The NASCAR Race for the Chase

This is the first chance I've (Terry) had to get back to the blog since a week ago Wednesday. Since I last wrote, we were heading into our official setup day (Thursday). Little did we know of the NASCAR drama to unfold over the next few days. I won't go into the details (they can be found on any NASCAR racing website). But needless to say, it was unprecedented. On Thursday before I started work, I was able to wander around and take a few shots. Later in the day, I was temporarily reassigned to photography duty for 'NASCAR's Next'  (a group of 13 young, up-and-coming drivers). They visited Joliet Fire Station 3, which is adjacent to the Speedway. This fire station received permission from Richard Childress Racing to use the stylized number 3 on their station along with displays of the Dale Earnhardt/Richard Childress race car. Richard also sent memorabilia to the station that will be displayed in a museum setting within the station. The drivers got to don fire apparel and use the fire hoses.  While I was covering 'NASCAR's Next', Janet shot the TV show 'Sports Talk Live With Dave Kaplan'. Along with Track President Scott Paddock, the guests were Kenny Wallace, James Buescher and Ryan Newman.

Click here for Thursday's pictures.

Friday was an extremely busy day that did not allow for photography. Kyle Busch won the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race.  Saturday, we were able to photograph some of the pre-race activities, primarily the skydivers delivering the United States Flag. Again, Kyle Busch dominated the Nationwide race by leading 195 out of 200 laps!

Click here for Saturday's pictures.

Sunday opened with threatening skies. The start was delayed due to a wet track.  The race started but was halted after 109 laps. The red flag was displayed for 5 hours 10 minutes and 21 seconds, but who was counting. The day race became a night race. At the finish, it was Matt Kenseth winning with Kyle Busch finishing second. Very close to the trifecta! I was able to get out during one race segment to grab some shots.  It was an excellent start to the Chase.

Click here for Sunday's pictures.

Click here for Terry and Janet's complete portfolio.

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