Whats Rockingham like?
Along with Darlington Raceway, it’s one of the toughest tracks on tires. The pavement, coated with sand from the surrounding soil, only takes a few laps to chew up Goodyear’s finest. It favors smart, experienced drivers who know when to conserve their tires and when to go for it. And get this: Drivers actually can pass each other there. It’s usually a pretty good race. Q: Smart, experienced driver? That sounds like a track tailor-made for Jeff Gordon, doesn’t it? A: Funny you should mention that. Gordon has won four times there, although his last Rockingham victory was four years ago. He was relatively quiet during Daytona’s Speed Weeks, finishing a respectable 12th in the 500, and there’s no reason to think he won’t contend for his fifth championship this year. Q: Who else, traditionally, is stout at Rockingham? A: Bill Elliott, Kyle Petty, Terry Labonte and Martin have won multiple races at “The Rock.” Q: Who has been good there of late? A: Johnny Benson earned his first career victo
