RaceTown Atlanta A Hit For the Whole Family

With improving weather over the weekend fans from all over took in the interactive street festival RaceTown Atlanta and everyone I talked to seemed to enjoy it.

There were giveaways, food, games, and the opportunity to get up close to some of the great showcars of the likes of Tony Stewart, Jeff Burton and Jamie McMurray to name a few.

As I reported earlier, Kasey Kahne was onhand to kick off the activities with an autograph session.

Fans could play some pit crew games, and try the products these drivers promote. I was able to pick up a t-shirt from Crown Royal, a couple key chains and a travel coffee mug from NAPA.

In the past this event was held in Downtown Atlanta at Centennial Olympic Park, this year it was moved to Atlantic Station. This allowed fans to make a day of it shopping and trying out the neighborhood restaurants.

Thanks to the Atlanta Sports Council for putting it on.

Johnson Wins in Atlanta: On Gordon's Heels

Jimmie Johnson has moved to within nine points of leader Jeff Gordon in his persuit of a second straight Nextel Cup Championship.

Johnson held on Sunday in Atlanta for the victory over Carl Edwards and Gordon ended up in seventh.

Three races remain and it is now certain it will be either Gordon or Johnson hoisting the trophy at the end of the season.


2007 Standings Behind
1. Jeff Gordon (24) -
2. Jimmie Johnson (48) -9

Weather Holds Off For Race Activities

A morning drizzle gave way to dry overcast conditions then some sun as Friday practice, and Friday night qualifying too place.

Friday morning hundreds of fans stood in line for a chance to meet and receive an autograph from Kasey Kahne at RaceTown Atlanta where he was appearing from McDonalds.

The McDonalds exhibit also featured a #35 Bobby Hamilton Jr. car and free McDonald's coffee giveaways.

Craftsman Truck Series practice went on as schedule Friday as did Nextel Cup practice and qualifying.

And Then There Were Three

The three drivers remaining with a chance to win the season long points NASCAR Nextel Chase:


Nextel Cup
2007 Standings
Behind
1. Jeff Gordon (24) -
2. Jimmie Johnson (48) -53
3. Clint Bowyer (07) -115

Bowyer right now is hanging by a thread, he needs a win this week in Atlanta.

Big Weekend on tap for ATL

Four races remaining, and for the last weekend in October NASCAR heads south to Atlanta Motor Speedway. 3 drivers still have a chance, will Atlanta help sort this mess out?

On Friday, The Atlanta Sports Council is putting on a nice race festival at Atlantic Station in Atlanta on Friday and Saturday. Information can be found on the Atlanta Sports Council's website lnked above. Hours are 11am to 8pm on Friday and Saturday. Showcars, exhibits, merchandise and Kasey Kahne is scheduled to be there on Friday as well. The best part about this street festival is that itis FREE!

I'll be there and will provide a full recap on it with pictures and reports.

Johnson Cuts Into Gordon's Chase Lead

Jimmie Johnson won another exciting race and cut into Jeff Gordon's lead as the Chase for the Championship heads into its home stretcch.

Johnson held off Ryan Newman and Gordon for his 7th victory of the season.

Johnson now trails his Hendrick teammate by 53 points heading into this weeks race in Atlanta.

Off to Martinsville

Five races to go and this week finds us heading to Martinsville for the Subway 500.

While many say it is a two horse race at this point don't tell that to Clint Bowyer or especially Tony Stewart.

Historically Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson and Tony Stewart have fared well at Martinsville.

This should all make for an exciting race on the .53 mile oval. Look for a Chevy to win at Martinsville, the only non Chevy winner in the past 10 races was Rusty Wallace in 2004, in a Dodge.

Rick C. Limpert is a columnist for Nothin' But NASCAR He is an Atlanta based freelance writer and photographer for over 8 years covering Sports and Events all over the world. His works have been featured in numerous print and online publications.