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AWARDS and VOTING page

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2008 Most Popular Driver Award news and voting
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2007 Nextel Cup Banquet and Winnings page
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Jim France Named Recipient of Pocono Raceway's Bill France Award of Excellence: James C. (Jim) France, vice chairman/executive vice president of NASCAR and chairman/CEO of International Speedway Corporation (ISC) has been named the 2008 recipient of Pocono Raceway's Bill France Award of Excellence. The Pocono Raceway Bill France Award of Excellence has been presented annually to the person, corporation or organization that has made outstanding contributions to the sport of NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Racing. This prestigious award, first presented in 1977, is dedicated to the inspiration of William H.G. France, founder of NASCAR. Jim France is the son the late William H.G. ("Big Bill") France and, brother of former president and chairman/CEO of NASCAR, the late William C. ("Bill Jr.") France. He grew up in the early years of stock car racing, living and learning every aspect of the sport from his own experiences, and from his father and brother. Jim joined ISC in 1959 working in all phases of operations. He was elected to the ISC board in 1970 and has served as the company's secretary, assistant treasurer, vice president, chief operating officer and executive vice president before being named the company's president and chief operating officer in 1987.He was also named to the NASCAR Board of Directors in November 2000.
France has been involved in motorsports most of his life. He has been a strong supporter of motorcycle racing in the United States, evident by his professional involvement in the sport. He was active in Legends Car racing and the Allison "Legacy" Car Series. He was BF Goodrich Legends Cars national tour champion in 1992 and had a good deal of success in the Gatorade Florida Legends Series. He served as starter for the U.S. Motorcycle Grand Prix in the late 1960s, raced dirt track races for nearly five years and has been a member of the American Motorcyclist Association for more than 30 years. In addition, France has raced karts on both dirt and asphalt. France has served as a board member of ACCUS (Automobile Competition Committee of the United States). He was on active duty in the U.S. ARMY (1969-1970) where he served a stint in Vietnam. France was born and raised in Daytona Beach, Fla., and graduated from Seabreeze High School. He attended Florida Southern College in Lakeland, FL., and earned a business degree in 1968.
"NASCAR was founded in 1948 and under the leadership, grit and determination of the France family, NASCAR's popularity grew from primarily on a regional level to national recognition. Today, millions of fans pack NASCAR venues across the country each year for what is arguably the most exciting form of motorsports entertainment," stated Pocono Raceway chairman and C.E.O. Dr. Joseph Mattioli. "Jim France has been a driving force behind NASCAR's success and we are proud to announce that he has been named the recipient of Pocono Raceway's 2008 Bill France Award of Excellence," concluded Dr. Mattioli.
"There is a special relationship and bond between the Mattioli and France families that goes back to the personal friendship Doc and Rose had with my parents, Bill and Anne. My brother and I had the pleasure to build on that friendship. Bill, Jr. worked closely with the Mattiolis throughout his life. I have been fortunate enough to do the same. The close relationship our families share has lasted, and has been extended now through three generations. Receiving the Bill France Award of Excellence is a true honor and an award I will cherish always," stated Jim France.
The Pocono Raceway Bill France Award of Excellence, a beautifully sculptured and highly polished piece of anthracite coal mined in Pennsylvania, will be presented to Jim France at an award ceremony on Saturday, June 7, 2008. This ceremony is part of the festivities leading up to the June 8, 2008 POCONO 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event at Pocono Raceway.
Jim France joins the prestigious list of Pocono Raceway's Bill France Award of Excellence winners listed below:
POCONO RACEWAY'S BILL FRANCE AWARD OF EXCELLENCE WINNERS
1977 Bill France
1978 Winston
1979 Purolator
1980 Union Oil
1981 The Petty Family
1982 G.H. Long
1983 STP
1984 Goodyear
1985 GNRWA ( Now WOW Wives Auxiliary)
1986 MRN (Motor Racing Network)
1987 Grand National Scene (Now NASCAR Scene)
1988 Charlotte Motor Speedway
1989 Ned Jarrett
1990 T. Wayne Robertson
1991 ESPN
1992 MRO (Motor Racing Outreach)
1993 The Allison Family
1994 Rev. Hal Marchman
1995 The Wood Bros.
1996 Clay Earles/Paul Sawyer
1997 Junie Dunlavey/Bud Moore
1998 NASCAR
1999 Rick Hendrick
2000 Robert Yates
2001 Joe Gibbs
2002 Richard Childress
2003 Jack Roush
2004 Dr. Dean L. Sicking and The Midwest Roadside Safety Facility
2005 Nextel
2006 Sunoco, Inc.
2007 James Hylton
2008 Jim France
(Pocono Raceway)(5-2-2008)
Hendrick's Langenstein to be honored: Charlie Langenstein, who works at Hendrick Motorsports will be honored as Mechanic of the Year Award during Northeast Modified Hall of Fame 2008 Induction Ceremonies on Sunday, May 25. Langenstein has molded a successful career that has carried him from the Syracuse Mile in New York State to the superspeedway of Daytona International in Florida. Currently residing in North Carolina, the New Jersey native first ventured to Nazareth, Reading and Flemington (NJ) Fair Speedway in 1972 and over the next two decades surfaced as one of the top wrenches in the Northeast. From 1976-82 Langenstein accompanied George Smith’s Statewide Racing team with Jimmy Horton behind the wheel, then joined forces with big-Block star Brett Hearn before building a car for notorious owner Tony Ferraiuolo and his driver Ken Brenn Jr. to close out the 80s. Charlie relocated to the Tar Heel State and helped Rob Moroso capture the NASCAR Grand National title in 1989 before working at the Kneisel Speed Shop in Pennsylvania from 1992-95 and serving a one-year stint with Team Freightliner owner Ray Bramall. Today, he is the technical supervisor for Hendrick Motorsports on the Cup circuit, overseeing everything mechanical for the cars driven by internationally acclaimed touring stars Jeff Gordon and Jimmie Johnson. More info at dirtcar.com.(4-4-2008)
NASCAR represented in Sports Emmy Nominations: The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) announced the nominees for the 29th Annual Sports Emmy Awards at the IMG World Congress of Sports at the St. Regis Hotel in Monarch Bay/Dana Point, California. At the 29th Annual Sports Emmy Awards, winners in 30 categories including outstanding live sports special, sports documentary, studio show, play-by-play personality and studio analyst will be honored. The Awards will be given out at the prestigious Frederick P. Rose Hall, Home of Jazz at Lincoln Center located in the Time Warner Center on April 28th, 2008 in New York City. Many of the leading sports broadcasters, personalities and television professionals will be presenters at the event. American Airlines and Thomson Grass Valley are the official sponsors of the 29th Annual Sports Emmy Awards. Street & Smith’s Sports Business Journal is the exclusive magazine partner.
The list NASACR related shows nominated
Outstanding Live Sports Special: NASCAR on FOX: Daytona 500, FOX
Outstanding Live Sports Series: NASCAR on FOX, FOX
Outstanding Live Event Turnaround: Quest for the Cup, NASCAR Images
Outstanding Sports Documentary: Dale, NASCAR Images
Outstanding Studio Show Daily: NASCAR Now, ESPN2
Outstanding Open / Tease: Indianapolis 500, ABC
Outstanding Technical Team Remote: ESPN NASCAR, ABC / ESPN / ESPN2 & NASCAR on FOX, FOX
Outstanding Technical Team Studio: NASCAR on FOX, FOX
Outstanding Music Composition / Direction / Lyrics: Dale, NASCAR Images
Outstanding Live Event Audio / Sound: NASCAR on FOX, FOX
Outstanding Graphic Design: ESPN NASCAR, ABC / ESPN / ESPN2
The George Wensel Technical Achievement Award: ESPN NASCAR, Draft Track ABC / ESPN / ESPN2.(emmyonline.org)(3-14-2008) Comment here
Force gets Glick Award: John Force, the winningest driver in the NHRA, was selected winner of the Justice Brothers Shav Glick Award on Sunday before the Auto Club 500. Force was in Phoenix, where his four John Force Racing teams competed in the Powerade Drag Racing Series. Force's other three daughters accepted the award named after the late motor racing writer for The Times, a member of the Motorsports Hall of Fame. The award recognizes Californians who have made distinguished contributions to motor sports. "Being nominated for an award with Shav's name on it is an honor by itself," Force said in a statement, "but to be with people like Robert Petersen, Chris Pook and Jimmie Johnson, the NASCAR champ, makes it even more special. I wish I could have been there myself. . . . It'll go right in my museum. Shav was the first real writer to ever do a story on me." Petersen, who died last year, founded a number of auto-related magazines as well as the Petersen Automotive Museum; Pook founded the Grand Prix of Long Beach and Johnson won the last two Nextel Cup championships.(Los Angeles Times)(2-25-2008) Comment here
Johnson honored at SPEED performer of the year: Legendary racer Mario Andretti awarded two-time defending Sprint Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson his second consecutive Mario Andretti Trophy as the 2007 SPEED Performer of the Year, as part of the second annual SPEED Performance Awards, hosted by Danica Patrick and Tommy Kendall. Johnson earned six first-place votes from the 15-member panel after winning 10 Sprint Cup Series races in 2007, including four in a row during the Chase. Two-time defending World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series champ Donny Schatz (two first-place votes) earned runner-up honors. Formula One champion Kimi Raikkonen (one first-place vote) finished third in the voting, followed by MotoGP rookie phenom Casey Stoner (one first-place vote), F1's Lewis Hamilton (three first-place votes) and Indianapolis 500 winner Dario Franchitti (one first-place vote). Champ Car titlist Sebastien Bourdais also received one first-place vote. With 100,000 fans casting votes on SPEEDtv.com. Hamilton also earned Racer Magazine Rookie of the Year Honors as part of the fan-voting portion of the SPEED Performance Awards. The SPEED Performance Awards will re-air Feb. 15 at 3pm/et. The Mario Andretti Trophy is a three-foot sculpture by renowned bronze artist Elie Hazak.(SPEED PR)(2-12-2008)
Richard Petty honored at 2008 NC-Motorsports Industry Awards: The North Carolina Motorsports Association (NCMA) recently presented 10 industry awards and honored Richard Petty with the Achievement in Motorsports Tribute Award for having a strong positive impact on the motorsports industry in the state. In addition, The North Carolina Motorsports Foundation awarded $25,000 in scholarship grants distributed equally among five North Carolina schools or training centers that have two-year or four-year education programs with a concentration in motorsports. A variety of deserving students were called to the stage and awarded scholarships that will allow them to pursue a career in the $5.9 billion motorsports industry in the state of North Carolina. Lt. Governor Beverly Perdue welcomed nearly 650 attendees, and Winston Kelley, executive director of the NASCAR Hall of Fame and Motor Racing Network broadcaster, served as master of ceremonies. For the full list of awards and more info, see motorsportsnc.org.(2-2-2008)
Junior Achievement honorees include NASCAR founder France: Junior Achievement announced the inductees into its 2008 U.S. Business Hall of Fame, one of the most prestigious honors awarded for success in the business world. Junior Achievement selects inductees for their business excellence, courageous thinking and actions, vision and innovation, inspiring leadership, and philanthropy. The 2008 Junior Achievement U.S. Business Hall of Fame laureates included William H.G. France (1909-1992): Founder and President of NASCAR. For more information and the other inductee's, see www.ja.org.(1-25-2008)
Lesa France Kennedy honored by Daytona Chamber of Commerce: Lesa France Kennedy, President of International Speedway Corporation, received the Lou Fuchs Award on Wednesday from the Daytona Beach/Halifax Area Chamber of Commerce. The award is named for a champion of the local tourism industry who organized an effort to prevent weekend closings of gas stations during the oil embargo of the 1970s. Kennedy, daughter of the late William C. France Jr., also is the Vice President and Assistant Treasurer of NASCAR. The United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties was selected as the 2008 Enterprise Award winner by The Chamber. The Enterprise Award is given "to an individual or organization that has made significant contributions to the quality, vitality and growth of our community," said Ed Williams, chamber chairman and sales manager for Coca-Cola in Daytona Beach.(NASCAR PR)(1-25-2008)
Miller Lite Motorsports Journalism Award Winners Announced: A quintet of journalists were honored Tuesday afternoon during the 23rd annual presentation of the Miller Lite Motorsports Journalism Awards of Excellence in honor of Russ Catlin. The Miller Lite Motorsports Journalism Awards of Excellence annually recognize outstanding motorsports coverage in five categories while honoring the memory of Russ Catlin, a motorsports journalism pioneer. The entries were submitted to the Indiana University School of Journalism, whose faculty members selected the winners. Each winner received a plaque and a Rolex watch from Miller Lite NASCAR Sprint Cup driver Kurt Busch during a Dodge Motorsports luncheon at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Concord Convention Center. The event was part of the NASCAR Sprint Media Tour hosted by Lowe’s Motor Speedway. The 2007 Miller Lite Motorsports Journalism Awards of Excellence in honor of Russ Catlin winners: Print – Daily: Nate Ryan of USA Today; Print – Other: David Caraviello of NASCAR.com; Broadcast – National: Drew Gallagher of ESPN, NASCAR Countdown; Broadcast – Local: Blair Miller of WSOC-TV; Photojournalism: David Griffin of NASCAR Scene.(Tom Roberts PR)(1-24-2008)
Johnson Named NMPA Driver of the Year; Houston Named to Hall of Fame: There was little doubt about who was going to be chosen the National Motorsports Press Association's driver of the year for 2007. The question, instead, was whether Jimmie Johnson would personally accept the Richard Petty trophy. The answer, for the second year in a row, was no. Johnson, who repeated as NASCAR champion last season, was announced as 2007's top driver Sunday at a luncheon during the NMPA's annual convention. When he was unable to attend last year's awards presentation, Johnson videotaped an acceptance message. He did likewise this time, too, but the video wouldn't play. It's the third time in four years that Johnson was voted the NMPA driver of the year, and it was part of the spoils that went with a 10-win season by the 32-year-old native of El Cajon, Calif. Johnson is the fourth driver to win the NMPA award more than twice. Bobby Allison and Cale Yarborough each captured the trophy three times, and Dale Earnhardt Sr. won it by himself four times and shared it with Tim Richmond in 1986. The trophy has been given annually by the media group since 1969.(Fayetteville Observer)
AND: On Saturday night Tommy Houston, one of the truly significant figures in the history of what was previously known as the Busch Series, joined the National Motorsports Press Association's Stock Car Hall of Fame. Like most of the men honored by the NMPA, the honor clearly moved Houston. He basked in the attention, answered every question and went out of his way to be cooperative. Houston's last words to the audience -- the dinner was near Lowe's Motor Speedway at the Concord Convention Center and Embassy Suites hotel -- were, "Thank you for remembering me, and good night."(Gaston Gazette)(1-21-2008) Comment here
AARWBA Titus Trophy to Franchitti: Dario Franchitti, who won the Indianapolis 500 and IndyCar Series championship and then moved on to NASCAR, was announced as recipient of the Jerry Titus Memorial Trophy for 2007 at Saturday night’s 38th annual American Auto Racing Writers and Broadcasters Association’s All-America Team ceremony. The Titus is earned by the driver who receives the most All-America Team votes cast by AARWBA members. Named in memory of the late journalist and professional racer, it is the highest honor offered by the country’s oldest and largest organization of motorsports media professionals. Emerson Fittipaldi, the legendary Indy-Formula One-Champ Car champion, was the featured speaker. Other Team drivers on-hand to claim their “Horsepower” Trophies were: Tony Schumacher and Tony Pedregon (drag racing); Alex Gurney, Jon Fogarty and Scott Pruett (road racing); Mika Salo, Jamie Melo and Alex Lloyd (at-large); and Frank Kimmel (touring series). Also elected were Sebastien Bourdais (open wheel); Jimmie Johnson and Jeff Gordon (stock car); Donny Schatz and Jerry Coons Jr. (short track); and Ron Hornaday Jr. (touring). Several special awards were presented:
Pioneer In Racing Award: Carl A. Haas
Jim Chapman Award: Dave Densmore and Bob Carlson received the honor for excellence in motorsports public relations.
Dusty Brandel President’s Award: Robert (Rocky) Entriken, journalist and longtime chairman of the All-America Team selection committee, received the honor from Brandel. Entriken was acknowledged for his many contributions to the organization.
Gorsline Scholarship: The 15th annual scholarship, given by John Gorsline of The Gorsline Co., went to 19-year-old Star Mazda series champion Dane Cameron. The prize is awarded to an up-and-coming driver who displays the attributes of a future champion. Cameron became the first rookie to win the overall series championship.
A special audio-visual tribute was offered in memory of members Bill France Jr., Wally Parks and Shav Glick. Bob Jenkins was Master of Ceremonies. Army Staff Sergeant John Adams and Indianapolis 500 Oldtimers Club executive director Jack Martin led the Pledge of Allegiance.(AARWBA PR)(1-14-2008)
AARWBA Dinner to Draw Champions, Winners, Headliners: Dario Franchitti, Emerson Fittipaldi and Carl Haas are among the headliners confirmed to attend the Jan. 12 American Auto Racing Writers and Broadcasters Association’s All-America Team dinner presented by A1GP World Cup of Motorsport. The 38th annual ceremony will be at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Indianapolis. AARWBA is the country’s oldest and largest organization of motorsports media professionals. The All-America Team, voted on by AARWBA media members, includes drivers from open wheel, drag racing, stock car, road racing, short track, touring and at-large categories. The highlight of the evening will be the announcement and presentation of the Jerry Titus Memorial Trophy. The Titus goes to the Team driver who received the most votes. In addition to Indy 500 winner/IndyCar Series champion Franchitti, other Team drivers set to attend include: NHRA Top Fuel champion Tony Schumacher (last year’s Titus winner); NHRA Funny Car champ Tony Pedregon; Rolex Series co-titlists Alex Gurney and Jon Fogarty; Rolex runner-up Scott Pruett; ALMS GT2 co-champions Mika Salo and Jamie Melo; and Indy Pro Series champ Alex Lloyd. AARWBA will offer its tribute to Bill France Jr., Wally Parks and Shav Glick. Popular broadcaster Bob Jenkins will serve as dinner Master of Ceremonies for the third consecutive year. The event is open to the public and tickets can be ordered at the www.AARWBA.org.(1-3-2008)
Economaki Award Winner Announced: Donny Schatz added to his collection of off-season hardware, collecting the fifth annual Economaki Champion of Champions award presented by Rockett Brand Racing Fuel Thursday afternoon during the PRI Trade Show at the Orlando Convention Center. Schatz, who won his second-consecutive World of Outlaws sprint-car championship, was selected by the National Speed Sport News staff from 10 finalists, narrowly beating out Nextel Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson. National Speed Sport News Editor Chris Economaki made the presentation while accompanied by Rockett Brand Racing Fuel President Jack Day. Schatz, who acknowledged he was “shocked,” was in the audience and accepted the award from Economaki and Day. Previous winners of the award, which goes to the driver deemed by the NSSN staff to have had the most outstanding season while winning a major touring series championship competing in North America, are J.J. Yeley, Steve Kinser, Tony Schumacher and Johnson, who won the honor in 2006. Schatz will be honored on the cover of NSSN’s Dec. 19 year-end triple issue.(National Speed Sport News)(12-13-2007)
Jim Hunter honored with Lifetime Achievement in Sport and Entertainment Award: The International Conference on Sport and Entertainment Business (ICSEB) is pleased to announce Jim Hunter as the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement in Sport and Entertainment Award. The award presentation was held Thursday, November 15 at the ICSEB Kick-Off Reception. Jim Hunter is the Vice President of Corporate Communications/Regional Touring/NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series. He has worked in the motorsports industry since 1968. Mr. Hunter has served as sports editor for The State in Columbia, S.C. and a writer for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He has also written books on stock car racing, University of South Carolina football and youth league football. Mr. Hunter attended the University of South Carolina, where he was a three-year letterman in football and a two-year letterman in baseball. He is married and has two grown children. "Jim Hunter exemplifies a world class "Carolina" gentleman whose career has produced a passion for NASCAR, love of family, respect of colleagues and friends with a humbleness that should be a model for us all," says Dr. Tom Regan, of the Department of Sport and Entertainment Management. The Lifetime Achievement in Sport and Entertainment Award recognizes an industry veteran for achievements of lasting impact over a number of years in the fields of sport, entertainment, or venue management. He or she embodies the professionalism, commitment to excellence, and business savvy that has propelled sport, entertainment, or venue management to become a key industry in the 21st century.(ICSEB PR)(12-12-2007)
2007 All-America Auto Racing Team Selected: With voting completed for the 2007 All-America Auto Racing Team, five drivers emerge as contenders for the Jerry Titus Award. Tony Schumacher, the 2006 Titus winner, is bidding to be only the third driver ever to win the award in consecutive years, after Mario Andretti in 1977-78 and John Force in 1999-2000. For the second consecutive year Schumacher won the NHRA Top Fuel championship on the final run of the season, claiming his fifth career championship and his fourth in a row. The Titus, given in remembrance of the late racer/journalist, signifies the top vote-getter on the All-America team regardless of category, and is not announced until the American Auto Racing Writers and Broadcasters Association's banquet Jan. 12 at the Hyatt Regency in Indianapolis, which is open to the public. Challenging Schumacher, are the champions of both major open-wheel series, four-time Champ Car World Series titlist Sébastien Bourdais and Indianapolis 500 winner/Indy Racing League champion Dario Franchitti. Also in the hunt are Jimmie Johnson, the 2006 and 2007 NASCAR Nextel Cup champion, and Ron Hornaday Jr., who won his third NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series championship. Nextel Cup champion Johnson easily led the Stock Car category, with his teammate and Cup runner-up Jeff Gordon easily taking the other First Team slot. NASCAR Busch Series champion Carl Edwards was joined by Clint Bowyer on the second team. In Touring Series it was Craftsman Truck Series champion Hornaday and nine-time ARCA champion Frank Kimmel who dominated the category. Young phenom Joey Logano, who won the NASCAR Busch East title at age 17, was joined on the Second Team by USAR Hooters Pro Cup champion Bobby Gill.(AARWBA PR)(12-10-2007)
Barney Hall Given Bill France Award: Barney Hall has received his share of accolades through his half century of broadcasting NASCAR races; but the latest is his proudest. Hall, of Elkin, NC, was awarded the Bill France Award during the annual NASCAR Awards ceremony held at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City on Friday night. The award is not presented every year; making the significance that much more special for Hall, booth announcer for the Motor Racing Network. Hall has been a part of MRN broadcasts since they took to the airwaves in 1970. And, his golden voice and tempered style have been a part of NASCAR coverage since. In January of 2007, Hall was inducted into the National Motorsports Press Association Hall of Fame. In October, the Barney Hall and Harry Howard studios were unveiled during MRN's Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of its new studios and headquarters in Concord.(MRN PR)(12-5-2007)
NSSN Names 10 Finalists got 2007 Economaki Champion of Champions: The fifth annual Economaki Champion of Champions presented by Rockett Brand Racing Fuel will be featured in the Dec. 19 year-end issue. It is the final issue of 2007, and NSSN will not publish again until Jan. 9, 2008. The Champion of Champions must have earned a title while racing in North America during the 2007 season and excelled on and off the track. There were plenty of racers who put together stellar seasons, but the NSSN staff narrowed the contenders to 10 finalists. The winner will be announced Dec. 5 during the Performance Racing Industry Trade Show in Orlando, Fla., but featured in the Dec. 19 issue. Each of the finalists represents a different type of auto racing that is covered extensively within the pages of NSSN. Nextel Cup Series driver Jimmie Johnson earned the award last year, while other previous winners are Tony Schumacher (2005), Steve Kinser (2004) and J.J. Yeley (2003).
The 2007 Nominee's are: Sebastien Bourdais (Champ Car); Jerry Coons, Jr. (USAC); Dario Franchitti (IRL); Steve Francis (WoO); Jon Fogarty/Alex Gurney (Grand Am); Ron Hornaday, Jr. (Craftsman Truck Series); Jimmie Johnson (Nextel Cup Series); Joey Logano (Busch East Series); Donny Schatz (WoO); Tony Schumacher (NHRA).(NSSN Site)(12-1-2007)
Tire Specialist "Consistently Smooth" award announced: Champion Tire & Wheel announced the winner of the 3rd annual "Consistently Smooth" award, which recognizes the skill and effort of the Nextel Cup championship teams' tire specialist, went to Hendrick Motorsports #48 team member, Sean Kerlin. The inaugural award presented in 2005, went to Jerold Shires on the #20 Joe Gibbs Racing team. Since then Sean Kerlin has won the award 2 years in a row with back-to-back championships on the #48. The lead crystal trophy will officially be presented at the teams' shop in Harrisburg. There to accept the award with Sean will be #48 team manager Michael Landis, and #48 crew chief Chad Knaus.(Champion Tire & Wheel PR)(12-1-2007)
Stewart and Sirius announce winners of "The Stewies": Winners of the inaugural 'Stewie Awards' were announced tonight by two-time Nextel Cup Series Champion and SIRIUS Radio host Tony Stewart at the SIRIUS Satellite Radio Studios in New York City. The 2007 'Stewie Award' winners were decided by fans around the country who logged on to www.SIRIUS.com to vote for the best, boldest and funniest moments of the 2007 NASCAR season. The 'Stewies' were awarded during a special broadcast of Tony Stewart Live, the weekly talk show hosted by Stewart and Matt Yocum on SIRIUS NASCAR Radio channel 128, in the midst of the 2007 Nextel Cup Series Champions Week. Winners in 12 categories including "Best Duet," honoring outstanding teamwork by a driver and crew chief, "Best Original Drama," honoring the year's most exciting race moment, "Best Driver2Crew Chatter Exchange," "Best Stunt Sequence" and others were honored. Among the evening's highlights was the presentation of the "Stewie Lifetime Achievement Award" to two legends of NASCAR - former NASCAR Chairman and CEO Bill France, Jr. and Hall of Fame driver/broadcaster Benny Parsons, both of whom passed away in 2007. The winners of the 2007 'Stewie Awards' are:
Stewie Lifetime Achievement Award
* Bill France, Jr., former Chairman and CEO of NASCAR
* Benny Parsons, Hall of Fame driver/broadcaster
Golden Stewie Award - Honoring a legendary driver from the Golden Era of racing (1960-85)
* A.J. Foyt
Best Duet - For outstanding teamwork by a driver and crew chief
* Clint Bowyer & Gil Martin: Martin keeps Bowyer calm and team performs only one adjustment all day to get Bowyer's first career Nextel Cup win in Sylvania 300 (Sept. 16)
Best Original Drama - For year's most exciting race moment
* Kevin Harvick edges Mark Martin to win his first Daytona 500 (Feb. 18) New Kid on the Track Award - For year's most outstanding performance by a rookie
* Juan Pablo Montoya: Wins first Nextel Cup race in Toyota Save Mart 350 (June 24)
Best Stunt Sequence (Hal Needham Award) - For year's most spectacular crash
* Clint Bowyer: Crosses finish line at Daytona 500 on his roof (Feb. 18)
Best Original Comedy - For year's most entertaining on track "incident" or occurrence
* Robby Gordon performs "victory celebration" burnout despite losing Busch Series race at Circuit Gilles Villaneuve in Canada (Aug. 4)
Best Vocal Performance - For year's most memorable quote or sound bite
* Actor Kevin James: Provides memorable "Start Your Engines" command before Pepsi 400 (July 7)
Best Engineering and Special Effects (Smokey Yunick Award) - For year's most creative - and ultimately illegal - modifications to a race car
* Crew Chief David Hyder & MWR VP of Competition Bobby Kennedy: Illegal fuel in #55 car at Daytona 500 (Feb. 18)
Dazed and Confused Award - For year's the most baffling move
* Teresa Earnhardt and DEI allow Dale Earnhardt Jr. to leave for Hendrick Motorsports
'I Got Dumped' Award - For year's most memorable on-track bumping
* Kyle Busch: Wrecked by brother Kurt in Nextel All-Star Challenge (May 19)
Best Driver2Crew Chatter Exchange - For year's most memorable driver-to-pit crew communication
* Denny Hamlin/#11 team: Discuss "plan of attack" against Dale Earnhardt Jr. and #8 car during Subway 500 (Oct. 21)
(see more at Sirius.com)(11-30-2007)
NASCAR NMPA Myers Brothers Media Luncheon Award Winners
Raybestos Rookie of the Year Award: Juan Pablo Montoya (#42 Texaco/Havoline Dodge)
Manufacturers Championship Award: Chevy
Marketing Achievement Award: ESPN Marketing
Chex Cereals Most Popular Driver Award: Dale Earnhardt Jr. (#8 Budweiser Chevy)
Buddy Shuman Award: Robert Yates (owner, Robert Yates Racing)
Home Depot Humanitarian Award: Don Miller
Budweiser Pole Award: Jeff Gordon (#24 DuPont Chevy)
Checkers/Rally's Double Drive-Thru Challenge Award: Jeff Gordon
Commit Lozenges Commit to Win Award: Jeff Gordon
Goodyear Gatorback Fastest Lap Award: Jimmie Johnson (#48 Lowe's Chevy)
WIX Filters Lap Leader Award: Jeff Gordon
Mechanix Wear Most Valuable Pit Crew Award: #48 Lowe's Chevy
Mobil 1 Command Performance: Kurt Busch (#2 Miller Lite Dodge)
USG Improving the Finish Award: Matt Kenseth (#17 DEWALT Ford)
DirecTV Crew Chief of the Year Award: Mike Ford (#11 FedEx Chevy)
Clevite Engine Builder of the Year Award: Earl Wheeler (Engine builder for Hendrick Engines)
Dow Automotive Strategic Call of the Race Award: Jimmie Johnson
Sunoco Diamond Performance Award: Jimmie Johnson
Goodyear Award: Jimmie Johnson
Champion Sponsor Award: Robert Niblock (CEO, Lowe's)
Champion Crew Chief Award: Chad Knaus (#48 Lowe's Chevy)
Myers Brothers Award: Bill France Jr., accepted by Betty Jane France.(NASCAR PR)(11-30-2007)
Miller named recipient of NASCAR Home Depot Humanitarian Award: The Home Depot and NASCAR announced that Don Miller of Mooresville, N.C., was selected as the recipient of the inaugural NASCAR Home Depot Humanitarian Award for his work with the Stocks-for-Tots program. The award is the first of its kind open to any member of the NASCAR community who has shown extraordinary dedication to serving others and improving communities through meaningful service efforts. Miller is an executive for Penske Racing. As the NASCAR Home Depot Humanitarian of the Year, Miller received a specially designed crystal award and a $100,000 donation made by The Home Depot to his charity of choice, Stop Child Abuse Now (SCAN), an organization whose mission is to continue to help and provide education, counseling and intervention programs for the prevention of child abuse and neglect. Miller will also receive a playground in the city of his choice built by volunteers from NASCAR, The Home Depot and KaBOOM!, the Company’s national nonprofit partner which envisions a great place to play within walking distance of every child in America. Miller developed Stock-for-Tots as a holiday event and fundraiser for SCAN. Miller continues to be intimately involved in the event which brings together stock car racing and its fans to collect toys and raise funds for SCAN. Since 1989, the event has raised more than $400,000 and distributed nearly 40,000 toys to children in North Carolina and is now the largest fundraiser for SCAN. The other finalists for the award were Spencer Lueders, project creator, director and team member of 24 Hours of Booty; and Kyle Petty, driver for Petty Enterprises and co-founder of Victory Junction Gang Camp. They received a $25,000 donation each to their designated non-profit charities.(Manning Selvage & Lee/Home Depot/NASCAR PR)(11-30-2007)
Myers Brothers Award will go posthumously to Bill France Jr.: The 50th Myers Brothers Award will be presented posthumously Thursday to Bill France Jr., who served as president of NASCAR for more than three decades. France, who took over NASCAR's top post from his father in 1972 and served as president until 2003, also won the award in voting from members of the National Motorsports Press Association in 1989. The Myers Brothers award is the centerpiece of an annual luncheon scheduled for Thursday during Champion's Week activities in New York City. The award goes to the individuals and/or groups who have provided outstanding contributions to stock car racing. Benny Parsons won the award in 2006. Many of the annual contingency awards will also be presented Thursday [highlights on ESPN Classic, Friday night at 8:30pm/et, before the banquet coverage]. This is the second year the Myers Brothers luncheon has served as the setting for these presentations as part of an effort to streamline Friday night's Nextel Cup awards ceremony at the Waldorf-Astoria's Grand Ballroom.(ThatsRacin)(11-29-2007)
NCMA announces 2008 award nominees: The North Carolina Motorsports Association (NCMA) announced the nominees for the second annual NCMA Awards Banquet which will be held at the Embassy Suites and Convention Center here [Concord, NC] on Jan. 30, 2008. In addition to Richard Petty, who will receive the Achievement in Motorsports Tribute Award for his lifetime of accomplishments, dedication and commitment to the industry and in the state of North Carolina, 10 organizations will be awarded in distinct categories. Three nominees were chosen in each category through anonymous NCMA member voting. The categories and nominees are: Two-Year or Trade School Education Program: Pit Instructional and Training, Catawba Valley Community College and Central Carolina Community College. Four-Year Education Program: Belmont Abbey College, University of North Carolina, Charlotte and Winston Salem State University. Motorsports Workforce Diversity: Imagine This! Creative Concepts, NC A&T University and Urban Youth Racing School. Regional Marketing Campaigns: JHE Production Group, Race World USA and National Auto Sport Association (NASA). National Marketing Campaigns: DIRT Motorsports, Champ Boat Grand Prix Series and DuPont Motorsports. Economic Development: Richmond County, Cabarrus County and International Speedway Corporation. Safety Innovation: NASCAR, Safety Solutions and Hendrick Motorsports. Event Facilities: Southern National Speedway, Bowman Gray Stadium, Hickory Motor Speedway. Small Company: Endurance Karting, Extremeion, Koolmat Insulation. Large Company: Stock Car Steel & Aluminum, Richard Petty Driving Experience, Fountain Boats. The NCMA is the voice of the motorsports industry in North Carolina, representing businesses that support more than 26,000 jobs in North Carolina. During 2004, the NCMA commissioned a study which revealed that the industry is responsible for that level of employment and has a total economic impact of $5.9 billion annually within the state. The economic impact study played an important role in Charlotte’s successful bid for the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Proceeds from this event go toward NCMA initiatives such as the Motorsports Workforce Development Initiative IE2 – “Introduce, Educate, Intern, Employ.”(NCMA PR)(11-7-2007)

Most Popular Driver Award in 2008
VOTE!

The Polls are Now Open for 2008 Chex Most Popular Driver Voting Effective immediately, Chex Most Popular Driver wants you, and all your friends and family, to go online and be a part of NASCAR’s prestigious and historic award determined by fans. Fans can now log onto www.mostpopulardriver.com and make their vote count towards the prestigious Chex Most Popular Driver award won by NASCAR greats such as Richard Petty, David Pearson, Bobby Allison, Dale Earnhardt and others.
This season, new entries for the award include international stars such as former Indianapolis 500 champion Dario Franchitti, former Formula One star Jacques Villeneuve and Canadian open-wheel standout Patrick Carpentier. Fans can vote once a day, every day for over 40 of their favorite Sprint Cup stars. Voting continues throughout the season and will conclude on November 17 at 11:59pm/ct. The winner will be announced at the NASCAR NMPA Myers Brothers Luncheon in New York City in December.
For more information and to vote on the Chex Most Popular Driver Award, fans can log on to www.mostpopulardriver.com.(2-16-2008)

See past news on 1999 - 2007 Most Popular Driver Award News

Driver of the Year Award
Johnson wins 2007 Driver of the Year Award: #48-Jimmie Johnson crushed the competition for Driver of the Year - 2007, much like he trampled his rivals on the way to his second-straight NASCAR Nextel Cup Series championship. It was also Johnson's second-consecutive title in the United States most prestigious award in auto racing because the voting is done by an elite panel of journalists and broadcasters from coast-to-coast. The California-born driver becomes only the third driver to achieve this honor after Darrell Waltrip (1981-1982) and teammate, Jeff Gordon (1997-1998). "I am truly humbled to be honored as Driver of the Year. I appreciate this award and the recognition from the press," said Johnson. He added "they watch every race and for them to think I did the best job is awesome!" Driving the #48 Lowe's Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports Johnson had ten wins, including four out of the last five-races during the crucial Chase to the Cup. In the last quarter Johnson (who went on to beat his teammate, Jeff Gordon for his second-straight, Nextel Cup Title) he went on a tear, winning four-in-row. Not only was he a winner, but, he consistently finished in top-ten in two-thirds of all the points races this year. About the only surprise was that the vote, while conclusive, wasn't unanimous. In the year-end ballot each panelist votes for only one candidate. Johnson tallied 14 votes, while Champ Car champion, Sebastien Bourdais, earned two votes, the World of Outlaws' - Donny Schatz - and Carl Edwards, a Cup regular and Busch Series champion, also received one vote apiece. Barry Schmoyer, President of the Driver of the Year Foundation, said "it's hard to imagine that, in the long history of the award, there have been only three repeat winners. That shows two things, (1) the level of competition on the track and (2) the integrity of the panel in trying to rate drivers from many forms of four wheel racing against one another." Starting its' 42nd year, the Driver of the Year title is unique. A panel of 18 leading journalists from across the U.S. determined the winner in a secret ballot.Earlier this year there was quarterly voting where points are awarded on a declining 9, 6, 4,3,2,1 basis. Johnson, who also won the fourth quarter ballot, will receive a trophy and a Tissot wristwatch to be presented at a later date. President of the Driver of the Year Foundation is Barry Schmoyer, businessman and sportsman of Sarasota, Florida. Go to www.dotyaward.com to see a new website devoted to Driver of the Year news, opinions and reader comments.(DOTY PR)(1-7-2008)

SPEED's Performer of the Year
Johnson Added to SPEED Performer of the Year Voting Panel: Defending Nextel Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson, last year's inaugural winner of the SPEED Performer of the Year, has agreed to join the voting panel for the annual award beginning this year. Johnson, who edged MotoGP champion Nicky Hayden and F1 title winner Fernando Alonso to win last year's SPEED Performer of the Year, joins a panel that includes SPEED on-air personalities Bob Varsha, Dave Despain, Tommy Kendall, Ralph Sheheen and Dorsey Schroeder, as well as SPEEDtv.com columnists Robin Miller, Tom Jensen and others. SPEED will offer all future winners of the SPEED Performer of the Year the opportunity to join the voting panel. The 2007 SPEED Performer of the Year will be voted on beginning in November and announced as part of the annual SPEED Performance Awards in February, with the winner earning the famed Mario Andretti Trophy, a three-foot bronze sculpture created by artist Elie Hazak.(SPEEDtv.com)(10-29-2007)
Speed Performance Awards update: More than 56,000 votes were cast for the inaugural SPEED Performance Awards as fans voiced their opinions on nine fan-vote categories. The results, gathered over four weeks of video voting on SPEEDtv.com, will be unveiled as part of a one-hour television special to debut Feb. 8 at 9:00pm/et. In addition, a panel of 13 broadcasters, journalists, former drivers and motor sports producers will select the inaugural SPEED Performer of the Year, with the winner being presented with the Mario Andretti Trophy, a 100-pound bronze sculpture by artist Elie Hazak.(SpeedTV.com)(12-26-2006)
SPEED Trophy named after Mario Andretti: SPEED [Channel] will pass on the legacy of Champ Car and Formula 1 champion Mario Andretti by awarding the Mario Andretti Trophy to its Performer of the Year. The trophy, which was created by renowned sculptor Elie Hazak and was given to the top vote-getter for the Champ Car All-Star team from 1999-2001, depicts many of the highlights of Andretti’s career including his 1967 Daytona 500 win, his 1978 F1 title and his four Champ Car titles. The trophy also symbolizes Andretti’s emigration from Italy to Nazareth, Pa., with a globe and an olive tree with roots going to both locales. The original trophy, which stands 38 inches tall and weighs 95 pounds, will be on display at various SPEED trackside locations throughout the rest of the season leading to the inaugural award ceremony.(Speed Channel PR)(9-2-2006)

NEWS about AWARDS
Fan Voting at SPEED: SPEED will open the first three categories of the Second Annual SPEED Performance Awards on Nov. 19, as fans will choose from a selection of video clips posted on SPEEDtv.com for RACER Magazine Rookie of the Year, "Biggest Hit" and the "Oops Award." Among the nominees for RACER Magazine Rookie of the Year are Lewis Hamilton (Formula One), Robert Doornbos (Champ Car) and Juan Pablo Montoya (NASCAR Nextel Cup Series). The second series of categories - "Temper, Temper," "Biggest Upset" and "Heartbreak" will open to fan voting beginning Nov. 26 and the final three categories - "Best Rivalry," "Best Finish" and "Tell it Like it Is" will be open to fan voting beginning Dec. 3. In addition to the fan-selected SPEED Performance Awards, SPEED will once again present the Mario Andretti Trophy to the SPEED Performer of the Year. NASCAR Nextel Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson earned the inaugural award last season. All of the awards will be part of a one-hour SPEED Performance Awards special to air in February.(SPEEDtv.com)(11-19-2007)
NMPA names Spirit Award winner: Award-winning sportswriter and longtime manufacturer's representative Ray Cooper has been named the third quarter recipient of the National Motorsports Press Association's Pocono Spirit Award. Cooper, diagnosed with cancer earlier this year, remains active in the sport despite curtailing his work with Dodge as a manufacturer's rep in NASCAR's Nextel Cup Series this year while undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatments. A former recipient of the Joe Littlejohn Award, he was also the 1986 winner of the George Cunningham Award for excellence in writing. Cooper received 46 votes cast by the membership. Jimmie Johnson received nine votes. Johnson recently raised nearly $500,000 for the Jimmie Johnson Foundation through an inaugural golf tournament, dinner and auction. The foundation is dedicated to assisting children, families and communities in need and contributes to several charitable organizations. The NMPA/Pocono Spirit Award, which has been presented annually since 1992, recognizes character and achievement in the face of adversity, as well as sportsmanship and contributions to motorsports. Four quarterly winners are selected, with one overall Spirit award winner chosen by a vote of the NMPA membership at year's end. The award will be presented during the group's annual dinner and awards ceremony in January 2008. James Hylton was named the first-quarter winner of the award, while Bill France Jr. was the recipient of the award for the second quarter.(SceneDaily.com)(10-10-2007)
The King to receive NCMA Award: The North Carolina Motorsports Association (NCMA) will host its second annual awards banquet on January 31, 2008, when it will present Richard Petty with the Achievement in Motorsports Tribute Award for his lifetime accomplishments in motorsports and contributions to the state of North Carolina. “King” Richard’s seven NASCAR Cup Series championships, seven Daytona 500 victories and 200 career wins make Petty, statistically, the top driver in NASCAR history. However, what he has accomplished for the sport and the state of North Carolina off the track are equally notable. Born in Level Cross, N.C., where he still lives and works and where he has raised a family, Petty has truly made a difference as a leader in his community, and his service to others is unrivaled in many ways. The NCMA will also honor the outstanding achievement of individuals and organizations that have a significant impact on the North Carolina motorsports industry. Companies are nominated for 10 awards in seven distinct categories including education, diversity, marketing, economic development, safety innovations, event facilities and manufacturers & suppliers. Award nominations begin September 15, and nominees will be evaluated by the NCMA Awards Nomination Committee. The three finalists chosen for each award by the Nominations Committee will be announced at the Association’s annual luncheon on November 5. More info at motorsportsnc.org(NCMA PR)(9-15-2007)
Roger Penske to Receive Smokey Yunick Award: Roger Penske, whose race teams have captured 20 national championships while setting the industry standard for professionalism, will receive the Smokey Yunick Award Saturday night, Oct. 13, during pre-race ceremonies for the Bank of America 500 at Lowe’s Motor Speedway. Instituted in 1997 by legendary car owner and mechanic Smokey Yunick who passed away May 11, 2001, the award annually recognizes an individual whose lifelong efforts have had a major impact on the motorsports industry. Penske was inducted into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 1998 and became a member of the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 1995. He was also inducted into the Auto Racing Hall of Fame at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2002. Previous winners of the Smokey Yunick Award include Junior Johnson, Ken Squier, Bill Simpson, Ralph Moody, Banjo Matthews, Bud Moore, Cotton Owens, Junie Donlavey, Jim Hunter and Glen and Leonard Wood. Tickets for the Oct. 13 Bank of America 500, round five of the 10-race Chase for the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup, start at $39 and are available online at www.lowesmotorspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-455-FANS.(9-13-2007)
Dr. Dick Berggren to Receive Bobby Isaac Memorial Award: Longtime magazine editor and auto racing broadcaster Dick Berggren will receive the Bobby Isaac Memorial Award during pre-race ceremonies for the Dollar General 300 Busch Series race Friday night, Oct. 12, at Lowe's Motor Speedway. The Bobby Isaac Memorial Award is presented annually by Lowe's Motor Speedway to an individual or group in recognition of outstanding contribution to short-track racing. Isaac, one of the sport's outstanding racers, was well known for his short-track exploits and commitment, and it is in his honor the award is named. After earning a doctorate in psychology, Berggren was working as a professor at Emmanuel College in Boston and driving race cars on weekends when he accepted an offer to become editor of Stock Car Racing magazine. With an emphasis on short-track coverage, the magazine quickly became an industry leader and circulation grew rapidly as the sport rode a wave of increasing popularity throughout the 1980s and 1990s. In 1999, Berggren decided to launch a new motorsports magazine and started Dick Berggren's Speedway Illustrated. With a reported circulation of 140,000, the monthly magazine now has the largest readership of any publication in its category. In addition to his magazine work, Berggren has enjoyed a 26-year motorsports television career. He became a pit reporter for ESPN's fledgling NASCAR coverage in 1981, beginning one of the longest-running careers in NASCAR television. In addition to ESPN, he's worked with CBS, TBS and TNN and is currently part of the FOX and SPEED broadcast teams. Previous winners of the Bobby Isaac Memorial Award include journalists Chris Economaki and Tom Higgins; promoters Hugh Deery, Henry Furr and John Moose; drivers Jack Ingram, Harry Gant and Dick Trickle; motorsports equipment manufacturer Brian Butler; and American Sprint Car Series founder Emmett Hahn. Tickets for the Dollar General 300 NASCAR Busch Series race on Friday night, Oct. 12, start at just $17 and can be obtained online at www.lowesmotorspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-455-FANS.(LMS PR)(8-29-2007)
France Jr. tabbed 2nd-quarter NMPA/Pocono Spirit Award recipient: William Clifton France, the guiding force behind the phenomenal growth of NASCAR for more than three decades, has been named the second-quarter recipient of the National Motorsports Press Association/Pocono Spirit Award. France, known a bit less formally as Bill Jr. by those in the sport, served as president of NASCAR from 1972-2000. Three years later, he stepped aside from his duties as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the sanctioning body, turning those duties over to his son, Brian Z. France. But despite his seemingly lesser role, and a lengthy battle with cancer in his later years, France Jr. remained an active voice in the sport. His opinions and decision-making ability helped reshape the structure of the current NASCAR Nextel Cup Series schedule as it became more national in scope, he oversaw the creation of the group’s $10 million Research and Development Center, and helped broker deals that brought Nextel in as the premier series’ sponsor as well as the return of network television coverage for the sport. France died June 4 at his home in Daytona Beach, Fla. He was 74. “He blazed so many trails for our sport,” Mike Helton, who replaced France as president, said. “He was determined to follow the vision of his father while also expanding on that vision. Over nearly four decades, he did a masterful job.” France received 45 votes cast by the NMPA membership. Roush Fenway Racing driver Todd Kluever received 6 votes. The NMPA/Pocono Spirit Award, which has been presented annually since 1992, recognizes character and achievement in the face of adversity, as well as sportsmanship and contributions to motorsports. Four quarterly winners are selected, with one overall Spirit award winner chosen by a vote of the NMPA membership at year’s end. The award will be presented during the group’s annual dinner and awards ceremony in January, 2008. France Jr. joins first-quarter winner James Hylton, the award’s first-quarter recipient.(Pocono Raceway)(8-11-2007)
Haas Named Pioneer in Racing: Carl A. Haas, one of the most successful team owners and businessmen in motorsports history, has been chosen by the American Auto Racing Writers and Broadcasters Association to receive its Pioneer In Racing Award. Haas will accept at the 38th All-America Team dinner, Saturday, January 12, at the Indianapolis Hyatt. The Pioneer is one of the most prestigious honors from AARWBA, the country’s oldest and largest organization of motorsports media professionals. The award recognizes long-time dedication and achievement that have made a difference in the sport. Dan Gurney, Parnelli Jones, Andy Granatelli, Kenny Bernstein, the Agajanian family, Les Richter, Hershel McGriff and Robert Falcon are among the previous recipients. While Haas spent his early years winning races behind the wheel of various sports cars, he attained legendary status as a team owner, with 15 major championships. Haas, along with Champ Car partners Newman and Michael Lanigan, recently announced a new partnership with Robert Yates Racing for NASCAR competition. Haas has been inducted into the SCCA Hall of Fame. The All-America Team ceremony will honor 2007’s top drivers from all forms of motorsports. Categories include stock cars, open-wheel, drag racing, road racing, short track, touring series and at-large categories. It is one of the few such dinners open to the public. Information on individual tickets, tables of 10, and souvenir program book advertising is available at the aarwba.org.(AARWBA PR)(8-7-2007)
Richard Petty named North Carolinian of the Year: He was already The King. Now, Richard Petty is the North Carolinian of the Year. Petty won a record 200 Cup races and seven Daytona 500 races. He won 27 races in 1967 alone, 18 races in 1970 and 21 in 1971. Since 2000, no driver has won more than eight in a season. Only the late Dale Earnhardt matched Petty's seven NASCAR championships. Petty was honored at the press association's annual meeting, held this year at Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord. The award started in 1993 and is given to North Carolinians who bring honor and recognition to the state. Other winners include evangelist Billy Graham and former North Carolina basketball coach Dean Smith, North Carolina Senator Elizabeth Dole and banjo-picker Earl Scruggs.(AP/wnct.com)(7-28-2007)
Congrats: Phil Holmer, Goodyear's Marketing Manager since 1976, recieved the H. Clay Earles Award at Martinsville last week.(4-3-2007)
Checkers/Rally’s Wins Bill Veeck Sports Sponsorship Award: Checkers Drive-In Restaurants, Inc., the nation’s largest chain of double drive-thru restaurants has been recognized as the 2006 Bill Veeck Sports Sponsorship Award winner for the Professional Association category. The chain received the award for its Official Burger and Drive-Thru Restaurant sponsorship of NASCAR and several International Speedway Corporation (ISC) race tracks. Checkers/Rally’s became part of the NASCAR experience in 2005 with its Official Burger and Drive-Thru Restaurant sponsorship of the sport, and further supports this relationship through its official track sponsorships at Daytona, Richmond, Homestead and Michigan, as well as Indianapolis. The annual Bill Veeck Sports Sponsorship Awards are organized by the John Cook School of Business at Saint Louis University. They were established in 2004 in honor of one of the greatest innovators in the history of sports, Hall of Fame baseball owner Bill Veeck, and recognize companies that continue a longstanding tradition of unique, innovative and inventive sports promotion. For more information, visit www.billveeckawards.com.(Checkers Drive-In Restaurants PR)(3-10-2007)
Kenseth inducted into California Speedway's walk of fame: #17-Matt Kenseth was honored Saturday at California Speedway with a plaque with his likeness, as well as his footprint and signature on California Speedway's Walk of Fame. The California Speedway Walk of Fame, which commemorates past Nextel Cup Series winners at California Speedway by setting a plaque with their likeness into a cement fixture, is a monument similar to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. During the plaque installation ceremony, the driver then has the opportunity to autograph the commemorative piece and place his or her feet into the slab before it dries. California Speedway began the Walk of Fame tradition in 1998 after Jeff Gordon took the checkered flag at the inaugural 1997 Cup event at California Speedway. The ceremony was a huge success and the tradition has continued ever since. The ceremony featured a Walk of Fame induction of Kenseth for driving his way to victory at last year's Auto Club 500 at California Speedway. It was his first Nextel Cup Series victory at California to go along with his three [now four] Busch Series victories at California Speedway. Along with his name adorning a permanent piece of California Speedway, Kenseth also received a one-of-a-kind gift. For the past several years, Ohana Kemp Surfboards, a surfboard shaping company out of Orange County, California, has been custom shaping and designing custom boards for all Nextel Cup Series winners at California Speedway.(California Speedway PR)(2-25-2007)
Childress Inducted into Oceanside Rotary Club Stock Car Racing Hall of Fame: NASCAR champion team owner Richard Childress was inducted into the Rotary Club of Oceanside Stock Car Racing Hall of Fame last night in ceremonies at The Shores Resort and Spa in Daytona Beach Shores. The 18th annual event also saw the induction of legendary NASCAR executive Les Richter. The Hall of Fame is located inside The Shores Resort & Spa. Past inductees include Richard Petty (1990), Bill France (1993), Benny Parsons (1998), Bill France, Jr. (2001), and Dale Earnhardt (2004).(RCR PR)(2-14-2007)
Johnson named Inaugural SPEED Performer of the Year: Nextel Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson was named the inaugural SPEED Performer of the Year, edging out MotoGP champion Nicky Hayden and F1 title winner Fernando Alonso for the top award on last night's SPEED Performance Awards television special presented by BFGoodrich. Other finalists included Sam Hornish Jr. (IRL), Sebastien Bourdais (Champ Car) and Tony Schumacher (NHRA). In the top fan-voted category, Grand American Rolex Series driver Colin Braun was named RACER Magazine Rookie of the Year, topping Marco Andretti (IRL), Bryan Clauson (USAC), Denny Hamlin (NASCAR), Robert Kubica (F1), J.R. Todd (NHRA) and Dan Clarke (Champ Car). Braun will be featured along with other RACER Magazine honorees in a special 'Racers of the Year' April issue, on sale March 13. With more than 56,000 fan votes cast on SPEEDtv.com for the SPEED Performance Awards, other winners of the night included:
* Best Rivalry - Formula One titans Fernando Alonso and Michael Schumacher * Biggest Hit - Champ Car rookie Katherine Legge, who walked away from a massive crash at Road America after losing her rear wing. * Biggest Upset - David Gilliland for his 'David vs. Goliath' win in the NASCAR Busch Series race at Kentucky in an unsponsored, underfunded entry. * Oops Award - NASCAR driver Brian Vickers for taking out teammate Jimmie Johnson and Dale Earnhardt Jr. at Talladega en route to his first Nextel Cup Series win. * Tell It Like It Is - Carl Edwards for his emotional, on-camera assessment of fellow NASCAR driver Tony Stewart after an on-track incident at Pocono, calling Stewart "special." * Temper, Temper - ARCA driver Michael Simko for his flying sidekick through the front windshield of fellow competitor Don St. Denis at Toledo. * Best Finish - Sam Hornish Jr. passing rookie Marco Andretti on the last lap of the Indy 500. The SPEED Performance Awards, hosted by Patrick Dempsey and Tommy Kendall, will re-air Saturday at 8:00pm/et and Wednesday at 9:00pm/et.(SpeedTV PR)(2-10-2007)

2007 Most Popular Driver of the Year Award
Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Wins Fifth Consecutive NMPA Chex Most Popular Driver Award: The final race has been run, and the checkered flag has fallen on the NASCAR racing season; but before it was all over, race fans answered the call to vote for their favorite driver. Dale Earnhardt, Jr. was voted the 2007 NASCAR NMPA Chex Most Popular Driver for the fifth consecutive year and was presented with the award today at the NASCAR NMPA Myers Brothers Media Luncheon in New York City. “I’m extremely honored to win this award again, because it puts me with a very select group of drivers who I have a lot of respect for,” Earnhardt, Jr. commented. “When I became a Cup driver in 1999, I never would’ve imagined that we’d be talking about five consecutive Most Popular Driver awards. I have a special place at JR Motorsports where I put the MPD trophies, so I’m honored to add another one to the collection. I don’t want it to sound like a cliché, but this award really does mean a lot to me after all we have been through this year,” continued Earnhardt, Jr.. “This year has marked a significant transition in my life and career, and I knew the fans could go either way in supporting my decision or not. It was tough, and I don’t underestimate the fans’ support. It’s been overwhelming, and I really appreciate it.” Throughout the race season, race fans could log on to www.mostpopulardriver.com once a day and vote for their favorite driver. Voting ended on November 19 at 11:59pm/ct. A total of 3.8 million votes were cast this year, with Earnhardt, Jr. receiving 1.4 million votes.
“General Mills is very proud to once again present Dale Earnhardt, Jr. with the NASCAR NMPA Chex® Most Popular Driver award,” said Becky O’Grady, Vice President of Marketing for Chex cereal. “Earnhardt, Jr. has a dedicated fan base that has supported him throughout his racing career, and each year it shows in the number of votes he receives as the most popular driver. We are honored to present this prestigious award to Dale Jr., thanks to his loyal fans.”
After receiving the award this year, Earnhardt, Jr. has joined Richard Petty and Bill Elliott as the only drivers to win five straight awards. Petty won from 1974 – 1978 and Elliott won from 1984 – 1988. Other drivers who finished in this year’s top 10 include Jeff Gordon, who finished second in the voting, followed by Michael Waltrip, Kasey Kahne, Tony Stewart, Kevin Harvick, Matt Kenseth, Jimmie Johnson, Elliott Sadler and Dale Jarrett. More than 50 Nextel Cup Series drivers were eligible in 2007 for the esteemed NASCAR NMPA Chex Most Popular Driver Award, which is administered by the National Motorsports Press Association (NMPA). It has been awarded annually since 1956 and is one of the oldest awards in racing.(Elevation Group of Companies PR)(11-29-2007)
Most Popular Driver Award Tops Three Million Votes: The NASCAR NMPA Chex Most Popular Driver award recently surpassed the 3 million mark in votes, and voters are still logging in daily. This new tally tops last year's total of 2.8 million votes cast. Log on to the Chex Most Popular Driver Website at www.mostpopulardriver.com. The current list of top-ten drivers, in no particular order, includes Jeff Gordon, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kevin Harvick, Kasey Kahne, Matt Kenseth, Dale Jarrett, Jimmie Johnson, Elliott Sadler, Tony Stewart and Michael Waltrip. The NASCAR NMPA Chex Most Popular Driver winner will receive the award on Thursday, November 29, 2007 at the annual Myers Brothers Luncheon held in conjunction with the Nextel Cup Series' end-of -year banquet in New York City. The award has been given annually since 1956. Dale Earnhardt Jr. has four consecutive wins in the voting competition, with his most recent win coming in 2006. He joined drivers Bill Elliott and Richard Petty as the only drivers to win four consecutive awards.(Elevation Group PR)(10-10-2007)
NMPA Chex Most Popular Driver Award Logs Over Two Million Votes: More than two million votes have been tallied in the race for the NASCAR NMPA Chex Most Popular Driver Award. Thanks to fans logging in at www.mostpopulardriver.com to support their favorite driver, the goal of topping last year’s total votes is in sight. The current drivers in the top ten include many repeat visitors, and each has a chance at taking home the coveted prize. Listed in alphabetical order, the top ten list includes Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jeff Gordon, Kevin Harvick, Dale Jarrett, Jimmie Johnson, Kasey Kahne, Matt Kenseth, Elliott Sadler, Tony Stewart and Michael Waltrip. Fans can vote once a day, every day, but after voting the first time at www.MostPopularDriver.com, fans can register for the monthly online newsletter and complete a sweepstakes entry. Votes will continue to be counted every day through the remainder of the season. Fans should vote once a day, every day before Monday, Nov. 19, at 11:59am/ct.(Elevation Group PR)(7-27-2007)
Battle Heats Up for the Most Popular Driver Award: The 2007 season is well under way and the battle is heating up for the 2007 NASCAR NMPA Chex Most Popular Driver Award. Race fans have really begun to show their enthusiasm for their favorite driver and continue to make their votes count at www.MostPopularDriver.com. One million votes have been cast to date, and surpassing last year’s total of 2.8 million votes is in sight. So far this year the competition is among many of the favorites from last year. The top-10 drivers include in alphabetical order: Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Jeff Gordon, Kevin Harvick, Dale Jarrett, Jimmie Johnson, Kasey Kahne, Matt Kenseth, Elliott Sadler, Tony Stewart, and Michael Waltrip. Fans are encouraged to continue voting once a day, every day for their favorite driver. Every time fans vote they increase their chances of winning big themselves with the Chex Vote to Win Sweepstakes. Votes will continue to be counted every day through the remainder of the season. Fans should vote once a day, every day before Monday, November 19, 2007, at 11:59 a.m. CST to advance their favorite driver to the top of the standings.(PR)(5-9-2007)
Online Voting Opened for 2007 NMPA Chex Most Popular Driver Award: Voting for the 2007 NASCAR NMPA ChexR Most Popular Driver Award opened recently as pre-season testing started at Daytona International Speedway. As drivers hit the track for the first time in 2007, race fans that attended the test session had the opportunity to be the first to vote at www.MostPopularDriver.com. Voting kicked off earlier this year than in years past to give fans as much time as possible to vote for their favorite driver. "We want fans to be just as excited about this award as we are," said Rohan Thakur, marketing manager for ChexR. "Millions of race fans show their passion and loyalty to their favorite driver each weekend at the race track and we see that same loyalty from the fans that vote every day. Every vote counts!"
As the race season begins, fans are encouraged to make their vote count and get their favorite driver in the running for the title. Fans can log on to www.MostPopularDriver.com once a day, each day, before voting ends on Monday, November 19, 2007, at 11:59 a.m. CST.
In 2006, a total of 2,835,277 votes were cast with winner Dale Earnhardt, Jr. receiving 1,172,195 votes. Other drivers that ranked in the top 10 included Jeff Gordon who finished second, followed by Kasey Kahne, Tony Stewart, Kevin Harvick, Michael Waltrip, Mark Martin, Matt Kenseth, 2006 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup champion Jimmie Johnson and Elliott Sadler. The 2006 season marked the fourth consecutive year Earnhardt, Jr., won the prestigious award. As a result of the 2006 title, Earnhardt, Jr., joined drivers Bill Elliott and Richard Petty as the only drivers to win four consecutive times. More than 50 Nextel Cup Series drivers will be eligible in 2007 for the esteemed NASCAR NMPA ChexR Most Popular Driver Award, which is administered by the National Motorsports Press Association (NMPA). It has been awarded annually since 1953 and is one of the oldest awards in racing.(NMPA PR)(1-10-2007)

2006 Most Popular Driver of the Year Award
and the winner of the NMPA Chex Most Popular Driver Award is.....: NASCAR fans across the nation logged on to www.mostpopulardriver.com and with the click of a mouse, voted Dale Earnhardt, Jr. the most popular driver in 2006.Earnhardt, Jr. was presented with the NASCAR NMPA Chex Most Popular Driver award Thursday, Nov 30th at the NASCAR Myers Brothers Award Luncheon in New York City. After receiving the award, this marks the fourth consecutive year the North Carolina native has won the prestigious award. After his selection in 2005, Earnhardt, Jr. joined drivers Bill Elliott and Richard Petty as the only drivers to win four-straight. "I want to thank General Mills, Chex and the National Motorsports Press Association for this award," said Dale Earnhardt, Jr. "It's a great honor, because it's the only award in our sport voted on by the fans. I share this award with my fans, because it is as much theirs as it is mine. I've always been grateful for their loyalty and support. Words can't say how much I appreciate it."
Throughout the race season, race fans logged on to www.mostpopulardriver.com and voted for their favorite driver. A total of 2,835,277 votes were cast this year, with Earnhardt, Jr. receiving 1,172,195 votes. #24-Jeff Gordon finished second in the voting, followed by #9-Kasey Kahne, #20-Tony Stewart, #29-Kevin Harvick, #15-Michael Waltrip, #6-Mark Martin, #17-Matt Kenseth, #48-Jimmie Johnson and #19-Elliott Sadler [no totals were given for the other drivers]. More than 40 Nextel Cup Series drivers were eligible in 2006 for the esteemed NASCAR NMPA Chex Most Popular Driver Award, which is administered by the National Motorsports Press Association (NMPA). It has been awarded annually since 1956 and is one of the oldest awards in racing.(Elevation / General Mills PR)(12-1-2006)

2005 Most Popular Driver of the Year Award
Three Straight For Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Dale Earnhardt Jr. has won his third straight Chex NMPA NASCAR Most Popular Driver Award. The announcement was made today during the National Motorsports Press Association's (NMPA) Myers Brothers Awards Breakfast at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City that a record number of fans nationwide have again voted the North Carolinian as the most popular driver in the most popular form of motorsports in the United States. "It's a huge honor to win the Most Popular Driver award just one time, but to win it three times in a row is pretty overwhelming. I just want to thank the fans, and I want to thank Chex and the National Motorsports Press Association for the award," Earnhardt said.
"This one probably means more to me than the others because of the kind of year we had. It's one thing to have fan support when you're riding high and winning races. It's another thing to have it during the rough times," he continued. "No matter what we went through this year, I never once felt like my fans were turning on me and the Budweiser team. It's amazing to have that kind of support. It makes the team want to work that much harder and me drive that much faster. I can't thank the fans enough for what they've meant to me in my career."
A record 4,157,443 votes were cast in 2005, a huge jump for an award which never had more than 400,000 votes in a year prior to General Mills sponsorship. Chex began sponsorship of the award this season, replacing Grands! Biscuits, which had sponsored it since the beginning of the 2002 season. Earnhardt, Jr. has led the voting since the start of the 2003 season, and easily captured enough votes in the record-setting 2005 year to again win the award. He finished with 1,403,544 votes, which is also an all-time record.
"The fans have pretty well made a statement in regards to their favorite driver in this era," said Kenny Bruce, president of the NMPA. "They have also made a statement as to the importance of this award. We appreciate every fan who voted, and we really appreciate Chex for its sponsorship."
"On behalf of Chex and General Mills, I want to congratulate Dale Earnhardt Jr. on winning this award for the third straight year," said Chex Marketing Manager Trevor Bynum. "We also want to thank the millions of fans who voted and made this award possible with their continued strong support."
Jeff Gordon finished second in the voting at www.mostpopulardriver.com with 594,434 votes. Kasey Kahne was third with 343,154; 2005 Champion Tony Stewart fourth with 246,026; and retiring Rusty Wallace fifth with 214,026. Rounding out the top 10 were Kevin Harvick, Michael Waltrip, Mark Martin, Dale Jarrett and Jimmie Johnson.
The NASCAR Most Popular Driver Award dates back to 1956, making it one of the oldest and most traditional awards in NASCAR racing. It began as a simple poll of the drivers and later grew to incorporate all NASCAR Nextel Cup competitors. Later, it included all NASCAR members. Today, it is a prestigious award voted on by racing fans throughout the world. Through the years, voters' choices have ranged from the obvious to the surprising. Bill Elliott's 16 most popular wins tops all drivers. He is followed by Richard Petty, who has won nine times. Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s win last year made him the fifth driver in NASCAR history to win the award in consecutive seasons, while his win in 2003 made him and his father, the late Dale Earnhardt, the only father-son combination to have won. Other past winners have included such notables as Bobby Allison and Darrell Waltrip.(Williams Company PR)(12-2-2005)

2004 Most Popular Driver of the Year Award
Dale Jr. Donates Most Popular Winnings: Dale Earnhardt Jr. has donated the $10,000 he won in the Pillsbury Grands! Biscuits Most Popular Driver contest to two animal welfare organizations. The Animal Adoption League and the Lake Norman Lucky Cats organization in North Carolina received the money Earnhardt Jr. won from the contest run by the National Motorsports Press Association.(NASCAR Scene Daily Newsletter)(12-18-2004)
Most Popular to be announced on Friday AND the Winner is........: The winner of the 2004 Pillsbury Grands! Biscuits National Motorsports Press Association (NMPA) NASCAR Most Popular Driver Award will be announced Friday, Dec. 3, 2004, at 10:30am/et during the NMPA Myers Brothers Awards Breakfast at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, New York City. One guess who it will be???? The Most Popular Driver Award dates back to 1956. It began as a simple poll of the drivers and grew to incorporate all NASCAR Cup competitors. Later, it included all NASCAR members. Today, it's a prestigious award voted on by racing fans nationwide. This year, nearly four million votes were cast by thousands of fans at www.mostpopulardriver.com.(12-2-2004)
WINNER - Dale Jr: Dale Earnhardt, Jr. continued to set standards among NASCAR fans nationwide in 2004. For the second straight year, fans voted Earnhardt, Jr. the Pillsbury Grands! Biscuits NMPA NASCAR Most Popular Driver. The announcement was made today during the National Motorsports Press Association's (NMPA) Myers Brothers Awards Breakfast at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City. Earnhardt, Jr. becomes just the fifth driver in the award's history to have won in consecutive years, joining Bobby Allison, Richard Petty, Bill Elliott and Darrell Waltrip. A year ago, his selection by race fans made Earnhardt, Jr. and his father, Dale Earnhardt, the only father-son combination to have won NASCAR's oldest and most traditional off-track honor.
"It was fun to win it last year, but to get two in a row really means a lot to me," said Earnhardt, Jr. "I've learned this year about how loyal and supportive my fans are. My team had our best season ever, but we also had a lot of trouble along the way, including my injuries. I used to worry about losing my fans after a bad race or two, but I found out this year the fans really got behind me when I needed it the most. It's a big compliment to have that many fans voting for me and letting me know they're supportive and loyal no matter what."
Earnhardt, Jr. has led the voting since the start of the 2004 season, and easily captured enough votes in the record-setting 2004 year to again win the award. He finished with 1,487,512 votes, which exceeds the combined vote totals of the next six most popular drivers. "Dale Jr. is obviously a fan favorite, and this just confirms that," said Kenny Bruce, president of the National Motorsports Press Association. "All of the drivers in NASCAR racing have fans who support them wholeheartedly, and I think it's great what the Earnhardt fans have done. We are grateful to all of the NASCAR fans who were part of the voting process, and we feel they made a good choice."
A record 3.8 million votes were cast in 2004, marking the third straight year more than 3 million votes were cast via the Web site, www.mostpopulardriver.com. Pillsbury Grands! Biscuits, the third-year sponsor of the award which is administered by the NMPA, has worked to reach fans since voting launched with the season-opening Daytona 500.
"It's been a great honor for us to bring this award to the fans and recognize Dale as their favorite driver," said Annie Zipfel, marketing manager for Pillsbury Grands! Biscuits at General Mills. "We'll continue to share the excitement of this announcement with fans by posting award ceremony highlights on www.mostpopulardriver.com. After all, the fans are really what this award is all about."
Following Earnhardt Jr. in the 2004 Most Popular Driver Award final standings were:
#24-Jeff Gordon (496,362)
#29-Kevin Harvick (249,228)
#15-Michael Waltrip (225,011)
#20-Tony Stewart (185,486)
#9-Kasey Kahne (178,280)
#88-Dale Jarrett (127,423)
#6-Mark Martin (98,461)
#48-Jimmie Johnson (92,828)
#18-Bobby Labonte (80,680)
More than 40 drivers received votes
NASCAR's Most Popular Driver Award dates back to 1956. It began as a simple poll of the drivers and grew to incorporate all NASCAR Cup competitors. Later, it included all NASCAR members. Today, it is a prestigious award voted on by racing fans nationwide. Through the years, the voters' choices have ranged from the obvious to the surprising. Bill Elliott won the award 16 times before retiring his name from the Most Popular Driver Award voting at the beginning of the 2003 season. Richard Petty won the award nine times.(fingerprint inc./DEI)(12-3-2004)

2003 Most Popular Driver
Most Popular Driver UPDATE and the winner is.........................: 2003 Grands! Biscuits NMPA NASCAR Most Popular Driver Award to be announced Friday, Dec. 5, 2003, at 8:30am/et and will be presented to the winning driver in New York City. Votes are in, and one driver will receive the 2003 Grands! Biscuits National Motorsports Press Association (NMPA) NASCAR Most Popular Driver Award. Most Popular Driver Award dates back to 1956. It began as a simple poll of the drivers and grew to incorporate all NASCAR Winston Cup competitors. Later, it included all NASCAR members. Today, it’s a prestigious award voted on by racing fans nationwide. This year, more than three million votes were cast by thousands of fans nationwide.(Williams Company PR)(12-3-2003)

DALE EARNHARDT JR. The votes are in, and race car fans across the country have named Dale Earnhardt Jr. the 2003 Grands!(R) Biscuits NMPA NASCAR Most Popular Driver. The announcement was made today during the National Motorsports Press Association's (NMPA) Myers Brothers Awards Breakfast at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City. While Earnhardt Jr. finished third in the top on-track honor in major league stock car racing, he led throughout the Most Popular Driver fan balloting for the highest off-track honor in the NASCAR Winston Cup Series. The driver of the #8 Budweiser Chevrolet maintained a solid first place as voting closed mid-November for the only fan-based award in professional motorsports.
"It means a ton to see the support I've received from the fans," said Earnhardt Jr. "I know that no matter how bad things have been in my life that week or if I've struggled with the race that weekend, it's always helpful to hear the cheers when I walk across the stage during driver introductions."
Earnhardt Jr.'s win also marks the first time both a son and a father have received the Most Popular Driver honor. Racing legend Dale Earnhardt won the award posthumously in 2001.
"The NASCAR fans are a smart bunch. They choose their favorite drivers based on who that driver is as a person and what they represent," Earnhardt Jr. continued. "I try to remember that every day. This means a lot to me that the fans have supported me in such a big way. It was emotional for me to have to accept this award on behalf of my dad in 2001, but it will feel a lot better being able to accept the award this year."
From the fan votes to at-track enthusiasm, it's clear Earnhardt Jr. creates excitement on the racing circuit. "I don't think anyone is surprised Dale Earnhardt Jr. is the Grands!(R) Biscuits NMPA NASCAR Most Popular Driver," said journalist Kenny Bruce, president of the National Motorsports Press Association. "He came close to winning a year ago, and anyone who has listened while he was introduced at races would know that the fans really seem to love him. We are grateful to all of the NASCAR fans who were part of the voting process, and we feel they made a good choice."
For the second year in a row, more than 3 million votes were cast by thousands of race fans nationwide via the Web site, www.mostpopulardriver.com. Pillsbury(R) Grands! Biscuits, the second-year sponsor of the award administered by the National Motorsports Press Association, has worked since voting launched with the season-opening Daytona 500 to increase fan exposure and created new ways for consumers to get involved. "It's been a great honor for us to bring this award to the fans and recognize Dale as their favorite driver," said Annie Zipfel, marketing manager for Pillsbury Grands! Biscuits at General Mills. "We'll continue to share the excitement of this announcement with fans by posting award ceremony highlights on www.mostpopulardriver.com. After all, the fans are really what this award is all about."
Following Earnhardt Jr. in the 2003 Most Popular Driver Award final standings were drivers Jeff Gordon and Kevin Harvick in second and third place respectively. Rounding out the top ten in descending order of votes were Steve Park [and with no ride for 2004?], Tony Stewart, Michael Waltrip, Mark Martin, Dale Jarrett, Kyle Petty and Bobby Labonte. More than 50 drivers received votes. NASCAR's Most Popular Driver Award dates back to 1956. It began as a simple poll of the drivers and grew to incorporate all NASCAR Winston Cup competitors. Later, it included all NASCAR members. Today, it is a prestigious award voted on by racing fans nationwide. Through the years, the voters' choices have ranged from the obvious to the surprising. Bill Elliott edged out Earnhardt Jr. to win the award in 2002. Elliott won the award 16 times before retiring his name from the Most Popular Driver Award voting at the beginning of the 2003 Winston Cup series. Richard Petty won the award nine times. Other past winners have included such notables as Bobby Allison and Darrell Waltrip.(Business Wire)(12-5-2003)
THE TALLY? Following Earnhardt Jr., who received more than 1.3 millions votes, in the 2003 Most Popular Driver Award final standings were drivers Jeff Gordon (348,629 votes), Kevin Harvick (213,511 votes), Steve Park (152,541 votes), and Tony Stewart (142,899 votes). Rounding out the top ten in descending order of votes were Michael Waltrip, Mark Martin, Dale Jarrett, Kyle Petty and Bobby Labonte. More than 50 drivers received votes.(Williams Company PR)(12-5-2003)

2000 Most Popular Driver
the top 5: over 280,000 votes were cast. For the 15th year in the last 17, Bill Elliott is the winner of the National Motorsports Press Association's Most Popular Driver Award for the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series. Elliott, the 1988 Nextel Cup champion, received 38.8 percent of more than 280,000 votes cast this year in balloting conducted by the NMPA. Dale Earnhardt, a seven-time Nextel Cup champion, finished second in the voting with 16.2 percent of the vote. Mark Martin, Jeff Gordon and 2000 Nextel Cup champion Bobby Labonte rounded out the top five in the vote. Fifty-eight drivers received at least one vote and 20 different drivers getting at least 1,000 votes(That's Racin'). NOTE: this is only vote info I have seen, have not seen the top 10 or 20 or what the vote totals were(12-8-2000)

1999 Most Popular Driver
Bill Elliott(for the 14th time in the last 16 years, DW won the other two) won in 1999. 22,916 votes were cast, Elliott got 13,849(60.4%), 2nd was Dale Earnhardt who had 2,423 votes. The remaining top 10 were: 3) Jeff Gordon; 4) Dave Marcis; 5) Dale Jarrett; 6) Rusty Wallace; 7) Mark Martin; 8) Dick Trickle; 9) Tony Stewart; and 10) Bobby Labonte. 49 drivers received votes via the 900 phone number(Nextel Cup Scene)(12-10-1999)

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