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Inside the Spin Out Zone
Mike Harper tables his SOZ columns for the chance to interview
NASCAR personalities and celebrities
SOZ Interviews
Bill Goldberg: Inside the Spin Out Zone
By Mike Harper
2/23/2006
For some people the name Goldberg means nothing. To millions of sports fans across the United States, Goldberg is one of the biggest names in sports entertainment.
Goldberg, an All-SEC and All-American football player at the University of Georgia played in the National Football League with the Rams, Falcons and Carolina Panthers before his retirement in 1995. After the NFL, Goldberg gained his popularity during his professional wrestling career and has been able to utilize his popularity to obtain movie roles and appearances in major publications and on various television shows.
Goldberg, who was named one of the 100 most powerful people in the sports industry by The Sporting News has made many talk show appearances including The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Live with Regis and Kelly and Larry King Live. His starring roles in feature films range from The Longest Yard starring Adam Sandler, Chris Rock and Burt Reynolds, Santa's Slay and a role in Warner Brothers Pictures' Looney Tunes: Back In Action.
Goldberg has had a longtime passion for cars. He hosts the show AutoManiac on The History Channel, a show that puts viewers in the driver's seat of the coolest, fastest and most unusual vehicles.
Welcome Bill Goldberg to the Spin Out Zone.
Thanks Goldberg for taking time out of your busy schedule to join us. What profession or hobby have you enjoyed the most, being a pro-wrestler, pro football player, movie star, host of your own TV show or car collector?
Goldberg: Pro football. It was a dream come true.
Your show AUTOMANIAC premiered back in June of 2005 on The History Channel. What is the show's status for the upcoming season?
Goldberg: Still in talks.
I understand you became a race fan in 1990. What fueled your passion to become a race fan?
Goldberg: Speed and love of the automobile.
Share with us your thoughts from last season's appearance at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and to have your car, the No. 23 Bill Davis Racing AUTOMANIAC Dodge racing at the Brickyard.
Goldberg: It was a dream to be at such a nostalgic race with my own car.
Would you consider yourself a diehard NASCAR fan or a casual NASCAR fan?
Goldberg: Die-hard when time allows.
Do you have a favorite NASCAR driver?
Goldberg: Rusty Wallace, Mike Skinner, Bill Elliott . . . too many to list.
I understand you're an avid memorabilia collector. Do you have any NASCAR memorabilia that you would like to share with us?
Goldberg: Various Dale Earnhardt memorabilia.
With some of the biggest names in sports like Tim Brown, Terry Bradshaw, Roger Staubach and Troy Aikman jumping into NASCAR as owners, have you been approached or do you have a desire to become a NASCAR owner?
Goldberg: I'd love to, but it's very costly.
What other type of racing do you follow?
Goldberg: Formula 1
Do you have any predictions on who will win the 2006 NASCAR Nextel Cup Series championship?
Goldberg: Many young talents out there, but Tony Stewart is very good.
It's been a pleasure to have Bill Goldberg inside the Spin Out Zone. Goldberg will be touring with many auto shows across the country including World of Wheels, AutoRama and the Portland Roadsters Show. More information about Goldberg can be found at BillGoldberg.com .
Until next time, happy bumping!
Copyright 2/23/2006
by Mike Harper
General Tommy Franks: Inside the Spin Out Zone
By Mike Harper
5/3/2005
General Tommy Franks served his country for 38 years and during this time he earned three Purple Hearts, three Bronze Stars and a number of other military, U.S. and foreign awards. General Franks climbed his way up the ranks of the U.S. Army and into one the highest posts in the military.
As the Commander in Chief of the United States Central Command from July 2000 through July 2003, General Franks made history by leading American and Coalition forces to victory in Afghanistan and Iraq-the decisive battles that launched the war on terrorism.
In 2004, General Franks spoke at the Republican National Convention and has made appearances on The O'Reilly Factor, Hannity and Colmes, Hardball with Chris Matthews, and Larry King Live.
While on tour promoting his book "American Soldier," General Franks took a few minutes to step Inside the Spin Out Zone to discuss many topics including Bin Laden, the famous Iraqi's "Most Wanted" deck of cards, his early racing career and his favorite NASCAR driver.
Welcome Inside the Spin Out Zone, American hero General Tommy Franks.
SOZ: In August you'll celebrate your second year of retirement from 38 years of Military service. What do you miss most about Military life?
Gen. Franks: The military is all about people, teams, integrity, and selfless service. I miss the daily contact with these wonderful people.
SOZ: We've seen elections in Afghanistan and recently in Iraq. When you look at these historical events, how does it make you feel to know that you played a major role in creating a bright new future for these citizens?
Gen. Franks: I think all Americans can take pride in having given more than 50 million people a chance for freedom and a better life.
SOZ: You must get asked this frequently, but was it you or your team who created the famous Iraqi's most wanted deck of cards? How did they come about?
Gen. Franks: The most wanted deck was the "brain child" of a number of bright, gifted people ... some in CENTCOM (Central Command) in Tampa and some in Washington DC.
SOZ: You've said in the past that catching Saddam Hussein was inevitable and it did happened. However, you've taken a softer approach when discussing the capture of Osama bin Laden. What makes bin Laden a harder catch and do you believe at some point he'll be captured?
Gen. Franks: Bin Laden will be killed or captured because lots of talented people - in uniform and out of uniform - are looking for him 24 hours per day. He is a "hard target" because lots of families in the Middle East support him. We get closer to him with each step toward democracy made by Afghanistan, Iraq ... and a number of other Middle East countries.
SOZ: I'd like to move to the topic of NASCAR, but first I understand that at one point in your life you raced cars. Please tell us about General Tommy Franks the race car driver.Gen. Franks: Drag racing supped-up MGA and a '57 Chevy while in High School. My dad was a great mechanic and we spent countless hours building cars ... and later hydroplanes for racing. I've been interested in speed and acceleration all my life.
SOZ: What do you enjoy most about NASCAR? Do you have a favorite NASCAR driver or team?
Gen. Franks: None better than the Earnhardt's.
SOZ: I understand you played high school football. What other sports do you enjoy watching?
Gen. Franks: Motor sports of all kinds. NASCAR is hard to beat.
SOZ: President Bush and Secretary Rumsfield both attended NASCAR events and commanded the drivers to start engines. Have you been approached to do this or would this be something you'd enjoy doing?
Gen. Franks: Haven't been approached by I'd love to do it, provided there's a race jacket with a lot of patches is in it for me.
SOZ: Each branch of the Military is represented in NASCAR and fans overwhelmingly support the Military sponsorships and the troops serving in our armed forces. Understanding that the primary goal of the sponsorships are geared toward recruiting, in your opinion, what other value does the sponsorships bring to the Military branches?
Gen. Franks: NASCAR is "All American" - so is service in our Military.
SOZ: You've had a busy retirement. Last year you spoke at the Republican National Convention, you've done some appearances on television and you've completed your book titled "American Soldier." What have you enjoyed most about retirement and what is next for you?
Gen. Franks: Love being my own boss - speaking when and where I want. I'll continue to do just that as we spend more time on our ranch in Oklahoma.
I would like thank General Franks for taking time out of his busy schedule to visit with us. For more information about General Franks and his book "America Soldier" please visit www.TommyFranks.com.
For an opportunity to win General Franks' book please visit www.SpinOutZone.com.
Until next time, happy bumping!
Copyright 5/3/2005
by Mike Harper
Clint Bowyer: Inside the Spin Out Zone
By Mike Harper
2/17/2005
ACDelco is no stranger to Busch Series championships. The last time this NASCAR sponsor enjoyed a championship, Kevin Harvick was behind the wheel of the No. 2 Richard Childress Chevrolet and the year was 2001. Since that time, the RCR organization has fallen just short of putting the ACDelco Chevrolet back on top of the Busch Series points standings.
Clint Bowyer is a 25 year-old Emporia, Kan. native who is also no stranger to championships. With numerous motocross and Modified division championships, one word can easily describe this past NASCAR Weekly Racing Series champion and it's, winner! He's a winner with a resume that proves it.
In late 2003, hard work and 20 years of dedication to racing paid off when Richard Childress called on him to share a seat with Kevin Harvick. Bowyer and Harvick teamed up to race RCR's No. 21 Reese's Chevrolet during the 2004 Busch Series season. As a part time driver, Bowyer scored four top five finishes and almost won a race.
The upcoming 2005 Busch Series season will look different for Bowyer. He'll be in a different car and he's earned his shot at full time Busch Series racing. With the release of last year's driver Ron Hornaday, Richard Childress and ACDelco have found the driver who they believe will help them accomplish their goal of winning back the Busch Series championship.
It's an honor to welcome Inside the Spin Out Zone the new driver of the No. 2 ACDelco Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing - Clint Bowyer.
SOZ: Congratulations Clint on your new ride and thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to answer a few questions. In 2003 you received the call that every driver dreams about - a NASCAR owner wanting to meet with you. What was your life like or what emotions were you going through hours before meeting with Richard Childress?
Clint Bowyer: My life was not any different than anyone else's running the weekly series. I'd work all day just to work all night on my race car. And as soon as the weekend came it was "race time". But getting the call from Richard Childress was the call that has changed my life. If I was ever to have an owner of a race team call me, I would have wanted it to be Richard, and there he was on the other end of the phone wanting me to drive for him. It's a dream come true.
SOZ: You were given the opportunity to drive for a great sponsor, a very respected organization and share a seat with a current Cup Series driver. Looking over the packaged opportunity, what excited you the most about driving the No. 21 Chevrolet?
Clint Bowyer: Getting to learn from Kevin Harvick was probably the biggest, since I knew I had a lot of learning ahead of me.
SOZ: You were asked by RCR to share the No. 21 seat with Kevin Harvick. What was the hardest part of sharing seat time with another driver?
Clint Bowyer: Sitting out, about the time I would get rolling it was time to get out again.
SOZ: Last year's Aaron's 312 at the Talladega Superspeedway, you won the pole after only having 12 laps of experience on that track. In my eyes, this may have been your defining moment, proving that you belong in Busch Series full-time. What did winning the pole mean to you?
Clint Bowyer: It was cool, but we all know that was a testament to all the guys back at the shop. I was more excited about Nashville and our other top fives.
SOZ: You've taken over the wheel of the No. 2 ACDelco Chevrolet for the 2005 season. Do you and RCR look at this season as a rebuilding year for the No. 2 Chevrolet team or are expectations set high for this team?
Clint Bowyer: I think all of our expectations are high. I know R.C. wants nothing less than a championship. He's done a great job putting all the puzzle pieces on the table, now it's up to me to put it all together.
SOZ: As a sponsor, ACDelco has a rich history in NASCAR. Dale Earnhardt Jr., and Kevin Harvick have won championships for them and now you find yourself with an opportunity to add to their history. What are your thoughts on Richard Childress' and ACDelco's confidence in your ability to drive their car?
Clint Bowyer: It gives me a lot of confidence knowing that they believe in me. Everyone knows that there is a rich history behind this car, and I'm glad I'm getting the opportunity to add my name to the list.
SOZ: When you look at the 2005 schedule, what racetracks do you look forward to racing at the most and the least?
Clint Bowyer: To win a championship I believe that you need to look forward to them all, but one of those guitars from Nashville sure would be nice. I've gotten close a few times, so maybe this will be my year. There are also some tracks that I have not raced on yet, and those will be obstacles.
SOZ: I read that you enjoy boating. What other hobbies or sports do you enjoy?
Clint Bowyer: Yeah, I do like going to the lake, but my first passion for racing came from motor-cross. I still enjoy riding and watching my buddy, Ricky Carmichael's races on T.V.
SOZ: How has your life changed since joining the Busch Series?
Clint Bowyer: A lot! I'm just living my dream and making a living at what I love to do. Who could ask for more?
SOZ: Please share with us any sponsors that we may not know about that support you, the charities that you support and/or if there is anyone special that has inspired your racing career.
Clint Bowyer: The person who has inspired me the most in racing is Ricky Carmichael. Here's a guy that I watched grow up with nothing, but with a lot of hard work he's now the best motor-cross has ever seen and probably ever will see!
I'd like to thank Clint for jumping Inside the Spin Out Zone and wish him the best for the upcoming Busch Series season. Look for Clint in Victory Lane and with some Spin Out luck, it'll happen real soon! For more information about Clint and the No. 2 ACDelco Chevrolet, please visit his official site at www.clintbowyer.com or Richard Childress Racing at www.rcrracing.com.
Until next time, happy bumping!
Copyright 2/17/2005
by Mike Harper
Matt Crafton: Inside the Spin Out Zone
By Mike Harper
2/1/2005
The 2004 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season came to end with mixed emotions for this past NASCAR Featherlite Southwest Tour Champion. With an exciting 5th place finish in the 2004 Craftsman Truck standings, he also finished out the season knowing that he would not be returning to No. 6 GM Goodwrench Chevrolet Silverado team in 2005.
Kevin Harvick Inc. announced before the October 2004 Texas race and with five races to go in the season that they were going to make a driver change in their No. 6 Chevrolet for the 2005 season. Under those circumstances many drivers would have folded under the pressure, but this 28-year-old Tulare, Calif., native would not end his season overshadowed by the news of being released by KHI. Instead, he set out to prove that he belongs in NASCAR.
Over the last four races of the 2004 season he finish sixth at Martinsville, third at Phoenix, eighth at Darlington and fifth at Homestead-Miami. He proved to the media, his peers and to owners that if given the chance in a top ride he can contend for a Truck Series championship.
As his fans wait for the next chapter in his racing career to begin, we catch up with him as he prepares for the February race in Daytona. It is an honor to welcome Inside the Spin Out Zone, NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series driver Matt Crafton.
SOZ: Thanks Matt for taking a few minutes to visit with us. First, let me congratulate you on a great 2004 season! You were honored at the Craftsman Truck Series Awards Banquet for your 5th place finish in the point standings. What did it mean to you to be able to finish as one of the top 10 drivers?
Matt Crafton: It was awesome. We weren't just in the top 10, we were in the top five. It's a huge accomplishment for a first year team to stay in the top 5 all season long.
SOZ: When you look back on the 2004 season, what was your biggest accomplishment?
Matt Crafton: Finish top 5 in points and have the best finish of the season at Bristol, my favorite track.
SOZ: What has been your most memorable racing experience since joining the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 2001?
Matt Crafton: I guess it would be going to Charlotte and qualifying faster than the boss, then racing him at Bristol and getting a better finish than him.
SOZ: Many NASCAR fans are still scratching their heads about you being released from KHI. It's been suggested that you weren't aggressive enough for KHI, so after what seemed to be a great season, can you share with us your feelings on why you were released by KHI?
Matt Crafton: That's racing. It's a cutthroat business, and being fired is all part of the game. It was a business decision made by KHI, and they gave me a great opportunity.
SOZ: It seems that the 2004 season took a strange turn for you after the Richmond race in September. During a five race span starting at Richmond, you suffered a few engine problems and you crashed out a few times thanks to wrecks caused by someone else (whose name we will not mention). However, you picked yourself up and finished the season strong. My question is, first, was this the most frustrating part of the season for you and second, how did you turn it around to finish the season so strong?
Matt Crafton: The most frustrating part was being in contention for the win and being so close to getting it done so many times and having it fall apart at the end. I was able to finish strong because I had determination to try to get the elusive win. I wanted to cap off a strong season with a top five in points, and I did.
SOZ: If you would, please share with us your plans for 2005?
Matt Crafton: Well, the release is already out, I will be driving for ThorSport, racing back in the 88. They gave me the first call in the truck series and have put together a great program for 2005, so I think we will be more competitive than ever.
SOZ: I understand you enjoy playing golf. What other sports or games do you enjoy playing or watching?
Matt Crafton: I enjoy video games, my Playstation 2, and riding my quad at Glamis. I'm a Rams fan, and always have been, an anything racing I can watch.
SOZ: Who has been the most influential person in your racing career and why?
Matt Crafton: My dad, he taught me everything I know. He gave me the first opportunity to develop as a driver, and he has been there from day one. I owe it all to him and my whole family. He has always told me that hard work and determination will get you places.
SOZ: What racetrack do you look forward to the most?
Matt Crafton: Bristol, definitely my favorite track. It's a driver's track, you have to fight the track as much as you do the competition.
SOZ: In closing Matt, please share with any charities that you support or any sponsors you would like to us to know about.
Matt Crafton: I support the Victory Junction Gang and Speedway Children's Charities. I have always had a want to help kids in need. I want to thank all of my sponsors thru out the years, there are too many to list, without you I wouldn't be here.
I would like to thank Matt for stepping Inside the Spin Out Zone and for answering our questions. Matt is a great talent and I am sure we will see him in Victory Lane in 2005! For more information about Matt and his No. 88 ThorSport Racing Chevrolet, please visit his official site at www.mattcrafton.com.
Until next time, happy bumping!
Copyright 2/1/2005
by Mike Harper
Jeff Burton: Inside the Spin Out Zone
By Mike Harper
10/4/2004
This 1994 Rookie of the Year award recipient is one of NASCAR's most respected drivers. With 17 career NASCAR victories including a Coca-Cola 600 win in 2001, this South Boston, Virginia native has proven that he can contend for a NASCAR championship.
Coming into the 2004 season with no primary sponsorship for his No. 99 Roush Racing Ford, he stepped up to the challenge of running week after week with no future certainly for himself or his team. In August 2004, his life would take a turn that would change the direction of two NASCAR premier racing organizations.
When the smoke cleared, Richard Childress Racing would find themselves adding this talented driver to their stable. Richard Childress confirmed what an important asset this driver brings to his organization when he said "To have him in an RCR car today means a whole lot to me personally. I'm looking forward to the things we can do. He's a championship caliber driver. We're going to give him the stuff it takes."
Childress, who has an eye for talent, knows what he is talking about when he labels this driver as a championship caliber driver and it's proven when you look at this driver's resume. In 2000, he finished third in the Cup Series championship and in 2002 and 2003, he finished 12th in the point standings.
America Online the primary sponsor of RCR's No. 30 Chevrolet, joins in Childress' excitement. In an August 2004 interview, J.D. Ettore, America Online's Director of National Brand Promotions and Sponsorships, said, "We are thrilled to have a multi-race winner driving for and representing America Online. America Online has a lot of respect for his abilities and we, along with RCR, want to welcome him and look forward to great things with him."RCR has delivered little success for AOL since 2002, however with the addition of this driver the future looks bright and the opportunity of winning a championship for this team and this sponsor is now within reach.
It is an honor to welcome Inside the Spin Out Zone, Jeff Burton driver of the No. 30 America Online Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing.
Thanks Jeff for taking time out of your busy schedule to join us! First, I want to congratulate you on qualifying fifth back at Richmond, which was your best starting position in two years. In my opinion, you've made an immediate positive impact at RCR. Given the success of the AOL team since you've joined RCR, my question is do you feel that you were the missing piece of the puzzle to get this team to the next level?
Jeff Burton: I think puzzle is a good phrase and I'm part of it. I'm not a good enough driver to take a team that is not capable of running well and making it run well. Kevin Hamlin is not a good enough crew chief to take a driver who can't get it done and get it done. It takes everybody with similar thought processes with the ability to argue with each other and to discuss things to make us better. So we as a team will perform at a high level, or we as a team won't perform at a high level. There seems to be a fairly high level of confidence with me being here and I have a high level of confidence in the team, and that goes a long way. We certainly have had good results, but I won't take all the credit for that because it takes everybody.
Looking at the remainder of the 2004 season, what are the expectations of the No. 30 team and does it include winning a race?
Jeff Burton: The expectations are for us to build a championship winning team going into next year. Obviously we are not going to win a championship this season. We have run fairly consistently, but we need to find a little more speed. We need to, and I in particular, need to quit making mistakes. I made some mistakes on pit road a couple times that cost us. Really the goal is to build a base that we can build on for next year. We have run consistent enough to be a top-12 team, we need to quit having some things not go our way, like we did a Dover and find a little more speed to get the AOL team in the top five group.
Obviously you're surrounded by new people, new equipment and new teammates. What has been the most challenging part of the transition over to RCR?
Jeff Burton: I think the biggest thing was getting here and learning everyone. I had to learn everybody and learn what each person's responsibilities are. The first two to three weeks I didn't understand how things worked and had to get comfortable with how things work here at RCR. That was probably the toughest part of the move. It has been wonderful. Everyone has welcomed me with open arms, they have gone out of the way to do things that I wanted to do with the car. Really it hasn't been a very difficult adjustment by any means.
In describing you, Richard Childress uses words like experience, knowledgeable, stable, knows how to get the job done and championship contender. What are your thoughts on his confidence in your ability to drive his racecar?
Jeff Burton: I'd like to think that if he didn't think I could do it, he wouldn't have hired me to drive. And if I didn't' think this organization could do it I wouldn't be here. My confidence in the team and Richard's ability as the owner of the team are the same as it is back the other way. Richard is capable of winning championships, he's proven it. He has championships on his mind and that's the same way I am thinking now in my life. He thinks I can come in and help the program at RCR in a lot of ways. So, Richard's confidence in me gives me confidence in myself.
Do you plan to drive an RCR car in the Busch Series next year? Can you share with us any information on your Busch Series plans?
Jeff Burton: We're still working that out. We don't know for sure just yet.
You finished seventh in your last visit to Talladega in a Ford. Now you're getting ready for the October race in Talladega with a new team, with a different manufacturer who has been very successful at Talladega and using one of the best restrictor plate programs in NASCAR through RCR. Is the No. 30 AOL team excited about Talladega and/or what upcoming races have you marked on your calendar that you are most excited about?
Jeff Burton: I Like Talladega, I don't like being in the 15-car wreck, so our first objective is to miss that. I run 450 miles to position myself to race the last 50 miles. I'm excited about going to Talladega, I actually enjoy that kind of racing, even though I don't like the fact that we are all running in the big packs, but it's fun to do. I'm excited about the opportunity. Kevin and Robby have run real well at the plate races and I'm looking forward to running with them.
The upcoming races should be good. We had a great test at Kansas and we're going to test Darlington and Homestead. I really like Phoenix, I really like Charlotte, and I really like Darlington. There are a lot of tracks coming up that I've had success at and I'm looking forward to going. But, I'm looking more forward to going to our tests. With our test this week at Kansas, we were able to take some new cars, different stuff and do some things we weren't able to do. It was very beneficial to us not only for Kansas, but also for some tracks that are coming up in the near future.
Leaving the NASCAR world for a moment, I understand you are a big Duke University basketball fan. What other sports do you follow and who are your favorite teams?
Jeff Burton: College basketball is definitely my favorite sport. I like Pro football as well. I pull for the Carolina Panthers.
Your future looks very bright. After racing, do you see yourself in politics, NASCAR ownership, or a NASCAR executive? What's next for Jeff Burton?
Jeff Burton: I don't know what's next. I do have political aspirations, I would like to try and run for a U.S. Senate seat. I certainly want to do that at some point in my life, if I think I could be helpful. It's something that is in my mind, but it's in the back of my mind right now. What I would do after I retire from driving, I don't know. I'm not even thinking about it to be quite honest. I think I have a lot of racing left in me, I'm 37 years old and I can't imagine being 43 and not do this every week. Racing is all I've ever done and what I like to do. I enjoy the pressure, I enjoy the intensity of it and when I don't have it, it's real boring. So, I'm really not thinking about "the after life", other than to say I do have some political aspirations. I do also enjoy the business side of this sport, so where those two things take me and if those two things change, I don't know.
Share with us the sponsors that make things happen for you and the charities that you support.
Jeff Burton: My sponsors here at RCR are of course America Online as our primary and Chevrolet is our manufacturer. We also have Snap On Tools, Okuma and PTC. I am also part of the Coca-Cola Racing family. As far as charities, my wife Kim and I are very big supporters of Duke Children's Hospital. We are really committed to them. Kim has sat on the Board of Directors there for more than four years now.
I really appreciate Jeff stepping Inside the Spin Out Zone and answering our questions. I wish him all the best and I predict a win before the end of the season. Maybe the Spin Out Zone luck will rub off on Jeff as it has done for our past guest who interviewed with us and then won! For more information about Jeff please visit Richard Childress Racing at www.rcrracing.com.
Until next time, happy bumping!
Copyright 10/4/2004
by Mike Harper
Elliott Sadler: Inside the Spin Out Zone
By Mike Harper
9/9/2004
This NASCAR "Young Gun" has driven himself into NEXTEL Cup Series championship contention with several top 10 finishes and a win at Texas Motor Speedway and California Speedway.
After an impressive Busch Series career, he was given the opportunity to take the wheel of the famous No. 21 Wood Brothers Ford in NASCAR's Cup Series. He finished second behind Tony Stewart in the 1999 Rookie of the Year chase and in 2001, he drove the No. 21 to victory at Bristol Motor Speedway, which happens to be one of his favorite racetracks.
Following the 2002 season, this Emporia, Virginia driver needed a change and so did one of the sports premier sponsorships. They both found a home at Robert Yates Racing where for the first time both the driver and sponsor are contenders for winning a NASCAR championship.
He is more than just a NASCAR star, he is an important advocate for the Autism Society of America, Victory Junction Gang Camp and for one of NASCAR demographics (the chocolate lovers), he is the most important racecar driver in the world. You can also find him in the recently released country music video, "Some Beach" by Blake Shelton on CMT.
It is an honor to welcome Inside the Spin Out Zone, Elliott Sadler driver of the No. 38 "M&M's"(r) Ford for Robert Yates Racing.
Thanks Elliott for taking time out of your busy schedule to answer a few questions. I've got to begin with this one or my wife will shoot me. Which way do you go - plain or peanut?
ES: I'm a big fan of both but I prefer Milk Chocolate. I've been to the M&M'S University so I've learned there's no such thing as plain. We call them Milk Chocolate!
Judging by this years success in the No. 38, I am sure you can now look back at your decision to leave the Wood Brothers and know it was the right thing to do. However, how difficult of a decision was it to leave them for Yates?
ES: It was a very difficult choice for me. Eddie and Len Wood are two of the nicest guys I've ever met. I'm still great friends with them and talk to them each and every week. They are in a re-structuring stage and I feel like you'll see them make big gains in the last third of this season.
You've seen some internal changes since joining the No. 38. Are the pieces of the puzzle in place for this No. 38 team to win a championship this year or would that be exceeding the teams expectations since it's only the second year you've been in this car?
ES: Eddie D'hondt came on board with RYR over the winter and made big improvements to all of our departments. We have a great engine program and Doug Yates works his tail off every day to make sure all of the Ford's have great horsepower. I came to RYR to win races and so far we've won 2 and I feel like we'll have the opportunity to win more in the final 10 races.
Many were worried about the Roush-Yates engine partnership, but it seems that all parties involved have benefited from it. Five Ford teams running Roush-Yates power are in the hunt for the Chase for the NEXTEL Cup. Do you think it is a direct result of the new engine program?
ES: I think our engine program is very strong and the better news for us is that it's constantly getting stronger. All of the motor guys are working long, hard days and it's paying dividends on race day.
I'm going to take you back to last year's EA Sports 500 at Talladega Superspeedway. You were involved in one of the most frightening crashes that left many of us holding our breath. Your car lifted up into the air and came down hard. Then you flip five times before the car came to rest. How did that incident change you as a person and as a racecar driver?
ES: I don't take anything for granted. It was a frightening crash but I get paid to drive a racecar and that comes with the territory. I certainly hope I don't make anymore highlight reels due to crashes. I'm really thankful for all of the gains we've had in safety over the past few years.
You have a great website. It's different from most drivers because you share it with your older brother Hermie, who is also a racecar driver. Tell us about your relationship with Hermie and why you both share the website?
ES: My mother, Bell, started our fan club as a joint fan club when he and I first started racing. We've certainly grown the fan club into a nice shop in Emporia and our Internet site, SadlerFanClub.com has grown tons over the past 6 years. Our fan club memberships increase every year. I enjoy sharing it with Hermie. He helped to pave the way for some of the opportunities I've had in the past. He and I still hunt, golf and hang out together as much as we can.
I watched you in Blake Shelton's new country music video. I give you two thumbs up! Tell us about how you got involved with Blake and his video.
ES: I met Blake in Atlanta a few years ago and he and I hit it off. He's a big deer hunter and so am I. We've hung out a lot over the past 2 years and after I won California he was one of the first guys to call and congratulate me. That means a lot to have friends that are willing to stop their hectic lives long enough to extend their wishes. He's a great friend and hopefully he and I will do a few more videos together down the road.
Congratulations on your 200th start in NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series racing. Excluding the wins, what has been your most memorable race and why?
ES: I drove the Wood Brothers car when they made their 1000th start so that was pretty cool.
If you would, in closing please share with us your 2004-2005 charity initiatives and the sponsors that make it happen for the No. 38.
ES: We held Race for Hope this past May and it was a great event. We had 12 NASCAR drivers and fans could race against them, have dinner with them or just get an autograph. It was the most fan friendly event we've ever hosted and the fans loved it. It was made possible thanks to M&M'S, NASCAR Speedpark, Coca-Cola and The Outback Steakhouse. I'm really focused on winning the championship this year so we haven't spent much time talking about 2005. We are going to have a charity bowl a ton in December up in Richmond. Fans can visit www.SadlerFanClub.com for more info. We've also attended and supported many events surrounding The Victory Junction Gang Camp. Kyle and Patti Petty are amazing people and deserve to have all of the funding they need in order to make other kids dreams come true. Race fans are the most loyal people in the world and our sponsors enjoy it and so do our favorite charities.
I would like to thank Elliott for jumping Inside the Spin Out Zone and wish him all the best as he runs for the 2004 NEXTEL Cup Series Championship. For more information about Elliott or his fan club please visit www.sadlerfanclub.com.
Until next time, happy bumping!
Copyright 9/9/2004
by Mike Harper
Johnny Benson: Inside the Spin Out Zone
This Grand Rapids, Michigan native holds honors that some of NASCAR's greatest drivers can't claim.
Prior to his NASCAR premier series victory in 2002 at Rockingham, he won the 1994 Busch Series Rookie of the Year and 1996 Winston Cup Series Rookie of the Year awards. Between the two rookie awards, he achieved the goal of all Busch Series drivers by winning the 1995 Busch Series Championship.
During the 2000 Winston Cup season, he fell just short of taking one of NASCAR's most prestigious prizes - the Daytona 500.
Over the last two years he has seen the highs of winning in NASCAR's premier series and the lows of injuries and team breakups, but one thing remains for certain, he is highly respected by his peers and loved by the fans.
It's my great pleasure to say Johnny Benson you are Inside the Spin Out Zone.
Johnny thanks for taking time to jump into the zone and answer a few questions.
It's been a crazy 2004 season for you. Looking back to the beginning of the year, if you could put a finger on your most rewarding experience what would it be and why?
JB: I guess the most rewarding experience would be winning the pole position at Rockingham Speedway. I ran Busch for 2 years and never got a pole. It has been also nice to be in a competitive ride.
We've seen you jump into the Speed TV booth during the Craftsman Truck Series races and you've done quite well. Are we seeing the start of a new career path for Johnny Benson?
JB: Not at this time. Although the television broadcasts have been fun. I am not ready to move onto that career path. However, if I have a free weekend where I am not racing and the broadcast scheduling works out I plan to be in the booth.
Many NASCAR personalities have decided to test the waters in owning a Busch Series or Craftsman Truck Series team. Have you thought about NASCAR ownership in either of those two series and if not, why?
JB: Probably not. My pockets are not deep enough and sponsorships are not scarce. Another problem is the lack of an alliance with a multi-car team that has their own engine program.
This year you've driven for James Finch and you've filled in for Matt Kenseth in his #17 Busch Series ride. Could you tell the difference in equipment between the two stables and if so, what stood out most?
JB: Both race teams had good equipment and I enjoyed working with both of them. There was not much difference between the Dodge and Ford teams.
It seems like we find your name in the rumor mill on a daily basis. Where do you stand on securing a ride for this year or for the 2005 season?
JB: At this point in time, I have not secured a ride for 2005. Hopefully, something will come in the future.
How did the test session go at Nashville in the #23 Bill Davis Racing truck? Do you look at testing opportunities as a practice session for yourself or a way to stay in front of owners that are possibly looking at making driver changes?
JB: The test session at Nashville went fair - we have something we can improve on. I look at testing at helping that particular team. It also gives me an opportunity to see what other teams have. I enjoy my time in testing a car or a truck.
You have one of NASCAR's best fan clubs. From a driver's perspective, what makes a fan club successful?
JB: I would have to say it's the amount of effort that one puts into it. It needs to be informative. I appreciate the fan base that I have - especially through this transitional year.
Excluding racing, what professional sports do you follow and what teams do you support?
JB: I like to follow the X games - motorcycles. I do like to watch other sports, but do not follow any particular team.
I've got to ask, your incident during the last Busch Series race at Bristol, on a scale from 1 to 10, how mad were you?
JB: Seven
If you would, please share with us any special projects or charities that you support and/or any sponsor that you would like to recognize.
JB: Women's Auxiliary of Motorsports, MRO, Victory Junction Gang, Sponsors: Berger Chevrolet, Aaron's - Huge Supporter of Late Model Program - All sponsors in Cup Career - Pennzoil, General Mills, Aaron's and Valvoline.
I would like to thank Johnny for joining us and hopefully we will see him back in a NASCAR NEXTEL Cup ride soon. In the meantime, Johnny can be seen on Speed TV's Inside the NEXTEL Cup on Monday nights.
For more information about Johnny please visit www.johnnybenson.com.
Until next time, happy bumping!
Copyright 8/11/2004
by Mike Harper
Mike Joy - Inside The Spin Out Zone
ESPN, CBS, Motor Racing Network, Speed TV and FOX Sports has more in common than just broadcasting sports. They have all benefited from the expertise of this man.
To fans who have followed NASCAR for years, he is just as important to them as their favorite driver. They trust him. They count on him for information. For the new fans, he is the calm guy from NASCAR on Fox that keeps Darrell Waltrip (DW) and Larry McReynolds (Larry Mac) in line.
By the millions, NASCAR fans invite him into their living rooms. At times, he is overshadowed by the star power of DW and Larry Mac, but one fact remains - the race would not be the same without him. He is NASCAR on Fox's secret weapon.
He's a dedicated husband and a father and I am so happy that he can join us.
Please welcome Mike Joy to the Spin Out Zone.
SOZ: Thanks Mike for taking time out of your busy schedule to join us. I want to start by looking back to the early days. While attending college at the University of Hartford, did you really envision a successful career in NASCAR broadcasting?
MJ: Not at the time. I was really hoping to be a successful racer, but didn't have the available funds to find out if I really had any talent. So I ran in road rallies, autocrosses and time trails to satisfy the competitive urge, and did public address announcing at local short tracks during the summer. That led to MRN and eventually to TV.
SOZ: Many NASCAR fans don't know that you've covered such events like NCAA football, swimming, gymnastics, soccer, and skiing. You've even covered the Winter Olympics. Was there ever a time when said to yourself, what in the world am I doing here covering this event? Or, did you look at it as a stepping stone to the next level?
MJ: Every new sport was a new challenge. I asked for all those assignments and had a great time doing them. It really sharpens your skills and broadens your interests to learn about new sports and the approach to broadcasting them.
SOZ: You've worked as a pit reporter and now you find yourself in the booth calling the race. Do you miss reporting from the pits?
MJ: I do somewhat, because the booth is one step removed from the action. In the pits, I learned to be concise on TV. That is missing in some of the reporting today.
SOZ: I'd like to switch gears and find out more about your life at Fox Sports. I understand that the NASCAR on Fox team has preseason meetings. What kind of pressure is put on you, DW and Larry Mac? What initiatives are put in place and what role do you play in the meetings?
MJ: There's no pressure from the network, other than to do our best and to tell the story. We meet several times in the off season to plan and review new graphics and technologies. In season, we have a mid-week conference call and a Saturday morning meeting. All the announcers have input, but production makes the decisions. Sometimes tough choices have to be made, such as the way the starting lineup is presented this year as a crawl while other things are going on onscreen. That change was made due to a shortened pre-race show.
SOZ: In his column, responding to an email from a fan about the NASCAR on Fox telecasts, DW said about you "He's a very smart guy. He's probably the most intelligent guy in the whole crowd." What kind friendship do all of you have away from the booth?
MJ: Its similar to any three friends who work side-by-side. Some weekends we spend more time together out of the booth than in it, and some weekends we don't see each other much. We respect each other's passion for racing, abilities and accomplishments, and know we can call on and count on each other.
SOZ: In your opinion, how is the partnership between Fox and NASCAR working out?
MJ: Its a work in progress that gets better each season. We've had our rough moments, like any partnership, but a mutual respect has grown. FOX is happy with the product, the ratings and the co-operation, while NASCAR and its track operators enjoy a continuity of coverage and very handsome rights fees. FOX intends to renew the contract, and I think NASCAR will welcome that.
SOZ: Do you see a third broadcast partner like ESPN added sometime down the road?
MJ: Not with the current schedule of one Cup race per weekend. If the race schedule expanded and added say, Thursday night races, there might be room for a third TV package. Splitting the current season into thirds would be awfully small chunks, with not many "big" events in the middle third. I'm not sure what would be gained by that. A 20 week package is just about the right length.
SOZ: We've seen such an increase in NASCAR exposure over the last year. Speed TV has done a good job of adding live or reality shows to their programming. We've seen Spike TV and CMT add NASCAR type of programming and now FX is getting ready to launch a reality NASCAR show. Do you think the media and the broadcast partners are taking advantage of the open access of the drivers? Or is it good for the sport, sponsors and the drivers to participate in these types of programs?
MJ: The programmers know there is a big audience for NASCAR-related shows, so they are responding with product. Some drivers and sponsors welcome the added exposure... its hard to get your car regularly on TV Sundays if its not in the top 10 or turned over, because the screen is only so wide. So these programs can give a sponsor a boost and they can add to a driver's fan base. I guess we're about to find out if "So You Want to Date a Race Driver" goes over the wall or not.
SOZ: Let's have some fun Mike. What kind of TV shows do you watch? Are you a reality TV type of guy, cable news guy, sports guy or do you watch what the kids want to watch?
MJ: 24 is the best show on TV, (not just because its on FOX). I try to catch West Wing and According to Jim. Wind Tunnel is great. I like to watch big sporting events, but I'm studying the presentation more than the game. I'll watch the Cubs when they're winning, and I'll put down the remote if I stumble across Rocky & Bullwinkle. Classic movies and the History Channel can keep me up late.
SOZ: Let's put you behind the wheel. I understand you are a pretty good race car driver. If you were behind Dave Despain on the last lap, would you move him out of the way for the win?
MJ: That's not my style, ask Jeff Hammond. In a 20 lap race at the Las Vegas Bullring this spring, I gave Jeff the inside on the last lap, but I made sure he would have to go in too deep if he wanted to try and take the lead. He spun, and I held off Dick Berggren and Sean Pragano for the win.
SOZ: Have you thought of ownership in any of the NASCAR divisions?
MJ: I love the NASCAR Modifieds, they are such a unique brand of exciting racing, and I've resisted several chances to buy into winning teams. Since my company, New England Racing Fuel, supplies the Sunoco race gas to most of those teams, I wouldn't feel right about competing against our customers.
SOZ: I understand you have two children. Are we going to see them on the racetrack or in the booth?
MJ: That will be entirely up to them. Scott is 5 and Katie's almost 4. They like racing, but Gaye and I want them to experience a lot of things and find their own way.
SOZ: We're almost done, Mike. I would like to ask you a few tough ones before I let you go. In your opinion, when will we see NASCAR deal with the cost of doing business issues? Cutting the number of tires that can be used during a Nextel Cup race seems to be an easy fix, however we've seen nothing implemented. Has NASCAR, the track promoters and/or the team owners created a money monster through contract negotiations with Goodyear, the broadcast partners and other suppliers where it can't be fixed until the contract terms expire?
MJ: Sometimes, the more restrictive a rule, the more expensive it is to maximize performance while staying within the rule. TV has nothing to do with the cost of running a race car and neither do the track promoters. I don't think NASCAR will restrict tire use because each pit stop makes more lead changes possible. They are concerned about team costs, but with the current rules that is a hard thing to rein in, and starting with a clean sheet of paper would be even more expensive.
SOZ: You've been around NASCAR for a long time. We've seen many changes in the sport over the last two seasons. The Chase for the Championship, title sponsor, fuel sponsor, racing back to the caution rule change, and schedule changes. Through the eyes of Mike Joy, what is the next big change coming in NASCAR?
MJ: I hope it is 100% implementation of the Safer Barriers, leading to a season without a single serious injury, and the debut of the next generation of impact absorbing walls. Next, I'd welcome a solution to freezing the field under caution that everyone can agree on and the fans can easily visualize. The current system is kind of like playing baseball without painted foul lines. Finally, I'd like to see a schedule that reaches important new markets, but retains the "legacy" tracks, even if it means places like Rockingham and Darlington have to share a date every other year.
SOZ: Finally, after NASCAR on Fox what's next for Mike Joy?
MJ: I hope that day is still a long way off. Perhaps write a book, watch our kids grow up, restore some cars, do some vintage racing, and for my wife and I to enjoy traveling just because we want to and not because we have to.
SOZ: Would you like to share with us your favorite charity or a special project that you support?
MJ: We've supported Victory Junction Gang Camp since it was announced, both on the air and with our donations. I've raised money and awareness for the Snell Foundation, which tests and certifies helmets, and helped with fundraising for the new Lowe's YMCA in Mooresville. My wife sits on the board of Womens Auxiliary for Motorsports, a new name which combines the former Winston Cup and Busch auxiliaries. We've just begun work with a local elementary school teacher and some NASCAR parents on a new "racing to read" program.
SOZ: I would like to thank Mike Joy for his openness and for his dedication to NASCAR. Having him inside the Spin Out Zone is a great honor and he is an inspiration to those of us that follow his career. Thanks Mike and keep up the great work!
Until next time, happy bumping!
Copyright 5/6/2004
by Mike Harper
Andy Belmont - Inside The Spin Out Zone
Andy Belmont is the driver of the #1 Verizon 1-800 USE THE VZ Ford in the ARCA RE/MAX Series. Since starting his racing career in 1976, Andy has won Rookie of the Year and Series Champion honors competing in NASCAR's Dash Series. His passion for racing has taken him from the Flemington Fairgrounds Speedway in New Jersey to last Sunday's Nextel Cup race in Atlanta.
With the Nextel Cup Series on his mind, I welcome Andy Belmont into The Spin Out Zone.
SOZ: You've run Atlanta and now you and your team are working hard to prepare for Darlington. When you walk into that Nextel Cup garage and you look at the multi-car organizations around you, in regards to competing against them, what goes through your mind?
AB: Not a thing. It is the way of the world and both Hermie and I are working hard to be a part of it.
SOZ: You're a racer, but you are also an owner. Put on your owner shoes and tell us, do you believe NASCAR really creates a level playing field for all that enter a Nextel Cup race? Or, has NASCAR ultimately created this field filler issue because the playing field is not level?
AB: I think everyone has the same opportunity. In all reality, NASCAR doesn't have control over the cost issue. Racer's will spend whatever it takes. That is the way it has been since the beginning of time.
SOZ: Now that the field filler term has been born, how do you define the term? Is it more an issue of being under funded or not being ready for the Nextel Cup?
AB: We have less to work with financially, but everyone has a starting point. Even the ones that come in fully funded have issues getting the chemistry part going.
SOZ: In your case, why did you choose Nextel Cup over the Busch Series?
AB: Mainly because our ARCA program are all 110 inch wheelbase cars. It is far more feasible for Hermie and I to change our ARCA cars over. Hermie has a couple cup cars as well, so it really worked out for us when we started talking about combining our stuff.
SOZ: Let's take all the teams in the Nextel Cup Series that could be labeled a field filler. Let's give them the same equipment and funding as DEI, RCR, Yates, Gibbs and Roush. What kind of race would fans see?
AB: The same. Money isn't the cure all. All of the above teams have been together for a while. The personnel are on the same page. If we had thirty million dollars right now we could purchase newer equipment, but we still have preparation and technology issues that have to be addressed.
SOZ: I understand you are developing a web site called FieldFillers.com. When is the launch date and can you tell us a little more about it?
AB: I just thought it would be fun. It seems to be the hot buzz topic right now. We take what we are doing very seriously and have no intentions of pulling in, period. We broke a rear end gear at Atlanta. About thirty laps in, our lap times were leveled off with many other cars. But being labeled a field filler when we are chasing a dream and working our butts off is a little frustrating. So we thought we would create a place where we can shed a little light on what we are doing. This is AMERICA, LAND OF OPPORTUNITY. NASCAR has provided us with an opportunity and we are trying to take advantage of what has been provided.
SOZ: Is there a charity or sponsor that you would like to give a plug for?
AB: Actually we have several. We couldn't get to the race track without Southern Pan Services, Continental Fire and Safety, Bucks County Cigar and Candy, Chaser Freedom From Hangover, Phil-Mart Transportation and Alltrail.com. I know that is a handful, but it's what we need to get there.
I would like to thank Andy Belmont for taking the time out of this busy Darlington schedule to join us. To find out more information about Andy and Andy Belmont Motorsports, please visit www.andybelmont.com.
Until next time - happy bumping!
Copyright 3/18/2004
by Mike Harper