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Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

April 19, 2001

CHARLOTTE, N.C.-- This weekend, Jimmy Spencer returns to the #1 Yellow Racing Pontiac driver's seat for the Subway 300 NASCAR Busch Grand National Series event at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway.

Spencer is no stranger to the 2.66-mile oval, having won the 1994 DieHard 500 NASCAR Winston Cup Series race while driving for team owner Junior Johnson. This time, with help from Phoenix Racing, the 45-year-old would like to add a Talladega Busch Series trophy to his mantle.

"I think that Phoenix Racing has an outstanding superspeedway program," said Spencer. "We’ll be in the top-10 for most of the day. I expect we’ll contend for the win. If we stay up front, we can be a factor in the outcome of the race. Historically, James Finch’s race cars have done that."

To accomplish that feat, Spencer will use a patient game plan during the 113-lap event. The driver nicknamed "Mr. Excitement" says that courtesy will be an important asset this weekend.

"If you look at the history of restrictor plate racing, 99 percent of the accidents are caused by driver error," said Spencer. "If you force the issue at Talladega, and bump somebody while running three-wide, there’s no way to control the race car. We’re just going too fast."

"It pays off in the long run to lift off the throttle and let somebody go. You might lose 10 spots but the bottom line is you’re still contending for the lead. It does no good to say ‘well this guys was a fault.’ Even though he was at fault, you’re still sitting in the garage with a wrecked race car," added Spencer.

If Spencer does cross the finish line first, he can expect to have a rear view mirror full of stock cars. With NASCAR’s new aerodynamic package designed to increase draft and horsepower, the race might look like a 43-car freight train at 200 mph.

"Choosing the aero-package for Talladega is a tough decision," said Spencer. "I don’t envy NASCAR at all. It’s trying to find ways to improve the competition and keep drivers safe at the same time. I’m glad I’m not part of that decision making process.

"The last event at Talladega was a great race," said Spencer. "But we can’t judge the aero-package on one race alone. We need to build a race history first. After Daytona, I think a lot of drivers are apprehensive about coming to this track with the aero-package. Personally, I’m looking forward to Talladega. I love that race track. It was unquestionably built for speed. We’re hoping to have a good weekend in the Yellow Racing Pontiac."

Text provided by Chris Hunt

Editors Note: To view hundreds of hot racing photos and art, visit The Racing Photo Museum and the Visions of Speed Art Gallery.