First, Scott Riggs took the pole for the NEXTEL Open with a time of 28.953 seconds (186.509 mph) over Denny Hamlin. He’ll lead ’em to the green for the 30 lapper tomorrow night….and you better hurry cause it’ll be over before you know it! Tough night for a bunch of drivers. Elliott Sadler (who’s not used to starting his night this early) didn’t make it past turn two of his first lap, and Kyle Petty shortened his car up a few feet in the rear on his second lap (also in turn two). Sadler’ll start shotgun tomorrow night while Kyle’s first lap time was good enough for 20th position. Mike Skinner and the #37 car withdrew so we’ll start 29 in the Open. The winner will advance to the Challenge as well as one driver voted in by the fans.
Things stayed the same for Ray Everham later, tho….as Kasey Kahne took the pole for the biggie, the NEXTEL Challenge, over Jimmie Johnson. We used the same format we’ve used the last couple years (with a pit stop in amongst three laps) so the crew can share the glory this week! Our defending “Challenge” winner, Mark Martin, will start 16th. Hard tires…..new paving…..and a cool $1M to the winner.(Stock Car Fans)(5-19-2006)
