April 26, 2009
- UPSET – Keselowski wins at Talladega: #09-Brad Keselowski won the Aaron’s 499 at Talladega Superspeedway for his first ever career win in only his fifth career start after a wild, wild ending. #99-Edwards and #09-Keselowski drafted past his Nationwide Series boss, #88-Earnhardt Jr. and #39-Newman [who was infront of the #88], and it was just Keselowski and Edwards going for the win, Keselowski went high to pass, Edwards moved over to block and Keselowski moved down and got a run on Edwards and went low, got into Edwards and past the #99. Edwards got sideways and the car got airborne up against the fence and rode the fence for about 30 feet, but the fence held and Edwards got out of the car and jogged to the start-finish line. It was the first ever win in the Sprint Cup series for the #09 and for car owner James Finch [Phoenix Racing]. #88-Earnhardt Jr. finished 2nd, followed by #39-Newman [who’s car was trashed when Edwards car bounced off the hood, Newman got across the line], #47-Ambrose, #82-Speed, #2-Busch, #16-Biffle, #83-Vickers, #20-Logano and #31-Burton. There were two “Big One’s” collecting points leader #24-Gordon and #48-Johnson. There were 9 cautions for 33 laps and there were 57 lead changes among 25 drivers.
For race results, awards and more on the Talladega Race Results Page.(4-26-2009) - #09 is the 101st car number to win: when Brad Keselowski won the Aaron’s 499 at Talladega Superspeedway on Sunday, April 26, 2009, it was the first Sprint Cup win ever for a car number 09, being the 101st different car number [as far as I can calculate] that has won in the Cup series. It was also Brad Keselowski’s first Cup Series win. See all the wins by car numbers on my Wins by Car Numbers page.(4-26-2009)
- Eight fans injured in Edwards wreck: Eight spectators suffered injuries at the end of the Aaron’s 499 Sunday when the #99 Ford of Carl Edwards went airborne and slammed into the catchfence on the frontstretch. “None of the injuries are dangerous or life-threatening,” said Dr. Bobby Lewis, medical director at Talladega Superspeedway. “It’s mostly bumps and bruises with possible minor fractures.” Two women were airlifted to an area hospital, but Lewis said that was for traffic concerns and not because of the severity of their injuries. “One has a lacerated lip and possible broken jaw,” Lewis said. “The other person was not injured, but has unrelated medical problems.” When the car hit the catchfence, pieces exploded off the car as catch fencing bent back severely, but did not break. “I’m not sure if it was pieces of car or pieces of debris from the fence that hurt the spectators,” Lewis said.(ESPN)(4-26-2009)
- UNOFFICAL Driver Points Standings [after Talladega, race 9 of 36]:
1) #2-Kurt Busch, 1299 [1 win]
2) #24-Jeff Gordon, 1294, -5 [1 win]
3) #48-Jimmie Johnson, 1235, -64 [1 win]
4) #14-Tony Stewart, 1232, -67
5) #11-Denny Hamlin, 1193, -106
6) #18-Kyle Busch, 1124,-175 [2 wins]
7) #99-Carl Edwards, 1119, -180
8) #33-Clint Bowyer, 1098, -201
9) #31-Jeff Burton, 1092, -207
10) #16-Greg Biffle, -1081, -218
11) #00-David Reutimann, 1077, -222
12) #17-Matt Kenseth, 1063, -236 [2 wins]
Contenders for the top-12/chase:
13) #39-Ryan Newman 1033, 30 points out of 12th 14) #9-Kasey Kahne, 1030, -33
15) #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr., 1018, -45
16) #42-Juan Montoya, 1018, -45
For drivers and owners points standings, see the Drivers/Owners Points Standings.(4-26-2009) - Race Fast Facts – Talladega:
Brad Keselowski won the Aaron’s 499, his first victory in five NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races.
This is his first victory and first top-10 finish in 2009.
This is his first victory and first top-10 finish in one races at Talladega Superspeedway.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. (second) posted his 11th top-10 finish in 19 races at Talladega Superspeedway. It is his third top-10 finish in 2009.
Ryan Newman (third) posted his seventh top-10 finish in 15 races at Talladega Superspeedway.
Scott Speed (fifth) was the highest finishing rookie.
Kurt Busch leads the point standings by 5 points over Jeff Gordon.(NASCAR Statistics)(4-26-2009) - Top-35 in Owner Points and guaranteed a starting spot at Richmond:
no changes in who is in and who is out BUT #82-Speed moves to 36th and is only 18 points out of 35th
33) #20-Logano/Gibbs: 753, +118
34) #34-Andretti/Earnhart Ganassi: 676, +41
35) #7-Gordon/Robby Gordon: 653, 18 points ahead of 36th
these teams/ drivers must qualify by speed but are close to the top-35:
36) #82-Speed/Red Bull: 635, 18 points out of 35th
37) #71-Gilliland/TRG: 594, -59
The teams are NOT locked in past the next race as the owners points change after each race.
For the owner points standings, see my Drivers/Owners Points Standings page.(4-26-2009) - Infraction Sheet – Talladega Superspeedway
Car#, Lap, Reason, Penalty
#82, 0, Safety violation, 1 lap, work before green flag
#83, 7, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#99, 7, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#19, 7, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#13, 7, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#43, 7, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#96, 7, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#07, 7, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#78, 7, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#09, 7, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#00, 7, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#31, 7, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#18, 7, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#55, 7, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#39, 7, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#31, 29, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#31, 43, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#99, 43, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#55, 43, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#2, 61, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#00, 147, Excessive speed EXITING the pits, tail end
#1, 172, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#17, 179, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#55, 179, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#77, 179, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#11, 179, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#12, 179, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#48, 179, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#42, 179, Pitting before pit road is open, tail end
#16, 181, Excessive speed EXITING the pits, tail end
#18 302, Excessive speed EXITING the pits, Tail End
(NASCAR Statistics)(4-26-2009) - Lucky Dogs – Who got a lap back on each caution at Talladega: (and their finish)
Caution 1: #82-Speed, 5th
Caution 2: none awarded
Caution 3: #44-Allmendinger, 35th
Caution 4: #31-Burton, 10th
Caution 5: #31-Burton (2), 10th
Caution 6: #98-Menard, 13th
Caution 7: #43-Sorenson, 11th
Caution 8: #34-Andretti, 27th
Caution 9: NONE awarded when there are 10 laps or less left
(4-26-2009) - The Big One II: on lap 180, #11-Hamlin got into #42-Montoya, turning Montoya that started the 2nd ‘Big One’, collecting (hd)=heavy damage: #48-Johnson (hd), #55-Waltrip (hd), #1-Truex Jr. (hd), #96-Labonte (hd), #7-Gordon (hd), #12-Stremme (hd), #41-Mayfield (hd) and #77-Hornish Jr.(4-26-2009)
- The Big One: only seven laps in to the Aaron’s 499 at Talladega Superspeedway, the ‘big one’ [wreck] happened when #17-Kensth, just ahead of #24-Gordon, moved up a tad and into the front of Gordon, sending the #24 info the wall, collecting the following drivers (hd)=heavy damage: #5-Martin (hd), #29-Harvick (hd), #26-McMurray (hd), #36-Riggs (hd), #71-Gilliland (hd), #33-Bowyer (hd), #07-Mears, #9-Kahne (hd), #14-Stewart, #19-Sadler, #83-Vickers, #2-Busch, #13-Papis, #44-Allmendinger, #96-Labonte, #18-Busch.(4-26-2009)
- Hornish Jr. has flu, Kvapil to stand by: #77-Sam Hornish Jr. has the flu and Travis Kvapil was flown to Talladega to stand by and has been fitted in the #77 Dodge. Hornish Jr. scheduled to start 4th, will start the car and is in the infield care center getting fluids. Hornish Jr. and the team will decide when Kvapil will take over, if he takes over.(SPEED NASCAR Raceday)(4-26-2009)
- Pit Stall Selections – Talladega: The selections for pit stalls of the Aaron’s 499 at Talladega Superspeedway have been made. Pole sitter #42-Montoya chose pit stall 1 [as do most pole sitters], while outside pole sitter #16-Biffle took pit stall 29, the second next stall with an opening in front of it and #1-Truex Jr., who starts 3rd, took pit stall 17, which is the first stall with an opening in front of it [after stall 1]. #82-Speed who starts 8th, chose the final pit stall. See the pit selection chart on the Talladega Pit Stall Selection chart.(4-26-2009)
- Latest on the future of the #8 car: Steve Lauletta, president of Earnhardt Ganassi Racing, says that efforts continue to find sponsorship for the #8 car [with driver Aric Almirola] that the team quit running earlier this month. “I’m hoping that something’s going to come forward pretty quick,” Lauletta said. “I think what we’re looking at right now is a second half of the season into 2010 if we can get one of these deals done.”(Roanoke Times)(4-26-2009)
- Goodyear still looking for right compound for Indy: NASCAR and Goodyear made progress in finding a suitable tire for Indianapolis Motor Speedway, but drivers who participated in testing at the 2.5-mile oval this week said work remains to solve the durability issues that turned last year’s Allstate 400 at the Brickyard into a debacle. Ryan Newman of Stewart-Haas Racing said teams worked through several compounds and constructions bud “didn’t really see anything that is ideal.” Red Bull Racing’s Brian Vickers said the tires lasted longer than in the 2008 race but not as long enough for a full fuel run. Last season, NASCAR had to throw a caution flag every 10 to 12 laps to avoid blowouts. “It was an embarrassment for the sport, and I commend NASCAR and Goodyear (for) going above and beyond to try to get this problem fixed,” Vickers said. “They’re looking for perfection. Unfortunately from what I’ve seen, we’re going to have a fast tire. There’s just no way around it. When you make these tires slower and harder, they just slide across the pavement and because of that grooving it just turns into a shredder. So we’re going to have to have a softer, faster tire that essentially will grip the track instead of sliding across it to make it last.”(USA Today)(4-26-2009)
- Hamlin to open two car washes in Virginia: Denny Hamlin announced the April 29th grand opening date of two, full-service car washes to bear his name in Hamlin’s home state of Virginia. The two Denny Hamlin’s Speed Wash centers are located in the Richmond suburb of Midlothian and 68 miles north in the town of Fredericksburg. Each racing-themed Denny Hamlin’s Speed Wash will feature unique Hamlin racing memorabilia such as driver suits, race car parts, photos and merchandise. In addition, car wash fundraising efforts tied to the Denny Hamlin Foundation will benefit the Richmond area community. Hamlin, a Richmond native, is scheduled to appear at one of the car washes, see my Driver Appearances page for more info.(MMI PR)(4-28-2009)
- Daytona 500 – Super Bowl Conflict coming? Plans to expand the NFL’s regular season could very well wind up putting the Super Bowl on the weekend that’s also the traditional date for NASCAR’s premiere event, the Daytona 500, based on comments from NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. Speaking Friday in a meeting with Associated Press Sports Editors before this weekend’s draft in New York City, Goodell outlined a scenario for the extended regular season that would push the Super Bowl back to President’s Day weekend. It would have two preseason games in August, down from the current four. That would be followed by an open week on Labor Day weekend, followed by the opening week of the regular season. “We have not found a saturation point for pro football, which is a good thing,” Goodell said. “I don’t want to be around if we do.” NASCAR’s position on an expanded NFL regular-season and a possible conflict with the Daytona 500 hasn’t changed. “We’re aware of the proposal and are watching to see what happens,” NASCAR spokesman Ramsey Poston said.(Charlotte Observer)(4-26-2009)
- Hylton OK: ARCA driver James Hylton was released from Birmingham’s Brookwood Medical Center on Saturday afternoon after an overnight stay. Full details were not available, but most thought his admittance was mostly a precautionary measure. And when you’re dealing with a individual in Hyton’s situation — being 74 years old — every precaution should be taken. Hylton held his own on Friday in the ARCA RE/MAX 250 for his age, and actually for anyone’s age, finishing 15th. As a precautionary measure, Hylton was taken to the infield car center when he got out of his car. Hylton has run in all of the major racing series and started his racing career in 1954. He won NASCAR’s Cup rookie of the year honors in 1966 [and two Cup races].(Alabama Live)(4-26-2009)
- some schemes added: #33 The Hartford, #41 Big Red and #42 Tums
- Aaron’s Extends Title Sponsorship at Talladega Superspeedway: Talladega Superspeedway announced that Aaron’s Rents, Inc. has extended its contract for title sponsorship on both the Aaron’s 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race and the Aaron’s 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. The nation’s leader in rental sales and lease ownership activated a clause in its contract that allows the company to extend its role as title sponsor for multiple years. “Aaron’s has been a great partner to Talladega Superspeedway since 2002,” said Talladega Superspeedway President Rick Humphrey. “We are excited that they have decided to extend their contract with us and we look forward to welcoming our fans to the Aaron’s 312 and Aaron’s 499 for years to come.”
“Aaron’s has realized great value partnering with Talladega Superspeedway and producing one of the premier event weekends on the NASCAR schedule, The Aaron’s Dream Weekend.” Stated Robin Loudermilk, Chief Executive Officer of Aaron’s, Inc. “Taking advantage of the option to extend our partnership allows Aaron’s to continue to have a high-profile marketing platform through 2013. Rick Humphrey and his staff have been very accommodating and we appreciate all of their efforts that help make the Aaron’s Dream Weekend such a great experience for all of our guests and those that attend this tremendous facility. We look forward to continuing to build on what we have developed here since 2002.”(TSS PR)(4-26-2009) - “Big One” Ticket Buster Monday at Lowe’s Motor Speedway: Officials at Lowe’s Motor Speedway are ready to roll the dice on the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race Sunday afternoon at Talladega, and the fans will be the winners. Starting Monday at noon, Lowe’s Motor Speedway will sale 1,000 tickets combined to the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race on May 16 and the May 24 Coca-Cola 600 at a price equal to the number of cars involved in the biggest wreck at Talladega. Fans must call 1-800-455-FANS or come to the Lowe’s Motor Speedway ticket office to take advantage of the special offer. “The talk around the Talladega race is always about ‘The Big One,’” said Marcus Smith, president and general manager of Lowe’s Motor Speedway. “But Sunday, if only a few drivers get caught up in the biggest wreck, the deal on Monday is that much sweeter. Plus, it gives the fans a chance to save some real money on another ‘Big One,’ the 50th running of the Coca-Cola 600.” Following the race, Lowe’s Motor Speedway officials will announce the special price for the Monday ticket offer. Ticket packages and payment plan options for both events are available through the Lowe’s Motor Speedway ticket office by calling 1-800-455-FANS or online at www.lowesmotorspeedway.com.(LMS PR)(4-26-2009)
- RIR keeps focus on fan experience: Richmond International Raceway (RIR) is known for exciting night racing “under the lights,” and fans can expect to once again see some of the best and most entertaining racing in all of motorsports during the upcoming NASCAR Doubleheader weekend May 1-2. But, the commitment to the fan experience is one of the main reasons why RIR is known as America’s Premier Short Track. The track has continued to focus on improving the fan experience and fans can also expect the same great guest service during their upcoming visit. At Richmond International Raceway, it’s all about the fans.
After listening to its fans and due to the economic conditions, earlier this year RIR announced a ticket price restructuring for Sprint Cup Series tickets in the Henrico Grandstand. Tickets currently on sale for the May 2 Crown Royal Presents The Russ Friedman 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race start at $40. The $40 restructured price reflects a 50% decrease from the May 2008 price.
RIR officials also worked with hotels in the region to promote special lodging rates and offers to race fans. Track officials reached out to area hotel owners and management and offered the opportunity to promote compelling lodging deals to race fans. The hotel offers for race weekend can be found online at: www.rir.com/hotelspecialoffers/. Some of the 2009 race weekend rates are 20-50% lower compared to 2008 race weekend prices, and many of the hotels on the list have reduced or eliminated the minimum stay requirement for the upcoming May race weekend.
Additionally, for fans flying to Richmond from out of town, AirTran Airways is offering 10% off flights to Richmond International Airport for ticket holders to the NASCAR doubleheader weekend. Ticket holders received information about the reduced airfare with their tickets. For additional information on the AirTran program, please contact the RIR ticket office at 866-455-RACE.
At the track, RIR recently announced an extensive list of new and unique concession options available to fans, as well as reduced prices on some traditional items. The list of new offers includes several options that will be available exclusively to fans at RIR, including the Richmond Raceway Dog, a Crabcake Sandwich and the Raceway Rib Sandwich. Additional new items to be rolled out in May include a two-piece fried chicken meal, a catfish and hushpuppy basket, Boardwalk French Fries, and Famous Dave’s Barbeque. Several new value meals will be available as well, including a jumbo barbeque sandwich with cole slaw, chips and a drink; a cheeseburger meal with chips and a drink; and the Boss Dog meal, featuring an enormous 1/3 pound hot dog, chips and a drink. There is also now a kids meal, featuring a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, Oreo cookies, a fruit cup and a Capri Sun drink.
On Friday, the Charlie Daniels Band will perform a free concert on the midway at 5:15 p.m. at the Lipton display area, located near the flag pole in the center of the Midway. The Charlie Daniels Band concert is just one of many great activities to enjoy during the NASCAR doubleheader weekend out in the Midway. In addition to the concert, the Midway features free interactive displays and games, give-aways, product samples and souvenir stands with RIR gear and driver merchandise. Additionally, Chevy Fan Fest will be taking place on the Midway with show cars, games and more all weekend.
The Commandant’s Own Marine Drum & Bugle Corps will perform their always-stunning rendition of the National Anthem prior to the Crown Royal Presents The Russ Friedman 400 Sprint Cup Series race. And as always, automobile parking in all of the RIR parking lots is free to fans with race tickets, and fans can continue to bring their own food and drinks into RIR. Tickets are on sale now for the Crown Royal Presents The Russ Friedman 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race and the Lipton Tea 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race and can be purchased by logging on to www.rir.com or calling 866-455-RACE (7223).(RIR PR)(4-26-2009) - Aaron’s Extends Talladega sponsorship: Aaron’s Rents, Inc. has extended its contract for title sponsorship on both the Aaron’s 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race and the Aaron’s 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. The nation’s leader in rental sales and lease ownership activated a clause in its contract that allows the company to extend its role as title sponsor for multiple years.(Talladega Superspeedway PR)(4-26-2009)
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