The First Annual ACT Invitational race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway is now in the books. There was plenty of hype and high expectations leading up to the event. So did it deliver?
For me, the race was the highlight of the weekend. It was the second best race of the Sylvania 300 weekend. The wild finish in the Camping World Series race the night before was going to be tough to beat, but the ACT guys came close. But more importantly, they proved the deserved to be in the show.
This race was a huge test for so many people - the ACT officials & promoter, all the teams that were invited and especially the drivers. Not to mention the equipment!
Everyone came through and the event was a huge success. The equipment held up and performed flawlessly. The only real equipment failure was a tire on Ben Rowe's car, that caused one of the two cautions in the event.
Many people were predicting a crash fest. Those people have not spent much time following the ACT Tour, but instead were likely basing their prediction on the reputation of some Late Model short-track racers in general. The ACT showed what a professional tour they are.
The drivers all showed respect on the track - to both the track and the other drivers. They were 'racey' when they needed to be, there was passing through out the field and for the lead. In fact there was more passing than I expected.
Do they deserve a return in 2010? No Question.
NHMS General Manager Gerry Gappens hinted that the tour will likely return when he said, “With only two cautions in the entire race, one for a cut tire that sent Ben Rowe into the fence and the level of competition of ACT drivers coming through the field, it was as exciting as we’d hoped. ACT drivers showed a lot of respect, but never gave an inch. It was great racing.”
I spoke briefly with long time NASCAR announcer Ken Squire after the race, and he spoke with tremendous pride about the ACT. He said, "I have been telling people about this tour for years, how great they are. Now they came here and proved it."
ACT President Tom Curly stated, “There are several details to be worked out but the reaction from the speedway and the crowd made it an unqualified success.”
There was a great crowd that were on their feet cheering as the field took the initial green - and just as many on their feet cheering as Eddie MacDonald took the checkers.
Over all, it was a great race that lived up to the hype. The guys all proved they belonged and deserved the invitations they received. For those fans that were on hand to watch, the had to be impressed. In fact for those on hand that don't spend much time at their local short track, this could give them incentive to check their local track out in the future. That might end up being the most important thing to come of this event, the growth of the short track racing in the northeast region again.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Should Danica Switch to NASCAR?
Danica Patrick had a great season in 2008, including her first win in the Indy Racing League. This year she's in her fifth season in the IndyCar Series, and her third for Andretti Green Racing. As the series passes its half way point, she ranks fifth in points, following an eleventh place finish at Watkins Glen. And she's one of three drivers with four top-five finishes in the season's first six races.
There has been more speculation than ever that she might be considering switching from the open wheel cars to NASCAR's full bodied stock cars.
Danica recently said she has not ruled anything out for her future.
"For me," she said, "the most important thing is performing and having the ability and having the resources to get there faster. So, yeah, when it's a top team calling, it makes it more attractive. I think one thing is as drivers is we like to challenge ourselves. If we've done something well, can we do the next thing well? So I think it's the opportunity to show your ability.
She see's the business side of racing and recognizes all that it takes to be successful in the sport.
"NASCAR has so many viewers and so many partners," she stated. "There are just lots of options both inside and outside the car. So there's reasons, and it looks like fun. There are 40-odd guys that do it every year. I'm not sure how many the number is this year. But, obviously, it's a good time. Oval racing is always fun. It's you racing against everyone else, it's very competitive. It's kind of like the Indy 500 every weekend. That's a lot of fun as a driver to be part of something important, and something people want to watch."
There is no question she would arrive in NASCAR with amazing star power and lots of attention, but how would she fare in a completely different type of race car and style of racing? Some of the top NASCAR drivers shared their thoughts.
Current Sprint Cup Series point leader Tony Stewart said, "Nobody knows whether she can do it until she gets out and tries. I don't think she's ever been in anything but an open-wheel type car or Formula 1 type car. I don't know that she's ever driven a heavy race car. The only way to find out is to get in it and do it. If it's something she wants to do, she has to make the commitment to do it."
Stewart made a highly publicized switch from Indy Cars to NASCAR over ten years ago, and went on to be very successful.
"This is not a sport and a series, and especially with the three touring series, you aren't just going to show up once in a while and be good," Stewart said. "That's what happened with me in '96 and '97. In '98 when I ran 22 Busch races, I started getting it. But I was in the car just about every week to start learning that feel. And it was hard to bounce back and forth and be good in both."
"Obviously she's gotten where she is because she has a ton of talent," Stewart continued. "You don't back into winning races and getting to the upper levels of racing by not having talent. Nobody knows for sure what level of talent she's got as far as a stock car until she actually just gets in one. If she's serious about it, I don't know if she needs to get in a Late Model first and run some laps and then try to get back to a radial-tired car. Only time will tell. If she's really serious, it's kind of a crossroad for her. I know it's been a topic of discussion but if it's something she really wants too, she has to be committed to it. It's not something that you can kind of sneak up on. You've either got to do it or not do it."
Another NASCAR driver that came from the Indy Car ranks is Juan Pablo Montoya.
"I think she's got the talent to do it, the ability to do it - it's a hard challenge," said Montoya. "Are people going to be patient enough for her to struggle - that's the million dollar question. If she decided to come and somebody decides to hire her - are they willing to know that she is going to struggle sometimes. She might have some great weeks that she feels comfortable in the car and there are going to be weeks where she is going to run horrible. I think if people are willing to accept that she doesn't finish fifth - it's very different. Open-wheel to this is very different. When you say she had a top-five in an Indy car race against a top-five here - it's very different. A top-five here is like three wins in Indy car or something like that."
When looking at the NASCAR possibility, there are also driver that have tried to make the switch and haven't had much success, guys like Sam Hornish Jr. and Dario's Franchitti been through some tough times in NASCAR.
"I think what it shows is it is difficult," Danica said about Franchitti and Hornish. "You do need as much help as possible. But as credit to them, they haven't been driving for the best teams in NASCAR either. So how can you really hold them accountable for not doing extremely well in the very beginning when they just don't have the resources. Now they're getting the hang of it. And Sam's doing much better, and Juan's (Pablo Montoya) doing better. I think that things are moving -- they're doing better overall. But, they don't drive for Hendrick or Roush or any of the top teams. So I think it's a tough one."
NASCAR star Jeff Burton chimed in on the topic as well, and offered his thoughts on helping her decide..
"I don't know if she can do it. I think Danica (Patrick) can only answer that question and if she decides that she wants to look at this then what she needs to do is drive one of these things. She needs to go to a race track somewhere that you can test, Pikes Peak or wherever, just go somewhere and sit in one of these things and drive it. Until you do that, you can't make a determination whether or not number one, you like it and number two, you think you can be effective at it. She could do that under the cloche of darkness and no one would ever know about it. If she didn't want anybodyto know about it, she could make that happen. She's run really well this year, she has silenced some of her critics because of the way she's run this year. She is certainly a much sought after driver due to the attention that she draws. She could demand some things from car owners and make it happen. One of the things, if I was her and what I would be looking at is if I'm going to consider it then I better get all the information. The only way to get information is to get in the seat and go out and drive the car. It doesn't matter if you drove a Nationwide car five years ago - you need to drive one of these things and see what it's like. Until she's done that she doesn't know if she can do it. I don't know if I could drive an IRL car. I have no idea, I would have to sit in it and number one, see if I liked it and number two, see if I could be effective at it. If she's going to come here, that's what she needs to do. If she's even going to consider coming here, that's what she needs to do."
Ultimately, she will be the one to decide, but for now, its all just food for thought.
"I don't think anyone's trying to push me," Danica said. "They really want to just know what my thoughts are and what I want to do. At this point, I just want to know what my options are. So that's the point at which we're at right now is just collecting data and figuring out what our options really are - who is really serious. So, that's just the point we're at."
And who are the teams that would like to have her driving for them in NASCAR next year?
"I'm not sure," she said. "That's not for me to handle. That's what I leave up to my agents, and as they tell me, which is the best thing, 'All I have to do is go out there and perform and they'll take care of the rest,' so that's what I'm going to do."
There has been more speculation than ever that she might be considering switching from the open wheel cars to NASCAR's full bodied stock cars.
Danica recently said she has not ruled anything out for her future.
"For me," she said, "the most important thing is performing and having the ability and having the resources to get there faster. So, yeah, when it's a top team calling, it makes it more attractive. I think one thing is as drivers is we like to challenge ourselves. If we've done something well, can we do the next thing well? So I think it's the opportunity to show your ability.
She see's the business side of racing and recognizes all that it takes to be successful in the sport.
"NASCAR has so many viewers and so many partners," she stated. "There are just lots of options both inside and outside the car. So there's reasons, and it looks like fun. There are 40-odd guys that do it every year. I'm not sure how many the number is this year. But, obviously, it's a good time. Oval racing is always fun. It's you racing against everyone else, it's very competitive. It's kind of like the Indy 500 every weekend. That's a lot of fun as a driver to be part of something important, and something people want to watch."
There is no question she would arrive in NASCAR with amazing star power and lots of attention, but how would she fare in a completely different type of race car and style of racing? Some of the top NASCAR drivers shared their thoughts.
Current Sprint Cup Series point leader Tony Stewart said, "Nobody knows whether she can do it until she gets out and tries. I don't think she's ever been in anything but an open-wheel type car or Formula 1 type car. I don't know that she's ever driven a heavy race car. The only way to find out is to get in it and do it. If it's something she wants to do, she has to make the commitment to do it."
Stewart made a highly publicized switch from Indy Cars to NASCAR over ten years ago, and went on to be very successful.
"This is not a sport and a series, and especially with the three touring series, you aren't just going to show up once in a while and be good," Stewart said. "That's what happened with me in '96 and '97. In '98 when I ran 22 Busch races, I started getting it. But I was in the car just about every week to start learning that feel. And it was hard to bounce back and forth and be good in both."
"Obviously she's gotten where she is because she has a ton of talent," Stewart continued. "You don't back into winning races and getting to the upper levels of racing by not having talent. Nobody knows for sure what level of talent she's got as far as a stock car until she actually just gets in one. If she's serious about it, I don't know if she needs to get in a Late Model first and run some laps and then try to get back to a radial-tired car. Only time will tell. If she's really serious, it's kind of a crossroad for her. I know it's been a topic of discussion but if it's something she really wants too, she has to be committed to it. It's not something that you can kind of sneak up on. You've either got to do it or not do it."
Another NASCAR driver that came from the Indy Car ranks is Juan Pablo Montoya.
"I think she's got the talent to do it, the ability to do it - it's a hard challenge," said Montoya. "Are people going to be patient enough for her to struggle - that's the million dollar question. If she decided to come and somebody decides to hire her - are they willing to know that she is going to struggle sometimes. She might have some great weeks that she feels comfortable in the car and there are going to be weeks where she is going to run horrible. I think if people are willing to accept that she doesn't finish fifth - it's very different. Open-wheel to this is very different. When you say she had a top-five in an Indy car race against a top-five here - it's very different. A top-five here is like three wins in Indy car or something like that."
When looking at the NASCAR possibility, there are also driver that have tried to make the switch and haven't had much success, guys like Sam Hornish Jr. and Dario's Franchitti been through some tough times in NASCAR.
"I think what it shows is it is difficult," Danica said about Franchitti and Hornish. "You do need as much help as possible. But as credit to them, they haven't been driving for the best teams in NASCAR either. So how can you really hold them accountable for not doing extremely well in the very beginning when they just don't have the resources. Now they're getting the hang of it. And Sam's doing much better, and Juan's (Pablo Montoya) doing better. I think that things are moving -- they're doing better overall. But, they don't drive for Hendrick or Roush or any of the top teams. So I think it's a tough one."
NASCAR star Jeff Burton chimed in on the topic as well, and offered his thoughts on helping her decide..
"I don't know if she can do it. I think Danica (Patrick) can only answer that question and if she decides that she wants to look at this then what she needs to do is drive one of these things. She needs to go to a race track somewhere that you can test, Pikes Peak or wherever, just go somewhere and sit in one of these things and drive it. Until you do that, you can't make a determination whether or not number one, you like it and number two, you think you can be effective at it. She could do that under the cloche of darkness and no one would ever know about it. If she didn't want anybodyto know about it, she could make that happen. She's run really well this year, she has silenced some of her critics because of the way she's run this year. She is certainly a much sought after driver due to the attention that she draws. She could demand some things from car owners and make it happen. One of the things, if I was her and what I would be looking at is if I'm going to consider it then I better get all the information. The only way to get information is to get in the seat and go out and drive the car. It doesn't matter if you drove a Nationwide car five years ago - you need to drive one of these things and see what it's like. Until she's done that she doesn't know if she can do it. I don't know if I could drive an IRL car. I have no idea, I would have to sit in it and number one, see if I liked it and number two, see if I could be effective at it. If she's going to come here, that's what she needs to do. If she's even going to consider coming here, that's what she needs to do."
Ultimately, she will be the one to decide, but for now, its all just food for thought.
"I don't think anyone's trying to push me," Danica said. "They really want to just know what my thoughts are and what I want to do. At this point, I just want to know what my options are. So that's the point at which we're at right now is just collecting data and figuring out what our options really are - who is really serious. So, that's just the point we're at."
And who are the teams that would like to have her driving for them in NASCAR next year?
"I'm not sure," she said. "That's not for me to handle. That's what I leave up to my agents, and as they tell me, which is the best thing, 'All I have to do is go out there and perform and they'll take care of the rest,' so that's what I'm going to do."
Monday, July 20, 2009
TD Banknorth 250 Post Race Review
By George Campbell
Wow, what a race.
Congrats to Eddie MacDonald & the Rollie Lachance led Grimm Racing Team. What a performance. They were dominant in the second half of the race, when they needed to be.
Eddie didn't use the cruise control to get this win either. He had steady pressure from many drivers through out the race. In the closing laps, Patrick Laperle chased Eddie down and ran door to door with him for a while. The two ran side by side, as the leaders did most of the race. Eddie was able to turn it up a notch and Laperle may have used up the tires catching him. Eddie won over $35,000.
There was three wide racing all night through out the entire field. There were three wide battles for the lead all night. Cars were racing successfully in all three grooves. Passing was going on for all positions in all areas of the track.
The racing in this year's TD Banknorth was some of the best I have seen in years, maybe ever. I don't recall that many cars racing three wide for that much of the race in previous races. The battles for the lead were amazing. Despite Eddie leading most of the closing laps, it appeared anyone of the top ten or twelve drivers had a legitimate shot through out the race.
Locals like Shawn Martin, Travis Adams and Travis Stearns were among the highly competitive young drivers that not only helped make this a tremendous race, they insured this event has a bright future. The same can be said of the many ACT racers, guys like Patrick Laperle, John Donahue, Chris Michaud and the Dragons. Some of the NASCAR veterans added name recognition and experience as they threatened to win, guys like Ben Rowe, Brad Leighton and Brian Hoar and of course the winner.
This race looked like a Talladega race at times, with groups of cars racing three wide, four deep at times. This was not a freight train race, with drivers settling in and running nose to bumper for endless laps. There were no sleeper laps in this one.
This was the sort of race that will make new fans and bring back fans that may have lost some interest. The late model teams put on a spectacular race and showcased their talents in front of one of the biggest crowds they will have in this part of the country. Any remaining doubts about the late models not being fun or interesting in this race were put to rest last night.
And the icing on the cake for MacDonald: He is now in the ACT Invitational at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. This is shaping up to be a great race.
Congrats to all the teams and the track for putting on a great race.
Wow, what a race.
Congrats to Eddie MacDonald & the Rollie Lachance led Grimm Racing Team. What a performance. They were dominant in the second half of the race, when they needed to be.
Eddie didn't use the cruise control to get this win either. He had steady pressure from many drivers through out the race. In the closing laps, Patrick Laperle chased Eddie down and ran door to door with him for a while. The two ran side by side, as the leaders did most of the race. Eddie was able to turn it up a notch and Laperle may have used up the tires catching him. Eddie won over $35,000.
There was three wide racing all night through out the entire field. There were three wide battles for the lead all night. Cars were racing successfully in all three grooves. Passing was going on for all positions in all areas of the track.
The racing in this year's TD Banknorth was some of the best I have seen in years, maybe ever. I don't recall that many cars racing three wide for that much of the race in previous races. The battles for the lead were amazing. Despite Eddie leading most of the closing laps, it appeared anyone of the top ten or twelve drivers had a legitimate shot through out the race.
Locals like Shawn Martin, Travis Adams and Travis Stearns were among the highly competitive young drivers that not only helped make this a tremendous race, they insured this event has a bright future. The same can be said of the many ACT racers, guys like Patrick Laperle, John Donahue, Chris Michaud and the Dragons. Some of the NASCAR veterans added name recognition and experience as they threatened to win, guys like Ben Rowe, Brad Leighton and Brian Hoar and of course the winner.
This race looked like a Talladega race at times, with groups of cars racing three wide, four deep at times. This was not a freight train race, with drivers settling in and running nose to bumper for endless laps. There were no sleeper laps in this one.
This was the sort of race that will make new fans and bring back fans that may have lost some interest. The late model teams put on a spectacular race and showcased their talents in front of one of the biggest crowds they will have in this part of the country. Any remaining doubts about the late models not being fun or interesting in this race were put to rest last night.
And the icing on the cake for MacDonald: He is now in the ACT Invitational at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. This is shaping up to be a great race.
Congrats to all the teams and the track for putting on a great race.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Some of the Biggest Names take on the Local Drivers in the TD Banknorth 250
The 36th annual running of the TD Banknorth 250 at Oxford Plains Speedway will be happening this Sunday.
This race is one of the most recognized short track events in the country. Over the years many of the sports biggest names have made the trek to Oxford Plains to win this prestigious event.
This race is not easy to win, in fact its not easy to qualify for. On any given year, there could be over 100 drivers attempt to qualify for the race. Most drivers will tell you the most important part of the day is the draw for starting positions in the heat races.
Some of the most recognizable names to have raced in this event include NASCAR Sprint Cup Champions Bobby Allison, Jeff Gordon, Dale Jarrett, Bobby Labonte, Terry Labonte, Rusty Wallace, Darrell Waltrip, Matt Kenseth and Kurt Busch. But a NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion has never won the race.
There have been other Cup stars that made the event interesting over the years, few more than Geoff Bodine did in the 1980's. Some others I have enjoyed competing with the locals include Morgan Shepherd, Ernie Irvan, Kenny Wallace, Harry Gant and Kyle Busch.
There has been a list of lesser known names that have taken the big trophy, names many race fans may not have even heard of before the 250. Names like Derek Lynch, Dave Whitlock and Larry Gelinas. Ricky Craven could fall into this category, he often credits his 250 win in 1991 as the race that launched his career.
I love the great mix of talent and drivers this race offers. The mix of big names versus virtually unknown drivers is fun to watch. To see the local guys and the racers that know this race is the biggest event they will ever compete in versus some of the best drivers in the country. This race can be a great equalizer.
New England's best have scored wins and put on exciting shows. Dave Dion quickly comes to mind for me as one of the New Englanders leading legendary status. Mike Rowe is right there with him. Mike's son Ben has carried on Mike's mantle as a perennial pre-race favorite.
Some of my favorite 'locals' to watch in the race over the years, other than those I already listed, include Joe Bessey, Tracy Gordon, Dale Shaw, Kelly Moore and Ralph Nason.
There have been other racers that have come from down south to put on great races as well, names like Tommy Houston, Tommy Ellis and Butch Lindley jump out at me.
When you mix all these great drivers in with other 'lesser' known drivers that have the talent to make the race, it almost always creates a terrific show. Often it makes people cheer for an underdog type driver that they barely know and usually creates a night of surprises.
Among the biggest names that are planning to enter the 250 this year are just two of those listed above: Ben Rowe & Kenny Wallace.
The next generation of local stars are emerging and will now carry on the great tradition of the TD Banknorth 250. Names like Travis Adams, Joey Pole, Scott Payea, Shawn Martin and Eddie MacDonald.
As we get closer to this years 250, I can't help but look back at some of my favorites and wish they were entering this years race. The two drivers I would most like to see in the race again are Mike Rowe and Dave Dion.
Other fans will come for the big names, but for me its the regional stars I like to watch most, mixing it up with the local Maine drivers that are racing in the biggest race of their careers.
I am curious who some of the readers here would most like to see in the TD Banknorth 250?
I posted a poll at the top right side of this page for you to share your choice. If the driver you most want to see is not listed, check other and click on 'comments' below and ad their name.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, I'll see you at the 250!
This race is one of the most recognized short track events in the country. Over the years many of the sports biggest names have made the trek to Oxford Plains to win this prestigious event.
This race is not easy to win, in fact its not easy to qualify for. On any given year, there could be over 100 drivers attempt to qualify for the race. Most drivers will tell you the most important part of the day is the draw for starting positions in the heat races.
Some of the most recognizable names to have raced in this event include NASCAR Sprint Cup Champions Bobby Allison, Jeff Gordon, Dale Jarrett, Bobby Labonte, Terry Labonte, Rusty Wallace, Darrell Waltrip, Matt Kenseth and Kurt Busch. But a NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion has never won the race.
There have been other Cup stars that made the event interesting over the years, few more than Geoff Bodine did in the 1980's. Some others I have enjoyed competing with the locals include Morgan Shepherd, Ernie Irvan, Kenny Wallace, Harry Gant and Kyle Busch.
There has been a list of lesser known names that have taken the big trophy, names many race fans may not have even heard of before the 250. Names like Derek Lynch, Dave Whitlock and Larry Gelinas. Ricky Craven could fall into this category, he often credits his 250 win in 1991 as the race that launched his career.
I love the great mix of talent and drivers this race offers. The mix of big names versus virtually unknown drivers is fun to watch. To see the local guys and the racers that know this race is the biggest event they will ever compete in versus some of the best drivers in the country. This race can be a great equalizer.
New England's best have scored wins and put on exciting shows. Dave Dion quickly comes to mind for me as one of the New Englanders leading legendary status. Mike Rowe is right there with him. Mike's son Ben has carried on Mike's mantle as a perennial pre-race favorite.
Some of my favorite 'locals' to watch in the race over the years, other than those I already listed, include Joe Bessey, Tracy Gordon, Dale Shaw, Kelly Moore and Ralph Nason.
There have been other racers that have come from down south to put on great races as well, names like Tommy Houston, Tommy Ellis and Butch Lindley jump out at me.
When you mix all these great drivers in with other 'lesser' known drivers that have the talent to make the race, it almost always creates a terrific show. Often it makes people cheer for an underdog type driver that they barely know and usually creates a night of surprises.
Among the biggest names that are planning to enter the 250 this year are just two of those listed above: Ben Rowe & Kenny Wallace.
The next generation of local stars are emerging and will now carry on the great tradition of the TD Banknorth 250. Names like Travis Adams, Joey Pole, Scott Payea, Shawn Martin and Eddie MacDonald.
As we get closer to this years 250, I can't help but look back at some of my favorites and wish they were entering this years race. The two drivers I would most like to see in the race again are Mike Rowe and Dave Dion.
Other fans will come for the big names, but for me its the regional stars I like to watch most, mixing it up with the local Maine drivers that are racing in the biggest race of their careers.
I am curious who some of the readers here would most like to see in the TD Banknorth 250?
I posted a poll at the top right side of this page for you to share your choice. If the driver you most want to see is not listed, check other and click on 'comments' below and ad their name.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, I'll see you at the 250!
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Great racing at NHMS last weekend?
by George 'Soup' Campbell
New Hampshire Motor Speedway has been accused of boring racing over the years. What NASCAR track doesn't produce boring racing at times? I will counter the boring racing accusations with the history of fantastic finishes this track has produced. Say what you want about the racing at NHMS, but there’s no denying there have been some fantastic finishes there over the years. Yes there were some boring moments during some stretches last weekend, but the Lenox 301 weekend produced a few exciting moments and memorable finishes as well.
I saw the first three races there live, and watched much of the Cup race live on TV. So which race did I like the most?
1. The Whelen Modified race. The 100 lap race had such a great finish, it has to be my nod for race of the weekend. To add some interest to the race, Cup stars Ryan Newman and Kasey Kahne were in the field and made for some added interest, if not just for the curiosity factor. But as usual, Ted Christopher seemed to steal the show. After early race problems appeared to take him out of the mix, he made his way back into contention and made amazing moves in the closing laps as the lead changed several times each lap, between several drivers. Ultimately there was a wreck - involving TC - as they raced out of turn four to the checkers, giving Donny Lia the win. It was an amazing race for the fans, and one that had everyone on their feet - even in the press box. Despite some sleepy laps in the middle, this was hands down, my pick for the race of the weekend.
2. My runner up pick was tougher. In full disclosure, I will admit to not watching this one in person. But the outcome was one that made me happy as one of ‘our own’ became a first time winner. There were some exciting moments in the Lenox 301 Sprint Cup race, and a surprise winner. Former Camping World East racer and Connecticut native Joey Logano won his first Cup race. Sure, it wasn’t a door to door thriller to the checkers, but as Jeff Gordon said after the race, a win is a win. Sometimes it’s just as interesting to see who can beat the gas mileage or rain. Sometimes, that’s what it takes to see a first time winner, or an old veteran sneak his way into victory lane, it can be a great equalizer. A win is a win. I was happy for Joey. Happy enough to name this race the second best of the weekend.
3. My third choice was still a good race. It had lead changes and a great finish - if not a controversial finish. The Camping World Series race was a sleeper for much of the first 100 laps. Within 10 laps there were just 27 cars on the one mile oval, and by lap 20 they were spread out over the entire track, which is how they spent most of the race. But some late cautions bunched them up and created some great battling for the lead. As the two leaders beat on each other in the final lap, the third place driver suddenly had a chance.
4. The last race on my list is the Nationwide race. It wasn’t a bad race, but it just wasn’t better than the other three. It was a typical Nationwide race, but one remarkable thing I will point out, with Kyle Busch’s win, there has yet to be a repeat winner in this series at NHMS.
I am curious to hear what some others that saw more than one race at NHMS think, what was your favorite race?
New Hampshire Motor Speedway has been accused of boring racing over the years. What NASCAR track doesn't produce boring racing at times? I will counter the boring racing accusations with the history of fantastic finishes this track has produced. Say what you want about the racing at NHMS, but there’s no denying there have been some fantastic finishes there over the years. Yes there were some boring moments during some stretches last weekend, but the Lenox 301 weekend produced a few exciting moments and memorable finishes as well.
I saw the first three races there live, and watched much of the Cup race live on TV. So which race did I like the most?
1. The Whelen Modified race. The 100 lap race had such a great finish, it has to be my nod for race of the weekend. To add some interest to the race, Cup stars Ryan Newman and Kasey Kahne were in the field and made for some added interest, if not just for the curiosity factor. But as usual, Ted Christopher seemed to steal the show. After early race problems appeared to take him out of the mix, he made his way back into contention and made amazing moves in the closing laps as the lead changed several times each lap, between several drivers. Ultimately there was a wreck - involving TC - as they raced out of turn four to the checkers, giving Donny Lia the win. It was an amazing race for the fans, and one that had everyone on their feet - even in the press box. Despite some sleepy laps in the middle, this was hands down, my pick for the race of the weekend.
2. My runner up pick was tougher. In full disclosure, I will admit to not watching this one in person. But the outcome was one that made me happy as one of ‘our own’ became a first time winner. There were some exciting moments in the Lenox 301 Sprint Cup race, and a surprise winner. Former Camping World East racer and Connecticut native Joey Logano won his first Cup race. Sure, it wasn’t a door to door thriller to the checkers, but as Jeff Gordon said after the race, a win is a win. Sometimes it’s just as interesting to see who can beat the gas mileage or rain. Sometimes, that’s what it takes to see a first time winner, or an old veteran sneak his way into victory lane, it can be a great equalizer. A win is a win. I was happy for Joey. Happy enough to name this race the second best of the weekend.
3. My third choice was still a good race. It had lead changes and a great finish - if not a controversial finish. The Camping World Series race was a sleeper for much of the first 100 laps. Within 10 laps there were just 27 cars on the one mile oval, and by lap 20 they were spread out over the entire track, which is how they spent most of the race. But some late cautions bunched them up and created some great battling for the lead. As the two leaders beat on each other in the final lap, the third place driver suddenly had a chance.
4. The last race on my list is the Nationwide race. It wasn’t a bad race, but it just wasn’t better than the other three. It was a typical Nationwide race, but one remarkable thing I will point out, with Kyle Busch’s win, there has yet to be a repeat winner in this series at NHMS.
I am curious to hear what some others that saw more than one race at NHMS think, what was your favorite race?
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Is Dale Earnhardt below average & living off his name?
Dale Earnhardt Jr had a crew chief change announced with his Sprint Cup team this week. Since then the radio and websites have been buzzing about Dale and in particular his talent level.
Dale is unquestionably one of the most popular and recognizable drivers in NASCAR today.
There is no doubt much of this popularity can be linked to his famous last name. But the name alone does not translate into success or talent. If I wanted to join the off the cuff critics, I would insert ‘see Kerry Earnhardt’ here. But its those off the cuff critics that have inspired me to write this column.
Many of the Dale Jr critics this week have called him over rated and below average, which is an opinion they are entitled to. But then many feel the need to follow up the comments with the statement that he is merely living off his fathers name.
This is where I get irritated. Earnhardt was his fathers name, but its his name too. He was born with it, he didn’t choose it. Many people follow him because they followed his dad, but many more claim his success has been due to his name. His name certainly helped open some doors as he progressed into the sport, but his talent has kept him at the top level and made him an above average driver.
His stats bear out that he is an above average driver:
18 career Sprint Cup wins so far in just 339 races. His 18 wins put him 37th on the all time win list. When you consider there have been 1000’s of drivers attempt Sprint Cup careers, that puts him above average right there.
Dale Jr’s 18 wins have him tied for 37th with three other drivers, Geoff Bodine, Neil Bonnett and one of my all time favorite drivers, Harry Gant. For those that need a ‘recent’ history lesson, that’s pretty good company.
Of those drivers, Dale has fewer starts than all of them. One more win and he will tie Buddy Baker, Davey Allison and Kurt Busch. Three more will tie him with Jeff Burton, Bobby Labonte and Benny Parsons. There are a couple Sprint Cup Champions in that group. I think its fair to say those guys are all above average drivers. If all the guys around Dale are considered above average, why would some body say he is below average?
Rather than compare him to the talent level he is most equal to, his critics will try to compare him to Kyle Petty. Why? His name. They both have famous fathers. Rather than look at facts and stats, lets blame his success on his name. Lets compare him with his father, then we can call him below average or even say he is a failure in comparison.
Look, nobody can compare to Dale Earnhardt or Richard Petty, or at least VERY few racers can compare.
It is not fair to criticize Dale Jr’s talent on his name. You can say his popularity is directly tied to his name, that’s fair, because there is no way to gauge that. His name clearly has instant recognition in this sport, that you can compare to Kyle Petty.
But to say his success is due to his name is ridiculous, and blatantly unfair. To say he has no talent and is living off his name, which has been said several times this week on the radio and website forums, is ridiculous. Once you say this, you clearly have no grasp of the facts and have decided to just shortcut the facts and show your dislike for the man. Rather than say something stupid, how about saying you just don’t like him, and then we can put your ‘feelings’ into the popularity topic, maybe you have a case there.
If not for his lineage, few people would be arguing his talent. He would be considered equal to his peers, the few drivers with 18 wins in the past ten years.
Dale is unquestionably one of the most popular and recognizable drivers in NASCAR today.
There is no doubt much of this popularity can be linked to his famous last name. But the name alone does not translate into success or talent. If I wanted to join the off the cuff critics, I would insert ‘see Kerry Earnhardt’ here. But its those off the cuff critics that have inspired me to write this column.
Many of the Dale Jr critics this week have called him over rated and below average, which is an opinion they are entitled to. But then many feel the need to follow up the comments with the statement that he is merely living off his fathers name.
This is where I get irritated. Earnhardt was his fathers name, but its his name too. He was born with it, he didn’t choose it. Many people follow him because they followed his dad, but many more claim his success has been due to his name. His name certainly helped open some doors as he progressed into the sport, but his talent has kept him at the top level and made him an above average driver.
His stats bear out that he is an above average driver:
18 career Sprint Cup wins so far in just 339 races. His 18 wins put him 37th on the all time win list. When you consider there have been 1000’s of drivers attempt Sprint Cup careers, that puts him above average right there.
Dale Jr’s 18 wins have him tied for 37th with three other drivers, Geoff Bodine, Neil Bonnett and one of my all time favorite drivers, Harry Gant. For those that need a ‘recent’ history lesson, that’s pretty good company.
Of those drivers, Dale has fewer starts than all of them. One more win and he will tie Buddy Baker, Davey Allison and Kurt Busch. Three more will tie him with Jeff Burton, Bobby Labonte and Benny Parsons. There are a couple Sprint Cup Champions in that group. I think its fair to say those guys are all above average drivers. If all the guys around Dale are considered above average, why would some body say he is below average?
Rather than compare him to the talent level he is most equal to, his critics will try to compare him to Kyle Petty. Why? His name. They both have famous fathers. Rather than look at facts and stats, lets blame his success on his name. Lets compare him with his father, then we can call him below average or even say he is a failure in comparison.
Look, nobody can compare to Dale Earnhardt or Richard Petty, or at least VERY few racers can compare.
It is not fair to criticize Dale Jr’s talent on his name. You can say his popularity is directly tied to his name, that’s fair, because there is no way to gauge that. His name clearly has instant recognition in this sport, that you can compare to Kyle Petty.
But to say his success is due to his name is ridiculous, and blatantly unfair. To say he has no talent and is living off his name, which has been said several times this week on the radio and website forums, is ridiculous. Once you say this, you clearly have no grasp of the facts and have decided to just shortcut the facts and show your dislike for the man. Rather than say something stupid, how about saying you just don’t like him, and then we can put your ‘feelings’ into the popularity topic, maybe you have a case there.
If not for his lineage, few people would be arguing his talent. He would be considered equal to his peers, the few drivers with 18 wins in the past ten years.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Q&A With OPS Owner Bill Ryan
Oxford Plains Speedway track owner Bill Ryan has been considered somewhat controversial to some over the years. He has not been afraid to make dramatic changes at his 1/3 mile short track in Oxford, Maine. Change is not always a welcome thing to many, but in reality, change is usually a necessity to survive and grow.
Ryan has never been afraid to tackle tough questions and in fact puts himself in the spot light more than the ordinary track owner. He also is a co-host on a radio show, 'In The Pits', every Friday morning on WJAB in Portland, Maine. He and the other host, John Williams, talk racing with guests and callers for an hour each week. He can often be found at the grandstand exit gate after each race, thanking the fans as they leave.
He has been a target of many on internet message boards, and even owns a blog that he has been active on, interacting with fans and teammembers alike. No matter where you stand on his opinions of the sport, he is not afraid to give his opinion and stand by his convictions.He recently became an owner of a professional basketball team (the Red Claws) in Portland, Maine too, as if owning a race track wasn't enough to keep him busy.
We caught up with Bill as he was making final preparations for his season opening weekend at OPS. We asked him ten questions about him & his track, as part of our new Q&A feature. Here's what he had to say:
1. The economy is still struggling, how does this most affect Oxford Plains Speedway?
I actually think that the economy will help us this year. When times are tough people are looking for affordable family entertainment. We are well placed to compete with other entertainment options. Our tickets are inexpensive and we provide a good "bang for the buck." I think some people will be reluctant to spend for high dollar sporting events and instead they will come to places like OPS.
2. What are some of the changes have you taken to address this issue at your track?
We are emphasizing affordability and value. We also intend to provide more entertainment value off the track. Fans should look for more "fun" at the Speedway this year. We have always provided great racing, now we are providing additional entertainment around the racing. The goal is always to have folks walk out of our events with a smile on their face.
3. It has been a few seasons since your decision to cut the pro stock division from your program at OPS. Have you achieved the results you were expecting from this decision?
Absolutely. I would point to the huge car counts we have been able to maintain at the TD Banknorth 250, the spread of standardized Late Models across northern New England and now the ACT Invitational on Cup weekend at NHMS in September.We have also seen former Pro Stock drivers decide to convert over to Late Models. Guys like Tim Brackett and Al Hammond intend to compete in Late Models this year. They are a great part of the history of the track.There was certainly an enormous amount of emotion around the change. I think the emotion has finally worn off and now we are dealing with the facts about these cars. The facts show us that running Late Models as our premier division is more affordable for our drivers and gives us a better chance to succeed for in the future.
4. What has been the feedback you have had from other track owners in this region on that change?
I think more and more track owners are convinced that Late Models are where we need to go. We are seeing more cooperation from track owners that may have been die hard "Pro Stock" guys in the past. I think we all have the same goals, namely cars that put on great racing and can compete at a variety of tracks across New England.
5. How have the car counts been since making late models the premiere division at OPS?
The car counts have been good, particularly for the 250. That was always my biggest concern. I just could not understand where we were going to be able to find 80 or 90 Pro Stocks as time went on. Too many tracks had eliminated the division before we did and costs were out of control.
6. What are your thoughts on the upcoming late model race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway?
It is unbelievable the enthusiasm that the race has created in the Late Model division. I think Tom Curley and ACT have given short track racers a chance to show case their talents on New England's biggest stage. Who knows what Cup owner will see a talented racer and maybe take a chance on him because of this race?
7. How would you describe the 'state of short track racing' in the northeast region right now?
We have had a few years in a row were the weather has been absolutely devastating. We have not had to cancel a lot of races, but we have had so many races that have been hurt by rain. Short track fans are reluctant to come out if they think it is going to rain. They have too many other entertainment options. It has uniformly hurt the tracks here in Maine and in the Northeast.I think the rise of the Late Model has been absolutely key in keeping the enthusiasm up in the region. The ACT Invitational has been an integral part of this.We need to keep emphasizing the entertainment value we provide. We compete with so much these days that promoters 20 years ago could not even imagine. We need to be unafraid to keep innovating. We can't fall into the "It has always been done this way so let's keep doing it this way mentality." If we are not constantly moving forward with new ideas, we will fall behind.
8. What do you think could be done to most help grow the sport locally at this time?
We all need to be unafraid of change. Promoters should not be scared to be skewered on the message boards. Honestly, and comically, the promoters that seem to be the darlings of the message boards and the racing "press" are the ones that are hemorrhaging money and struggling to survive. We all need to do what it takes to bring the sport to the next level. If that means eliminating divisions, you need to eliminate divisions. Just because you did it last year does not mean it will work next year.We are constantly promoting Oxford Plains Speedway. A track owner needs to be on sports radio talking racing, needs to be in the newspaper, needs to be on television. We all need to know the important people in our local press and make sure they know what we are doing.We need to approach racing in the same way that other minor league sports approach their events. You need to provide great entertainment that is accessible to a wide audience. If you are chasing only hard core race fans it is going to be hard to succeed. We have something to offer anyone out for a night of entertainment and have to emphasize this.
9. You recently became an owner of a professional basketball team. Are there any similarities you have found between the two sports?
That is an interesting question. Obviously both businesses are centered around selling tickets and corporate sponsorships. But there are some dramatic differences. Basketball is a more universally known game. I would say literally everyone in Maine knows what basketball is and how it is played. So there is less teaching that needs to go on to potential fans and sponsors.The other difference is that everyone in the building next year will be rooting for the Red Claws. That is different than racing where there are people rooting for 100 different drivers! In racing, the promoter is sometimes the "bad guy" because he or she has a role in refereeing the sport and enforcing the rules. On the basketball side, an owner is universally seen as the "good guy." That is an unfamiliar feeling!It has been great to work with the people at the NBA. They are an innovative group and have already given me ideas about how to improve the racing business. I think there will be a nice cross-pollination between the two enterprises.
10. What attributes of owning a racetrack can you say most apply to the success of owning a professional sports team?
You need to be able to deal with a wide range of people and circumstances. As a race track owner you deal with everyone from corporate sponsors to fans to drivers. You need to operate under pressure and be able to think on your feet. These attributes are certainly helpful with the operation of a basketball team.
Ryan has never been afraid to tackle tough questions and in fact puts himself in the spot light more than the ordinary track owner. He also is a co-host on a radio show, 'In The Pits', every Friday morning on WJAB in Portland, Maine. He and the other host, John Williams, talk racing with guests and callers for an hour each week. He can often be found at the grandstand exit gate after each race, thanking the fans as they leave.
He has been a target of many on internet message boards, and even owns a blog that he has been active on, interacting with fans and teammembers alike. No matter where you stand on his opinions of the sport, he is not afraid to give his opinion and stand by his convictions.He recently became an owner of a professional basketball team (the Red Claws) in Portland, Maine too, as if owning a race track wasn't enough to keep him busy.
We caught up with Bill as he was making final preparations for his season opening weekend at OPS. We asked him ten questions about him & his track, as part of our new Q&A feature. Here's what he had to say:
1. The economy is still struggling, how does this most affect Oxford Plains Speedway?
I actually think that the economy will help us this year. When times are tough people are looking for affordable family entertainment. We are well placed to compete with other entertainment options. Our tickets are inexpensive and we provide a good "bang for the buck." I think some people will be reluctant to spend for high dollar sporting events and instead they will come to places like OPS.
2. What are some of the changes have you taken to address this issue at your track?
We are emphasizing affordability and value. We also intend to provide more entertainment value off the track. Fans should look for more "fun" at the Speedway this year. We have always provided great racing, now we are providing additional entertainment around the racing. The goal is always to have folks walk out of our events with a smile on their face.
3. It has been a few seasons since your decision to cut the pro stock division from your program at OPS. Have you achieved the results you were expecting from this decision?
Absolutely. I would point to the huge car counts we have been able to maintain at the TD Banknorth 250, the spread of standardized Late Models across northern New England and now the ACT Invitational on Cup weekend at NHMS in September.We have also seen former Pro Stock drivers decide to convert over to Late Models. Guys like Tim Brackett and Al Hammond intend to compete in Late Models this year. They are a great part of the history of the track.There was certainly an enormous amount of emotion around the change. I think the emotion has finally worn off and now we are dealing with the facts about these cars. The facts show us that running Late Models as our premier division is more affordable for our drivers and gives us a better chance to succeed for in the future.
4. What has been the feedback you have had from other track owners in this region on that change?
I think more and more track owners are convinced that Late Models are where we need to go. We are seeing more cooperation from track owners that may have been die hard "Pro Stock" guys in the past. I think we all have the same goals, namely cars that put on great racing and can compete at a variety of tracks across New England.
5. How have the car counts been since making late models the premiere division at OPS?
The car counts have been good, particularly for the 250. That was always my biggest concern. I just could not understand where we were going to be able to find 80 or 90 Pro Stocks as time went on. Too many tracks had eliminated the division before we did and costs were out of control.
6. What are your thoughts on the upcoming late model race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway?
It is unbelievable the enthusiasm that the race has created in the Late Model division. I think Tom Curley and ACT have given short track racers a chance to show case their talents on New England's biggest stage. Who knows what Cup owner will see a talented racer and maybe take a chance on him because of this race?
7. How would you describe the 'state of short track racing' in the northeast region right now?
We have had a few years in a row were the weather has been absolutely devastating. We have not had to cancel a lot of races, but we have had so many races that have been hurt by rain. Short track fans are reluctant to come out if they think it is going to rain. They have too many other entertainment options. It has uniformly hurt the tracks here in Maine and in the Northeast.I think the rise of the Late Model has been absolutely key in keeping the enthusiasm up in the region. The ACT Invitational has been an integral part of this.We need to keep emphasizing the entertainment value we provide. We compete with so much these days that promoters 20 years ago could not even imagine. We need to be unafraid to keep innovating. We can't fall into the "It has always been done this way so let's keep doing it this way mentality." If we are not constantly moving forward with new ideas, we will fall behind.
8. What do you think could be done to most help grow the sport locally at this time?
We all need to be unafraid of change. Promoters should not be scared to be skewered on the message boards. Honestly, and comically, the promoters that seem to be the darlings of the message boards and the racing "press" are the ones that are hemorrhaging money and struggling to survive. We all need to do what it takes to bring the sport to the next level. If that means eliminating divisions, you need to eliminate divisions. Just because you did it last year does not mean it will work next year.We are constantly promoting Oxford Plains Speedway. A track owner needs to be on sports radio talking racing, needs to be in the newspaper, needs to be on television. We all need to know the important people in our local press and make sure they know what we are doing.We need to approach racing in the same way that other minor league sports approach their events. You need to provide great entertainment that is accessible to a wide audience. If you are chasing only hard core race fans it is going to be hard to succeed. We have something to offer anyone out for a night of entertainment and have to emphasize this.
9. You recently became an owner of a professional basketball team. Are there any similarities you have found between the two sports?
That is an interesting question. Obviously both businesses are centered around selling tickets and corporate sponsorships. But there are some dramatic differences. Basketball is a more universally known game. I would say literally everyone in Maine knows what basketball is and how it is played. So there is less teaching that needs to go on to potential fans and sponsors.The other difference is that everyone in the building next year will be rooting for the Red Claws. That is different than racing where there are people rooting for 100 different drivers! In racing, the promoter is sometimes the "bad guy" because he or she has a role in refereeing the sport and enforcing the rules. On the basketball side, an owner is universally seen as the "good guy." That is an unfamiliar feeling!It has been great to work with the people at the NBA. They are an innovative group and have already given me ideas about how to improve the racing business. I think there will be a nice cross-pollination between the two enterprises.
10. What attributes of owning a racetrack can you say most apply to the success of owning a professional sports team?
You need to be able to deal with a wide range of people and circumstances. As a race track owner you deal with everyone from corporate sponsors to fans to drivers. You need to operate under pressure and be able to think on your feet. These attributes are certainly helpful with the operation of a basketball team.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
