My favorites in the NASCAR Garage
As someone who has had the privilege of having access to the garage and media centers around NASCAR, I often get asked opinions of what a certain driver is really like. I’ll maintain that there is not a more fan friendly, media friendly group of athletes in all of sports than the drivers in NASCAR. It’s really difficult to pick the best of the best but I decided to give it a shot. If your driver didn’t make the list have no fear, they are probably on someone else’s list and most likely on my honorable mention list.
10) Kyle Busch - What? Really? Yep. Have you seen the video that Kyle took leaving Martinsville Speedway back in April of this year? That’s the Kyle Busch I know at the track. In the car it is a different story. His will to win is second to none.
9) Brad Keselowski – I bet this is another shocker for many of you. His use of social media and his interaction with fans is just outstanding. Recently I heard him describe many NASCAR drivers as a bit bipolar. Completely different behind the wheel of their race cars as opposed to out of them. Brad is a perfect example of that.
8) Dale Earnhardt Jr. – Jr. is the most popular driver among fans in NASCAR and he handles that title with dignity and pride. I've seen Dale take the hat off his head and give it to a young fan without even being asked. He's as popular among members of the press as he is with the fans.
7) Jeff Gordon – No one, not named Earnhardt, gets mobbed at a track more than Gordon. Gordon has always handled it with class and grace. Have a small child around and watch Jeff melt. Children bring out the best in this gentleman.
6) Richard Childress – The newly inducted Hall of Famer is very popular in the garage and always willing to oblige fans. Have a question about the sport or just want to talk about the weather, he’s always willing to stop and chat.
5) Jamie McMurray – You can often tell when someone is just going through the motions but not Jamie. He’s genuinely happy to be in the sport and he sincerely appreciates the fans who support it. Always a smile on his face.
4) Clint Bowyer – This guy is just plain funny. He will joke with anyone and always seems to be in a good mood. You can often tell a lot about a man when he is having a rough time of it. Clint is handling this seasons rough finishes with grace and humor.
3) Carl Edwards – There are a few drivers who become different people when the cameras are on. Not Carl. What you see on television and hear on radio is exactly who this guy is. Another wonderful, funny and happy man. Easy to root for.
2) Richard (The King) Petty – We are so lucky to still have The King at the track. Talk about fan friendly, he won’t leave any place until every last fan has gotten an autograph or picture. The sport’s biggest superstar, on and off the track.
1) Justin Allgaier – Justin is now in the Xfinity Series but he’ll be back. A couple years ago I wrote an article where I praised this young man. His father wrote me after reading the article and thanked me for those kind words. I had the privilege of meeting his Dad a couple years later. These good folks from Illinois are my absolute favorite people in NASCAR. He wins my Nicest Guy in the Garage Award.
Thanks for reading. Listen to WTBQ radio on Monday and Friday mornings at 8:45 as I join Frank, Taylor and the Morning Show gang to discuss all the current happenings in NASCAR. You can also follow me on twitter @JimLaplante.
