NASCAR 2008

No Racing

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It was weird today without racing.  In fact there was no racing this weekend.  I am sort of glad though.  I needed to catch up on a few things that have needed my attention.  I don’t know how you enjoyed your weekend, but here was my day.

  • Watched the movie “Australia”.  I just have to say I love Hugh Jackman.  He definitely earned his Sexiest Man Award.  I am glad I didn’t see the movie in the theatres.  It was a tad bit long, but I liked it.  Of course I like those kind of movies.
  • Cleaned house.  I really didn’t want to do this today, but why  not nothing was really on television.
  • Watched this past week’s ER episode with George Clooney and a few other ER veterans that have come and gone.  I can’t believe there are only 3 episodes left.  Even though I haven’t regularly watched ER over the last couple of years, I will miss the show.
  • Saw Purdue beat Ohio State to win the Big 10 tourney
  • Watched the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament selection show.  I now have to print my brackets and make my picks.  There were some matchups that are going to be difficult to pick.
  • Watched the new tv show “Kings” on NBC.  It’s rather an interesting show.
  • Made Magic Cookie Bars for Postman and Little Smoke
  • Made dinner…frito pie!  Yummo!

I am now watching the USA play the Netherlands in the World Baseball Classic.  I used to watch baseball on a regular basis.  I was almost as rabid about my baseball as I am with my NASCAR…of course I said almost.

Well, I hope everyone had a productive weekend.  As you can tell I didn’t, but I had a restful one.  I had to get some rest because March Madness is upon us as well as that short track racing.

Have a great week.

2008 Trixies

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trixie-trophy2It’s that time of the year here in The Park.  It has been a long year for all the drivers, crew, and to be honest us fans.  Just like last year, this year was very competitive and there has been much debate for several of the awards. I tried to get a comedian and some entertainment, but just like everyone else the economy has hit The Park and well you guys are on your own for the entertainment portion of the show.  So get out those fire up the grills and get those adult beverages of choice on ice so you can sit back in your lawn chair and enjoy this year’s Trixies.

  1. ” Feels Like The First Time”–Ryan Newman–Congratulations to Mr. Newman and Roger Penske for capturing their 1st Daytona 500.
  2. “What Happens In Vegas, Stays In Vegas”–Carl Edwards–I guess he should have checked that oil reservoir cover before he won the race.
  3. “Rupunzel, Rupunzel, Let Down Your Hair”–Tony Stewart–the reason why Tony let his grow long is still a mystery and for showing some “courage” to have his back waxed to raise money, this was not a good year for Tony’s hair
  4. “Hit Me With Your Best Shot”–Michael McDowell–If you didn’t see this crash during qualifying at Texas, then you must have living in some cave out in the middle of nowhere with no television, radio, satellite, or internet.  I am still cringe every time I see the crash and even more amazed he walked away.
  5. “Would You Like Some Cheese With That Whine”–Denny Hamlin–There were others who were deserving of this award, but Denny whined his way to this award.  Denny voiced his concern about Brad K. driving him hard during a Nationwide race.  
  6. “A Long Way To Go & A Short Time To Get There”–Kyle Busch–Kyle’s attempt for the trifecta by racing in three races in three different locations in one weekend.  He wasn’t very successful, but only Kyle would be that crazy to attempt this feat. 
  7. “Hold All Your Cards, We Have a BINGO”–Dale Earnhardt Jr.–finally he won a race after, what, two years?  It was getting old week after week hearing how many races he had gone without a win.
  8. “Everything That Bounces Off Me, Ends Up…Well Out Of The Race”–Elliot Sadler–I swear every time you turned around Elliott was spinning or crashing into Tony.  I know 20 comes after 19, but it was getting to where I cringed every time I saw 19 near 20.
  9. “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do”–Tony Stewart–Tony’s announcement to leave JGR after 10 years to form SHR with driver Ryan Newman.  Sometimes the breakup is hardest on the ones we love
  10. “Karma’s a Bitch Baby”–Dale Earnhardt Jr. & Carl Edwards–I couldn’t just give this award to one driver.  Both Dale and Carl got their just desserts with Kyle B. and his “tactical” driving skills
  11. “If You Ain’t Cheatin’ You Ain’t Tryin”–JGR Nationwide Teams–Magnets were found under the gas pedal in the cars for the Nationwide Series.  This was the first year Chad Knaus was not given the award.  I guess some times a blind squirrel finds a nut.
  12. “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother”-Kevin Harvick/Carl Edwards–I swear you would have thought this incident was something that happens between classes in your local junior high.  I mean, leaving a wimpy note for Kevin on the plane and then scuffling in front of everyone in the garage.  I have seen more action watching paint dry.
  13. “Are My Ears Bleeding Yet?”–Rusty Wallace–I wasn’t sure if I wanted to give out this award, but damn enough already.  I know Rusty may be knowledgeable about NASCAR, but on-air personality he ain’t..well in this race fan’s opinion.
  14. “And When We Get Behind Closed Doors”–NASCAR–Officials were tired of drivers voicing their concerns about the COT and basically told the drivers to shut up and drive.  Whatever dudes…
  15. “Here a Tire, There a Tire, Everywhere a Tire”–Goodyear Tire Company–The Brickyard disaster.  You have tons of engineers/designers at your disposal you couldn’t come up with a better tire for one of the biggest races of the year.  It was one of the worst races all year.  Thanks a lot Goodyear—not!
  16. “Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head”–Mother Nature–I can’t believe how many rain delays we had this year, what was it 9…10…I guess Mother Nature is a Jimmie Johnson fan.
  17. “Thanks for the Memories”–Dale Jarrett-thanks for all the wonderful memories you brought to all of us NASCAR fans.

That’s quite a list of award winners this year.  There were a lot of close races in each category, but I felt this were the most deserving this year.  Sorry for the delay, but with dealing all the downsizing, lack of money, and overall sponsorship I have had to do all of thi

s all on my own.  But now for the moment you have been waiting for…who is the winner of the 2008 Trixie?  This was a long arduous process with several nights full of tears, shouting matches, hair pulling..wait who am I kidding..there was only one person who deserved this award…drum roll please…

2008 TRIXIE AWARD WINNER

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That’s right, Tony Stewart.  Some of you may think I am a little biased when it comes to the winner and I would have to say, “yes I am”, but looking back over 2008, he has been all over the place.  From his criticism of Goodyear, his efforts for Victory Junction with Prelude to a Dream, to forming Stewart Haas Racing, he seemed to be everywhere this year.  He joins previous winners Dale Junior (2007) and Robby Gordon (2006) in this elite group.  Of course I would have preferred the award of 2008 Sprint Cup Champion, but don’t fret Smoke fans, Tony will be back in 2009 and better than ever.

Nominees in each category were submitted and final voting was counted by The Count over at Sesame Street and certified by the accounting firm of McQueen, Hudson, & Mater.  All decisions are final and the results were not known by the winners until today.

Goin’ Bowling

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tech-cotton-bowlWell, my Red Raiders are headed to the Cotton Bowl once again.  This time they will be playing Ole Miss.  This will be our 4th trip to the Cotton Bowl.  Our first visit to the Cotton Bowl was back in 1939 where we lost to St. Mary’s (CA) 20-13.  The next trip wasn’t until 1995 where we got our assess handed to us by USC 55-14.  I was at that game and all I can say the best part of the whole game was our band.  By the end of the 1st quarter I was partaking of adult beverages.  Our third visit was just a few years ago where we lost right at the end to Alabama 13-10 on a last minute field goal.  I still don’t know how in the world that field goal kicker made that kick.  Perhaps this fourth trip to the final Cotton Bowl at Fair Park in Dallas.  Next year’s game will be played in the new Jerry Jones stadium–oops the new Texas Stadium.  I am hoping the Red Raiders can come away with a victory. 

It does boggle my mind how there are those who think the Red Raiders should be in a BCS bowl.  I disagree.  When you get your clocks cleaned on national television 65-21.  Yes, we beat Texas at home and are currently sitting at 11-1, but when you could have shown you weren’t just the same old Tech, you fell apart.  I am exicted about the Cotton Bowl.  I think we have a great shot at winning this game.  I won’t be able to attend the game even though I am only about 6 hours away.  I just can’t afford $100 tickets this time of year.  I know, I know, that doesn’t sound like much compared to the money I have plunked down for a NASCAR event, but that event was for three races, pit passes, free parking ($25 parking passes for the game).  I think I get my money’s worth at the NASCAR event. 

 

I have to say, I am excited about the BCS Championship game.  It is definitely going to be intriguing to watch.  I don’t really know who I would root for in the game.   I am not a fan of either team.  I could go with OU becuase of the whole Big 12 team, but they did beat my Red Raiders.  I just don’t think I could openly root for them.  They are from Oklahoma and well, I live in Texas.  So does this mean I will be rooting for Texas against Ohio State in the Fiesta Bowl.  Nope.  I just can’t root for Texas.  I have been an Ohio State fan since I can remember (I was born in Ohio).  I grew up on Ohio State football.  Go Bucks!

Well..enough of the BCS.  I tried to watch the NASCAR Awards Banquet.  I honestly sat down in my recliner, flipped over to ESPN Classic and watched.  It last maybe 45 minutes.  Well, I watched until Tony spoke and then I flipped it over to something more entertaining.  I just think the whole thing with Mrs. France and Kevin Costner was very awkward.  Comedian John Pinette was hilarious.  There didn’t seem to be much laughter in the place.  Some of these people need to get a sense of humor.  Plus several of them looked like they were very bored and wished they could be at home watching something else.  Note to you at the banquet, trust me I felt your pain.

Trust me the Trixies will be posted soon.

You Are A Winner

/ Trixie / 1 Comment

Sorry for the last couple of posts.  It’s have been one crazy ball of fire here at work.  I was feeling like Tony S. at times.  Why?  People would ask my opinion about something and I would give only to be met with anger and criticism.  Basically, if you are going to ask for my opinion I am going to tell you like it is, if you don’t like the words that are coming out of my mouth then don’t ask.  However, there have been a several highlights that have made this week worth it.

I mentioned back on November 24, 2008 I had ordered my first new Tony Stewart t-shirt. Well, I got it on Tuesday!!!! I was so excited!!! Of course this is just one of many items that I plan to order over the next few months. Here it is in my possession. I know you are jealous (he he).tony-and-dale-items-0021

 Here is a closeup of the Stewart Haas logo on the shirt. 

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My second highlight of the week comes from the package I received yesterday in the mail.  Back on November 3, Amy over at Amy’s Bad Groovewas having a contest. If you left a comment on her post from this day you would eligible to win some wonderful prizes. And guess what I was one of the winners!! I love to win things!! I still haven’t figured out how to win the lottery though. If anyone knows please tell me so I can quit my job and tour the NASCAR circuit full time. Anyhow, I received my prize in the mail yesterday. Here it is…and I know you are really jealous now.

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It sits top my laptop where I do quite a bit of posting for The Park.  Notice the Tony Stewart sticker…yes even my laptop has that Tony feel.  I can’t wait to watch it.  Thanks Amy!    I have several sites I must visit on a daily basis.  Along with Molding Young Minds, Amy’s site is must read.  If you get a chance zoom on over, I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

And finally…the 2008 Stewie Awards were presented last night.  What are the Stewie Awards?  Well, if you are any kind of Tony Stewart fan, you know he has his own radio show over on Sirius radio (Channel 128).  I don’t get to listen as much as I like to every week, but I managed to listen to majority of the show last.  Here are this year’s winners for the 2008 Stewies (all voted by you…the fans).

  • Best Original Drama (honoring the year’s most exciting moment):  Tony Stewart announces his departure from JGR to form Stewart-Haas Racing
  • Best Student Sequence (Hal Needham award)(acknowledging the year’s most spectacular crash):  Michael McDowell’s tumbling, bouncing fiery crash during qualifying at Texas
  • Best Original Comedy (honoring the year’s most entertaining on tack “incident” or occurrence:  “Yellow Line” fever:  Debate at Talladega concerning controversial finish
  • Bonehead Move of the Year (‘Nuff said):  Carl Edwards pushes Kevin Harvick in Charlotte tyring to discuss Talladega “pansy” comments by Harvick
  • The “Armor All Dirtiest Move” Award (acknowledging the year’s most memorable on-or-off-track bumping):Kyle Busch vs. Dale Jr. at Richmond.  Busch takes out Dale Jr. in the spring; Dale Jr. accidentally overdrives a corner and gets into Busch in the fall race
  • Best Engineering and Special Effects (Smokey Yunick Award)(Acknowledging the year’s most creative–and ultimatley illegal–modifications to a racecar):  JGR Nationwide cars caught with magnets behind accelerator at Michigan
  • Best Driver2Crew Chatter (honoring the best driver to pit crew communication):  Clint Bowyer declares Michael Waltrip “the worst driver in NASCAR” at Bristol
  • Best Vocal Performance (honoring the most memorable quote or sound bite):  Carl Edwards’ postrace comments on ESPN describing his desperation off-the-wall move at Kansas and where he learned it

There were also three special awards give out as well to some special honorees

  • Lifetime Achievement Award:  Richard Childress
  • Lifetime Achievement Award:  Roger Penske
  • Golden Stewie Award:  Darrell Waltrip

Congratulations to all the winners of a 2008 Stewie.  I know you will display your Stewie in the manner in which it should be displayed.

I am hoping to post the 2008 Trixies next week.  Don’t forget the 2008 NASCAR Award banquet is tonight at the famed Waldorf-Astoria in NYC.  The event will be televised at 8:00 pm (EST) tonight on ESPN Classic as well as ESPN 360.  Luckily, I can get ESPN Classic.  But if you don’t, a replay of the event willThere will also be a replay of the event on ESPN 2 on Monday, December 8. 

After tonight’s award show, it will be officially be for me the off-season.  I will get a chance to get to know my friends and family once again.  According to the countdown calendar on my computer…Daytona 500 is only 2 months, 10 days, 7 hours, and 46 minutes away.  With reference to the 500, I have a bit of a moral dilemma…what would you do?  Postman, Little Smoke and myself have been invited to spend a fun filled weekend with some great friends of ours in Ruidoso, NM.  Guess which weekend?  That’s right folks…Daytona 500 weekend.  It didn’t occur to me until this morning.  Now, that is the biggest race weekend for all of NASCAR fans.  It’s our Super Bowl.  What would you do?  Would you…

  1. Honor your commitment and have a fun filled weekend without watching the race.
  2. Honor your commitment and make sure you plan events around the race so you can return to hotel to watch race.
  3. Honor your commitment and make sure you can be in your car traveling at the time of the race so you can listen to it on Sirius radio
  4. Honor your commitment, set the TIVO, and make sure no one lets you see and/or read about the race until you get home on Monday, Feb. 16 to watch the race.
  5. Convince Postman to buy Trixie (who he has so lovingly devoted his life to) a portable Sirius radio so that she can listen to the race while enjoying the weekend.
  6. Send Postman and Little Smoke and enjoy a quiet weekend with just you, Tony and the rest of the NASCAR boys.

I think all of these ideas are doable, but if you have any further suggestions/ideas, feel free to comment.

Tony-Person of the Year

/ Trixie / 1 Comment

I have to say I am a little down this morning…my beloved Red Raiders got their assess handed to them on a silver platter on Saturday night by that team from Norman. But I am ok and have come in off the ledge thanks to this…

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That’s right…”the other man” in my life has been named Person of the Year by NASCAR Illustrated.  If you have not picked up your copy of NASCAR Illustrated I would suggest you pick up your copy now.  Not only is there a great article on Tony, but there is an extra bonus…a fold out poster that is suitable for hanging in my office.   

I can’t wait until the 2009 season begins…according to the clock on my desktop..it’s 2 months, 21 days, 8 hours and 39 minutes.

Oh…and the newest Tony wear is now available for purchase at both NASCAR.com Superstore and Tony Stewart.com.

I just purchased this shirt from Tony Stewart.com. My first, new Tony shirt for 2009! Don’t worry, I will have more in my wardrobe shortly.

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I am hoping someone who really knows how much I need new Tony shirts will order this one from NASCAR.com Superstore (wink, wink Postman, Ms. H., or whoever feels the need to help a Tony fan out).  If you are not sure where to go, just let me know and I be more than happy to guide you there. I am also open to other new Tony items as well. Postman already has the new car on order from our local NASCAR dealer. Gotta love someone who takes care of this Tony fan.

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Update…I am planning to work on the 2009 Trixies over the Thanksgiving holidays.  I have quite a bit of spare time since I am not pulling off the entire Thanksgiving day dinner.  WOO HOO!!