Dale Earnhardt Inc. finally got a win in 2008. It wasn't on the race track, but horsepower was involved.
After earning a reserve championship in barrel racing, 19-year-old Taylor Nicole Earnhardt, the youngest progeny of the late Dale Earnhardt and the only child of DEI owner Teresa Earnhardt, won the "World Championship All-Around" horseback riding title as one of 85 entries at Josey Ranch, a famed equestrian facility in Marshall, Texas. Part of the event was filmed by ESPN. Miss Earnhardt captured Reserve Champion honors in her specialty of barrel racing during Texas competitions in May after competing against more than 500 contestants. She followed that up by bringing home another trophy buckle from the "All American" barrel race in Jackson, Mississippi in June.
Fast hoofs and fast cars seem to run in the family. "The Intimidator" loved horses and other domestic animals, keeping them around for years on his North Carolina farm. Taylor relishes riding the family herd with her dad on the home front, and has been involved with barrel racing since '02, the year after her dad's death. She now travels the country while taking online courses at Mitchell Community College in Statesville.
The Mooresville resident travels with her horse, named Packin Sixes Cowboy. Taylor calls him "Cowboy."
There is now another branch of racing, an equestrian team, tied to DEI to support Taylor's passion, prompting talk that company capital spent on horsemanship could be better used for building up a troubled NASCAR operation. Onlookers wonder aloud whether there are enough resources at DEI to back a non-NASCAR entity after losing the sport's most popular figure barely 13 months ago.
Either money or input is scarce at DEI, which currently supports four full-time Sprint Cup Series cars. One driver, Regan Smith in the No. 01, is having trouble luring a 2009 sponsor. Flagship driver Mark Martin has announced he will join Hendrick Motorsports in '09 to drive full time and compete for a Cup series championship, marking the second straight season the company's No. 8 driver has bolted DEI for the choice organization, and the second time an elite driver said-this time indirectly-that he couldn't win a title on his present team. Martin Truex Jr. is having a disappointing year. He's rumored to be disinterested in returning next year, despite having his contract option picked up for another season at DEI. And Paul Menard is still questionable for long-term success.
In '07, Junior mentioned how the team's mechanics would have to use the pull-down rig at his Busch Series headquarters, JR Motorsports. DEI is now reported to be considering bringing in an outside investment firm to pump money into the beleaguered outfit.
Taylor competed again in last weekend's Southern States Triple Crown Super Show in Perry, Georgia, and has no signs of slowing down. Her mother may have triggered Junior's departure last year with comments questioning his desire to be a champion racer, or a public figure. Where her own heart lies appears to be another query.
More articles about NASCAR news and auto racing can be found at http://www.speedweekly.net
The best way to watch NASCAR can be found at http://www.watchautoracing.com
Showing posts with label Auto Racing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Auto Racing. Show all posts
Wednesday
Improve Your Race Car's Performance With a Lightweight Race Hose
Too often, race car mechanics will overlook the little things when it comes to creating a lightweight, super fast machine. But small parts such as race hoses and fittings can make a big difference on the track. The weight of these items can often mean the difference between winning and losing.
Why Lightweight Race Hoses are Best
Using a lightweight hose can reduce the overall weight of a race car, which is critical even when racing in a class with minimum weight limits. Racing hoses, often called "plumbing lines," allow mechanics to shave off weight and help the car reach its full racing potential. Race hoses might seem to be a little thing, but when added up, there can be as much as 40 feet of tubing installed in the usual stock car that has a dry-sump oiling system. There are fuel lines, water coolant lines, power steering, oil lines, etc. - and each can be tweaked to your advantage!
Many companies are developing lightweight race hoses with stainless steel braiding or an alternative Aramid Fibre braiding. Goodridge, for example, developed the G-Line XF flexible PTFE hose, which incorporates all the benefits of both convoluted and smooth bore designs. This type of hose is convoluted on the exterior, but smooth on the interior. It allows for a weight savings of up to 10 percent, provides higher flow rates and pressure ratings, and is carbon impregnated. There are several variations of the G-Line hose to meet specific needs, such as the fully convoluted G-Line hose.
And, don't forget the hose fittings! The weight of hose fittings can make a difference in performance as well. Hose fittings come in various shapes, sizes, and bends to fit any type of race hose. The hose fittings can be permanent, adjustable, swiveling, or re-usable. Look for hose fittings made of anodised aluminum; these are lightweight and reliable. Goodridge offers a wide range of hose fittings for its race hoses, including a G-Line Hydraulic swage/crimp machine for mechanics that want to create their own custom race hoses and fittings.
Things to Consider
Before choosing races hoses and hose fittings, look for features that meet the needs of your car. Consider temperature and pressure resistance as well as the overall flow rate. Be sure the hose is lightweight without sacrificing quality, and check for compatibility with the fittings and type of fuel you plan to use. The hose should also be easy to clean.
Save Money on Hoses and Fittings by Planning Ahead
Plan ahead when installing your hoses and fittings to be sure they will fit properly so you won't have to cut and re-size them or re-order them later. Re-ordering high quality hoses and fittings can get to be very expensive. To prepare for installation, be sure all racing hardware is in the proper place, such as the oil tank, fuel cell, oil pump, coolant reservoir, and filter. Any hardware that will be attached to a race hose and/or hose fitting should be double-checked for proper positioning before getting started to save time and money later.
With online resources, it's easy to find and purchase the types of races hoses and fittings you need. There are online stores that carry brand name custom race hoses, AN fittings, and other racing products at reasonable prices. You can save time and money by taking advantage of online retailers or by using the Internet as a tool for your research. Look for top quality race hose name brands such as Goodridge to ensure excellent racing performance.
One of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Learn more about Why Use a Lightweight Race Hose?.
Why Lightweight Race Hoses are Best
Using a lightweight hose can reduce the overall weight of a race car, which is critical even when racing in a class with minimum weight limits. Racing hoses, often called "plumbing lines," allow mechanics to shave off weight and help the car reach its full racing potential. Race hoses might seem to be a little thing, but when added up, there can be as much as 40 feet of tubing installed in the usual stock car that has a dry-sump oiling system. There are fuel lines, water coolant lines, power steering, oil lines, etc. - and each can be tweaked to your advantage!
Many companies are developing lightweight race hoses with stainless steel braiding or an alternative Aramid Fibre braiding. Goodridge, for example, developed the G-Line XF flexible PTFE hose, which incorporates all the benefits of both convoluted and smooth bore designs. This type of hose is convoluted on the exterior, but smooth on the interior. It allows for a weight savings of up to 10 percent, provides higher flow rates and pressure ratings, and is carbon impregnated. There are several variations of the G-Line hose to meet specific needs, such as the fully convoluted G-Line hose.
And, don't forget the hose fittings! The weight of hose fittings can make a difference in performance as well. Hose fittings come in various shapes, sizes, and bends to fit any type of race hose. The hose fittings can be permanent, adjustable, swiveling, or re-usable. Look for hose fittings made of anodised aluminum; these are lightweight and reliable. Goodridge offers a wide range of hose fittings for its race hoses, including a G-Line Hydraulic swage/crimp machine for mechanics that want to create their own custom race hoses and fittings.
Things to Consider
Before choosing races hoses and hose fittings, look for features that meet the needs of your car. Consider temperature and pressure resistance as well as the overall flow rate. Be sure the hose is lightweight without sacrificing quality, and check for compatibility with the fittings and type of fuel you plan to use. The hose should also be easy to clean.
Save Money on Hoses and Fittings by Planning Ahead
Plan ahead when installing your hoses and fittings to be sure they will fit properly so you won't have to cut and re-size them or re-order them later. Re-ordering high quality hoses and fittings can get to be very expensive. To prepare for installation, be sure all racing hardware is in the proper place, such as the oil tank, fuel cell, oil pump, coolant reservoir, and filter. Any hardware that will be attached to a race hose and/or hose fitting should be double-checked for proper positioning before getting started to save time and money later.
With online resources, it's easy to find and purchase the types of races hoses and fittings you need. There are online stores that carry brand name custom race hoses, AN fittings, and other racing products at reasonable prices. You can save time and money by taking advantage of online retailers or by using the Internet as a tool for your research. Look for top quality race hose name brands such as Goodridge to ensure excellent racing performance.
One of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Learn more about Why Use a Lightweight Race Hose?.
All About Flags Used in Formula One Racing
In times past the race marshals used flags to send messages to the drivers. The marshals are positioned around the track each having ten different flags. However today the flags serve an information source for the spectators.
Modern Formula One racing speeds make it difficult for drivers to be aware of the flags and react in a timely manner. Technological innovations now allow each Formula One racing cockpit to be equipped with a GPS marshalling system that displays the flag color when the driver is passing the relevant track location.
Formula One racing flags follow a pattern. Many of the flags are common to most auto racing events and familiar to the general public. Others are specific to Formula One racing.
The black and white checkered flag is perhaps the best known of all racing flags. The checkered flag indicates the finish of a session or race. During qualifying and practice sessions the flag is waved when the allotted time has elapsed. At the end of a Formula One racing event the checkered flag is waved first at the winner and then at all following cars so that they understand that the race has been completed.
The red flag is also used to indicate the end of a Formula One racing session. The waving of a red flag indicates that the session has ended early, generally as a result of poor track conditions or because of an accident.
The yellow and red striped flag informs drivers of adverse track conditions, such as oil or water on the track. It also may indicate debris on the track.
Marshals may wave either one or two solid yellow flags in Formula One racing. A single yellow flag warns drivers to slow down. Overtaking is not permitted. The yellow flag indicates a problem ahead, often a stranded car. Two yellow flags are waved at once to indicate an even greater danger ahead and that vehicles may be required to stop. A single yellow flag along with the SC sign indicates to drivers that the safety car will be entering the track.
When a slow moving vehicle has entered the track in Formula One racing the marshals wave a white flag, indicating that a reduction in speed is necessary.
The green flag is waved as a message that the track has been cleared and the race may resume full speed.
In Formula One racing the blue flag serves as a warning signal to a driver that a faster car is approaching. The driver is required to allow the faster car to pass. A driver that fails to allow the faster car to pass after passing three blue flags may be penalized.
Formula One racing also uses flags to communicate to drivers regarding their status.
A half black, half white flag is used in conjunction with a sign indicating a specific car number. Formula One racing uses this signal to inform a driver that his behavior is unacceptable. If the behavior continues the driver will be disqualified.
A solid black flag accompanied by a car number sign notifies a driver that he has been disqualified and must return to his pit within the next lap.
The final flag used by Formula One racing marshals is a black flag with an orange circle in the center. This flag is waved to tell a driver that a vehicle mechanical problem has been detected. The driver must return the car to the pit.
Flags allow Formula One racing spectators to easily follow the flow of a Formula One racing event.
http://www.allamakeewebsolutions.com/ I run across some interesting facts. One of my clients http://www.executivetransporters.biz/ has caused me to explore car racing.
Modern Formula One racing speeds make it difficult for drivers to be aware of the flags and react in a timely manner. Technological innovations now allow each Formula One racing cockpit to be equipped with a GPS marshalling system that displays the flag color when the driver is passing the relevant track location.
Formula One racing flags follow a pattern. Many of the flags are common to most auto racing events and familiar to the general public. Others are specific to Formula One racing.
The black and white checkered flag is perhaps the best known of all racing flags. The checkered flag indicates the finish of a session or race. During qualifying and practice sessions the flag is waved when the allotted time has elapsed. At the end of a Formula One racing event the checkered flag is waved first at the winner and then at all following cars so that they understand that the race has been completed.
The red flag is also used to indicate the end of a Formula One racing session. The waving of a red flag indicates that the session has ended early, generally as a result of poor track conditions or because of an accident.
The yellow and red striped flag informs drivers of adverse track conditions, such as oil or water on the track. It also may indicate debris on the track.
Marshals may wave either one or two solid yellow flags in Formula One racing. A single yellow flag warns drivers to slow down. Overtaking is not permitted. The yellow flag indicates a problem ahead, often a stranded car. Two yellow flags are waved at once to indicate an even greater danger ahead and that vehicles may be required to stop. A single yellow flag along with the SC sign indicates to drivers that the safety car will be entering the track.
When a slow moving vehicle has entered the track in Formula One racing the marshals wave a white flag, indicating that a reduction in speed is necessary.
The green flag is waved as a message that the track has been cleared and the race may resume full speed.
In Formula One racing the blue flag serves as a warning signal to a driver that a faster car is approaching. The driver is required to allow the faster car to pass. A driver that fails to allow the faster car to pass after passing three blue flags may be penalized.
Formula One racing also uses flags to communicate to drivers regarding their status.
A half black, half white flag is used in conjunction with a sign indicating a specific car number. Formula One racing uses this signal to inform a driver that his behavior is unacceptable. If the behavior continues the driver will be disqualified.
A solid black flag accompanied by a car number sign notifies a driver that he has been disqualified and must return to his pit within the next lap.
The final flag used by Formula One racing marshals is a black flag with an orange circle in the center. This flag is waved to tell a driver that a vehicle mechanical problem has been detected. The driver must return the car to the pit.
Flags allow Formula One racing spectators to easily follow the flow of a Formula One racing event.
http://www.allamakeewebsolutions.com/ I run across some interesting facts. One of my clients http://www.executivetransporters.biz/ has caused me to explore car racing.
Formula One Racing
Formula One racing began in Europe in the late 1890's. It has long since become a favorite sport across the world. Many countries including Japan, Australia, and Canada all participate in this favorite pastime. The United States is not considered to have a large fan base for this sport though the popularity is rising among the states.
Formula one is considered the highest class of open wheeled racing. The term "Formula" is in reference to the set of regulations that is placed on the participants and the cars conformity. The series of races that help determine the championships are called Grand Prix. They are usually held on circuits intentionally built for the kind of specific racing though in some cases the races are performed on street circuits. One of the most famous street races is the Monaco Grand Prix held in Monte Carlo. The results of all the races are combined to determine two annual World Championships. One is held for the drivers and the other is for the constructors.
Formula One racing has seen many changes over the years. This is to create better racing results along with better safety standards for the drivers. The cars performance is very dependent on aerodynamics, tires, suspension, and electronics. These cars can travel at speeds of 360km/h equivalent to 225mph.
Europe has long been the center for this sport. Over half of the races take place there and most teams are located there as well. Many of the Driver's Champions have been from the United Kingdom as well as many of the Constructors Champions. Though this sport is more popular in Europe races takes place all over the world. Since the fan base is spreading to all parts of the world, about half of all future races have been scheduled outside of Europe. Many races scheduled for the Americas have been dropped and moved to places such as China, Turkey, and, Singapore. One of the first night races is scheduled to take place in Singapore this year. India will be added to the racing list in the year 2010.
The sport has millions of fans watching worldwide for every race. This is the world's most expensive sport and it has a significant effect on the economy. This being the case high investments by sponsors allow for the constructors to work with a very large budget. Formula One is a large merchandising environment, additionally high profile companies and individuals are often offered corporate hospitality packages by the organizers that can cost upwards of ten's of thousands of dollars.
Lyle Tarman is an avid fan of motorsports and regular contributor to a number of racing publications. For more information on the F1 Singapore be sure to visit singapore-grandprix.net
Formula one is considered the highest class of open wheeled racing. The term "Formula" is in reference to the set of regulations that is placed on the participants and the cars conformity. The series of races that help determine the championships are called Grand Prix. They are usually held on circuits intentionally built for the kind of specific racing though in some cases the races are performed on street circuits. One of the most famous street races is the Monaco Grand Prix held in Monte Carlo. The results of all the races are combined to determine two annual World Championships. One is held for the drivers and the other is for the constructors.
Formula One racing has seen many changes over the years. This is to create better racing results along with better safety standards for the drivers. The cars performance is very dependent on aerodynamics, tires, suspension, and electronics. These cars can travel at speeds of 360km/h equivalent to 225mph.
Europe has long been the center for this sport. Over half of the races take place there and most teams are located there as well. Many of the Driver's Champions have been from the United Kingdom as well as many of the Constructors Champions. Though this sport is more popular in Europe races takes place all over the world. Since the fan base is spreading to all parts of the world, about half of all future races have been scheduled outside of Europe. Many races scheduled for the Americas have been dropped and moved to places such as China, Turkey, and, Singapore. One of the first night races is scheduled to take place in Singapore this year. India will be added to the racing list in the year 2010.
The sport has millions of fans watching worldwide for every race. This is the world's most expensive sport and it has a significant effect on the economy. This being the case high investments by sponsors allow for the constructors to work with a very large budget. Formula One is a large merchandising environment, additionally high profile companies and individuals are often offered corporate hospitality packages by the organizers that can cost upwards of ten's of thousands of dollars.
Lyle Tarman is an avid fan of motorsports and regular contributor to a number of racing publications. For more information on the F1 Singapore be sure to visit singapore-grandprix.net
Another Lame Duck in 2008 - Haas CNC Racing Becomes Stewart Haas Racing in 2009
It's official. After weeks of hints and speculation, Tony Stewart will leave Joe Gibbs Racing following the 2008 Sprint Cup Series season. He had another year left on his contract with JGR, but like Casey Mears, NASCAR pacts are made to be broken.
The new Toyotas at JGR were rumored to be the main problem, but Stewart, 37, wanted control of his future above all else. He got it when he reached an agreement with Haas CNC Racing to buy a 50-percent stake in the tenderfoot race team. The team name next year will be Stewart Haas Racing. Equipment and technical support will still come from Hendrick Motorsports, and sponsors and other details are forthcoming.
Stewart will finish the current Sprint Cup season behind the wheel of the No. 20 Home Depot Toyota. He will drive in one more Nationwide event for JGR, piloting the No. 20 Old Spice Toyota on August 16 at Michigan. His successor in the 20 car(s) will likely be teenage prodigy Joey Logano, who now drives the No. 20 GameStop Camry for JGR in the Nationwide Series. Logano became the youngest winner in series history when he took the checkered flag in June at Kentucky.
Stewart already owns some sprint car teams as well as three racetracks. Gene Haas, the Cup team's current owner, began serving a two-year jail sentence in January for tax evasion. His wife, Margaret, serves as interim owner. Current Sprint Cup drivers for Haas CNC are Scott Riggs in the No. 66 Chevrolet, with Jason Leffler and Johnny Sauter sharing the No. 70 car. Team general manager Joe Custer owns a piece of the No. 66.
Stewart Haas is expected to be a two-car operation in '09, with "Smoke" driving one car full time and an unnamed driver in the other. Rumors have fellow Hoosier Ryan Newman, the '08 Daytona 500 winner for Penske Racing, coming on board when his contract expires after this season.
As a two-time Cup series champion who is widely considered one of the top two or three drivers in NASCAR, Smoke had 32 career wins-never the Daytona 500-at the Cup level before Chicagoland, and was mired in a 32-race winless streak. Teammates Kyle Busch, 23, and Denny Hamlin, 27, have been well ahead of him in the '08 point standings.
Stewart won the 1997 IndyCar Series championship while running five Busch Series races that same year for JGR. He drove in 22 Busch events in '98 before entering the Winston Cup Series full time in '99. After a rookie record three wins in '99, he has won at least three times in every season but two-winning twice each in 2003 and '04. His championship seasons came in '02 and '05.
One of the more intense competitors in racing history, Tempestuous Tony has had his share of scrapes and scuffles and is always quick with a good quote or candid comment. His oft-cited statement that Dale Earnhardt Inc. would become a museum upon Dale Jr.'s departure is still widely circulated.
The reasons for Stewart's parting are amicable, if not mutual. He wanted to be an owner-either full- or partial- -which wasn't an option at JGR. He therefore sought, and obtained, a release after pitches toward an extension by the Gibbs family went unheeded.
The rest, we can say, is future.
More articles about NASCAR news and auto racing can be found at http://www.speedweekly.net
The best way to watch NASCAR can be found at http://www.watchautoracing.com
The new Toyotas at JGR were rumored to be the main problem, but Stewart, 37, wanted control of his future above all else. He got it when he reached an agreement with Haas CNC Racing to buy a 50-percent stake in the tenderfoot race team. The team name next year will be Stewart Haas Racing. Equipment and technical support will still come from Hendrick Motorsports, and sponsors and other details are forthcoming.
Stewart will finish the current Sprint Cup season behind the wheel of the No. 20 Home Depot Toyota. He will drive in one more Nationwide event for JGR, piloting the No. 20 Old Spice Toyota on August 16 at Michigan. His successor in the 20 car(s) will likely be teenage prodigy Joey Logano, who now drives the No. 20 GameStop Camry for JGR in the Nationwide Series. Logano became the youngest winner in series history when he took the checkered flag in June at Kentucky.
Stewart already owns some sprint car teams as well as three racetracks. Gene Haas, the Cup team's current owner, began serving a two-year jail sentence in January for tax evasion. His wife, Margaret, serves as interim owner. Current Sprint Cup drivers for Haas CNC are Scott Riggs in the No. 66 Chevrolet, with Jason Leffler and Johnny Sauter sharing the No. 70 car. Team general manager Joe Custer owns a piece of the No. 66.
Stewart Haas is expected to be a two-car operation in '09, with "Smoke" driving one car full time and an unnamed driver in the other. Rumors have fellow Hoosier Ryan Newman, the '08 Daytona 500 winner for Penske Racing, coming on board when his contract expires after this season.
As a two-time Cup series champion who is widely considered one of the top two or three drivers in NASCAR, Smoke had 32 career wins-never the Daytona 500-at the Cup level before Chicagoland, and was mired in a 32-race winless streak. Teammates Kyle Busch, 23, and Denny Hamlin, 27, have been well ahead of him in the '08 point standings.
Stewart won the 1997 IndyCar Series championship while running five Busch Series races that same year for JGR. He drove in 22 Busch events in '98 before entering the Winston Cup Series full time in '99. After a rookie record three wins in '99, he has won at least three times in every season but two-winning twice each in 2003 and '04. His championship seasons came in '02 and '05.
One of the more intense competitors in racing history, Tempestuous Tony has had his share of scrapes and scuffles and is always quick with a good quote or candid comment. His oft-cited statement that Dale Earnhardt Inc. would become a museum upon Dale Jr.'s departure is still widely circulated.
The reasons for Stewart's parting are amicable, if not mutual. He wanted to be an owner-either full- or partial- -which wasn't an option at JGR. He therefore sought, and obtained, a release after pitches toward an extension by the Gibbs family went unheeded.
The rest, we can say, is future.
More articles about NASCAR news and auto racing can be found at http://www.speedweekly.net
The best way to watch NASCAR can be found at http://www.watchautoracing.com
NASCAR's David Gilliland - From Boy to Superstar
David Gilliland was born April 1st, 1976 in Riverside California and he is the son of the former Cup driver Butch Gilliland. Like most offspring of racers, Gilliland was almost always on the race tracks and when he was old enough, he became part of his father's AutoZone West Series team. By the time he was 19, he was the crew chief and the next year, he became Champion Crew Chief of the Year as his dad also managed to get the Winston West Championship for his collection at home.
Gilliland was able to divide his time between playing both crew chief and trying his hand out at the driver's seat. In 1999, he won the track championship at Perris Auto Speedway with two flags in the stock car division. He went on to win 14 races and 9 main events. He took on the next year with a limited season in the NASCAR AutoZone West Series. He emerged victorious twice that season and won his first regional race in his fourth start at the NASCAR Southwest Tour. The next season, he won 5 wins and finished top-10 in the standings point wise.
Gilliland tried out in the major league NASCAR race in 2003 but was not able to qualify. He his Busch career that season as well but unfortunately was involved in a crash which resulted in a 43rd place finish. He was unlucky the third time when he decided to try a Phoenix race but came in 43rd yet again due to some ignition issues. He went on to run in the Craftsman Truck Series and came in 22nd. In 2004, he decided to race full time in the NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series. He grabbed his first AutoZone West win at Mesa Marin Raceway. This was an especially special victory for him because it was in his home city. He was awarded the NASCAR Grand National Division, West Series Rookie of the Year title and he also took back with him two victories in the NASCAR AutoZone elite Division , Southwest Series.
In 2005, he entered the Grand National Division and won the Toyota All-Star Showdown the same year after the winner was disqualified. This win was particularly important to Gilliland as it garnered the interest of some Busch and Cup owners. Because Gilliland was so adamant to take part in the North Carolina races, he moved there hoping to catch a race in the top-three series. It turned out to be an excellent career move as he went on to win his first career victory at the Busch Series in Kentucky. He was the first driver in 2006 to win a Busch race without running the NEXTEL cup schedule.
After attempting the Infineon Raceway and coming in 32nd, Gilliland went to qualify on the pole for the UAW Ford 500. This would be the first in his career. His second would be at the Daytona 500 with a 28th finish in NEXTEL Cup points. It comes to show that one does not have to be a full time driver to be a Busch Series champion.
When he isn't racing, Gilliland enjoys taking his family out on boating trips at the lake to relax. It is also surprising to note that Gilliland's favorite athlete is Tiger Woods and the two used to play golf in high school together. He would talk about how he admired the persistence that Tiger Woods channeled into golf and he turned that passion into gold. That admiration he turned into his own motivation and he approaches racing the same way his old high school golf team mate approaches golf.
For the largest selection of Nascar Merchandise along with up to the minute News, our NASCAR store offers this and more. We carry everything NASCAR including Nascar Sunglasses and Women's Nascar Merchandise all at the best prices everyday! I'm not only the owner of NASCARsupershop I'm also the senior editor, website developer and a HUGE fan of NASCAR!
Gilliland was able to divide his time between playing both crew chief and trying his hand out at the driver's seat. In 1999, he won the track championship at Perris Auto Speedway with two flags in the stock car division. He went on to win 14 races and 9 main events. He took on the next year with a limited season in the NASCAR AutoZone West Series. He emerged victorious twice that season and won his first regional race in his fourth start at the NASCAR Southwest Tour. The next season, he won 5 wins and finished top-10 in the standings point wise.
Gilliland tried out in the major league NASCAR race in 2003 but was not able to qualify. He his Busch career that season as well but unfortunately was involved in a crash which resulted in a 43rd place finish. He was unlucky the third time when he decided to try a Phoenix race but came in 43rd yet again due to some ignition issues. He went on to run in the Craftsman Truck Series and came in 22nd. In 2004, he decided to race full time in the NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Southwest Series. He grabbed his first AutoZone West win at Mesa Marin Raceway. This was an especially special victory for him because it was in his home city. He was awarded the NASCAR Grand National Division, West Series Rookie of the Year title and he also took back with him two victories in the NASCAR AutoZone elite Division , Southwest Series.
In 2005, he entered the Grand National Division and won the Toyota All-Star Showdown the same year after the winner was disqualified. This win was particularly important to Gilliland as it garnered the interest of some Busch and Cup owners. Because Gilliland was so adamant to take part in the North Carolina races, he moved there hoping to catch a race in the top-three series. It turned out to be an excellent career move as he went on to win his first career victory at the Busch Series in Kentucky. He was the first driver in 2006 to win a Busch race without running the NEXTEL cup schedule.
After attempting the Infineon Raceway and coming in 32nd, Gilliland went to qualify on the pole for the UAW Ford 500. This would be the first in his career. His second would be at the Daytona 500 with a 28th finish in NEXTEL Cup points. It comes to show that one does not have to be a full time driver to be a Busch Series champion.
When he isn't racing, Gilliland enjoys taking his family out on boating trips at the lake to relax. It is also surprising to note that Gilliland's favorite athlete is Tiger Woods and the two used to play golf in high school together. He would talk about how he admired the persistence that Tiger Woods channeled into golf and he turned that passion into gold. That admiration he turned into his own motivation and he approaches racing the same way his old high school golf team mate approaches golf.
For the largest selection of Nascar Merchandise along with up to the minute News, our NASCAR store offers this and more. We carry everything NASCAR including Nascar Sunglasses and Women's Nascar Merchandise all at the best prices everyday! I'm not only the owner of NASCARsupershop I'm also the senior editor, website developer and a HUGE fan of NASCAR!
NASCAR's Dale Jarrett - From Boy to Superstar
Dale Arnold Jarrett was born on November 26 in 1956 in Newton, North Carolina. His father is the son of the NASCAR legend and two time champion, Ned Jarrett and is the father of former Busch Series racer Jason Jarrett. Although Jarrett was always interested in racing cars, he is also a natural born athlete with an excellent background in playing football, basketball, baseball and golf while in high school. He was one of the talented few that was offered a golf scholarship at the University of South Carolina but because he knew his heart was in the driver's seat of a car, he declined.
Jarrett started his racing career on the local short tracks like the Hickory Motor Speedway which was a race track that his father owned and operated and was driving late model series events before eventually moving onto the Busch Series.
It was 1982 when Jarrett began to race the Busch Series and his best finish was a third place in Hickory with the sixth spot in points as his final standing. The next season he won four poles, 17 top-fives and the fifth place in standings. In 1984 Jarrett managed to pull the fourth place in final standings which was his career's best. He won six more poles in 1986 and his first Busch race at Orange County Speedway. That wasn't all he did as he went on to win his second career race at Hickory in 1987.
During that same season, Jarrett had two tenth-place finishes, 26th spot in points and was runner up for the Rookie of the Year title. Although he was driving for different teams in 1988, he participated in all of them with an eighth spot place finish at Riverside International Raceway. In 1989, he ran again full time with five top-ten finishes and two fifth spot spots.
His big break came in 1990 when he replaced the injured Neil Bonnett and the next year, he won his first Winston Cup race at Michigan International Speedway. He ended that season with the 17th spot in final standings. The next year, Jarrett joined the newly formed Joe Gibbs Racing which was started by the famed Gibbs football coach. The next year, Jarrett won the Daytona 500 and swung Dale Earnhardt out of the race. The race was remembered as the Dale and Dale Show, a phrase coined by Jarrett's own father. He had a total of 13 top-fives and fourth in final points that season.
Jarrett joined the Robert Yates Racing team in 1995 to replace the injured Ernie Irvan and through that merger, Jarrett won at Pocono with a 13th finish. Even though Ernie Irvan came back to drive for Robert Yates a year later, Yates decided to create a team for Jarrett in 1996. He won the Daytona 500 again that season with a top 2 finish in the first three races that season as well. He went on to win the Coca-Cola 600 and the Brickyard 400 with a third place finish in final standings. Although he did win seven races the next season, he lost the championship to Jeff Gordon.
Once 1998 rolled around, Jarrett was faced with a gallbladder problem but he did manage to win three races with a second finish during the last two races of the season. He went for surgery during the off-season and came back the next season winning his fist Winston Cup title by an impressive 201 points. During the turn of the century, Jarrett won the Daytona 500 for the third time. In 2003, Jarrett brought home the North Carolina Speedway and went back with 26th in final points. He bounced back in 2004 with a 15th spot in points and won again in 2005 at Talladega Superspeedway.
Jarrett finished up 2006 with a fourth spot finish at Kansas and 23rd spot in points. The next year started the 2007 NASCAR Nextel Cup with an 18th place finish and qualified for the Daytona 500 but ended the race at the 22nd place.
This father of 4 is looking forward to starts in 2008 and although he's only participating in the Busch Series part-time, you can rest assured that he'll make you take notice of his presence.
For the largest selection of Nascar Merchandise along with up to the minute News, our NASCAR store offers this and more. We carry everything NASCAR including Nascar Diecast and M&M Nascar Jackets all at the best prices everyday! I'm not only the owner of NASCARsupershop.com I'm also the senior editor, website developer and a HUGE fan of NASCAR!
Jarrett started his racing career on the local short tracks like the Hickory Motor Speedway which was a race track that his father owned and operated and was driving late model series events before eventually moving onto the Busch Series.
It was 1982 when Jarrett began to race the Busch Series and his best finish was a third place in Hickory with the sixth spot in points as his final standing. The next season he won four poles, 17 top-fives and the fifth place in standings. In 1984 Jarrett managed to pull the fourth place in final standings which was his career's best. He won six more poles in 1986 and his first Busch race at Orange County Speedway. That wasn't all he did as he went on to win his second career race at Hickory in 1987.
During that same season, Jarrett had two tenth-place finishes, 26th spot in points and was runner up for the Rookie of the Year title. Although he was driving for different teams in 1988, he participated in all of them with an eighth spot place finish at Riverside International Raceway. In 1989, he ran again full time with five top-ten finishes and two fifth spot spots.
His big break came in 1990 when he replaced the injured Neil Bonnett and the next year, he won his first Winston Cup race at Michigan International Speedway. He ended that season with the 17th spot in final standings. The next year, Jarrett joined the newly formed Joe Gibbs Racing which was started by the famed Gibbs football coach. The next year, Jarrett won the Daytona 500 and swung Dale Earnhardt out of the race. The race was remembered as the Dale and Dale Show, a phrase coined by Jarrett's own father. He had a total of 13 top-fives and fourth in final points that season.
Jarrett joined the Robert Yates Racing team in 1995 to replace the injured Ernie Irvan and through that merger, Jarrett won at Pocono with a 13th finish. Even though Ernie Irvan came back to drive for Robert Yates a year later, Yates decided to create a team for Jarrett in 1996. He won the Daytona 500 again that season with a top 2 finish in the first three races that season as well. He went on to win the Coca-Cola 600 and the Brickyard 400 with a third place finish in final standings. Although he did win seven races the next season, he lost the championship to Jeff Gordon.
Once 1998 rolled around, Jarrett was faced with a gallbladder problem but he did manage to win three races with a second finish during the last two races of the season. He went for surgery during the off-season and came back the next season winning his fist Winston Cup title by an impressive 201 points. During the turn of the century, Jarrett won the Daytona 500 for the third time. In 2003, Jarrett brought home the North Carolina Speedway and went back with 26th in final points. He bounced back in 2004 with a 15th spot in points and won again in 2005 at Talladega Superspeedway.
Jarrett finished up 2006 with a fourth spot finish at Kansas and 23rd spot in points. The next year started the 2007 NASCAR Nextel Cup with an 18th place finish and qualified for the Daytona 500 but ended the race at the 22nd place.
This father of 4 is looking forward to starts in 2008 and although he's only participating in the Busch Series part-time, you can rest assured that he'll make you take notice of his presence.
For the largest selection of Nascar Merchandise along with up to the minute News, our NASCAR store offers this and more. We carry everything NASCAR including Nascar Diecast and M&M Nascar Jackets all at the best prices everyday! I'm not only the owner of NASCARsupershop.com I'm also the senior editor, website developer and a HUGE fan of NASCAR!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)