Full Throttle

Once again Chase leader Jimmie Johnson has reason to thank Zeus, Greek Rain-god and Cloud-gatherer.

What’s that number 8 on the year? Or is it 10, I lost count.

Whatever, Dustin Long has the answer for you wet fans in Martinsville who think qualifications should be moved to the next day rather than start by points.

The rain abated activity has spawned the latest rumor. (Idle minds being what they are.)

Allegedly, supposedly, maybe, a merger and or partnership (or something) is in the works between DEI and Petty Enterprises.

Robbie Loomis said Petty Enterprises has “been approached” by three unnamed teams but as per the rumor, which ESPN is more than elated to spread, DEI is one of them.

Loomis said the Pettys’ deal with Dodge extends another three years and DEI is signed with the Bow-Tie Brigade via a contract extension inked before this season.

“Like all situations, a lot of ideas sound great when you first start talking behind the truck,” Loomis said. “As you get into it the further away everything ends up getting.”

For fans that readily poo-poo the idea of Petty Enterprises merging with DEI and its more than likely shift to Chevy, three points.

1. The enclosed picture of a Richard Petty Ford Torino.
2. Numerous photographic evidence of Petty Enterprises fielding Pontiac Grand Prixs during Chrysler’s absence from the sport.
3. Ahem!
3a. Which came first? The Plymouth or the Petty?
3b. Stranger things have happened. The King’s A/FX 1965 Barracuda.

From the not rumor but fact file, Mikey Waltrips #00 Toyota team will morph into the #47 number for the final four events and be sponsored by that little girl who makes cakes we all love to get fat on.

Driver assigned for Hotlanta next week is Marcos Ambrose. Driver selection for the remaining 3 Cup events hasn’t been announced.

Cut from a different cloth? No, more like arrived from a different planet. (where they paint their toenails)

Sidenote: My other project, one of many actually, Asian Motor Sports has undergone a major revamp/redesign/refocus. Stop by let me know what can, or should be improved. Besides there’s a butt-load of open wheeling going on in Asia this weekend most of which will be covered at AMS.

More later as time and interest permits.