
Tony did it.
Just like Nascarla and Sheryl predicted last year. I'll give them props
for that, but really, way to go out on a limb seesters! But congrats to Tony
and his loyal followers, he made it exciting for everyone, and that's not
easy to do in this world of global media blitz. I swear every scenario was
dissected and regurgitated a million times before even one lap was run at
Homestead. And the way it ended was worth every minute of hype.
If certain prognosticators are correct, and this is the last year of NASCAR
(and of the world), let's make it a good one. Start your engine, check your
belt and mirrors, put the pedal to the medal, and don't let up until Doomsday,
sliding in sideways into the unknown.
I'd like to take this space to pay homage to the "catch phrase", which we
writers (and I use that term lightly) can use to expand on most any subject:
'IT WAS/IS BOUND TO HAPPEN"...
Kurt Bush losing his top notch ride at the highest level of racing because
of his anger management issues. Now I'm not going to say anything about karma,
or putting lipstick on a pig, or anything disparaging about him compensating
for his looks with his ego, so I'll just leave it at that.
Kyle Busch punting someone into the wall. Maybe someone needs to stage
an intervention at the next Busch family dinner, because those boys have some
major issues. I always thought Kurt was the dangerous one, but at least he
didn't use his car as a weapon during his meltdown.
Jimmie Johnson fails to six-peat. It's just the way of the world. There
was no place to go but down, but he did so gracefully, and with class. I really
can't say that for Chad. There were times on the radio that he seemed to be
patronizing the five-time champ, and that is a sign of losing confidence in
your driver. You aren't all that, Chad.
T hat Jeff Gordon will win another Championship. I know he has another
one in him. I appreciate the fact that his philanthropic benevolence has earned
him the title of NASCAR Illustrated's Person of the year. I really do. But
if this is the year to end all years, this is your last chance, bud. Take
a page from the Tony Stewart story, concentrate on racing, and get 'ir done!
Jack Roush piloting another plane that crashed.
'DOESN'T GET ANY BETTER THAN THIS"
Tony Stewart calling his shot, and then following through by not only
winning the last race of the Chase, but winning HALF OF THE CHASE RACES.
That's dominating.
Brad Keselowski turning into a legitimate contender. I'll eat my hat
on that one. (Hey, there's another catch phrase!)
My seester Kathy Beth seeing Jimmie win at Kansas, again.
My seester Nascarla, seeing Brad win at Kansas, for the first time.
"YOU CAN'T MAKE THIS STUFF UP"
The Oddest couple since Oscar and Felix...Danica and Tony Eury, Jr.
Kyle Busch getting ticketed for going 128 mph in a 35 in a Lexus. That's
all, just ticketed.
Pastor Joe Nelms thanking the Lord for his "smokin' hot wife". Oh yeah,
that was in a movie.
Boris Said complaining about The Biff's driving at Watkins Glen. Really
Boris?
Brian VIckers' wreckfest at Martinsville. Tragically comical.
Tandem drafting at the restrictor superspeedways.
Keeping Jeff Burton and kicking Clint Bowyer to the curb. RC,
you can't take it with ya! "Let the games begin".
James Finches' Number 51 car has absolutely nothing to lose. Except
that hard fought respect from the garage that's he's earned after all these
years. And oh yeah, his own self-respect.
Darrien Grub may have the biggest reason to succeed this year with
Denny Hamlin. Not only did Tony let him go after a Championship run,
but he also now works for one the best motivator in sports, Joe Gibbs. I'm
not sure how the breakup between Tony and Joe went, but now Tony has done
what Joe hasn't, or ever will: win a Championship as an owner/driver. I wish
Tony would have kept Grubb, but he felt he had to follow through on his threats,
I guess. Oh, to be a fly on the wall of Stewart/Hass Racing, especially now
that Zippy has joined the fold.
The media hype surrounding Danica will be huge. I suspect her
learning curve will be sweeping.
Kinda like Sam Hornish.
Happy New Year to all, and I'll see ya at the races!
Stayed
tuned to Judy Kay's
"This
Week's Take"
Usually controversial, always entertaining, and highly informative - check
it out!