Harvick Appearance Puts Iowa Speedway on the Map
Sixteen-year-old racing phenom Joey Logano accomplished what Jimmie Johnson could not this past weekend. He raced past the reigning 2007 Daytona 500 Kevin Harvick to win the NASCAR Grand National Featherlite Coaches 200. Harvick earned a $1 million payday Saturday night, winning the Nextel All-Star Challenge but didn't have enough left to hold off the young Logano.
The largest crowd in Iowa Speedway history - estimated paid attendance 24,741 -witnessed terrific side-by-side racing as Logano and Harvick changed the lead 15 times during the race. 
The only people happier than Logano had to be the Iowa Speedway management and Rusty Wallace. Harvick had lots of great things to say about the track despite the loss. His most encouraging comments came when he said the Speedway would be a great facility for the Craftsman Trucks and Busch Series. The Nextel Cup series schedule is a little full but overall Harvick's comments had to be music to Newton's ears.
With nearly 25,000 attending a Busch Grand National race it ought to be an awesome crowd for the upcoming Indy Racing League. Not sure if any tax breaks were involved with the Speedway (a little dig Joe) but it sure is great to see that kind of development in Iowa and the enthusiasm exhibited by the fans. It was great fun and I highly recommend you grab a seat for the upcoming Indy race on June 24th. Even if you are not a big race fan it is sure to be a great time.
For more on the action last Sunday check out Doug Mitchell's post on Moments of Clarity.
P.S. That's me in the green shirt behind as Harvick gets into his car before the race. Thanks to Dave Slinker for the pictures. Dave and I reported for the Iowa Sports Connection about the race.
Boy! I thought I was in close! Do you have season seats, Newton Club, etc...or are you just the cub reporter on call :)
Wasn't that race excellent. I'm so happy I made the investment and can't wait to see open wheel mayhem in June.
Would you be up for a "bloganostra legends race day? I spoke at length with the dude that runs that racing series out there and he can get a group into a special deal for 130MPH racing on the speedway with your buddies.
Let me know.
Doug,
It was a ton of fun. We do have season tickets but the reporting gig was a blast. I am very interested in the racing day but only 130 mph? I'm kidding of course and would love to participate. I know a few guys that would love to do it.
Rush
What are ya, from southern Iowa or something??