Cars 2 Movie Merchandise-Where to Get Great Deals

  I know this is supposed to be a blog about all the great racing action taking place in New Jersey, however, I thought I would share something with you that I feel I have almost become an expert at. Merchandise from the Cars 2 movie.
  You see I have a son, who is about to be four, who loves both the Cars movies. He not only watches the first movie constantly, but has just about every toy, and many of the clothes based on the movie. When we went to the first showing of Cars 2, last Friday, I knew I was in trouble. The movie not only features many new characters, but several of the ones from the original movie also have slight changes that my son, of course, noticed. As we walked from the theatre, and he talked about the new characters, I knew I would be buying some new toys, and clothes for him soon.
  In my search for toys from the Cars 2 movie I hit some of the normal stops Toys R Us, Walmart, and Target. However, the place I found with the best selection of quality and price was, actually, the Disney Store. They not only had items I hadn't seen elsewhere, but the prices were very, very reasonable. Also, most of the merchandise from the original movie was marked down significantly.
  As surprised as I was by the Disney Store, I have to admit JC Penney surprised me even more when it came to the clothes. Many of the shirts for the Cars 2 movie, this week, were on sale for as low as $5. I even got a Cars 2 Lightning McQueen bathing suit originally priced at $15.99 for $5.99. The selection was pretty incredible, and featured many of the same designs I saw elsewhere for at least double the price.
  My son's closet is now filled with enough Cars 2 clothes for him to wear something from the movie just about every day of the week. He also has some of the coolest toys available from the movie, and is a very happy child.
  Thanks to a little shopping, Dad is pretty happy too. The only thing that beats making your kid happy is saving money while doing it. So if your child is anything like mine I recommend you get yourself to the mall. The Disney Store always seems to be well-stocked and priced reasonably, but I don't know how much longer the sale on Cars 2 clothes will last at JC Penney.   

Nascar Crew Chief Raced Under Fake Name in New Jersey

  A quick look at the entry list for this weekend's Nascar Sprint Cup race in Daytona doesn't seem to reveal any surprises. Drivers like Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jeff Gordon, Carl Edwards, and even a rare appearance by Geoff Bodine, don't give a clue to anything unusual.
  However, what if I told you the crew chief, this week, for the number 36 Golden Corral Chevrolet, driven by Dave Blaney, was at one time a driver to beat at the former Flemington Speedway? But wait, the crew chief listed is Kevin Buskirk, you say. I don't remember anyone by that name competing at Flemington.
  That's because when he ran at Flemington, he did so under a fake name. Kevin Buskirk is Kevin Collins. Kevin Collins is now Kevin Buskirk. The way the story goes, Kevin wasn't old enough to race when he started, so he did so under a fake name.
  For those of you who don't remember Kevin, he always ran the immaculate, mostly white, number 12 cars in the Dirt/Asphalt Modifieds. He was always one of the competitors you had to deal with if you wanted a win in that division at Flemungton.
  Like many former drivers from New Jersey's speedways, his career path took him south to North Carolina and Nascar country. He is now a Nascar Sprint Cup crew chief. He is also, now, Kevin Buskirk. But you can just call him Kevin.

Former Nascar Modified Great to Run Daytona for Tommy Baldwin

  When qualifying gets underway, this weekend, for the NASCAR Sprint Cup race there will be a former Modified Series great behind the wheel of a second car for Tommy Baldwin Racing. The driver, however, may not be the one most were expecting.
  Steve Park was originally scheduled to compete in a Len Boehler tribute car, but due to a lack of funds those plans were delayed. Pending the team raising enough money, Park will attempt to qualify at New Hampshire, later in the year, in the tribute car. In fact, fans can donate toward the sponsorship and get their name placed on the car by going to the team's website at http://www.tommybaldwinracing.com/.
  The driver replacing Park is also a former Modified great, and Sprint Cup race winner, Geoff Bodine. The veteran, originally from New York, has brought a much needed sponsor with him to the number 35. Bodine is planning to run the entire race with Tommy Baldwin, himself, serving as crew chief.
  Good to see the Modified guys sticking together, good luck Geoff, and who knows, if Trevor Bayne can win Daytona why can't Bodine?

Happy Birthday Martin Truex Jr.

   Today, Wednesday June 29th, is Martin Truex Jr.'s birthday. The driver of the NAPA Toyota number 56 in NASCAR Sprint Cup is a native of Mayetta, New Jersey. He was also a competitor at Wall Stadium, as were many members of his family.
  A birthday win at Daytona this weekend is just what this driver needs. Let's hope he gets it!

     HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARTIN !
                              and, GOOD LUCK !

Fourth of July Parade to Feature Former Flemington Speedway Race Cars

  The Flemington Speedway Historical Society will be marching in one of the oldest and most prestigious Fourth of July parades in New Jersey. The 64th Annual Lebanon 4TH of July Parade will move down Main Street on Monday, July 4th. Not only will members be marching, vintage and restored cars will be driven in the parade.
They are still looking for former drivers, and race cars to join them, so if you have any interest you can call Mark Harrington, president of the organization, at (484)221-5052. You can also check out their website at http://www.flemingtonspeedwayhistoricalsociety.com/.
  This is a parade I would actually consider attending. I loved Flemington Speedway, and would really enjoy seeing some of the cars again.

Official Nascar Photos from Modified Tour Race at Monadnock

  Nascar, believe it or not, actually posted some photos from the Nascar Whelan Modified Tour race held Sunday at Monadnock, New Hampshire. Enjoy!

Nascar Modified Tour Results

  Just for all those great Modified Tour fans in Jersey that don't get to as many events as they'd like to, like me, I have included the top ten from the race at Monadnock run on Sunday.
1) Todd Szegedy, from the pole
2) Justin Bonsignore
3) Matt Hirschman
4) Ron Silk
5) James Civali
6) Ted Christopher
7) Mike Stefanik
8) Ron Yuhas Jr.
9) Erick Rudolph
10) Rowan Pennink
  A note for Jersey fans, Jamie Tomaino, finished 14th.
  The Tour drivers and teams don't have much time between events as they will be in competition again on Thursday at Thompson.

Wall Stadium Mentioned on ESPN's Nascar Now

  In what seemed like a little filler at the end of the show, Wall Stadium got a mention, on ESPN's Nascar Now tonight. Former Nascar Sprint Cup driver, Ricky Craven, made mention of Ray Evernham winning a Sprint Car race this weekend. He then followed it up by saying how many people probably don't know but Ray Evernham was actually a driver at one time at places like Wall Stadium in New Jersey.
  What many people may also not realize is Ricky Craven, himself, actually competed in New Jersey once.
 He ran in what at the time was a Busch North race held at the now closed Flemington Speedway. Another driver in the field that day, Jimmy Spencer.
  Pretty cool, though, to hear the Jersey Shore speedway I grew up at mentioned on a nationally televised program.

Nascar Drivers to Appear on A&E Show The Glades Tonight

  When the checkered flag falls at Infineon later today, that certainly won't mark the end of Nascar on television for the evening. Sure there will be your usual follow-up shows on the Speed Channel like Nascar Victory Lane, and Wind Tunnel with Dave Despain, however tonight there is even more.
  Tonight at 10PM on A&E, four Nascar drivers will play themselves in an episode about a fictional crewmember being murdered. The drivers who will appear are Carl Edwards, Tony Stewart, Joey Logano, and Brian Vickers. The scenes were all shot at Homestead-Miami Speedway.
  For those of you who have never seen the show, it is based on a Chicago detective who moves to South Florida to semi-retire, and ends up working cases there. I have to admit I am a regular viewer of the show, and it is quite good, even when there aren't any Nascar drivers on it.
  So if you haven't quite gotten enough Nascar by 10PM tonight, or just want to check out a pretty good show that happens to have some Nascar drivers tune in to A&E later.

Joey Logano Brags About Modifieds on CNN

  Joey Logano, the driver of the Home Depot #20 in the Sprint Cup, gave an interview today on CNN, while walking through the Nascar Hall of Fame. As the interview closed, Logano was asked which of the cars on display he would like to drive, as he stood next to a former Richard Petty ride. He pointed at the number 43 and said this one of course, but then got into a long conversation on Modifieds.
  He told the host being from the Northeast where Modifieds are so popular, he would love a chance to drive Richie Evans number 61. When she replied, "Really! Why?", Logano began telling her how the Modifieds were not only the most fun to drive, but also provided the best racing of all the Nascar divisions.
  He even got in depth about their power, and large tires, and being able to use the bumper.
  Go Joey, I was never a real big fan of Logano, but I'm thinking about going out and getting myself a Home Depot #20 shirt.
  Really makes you wonder why everyone, except Nascar and television, realize how good the racing is in the Whelan Nascar Modifieds. Some day they'll get it, let's just hope it's not too late.

Cars 2 Movie Review

  Lucky enough for me, and really lucky for my 3 year old son, we were able to be among the first people to see the movie Cars 2 yesterday. He had been looking forward to this day since he saw the first commercial for it on television.
  The movie reviews I read prior to our attending the theatre were all horrible. They talked about the movie not having enough depth, and that Mater was more a star than Lightning McQueen. Really? It's a kids movie, about talking cars!
  To me the best way to tell if a children's movie is good is by watching the child. My three year old, was not only fixated on the screen, but actually asked me questions that let me know he was paying attention. He not only enjoyed it, but spent much of the afternoon talking about a new car from the movie. Shockingly, Lightning McQueen may no longer be his favorite.
  While the theme of the movie, a spy adventure, may be a little mature for the younger kids to understand, there was much more to keep them entertained. New characters, mixed with old ones, and several funny scenes involving Mater, who else.
  I have to admit there was a little more violence than I would've liked to have seen in the movie. The word "die" was also used a little too much for my liking, but overall it was entertaining. My son didn't ask once about the violence, so perhaps none of that stuck with him, which would be a good thing.
   For the adults, the "James Bond" style of spy thriller story was enough to keep you interested. Race fans will also be entertained by listening for the voices of drivers like Jeff Gordon, and Lewis Hamilton, along with former driver Darrell Waltrip.
  I would recommend seeing Cars 2 in a minute. The animation itself is incredible, and the characters seemed to have no trouble keeping my son's interest, which is the true test of any kid's movie, isn't it? I just hope it has enough depth for yours!
  Depth? Really? It's a kids movie, take your kids and enjoy!

The Garden State Classic Winner Will Be....

  Today look's like it could be a great day for racing at Wall Stadium. The weather looks good, and thanks to some last minute additions to the entry list the competition got a whole lot better. The return of several fan-favorites from the past, and a very talented driver from Pennsylvania should make the race much more interesting than it seemed like it would be just a short time ago.
  With all that said, I have to go with one of the 2011 Wall "regulars" to take the win. My head tells me to take Anthony Sesely, who has been fast all year. I don't think anyone would be surprised to see him win this event. He is smart enough to save his equipment until the end of the race, and yet aggressive enough when it comes time to make his move for the win. Don't be surprised to see the number 16 in victory lane tonight.
  That's my head, as for my heart, I would love to see a win for Jason Hearne. Not only are Jason and I friends, we worked side by side on the Nascar Tour Modified of the late Jim Willis. He is a great guy who was always willing to do whatever was needed of him. Jason is also the son of a four-time winner of the Garden State Classic, Gil Hearne. He has had a rough year thus far at Wall. He has been fast, but has fallen victim to some rough driving by several of the other competitors. There is nothing I would like to see more than the number 12 sitting in victory lane tonight.
  Another good story could be a win by Roger Coss. The young driver celebrated a birthday this week, and what a present a Garden State Classic win would be. Coss drives a clean, yet aggressive when he has to be, race most nights at Wall. This is exactly the style needed to win an extra-distance race like this.
  The 2011 edition of the Garden State Classic looks to have all the makings of a memorable event at Wall tonight. Great weather, great competitors, and maybe for the first time all year at the track, great anticipation for a night of racing. Let's hope we get all that and more!

Red Bull Racing Leaving Nascar

  In what was a shocking revelation to me, Red Bull Racing has decided to leave Nascar. There has been much speculation this season about drivers, such as Carl Edwards, Danica Patrick, and Mark Martin, and where they might drive next season, but never anything about Red Bull leaving.
  As fast as the announcement was made, the rumors started. Jay Frye, an executive with the team, is reportedly trying to secure investors to purchase the team. Of local interest, Ray Evernham, former Sprint Cup car owner and New Jersey native, has also been mentioned, but he denied any interest.
  Perhaps the most interesting rumor has Michael Andretti leaving IndyCar Racing and buying the Red Bull team. This could answer two questions at once, not only the future of the team, but also Danica Patrick's future.
  Either way, what is also does is add another driver to the list of those looking for a new ride in 2012. While Kasey Kahne is secure in his Hendrick Motorsports deal, Brian Vickers would be caught on the outside looking in.
  This is also a big blow to Nascar itself, as Red Bull was the team most associated with bringing younger fans to the sport. That responsibility will now probably fall onto Travis Pastrana as he looks to move from X-Games to Nascar.
  It is never a good sign when a team in Nascar decides to close up shop. When that team is Red Bull, who not only owned but sponsored the team, it is really bad news. Hopefully, Toyota won't want to lose the two cars and help with trying to keep the team in Sprint Cup.   

Time to Put Bounty on Pauch at New Egypt ?

  Billy Pauch is one of the greatest race car drivers I have ever seen in my life. I have been lucky enough to not only see him on the dirt, where he has had his most success, but also on the asphalt. The Frenchtown driver may in fact be the most versatile competitor I have seen, locally, as well. While many drivers have tried their hands at racing on both dirt and asphalt, Pauch has far exceeded them all.
  When Flemington Speedway made the change from dirt to asphalt, Pauch didn't change tracks, he accepted the challenge. He didn't just run in the converted dirt cars, either, he climbed inside a Nascar Tour-Type Modified as well. It was in this division where I saw his most impressive performance in my eyes. Billy Pauch started last, 43rd, in the Race of Champions, against the best asphalt modified drivers in the Northeast, and won.
  He also competed in a Nascar Craftsman Truck race, at the track. Although his finish didn't show it, the Nascar boys knew he was there, and would have to be respected.
  Despite my incredible respect for Pauch, even I cannot help but see how much he is stinking up the racing at New Egypt. The legendary driver, scored his sixth win of the early season in such a dominant fashion last Saturday, it seemed he was driving a car from another division. He made the rest of the field look like they were driving Sportsman cars, maybe even Street Stocks.
  What's even more amazing is the field of drivers he is doing this against. Rick Laubach, last season's track champion. Wade Hendrickson, Bridgeport Speedway's 2010 Champion. Jimmy Horton, a legend himself, and former ARCA and Sprint Cup driver. Drivers like Strunk, Butler, Buffalino, and more, who could win on any given night at any dirt track in the area.
  Tracks in the past have put "bounties" on dominant drivers, as if the competitors weren't trying everything in their power to win each week anyway. This is more a tool used by promoters to get publicity for their tracks.
  Maybe the true incentive should be offered to Pauch. An extra $1,000 to start the race from the pit area, or being required to drop back five spots on every restart.
  Truth is, we should all just enjoy Pauch and his immense talent for as long as he is around. Get yourself out to New Egypt, bring your kids, bring your grand kids, bring your friends who have never seen a dirt race. He is a rare breed whose talent for both setting up a car and driving it I can only compare to the late John Blewett III, who we sadly lost a few years ago in a racing accident.
  If you ever got to see Blewett III you know what I am talking about. If not, then don't miss out on Pauch, he will be the best Jersey driver you will ever see in your lifetime, and this may be his best season yet.

Penalty Announced for Joe Gibbs Racing Illegal Parts

  The penalty has been announced by Nascar for the illegal oil pans found on all three Joe Gibbs Racing Toyotas during inspection prior to the cars taking to the track. All three crew chiefs, Mike Ford(Fedex #11), Dave Rogers(M&M's#18), and Greg Zipadelli(Home Depot#20) have been fined $50,000 each and put on probation until December 31. All three car chiefs, have also been put on probation, as well as Vice President of Racing Operations, Jimmy Makar, until December 31 as well.
  That seems to put everyone on the team, with the exception of Joe Gibbs, on probation. This might be of concern in other professional sports, but not in Nascar. Afterall, where else can you be on probation, get caught going nearly triple the speed limit in a residential zone, and still be able to participate in your sport.
  Nascar seems to feel they are not treated like a real sport, and maybe this is why. The NBA is not afraid to eject a star player, and even suspend him if he continues to violate their policies. The NFL suspended Ben Rothlisberger four games last year for something he wasn't even charged with.
  Nascar probation is a joke, if you want any proof just look at the smirk on Kyle Busch's face. The same smirk Richard Childress tried to knock off his face.

NJ Racing Photos Wanted

  I am the writer of the blog you are reading as well as for the local auto racing blog on NJ.com, the website of the Star Ledger. I will also be debuting a racing website, dedicated to New Jersey auto racing, and I would like to ask for some help from my fellow race fans.
  I am looking for racing photos from any of New Jersey's tracks, past or present, to use both on the blogs and the website. Hopefully this will be a way to preserve our racing history, and share it with others.
  Please feel free to email photos to me at ellsworthaboyce@yahoo.com
  Thanks in advance, and become a follower here by email or at NJ.com so our tracks and drivers get the recognition they deserve.

Can Wall Stadium Pack the Grandstands Two Weeks in a Row?

  Wall Stadium had it's most successful weekend of racing this past Friday and Saturday. That's the good news. The bad news is the Jersey Shore speedway was hosting a Formula Drift event, not it's usual weekend of modifieds and stock cars. This Saturday will be a good test to see if the new management's efforts are paying off or not.
  The Garden State Classic, which takes place this Saturday night, has long been a fan favorite event at Wall. Years past have seen not only drivers from outside the area come to compete, but also fans to watch. While no one is expecting that to happen this year, I'm sure management would be happy to just get a few modifieds that have been missing this year, and a lot more fans than they have seen so far.
  Drivers missing from action this year include both Jimmy Blewett and Tommy Farrell, who have chosen to run at New Egypt Speedway this year. Other drivers, like Brian Sisco, or anyone from the Mongeau family have all added great competition to this event in the past.
  The biggest question, besides the weather this Saturday, is the event's name and history enough to bring out the fans who have yet to attend a race at Wall this season? The grandstands have yet to be even close to being full this season, which isn't unusual in recent years prior to the start of summer. However, with new management in place the hopes had to be higher.
  I personally am hoping the grandstands are over-filled this Saturday. However, I also hope that if they aren't the new management will realize there is much more to getting people in the stands these days than just purely putting together a schedule.

Martin Truex Jr. Qualifying Results for Michigan

  The  crew chief change on the number 56 NAPA Toyota, driven by Martin Truex Jr., seems to be continuing to pay dividends. The New Jersey driver backed up his solid finish at Pocono by qualifying in the 11th spot for today's Sprint Cup race at Michigan. His teammate, David Reutimann, qualified on the outside of the polesitter for the third week in a row, Kurt Busch.
  While Truex Jr. doesn't have the record to back it up, he claimed earlier this week to really like the wide track for it's ability to offer drivers many different lines to run. He will have to continue to improve and put himself and his team in a position to win soon if he is to have any chance of qualifying for The Chase.

 

Joe Gibbs Racing Cars Illegal in Michigan

  All three Nascar Sprint Cup cars of Joe Gibbs Racing were found to be illegal during opening day inspection at Michigan. Nascar found all three, the Fedex number 11 of Denny Hamlin, the M &M's number 18 of Kyle Busch, and the Home Depot number 20 of Joey Logano to have unapproved oil pans.
  Nascar made the teams remove the pans, and replace them before the first practice, so there will be no penalty to the teams at the track. However, during practice the number 20 of Joey Logano had engine problems, forcing them to change engines.
  Observers in the garage area thought the oil pans in question looked like they weighed upwards of 20 pounds, compared to the normal weight of several pounds or less.
  Nascar will announce penalties later next week.

Martin Truex Jr. Wears Local Shirt in Video

  Martin Truex Jr. is doing his best to promote a local New Jersey business in his latest video on the Michael Waltrip Racing website.
  To check out the video click the link here and then click on the video for Martin Truex Jr. Michigan Preview.
  Good job Martin!

Richie Evans Interesting Notes

  I recently did a post on NJ.com, Nascar Hall of Fame Inductee Has NJ Ties, where I discussed some of the links to NJ that Richie Evans had. While I was researching it I came across some pretty interesting facts, I thought I would share with you here.

1) He first drove a Modified in 1965
2) He won his first Nascar National Modified Title in 1973
3) He didn't win his next title until 1978, but followed that with seven more in a row.
4) Won his last title after his death at Martinsville in 1985, he had clinched the previous race.
5) He was 44 years old at time of his death, and had 6 children.
6) Won the Race of Champions 3 times
7) Won more than 400 career feature events
8) He was the track champion at New Egypt Speedway twice, first in 1979, and again in 1982
9) He only won once at Wall Stadium, in 1971
10) He also has a win at Trenton Speedway
11) He was the Most Popular Driver of the Modified Series 9 times
12) His number 61 is the only retired number in Nascar
13) Martin Truex Jr. drove a Richie Evans tribute car in the Busch Series in 2003
14) Steve Park drove a Richie Evans tribute car at Daytona in 2010 for Tommy Baldwin
15) In 1985 every orange car in IROC competition had a number 61 on it's rear fender
16) First driver from outside Nascar's premier series to be selected to the Hall of Fame

  That's 16, which is 61 reversed in case you didn't notice. Also if you want to know more about Richie, check out the book, "Richie! The Richie Evans Story" by Bones Bourcier. The forward is written by NJ native, and former Wall Stadium competitor Ray Evernham.   

Fathers Day Gifts for the Race Fan

1) Drive a Nascar race car on the track at Dover. Click here for details Monster Racing

2) Drive a Dirt Car with lessons from Billy Pauch. Click here for details Billy Pauch Racing School

3) Drive a Modified or Legend Car at Wall Stadium. Click here for details Green Flag Driving Experience

4) Race Tickets for Dover. Click here for details Dover Tickets

5) Racing Video Games. Days of Thunder Game and Movie
                                      Nascar the Game 2011 

Stewart/Hamilton Ride Swap Photos Watkins Glen

  I just wanted to post some photos of the Stewart/Hamilton ride swap from today at Watkins Glen. I won't tell you how anything turned out since you will probably want to watch it for yourself on Speed Channel tonight at 8PM. Enjoy.

Watch Stewart/Hamilton Swap Cars at Watkins Glen Live at Work or Later on Speed

  Although this event seems to be getting far less publicity than I would think, the Stewart/Hamilton Ride Swap at Watkins Glen is on Tuesday June 14th. Tony Stewart will take laps in Hamilton's Formula 1 car, and Hamilton will do the same in Stewart's Sprint Cup car. It will be the first time for each to drive these respective types of vechicles.
  While the event is free for fans to attend, most of us won't be able to actually be there. You can, however,  check it out live(while at work) by going to http://www.theglen.com/. The day gets started around 11:30AM with the drivers scheduled to take to the track at noon.
  Stewart will first run laps in his Mobil 1 number 14 around the road course. Hamilton will then take to the track in his Formula 1 car. It will be the first time in over 30 years a Formula 1 car has been at the track.
  There will be a short intermission, while the drivers switch cars. Hamilton will then be first out at 12:50PM turning laps in the number 14 Sprint Cup car. Stewart will take to the track at 1:25PM in the F1 car, to run his first laps in the McClaren Mercedes of Hamilton.
  Should you not be able to check it out live, the entire event will be broadcast on tape delay at 8PM on the Speed Channel. 

Nascar Diecast: Great Limited Time Offer Free Car

  As a Nascar Media member, I am frequently made aware of new products and offers geared toward Nascar fans. Most times the offers are not that special, but I got an email today that I thought I would share with you.
  The RCCA is offering a free 1-year membership, a free 1/64 diecast car, and free shipping for just signing up with them. While there is no obligation to buy anything, should you do so within 90 days, they will then give you a lifetime membership for free, a $19.95 value.
  RCCA(Racing Collectibles Club of America) offers the most authentic Nascar Die-Cast replicas made, and only available through them. As a member of RCCA you also receive invitations to members-only events, like driver meet and greets, and private garage tours. There are also special offers and a buyer reward program.
  I can personally attest to the quality of their products, as I have acquired several of their die-cast cars second-hand. The detail is truly amazing, nothing like you would see in Toys 'R' Us, or even a collectibles shop.
  To take advantage of this offer you need to go to RCCA Free Trial Offer and enter promo code DLINA611A at check out.

  Check out their Dale Earnhardt Jr. hauler, and Tony Stewart car. 

More Problems for Kyle Busch at Pocono

  Kyle Busch is having an exciting 2011 season, too bad most of it is for the wrong reasons. The M&M's driver was put on probation a few weeks back for his actions in a fued involving Kevin Harvick. He was then ticketed for driving 128mph in a 45mph zone, while test driving an expensive sports car. If all that wasn't bad enough, last week he got beat up by 65 year old Richard Childress after a Camping World Truck race.
  Well, trouble has found Kyle again, this time at Pocono. There was no fighting involved, however his third place finishing Toyota failed post-race inspection. The left front of the car was not at Nascar height requirements. One would have to assume it was too low.
  Nascar will announce later in the week if any action will be taken. Unlike your local short track Kyle will certainly keep his finish, and it won't violate his probation. There will most likely be fines handed out.
  Just another week in the life of Kyle Busch.

Help Wanted: Creative Person to Design Toyota Race Car Paint Scheme

  I, probably like most of you, have seen the Toyota Sponsifier commercials more times than I would like to admit. The Kyle Busch one, with a cameo by Martin Truex Jr., features the M &M's driver crashing through an office wall, and the Joey Logano version featuring the little freckle-faced kid.
  Every time I see those advertisements to design your own car, I wish I was actually talented enough to do so. Not just because it would be really cool to see something you created out there banging doors with Dale Jr. or Jimmie Johson, but also because our home state Sprint Cup driver, Truex, drives a Toyota.
  So, I am calling out all the creative people out there. The design I'm thinking of is along the lines of a giant map of New Jersey, with the location of all our race tracks being highlighted, along with other points of interest.
  Another idea I had was to recreate the number 56 modified Truex drove at Wall Stadium in his early years on the side of his car. God knows the Nascar Modifieds could use the publicity, as much as Wall could.
  Should you decide to accept this challenge, and actually get your/our design on a Toyota I can't pay you, but I can get you some publicity. I write the local auto racing blog for NJ.com, the website for the Star Ledger. I will make sure to do a piece on you and your design for the site, you may even make it into the newspaper.
  Plus how cool would it be to see our/your car actually on the track!
  The website you need to go to is http://www.toyotaracing.com/
  You can then reach me at contact@racingaroundjersey.com.

Martin Truex Jr. Pocono Results

  New Jersey's Nascar Sprint Cup representative, Martin Truex Jr., had a better than expected day at Pocono Speedway. Faced with a new crew chief, and a 30th starting spot at a track that has never been kind to him the prospects for a good day looked bleak.
  Early in the race it looked like the NAPA Toyota driver would have to settle for a 20th place finish at best. However, unlike races earlier in the season, the Michael Waltrip Racing crew managed to improve the performance of the number 56 with every pitstop.
  The end result was a solid 10th place finish in the race won by Jeff Gordon. While Truex Jr. will have to do much more than finish 10th the rest of the way if he has any hopes of making The Chase, it was definitely a good start for his new crew chief.

New Egypt Preliminary Results

New Egypt Speedway Big-Block Modifieds
1) Gary Butler
2) Billy Pauch
3) Johnny Guarino

Sportsman
1) Clay Butler
2) Mike Butler
3) Rocco Infante

Outlaw Stocks
1) John Carpenter
2) Doug Debray
3) Gary Klimeczak

Rookie Sportsman
1) Mike Everett

  The photo above is from Jim Brown. His work is some of the best I have seen, do yourself a favor and check out his work at http://www.jimbrownracingphotos.com/

Martin Truex Jr. Pocono Qualifying Results

  A new crew chief didn't help the qualifying efforts of Martin Truex Jr.'s number 56 NAPA Toyota at Pocono. The New Jersey driver will start from the 31st position on Sunday.
  The pole was won by Kurt Busch for the second week in a row. He will be joined by Paul Menard, who backed up his fast practice speeds.
  Truex Jr. has to be really disappointed by the team's performance as he was outqualified by drivers such as Joe Nemechek, Landon Cassil, and David Gilliland. His Michael Waltrip Racing team has it's work cut out for themselves if they hope to bring back a top finish.
  Dale Earnhardt Jr. will start 21st.

Tommy Baldwin Racing Bringing Two Modified Greats Back to Sprint Cup

  Tommy Baldwin is no stranger to Northeast Modified fans. Long before he was ever a Sprint Cup winning crew chief or owner of his own race team, he was a familiar face on the Whelan Nascar Modified Tour. He got his start by wrenching on his father's famous number 7NY machine.
  Baldwin has never forgotten his roots, or lost his love for the Modifieds. Last year he ran a car in the Sprint Cup race at Daytona with a retro paint scheme of former Modified legend Richie Evans. The plan for this year was to return to Daytona with another retro paint scheme, this time the famed "Ole blue" number 3 of Len Boehler, and Steve Park behind the wheel.
  Steve Park, like Baldwin, was a veteran of the Modified Series, before getting a call from Dale Earnhardt to come drive for him. He looked to have a promising career in Nascar Sprint Cup, until a head injury sidelined him for quite some time.
  The plans for Tommy Baldwin Racing in 2011 changed when another former Modified great, Geoff Bodine, brought a five race sponsorship deal to the team. Thanks to the help of Luke Associates, a healthcare provider to the U.S Military that is looking to expand nationally, Bodine will run TBR's second car, number 35, at Daytona, Talladega, Charlotte, Texas, and Homestead.
  This will also give Baldwin the chance to raise more funds to allow Park to race the retro paint scheme car the entire race at New Hampshire in September. The team needs to raise $100,000, and so far only has $3,000, so they are allowing fans to get involved. A contribution of at least $20 will get your name on the car. Any money raised over the $100,000 will be donated to the Victory Junction Gang.
  Park owns four victories at New Hamshire, with two coming in the Modified Series.
  To contribute to the fund for Steve Park's New Hampshire run click Ride with Park at New Hampshire  

Television Schedule for Auto Racing This Weekend

Nascar Sprint Cup Pocono Speedway
Practice Friday 3:30PM to 5PM  Speed Channel
Qualifying Saturday 11:30AM to 2PM Speed Channel
Race Sunday 1PM TNT Broadcast starts at noon.

Nascar Camping World Truck Series Texas Motor Speedway
Race Friday 9PM Speed Channel

Formula One Canadian Grand Prix Montreal
Practice and qualifying Saturday 2PM to 3:30PM Speed Channel
Race Sunday 1PM FOX

IndyCar Texas Motor Speedway
Practice and qualifying Friday 6PM to 7:30PM Versus
Race Saturday 8:45PM Versus Coverage starts at 7:30PM

ARCA Series Pocono Speedway
Race Saturday 1:30PM Tape delay broadcast on Speed at 8PM

Martin Truex Jr. Pocono First Practice Results

  The first practice is over for the Sprint Cup cars at Pocono and the results for Martin Truex Jr. are not good, or are they. The number 56 NAPA Toyota was the 26th best car in practice.
  This is the first weekend for the new qualifying procedures in Sprint Cup where your speed in the first practice determines the order in which you qualify. There are those who feel some teams may purposely under perform in the first practice to get a preferred spot in the qualifying order.
  Truex Jr. fans will certainly hope the New Jersey driver is just holding back, and that the car is not really that bad. This is also the first weekend for a new crew chief on the NAPA Toyota. For more information on the crew chief change check out the link below.
Truex Jr. Crew Chief Change

Michael Waltrip Qualifies 15th For Le Mans Photo Included

  Michael Waltrip, co-owner of the team New Jersey's Martin Truex Jr. drives for in Nascar Sprint Cup is helping fellow owner Robert Kauffman live out his dream of competing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The two have teamed with Rui Aguas to race a Ferrari in the GTE Pro Class.
  The three rookies qualified the number 71 in 15th position in their class and 44th overall. All three drivers felt more comfortable with each practice session.
  The race will be carried by SPEED Channel on Saturday at 8:30AM. You can also follow the team on Facebook at www.facebook.com/michaelwaltripracing.

 

New Crew Chief for Martin Truex Jr. at Pocono

  In a season filled with turmoil and changes, there will be another for Martin Truex Jr. He will have a new crew chief when he and the NAPA Toyota team arrive at Pocono Speedway. Please check my blog on NJ.com for all the details by clicking below.
Truex New Crew Chief

Big-Block Modifieds Tonight at Bridgeport Speedway

  The Big-Blocks are back at Bridgeport Speedway tonight for the George Wingate Classic. This will be the first appearance of the year for them, following a decision over the winter to remove them from the weekly racing card.
  The night will actually feature two Modified features, as the Big-Blocks run a 25-lap race for a $3,000 winners purse, and the Bridgeport Modifieds also run 25 laps for a winner's share of $2,500.
  Grandstands open at 5PM, with racing starting at 7PM. Admission is $25, while children 12 and under are free.
  Bridgeport also has a unique offer where you can watch the entire night online from the comfort of your home for $12.50 by going to http://www.bpspeedway.payperlive.com/

NJ's Danny Bohn Winning Bowman Gray Race Video

  New Jersey native Danny Bohn winning at the famous Bowman Gray Stadium in a car that should be very familiar to Wall Stadium fans. Yes that is the same number 659 his dad Eddie Bohn ran at the Jersey Shore speedway.
  Danny has some exciting opportunities ahead of him. I will post more on his attempts at a career in auto racing soon.

No Modifieds This Saturday at Wall Stadium, Big Mistake?

  When the schedule for Wall Stadium was originally announced, it contained several weeks where there would be no Modifieds. This coming Saturday night, June 11th, is one of those weekends. The track will instead present a card of dual features for both the Inex Legend Cars and Street Stocks.
  While I am a long-time fan of Wall Stadium, I am first and foremost a Modified fan. I am sorry Cliff Krause, promoter of Wall, but I will not attend a racing event at your track if Modifieds are not on the schedule. Sadly, I do not think I am alone in this thinking, and would expect the grandstands to be quite empty.
  I appreciate the thinking that went into the schedule making. The thought was to give each division a few nights off during the year, so they can possibly go on vacation or save some money by not incurring the expenses associated with a night of racing.
  The problem is the number one priority of a promoter is to present a product or event that people want to see. People, especially Wall Stadium fans, want to see Modifieds.
  If race teams want or need a night off from racing they will take it. By forcing them to take a night off, he will not only be losing the fans, but also the pit fees associated with the teams.
  Modifieds drive New Jersey race fans. As much as I am sure I won't be attending Wall this Saturday, I'm am also sure that some of Wall's regular fans will be attending the racing at New Egypt Speedway.
  Krause, better hope those fans don't decide to make New Egypt their regular Saturday night destination.

Kyle Busch to Race Toyota Prius at Pocono

  Gas mileage, not horsepower, not driving skills, but how much gas you can save is becoming the number one factor in winning a Nascar Sprint Cup race. Last week Dale Earnhardt Jr. ran out of gas while leading on the last lap, coming to the checkered flag, at Charlotte and was passed by Kevin Harvick for the win.
  This week at the end of the Nationwide race at Chicagoland Speedway, Carl Edwards ran out coming to the checkered flag, and was passed by Justin Allgaier, who the ran out of gas himself. Both cars coasted across the line with Allgaier winning. Then on Sunday, the Sprint Cup race was won by Brad Keselowski, on gas mileage, over Dale Jr.
  The one driver most likely to never win a race on gas mileage is Kyle Busch. His hard driving style doesn't lend itself to great fuel mileage. There is only one thing Kyle can do if he hopes to ever win a Sprint Cup race again.
  Kyle Busch needs to come to the track next weekend at Pocono with a Toyota Prius. No he won't be the fastest, but if he can stay out of trouble he shouldn't have to pit at all. Imagine that, Kyle Busch, in a Prius, rolling into victory lane. Now that would be quite a sight.
  He just needs to hope he doesn't upset anyone on the track or they might never get him out of the wreckage.  

Kyle Busch Beat Up By Richard Childress in Kansas

  ESPN is reporting that following the Camping World Truck race at Kansas there was a confrontation between Kyle Busch and Richard Childress. Kyle was unhappy with how RCR driver Joey Coulter passed him for fifth on the final lap. As the two approached pit road Kyle rubbed his number 18 Dollar General Toyota into the side of the RCR number 22 which infuriated Childress.
  The 65 year old Childress reportedly went looking for Busch and as he approached him removed his watch. He then proceeded to put Busch in a headlock and land several punches before the two were separated.
  Childress must of landed some good shots since ESPN is speculating Kyle may return to the track tomorrow sporting a black eye. Sounds like some good old fashioned "boys have at it", that Nascar wants so bad.
  What I don't understand is Kyle Busch is on Nascar probation isn't he? He gets ticketed for 128 mph in a 45, then rubs on Coulter and still he is not suspended. The guy is a great driver, but Nascar needs to suspend him for his own good. Better to lose him for one race than forever.   

Pauch Takes Thursday Night Show at New Egypt

  Billy Pauch continued his great season, thus far, at New Egypt Speedway on Thursday. He started in third, seized the lead almost immediately, and then went on to lead all thirty laps for the $3,000 win. Dirt invaders made up second through fourth, with Jeff Strunk second, Crag VanDohren third, and Danny Johnson fourth.
  Dominick Buffalino, a recent winner, brought his number 2b home in a very impressive fifth.
  Former asphalt star Jimmy Blewett may have had his best run yet in a dirt big-block modified coming home 9th.  

Bruce Cook Takes Clint Bowyer to Win at Kansas

  Bruce Cook, one of Jersey's own, crewchiefed Clint Bowyer to the win today in the Camping World Truck race at Kansas. The win was very special to Bowyer as Kansas is his "home" track.
  While the win was the first for Cook in the Truck Series, it wasn't his first of the season. He was also the crewchief for Tony Stewart's win in the Nascar Nationwide race at Daytona.
  Before heading South, Bruce Cook was one of the top competitors in the Street Stock division at Flemington Speedway in his number 84.
  It was also Bruce's birthday this week. So Happy Birthday Bruce, and congrats you are really make Jersey proud!

Martin Truex Jr. Kansas Qualifying Results

  Martin Truex Jr. has started his weekend at Kansas Speedway off on the right note. The Jersey Shore driver qualified his Napa Toyota number 56 in the 8th position. Kurt Busch captured the pole.
  Truex Jr. needs a strong run at Kansas and beyond if he has any hopes of qualifying for The Chase. Check out my post at NJ.com to get a preview for Truex Jr. at Kansas, including his past history there by clicking the link below.
Martin Truex Jr. Kansas Preview

Ryan Truex Fast in Practice at Chicagoland

  Ryan Truex looks to be making the most of what could be his last race in the number 99 Toyota at Chicagoland Speedway. The young New Jersey driver was 11th fastest in the first practice, and improved on that in the second by being the 10th fastest truck. Qualifying will be carried live on ESPN2 at 4:30PM.
  For those who haven't heard yet about this being his last ride for Pastrana/Waltrip Racing, check out my story on NJ.com by clicking the link below.
Ryan Truex Last Ride

NJ Student Wins Nascar Contest No One Knew Existed

  Matt Small is a student at the University of Miami who went to high school in Rutherford New Jersey. He is now also the winner of a Nascar contest few if any people know about.
  Before you think this was a contest where you win a Dale Earnhardt Jr. hat or a Carl Edwards shirt, the prize for this contest was actually quite substantial. The prize was an all-expense paid five day trip to Charlotte, NC for the Sprint All-Star race.
  The contest is called Nascar Kinetics, click on the link to learn more about it in my NJ.com blog.