As I write this on Sunday morning, it is looking more and more like the race today at Michigan International Speedway will be rained out. What's more the forecast for the next week here in Irish Hills country is for more of the same. 100% chance of rain today followed by 80% for the next several.
NASCAR says that if they are unable to run at MIS this week, the race would possibly be moved to the final race in the Chase for the Nextel Cup. I hope these guys realize that weather conditions in Michigan in late November are may a bit dicey as well. But maybe they could get Gordon Lightfoot to sing the national anthem. After all, he knows something of the "gales of November".
Friday's qualifying was sunny and hot with a brisk breeze keeping things comfortable.
Kasey Kahne brought the first big cheer, putting up an obviously fast time. The #9 was fastest in first practice as well, so the 188 mph plus run looked to be strong.
Michael Waltrip came along and at just over 187 mph, moved into what was then the third spot, bumping Truex and Kurt Busch, to loud cheers from underdog fans, and probably tears from obviously happy team members. Waltrip, through all of the flack of 2007, is still hugely popular. He must have signed a hundred autographs while working his way from his car to the post-qualifying interview. I was happy for him.
Bobby Labonte qualified late and jumped into the front row with Kasey, as the Dodges look strong. Unfortunately for #43 fans, it didn't last.
The last two attempts were by Greg Biffle and Jeff Gordon. Biffle bumped Labonte from the front row, as Steve was getting the ON PIT ROW interview with Bobby. And Gordon threw the first wet blanket of the weekend, knocking Kahne to row two for a race that may not run now, until After Thanksgiving.
Picture credit: Beth Anne Heisler - ON PIT ROW
Well if they run it in November I might point the dogsled team in that direction ....load up the sled with a snow shovel Martha were headed for MIS
Posted by: robert bourne | August 19, 2007 at 02:42 PM
Running in November here in Michigan. Well it might be 80 degrees and sunny. Or it could be -10 degrees with a blizzard.
I would probably have a better chance of going in November, but my fiance and I are expecting our Daughter Faith to be born on NOV 18th !!!!!!
Posted by: Mike | August 19, 2007 at 09:35 PM
The way I read the schedule Mike, that gives you a week to spare. Maybe you can catch a ride on Robert's sled.
Posted by: Charlie | August 19, 2007 at 10:04 PM
With the Moon being Void of Course again tomorrow, I would not be surprised at all if it rains out again. If it doesn't, anything goes. Tony looks good for tomorrow, as where today he had a horrid scope. Ya just never know.
Biff...poor Biff.
Posted by: Clance' | August 20, 2007 at 12:45 AM