Dale Earnhardt Jr. bounces back at Atlanta
It was a very sunny day in Atlanta when the Bass Pro Shops 500 NASCAR race started and it proved to be challenging for the drivers when the sun was setting it made it difficult to see on track. But the drivers survived and when it was over Tony Stewart took the checkered flag for the second time in the Chase for the Nextel Cup.
Stewart climbed the fence at the start finish line to get the checkered flag from the official as he has in almost every win this season. Once he got the flag he got back in his car and did the customary victory lap with the flag sticking out the window. The climbing the of fence after a victory has become Stewart signature way of celebrating the victory.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. had a great race as many people expected he would, he lead more than 80 laps in the race, despite having to make a green flag stop for a severe vibration. The stop put him at least one lap down and he was able to make up the lap and eventually get to the front. He ended up battling Matt Kenseth at the finish line and he edged out Kenseth for third place and he moved up 2 spots into fourth in the points standing with three races to go.
Jeff Burton and Dale Earnhardt Jr. are actually tied 84 points behind the points leader (Matt Kenseth) and with 3 races to go it is still anyones championship to win. With victory, Tony Stewart pretty much has sewn up the 11th spot in the points standing and because of that he will receive the bonus money that will bring his end of the season check to $1 million dollars.
The next stop is Texas Motor Speedway and another good track for Dale Earnhardt Jr. and a chance to pick up some more points.
Looks like Jr still has a chance, DANG IT… It’s starting to look like it just may be Jimmie’s year.
Comment by DonB — October 30, 2006 @ 11:32 am
Now don’t start counting the Hendrick chickens before they hatch.
Junior did really well and unfortunately too late I am afraid.
Comment by Administrator — October 30, 2006 @ 7:05 pm