Mark Martin provides hope for 2009
The start of the season isn't in sight quite yet, especially with the lack of testing blunting the traditional preseason hype.
And without testing, it’s a little hard to be excited about the season with Daytona Speedweeks still nearly a month away. After all, when I think about 2009, I think “more of the same.”
More Jimmie Johnson. More Jimmie Johnson vs. Carl Edwards. More Jimmie Johnson vs. Kyle Busch. More Carl Edwards vs. Kyle Busch. Some combination of those.
I don’t foresee a lot of new and exciting names at the front of the field this year, though I hope I’m wrong.
The one story line that could save the entire season is a rejuvenated Mark Martin contending for both the Chase For The Sprint Cup and ultimately, the championship.
Martin’s union with Hendrick Motorsports should give him the opportunity to make one last run at a Cup title – at least in theory. We’ve seen promising partnerships turn into busts before, but at age 50, Martin still seems to provide some hope.
Tell me Martin going head to head with – and beating – some of the top young stars in the sport wouldn’t grab your interest. Who wouldn’t want to see Martin track down Busch at some midsummer race and pass him on the last lap for the points lead? That’s good stuff.
The old guy showing a little fight would go a long way for NASCAR this year.
