As if it isn't hard enough to start a new NASCAR Nextel Cup team; try doing it with NASCAR working against you. Many have asked, "Didn't Jeremy Mayfield hook up with Bill Davis Racing for the upcoming season?" Well..yes he has, but after not making the Daytona 500 the #36 OTC team went to Calli hoping to start their season on the left coast. But NASCAR's lengthy inspection process kept the team in the inspection line while the top points teams were on the track, practicing for qualifying.
NASCAR lines the cars up for inspection according to their current rank in points. Not only are the top 35 in points assured of a starting spot in the race, they are the first ones on the track for practice. Once again; those that need it the most, get the least. NASCAR--if you absolutely find it necessary to begin a practice session before ALL cars are through inspection, reverse the order of inspection. Inspect the cars with the LOWEST point totals first. These are the teams that cannot afford to go without even a minutes worth of practice.
And, I'd bet that if you cut Mark Martin's or Kevin Harvick's practice time in half, there would be some angry car owners (ones with big time clout) in the Big Yellow trailer having a "sit down" with King Brian. Changes to the system would then be forthcoming--pronto.
Steve
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