Wifey Meets her Favorite NASCAR Driver

Brian's "purple" #55 Car.

© Photo By Paul Wilkinson

As big of a NASCAR camping fan that I am, my wifey is nice enough to tolerate my obsession with it.

“Mrs. Infield Guru” attended her first races only two years ago at the Auto ClubSpeedway in Fontana.  I told her that in order to make the races more fun she should choose a driver to follow.

So she did what any normal non-obsessed woman might do – she picked the “purple” car, which so happened to be the Michael Waltrip Racing #55 with Brian Vickers.

After Brian’s medical issues this year, she remained faithful to her team and continues to follow the #55 car. 

Sonoma Raceway Pit Road 2015.
© Photo By Paul Wilkinson

At the races at Sonoma Raceway this year, she was able to go into the garage area with a Hot Pass and was able to get an autograph and pictures with her “new” driver David Ragan.

David Ragan, #55 Michael Waltrip Racing.
 © Photos By Paul Wilkinson

She’s still not a NASCAR junkie (I’m working on it) but she had a good time in the pits and garage areas before the races.

How did you pick your favorite NASCAR driver?

Don’t forget to “LIKE” us here and on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/NascarInfieldCamping).  You can also follow me on Twitter @InfieldGuru.  #InfieldNation, #SeeYOUOnTheInfield

**©2015 The Infield Guru.  The Infield Guru is not affiliated with and does not endorse any track or driver.  This article is for informational & entertainment purposes only.  There are no guarantees regarding the availability or quantities of any offers that may be shown above.  Prices subject to change without notice.  Please contact the specific track or appropriate website for more detailed information regarding limits and expiration of these offers.  If any links fail to open, check your pop-up blocking software or consider calling the tracks directly.

Jeff Gordon's Last Ride - "GO TO THE PITS"!!

Jeff Gordon heading to driver introductions
at the Auto Club 400, March 2015.

©  Photo by Simon Napolis

One of my favorite things to do when camping at NASCAR is to "GO TO THE PITS" with a
pre-race pit pass.  I like to see what kind of cool
pictures I can get of the cars or drivers as they walk by.

If you have never taken the time,  I highly recommend (at least once) you purchase a pit pass and check out the action for yourself.  It offers a different perspective on the work that goes into preparing each car getting ready for qualifying, practices and the races. 

A lot has been said over different media outlets regarding Jeff Gordon's last year in NASCAR.  Whether you love him or hate him, his race accomplishments, championships and charitable contributions speak for themselves.

Each track this year have given him some nice "retirement" gifts and special tributes in honor of his racing at their facilities for many years.  

Auto Club Speedway Tribute to Jeff Gordon on pit road wall, March 2015.
©  Photo by Paul Wilkinson

Bottom line, this could be the last chance to get those Jeff Gordon pictures or autographs you may have always wanted while he's still wearing his fire suit and racing the 24 car.  Contact your local track to find out if they are offering any pit pass purchase incentives or other deals.

What are some of your favorite Jeff Gordon or other driver moments?  Check out some photos below from the 2015 Auto Club 400 weekend.

Don't forget to SHARE this post with your friends and "LIKE" us on Facebook & follow me on Twitter @InfieldGuru or by clicking the links on the right.  #InfieldNation, #SeeYOUOnTheInfield

Team 24 Car Hauler enters Auto Club Speedway through the infield tunnel.
March 2015
©  Photo by Paul Wilkinson

24 car on display in the Team Chevy/ Fan Zone
at Auto Club Speedway, March 2015.
©  Photo by Paul Wilkinson

Jeff Gordon during practice at Auto Club Speedway, March 2015.
©  Photo by Kerry Collins

Jeff Gordon photo display at Auto Club Speedway, March 2015.
©  Photo by Paul Wilkinson

Jeff Gordon answers fan questions at a Q & A hosted by
 Auto Club Speedway, March 2011.
©  Photo by Paul Wilkinson

NASCAR BLACK FRIDAY – SAVE ON 2015 RACE TICKETS!

Get your "Black Friday" NASCAR specials.
 © Photo by Paul Wilkinson

I’m sure some of you that have been to the stores for the “Black Friday” discounts offered by many retailers.  Some of you may have stayed home and browsed online. Before you forget about yourself or your NASCAR racing friends, here is a “BLACK FRIDAY” list to check out for deals to get your special race discounts for 2015. 

Keep in mind, I did not spend HOURS scouring the web to find every deal.  In fact, just because I may have said there are NO deals found online does not mean they don’t exist, I simply could not find them.

RACE TRACKS

Daytona Speedway - Before you hit the stores this morning, give the gift of horsepower on the high banks with our "Black Friday" deals! http://bit.ly/1yi7waY

Atlanta Motor Speedway - TWO (2) lower Earnhardt grandstand tickets for the 2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race, March 1, TWO (2) AMS 1:64 Scale Diecast Cars, ONE (1) AMS Fleece Blanket using promo code: A15HOLIDAY,  https://oss.ticketmaster.com/aps/ams/EN/promotion/home?_ga=1.241035008.260484136.1417198350

Las Vegas Motor Speedway - NASCAR is coming back to VEGAS March 6-8.  Get the race wrapped up for the holidays with our Family Track Pack.  Get 4 tickets to the race, 4 cokes and 4 hotdogs, all for just $99!  Book by December 13 and you'll receive your package in time for Christmas.  Buy your Tickets: http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/17004D7382942866?did=lvmsho&_ga=1.263787020.1633088527.1416847758

Many tracks are offers "Black Friday" deals on ticket packages.
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

Auto Club Speedway - Black Friday Deal:  NO service fees on any ticket or package tot he Auto Club  400 on March 22!  Deal offered until December 1st!  http://www.autoclubspeedway.com/Tickets-Events/Events/NASCAR/Holiday-Package.aspx

Phoenix International Raceway - The Ultimate "Black Friday" Track Package is Back!  For only $89 you'll receive ONE (1) Upper Allison Grandstand Ticket tot he CampingWorld.com 500, Nascar Sprint Cup Race on March 15, 2015.  1 Pre-race Pit Pass.  That's a $150 value, 30% savings!  Act fast because this offer expires on Sunday, November 30 at 11:59 pm Buy Now >> Black Friday Specials

Martinsville Speedway -   No Holiday / Black Friday promotions found online.

Texas Motor Speedway - "Black Friday" is LIVE!  Get your tickets to the Duck Commander 500 starting as low as $20 bucks.  Promo code:  BLACKFRI  >>  https://oss.ticketmaster.com/aps/tms/EN/buy/browse

Bristol Motor Speedway - "Black Friday" :  Great walk-in #BlackFriday offers today!  Already have tickets? Verify them and get the same offers!  Details >> http://bit.ly/1CotCN9

Richmond International Speedway - Add us to your "Black Friday" list! Save money on tickets, hospitality, pit passes & more when you renew by 12/2 > Holiday Offers

Talladega Superspeedway -STARTS TODAY! First 250 purchasers receive Winn-Dixie gift card and more! Buy here: www.talladegasuperspeedway.com/holiday

Kansas Speedway -  No Holiday / Black Friday promotions found online.

Charlotte Motor Speedway – Black Friday Blowout!  

Dover International Speedway - No Holiday / Black Friday promotions found online.

Pocono Raceway - Blah, Blah, Blah Friday Sale --> http://www.poconoraceway.com/black-friday-cyber-monday-sale.  Go ahead, sped fifty bucks on that pair of shoes - they don't really fit, but they're a great deal!  Go ahead, spend $50 on some sweater/scarf/hat set for Uncle Lou - it's perfect for him!  Or you could spend $50 on a Pocono Raceway giftcard and WIN A FREE RACE WEEKEND CAMPING EXPERIENCE with your choice of RV or Tent Spot!

Michigan International Speedway – Numerous ticket packages available online but no specific Holiday or Black Friday promotions found online.  http://www.mispeedway.com/Get-Tickets/Special-Offers.aspx

Sonoma Raceway -  Raceway Holiday ornament with every order, but no specific Holiday or Black Friday promotions found online.

Kentucky Motor Speedway – Kentucky Speedway will offer fans a surprise in limited quantity Cyber Monday packages for the July 11 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Quaker State 400 beginning 12:01, Monday, December 1.  Details of the packages will be revealed when placed on sale and will be available only until the designated quantities sell out.  >>   Black Friday Specials!

New Hampshire Motor Speedway -  You don't need to go out and fight the lines this weekend to take advantage of a great deal on NHMS race tickets!  You're welcome.  Check it out:  Black Friday !

Indianapolis Motor Speedway - No Holiday / Black Friday promotions found online.

Watkins Glen International – No Holiday / Black Friday promotions found online.

Darlington Raceway –  No Holiday / Black Friday promotions found online.

Chicagoland Speedway - Saving big on today's " Black Friday" deals? Check out the prices on Snocross tickets!  Heat up your winter plans today when Snocross heads to Route 66 Raceway, February 20-21, 2015!  Remember to stay tuned for our Cyber Monday Special offer!

Homestead – Miami Speedway - No Holiday / Black Friday promotions found online.

Drivers:

Joey Lagano heading out for final practice.

© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

Joey Logano - Didn't win any of the #5DaysOfThanks giveaways? No worries, you can still win when you head over to JoeyLogano.com and receive 22% off any order that is $50 or more when you enter the promo code: JLBlackFriday.

Kevin Harvick - "Black Friday" Sale!  Buy 1 get 1 FREE on ALL HATS on TonyStewartStore.com!  Offer Valid until Midnight 11/28/14 http://bit.ly/TSSBlackFriday

Jeff Gordon -  #BlackFriday Offer - Every $24+ order in the Jeff Gordon Store will receive a free 1:64 scale Drive to End Hunger #24 Chevrolet die cast while supplies last!  Be sure to check out all the new gear, exclusive offerings and autographed items available at http://shop.jeffgordon.com! #Team24

Richard Childress walking through the
garages at Michigan International Speedway.
© Photo by Patti Buchanan

TEAMS:

Hendrick Motorsports - No need to face the crowds this "Black Friday".  Check out our special deals today in our online store:  http://bit.ly/15n1n2U

Joe Gibbs Racing - SAVE BIG: Now through Monday!  Shop: http://shop.joegibbsracing.com

RCR Racing - Attention shoppers, head over to the RCR Store to get 20% OFF TODAY use code: HOLIDAY >> http://bit.ly/RCRstore

Michael Waltrip Racing - Ready for some great "Black Friday" specials? Check out shop.michaelwaltripracing.com for some awesome deals on our team apparel!  You can shop from the couch you're sitting on after the big meal.

Toyota Racing - Avoid #BlackFriday crowds - shop at http://www.toyotaracinggear.com! Great gifts for the #NASCAR & #NHRA fans in your life.

If you find any other great deals don't forget to share them here.  Also, don't forget to follow us on Facebook and twitter by clicking the links on the rights. 

Happy shopping & will see you on the infield!

** The Infield Guru is not affiliated with and does not endorse any specific track or driver.  This article is for informational purposes only.  There are no guarantees regarding the availability or quantities of any of the above items.  Please contact the specific track or website for more detailed information regarding limits and expiration of these offers.  If the links fail to open for you, please consider calling the race tracks directly or visit them on their web sites.

SO, LET’S TALK CHASE

I don’t get the very personal social media attacks on others (and their mothers) for simply stating something as innocent as who their favorite driver is?  But since NASCAR introduced the new Chase Format, lord help you if you have an opinion on it. 

The Sprint Cup Championship Trophy
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

So, let’s talk about NASCAR’s “New” Chase Format. 

NASCAR like any sport is always trying to come up with ways to make the sport more interesting to watch, less complicated to follow and sustain a larger audience until the final race of each season. 

All this while making a profit.

The old “Points Format” that was used to crown a Champion – well – it was simple, drivers and teams had to race/perform consistently over an entire season and they earned points during each race. 

Hamlin taking the track for final practice.
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

Towards the end of each season when it became evident many weeks out that their favorite driver had NO shot at winning the coveted championship.  These fans had no incentive or interest in purchasing tickets to follow the soon-to-be crowned Champion to the end of the season.  

So fans complained and NASCAR listened, right?  NO.  NASCAR took a huge hit during the latest recession.  People were losing their homes, jobs and filing bankruptcy just to make it through.  People’s expendable incomes to spend on races and infield camping took a HUGE hit.  Tracks were taking out entire sections of grandstands to reduce track and maintenance costs.  NASCAR was in trouble, not because they kept changing the rules and pissing fans off, but because their fans were in serious financial trouble.

No longer able to fill the grandstands, NASCAR created the “NEW” Chase Format!

IMO, The new “Playoff” style format was a brilliant NASCAR marketing strategy because of the attention it now brings every week to the sport and how it keeps more fans watching until that very last race of the season!  Why?

Instead of having only ONE #DriverNation interested in the final race, you now have FOUR #DriverNations hoping their driver can pull out a championship and 39 other #DriverNations watching just to see if the “Chasers” will crash each other out of spite. 

Jeff Gordon and team will have to try again in 2015
© Photo by Patti Buchanan

It’s always been about the money….always will.  Whether your favorite driver made it or not, there are more fans talking NASCAR and chase format than ever before.  Good Job NASCAR! 

Which format do you really think can sell more tickets?  Share your "Opinion" of the NASCAR Chase format here.

NASCAR Camping Things to Do – “The Pit Pass”

You’re camping the infield, getting your party on – GREAT - but make sure you make time for another NASCAR camping things to do while you’re at the track (at least once) by purchasing a pit pass to be up close and personal to pit road activities.

Austin Dillon heads to the track for final practice.
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson.

Unless you are extremely hung over from the night before, nothing beats the roar of engines and the smell of rubber than being right next to these cars as they go to and from the track during practice and qualifying sessions. 

Dale Jr signs autographs on pit row.

© Photos by Patti Buchanan

As a bonus you’ll be close to “autograph row” where you might get that quick picture and possibly an autograph with your favorite drivers and crews. Please Be polite and remember they are working, they respond to ass holes just like you and I do - by being ass holes back.  Don’t be “that guy” who ruins someone else’s dream of meeting their favorite drive.    

If you’re camping with a group, make arrangements to split the cost to purchase one or two pit passes to share with those in your party that want to include a trip to pit road during race weekend.

Check your favorite tracks websites or Facebook pages for pit pass pricing and check for additional contests that may offer opportunities to be selected for Pace Car Hot Laps, Garage Access, VIP Packages, private driver Q & A sessions or pre-race driver meetings and introductions to enhance your infield camping race experience. 

Pre-race "Cold Pass" for the Garage area.

© Photos by Melanie Milne

Long time infield campers and season ticket holders are often rewarded with discounted pit pass tickets when pre-purchased and some tracks may even offer additional incentives by renewing tickets and camp sites early. 

With that said, wear comfortable shoes, hat/visor, pack plenty of water and sun screen, your Sharpie, and make sure your camera is fully charged as it’s a NASCAR Camping Things to Do you’ll want to share and remember. 

Have fun and share your “Pit Pass” photos and stories here.  

Setting up the pit box for the NNS race.
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson.

Jeff Gordon's Crew takes the 24 back to the garage for some adjustments.
© Photos by Patti Buchanan

Don't forget you can now follow on Twitter @infieldguru and Facebook by clicking on the right!  See you there!

NASCAR Camping Things to Do - "The Sprint Experience!"

Interactive displays enhance your experience.

© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

When you head out to camp the infield at your favorite NASCAR track, you will have packed all the food, drinks and "entertainment" that you will need to get through the race weekend.

However, one of the best NASCAR camping things to do is to head over to the main concourse “Fan Zone” and check out the “Sprint Experience”!

The “Sprint Experience” offers many interactive - hands on displays, games and contests throughout the weekend.  You could be selected to participate in a NASCAR Sprint Cup racing car tire changing contest.  Select your favorite driver and race against your friends in the video game racing challenge.

Get a chance to meet your favorite "Miss Sprint Cup".

© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

Meet and have your pictures taken with the “Miss Sprint Cup” models or even the Sprint Cup Championship trophy as it spins in its case.  One (or more) of your favorite drivers may make a special appearance for an up close and personal questions and answers session.

Ryan Newman answers fan Questions.
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

Don’t be fooled though.  There WILL be gimmicks and trickery.  Sprint is a major communication company and the primary sponsor for the premier NASCAR racing circuit.  They WANT your information because THEY WANT YOUR BUSINESS and will do what they can to get it from you by offering you lanyards, koozies and cool freebies in exchange for it.

With that said, and knowing that it’s coming…. it’s still one of the best NASCAR Camping Things to Do while you’re at the track.  Have fun and share your “Sprint Experience” photos and stories here.

Sprint Cup Series Championship Trophy on Display.
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

NASCAR Driver's Names That I Find Funny!

There are some NASCAR driver's names that I find funny!  Let me start by saying some of my favorite NASCAR nicknames of the past include:  “The Intimidator” – Dale Earnhardt, “The Iceman” – Terry Labonte, “ The Rooster” – Ricky Rudd and “The King” – Richard Petty.

Then I ask - "What about some of the NASCAR driver's REAL names?".

Although it's rare that I SEE or HEAR these names, I can honestly say my maturity level drops to an age below adolescent!  Don’t get me wrong, I mean no disrespect to any of these drivers or their loyal fans.  Admittedly, my post pubescence and juvenile nature takes a serious nose dive that will often coincide with a sincere chuckle and knee slap. 

Here are my top four:

Jamie Dick
Photo Credit: Jennifer Stewart / Getty Images

4.  Jamie Dick -  Dick started in the NASCAR Nationwide Series in 2011 after competing in the NASCAR Truck Series.  In 51 races, over a 4 year period, Dick has had a problem finishing towards the front.  Dick has no wins and no top 10's to his credit. Dick faced hard times with sponsors in 2013 that forced him to cut his NNS racing schedule.  In 2014, Dick has competed in 17 events (to date) and maintains a firm grasp on "last in points”  for the year.  

3.  “Dick” Johnson – Came from "The Land Down Under".  An Australian driver, who spent most years on the Australian Touring Car Championship series.  Dick performed briefly in the NASCAR series in 1990, competing in seven events.  Dick’s best finish came at Pocono Raceway when he came in 22nd.  Dick raced in the first NASCAR race that was held in Australia in the 1988 Goodyear NASCAR 500, but an early wreck caused a premature end to his day.

2.  “Dick” Passwater – Raced in only 20 NASCAR events over a period of two years.  Dick finished 1^st one time in the 1953 Race #5 at Charlotte Speedway's ¾ mile dirt track.  Dick retired after car owner Frank Arford died in a crash while attempting to qualify for a race.

1.  “Dick” Trickle - nicknamed the “White Knight”.   Dick started in 303 NASCAR Winston Cup Races and won “Rookie-of-the-Year” honors at age 48.  Although Dick came up short and never won a NASCAR race over the 24 years of racing , Dick was considered “the winningest short track driver in history”  in other racing circuits.  Sadly, Dick died at the age of 71 in 2013 from an apparent suicide. 

Maybe it’s just a guys thing (<-- see what I just did there, again? ).  Am I the ONLY one that find some NASCAR driver's names funny or am I just being a "Boob"? 

Is there a race driver whose name makes you laugh when you hear it?

Don't forget to SHARE this post with your friends and "LIKE" us on Facebook & follow me on Twitter @InfieldGuru or by clicking the links on the right.  #InfieldNation, #SeeYOUOnTheInfield

** ©2014 The Infield Guru.  The Infield Guru is not affiliated with and does not endorse any specific track or driver.  This article is for information & entertainment purposes only. There are no guarantees regarding the availability or quantities of any of the above items. Prices are subject to change without notice. Please contact the specific track or appropriate websites for more detailed information regarding limits and expiration of these offers.  If the links fail to open for you, check your pop-up blocking software or consider calling the tracks directly.

Who’s YOUR Favorite NASCAR Driver & Why?

“Who’s YOUR favorite NASCAR driver and why?” came the challenge.  I didn't hesitate as I blurted out my reasons for liking the TWO drivers that I watch compete each NASCAR race weekend.

TWO DRIVERS?  Yes, TWO!   I have even been told that I “am only allowed to have ONE favorite driver.”  Huh?  That would be like trying to tell you which of my grand children I love more!

Honestly, I just don’t care what “some people” think and more of your might even say that I speak of an unthinkable blasphemy, when I tell you that they drive for different teams AND different car manufacturers.

So, here is why I like them, and who they are;

     1. People tend to follow and believe in WINNERS.  When I went to my first NASCAR races in the infield, there was ONE driver that seemed to consistently win.  He seemed to have the fastest car, usually led laps and won races - a lot.  So when I was TOLD that I "had to pick a driver", my first choice to follow was the Hendrick Motorsports, #48 Lowe's Chevrolet driven by Jimmie Johnson.

Jimmie Johnson signing autographs
at Michigan International Speedway

© Photo by Melanie Milne

#48 Sprint Cup Practice, MIS

© Photo by Patti Buchanan

Jimmie is the man!  He wins races and has won championships!  A good friend of mine talked about Jimmie so much you would have thought they were best friends growing up.  When I went to races, I was always asked to bring back a Jimmie Johnson hat or souvenir, and so I did.  

2.  During my “Rookie” race at Michigan International Speedway, a golf cart came rolling through the infield, Saturday night at around 11 pm, with this young kid sitting on the back.  I had no idea who he was, but he sure drew a crowd.  I figured he must be someone important, so I went over, said hello and shook his hand.  This “Kid” shook hands, signed autographs, and took the time to talk to people as he was slowly carted around late into the night before racing the next day, finishing 2nd.   I decided then and there that I was going to keep an eye on this guy.  He happened to be driving for Roush Fenway Racing, in the #99 Ford AFLAC , his name…. Carl Edwards. 

Carl Edwards racing at the Monster Mile

© Photo by Melanie Milne

Carl just has a friendly smile, races hard and along with his trademarked back-flip after winning, well, that’s just kind of cool.  Even though he’s going to Joe Gibbs Racing next year to drive the #19 Arris Toyota, that’s OK with me, because he took the time to - Stop, Say “Hello” and Shake my hand.  That's how you make fans!

So, please excuse me, if I laugh a little when I see how insulted you get because I didn’t pick YOUR driver.  When I chuckle even harder when I see your eyes roll into the back of your head while you try to remember "Why" you like the driver(s) you like for a reason other than …. “Just because…!” 

I know that when Jimmie or Carl grow too old to race and decide to retire, I’ll have my reasons to follow my next driver(s).

So you can “hate”, provide your “witty sarcasm” or "Share" your reasons in the comments below, but my question to you is –  "Who's YOUR Favorite NASCAR Driver & Why? ... or is it “Just because…?”

 Don't forget to SHARE this post with your friends and "LIKE" us on Facebook & follow me on Twitter @InfieldGuru or by clicking the links on the right.  #InfieldNation, #SeeYOUOnTheInfield

** ©2014 The Infield Guru.  The Infield Guru is not affiliated with and does not endorse any specific track or driver.  This article is for information & entertainment purposes only. There are no guarantees regarding the availability or quantities of any of the above items. Prices are subject to change without notice. Please contact the specific track or appropriate websites for more detailed information regarding limits and expiration of these offers.  If the links fail to open for you, check your pop-up blocking software or consider calling the tracks directly.