Friday, August 21, 2009

Dale Earnhardt Jr - New Crew Chief Produces Results

Dale Earnhardt Jr - New Crew Chief Produces Results
By Dirk Gibson Platinum Quality Author


The Autism Speaks 400 at Dover, Delaware was the first race for Dale Earnhardt, Jr., and his new crew chief Lance McGrew. Not only did Autism Speak, but so did the future of the Amp team and the future looks much brighter than it did just one week ago.

A quick recap of the soap opera that has surrounded the Amp team. Junior left the fading DEI team to come to Hendrick a year and a half ago. Hendrick is of course the home of Jimmie Johnson, Jeff Gordon and the best cars in NASCAR. Putting Junior with the team was the recipe for championships and glory. Ah, not exactly. In fact, the combination has been a disaster. Junior has never looked less competitive.

The vast majority of criticism has been directed at Tony Eury, Jr. The long time cousin and crew chief for Junior quickly became the scapegoat for the poor results. Despite having racked up wins and success over the years, he suddenly became a dolt who had never seen a car before much less figured out how to set one up. After months of wailing, the fans go their wish. Eury, Jr., was sent packing last week when he was taken off the Amp team and moved into research and development at Hendrick.

The crisis has been such that Rick Hendrick did not just change crew chiefs. The removal of Eury was one thing, but the replacements speak volumes. Two of the top chassis developers for Hendrick were brought on board with Lance McGrew becoming the focal point as the crew chief of the team. For a man who admittedly doesn't like the spotlight, it had to be a one way conversation with Hendrick to make it happen.

Well, this is one form of change that might be working nicely. It is easy to overact after just one race, but the results in the Autism Speaks 400 were tremendous. The Amp team suddenly looked like one of the other Hendrick teams. Junior came from as far back as 30th to run in third place for a stretch. He faded to 12th at the finish, but that wasn't bad considering the goal was to finish in the top 20 going into the race.

So, is all well know with the Amp team? Nobody knows. The future, however, looks brighter than it did just a week ago when Junior ran 40th at the Coca Cola 400.

Dirk Gibson is with DCJAutoParts.com - where you can find high performance auto parts for your car for the best prices.

NASCAR Racing Jackets

NASCAR Racing Jackets
By Cassaundra Flores Platinum Quality Author


NASCAR or the National Association of Stock Car Auto Racing has gained a huge following around the world. This sport event traces its beginnings with actual stock cars from car manufacturers. However, due to safety concerns, NASCAR authorities decided to apply modifications on the racing cars. As a result, lots of people became more interested in designing and creating cars exclusively for NASCAR. The racing event has produced rich and famous drivers and has helped its various sponsors become better known in the industry.

With the growing popularity of NASCAR, a variety of products and items related to the sport was made available to the avid followers. One of which is the official NASCAR jacket. You can buy either brand new or used jackets, depending on your preference. Dozens of websites and stores sell NASCAR jackets but it is always more satisfying to purchase an official jacket. How can one get an official NASCAR jacket at a reasonable price? The following are some tips or steps:

Look for a flea market. There is a big chance of finding official NASCAR jackets in this kind of place. Venues that sell volumes of jackets usually offer excellent prices. The more patient you are in locating the best places that offer the lowest price, the better your chances are in owning a quality and durable NASCAR jacket.

Try to go to charity auctions. An auction that is done for a person who is somehow connected with NASCAR most likely offers official jackets. Although these auctions are rarely held, inquiring about upcoming ones would be a better a thing.

Avail of online merchandise auctions. In most cases, people who acquire new jackets auction their old ones. This will then be a great opportunity for you to get official jackets of superb quality. As long as it is still durable and presentable, the second hand jacket can still last for years as it is made from high quality materials. It's the main advantage in buying an official NASCAR jacket.

Visit the official website of the NASCAR. It is the best guarantee of getting an original NASCAR jacket. The site also offers a variety of other merchandise. The site may offer prices that are a little higher than those at auctions but you can be assured of official NASCAR products which you can be really proud of.

Purchase a jacket at the racing event. Every time you witness an actual NASCAR competition you can buy jackets and other items at the track itself. An advantage of it is that you can have the chance of having your jacket signed by a pro NASCAR driver. Aside from that, purchasing something on the actual event itself makes the item a perfect souvenir of the event. Nothing can be more fulfilling than attending the NASCAR event yourself.

Visit your local sporting goods store. NASCAR pro drivers usually grant permission or licenses to sporting goods chains across the country to sell their used merchandise. Although there are other stores that sell unofficial or counterfeit jackets, you can notice the obvious difference of the official item especially if you are an avid NASCAR follower.

Article written by Cassaundra Flores, who is the owner of skyfireproducts.com. Where we sell a large selection of racing items such as nascar gifts , nascar clocks and collectors items like nascar racing jackets.

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Beckett 2009 Racing Collectibles Price Guide #15 - NASCAR

Beckett 2009 Racing Collectibles Price Guide #15 - NASCAR

Beckett 2009 Racing Collectibles Price Guide #15 - NASCAR
From Beckett

List Price: $50.00
Price: $22.94

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by Rookies HQ Games & Cards!

2 new or used available from $22.94

Average customer review:

Product Description

The most comprehensive coverage of die-cast cars available anywhere. Includes up-to-date pricing and alphabetical driver listings for every racing card ever issued. Covers NASCAR, IndyCar, Formula One, NHRA, Sprint Cars & more. This book is a must for racing collectors!


Product Details

  • Amazon Sales Rank: #21308 in Sports & Outdoors
  • Brand: Beckett

Features

  • 15th Edition (Mar 2009)
  • BONUS - Alphabetical Checklist Inside
  • Complete checklists & pricing for every racing card set & die-cast replica from 1910 to present
  • Compreshensive and easy to use card & die cast alpha CL - perfect for single driver collectors
  • Over 3,000 cards sets & 33,000 die-cast listings

Customer Reviews

excellent product4
this is one of the best price guides for finding hard to find listings and prices, highly recommended.

organized?3
I like the Beckett guide for racing collectibles, but it is a bit disorganized. I'd like a better glossary or index in order to search out my cards. It didn't seem too easy to find different brands or series. That would be my only suggestion to Beckett.

Review of Beckettt Racing Colleciaables guide4
As usual this is the best guide available, How ever it may differ from Beckett's "My Collection Pricing" The guide lists more items. So it is the best guide available.

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

#14 Tony Stewart Ladies Black Treasured Tank Top From Football Fanatics

#14 Tony Stewart Ladies Black Treasured Tank Top

#14 Tony Stewart Ladies Black Treasured Tank Top
From Football Fanatics

List Price: $25.00
Price: $24.95

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Product Description

You'll be the envy of all the ladies around the track when you show off your love for Tony Stewart in this Treasured tank top with an elegant all-over print!


Product Details

  • Amazon Sales Rank: #675357 in Sports & Outdoors
  • Brand: Football Fanatics

Features

  • Lightweight tank top
  • Screen print graphics
  • Spaghetti straps
  • Built-in shelf bra for added support
  • Tagless

Tony Stewart #14 Office Depot Stewart Haas Racing Logo Chase Authentics Brand Pit Hat Cap OSFM From Chase Authentics

Tony Stewart #14 Office Depot Stewart Haas Racing Logo Chase Authentics Brand Pit Hat Cap OSFM

Tony Stewart #14 Office Depot Stewart Haas Racing Logo Chase Authentics Brand Pit Hat Cap OSFM
From Chase Authentics

Price: $21.99

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by Kmax NASCAR & Sports Collectibles

2 new or used available from $15.99

Product Description

LISTING IS FOR ONE HAT ONLY...PHOTO SHOWS MULTIPLE VIEWS OF HAT...TONY STEWART #14 OFFICE DEPOT...2009 OFFICIAL PIT CAP...NEW WITH TAGS MADE BY CHASE AUTHENTICS STEWART-HAAS RACING VELCRO STRAP ONE SIZE FITS MOST SHARP HAT


Product Details

  • Amazon Sales Rank: #54126 in Sports & Outdoors

Features

  • One Size Fits Most Adjustable Velcro Strap
  • Chase Authentics Brand
  • New With Tag
  • 2009 Official Pit Cap

Tony Stewart #14 Office Depot Stewart Haas Racing Logo Chase Authentics Brand Pit Hat Cap OSFM From Chase Authentics

Tony Stewart #14 Office Depot Stewart Haas Racing Logo Chase Authentics Brand Pit Hat Cap OSFM

Tony Stewart #14 Office Depot Stewart Haas Racing Logo Chase Authentics Brand Pit Hat Cap OSFM
From Chase Authentics

Price: $21.99


Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by Kmax NASCAR & Sports Collectibles

2 new or used available from $15.99

NASCAR Team Collection Tony Stewart Ladies Rebel Bermuda Short

NASCAR Team Collection Tony Stewart Ladies Rebel Bermuda Short

NASCAR Team Collection Tony Stewart Ladies Rebel Bermuda Short
From Team Collection

List Price: $29.99
Price: $29.99
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Tony Stewart
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Product Description

The Tony Stewart women's Rebel Bermuda short from the NASCAR® Team Collection is perfect for a beautiful day at the track. It's made with a soft blend of cotton and polyester and has a stretchy elastic waistband for a comfortable fit. Full-color driver and team graphics are screen-printed on the upper left leg.


Product Details

  • Amazon Sales Rank: #96728 in Sports & Outdoors
  • Size: One Size
  • Color: *
  • Brand: Team Collection
  • Dimensions: .50" h x 10.00" w x 14.00" l, .40 pounds

Features

  • 60% cotton, 40% polyester
  • Bermuda short with elastic waistband
  • Driver's name and car number screen-printed on the upper left leg
  • Decorated in the team colors
  • Machine wash and dry

budweiser shootout

Budweiser Shootout
By Robert J Collins


For more than 30 years now the Budweiser shootout represents the unofficial beginning of the Sprint Cup Season. As the robin represents the beginning of spring, so too does the Budweiser Shootout represent the new season for NASCAR! This eagerly anticipated non point's race returns in 2009 to the Daytona International Speedway.

Qualification:

The race consist of an exclusive club of only 28 drivers representing the top six teams of each manufacturer from the previous season Bud Pole Award. Starting in 2009, only the top six teams based on Owner points earned the previous year qualify. One must note that now the race car receives the berth, not the driver, so any driver changing from one of the top 6 teams to elsewhere will no longer qualify.

* Prior to 2009 any drivers who won a pole position during the year was eligible for the Shootout, but this qualification standard changed in 2009.

Format:

Held at the Daytona International speedway this race consist of two stages, the first stage consist of 25 laps (prior to 2009 it was 20 laps.) Then there is a 10 minute intermission. After the intermission the race concludes with a final 50 laps. While no pitting is required in the final 50 laps the regulate gas tank size almost assures teams that they will have to pit during the final 50 laps.

The winning driver receives a large cash purse (2008 winner Dale Earnhart received $215 000) instead of the typical driver points. This reward system is to encourage drivers to forgo typical race tactics and be more aggressive with their driving. While it is seen by many drivers and teams as a final dress rehearsal before the start of the season, the cash award is more then enough to encourage an entertaining race.

Interesting facts about the Budweiser Shootout

Five times the winner of the has gone on to win the Daytona 500. they are: Dale Jarrett (2000 and 1996), Jeff Gordon (1997), Bill Elliott (1987), and Bobby Allison (1982)

If a driver is under the age of 21, they are not allowed to wear a Budweiser decal, they must wear an Anheuser-busch corporate logo pole Award sticker.

Denny Hamlin was the first rookie to win the Budweiser shootout, in the 2006 race

Busch Clash winners:

1979 Buddy Baker - $50,000
1980 Dale Earnhardt - $50,000
1981 Darrell Waltrip - $61,500
1982 Bobby Allison - $50,000
1983 Neil Bonnett - $50,500
1984 Neil Bonnett - $50,000
1985 Terry Labonte - $65,000
1986 Dale Earnhardt - $75,000
1987 Bill Elliott - $75,000
1988 Dale Earnhardt - $75,000
1989 Ken Schrader - $75,000
1990 Ken Schrader - $95,000
1991 Dale Earnhardt - $60,000
1992 Geoff Bodine - $39,000
1993 Dale Earnhardt - $60,000
1994 Jeff Gordon - $54,000
1995 Dale Earnhardt - $57,000
1996 Dale Jarrett - $62,500
1997 Jeff Gordon - $54,000

Bud Shootout winners:

1998 Rusty Wallace - $100,882
1999 Mark Martin - $108,000
2000 Dale Jarrett - $115,000
2001 Tony Stewart - $202,722
2002 Tony Stewart- $200,955
2003 Dale Earnhardt, Jr. - $205,000
2004 Dale Jarrett - $213,000
2005 Jimmie Johnson - $219,945
2006 Denny Hamlin - $213,380
2007 Tony Stewart - $215,000
2008 Dale Earnhardt Jr. - $215,000

Robert Collins is publisher of http://www.Newsfromthepit.com website. Bringing you the very latest NASCAR racing news and rumors, these are all brought together in one place, gathered from all the top Sports sources.
Robert also contributes to http://www.Wii-mii.com - Everything Wii

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

pit nascar

The Strategic Elements Of NASCAR
By Mike Schirripa


Watching a NASCAR race can be one of the most entertaining and exciting ways to spend a Sunday afternoon (or in some cases a Saturday night). Every race on the Nextel Cup schedule has its share of drama and strategy that provide the fans with an enjoyable, dramatic experience.

What makes NASCAR worth watching? How about the strategy and planning that each race team employs in their attempts at victory.

When a caution flag is waved during a race, the crew chief must decide whether or not to bring his driver in for a pit stop. If you decide to come into the pits and other teams follow, well great. If you decide to pit and others stay out on the track, then you can fall behind very quickly. You better hope that the fresh tires on your car allow you to catch up with the guys that didn’t come in for fresh tires of their own.

A crew chief must evaluate how race tires have been performing throughout each race. As a race nears completion, a race team may decide to put only two fresh tires on their car. They may even elect to add fuel only and not change tires at all. This strategy saves valuable time, and gets a driver back out on the track quickly. The gain in track position can send a driver to victory, or send a driver to the back of the pack, surpassed by cars with fresh tires.

During pit stops as a race nears completion, crew chiefs must constantly decide whether or not to change two or four tires, or add fuel only, and whether or not to pit at all. One of the most dramatic events within a NASCAR race occurs when a crew chief decides to gamble and not bring his car in to the pits near the end of the race-thinking the car has enough gas to finish. This strategy often results in victories and probably equally as often results in cars running out of gas-unable to finish.

Additional important strategic elements in NASCAR racing are the adjustments made to the car throughout the race. Depending on how a car is handling, a crew chief may decide to add or reduce air pressure in the car's tires, based on the feedback the driver is giving him. Make the right adjustments and your car improves and you’re a contender for a victory. Make the wrong adjustments, and you have a miserable day. It has to be very frustrating to drive four or five hundred miles knowing you have no chance to win.

To pit or not to pit? Gas or no gas? Two tires or four tires, or how about no tires? These are just a few examples of the many decisions each race team has to deal with. The strategy involved makes watching a NASCAR race a fun and entertaining way to spend an afternoon.

Monday, July 13, 2009

nascar #24

Centon Jeff Gordon 4 GB USB Flash Drive
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Jeff Gordon
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One Size
Availability: Select Color and Size to view.
function registerNamespace(ns) { var parts = ns.split("."); var root = window; for(var i = 0; i < root =" root[parts[i]];" getelementsbytagandclass =" function(tag," parent_element =" document;" tags =" parent_element.getElementsByTagName(tag);" class_tags =" new" class_regex =" new" i =" 0;" findancestor =" function(child," test ="=" test_func =" function(obj){" obj ="=" test ="=" test_func =" function(obj){" nodename ="=" test_func =" test;" child =" child.parentNode;" getselectedradio =" function(form," form ="=" form =" document.forms[form];" i =" 0;" usecapture =" false;" addhandler =" function(object," event_handler =" function(event){" event_handler =" handler;" event =" window.event;" cancelbubble =" true;" event =" window.event;" returnvalue =" false;" link =" document.getElementById('imageViewerLink');" wimages ="=" wimages =" window.open(link.href," width="625,height=" location =" link.href;">

Product Description

Perfect for the die hard race fan, this officially licensed Jeff Gordon USB flash drive from Centon® boasts a 1:88-scale race car design. The drive offers 4GB of storage, allowing you to store digital documents, pictures, video clips, and MP3 files. Its compact design makes transportation easy.


Product Details

  • Brand: Centon
  • Dimensions: 1.00" h x 5.00" w x 7.00" l, .10 pounds

Features

  • 4GB flash drive
  • USB compatible
  • 1:88-scale car design
  • Compact design
  • Officially licensed

stewart tony

The Stewart-Haas Team is Doing Shockingly Well
By Lemmy Gibson Platinum Quality Author

It sounded like a recipe for disaster. Tony Stewart was the iconic driver for Joe Gibbs Racing. Driving the number 20 Home Depot car, he had won two championships for the team. He was both a brilliant driver and a combustible sort. He was as likely to win a race as take a swing at someone. Put another way, he was old school NASCAR.

Then came the shocking announcement. Tony Stewart was leaving Joe Gibbs Racing. He was leaving the big contract. He was leaving the massive resources. He was leaving the great crew chief. He was leaving the wins and rewards. Many thought he was leaving his sanity! Why? It was all about where he was going.

Tony Stewart was leaving Joe Gibbs Racing to become a part owner in his own team. The team would be known as Stewart Haas. The then constructed Haas team was downright horrible and many thought Stewart had lost his mind. After all, we'd seen this tried before with Ricky Rudd. Michael Waltrip and many others. It rarely worked out for the best. Given the temper of Tony Stewart, it all sounded like a nightmarish 2009 season.

Tony Stewart outsmarted us all. The first thing he did right was to bat his eyes at Rick Hendrick. The Hendrick Team is the dominant team in NASCAR. It also drives Chevrolets, the car Stewart preferred over Toyota which Joe Gibbs Racing had switched to. Stewart signed an affiliation agreement with the Hendrick Team and then signed away some key players as well. This made the transition to the Hendrick equipment fairly seamless. Throw in the signing of Ryan Newman and the team had the makings of being something solid.

Solid? Try tremendous. Tony Stewart sits in third in the points after the Southern 500. Ryan Newman is in the tenth position. Yes, both teams are in the chase as I write this and the both look strong. Stewart has yet to win, but it is only a matter of time. Overall, it has been a fairy tale beginning for the team. Can it last? With close ties to the Hendrick Team, it looks like it may very well.

Tony Stewart is a controversial figure. Some love him. Some hate him. What is undeniable is he is a fiery personality. In the world of PC corporate drivers in NASCAR, that is something desperately needed. Thank goodness Tony hasn't faded away to the back of the pack.

collectibles trucks

Diecast Cars & Trucks - Collecting 101
By Anthony Gilio


When you get started collecting diecast model cars trucks, the first thing is to decide on the scale that you're going to collect. Diecast are classified in terms of scale, 1:18, :1:24, and 1:25 to mention a few that you might see or hear people talking about. Scale refers to a fraction of what the real item is reduced in order to produce an accurate model. Keep that in mind when deciding where you are going to display your collection. 1:18 will require more shelf space than 1:24.

Collectors tend to collect the diecast model of cars or trucks that they love and have owned This is a good place to start a collection. There are some collectors that will only buy models from particular manufacturers or brands. Manufacturers like CORGI, MAISTO and Motormax are but a few of the names you will most certainly hear about. There are even custom manufacturers that will only release a limited number of models or custom create a one of a kind for you.

Caring for your collection is as easy as cleaning your furniture. One item that could damage your collection is long term ex-poser to the sun. This could cause the finish to dull, especially on a metallic finish. You can wax your models using car wax found at most automotive stores. Using a Q-tip will allow you to get into the small areas. Once waxed light dusting will keep your collection in tip top condition.

If you are purchasing a diecast car or truck for a child please consider 1:16 scale. It is considerably larger and generally made for the wear and tear inflicted by kids. The metal Tonka trucks we fondly remember playing with in the sandbox are great examples of 1:16 scale. Although the metal versions have been replaced by plastic you may be able to find some originals at flee markets and garage sales.

Diecast cars and trucks are generally made with attention to detail which replicates the real world version. Such detail might include opening doors, steerable wheels, a detailed engine compartment and not too mention explicit attention to detail on the interior of the model. Collecting diecast cars and trucks is a fun and fascinating hobby. Whether you are interested in casual collecting or if you're a die-hard collector, there is something in this hobby for everyone.

nascar truck diecast

A Collectibles Primer - Diecast Toy Trucks
By Chris Robertson Platinum Quality Author


Collecting diecast toy trucks is among the most popular hobbies for kids of all ages. For those who are considering starting a diecast toy truck collection, or for those who are searching for a gift for a toy truck enthusiast, here are some points to consider.

Types of Diecast Vehicles

If you've accumulated a few diecast toy trucks and are considering expanding your collection, you should consider whether your interests are confined exclusive to toy trucks or if you also want to collect, for example, diecast cars. Some people like to specialize, while others have a broader interest in diecast vehicles. It's best to decide ahead of time what your collection will encompass before you wind up with 3000 toys, only 100 of which really thrill you. You definitely don't want to create a toy truck city and then decide only motor city classics will do.

Brands of Toy Trucks

Again, it's time to ask yourself a question: Do you want to limit your collection to a single brand of collectible diecast toy trucks, or do you enjoy collecting all brands of toy trucks? If you're giving a diecast toy truck as a gift, it's important to learn whether or not the collector in your life has a brand preference. Perhaps he or she collects only Sunstar toy trucks, First Gear toy trucks, Caterpillar (also known as "CAT") toy trucks, New Ray toy trucks, or Tonkin toy trucks. If so, make sure you purchase a diecast toy truck that will fit his or her collection.

Scales of Toy Trucks

Similar to model trains, diecast toy trucks and cars come in a variety of scales. Typically, the scales are as follows: 1:18, 1:24, 1:43, and 1:64. Some people prefer to collect only one scale of diecast toy trucks, while other's hobbies incorporate collecting a variety of scales.

Cataloguing a Collection

One of the challenges that many collectors face - particularly after they've been collecting diecast toy trucks for several years - is that they don't remember exactly what they have. Collectors have come up with a variety of methods for cataloging their collections. The earlier you start cataloging, the better off you'll be. If you're looking for a gift for your favorite collector, supplying him or her with the tools necessary to catalog his or her collection is a great idea.

One idea for cataloging is to buy a "milk crate" type of box and color-coded folders at an office supply store. You can create a folder for each item in your collection, and include receipts, photos, the owner's registration, and so forth in the folder. If you have a variety of types of diecast toy trucks, you can use color-coded folders to separate them by type. Another method of cataloging is to buy one or more binders and sheet protectors, and create one sheet for each item in your collection, and keep them together in a binder.

Collecting diecast toy trucks is fun and rewarding. Adding to your collection, receiving toy trucks as gifts, and trading or selling items from your collection can provide you with hours of enjoyment.

truck nascar

Toyota NASCAR Truck Race Reviewed
By Kye Leery Platinum Quality Author


Six Tundras drivers finished in the top-10 at Memphis: Jack Sprague (second), Mike Skinner (fourth), Aaron Fike (fifth), Ryan Mathews (No. 36 Lilly Company/Toyota Industrial Equipment Tundra, sixth), Johnny Benson (No. 23 360 OTC Tundra, seventh) and Todd Bodine (No. 30 Lumber Liquidators Tundra, eighth). Other drivers in the field were Brad Keselowski (16th), Terry Cook (No. 59 Harris Trucking Tundra, 29th) and Ken Butler (No. 00 Aaron’s Lucky Dog Tundra, 33rd).

Keselowski started, for the first of his NCTS career, on the pole in the No. 9 Team ASE Tundra for Germain Racing and led three times for 23 laps. Skinner led 16 laps, and has now led at least one lap in the season’s first 12 races. As a result, he tied the NCTS record for consecutive races led to start a season (Jason Leffler, 2002).

No. 60 Con-way Freight Tundra driver Jack Sprague said that it was a difficult race. He explains that they were horrible but they did a great job with we made some great adjustments. According to him, his truck was a little loose but cooperated by rotating pretty well in the center. He added that they have to give up something at this race track because it is not going to be perfect on both ends.

No. 5 Toyota Tundra diver Mike Skinner said that the truck was very consistent though each set of tires they put on it was a bit different. He considers the recent race as the best run they have ever had in Memphis.

No. 1 RFMS Tundra diver Aaron Fike said that they were looses the whole race but it was their first top-five of the season. He added that they probably should have had a couple top-fives already this year, but they caught a couple bad breaks. He further said that they been in the top-10 in points all year so it is nice to get a good finish and keep the truck up there in points.

No. 9 Team ASE Tundra driver Brad Kaselowski commented that they had a strong truck all night, but it just did not end how they wanted it to. He said that he used everything he had to get to Travis and pass him. Kaselowski caught a little break in traffic to get by Travis. The two got into more traffic and could not get around a couple lapped trucks, and used the rear tires a little too hard and used them up. Though disappointed, Kaselowski was certain that it was the best run he has ever had.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

NASCAR: The Rise Of A Racing Empire

NASCAR: The Rise Of A Racing Empire
By Bob Johnson Platinum Quality Author



In 1947, the sport of stock car racing was becoming extremely popular and beginning to draw large crowds of spectators. More drivers began taking an interest due to the increasing fan popularity. Cohesiveness, however, did not exist as rules differed from one racetrack to the next. Several tracks were built to produce one big show at a county fair, or similar event, in order to capitalize on the crowds of fans that were beginning to form. Other tracks, however, were built more toward handling the cars and not the crowds. Some tracks could accommodate both the fans and the cars, but did little to adhere to the rules governing the neighboring tracks.

In late 1947, on a December day in Florida, Bill France Sr. organized a meeting at the Streamline Hotel in Daytona Beach. His focus for the meeting was to discuss the matters facing the future of stock car racing. From this meeting emerged, what is now known as, NASCAR (The National Association of Stock Car Auto Racing). When the meeting adjourned, few people had faith in the new organization or it’s future. France, however, knew otherwise. In fact, he believed that a sanctioning body was exactly what the sport needed, but even he could not have imagined what he created on that December day.
The sport of NASCAR began to take shape rather quickly. After two months, the inaugural NASCAR-sanctioned race was held on Daytona’s Beach Course. Red Byron, a stock car legend, drove his Ford Modified to win the event on February 15, 1948. It wasn’t until the following year that what we now know as NASCAR Nextel Cup Series began. The first ever NASCAR Grand National (now known as Nextel Cup) event was held at the Charlotte, North Carolina fairgrounds. A huge crowd gathered to see Jim Roper of Kansas win this historic race.
The new series was an instant success and plans were ongoing to bring in larger crowds, more drivers and faster races. In 1950, Darlington Raceway, the country’s first asphalt superspeedway, opened it’s doors for the new division. The first decade for NASCAR was one of tremendous growth and popularity. Drivers became heroes and skeptics became race fans. Names like Lee Petty, Fireball Roberts and Buck Baker were to racing as Willie Mays, Mickey Mantle and ‘The Duke’ were to baseball.
With the growing success of this new sport, Bill France Sr. began construction of a 2.5 mile, high-banked superspeedway located four miles from the beach in Daytona. France fought to keep racing affiliated with Daytona as others looked to the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah to avoid the outgoing tides at Daytona Beach. Despite the desire of the city of Daytona hold onto it‘s beach racing attraction, NASCAR quickly outgrew the beach. In 1949, NASCAR moved it’s events to the Daytona International Speedway. The first Daytona 500 continued for 3 days due to a dispute over the actual winner, which was later proven to be Lee Petty, after careful study of a photograph of the finish.
In 1960, superspeedways opened just outside of Atlanta, Georgia and Charlotte, North Carolina. In 1961, ABC televised a race from Daytona. In 1969, Alabama International Motor Speedway (now known as Talladega Superspeedway) was opened by Bill France Sr. In later years, Bill Sr. passed the torch of leadership to his son, Bill Jr. and corporate sponsorships began to arise as NASCAR went on to become the leader in worldwide motorsports attendance. In 1979, the Daytona 500 was telecast in it’s entirety. By 1989, every race on the NASCAR schedule was broadcast.
Since the beginning of NASCAR, new additions have been added to include the NASCAR Craftsman Truck and Busch Grand National series. New drivers emerge every year to take their shot at stardom. For many, it’s a lifelong dream to drive NASCAR and compete for the glorious title of ‘Champion.’ At the end of the season, points are tallied to see who has ran the most consistently throughout the year and that person becomes that year’s NASCAR champion for their respected series.
With the extreme growth of NASCAR through the years, fans have demanded more opportunities to enjoy their favorite sport. The organization heard their voices and decided to build NASCAR Thunder, a chain of officially-licensed apparel and souvenir stores, and the NASCAR Café, which incorporates racing with dining for a full racing experience for all NASCAR fans. After 58 years, the sport continues to grow with fans who travel across the country to see their favorite driver chase the checkered flag and, ultimately, a NASCAR championship.

Monday, July 6, 2009

John Andretti Nascar Coke Car PinJohn Andretti Nascar Coke Car Pin
Buy new: $4.95
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
nascar collectible tinnascar collectible tin
Nascar Collectibles ~ Tony Stewart Set of 4 Mini MugsNascar Collectibles ~ Tony Stewart Set of 4 Mini Mugs
BCW 930 Count (Bundle of 50) Corrugated Cardboard Storage Box - Baseball, Football, Basketball, Hockey, Nascar, Sportscards, Gaming & Trading Cards Collecting SuppliesBCW 930 Count (Bundle of 50) Corrugated Cardboard Storage Box - Baseball, Football, Basketball, Hockey, Nascar, Sportscards, Gaming & Trading Cards Collecting Supplies
Buy new: $39.95
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Nascar Jeff Gordon #24 Christmas StockingNascar Jeff Gordon #24 Christmas Stocking
Ricky Rudd Nascar Helmet PinRicky Rudd Nascar Helmet Pin
Buy new: $5.99
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
NASCAR 2004 Schedule MousepadNASCAR 2004 Schedule Mousepad
Buy new: $12.99
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Kurt Busch Nascar Coke Car PinKurt Busch Nascar Coke Car Pin
Buy new: $4.95
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Dale Jarrett Nascar Helmet PinDale Jarrett Nascar Helmet Pin
Buy new: $4.95
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
NASCAR Large Gift BasketNASCAR Large Gift Basket
Buy new: $129.99
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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Blakeway Panoramas Jeff Gordon Framed Car PanoramicBlakeway Panoramas Jeff Gordon Framed Car Panoramic
Buy new: $84.95 - $89.99
Nascar Press Pass Vip 2006 Sealed Hobby PackNascar Press Pass Vip 2006 Sealed Hobby Pack
NASCAR Logo Collectors PinNASCAR Logo Collectors Pin
1998 Nascar Trading Card by Press Pass #31 Mark Martin #6 Valvoline Race Car - Collectible licensed by Roush Racing1998 Nascar Trading Card by Press Pass #31 Mark Martin #6 Valvoline Race Car - Collectible licensed by Roush Racing
Dale Jarrett Nascar Coke Car PinDale Jarrett Nascar Coke Car Pin
Buy new: $5.99
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Dale Jarrett Nascar Helmet PinDale Jarrett Nascar Helmet Pin
Buy new: $5.99
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Jeremy Mayfield 1999 Wheels "High Gear '99" (M MACHINE) Nascar CardJeremy Mayfield 1999 Wheels "High Gear '99" (M MACHINE) Nascar Card
Kurt Busch Nascar Coke Car PinKurt Busch Nascar Coke Car Pin
Buy new: $9.99
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Kevin Harvick Nascar Helmet PinKevin Harvick Nascar Helmet Pin
Buy new: $4.95
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Kyle Petty Nascar Helmet PinKyle Petty Nascar Helmet Pin
Buy new: $4.95
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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