This year the NASCAR Nationwide series is in a transition period, a transition from being a second tier Sprint Cup series showcase, to having their own identity.
In 2011 NASCAR Sprint cup series drivers are still allowed to race in any Nationwide series event, they still can earn money and the trophy, but they don't get points and I think this is the right direction for the series.
The Nationwide series needs its own identity, and that can be established by mixing young talent, veteran drivers at the end of their careers and a few Cup drivers that can help increase the crowd. The fans don't care if he is racing for points or just money, the Cup guys might just drive HARDER if they don't have to worry about points.
2011 is a transition year because many teams had to make their plans before NASCAR set the Nationwide rules. That is why Carl Edwards and Brad Keselowski are racing the full season even though they dont get points. This most likely wont happen in 2012.
I can see more drivers like Elliott Sadler and Kenny Wallace coming to the Nationwide series in 2012, Cup veterans who need a kick start to their careers. Wouldn't it be fun to watch guys like: Casey Mears, Dave Blaney, Scott Riggs, Ward Burton, David Gilliland, JJ Yeley, Scott Speed or Bobby Labonte get a chance to race for a title. Maybe guys who are at the end of their career like: Mark Martin, Terry Labonte, Bill Elliott or Jeff Burton would like to have one last chance to win a title. That is something I would pay money to see.
Young guys will still get their chance to shine, and it might be at a more even playing field, racing against the veterans of the sport, they might even learn a thing or two. Jordan from http://www.theracinggeek.com/ reminds me that a Nationwide regular has won only once in the last forty-six races. I think that Nationwide regulars will win more and more frequently in the next couple years, 2011 and 2012 is still a transition period to a time when Nationwide drivers will be thought of as separate group from the Cup stars, and that is a good thing.
The NASCAR Nationwide series comes to Iowa Speedway on Sunday afternoon May 22nd. This sold-out race will be broadcast of ABC TV.
Elliott Sadler leads the newly formatted point standings by 3pts over Reed Sorenson.
Daytona 500 winner Trevor Bayne will not be returning to racing, he is still recovering from a mysterious illness associated with a bug bite a few weeks ago.
Defending winner Kyle Busch is not entered in this race, Michael McDowell will be racing the #18 car. Brad Keselowski, Trevor Bayne and Carl Edwards will be pulling double duty racing at both the NASCAR All-Star race in Charlotte NC and at Iowa Speedway.
ASA Midwest tour Kaukauna winner Tim Schendel will be racing the #0 car, Scott Wimmer will be in the #70, Austin Dillion will be driving the #33.
Jason Searcy and Dean Reller will be covering the Iowa Speedway race on Sunday. They will post photo's, video, interviews and have a "behind pit wall" look at the Nationwide race.
Check http://www.speedtalkon1360.com/ for complete coverage on Sunday
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