Ask The Insiders Wednesday #59

Cars will be back on track at Daytona in just a few short days!  The Rolex 24 kicks off Speedweeks at Daytona this weekend.  But before it does, it’s Q & A time.  If you don’t know what this post is, we answer any and all reader questions every Wednesday, right here.  So if you’ve got one, click on the ”Ask the Insiders” tab at the top of the page and send one to us.  On to the questions…

1. From Ric:

Do people write notes on the tires? Not specs, but things like “Best Wishes”, or “Win this one for …”?

I’ve never seen anyone write anything like that on the tires before.  That’s not to say it hasn’t happened though. – T.C.

2. From Dennis:

My favorite driver Kyle Busch recently re-signed this week.  Any idea what kinda dollar figure ballpark that type of deal will be worth?

It’s really hard to say. This is obviously not something they release and depending upon the percentage he gets of winnings, the salary will fluctuate. It could be $5 million, it could be $10 million (ok, probably not $10 million). If I had to guess I’d say $3 or $4 million but I honestly don’t really know. – Journo

3. From John:

Hey guys, I love reading your column on a weekly basis. I am a sponsor rep for a company currently in NASCAR. What are the crew members’/teams’ opinions of sponsor reps and their respective companies? Are we viewed as a necessary evil or just another one of the guys on the traveling circus that is NASCAR.

I personally have never thought of any of our reps as a necessary evil.  Sponsors are what allow us to go play each weekend, so you can’t be too mad about that.  In fact, most of the reps I’ve been around are really great people.  I think most enjoy being at the track and they aren’t afraid to have a little fun afterward. – T.C.

4. From Mark H:

Is it true that Johnny Sauter has a cup ride this year?

Unless it’s something with a startup team that hasn’t been announced yet, I don’t believe so.  Look for him to return to the #13 truck as a teammate to Matt Crafton in the Truck Series for Thorsport Racing. – T.C.

5. From Mark:

Where do the owners stay on a race weekend, and do some owners have suites at the tracks?

Many of those that do stay for the weekend have motor coaches just like the drivers have.  Some owners though are in and out race day and don’t stay overnight.  And yes, some owners have suites.  I know for sure Felix Sabates, and the Pettys have one at Charlotte Motor Speedway, as does Teresa Earnhardt.  Others might as well. – T.C.

6. From Emanuel:

I can’t wait for Danica’s debut next month.  I really don’t care how good or bad she does.  I’m more interested in seeing her temper flare up as has happened on a few occasions in the IRL.  My question is do you think NASCAR will drop the hammer on her like they have done with others (Kenseth/Gordon comes to mind).  I really don’t care that Danica has only won one race in IRL.  The does she/ doesn’t she belong is a moot point, as she’s getting her shot.  What I want to see out of NASCAR drivers is some emotion, and Danica seems willing to show some when she feels like she’s been slighted.   I know she won’t take any crap, but how much of a leash will NASCAR actually give her?  Good luck in the new season guys!

I think given the “have at it boys” attitude we saw at the end of last season and that NASCAR said they’ll employ in the season to come, I doubt you’ll see them put much of a leash on her. In fact I think the brass at NASCAR would probably like to see some of her emotion too. They (thankfully) have realized the fans want to see drivers get mad at each other. Rivalries make for good races and that does wonders for the bottom line. – Journo

7. From Bobby#7fan:

A few years back Speed TV had a really cheezy realty show hosted by Ruttledge.  The winner was to receive an internship with the Speed Channel.  Do you know anything about this?  Is the winner still with Speed?  I have not heard or seen anything since and thankfully the show was only a one year deal.  I just started wondering about this today and thought I’d ask.

The show was the Speed Road Tour Challenge. John Lucrezi is the guy who won. If I’m not mistaken he works for JHE, which does mobile marketing for Sprint and Speed among others. So he’s still around the sport. – Journo

And that brings yet another “Ask The Insiders Wednesday” to a close.  Thanks to everyone who sent in questions.  And remember, if you’d like to be a part of next week, click on the ”Ask the Insiders” tab at the top of the page and send your question in!

Related posts:

• Ask The Insiders Wednesday #1
• Ask The Insiders Wednesday #58
• Ask The Insiders Wednesday #66
• Ask The Insiders Wednesday #77
• Ask The Insiders Wednesday #45

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