NASCAR WCUP: Kenseth ready for Dover effort

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

September 19, 2001

Your last run at Dover in June deemed your worst finish in a Winston Cup car at the track. What are your plans to regain the top-10 form you've had there in the past?

"There were a lot of factors that contributed to our problems at Dover last time. We had some problems in the pits, which cost us some track position. Then we thought we had our lap back and according to timing and scoring we didn't beat the leader. I ran really well in the Busch car last time so I think we are going to go back there, just start all over, and use some of our Busch notes."

What is it about Dover that makes you so comfortable when most drivers claim its one of the hardest tracks the series races on?

"I really like the size of the track and the banking. You can run really fast at Dover, and being a race car driver, speed is always good. If I had to choose a favorite Dover would be it because I not only run well in the Busch car, but have run well in the Cup car too."

Concrete vs. asphalt? Which do you like better?

"I don't mind the concrete at Dover. Actually, if the track at Dover was asphalt the racing would be even better. There would be more side by side racing and it would be much easier to pass. A writer called Dover my 'Concrete Playground' last race, and I guess that is true. When I race at Dover it is enjoyable and I hope that the site of my first Cup race is the site of my second win."

Crew Chief Robbie Reiser's thoughts on Dover:

"Car 15 is the one we have selected for Dover. Last race we spoiled our top-10 streak. Since the June race I wish I could say we have turned things around, but we have not. We are still struggling and trying to figure out what we are missing in this program."

Spotter Mike Calinoff’s thoughts on Dover:

"I always call Dover 'Matt's track'. It is where he ran his first Winston Cup race and really impressed everyone. He gets around there with such skill that it makes him appear as if he's driving on rails. I'm fairly confident we will find Victory Lane there."

Text provided by Amy Walsh

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