The Backstretch Blog: Virginia is for Racers

April 27, 2012|By HEATHER WILLIAMS | Eyewitness Sports

As NASCAR heads to the short track of Richmond, Virginia, I think many of us are hoping that this Saturday night showdown will save stock car racing from it's self. There has been a lot of talk about the lack of cautions over the past few weeks, and it seems like a little short track racing may be just what the doctor ordered.

“I love short-tracks first of all and think we need more," said five-time champ Jimmie Johnson. "Although Richmond has been a challenging track for me over the years it is a place I love to watch a race at. Short-tracks I think really draw the fans and create the excitement that we need in the sport."

While Johnson has three wins at RIR, this track has belonged to Joe Gibbs racing of late. With the exception of Kevin Harvick last fall, Denny Hamlin and Kyle Busch have won the last five races at the 3/4th mile track.

"This is a really good track for us and we've got some good cars and we've had some good runs here in the past," said Kyle Busch. "No reason to not expect the M&M's Camry to run up front on Saturday night here. It's been a really great place for us and hopefully having a good run here Saturday night."

Dale Earnhart, Jr also has three wins at this track, so this very well be a track where the winless streak is finally broken.

“Richmond is a good track. It’s a little bit bigger than most short tracks we race on but the racing is always fun," said Junior. "The shape of the track is quite unique, which makes it pretty interesting. She’s getting a little bit slick, and the last couple trips here it has become more slick but it’s a fun track. I’m looking forward to the weekend and getting in the car and seeing what we got.”

Tony Stewart also has three wins at Richmond. Other drivers with wins at Richmond include Clint Bowyer, Kurt Busch, Jeff Burton, Kasey Kahne, Ryan Newman, Kasey Kahne, and Jeff Gordon.

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