NSCS: Not the Last Air-Bender

MICHIGAN -The recent repaving of the speedway, situated not too far from Detroit, has seen the ‘groove’ of the track narrow to such an extent; making passing a renewed challenge. Jimmie Johnson used the air, to pass Brad Keselowski with 10 laps to go, pulling an ‘Aero Push-to-Pass’ move. However shortly thereafter, his engine breaks down, in a spate of valve-train failures among Hendrick supplied units. Tony Stewart was also a victim, losing a cylinder; his team able to re-field the car some 22 laps down, though later being forced to retire for not making the prescribed minimum speed. Four Hendrick Chevrolet engines in total ‘laid down’ over the race weekend.

Marcos Ambrose of Richard Petty Motorsports (RPM) put in a sterling performance, making a Top 5, in a bid to avoid a ‘one-trick pony’ road course type-cast reputation. Australian fans in particular, wondering if he will make the Chase.

Sam Hornish Jr. received much love from the ESPN desk for finishing within the Top 20 after pulling a double-duty drive, making the trip across the border from the NNS race to fulfil possibly temporary commitments for Roger Penske.

Joey Logano, struggling to find grip off the groove, slapped the wall multiple times, thus severely compromising his prospects of a good finish.

Michael Waltrip Racing (MWR) along with Mark Martin in the Aarons Toyota Camry nearly stole the show, almost running away with the race, leading an outstanding number of laps prior to a severe accident, ending abruptly into a wall on pit lane. The speedway is now in the process of reviewing the wall arrangements for future races.

Martin Truex Jr. of New Jersey, MWR’s other driver, in the long-time sponsored Napa Auto Parts car; didn’t quite match the performance of his veteran team mate, respectably rounded out the Top 10.

It was to be Greg Biffle and his Ford engined 3M ride to take the chequered. Jack Roush, the ‘cat in the hat’ himself, stating after the race; that the engines were fast and durable.

Biffle now leads the pre-Chase championship points table.

Next up is the IRWIN TOOLS Night Race August 25.