NASCAR Cup Series

This Saturday we are off to Kentucky, a day early and an entry short. Well, early if you think of Sunday as the usual race day, and short as we will have 42 entries instead of the usual 43. Michael McDowell, who was 24th at Sonoma last Sunday, won’t be joining us.

“I’m really looking forward to getting back here -- we ran second here last race. More importantly, hungry for a win. There’s obviously a lot of teams that are hungry for a win, but I do believe we’re finally poised for a win. At this point in the season we’ve finally got our consistency back.

“But sitting in meetings and being around him as close as I am with our situation of the No. 48 and No. 88 being in the same shop, I see a guy that knows his race car better than ever; and a guy that’s focused on all the details. He’s thoroughly involved, is much more open and communicating on a far deeper level than I’ve seen him, especially when he started at Hendrick Motorsports.

“It’s always fun coming to Kentucky. It’s not too far from home, so friends and family have come up. It’s our first race with Fifth Third on the car this year, so we’re excited about that. They’re great people to work and partner with and they’re excited.

Jeff Gordon, one of the true greats in NASCAR and a first ballot Hall of Famer, is looking to make history at Kentucky Speedway. If the 42 year old wins Saturday night's race, it will not only be his landmark 90th victory but also will be his first victory at Kentucky Speedway.

Ten races at 10 different tracks, all to determine the 16 drivers who will battle for one prize – the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship. That’s a lot of numbers. But there’s only one point: It’s an important time right now, and for those who remain winless, it’s vital.

"I am very pleased to announce the continuation of our partnership with Caterpillar and the No. 31 Chevrolet in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series," said Richard Childress, President and CEO of Richard Childress Racing. "I am very fortunate to have met and interacted with so many Cat dealers, customers and equipment operators through the past six years.

June is Garage Safety Month and Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR) team partner, LiftMaster®, encourages fans to support the Celebrate Summer Safely, “Don’t Chance It. Check It” campaign during the month of June.

Fans can enjoy three nights and more than 800 action-packed miles of racing on one of NASCAR’s most exciting tracks for as low as $74 with Atlanta Motor Speedway’s weekend upgrade option for Labor Day Weekend.

“Kentucky is my style of track because it is a 1.5-mile rough track. It is close to home so it will be good to see some family and friends. Fifth Third Bank will make their debut this season on our Ford this weekend so it would be great to have a solid run for them this weekend at Kentucky.”