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July 30, 2011 · IndyCar, IndyCar WAGs

the indycar catch-up, catch-all

I’ve been super slacking on my IndyCar duties so consider this post a catch-all, catch-up on the series.

I fully intended to write a post dedicated to Marco Andretti’s win at Iowa, but got sidetracked with other stuff. I’m still super stoked that he FINALLY got another win, but I’m really hoping he can pull off some of the same magic at Infineon Raceway this year. ‘Cause I’ll be at that race.

Am I the only person that is completely bored whenever Will Power or Dario Franchitti win a race? It’s really boring. I don’t dislike either driver, quite the contrary–I like them both a lot–but it’s so predictable. I think IndyCar might want to think about doing something to their points system to make things more interesting, ala NASCAR’s “Chase” structure.

In couple news… Andretti Autosport driver Ryan Hunter-Reay married his girlfriend Beccy Gordon (Robby Gordon’s sister) on Sunday, July 3rd. Congrats Ryan & Beccy!

Alex and Bronte Tagliani walked the red carpet for the drivers party in Edmonton

Simona De Silvestro created her own flotation device when the rain washed out practice at Edmonton

Sebastian Saavedra chats with a young fan

James Jakes arrives at the drivers party in Edmonton

James Hinchcliffe arrives at the drivers party in Edmonton

Helio Castroneves arrives at the drivers party in Edmonton

Marco Andretti drives through Toronto

Dario Franchitti celebrates his Honda Indy Toronto win with the Grid Girls

Graham Rahal poses for a photo with fans

Marco Andretti celebrates his Iowa Corn Indy 250 win with his family

Helio Castroneves, Dario Franchitti, Will Power

Will Power won the Edmonton Indy, while Helio Castroneves finished 2nd and Dario Franchitti took 3rd.

Ana Beatriz's nails are color-coordinated with her firesuit. Super cute.

(all photos courtesy of INDYCAR)

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NOTES:

– Take the 2011 ‘Fabulous’ Reader Survey and enter for your chance to win an awesome Goo Gone prize package. Contest & survey ends on August 10th, 2011. More info

– Help me raise money for My NASCAR Year 2012. More info

July 27, 2011 · NASCAR

shortcuts: pre-brickyard 400 goodies

2010-Indianapolis-NSCS_featured How excited are you that there’s going to be NASCAR Sprint Cup Series action this week? I, for one, am really happy about it, and it’s the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway no less. It throws my entire weekend off when there’s no race. I end up doing horrible things, like working.

I was going through various driver pre-race reports and found some quotes that I thought were funny or interesting enough to share (this doesn’t happen that often).

– Before I get to the pre-Brickyard stuff, I have to say something. So I got an email today from some PR person promoting a book about why men cheat. I have NO idea why I got this email because, while my audience is chock full of women, I don’t write about relationship stuff in that way. But still it got me thinking about something that’s been on my mind lately. The idea or “fantasy” of dating a racecar driver or crew member. I’m not going to lie, I’ve thought about it. Of course I have. I wouldn’t be human if I hadn’t, but I must say that it’s never been my GOAL. For groupies, it’s their one freaking goal. For me, it never was and now that I’ve been in the garage a lot and have heard many a story about crew guys, crew chiefs, drivers & team owners I can tell you that the “fantasy” has been thrown to the ground and stomped all over. If you’ve heard the crap I’ve heard you would make a rule that you would never want to even entertain the IDEA of dating one of those guys. Which is not to say that you can’t have a perfectly awesome committed relationship with a guy whose job revolves around racing. You totally can, but just be careful. And there are a lot of nice, stand-up guys in the garage too. I’m just saying. Any pro athlete that’s constantly traveling is ripe for shenanigans. Keep your eyes OPEN.

Moving on!!

– In his pre-race report Jimmie Johnson was asked how he’d characterize the first half of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season. The last sentence of this made me chuckle:

“I would say parity is really the first thing that comes to mind. You can flip it around and maybe say the lack of a dominant team as well. There have been guys that can flex muscle at times, but no one consistently has just schooled everybody. It’s been very, very equal this year and unpredictable if you will. A lot of first time winners, which is great to have and no runaways right now. It’s been an exciting time for the fans I believe. Then also we’ve been acting like fools out there at times so that’s always spicing things up.”

– Kurt Busch is really excited about the interview he did with ESPN, which will air this weekend during the pre-race show for their first Sprint Cup Series race of the season:

“ESPN is starting their coverage very strong with a feature like this,” said Busch. “When he told me during the interview what his angle was and started asking all the questions, I said to myself, ‘Wow, now this is a really different way to look at this track and this race.’ When he brought out the prop to use at the end of the interview, I said, ‘Man, this guy really has his act together. This will be one of the best features on our sport for the season…maybe one of the best ever.” Be sure to watch ESPN’s coverage that begins at 12:00 noon EDT on Sunday.

– David Gilliland shared a nice story on his memories of his very first visit to the Brickyard with his father, Butch:

“I think just the history of the Brickyard is what makes it so special. I remember the first time I ever went to the track was with my dad in 1994 for the inaugural Sprint Cup race. My dad wasn’t racing, actually, but we went to try to help a friend of ours try to make the race. Just going through the museum, seeing the bricks on the start-finish line and just thinking about all of the history and everything that has happened at that track is cool. And to be able to do that with my father makes it even more special. He was racing a lot and I just loved being around it. Then, just to go to Indy with him, that is something I’ll never forget.

And at that time, for stock cars to be racing there was something unheard of. Growing up, I don’t think my father or I ever thought we were going to see that day. Growing up on the west coast, anywhere really, Indy was about Foyt, Unser and Andretti. And being west coast guys, the Unsers were big names. We really didn’t think names like Wallace or Earnhardt were ever going to be a part of Indy. Then, here we were working in the same garages as these guys. It’s cool, too, because I can bring my family and my son, Todd. We can have that same experience. Some people are giving this race a hard time, but this is still Indy and it’s always special.”

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NOTES:

– Take the 2011 ‘Fabulous’ Reader Survey and enter for your chance to win an awesome Goo Gone prize package. Contest & survey ends on August 10th, 2011. More info

– Help me raise money for My NASCAR Year 2012. More info

July 26, 2011 · IndyCar, NASCAR, Notes

getting to know you: 2011 ‘fabulous’ reader survey & goo gone giveaway

It’s that time again! Time to take the 2011 ‘Fabulous’ Reader Survey! All of this information is important to help me grow this blog and to help prove to potential sponsors that there’s value in partnering with me.

So if you’re like me and enjoy filling out surveys, have at it! It should be fun and easy peasy, I wouldn’t expect it to take longer than 5 minutes to complete.

AND to sweeten the pot this year there’s a giveaway attached to the survey. The truly awesome people at Goo Gone have put together a super-duper prize package for one lucky reader that completes the survey.

The prize package (pictured above) includes the following:

(1) Goo Gone branded cargo box
(1) 8 oz bottle of Goo Gone
(1) 12 oz bottle of the Goo Gone Spray Gel
(1) 16 oz bottle of the Goo Gone Pro-Power Pump Spray
(1) 14 oz bottle of Goo Gone Painter’s Pal
(1) 8 oz bottle of Goo Gone Coffee Maker Cleaner
(1) Goo Gone Mess-Free Pen

Being a Goo Gone GooRu, I already own the Goo Gone Spray Gel so I can attest to it’s power and super usefulness–makes it ridiculously easy to get pesky sticker goo off my car windshield (The end result of affixing parking stickers to my car for race weekends at the track). And the rest of the products included are equally as helpful.

You can only fill out the survey once, so of course, only one entry per person is allowed. You don’t have to enter the contest if you don’t want to, you’ll have the ability to opt out at the end of the survey.

Thanks so much to Goo Gone for the awesome prize and to YOU the reader for reading this blog! Thank you in advance for the feedback!

July 21, 2011 · IndyCar, NASCAR, Notes

your ‘fabulous’ guide to getting married at a speedway

I was browsing traffic reports for this site when I found that people searching the web with the keywords “get married at a racetrack” found my website. This got me to thinking about race fans and people that might be interested in hosting their wedding at a track and I figured that there probably wasn’t a lot of information on the subject on the web already, so why not create a guide?

July 18, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

the race at new hampshire & i was on siriusxm nascar radio

Ryan Newman (R), driver of the #39 U.S. Army Chevrolet, is congratulated by his wife Krissie and their daughter Brooklyn Sage in Victory Lane after Newman won the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series LENOX Industrial Tools 301 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on July 17, 2011 in Loudon, New Hampshire. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) Lots of caution flags made the LENOX Industrial Tools 301 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway very interesting. I dug it.

I was happy to see Ryan Newman score his first win of the season, even if it was just to see his adorable daughter, Brooklyn, celebrate with him in Victory Lane. How cute is she??! Were you as surprised as I was to see him get choked up like he did? People should not cry, because it just makes me cry! It was a great moment though. Love to see a physical reaction in response to what a win means to a person.

But enough about the race, here’s some news I JUST received: I’ll be a guest on the SiriusXM NASCAR Radio show “Manifold Destiny with Mojo Nixon” tonight! If you’ve got SiriusXM it’s channel 90 and I’ll be on at 8:30pm PST / 11:30 EST. Read that twice to make sure you’ve got it right. I met Mojo for the first time during the NASCAR race weekend at Infineon Raceway. He’s a riot, so it’ll be really interesting to see what goes down on the show tonight. If you’ve got a subscription I hope you’ll tune in!!

NASCAR Camping World Truck Series drivers signed autographs for fans before the start of the Coca-Cola 200 presented by Hy-Vee at Iowa Speedway on July 16 in Newton, Ia. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images)

Brian Vickers (left), driver of the No. 83 Red Bull Toyota, talks with NASCAR President Mike Helton (right) in the garage during practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series LENOX Industrial Tools 301 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on July 15 in Loudon, N.H. (Credit: Chris Trotman/Getty Images)

Flanked by Brinks security guards with three $1 million suitcases, (left to right) Robin Pemberton, NASCAR Vice President of Competition; Carl Edwards, driver of the No. 99 Aflac Ford Fusion; Tim Considine, director of sports marketing for Sprint; and Miss Sprint Cup Kim Coon announce the Sprint Summer Showdown presented by HTC EVO 3D on Sunday at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. (Credit: Geoff Burke/Getty Images for Sprint)

Coors Light Pole Award winner Ryan Newman, daughter Brooklyn Sage and wife Krissie stand together before the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series 19th Annual Lenox Industrial Tools 301 on Sunday at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon, N.H. (Credit: Geoff Burke/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Ryan Newman is congratulated in Victory Lane by owner and teammate Tony Stewart after the duo finished first and second in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Lenox Industrial Tools 301 on Sunday at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon, N.H. (Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

July 16, 2011 · NASCAR

giving it away: kurt busch shell-pennzoil road trip prize pack

As the title suggests, Shell has given me one fabulous prize pack to give away to one of you lucky people! It’s all apart of promoting Shell’s “Favorite Road Trip Sweepstakes.” Just tell them about your favorite road trip or road trip memory for a chance to win free gas for a YEAR!

Shell is giving race fans a chance to win FREE Shell Nitrogen Enriched Gasoline for up to a year with the Favorite Road Trip Sweepstakes. Through September 5, customers can enter and find rules by visiting a href=”http://www.shell.us/roadtrip” target=”_blank”>shell.us/roadtrip. All they have to do is submit a short story of their favorite road trip or memory for a chance to win a year’s supply of Shell Nitrogen Enriched Gasolines, which help protect critical engine parts from the build-up of “gunk”. Daily winners will also be randomly selected to win a $100 Shell Gift Card. No purchase necessary.

I got the chance to speak with Kurt Busch himself this week and found out that HIS favorite road trip memory is of the times he spent traveling the 12 hours from his hometown of Las Vegas, Nevada to Denver, Colorado to go racing early in his career. Said Kurt, “It was so gorgeous driving through the desert plains and up into the hills and then it changed into the evergreens and the snow. It was a really fun trip we did all through the years.”

July 15, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR

interview: inside the actor’s studio with casey mears

The following interview with Casey Mears, driver of the No. 13 Geico Toyota Camry, took place in the garage at Infineon Raceway. It was a surprise for both of us since I didn’t have a time scheduled with him and I just saw him standing there talking to a couple of guys and figured why not go for it. I interrupted (politely) and asked if I could interview him. He was a good sport and had some great answers. I sincerely appreciated the time he took to speak with me.

July 13, 2011 · Fashion, IndyCar, NASCAR

fashion shortcuts: the original seatbelt bag, tees for tots, and sheetmetal pendants

Harveys bags on display during the NASCAR race weekend at Infineon Raceway It just so happens that I’ve either ran into or received a bunch of info about fashion & accessories that relate to racing, enough to warrant an entire post dedicated to the subject. So here ya go!

– When I was at Infineon Raceway for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Toyota/Save Mart 350 last month I wandered around the area behind the grandstand where the majority of vendors had their wares on display. One such vendor was Harveys, the makers of “The Original Seatbeltbag™.” All of their products are made from real seatbelts that you find in your car.

Their display caught my attention because it was the ONLY one selling stuff specifically for women, and they had the cutest little Airstream trailer as their stockroom. So I asked if I could take some pictures of their big variety of bags. They’ve got something for every occasion, just check out their website. I especially loved the clutches and the tote bag made from recycled materials. But I really thought the black clutch wallet would be PERFECT for Champion’s Week in Las Vegas. You can carry a bunch of stuff in it and it’s just really well made. They’re pricey ($78 for the wallet and $228 for the Treecycle Carriage Satchel that could be my next laptop bag) but they’re going to last you for a REALLY long time. Plus Harvey’s offers a Bag Spa — just send them your worn down bag and they’ll make her look all special and fabulous again (there’s a small fee but it’s worth it).

I love these bags because they remind me of plaid (I'm mad about plaid!) and they're made from 100% reclaimed seatbelts plus organic hemp and water-based inks. Great for the environment!

– The creators — a husband & wife team from Florida — of Motor Munchkins emailed me last month about their line of racing inspired kids clothing. They’re just launched their website and they’ve got some really cute stuff. I especially love the “Look, Mom! No Hands!” and “I (heart) boobs & karting” (see below) shirts & onesies. Definitely check out their site and let them know what you think.

Isn't he too cute?! This Motor Munchkins onesie is adorable and funny.

– Ever wonder how you could keep your favorite driver CLOSE to your heart? Ya know, without getting arrested? Well, Pit Pass Gifts creates custom NASCAR jewelry using actual remnants from the track. They’ve turned pieces of sheet metal from the cars of drivers like Matt Kenseth, Dale Earnhardt Jr, Kyle Busch and Jimmie Johnson to create unique necklaces. Check out the Pit Pass Gifts eBay site for more information.

A necklace made by Pit Pass Gifts from sheetmetal remnants from Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s racecar

July 11, 2011 · NASCAR

kentucky is all apologies

Kyle Busch climbs out of the No. 18 M&Ms in victory lane after winning the Quaker State 400 at Kentucky Speedway. (Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR) What a letdown. The racing was boring and tons of fans couldn’t even get to the track to see the boring race.

Kentucky Speedway apologized today and announced a ticket exchange offer. Meanwhile other tracks have offered up rants and comments about the weekend’s traffic debacle giving Kentucky Speedway crap for not figuring out how to deal with the traffic issue ahead of time. Just check out what Michigan International Speedway president Roger Curtis wrote today.

Here’s the statement NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France released yesterday:

“While NASCAR was thrilled by the incredible response to our inaugural NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race in Kentucky, we also are extremely disappointed by the traffic problems and inconveniences endured by fans who wanted to be part of our races at Kentucky Speedway. NASCAR will be in close communications with Kentucky Speedway and Speedway Motorsports Inc. to see that they work to resolve the issues. This situation cannot happen again.”

And now Indianapolis Motor Speedway has created a special offer for fans that had tickets to Kentucky’s inaugural NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race:

Fans who present a ticket from the Kentucky Sprint Cup race at the IMS gate will receive one free admission to Brickyard 400 practice Friday, July 29 or will be admitted to Brickyard 400 qualifying Saturday, July 30 for just $5.

Fans holding tickets from the July 9 race at Kentucky also can park for free Friday and Saturday at IMS Lots 1, 2 and 3, conveniently located on the south, west and north sides of the iconic facility. The regular price is $10 per day to park in those lots.

“As an urban track, we offer a fan experience inside a vibrant city that provides restaurants, nightlife, cultural activities and top-rated hotels in addition to the history and tradition of 100 years of racing at Indianapolis,” said Jeff Belskus, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corporation president and CEO. “We have easy, efficient access to and from the track that allows our fans to participate in activities at the track and, in just a matter of minutes, enjoy all that the city of Indianapolis has to offer or be well on the road toward home or the hotel.”

Dale Earnhardt Jr., driver of the No. 88 Diet Mountain Dew/National Guard Chevrolet, stands in front of his car in the garage as crew members work on the car during testing for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at Kentucky Speedway on July 7 in Sparta, Ky. (Credit: John Harrelson/Getty Images for NASCAR)

NASCAR Sprint cup Series No. 48 Lowe's Chevrolet crew chief Chad Knaus (left) talks with driver Jimmie Johnson (right) in the garage during the testing session at the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at Kentucky Speedway on July 7 in Sparta, Ky. The No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports team was the fastest in this session. (Credit: Geoff Burke/Getty Images for NASCAR)

David Reutimann (left), driver of the No. 00 Tums Toyota, talks with his father Buzzy Reutimann (right) in the garage during practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Quaker State 400 at Kentucky Speedway on July 8 in Sparta, Ky. (Credit: Geoff Burke/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Mark Martin, driver of the No. 5 Quaker State/GoDaddy.com Chevrolet, signs his autograph for a fan in the garage during testing for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at Kentucky Speedway on July 7 in Sparta, Ky. (Credit: Geoff Burke/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Kasey Kahne (right), driver of the No. 4 Red Bull Toyota, talks with crew chief Kenny Francis (left) in the garage during a rain delay prior to practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Quaker State 400 at Kentucky Speedway on July 8 in Sparta, Ky. (Credit: John Harrelson/Getty Images)

Brad Keselowski and the No. 22 Discount Tire team celebrate winning the Feed the Children 300 at Kentucky Speedway (Credit: Tom Whitmore/Getty Images for NASCAR)

July 8, 2011 · NASCAR, Notes

shortcuts: i’m a goo gone gooru

So awhile ago I was contacted by representatives from the Goo Gone brand. They found my post about presenting the Hottest Driver Trophy to Tony Stewart where I recounted how I used Goo Gone to get rid of those pesky hot sauce bottle labels. They picked me to be one of their Goo Gone GooRus (gooru = guru, get it?) and I was happy to oblige. This is seriously not an ad, I’m not being paid to say any of this. I just love their product. It’s one of those things that solves a really annoying problem in a simple way. I actually discovered it when I worked at a Best Buy a million years ago. I worked in the appliance department and we had to get rid of those stickers they attach to refrigerators and stuff, so we used Goo Gone and I’ve been a fan ever since. So needless to say I’m honored to be a GooRu! Go check out my GooRu of the Week slide on their Facebook page.

In other news…

– Here’s an update on My NASCAR Year 2012. So far we’ve raised $5,419, which is awesome but we’re still far from the $125,000 goal. If you can’t contribute please forward the original post to your friends, co-workers, strangers, etc. I’m looking for corporate sponsors as well, so tell them too. It’s easy (and secure) to donate online, you can do so anonymously if you choose, just check out the Donation page.

July 6, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

little emma elizabeth biffle has arrived

Greg Biffle, driver of the #16 3M Ford, stands on the grid with his wife Nicole Biffle prior to the start of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series SHOWTIME Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway on May 7, 2011 in Darlington, South Carolina. (Photo by Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR) Congratulations to Greg and Nicole Biffle! The couple welcomed their first child –a daughter, Emma Elizabeth, into the world today.

The official announcement:

Mooresville, N.C. (July 6, 2011) – Greg Biffle, driver of the No. 16 3M Ford for Roush Fenway Racing, and his wife Nicole welcomed their first child, a baby girl, late this afternoon. Emma Elizabeth weighed in at seven pounds and six ounces and arrived just before 5:00 p.m. EST. Both mother and daughter are doing well.

July 4, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

david ragan isn’t going to cry for you

David Ragan, driver of the #6 UPS Ford, poses with the trophy and his girlfriend, Jacquelyn Butler, after winning the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Coke ZERO 400 Powered by Coca-Cola at Daytona International Speedway on July 2, 2011 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) Congratulations to David Ragan and the No. 6 UPS team on winning the COKE ZERO 400 at Daytona! It’s been a long time coming! And if there was ever a driver that NEEDED to win right now it was David Ragan. I loved his post-race interview where the TNT reporter (can’t remember who it was, Matt Yocum?) tried EVERYTHING to try and get some sort emotional reaction from David and nothing happened. It was kind of anti-climactic. We love an emotional winner, and you’d think a first-timer would have brought something to the party.

Oh welly, David doesn’t need to cry for me to know that it means a lot. I’m happy for the guy.

Must talk about the sight of Andy Lally driving all by his lonesome during the race. Having a “partner” is the only way you’re going to do anything at Daytona these days and Andy didn’t have anybody for a while there. It brought me right back to junior high school P.E. class and dreading having to be picked for someone’s team (for some dumb activity that all the boys always took WAY too seriously). Ugh, it made me sad for him. I understand why guys didn’t want to work with him because they didn’t know what he was capable of, but still it was hard to watch. It’s the nature of the beast, though.

The innovative 3D turf logo on the grass apron inside Turn 4 at Daytona International Speedway makes its debut at the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Coke Zero 400 Weekend Powered By Coca-Cola. (Credit: ISC Images and Archives)

Clint Bowyer and Elliott Sadler talk shop before NASCAR Nationwide Series practice on Thursday at Daytona International Speedway. (Credit: Geoff Burke, Getty Images for NASCAR)

Tony Stewart (C), driver of the #14 Burger King Chevrolet, signs an autograph in the garage prior to practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series COKE ZERO 400 Powered by Coca-Cola at Daytona International Speedway on June 30, 2011 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Credit: Geoff Burke/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Kyle Busch laughs in the NASCAR Nationwide Series garage as he prepared to turn practice laps Thursday at Daytona International Speedway. (Credit: Geoff Burke, Getty Images for NASCAR)

Joey Logano, driver of the #20 Sport Clips Toyota, celebrates with his girlfriend, Sabrina Simpson, after winning the NASCAR Nationwide Series Subway Jalapeno 250 Powered by Coca-Cola at Daytona International Speedway on July 1, 2011 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

Jeff Gordon (R), driver of the #24 Pepsi MAX Chevrolet, signs an autograph for a fan in the garage area prior to practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series COKE ZERO 400 Powered by Coca-Cola at Daytona International Speedway on June 30, 2011 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Credit: Geoff Burke/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Country Music Superstar Martina McBride performs for fans prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Coke ZERO 400 Powered by Coca-Cola at Daytona International Speedway on July 2, 2011 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Lowe's Summer Salute Chevrolet, holds his daughter Genevieve Marie on the grid prior to the start of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Coke ZERO 400 Powered by Coca-Cola at Daytona International Speedway on July 2, 2011 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

July 2, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR Infineon Weekend (2011), NASCAR WAGs

infineon photo extra: kurt busch’s victory kiss, tony stewart’s legs

So, I totally forgot to include these photos in my regular weekend write-ups. Luckily they work all by themselves.

July 1, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR Infineon Weekend (2011), NASCAR WAGs

sunday at infineon: was ron malec laughing at me??

I woke up at 5am in order to get to Infineon Raceway by 7am (with a quick stop at Starbucks along the way) at the latest. I wanted to make sure I got a ride around the track in the pace car with NASCAR’s Brett Bodine. You think because you’re going in the pace car it wouldn’t be intense, but you’re WRONG. I sat in the back seat and proceeded to be bounced around the my seat and fellow passenger next to me.

June 29, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Infineon Weekend (2011)

saturday at infineon: dale jr. thought of a way to scare me

On Saturday I forgot my cell phone at home, and my camera’s battery died, like, 15 minutes after I arrived at Infineon Raceway.

It was really weird to not have my cell phone or camera on me all day. It was annoying that I couldn’t take any photos or tweet out updates on the fly. I realized that those devices also served as security blankets. They were these things that proved I had “something to do” while I was in the garage. I wasn’t just wandering. I had to take pictures and constantly check my phone for updates–that gave me purpose. So without a purpose I felt like a nerd, just standing around. And I was worried that without the photos that I usually snapped throughout the day I wouldn’t have anything to remind me of what happened.

June 28, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Infineon Weekend (2011)

friday at infineon: low key people watching

When I arrived at Infineon Raceway on Friday I was late. It was only 9am but it was late. The garage opened at 7am and that’s when people showed up, so the media lot was full when I arrived. I was stuck in lot 1 which is next to the helipad. It’s not a big deal (there’s an awesome shuttle that takes you right to the media center no matter where you’re parked) but it’s funny to me how 9am can be considered late for anything. Anyway, Friday was the day of press conferences for the top-12 drivers.

June 27, 2011 · NASCAR

‘the glades’ portrayal of female nascar fans is gross

I know I REALLY need to write-up my weekend at Infineon, and I will, but I had to write about the NASCAR-themed episode of The Glades that aired yesterday on A&E. It included appearances from NASCAR drivers Carl Edwards, Brian Vickers, Tony Stewart and Joey Logano.

While I loved that NASCAR got some primetime attention, I’m not happy with how female fans were depicted (that and all the bad acting). First, why were there tons of women milling around the garage wearing the same outfit, all the same age and dress size? What’s up with the girls behind the fence jumping up and down, screaming incessantly, in tank tops being called “wafflebellies” with the hopes of being “wife’d”? (that’s an actual term people use??)

This whole thing drives me NUTS. The show made it seem like ALL of the female fans were groupies. And it wasn’t even necessary for the plot! Of course I know that there are many pit lizards out there (saw an inspired group of them at Infineon) but there are more women who purchase hot passes because they’re fans, and only that, not because they want to troll the garage for a husband. A woman shouldn’t have to walk into the garage with a guy to be considered a legitimate fan of the sport. We shouldn’t have to wear a burka to be taken seriously.

I’ll give them the storyline with the little girl who wants to be a racer when she grows up, but other than that all the episode did was create a false stereotype of female racing fans. Like I said before it wasn’t even integral to the plot, so why bother?

The whole episode is here, if you’re interested in watching.

(photo credit: A&E)

June 25, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Infineon Weekend (2011), NASCAR WAGs

clint bowyer will melt your ovaries

It was sunny everywhere in the Bay Area EXCEPT at the Golden Gate Bridge on Wednesday. It was the San Francisco cliche: totally foggy. I arrived at the the north side of the bridge to take part in the Cheerios Walk for a Healthy Heart event with NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Clint Bowyer (left). Over 100 fans showed up and received free commemorative t-shirts plus the opportunity to mingle with their fave driver.

June 20, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids

denny hamlin is a winner in michigan

Kurt Busch, driver of the #22 Shell/Pennzoil Dodge, stands with Patricia Driscoll prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips 400 at Michigan International Speedway on June 19, 2011 in Brooklyn, Michigan. (Photo by Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR) The most interesting things (to me, at least) that happened as a part of the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips 400 at Michigan International Speedway had nothing to do with the action on the race track.

Yes, it was awesome that Denny Hamlin finally got his 1st win of the season. I was really happy for him and his team. And did you see Denny’s tweet this morning? He’s moving into a new house. Congrats on that too, Denny!

Okay, so for the interesting things. I spied Kurt Busch with his “lady friend” again (see photo at left). I hope she comes out to Infineon, I would love to see what’s going on with that whole deal in person.

Did you see during the pre-show when little Ella Gordon (who turned 4-years-old today) was smacking her dad, Jeff Gordon, on the butt?? Now that was some funny stuff.

Post-race 21-year-old Landon Cassill tweeted that he was celebrating his first Father’s Day. I had no idea he had a baby, but he does — a daughter with Miranda Smith. Congrats!

In other news…

– An update on My NASCAR Year 2012. Last week I received an insanely cool donation of $5,000! So now I’m at $5,205 and I still need your help to get to $125,000 that I need to make this thing happen. You can donate any amount, publicly or anonymously — even $5 helps get to the goal! DONATE

Trevor Bayne gets behind the wheel of his NASCAR Nationwide Series car during practice at Michigan International Speedway on Friday. Bayne returns to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series this week for the first time in nearly two months. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Kevin Harvick signs autographs for fans as he walks through the garage with them on Friday at Michigan International Speedway. (Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Carl Edwards climbs into the Michigan International Speedway grandstands to celebrate his Alliance Truck Parts 250 victory with the fans. (Credit: Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

The No. 99 pit crew of Carl Edwards huddles before the start of the Heluva Good Sour Cream Dips 400 at Michigan International Speedway. (Credit: Tom Pennington/Getty Images)

June 15, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR WAGs

shortcuts: kurt busch’s lady friend, walk the golden gate with clint bowyer

As we all know by now, this year Kurt Busch has been arriving at the track without his wedding ring and without his wife, Eva. So last weekend at Pocono when Kurt was seen standing at his car for the invocation and National Anthem with another blonde that wasn’t his wife it sent tongues wagging. The woman by his side (seen here and here) is Patricia Driscoll, President and Executive Director of the Armed Forces Foundation. Sources tell me that the two met through Ms. Driscoll’s foundation’s work with traumatic brain injuries.

I have no idea if there is in any relationship there other than a professional one or plain old friendship. Kurt has yet to announce a divorce from Eva, so it’s anybody’s guess as to what’s going on there.

In other news…

Clint Bowyer (credit: Chris Trotman/Getty Images) Next week is the Toyota/Save Mart 350 at Infineon Raceway way in Sonoma. I’ll be there so I’m REALLY excited about it. But before any racing gets started there are a couple events you should know about:

– On Wednesday, June 22nd Clint Bowyer will meetup with fans for the Cheerios Walk for a Healthy Heart across the Golden Gate Bridge. The walk will depart from the north side of the iconic bridge at noon. If you want to join Clint for the event go to Ghirardelli Square at 11 a.m. for FREE transportation to the walk. I’ll be there too, so make sure you say “Hi!”

– On Thursday, June 23rd Infineon Raceway is hosting a parade of up to 50 NASCAR haulers through the streets of Sacramento under a full police escort. This will be the first ever hauler parade in Northern California, and will serve as the Sacramento kickoff to the Toyota/Save Mart 350 weekend. The parade will depart from its starting location at 2 p.m., cross the Tower Bridge and do a loop around the State Capitol.

– Help me raise $125,000 for My NASCAR Year 2012 project. Just donating $5 helps me reach my goal. We raised $205 in one day, let’s keep it going! Learn More

June 13, 2011 · NASCAR, Notes

give a little bit: my nascar year 2012

Valli Hilaire The one thing that I KNOW would make this blog GREAT (well, it already is great, but ya know, a lot better) is if I could attend all 36 races on the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series schedule. You, the readers, have said it yourself, the best part of my blog is when I write about my race weekend experiences. And I have to agree with you. Not just because it’s fun for me to have those experiences but the proof is in the analytics, Google Analytics to be exact. I get a lot of traffic from those posts, but because my race attendance is sporadic (at best) I feel like I’m in limbo. And I also feel like I’m not giving you everything that I could & should.

I’m one of those people that if I’m going to do something I want it to be great and I want it to reach its full potential. Since I finally married the two things I’m really passionate about, writing & racing, I feel like I can’t give up on it. I’ve been writing this blog for 5 years now and I want this to be my sole priority when it comes to the thing we call “work.”

I have tried everything I can think of to get myself to all of the races. I had an idea to travel to all of the races and document the whole thing on video, ultimately creating a documentary. That didn’t fly. I had an idea to shadow a race team & driver for a full year. Pitched it to EVERYONE (name a team, I asked them) and nobody was going for it. I had an idea to travel to all of the races in an RV and get sponsors to, you guessed it, sponsor the road trip. I pitched it and got nowhere. While I do reach thousands of people each month (and have a column in a NASCAR magazine), I don’t command the kind of numbers that an entire network of blogs might (think SBNation or Yahoo! or YardBarker, etc).

The reason why I can’t let this go is because I happen to be in the perfect position in my life right now to make this thing happen. Because of a series of unfortunate events I don’t have a real full-time job (although I do have a freelance web production gig) and I don’t have rent to pay (I’m living with my mom & her husband, while I love them it’s highly embarrassing to admit that). So if there was ever a time in my life to make the leap from just doing something that I’m good at to doing the work that wouldn’t feel at all like work — something I love — this would be the time.

The incredibly cool thing that I do have is a passionate, loyal audience of women (and some awesome men) that love NASCAR. You guys dig what I do and I am so incredibly grateful and thankful for that. Which is why I was hesitant to ask what I am about to ask of you. How would you feel about donating money to get me out to all of the races next year? I have a goal of $125,000 to make it happen. That is a lot of money but if you donated just $5 (or more if you want!) and your friends did too, I think it’s entirely possible to reach that goal before the start of the 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season. So far this year over 40,000 people have visited this site. If all of those people gave $5 I’d have $200,000.

I’ve created a corporate sponsor level so that if a company wants to pitch in $5,000 they’ll receive static logo placement on the site and ad runs throughout The Fast and the Fabulous, ‘Fabulous’ News & The Fabulous Girl’s Guide to Racing. There’s a $50 ‘Fabulous’ Friend level if you donate that or more. You’ll be listed on the “Fabulous Friends” page as a supporter and it’ll be linked to anything you want (within reason of course, think Twitter, Facebook or your own website).

Truthfully, I never wanted to have to ask you to do this. While you might read this site all the time I’m still just a stranger (learn a little bit more about me here) and you don’t owe me anything. But this is the best idea I have right now. I am committed to this blog and I know that I’m on to something with it and I can’t bare to see it fail. I’ve been to 2 races so far this year and I know I’ll get to at least one more (Infineon) for sure, but after that I have no idea when the next one will be and that makes me so frustrated.

The idea of getting to spend every minute of my time focusing on just this blog alone and telling stories from “the road” would be a dream come true. You — in a really simple & easy gesture — would be helping me live my dream, changing my life with just $5.

So please tell ALL of your friends, neighbors and strangers. We’ve got between now and the end of December 2011 to reach the goal.

Your support means the WORLD to me!

(Note: Donations are NOT tax deductible. You have the option to give anonymously, just select “Private” when you go through the donation page.)

June 12, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

pocono gets a little too shifty

Juan Pablo Montoya, driver of the #42 Target Chevrolet, holds his daughter Manuela on the grid prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series 5-Hour Energy 500 at Pocono Raceway on June 12, 2011 in Long Pond, Pennsylvania. (Photo by John Harrelson/Getty Images) “Shift. Shifting now. Lots of shifting. Why do I have to keep shifting? Shifting is fun! I hate shifting this much!”

I am so over shifting!! I hate that word and I never want to hear it again. Some drivers hated it and some were totally okay with it because they would have been bored otherwise. That’s all fine and well, I’m just glad it’s over.

My favorite part of the race was the in-car cockpit view of the drivers in action. I loved that so much because you get to see what these guys are actually doing. This is how they do it and it’s fun to see the different techniques. So I appreciated that a lot. TNT’s coverage is off to a great start.

Now that Conan O’Brien is on TBS, which is a sister channel to TNT, I fully expect a Team Coco integration to at least ONE of the TNT Summer Series races. We need Conan at a race or at least a bunch of the drivers on his show. This needs to happen.

Ryan Newman, driver of the No. 39 Haas Automation Chevrolet, sits in his car in the garage during practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series 5-Hour Energy 500 at Pocono Raceway on June 10 in Long Pond, Pa. (Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images)

Jimmie Johnson, driver of the No. 48 Lowe's Chevrolet, signs an autograph during practice for the 5-Hour Energy 500 at Pocono Raceway on June 10 in Long Pond, Pa. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images)

Brian Vickers, driver of the No. 83 Red Bull Toyota, climbs into his car in the garage area during practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series 5-Hour Energy 500 at Pocono Raceway on June 10 in Long Pond, Pa. (Credit: Drew Hallowell/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Brad Keselowski, driver of the No. 2 Miller Lite Dodge, signs an autograph in the garage area during practice for the 5-Hour Energy 500 at Pocono Raceway on June 10 in Long Pond, Pa. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images)

Denny Hamlin and crew chief Mike Ford stand by the No. 11 FedEx Toyota during pre-race activities for the 5-Hour Energy 500 at Pocono Raceway. (Credit: Drew Hallowell/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Jamie McMurray, driver of the #1 McDonald's Chevrolet, his wife Christy and child Carter Scott stand on the grid during pre-race ceremonies for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series 5-Hour Energy 500 at Pocono Raceway on June 12, 2011 in Long Pond, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Matt Kenseth, driver of the #17 Affliction Clothing: Live Fast Ford, stands at his car with his daughter Kaylin Nicola during the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series 5-Hour Energy 500 at Pocono Raceway on June 12, 2011 in Long Pond, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images for NASCAR)

June 12, 2011 · IndyCar

firestone twin 275s please and displease

Dario Franchitti Some things I learned while watching the IndyCar Firestone Twin 275s at Texas Motor Speedway on Saturday:

1.) Race car drivers are not entertainers. What I mean by that is when you interview them on TV they’re not going to understand that they only have seconds to explain themselves or tell a story and be extremely funny or charming while doing so. So it’s not helpful to interview them about nothing while they need to pick a tire and sign it. Just let them pick the damn tire and sign it. Keep it moving! There is nothing they can say that will enhance the enjoyment of them picking their starting position.

2.) Dario Franchitti is not a fan of randomly selecting his starting position when points are on the line. While I understand his perspective and his frustration, I think that the way the staring lineup for the second race was created wasn’t that big of deal. Racing is a crapshoot, even if you qualify 1st or last. Either one isn’t a guarantee of anything, so if you picked the number out of hat or ran laps for it, to me at least for one race, it’s not that big of a deal. But then again, I’m not trying to win a Championship, but then again I STILL feel like it’s all a big game of chance anyway, so whatever.

Ricky Carmichael poses with Mario Andretti. Ricky got to take a ride in the two-seater IndyCar with Mario.

Marco Andretti

Alex Tagliani celebrates winning the pole for the first of the two Firestone Twin 275s

Will Power and Helio Castroneves pose for photos with a young fan at a autograph signing event in Texas

James Hinchcliffe checks an iPad for help with practice

JR Hildebrand jumps in his car? Or is that out of his car? I can't tell

Will Power is just kinda happy about winning his first oval race

June 6, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR WAGs

travis pastrana is engaged

Sorry ladies, another one bites the dust!!

Travis Pastrana (@TravisPastrana) proposed to his girlfriend, professional skateboarder Lyn-Z Adams Hawkins (@lynzskate), yesterday during the Nitro Circus show at MGM Grand in Las Vegas. It’s all on tape, so check it out below. Very cute & sweet! Congrats to Lyn-Z & Travis!

(photo credit: supercross.com facebook page)

June 6, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

penske shakes off their sluggish start, childress slugs kyle busch

Kyle Busch, driver of the #18 M&M'sToyota, and his wife Samantha Sarcinella take part in pre-race ceremonies for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series STP 400 at Kansas Speedway on June 5, 2011 in Kansas City, Kansas. (Photo by John Harrelson/Getty Images for NASCAR) The image I created in my head of Richard Childress getting Kyle Busch in a headlock and beating him up far surpasses any actual image of the incident that you could show me (if one even exists). I can’t help but laugh at the whole thing. It’s just too much. Childress was fined $150,000 for the incident and put on probation by NASCAR. When they give fines I think they should be the same number as the person’s car number, so Childress should of been fined $180,000 for Kyle’s #18 truck. NASCAR should maintain a NASCAR theme at all times.

Ya know what’s annoying? Yesterday’s race was Brad Keselowski’s second NASCAR Sprint Cup Series win, his first with Penske, and the commentators didn’t bring that up until he crossed the finish line. I find that annoying because I would like that information up front–with laps to go–so that I can get all emotional and worried for the guy. They do it for Dale Earnhardt Jr. ALL the time. They’ve got that “Races since last win” graphic queued up, always ready to go.

I feel like we didn’t get to really appreciate the fullness of the moment for Brad because nobody talked about the significance of it all that much. Kinda lame.

While I certainly don’t dislike the Fox broadcast team, I am REALLY excited about TNT’s coverage because I’m looking for a change of pace. It’ll be good to get a different perspective, until we get another perspective when ESPN/ABC takes over later this year.

My only question right now is: Can it be time for Infineon’s race now?? Please! I’ll be there and I cannot wait for that race weekend. I know it’s going to be superfun, but let’s hope this ridiculously cold & rainy weather we’ve been having doesn’t last through that weekend. I’m ordering perfect weather; not too hot, not too cold, but just right.

(Left to right) AJ Allmendinger stands next to his 2011 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series car as NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Petty stands beside his iconic STP ride as the sponsor returns to the sport on Friday at Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kan. (Credit: John Harrelson/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Riding with primary sponsor "The Glades," premiering Sunday on A&E, Tony Stewart was fourth-fastest in Friday's first NASCAR Sprint Cup Series practice at Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kan. (Credit: John Harrelson/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Austin Dillon walks through the Kansas Speedway garage on Friday in Kansas City, Kansas. Dillon was fastest in NASCAR Camping World Truck Series final practice, turning a lap at 32.819 seconds/164.539 mph. (Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Clint Bowyer climbs out of the No. 2 Bad Boy Buggies Chevrolet in victory lane after winning the O'Reilly Auto Parts 250 at Kansas Speedway (Credit: Geoff Burke/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Team owner DeLana Harvick and husband/driver Kevin Harvick stand on the grid during NASCAR Nationwide Series Coors Light Pole Qualifying on Saturday at Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, Ill. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Justin Allgaier celebrates his second career NASCAR Nationwide Series win in Chicagoland Speedway's Victory Lane on Saturday in Joliet, Ill. (Credit: Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Ryan Newman, driver of the #39 Haas Automation Chevrolet, his wife Krissie Newman and their daughter Brooklyn Sage Newman sits together prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series STP 400 at Kansas Speedway on June 5, 2011 in Kansas City, Kansas. (Photo by Geoff Burke/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Lowe's Chevrolet, his daughter Genevieve Marie and his wife Chandra take part in pre race ceremonies for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series STP 400 at Kansas Speedway on June 5, 2011 in Kansas City, Kansas. (Photo by Tim Umphrey/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Brad Keselowski climbs out of the No. 2 Miller Lite Dodge in victory lane after winning the STP 400 (Credit: Geoff Burke/Getty Images for NASCAR)

June 3, 2011 · NASCAR

random: denny hamlin said something about something

This is short, and maybe boring, but I was reading through transcripts from today’s top-12 drivers media sessions and I thought this exchange between Denny Hamlin and a reporter was funny and immediately made me think of his Toyota Sponsifier commercial:

What do you drive away from the track?
“I drive my Lexus 460L pretty much every day.”

Is it a high performance car?
“No, mine’s not. Mine is a four door sedan made for kids and groceries.”

(photo credit: Denny Hamlin, driver of the #11 FedEx Express Toyota, stands on the grid during qualifying for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway on May 26, 2011 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Geoff Burke/Getty Images for NASCAR)

June 2, 2011 · IndyCar

givin’ it away: shell v-power® helio castroneves prize pack

Helio Castroneves Ya know, I can remember a time when gas cost only $1 a gallon. Isn’t that crazy? It wasn’t THAT long ago either, I think I was in high school. Anyway, I’m talking about gasoline because Shell is giving away FREE gas for FIVE YEARS for one lucky person in their Fuel My Passion Sweepstakes. Five freaking years. If there was ever a contest to get in on, this would be the one. Also, runners-up have the chance to win free gas for a year!

Shell is giving race fans a chance to win FREE Shell V-Power® premium gasoline for up to five years with the Fuel My Passion Sweepstakes. From April 13 through June 22, customers can enter by going to www.shell.us/fuelmypassion. All they have to do is show their passion for what they drive by entering their information and uploading a photo of themselves showing the “Power of the V” sign, a peace sign with your palm facing the camera, alongside their ride. The contest is “fueled” by Shell V-Power customers looking for optimum performance or those drivers who simply expect the most from their vehicles.

To promote this awesome sweepstakes Shell is giving me the opportunity to give away a special prize pack featuring everybody’s favorite “Dancing with the Stars” Champion, and IndyCar driver, Helio Castroneves.

One lucky reader will receive the following:

Helio Castroneves t-shirt
No. 3 Shell V-Power car 1/64th scale diecast
No. 3 Shell V-Power can coolie
Helio Castroneves 8×10 photo

May 31, 2011 · IndyCar, IndyCar WAGs

indycar wags and habs (husbands and boyfriends) walk the red carpet

Last night was the 2011 Indy 500 Victory Awards Banquet where they honored this year’s Indianapolis 500 winner Dan Wheldon.

There are a bunch of great WAGAHAB (Wives and Girlfriends and Husbands and Boyfriends) photos, so let’s not dilly dally.

Pippa Mann and her date

Ed Carpenter (far left) poses with his wife, Heather, his team owner Sarah Fisher (who's expecting her first child this year) and her husband, Andy

Bronte and Alex Tagliani

Tony Kanaan and his girlfriend Lauren Bohlander

Ryan Hunter Reay and his fiancee Beccy Gordon

Ryan Hunter Reay poses with his fiancee Beccy Gordon

Dario Franchitti walks the red carpet with his wife, Ashley Judd

James Hinchcliffe and his date Melissa

Dan and Susie Wheldon

Danica Patrick and her husband, Paul Hospenthal

Buddy Rice and his wife, Michelle

Indianapolis Motor Speedway chairman Mari Hulman George arrives with Florence Henderson, and Mari's grandson Jarrod Krisiloff and his wife, Megan.

Doesn't it look like they're at a telethon?

Dan Wheldon speaks to the audience

JR Hildebrand took home the Chase Rookie of the Year award and $1,064,895! Wowsers!

(all photos courtesy of INDYCAR)

May 30, 2011 · NASCAR

the coca-cola 600 was just mean

There were three races yesterday. The Grand Prix of Monaco, the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600.

As much as I would LOVE to visit Monaco, I’m not going to pretend that I give a flying fig about Formula 1 racing. It’s interesting I’m sure, but I’ve found that men that follow it are particularly annoying to talk to about any other kind of racing and that has turned me off to it entirely. Yes, I’m basing my opinion of Formula 1 racing off of random encounters with douchebags, and I’m totally OK with that. I’m sure there a lot of really nice Formula 1 fans out there, so please don’t leave me any annoying comments. Anyway, I’ve watched some F1 races and it doesn’t really do much for me. (“Random Encounters with Douchebags” would make a great book and/or movie title, right? Story of my life)

On the other hand I do hope that Kimi Raikkonen will try his hand at NASCAR Sprint Cup Series racing at Infineon Raceway next month. Why? Because I’ll be there and new blood is always cool.

So on to the Coca-Cola 600. I’m happy for Kevin Harvick and the No. 29 Budweiser team for winning the race. I just wish it could have been Dale Earnhardt Jr. instead.

I thought they would have thrown a caution on that last crash, and I find it curious that they didn’t. NASCAR really isn’t helping themselves or Dale Earnhardt Jr. in being inconsistent in their use of the yellow flag. It seems weird to me that there wouldn’t have been any debris on the track after all the contact that happened.

Whatever, we move on to the next race!

They should use Trevor’s story for an episode of “House.” They still don’t know what the illness is/was.

Daytona 500 winner Trevor Bayne meets media on Thursday at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, N.C. to talk about his return to racing next weekend after battling an illness for several weeks. (Credit: Geoff Burke/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Cole Whitt, the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series points leader, gets ready to make his second start in the NASCAR Nationwide Series and first with Pastrana Waltrip Racing during practice Thursday at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, N.C. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Kyle Busch drives his No. 18 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota through the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series garage as the world's largest HDTV displays practice results on Thursday at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, N.C. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Kasey Kahne examines the faces of fans who submit their pictures to be displayed on his No. 4 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Red Bull Racing Toyota this weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, N.C. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Matt Kenseth does a burnout at the start/finish line to celebrate his Top Gear 300 victory, the 26th NASCAR Nationwide Series win of his career. (Credit: Chris Graythen/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Larry the Cable Guy the voice of Mater poses with other stars from the upcoming Pixar film Cars 2 Sunday at Charlotte Motor Speedway. (Credit: John Harrelson/Getty Images for NASCAR)

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers Clint Bowyer (right) and Ryan Newman (center) answer fan questions during a Q&A at the Coca-Cola Track Walk and Summer Celebration Cookout on Friday at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, N.C. (Credit: HHP)

Ryan Newman, Mark Martin and David Gilliland get tangled up on lap 301 during the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway (Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR)

May 30, 2011 · IndyCar, IndyCar WAGs

the indy 500 slamdances with my heart

JR Hildebrand I could not believe what I was seeing. I thought that J.R. Hildebrand would round that corner, come down the straightaway and win his first Indianapolis 500 in his first attempt. I thought he would receive a hero’s welcome when he came back here to the region of his Sausalito hometown, the San Francisco Bay Area. Surely there’d be a parade or something in his honor.

But then he hit the effing wall! I couldn’t freaking believe it. I was screaming. I should of known better, you’re not supposed to count your chickens before they’ve hatched. I was so heartbroken for J.R.. I’ve never been within reach of winning the Indy 500 and crashed, but I know what that feels like. Think about it, you’ve had one of those moments where you make a mistake and it costs you BIG time. It really stings.

Dan Wheldon was the winner, and he was emotional, which made ME emotional! How could this race do that to me in the span of 3 minutes?? I felt sadness, anger, disbelief, happiness, and empathy. I felt it all.

What an incredible finish. Just incredible. And this race really needed that kind of ending, because if Dario Franchitti or Scott Dixon cruised to the win it would have be soooo boring.

And one word about the broadcast itself. I loved the pit reporters and I really, really wish we could have only heard from them. They were the only people giving me the information I wanted & needed. That’s a hard job too, so extra kudos to them for doing such an awesome job. On the other hand, the announcer’s booth peeps, I have no words.

Country music artist Kellie Pickler

Model & make-up artist Katarina Van Derham is friends with Marco Andretti

Model Katarina Van Derham is friends with Marco Andretti

David Letterman

Seal & Kelly Clarkson wave to fans before singing the National Anthem

"Chuck" star Zachary Levi

Kathy Ireland

Patrick Dempsey

"Burn Notice" star Jeffrey Donovan

All 33 drivers take the traditional group photo on the start/finish line at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway

All 33 IndyCar drivers take the traditonal group photo on the start/finish line at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Dan Wheldon celebrates winning the 100th Indianapolis 500 in Victory Lane. Can they please make victory lane larger?? It's ridiculous how small it is. I say this every year and still no changes

Dan Wheldon celebrates with his fans

Dan Wheldon lays down on the finish line

Dan Wheldon revels in the moment. I love this shot!

Dan Wheldon with his wife, Susie, and their two sons, Oliver and Sebastian.

This photo and the one below it were taken the day after the Indy 500. Here Dan poses with his wife, Susie, and their two sons, Oliver (in Susie's arms) and Sebastian (held by Dan).

Sebastian Wheldon kisses the bricks! So cute!

(All photos courtesy of INDYCAR)

May 28, 2011 · IndyCar, NASCAR

the nfl’s troy polamalu rides on the “edge of disaster” at indianpolis

Happy Saturday! I hope everyone is having a fabulous weekend so far. I had some cool photos sent to me yesterday and I really wanted to share them with you.

– First up, Jeremiah Weed Premium Malt Beverages had their strongman Rendy DeLaCruz pull Matt Kenseth’s No. 17 Jeremiah Weed Premium Malt Beverages Ford Fusion down a street in downtown Charlotte. Mr. DeLaCruz pulled the racer 100 feet in 26 seconds. Crazyness, ’cause, ya know, racecars are HEAVY! Anywhoo, I love Jeremiah Weed’s Sweet Tea Vodka, and I cannot wait to try their new premium malt beverages, just from the names alone: Lightning Lemonade, Spiked Cola and Roadhouse Tea. Yumsy!

NASCAR's Matt Kenseth, driver of the No. 17 Jeremiah Weed Ford, Jeremiah Weed strongman Rendy DeLaCruz, center, and comedian Adam Carolla celebrates with Jeremiah Weed Premium Malt Beverages after DeLaCruz pulled Kenseth 100 feet in 26 seconds at an event at Speed Street on Friday, May 27, 2011, in Charlotte, NC. Jeremiah Weed Premium Malt Beverages also distributed pre-paid taxi vouchers to legal drinking age consumers to encourage responsible drinking.

Jeremiah Weed Premium Malt Beverages strongman Rendy DeLaCruz pulls NASCAR's Matt Kenseth not pictured, inside the car, driver of the No. 17 Jeremiah Weed Ford, as comedian Adam Carolla, right, hypes the crowd gathered at Speed Street Friday, May 27, 2011 in Charlotte, NC.

– Pittsburgh Steelers Pro Bowl safety Troy Polamalu got to take a ride around Indianapolis Motor Speedway with none other than Marco Andretti’s grandpa, Mario Andretti, who won the 1969 Indianapolis 500. Mario took Troy for a spin in the “Fastest Seat in Sports”
today.

Mario Andretti and Troy Polamalu

May 25, 2011 · IndyCar, IndyCar WAGs

the indy 500 bump day was definitely bumpy

The final 33-car lineup for the 2011 Indy 500 I’m going to be totally honest with you guys right now. I have never watched “Bump Day” for the Indianapolis 500. Well, until this past weekend. I know, crazy right? Well, I’m never going to miss another one!

It was the most dramatic, heartbreaking, sad and awesome thing I have seen in a sporting event in quite some time. People’s lives were on the line, well not their personal life but ya know, the one thing that matters most to them–participating in the 100th Indy 500.

I didn’t get to see Alex Tagliani take the pole on Saturday, but I didn’t need to see it to know how much it would mean to him. Had you even heard of him before he got it? Exactly. So I’m super happy for him.

But what the hell happened to Andretti Motorsport? After Bump Day on Sunday, only two of their full-time drivers had secured a spot in the race, Danica Patrick and Marco Andretti, and Marco saved himself at the VERY LAST MINUTE. He ended up bumping out his teammates, Ryan Hunter Reay and Mike Conway.

Watching and listening to Ryan Hunter Reay’s reaction to realizing he wasn’t going to be in the race was just the worst, but he’s been able to turn his frown upside down after securing a deal to drive the No. 41 A.J. Foyt Racing entry that was originally supposed to be driven by Bruno Junqueira, who qualified the car.

So now Bruno gets to lick the fuzzy end of the lollipop. I can’t imagine what THAT must feel like. You can’t deny that it’s effed up no matter how you try to spin it. Michael Andretti, owner of Andretti Autosport, had to keep his sponsors (Ryan is sponsored by DHL & Sun Drop soda) happy, sponsors that were expecting to be in the Indy 500, so they did this deal.

Anyway, I cannot wait for the race this weekend!

Alex Tagliani realizes he's the polesitter for the 2011 Indianapolis 500

Alex Tagliani celebrates with his wife Bronte

Ed Carpenter's wife, Heather, celebrates with the couple's daughter, Makenna. Ed will start the Indianapolis 500 in the 8th position

Danica Patrick

Ryan Hunter Reay gets a hug from Graham Rahal while his Ryan's fiancee, Beccy Gordon, looks on.

Alex and Samantha Lloyd

James Hinchcliffe

How cute is this photo? This little fan is playing with his toy IndyCar racecar on the start/finish line! So CUTE!

(left to right) AJ Foyt, Rick Mears and Mario Andretti

Ed Carpenter's son, Ryder, sends his dad a message

(All photos courtesy of INDYCAR)

May 24, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

little hayden mears has arrived

Geico Racing announced that their driver in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, Casey Mears, and his wife Trish have welcomed a new member of their family into the world today.

The couple’s son, Hayden, was born this morning and joins big sister Samantha.

Congratulations to the Mears Gang!!

May 23, 2011 · NASCAR

is the all-star race really necessary?

Carl Edwards, driver of the #99 AFLAC Ford, gestures in the garage area, after practice for the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race at Charlotte Motor Speedway on May 20, 2011 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR) Yea, I said it!

The most interesting thing about the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race was the the driver & crew introductions. I’m not even kidding.

Seriously, did ANYTHING happen during that race? I really think everybody saying, “Ooooh, there’s no points at stake, anything can happen!!! the gloves are really gonna come off! Squee!!!” really made it lame. It was just boring. And come to think about it, why would no points at stake and a million dollars be that much more of a motivation for them? Winning the Championship is a far, far bigger deal than the All-Star race will ever be, so I’m not expecting anyone to go above and beyond to win it.

It’s not good when a race ends and I’m just indifferent, like it didn’t even happen.

Also, I find it really interesting how NASCAR drivers can get away with acting like they need a million dollars. Ok, throw in some Nationwide Series or Truck Series guys, or even better, the dudes in the K&N Pro Series, and you’d see a REAL dash for cash. Carl Edwards could ALREADY afford to put his kids through college, this race wasn’t going to be the difference between them going or not.

Anyhoo… here are some photos!

Dierks Bentley kicked the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race day off with a free concert for fans at Charlotte Motor Speedway. (Credit: Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)

Kimi Raikkonen, driver of the No. 15 Perky Jerky Toyota, stands with Kyle Busch, driver of the No. 18 NOS Energy Drink Toyota, in the garage area during practice for the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series North Carolina Education Lottery 200 at Charlotte Motor Speedway on May 20 in Charlotte, N.C. (Credit: Streeter Lecka, Getty Images for NASCAR)

New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez talks with Kyle Busch on the grid before the start of the North Carolina Education Lottery 200 at Charlotte Motor Speedway (Credit: Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Kasey Kahne was the first winner of the day at Charlotte Motor Speedway, winning the Pennzoil Ultra Victory Challenge, AKA the burnout contest. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Clint Bowyer gets some last minute pointers from NASCAR Hall of Famer David Pearson in the Drivers Meeting before the NASCAR Sprint All Star Race at Charlotte Motor Speedway. (Credit: John Harrelson/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Dale Earnhardt Jr. greets his fans after being announced as the Sprint Fan Vote winner which transferred him into his 12th straight NASCAR Sprint All Star Race. (Credit: Drew Hallowell/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Carl Edwards does his trademark victory backflip after tearing up his car sliding through the infield grass at Charlotte Motor Speedway. (Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR)

May 18, 2011 · IndyCar, NASCAR, NASCAR WAGs

shortcuts: helio castroneves pumps gas, martin truex jr. hosts fashion show

There’s a bunch of stuff to give you the rundown on today! But here’s a housekeeping note: My Richard Petty Driving Experience Race Ride contest ends on May 31st, so submit your entry now. Two lucky winners will get to ride shotgun in a NASCAR racecar around Bristol Motor Speedway in August.

In other news…

– Angela and Amber Cope, the twin nieces of Daytona 500 winner Derrike Cope will attempt to make their NASCAR Nationwide Series debut at Iowa Speedway this weekend. They’re attempting to make NASCAR history in becoming the first set of twins to ever compete in a Nationwide Series race. Qualifying for the NASCAR Nationwide Series John Deere Dealers 250 presented by Pioneer will air on ESPN2 at 4:40pm EST on Saturday, with the race taking place on Sunday at 2pm EST on ABC.

Angela Copy (left) and Amber Cope (right)

– IndyCar driver Helio Castroneves surprised a bunch of customers at a Shell station in Indianapolis yesterday. Helio showed up unannounced and filled their tanks up with Shell gasoline. He also got to talk to them about the Shell V-Power Fuel My Passion program. Of course!

The Fuel My Passion sweepstakes allow vehicle enthusiasts who submit photos of themselves with their rides holding the two-fingered ‘V sign’ for V-Power the chance to win great prizes, including free gasoline for up to five years. For more information, please visit www.shell.us/fuelmypassion.

The Stinger from Window World – This past Saturday Window World, the primary sponsor of John Andretti’s #43 Indianapolis 500 entry, unveiled “The Stinger” — a 2011 concept show car as a tribute to the 1911 Marmon Wasp and the 100 years of Indianpolis 500 history. “The Stinger” will be on display in the MotoGP garage area near Gasoline Alley at Indianapolis Motor Speedway through the Indianapolis 500 weekend.

“The Stinger” is also raising money for charities through Window World Cares:

To further support the 100th anniversary of the Indianapolis 500, the Window World Cares foundation has invited each of the race’s former starters to autograph the car as it sits on display at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. For each signature, Window World Cares will make a donation of support.

Since its creation in 2008, Window World Cares is responsible for raising more than $1.6 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and is also a sponsor of the Veterans Airlift Command.

A Family Affair: Michael Andretti (left), Marco Andretti (center) and John Andretti (right) attended the unveiling of "The Stinger"

– Martin Truex Jr. and his longtime girlfriend Sherry Pollex hosted The 2nd Annual Catwalk for a Cause Fashion Show yesterday. MTJ Motorsports was transformed into a fashionista’s paradise with many of NASCAR’s familiar faces on hand for the event that raised money for the Martin Truex Jr. Foundation. The fashion show featured apparel from Lavendar Boutique, a women’s designer boutique in Mooresville, NC owned by Sherry Pollex. There are photos here and here. I was able to spot DeLana Harvick, Krissie Newman, Larry McReynolds, Dale Earnhardt Jr’s mom Brenda Jackson, Miss Sprint Cup Monica Palumbo, Max Papis, amongst others.

Martin Truex Jr. and his girlfriend, Sherry Pollex, speak to guests at the 2nd Annual Catwalk for a Cause event (Credit: CharlotteExclusive.com)

May 17, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR, NASCAR WAGs

a nascar wife interview with shana mayfield

I interviewed Shana Mayfield, the wife of suspended NASCAR driver Jeremy Mayfield, in 2008 and I’m finally posting it today. We talked for little over an hour which is the longest interview I’ve ever done (what’s below isn’t even the entire conversation). For a couple reasons, which I won’t bore you with, I didn’t get it transcribed until this year.

May 15, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

dover: monster mash on saturday, cute babies on sunday

Saturday’s Nationwide Series 5-hour ENERGY 200 was more entertaining than Sunday’s Sprint Cup Series FedEx 400 Benefiting Autism Speaks because, ya know, stuff happened.

Not that you ever want to see anyone get hurt, but Saturday had some crazy crashes and all of the drivers walked away totally OK. Although crew guy, Glen Wheeler, for the No. 33 Kevin Harvick Inc. team did sustain an injury to his left leg and was held at a hospital overnight for his injury. It’s crazy that the debris that hit him came from the car he works on. I couldn’t believe Clint Bowyer’s crash. That was insane. When incidents like that happen at Dover they’re always insane. Hopefully Mr. Wheeler will be A-OK.

Sunday was cool and all, who doesn’t love babies in Victory Lane? But it was one of those races where if you talked to me five minutes after it was over and asked me what happened, I wouldn’t be able to tell you. Sometimes it’s like that and then sometimes it’s like last week at Darlington and you can’t stop talking about it. Nevertheless, congratulations to Matt Kenseth and the No. 17 WileyX team. I think that was the second WileyX sponsored race for the No. 17 Roush Fenway Racing team, so that’s pretty good for their second time out!

Kurt Busch, driver of the No. 22 Shell/Pennzoil Dodge, helps push his car prior to practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series FedEx 400 Benefiting Autism Speaks at Dover International Speedway on May 13 in Dover, Del. (Credit: Jason Smith, Getty Images for NASCAR)

Dale Earnhardt Jr., driver of the No. 88 Amp Energy Sugar Free and National Guard Chevrolet, stands in the garage during practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series FedEx 400 Benefiting Autism Speaks at Dover International Speedway on May 13 in Dover, Del. (Credit: Jared C. Tilton, Getty Images for NASCAR)

Reed Sorenson meets young fans on Saturday morning during a NASCAR Nationwide Series autograph session at the official NASCAR Merchandise Hauler at Dover International Speedway in Dover, Del. (Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Kyle Busch and the No. 18 Kyle Busch Motorsports team celebrate after winning the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Lucas Oil 200 on Friday at Dover International Speedway in Dover, Del. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

NASCAR Nationwide Series driver Jason Leffler splashes a puddle as he waits through over an hour rain delay before the start of the 5-hour Energy 200 on Saturday at Dover International Speedway in Dover, Del. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Carl Edwards leads as Joey Logano (No. 20) collides with Clint Bowyer (No. 33) at the end of the NASCAR Nationwide Series 5-hour Energy 200 on Saturday at Dover International Speedway in Dover, Del. (Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Carl Edwards celebrates his 32nd career NASCAR Nationwide Series win on Saturday at Dover International Speedway in Dover, Del. (Credit: Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Matt Kenseth and the No. 17 Roush Fenway Racing team as well as daughter Kaylin Nicola and wife Katie (foreground) in Sunoco Victory Lane on Sunday at Dover International Speedway in Dover, Del. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Accepting the Miles the Monster trophy in Sunoco Victory Lane are Katie and Matt Kenseth and their daughter Kaylin Nicola after winning the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday at Dover International Speedway in Dover, Del. (Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Accepting the Miles the Monster trophy in Sunoco Victory Lane are Katie and Matt Kenseth and their daughters Kaylin (right) & Grace (left) after winning the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday at Dover International Speedway in Dover, Del. (Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR)

May 10, 2011 · IndyCar, NASCAR, NASCAR WAGs

shortcuts: stremme is engaged, indycar unveils 2012 concept cars

– This might be old news to some, but I just realized I’d never posted it here. David Stremme is poised to return to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series with the newly formed Inception Motorsports, but he’s also embarking on a new adventure as a husband! David proposed to his girlfriend, Ashley Deihl, during Thanksgiving last year and the couple plan to wed later this year.

– Do you love Kasey Kahne? I mean, really, who doesn’t? Do you adore Brian Vickers? Well put your face on their cars for the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway on May 29th. Well, not your face-face, but an image of your face. In fact you can put any–or as many–photos as you want on the No. 4 or the No. 83. Just send your pictures to [email protected] or upload them at www.redbullracingusa.com/shutterspeed by May 22nd.

– It’s time again for the “Official Small Business of NASCAR, Courtesy of Office Depot” sweepstakes. It’s my favorite NASCAR contest and if you’re a small business owner you simply MUST participate! The national FREE advertising you’d receive as a result of just being a finalist is priceless in my mind, but there’s also the small matter of $1 million that could be yours too!

Office Depot (NYSE: ODP), celebrating 25 years as a leading global provider of office supplies and services, is teaming up with 3M® and NASCAR® stars Tony Stewart, driver of the No. 14 Office Depot/Mobil 1 Chevrolet, and Greg Biffle, driver of the No. 16 3M Ford, to offer the exciting possibility of a $1 million payday for one small business owner through the “Official Small Business of NASCAR, Courtesy of Office Depot” sweepstakes.

The sweepstakes runs from now through May 28 and small business owners can enter online and – new this year – via their SmartPhone at OfficeDepotRacing.com. Two small business owners will be randomly selected as finalists, earning them a $10,000 small business makeover from Office Depot* and a VIP race weekend experience for two – not to mention a chance at the $1 million prize! Plus, as an extra reward to small business owners who participate, Office Depot is giving away one $1,000 Office Depot gift card every day during the sweepstakes entry period.

(credit: Action Sports Photography)

Get all of the deets, and info on all of the other goodies you can win even if you’re not the ultimate winner, at OfficeDepotRacing.com.

– Dale Earnhardt Jr. unveiled the world’s largest HD TV screen today, which happens to live at Charlotte Motor Speedway. He tested out the ginormous screen with an iRacing.com simulator.

(Photo Credit: Credit: HHP/Harold Hinson)

For its operational debut, Smith and Earnhardt Jr. used an oversized remote to power on the 200 foot-wide, 80 foot-tall HDTV, created by Panasonic, to reveal a highlight video of past racing action
at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

“Charlotte sets the standard for the rest of the tracks,” said Earnhardt Jr. “They always do things first and do things the biggest and look, here we are today with another first from them. Charlotte holds a special place in a lot of drivers’ hearts, mine included and the big TV makes this place even more special.

“The Coca-Cola 600 is one of the best events we have all year long. Now fans can get a ticket to the race and have the experience of the live event with the comfort of their own TV at home with this big TV,” Earnhardt Jr. continued. “This place just keeps getting better.”

– INDYCAR had an unveiling of their own today. The 2012 IZOD IndyCar Series concept cars–one model for ovals and another for road/street courses–made their debut at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway where they will be on display throughout the 100th anniversary Indianapolis 500 on May 29th. These cars look… different, so it’ll be really interesting to see what the manufacturers come up with in terms of changes to the body kits. These mockups look like something out of a “Batman” or “Transformers” movie.

(Credit: INDYCAR/Ron McQueeny)

A rolling chassis – dubbed the IndyCar Safety Cell – will be the universal feature of the next generation car, with bodywork open to development and sale by any approved manufacturer. Three engine companies–Honda, Chevrolet and Lotus–committed for 2012 will augment the IndyCar Safety Cell and aero kit programs, creating its own buzz.

“The idea behind these is to show two totally different-looking vehicles that underneath are the same chassis,” Cotman said. “There is a lot of room for aerodynamic kit development and that’s what this platform is about – allowing people the freedom to design as they wish, dream as they wish and come up with a superior product than others. That’s what drives competition.

“So will these be exactly what Dallara’s kits are going to look like on road courses and ovals next year? No.”

May 8, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

xoxo darlington: i love it when the boys have at it

Greg Biffle, driver of the #16 3M Ford, stands on the grid with his wife Nicole Biffle prior to the start of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series SHOWTIME Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway on May 7, 2011 in Darlington, South Carolina. (Photo by Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR) Ryan Newman and Juan Pablo Montoya failed to bring what Kevin Harvick and Kyle Busch delivered.

O. M. G.

The SHOWTIME® Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway was the greatest NASCAR race I have seen in quite some time. It was Ah-mazing!

First, congratulations to Regan Smith on winning his first Sprint Cup Series race (and congrats to Furniture Row Racing for winning their first race as an organization). He was emotional and his team was ridiculously happy. It was the perfect finish and I LOVED it. A first-time winner is the greatest thing. It was great to see him be congratulated by Carl Edwards, Greg Biffle and Brad Keselowski.

But of course before all of that you had the driver’s moms, as usual, giving the command to start engines. How adorable was Jimmie & Chandra Johnson’s baby daughter, Genevieve, clapping during the National Anthem? That was too cute.

Then there was the race with David Ragan peeling back Brian Vickers car like it was a can of sardines, poor Clint Bowyer crashing out, and the most amazing series of events with Kevin Harvick and Kyle Busch.

I think that Kevin Harvick should walk around with a speaker hanging out of his pocket playing the song “I Won’t Back Down” by Tom Petty on a loop. It’s his theme song. He is no joke.

I know that fighting is frowned upon and all that but I loved it. When Kevin punched Kyle’s helmet/face and then Kyle pushed his car into his Kevin’s it was all TOO much for my brain to process. It was wonderful. I felt like a high school kid in the quad yelling “Fight! Fight! Fight!”

Does NASCAR really need to take action? I’m in a “Ah, whatever, let it gooo” kind of mood. They’re adults, they know what they did was wrong. Let’s not forget that sports are entertainment, they serve no other purpose than that (Yes, they can be inspiring and all that but still), and Saturday night’s race was PURE entertainment from beginning to end. So, NASCAR should send Harvick and Busch a “Thank You” card, some flowers & maybe some candy.

Here’s video of the last laps:

Brian Vickers, driver of the No. 83 Red Bull Toyota, pulls into the garage area during practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series SHOWTIME Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway on May 6 in Darlington, S.C. (Credit: Chris Graythen, Getty Images for NASCAR)

Jimmie Johnson wears the famous Jim Hunter NASCAR hat in the garage Friday at Darlington Raceway (Credit: Geoff Burke/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Chris Buescher, driver of the No. 16 Roush Fenway Racing Ford, sits in the car normally driven by Trevor Bayne, in the garage during practice for the NASCAR Nationwide Series Royal Purple 200 at Darlington Raceway on May 6 in Darlington, S.C. (Credit: Geoff Burke, Getty Images for NASCAR)

Polesitter Kasey Kahne waits waits to climb into the No.4 Red Bull Toyota before the start of the Showtime Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway (Credit: Drew Hallowell/Getty Images for NASCAR)

The No.78 team celebrates Regan Smith and Furniture Row's first NASCAR Sprint Cup Series victory at Darlington Raceway (Credit: Chris Graythen/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Regan Smith climbs out of the No.78 Furniture Row Chevrolet after winning the Showtime Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway. (Credit: Geoff Burke/Getty Images for NASCAR)

May 6, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

little michael edwards has arrived

Carl Edwards is a dad again! His wife, Kate, gave birth to their second child, son Michael, on Wednesday. Michael weighed in at 8lbs, 6 oz. Carl & Kate are already parents to their daughter, Anne, who was born last year.

Carl was asked about his son’s birth during his media session held at Darlington Raceway today:

“It was amazing. Kate is an amazing woman. We had a healthy young boy. His name is Michael Edwards and he’s doing great, so it’s just a great week. It was unreal. We had a lot of fun. Annie is really excited about her little brother. I don’t think she quite understands what is going on, but we’re all doing really well, so it’s good.”

May 4, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR

interview: inside the actor’s studio with trevor bayne

I interviewed the reigning Daytona 500 champion, 20-year-old Trevor Bayne, at Auto Club Speedway earlier this year. It was a lot of fun and Trevor was super nice. As you’re reading the interview just imagine a lot of laughter throughout. He had a really great attitude in approaching all of the questions.

As I’m sure you’ve heard Trevor has been dealing with some medical issues and is working to get his symptoms diagnosed as soon as possible so that he can get back into a racecar this year. I really wish him all the best and hope that he can get back to the track as soon as possible.

—
What is your favorite word? Epic

What is your least favorite word? The “G.D.”* word, when people are cussing and stuff. That’s terrible.

What turns you on? Here’s my favorite thing that ever happens: When we’re going out to wakeboard, we’re going to get a set on the lake, and you roll out and it’s, like, perfect weather but then the lake’s just glass. The wind’s down, you go out and the water is just glass. We call that, “butter,” because you don’t want to wakeboard on some choppy water.

What turns you off? Bad weather. When it’s cold & rainy that’s terrible. That’s my least favorite thing in the world. If it’s cold & snowing I’m good with it. Or if it’s raining when it’s warm I’m OK, but, like, cold rain is the worst thing in the world.

What sound or noise do you love? Car engine.

What sound or noise do you hate? Nails on a chalkboard is the worst.

What is your favorite curse word? I don’t have one. I don’t say them.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? I’d like to be in action sports. A wakeboarder or snowboarder, something like that I’d like to try. I know I couldn’t be a gold medalist in the X Games or anything but that’s what I’d like to do.

What profession would you not like to do? I do not want to be the guy cleaning out the port-a-potties. No, thank you on that one.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? Well, it does, and I want to hear him that say, “be proud.”

—
*Ed. note: By “G.D.” he meant, “God damn”

—
Read more of my “Inside the Actor’s Studio” questionnaire interviews in the archives and read about how it all started with Tony Stewart.

May 4, 2011 · IndyCar, Movies, NASCAR

get the shirt: “if you ain’t first, you’re last”

This blog isn’t about fashion but sometimes it comes up and relates to racing.

A few years ago I wrote about Scott Speed working with Muze Clothing to create a t-shirt that would benefit The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America Southwest Chapter. Well, the “Muffin Man” t-shirt is still available for purchase with 100% of the proceeds going to the same foundation.

And now I’m working with Muze to promote some of their newest t-shirts that will be of supreme interest to racing fans. First, let’s go over what Muze Clothing is all about:

Born out of an appreciation and dedication to classic movie lines, Muze is a lifestyle brand where movie quotes and fashion collide to bring you your new favorite shirt.

So the guys at Muze have created these two shirts: “If You Ain’t First You’re Last” one of the classic lines from the movie “Talladega Nights: The Legend of Ricky Bobby” and “Rubbin’s Racin’” from “Days of Thunder.”

May 3, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

richmond revelations: could denny hamlin be jack mcbrayer’s long lost brother?

I was this close to feeling bad for Denny Hamlin for not sweeping the races at Richmond this past weekend until I came across the program from last year’s Awards Ceremony banquet. The program included photos of each winner of every race in 2010. Denny won EIGHT of them. You’re not going to find any sympathy over here, Denny.

But I do like The Denny (that’s what I call him) and his new Toyota Sponsifier commercial is my favorite out of the three featuring him, Kyle Busch and Joey Logano. Why is it my favorite? Because I love the little kid that tells him he drives like his mom, and I love the silly smile Denny makes after the kid says that AND I love that when Denny smiles like that I instantly think he looks like that actor on NBC’s “30 Rock,” Jack McBrayer (he was in “Talladega Nights: The Legend of Ricky Bobby,” too). Here’s a side-by-side comparison shot:

Denny Hamlin (left) vs. Jack McBrayer (right)

Tina Fey should get Denny to do a cameo on “30 Rock” as Kenneth Purcell’s brother. I’m just sayin’.

In other news… Elliott Sadler announced that he and his wife, Amanda, are expecting a child this year. The couple are already parents to a son, Wyatt, who was born last year.

Carl Edwards, driver of the No. 99 Scotts EZ Seed Ford, stands in the garage during practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Crown Royal Presents The Matthew and Daniel Hansen 400 at Richmond International Raceway on Apr. 29 in Richmond, Va. (Credit: Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)

(L-R) Lt. Gen. Benjamin C. Freakley, commander of the U.S. Army Accessions Command, Revolution Racing CEO Max Siegel, Darrell Wallace Jr and NASCAR Vice President of Public Affairs and Multicultural Development announce a partnership between the U.S. Army and Revolution Racing. (Credit: John Harrelson/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Ryan Truex gets advice from older brother Martin before the start of the the BUBBA Burger 250 at Richmond International Raceway. Truex ended up posting his first career top-10 finish. (Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Travis Pastrana signs autographs for fans during practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Crown Royal Presents The Matthew and Daniel Hansen 400 at Richmond International Raceway on Apr. 29 in Richmond, Va. (Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images)

Denny Hamlin celebrates winning the BUBBA Burger 250 at Richmond International Raceway, his second NASCAR Nationwide Series victory at his home track. (Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR)

A young Denny Hamlin fan watches the hometown favorite race during the Crown Royal presents the Matthew and Daniel Hansen 400 at Richmond International Raceway. (Credit: Streeter Lecka/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Dale Earnhardt Jr., driver of the No. 88 National Guard/Amp Energy Chevrolet, signs autographs in the garage area during practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Crown Royal Presents The Matthew and Daniel Hansen 400 at Richmond International Raceway on Apr. 29 in Richmond, Va. (Credit: Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)

Kyle Busch salutes the fans after winning the Crown Royal presents the Matthew and Daniel Hansen 400 at Richmond International Raceway. (Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR)

April 29, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

shortcuts: the double-deuce crew gets cooking

So, first thing’s first, who stayed up late last night, or got up super early, to watch the Royal Wedding? I didn’t do either of those things, I just Tivo’d it and fast-forwarded to the good parts this morning. All I wanted to see was her dress and I was very disappointed. It was boring and it kinda looked like the dress my aunt wore in her first wedding back in the 80s. But I’m totally off topic with all of this because this isn’t a Royal Wedding style blog now is it?

I feel like I’m behind on a lot of stuff that went down this week and last, so here’s what I’ve got.

– Scott & Amanda Speed announced this week via Twitter that they found out they’re expecting a baby girl this year. This is the couple’s first child together.

– The No. 22 Shell-Pennzoil crew took part in a tailgating cook-off and grocery bagging challenge at a local Kroger store in the Richmond, Virginia area this week. The event promoted a special program that Shell & Kroger created together to help people save money on gas.

Every time race fans in the greater Richmond area make a purchase at Kroger with their Kroger Plus Card, they not only save money on their grocery bill but also earn Fuel Points that can be redeemed at the pump for savings on fuel. Kroger customers now have the opportunity to instantly redeem 100 Fuel Points to earn a 10 cent per gallon savings, or up to 1,000 Fuel Points per visit to save up to $1 per gallon at participating Shell stations. This offer is valid up to 35 gallons of fuel per purchase.

Some of the guys in the No. 22 Shell-Pennzoil crew show off the results of the cook-off

– Elliott Sadler headed up to Canada to promote the Nationwide Series race, the NAPA Auto Parts 200 presented by Dodge, that will take place at Circuit Gilles Villenuve in Montreal this August. And his birthday was coming up, so they got him a cake! Awww.

François Dumontier, president, NAPA Auto Parts 200 presented by Dodge, presents Elliott Sadler with a birthday cake in Montreal. Sadler's 36th birthday is April 30. (Credit: Muriel Broussseau Photo)

Elliott Sadler gets in and starts up the pace car to take media around Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. (Credit: Muriel Broussseau Photo)

– Kyle Busch saved the day by stopping some fake robbers from stealing the $1 million purse for the NASCAR Sprint Cup All-Star Race in Charlotte.

Kyle Busch thwarted an attempted bank heist and saved the $1 million NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race purse in an event to promote the May 21 race at Charlotte Motor Speedway. (Credit: CMS/HHP)

Kyle Busch after saving the day and rescuing the $1 million NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race purse in an event to promote the May 21 race at Charlotte Motor Speedway. (Credit: CMS/HHP)

– Rachel Gilbert, a 100-year-old woman from Laconia, New Hampshire, took a spin around New Hampshire Motor speedway in the track’s pace car to celebrate her centennial birthday. This was such a cool thing, I love the photo of her sitting in the car looking over the steering wheel (see below).

Here’s more on what Rachel received for her major milestone birthday:

As part of this ultimate birthday celebration Gilbert and her family will receive suite passes overlooking “The Magic Mile,” where they will enjoy every lap of the LENOX Industrial Tools 301.

Gilbert will also have the opportunity to rub elbows with the stars of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series during the Sunday morning drivers’ meeting.

The longtime race fan was surprised with this once in a lifetime opportunity from her family and Gappens. When told she would be riding around the speedway in the pace car, she was ready to leave for Loudon immediately.

Included in her birthday package was a race car cake, an official LENOX Industrial Tools 301 hat, NHMS jacket and birthday card. Her favorite driver Carl Edwards even signed and sent an official crew shirt and birthday wishes.

“My mom has always been a major race fan. She doesn’t miss a race on TV,” says daughter Marie Anne Mills.

Marie also had the opportunity to ride around the track with Gilbert. “I was more nervous than she was,” she said. “This was so wonderful.”

Rachel Gilbert drives 100 mph down the frontstretch at New Hampshire International Speedway. (Credit: Jonathan Stallsmith)

Jerry Gappens, president of New Hampshire International Speedway, presents 100-year-old Rachel Gilbert with an autographed shirt from her favorite driver Carl Edwards. (Credit: Jonathan Stallsmith)

April 27, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR

interview: inside the actor’s studio with kenny wallace

This is my new second favorite ITAS interview of all time, it came REALLY close to beating my top favorite which is the very first one I ever did with Tony Stewart. After Kenny Wallace answered the first question with the word “Fuck” we all laughed and he said, “That’s the truth! I can lie, I can lie!” I was all of course “No! The truth is better!” I knew we were in for a super special interview. Kenny is so funny but so honest, straightforward and genuine about everything he says and does.

He’s a man on a mission to win in the No. 09 American Ethanol Toyota Camry for RAB Racing with Brock Maggard in the NASCAR Nationwide Series and I sincerely hope it happens for him. Both he and his team owner Robby Benton, were great fun to talk to when I met them both at Auto Club Speedway earlier this year.

This was such a fun interview to do, I hope you enjoy it!

—
What is your favorite word? Fuck

What is your least favorite word? Negativity

What turns you on? Sex

What turns you off? Failure

What sound or noise do you love? “You’re clear,” that means I’m done jacking with that guy when I’m racing. When my spotter says, “You’re clear.”

What sound or noise do you hate? “Inside, inside, inside.” Multiple times. It means I’m getting freight-trained. It means I’m so slow everyone’s passing me.

What is your favorite curse word? See the first question.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? I would like for one year to be the bat boy for the St. Louis Cardinals. I would love to do that. I love my town of St. Louis and I thought, “How cool would it be?” I hear people change professions every once in a while, I’ve raced my whole life and I think there’s 162 games in a baseball season, whether it’s 162 games or all the home games, I would love to, for one time, be the bat boy for every damn game. I love baseball.

What profession would you not like to do? This is going to sound crazy. I would never want to be a crew chief again, because I was a crew chief. There’s no win. They’re in a no-win situation. It’s never good enough and it’s never enough.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? Welcome

—
Read more of my “Inside the Actor’s Studio” questionnaire interviews in the archives and read about how it all started with Tony Stewart.

April 26, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR

interview: inside the actor’s studio with jeremy clements

Jeremy Clements is my new sentimental favorite driver. Maybe it was because Jeremy and his crew chief, Ricky Pearson, were so hospitable to me when I interviewed him at Auto Club Speedway in March but I also think it was because he was just genuinely nice and humble.

He’s working on learning as much as he can every time he gets into his racecar and he’s already achieved one of his goals for the year which was to get locked into the top-30 in owners points (they’re currently 22nd) so that he and his team wouldn’t have to worry as much about qualifying each week. Jeremy sits 16th in driver points, but they’re still hoping to have enough funding so that they can run their No. 51 www.racedaysponsor.com Chevrolet in the NASCAR Nationwide Series for the entire year, something he’s never done before.

—
What is your favorite word? Speed

What is your least favorite word? No

What turns you on? Beautiful, sexy women

What turns you off? Bad attitude and stuck up people.

What sound or noise do you love? A roaring engine.

What sound or noise do you hate? That silence before you hit the wall. The tires are screeching, there’s silence and then it’s “boom!” I hate that because you know it’s coming.

What is your favorite curse word? Fuck. I say that on the radio in the car a lot if things aren’t going right.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? I’ve never even thought of that, ya know? (Me: Really?) Yeah (Me: You’ve always wanted to be a racecar driver?) Yeah, since I was in elementary school when I raced go-karts. Another profession, I’d like to be a stunt car driver, something like that. That’d be cool.

What profession would you not like to do? There’s a lot of them. I don’t ever want to work at McDonald’s or fast food, waiting on people in restaurants. I think that’d suck.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? Come on in, buddy!

(Photo credit: Jeremy Clements Racing)

—
Read more of my “Inside the Actor’s Studio” questionnaire interviews in the archives and read about how it all started with Tony Stewart.

April 25, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR

interview: inside the actor’s studio with robert richardson jr.

Out of all of the drivers that I’ve interviewed and asked about their goals for the year, Robert Richardson Jr. is the ONLY one that included a personal one. “Try to maintain a healthy lifestyle and stay in shape,” said Robert. That’s admirable, and it makes me wonder what personal goals other drivers have for this year. I mean, think about it, as a woman I am CONSTANTLY turning the goals that I have for my personal life over and over in my head (it’s usually something like “Where the hell is he already!?!”). So I wonder what some of those drivers that “have it all” are working towards in their personal lives.

Anywhoo, back to Robert. He drives the No. 23 Wildlife Conservation Society Dodge for R3 Motorsports in the NASCAR Nationwide Series. I spoke with him at Auto Club Speedway earlier this year and he had some pretty interesting responses.

—
What is your favorite word? I’m pretty religious so I’d probably have to say, “God.” I look up to Him quite a bit.

What is your least favorite word? Any cuss word really, especially if it’s being directed at me. I don’t know, anything negative really.

What turns you on? Well, as far as hobbies & stuff I like to hunt and fish and, obviously, I like to drive racecars. I guess you can say my girlfriend turns me on, I’ll give her a little credit.

What turns you off? Not succeeding and, like I said earlier, anything negative from anybody–whether they’re putting themselves down–I just don’t like to hear that stuff. I always try to keep everybody up beat and positive. I learned that from playing football, playing quarterback, you’re a leader and you just have to keep everybody pumped up when it’s time to go.

What sound or noise do you love? Racecars obviously. I like country music, any kind of music really. I listen to rap, rock & roll, things of that nature.

What sound or noise do you hate? Fingernails on a chalkboard

What is your favorite curse word? Favorite cuss word? I don’t know, I never really thought about that. I’ll swear on occasion. (Me: It could be something you say in place of a curse word) Uhm, “Shit.”

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? I was an art major in college and photography was my focus, but I was also well-rounded in painting and drawing and things like that. So I might want to pursue that at a later date.

What profession would you not like to do? Probably a police officer or working for the government.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? Come on in!

—
Read more of my “Inside the Actor’s Studio” questionnaire interviews in the archives and read about how it all started with Tony Stewart.

April 24, 2011 · IndyCar, IndyCar WAGs, NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

introducing the fabulous girl’s guide to racing

I honestly don’t know why I didn’t think of this sooner. Today I’ve launched a brand new website that will serve as a trusty companion to this site. The ‘Fabulous’ Girl’s Guide to Racing is a reference guide for all of the stats you want to know about your favorite drivers in NASCAR and INDYCAR. I think every major sports website has one of those guides where they list each player’s stats as it relates to their performance in their respective sport; things like sacks, free throws, averages and whatnot. So why not have one for racing that lists just the stuff that they usually bury?

This information isn’t exactly new–it’s already out there in different places all around the web–but now it’s housed in one convenient location that will be updated on a regular basis.

Yes, who a guy is dating or who he is married to has nothing to do with the sport they participate in, but I’m curious about it and I find it interesting. It’s not being nosey, okay, it sort of is, but I’m doing this from a distance with respect. I’m not posting rumors or gossip, I’m not making anything up. Everything that goes in the Guide will be confirmed before it’s posted, and if something’s wrong I’ll fix it.

To start, the Guide has profiles for the drivers in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and the IZOD IndyCar Series. Eventually I’ll be adding profiles for the men & women in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and Firestone Indy Lights Series.

In addition to the profiles, I’ve finally got a great place to recommend racing-related products you can buy. So far there are books (I totally forgot about all the NASCAR romance novels!), cookbooks, and DVDs.

Definitely check it out, tell ALL your friends and let me know what you think!

April 23, 2011 · IndyCar

why does the izod indycar series have the best parties?

Parties that I’m never invited to. I just don’t understand it. Actually, I have no idea how the actual party goes, in terms of atmosphere, drinks & apps, but I do know that they’ve always got an amazing guest list that makes me seethe with jealousy. This year’s Indy 500 Centennial Goes to Hollywood soiree was held at The Colony in Hollywood, days before the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach.

The guest list was interesting. I’ll let the photos do the talking.

Former porn star Jenna Jameson

MMA fighter Tito Ortiz with his girlfriend, Jenna Jameson

Actor, and the whole reason I'm so jealous of everyone that got to go to this party, Adrian Grenier

Dario Franchitti

Helio Castroneves

Adrian Grenier, Mark Wahlberg and Dario Franchitti

Comedian & actor Craig Robinson

Singer JoJo (She has a new CD coming out this year)

Graham Rahal

The band Young The Giant performed at the event

EJ Viso

(All photos credit: Getty Images for INDYCAR)

April 21, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR

interview: inside the actor’s studio with aric almirola

Aric Almirola wants to win races and contend for the Championship this year in the NASCAR Nationwide Series. Aric pilots the No. 88 Grand Touring Vodka Chevrolet for JR Motorsports and currently sits 6th in the points standings after Talladega. I did the following interview with Aric at Auto Club Speedway back in March.

Ya know, a lot of guys have said that nails on a chalkboard is the sound or noise that they hate but I was thinking about it–who has a chalkboard these days? I mean, really, when was the last time they heard that? I guess it’s just one of those things that you just know is a really annoying sound. Actually, now that I’ve written that I’m remembering times I had in elementary school when I accidentally scraped my fingers on a chalkboard and it’s creeping me out, not so much the sound but the feeling. Good thing kids these days only have to have to deal with dry erase boards.

—
What is your favorite word? I say, “Really” a lot.

What is your least favorite word? No

What turns you on? Fast cars

What turns you off? People driving slow in the fast lane.

What sound or noise do you love? The sound of an engine.

What sound or noise do you hate? Nails on a chalkboard.

What is your favorite curse word? I don’t curse very often, but I guess it’d probably have to be “Hell.” Or maybe “Damn.”

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? I wouldn’t be very good at it because I’m only weigh 165 pounds, but I would love to play football. I think it’d be interesting to just play a couple downs, if I didn’t get killed. (Me: Any particular position you would want to play?) I think I’d like to play wide receiver but only if the ball is thrown to me. I don’t want to play wide receiver if I’m just running around or having to block for the running back. I’d want the ball thrown to me every down.

What profession would you not like to do? Hockey, for sure. I would not play hockey. All of those guys are missing teeth and they always fight. Hockey is not for me. I can’t even watch hockey. I understand it, I understand the concept, but for me watching it is even tough because you can’t see that little black puck it goes so fast.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? Heaven does exist, in my mind, so that’s not even a question for me. If I’m waiting on God to say something hopefully it’s “Come in.”

—
Read more of my “Inside the Actor’s Studio” questionnaire interviews in the archives and read about how it all started with Tony Stewart.

April 18, 2011 · IndyCar

mike conway loses his izod indycar series victory virginity

I have to admit that I didn’t see everything that went down at the 37th Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach yesterday. I got a late start because of the NASCAR race and then I realized I really needed a nap. But I did wake up with enough time to watch Mike Conway win his very first IZOD IndyCar Series race. That was very cool, I love it when someone wins for the first time. It doesn’t happen near enough.

It’s probably a good thing that I didn’t see the whole race, and so I don’t have a lot to talk about, because I can get right to the photos!

Marco Andretti (left) and his grandfather, Mario (far right) chat with Los Angeles Dodger shortstop Jamey Carroll before the start of the Dodgers game vs the St. Louis Cardinals on Friday, April 15th, 2011

Marco Andretti throws out the first pitch for the Los Angeles Dodgers vs. St. Louis Cardinals game on Friday, April 15, 2011

Dragon Racing owner, Jay Penske (left – hulloooo Jay!), and his driver Paul Tracy (right)

Danica Patrick

"True Blood" actor Stephen Moyer participated in the 2011 Toyota Pro/Celebrity Race

"Good Day L.A." host Jillian Barberie-Reynolds participated in the 2011 Toyota Pro/Celebrity Race

Kimora Lee Simmons shares a photo with her boyfriend Djimon Hounsou and their son, Kenzo

Fashion designer/model Kimora Lee Simmons shares a photo with her husband, actor Djimon Hounsou, and their son, Kenzo

Actor Frankie Muniz

Actor Brian Austin Green

Chef Gordon Ramsay and his children

Actor Patrick Warburton

Dario Franchitti (3rd place), Mike Conway (winner!), and Ryan Briscoe (2nd place)

(all images courtesy INDYCAR)

April 18, 2011 · NASCAR

talladega and my fantasy top-12

Jimmie Johnson wins the Aaron's 499 at Talladega Superspeedway (Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR) There was a point during the last 30 laps of the Aaron’s 499 where I told myself to just let go of whatever outcome I was hoping to see and just let it happen. Is it funny or sad that I get so wrapped up in these races that I need to tell myself something like that? I have absolutely nothing at stake but I still get so caught up in wanting a certain person, or persons, to win that I’ll stress myself out over it.

Anyway, I couldn’t believe Jimmie Johnson pulled off that win; I was sure it was going to go to one of the Richard Childress Racing guys. Clint Bowyer had been running up front all day and Kevin Harvick has been, well, winning.

When I saw Jimmie trying to give the checkered flag to Dale Earnhardt Jr. I knew Dale wasn’t going to want it. It was a really classy move by Jimmie, I must say. As much as I would have been ridiculously thrilled for Dale Jr. to have come away with the win I’m still insanely excited that he’s 3rd in points right now. That’s just fantastic. O! And another fantastic thing: Huge congrats to David Gilliland and the No. 34 Taco Bell Ford team for walking away with a 9th place finish!

Every week when the latest points standings are published I read through them and then create my own “fantasy” top-12, it’s the list of drivers that I think would make for a super entertaining Champion’s Week. So it’s not a “Who do you think WILL make The Chase?” list, it’s a “Who do you WANT to see in the Chase because you know they’ll be superfun to interview during Champion’s Week?” It’s really early to be thinking about Champion’s Week but I can’t help it, it’s my favorite time of the year.

My current list is as follows (in no particular order):

1.) Tony Stewart – He has to host his annual “Stewie Awards” from Vegas, it wouldn’t be the same with him.

2.) Clint Bowyer – He needs his own talk show to host during Champion’s Week. I’m just sayin’.

3.) Kasey Kahne – He’s adorable

4.) Dale Earnhardt Jr. – People will lose their minds

5.) Kevin Harvick – Another guy with personality

6.) Denny Hamlin – Denny adds a layer of honesty and he likes to instigate drama (or at least he did at last year’s After the Lap event)

7.) Brian Vickers – Because he had some good stories to tell about Jimmie Johnson, and I’m sure there has to be more right??

8.) Jimmie Johnson – I’m including Jimmie because he’s a good sport, not because I want him to win a 6th straight championship.

9.) Brad Keselowski – I think he’d have a ridiculously good time to Vegas and would be very entertaining at the various events.

10.) Jeff Gordon – Jeff has that honesty vibe too, and he’s also very chatty. Chatty & honest are two ingredients for good times.

11) AJ Allmendinger – He’s someone that can definitely bring a lot of comedy relief.

12) Kyle Busch – Another honest guy with a personality that lends itself perfectly to the Champion’s Week festivities. Plus he’s the hometown guy.

(Left to right) NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers Joey Logano and Trevor Bayne talk in the garage during practice Friday at Talladega Superspeedway in Talladega, Ala. (Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Jeff Gordon, driver of the No. 24 Drive to End Hunger Chevrolet, talks with crew chief Alan Gustafson at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway. (Courtesy of Hendrick Motorsports)

Elliott Sadler celebrates winning his seventh career NASCAR Nationwide Series Coors Light Pole Award with a 179.558 mph lap on Friday at Talladega Superspeedway in Talladega, Ala. (Credit: Getty Images for NASCAR)

Michael Waltrip will start 12th on Sunday in the No.15 Aaron's/Auburn National Champions Toyota at Talladega Superspeedway (Credit: Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

2011 Hall of Fame Inductee Bobby Allison on pit road with Brad Keselowski before the start of the Aaron's 499 at Talladega Superspeedway (Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Fans watch Jimmie Johnson cross the finish line .002 seconds ahead of Clint Boywer at Talladega Superspeedway. Johnson's win ties the record for closest finish in NASCAR history. (Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Crew chief Chad Knaus and Jimmie Johnson, driver of the No. 48 Lowe's Chevrolet, celebrate in Victory Lane at Talladega. (Courtesy of Hendrick Motorsports)

April 14, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR

interview: inside the actor’s studio with michael annett

What are Michael Annett’s goals for this year? “Definitely to be consistently running in the top-10 each weekend,” said Annett. “Hopefully those top-10 runs turn into top-5s and that gets us top-3, top-5 in points.”

I had the opportunity to interview Michael, driver of the No. 62 Pilot Travel Centers Toyota for Rusty Wallace Racing in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, at Las Vegas Motor Speedway last month.

—
What is your favorite word? Tenacious

What is your least favorite word? Soggy

What turns you on? As far as?? (Me: Anything) I like anything with some chrome on it. A good looking truck or a good looking boat, or anything like that.

What turns you off? People with bad attitudes.

What sound or noise do you love? Sound of cars running at their highest performance. That second right before you hear the rev limiter go off. The sound right before that.

What sound or noise do you hate? Probably nails on a chalkboard or even fingernails on a paperback book, on paper, that bothers me too.

What is your favorite curse word? Probably “Fuck.” Pretty easy.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Professional bull riding.

What profession would you not like to do? I would hate to be an author. (Me: An author?) Yeah, I hate reading books, writing papers, anything. I hate that.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? Hopefully, he says, “Welcome.” I hope so.

—
Read more of my “Inside the Actor’s Studio” questionnaire interviews in the archives and read about how it all started with Tony Stewart.

April 13, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR

interview: inside the actor’s studio with jason leffler

Jason Leffler I was just thinking, if you had told me 5 years ago that I would be asking NASCAR drivers what turns them on right now, I would have told you you were nuts. But now it’s just my reality.

I interviewed Jason Leffler at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. He drives the No. 38 Great Clips Chevrolet for Turner Motorsports in the NASCAR Nationwide Series. Jason is one cool dude and was the first person to answer “favorite curse word” with such a smooth delivery I actually had to complement him on it.

—
What is your favorite word? Fast

What is your least favorite word? No

What turns you on? Besides hot girls? Race cars.

What turns you off? Slow race cars.

What sound or noise do you love? Sound of an engine.

What sound or noise do you hate? Alarm clock

What is your favorite curse word? Fuck

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? I want to be an actor.

What profession would you not like to do? I wouldn’t want to be the president.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? Look at this beautiful race track, you can race for eternity here.

—
Read more of my “Inside the Actor’s Studio” questionnaire interviews in the archives and read about how it all started with Tony Stewart.

April 13, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR

interview: inside the actor’s studio with j.j. yeley

JJ Yeley J.J. Yeley has a great name doesn’t he? It’s one of those names that’s just fun to pronounce.

I interviewed him at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and totally dug his attitude towards making some noise in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series these days. J.J. drives the No. 46 Chevrolet for Whitney Motorsports and he had this to say when I asked him about his goals for this year: “My goal for the way things are right now are to help this small team that I’ve been driving for find a sponsor to where we can go out and prove to people that even though we’re a small group of guys that we can still get the job done. It’s a lot of fun being the underdog when you go to the race track because the expectations that people have for you are low, but to go out there and surprise people is a lot of fun.”

—

What is your favorite word? Sweet

What is your least favorite word? It’s usually when I hear my name, because it means I’m in trouble. Least favorite word? I don’t think I have a least favorite word. Oh, I know “Hot,” when people say, “Oh, that’s hot.”

What turns you on? Smiles. I like when people smile.

What turns you off? Attitude

What sound or noise do you love? My daughter laughing.

What sound or noise do you hate? The alarm clock.

What is your favorite curse word? I’ve cut way back on that because I have a 6-year-old. But I would say it’s a four-letter word. (Me: But which one?) Let’s leave it as a four-letter word because sometimes it varies.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? If I was not a race car driver, based on my life, I would become a taxi driver. (Me: Really?) Sure, ‘cause it’s the closest thing to racing. You get to drive a car really fast, completely ignore everyone around you. (Me: This is true) Yea, I think it’d be fun.

What profession would you not like to do? I wouldn’t want to be a dentist.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? I get to sit in the big chair.

—
Read more of my “Inside the Actor’s Studio” questionnaire interviews in the archives and read about how it all started with Tony Stewart.

April 12, 2011 · IndyCar

versus needs an intervention

Tony Kanaan and Wally Dallenbach Jr. Yes, VERSUS the channel that broadcasts IndyCar action needs serious help. I asked everyone (ok, nobody, but did I really need to?) what they thought of this weekend’s coverage of the Honda Grand Prix of Alabama and they all said the same thing: It sucked!

Now, I don’t like saying negative stuff but you guys–I’m talking to you Versus–need to hear the truth. Your transitions, your intros, your outros, your lead announcer who was way to excited when it wasn’t necessary, and those moments of dead air really took the wind out of your sails. It was not good stuff.

That being said it wasn’t ALL terrible. I really enjoyed your pre-race coverage with NUMEROUS live driver interviews (take note, FOX) and the look back at what happened last week at St. Petersburg since I didn’t get to watch that race–now I’m all caught up. I also dug that segment with James Hinchcliffe when you had him trace the layout of Barber Motorsports Park blindfolded. That was fun stuff.

You guys need to step it up though. Maybe you should go on one of those team building retreats and foster some good synergy to make your broadcasts more seamless & in sync.

We, the fans who have to endure your coverage, want this for you more than you know.

But on to the race itself. It was pretty interesting watching the IndyCar drivers have to get used to double-file restarts. It wreaked havoc with cautions all over the place, but it just made me even more excited for the Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma at Infineon Raceway later this year. It’s going to be really cool.

Another highlight was Simona De Silvestro. I’m so excited for this girl. She’s kicking butt right now, she finished the race in 9th (at St. Pete she finished 4th) but she’s sitting 5th in the points standings tied with Scott Dixon. As the SNL parody of Miley Cyrus would say, “It’s pretty cool!” (I’m obsessed with saying this by the way, I do it all the time in my head and sometimes out loud when no one’s around, it’s on a loop)

Dario Franchitti

Danica Patrick poses for a photo with a fan

James Jakes

Ana Beatriz shows off her fractured wrist. The injury occurred on lap 5 at the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg last month, the first race of the season. She's hoping to be back in her car for Long Beach this week.

Ryan Hunter Reay

Creepy! Spiders at Barber Motorsports Park

Will Power jumps for joy over winning the Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama

Dario Franchitti, Will Power and Scott Dixon celebrate landing on the podium at the Hond Indy Grand Prix of Alabama. Scott finished 2nd and Dario came in 3rd.

(all photos credit & courtesy of INDYCAR)

April 11, 2011 · NASCAR

kenseth messes with texas, wins

I feel so incredibly late with this post, and I apologize for that. There’s something about Sunday that makes me really not want to do anything that I “should” do.

And to make matters worse I didn’t even write anything about the race at Martinsville. Ya know, the one where Dale Earnhardt Jr. made me mental. When he took the lead I muted the television and began yelling my TV screen. Of course it didn’t work because Kevin Harvick had to be all good and everything and win the race. Despite not making my life and winning that race I’m so incredibly PROUD of Mr. Dale Jr. because he’s in the Top 12 in points, which is just awesome all by itself. One last thing about Martinsville, Harvick shouldn’t have said anything about “being the bad guy.” He did what he was supposed to do–anything and everything he could to win that race. He’s not supposed to worry about the feelings of JR Nation. Just race, that’s all we ask.

Soo, on to this past weekend at Texas. Congratulations to Matt Kenseth and the No. 17 Crown Royal Black team! That was a great win and I’m always stoked for someone to win a race when it’s been a REEEEEALLLLLLY long time since they last had one.

Here’s one housekeeping note: I recently launched The Fast and the Fabulous mobile application. Now you can receive alerts and stuff on your cell phone, if it uses the Android operating system. Look for it in the Android Market on your cell phone. Just search for “The Fast and the Fabulous” or “NASCAR.” There’s a solution coming soon for iPhones so stay tuned for that.

Josh Aron stands by the No. 11 FedEx Office/March of Dimes Toyota, in the garage area prior to practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Samsung Mobile 500 at Texas Motor Speedway on Apr. 7 in Fort Worth, Texas. (Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR)

David Ragan, driver of the No. 6 UPS Freight Ford, sits in his car during practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Samsung Mobile 500 at Texas Motor Speedway on Apr. 7 in Fort Worth, Texas. (Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Kasey Kahne, driver of the No. 4 Red Bull Toyota, climbs in his car during practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Samsung Mobile 500 at Texas Motor Speedway on Apr. 8 in Fort Worth, Texas. (Credit: Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

Tony Stewart, driver of the No. 14 Mobil 1/Office Depot Chevrolet, talks his father, Nelson, during practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Samsung Mobile 500 at Texas Motor Speedway on Apr. 7 in Fort Worth, Texas. (Credit: Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)

Jeff Gordon, driver of the No. 24 DuPont Chevrolet, hugs a fan in the garage area during practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Samsung Mobile 500 at Texas Motor Speedway on Apr. 7 in Fort Worth, Texas. (Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Carl Edwards joins the fans following his win in the NASCAR Nationwide Series 15th Annual O'Reilly Auto Parts 300 at Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas. (Credit: Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

Lead singer Brad Arnold and drummer Greg Upchurch of 3 Doors Down perform prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Samsung Mobile 500 at Texas Motor Speedway on Saturday in Fort Worth, Texas. (Credit: Jonathan Ferrey/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Going for a weekend sweep, Carl Edwards greets fans prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Samsung Mobile 500 at Texas Motor Speedway on Saturday in Fort Worth, Texas. (Credit: Tom Pennington/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Matt Kenseth celebrates in Victory Lane after winning the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Samsung Mobile 500 at Texas Motor Speedway on Saturday in Fort Worth, Texas. (Credit: Tom Pennington/Getty Images for NASCAR)

April 8, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR

interview: inside the actor’s studio with joey logano

I didn’t realize exactly how tall Joey Logano is until I interviewed him at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. It was right after his Sprint Cup Series qualifying run and I found myself standing next to him thinking, “Heey, he’s really tall!” You don’t get a lot of racecar drivers that are noticeably tall, tall. He’s 6’1″. Anyway, Joey was funny. Having just transcribed this and heard his responses again I realized he didn’t actually answer a couple of them. I think that’s a first.

—
What is your favorite word? Wicked

What is your least favorite word? [laughs] I don’t have a PG rated answer for that one. (Me: Really? For your least favorite word?) What is your least favorite word? I don’t have one.

What turns you on? Racecars

What turns you off? Every answer I come up with is not a good answer. (Me: [Inaudible]) No, it’s just not a good answer for me to say. That’s a loaded question (Me: No, it’s not. Just think of it as something you don’t like) Lying. I don’t like lying.

What sound or noise do you love? A big ol’ motor.

What sound or noise do you hate? Knives against a plate, or chalkboard scratch, that kind of thing.

What is your favorite curse word? Depends on the moment. [laughs]

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? I never really thought about trying anything else. Maybe hockey, I enjoy hockey a lot. Hockey’s cool.

What profession would you not like to do? I would not want to sit behind a desk all day, that’d be hard for me.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? Come on in!

April 7, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR

interview: inside the actor’s studio with steve wallace

When I arrived at Steve Wallace’s hauler to interview him at Las Vegas Motor Speedway the day before his Nationwide Series race, I could tell he wasn’t having a very good day. He hadn’t said anything yet and he seemed like he’d rather not have to do an interview. As you’ll see in the interview below, the source of his annoyance reveals itself. At the end of the questioning I asked him what his goals are for this year and Steve said, “Definitely win some races, run good. We’re really plenty capable of it. We’ve just had a really shitty start to the year and haven’t had luck on our side. Our cars aren’t handling as good as they need to, so we’ve got a lot to fix.”

I will say, though, that as we went through the questions he seemed to relax and overall I dug his answers, especially what he’d like to hear God say when he gets to heaven.

For the record at Las Vegas he ended up finishing 16th, which isn’t super terrible, and the following race at Bristol he finished 11th (Better!), then 27th at Auto Club Speedway (Uh oh). So it looks like they’re still got their work cut out for them.

—
What is your favorite word? Dude

What is your least favorite word? Y’all

What turns you on? In what way? (Me: In whatever way you think. Think of it as, like, what makes you happy) What makes me happy. When my car’s fast. Today it’s not. I’m not happy today. Or yesterday. (Me: But you can work on that, right?) Yeah.

What turns you off? People with chips on their shoulders.

What sound or noise do you love? Engines

What sound or noise do you hate? Loud screeching noises, like nails on a chalkboard. Anything that squeals.

What is your favorite curse word? The F-bomb.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Professional fisherman.

What profession would you not like to do? Aw shit, there’s a bunch of them. Anything that has to do with an office would not be good for me.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? That I’m a badass, that’s about it.

—
Read more of my “Inside the Actor’s Studio” questionnaire interviews in the archives and read about how it all started with Tony Stewart.

April 6, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR

interview: inside the actor’s studio with justin allgaier

This interview with Justin Allgaier took place at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, the same weekend that he finished second in the NASCAR Nationwide Series Sam’s Town 300, just behind his part-time Turner Motorsports teammate Mark Martin. It was a huge weekend for those guys.

—

What is your favorite word? Rollability. It’s a word that came from trying to figure out how to make the racecars go faster and it just kind of stuck. I don’t know if it’s a word or not.

What is your least favorite word? “Like” because I say it all the time and it drives me nuts and I try to keep myself from saying it.

What turns you on? My wife.

What turns you off? Bad smells.

What sound or noise do you love? I actually like the sound of fire. The cracking and the popping of fire. I’ve always really liked that sound.

What sound or noise do you hate? Ambulances or emergency vehicles. The sirens, I can’t stand sirens.

What is your favorite curse word? I don’t really cuss, that kind of eliminates my favorite curse word. (Me: Do you have something you say in place of a curse word?) I say, “Eff” a lot. It’s kind of odd but that’s my curse word, I guess, if I have one.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? The graphic arts industry. I started out when I was younger doing my own decals on my racecars and I absolutely love it.

What profession would you not like to do? Anything to do with sewers or sewage. We were actually reading at thing today about how they’re going to turn sewage water into drinking water and that really bothers me. So that would definitely not be a profession I would want to be in.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? Just to say that I did the right thing. I think that would be the most important.

—
Read more of my “Inside the Actor’s Studio” questionnaire interviews in the archives and read about how it all started with Tony Stewart.

April 6, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

shortcuts: little paige sauter has arrived

Johnny Sauter won the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Kroger 250 at Martinsville on Saturday, but he won on Tuesday, too! Johnny’s wife, Cortney, gave birth to the couple’s second child, a baby girl they’ve named Paige Gertrude Sauter (left). Paige joins her older brother, Penn.

Congratulations Cortney & Johnny!

In other supercute kid news…

– Just before the Auto Club 500 in California a couple weeks ago Jeff Gordon made an appearance on The Ellen Degeneres show and shared the cutest story about why his daughter, Ella, wants to be a racer driver one day. If your ovaries don’t weep from this one I don’t know what to tell you.

Ellen: I heard that Ella told you she wants to be a racecar driver?

Jeff: I get asked this all the time. Do you want your daughter to be a racecar driver? I just want to approach it the same way that my parents approached it with me and my sister. Whatever opportunities or passions you see as a parent your kids interested in, pursue that and see where that takes them. That’s what happened with me. We found racing at a young age. My parents introduced me to it and it just took off. I hadn’t thought about it a whole lot, certainly with my daughter, and we were driving down the road the other day and out of nowhere, she said, “Papa, I want to be a racecar driver.” And I said, “You do? Why do you want to be a racecar driver?” [She said] “Because I love you.” It just crushed me and at the same time, I thought, “Oh, now I’m going to have to get a racecar.” Laughs

JEFF GORDON makes an appearance on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" on Friday, March 25th, 2011 (photo credit: Michael Rozman/Warner Bros.)

(Paige Sauter photo credit: Cortney Sauter Facebook page)

April 5, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR

interview: inside the actor’s studio with kasey kahne

Here is my “impromptu” interview with Kasey Kahne that took place at Auto Club Speedway a couple weeks ago. When we got to his least favorite word Kasey said, “I don’t know, these are really tough. This is the hardest interview I’ve had in a long time.” We left that question, went through the rest and came back to it at the end. Also, of note, when he said “Nice” for his first answer he drew out the “ce” sound, so it sounded more like “Nighssss.”

—
What is your favorite word? Nice

What is your least favorite word? Retard

What turns you on? Girls

What turns you off? Negative people.

What sound or noise do you love? Music

What sound or noise do you hate? Screaming. I hate screaming.

What is your favorite curse word? Fuck

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? I’d like to be a golfer. Actually, I’d like to be a bull rider.

What profession would you not like to do? I really wouldn’t want to be a garbage man.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? Hi.

—
Read more of my “Inside the Actor’s Studio” questionnaire interviews in the archives and read about how it all started with Tony Stewart.

April 4, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Auto Club Speedway Weekend (03/11)

sunday in fontana: richard marx makes my day

Sunday at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California started out with the customary trip to THE Starbucks. I call it “THE Starbucks” because it’s the one everybody goes to during the race weekend, and by everybody I mean literally everybody. It could be groups of fans apart of some racing package deal or pit crew members, PR people, and NASCAR drivers. I always see someone. On Saturday morning it was Michael Waltrip and Michael Waltrip Racing general manager Ty Norris. Sunday I chatted about the weather with a pit crew guy that recognized me from the garage.

April 2, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Auto Club Speedway Weekend (03/11)

saturday in fontana: kids run the garage

Saturday in Fontana started out with Nationwide Series qualifying. Heather and I hung out in the media bull pen area and watched as the cars came through. It was pretty routine so this is a good time to talk about the children I saw in the garage that weekend. There were TONS of them. The new NASCAR rule allowing kids in the garage has made a big impact because I’ve never seen so many little boys and girls getting photos and autographs.

April 2, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Auto Club Speedway Weekend (03/11)

last friday in fontana: an impromptu kasey kahne interview

Thursday evening in Fontana, after I checked into my hotel just down the street from the race track, I discovered I forgot my cell phone charger at home. So I went to a Best Buy down the street to get another one. Then in the morning I woke up and found that I had left the pouch that holds all of my cords, USB drives and–most importantly–my digital recorder that still had a bunch of interviews on it from Las Vegas that I had yet to transcribe. I made a silent prayer that it was somewhere safe and then headed back to Best Buy to buy another one ’cause I had interviews to do that day.

April 1, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Auto Club Speedway Weekend (03/11)

the hollywood bus tour with clint bowyer

I woke up at 4:30am to the sounds of soft rock playing from my alarm clock. I marveled for a moment at the fact that I didn’t feel super horrible waking up that early in the morning. I usually feel terrible and have to think of a million things to psych myself up to get going but I didn’t have to that last Thursday morning.

March 24, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR

interview: inside the actor’s studio with jamie mcmurray

I didn’t get to meet Jamie McMurray, driver of the No. 1 Bass Pro Shops Chevrolet for Earnhardt Ganassi Racing, and ask him these questions in person but he was super gracious to send over his answers via email. Good stuff.

—

What is your favorite word? Winning

What is your least favorite word? Can’t

What turns you on? My wife

What turns you off? Germs

What sound or noise do you love? The quiet sound of my son’s breath when he falls asleep on my shoulder

What sound or noise do you hate? Fingers down the chalkboard

What is your favorite curse word? Try not to use them much

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Professional bass fisherman

What profession would you not like to do? Ice Road Trucker

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? Well done my son!

—
Read more of my “Inside the Actor’s Studio” questionnaire interviews in the archives and read about how it all started with Tony Stewart.

March 23, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR

interview: inside the actor’s studio with jennifer jo cobb

So, I have to tell you guys something. Jennifer Jo Cobb is my new hero. I couldn’t respect this woman more. She has a passion for racing that is obvious and deep. I spoke with her at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, well before the brouhaha occurred at Bristol, and it was clear to me then that she wasn’t someone that was casual or wishy-washy about her racing career.

When I asked her about the goals she has set for herself in the NASCAR Nationwide Series she answered without hesitation. “Win Nationwide Series Rookie of the Year,” said Jennifer, “And improve my position each and every week to become a respectable competitor in this series.”

I really, really hope that she can be as successful as she wants to be in NASCAR. We need more strong women in NASCAR, not just behind the scenes and in support roles, but also on the track.

—
What is your favorite word? Fabulous (Me: Good answer!)

What is your least favorite word? Can’t

What turns you on? Going very, very fast

What turns you off? Going very, very slow

What sound or noise do you love? The engine of a race car

What sound or noise do you hate? The alarm clock

What is your favorite curse word? I say “Freaking” more than anything.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? CIA. Sometimes I think about what I do as a living and I’m like, “Does it matter? Is it making a difference? Or is it all just fun?” And so I think I would love to work this hard, as hard as we work, for a mission that really counts for something. It has a beginning, it has an end, it has a “mission accomplished.” (Me: I think that what you do is very inspiring to other female drivers) I’ve been thinking that lately, especially my story. I hope it provides hope for people. So maybe that gives what I do a little more meaning.

What profession would you not like to do? EMT (Emergency Medical Technician). I wouldn’t want to put my hands in someone else’s blood.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? Oh, this is easy. I want to know where all the things I have lost have gone. But what would I want to hear him say? Job well done.

(photo credit: cobbracingteam.com

—
Read more of my “Inside the Actor’s Studio” questionnaire interviews in the archives and read about how it all started with Tony Stewart.

March 22, 2011 · IndyCar, IndyCar WAGs, NASCAR

shortcuts: bowyer to tour la la land on a double-decker bus

I’m driving down to Southern California for the Auto Club 500 race weekend at Auto Club Speedway on Thursday. Eaaaarly Thursday morning, to be exact. Clint Bowyer is launching “Speedway Day L.A.” on the steps of City Hall in downtown Los Angeles, and then immediately following that he’ll go on a tour of L.A. with media and race fans on a double-decker bus. I’m getting on the bus! You know how much I enjoyed my time on the double-decker bus in Vegas during Champion’s Week, so there was no way I was missing out on this opportunity.

The festivities will start at Noon at City Hall (200 N. Spring Street at 1st Street in Los Angeles), then we’ll stop by Elvis’ star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame around 1:30pm (Southeast corner of Hollywood Blvd and N. La Brea Blvd. in Hollywood), then walk down to Grauman’s Chinese Theatre between 1:30 & 2:10pm, and then we’re going to In-N-Out Burger where Clint will serve ice-cold Coke to people around 2:15pm, and then we’ll return to City Hall.

Fun right? Totally looking forward to it, and it makes up for the fact that I’ll be missing out on Tony Stewart’s appearance in the San Francisco Bay Area that’s also taking place on Thursday (more about that below).

I was checking out the weather forecast for Fontana on Weather.com and it looks like it’s supposed to rain on Friday. So there’s a 40% chance that qualifying will be rained out. I would rather that it didn’t.

In other news…

– Grammy award winning artist Richard Marx (right) will perform the National Anthem before the start of the Auto Club 500 this week. I, for one, am SO EXCITED about this news. I LOVE Richard Marx! I mean, hello, “Endless Summer Nights,” “Right Here Waiting,” “Hold on to the Nights,” “Should’ve Known Better,” “Now and Forever,” and my personal extra fave “Hazard.” The man is a musical genius and I adore him.

– Another dude that I loved from my days as a pre-teen/teen is Christian Slater. “Heathers,” you guys. Oh! And “Untamed Heart”, that movie was, like, the most romantic movie to me until I saw Leo DiCaprio in “Romeo + Juliet.” Do I need to say more? He’s in a new TV show for FOX so I’m sure that’s why he was named the Grand Marshal for Sunday’s race at Auto Club Speedway. I’m not mad about that at all.

– Like I mentioned Tony Stewart will be stopping by the Bay Area on Thursday to hang out at the Oakland Zoo. He’s going to give the resident male elephant, Osh, a “pedicure” with the help of the Elephant Manager Jeff Kinzley. There will be a fan & media Q&A session with Tony held in the Marian Zimmer Auditorium and it should start around 1:15pm. Fans can get a $2 discount on admission to the zoo (for this Thursday only) by mentioning “Infineon Raceway at the ticket booth.

– Another Thursday driver event is taking place at the Stonewood Center Best Buy Mobile in Downey, Calif. Casey Mears and AJ Allmendinger will be on hand with Miss Sprint Cup Monica Palumbo from 6pm to 8pm to take photos, and sign autographs for fans. On Sunday Casey and AJ will be racing each other in a “race within a race” in order to win $5,000 from Sprint for the charity of their choice. Casey has selected Alzheimer’s Foundation of America and AJ has picked Paralyzed Veterans of America.

– IndyCar driver Dan Wheldon and his wife, Susie, welcomed their second child into the world this weekend. Their son, Oliver, was born on Sunday and joins older brother Sebastian, who turned 2 last month.

March 21, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

bristol was missing something (not just butts in the seats)

Was the only thing that was interesting about the Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol the driver introductions that we didn’t even get to see? I would say “Yes.” They couldn’t show ONE of the driver’s walking into their song?? I know it costs money to get the rights to play the songs on air but Fox doesn’t have money for JUST ONE?!

I Tivo’d the pre-race show, as has become a new rule so that I can skip the crappy parts (80% of it), and I made sure I went through it TWICE to make sure I didn’t miss a moment where they might have shown an intro and I didn’t find anything. Instead, there was some thing with Darrell Waltrip and Jeff Hammond and some diagram that looked like the board game “Operation” or something. I dunno, I was fast forwarding.

Anyway, Kyle Busch’s weekend sweep was impressive, of course. The deal that went down between Jennifer Jo Cobb and the owner of 2nd Chance Motorsports was far more interesting than anything either race had to offer. Jennifer Jo Cobb is all about racing, why would someone who has stated several times that her goal this year is contend for Rookie of the Year in the Nationwide Series ever want to “start & park”? I mean, c’mon, she’s all about racing. I sincerely wish her all the best and hope she can get something together that’ll help her reach her goal. What she did on Saturday took guts. It would have been way easier to just run the few laps and get out of the car, but she stood up for herself and I think that’s awesome. That’s a person I can root for!

Dale Earnhardt Jr., driver of the No. 88 National Guard/AMP Energy Chevrolet, participates in a media session on March 18 at Bristol. (Courtesy of Hendrick Motorsports)

Ricky Stenhouse Jr celebrates winning the Coors Light Pole Award for the NASCAR Nationwide Scotts EZ Seed 300 at Bristol Motor Speedway. (Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Crew Members working on pit road during NASCAR Sprint Cup Series practice at Bristol Motor Speedway (Credit: Chris Trotman/Getty Images)

Kasey Kahne watches practice at Bristol Motor Speedway. Kahne was fourth fastest in practice with a top speed of 127.929mph. (Credit: Geoff Burke/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Jeff Gordon looks on as his crew makes adjustments to the No. 24 Pepsi Max Chevrolet at Bristol Motor Speedway (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Elliott Sadler watches practice after posting the third quickest lap of 15.677 seconds in NASCAR Nationwide Series final practice at Bristol Motor Speedway (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Danica Patrick shows her frustration after an incident on lap 248 during the Scotts EZ Seed 300 at Bristol Motor Speedway (Credit: Geoff Burke/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Ingrid Vandebosch, wife of Jeff Gordon, with their son Leo before the start of the Jeff Byrd 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway (Credit: John Harrelson/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Jimmie Johnson hold his daughter, Genevieve, before the start of the Jeff Byrd 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway (Credit: John Harrelson/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Kyle Busch performs a burnout on the front stretch after winning the Jeff Byrd 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway (Credit: Geoff Burke/Getty Images for NASCAR)

March 16, 2011 · IndyCar, NASCAR

shortcuts: another nascar connection on ‘the bachelor’, mcmurray & dixon swap rides

Miss Sprint Cup Kim Coon

Now that I’ve finally finished up my Vegas posts I can get to some of the other stuff that’s happened recently.

Monday night was the finale of the 15th season of “The Bachelor.” I was surprised to see Emily Maynard “win” (I don’t like to think of it as “winning” so much as just being the best person for that particular person ’cause those other women aren’t losers, ya know what I mean?) and become engaged to Brad Womack. I’m happy for her, but I’m also really happy that she thought it best to wait to get married until after they’ve lived with each other in the “real” world. All in all definitely hope for the best for those two.

So here’s the fun/interesting news tip that Tara S. sent me. Apparently the newest Miss Sprint Cup, Kim Coon was a contestant on this season of The Bachelor, as well. I had no idea there was another NASCAR connection on the show. Kim was eliminated at the 3rd rose ceremony.

In other news…

– NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Jamie McMurray swapped rides with IndyCar Series driver Scott Dixon today at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama.

McMurray, on the car-swapping opportunity: I think it’s cool that the racetracks came together and were able to let us help promote those races and make it fun for us. For me, getting to drive this is a great opportunity. It’s a lot of money to come and do something like this, so it worked out well that they were already here testing. For Chip to bring his car down to Talladega and let Scott drive it, it’s hard to put those two together, because it costs so much money.

Dixon, on the possibility of becoming a Sprint Cup driver: Well, there’s no $5 million prize in NASCAR, so no, I’m not going. (Laughing.) Obviously, I’m intrigued by it. Sprint Cup is a massive sport, and has a huge following. I think the thing that’s most intriguing, as you’ve seen by the people who have tried to make the transition or have made the transition, it’s 43 cars that are very, very tight and very, very close. I think the tough part for me would be actually doing the 36 races a year. That’s a lot of travel.

Jamie McMurray and Scott Dixon swap rides

(All photos courtesy of INDYCAR)

– In his pre-race press release for Bristol, Clint Bowyer shared the story of what happened after his engine blew up at the spring race at Bristol last year:

You finished 40th last year after you blew an engine. What do you do after? Do you hang out? Go home?

“You have to go home and it’s not much fun. Funny story – I was driving and on my way home I about ripped the leather off the steering wheel because I was so mad. I pulled in to get gas down the road and the cashier had a little TV behind the counter watching the race. I told him how much money I put in and he looked at me, looked at the TV, looked at me again and said ‘why are you here?’ I said ‘long story; don’t ask.’ It was actually pretty funny.”

– REMINDER: Enter to win a Richard Petty Driving Experience ride-along at Bristol in August.

March 15, 2011 · Music, NASCAR, NASCAR Las Vegas Motor Speedway Weekend (March 2011)

a vegas ending: fake elvis, paris hilton and a hug from a hottie

I had to get up really, really early on Sunday morning in order to get to Las Vegas Motor Speedway in time to take a ride in the pace car with NASCAR’s Director of Competition, Research & Development Brett Bodine.

March 13, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Las Vegas Motor Speedway Weekend (March 2011)

danica patrick writes herself into nascar history, wax dale earnhardt stays in the shade

On Saturday morning in Las Vegas the first and only thing I scheduled to do that day was interview Jennifer Jo Cobb. She was great and it was awesome to find out that her favorite word is “Fabulous.” Smart lady!

March 12, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Las Vegas Motor Speedway Weekend (March 2011), NASCAR WAGs

why kyle busch put his wedding on tv, keselowski’s ‘recovery’ program

Friday morning in Las Vegas started with me arriving at the track just in time to interview J.J. Yeley at his hauler. But I found out that he had been asked to drive the No. 27 car for Baker Curb Racing in the Nationwide Series race. So he was participating in their practice session and wouldn’t be available till later in the day (We did end up connecting later in the day and I got some great answers from him).

March 10, 2011 · 2011 Hottest Driver, NASCAR, NASCAR Las Vegas Motor Speedway Weekend (March 2011)

how i presented the hottest driver award to tony stewart

When it was clear that Tony Stewart was the winner of the first annual Hottest Driver Tournament I was happy. Not because I’m a fan of his, or that I have some “thing” for him, which I don’t. Nope, it was purely for the fact that I knew I would definitely be able to present him with the award. If Dale Earnhardt Jr. had won this thing I doubt I would have had the opportunity to give him the award, let alone do it in person.

March 10, 2011 · NASCAR

david reutimann fights back, beats up a hamburger

I love a good NASCAR-related commercial. I really do. Those Sponsifier commercials are on point this year. But I was recently asked to help promote TUMS’ new NASCAR campaign that features Michael Waltrip Racing driver David Reutimann and his team owner, Michael Waltrip.

Their new TV commercial features Michael getting beat up by a rib, which is really funny to me and also very disturbing in the same instance. The whole food fighting you concept is both smart and creepy, but mostly smart because it totally plays up the importance of TUMS’ product. Anyway, I can appreciate that.

TUMS has added a new component of their campaign and that’s the following video in which we see a giant hamburger challenge David Reutimann to a duel, of sorts. The cool part is that you get to chose the ending. Does David fight back and take TUMS or not? You decide!

My favorite part is when Michael Waltrip slowly closes the doors on his hauler. Funny!

TUMS, Michael and David were on hand at Las Vegas Motor Speedway last Friday and it was fun to hear them talk about their experience in creating the videos, mostly Reutimann cracking up at Waltrip having a remote controlled rib smack him in the face repeatedly.

Be on the lookout for more videos from TUMS on their Facebook page.

March 9, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Las Vegas Motor Speedway Weekend (March 2011), NASCAR WAGs

the beginning of a ‘winning’ weekend in vegas

I set out for my Las Vegas adventure last Wednesday. I drove my VW Eos for 9 hours all the while listening to “The Howard Stern Show.” This was during the height of the Charlie Sheen craziness so the sound clip of Charlie uttering his trademark “Winning” catchphrase has been permanently emblazoned on my brain. It is the one word to describe my entire race weekend experience. But not in a “I’m losing so bad I’m winning” way, it’s more of an “I feel like I’m actually winning, doing good and making progress” kind of way.

February 28, 2011 · NASCAR

jeff gordon drives to end his hunger for a win

Jeff Gordon celebrates his SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500 at Phoenix International Raceway. The victory was the 83rd of his career, tying him with Cale Yarborough for fifth on the all-time wins list. (Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR) What would have made Jeff Gordon’s win at Phoenix better? Ella and Leo, of course! Sucked they weren’t in Victory Lane with their papa but the win itself was great. I always love seeing a driver get emotional after a win. I’m always looking for something real, and by that I mean just something genuine to remind me that these guys really love what it is that they do and that it means more to them than just fame and money.

To me it’s easier to see the lows and the highs in this sport, than it is in others. A basketball team might lose one night and then win on another, or maybe go 5 games without a win but eventually a win comes up in that same season. But in NASCAR these guys can go YEARS without a win. It just makes it so much sweeter when it happens.

I cannot wait to get to Las Vegas this week. I’m driving down there on Wednesday, it’s my first race of the season and it feels like I’m going to summer camp or something. On Thursday I’ll be at Tony Stewart’s autograph session at Office Depot (1435 West Craig Road, North Las Vegas) at 12:30pm. If you want to get something signed ya gotta get a wristband first (one per person), which they’re distributing to the first 600 people starting at 8am the day of the event. Then you have to get on line for the autograph sesh no later than 1:30pm. This is all local/Las Vegas time.

Before Tony signs stuff for fans I’m presenting him with the 2011 Hottest Driver Tourney “trophy” and I sincerely hope he likes it. I already have anxiety about that whole thing. I’m sure it’ll be fine, though.

Daytona 500 champion Trevor Bayne is congratulated by NASCAR driver Danica Patrick on Thursday in Phoenix, Ariz. Bayne and Patrick made a special appearance at Phoenix International Raceway's annual "Night of Champions" charity event. (Credit: Tom Pennington/Getty Images for Phoenix International Raceway)

Five-time defending NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Jimmie Johnson looks on as his team adjusts his No. 48 Lowe's Chevrolet during practice for the SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500 at Phoenix International Raceway. (Credit: Christian Peterson/Getty Images)

(L-R) Chicago White Sox players Adam Dunn, A.J. Pierzynski, Mark Buehrle, John Danks and Gordon Beckham pose with Ryan Truex before the Bashas' Supermarkets 200 at Phoenix International Raceway. (Credit: Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

Grand Marshal Apolo Anton Ohno watches the SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500 from the No. 99 pit box of Carl Edwards. (Credit: Christian Petersen/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Actress Emmy Rossum, who sang the national anthem, poses with Daytona 500 champion Trevor Bayne before getting a ride around Phoenix International Raceway. (Credit: Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

A Brian Vickers spin on the backstretch triggered a 14-car accident which included Jamie McMurray, Jeff Burton, Clint Bowyer and Dale Earnhardt Jr. The race was red flagged for 14 minutes and 4 seconds. (Credit: Tom Pennington/Getty Images)

Jeff Gordon douses new crew chief Alan Gustafson with champagne after ending his 66-race winless streak with his SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500 victory. (Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR)

February 25, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR WAGs

samantha & kyle busch’s ‘fabulous’ wedding will be televised

You’ve seen the engagement photos, you’ve seen the wedding photos but now you can see Samantha and Kyle Busch’s wedding video. Well, it’s more like a one-hour television special. “Fast and Fabulous: A NASCAR Wedding” will air next Saturday, March 5 at 8pm ET/PT on the Style Network.

February 23, 2011 · NASCAR

trevor bayne makes his ‘sundae, sundae, sundae’

Trevor Bayne continued his “Miss America Tour,” that’s what I like to call it (Because don’t you remember when winning Miss America was an actual big deal and they always did a TON of press afterward? Well I do and it’s the only thing I can compare it to), wherein he does various media interviews and appearances to celebrate winning the Daytona 500.

He was in San Francisco yesterday at Ghiradelli Square to scoop some ice cream and meet fans:

Bayne arrived in San Francisco late Tuesday afternoon and was driven from the airport under California Highway Patrol escort to Ghirardelli Square, where he walked the red carpet before assembling the very first Trevor Bayne Sundae, Sundae, Sundae, featuring rocky road, chocolate chip and chocolate ice cream, as well multiple toppings and all the fixins. The item is currently a feature on the Ghirardelli Square Ice Cream Parlor menu.

Trevor Bayne signs autographs for fans in Ghiradelli Square in San Francisco

Trevor Bayne creates the Trevor Bayne Sundae Sundae Sundae at Ghiradelli in San Francisco
(credit: Getty Images)

I was there and it was freezing out. I’m from California and so anything under 60 degrees is not good. I had no gloves and I quickly lost feeling in my toes and my fingers. I’m not kidding. My cell phone lost battery power after 30 minutes and it was friggin’ cold so I didn’t stay for the WHOLE shindig, but I did get to see a bunch of foreign tourists ask everyone what the hell was the going on and watch their expression not change when people told them that the Daytona 500 winner was coming. I also got to see serious NASCAR fans cheer and go crazy for Trevor as he exited his Escalade. I watched Trevor happily recreate his triple-scoop sundae. I didn’t try the sundae myself but I did manage to get my numb fingers to grasp the cup that held a small single-scoop hot fudge sundae they were giving away for free to fans, even though I was FREEZING I couldn’t pass up free–delicious!–ice cream.

All in all it was a very cool and fun event. It was neat to see non-NASCAR fans stop to see what was going on and then once they were told who it was go “Oh! That’s the youngest person to win the Daytona 500!” That’s gotta be good for NASCAR, right?

Trevor was in Los Angeles today and he filmed an appearance for “The Ellen Degeneres Show” that will air tomorrow, Thursday, February 24. Check your local listings, of course. Ellen presented Trevor with a gift — a hula dancer dash board bobble head and a personalized ELLEN car sticker — which you can see in the photo below.

Trevor Bayne gets a gift from talk-show host Ellen Degeneres

(credit: Michael Rozman/Warner Bros.)

Here’s one exchange between Ellen and Trevor about girls that’s pretty cute:

On winning the race…
Trevor: The Daytona 500, to me, has always meant a lot. I grew up wanting to win it as a kid but I didn’t know it meant this much to the rest of the world so to see these kind of fans and this crazy stuff going on, I love it.
Ellen: You must have girls all of a sudden going crazy over you because you’re adorable and now you’re getting all this attention. You getting proposals and stuff like that all ready?
Trevor: Well, I didn’t have a Valentine this year so I’m hoping for better things next year.
Ellen: You will. I think you’ll be okay.

In other news…

– Yesterday Michael Waltrip’s oldest daughter, Caitlin, gave birth to a baby boy named Bryson.

– Danica Patrick and Carl Edwards will make appearances on the inaugural sports awards show, Cartoon Network Hall of Game Awards. Danica will pick up the “She’s Got Game” Award (aka Best Female Athlete) and Carl is a presenter. The show, hosted by Jimmie Johnson’s friend Tony Hawk, airs on the Cartoon Network at 7 p.m. (ET) on Friday, February 25th.

February 22, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

grace katherine kenseth has arrived

Matt and Katie Kenseth welcomed their second daughter into the world today!

The official announcement from the family:

Matt Kenseth, driver of the No. 17 Crown Royal Ford with Roush Fenway Racing, and his wife Katie welcomed a new bundle of joy into their family early Tuesday morning with the birth of the couple’s second daughter. Grace Katherine Kenseth was born February 22 at 3:49 a.m. EST weighing in at seven pounds and eight ounces. Both mother and daughter are doing well as the family welcomes Grace into the family to join their other daughter Kaylin and son Ross.

Kenseth will be able to spend a few days with his brand new baby girl before traveling out west for this weekend’s Subway Fresh Fit 500 at Phoenix International Raceway. Kenseth has earned top-ten finishes in his last two races at the track as the No. 17 team looks to rebound from a 34th-place finish at Daytona last weekend after getting caught up in a multi-car wreck early in the race.

February 21, 2011 · NASCAR

chaotic, nerve-wracking, crazy, insane: words to describe the 53rd daytona 500

Repaved Daytona International Speedway = Racing INSANITY!

It was nerve-wracking to watch but still superfun!

Congratulations to Trevor Bayne and Wood Brothers Racing. What an amazing finish! I was flabbergasted at that finish, but NOT because of Trevor Bayne. I’m happy for the kid and all that, and for the Wood Brothers, but I’m going to be honest, I was more stoked for David Gilliland. When I saw Carl Edwards had hooked up with David I start screaming at the television. I really, really, really wanted David to get up there and contend for the win, but I was totally satisfied with his 3rd place finish. He’s 2nd in points right now, and I know that’s only after one race but it’s a really great start!

I know it’s not Festivus, but I’d like to air some grievances. Ok, there’s really only one and it’s about the post-race coverage from Fox Sports. They didn’t interview David Gilliland post-race, but they did interview David Ragan who finished 14th. I understand why they talked to Ragan ’cause he made a small mistake that ended up possibly costing him the race (I say possibly because there’s no way to know for sure that had he not been black flagged he would of won), BUT if you only have limited time wouldn’t you automatically go to the top-3?! Ugh.

Anyway, I understand that directing and coordinating a live broadcast is hard and for the most part they get it right but it’s still really annoying when they mess up.

I’m EXTRA excited for Phoenix. I’ve decided not to attend that race, I’m still really looking forward to watching what happens. I’m still going to Las Vegas for sure and I CANNOT wait to get there.

Back to Trevor Bayne really quick, he’ll be at Ghiradelli Square tomorrow (Tuesday, February 22) in San Francisco at 5:30pm to create the “Trevor Bayne Sundae, Sundae, Sundae” and then he’ll be in Los Angeles on Wednesday at a free fan event at L.A. Live in Downtown Los Angeles (800 W. Olympic Blvd.) at noon.

Kasey Kahne signs autographs for fans in the garage Wednesday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

I LOVE the expression on this girl’s face. It is priceless. I can just imagine what she’s thinking!

Kasey Kahne signs autographs for fans in the garage Wednesday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Michael Waltrip celebrates in victory lane with his No.15 crew after winning the 2011 NextEra Energy Resources 250 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Tony Stewart celebrates with his crew in victory lane after winning the Drive4COPD 300 Saturday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Tom Pennington/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Danica Patrick talks to Dale Earnhardt Jr. about the No.7 GoDaddy.com Chevrolet in the Garage during practice at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Brad Paisley entertains the crowd during the pre-race show before the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Tom Pennington/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Honorary Grand Marshals Michael Bay, Josh Duhamel and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley give the command to start the engines for the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Brandon Goodman/Getty Images for NASCAR)
Not a very good command at all. But I love the Transformers race cars.

The Baltimore Raven's Ray Rice visits the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series garage and takes a look in the No. 42 Target Chevrolet Wednesday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Motorsports Images and Archives)
The Baltimore Raven’s Ray Rice visits the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series garage and takes a look in the No. 42 Target Chevrolet Wednesday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Motorsports Images and Archives)

National Anthem singer Patty Loveless shows her support for Drive4COPD Saturday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Tom Pennington/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Martina McBride sings the National Anthem before the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: ISC Archives/Getty Images)

Dierks Bentley performs during the Daytona 500 pre-race show Sunday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Cliff Hawkins/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Great moment–I held up 3 fingers too even though I wasn’t there!
The fans salute Dale Earnhardt on lap 3 by holding up three fingers during the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway at Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Carl Edwards and David Ragan congratulate Trevor Bayne in victory lane after the 53rd Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Matthew Stockman/Getty Images for NASCAR)

February 18, 2011 · NASCAR

givin’ it away: richard petty driving experience at bristol!

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to take a ride around Bristol Motor Speedway? Well, now is your chance. Thanks to the Richard Petty Driving Experience I am giving away two (2) Race Weekend Ride-Alongs! You’ll get to take 3 laps around Bristol Motor Speedway the same weekend as a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. Super cool right?

To be clear, you’ll get to ride shot gun in a 2-seater NASCAR race car with a professional driver at the wheel for 3 laps at Bristol Motor Speedway during the race weekend in August. You will NOT receive entrance into the NASCAR race event.

And here’s the extra cool part, I’ll be there too! It’ll be great to meet the winners and live the Ride-Along Experience together.

Enter the contest by filling out the form below. To learn more about Race Rides and all of the other experiences offered by Richard Petty Driving Experience check out their website.
—

February 15, 2011 · NASCAR

new nascar dress code: what will the groupies wear?

Yesterday NASCAR announced their new garage access policy that will allow children into garages on race days. That’s a great thing and will surely create some memorable experiences for NASCAR’s youngest fans. But what I’m writing about today has to do with the reminder NASCAR tacked on to the end of their press release:

Also updated for 2011: The dress code for all NASCAR pit and garage areas. Attire must remain appropriate for both a major sporting event and a family environment, but has been relaxed to include shorts, open-toed shoes, sleeveless blouses and skirts/dresses.

This opens up a whole new world of wardrobe choices for women, not so much the guys (shorts, big whoop). Now that ladies can wear dresses in the garage, will they? And what will this do for the especially motivated women that are seriously interested in attracting a driver’s attention by any means necessary? Yes, it says, “Attire must remain appropriate for both a major sporting event and a family environment,” but do you really think that’ll stop pit lizards from getting creative? I wonder.
Ines Sainz
As for myself, a member of the media, I’m supposed to be professional no matter what. And I am, although my style of dress at the track consists of jeans, my black Converse Chuck Taylor’s, some random top that’s “cute” and usually a hoodie that hides the “cute” top. So I end up looking like the female version of Facebook’s creator, Mark Zuckerberg, with people asking me what I’m studying in school, as if I’m not out of college yet. I’m 30-years-old so that’s a nice thing to hear but at the same time it’s not ’cause people tend to think you’re not “serious” when you look like you still go to frat parties. So I should probably step-up my game in the style department. But I don’t necessarily want to go all the way to other side of the spectrum and dress up like Ines Sainz (pictured at right) did at the NFL’s Super Bowl Media Day and look like I’m going to a cocktail party.

No, I’ll have to find some middle ground and I doubt any sort of dress will be in the picture. But I like knowing that the option is there and I look forward to “people watching” in the garages this season. I expect some inspired fashion choices to be on display.

February 14, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

room for two: shootout and daytona 500 qualifying

2011 Budweiser Shootout driver lineup is introduced to the fans at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR) It was that time again on Saturday to reacquaint ourselves with the folks at Fox Sports and their brand of NASCAR coverage for another year. I have a secret wish that one of those animated robot football players they use for the NFL will walk onto the screen and bash Digger and his friends about the head until they run away forever. Did I just write that? Yes, yes I did.

Anyway, loved seeing drivers back in action. There’s nothing better than seeing cars driving at full speed, racing for something, anything, even if there aren’t any points involved. Congratulations to Kurt Busch and the “Double Deuce” team on winning the Budweiser Shootout.

Sunday was qualifying for the Daytona 500, but really just for the front row. Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Jeff Gordon locked up the front row for Hendrick Motorsports. And that was great and all but a bigger story, in my eyes at least, was Larry McReynolds dropping relationship news about Tony Stewart dating sprint car driver Jessica Zemken, who races for Tony Stewart Racing.

In other news…

– The winner of this year’s Daytona 500 will be honored in San Francisco on February 22nd (6pm) at Ghiradelli Square with an ice cream social. The lucky dude will have a sundae named in his honor and all fans in attendance will be treated to a complimentary sundae courtesy of the Ghiradelli® Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop. I’m going to be there FOR SURE, because I have first hand knowledge of how delicious everything is that they make at Ghiradelli. Chocolate covered strawberries are calling my name, and it’ll be cool to see the Daytona 500 winner fresh off their win.

– There’s more than just a win, and a starting position in the Daytona 500, at stake for Tony Stewart in the The Duels at Daytona on Thursday–there’s money too!:

“The Duels at Daytona are always exciting because the higher you finish, the better your starting spot is for the Daytona 500. But for this year’s Duel, I have a little added incentive knowing that the Tony Stewart Foundation could receive some extra funding if I win,” said Stewart, who has awarded almost $4 million to assist charitable initiatives through his foundation since 2003. “I am so proud to partner with companies like Office Depot and Lexmark that believe in Taking Care of Business by giving back to their communities and to those in need. As for the wager, the new Lexmark Genesis S815 printer is really fast, and in our business, speed counts.”

More details over at ‘Fabulous’ News

– Celebrities have made their predictions on who they think will win the Daytona 500, check ‘em out over at SI.com. I’m partial to Joe Namath & Janet Evanovich’s picks, but you should read them all. There’s some interesting little tidbits of info in there. Like Mike Tomlin, head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers (aka Super Bowl XLV losers), went to college with JD Gibbs.

– Scott Speed will drive the No. 33 Rheem Chevrolet for Kevin Harvick Inc. in the Nationwide Series for two races this year: Iowa Speedway on August 6 and at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal on August 20.

Photo fun time from this weekend below!

Jeff Gordon's wife Ingrid Vandebosch and his son Leo in victory lane after Jeff Gordon secured a front row start for the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Chris Graythen/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Adorables!!

Jeff Gordon’s wife Ingrid Vandebosch and his son Leo in victory lane after Jeff Gordon secured a front row start for the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Chris Graythen/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Jeff Burton and Jeff Gordon share a laugh together during Budweiser Shootout practice at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Denny Hamlin, Jimmie Johnson and Jeff Gordon discuss practice at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Chirs Graythen/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Dale Earnhardt Jr. draws the pole for the Budweiser Shootout as Kenny Wallace reacts Friday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla.

2010 Daytona 500 Champion Jamie McMurray and teammate Juan Pablo Montoya share information during Budweiser Shootout practice at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Nick Laham/Getty Images)

I’m diggin’ Kasey’s new firesuit. Cool design.
Kasey Kahne and Kurt Busch discuss practice Saturday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Joey Logano and Trevor Bayne talk during Daytona 500 practice at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Kurt Busch in victory lane celebrating his 2011 Budweiser Shootout win at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR)

David Ragan signs a fans jacket during Daytona 500 Qualifying at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Tom Pennington/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Carl Edwards signs autographs for fans after his qualifying lap Sunday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR)

February 13, 2011 · 2011 Hottest Driver, NASCAR

tony stewart wins the 2011 hottest driver tournament

Hottest Driver Tournament Winner Tony Stewart It is my pleasure to announce that Tony Stewart has been voted the Hottest NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Driver of 2011!

Tony beat Matt Kenseth in the finals by a landslide (that’s a slight understatement) with Tony receiving 99% of the votes! I think this proves without a doubt that Tony Stewart fans are just as powerful as JR Nation. You guys are definitely a force to be reckoned with.

This turned out to be WAY more fun than I’d anticipated and I cannot wait to do this all again next year. I’ve enjoyed reading everyone’s comments and I’m going to take your suggestions on voting in to consideration for next year. I hope that if you’re new to The Fast and the Fabulous you’ll stick around and become a regular to this site. I’ve got some really cool things planned for this year and I’d love to share it all with you.

Congratulations to Tony Stewart on winning this prestigious (if I do say so myself, which I do) honor! I’ve got an idea for a “trophy” that I hope to present to Tony. If that goes down I’ll definitely let you know what happens!

Thank you to EVERYONE who voted throughout this tournament.

2011 Hottest Driver Tournament Brackets - Round Six - Finals

2011 Hottest Driver Tournament Brackets (click image to download) - Winner: Tony Stewart

February 11, 2011 · Books, NASCAR

shortcuts: espn the magazine focuses on speed

How excited are you that tomorrow is the Budweiser Shootout? I, for one, am thrilled. The season is starting again and for this website, and me personally, a lot more stories to share with you guys. I’m planning on road tripping it to Phoenix and Las Vegas later on this month. I’m really looking forward to getting back to the one place in the world that I know ALWAYS makes me happy, NASCAR races of course.

I’m also super excited to crown the first ever Hottest Driver Tournament winner on Sunday. It’s between Tony Stewart and Matt Kenseth. Be sure to cast your vote now because voting ends Saturday night (at midnight).

In other news…

ESPN The Magazine - Speed issue 2011 – The latest issue of ESPN The Magazine, on newsstands today, focuses on speed. Not Scott Speed, but just speed in general. It features articles on how to survive a crash, Hendrick Motorsports pit crew combine and spotlights Ricky Carmichael and Kevin Harvick.

– Jimmie Johnson will be the subject of a segment on HBO’s Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel. The show airs Tuesday, Februay 15th. I’m looking forward to this as Real Sports is one of my FAVE shows.

– Rock band Good Charlotte is set to perform live before the start of the Auto Club 400 at Auto Club Speedway on March 27th. I’m totally looking forward to the performance and hopefully the band’s lead singer Joel Madden will bring his wife, Nicole Richie, along for support. Auto Club Speedway has special ticket packages available for starting at just $55. For an additional $25 you can have access to an all-you-can-eat buffet. Check out ‘Fabulous’ News for more news like this.

– Michael Waltrip has been doing a lot of media interviews in support of his new book, “In the Blink of an Eye: Dale, Daytona, and the Day that Changed Everything.”

While talking with the New York Times Michael revealed that he had never watched the 2001 Daytona 500, the race that he won and took the life of his team owner at the time, Dale Earnhardt. That is until this past July. Michael’s sister Connie tapes all of his races, and he came across the DVD — decorated with hearts and stars and the words “2001 Daytona 500 Winner!” that she’d written on it before Dale’s death had been announced — and watched it for the very first time, commercials and all.

Michael hadn’t been able to talk about the 2001 Daytona 500 for many years but in watching the entire race and then writing a book about that day in Daytona he was able to deal with his feels and find peace with everything that happened.

Andrew Giangola has a review of Michael’s book here, and I was told that Mikey’s book will debut at No. 11 on the New York Times’ Bestseller list when it makes it’s debut on February 20th, the same day as the 2011 Daytona 500.

– Yesterday was NASCAR Media Day down at Daytona International Speedway. The whole thing reminds me of a combination of the first day at school and picture day all wrapped up into one. The drivers spend what looks to me like all day walking around in their new firesuits answering all sorts of questions from the media from all over the place, taking new photos and shooting video spots. I really need to experience that whole thing for myself one day. Anyway, here are photos:

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Joey Logano speaks to ESPN’s Nicole Briscoe during media day Thursday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR)

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Juan Pablo Montoya answers questions from the local media Thursday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. during media day.

2010 Daytona 500 Champion Jamie McMurray poses during media day Thursday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR)

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Jimmie Johnson poses for photos Thursday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. during media day. (Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR)

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Kasey Kahne reads liners for MRN during media day Thursday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla.(Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR)

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Greg Biffle talks with Pete Pistone and Mike Bagley from The Morning Drive on Sirius during media day Thursday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR)

February 9, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

scott speed’s wife expecting a baby

Former Red Bull Racing driver Scott Speed and his wife, Amanda, are expecting! Scott announced the news via Twitter this morning along with the sonogram image (below) of little Speed:

Look what we made!!!! HE! Stress the word HE.. Lol is only .33cm long but he growin

Congratulations to Scott and Amanda!

February 6, 2011 · 2011 Hottest Driver, NASCAR

2011 hottest driver tournament: the finals!

Hottest Driver Logo It’s time for the FINAL round in the 2011 Hottest Driver Tournament. Who will be voted the Hottest Driver of 2011? Well, it’s down to Tony Stewart and Matt Kenseth.

Here’s what happened in Round Five:

Tony Stewart (82%) defeated Jamie McMurray (18%)
Matt Kenseth (53%) defeated Martin Truex Jr. (47%)

This updates the brackets, which you can see below (click it to see it larger).

So let’s get to it! Here are the match-ups for Round Six – The Finals! You can vote as many times as you want each day until voting ends on Saturday, February 12th.

UPDATE: Voting has ended. Stay tuned for the results.

Tony Stewart		Matt Kenseth

February 3, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR WAGs

aric almirola got married

Sheesh! I can’t believe I didn’t write a post about this right after the wedding occurred. I was laying down on the job I guess.

February 3, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR WAGs

kelley earnhardt got married again

Kelley Earnhardt married NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour driver L.W. Miller III on Saturday, January 22 in Mooresville, North Carolina. This is the third marriage for Kelley.

February 1, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR

interview: inside the actor’s studio with matt kenseth

Matt Kenseth. What can I say about Matt Kenseth? Well, he’s funny for one. He made fun of my name when I interviewed him in Las Vegas a couple months ago during Champion’s Week. He’s also the first driver I’ve interviewed to end up not answering all of the questions in the “Inside the Actor’s Studio” questionnaire. As you’ll see below at “What turns you off?” there’s an exchange that involves me, Matt and Jeff Burton, but there’s no actual answer. We came back to it, but he still didn’t have any answer. Which was curious to me because I would think it’d be harder to think of an answer for “What turns you on?” than the opposite of that.

Anyway, Matt was supernice and a very good sport. Definitely another good interview.

—

What is your favorite word? Lately I’ve been noticing everyone says “Like” all the time, and I caught myself doing it so I’ve been trying to get myself to stop doing it when everyone around me uses it like crazy.

What is your least favorite word? When somebody uses God’s name in vain.

What turns you on? My wife

What turns you off? Can’t answer that one. (Me: what turns you off?) These are tough questions, where are you going to write these at? You’re going to get me in a lot of trouble. I can’t answer that. [To Jeff Burton] How can you answer all these? Like ‘What turns you off?’ (Jeff Burton: Everything’s not sexual, Matt). [To Me] Ok, let’s keep going. (Me: You want to come back to it?) Yeah.

What sound or noise do you love? I like hearing race cars start up

What sound or noise do you hate? A couple people’s voices. Gosh, I’m not quick thinking on my feet today. Can I come back to that one too?

What is your favorite curse word? I don’t know, I try not to curse. I guess I don’t have a favorite.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Well it’s way to late in life to do it now, but if I was going to be something else I probably would have been interested in joining the Air Force, try to be a fighter pilot.

What profession would you not like to do? Well I’m pretty fortunate because it’s hard to call this a job, so I think anything other than this would be not as good.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? Welcome in!

—
Read more of my “Inside the Actor’s Studio” questionnaire interviews in the archives and read about how it all started with Tony Stewart.

January 30, 2011 · 2011 Hottest Driver, NASCAR

2011 hottest driver tournament: round five

Hottest Driver Logo Here we are in Round Five of the 2011 Hottest Driver Tournament and we’re down to just four drivers! It was a close one between Elliott Sadler and Martin Truex Jr. but Martin won out by just 36 votes!

Here’s what happened in Round Four:

Jamie McMurray (56%) defeated Clint Bowyer (44%)
Tony Stewart (88%) defeated Ryan Newman (12%)
Martin Truex Jr. (51%) defeated Elliott Sadler (49%)
Matt Kenseth (66%) defeated Regan Smith (34%)

This updates the brackets, which you can see below (click it to see it larger).

2011 Hottest Driver Tournament Brackets - Round Five

So let’s get to it! Here are the match-ups for Round Five! You can vote as many times as you want each day until voting ends on Saturday, February 5th.

UPDATE: Voting has ended, stay tuned for the Finals!

Jamie McMurray		Tony Stewart

Martin Truex Jr.		Matt Kenseth

January 29, 2011 · NASCAR

sprint media tour: i missed out on swag, damnit

I’m sad I missed the 2011 NASCAR Sprint Media Tour in Charlotte this week. But, if I’m being honest, it’s only because I just read this article about all the swag the media received, that I missed out on. There were cupcakes and cookies and wine!

Anyway, here are photos from the week. It’s one of my favorite things to post photos of the teams wearing those annoying long sleeve shirts. I don’t know why I hate them so much but they just look wrong. I say this every year and no one listens to me.

It’s just like bridesmaid dresses: it’s really hard to pick on dress type that works on every body type. Which is why brides have started letting their maids pick a fit that suits them individually and then just going with the same color and/or print for the group. I think NASCAR teams should adopt this same principle. Some teams have, but definitely not the majority.

NASCAR Nationwide Series driver Elliott Sadler, (second from left) speaks with the media, as drivers (left to right) Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Jason Leffler, and Aric Almirola look on, during the NASCAR Sprint Media Tour hosted by Charlotte Motor Speedway, held at Hilton University on Tuesday in Charlotte, N.C.(Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Michael Waltrip's familiar No. 15 NAPA car is on display during the NASCAR Sprint Media Tour hosted by Charlotte Motor Speedway, held at Hilton University on Tuesday in Charlotte, N.C. (Credit: Harold Hinson/HHP)
Michael Waltrip’s familiar No. 15 NAPA car is on display during the NASCAR Sprint Media Tour hosted by Charlotte Motor Speedway, held at Hilton University on Tuesday in Charlotte, N.C. (Credit: Harold Hinson/HHP)

(Left to right) Bobby Hutchens, director of competition for Stewart-Haas Racing; Tony Gibson, crew chief of the No. 39 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series car; Ryan Newman, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver; Tony Stewart, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series owner and driver; and Darian Grubb, crew chief of the No. 14 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series car, pose for a picture during the 2011 Sprint Cup Media Tour hosted by Charlotte Motor Speedway on Monday at Stewart-Haas Racing in Kannapolis, N.C. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Regan Smith stands in front of his No. 78 Furniture Row ride during the Sprint Media Tour hosted byCharlotte Motor Speedway on Wednesday in Charlotte, N.C. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

(center) NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Petty stands between his two NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers AJ Allmendinger (left) and the newest addition to Richard Petty Motorsports Marcos Ambrose during the Sprint Media Tour hosted byCharlotte Motor Speedway on Wednesday in Charlotte, N.C. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Team owner Jack Roush (center) poses with drivers (left to right) Carl Edwards, Matt Kenseth, Greg Biffle and David Ragan, during the NASCAR Sprint Media Tour hosted by Charlotte Motor Speedway, held at the Roush-Fenway hanger of Concord Regional Airport, on Thursday in Concord, N.C. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

(Left to right) Brian Vickers, driver of the No. 83 Red Bull Toyota, speaks with Kasey Kahne, driver of the No. 4 Red Bull Toyota, during the NASCAR Sprint Media Tour hosted by Charlotte Motor Speedway, held at Hilton University on Tuesday in Charlotte, N.C.(Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

(Left to right) Richard Childress, team owner; Clint Bowyer, driver of the No. 33 Cheerios Chevrolet; Kevin Harvick, driver of the No. 29 Budweiser Chevrolet; Jeff Burton, driver of the No. 22 Caterpillar Chevrolet, and Paul Menard, driver of the No. 27 Menard’s Chevrolet, pose for the media during the NASCAR Sprint Media Tour hosted by Charlotte Motor Speedway, held at Richard Childress Racing on Tuesday in Welcome, N.C.(Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

(Left to right) Five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson, four-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jeff Gordon, owner Rick Hendrick and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers Mark Martin and Dale Earnhardt Jr. pose for a team picture Wednesday at Hendrick Motorsports Media Day during the Sprint Media Tour hosted by Charlotte Motor Speedway.(Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

(Left to right) Sam Hornish Jr., driver of the No. 12 Alliance Truck Parts Dodge in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, speaks to the media as NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teammates Brad Keselowski, driver of the No. 2 Miller Lite Dodge, and Kurt Busch, driver of the No. 22 Shell/Pennzoil Dodge, look on during the NASCAR Sprint Media Tour hosted by Charlotte Motor Speedway, held at Penske Racing on Monday in Mooresville, N.C.(Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Team owner Joe Gibbs (third from right) poses with J.D. Gibbs (third from left), Joe Gibbs Racing President, Joey Logano (left), driver of the No. 20 Home Depot Toyota, Kyle Busch (second from left), driver of the No. 18 M&M’s Toyota, Denny Hamlin (second from right), driver of the No. FedEx Toyota, and NASCAR Nationwide Series driver Brian Scott (right), during the NASCAR Sprint Media Tour hosted by Charlotte Motor Speedway, held at Joe Gibbs Racing, on Thursday in Huntersville, N.C. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

J.D. Gibbs, president of JGR, on hiring Tony Stewart: “For 1997, we wanted to form a second team. We asked all the guys to write down the name of the driver they wanted the most and put it in a hat. There was one name on every piece of paper. That was Tony Stewart.”

Team owner Joe Gibbs (center) speaks about the 20th anniversary of Joe Gibbs Racing, as (left to right) JGR President J.D. Gibbs, former JGR drivers Tony Stewart and Bobby Labonte, JGR senior vice president of racing operations Jimmy Makar and Interstate Batteries CEO Norm Miller look on during the NASCAR Sprint Media Tour hosted by Charlotte Motor Speedway, held at Joe Gibbs Racing, on Thursday in Huntersville, N.C. (Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

The No. 21 Motorcraft Ford proudly displays the new American Ethanol sponsorship around the fuel hole during the NASCAR Sprint Media Tour hosted by Charlotte Motor Speedway, held at the Roush-Fenway hanger of Concord Regional Airport, on Thursday in Concord, N.C. (Credit: Harold Hinson/HHP)

(Left to right) Juan Pablo Montoya, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver, team owners Chip Ganassi and Felix Sabates and Jamie McMurray, defending Daytona 500 champion, pose for a picture during the Earnhardt Ganassi Racing stop on the 2011 Sprint Media Tour hosted by Charlotte Motor Speedway on Monday at the Hilton Charlotte University Place in Charlotte, N.C.(Credit: Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

January 28, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR Babies & Kids, NASCAR WAGs

roush fenway lead baby bonanza into 2011

Yesterday Jack Roush inadvertently announced that Greg Biffle, and his wife Nicole, are expecting their first child. Biffle wasn’t planning on having Roush share the news but there it was, along with a semi-confirmation that Carl Edwards and his wife are expecting their second child. It also turned out that the Biffles learned the sex of their baby yesterday and Greg announced via Twitter that they’re expecting a girl. Matt Kenseth and his wife are also expecting another child soon, but we already knew that.

Which leads me to more Biffle and Edwards news. Both drivers will appear on this weekend’s episode of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” on ABC to demonstrate the dangers of texting & driving:

“Texting while driving is incredibly dangerous and I think it’s an extremely important message to get out to everyone right now but especially teenage drivers,” Biffle said. “While Carl and I had a lot of fun taping the segment for ‘Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,’ it is a very serious issue. Being a part of the show really opened my eyes to the dangers of texting while driving and I’m sure it will do the same for all of the viewers. Ford has a great program to educate teenagers about safe driving skills and you can get more information at www.drivingskillsforlife.com.“

The RFR teammates’ appearance is in support of the Brown family of Wellman, Texas who lost their daughter in a tragic auto accident involving texting and driving. Since the accident the family has dedicated their lives to communicating the dangers of this practice. Biffle and Edwards are joined by Justin Bieber and Emma Roberts on the show.

The show will air on Sunday, January 30, at 8 p.m. (ET). Check your local listings.

Greg Biffle, Leigh Anne Tuohy and Carl Edwards

Greg Biffle and Carl Edwards pose with Leigh Anne Tuohy, a designer on “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.” Leigh Anne is also the mother that the movie “The Blind Side” was based on, ya know, the role that won Sandra Bullock an Oscar last year.

UPDATE: Right! Forgot to post this too. David Ragan doesn’t know how to make a baby.

He said it, not me. Thanks for the tips, Tara!!

January 26, 2011 · NASCAR, NASCAR WAGs

nascar on ‘the bachelor’: where are they going with this?

Emily Maynard (Credit: ABC/TheBachelor) I said I wasn’t going to watch this new season of “The Bachelor” on ABC but I’ve crumbled and watched it anyway ONLY to see what happens for Emily Maynard, the young woman who was engaged to Ricky Hendrick, the son of NASCAR team owner Rick Hendrick, when he died in a tragic plane crash and went on to give birth to his daughter in the same year.

I feel like premise of “The Bachelor” is only good for the guy and the one woman he ultimately chooses in the end (if he actually chooses someone). Otherwise it’s a painful process that seems entirely unnecessary. Trust me, I understand why women go on that show because, being a single girl that’s just turned 30, I would jump at the chance to meet a ridiculously good looking guy that has a job, too. But I’d rather not know if he’s seeing other women at the same time, kissing them and taking them on special dates and whatnot. I’d rather be clueless and not be involved in his deliberation process, figuring out if he likes me over Lady #1, #2, or #3, etc.

As the last episode illustrated it’s hard to watch the guy you’re into do something special for someone else right in front of your face, which is what happened when Brad took Emily outside for a special mini-picnic in the backyard before the rose ceremony, meanwhile the other ladies saw this special gesture and one chick broke down in tears over it.

So here’s the thing, on the preview for next week’s show they’re taking the women to Las Vegas and they’re going to do a group date at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, where from the looks of it they’ll try their hand at racing cars.

CLEARLY, as it showed in the preview, this is going to be tough for Emily. I’m Team Emily all the way and I have a hard time understanding why they would include this activity in the show when HELLO, her deceased fiancee was a race car driver at one time and it was the business of his family.

I just don’t think it was necessary to go there–literally and figuratively. It’s a curious thing to me because in this last episode Brad apologized to Emily for even taking her on a private jet because he hadn’t thought about the connection to Ricky’s death (not that he knew about it at that point). So it’s weird to me that you would then take her on a date at a race track.

As I said before I’m Team Emily all the way, and I’m sure there are plenty of NASCAR fans out there that are too and are protective of her because of her story. I just hope she doesn’t get hurt and that this experience ends up being a positive one and not an exploitation of her life.

UPDATE: Emily spoke with People Magazine about the NASCAR date, where she had this to say:

“I know there has been a lot of talk and concern recently over the upcoming episode of The Bachelor with the NASCAR-themed group date,” she says. “Although I appreciate everyone’s concern, I ask that you reserve judgment until after you’ve seen the actual episode, because, as you’ll see, the experience actually helped me gain some closure.”

January 25, 2011 · NASCAR

testing, testing: preseason thundah

The 2011 NASCAR racing season is fast approaching and that means I’ve finally got new photos to share with you guys from the Preseason Thunder testing that occurred last week at Daytona International Speedway. It was our first chance to catch some drivers wearing their new sponsor’s firesuits, a time to welcome back Brian Vickers (yay!) and an opportunity to see new driver/crew chief pairings (Gustafson & Gordon = Too much hotness for one team, I’m just sayin’).

I’m excited about the year to come, as I always am, and I know that I have at least ONE very cool, super awesome, off-line deal coming up that involves you guys! So stay tuned for that announcement.

Remember to check out ‘Fabulous’ News for press releases and random photos throughout the week. I’ll have a wrap-up of the media tour taking place now posted later on in the week.

But for now enjoy these photos!

Brad Keselowski recorded the fastest lap of the day at 45.316 seconds Saturday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. during Preseason Thunder testing.(Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR)

(Left to right) NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Red Bull Racing teammates Kasey Kahne and Brian Vickers talk as they sign autographs for fans in the garage area during Preseason Thunder testing on Friday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR)

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Martin Truex Jr. laughs during a Preseason Thunder Fan Fest Q&A Thursday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. Truex turned the second-fastest lap of the first day of testing with a 195.776 mph circuit. (Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR)

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Marcos Ambrose smiles in the garage Saturday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. during Preseason Thunder testing.(Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR)

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Carl Edwards signs autographs for young fans during the Preseason Thunder Fan Fest following testing Thursday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR)

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Brian Vickers signs autographs in the Sprint FanZone Thursday during Preseason Thunder testing at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Dale Earnhardt Jr. smiles during a break on Thursday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach Fla. (Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Dale Earnhardt Jr. smiles during a break on Thursday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach Fla. (Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR)

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Tony Stewart looks on as his crew makes adjustments to the No. 14 Office Depot Chevrolet Saturday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. during Preseason Thunder testing.(Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR)

A new look Kevin Harvick participates in testing Thursday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR)

A new look Kevin Harvick participates in testing Thursday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Jeff Gordon works with Ormond Beach, Fla. native Alan Gustafson in the Garage Thursday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Jeff Gordon works with Ormond Beach, Fla. native Alan Gustafson in the Garage Thursday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Joey Logano who was third fastest with a lap time of 45.757 seconds signs autographs for fans during Preseason Thunder Fan Fest on Friday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla.(Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Clint Bowyer signs autographs for fans during Preseason Thunder on Friday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Clint Bowyer signs autographs for fans during Preseason Thunder on Friday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (Credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images for NASCAR)

January 23, 2011 · 2011 Hottest Driver, NASCAR

2011 hottest driver tournament: round four

Hottest Driver Logo 3,011 votes later we have the winners from Round Three! It wasn’t until I had this experience that I truly felt the power of Dale Earnhardt Jr’s fans, I’m pretty sure they’re part of the reason I saw record numbers of votes each day this past week. But unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to beat Ryan Newman. It was really, really, really close–the closest of Round Three; Ryan nipped Dale for the win by just 43 votes. The second closest result was Tony Stewart versus Kasey Kahne. Kasey lost, and now Tony will have to face his Stewart-Haas Racing teammate Ryan Newman in Round Four.

Here’s what happened in Round Three:

Jamie McMurray (67%) defeated Joey Logano (33%)
Clint Bowyer (70%) defeated Travis Kvapil (30%)
Ryan Newman (51%) defeated Dale Earnhardt Jr. (49%)
Tony Stewart (58%) defeated Kasey Kahne (42%)
Elliott Sadler (79%) defeated Casey Mears (21%)
Martin Truex Jr. (68%) defeated Paul Menard (32%)
Regan Smith (69%) defeated Denny Hamlin (31%)

This updates the brackets, which you can see below (click it to see it larger).

2011 Hottest Driver Tournament Brackets - Round Four

So let’s get to it! Here are the match-ups for Round Four! You can vote as many times as you want each day until voting ends on Saturday, January 29th.

ROUND FOUR VOTING HAS ENDED. Stay tuned for Round Five.

Jamie McMurray		Clint Bowyer

Ryan Newman		Tony Stewart

Elliott Sadler		Martin Truex Jr.

Matt Kenseth		Regan Smith

—
ROUND FOUR VOTING HAS ENDED. Stay tuned for Round Five.

January 17, 2011 · Interviews, NASCAR

interview: inside the actor’s studio with kyle busch

Kyle Busch (photo credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR) Kyle Busch drives the No. 18 M&M’s Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing. He married his longtime girlfriend Samantha Sarcinella on New Year’s Eve last year and the word from Kyle (via Twitter) is that their wedding will be featured on The Style Network in March of this year.

I interviewed Kyle during Champion’s Week in Las Vegas last year and some of his responses kinda surprised me, especially the profession other than his own that he’d like to attempt.

—
What is your favorite word? Well, I have a favorite saying, but not a word. “It doesn’t surprise me”

What is your least favorite word? Second

What turns you on? I mean, is that like, I gotta get context there. *laughter* (Me: Whatever you think) Hmm, racing. That’s easy.

What turns you off? People that aren’t true to themselves.

What sound or noise do you love? The roar of an engine

What sound or noise do you hate? The skid of tires

What is your favorite curse word? Uh, hold on. What’s that one? Oh, I can’t say that one. Uhm, “fudge.”

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Crew chief. Something still in racing.

What profession would you not like to do? A 9-to-5 corporate desk job.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? I’d like for him to tell me that I did a great job while living his path for me.

—
Read more of my “Inside the Actor’s Studio” questionnaire interviews in the archives and read about how it all started with Tony Stewart.

January 16, 2011 · 2011 Hottest Driver, NASCAR

2011 hottest driver tournament: round three

Hottest Driver Logo I’m having too much fun with this contest. I was right when I thought things would get much more interesting in Round Two and the results of last week’s voting have set up Round Three to be extra intriguing. Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Casey Mears just barely made it through in the closest match-up results so far. Dale Jr. beat Scott Speed by just 8 votes! I’m really, really surprised that it wasn’t a closer contest between Carl Edwards and Kasey Kahne.

Here’s what happened in Round Two:

Jamie McMurray (75%) defeated Kyle Busch (25%)
Joey Logano (55%) defeated David Gilliland (45%)
Clint Bowyer (56%) defeated Bobby Labonte (44%)
Travis Kvapil (62%) defeated Kurt Busch (38%)
Kasey Kahne (75%) defeated Carl Edwards (25%)
Casey Mears (51%) defeated Kevin Harvick (49%)
Elliott Sadler (70%) defeated Reed Sorenson (30%)
Jeff Gordon (52%) defeated Marcos Ambrose (48%)
Ryan Newman (83%) defeated Juan Pablo Montoya (17%)
Dale Earnhardt Jr. (51%) defeated Scott Speed (49%)
Tony Stewart (86%) defeated Sam Hornish Jr. (14%)
Matt Kenseth (65%) defeated AJ Allmendinger (35%)
Regan Smith (77%) defeated Robby Gordon (23%)
Martin Truex Jr. (88%) defeated Greg Biffle (12%)
Paul Menard (64%) defeated Brad Keselowski (36%)
Denny Hamlin (58%) defeated Mark Martin (42%)

This updates the brackets, which you can see below (click it to see it larger).

2011 Hottest Driver Tournament Brackets - Round Three

So let’s get to it! Here are the match-ups for Round Three! You can vote as many times as you want each day until ~~voting ends on Saturday, January 22nd.~~

UPDATE: I’ve extended voting through Sunday, January 23rd until 9am, because of a snafu with the voting form. // Voting for Round Three is over! Check out Round Four!

Jamie McMurray		Joey Logano

Clint Bowyer		Travis Kvapil

Ryan Newman		Dale Earnhardt Jr.

Tony Stewart		Kasey Kahne

Casey Mears		Elliott Sadler

Martin Truex Jr.		Jeff Gordon

Paul Menard		Matt Kenseth

Regan Smith		Denny Hamlin

—

Voting for Round Three is over! Check out Round Four!

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