On June 12, 2002, the National Stock Car Racing Commission heard and considered the appeal of Tony Lambert, Crew Chief for Team Bristol Motorsports [#54]. The appeal pertained to a $22,500 penalty issued by NASCAR when the #54 car was found to have been under the specified minimum roof height at the conclusion of the BGN event held at Lowe’s Motor Speedway on May 25, 2002.
The Commission finds the following: The Commission notes that the car did not meet the minimum roof height specified in the Rule Book at the conclusion of the race. This fact was not contested by the team. The Appellant made a compelling argument that Team Bristol Motorsports has a long-standing record of adherence to the rules and that the infraction was inadvertent. The Commission found the Appellant’s arguments to be succinct and believable. However, the Commission reaffirms its view that the failure of a part does not excuse a car that fails to meet specifications. Upon reviewing the testimony presented during the Hearing, the Commission has unanimously decided to amend the penalty to a fine of $17,500 in this instance. The Appellant has the right, under Section 15 of the NASCAR Rule Book, to appeal this decision to the National Stock Car Racing Commissioner.(NASCAR PR)(6-13-2002)
