Home Blog Page 6207

Charlotte rumbles with excitement and news

By
Tammyrae Benscoter
-

[media-credit name=”Credit: Streeter Lecka/Getty Images” align=”alignright” width=”225″][/media-credit]NASCAR’s superstars will fight for supremacy in their own backyard this weekend, and while the format is different for the All-Star event, it is a guaranteed fight to the finish. In order to brawl for the big bucks, some of the sports most popular players must make their way to the main event.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. will be amongst the 22 competitors pounding the pavement in the Sprint Showdown. The top two finishers will advance to the All Star Competition, along with the fans vote. Giving three racers the chance to mix it up, and run for the million-dollar payday.

The Showdown will consist of 40-laps and gets underway at 7 pm. EST. Earnhardt, who will drive the black and orange foundation car hopes to earn one of the top two finishes. “We’re working on trying to win our little race,” Earnhardt Jr. said. “I’d like to allow someone else to have the fan vote.”

A.J. Allmendinger, who scored his qualifying lap at 192.465 mph, will lead the Sprint Showdown field. This is his fourth appearance in the showdown. In 2008, he won the race and advanced to the All-Star Race. Allmendinger, driver of the No. 22 Pennzoil Dodge is prepared to take it one race at a time. His first goal is to make it into the big race.

Martin Truex Jr., will sit outside the front row. Rounding out the top five starters are Earnhardt, Jeff Burton and Aric Almirola.

The segmented All-Star race consists of 90 laps and will get underway at approximately 9 pm EST. Three 20-lap segments will set the field for a 10-lap sprint to the checkers.

Kyle Busch’s qualifying run topped the charts at 115.112 mph, the average of three laps with a full-service pit stop, giving Busch his third All-Star pole. Busch and the No. 18 M&M’s Toyota Camry, won $50,000 for his pole run, a repeat of his 2011 performance. While Charlotte Motor Speedway is Busch’s proclaimed favorite track, he has yet to secure a win at CMS in Sprint Cup competition. He will lead the field of 23 competitors to the green flag.

Rounding out top five qualifiers includes Ryan Newman, Denny Hamlin, Greg Biffle and Joey Logano.

Kasey Kahne driver of the No. 5 Farmer’s Insurance Chevrolet will go to a backup car for Saturday night’s event. Kahne hit the wall during his practice run when the rear of his car jumped out of line. The car suffered major damages.

A win in Saturday’s race is not only a confidence booster or a big payday. It is bragging rights until teams return to Charlotte next May, and they do battle again.

“You never know what’s gonna happen, said Edwards, the defending All-Star race winner and driver of the No. 99 Fastenal Ford. “I think I can speak for most of the drivers and be completely honest and say that if a driver’s car is faster than the guy in front of him, and it’s for $1 millions bucks, there’s not gonna be a lot of patience,” Edward continued. “I’d hate to guess how much chaos there would be if there was a green-white-checkered, double file restart for $1 million bucks. Edwards concluded by saying, “That would be insane.”

Until the checkers falls, anything can happen under the lights in Charlotte. In addition, anyone that starts the race can win it.

—

NOTES: Jimmie Johnson’s Lowe’s team performed flawlessly and stole the thunder from Denny Hamlin’s Fed Ex team in the Pit Crew Challenge held Thursday night at the Time Warner Arena. Johnson and Hamlin were among the drivers that watched their teams perform at break neck speeds, showing true athleticism and physical speed. Team and Individual winners are rewarded and recognized by the sport during Saturday night’s All-Star event. As a reward to the team, Johnson will choose his pit box first for the All-Star race.

“They’re still on cloud 9,” Johnson said Friday in the Charlotte Motor Speedway media center. “Winning last night puts us in a good position, and hopefully (Saturday) night we’ll have a good night on track to help us take advantage of that.”

—

Matt Kenseth will debut his new sponsor Fifth Third Bank and their signature blue and green colors. Tony Stewart’s No. 14 Chevrolet will carry camouflage paint scheme in honor of the Wild Turkey Federation. Meanwhile Jamie McMurray’s Bass Pro Shop Chevrolet will feature a white camo pattern. Greg Biffle’s machine along with Jimmie Johnson’s machine will carry a more patriotic color scheme. Even Johnson’s helmet is apart of the unique changes for this race. His helmet features George Washington’s Profile, just like that of the dollar bill.

—

Brad Keselowski stole the social media stage when he tweeted from his car during a red-flag occurrence in the Daytona 500, so it seemed fitting that he joined the executives from NASCAR and Twitter as they announced a new partnership that will bring a unique racing perspective to the average fan. The tag #NASCAR is where all the excitement will be starting with the June 10 Pocono 400. Race fans can expect a unique experience with access to drivers and behind the scenes information.

“I think Twitter has a large effect on myself personally and the sport,” said Keselowski. “It is a great opportunity to combine technology and give more access to our fan base. I get on Twitter and I love to tweet.”

Twitter, which boasts 140 million active members, will use an editorial team and a special algorithm to bring the best content to the best interactive fans in Motorsports. Keselwoski along with Camping World Truck Series Driver Nelson Piquet Jr. both embrace twitter. Other drivers are encouraged to join the platform and help enhance the experience for fans.
___

As Labor Day Weekend approaches and the backyard barbeque becomes evident, check out the unique flavors of Atlanta Motor Speedway. The track is introducing the flavors of Coca Cola and Georgia peaches to the track with a unique twist. Levy Restaurants and Chef Frank Abbinanti inspired the full line of menu items. Coca Cola Racing Drivers Greg Biffle and Joey Logano tried the special menu items during the All-Star event. To cast your vote, visit Atlanta Motor Speedway’s website. Menu items for the Advocare 500 include Coke Zero Braised Beef Tacos, Coca-Cola Chili Dog, French Fries with Coca-Cola Dipping Sauce, Georgia Peaches and Sprite Elephant Ear and Cherry Coke BBQ Pork Sandwich with Vidalia Onion Rings. www.atlantamotorspeedway.com/vote “In racing, somebody always loses, but you can’t lose with any of this,” Biffle said. “I’m going with the taco and the dog as my favorites, but none of this is bad.”
—

Grow One, Save a Million initiative is being endorsed by Kevin Harvick and the Budweiser team. If the team begins to look scruffy, please forgive them as they attempt to help save a million gallons of water for World Environment Day June 5. Race fans and media members are invited to begin saving water as well. For more information and to make your pledge, visit Facebook.com/Budweiser or text GROW ONE to BEERS (23377) It is estimated that if a man does not shave for two weeks, he may save up to 70 gallons of water.

—

Three-time Grammy nominee and reigning CMA Male Vocalist of the Year Blake Shelton will perform a free concert for ticket holders prior to the All-Star Race Saturday night in Charlotte. Race fans looking for a prime location to see the show, can upgrade their ticket for $20.

“I cannot wait to help kick-off one of the biggest All-Star events in pro sports,” said Shelton, “we are going to party.”

—

The Fifth Annual Pennzoil Ultimate Victory Burnout Challenge will feature drivers honing their handling skills. Expect some rubber to be laid down. Defending winner Kasey Kahne and 2010 winner Joey Logano will be joined by AJ Allmendinger, Brad Keselowski and Clint Bowyer. Race fans on site at CMS will text their votes to determine the burnout winner. The winner receives $10,000 for their designated charity and a secured spot in the 2013 competition.

On track activities will also include a Global Rally Cross Demonstration. The season opener for Rally Cross will be held on May 26 in conjunction with the Nationwide event at Charlotte. Four-time Rally America champion and sports legend Travis Pastrana will compete in both events.

—

Ty Dillon claimed the Keystone Pole Award in his No. 3 Bass Pro Sports Chevrolet for the Camping World Truck Series. Dillon’s lap of 181.616 mph secured the pole in the 10th annual North Carolina Education Lottery 200. This is his fourth top-10 start of 2012. He will be joined upfront by Justin Lofton and Joey Coulter.

Busch Grabs Pole For NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race; Allmendinger Starts No. 1 in Sprint Showdown

By
SM Archive
-

CHEVY NSCS AT CHARLOTTE ALL STAR RACE — Qualifying Notes and Quotes

By
SM Archive
-

Busch Grabs Pole For Sprint All-Star Race; Allmendinger Starts No. 1 in Sprint Showdown

By
SM Archive
-

CHEVY NSCS AT CHARLOTTE ALL-STAR — Jeff Gordon Press Conf. Transcript

By
SM Archive
-

Busch captures the pole for Saturday nights Sprint All-Star race

By
SM Staff
-

[media-credit name=”Brad Keppel” align=”alignright” width=”235″][/media-credit]Kyle Busch captured the pole for Saturday nights Sprint All-Star Race at Charlotte Motor Speedway by completing three laps and a four-tire pit stop in 45.335 MPH (119.112 SECS) for the second straight time.

“It was a team effort. That is what it all boils down to. We were trying some things and looking at our race stuff. We felt like we had a really good shot at the pole going out late. It’s an honor for us. That’s two in a row for us here.” Busch said.

Ryan Newman starts second.

“Just really proud of the guys they had a good pit stop. I felt like everything was pretty clean. Our car has pretty good balance. We didn’t have a good practice session so hopefully the Tornados Chevrolet will be up front at the start and the finish of the All-Star Race.” Newman said.

Denny Hamlin starts third, Greg Biffle fourth and Kevin Harvick starts fifth.

The 90-lap race will be split into four 20-lap segments with a mandatory pit stop.  Then a 10-lap shootout for the $1 million prize.

Last years winner Carl Edwards starts 13th.

“I’m gonna go watch it. It didn’t feel real bad, but it just wasn’t real fast. We’ve got a fast race car, though, and it’s gonna be a fun race.” Edwards said.

Starting in his first All-Star race, Trevor Bayne will start 11th.

“I’m sweating.  I was so nervous going out there.  I was sweating before I got in the car.  I felt like we did well getting to pit road.  That’s what I was the most nervous about was making sure I got there quick, but then speed and we smoked them a little bit, but we were slowed down enough.  I was pumped about that.” Bayne said.

RACE LINEUP
Sprint All-Star Race, Charlotte Motor Speedway
May 19, 2012 – Exhibition

Pos. No. Driver Make Speed Time Bnd
1 18 Kyle Busch Toyota 45.335 119.11 0
2 39 Ryan Newman Chevrolet 45.067 119.82 -0.709
3 11 Denny Hamlin Toyota 44.937 120.17 -1.056
4 16 Greg Biffle Ford 44.843 120.42 -1.308
5 29 Kevin Harvick Chevrolet 44.768 120.62 -1.51
6 48 Jimmie Johnson Chevrolet 44.6 121.08 -1.964
7 27 Paul Menard Chevrolet 44.574 121.15 -2.035
8 24 Jeff Gordon Chevrolet 44.519 121.3 -2.185
9 14 Tony Stewart Chevrolet 44.451 121.48 -2.37
10 78 Regan Smith Chevrolet 44.364 121.72 -2.609
11 21 Trevor Bayne Ford 44.313 121.86 -2.749
12 15 Clint Bowyer Toyota 44.157 122.29 -3.18
13 99 Carl Edwards Ford 44.11 122.42 -3.308
14 34 David Ragan Ford 43.484 124.18 -5.071
15 17 Matt Kenseth Ford 43.079 125.35 -6.239
16 55 Mark Martin Toyota 42.646 126.62 -7.512
17 51 Kurt Busch Chevrolet 42.163 128.07 -8.962
18 9 Marcos Ambrose Ford 41.931 128.78 -9.672
19 2 Brad Keselowski Dodge 41.4 130.44 -11.32
20 5 Kasey Kahne Chevrolet – – –

 

Sprint Showdown

The Sprint Show Down, which will be held prior to the start of the Sprint All-Star, will determine two additional drivers (finishers 1 – 2) to the field and a fan vote will determine one more driver to set the starting line-up to a total of 23 drivers for the All-Star race.

AJ Allmendinger starts first in the Sprint showdown.

“That was a good lap. More than anything the car just stuck to the racetrack. I was letting it free up off it, so it wasn’t anything scary. You know, we struggled a little bit in practice. The Pennzoil Dodge had speed in it but wasn’t really comfortable so Todd Gordon (crew chief) and the guys went to work.” Allmendinger said.

Martin Truex Jr. starts second.

Here at Charlotte, we practiced today and it was really hot and the sun was out. This is a difficult place regardless when the sun’s out, but when you have to do qualifying runs and with the impound situation it makes it hard. The guys did a good job. We can win from there.” Truex Jr said.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. starts third.  Earnhardt used the fan vote to get into last years All-star race, but getting into the race without the fan vote would be a huge boost to the team and himself.

”It would really help build confidence. I remember when we won here in 2000 how much confidence it gave me. Winning this kind of event would do wonders for our team.” Earnhardt said.

RACE LINEUP
Sprint Showdown, Charlotte Motor Speedway
May 19, 2012 – Exhibition

Pos. No. Driver Make Speed Time Bnd
1 22 AJ Allmendinger Dodge 192.465 28.057 0
2 56 Martin Truex Jr. Toyota 191.049 28.265 -0.208
3 88 Dale Earnhardt Jr. Chevrolet 191.002 28.272 -0.215
4 31 Jeff Burton Chevrolet 189.693 28.467 -0.41
5 43 Aric Almirola Ford 188.752 28.609 -0.552
6 83 Landon Cassill Toyota 188.679 28.62 -0.563
7 42 Juan Montoya Chevrolet 188.666 28.622 -0.565
8 47 Bobby Labonte Toyota 188.37 28.667 -0.61
9 93 Travis Kvapil Toyota 187.977 28.727 -0.67
10 30 David Stremme Toyota 187.807 28.753 -0.696
11 13 Casey Mears Ford 187.748 28.762 -0.705
12 10 David Reutimann Chevrolet 187.643 28.778 -0.721
13 20 Joey Logano Toyota 187.578 28.788 -0.731
14 33 Stephen Leicht* Chevrolet 186.709 28.922 -0.865
15 195 Scott Speed Ford 186.677 28.927 -0.87
16 38 David Gilliland Ford 186.67 28.928 -0.871
17 119 Mike Bliss Toyota 186.496 28.955 -0.898
18 249 J.J. Yeley Toyota 186.046 29.025 -0.968
19 1 Jamie McMurray Chevrolet 185.906 29.047 -0.99
20 87 Joe Nemechek Toyota 185.688 29.081 -1.024
21 26 Josh Wise* Ford 185.008 29.188 -1.131
22 36 Tony Raines Chevrolet 182.568 29.578 -1.521

Ford All-Star Qualifying Quotes

By
SM Archive
-

SRT Motorsports — Sprint Cup Showdown Final Quotes – Charlotte

By
SM Archive
-

SRT Motorsports — Nationwide Parker Kligerman Q&A, Iowa

By
SM Archive
-

THE MEMORIES OF A MIDDLE AGED RACING FAN: THE PASS IN THE GRASS VERSUS THE FLIRT IN THE DIRT

By
SM Staff
-

[media-credit name=”charlottemotorspeedway.com” align=”alignright” width=”199″][/media-credit]Prior to the annual Sprint All Star Race, at the Charlotte Motor Speedway, we were treated to several video highlights of this famous race from the NASCAR themed  television shows. Although we’ve seen these highlights many times over the years, we’re still in awe struck wonder over this no holes barred, winner take all, unleashed display of motorsports fury. Needless to say, the one video highlight we see the most is the famed “Pass In The Grass.”

In 1987, when the Sprint All Star Race was known as The Winston, Dale Earnhardt Sr, in his famed Wrangler Jeans Chevrolet, and Bill Elliott, driving his equally famous Coors Ford, were racing hard for the win during the final segment of the race. There was the inevitable contact that sent Earnhardt’s car into the edge of the grassy infield. Using driving skills and a display of car control that is still amazing to this day, Earnhardt drove his car through the grass, returned to the asphalt and went on to win the race. The television cameras also captured some classic pit road confrontations and comments after the race had concluded.

While no one could possibly refute the driving skills Earnhardt displayed that day, there were many who, to this day, still points out that there was actually no pass made during that moment in racing history. That’s actually true, but a special catch phrase was needed to name a video highlight that would forever be shown on television once a year. “Pass In The Grass” was very catchy.

To have called it “The Pass In The Grass That Didn’t Actually Have A Pass” would have been lengthy, confusing and a genuine tongue twister for those in radio and television broadcast booths. To have called it “I Almost Lost My Ass In The Grass” would have never been accepted back in 1987. The truth be known, the politically incorrect factions, here in 2012, probably wouldn’t be too thrilled either.

All that being taken into consideration, the 1987 “Pass In The Grass” wasn’t the only amazing display of car control by Earnhardt that year. The second one came in June of that year at the California based Riverside International Raceway. I was there that day and personally decided to call Earnhardt’s move “The Flirt In The Dirt.”

As many old school “Left Coast” racing racing fans will recall, the Riverside road course had a series of S turns that appeared harmless to look at but were in fact extremely treacherous to handle in race traffic. This was an area of this track where it was very easy to lose control of a car and hit the wide dirt areas that bordered it. That dirt area was also notorious for causing cars to roll over.

On this day Earnhardt was caught off guard by a car in front of him that checked up while entering the S turns. He pulled to the right and literally drove through those S turns in a perfect straight line while passing the car in front of him. His left side tires were on the edge of the asphalt while the right side tires were running on the dirt. The rear end of his Chevrolet was bouncing around violently and greatly resembled a large bass desperately trying to wriggle free from a fisherman’s hook. It was one of the most amazing displays of car control I’ve ever had the pleasure to witness.

However, “The Flirt In The Dirt” will probably never be compared to “The Pass In The Grass.” That’s because there doesn’t seem to be any evidence that Earnhardt’s driving display at Riverside was recorded on video tape. Also, no one was angry and wanted to raise hell with “The Intimidator” after the race.

But there were a lot of us in the grandstands who jumped to our feet and began cheering wildly after witnessing “The Flirt In The Dirt.” that day. It will always remain as a fond memory of a middle aged racing fan.

1...6,2066,2076,208...6,985Page 6,207 of 6,985