The Frontstretch Staff is made up of a group of talented men and women spread out all over the United States and Canada. Residing in 15 states throughout the country, plus Ontario, and widely ranging in age, the staff showcases a wide variety of diverse opinions that will keep you coming back for more week in and week out.
9. Dear Santa, Remember me? Not too many NASCAR team owners do either, and as a result I have had to take a part-time job. This year, could you please bring me a competitive ride in any of the three big series? – Steve Park
By stretching his fuel mileage and not making a final pit stop, Terry Labonte took the lead in the Dodge/Save Mart 350 on lap 72 in the No. 96 DLP car.
Sterling Marlin piloted the Waste Management Chevrolet to its only top 10 of the season at Richmond, showing why he’s been a staple in the Cup Series for years.
Which NASCAR driver was the biggest surprise in 2006, and why?
Matt Kenseth was riding high during the first 26 races, soldiering through the “regular season” in his workman-like style to find himself atop the points.
Oddly enough, Bobby Labonte’s high point and low point might have come all at the same time, at Atlanta March 20.
The high point for Dale Jarrett in 2006 came off the racetrack. In May, he announced he’d be jumping from Ford to Toyota at the end of the season.
The 2006 Nextel Cup season could be considered Denny Hamlin’s high point, with a first-year performance that equaled what many drivers accomplish over a career.
As longtime readers of this column know, I am not a Chip Ganassi Racing fan, but I must admit I’m impressed by the hiring of F1 star Juan Pablo Montoya.
10. Laughter ensues from Kurt Busch being eliminated at Bristol, of all places; “angels” do not like to be mocked!