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Hampton Roads Auto Racing Articles from: April 23, 2010 - July 31, 2010
Former NASCAR driver gets 18 months in fraud scheme
Saturday, July 31, 2010, 12:24:53 PM
RICHMOND Former NASCAR driver Tommy Ellis and his wife will serve time in prison for their scheme to defraud the Internal Revenue Service by not reporting all the proceeds from their car wash service.
Owners' meeting of the minds creates optimism for the future
Wednesday, July 28, 2010, 10:05:11 PM
By Jenna Fryer CHARLOTTE, N.C. The top team owners in NASCAR set their individual agendas aside for a unified brainstorming session on how to cut costs and help revive the auto racing industry.
Jamie McMurray unlikely victor at Indy
Monday, July 26, 2010, 12:11:12 AM
Speedway, Ind. Jamie McMurray figured teammate Juan Pablo Montoya was destined to win Sunday's Brickyard 400. Montoya dominated last year's race before a late pit-road speeding penalty denied him the victory. He returned this weekend just as strong. He led practice, won the pole and drove Sunday not as if he was trying to beat 42 competitors, but also the century-old track itself.
Edwards sweeps at Langley Speedway
Sunday, July 25, 2010, 11:32:58 PM
HAMPTON Greg Edwards scored a doubleheader sweep in the Real Estate and Mortgage Professionals Twin 50s for the Crossroads Fuel Service Late Model Stock Cars, the headline events Saturday night at Langley Speedway. Other winners: Randy Sample (super streets); Joe Hendricks Jr. (Inex legends); Adam Florian (Ucars); T.J. Guthrie (pro sixes); Chris O'Brien (pro winged champ karts).
France: Changes to 2011 NASCAR schedule good for fans
Sunday, July 25, 2010, 11:23:13 PM
SPEEDWAY, Ind. NASCAR Chairman Brian France suggested that next year's Sprint Cup schedule will "have some pretty impactful changes... that I think will be good for NASCAR fans." France would not reveal those changes, but said those could be announced as soon as next week.
Baby boom swells even higher this season in NASCAR
Saturday, July 24, 2010, 10:30:00 PM
SPEEDWAY, Ind. NASCAR's baby boom continues with two more drivers' wives pregnant. Ryan Newman and Sam Hornish Jr. each confirmed Saturday that their wives are expecting. It will be the first child for Newman and second for Hornish, whose daughter, Addison, is 2-1/2 years old. Hornish's second child is due in late December.
Graying NASCAR woos the younger set
Saturday, July 24, 2010, 10:03:46 PM
SPEEDWAY, Ind. Aligned with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Hendrick Motorsports, adidas could be the envy of NASCAR sponsors, but even its high-profile relationship faces uncertainties. One of adidas' target audiences - men between 18 and 34 years old - watches little Sprint Cup racing.
NASCAR drivers pushing 'Have at it boys' to the wall
Friday, July 23, 2010, 11:20:24 PM
SPEEDWAY, Ind. Carl Edwards does what NASCAR won't. He defines where the line is in what a driver can and can't do on the track. "It's not OK to move me out of the way," Edwards said matter-of-factly, as if there should be any doubt. Yet, there is doubt among some drivers on what's acceptable in this era of "Have at it boys."
Questions about future plans irritate NASCAR's Martin
Friday, July 23, 2010, 9:58:51 PM
SPEEDWAY, Ind. Mark Martin said all is fine with Juan Pablo Montoya after their disagreement at Chicagoland Speedway this month. It's the media Martin is upset with after more questions about his future with Hendrick Motorsports.
Drivers getting a crash course on what's allowed
Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 11:39:37 PM
The message, NASCAR insists, hasn't changed. It's still "Have at it, boys," even after series officials on Wednesday penalized Carl Edwards and Brad Keselowski for their last-lap incident in this past weekend's Nationwide race. Yet, it's easy to see that NASCAR's message may be more like this: It's OK to wreck one another as long as other competitors aren't involved.
ESPN to expand its post-race Cup coverage
Tuesday, July 20, 2010, 11:33:40 PM
ESPN plans to offer expanded coverage after the 14 Sprint Cup races it will broadcast the rest of the season, beginning with Sunday's race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the network announced Tuesday.
6 years later, drivers leery of possible changes to the Chase
Saturday, July 17, 2010, 9:22:14 PM
Facing soft TV ratings and declining attendance at some tracks, NASCAR chairman Brian France stressed the need for "something dramatic" to help the sport. That was six years ago - just before the Chase for the Championship was introduced and changed how the Cup champion is determined.
Danica Patrick's long learning curve toward humility
Thursday, July 15, 2010, 10:11:06 PM
By Chris Jenkins JOLIET, Ill. Those who know Danica Patrick mainly for racy photo shoots and commercials are seeing something decidedly different in her public persona these days: humility. For a high-profile driver trying to make the transition from IndyCar to NASCAR, responding to high expectations by running outside the top 20 is a formula for modesty.
Danica Patrick's long learning curve
Thursday, July 15, 2010, 10:11:06 PM
By Chris Jenkins JOLIET, Ill. Those who know Danica Patrick mainly for racy photo shoots and commercials are seeing something decidedly different in her public persona these days: humility. For a high-profile driver trying to make the transition from IndyCar to NASCAR, responding to high expectations by running outside the top 20 is a formula for modesty.
Bible verse calmed Dillon at truck race
Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 1:08:24 AM
Knowing that 20-year-old Austin Dillon pulled away on the final restart to easily win his first NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race on Sunday doesn't reveal the full story of how chaotic things were for him before the finish.
Past NASCAR winners missing trips to Victory Lane
Sunday, July 11, 2010, 11:30:40 PM
JOLIET, Ill. Jeff Gordon went to Victory Lane on Saturday night. It was to visit, but only briefly. Carl Edwards also stopped by. He didn't stay long either. They weren't there to receive accolades but give them. Both Gordon and Edwards went to congratulate winner David Reutimann - although some could argue it was as much to familiarize each with a place foreign to them recently.
Reutimann nabs elusive NASCAR win after thrilling duel
Saturday, July 10, 2010, 11:24:44 PM
JOLIET, Ill. In a season where only seven drivers had won before Saturday night, David Reutimann broke through to score his first victory since May 2009 and deny Jeff Gordon yet another chance to win a Sprint Cup race. Reutimann, who engaged in a thrilling side-by-side duel with Gordon about 65 laps from the finish, charged from there to win his second career Cup race.
NASCAR fathers have tips for new dad Johnson
Saturday, July 10, 2010, 10:17:04 PM
JOLIET, Ill. Jimmie Johnson has only begun the journey of fatherhood, and some competitors say he's in for quite an experience. Johnson's yet-to-be-named daughter was born Wednesday. It's his first child. Others talked about what children have meant to them.
Petty team, Sadler to part after NASCAR season
Friday, July 09, 2010, 10:26:04 PM
JOLIET, Ill. Elliott Sadler said he won't be back with Richard Petty Motorsports after this season. "I don't fit into their future plans," Sadler said Friday at Chicagoland Speedway. "So, we're definitely going our different ways, but we need to end up this season as strong as we can."
Dale Jr. back in the Chase race - and fans love it
Friday, July 09, 2010, 10:19:40 PM
JOLIET, Ill. Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the top 12 in points and all is well in NASCAR. Well, not exactly, but many would suggest this is a step in the right direction.
$10,000 prize at stake at Langley today
Friday, July 09, 2010, 9:18:07 PM
HAMPTON Langley Speedway will host the Hampton Heat NASCAR Whelen All-American Late Model race tonight, one of the track's biggest events of the season. Drivers from throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast are expected to participate. The winner will receive $10,000 from a purse of more than $34,000.
Stewart: His group isn't likely to field third team next year
Tuesday, July 06, 2010, 10:02:06 PM
Tony Stewart says there is "probably a 0 percent chance" his organization will expand to three teams next season. Stewart-Haas Racing fields cars for Stewart and Ryan Newman. There has been speculation the organization might add a third team that would allow Kasey Kahne to drive for a season before taking over the No. 5 car, now driven by Mark Martin, at Hendrick Motorsports in 2012.
You missed a good one at Daytona
Sunday, July 04, 2010, 10:46:31 PM
Daytona Beach, Fla. Saturday night's race at Daytona was the type of show NASCAR officials hope for but don't always get. The race featured a wild overtime sprint - including a crash that collected half the field - angry drivers and Dale Earnhardt Jr. climbing back into the top 12 in points. Rain delayed the start of the race, and it didn't end until nearly 1 a.m. Here's a recap:
NASCAR chairman says green initiatives still in the works
Saturday, July 03, 2010, 9:14:09 PM
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. NASCAR Chairman Brian France said that the series might not use ethanol next season, going against previous comments from series officials that it would be used in 2011.
Dale Jr. drives No. 3 to victory at Daytona
Saturday, July 03, 2010, 1:16:04 AM
By Jenna Fryer DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. The No. 3 went back to Victory Lane at Daytona International Speedway, where Dale Earnhardt Jr. drove a car that honored his late father to his first NASCAR victory in more than two years.
NASCAR looks at radical changes to boost viewership
Friday, July 02, 2010, 11:27:21 PM
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. NASCAR Chairman Brian France sees the drama - and high TV ratings - created by the Super Bowl or a Game 7 of a championship series and wonders why NASCAR can't finish with such a crescendo. Maybe it soon will.
Nationwide racing: Can the car be the star?
Thursday, July 01, 2010, 11:25:43 PM
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. Can cars energize a racing series? That's a key question at tonight's Nationwide Series race at Daytona International Speedway, where the Ford Mustang makes its debut and the Dodge Challenger returns. NASCAR hopes those cars will create a connection with fans who grew up in the pony car era and create greater interest in a series that faces an identity issue.
Nationwide racing: Can the car be the star?
Thursday, July 01, 2010, 11:25:43 PM
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. Can cars energize a racing series? That's a key question at tonight's Nationwide Series race at Daytona International Speedway, where the Ford Mustang makes its debut and the Dodge Challenger returns. NASCAR hopes those cars will create a connection with fans who grew up in the pony car era and create greater interest in a series that faces an identity issue.
International Speedway applies for another Kansas race
Thursday, July 01, 2010, 9:56:46 PM
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. International Speedway Corp. has formally petitioned NASCAR for a second Sprint Cup race at Kansas Speedway starting next year. Since NASCAR won't add to its schedule, a second Kansas date would have to come from another ISC-owned track.
International Speedway applies for another Kansas race
Thursday, July 01, 2010, 9:56:46 PM
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. International Speedway Corp. has formally petitioned NASCAR for a second Sprint Cup race at Kansas Speedway starting next year. Since NASCAR won't add to its schedule, a second Kansas date would have to come from another ISC-owned track.
5 names added to NASCAR Hall of Fame nominee list
Thursday, July 01, 2010, 9:27:48 PM
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. NASCAR announced the 25 nominees for its second Hall of Fame class Thursday, and the list looks similar to last year's group. There are only five new names - replacing those voted into the inaugural class. The new nominees are Dale Inman, T. Wayne Robertson, Jerry Cook, Jack Ingram and Fred Lorenzen.
5 names added to NASCAR Hall of Fame nominee list
Thursday, July 01, 2010, 9:27:48 PM
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. NASCAR announced the 25 nominees for its second Hall of Fame class Thursday, and the list looks similar to last year's group. There are only five new names - replacing those voted into the inaugural class. The new nominees are Dale Inman, T. Wayne Robertson, Jerry Cook, Jack Ingram and Fred Lorenzen.
Jimmie Johnson keeps his cool to win at Loudon
Sunday, June 27, 2010, 11:46:46 PM
LOUDON, N.H. In an instant, winning no longer mattered to NASCAR's most dominant driver this decade. When Kurt Busch nudged Jimmie Johnson out of the lead eight laps from the finish of Sunday's race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Johnson's laser focus centered on one furious thought.
Jimmie Johnson keeps his cool to win at Loudon
Sunday, June 27, 2010, 11:46:46 PM
LOUDON, N.H. In an instant, winning no longer mattered to NASCAR's most dominant driver this decade. When Kurt Busch nudged Jimmie Johnson out of the lead eight laps from the finish of Sunday's race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Johnson's laser focus centered on one furious thought.
Stewart heats up, runs top-10 streak to four
Sunday, June 27, 2010, 10:46:10 PM
LOUDON, N.H. It's summertime - when Tony Stewart gets hot. Sunday's runner-up finish at New Hampshire Motor Speedway marked his fourth consecutive top-10 finish. Not bad for a driver who only a few weeks ago talked about how perplexed he was with his performance. Stewart's surge has helped him climb from 16th in the season standings to ninth.
Stewart heats up, runs top-10 streak to four
Sunday, June 27, 2010, 10:46:10 PM
LOUDON, N.H. It's summertime - when Tony Stewart gets hot. Sunday's runner-up finish at New Hampshire Motor Speedway marked his fourth consecutive top-10 finish. Not bad for a driver who only a few weeks ago talked about how perplexed he was with his performance. Stewart's surge has helped him climb from 16th in the season standings to ninth.
Cars are close, but cream still rises to the top in NASCAR
Saturday, June 26, 2010, 9:31:21 PM
LOUDON, N.H. The cars might be closer to being even, but the list of winners hasn't been so far this season. Sixteen races into the year, only seven drivers have won at least one NASCAR Sprint Cup race - the fewest number of winners at this point of the season in the past five years. Last year, there were 10 different winners at this point.
Cars are close, but cream still rises to the top in NASCAR
Saturday, June 26, 2010, 9:31:21 PM
LOUDON, N.H. The cars might be closer to being even, but the list of winners hasn't been so far this season. Sixteen races into the year, only seven drivers have won at least one NASCAR Sprint Cup race - the fewest number of winners at this point of the season in the past five years. Last year, there were 10 different winners at this point.
At the movies: A cruise down memory lane
Saturday, June 26, 2010, 9:31:19 PM
LOUDON, N.H. Born a month before "Days of Thunder" debuted 20 years ago today, Joey Logano looks at the NASCAR-themed film as more than just a racing movie. " 'Days of Thunder' is the best movie ever made," Logano said, with a wide grin. He's serious.
At the movies: A cruise down memory lane
Saturday, June 26, 2010, 9:31:19 PM
LOUDON, N.H. Born a month before "Days of Thunder" debuted 20 years ago today, Joey Logano looks at the NASCAR-themed film as more than just a racing movie. " 'Days of Thunder' is the best movie ever made," Logano said, with a wide grin. He's serious.
Irate drivers brace for more mayhem as things heat up
Friday, June 25, 2010, 11:31:29 PM
LOUDON, N.H. Some drivers fear the worst is yet to come on the track - that might be a good thing for fans. Anger, frustration and tension are boiling into a combustible mix that only figures to intensify as the pressure builds to make the Chase for the Sprint Cup. Already a season of conflict, it figures to become even more heated as June rolls toward July.
Irate drivers brace for more mayhem as things heat up
Friday, June 25, 2010, 11:31:29 PM
LOUDON, N.H. Some drivers fear the worst is yet to come on the track - that might be a good thing for fans. Anger, frustration and tension are boiling into a combustible mix that only figures to intensify as the pressure builds to make the Chase for the Sprint Cup. Already a season of conflict, it figures to become even more heated as June rolls toward July.
Ambrose: Race can't get here fast enough
Friday, June 25, 2010, 11:27:26 PM
LOUDON, N.H. Marcos Ambrose can't wait for Sunday's race to start so he can forget about last weekend's finish.
Ambrose: Race can't get here fast enough
Friday, June 25, 2010, 11:27:26 PM
LOUDON, N.H. Marcos Ambrose can't wait for Sunday's race to start so he can forget about last weekend's finish.
Danica Patrick on edge heading into New Hampshire
Tuesday, June 22, 2010, 9:54:28 PM
Danica Patrick returns to the NASCAR Nationwide Series this weekend for the first time since March and admits she'll be battling nerves at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
Danica Patrick on edge heading into New Hampshire
Tuesday, June 22, 2010, 9:54:28 PM
Danica Patrick returns to the NASCAR Nationwide Series this weekend for the first time since March and admits she'll be battling nerves at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
NASCAR drivers: All fired up and ready to blow
Monday, June 21, 2010, 8:24:20 PM
SONOMA, Calif. NASCAR's spring of discontent could be transitioning into the summer of hard feelings. Confrontations and conflicts have been a constant this season. Drivers have fired more salvos at each other than at any time in recent years. As the temperature - and the pressure - rises, driver patience is sure to wane.
NASCAR: Ambrose's mistake is Johnson's break
Sunday, June 20, 2010, 11:46:05 PM
SONOMA, Calif. It would've been easy to debate NASCAR's ruling against Marcos Ambrose had he not stopped on the course while leading the Toyota/Save Mart 350 on Sunday. But Ambrose did stop.
Founding father, first champion owner dies at 96
Sunday, June 20, 2010, 11:41:10 PM
SONOMA, Calif. Raymond Parks, the last remaining person who attended the meeting where NASCAR was created in 1947, died Sunday at his home in Atlanta. He was 96. Parks also was the first Cup champion car owner in 1949, owning the car Red Byron drove in the series' inaugural season. Parks was last seen publicly during the Hall of Fame ceremonies last month.
Debate heats up over forcing cautions to spice up finishes
Saturday, June 19, 2010, 10:24:31 PM
SONOMA, Calif. Five years ago, this conversation isn't taking place. Three years ago? Same thing. Last year? Probably not. Yet these days, there's a discussion among some within the sport about whether NASCAR should look at throwing a late-race caution to potentially give fans a more exciting finish.
Dale Jr. tunes strategy for road course
Saturday, June 19, 2010, 9:15:51 PM
SONOMA, Calif. Dale Earnhardt Jr. knows he needs to be more patient when it comes to road course racing. Doing it is the hard part.
Red Bull seeks right fill-ins for Vickers
Friday, June 18, 2010, 11:25:34 PM
SONOMA, Calif. Red Bull Racing officials continue to search for the right combination of replacement drivers for Brian Vickers, who is out the rest of the season. The team also is taking a look at Scott Speed's performance.
Hendrick team slipping in NASCAR pack
Friday, June 18, 2010, 10:41:01 PM
SONOMA, Calif. Jimmie Johnson repeatedly says he's not in a slump. Jeff Gordon is closing in on the longest winless drought of his career. Mark Martin has nearly fallen out of the top 12. And Dale Earnhardt Jr. scored his first top-10 finish last weekend in seven races.
Late rally gives Earnhardt a standings boost
Monday, June 14, 2010, 12:06:55 AM
BROOKLYN, Mich. Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s first top-10 finish in nearly two months gave him a smile as he left Michigan International Speedway. "We put together a full race," he said of his fourth top-10 finish of the season and first since placing eighth at Texas.
Hamlin's on top for now, but will he be when Chase starts?
Sunday, June 13, 2010, 11:49:09 PM
BROOKLYN, Mich. Denny Hamlin's dominance makes him hunger for more, and that worries some competitors. Runner-up Kasey Kahne, though, is focused elsewhere. He's trying to begin what would be one of the sport's greatest rallies to get into the title Chase.
Changes to Chase may be on horizon in NASCAR
Saturday, June 12, 2010, 8:52:55 PM
BROOKLYN, Mich. NASCAR officials are meeting with drivers and team owners to discuss possible changes in the sport, including how the Sprint Cup champion is determined. While NASCAR c hairman Brian France has been careful not to make abrupt modifications to the title Chase since its debut in 2004, it seems as if changes are due.
Managing track position key for Stewart
Saturday, June 12, 2010, 7:01:47 PM
BROOKLYN, Mich Changes in philosophy could be coming to Tony Stewart's team as he works to climb into the top 12 and earn a spot in the title Chase. Stewart enters today's Sprint Cup race at Michigan International Speedway one point behind 12th-place Clint Bowyer.
Report signals move for Kahne; he says he's in the dark
Friday, June 11, 2010, 11:45:42 PM
BROOKLYN, Mich. Kasey Kahne said he's still unsure where he'll drive next season even with a report on Sports Illustrated's website that says he could be driving for James Finch's single-car team next season. "I've never even heard of that until just now," Kahne said Friday at Michigan International Speedway.
Logano-Harvick feud heats up, gets personal
Friday, June 11, 2010, 11:36:15 PM
BROOKLYN, Mich. Joey Logano said Friday he doesn't know what he did to make Kevin Harvick so mad. No problem. Harvick detailed a litany of on-track incidents and even off-track clashes with Logano's father that has made the feud between drivers personal.
Racing notes: Roush wants tests at tracks
Tuesday, June 08, 2010, 10:17:18 PM
Car owner Jack Roush wants NASCAR to lift its ban on testing at tracks where the Sprint Cup, Nationwide and Camping World Truck Series race and instead give each team eight test sessions a year.
Saturday, June 05, 2010, 10:35:44 PM
CHARLOTTE, N.C. The man stands out even though most everyone around him is wearing the same outfit: white T-shirt, dull green pants, white socks, white tennis shoes. He sits on a grassy slope, shaded by towering oak s on this warm spring morning. Behind him, at the top of the hill, is a chain-link fence topped with razor wire. Before him is Joe Gibbs. A microphone stands between the men.
Jimmie Johnson hopes to get on track at Pocono
Saturday, June 05, 2010, 10:10:59 PM
By Will Graves LONG POND, Pa. Jimmie Johnson hears the buzz. It's been kind of hard to avoid during the four-time defending NASCAR champion's recent slide. A single top-10 in five races. Two crashes. Some bad racing luck. Driver error. No victories since early spring.
Saturday, June 05, 2010, 9:25:28 PM
NASCAR told drivers to have at it before this season and they’ve done just that, with teammates feuding, rivals wrecking and others making daring moves when races go to the circuit’s version of overtime.
NASCAR Report: TNT to offer webcasts
Tuesday, June 01, 2010, 9:45:09 PM
It's time for race fans to switch the channel. TNT begins its six-race run broadcasting NASCAR Sprint Cup races this Sunday at Pocono. And with Turner owning TNT and NASCAR.com, fans will be able to see races on the air or online over the next two months. Last Sunday's race at Charlotte was the final Cup broadcast for Fox.
New crew chiefs meshing well with Busch, 2 key foes
Tuesday, June 01, 2010, 12:23:29 AM
CONCORD, N.C. Kurt Busch knew who he wanted as crew chief late last year, he just didn't know how well they'd mix. Three months into NASCAR's season, Busch finds that his pairing with new crew chief Steve Addington has proved as good as he hoped. And Busch isn't the only driver prospering with a new crew chief. Three of the top six drivers in the points have new crew chiefs this season.
Kurt Busch keeps Ganassi from a Memorial Day sweep
Monday, May 31, 2010, 12:05:50 AM
Concord, N.C. Chip Ganassi's main rival in the Indy Car Series kept him from hoarding another of auto racing's coveted trophies. After his car won the Indianapolis 500 earlier, Ganassi sought to sweep the day with a victory in Sunday's Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Instead, Kurt Busch - who drives for Roger Penske - won the 600 with McMurray second.
Sunday, May 30, 2010, 11:50:32 PM
HAMPTON Points leader Clay Rogers started on the pole and led 246 of 250 laps on the way to a dominating victory in Saturday's Hampton Virginia 250 for the USARacing Pro Cup Series at Langley Speedway. In the Budweiser 100 for the Crossroads Fuel Service Late Model Stock Cars, Greg Edwards led all but one circuit and scored his first victory of the season.
Roush, Petty cars to use new Ford engines
Sunday, May 30, 2010, 10:54:36 PM
CONCORD, N.C. Robbie Reiser, general manager at Roush Fenway Racing, said some cars in the organization and at Richard Petty Motorsports will use the new Ford engine next week at Pocono before all the teams for both organizations use it the following week at Michigan.
Coca-Cola 600 known for rewarding drivers with first Sprint Cup win
Saturday, May 29, 2010, 11:04:01 PM
CONCORD, N.C. Emotions can overwhelm a driver after he wins his first NASCAR Sprint Cup race. There's the excitement, a sense of accomplishment and, for at least one driver, fear. The Coca-Cola 600 is known for rewarding drivers with their first win and should it happen today there could be unique memories a driver takes away beyond the celebration.
Inside track to NASCAR slow for female drivers
Friday, May 28, 2010, 11:47:20 PM
CONCORD, N.C. Unlike the Indianapolis 500, where four women will compete, there will be no need to change the starting command for Sunday's Coca-Cola 600. The order for Sunday's 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway will be "Gentlemen, start your engines" - just as it has been every year since 1977.
Newman edges Kurt Busch for Coca-Cola pole
Friday, May 28, 2010, 12:27:07 AM
CONCORD, N.C. Ryan Newman will pace the field for Sunday's Coca-Cola 600 after scoring his ninth career pole at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Newman won the pole with a lap of 187.546 mph, nipping Kurt Busch, last week's All-Star race winner, by four-hundredths of a second.
NASCAR: War of words takes another turn
Friday, May 28, 2010, 12:05:05 AM
CONCORD, N.C. Denny Hamlin delivered a stern message to teammate Kyle Busch on Thursday. The question is whether Busch hears it and what car owner Joe Gibbs will do with his drivers if they can't work out their differences.
Racing royalty enters NASCAR Hall of Fame
Monday, May 24, 2010, 12:41:06 AM
CHARLOTTE, N.C. A hug. A lost love. A quivering voice. And an autograph for a child. Sunday's induction of the inaugural class of the NASCAR Hall of Fame honored five men for their remarkable achievements in stock-car racing, but the ceremony was about much more. It was personal.
Busch tight-lipped after conflict
Monday, May 24, 2010, 12:39:26 AM
CONCORD, N.C. Kyle Busch said he wanted to "kill" teammate Denny Hamlin during Saturday night's All-Star R ace, but was the comment made in the heat of the moment or a sign of a simmering feud? Only Busch knows.
Inaugural class in NASCAR's Hall of Fame
Sunday, May 23, 2010, 12:44:00 AM
Thousands built NASCAR’s foundation on long, sweaty days at dirt tracks, but five men shaped it through decades of glory. Although they excelled in different eras, each member of the NASCAR Hall of Fame’s inaugural class turned the sport from a Southern specialty into a national obsession. They are NASCAR’s best, ready to be inducted during today’s ceremonies.
Is it time for NASCAR to ease testing rules?
Saturday, May 22, 2010, 11:54:53 PM
CONCORD, N.C. Two years into a testing ban at tracks where Sprint Cup teams race, some in the garage say it's time to change the rule. While NASCAR prevents teams from testing at tracks where they compete, it does not prohibit testing at tracks where they don't. Some argue testing should be held at the tracks where Cup teams race so information gathered is relevant.
Kurt Busch wins as little brother feuds with Hamlin
Saturday, May 22, 2010, 11:45:53 PM
Concord, N.C. Kurt Busch drove a bruised car to victory in Saturday night's All-Star race at Charlotte Motor Speedway, but his brother, Kyle was ready to attack teammate Denny Hamlin for costing him the win. Martin Truex Jr., who won the Sprint Showdown earlier to make the All-Star race, finished second with Joey Logano third, Hamlin fourth and Tony Stewart fifth.
Towns share favorite sons’ success in NASCAR Hall of Fame
Saturday, May 22, 2010, 12:00:00 AM
CHARLOTTE, N.C. For many of today's NASCAR drivers, their hometown is a footnote, not a footprint. They left where they were raised while in their teens, trailblazing a path toward Charlotte, the sport's hub. Yet, 10 years after his death, Dale Earnhardt remains very much a part of Kannapolis and Mooresville. Go to Level Cross and Randleman, and Richard Petty's handiwork is everywhere.
Childress team expected to re-sign Harvick
Friday, May 21, 2010, 10:31:17 PM
CONCORD, N.C. Richard Childress Racing has scheduled a news conference for this afternoon at Charlotte Motor Speedway and the team is expected to announce it has signed points leader Kevin Harvick to a contract extension. Car owner Richard Childress said that he would have something to announce about Harvick this week.
Vickers will miss rest of NASCAR season
Friday, May 21, 2010, 9:20:51 PM
CONCORD, N.C. Even as the pain in his side intensified, Brian Vickers was afraid to see a doctor. Not because of what might be wrong but what the doctor might do. When Vickers woke up in the middle of a night last week with shortness of breath and what he said was "the most excruciating pain I've ever had," he did not call a doctor.
NASCAR: Hamlin's crew fastest in pits
Wednesday, May 19, 2010, 10:58:13 PM
CHARLOTTE, N.C. Denny Hamlin saw his girlfriend climb into his No. 11 car Wednesday night to steer it during NASCAR's Pit Crew Challenge, and noticed for the first time the message on her T-shirt: "All we do is win." "I was like, 'Oh my gosh,'" Hamlin said. "It's pressure when you say stuff like that."
Judge dismisses Mayfield's suit against NASCAR
Wednesday, May 19, 2010, 12:04:45 AM
A federal judge dismissed Jeremy Mayfield's lawsuit against NASCAR on Tuesday, about a year after Mayfield was suspended for failing a drug test. A statement from NASCAR called the decision "a powerful acknowledgement and affirmation of NASCAR's rulebook and its policy to police the sport."
N.C. track to host drag-racing event
Tuesday, May 18, 2010, 9:26:01 PM
Northeast Dragway in Hertford, N.C., will host the Suffolk Little Guy Nationals Racers Reunion this weekend. The festivities begin at 5 p.m. Friday. Gates open at 8 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. Events will include drag racing as well as a car show and vendor alley.
NASCAR: Vickers hospitalized, to miss Dover
Thursday, May 13, 2010, 9:34:29 PM
By Jenna Fryer CHARLOTTE, N.C. NASCAR driver Brian Vickers was being treated Thursday for an undisclosed medical condition that will prevent him from racing this weekend at Dover International Speedway.
NASCAR: Remembering Adam Petty
Tuesday, May 11, 2010, 11:46:44 PM
RANDLEMAN, N.C. The memories return each May. They have ever since the accident. This is when the past seems so fresh, the future so bright. Kyle and Pattie Petty relive their son Adam's final days every May. They vividly recall his moods, see his actions and hear his words. Each moment is precious. Every conversation is treasured.
NASCAR treasures culled from boxes, garages, attics
Tuesday, May 11, 2010, 12:12:23 AM
CHARLOTTE, N.C. Looking immaculate in their display cases, some of the treasures that fill the NASCAR Hall of Fame actually were discovered stuffed in boxes, hidden in garages or haphazardly tucked away in all sorts of places.
Win gives Denny Hamlin another big boost
Sunday, May 09, 2010, 11:24:43 PM
DARLINGTON, S.C. The best, Denny Hamlin said, is yet to come. Whether it's good enough to take the championship from Jimmie Johnson remains to be seen. Hamlin scored his third victory of the season Saturday night at Darlington Raceway, but it is how he's winning that's adding credence to his role as a leading contender to end Johnson's reign after four years.
NASCAR's Denny Hamlin: 'All we do is win’
Sunday, May 09, 2010, 12:14:11 AM
Darlington, S.C. It felt like Labor Day on Saturday from the heat during the day to the beat up race cars throughout 500 miles at Darlington Raceway in the evening.
Darlington Raceway may be in store for a wild finish tonight
Saturday, May 08, 2010, 12:28:38 AM
DARLINGTON, S.C. Denny Hamlin predicts chaos. Mark Martin doesn’t want to think about it. Kyle Busch says get ready. Tonight’s NASCAR Sprint Cup race marks the first time at Darlington Raceway the double-file restart rule will be in place. Although the rule debuted last year, it came after the series made its yearly visit to this historic track.
Darlington ranks low on Earnhardt's list
Friday, May 07, 2010, 9:25:24 PM
DARLINGTON, S.C Consider Dale Earnhardt Jr. not a fan of Darlington Raceway. Earnhardt is one of at least eight drivers who will start backup cars after incidents Friday at this historic track.
10 races, 10 hot topics in NASCAR
Sunday, May 02, 2010, 10:52:54 PM
Ten races into the season - the same number that will determine the NASCAR Sprint Cup championship later this year - and already a number of storylines are developing. Here are 10 after Saturday night's race at Richmond: 1. Kyle Busch a title contender?
Fast finisher: Kyle Busch catches Gordon at Richmond
Saturday, May 01, 2010, 11:16:58 PM
RICHMOND, Va. Kyle Busch dominated early and rallied late to win his first NASCAR Sprint Cup race of the season and deny Jeff Gordon the victory Saturday night at Richmond International Raceway. Busch passed Gordon for the lead on a restart with five laps to go and pulled away . It’s Busch’s second win in the last three races at this track.
NASCAR balks at erasing wins for infractions
Saturday, May 01, 2010, 8:37:08 PM
RICHMOND Because NASCAR penalizes teams with points, fines or suspensions for various infractions, it's easy to wonder why series officials don't take away wins when a victorious car fails post-race inspection. It's a topic that bubbles up from time to time, and did so again after Brad Keselowski's winning Nationwide car failed post-race inspection at Talladega last weekend.
Keselowski surges to win after pit-stop gamble
Friday, April 30, 2010, 11:43:35 PM
RICHMOND Brad Keselowski appeared as if he would cruise to a second straight win in Friday night's Nationwide race until a late caution bunched the field and set up a two-lap shootout. Keselowski then gave up the lead to pit for four tires. He restarted fourth but rocketed into the lead with a last-lap pass to win the Bubba Burger 250 at Richmond International Raceway.
Reputation gives high-flying stars a winning boost
Friday, April 30, 2010, 11:08:18 PM
RICHMOND Jimmie Johnson's blue-and-white car doesn't cast the same ominous shadow Dale Earnhardt's black No. 3 did, but when Johnson is pursuing the leader late in a race these days, he leaves fans and competitors with the same inevitable conclusion: Johnson is headed for another win.
Dale Jr. has no qualms about No. 3 running again
Friday, April 30, 2010, 10:00:51 PM
RICHMOND Dale Earnhardt Jr. said he doesn't think car numbers should be retired in NASCAR and that he's fine with someone else driving the No. 3 car in the Cup series in the future. Earnhardt will drive a Wrangler-sponsored No. 3 in the Nationwide race at Daytona in July to honor his father, but says he knows there will be a day when someone else uses that car number in Cup.
5 inside tips from a NASCAR tire specialist
Friday, April 30, 2010, 9:30:30 PM
Jamie Turski, tire specialist for Kyle Busch's team, shares some inside information about his trade in NASCAR. 1. Once we get the tires, we deflate them.
Five secrets of the NASCAR flagmen
Friday, April 30, 2010, 12:29:02 AM
Rodney Wise and Rick Monroe offer up some inside info you should know about being the official starter of a Sprint Cup race: 1. We use duct tape up in the flag stand.
Hamlin feels the mojo when he races at Richmond
Friday, April 30, 2010, 12:21:07 AM
Joey Logano sees a change in teammate Denny Hamlin when the NASCAR Sprint Cup series stops at Richmond International Raceway. "His personality is a little different," Logano said, noting Hamlin seems more excited and confident at Richmond. "That's home for him."
NASCAR's Ryan Newman: In his words
Wednesday, April 28, 2010, 9:01:41 PM
Driving a car never becomes a job. All the things that go along with it become a job. I've always just looked at it as the relaxing, fun thing I get to do. It's the reward for the business of racing.
Johnson on incident with Gordon: My bad
Tuesday, April 27, 2010, 10:30:33 PM
From Pilot and wire reports Four-time defending NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson took the blame for making a mistake that ultimately led to teammate Jeff Gordon's wreck Sunday at Talladega Superspeedway.
NASCAR's Bowyer: 'Respect each other'
Tuesday, April 27, 2010, 8:56:34 PM
What are the experiences, beliefs and dreams that shape the lives NASCAR drivers? Writer Dustin Long asked Richard Childress Racing's Clint Bowyer about these subjects earlier this season as Bowyer sat with his dog, Trip, at his side.
Photo finish gives NASCAR perfect chance to capture fans
Tuesday, April 27, 2010, 12:08:25 AM
Kevin Harvick didn't celebrate alone Sunday. While his team hooted and hollered when he climbed from his car in Victory Lane, others were as happy. You just didn't see them. Sunday's race at Talladega Superspeedway provided a much-needed victory for NASCAR. The series has struggled to build momentum this season because of a run of bad luck, bad weather and bad timing.
Harvick wins a thriller at Talladega
Monday, April 26, 2010, 12:12:10 AM
TALLADEGA, Ala. Winner Kevin Harvick called it karma. Others simply called it Talladega. This race track built atop an Indian burial ground, as folklore has it, often has provided NASCAR fans and drivers with unique thrills and chills.
Incident fuels Gordon's tiff with Johnson
Sunday, April 25, 2010, 10:22:33 PM
TALLADEGA, Ala. This time, Jeff Gordon used stronger language to describe how he felt about teammate Jimmie Johnson. "I am pissed right now," Gordon said after finishing 22nd when a move by Johnson cut Gordon off, forced him to slow and then seconds later he was collected in a crash he should have never been near.
Spoiler alert: a big test for rear of cars in NASCAR
Saturday, April 24, 2010, 8:12:58 PM
TALLADEGA, Ala. As Carl Edwards charged toward the checkered flag with Brad Keselowski hounding him a year ago at Talladega Superspeedway, one thought was prevalent. "I hoped for the best," Edwards said, "and I got the worst."
Daytona track to be repaved after July race
Saturday, April 24, 2010, 7:53:52 PM
TALLADEGA, Ala. For only the second time, Daytona International Speedway will be repaved, track officials announced Saturday. This year's Daytona 500 was plagued by a pothole that caused delays of more than two hours during the race. The track was last repaved in 1978.
Harvick expects to drive Chevy next season
Friday, April 23, 2010, 9:54:45 PM
TALLADEGA, Ala. Free agent Kevin Harvick won't say what his plans are for next season, but suggested he'll continue to drive a Chevrolet. Harvick's contract with Richard Childress Racing ends after 2010. After Kasey Kahne signed with Hendrick Motorsports and Kurt Busch reached a contract extension with Penske Racing, Harvick is the top free agent remaining.
Johnson, Gordon keep NASCAR rivalry clean
Friday, April 23, 2010, 9:50:23 PM
TALLADEGA, Ala. Jimmie or Jeff? Who you got? Well, it is difficult for some to get too excited about this rivalry between Jimmie Johnson and Jeff Gordon when the saltiest language they use about each other is "disappointed." It's enough to leave Don King speechless.
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