PlanetEarth Racing

Chase field Set for Sprint Cup March to Miami Championship

2009-09-14T15:29:00.003-04:00

Mark Martin Leads the Top 12 Seeking a Cup Championship in Miami, Montoya Makes NASCAR History. Diversity growing in NASCAR Fan favorite Martin, who has finished runner-up to the Champion four times, has his eyes on Sprint Cup’s biggest prize, to be crowned Nov. 22 in Miami.

For the sixth time this season, Mark Martin claimed the pole position in the No. 5 Chevrolet for the race at Richmond. Martin's pole was his 47th of his illustrious career and the fourth time he has grabbed the top starting spot at Richmond International Raceway.

“I didn't really expect to sit on the pole. I hoped to be fifth, sixth, seventh or eighth; in that range,” said Martin after qualifying at Richmond. “But we got a stellar lap with a stellar race car."

With a fourth-place finish at Race 26 in Richmond, Florida resident Mark Martin not only qualified for NASCAR’s Chase “playoffs” with a spot among the Top 12 drivers, but he’ll lead that pack on the merit of his Sprint Cup-leading four victories thus far in 2009. The 10-week Chase for the Sprint Cup Championship kicks in Sept. 20 at New Hampshire and will culminate at Homestead-Miami Speedway when a Champion is crowned Nov. 22.

“It was really good to be in the Top 5 all night,” said Martin. “We had a great race car and we did what we needed to do. The pressure’s off.”

The four wins Martin has entering the 10-race shootout tied him with Joe Gibbs Racing’s Kyle Busch, but Martin will lead the field with the No. 1 seed based on points standings through the first 26 races.

“We're the points leader, that's cool,” Martin said recently. “But it will be a lot cooler to be the points leader after Miami, you know? It's not how you start the Chase, it's how you finish it. We just have to go in every weekend on top of our game, ready to fight and ready to win races."

Martin had some work to do before getting in the Chase. He sat 10th in the Championship standings heading into Richmond but just 69 points ahead of 13th-place Brian Vickers. And only the Top 12 qualify to race for the NASCAR Championship, to be decided Nov. 22.

“Anybody in the Chase can win this thing and you better watch out for Juan Montoya,” said Martin.

Martin was mentally prepared if he failed to make the Chase, but the veteran driver has been through plenty of disappointment before in a career that has seen him finish second in the championship four times.

“I wanted this team to make it,” Martin said. “Not so much for me, but for Alan [Gustafson, crew chief] and Rick [Hendrick, team owner] and all the guys at Hendrick Motorsports. Look, they have given me a season that was beyond my wildest dreams. I hoped I would win a race—one race. And I have gotten four of them.”

Miami resident Juan Pablo Montoya made NASCAR history by becoming the first non-U.S. born driver to qualify for the Sprint Cup playoffs, to culminate on his “home” track of Homestead-Miami Speedway.

One race to make the Chase. One race to qualify for a run for the Sprint Cup Championship. One race to make the Championship finale matter on his “home track."

And Juan Pablo Montoya did it. With a 19th-place finish at Race 26 in Richmond, the Miami resident qualified for NASCAR’s Chase “playoffs” with a spot among the Top 12 drivers. In doing so, he made NASCAR history as the first non-U.S. born driver to make NASCAR’s “playoff” system.

No more “mulligans”—a poor result at Richmond would have spelled the end for a driver who held a not-completely safe 88-point lead on the No. 13 points position heading into Race 26. At Richmond, drivers still were vying for one of eight spots not yet claimed in the Chase for the Sprint Cup, NASCAR’s playoffs.”

“In a way today seems kind of weird because we ran so conservative, it’s kind of awkward,” said Montoya. “It’s good because we’re in.”

The Miami resident entered the race needing an 18th-place finish or better to secure his bid for the Sprint Cup Championship, to be decided at Homestead-Miami Speedway Nov. 22. This was the last chance for drivers who found themselves on the bubble to become eligible for a run at a NASCAR’s top-tier Championship. The Chase features 12 drivers in a 10-race shootout to decide a Champion to be crowned at Homestead-Miami Speedway Nov. 22.

It was clear by watching Montoya that the real racing to watch at Richmond was the battle for those final eight Chase spots. Heading into Richmond—the final race before the field was set for NASCAR's post-season—just 122 points separated fifth-place Carl Edwards (3,162) and 14th-place Kyle Busch (3,040). Montoya entered the race just 88 points ahead of 13th-place Brian Vickers. And the former IndyCar and Formula One star from Bogota, Colombia, knew what had to be done to secure his first Chase—and NASCAR history.

“It feels good to prove everyone wrong. This is bigger than winning any race,” said Montoya.

The Chase field is set heading to Round 1 at New Hampshire on Sunday (photo courtesy: Chris Graythen, Getty Images Sport)

“Bionic” Martin Showing Increased Strength

2009-07-30T14:48:00.004-04:00

Mark Martin and the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Pocono this weekend. The 2.5 mile track is very similar to Indy and might spell bad news for the other drivers that are trying to make the Chase for the Cup Championship to be crowned Nov. 22 at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

Miami resident Juan Pablo Montoya was on the verge of making history at the Brickyard in his bid to become the only driver to win both the Indy 500 and the Brickyard 400. The rejuvenated Mark Martin wanted to make history of his own by becoming the oldest driver to win a race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Mark Martin took the lead at Indy after Juan Pablo Montoya was penalized for speeding on pit road. Martin started from the pole position – becoming the oldest to do so in a major auto race at Indianapolis – and led the first four laps. Martin gave up the lead to his Hendrick Motorsports teammate and eventual winner Jimmie Johnson following a restart with 24 laps remaining. Martin chiseled Johnson’s lead down to just .2-seconds but Martin’s Chevrolet simply could not pass teammate Johnson in the closing laps, who Martin later nicknamed Superman. Jimmie Johnson had a nickname of his own for NASCAR’s elder statesman.

"I don't know what to call him," Johnson said. "Bionic Man or something. I wouldn't know. I got him on the restart and he put a ton of pressure on us.

"You can't win if you wreck," Martin said following his second-place finish at Indy. "I was driving as fast as I could without wrecking, man.”

Although he relinquished the lead to Johnson due to NASCAR’s reintroduction of double-file restarts, Martin still likes the rule and agrees with the purpose.

"I think the restarts did their job again today," Martin said after the race. "You can say what you want, but I've had some days this year. I'd love to have won the race. But I'm very grateful to have had a chance at it.”

Now he's one step closer to locking up a berth in the Chase For The Sprint Cup. Martin climbed two spots to ninth in the standings. And, in typical fashion, Martin did not complain about the potential win that slipped away.

“I got beat. I didn't get her done,” said Martin. “Drove my heart out. Gave it everything I had, but got beat by Superman. It's better than 42nd, man."

Martin heads to Pocono, which has similar characteristics as the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, in hopes of capturing an elusive first win at Long Pond. Martin is winless at Pocono but has racked up 31 Top 10 finishes and 19 Top 5 results in 45 NASCAR Sprint Cup races at the track. If his drive at Indy was any indication, Martin should be a factor at Pocono and for the rest of the season which culminates during Ford Championship Weekend (Nov. 20-22) at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

photo of Martin at Indy courtesy of Jamie Squire, Getty Images Sport

Congratulations Justin Wilson and Dale Coyne Racing

2009-07-11T13:37:00.004-04:00

Who said that perseverance doesn't pay? Justin Wilson gave team owner Dale Coyne his first win in 25 years of trying.

I was there when Justin Wilson earned his first career IndyCar Series victory at the Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix in 2008. Sadly, that was the last win for American motorsports legend, Paul Newman, who passed away just weeks after the race. Last Sunday at Watkins Glen International, Justin Wilson recorded his second career IndyCar Series victory and a historic victory for team owner Dale Coyne. Dale Coyne Racing recorded its first victory; not only in the IndyCar Series but its first victory EVER. Justin Wilson, who signed before the start of the season, delivered the trophy that has eluded Coyne for 25 years and 558 races. Wilson climbs to 10th in the Championship points standings and will be seeking another first…an IndyCar Series Championship to be decided at Homestead-Miami Speedway following the Firestone Indy 300 Oct.10.

"Congratulations to Dale on his first IndyCar win," said racing icon Roger Penske. "Dale has been a great friend and a great competitor for many years and we are very happy for him and his team. They worked very hard for this. I thought Justin Wilson drove a great race and he certainly deserved the victory."

Dale Coyne Racing's previous best finish in the IndyCar Series was third in this year’s season opener at St. Petersburg. Coyne has spent a lifetime in motorsports as a driver with 34 major open-wheel racing starts and team owner that helped launch the careers of Paul Tracy, Michel Jourdain Jr., Alex Barron and Robbie Buhl among others. IndyCar Series team owner Eric Bachelart (Conquest Racing) drove for Dale Coyne Racing in 1992-93 and '95.

Coyne looks forward getting a win on an oval. Of the remaining races, four will take place on an oval but none more important than the 1.5 mile, 18-20 degree variable banked Homestead-Miami Speedway during the Firestone Indy 300 Oct.10.

"The only thing that's going to taste sweeter than this win is our first win on an oval,” said Coyne from Victory Lane at Watkins Glen. “And that's what we'll work towards and we'll get there."

(photo of Justin Wilson celebrating at Watkins Glen courtesy of Ron McQueeney, IndyCar Media)

Matos Eager to Win 1st IndyCar Series Race

2009-06-11T16:27:00.003-04:00

IndyCar Series rookie driver and Miami resident is confident that Luczo Dragon Racing can find a way to Victory Lane this year. Those goals aren’t that lofty when you consider what the talented driver has accomplished so far.

IndyCar Series rookie driver and Miami resident is confident that Luczo Dragon Racing can find a way to Victory Lane this year. Those goals aren’t that lofty when you consider what the talented driver has accomplished so far.

“I really believe we're capable of winning a race this year if we get everything right, said Matos in an interview following the race at Texas. “I think performance-wise on road courses we have what it takes.”

Matos is leading in the Rookie of the Year chase over Robert “Bobby D” Doornbos and Mike Conway. If not for two 20th place finishes at St. Petersburg and Kansas Speedway, Matos would have a stranglehold on the Rookie of the Year standings. Matos was in position to challenge for the Chase Rookie of the Year during the Indianapolis 500 and may have challenged Helio Castroneves in the late-going before tangling with countrymen, Vitor Meira. The Rookie of the Year honors fell into the lap of Alex Tagliani who was given the car that Bruno Junqueira qualified for Conquest Racing. Tagliani did a masterful job of staying out of trouble in his first experience in the Memorial Day classic to finish 11th.

If getting acclimated to racing on superspeedways was difficult enough, Matos must now prepare for the short track part of the schedule. The next two races are on tracks that are less than a mile in length. Iowa and Richmond do not lack for action because the drivers are constantly in traffic. Some drivers have said that racing on these two tracks are like “flying a fighter jet in a washing machine.” In that same washing machine, Matos will have to contend with the perennial series juggernauts like Andretti Green Racing, Team Penske and Target Chip Ganassi Racing.

“I think we have the personnel. I think we have the best people we can possibly get in the team,” explained Matos when asked about his chances against teams like Penske. “I think it takes time to build up a team, especially to fight against Andretti Green, Penske and Ganassi. But we're ready for the challenge. We put ourselves in that position and against the best and I'm doing everything I can to learn as much as I can and to improve every day.

photo courtesy Shawn Payne, IndyCar Media

Marc Davis Makes '09 Nationwide Debut at Dover

2009-05-30T10:29:00.003-04:00

Marc Davis joins Braun Racing for the Heluva Good 200 Nationwide Series race at Dover

Eighteeen-year-old NASCAR rookie Marc Davis—who finished 10 spots ahead of a 37th-place start in the 2008 Nationwide finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway—is back on track this weekend, making his ’09 debut at Dover. The Maryland native will drive a Toyota Camry for Braun Racing, where he will team with Jason Leffler and Burney Lamar, husband to Ft. Lauderdale-native supermodel Niki Taylor. Davis has signed on to run six races with Braun Racing in 2009.

Davis drove for Armando Fitz and Joe Gibbs Racing at Homestead-Miami in 2008, and he also won his first race for Gibbs—as a 15-year-old at Hickory (N.C.) Motor Speedway with NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity program (from which he graduated).

While currently committed to drive six events this year, Davis has hopes that he can find increased sponsorship and again run during Ford Championship Weekend at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

“I’m only 18 years old, but I’ve still been around,” said Davis. “I’ve [got] quite a good relationship with Joe Gibbs Racing still, so I feel like my track record is pretty good, and I have pretty good respect in the industry.”

Davis has six Nationwide Series starts under his belt, including the finale in Miami driving for Joe Gibbs Racing. This season, he has run two races under his own banner, Marc Davis Motorsports, and for this weekend’s Dover race he brings sponsorship from Howard University’s WHUR radio station and the Word Network.

(Photo: Getty Images)

Andretti Green Racing's New Hotshoe in the ALMS

2008-07-18T16:16:00.005-04:00

Two recognizable names in American auto racing were shown the door at Andretti Green Racing. The accomplishments of Christian Fittipaldi and Bryan Herta may soon be erased by newcomer Franck Montagny

Andretti Green Racing has endured a rough couple of weeks. Reasons for firing Christian Fittipaldi and Bryan Herta still defy logic. Herta has landed on his feet as a road course consultant for Vision Racing this weekend. Maybe Tony George will create a ride for Bryan Herta. Herta is a great driver and a popular person in the paddock. Fittipaldi is a skilled driver whose productive years are behind him. Unfortunately, Christian has been saddled with a legendary racing pedigree and less than stellar results. Despite the unceremonious dismissal of two talented and likeable drivers, AGR has discovered a driver with a huge upside.

Franck Montagny had never driven an American Le Mans Series prototype until last week at Mid-Ohio before heading off to Lime Rock. Circumstances were stacked against the diminutive French driver last week in Connecticut. Marco Andretti decided to pull off the weekend double, the IndyCar Series in Nashville and the ALMS Northeast Grand Prix at Lime Rock. As a consequence of Marco missing practice, the Andretti Green Acura ARX-01b started from last place.

There were some brilliant moments for the team; however, Montagny could only muster a fifth-place LMP2 class finish. So give the guy a chance. I wonder what would happen if Montagny got a little more seat time to learn the intricacies of perhaps the most advanced racing machines on the planet. Franck Montagny is growing more and more comfortable behind the wheel of a sports car should be a bit frightening to the rest of the American Le Mans Series paddock. He was the fastest driver in Thursday's test session for the Acura Sports Car Challenge with a lap of 1:08.827 (118.105 mph) at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.

Montagny will pair with Raphael Matos, in AGR's Acura ARX-01b, at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course this weekend. Matos is a veteran of the Firestone Indy Lights Series and won the 2007 Champ Car Atlantic title. The Frenchman is a quick study having driven the LMP2 car for the first time last week at Mid-Ohio, just days before his first Series race at Lime Rock Park. And while the familiarity with the circuit helps, more and more laps in the Acura are even more beneficial.

Photo courtesy of the American Le Mans Series

Mutoh, The Next IndyCar Series Star?

2008-06-13T21:46:00.005-04:00

Hideki Mutoh is quietly becoming a contender in his 1st IndyCar Series season. Can this rookie from Tokyo build on early season success?

Hideki Mutoh has been the surprise of the year, thus far, in the IndyCar Series. There were flashes of brilliance last year in the Firestone Indy Lights Series for Mutoh. Last season’s results did not readily indicate that Mutoh was ready for the big-time. His eighth place in the season finale at Chicagoland went unnoticed as Dario Franchitti was crowned champion. Not convinced that Mutoh belongs in the IndyCar Series?

Consider that currently Hideki is seventh in the series championship point standings. He has endured normal rookie issues like bad pit stops and a horrible 24th place showing at Homestead-Miami Speedway. To make things worse for the Japanese driver, he drives the car that won the season championship last year in the hands of the departed Dario Franchitti. Expectations are high for the car and the team that Mutoh has inherited. However, Hideki Mutoh is leading the point standings in the Bombardier Learjet Rookie race. Mutoh has considerable talent which he proved with a second place finish in the season standings for the Firestone Indy Lights Series. He captured two victories during the course of the year which included a daring last lap three wide pass at Kentucky Speedway.

Mutoh was very impressive at the Indianapolis 500 while bringing his Andretti Green Racing machine home in seventh place. Aside from the disaster in the season opener, Hideki Mutoh has not finished lower than 12th place this year. That speaks volumes to his skill level. Mutoh has not raced on some of the circuits with the power of an IndyCar Series car. He is forced to learn the tracks as well as the nuances of a powerful machine. Hideki came away from last week’s tussle at Texas Motor Speedway with a sixth place finish. A victory for Mutoh cannot be far away and you heard it here first.

Photo of Mutoh's Dallara/Honda charging around thew oval at Texas Motor Speedway courtesy of IndyCar.com

Danica Patrick Notches Historic Win

2008-04-25T19:35:00.004-04:00

Danica Patrick raced her way into racing immortality. Can she save American open wheel racing or is Formula 1 her next stop?

Danica Patrick was able to put together a stellar drive and an impeccable fuel strategy to capture her first win in the Indy Car series. Her win marks the first female victory in a major racing series. At the last restart, Patrick was in fifth place and began to fade at the drop of the green flag. Race fans have seen driver performance sag during a late race run due to any number of issues. The car’s handling decreases, tires are worn, and driver fatigue all play roles in late race swoons. However, Patrick dropped back to conserve fuel. As the leaders peeled off for splashes of fuel, Danica found herself in the lead and in line to snatch her first win.

Her win was overdue and it came at a good time for the Indy Racing League. Patrick’s historic victory came on the heels of the merger between the I.R.L. and the ChampCar World Series. The split prevented the stars of each series from competing against each other for over 12 years. The preceding race in St. Petersburg, FL was the second event featuring teams from both the ChampCar and I.R.L. ranks. Graham Rahal, ChampCar regular and son of former Indy car star Bobby, won on the road course in Florida. Fans of the open wheel series are excited and for good reason. This year’s Indy 500

is starting to look like the crown jewel that it was before the split. The Andretti's, a Rahal, Newman Haas Racing, and other figures that called the Speedway home in years past will be in Indiana.

Unfortunately, Danica Patrick has to carry the burden of trying to resurrect a damaged sport rather than concentrating on the race in Kansas leading up to the 500. She is not the only athlete who is being asked to save their struggling sport. In the week following her win in Motegi, Japan, Patrick appeared on every television network in America. She has been on ESPN, appeared on ABC’s “The View,” on the Letterman show, and Fox News with Greta Van Susteren. Danica is a wonderful driving talent but comedic television is not her strong suit. Joining her on a sport crusade is Floyd Mayweather. The welterweight boxing champion has appeared in World Wrestling Entertainment events, dance competitions, and news shows as part of a marketing effort to save boxing. Mayweather has been tabbed as the starter for this year’s Indianapolis 500.

Marketing is an essential component of the modern sports formula. The Ultimate Fighting Championship and mixed martial arts has snatched millions of fans of traditional pugilism. It is eerily similar to the way NASCAR attracted fans of open wheel racing during the split. By placing the most recognizable and supported participants in the limelight, the goal is to lure old fans back and cultivate new fans.

Danica should be allowed to savor her win and focus on the task at hand instead of tackling the media circuit. The victory is monumental and opens up many new opportunities for others. Janet Guthrie and Lyn St. James wanted to win just as badly as Danica but were not able to in Indy car competition. They paved the way for Danica Patrick and there has been little to no mention of their struggles. Paramount to saving racing is remembering racing’s past.

Danica posing with her trophy alongside 2nd place finisher Castroneves courtesy of AP photographer Katsumi Kasahara

Driver Admits to Heroin Use Before Races

2008-04-11T16:13:00.004-04:00

Aaron Fike's admission to heroin use before races signals the need for mandatory drug testing in racing. Racing has inherent danger without adding drug abuse to the equation.

Professional sports have battled drug use for many years. Lately, the emphasis has been placed on the need to educate people on the dangers of performance enhancing drugs. Almost every ESPN “Sportscenter” telecast tells of another athlete that faces indictment or accusations of performance enhancing drug use.

This week brought news of an athlete’s drug use in a sport that is omitted from steroid investigations. Aaron Fike’s admission to heroin use before races implores the need for drug testing in motorsport. Until recently, racing has often been forced to react to situations. Some of the current safety measures in NASCAR can be traced to reactions from Dale Earnhardt Sr.’s fatal accident. Head and neck restraints (HANS device) and the steel and foam energy reduction walls (SAFER barriers) were developed in the wake of life threatening and fatal racing accidents.

When drug use in sports comes up in conversation, most people think of football players and other sports that rely on strength and speed. Performance enhancing drug use does not lead to increased results in auto racing. A competitive chess player would have better uses for steroids than a racecar driver.

Several season’s ago Tomas Enge was suspended for a positive drug test. NASCAR has essentially banned Shane Hmiel for substance abuse. However, there is no comprehensive drug testing procedure in NASCAR. What is even more frightening than the dangers of heroin use on Fike is the possibility of death for the other drivers. NASCAR is very lucky that there were no injuries or deaths as a result of his heroin abuse. I sincerely hope that Aaron Fike gets the help that he needs and racing puts in measures to prevent this from happening again.

2007 photo of Aaron Fike at Kentucky Speedway courtesy of CIA Stock Photography

New Look Indy Racing League Loses Racing Pioneer and Gentleman

2008-03-16T22:19:00.004-04:00

Walker Racing has announced that racing operations have ceased. Derrick Walker joins a list, that includes Forsythe Racing, of teams who have decided against joining the revamped IRL due to lack of funds and sponsorship concerns.

The merger between the Indy Racing League and the Champ Car World Series has been highly anticipated. Fans of open wheel racing in North America may be the losers in a fight that has lasted too long. Auto racing thrives on sponsorship dollars and the merger coupled with NASCAR’s enormous popularity has caused a classy racing pioneer to cease operations.

Derrick Walker has been a mainstay in American motorsport for a long while. He was responsible for launching the Indy car careers of many notable drivers like Robby Gordon and Gil de Ferran. It is upsetting to learn of Walker’s decision to close down Walker Racing due to a lack of funding. Mr. Walker, among other racing achievements, will be remembered as the man who gave Willy T. Ribbs a realistic opportunity at the Indianapolis 500.

Walker and comedian Bill Cosby teamed up to field a car for Ribbs in 1991.
"He will no longer be a first-class racer driving a third-class car with a third-class engine,” said Cosby.
Bill Cosby and Derrick Walker’s commitment led to Willy T. Ribbs becoming the first African- American qualifier and driver to race in the Indy 500.

Derrick Walker’s mark on racing was made long before May of 1991. Many of today’s racing enthusiasts are unfamiliar with Derrick Walker’s exploits. He began his racing career as a mechanic with Brabham Formula 1 in 1970 and crossed paths with current Formula 1 boss, Bernie Ecclestone.

Walker took a position with Roger Penske as mechanic for the grand prix team. Penske decided to leave grand prix racing and Walker stayed on as general manager of Penske Cars. Mr. Penske then brought Walker to the United States as the vice- president of racing operations. Derrick Walker’s first taste of victory in his new role came at the hands of a relatively unknown driver, Rick Mears.

Derrick Walker has been involved in many forms of auto racing including road racing with Porsche. After Porsche’s open wheel venture sputtered, Walker acquired the assets and began his own team. The rest, as they say, is history. I am really upset by recent news regarding Walker because as I set out to begin a career in motorsports, he was the only owner or insider to take time to give me personal advice. Mr. Walker set aside time to return every one of my phone calls and letters. It is a shame to think that the new look series will begin without Derrick Walker and he will be sorely missed.

Photo of Derrick Walker courtesy of RFM Sports

Ex- NBA Star Eyes NASCAR

2008-02-25T21:37:00.004-05:00

John Salley is interested in becoming a team owner in NASCAR. Other athletes have gone into racing but did not last long. Can he be any different?

Former National Basketball Association star, John Salley, has expressed interest in NASCAR ownership. Salley was in attendance for the 50th running of the Daytona 500 and was thoroughly impressed. As a member of Detroit’s championship winning Pistons, John Salley understands the intangibles and the hard work that is required to be a champion.

“I enjoyed it better than watching the NBA All- Star game,” said Salley. The NBA All- Star game was held on the same Sunday as the Daytona 500. “This is the best stuff I’ve seen in my life,” continued Salley.

It is a positive moment when racing can reach a new audience, draw new fans, and attract potential participants. John Salley claims that he is ready to join a growing list of former athletes that have ventured into motorsports. However, the list of former athletes that remain in motorsports is considerably shorter. Aside from ex- pro quarterbacks Troy Aikman and Roger Staubach, athletes from other disciplines have not been able to remain in the sport. Carmelo Anthony, to my knowledge, was the most recent NBA player to go racing and declined a return to the Indy Racing League.

NASCAR’s efforts to increase minority involvement are commendable. However, Michael Crawford, the owner of Crawford Motorsports of the Indy Pro Series, gave me a bit of wisdom that anyone considering team ownership on any level must know.

“Racing is an expensive sport and it is a terrible business. You cannot buy into this sport and hope to get rich. To go faster you must spend more money,” said Crawford.

In that sense, racing is not a pure sport. Hold on, I can hear the non- race fan muttering that racing is not a sport. I contend that in racing the best person does not always win. For example, in track and field, the best-trained and the faster athlete will always win barring disqualification. Racing requires inordinate amounts of money to find that extra tenth of a second that another competitor may not be able to afford. In this case, the well-funded driver will win rather than the most talented driver.

It is exciting to see a high profile athlete like John Salley talk about joining NASCAR as a team owner. It appears that athletes get in over their heads and do not understand the staggering amounts of money that racing commands. If he finds a good team and competent advisors, John Salley might make a good owner. He has to consider that most of the owners in motorsports have amassed their wealth in other industries before tackling auto racing making him a not- so- big fish in racing’s financial pool.

Let’s hope that John Salley and other minorities with the resources to enter the shark-infested waters of racing ownership do their homework. The most important aspect, that people from other forms of entertainment seem to overlook, is the love of the sport. To sink the type of money necessary to compete in any form of racing, an individual must have a desire and commitment to succeed in auto racing despite poor performances, wrecked racecars, and steep operational costs.

John Salley posing in Daytona courtesy of Jeff Siner/McClatchy-Tribune

Will Open Wheel Racing Survive?

2008-02-21T18:38:00.004-05:00

The Champ Car World Series and the Indy Racing League are close to a merger. After 13 years, can a unified series contend with NASCAR?

It has been reported that the Indy Racing League and the Champ Car World Series will announce an agreement that will reunite the two series. The rumored announcement is scheduled for tomorrow. With NASCAR’s remarkable growth, one might wonder if this unification is a case of too little too late to save Indy style racing?

The late Bill France, the founder of NASCAR, built Daytona International Speedway with one motive in mind. He wanted to build a speedway that was bigger and faster than the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Many saw the notion, that Daytona was a bigger draw than Indy as a dream, years from being credible.

Guess what, that day is here now. The IRL and Champ Car split in 1995, not only divided open wheel racing fans, but also aided the NASCAR growth explosion. I remember the Indy 500 after the split when the IRL was in its infancy. Teams were forced to use year old cars and drivers faced an added element of danger. The Indy 500 faced strong opposition from Champ Car, formerly known as Championship Auto Racing Teams, who staged a race in Michigan on the same day. It was a bit strange seeing drivers at Indy who might not have had the backing or skill to compete without the split.

This presented an interesting opportunity for young American drivers. The IRL was created for young American drivers whose background in sprint cars and karts would prosper in an all oval racing series. Before the split, it was difficult to find a talented American driver with decent equipment and a realistic shot at winning the Indy 500 and the season title. Most of the drivers were Formula 1 defectors with names unfamiliar to longtime Indy fans. Nothing is wrong with a foreign influence because the goal of any series is to attract and retain the best drivers available. However, CART was growing thin on American talent and top heavy with foreign drivers. Tony George, founder of the IRL and President of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, disagreed with this trend and created the IRL.

This was a good idea in theory, but losing some of the best drivers and teams to CART in order to make a point seems ludicrous. Now, the IRL and Champ Car want to make up. There are some logistical items, like engine formulas, that will make this announcement a long shot. Even if things go well and an agreement can be made the damage has been done.

I am trying to imagine the entry list for the 2009 Indianapolis 500. I see plenty of drivers from Champ Car with substantial funding and just a few of the IRL regulars outside of the Ganassi and Penske teams with a legitimate chance to win. The problem of finding room for American drivers and sponsors remains. NASCAR has already taken the best drivers from the IRL and one of the best drivers period, Juan Pablo Montoya. This is really kind of sad because many people would have paid top dollar to see Sam Hornish, Montoya, Paul Tracy, Dario Franchitti and the other open wheel stars battle it out at Indy.

I want to see a unified open wheeled series, but I feel like 13 years were wasted and Indy race fans are no better off. Danica Patrick of the IRL versus Katherine Legge of the Champ Car World Series struggles to evoke memories of Indy battles of the past like A.J. Foyt versus NASCAR’s stars of that era.

photo of IRL President Tony George and Tony Stewart by Ron McQueeney of IMS

A Great Race Ignored!?

2008-02-18T20:51:00.005-05:00

The Daytona 500 was an excellent race and the excitement is building for a great season despite being downplayed in mainstream media.

The 50th running of the Daytona 500 is history. This was one of the best races from start to finish in recent memory. Some casual observers may focus on last- lap finishes but this race was thrilling for the entire 199 laps leading into the final lap. Congratulations to Ryan Newman, car owner Roger Penske, and Penske South on their victory. As an observer of Indy racing, Roger Penske’s name is synonymous with Indianapolis 500 victories, as he has collected 14 titles. This marked Penske and Newman’s first Daytona victory.

True race fans should feel insulted about the way our sport is treated in mainstream media. Of course, coverage on Speed TV and ESPN’s “NASCAR Now” was complete and
comprehensive. That is to be expected when racing is conveyed by former drivers, crew chiefs, and astute and passionate observers. However, when Sportscenter personalities and everyday ESPN hosts discussed the results, they were incorrect, omitted, or told with an air of disgust.

There has been an age old and often heated debate about whether auto racing is a sport. Sport is defined as “an individual or group competitive activity, involving physical exertion or skill, governed by rules, and sometimes engaged in professionally.” An individual who has ever talked with a driver or actually watched a race cannot argue with the fact that auto racing is a sport. People may not like motorsports or think racing drivers do very little in the cockpit, but this is an incorrect assumption.

Take Sunday’s 500 for example. There were 43 individuals, who race professionally, vying for the win in oppressive heat. There was a crew chief and spotter with whom the driver remained in constant contact. There is no discussion about defensive coverage as in other sports, but these conversations affect the outcome of the race. The driver and teams that are able to effect the proper adjustments to their car were in contention for the victory on lap 199. Unfortunately, “Pardon the Interruption” and Mike and Mike in the Morning” were not too concerned with the results and the excitement surrounding NASCAR’s “Super Bowl.” Instead of discussing the race with fans on the air and reading our emails, we were treated to the same tired news surrounding baseball and football scandals. Football season has been over for some time and spring training for baseball has just started.

Yesterday was a great race. I feel sorry for those that aren’t racing fans. The new car, personnel changes, and a long season should combine to make this year’s championship battle as exciting as the 50th Daytona 500. There is nothing about Andy Pettitte, HGH, or “Spygate” that is nearly as exciting as the 2008 Daytona 500. Enjoy the season and take pride in the fact that our drivers cannot rely on HGH or performance enhancing drugs to win a title!

Ryan Newman Victory Celebration photo by Pierre Ducharme of Reuters

Spanish GP's Threatened Amid Racial Tension

2008-02-06T20:59:00.000-05:00

It has been reported that, due to racial remarks made last weekend in Spain, the FIA has threatened to drop the Spanish races from the F1 schedule.

This was supposed to be an entry that paid tribute to great upsets in sports history. It was intended to parallel the New York Giants’ victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII with the memorable 1987 Indianapolis 500 win for Al Unser Sr. That year Unser stepped in for an injured Danny Ongais and drove to his record tying fourth Indy win as a huge underdog.

However, something happened, during recent Formula 1 testing in Spain, which may produce much larger ramifications in ALL sports. It has been reported that, due to racial remarks made last weekend in Spain, the FIA has threatened to drop the Spanish races from the F1 schedule. Fans were seen jeering and taunting black driver Lewis Hamilton. There were signs and banners to further make the point that racism is alive in international motorsport. This may be a result of the contentious relationship between Lewis Hamilton and Spaniard Fernando Alonso. As former teammates, Alonso accused McLaren, a British team, of showing preferential treatment to Hamilton who is British. Alonso went so far as saying that McLaren was guilty of racism before his departure.

As to be expected, the organizers were quick to remove the offenders and make an apology to Formula 1 and Lewis Hamilton. Bernie Ecclestone’s swift actions should be commended. Racism is deplorable and has no place in motorsports.

I understand having an affinity or a strong dislike for a driver. I may boo a driver because he might win too much, complain about other competitors, or because I dislike the team owner. But I have never disliked a driver because of where he’s from, his religion, or ethnic background. People pick their favorite drivers for many of the same reasons that determine what teams they follow in other sports. It can be as simple as a family member’s influence, meeting the driver in person, or from where the driver came.

Lewis Hamilton handled the pressure of last season beautifully. He managed to put together a stellar inaugural season and is poised to top last year’s successes. The incident in Spain had to be unsettling for the second year driver. However, there were black drivers in America who dealt with racist remarks on a daily basis. Charles Wiggins, Wendell Scott, and other black drivers in history had to endure much more than an inappropriate sign.

Formula 1 has moved quickly to put an end to such activity at F1 sanctioned tracks. Hint to the rest of the racing world: Hit the offending parties in their wallets! Can you imagine a city losing the Super Bowl because of inappropriate remarks made to participating players? Racing has made strides to become more inclusive. I am looking forward to the day when a driver is just a driver. You love him or hate him for who he is and not because of the color of his skin.

Photo of rowdy Spanish fans during testing at Barcelona courtesy of itv formula1

Is Racing Colorblind?

2008-01-26T15:24:00.000-05:00

The nation just celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2008. Why is there such a racial disparity in auto racing?

The nation celebrated Martin Luther King Jr.’s day of observance this past Monday. This marks a national holiday to commemorate King’s monumental efforts in civil rights in the United States. While some may see this as just another day off from work or school, for many others this represented a day of reflection. Many aspects of modern life would not be afforded to African- Americans and others without the work of Martin Luther King Jr.

As a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, like Martin Luther King Jr., the holiday is of an added personal importance. I view the holiday as a chance to reflect on the opportunities that I enjoy because of his sacrifices. When it comes to racing, I wonder if the sport has ignored King’s teachings.

As much as I would like to say that the lack of minority drivers, team owners, and designers is because of institutional racism, this is not an accurate assessment. There are many reasons for the lack of diversity in all motorsports but the main culprit is MONEY.

Let’s face it; the cost of auto racing is the single biggest factor in determining the participants in a race. In recent times, hockey, golf, and tennis were not viewed as inclusive sports. There may have been people in power that did not want
minority involvement but the limiting factor was money. Granted there are instances in sport that cannot be classified as anything but racist such as the rules against black people playing golf at Augusta Country Club.

The truth is not everyone can afford green fees, ice time, and lessons to compete at a high level in these sports. I will use hockey as an example. The equipment, ice time fees, and travel automatically exclude many people who would otherwise be welcomed to play. Recently, equipment has been donated and ice fees waived to attract more diverse and urban youth. That is great and I am very excited to see this but that would never work in racing.

Racing is expensive and it will always be. To be fast, you must have the best equipment and the best engineers. Racing used to be seen as a hobby. Sometimes, guys would work on a friend’s car for free on the weekends. Those days are as dead as the dodo. Motorsports is a big business and the cost of doing business is steadily increasing. Most of today’s racing heroes started by racing go-karts. A new shifter kart can run from $2500- 10,000. Not many people can afford that cost for something that a child may not enjoy and quit.

Racing has made strides to welcome everybody. NASCAR has initiated its Drive for Diversity program and other series have followed suit. Martin Luther King would probably say that there is still work to do. Thanks to King’s work and efforts by the racing sanctioning bodies there is more access into the auto racing industry. It has become less about the color of someone’s skin and more about the content of his wallet.

Bill Lester Returns to his Roots for 08

2008-01-15T18:50:00.000-05:00

Racing season is upon us once again. NASCAR’s crews and drivers in each of its divisions have begun testing at Daytona.

Racing season is upon us once again. NASCAR’s crews and drivers in each of its divisions have begun testing at Daytona. However, this may be exciting for some observers, but hardcore fans long for real racing. The Rolex 24 at Daytona is a delectable appetizer for hungry race fans. Each year more and more of NASCAR and open wheeled stars tangle with some of the best endurance racing drivers in the world in one of the most prestigious tests of man and machine.

The entry list for past 24 hour races at Daytona read like a who’s who of NASCAR champions. There was Tony Stewart, Jimmie Johnson, Kurt Busch, and Bobby Labonte. Seeing those drivers out of their element and behind the wheel of a different sort of racing machine is a testament to the caliber of driver in NASCAR. A name that deserves to be mentioned in NASCAR circles but never had top-flight equipment is Bill Lester.

Bill Lester honed his craft behind the wheel of sports cars for years before making a splash in the Craftsman Truck Series. He was able to make history in NASCAR several seasons ago when he became the first African- American to qualify for a race in NASCAR’s premiere series at Atlanta. Lester also became the first African- American to surpass $1 million in career earnings. Things seemed to be progressing in the truck series for Lester after landing rides with Bobby Hamilton Racing and Bill Davis Racing. Then suddenly, Bill Lester was gone.

Bill Lester fans fear not. He will be back in a racecar at Daytona January 26th for the Rolex 24. We have grown accustomed to seeing Lester race at Daytona, but in a truck. For those that have not seen him drive a sports car, prepare to be dazzled. Some may doubt his talent because he never won a race in the trucks, but he is a very talented driver.

Unfortunately, black drivers have been forced to spend their best years in other series hidden away from racing’s mainstream. Bill Lester has signed to race the full Grand Am schedule for 2008. A strong showing in the 24 at Daytona as well as a solid season may land Lester in several NASCAR events this year. I hope so!

Lester Riley- Scott Lexus photo courtesy of Brian Cleary and Grand- Am Racing

Happy New Year's Race Fans!

2008-01-06T14:37:00.000-05:00

Wonder what's in store for the 2008 racing season? Here is a suggestion for those who are ready for the season to start.

New Year’s brings about resolutions and optimism regarding the new calendar year. My hopes for 2008, as they relate to auto racing, are almost identical to what they were last year. I always hope for safe and competitive racing, while seeing fresh faces at the forefront of all major motorsports. In 2007, Baby New Year gave Formula 1 fans Lewis Hamilton. NASCAR fans were given the “Car of Tomorrow,” and Indy style racing fans… well?

This year, NASCAR fans can expect some old faces in new places. The only problem is the new places are perennial powers and the additions should only make the Hendrick, Gibbs, and several other teams stronger. Thankfully, we do not have to wait until almost June to find out what is in store for stock car fans. Many teams have already begun rigorous testing at Daytona.

One of the things that I would really like to see in 2008 is a concerted effort by those in power to send a viable American driver overseas. Each year, we are teased with promises and new drivers that are supposed to move America into global racing respectability. Each year, these hopes are dashed whether by poor equipment, poor choices, or overrated drivers.

The “Stars of Tomorrow” program founded by Jeremy Shaw has again crowned a Team USA scholarship winner. The list of Team USA winners is rather impressive until you look at what they were able to do against international competition. Joel Miller is a driver that I will be watching this year. It sounds like he possesses the talent to make the world take notice. Another interesting driver, who already is embroiled in international motorsport, is Jonathan Summerton of Team USA in the A1GP Series.

No matter what type of racing you like, the New Year brings about hope for the upcoming season. I understand that there is no sport whose season is year round but I sure wish there was a way to shorten racing's off-season. Granted, I have not taken part in a 36-race season so that is easy for me to say. Enjoy the 2008 race seasons!

Miller photo courtesy of Joel Miller International Website and Michael Booth

Suffering from Racing Withdrawal?

2007-12-15T21:26:00.000-05:00

Race fans struggle to find racing in the off-season. The A1GP Series offers very exciting racing.

As the off-season for auto racing drags on, racing programming has become scarce. Speed TV has exhausted its supply of “Pinks” reruns and NASCAR award shows. What is a racing junkie to watch while waiting for the annual build up to the 2008 season?

Don’t fret race fans. I have found one of the best-kept secrets in all of racing. The A1 GP series has produced some of the best racing I have seen in years. I can hear American race fans grumbling about road racing and drivers with names that are unfamiliar. Granted, the drivers in A1 GP are not household names here, but the competition is exciting.

While flipping through the channels last week, I stumbled on the A1 race in Malaysia. The Sepang course is familiar to those of us who are Formula 1 fans. I did not catch the race from the beginning but after a few laps I was intrigued. The A1 GP boasts that it is the “World Cup of Motorsport.” Each participating country fields an identical car painted in their respective colors, so it was relatively easy to find your favorite country.
Team Switzerland grabbed a commanding lead just before the safety car was deployed because of an accident involving Team Canada and South Africa. The incident and the results of the race were not of importance for this first race. The most attractive facet of this race was the fact that drivers and teams from all over the world were competing in an auto race for world supremacy. Some of the teams were from countries that were not thought to be racing hotbeds. International race enthusiasts know of the accomplishments of drivers and teams from countries like Brazil and Germany. The A1 GP Series includes teams from countries like India and Pakistan. Yeah, I know, India produced a driver for Jordan F1 a few years ago named Nahrain Karthekeyian. Guess what, after being shunned by F1, he seems to have found a home in A1.

That is the beauty of the A1 series. It features teams that are new to the international racing scene and drivers that are soon to be stars in F1 or was once thought to be a hot commodity. These different agendas produce some very exciting racing. When drivers of varying talent are put in equal cars, the competition is very close. If you are suffering from racing withdrawal, find the A1 GP races in your local listings and treat yourself to some exciting racing.

"We the People" Team USA at Zhuhai in China courtesy of A1 GP website

Hey, Where's the Diversity?

2007-12-11T18:45:00.001-05:00

NASCAR has implemented a Drive for Diversity initiative, but there is little evidence of inclusion.

Diversity has become the buzzword in motorsports. As the sport continues to grow globally, there has been an outcry for more visible and diverse, owners, drivers, and engineers. NASCAR has implemented a Drive for Diversity initiative, but there is little evidence of inclusion.

Racing is an expensive business with yearly budgets soaring well over $40 million. It is not my opinion that NASCAR or any other sanctioning body should make any unusual concessions to attract minority participants. The sport was not built on handouts and freebies. However, if a program has been created to serve this purpose, then there should be new faces in new places.

The Urban Youth Racing School is wonderful program dedicated to the immersion and preparation of urban youths in motorsports. Last year, Sprint Nextel made a large donation to the UYRS. The UYRS is headquartered in Philadelphia and recently moved to Washington DC.

For those of us that LISTEN to the telecasts of NASCAR events, such as qualifying sessions and the races, the UYRS has been mentioned frequently. Joe Gibbs Racing driver, Tony Stewart has been mentioned on several occasions as a staunch supporter of the Urban Youth Racing School.

The problem I have with NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity and the UYRS is that qualified people of diverse backgrounds are denied access to these opportunities. I speak from experience. I have gone down the Drive for Diversity path for several years and have not received so much as a “thanks but no thanks” letter. Recently, I sent my résumé to the UYRS and have yet to hear anything regarding my inquiry. Granted, I am not an engineer or a team owner, but I have followed and participated in racing for much of my life.

I feel that it would be easier to attract minority interest when you find the minorities that have a true passion and skill for a career in motorsports. There are careers in auto racing that do not involve driving. Fortunately, I have raced and have prepared for a career in motorsport outside of the cockpit.

It is great to hear that there are programs in place to aid with minority involvement in motorsport. Progress will be made when there are more diverse engineers and behind the scene professionals are hired. Other major auto racing series should follow NASCAR’s lead.

photo of Anthony Martin, UYRS founder, awarded Urban Wheel courtesy of Steed Media Service

Wish List for Santa

2007-12-02T13:22:00.000-05:00

Race fans take heart… if Santa has any of these presents in his bag, 2008 will be a special year in motorsports.

Thanksgiving has passed and now sights are set on Christmas. Everyone has a wish list for the holidays that may include a new house, car, or money. I am no different. However, I have a list for Santa that will appeal to race fans. When we get gifts that are not what we asked for, people can re- gift or return the item. Race fans take heart… if Santa has any of these in his bag, 2008 will be a special year in motorsports.

1. An end to the split between the Indy Racing League and the Champ Car World Series. This has gone on for too long and with NASCAR swiping some of the brightest open wheel stars, this style of racing may soon become insignificant. Think of the entry list for the 2008 Indianapolis 500 if the split is mended.

2. The sanctioning bodies of motorsports mandate the use of 100% ethanol and biodiesel fuel in every series. Global warming is real and racing culture gets negative publicity. The need to assuage the environmental types is paramount.

3. A 2008 championship for Kyle Busch and Joe Gibbs Racing. Busch is one of the most talented drivers in the world and is a treat to watch when things are going his way. A championship would silence his detractors and make Rick Hendrick sorry for getting rid of him. Joe Gibbs is one of America’s greatest sportsmen and a wonderful example of how to compete fiercely and still be a good person.

4. Petty Enterprises’ return to respectability and competitiveness. Bobby Labonte is a great fit for this organization. Petty has hired a new crew chief for Labonte, Jeff Meendering, so things should improve. Petty has the resources to contend for wins, but the chemistry was lacking. Perhaps with a new leader coupled with Labonte’s prowess, Petty Racing blue will be in vogue in 2008.

5. Sebastien Bourdais to immediately win races in F1 with Toro Rosso. Formula 1 has created a stigma regarding American open wheeled racing’s talent level. For some reason, F1 feels that the competition and talent is inferior in the States, which means that drivers in the North American series’ are not taken seriously with only a few exceptions (Villenueve, Montoya, Mario Andretti). Scuderia Toro Rosso has the resources to compete with the top tier teams, so let’s hope that Bourdais is the missing piece in the puzzle.

Bourdais Bids Champ Car Farewell

2007-11-11T19:59:00.000-05:00

Sebastien Bourdais put an exclamation point on another Champ Car World Series title at the Grand Prix of Mexico City. The question remains as to what the Champ Car World Series will do without its champion?

Sebastien Bourdais put an exclamation point on another Champ Car World Series title at the Grand Prix of Mexico City. This is the Frenchman’s record fourth consecutive championship. Mexico City was his farewell race to the open wheel series. Bourdais announced that he would leave the Champ Car series to race in Formula 1 in 2008. He possesses great talent and should do well in the right situation in F1. The question remains as to what the Champ Car World Series will do without its champion?

In Sunday’s race, Bourdais was not challenged until the late going in a dull season ending race at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez circuit. Only a late race caution put the final result in doubt. With a handful of laps remaining, Will Power was able to close up on Bourdais’ rear wing under a full course yellow. However, when the green flag came out, Bourdais skillfully drove away from Power on his way to another victory.

Champ Car is a series that is struggling to find an identity. Sunday’s race and the Bourdais announcement have not helped. Without a proven champion, F1 cast- offs, and young talent, Sebastien leaves a series in crisis. Paul Tracy, an aging former champ, needed a rising star like Bourdais to offer challenges. Every good racing series has a protagonist and antagonist with similar talent and attitude.

The rest of the driver’s in Sunday’s race are young or unproven in the series. Will Power, Justin Wilson, and Robert Doornbos are the early favorites to contend for next year’s title. To further complicate matters for Champ Car, the series is poorly marketed. The race in Mexico City was telecast on ESPN2. This may have been the weekend’s best-kept secret. As an avid college football fan, the ESPN family of networks is a necessity on Saturdays. There was little or no mention of the race leading up to the 2 PM start. If the series wants to compete with the IRL and NASCAR, fans have to know where to find the races. Several seasons ago, the races were held on the old Outdoor Network and knowing what channel and when the race would be aired became a struggle.

French racing fans have had very little to cheer about since the retirement of F1 champion Alain Prost. Sebastien Bourdais is the real deal and should be fun to watch in F1. While he moves on to a future in F1, Champ Car is faced with a future that may not be so bright.

Bourdais photo courtesy AP Photo/Yves Logghe

Tokyo Sexwale: A Man of Commitment

2007-11-10T20:53:00.000-05:00

This is the third installment of minority contributions to auto racing. Tokyo Sexwale’s commitment to his country and to the A1 GP may spread to the United States.

This is the third installment of minority contributions to auto racing. The owners and influential people in motorsports amassed their wealth in other ventures. Racing interest generally starts as a hobby. Tokyo Sexwale’s commitment to his country and to the A1 GP may spread to the United States. Some race team owners own businesses associated with the auto industry while others use money attained in fields not associated with racing.

Tokyo Sexwale’s interest in auto racing represents a larger meaning to a nation. Roger Penske, Rick Hendrick, nor any other team owners in motorsport have a background as impressive and controversial as Sexwale’s. Tokyo Sexwale is a South African businessman who has many interests outside of motorsport. Currently, he is the seat holder, which is equivalent to team president, for the South African A1 GP team. He is also on the South African committee to host the 2010 soccer World Cup.

The A1 GP World Cup of Motorsport pits country versus country in a worldwide competition. These races are contested on some of the world’s most famous racecourses. Africa played host to Formula 1 races in the past but was canceled due to apartheid. Ironically, Sexwale’s anti- apartheid stance is now bringing this form of racing back to South Africa.

Sexwale was imprisoned and served 13 years for suspicion of terrorism and conspiracy to overthrow the apartheid government alongside Nelson Mandela. He attained a degree in business while in prison. Along with the largest risk management and insurance broker, AON, Sexwale has taken a stance of economic patriotism in Africa. Patriotism fuels the A1 GP and its popularity. Currently, South Africa is second in the championship.

Part of Sexwale’s commitment to A1 GP stems from his pursuit of economic prosperity and democracy in South Africa. Tokyo Sexwale wants to see the training of a development A1 GP team, including drivers, pit crew, and technical support. A development driver for Team South Africa, Stephen Simpson, has competed in the Indy Pro Series.

Is this the End for Open Wheeled Racing in America?

2007-11-06T19:11:00.000-05:00

The recent defection of Indy Racing League and Indy 500 champion, Dario Franchitti, may be the death knell for open- wheel racing in the United States.

Drivers from the Indy Racing League, Champ Car World Series, and Formula 1 are finding racing careers in stock car racing. The recent defection of Indy Racing League and Indy 500 champion, Dario Franchitti, may be the death knell for open- wheel racing in the United States.

NASCAR is clearly the champion of motorsports in America. At one time, NASCAR was the king of the south while the Champ Car World Series, formerly the Championship Auto Racing Teams, was reserved for fans with a more sophisticated racing palate. Then came the split between CART and Tony George. George was concerned with the direction that open wheel racing was going in terms of domestic driver development. Many of the best drivers were from other countries with very little American talent coming along. Tony George’s vision included great foreign talent being challenged by homegrown racers who cut their teeth behind the wheel of sprint cars and midgets.

CART did not agree and Tony George, as president of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, decided to start his own series. The Indy Racing League was started with year old; non-turbocharged machines and raced only on ovals. The IRL has evolved but the damage has been done. Fans had to decide whether to follow a series comprised of road courses or one that featured ovals. The fans decided that ovals were better, but with a different type of car… stock cars and its fan friendly environment.

While the IRL and Champ Car squabbled about engine formulas and venues, NASCAR aggressively snatched curious fans and every ounce of sponsorship dollars. The logistical arguments, between the two racing factions, have further segmented the racing consumer market.

NASCAR has been able to watch Champ Car and IRL destroy one another without breaking a sweat. All NASCAR has to do now is sit back and observe the procession of former open wheel stars to the South. Joining Franchitti in NASCAR is former Formula 1 champ Jacques Villeneuve, Champ Car standout Patrick Carpentier, and America’s latest hope for Formula 1 greatness Scott Speed. This is an impressive list of drivers, with others to follow, who will leave the chaos of open wheel racing for the security of racing’s juggernaut, NASCAR.

NASCAR, you have come a long way baby. Gone are the days of good ol’ boy names like Hut and Buckshot. The entry list for Daytona 2008 will have an international appeal. If the star drivers from Champ Car and the IRL continue to fly south, open wheel racing and its rich history will be nothing more than a memory.

Franchitti photo by Kevin C. Cox/ Getty Images

African- American Contributions to Motorsports

2007-11-02T19:41:00.000-04:00

This is the second article in a series that chronicles the contributions of minorities to motorsports.

Many people hear the cries for more minority involvement in auto racing and fail to understand why. A common misconception is that black athletes are better suited for traditional sports and lack the knowledge necessary to participate in auto racing. Things are slowly starting to change, but there was a group of young men that dispelled this myth almost 24 years before the birth of NASCAR.

The Colored Speedway Association was a group of young black men that organized a race series for black drivers in the Midwest in 1924. This group of black businessmen and several white colleagues raised $50,000 to organize a 100 Mile Colored Speed Championship. The series featured black sprint car drivers and culminated with the annual Gold and Glory Sweepstakes at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. These drivers were prevented from racing in the Indianapolis 500 because of their skin color.

Segregation was the order of business in the 20’s and the Gold and Glory organizers tempted death on and off the track. Starting a black owned series was seen as overstepping the racial boundaries of the time. Today’s racing series need to attract more minority drivers, owners, and sponsors. First, they must acknowledge that access and education is paramount. There is minority interest in motorsports but finding ways into the industry is a tough task.

The Colored Speedway Association disbanded in 1936 but their contributions have stood the test of time. There would be no Chase Austin or Bill Lester if Wendell Scott, the only African- American to win a NASCAR race, had not followed his dream of racing.

African- Americans have a proud history in auto racing, but these stories are seldom told. The Colored Speedway Association was revolutionary and deserves a place in motorsport history. Many sports fans relate to Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier in baseball. However, the formation of the Colored Speedway Association was just as monumental.

Photo courtesy of Tom Stahl and WFYI Indianapolis

5 Ways that Racing Helps the Planet

2007-11-01T16:51:00.000-04:00

As the world struggles to find ways to combat global warming, the racing industry begins to enact measures to reduce emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.

Manufacturers have developed ways to make global motorsports cleaner and more environmentally friendly. To the non- race fan, a 3-hour race on a Sunday is an incredible waste of resources. However, a race serves as a competition as well as a high-speed research experiment. These are examples of what racing has done in the fight against global warming.

1. The Indy Racing League has mandated that all competitors use fuel- grade ethanol. Honda, the engine supplier for the series, made minor adjustments to the engine in order to run the new fuel. The fuel is supplied by Renova Energy of Idaho, which produces 10 million gallons of ethanol per year.

2. Audi, a manufacturer in the American Le Mans Series, developed the turbo- diesel R10 TDI racecar. The R10 utilizes a system that produces more horsepower while reducing fuel consumption. This system has eliminated the smell, cloud of pollution, and noise that is commonly associated with diesel power. Audi has applied these advancements to their production vehicle side.

3. The American Le Mans Series has mandated that each competitor use E10 fuel or clean diesel. E10 fuel is a 90 percent ethanol and 10 percent gasoline mixture. Ethanol is a renewable fuel source that is produced in the States, and releases less carbon dioxide when burned.

4. The sanctioning body of Formula 1, the FIA, has begun to look towards the use of biofuels by the year 2011. The FIA is actively looking for ways to cut costs in the development of an F1 car. One way is to use standard universal components on the body and power train that may cut fuel consumption in half.

5. NASCAR and its gas guzzling racecars have moved to unleaded racing fuel this season. This was done in an effort to lessen the environmental impact of 43 cars racing for the better part of Sunday afternoons.

The damage to the planet’s ozone, from auto emissions, is a political hot button. Race fans take heart, the lessons learned, from the racetrack regarding fuel consumption, are slowly finding their way to our street cars.

photo of Audi R10 TDI courtesy of rsports.com

Kyle Busch a Title Contender despite Bad Luck

2007-10-29T15:31:00.000-04:00

Kyle Busch has driven like the 2007 Nextel Cup champion despite being in sixth place in the chase for the title.

There are few drivers in NASCAR that pose a significant threat to win every race. Kyle Busch represents just such a threat. Kyle Busch may be the leader in the Chase for the Cup if not for some bad luck.

Top Chase contenders have reached this point without the obstacles that Kyle Busch faces each week. There is no question of Busch’s prowess at the wheel of the Kellogg’s Chevrolet, a Craftsman truck, or any other racing vehicle. He proved this Saturday on his way to recording an unlikely truck win in the EasyCare Vehicles Service Contracts 200 at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Kyle Busch snatched the lead from Ron Hornaday with eight laps to go and never looked back. That description does not reflect the eventful race that Busch endured en
route to his fifth victory in the truck series. Kyle Busch was black flagged because the window net, a safety feature in NASCAR, had worked its way loose. This forced him to negotiate Atlanta’s ultra fast oval using one hand while trying to hold the net in place.

Ron Hornaday watched Busch pull off this feat and commented on the difficulty of racing for a victory at Atlanta with one hand.
"Impossible, and he did it," Hornaday said, shaking his head.

This type of luck has not translated into victories on the Nextel Cup side of things. Kyle Busch has had terrible luck during this year’s Chase for the Cup. He finished a dismal 41st at Kansas; followed by a 36th place performance at Talladega, and a 20th place finish Sunday at Atlanta. Despite these results, Busch left Sunday’s race in sixth place for the championship. Kyle had a car that was in a position to win if not for a dreadful stop during a late race caution. As the caution waved, Busch entered the pits as the leader before the jack man failed to raise the car high enough for the right front tire changer to execute a tire change quickly. The incident pushed him back in the field where he was caught up in a late race melee involving Dale Earnhardt Jr.

Busch was very angry and rightly so. At season’s end, Kyle Busch is being replaced at Hendrick Motorsports by one of NASCAR’s biggest stars, Dale Earnhardt Jr. In the meantime, Busch is still a member of Hendrick Motorsports and is contending for the championship. However, he has been barred from design and technological meetings because he is moving to Joe Gibbs Racing. Since Kyle has been excluded from these sessions, he is proving that he can contend for wins even when handicapped by his team. Busch is fantastic even when driving with one hand, literally and figuratively. A strong new team eagerly awaits his arrival, and with a little luck, count on his talent shining through in 2008.

photo courtesy of nascar.com

History Made at Memphis Motorsports Park

2007-10-28T16:57:00.000-04:00

Rookie Chase Austin becomes the second African- American driver to compete in NASCAR’s Busch Series.

Chase Austin began racing go- carts at the age of eight. Even as a youngster, Chase had career aspirations of reaching NASCAR’s top series. Saturday, Chase Austin took a huge step in making that dream come true.

Chase Austin qualified last, but it made the 18-year-old the second African-American driver to qualify for a Busch series race. In addition, Austin made history as the first black driver to qualify for a Busch Series race on an oval. Bill Lester was the first to achieve this in a 1999 race at Watkins Glen. However, Watkins Glen is a road course in upstate New York. A couple of mishaps and rookie errors, before the halfway point, sent Austin to the garage for the day. He settled for a 41st place finish in his Homelife Communities Dodge Charger.

Driving a racecar should be based on talent and ability as opposed to skin color. Unfortunately, Chase Austin has had to deal with racism his entire career. When driving go- carts, his white counterparts often accused him of cheating. Race officials were rumored to confiscate motors and other equipment for inspection. Eventually, his belongings were returned which required reassembly for the next event.

Austin has been signed to drive for NASCAR great Rusty Wallace and RWI Racing. His teammate will be Steven Wallace who has used the Busch Series as a training ground for his career in NASCAR. Driving for Wallace will afford Chase Austin several advantages. He will benefit from Rusty Wallace’s vast knowledge of racing and be given top-notch equipment.

“Chase is a very talented young man who has done a great job for us thus far in 2007, both on and off the track,” said team owner and NASCAR legend Rusty Wallace.

Chase Austin is not quite a household name but he is on the right track. After having achieved a historic milestone, Chase Austin can concentrate on being a driver and contend for championships in the future.

photo courtesy of RWI, LLC press release

Diversity is Key to Success of Global Motorsport

2007-10-26T16:35:00.000-04:00

Racing governing bodies need to find a way to attract and retain more owners of diverse backgrounds. This is the first in a series of minority achievement.

Lately, the buzzword in auto racing has been diversity. NASCAR has taken the lead in diversity efforts with the inception of the NASCAR Drive for Diversity program. It should be noted that other forms of racing have attracted minority owners and drivers too.

NASCAR fans have undoubtedly heard of Felix Sabates. Felix Sabates entered the world of stock car racing as an owner in 1987. He purchased a research and development team from Rick Hendrick. Currently, Sabates is co- owner of Ganassi Racing. Felix Sabates is of Cuban descent and has enjoyed success in a various forms of auto racing ranging from stock cars to endurance sportscar racing.

Athletes from other sports and entertainers have tested the waters of motorsport team ownership. In 1991, popular comedian Bill Cosby entered into multi million dollar sponsorship and promotional agreement to help driver Willy T. Ribbs become the first Black American to compete in the Indianapolis 500. Hip- hop artist Nelly has been a part owner as well. In March of 2003, the rapper bought a share of a NASCAR Craftsman Truck team.

Former boxer George Foreman, National Basketball Association star Carmelo Anthony, and Hall of Fame running back Walter Payton have gone into open wheeled racing ownership. Baltimore Raven linebacker, Ray Lewis, hopes to partner with NFL great Gale Sayres to start a team in the ChampCar World Series.

This is the first in a series detailing the careers and achievements of people with diverse backgrounds in motorsports. Motorsport needs influential people from all walks of life in order to attract a more diverse audience.

photo of Felix Sabates

Hamilton Wants to Earn the Title on Merit

2007-10-23T18:05:00.000-04:00

Vodafone McLaren Mercedes has submitted an appeal of the results from Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix.

The complaint stems from fuel temperatures that were taken during the race from the cars that finished fourth, fifth, and sixth. The fuel samples showed cooler than permitted temperatures. Race officials elected not to impose any penalties because the evidence was thought to be inconclusive. These were the cars of Nico Rosberg, Robert Kubica, and Nick Heidfeld. Nico Rosberg drives for Williams Toyota while Kubica and Heidfeld pilot the BMW Saubers. The penalty for an infraction of this nature would call for the disqualification of the cars involved.

If the penalty is levied against the teams in question, Lewis Hamilton and McLaren would then be classified as the fourth place finisher. Hamilton came home in seventh place so being declared the fourth place finisher would appear to be an insignificant difference. However, the points, that accompany a fourth place finish, would be enough to eclipse the point total of race winner and eventual World Champion Kimi Raikkonen.

The Federation Internationale De L'Automobile and Formula 1 cannot afford such a legal battle. On the heels of the record fine against McLaren for receiving technical documents from a former Scuderia Ferrari employee, another court battle would overshadow a brilliant season.

Lewis Hamilton is placed in an unenviable position as the beneficiary of politics. Raikkonen earned the right to battle for the title in the last grand prix of the season. It would be a shame to take Kimi's title because of a court ruling. Hamilton said he would feel uncomfortable winning the title by default and did not want to deprive Raikkonen of a deserved victory.

“You want to win the race and do it in style. Being promoted after some people have been thrown out is not the way I want to win it," said Hamilton.

The FIA and the International Court of Appeal will now decide whether to grant the appeal and set a date for the hearing. Instead of enjoying a stellar season, Hamilton will now have to wait for a world title awarded by the courts. If Hamilton is given the title, it will come with an asterisk in the history books. Having a title handed to a driver is not the ideal way to enter the record books (ask Bobby Unser and Mario Andretti). Lewis will win a world title if this year was any indication of things to come. In addition, he will win a title, based on his skill and results, on the track not in a courtroom.

Lewis Hamilton, STILL a champion despite Brazilian GP result

2007-10-21T14:42:00.000-04:00

Britain's Lewis Hamilton began the day, at the Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace in Brazil, as the leader in the race for the Formula 1 World Championship.

At the conclusion of the race, Hamilton fell short of this lofty accomplishment by one point. However, this season has been a magical one for a driver with unbelievable talent and ability. Lewis Hamilton was staring at Formula 1 immortality as the first rookie, first black man, and the youngest ever to win a world championship in racing history.

This year's 17 race schedule came down to the last race to determine this year's world champion. Today marked the 35th anniversary of the Brazilian Grand Prix and featured three driver's with a chance to win the championship.
Hamilton, Fernando Alonso, and Kimi Raikkonen were set for battle amid blistering track and air temperatures. This was the 11th time in the 57 year history of Formula 1 where three men were eligible to win the world championship entering the last race. The 145 degree track temperatures marked the highest ever during a Formula 1 event.

Lewis Hamilton has faced many obstacles on and off the track this season. McLaren- Mercedes was penalized $110 million dollars by the Federation Internationale De L'Automobile for spying on rival Ferrari. The FIA also mandated a forfeiture of points and disqualified McLaren from the constructor's world title. In Formula 1, there are two championships that are contested each season. A points championship for the drivers and a title for the teams. There were allegations made, by Hamilton's teammate Alonso, that McLaren was biased toward the Brit. This became evident this week when a Spanish journalist said that McLaren and Great Britain are guilty of racism against Fernando Alonso led by Lewis Hamilton. Despite these distractions, Hamilton performed admirably and entered today's round with a four point lead over his teammate Alonso and a seven point lead over Raikkonen.

The age old racing adage "you cannot win a race on the first lap, but you can lose it," came true today. Hamilton, who qualified 2nd, slid to fourth at turn 1. After coming under attack by his teammate Alonso, Lewis went wide at turn 3 and rejoined the fray in eighth place. This off-track excursion was thought to have created the problems that nagged Hamilton for the rest of the race. A hydraulic clutch problem relegated Hamilton to 13th place on lap 15 and he never fully recovered. Despite a dazzling last stint, where Hamilton set the fastest race lap, his world title hopes relied on attrition and luck. He received neither and wound up in seventh place. This effectively handed the world championship to Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen. Raikkonen was also the winner of the Brazilian Grand Prix ahead of his teammate and Brazilian Felipe Massa.

Lewis Hamilton ended the world championship in a tie for second with his teammate Fernando Alonso. He can take comfort in the fact that he had one of the most extraordinary season's in the history of Formula 1. He is only 22 years old and has plenty of time to win a title. Hamilton's season accomplishments go beyond racing. A black man has been the focal point of McLaren International, which is one of the richest sporting organizations on the planet. The championship may have been lost, but a Formula 1 star for the ages was born. Lewis can prepare for next year without the pressure of being a black rookie Formula 1 driver. He can concentrate on just being a driver.

Welcome to PlanetEarth Racing!

2007-10-19T15:16:00.000-04:00

This is your chance to keep up with auto racing on a global scale.

The year in motorsports is quickly coming to an end. So, it seems strange for someone to start a forum to discuss racing after the conclusion of the Indy Racing League season, the last round of the Formula 1 schedule, and with five races left in NASCAR's Chase for the Nextel Cup.

However, the timing represents one of the most exciting times of the racing year... ANTICIPATION for next year. Your favorite driver may be retiring, being fired, or searching for another challenge in racing. Teams have constructed next year's cars and are preparing for a rigorous offseason of testing.

It is my goal to provide thought provoking insight for someone new to auto racing as well as for the grizzled veteran. In racing, things happen very quickly. Check back often so you will not find yourself a lap down. I plan to publish a new post on FRIDAYS and MONDAYS during race season. During the offseason, you can count on a new post each THURSDAY.

Please enjoy and hope to see you at the track!!!