart Haas Racing team. The sponsorships were supposed to be a recruiting tool, but McCollum had argued it’s an ineffective one. 


Read more from Pioneer Press and USA Today


Army looks to sign NHRA’s Schumacher
Army officials are in the process of signing a contract extension with Don Schumacher Racing through 2013 to continue the long-running sponsorship of the Top Fuel dragster for seven-time NHRA champion Tony Schumacher. “That’s our intent,” said John Myers, director of marketing support for the Army Marketing and Research Group. “The NHRA is a valuable part of our motorsports outreach portfolio. We are working on an agreement through 2013. The NHRA gives us a great return on our investment.”


Read more from ESPN


New Hampshire Motor Speedway Notes

• Groundbreaking for New Hampshire International Speedway, as New Hampshire Motor Speedway was originally named was Aug 13, 1989
• The first NASCAR Sprint Cup race was on July 11, 1993
• Renamed New Hampshire Motor Speedway in 2008
• There have been 34 NASCAR Sprint Cup races at New Hampshire Motor Speedway; one per year from 1993 through 1996 and two per year since.
• Four drivers have competed in all 34 races: Jeff Burton, Jeff Gordon, Bobby Labonte and Joe Nemechek.
• Mark Martin won the first NASCAR Sprint Cup pole
• Rusty Wallace won the first NASCAR Sprint Cup race.
• There have been 17 different pole winners, led by Ryan Newman – six.
• 20 different drivers have won, led by Jeff Burton – four.
• Jimmie Johnson – 2003 – and Kurt Busch – 2004 – are the only drivers that have posted season sweeps. Those are also the only back-to-back winners
• Hendrick Motorsports has won eight races, more than any other organization.
• The deepest in the field that a New Hampshire race winner started was 38th, by Jeff Burton in 1999. 
• There have been five winners who started from the pole. The last race winner to win from the pole was Ryan Newman last season.
• Jeff Burton led all 300 laps raced in the 2000 fall race.
• Five drivers got their first NASCAR Sprint Cup Series win at New Hampshire: Joe Nemecheck – 1999, Robby Gordon – 2001, Ryan Newman – 2002, Clint Bowyer – 2007 and Joey Logano – 2009.
• Two drivers got their first Sprint Cup Series Coors Light Pole at New Hampshire; Patrick Carpentier 2008 and Brad Keselowski – 2010.
• Denny Hamlin – 9.0 – is the only active driver with an average finish at NHMS in the top-ten.
• Jeff Gordon has led the most NASCAR Sprint Cup Series laps all-time at New Hampshire at 1,304
• Last fall’s event – 9/25/11 – at NHMS tied the records for most all-time leaders – 15, and fewest laps led by the winner – 2.
• Youngest NASCAR Sprint Cup Series New Hampshire Motor Speedway winner – Joey Logano – 6/28/2009 – 19 years, 1 month, 4 days
• Oldest NASCAR Sprint Cup Series New Hampshire Motor Speedway winner – Mark Martin 9/20/2009 – 50 years, 8 months, and 11 days

AJ Allmendinger wants sample B tested
Suspended Sprint Cup driver AJ Allmendinger on Monday took the first step in trying to get his failed drug test reversed.


The Penske Racing driver, suspended prior to Saturday night’s race at Daytona International Speedway for failing a drug test taken the previous weekend at Kentucky, issued a written request to have his “B” sample tested in hopes that it will give a different result than the initial “A” sample, which came back positive for a banned substance. Allmendinger had 72 hours from Saturday to ask for his “B” sample to be tested.


Read more from ESPN


Monday, July 9, 2012
NASCAR stars compete in Triathlon on James Island
Five-time Sprint Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson and his Hendrick Motorsports Racing teammate Kasey Kahne were dueling at Daytona Saturday night, and then competing in their first Triathlon on Sunday morning.


Along with over 300 people signed up for the race, the Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series played host to the two NASCAR stars and several of their crew members who were working on very little rest.


Read more from ABC News4


Opinion: NASCAR should reveal AJ Allmendinger’s offense
There are a lot of questions surrounding AJ Allmendinger after a failed drug test got him suspended. 


The biggest?  What exactly did he do?


NASCAR per it’s policy established in 2009, did not reveal the substance found in a positive test late last month.


Read more from That’s Racin/AP


Patrick’s impact with steering wheel during crash doesn’t concern NASCAR officials
Although video of her accident is somewhat startling, NASCAR officials are not surprised and not overly concerned that Danica Patrick’s steering column jerked violently upward in her crash Friday night at Daytona International Speedway.


They had seen the same thing before, including in Eric McClure’s car in April when McClure suffered a concussion and internal bruising in a hard crash at Talladega.


Read more from Sporting News


Routines won’t change in race to make Chase
With eight races remaining until the cut off for the Chase for the Sprint cup, three of NASCAR’s most decorated drivers are in three different positions. One feels secure with his place in the Chase; one is on the bubble but has victories in his corner; and one has to work vehemently to either make the top 10 in points or earn one of the two wild cards based on number of victories. Regardless of their situation, all agree the way they approach a race weekend will not change.


Read more from NASCAR.com


Darian Grubb welcomes Baby Girl to the family
Today, Darian Grubb sent out his first tweet on twitter…saying, “Gavin welcomes Gabriella Grace to the family. 7:29am 6lb13oz 18.5”. All are well and #veryblessed along with a photo of his wife, son and baby Gabriella Grace.


From Darian Grubb’s Tweet


Fan4Racing takes on first radio broadcast as guest on 110 Sportz Talk
Hey Race Fans, check out the 110 Sportz Talk radio broadcast tonight. The broadcast begins at 10pm ET/9pm CT and Fan4Racing will be joining the show around 10:10pm ET/9:10pm CT.  C.J. Sports and The Sportologist have some great NASCAR topics in line for discussion, followed by other sports topics.  We’d love to hear from you so, feel free to call in and chat with us tonight! Thanks!


Tony Stewart battling LeBron James, Eli Manning for ESPY
Tony Stewart won the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup last year, and he won Saturday night’s race at Daytona International Speedway.


Now Stewart is hoping to beat LeBron James, Eli Manning and other sports stars to win an ESPY.  


Read more from Sporting News


A Bounce for Burton?
Jeff Burton probably could not have imagined that his fifth-place finish in the season-opening Daytona 500 would be his best run of the year – until he rolled home second in Saturday’s Coke Zero 400, also at Daytona.


It has not be a fun year for Burton, who hasn’t won since October 2008 at Charlotte. He is 18th in Sprint Cup points with only four top-ten runs in 18 races.


Read more from SPEED


Upon further review, two-car tango not so bad
Did NASCAR go too far? In an effort to eliminate two-car dancing at Daytona and Talladega, the governing body went Dr. Frankenstein on us and created a package that forced drivers to return to pack racing that long had been a staple at restrictor-plate tracks.


They did this on a mandate from chairman Brian France because fans overwhelming said they preferred packs over tandems.


Read more from ESPN


Parity won’t solve all of Sprint Cup’s woes as fans grow restless
A sport once defined by Jimmie Johnson’s dominance seeks a new identity. Parity could be it but that does not satisfy some restless NASCAR fans who view this era as much for what the sport isn’t as for what it is.


Twenty-one drivers, nearly half a starting field, have won at least one Cup race since Johnson celebrated his record fifth-consecutive championship in 2010. They provide an antidote to Johnson’s reign when he won nearly 20 percent of the Cup races and fit NASCAR Chairman Brian France’s goal “to have the most competitive and close competition as we possibly can.”


Read more from Sports Illustrated


AJ Allmendinger ‘shocked’ by positive drug test
AJ Allmendinger was shocked by his suspension Saturday for a failed drug test, his business manager said Monday morning.


Tara Ragan, Allmendinger’s business manager, said she couldn’t comment much on the situation but did say Allmendinger is a health conscious person and that they are working with the race team to go through the process.


Read more from Sporting News


Perilous Times For Penske
It was not the kind of news Roger Penske, a globe-trotting motorsports magnate who isn’t used to dealing with such matters, wanted to address upon his return from a European vacation.


AJ Allmendinger, one of Penske Racing’s Sprint cup drivers and representative of one of Penske’s solid national/international sponsors, had been thrown in the jailhouse by NASCAR temporarily suspended for failing a random drug test.


Read more from SPEED


Swiftness of NASCAR response ominous for AJ Allmendinger
AJ Allmendinger hasn’t won a Sprint Cup race in 169 starts, and now he will need the biggest upset win of his career after failing a drug test.


As Allmendinger awaits results of a “B” sample test that owner Roger Penske said would be requested, his future in NASCAR’s premier series is uncertain at best. And the odds seem stacked against a scenario putting Allmendinger back in the No. 22 Dodge this weekend at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.


Read more from USA Today


Sam Hornish Jr to replace AJ Allmendinger at New Hampshire
Sam Hornish Jr will replace the suspended AJ Allmendinger in the Penske Racing No. 22 Sprint Cup car again this weekend at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.


NASCAR temporarily suspended Allmendinger several hours before the Cup race Saturday at Daytona International Speedway. Allmendinger had taken a NASCAR drug test at Kentucky Speedway, and NASCAR said he tested positive for a banned substance.


Read more from Sporting News


Max Gresham, Joe Denette agree to end NASCAR Camping World Truck Series association
Max Gresham and Joe Denette Motorsports – JDM – announced to part ways today, effective immediately.


The mutual decision by both parties will end the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series – NCWTS – association between the Griffin, GA driver and Kernersville, NC based team after just eight races this season.


Gresham’s best finish behind the wheel of the No. 24 JDM Chevrolet Silverado this season was 18th at Rockingham Speedway in April. The team posted an average finishing position of 23.8 in their eight starts together and Gresham is currently 20th in the 2012 NCWTS championship driver point standings.


“I know everyone expected to do better than that,” stated Gresham. “The guys at JDM are some of the hardest working I have ever been around and they did their best to give me great equipment week in and out. Joe – Denette – is a really, really nice guy and he’s dedicated to the sport and his team and committed to making both as good as possible. Honestly, everybody did their best this year. Unfortunately, we just didn’t have the results to show for it.”


JDM will continue to campaign the No. 9 Chevrolet Silverado driven by Ron Hornaday Jr throughout the remainder of the 2012 NCWTS season.


“Obviously, we hat to see Max go,” said Joe Denette, Owner of Joe Denette Motorsports. “Max has been a great student of the sport with a wealth of natural talent and a friendly personality. Unfortunately, Joe Denette Motorsports was not the right fit for him. We wish Max the best of luck in the future and know without a doubt he will land on his feet.”


“Joe Denette Motorsports will continue to move forward and compete at a championship level with Ron – Hornaday – and the No. 9 team,” continued Denette. “I am 110 percent committed to this team. We have made some changes in the last few weeks, but I know that we have the right people in place to contend for wins and hopefully a championship.”


Gresham, the 2011 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East champion, indicated he and his advisory team is currently weighing other NASCAR opportunities for the remainder of this season and beyond.


“I’d like to do some more Truck Series races this year, maybe some Nationwide too,” Gresham stated. “The big thing will be to stay in the seat and stay as fresh as possible. I know we’re going to run some Late Model races for now and continue to do that until we sort out what kind of NASCAR opportunities I have later this year and next season in 2013.


“I know I can do this,” Gresham continued. “I won the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East championship last year and that didn’t get handed to me. I think I have proven to people over the years that I can be competitive and win races. It’s just a matter of being in the right situation.”


From Joe Denette Motorsports-PR

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