Deuce (Denver, CO)

Ed, I saw that RGordon's rear end housing was confiscated by NASCAR after the race, is this type of thing a common occurence that we just don't hear about often or is it a probable penalty?

Matt (Charlotte, NC)

I'm sure this is a stupid question, but would it be possible to have a roll out tarp type system mounted on trucks, that follows the series from track to track, that could be laid on the track during rain? I'm sure some company(s) would sponsor the tarp.

Ed Hinton

  (1:56 PM)

Hi, all. Accidentally posted one early, but this is a big day for flurries, so i'll answer this one and then welcome everybody and give you an update. Answer here: Humpy wheeler has for years proposed a retractable roof-tarp system around speedways, to be deployed in rain and protect the surface, then retract it. This is probably some years away.

Ed Hinton

  (1:57 PM)

OK, now. Welcome all to a wild, wild day. There's been a report that Tony George has been ousted as chairman of Indianapolis Motor Speedway -- which he, his wife and his mother have denied. I'll post two questions and then answer further.

TC

Even though T. George is still head of Indy car series, how big a deal is him being ousted at IMS?

Race fan

Hey Ed, how about the report on T. George being out at IMS. He can't be happy and what about Humpy as a replacement? Details?

Ed Hinton

  (2:00 PM)

OK, here's the situation. A report on speedtv.com today said Tony had been ousted by the board -- which includes Tony himself, his mother, his three sisters and speedway attorney Jack Snyder. I've reached Laura George at home, and she told me it's not true. Minutes later, Tony George told an impromptu news conference at the speedway that he's still in charge. Now the Indy star has a story quoting his mother saying there was no reason to replace him.

Terry Nicewarner - Harpers Ferry, W.V.

NASCAR is only giving out limited information about the meeting that was held yesterday with owners and drivers. What took place during the meeting? How about sharing it with the NASCAR fans? Thanks, Terry Nicewarner Harpers Ferry, W.V.

Ed Hinton

  (2:02 PM)

Media types weren't allowed in. There were only dribs and drabs coming out of those who attended. Knowing NASCAR, I suspect that most of the talk was in generalities. NASCAR is taking some suggestions under advisement, such as looser restrictions on the COT.

Tom (Danbury,CT)

Would Tony saying that he would've folded the IRL by 2012 have anything to do with him being ousted?

Ed Hinton

  (2:03 PM)

I don't think so. Again, he's denying the ouster. But the rumor's been that his sisters have been worried for years about IndyCar hemorrhaging money, so anything about saving some of the family fortune shouldn't have hurt him.

Jason Memphis, TN

So what do you think, New CC for the 88 come Sunday?

Ed Hinton

  (2:04 PM)

I just don't think Rick Hendrick does things that suddenly, but he could surprise me.

Luke, Indy

What are you hearing about Tony George and the Speedway? Everyone is saying he is out, but he gave an interview saying he is still in charge?

Ed Hinton

  (2:06 PM)

For now, all things considered, i'm withholding judgment.

Jason Memphis, TN

So maybe Hummpy might be in that CEO role at IMS?

Ed Hinton

  (2:06 PM)

Oh, that's a fun thing to think about. And he'd be capable. But I don't think it'll happen.

Evan Johnson (SLC, Utah)

If Tony George is worried about the IRL shutting down in 2012 don't you think this is the perfect time for NASCAR to throw a little weight around about a new track surface at Indy?

Ed Hinton

  (2:07 PM)

Whether he's in or out, i think this is an excellent time for nascar to put on backdoor pressure. trouble is, money's slim around Indy lately.

Rich, Clearwater, FL

Ed, Is a change coming at the Crew Chief position of the 88 or is it elsewhere in the team? If it is the CC, who steps in? I've heard Ron Malec or Pops...

Ed Hinton

  (2:08 PM)

IF a change comes, either as soon as this weekend or a few weeks down the road, my bet would be Pops. Similar arrangement to what they had before. See, the Eurys are Junior's security blanket.

Sam (TX)

More true statement, Carl Edwards overrated or Matt Kenseth underrated?

Ed Hinton

  (2:09 PM)

Neither is true. They're rated about right. Edwards looks kind of bad lately, because the Roush cars are out to lunch.

Cory, Geneva, IL

Could it be that Mr. Hendrick wants to change chiefs on the 88, but can't find someone to take it? Can you imagine the pressure of being the savior for Jr. Nation!

Ed Hinton

  (2:11 PM)

At that kind of salary, he could find someone. I just think Rick's agonizing because, as I said earlier, Junior's only experience without the Eurys, when Teresa split 'em in '05, was a disaster.

Scott (Atlanta)

How hard is Kyle Petty working behind the scences to line up a Cup ride for next year? He seemed defiant at the start of the year, but with the passage of time and the disappointment of the collapse of Petty Enterprises, I wonder if he is becoming comfortable with retirement from racing.

Ed Hinton

  (2:12 PM)

He and his lieutenants have been working very hard, with no takers. He may be becoming resigned to retirement, but I don't think he's comfortable with it.

Tim (SC)

Who does Danica Patrick think she is? I mean really, her only race win was on fuel milage, she's had one of the best cars and hasn't done great, and IRL champs have come to NASCAR and struggled.I know she's a marketing machine, but who is she to say "if" she comes to NASCAR she needs a top ride? what ever happened to earning the respect of your peers because it seems if she comes she will have burned many bridges before she walks in the door.Thnaks Ed

Ed Hinton

  (2:13 PM)

You gotta be kidding me. Half the drivers in Cup are marketing machines. That always takes priority over ability.

Evan Johnson (SLC, Utah)

I've got to believe if Mr. Hendrick makes a change to the 88 it will be in house. Mr Hendrick let Jr have his way bringing in Eury Jr. but if a change comes I believe it will be Ricks way

Ed Hinton

  (2:14 PM)

I think Rick has a very delicate, sticky situation on his hands, and I think he knows it.

Dave (Long Island)

Does RCR get anyone into the chase?

Ed Hinton

  (2:15 PM)

Burton, probably. Maybe Bowyer.

T-berry

Do all the drivers have a physical exam by a Nascar doctor before the start of each season?

Ed Hinton

  (2:16 PM)

Yes, plus various certifications by their personal physicians.

Kevin Harvick

Should I start worrying about my job? I've pretty much done nothing since I won the Daytona 500.

Ed Hinton

  (2:17 PM)

No, "Kev," you shouldn't worry. RC will probably take you "down by the river," like he did last time you were in the doldrums, and tell you everything's gonna be ok.

Jason Memphis TN

"You gotta be kidding me. Half the drivers in Cup are marketing machines. That always takes priority over ability." That wasn't a knock on Jr was it?

Ed Hinton

  (2:18 PM)

It was a simple observation about half the field. Look at who all have won few or no races and have big marketing campaigns built around them.

devin howell michigan

ed is jeffrey the youngest earnhart to stared a race

Ed Hinton

  (2:19 PM)

Think so. Dale Sr. was always older than he claimed to be until we caught him lying about his age. Plus, Dale Sr. didn't start particularly young either.

Darrell (Petal, MS)

When should NASCAR go to a double-file restart. How about when the chase starts?

Ed Hinton

  (2:19 PM)

They should start Sunday, as far as I'm concerned. Double-file on the Monster Mile??? That would breathe new life into NASCAR in one afternoon.

Adam (Galax, VA)

Another way to get Jr. back on track would be for him to go to his teammates (especially the 48 team) and get input on how to improve the cars.

Ed Hinton

  (2:20 PM)

Doesn't work that way. Different drivers have different feels they want in cars. If it worked that way, Gordon would have taken Johnson's setup last year.

james greenville sc [via mobile]

why wont people leave jr alone they didnot complain when he won races with eury sr

Ed Hinton

  (2:21 PM)

Because Junior's a rock star and Tony Jr. is his lead guitarist. Occupational hazard for both.

Joe (Missoula, Mt)

Ed, Do you think Truex will really being going to MWR? Why would he pass up the fourth seat at Gibbs?

Ed Hinton

  (2:22 PM)

I'm not at all sure the fourth seat at Gibbs is open to him. HMS is full, with Martin. Unless Stewart opens a seat for Brad K, he could go to JGR in a shocker.

Matt (Ogdensburg, New Jersey)

hey ed i was wondering how do you get to be a nascar reporter i mean im still young yet but i would really like to know i mean i have a lot of love and respect for the sport and pretty much obsessed with it lol everytime anything nascar is on i watch no matter what it is especially classic stuff beacuse i like learning about the history of nascar... but anyways i was just wondering how do become a nascar reporter thanks..

Ed Hinton

  (2:23 PM)

Would love to put 50 years of hanging around racetracks, and 35 years of getting paid for it, into a chat capsule. But can't.

mike in fresno

Please tell waltrip to retire and put Truex in the napa car

Ed Hinton

  (2:24 PM)

You're getting warm.

Ed, Hartford

Ed, Why are all 3 major forms of motorsports F1, Indy and NASCAR in such turmoil all at once? The global Economy?

Ed Hinton

  (2:24 PM)

That's the root of most of it, especially Indy and F1. NASCAR has other issues, like the tight restrictions on the COT.

Joe (Missoula, Mt)

I don't know about Brad K Ed! I think he has already drank the Hendrick Kool-Aid! Do you think will keep the seat young since they are a very young team?

Ed Hinton

  (2:25 PM)

Money is an antidote for most flavors of kool-aid.

lynn,va

who/ what will be the bigest suprize this year

Ed Hinton

  (2:26 PM)

When David Reutimann is in the chase, deep into the playoffs.

Matt (Ogdensburg, New Jersey)

do you have to go to college to be a nascar reporter?

Ed Hinton

  (2:26 PM)

You definitely don't have to go to college to be a NASCAR driver!

Luke, Indy

Is it possible Robin Miller was set up by someone at the Speedway? There is no way he would make this story up knowing it would immediately be denied by all involved.

Ed Hinton

  (2:27 PM)

I think Robin Miller is a great reporter whom I've known, trusted and liked for 30 years. I'll leave it at that.

norm, palm springs ca

Good afternoon Ed, any chance the loosen restrictions on COT. I think the reason for declining numbers is the car. It's just not very racy. You would think NASCAR see's that. The other two series provide better racing week in and out.

Ed Hinton

  (2:29 PM)

I think that's going to happen. The Tuesday meeting was nebulous, but I think it was NASCAR's way of bowing gracefully out of the too-strict clamps on the COT. It may take weeks or months, though.

Billy Bad Butt (Concord, NC)

I never went to college, and now I'm a national celebrity.

Ed Hinton

  (2:29 PM)

See? College isn't for everyone.

paul (nc)

I saw a report on speed tv that said red bull was considering dropping scott speed for nemechek or another more experienced driver... is this true?

Ed Hinton

  (2:30 PM)

I can't see the Red Bull baron going for an older driver. Jay Frye might be leaning that way, but we'll see if he can convince the boss.

Aaron (Houston, TX)

Hey Ed: After the Mother Nature 600, do you think NASCAR will tinker again with the "Montreal Experiment" (windshield wipers and rain tires) in the future?

Ed Hinton

  (2:31 PM)

Road course is vastly different from an oval. Heavy cars through banked turns would burn up rain tires in a hurry. For Goodyear, that would make the Indy crisis seem like child's play.

Adam (Galax, VA)

Outside of changing the crew chief, what other ways can Jr. fix his problems on the track?

Ed Hinton

  (2:33 PM)

Maybe a hypnotist?

Jerry Hendrix

Do you think Teresa Earnhardt will ever regret letting Jr. go out the door? Don't you think DEI would still be DEI if Jr. was now the majority owner?

Ed Hinton

  (2:33 PM)

I think DEI was already too far gone when the majority owner issue came up. They weren't nearly as well equipped over there as the whole Garage Majal image would make you believe.

Eddie Homer NY

How much does this win by th #00 team help out MWR as a whole?

Ed Hinton

  (2:34 PM)

A great deal. Morale among people such as fabricators and floor sweepers is something that's often overlooked. If people believe they can win, they can win.

Shaughn (Wenatchee, WA)

I am all for the Reut winning on Monday, but still, I think something could have been done about maybe racing Tuesday? I think my man Kyle coulda won it all. Poor kid!!!!

Ed Hinton

  (2:35 PM)

The weather in North Carolina has been this monsoon type stuff all week. It's raining off an on at my house today.

David Fuller (Marion, NY)

Prediction: Truex goes to MWR and changes the number from 55 to 56. A family number used by him and his dad back in the day.

Ed Hinton

  (2:36 PM)

Entirely possible. I've got a column going up soon that tells why the Reutimanns have run "00" for decades.

Tony Eury Jr, NC

Ed, I have not been fired. Who started all this. I will look for your answer after I attend this meeting RickH just called for all the 88 team members.

Ed Hinton

  (2:37 PM)

I think if you were really Tony Eury Jr., you'd be looking for the fastest way out of this mess.

Adam (Galax, VA)

I think NASCAR should look at the forcast ahead of time and if it is suppose to rain, then they need to make a decision on whether they should pospone the race.

Ed Hinton

  (2:38 PM)

That's what they do. They have radar on the NASCAR truck. Forecasts are never 100 percent accurate.

norm, palm springs ca

Ed, do you think with the GM situation not looking any better, that may be why Truex is rumored to be talking with MWR, I would think as they both worked for DEI they might also be friends?

Ed Hinton

  (2:39 PM)

I think Truex is just looking for a better, more stable ride. He probably knows Mikey, but everybody knows everybody in the garage.

Jason Memphis TN

OK simple question.. Is Jr in or out of the Chase? Honest Opinion.

Ed Hinton

  (2:40 PM)

Out.

Fred (Dover)

What do you think of the situation with Riggs not wanting to start and park?

Ed Hinton

  (2:40 PM)

Can't blame a guy for wanting to race. If he doesn't get the best finish he can, it does his resume zero good.

Adam (Galax, VA)

Is Roush one of the teams to beat a Dover? If not, who is?

Ed Hinton

  (2:41 PM)

Roush usually is, but Roush has faded at other places too. Considering the way the teams are right now, and that place, we'll have to see. Maybe SHR?

Ed Hinton

  (2:42 PM)

Kenseth for sure, Edwards probably, Biffle maybe.

Ed Hinton

  (2:43 PM)

oops! wrong post. that was a roush question. i'll go back and post it.

Ed Hinton

  (2:43 PM)

Can't find it. Question was, how many Roush cars make the Chase.

John (Spokane WA)

Follow up to Jason's simple ?, will Jr WIN a race this year.. at this point.. i think i would settle for a few top 5's

Ed Hinton

  (2:44 PM)

Win one? 50-50, considering Daytona in July, and Talladega in the fall.

dave washington il

Ed, I saw that RGordon's rear end housing was confiscated by NASCAR after the race, is this type of thing a common occurence that we just don't hear about often or is it a probable penalty?

Ed Hinton

  (2:45 PM)

We'll probably know late this afternoon. Wednesday is usually penalty day.

Tanner (Greenwood,SC)

Will Martin Truex finish in the top 10 this weekend?

Ed Hinton

  (2:45 PM)

Yep. Remember, he's won there before, and in the COT, no less.

Darrell

What do you think about NASCAR having trades between teams. I think a trade with Jr. and Harvick would suit both of them right now.

Ed Hinton

  (2:46 PM)

Hey, that's a thought. But to do that you'd have to have franchises. And to have franchises you'd have to have the France family give away NASCAR. Sorry.

Rich (Buffalo)

While Danica's a marketing machine, she has REAL talent. Roger Penske needs to step in and put her in the 12 car. Imagine Penske getting a 4th 500 win with Helio and a first with Danica?

Ed Hinton

  (2:47 PM)

What bothers me about Danica is she lets turbulence bother her too much. Everybody has to drive from the back once in a while.

James(MO)

If you think that only one car (#17) from Roush will make it, how will Jack react?

Ed Hinton

  (2:47 PM)

Let's start a rumor that the straw hat is bad luck, but the felt hat isn't. see if we can get him to change in midsummer.

Larry (MI)

Gordon retires after this year due to issues with his back and Brad K is in the 24. What do you think about that?

Ed Hinton

  (2:49 PM)

Uh, no. Stories were WAY, WAY overblown about his confirming that back problems COULD hasten his retirement. I heard every word he said. Too many Chicken Littles in that media center. THE SKY IS FALLING!

Larry (MI)

Didn't Penske get a 500 win with Ryan Newman before he left?

Ed Hinton

  (2:49 PM)

Daytona 500 of '08, yes.

Tanner (Greenwood,SC)

Which driver at Roush will get cut at the end of the season?

Ed Hinton

  (2:50 PM)

McMurray. Jack's very high on David Ragan.

Jeremy (IA)

When Gordon DOES retire, you think the 24 will still be run or "retired" the same way the 2 has been by RCR?

Ed Hinton

  (2:51 PM)

You mean the 3. And it hasn't officially been retired; RCR has it on hold. Junior could bring it back, but won't. Would Hendrick retire the 24? Probably.

paul (nc)

why is nascar the only sport red bull isn't good at?

Ed Hinton

  (2:52 PM)

They're not that good at Formula One, either. They're just taking up slack while McLaren and Ferrari have fallen off.

Joe (New York)

Who is your pick to win this week?

Ed Hinton

  (2:53 PM)

Tony Stewart or Ryan Newman. First points win for Stewart-Haas.

paul (nc)

so do you think robert johnson iii a.k.a. junior johnson junior will be better than kyle busch (that is, in 3 years when he turns 18)?

Ed Hinton

  (2:54 PM)

Whoo! Who knows? Junior himself is very high on Robert. I've talked to Junior and he's pretty objective. But calling him Kyle Busch at this stage is risky.

Ted (FL)

Ed, when it really comes down to it, isn't it wrong to compare drivers from different eras? For example, in the old days they raced more often, in "stock" cars, etc.. Didn't Petty change teams numerous times to get the best equipment? Then there was the Superbird which had a significant aero advantage did it not? My point is how do we know Petty or Pearson would have dominated in the COT, or that Jimmie and Jeff could have flourished in the 60's? Arn't there just so many factors in different eras that making a "top 10 all time" list is kind of meaningless?Thank You

Ed Hinton

  (2:55 PM)

It's absolutely wrong, and absolutely inaccurate, to compare different drivers in different eras. But the public likes that sort of thing, so we media types do it. Although I've always found it silly and distasteful.

Matt (Chicago)

I don't think Red Bull considers dumping Speed, considering what they've put into him. That said, does he sneak into the top-35 past Andretti at Dover?

Ed Hinton

  (2:56 PM)

I think you're ride. He's good for promotions. And I think he's learning some, so yes, he can crack the top 35.

mike Atlanta

Why doesn't jr have an agressive bone in his body like his father. and that is not a knock at jr it is just strange how they race and raced so differant.

Ed Hinton

  (2:57 PM)

Tell that to Jeff Gordon, who has back problems, and used to complain that Junior was the worst one at jarring your whole body with bump-drafting.

Tanner (Greenwood,SC)

When will Kyle Busch win a title?

Ed Hinton

  (2:58 PM)

You mean any of the three? Nationwide, he could win this year. Trucks, he'd have to run enough. Cup, it could happen any year.

Jason Memphis, TN

You hit the nail on the head Ed THANKS, Jimmy won 3 titles in a row but Pearson did it without power steering. AMEN

Ed Hinton

  (2:58 PM)

Also, David Pearson ran a full schedule only three times in his career. He won the championship all three years.

Joe (FL)

What has happened to the 19 team?

Ed Hinton

  (2:59 PM)

What has happened to that WHOLE team? Two weak teams combined to make one weak team.

Saul (San Diego)

Does the 88 miss Darian Grubb, now the 14 CC.

Ed Hinton

  (3:00 PM)

Any team would miss Darian Grubb.

Tanner (Greenwood,SC)

Can Jr win this weekend?

Ed Hinton

  (3:00 PM)

No.

Colleen (Canada)

Kevin Harvick and Billy Bad But commenting. Wow, you are pretty popular Mr. Hinton.

Ed Hinton

  (3:01 PM)

Alas, Colleen, we have a lot of dingaling jokesters down here below the border. And sometimes I go along with them.

Ed Hinton

  (3:02 PM)

Well, folks, gotta go pack for Dover. Thanks to everyone for stopping by.