Danica to NASCAR

[Don]

Looks like it's a go, hopefully the expectations will be kept at a reasonable level, when considering only the 2nd time on the track and the first time with a higher level of experienced and skilled drivers, Nationwide and Cup

ARCA web site:

Danica......." used the ARCA race to learn how to adapt to big, heavy stock cars. She showed that she is a fast learner, working the No. 7 GoDaddy.com Chevrolet on the inside, outside and middle lanes of the racetrack in both the front and the back of the field throughout the 80 lap/200-mile event. "

http://www.arcaracing.com/news.php?contentid=9289

AutoWeek Racing:

" JR Motorsports confirmed early Monday that Danica Patrick will run Saturday afternoon's season-opening 300-mile Nationwide Series race at Daytona International Speedway, a week earlier than her scheduled NASCAR debut. She and team co-owner Kelly Earnhardt made the decision based on her solid sixth-place finish last weekend's 200-mile ARCA race at DIS.
"Racing in the Nationwide Series race was my goal during this entire two-month preparation process, but we wanted to make sure it was the right thing to do," Patrick said in a statement issued by the team. "The ARCA race was a blast, and I'm not ready for my first Daytona Speedweeks to end just yet. I want more racing." "


: http://www.autoweek.com/article/2010...#ixzz0exf8iHv7

[Ron61]

Great. I was wondering when she would make a decision as the last I heard she still hadn't made up her mind. This will give her more seat time and in a little higher class.

Ron

[Don]

Danica continues to receive positive support regarding her entry into the Nationwide race. While there may be, have not seen any press releases from Teams, drivers etc questioning the decision. NASCAR , Daytona and sponsors will benefit with the increased TV viewing.

Danica has a guaranteed starting position based upon points acquired, a normal NASCAR sanctioned procedure, from a Team, #11 CJM Racing, that finished 15th last year and is not racing this year. Will be interesting if Danica, #7, and Dale Jr, #88, are racing side by side, neither one desiring to relinquish their position.

Taking into consideration, the three being quoted have a vested interest in Danica's success.

Quote from Kelly Earnhart:

"I think Danica proved to everyone that she can compete in stock cars at a high level, and right now seat time is extremely important," Kelley Earnhardt said. "She has worked extremely hard during the past two months for this opportunity. Her dedication and work ethic is infectious."

Quote from Go Daddy CEO and Founder Bob Parsons

"Danica's got what it takes, and it's obvious from the ARCA race NASCAR is right up her alley," said Go Daddy CEO and Founder Bob Parsons. "She's ready to drive the No. 7 GoDaddy.com Chevy in Daytona and is sure to give the fans an exciting show just like she did in the ARCA race."

Quote: Daytona International Speedway President Robin Braig

"This is great news to hear," Daytona International Speedway President Robin Braig said. "Danica put on a fantastic show for race fans last weekend. From her incredible save in the tri-oval to working her way back through the field to finish sixth, there's not a better place for her to make her first NASCAR start than Daytona International Speedway."

[PatBuckley]

Compared to the ARCA race, Nationwide is big time.

She will get her pretty little ass handed to her on a plate.

[Ron61]

Pat,

It is a big jump, but can I have the plate when it is over?

Ron

[Ron61]

Hey Don, today is the two qualifying races for the Daytona 500. Are you going to watch them? I will as it is raining here and will take a week of dry weather before I can start any yard work.

Ron