The NASCAR NEXTEL All-Star Challenge is racing’s version of a high-stakes poker game and H.A. “Humpy” Wheeler, president and general manager of Lowe’s Motor Speedway, thinks Jeff Gordon will draw the $1 million winning hand. Wheeler named Gordon as his selection to win Saturday night’s 21st running of the NASCAR NEXTEL All-Star Challenge during his annual pick-the-winner press conference Monday in downtown Charlotte. Known for his promotional flair and Karnac-type ability, Wheeler has correctly picked the winner of NASCAR’s all-star race nine times in the past 16 races. This is the fifth time in 11 years Wheeler has selected Gordon to win NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series racing’s all-star event and only one of the four previous picks panned out. That came in 1995 when Gordon avoided a crash involving Dale Earnhardt and Darrell Waltrip at the start of the final segment and went on to record his first of three victories. After thoroughly reviewing the data, Wheeler said his selection came down to a choice between Gordon and Greg Biffle. Ryan Newman, the 2002 winner of the NASCAR NEXTEL All-Star Challenge, was another driver Wheeler gave heavy consideration during the extensive selection process. This year, instead of a dark horse selection, Wheeler’s going with a pair of sentimental favorites-Mark Martin and Rusty Wallace.
In the inaugural NASCAR NEXTEL All-Star Pit Crew Challenge Thursday night, May 19, at the Charlotte Coliseum, Wheeler predicts the event’s unique format will result in true athleticism rising to the top. “If the competition was a normal pit stop, it would be hard to bet against the 48, 24 or 97 teams,” Wheeler said. “However, I had spies watching some of the practice and I think this format, which includes pushing the car, gives Michael Waltrip’s No. 15 team the edge.”
Good seats, in various price ranges, are still available for Saturday’s NASCAR NEXTEL All-Star Challenge. Tickets start at $33 and may be obtained by calling 1-800-455-FANS or online at www.lowesmotorspeedway.com.
For a list of “Humpy” Wheeler’s Pick and the Winner Results, along with eligible drivers, rules, format, see my 2005 All-Star Challenge page.(LMS PR)(5-16-2005)
