Sunday, July 18, 2010

The Interviews

If you're not in a car, I don't want to hear it.


Once again NASCAR fans are debating the latest Carl Edwards and Brad Keselowski on track battle over real-estate. Who did what to whom and when and if it was safe or not... blah, blah, blah.


My issue is with the interviews of driver's parents. I'm all for interviewing the drivers who were actually involved in the on track incident. However, I don't really see the need to interview the parent or spouse or the second cousin's aunt's uncle's best friend's sister of the driver to get their reaction. The reaction of a relative is going to be an emotional one no doubt, but not a professional one. 


Keep the interviews to the people who are actually paid to participate. The opinions of bystanders are going to be emotional not informational. On a side note, when being interviewed about an on track incident try to keep the relatives of the person with whom you have an issue with, out of it. 


If you're not in a car, I don't want to hear it.

Sunday, May 16, 2010

To Rant or Not to Rant

I started this blog because....?


When I started this blog I needed an outlet to gripe about the crappy goings on in my favorite sport, NASCAR. In their infinite wisdom, the powers that be, actually made some rule changes that I actually understand AND agree with.


The "Have At It" rule. This controversial, not really a change but more of a modification to the existing rules, I LOVE! I think this modification allowed the sport to regain some of what it has lost, the emotional element, for lack of a better term. Let the drivers settle it amongst themselves while the officials wander off into the sunset whistling a happy tune. This works for me. 


The 3rd Times a Charm rule. The addition of Green-White-Checkered attempts at finishing the race under green has added an element of "What will happen next?" The sport was starting to loose that "Fight to the Finish" spirit that is one of the fans favorite parts. 


The Wave Around rule. No more did we get lapped in the pits based on misfortunate pit selection controversy. I found this to be a rather pleasing solution to the problem. 


I don't always agree with the Powers That Be in NASCAR, but I do enjoy being able to share things that I do agree with for a change. 


I started this blog because....?

Sunday, April 18, 2010

What would we do without Twitter?

That which shall be called a Rain Delay.


What is happening at Texas Motor Speedway? Shall I "Google" it? No, I have a better idea, who amongst the fabulous followers of 99FanGirl is at TMS this weekend? 


Twitter has saved the day and provided a vast array of first hand information. Instead of waiting for the talking heads on the pre-race show to take a breath from their blathering to let fans know that the race is delayed we now have access to on the scene reporting. 


As the fans lament another delay there are a vast array of people willing to share their thoughts and opinions about what they are doing while they wait for Mother Nature to finish her business and move on. One of my favorites is @NASCAR_WXMAN with a forecast accuracy of 99.9%. He gives fans up to the minute weather information to help pass the time. Other favorites include all of my fellow Carl Edwards fans. I love to read what they think is going to happen this week and why they think Carl is definitely going to win this time.


Has the season had too many rain delays? It's hard to say. It is spring and April showers bring May flowers. It may just be a case of we block out the many rain delays from the previous season and focus on our dismay at them this season. Cheer-up @SummerDreyer the sun has too shine eventually. We have the advantage now of Twitter to keep us entertained and informed during these interminable bouts of bad weather.


That which shall be called a Rain Delay.

Sunday, March 28, 2010

A Picture is Worth a 1,000 Words

I went to Bristol! 


Usually this blog is a rant about something that happened during a race. This week nothing to rant about because I so enjoyed my experience at Bristol Motor Speedway that I thought I would let some pictures speak for themselves. Enjoy.



Sunday, March 7, 2010

Accidentally on Purpose

How do you defend the indefensible? 


I spent a lot of time on Twitter reading and posting comments about the now infamous Edwards/Keselowski on track disagreement. Fans on both sides offered different perspectives on the incident. It is no secret that I am a die hard fan of Carl Edwards and I will admit to getting caught up in the "BK must die" hysteria. 


However, now that the adrenaline has worn off I am prepared to offer a calmer opinion. I go on record saying, "Carl you screwed up!" Carl was 151 laps down when he returned to the track after an earlier on track incident with Brad Keselowski. At this point Carl was turning laps to gain as many points as possible so as not to lose too many spots in the points. Why then, Mr. Edwards, did you feel it was necessary to turn Brad Keselowski with  5 laps to go? 


It has been hypothesized that this was a retaliation for the incident earlier on the track. Your responses in the post black flag interview alluded to that fact as well. Therefore, shame on you! Your fans have been able to take pride in the fact that you are a "clean" racer and you own up to your mistakes. Often it has be credited to you that in tense situations you don't let your emotions get the better of you. 


How then do you defend the indefensible?  

Sunday, February 28, 2010

Good Sportsmanship

Jimmie Johnson wins again?


I want to be happy for any driver who wins because it is quite an accomplishment and so many things need to go your way in order for that to happen. However, I find myself wondering if Jimmie Johnson or Chad Knaus has made a deal with the devil.


I am a Carl Edwards fan, but Jamie McMurray winning the Daytona 500 was wonderful. Would I have enjoyed a backflip at Daytona? Definitely. Jimmie Johnson winning two races in a row? This is starting to be reminiscent of the last 4 years of his domination in the sport. 


Jimmie Johnson obviously has the talent to win in this sport. He has proven his ability to be consistent. More than once events have occurred that have resulted in being beneficial to the 48 team and they have capitalized on them. I can not justify any feelings of animosity towards Jimmie Johnson and his team. They come prepared to win every week and that is exactly what they do.


I am a fan who enjoys seeing a different winner every week, with the exception of one driver who shall not be named and I hope never enters Victory Lane again. Let everyone have a shot at the spotlight. 


Is this a realistic view of the sport? No. I just like the "sunshine and lollipops" view that everyone's hard work has the opportunity to be rewarded with a trip to Victory Lane. Dominance by one team is what is occurring in the sport and I figure Jimmie Johnson has to retire eventually. 


Jimmie Johnson wins again?

Monday, February 15, 2010

There's a pothole in the track?

The seven hours of The Pothole 500


Growing up in Michigan, potholes were just part of winter. You saw them, you drove around them, and eventually they might get fixed. If and when a pothole was fixed it usually held together for more than 20 minutes. My suggestion to NASCAR is contact the Michigan Department of Transportation and ask them how to fix potholes. They have had plenty of practice. 


The fans on Twitter were somewhat tolerant of the red flags, well at least the first one. Tweeting away about their favorite driver, how happy they were to be watching racing again, and making jokes about how to fix a pothole. Finally after about and hour and a half the drivers returned to their cars, fired their engines, and resumed racing. 


Hopes were high that the race would only be stopped next time by "The Big One" and speculation as to when that might occur was rampant. However, 20 some odd laps later, the hole had returned. Fans were not so forgiving this time. Here is where my quandary lies.


The track at DIS is used by other forms of racing, not just NASACR. There is bound to be wear and tear on the track. When Lowes Motor Speedway "levigated" their track the drivers complained about how the track was impossible to drive on. Lowes then resurfaced the track, still did not fix the driving surface. The third time was a charm with their third attempt at fixing the driving surface. 


So I ask, is Daytona trying to avoid the mistakes of other tracks? Carl Edwards on his scanner in response to the pothole was, "Great, now they are going to have to resurface and screw up the track." We will have to wait and see. They have until July 3rd to fix the problem.


The seven hours of the Pothole 500. 

Saturday, February 13, 2010

Twas the night before Daytona

An Ode to some followers:


Twas the night before Daytona and all through the chat rooms;
Not a race fan was stirring not even @zwriter.
All the race fans were washing their favorite gear;
In hopes that @Kenny_Wallace soon would be here.


The pit crews were nestled all snug in their pit boxes;
While visions of back flips danced in their heads.
Jack Rosuch in his stable with 6, 16, 17, and 99;
All dreaming of crossing that finish line.


When out in the infield there arose such a clatter;
@DustinLong Tweeted What is the matter?
Away to the Race Day set @KylePetty he flew;
To find @Rutledge asleep in the dew.


The moon on the rubber on that very long track;
Signaled that the Daytona 500 indeed had come back.
When what to @cadadj should appear;
But, 43 drivers, their crews, and their cars.


The racers they line up as fast as they can;
@roses050481 was shouting there's Carl, my man!
They started their engines with a mighty roar;
@nikkiisheree watched and adored.


The lights on the pace car shone into the night;
As @SummerDreyer was amazed at the sight.
@missirish9 gave a lingering sigh;
Watching the powerful engines glide by.


Suddenly the whoosh of the waving green flag;
Causes spotters to yell, "Don't loose the draft!"
Then off in the distance there was a faint sound;
As @Jen_Niffle slowly turns 'round.


@theNASCARdad stands with a grin;
Wanting to share secrets held within.
Its not yet Sunday he quietly shares;
@mveilenstein looks and says, "Not fair."


Twas the night before the Daytona 500; an ode I have wrote.
A thank you to followers and @ParkerTechGuy.
Green, white, checkers, and lots of wreckers;
Means a championship for Carl Edwards!



Sunday, February 7, 2010

The Green Flag Waves on 2010

Whoo hoo NASCAR is back!


The Budweiser Shoot Out isn't a points race, but after 2 months of nothing, I'll take it! The best part being that Carl Edwards started on the pole and lead almost half of the 75 laps! 


Of course some fans took issue with Carl's triumphant return to the track like @ParkerTechGuy when he Tweeted @99FanGirl Thats where you get to be when you get the Pole handed to you...when you have to actualy qualify though...different story #Nascar Oh, @ParkerTechGuy, and where did Ryan Newman finish? Oh yeah, 19th. 


There was an obvious improvement from last year in the Pit Crew's performance. Radio communication was extremely positive even after the "Lap 73 Wreckfest" which resulted in Carl's 17th place finish. I am hoping that this year will not only result in qualifying for the Chase but also a Championship!


The season's first points race begins with the Daytona 500! The changes in the rules and the restrictor plate looks to make for some exciting racing. Hopefully we will not have to bear witness to the same 450 miles of "freight train" racing of the 2009 season. I remain optimistic. 


Whoo hoo NASCAR is back! 

Monday, February 1, 2010

Isn't it funny when girls try to do stuff?

Thank you Mystery Science Theater 3000. 

Danica Patrick will be driving a limited season in the Nationwide Series for Jr. Motorsports.  So? I'm am not excited, but rather miffed. 

There is so much talent out there why bother with Danica Patrick? Please remember that this blog is my personal, unsolicited, musings about NASCAR. NASCAR is a family sport. Have you seen her Go Daddy commercials? I'm not sure I would want my children rooting for someone who is willing to shake her "money makers" in the face of a fellow anatomically blessed female. 


I, and several fellow Twitter Fans, enjoyed watching a young female racer by the name of Chrissy Wallace. She raced cleanly, and finished on the lead lap, if memory serves. She comes from a well known racing family so it is safe to assume she has had the proper training and mentoring. 


I'm not saying that women should not be allowed to drive in NASCAR. I'm saying that this is not the talent portion of the Miss _______________________ Pageant. (You fill in the blank) Use the talent that is already putting the time and effort in to learning how to participate in this sport safely and successfully. Thank goodness no one reads this.


Isn't it funny when girls try to do stuff? 

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Rules? What Rules?

We don't need no stinkin' rule book!


NASCAR officials often defend their controversial calls by citing "the rule book". Hey, there's a rule book? Where can I get one of those?


At Amazon.com I found I was able to order a rule book for the NBA, NHL, MLB, and the NFL. However, the friendly "book suggestions function" listed NASCAR for Dummies. Hey?! What is that supposed to mean?


What next? Google of course. eBay had an auction for a 2005 rule book. Not many takers. Wikipedia had a comment that simply put if you're not a driver you can't have a rule book. I'm getting tired of looking and have decided that Wikipedia is correct.


Sorry race fans, we have decided to give our loyalties to a sport that wants to keep us in the dark about the rules. Apparently we are ok with that. Every Sunday we find our favorite spot for optimum viewing and start cheering.


We don't need no stinkin' rule book!

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Boys Will Be Boys

Boys are made of snips and snail and puppy dog tails.


NASCAR in its infinite wisdom tried to save the teams some money by regulating the emotions of its participants. Short of drugging the participants with Prozac or Ritalin, I'm not seeing how this could be accomplished. The mindset of "bet I can get there before you" is fairly difficult to overcome in an adrenaline drenched atmosphere. 


"Let them race," was a constant retort on Twitter and in chat rooms across the web. I have been torn between enjoying the carnage of a good wreck and the fact that someone has to pay for that car that is now on its way to the recycling center.


What is the answer? I have no idea, but recently NASCAR.com has been reporting on the utterances of the NASCAR Powers That Be as they hand down the latest edicts from on high. The Powers That Be seem to be trying appear as though they are listening to the fans. These edicts appear to be band-aids when the sport needs a trauma surgeon. 


Boys will be boys. They are after all made of snips and snails and puppy dog tails.





Tuesday, January 19, 2010

NASCAR brought to you by Twitter

When is the race on today? 


Too lazy to wait for the browser of your choice to load? Then you have to go to your favorite site for NASCAR news, that takes time. Then you have to look around and read all of the information on the page to find the information you are looking for, that takes a lot more time. Then...


Wait a minute!  There has to be a better way, a faster way, some way I can find out in 140 characters or less. Yes, of course! Twitter. Pose the question, "What time does the race start today?" 


Wait for it, almost instantaneously several loyal NASCAR fans will reply with the appropriate information. 


This works for all situations NASCAR related. For example, say you are stuck at a family reunion on your wife's side, and let's say they are Amish.  How will you ever find out how Carl Edwards is doing at MIS? Twitter. You pull out  your trusty iPhone loaded with Tweetie and quickly post your question on Twitter. 


All crashes, controversial conversations, violations, bad calls, yellow flags, Lucky Dogs, and Jr. Nation protests will be at your fingertips. 


Oh, by the way, what time is the race on today?

Monday, January 18, 2010

The Long Winter's Nap

I am waiting for Daytona. This is what the winter holds for me, all 2 months of non-racing Saturdays and Sundays.


I tried starting a support group on Twitter in the hopes of lessening the withdrawal symptoms after Homestead. Went so far as to schedule meetings on the second Tuesday of each week. 


I have found solace in the Blogs of other fans such as myself. I find that they too are looking for ways to cope. Grasping at bits of news of our favorite drivers. 


My intent for this Blog is to rant and share my unsolicited opinion with anyone who cares to read it. Will I do any research to support my opinion? Nope. That is one of the great things about opinions. 


I am waiting for Daytona.