H.A. “Humpy” Wheeler, president and general manager of Lowe’s Motor Speedway, today predicted Jeff Gordon will win Saturday night’s 20th running of the NASCAR NEXTEL All-Star Challenge at the 1.5-mile superspeedway. Wheeler, known for his promotional flair and Karnac-type ability, has correctly picked the winner of NASCAR’s all-star race nine times in the past 15 races, including last year when Jimmie Johnson took home the $1 million prize. If Wheeler’s prediction holds true, Gordon would be the first driver to win the event four times. “If ever there was a race that was made for a specific driver, it is the NASCAR NEXTEL All-Star Challenge and Jeff Gordon. He can drive a car smoothly with total reckless abandon,” Wheeler said. “He can drive as deep or deeper into a corner than anybody out there.” Wheeler also indicated several recent changes in Gordon’s life away from the race track played into his decision to pick the four-time NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series champion. “I don’t think the fire ever went out in Jeff Gordon, but he’s made some changes in his life and I see the old Jeff Gordon again,” Wheeler said. “Since his stepfather, John Bickford, has gone back to work for him as his manager, Jeff’s won half the races he’s entered. Even though he may not fit the true definition, Wheeler tabbed defending race winner Johnson as his dark horse selection. “My dark, dark horse is Elliott Sadler. He did a great job winning at Texas and that’s a very similar track,” Wheeler concluded. NASCAR NEXTEL All-Star Challenge activities kick off Friday night with qualifying for both races. In addition to qualifying, the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series will compete in the Infineon 200. Tickets start at $20. Good seats, in various price ranges, are still available for Saturday’s NASCAR NEXTEL All-Star Challenge. Tickets start at $21 and may be obtained by calling 1-800-455-FANS or online at www.lowesmotorspeedway.com.
