I was able to catch up with PJ after his recent trip to the Richard Petty Driving Experience. Here’s what he had to say about it and other topics.
The White Rabbit: How was the Richard Petty Driving Experience?
PJ: It was all I imagined it would be and more. I didn’t think it was possible, but it actually exceeded my expectations. I know it’s expensive (and I lucked out and got it as a gift), but it’s something that every NASCAR fan should try to do. I’m definitely going to do it again as soon as possible.
TWR: Did you meet “The King?”
PJ: I did not get to meet The King. I assume he was in Fontana for the race, so maybe next time.
TWR: Is Matt Kenseth lucky or good?
PJ: Kenseth is flat out good. You have to remember that Robbie Reiser, Kenseth’s crew chief since 1997, left the 17 team at the end of the 2007 season to become the General Manager of Roush Fenway Racing. Like any other organization, there is always an adjustment period, and 2008 was that for Kenseth. But after two races, it looks like that period is over and the 17 team is ready to become a championship contender once again.
TWR: Is Jeff Gordon back?
PJ: Maybe. I’m very impressed with how he ran at Auto Club Sunday. If pit crew could have kept the lead for him during that final pit stop, he wins that race. But we shouldn’t jump to conclusions just yet. Gordon finished 3rd at Auto Club Speedway in 2008 and still had his worst season since his rookie year.
I’ll wait until after the race at Atlanta in two weeks before I’m ready to declare whether he’s back or not. The Chase consists of four races at 1.5 mile racetracks (Kansas, Lowe’s, Texas and Homestead) and seeing how well he runs at Las Vegas and Atlanta (both 1.5 mile racetracks) will give us a much clearer picture of what we should expect from Gordon this year.
TWR: Who are your picks, at this early stage, to make The Chase?
PJ: In no particular order:
1. Johnson
2. Edwards
3. Ky. Busch
4. Gordon
5. Kenseth
6. Biffle
7. Stewart
8. Hamlin
9. Earnhardt Jr.
10. Martin
11. Harvick
12. Burton
Just outside:
13. Ragan
14. Vickers
15. Kurt Busch