Team Penske Celebrates 60th anniversary in Style

Mark Donohue’s No. 6 Trans Am Javelin racecar on display at IMS Museum. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

Although should we break out  Thin Lizzy’s “The Boys are Back” song for Team Penske’s IndyCar operation yet?

 

Talk about pressure, as the weight of Team Penske sweeping the “Desert Double” at Phoenix Raceway fell solely upon Ryan Blaney’s shoulders. Yet the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Champion didn’t faulter, even after suffering two Pitstop miscues. Including a penalty for being outside of His Pit Box!

 

 Turned on Thy Telie’ with some twelve laps remaining. Planning to “watch”, Err listen again to the We’ve lost Dale Earnhardt 25 Years later program slated for 4PM Pacific.

 

But due to the race having a record 12 cautions, as typical, it went long! And thus I got to hear the FOX TV Booth Boyz’ prattle on about what Blaney needed to do to win the race, who was the favourite after winning last November at Phoenix.

 

Thus I heard Mike Joy say that Blaney had passed 49 cars enroute to victory! His 18th win, capping a “Clean Sweep” weekend for El Capitano’ at Phoenix during His 60th Anniversary celebration.

 

As Friday, High Noon saw Team Penske debutante David Malukas capture His maiden IndyCar pole. Before Josef Schlick’ Newgarden won the IndyCar race Saturday afternoon, with “Big Dave” (Malukas) finishing third.

 

Joey “Sliced Bread” Lagano claimed the NASCAR pole Saturday, before Blaney dramatically swooped past then leader Ty Gibbs with some nine laps remaining for His and Team Penske’s first win of the season…

 

Knowing that Penske Racing didn’t make its Indianapolis 500 debut until May of 1969, I was slightly Cornfuzed over this being El Capitano’s, nee Roger Penske’s 60th year of racing. Although knowing He had “dabbled” in Trans Am with the late Mark Donohue in those nasty Sunoco Chevrolet Camaro Z/28’s,albeit those weren’t until 1967.

 

Thus I’d either forgotten, or more likely unaware that Penske Racing made its “official” debut as a racing team at the inaugural 24 Hours of Daytona on February 5, 1966.

 

Penske entered Chevrolet’s first L88 big block 427cid V-8 Corvette racecar with drivers Dick Guldstand, Ben Moore and George Wintersteen finishing 11th overall and first in the GT Class. Then followed up by finishing an impressive ninth overall and first in the GT Class at the notorious 12 Hours of Sebring!

 

1966 No. 9 Roger Penske Development L88 Corvette restoration

 

As of the “Desert Double” at Phoenix Raceway, Team Penske has amassed a staggering tally of 660 wins! With multiple drivers titles and an unprecedented 20 Indianapolis 500 victories.

 

Mark Donhue scored Penske Racing’s first USAC Championship Car win at Pocono Raceway in 1971. With Newgarden’s w’ being the team’s 247th victory, Aye Darumba!

 

According to my porous Open wheel Racing records. I’ve got Team Penske and Chip Ganassi Racing tied with 17 National Championships apiece, i.e.; USAC, CART, IRL, CCWS and IndyCar. But that’s just my unofficial reckoning…

 

On the NASCAR front, I always associate Rusty Wallace in the Miller Beer No. 2 Stock Car with Team Penske…

 

Thus it was funny learning that Penske Racing actually made its NASCAR debut at Riverside in 1972. With Mark Donohue driving a patriotic red, white and blue AMC Matador, “affectionately” known as the Flying Brick due to its over-square shape.

 

The team dabbled off ‘n on before running its first full season effort with Bobby Allison in 1976, finishing third overall.

 

Rusty Wallace made two starts for Penske in 1980, before the team went on hiatus for eleven years.

 

Penske returned fulltime to NASCAR in 1991. When Wallace brought His Miller Beer sponsorship to Penske from the suspended Raymond Beadle Blue Max operation. With Penske fielding Pontiac’s for Wallace…

 

Ryan Newman scored Team Penske’s first Daytona 500 victory in 2008. With Brad Keselowski scoring the team’s first Cup championship in 2012, its final season with Dodge. Having run the “blue Oval” (Ford) since 2013.

 

Joey Lagano has scored all three of His Cup titles driving for El Capitano aboard those iconic yellow Pennzoil/Shell No. 22 racecars. While the team has  won the Daytona 500, the sports crown jewel three times. As Lagano won in 2015, and Austin Cindric, son of then Team Penske president Tim Cindric was a shock winner in 2022.

 

Mike Joy was quick to point out it was Team Penske’s 157th win when Blaney crossed the stripe Sunday afternoon at Phoenix.

 

Yet Rick Hendrick and His eponymous Hendrick Motorsports have triple Team Penske’s Cup titles with 15. Along with double the Cup victories at 320. As I know sometime last year? Hendrick surpassed “The King”, nee Richard Petty and Petty Enterprises for most career wins in NASCAR.

 

While I would have loved being the proverbial “Fly on the Wall” during the Penske celebration held at His Scottsdale facility. Arse-sumedly His Penske Racing Museum where all six current Team Penske drivers gathered for this momentous occasion…

 

Inside the Hidden Gem of Team Penske Racing History

 

Adding icing to the cake. Porsche Penske Motorsport hqas swept the “36 Hours of Florida” this year. Beginning with a Three-peat for the team’s No. 7 Porsche 963 and Felipe Nasr at the Rolex 24.

 

And then the No. 7 won again at the 12 Hours of Sebring, where Roger Penske was serving as the Grand Marshall. Capping the team’s 661st victory… 

RETRO: Dale Earnhardt, 25 years later

As Y’all know the drill. Where has the Freakin’ time gone?

 

Little did I know that my day would be bookended by thee Intimidator’, aka ‘Ol Ironhead, ergo Dale Earnhardt Sr.

 

Began the day, Thursday Feb 12th by listening to a great story about the young girl who gave Dale Earnhardt a lucky penny in 1998. Listening via my Newsline for The Blind’s telephone service’s ESPN Online Motorsports Headlines section.

 

Earnhardt’s Lucky Penny

 

Then I finished the day off by Watcin’, Err listening to the Dale Earnhardt 25 Years later one hour TV Show on FOX. As don’t tell anybody, I “watched” one and a quarter of the two NASCAR Cup Duels preceding this program…

 

Yet like many stories here upon thoust mystical Isle ‘O Nofendersville. I hadn’t gotten round to scribblin’ my thoughts before another month’s time slipped by. Hoping to watch an encore presentation March 8th. But ironically, due to the Phoenix Cup race running long, it was pre-empted.

 

It was weird hearing former NASCAR boss Mike Helton speaking again. And His words were most prophetic when simply saying We’ve lost Dale Earnhardt.

 

As I enjoyed Helton’s perspective on Earnhardt, who was also a friend of His. But found it odd there was nothing from arch nemesis Jeffry Pretty boy Floyd’ Gordon.

 

And I enjoyed Curt Busch’s recollections of tangling with thee Intimidator’, and how it was only a matter of time until He got paid back!

 

Now twenty-five years later, obviously I remember very little from that fateful day. Other than I know I watched the race live and heard ‘Ol Boogity-Boogity-Boogity DW’ (Darrell Waltrip) crapping His pants over His brother Mikey, ah Shucks Waltrip getting ready to win the Day-Toner’ 500!

 

As Earnhardt Sr. was running third and blocking both Kenny Schroeder and Sterling Marlin in order for the two Dale Earnhardt Inc. (DEI) entries of Waltrip and His son ‘lil e’, aka Dale Earnhardt Jr. running 1-2 to finish ahead of Him.

 

After light contact with Marlin, Schroeder and Earnhardt collided on the final lap, with Earnhardt hitting the wall Head-on!

 

And I’m fairly certain we as an audience, or at least myself didn’t know that Earnhardt had perished in that last-lap pile-up…

 

As all I remember now, is that snowbyrd’ MJ mailed me a copy of Times Magazine with thee Intimidator on its cover. Along with His death being the lead story.

 

As I had a co-worker at the time who wore shorts all year round, no matter the temperature in Seattle who was a ginormous Dearnhardt fan, i.e.; T-Shirts, Diecasts, etc. So I ended up giving the magazine to Him. Although I don’t remember if He even said anything to me afterwards? Since He still seemed in shock over His Hero’s death…

 

Thus I was eager to “See” how FOX would portray Earnhardt’s death, and discuss any of the real facts of what happened? With Bill Simpson and His Simpson Performance Products company being made the scapegoat for Earnhardt’s death…

 

Now I understand the need to burnish ‘Ol Ironhead’s legend, despite His on-track antics. He did do many good things behind the scenes, and away from the camera’s eye.

 

Perhaps there’s still some legal ramifications over what transpired? Or FOX simply didn’t wish to paint a true picture of how Earnhardt Himself was responsible for His death, or how NASCAR was wrong. And thus I had a hard time swallowing the narrative of how thee Intimidator brought about new safety standards that haven’t seen another drivers death since…

 

After the Daytona Beach Police Department and NASCAR opened two investigations into Earnhardt’s death. Allegations over the crash regarding seat belt failure forced Bill Simpson to resign from His company. Having received many death threats.

 

Now I’m going off of memory here, so bear with me. As I tend to recall that Earnhardt enjoyed driving with loose lap belts and refused to wear a HANS device. The Head And Neck restraint System that has long since become mandatory in racing around the world, because it was uncomfortable to Dale. Who preferred open faced helmets instead.

 

Reportedly NASCAR claimed that Earnhardt’s left lap belt failed, allowing His head to strike the steering wheel upon impact with the wall. Yet I also tend to recall there was speculation over paramedics using a boey knife to cut Earnhardt from His seat following the accident.

 

Dr. Barry Myers, a Crash Incident expert from Duke University was appointed to independently study Earnhardt’s death, and concluded the broken lap belt held no cause regarding His death, rejecting NASCAR’s assertion. Which Bill Simpson said was the best news He’d heard in several weeks.

 

Subsequently, three doctors, including Dr. Steve Olvey, CART Medical Director during Greg Moore’s death, all concurred that they agreed with Dr. Myres assessment.

 

Simpson subsequently sued NASCAR $8.5m for Defamation, since Dr. Myers accident investigation rendered the seat belt failure moot. Although Simpson held steadfast to the lap belts being installed incorrectly, which NASCAR said nothing about.

 

The lawsuit was settled out of court for an unspecified amount, while the HANS device became mandatory in NASCAR in October that year. (2001) Along with a total of 37 safety recommendations being made.

 

So the program ended by making Earnhardt a Hero for propelling the sport forward. And skillfully side-stepped telling the real story behind the late Intimidator’s death… 

2026 Daytona 500 rewind

As the race Ain’t over until the checkered flag flies…

 

Suppose I should be thanking Liberty Media for moving Formula 1 television coverage to Apple TV this year. As I got quite perturbed over my latest Spectrum bill informing me of a $23 price increase for February, Mutha Fokkers!

 

Vowing to myself upon returning from Arizona, I’d be cancelling my Cable TV! Since after all Spectrum’s motto is: Spectrum, We Care!

 

About our profits. Although the thought of cancelling my long overpriced Cable TV service has felt quite liberating! While I’m really not sure if I want to subscribe to the Apple TV Paywall just for Formula 1?

 

Thus it seems pretty funny that initially, the final racing program I’ll “watch”, Err listen to on Ye boob-tube would be the G-R-R-reat! American Race, ergo the Day-Toner’ 500, since I almost never turn Thy Telie’ on these days. Then again, if I can stomach them? Perhaps one of the first three IndyCar races, but I digress…

 

Although I did tune-in for the entirety of the  St Pete RASSCAR PickEmUp’ Trucks race…

 

Alas, I decided to tune into qualifying Wednesday night for thee Day-Toner’ 500 and was bemused that some College Basketball game knocked Qualie’ from (Sox Sports) FS-1 over to FS-2.

 

Whilst musing to Thyself, Arse-sumedly the older one gets, the more anxious they become? Saying just start the G-Damn Qualifying will Yuhs? As Thar’ were some 15+ minutes of pre-amble, including commercials before the first car took to the track.

 

Whomever was doing the pre-race prattle handed off to Mike Joy, Kevin Harvick and Clint Fisti-cuffs’ Boyer. When it suddenly donned upon Mwah, that I’ve been listening to the soothing sounds of Mike Joy forever. Wonderin’ how old He was?

 

Which took a little “sleuthing” to learn He’s 76 years old, born on Nov 25, 1949. Being born just some nine months after  NASCAR was formed on Feb 21, 1948, Youza!

 

As I think of Joy broadcasting with the Voice of NASCAR’s Ken Squire and Chris Economaki. Along with ‘Ol Hobbo, aka HobbsCap’, ergo David Hobbs as Pit reporter, Youza!

 

As it was funny how many drivers names I’d never heard of, being most impressed by rookie Corey Hein. Who’s the reigning NASCAR Craftsman PickemUp’ Trucks champion. Having won a record 12 races, smashing Greg Biffle’s record of nine wins in 1999.

 

Like I said, since I’m ditching my cable, I went “All In” on Roundy-round this weekend. Thinking the first Day-Toner’ Duels Thursday night also began at 5PM Pacific. So naturally, I was surprised with only eight laps remaining in Duel #1. As it was Hilarious that Casey Mears snuck His way into the race when a last lap Turn-3 crash eliminated Cory Lajoie from Sunday’s Daytona 500.

 

As Mears entry had some dubious history behind its team owner Carl Long. As Long once a driver, was caught with an oversized engine in the 2009 All Star race, with NASCAR throwing the book at Him! Bein fined $200,000, the largest fine to that date! Docked 200 Driver and Team points and suspended for 12 races.

 

NASCAR’s sanctions effectively shut the team down, when Long was unable to pay the fine. Before returning to the NASCAR garage in 2017…

 

Then I, like most people Thursday night, turned off Thy Telie’ after duel #2 thinking the unheard of Anthony Alfredo had raced His way into the Big Dance. Only to learn later that week His No. 62 Beard Motorsports entry had been DSQ’ed (Disqualified) due to post-race technical issues regarding unconnected cooling hoses. With B.J. Mcleod getting the final transfer spot instead.

 

Then according to the Daytona News Journal, Alfredo’s torrid “Speed Weeks” continued when failing to qualify for the newly renamed O’Reily’s Auto Parts series Cup “lite” race Saturday. Before His team bought Him a ride. Then getting involved in a three car “Pile-up” (Spin) at races start before ultimately finishing 11th.

 

The race was pushed forward one hour due to the possibility of impending rain and thunderstorm predicted Sunday evening. Although with the green flag not scheduled until 11:13AM Pacific, I skipped the first 40-plus minutes of Daytona 500 preamble.

 

Thought it was a nice touch of both Kaulig Racing’s No. 16 A.J. Allmendinger and RFK (Roush Fenway Keselowski) Racing to run their cars with the corresponding numeral font that the late Greg Biffle had run on His No. 16 for Roush Racing.

 

Along with a Biffle No. 16 Ford Fusion Roush Racing car on display with other assorted NASCAR Cup racecars. With an ex-Martin Truex Joe Gibbs Toyota and Ron Bouchard’s racecars in the Fan zone…

 

While still cannot believe its 25 years ago that Dale Earnhardt died! Having also watched that race live, Zoinks!

 

Unfortunately, Mcleod had some sort of mechanical trouble with His right rear tyre on lap-4; collecting Justin Allgaier, William Byron and Casey Mears in the wreck.

 

Although not a fan of Josef Schlick’ Newgarden’s, it was G-R-R-REAT! Having FOX run an IndyCar promo during the race’s first commercial break during the first caution. As this would have never happened before FOX bought 33% of IndyCar, and all I could say was Sweet!

 

Swear Kevin Harvick prattled on about Corey Hein not lining up correctly behind His Boss Denny Hamlin’s racecar, during an attempt to push the Toy-Yoter’s to the lead. As both drivers, plus 18 others would be involved in the ritual “big One!” As Clint Bowyer said leader Justin Allgaier threw a lazy block upon a hard chargin’ Hamlin. With the wreck occurring on lap 123.

 

But I thought it was even funnier how Mike Joy was singing the praises of Connor Zilisch. As the most exciting rookie since Jeff Gordon, before Joy shouted wreck on lap-85! Involving you guessed it, Messer Zilisch, Chuh-Ching!

 

As believe it was Zilisch who triggered a nine car crash, which involved two-times defending Daytona 500 winner William Byron in His second crash of the day, and ending His chances of Three-peating’…

 

Whilst won’t even try describing the race’s final lap. Other than we know as typical, all Hell broke loose! With Tyler Reddick “stealing” His first Daytona 500 win with 500 yards remaining!

 

As how ironic, but refreshing and enjoyable for Michael Jordan to be in victory lane hoisting the coveted Harvey J. Earle winners trophy!

 

While it took me forever to figure out whom this Riley Herbst Cat was? As they kept talkin’ about 23XI Racing having four entries in the field. Before finally learning that Herbst drives the team’s No. 35 entry. And probably is the only Cup driver with two Baja 1000 Trophy Truck Spec Class wins (2023-24) on His resume…

 

As congratulations to Reddick for maneuvering into the right position to win the Day-Toner’ 500, and with “Help from His Friends”. 

Intrepid 91 year old Traveler returns to Eugene

But can you truly, really ever go Home?

 

What’s that ‘Ol Forest Gump saying ‘bout “Life’s A Bowl of Chocolates?”

 

As I “read” the following Register Guard, my nearest local newspaper I can listen to via my Newsline for The Blind’s telephone service, late Thursday evening. As the tears just rolled down my eyes!

 

The story’s about Peggy Starr, who at 91 years “young”, decided She’d had enough of Wisconsin’s miserably cold, snowy winters! And decided to move back “Home”, having lived in Eugene, Oregon some twenty years ago.

 

Ironically, on the very same day I went and “saw” the movie Crime 101. Which is an excellent movie, albeit probably out on Amazon Prime now?

 

There’s a scene in the movie driving thru some of Los Angeles Homeless areas, and how once of the characters used to be one of them…

 

While Peggy noted that the materialism and what we’ve become as a country thoroughly disappointed Her as She rolled across the Nation. Not to mention the landscape had totally changed…

 

But the part that choked me up, was here’s the 91 year old woman with three suitcases and Her walker getting off the train in Eugene with essentially no plan on where to go?

 

And the amazing humanity of complete strangers seeing Her, and offering to help unconditionally. Getting Peggy situated in a Motel 6 at a reduced Senior rate before this amazing family took Peggy in. Until She can hopefully get into Senior Housing.

 

If you’re not aware, there’s a total lack of Affordable Housing today! Not to mention Senior and Disable Housing, with most programs taking a minimum of one year to get in. And in many cases 2-3 years.

 

Knowing one woman who waited multiple years before finally being accepted. A second who waited multiple years before giving up, and a third who’s still waiting…

 

Not to mention how one has to be truly poor, not just barely making “Ends Meat” or living just above the artificially low poverty line.

 

And in Peggy’s case, Seniors need to not be too “Sharp” or with-it. In order to be fast-tracked into Assisted Living or Senior Housing, applicants need to be suffering from Alzheimer’s, Dementia, etc.

 

It’s a wonderful article about true life, which I recommend reading. And the article also includes the Go fund Me page set-up for Peggy, who’ve truly one of the lucky ones!

 

As I love Peggy’s gumption. Saying She hasn’t owned a television for 45 years, but that doesn’t mean She won’t watch it. Requesting to watch Gone With the Wind, before realizing it’s a four hours long movie. Saying Lordee!

 

Peggy Starr, 91, finds caring strangers in Eugene

 

I had one Helluva time finding a hyperlink to the story that would work “correctly”. Hence the USA Today article link instead. Since I couldn’t get The Register Guard to cooperate… 

The Tomaso Files: More Blind Travel Escapades

Two Space Age Whiz Kid Coyboys’. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

Ran into Sasquatch’s cousin, Not Me! Resplendent in Seahawks colours, before making the Patriots Black ‘n Blue! Now if only the Space Age Fuel Depot had been off of Exit 51 instead of 52, Oh Never Mind!

 

“Just a song before I go
To whom it may concern
Traveling twice the speed of sound It's easy to get burned”

 

I’m always amazed at the Universe’s synchronicity. Since the day I was packing for my trek to thee Valley of the Sun. Turning on the local Old fogey’s radio station, Crosby, Stills and Nash’s Just A Song Before I go started playing on my ancient transistor radio…

 

VIDEO: Just A song before I go

 

Whilst its funny how I was madly type-type-typing away on various, riveting No fenders Blog stories like this 12 Hours before departing.

 

Yeah, I chose the number 12 on purpose. And not because of the Seahawks 12‘s, but for DJ WillyP’. Say What! He doesn’t drive the No. 12 anymore?

 

Have I mentioned that I spent half of February traveling to Warshington’ and Arizona lately, Yall? Meaning that my No Fenders posts will be a Wee Bitamyte’ sporadic and somewhat dated. Since as typical, I’ll be busy playin’ Ketsup on Ye Blob’, just Sayin’. And having caught my first cold in several years isn’t helping matter either. Since isn’t that what vacations are for?

 

Thy trip started off swimmingly, since Southwest Airlines didn’t send the “Memo” (email) until 15mins after my Taxi driver had called to say He’d left Eugene. Informing me that my flight had been delayed by two hours, Crap!

 

And then my Cabbie’ called again warning me He’d most likely be somewhat late since it was snowing really good at the “Pass”, albeit the Ralph A. Petersen tunnel’s elevation is a whopping 990 feet MSL. (Mean Sea Level) With Cougar Pass being situated at some 715 feet. Which for Mwah, a former Warshingtonion Skier isn’t exactly what I call Mountainous! But I digress…

 

Naturally, we’d be having our very first day of snow the morning I was trying to travel to the warmer climes of Arizona, Ya Sure Yuh Betcha!

 

And although the snow had stopped, the sky brightened and the road was virtually dry. With the exception of the overhead trees dripping, making the windshield wipers scratch in protest. After we’d passed a Fed Ex “Box” truck in a ditch, and I mused out loud those packages will be late! Traffic came to a complete halt on Highway 126 and we sat still for 15mins. Before traffic moved again and we passed a further two deliver Box-trucks off the road, with another in a ditch…

 

Standing in the check-in line and waiting for assistance. Melissa, a TSA employee said She’d take me to my gate since She wasn’t busy at the moment. Telling me things were a bit slow that morning.

 

Huh? I’ve never had my own, personal TSA escort agent before. Informing Her of my mechanical Heart valve, we suddenly went down a long hallway into a private “screening” room where She said Her co-worker George would pat me down.

 

Melissa mentioned George was one of Her good friends, and as He was explaining how His hand would go over my buttocks and groin area I couldn’t resist. And said George and I are going to be “Good” Friends too, Hya!

 

Although this TSA Airport screening “Pat-down” wasn’t any worse than last year’s in Arizona…

 

The Perks of being A Blind Traveler

 

Seated at my gate, a further announcement was silently made, as a friendly woman in a wheelchair said they’d just texted Her saying our flight wouldn’t depart now until 3:37PM; a further hour and twenty minutes plus, and three an one quarter hours later than originally slated, Urgh!

 

Reportedly the weather in Denver, with winds Ah-Blowin’ Almighty was causing all of the delays. But what became mondo annoying was the departure time kept playing Whack-ah-Mole! Since after a kind Airport employee had escorted me to the bathroom and we returned to the gate at 2:06PM. The gate agent said we’re boarding now!

 

And then we sat on the tarmac forever before finally departing for Denver.

 

Funniest bit for Mwah was riding in a golf cart to my connecting flight’s gate. As it still blows my mind there’s no direct flights from Eugene to Phoenix, Ack!

 

As we slowly made our way through the concourse, Tom Petty’s I’m Free, Free Falling wailed upon the concourse’s speakers. Which I mused to myself they shouldn’t be playing that song in an airport!

 

Hey, I like Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, and like the song also. But Free, Free Falling isn’t something I want to be hearing at an airport or doing on an Aeroplaine, Hya!

 

As the arrival time for Phoenix apparently constantly rubber-banded before four hours later after our scheduled arrival, we finally arrived! And so much for arriving at dinner time. Which it really doesn’t help just having the airline employees apologize for our being late profusely…

 

Returning home was a relative “Breeze”. As there were no flight delays and TSA was “entertaining”, after they told me to look at the camera. Hmm, I’m Blind Sister!

 

Then another friendly TSA worker said He’s walk me thru the Ronald Dumbsfeld Bodies R Us (Body) Scanner. Asking me if I knew how to do the YMCA pose?

 

As He helped me walk sideways up the ramp, spread my feet and then positioned my arms being splayed backwards with my elbows out. Or something to that effect, which apparently was the aforementioned YMCA pose…

 

What, you mean no full body Pat-down, say what?

 

After collecting my suitcase, it was outside into “frigid” 43 degrees damp weather across the street to the designated Taxicab pickup area. Where two “enterprising”, Cabbies’ worked me over good trying to steal another’s fair. With both men telling me countless horror stories of how my cab company never shows up, Yada-Yada-Yada…

 

As my cab was 20mins late, but I stuck with the company I’d already made a reservation with. Which ironically turned out being the exact same driver who’d driven me to Eugene a week earlier.

 

And although I didn’t “get to climb in the back with the Girl with Kaleidoscope Eyes”. The road was completely empty and we made excellent time home, with another day’s Madcap journey over!

 

Partial song lyrics from: Crosby, Stills and Nash Just A song before I Go; 1977 CSN Album. 

Earnhardt’s Lucky Penny

When pennies were still minted…

 

Today being some Holiday, where many kiss thee Blarney stone, what better way to celebrate, Eh?

 

This is about a lengthy, but great story I listened to via my NFB Newsline for The Blind telephone’s service’s ESPN Online Motorsports Headlines news section. With the “byline” saying written by Sam Borden, senior ESPN writer.

 

The story revolves around Wessa Miller, who suffers from Spinal Bifida, and fantastically has beaten the odds. By now being 34 years old, and still living!

 

You can already guess who Wessa’s favourite driver was. And at age six, She and a handful of other Make-A-Wish recipient’s were in a room waiting to meet the Intimidator, aka ‘Ol Ironhead, ergo Dale Earnhardt Sr. at Daytona International Speedway.

 

The year was 1998 and the “Man in Black” was having another awful year at Daytona. The one race He truly desired to win, frantically dealing with engine woes the day before the race!

 

Since in 20 years of trying, many nightmares had occurred. Including cutting a tyre on the last lap in 1990 and hitting a Seagull the following year!

 

As Earnhardt bent down to greet Wessa, the last child in the room. She handed Him a penny She was clutching in Her hand, with Dale saying what’s this? With the six year old girl saying it’s a lucky penny for you…

 

As I just love the image of Dale racing back to the shop, demanding some glue. Smearing glue all over Himself as the penny wouldn’t stick. Before ultimately being glued to the dashboard of His Richard Childress Racing No. 3 GM goodwrench/Bass Pro shops Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS.

 

Yep, some of you will already know that’s the year Earnhardt finally won his coveted Daytona 500…

 

As I highly recommend reading the article, as it’s a wonderful story! And I enjoyed reading about the Intimidator’s charity towards the Miller’s, behind the scenes. Along with everyone else’s generosity over the years…

 

How a Girl’s lucky penny fueled Earnhardt’s Daytona 500 win 

FIA changes Power Unit Compression check

But will Mercedes have an “Unfair Advantage” until then?

 

Lost in all of the excitement over Formula 1 kicking off its 2026 season Down Under in Bloody Melbourne Mates! For those who have access to Apple TV!

 

Prior to this year’s Australian Grand Prix, the FIA announced its Power Unit regulations would be updated June 1st over the much ballyhooed and controversial “Compression-Gate” saga dogging Formula 1.

 

Prior to the season kickoff via an E Vote, unanimous consent was accepted over a new policy “Policing” the perceived loophole Mercedes Benz, and possibly Red Bull Power Train have extracted regarding the lowered 16:1 compression ratio for 2026. A decrease from the previous 18:1 allowance.

 

Currently, Power Units were only mandated to meet this requirement at ambient temperature, with the theory being that Mercedes had engineered a way to increase compression at higher operating temperature. And thus, perceivably gaining extra horsepower by returning to the higher 18:1 ratio.

 

Starting June 1st, Power Units will be tested at both ambient and a higher operating  temperature, and next year a higher operating temperature will be chosen for inspection purposes. Which hopefully, all of the Power Unit manufacturers will find suitable, and theoretically establish a “level” playing field…

 

Meanwhile, it was somewhat interesting hearing both McLaren and Williams team principals Andrea Stella and James Vowles noting how Mercedes definitely seemed to have not passed on as much working knowledge of the new Power Unit to its customers. And they were struggling to unlock the new PU’s potential.

 

As believe Vowles said it was costing them 0.3 seconds per lap and qualifying was startling to see how far off the pace they were! While I’m certain Alpine was also in the same situation. 

Another NASCAR Lawsuit

As a rival team accuses Spire Motorsports of putting the Spy into NASCAR!

 

Oh yeah, in my riveting, elongated St Pete weekend recap. As typical, I ran outta room to scribble about the current lawsuit in NASCAR.

 

As Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) has added Spire Motorsports to its lawsuit against former JGR employee Chris Gabehart.

 

JGR alleges that Gabehart, its former Competition Director has illegally taken proprietary information with Him to His new employer Spire Motorsports, where He’s been named their Chief Motorsports Officer. Presumably tabbed with improving Spire’s ontrack performance.

 

Over the St Pete weekend, Gabehart made His first official appearance as an Spire employee, albeit supposedly just chillin’ in their suite.

 

As the Judge presiding in the case, ruled in JGR’s restraint lawsuit that Gabehart could work for Spire, as long as He didn’t perform any of His previous JGR duties. And that Gabehart needed to return any and all “illegal” matrrials in His possession to JGR. With the Judge imploring both parties to come to a settlement before March 15th.

 

Joe Gibbs Racing adds Spire Motorsports to Chris Gabehart lawsuit 

Trucks Steal Show, but not All’s Sunny in St Pete

With the exodus of an IndyCar Announcer, and another lawsuit in NASCAR…

 

For Mwah, the best news of the weekend was Friday morning’s carefully timed PR announcement that the Civil War between McLaren, Alex Palou and Chip Ganassi Racing was finally over! Making me instantly think a Come to Jesus, Err Roger meeting had occurred somewhere along the line? As its fantastic that this lawsuit is over, and we can simply get back to racing.

 

And its funny how life goes, since you’d have thought I’d been ecstatic over it finally being the kickoff weekend for Indy Cars, Chirp-Chirp, Bueller?

 

Yet I thought it was odd that Friday’s first practice session wasn’t airing on Fox Sports One (FS1) until 3:30PM Pacific. And if I’d thought about it, would realize that would have been 6:30PM eastern, before No fenders Offical’ Photographer Carpets’ email made me realize I’d missed the live airing…

 

Yet sitting on the couch listening to the comatose, sleep inducing voice of Wee willie Buxom’, (Will Buxton) as where are Yuhs Scott Somonex Goodyear, Eh?

 

Yep, you guessed it. Your haggard No Fenders scribe Tomaso was soon doing the falling asleep Head-bob during much of the riveting first practice replay! Although I did learn later that both Josef Schlick’ Newgarden and Scotty thee Iceman 2.0 Dixon had suffered crashes, say what?

 

Whilst I woke up Justin-time’ to hear thee Mayor ‘O Hinchtown talking about racing with Dario REO Speedwagon in the Craftsman PickEmUp’ Trucks race Saturday morning, saying I’ll tune into that…

 

Thus Saturday was a purdy G-Damn good day, as I did manage to stay awake for both the entire RASSCAR PickEmUp’ Trucks race and IndyCar Qualie’ session.

 

I always enjoy hearing Jamie Little, whose become the Trucks lead Play-by-Play announcer. While I’m definitely not a fan of Mikey “I’m Not a cheater!” Waltrip. With IndyCar’s (Townsend) T-Bell rounding out the cross pollination weekend’s activities.

 

Nice interview with Kevin Lee the father, saying He didn’t know what to do with empty hands just spectating. Arse-sumedly referring to having a microphone in His “Mitts”.

 

Thus I was surprised that Kevin’s son Jackson Lee was making His Trucks debut at St Pete, who I think usually races Lamborghini Super Trofeo instead?

 

With Kevin saying that Dario was Jackson’s Idol, who last I’d heard was racing Karts. With Jackson purposely dropping to the rear of the 36 “Car” field before having worked His way up to P25. Before finishing 29th, five laps behind. Driving the No. 22 Team Reaune Ford.

 

Dario and thee Mayor, who the booth tried changing to Jimmy Hinch’ got together early during the race. (Lap 8) Since Y’all know Racins’ Rubbin, Yeehaw! With Franchitti using Hinch’s truck to arrest His spin, with Hinch getting the worst of it! But Hinchcliffe had the last laugh after dropping to 22nd. Finishing in tenth place. While Franchitti, who’d been in the Top 10, made an extra pitstop before coming home P27.

 

As I know T-Bell spoke to Dario repeatedly about the bag of ice for His shoulder, His nifty left foot shifting, and a squeegee thrown into the cockpit. Whilst Dario also mentioned that the “Air Con” wasn’t working! (Air Conditioning)

 

Whilst another High profile name from the Tricon Garage’s stable of Toyota Tundra’s was Adam Andretti. Although the SCCA Trans am racer went fairly unnoticed in P17. With the highest finishing Tricon entry being the No. 11 of Kaden Honeycutt finishing fifth.

 

Winner Layne riggs drove an uber impressive race. Starting 28th, saying not bad for a Short Track Boy! Along with noting His Ford had started sputtering with eight laps to go, making Him worry about His petrol supply! Along with noting how eventual third place finisher Ben Rhodes, who ran second awhile, could have given Him the Chrome Horn treatment…

 

While Shout Out to Colin Brown, the highest finishing RAM, driving for Kaulig Racing. And finishing a respectful ninth in the brand’s NASCAR Trucks debut season.

 

As I’d thought Brown, the prodigious IMSA road racing champion had finished eighth. But learned He lost one place with two laps remaining.

 

Colin Brown returns to Trucks 15 years later with Top 10 finish

 

Awaiting IndyCar Qualie’, I tuned into IndyCar Radio for the last half of Indy NXT qualifying, and was disappointed hearing Michael Schreech’ Young in the lead Play-by-Play chair. As where’s my boy Nicky Salt’ Yeoman?

 

Knew it was gonna happen eventually. And while I’m happy for Him, I’m not happy losing Nick to the Performance Racing Network, (PRN) where Yeoman made His NASCAR Cup debut at Atlanta…

 

Lafayette’s Nick Yeoman makes NASCAR Anchor debut after years with IndyCar

 

Most impressive duo of IndyCar’s Fast six shootout was both Coyne entries, with rookie Dennis Hauger finishing third! Whilst ScottyMac’, ergo Scott McLaughlin drew first blood with His 12th pole. And seemed a good bet to win Sunday, eh?

 

No Fenders Offical’ Photographer Carpets latest nickname goes to Marcus Ericsson, who He’s named “Harvey”, as in Harvey Wallbanger, claimed second and was only Andretti entry in Fast Six.

 

And don’t look over here, but Alex Palou was fourth, David Malukas 5th and Romain Grosjean sixth.

 

And speaking ‘O Andretti, it was SuperMario’s 86th birthday Saturday…

 

Sure would like to know where Todd Ault gets All of His money from? As the Dude’s everywhere! With His Only bulls company sponsor of PickEmUp’ Trucks race and IndyCar Radio. Not to mention both Coyne and Meyer Shank Racing Cars. As somebody’s getting Duped…

 

Sunday morning, got up early to tune into Indy NXT race via Zed Intrawoods’ – even if Nicky Salt’ Yeoman’s no longer anchoring broadcast, Boo!

 

As it just took one wrong move on the opening lap for second place Nikita Johnson to pounce upon Max Taylor, with the Hometown Boy leading the rest of the way. Regardless of the countless cautions and restarts…

 

While I didn’t think DJ WillyP’, aka Will Power would be celebrating His 45th birthday with a W’ prior to the race. Before learning He’d crashed during one of the practice sessions, and then again during the race, Youch!

 

As Alex Palou put another Beatdown upon the entire field, winning by 12,49:48 – the largest ever winning margin at St Pete! Although He’d been up to 15 seconds at one point!

 

As the race was for second place, with Scott McLaughlin prevailing over Christian Lundgaard. With Kyle Kirkwood dropping from second to fourth, and Pato O’ward a very quiet fifth place finish.

 

As the Coyne duo continued impressing, with Grosjean eighth, and Hauger tent on His IndyCar debut.

 

David Malukas flat spotted a front tyre, shredding its carcass – for a 13th place finish. With Rinus VeeKay having another solid finish in ninth, starting P19. Whilst the MSR Boyz’ seemed off the boil, albeit Marcus Armstrong got rubbed wrong by Harvey! As that’s all that stands out for Mwah. And will Phoenix upset the proverbial Apple cart? 

Formula 1 Invades Phoenix

Not even could ‘Ol Sherriff Joe Arpaio get IndyCar’s to run on Phoenix’s streets nearly two decades ago!

 

Naturally, I was slightly taken aback to discern that 14 years had slipped by since my latest visit to what forever will be Phoenix International Raceway (PIR) to Mwah! Even if its just plain ‘Ol Phoenix Raceway now.

 

Hence why it took some effort to find the accompanying No Fenders post, when partaking in a 2X Seater ride in thee Valley of the Sun Wayback’ in Gory 2012, Aye Karumba!

 

The Tomaso Files: Spinin’ Wheelz, 4-lefts really Does Make a Circle!

 

Still remembering vaguely how I purchased a plane ticket to go to Phoenix for the impending Chump Carz’ race in Gory 2007. When Champ Car world Series was slated to race upon the Streets of Downtown Phoenix on December 2nd. In what would have been the first Open Wheel Racing in Phoenix since 1991, before cancelling this event. Although I went to Phoenix anyways, since it was nice to escape Seattle’s winter weather…

 

While it Slays me that its now Gory 37 years ago since I attended my debutante Formula 1 race in Downtown Phoenix. Attending the aptly named Iceberg Grand Prix on June 4th, 1989, when it was a toasty 104 degrees Fahrenheit, Sheisa!

 

Phoenix’s Iceberg

 

Whilst I still lament skipping the next year’s event. Thinking then, there were another four years to go on the race’s contract. Without knowing that 1991 would be the third and final year for F1, and the last time racing on Phoenix’s streets…

 

RETRO: Phoenix’s last Grand Prix - Two-decades ago almost slipped past

 

Thus, is it just Mwah? Who finds it curious that the Red bull Demonstration Showrun travelling Circus makes its way to the streets of Downtown Phoenix 25 years later! And one week after IndyCar returns to the Valley of the Sun for the first time since 2018?

 

Not to mention just a week after the IndyCar-NASCAR Double Header weekend at Phoenix Raceway. Like is Formula 1 trying to steal IndyCar’s thunder? Or rain on FOX’s cross promotional parade, You make the Call!

 

As the Red bull Showrun will feature Nikola Tsolov and Scott Speed behind the wheel of Red Bull and AlphaTauri F1 machinery.

 

The Red Bull Showrun event Free to the public, runs from 1:00 to 4:00PM, this Saturday, March 14th on Jefferson Street. Running between Central Avenue and Fifth street. And will also include high performance Ford vehicles such as the Mustang GT3 and Lightning Supertruck, amongst the Offroad and racing cars participating…

 

Scott Speed should need no introduction, and perhaps even lives in Arizona? Having won Red Bull’s Drivers search program Wayback’ in Bloody 2002. Becoming the first American in Formula 1 since Michael Andretti in 1993. Driving for Scuderia Toro Rosso between 2006-07.

 

Naturally, Nikola Tsolov’s name is totally “Foreign” to Mwah, having never heard of Him before. As the 19yr old Bulgarian racing driver finished runner-up in Formula 3 last year. Along with making His formula 2 debut at season’s end.

 

Tsolov will contest His rookie season driving for Campos Racing and is a member of the Red Bull Junior Team. Making His debut aboard a Formula 1 chassis last June in a Sofia Showrun, driving a Red Bull RB7.

 

Tsolov like many, will be aspiring to join Arvid Lindblad in formula 1. Having found the following video chronicling Lindblad’s maiden F1 outing during the 2024 Houston Showrun.

 

Which presumably gives a pretty good example of what a Showrun entails…

 

F1 Cars do Doughnuts on Streets of Houston