Let tradition

count more

As we come into the final two races of the Nextel Cup season, it would only make sense we’d be headed to some of the series’ historical venues.

Or instead, we can go to Phoenix and Miami. And that follows last week’s stop outside of Dallas.

Yes, all have plenty of race fans and surely local folks appreciate the chance to make a couple of short trips south every year to see the best drivers in the world compete, as many Oklahomans did last weekend.

But it sure is a shame that NASCAR’s traditional tracks — Charlotte, Daytona, Bristol, even those from days gone by like Darlington and North Wilkesboro — aren’t in the mix for the races that ultimately decide a champion.

Maybe it doesn’t matter to most people, or even the drivers.

But they don’t play the Super Bowl in Milwaukee or take the Final Four to Montana. Both places have plenty of good fans for their sports, but they’re not where you expect a champion to be crowned.

Already a champion

Carl Edwards wrapped up the Busch Series title two weeks early at Texas Saturday.

Edwards wrapped up the title with a first half of the season where he won four times.

Interestingly, he is winless in the last 17 races but has continued to extend his lead with consistent finishes.

Christian Potts

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