[#28-Kenny Wallace] returns home, back to the greater St. Louis area that has spawned the entirety of the Wallace racing family, ready to race at Gateway International Raceway in the midst of what he calls “Speedweeks in the Midwest.” But he just wishes he could put on more of a show. “I’m hanging in there until we can find some big money and get some more speed in our cars,” Wallace said. “I’ll still be in the same mode at Gateway; just because it’s Gateway doesn’t mean we have any more money. My family and my fans know what’s going on, knowing I’m embarrassed and doing the best I can do with what I’ve got.” Now, don’t get Wallace wrong. He’s not embarrassed by his team, or his effort, or the sport. He loves NASCAR, a lot. He’ll tell you. A lot. But he’s also not going to insult himself, or the sport, by merely going out and turning a few laps for a paycheck. He said four years ago in a chat with his nephew, Steve, that by the age of 47, his career would be winding down. He turns 47 in August. “If I’m running this way next year, it will probably be my last year,” Wallace said. “I will say that it’s very important for me to be satisfied. I’m in a situation where I don’t need to be racing just to make money. I love my life, I’ve been fortunate, and so I would say that I agree with that statement. I’m still on the course with that. “I do not want to quit. I feel I’m a really good race car driver. I’m winning a lot of dirt car races. Financially, I see right now everybody is suffering. For me to just go out and make circles, out of respect for my family, it doesn’t make much sense. The direct quote is this: If I am competing at this same level at this time next year, and I still have not been able to find money and a great sponsor, I would say I will look at … not retirement. But I will not race full time any more, knowing I don’t have a chance to really compete.” His only finish inside the top 15 was at Talladega. He’s out there, using his people skills to hustle up sponsorship for the first time in his career. He’s had 14 different primary sponsors in 18 races. (NASCAR.com)(7-13-2010)
