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Originally Posted by KP
NASCAR, the National Association of Stock Car Auto Racing, is a glorified marketing tool where the best "drivers" are really the individuals who are the most marketable.
C'mon, do you really think Viagara would want a 22 year old like Kasey Kahne to promote their product? There's a reason why 50 year old Mark Martin is sponsored by them.
Ever since Jeff Gordon came to the sport as the original "Young Gun" there has been an influx of teenagers and 20 somethings that can talk with little to no twang talking up a storm going to events like commercials, public appearances, and....oh....races.
It's hard for me to imagine that so many young drivers like Stewart, Earnhardt, Kahne, Sadler, Busch, etc. can come in and immediately be successful over the likes of the more established drivers like Labonte, Wallace, Jarrett, & Martin.
Gordon, hey, he proved with multiple championships that he must be a good driver. I am not a Gordon fan, so that was a difficult sentenc for me to type. Little E, well, he does have the family background. But where did these other kids come from?
It's not about driving, it's about marketability. Look good, talk so people can understand you, have a sponsor and car owner with an endless supply of cash and a pit crew that can keep the car running and you'll be a NASCAR chamnpion as soon as it's your turn.
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AAA is the sponsor for Mark Martin.Did you write this article a year ago?
Mark Martin is only in his 40's.I doubt he needs Viagara.
All these young drivers have come up through the ranks, most on small bull ring tracks you have never heard of.By the time they are 20,they could have
10 years experience.So,it's about both driving and marketability.Make no mistake about it,you have to have talent.Just ask Kerry Earnhardt or AJ Foyt
IV,Justin Labonte, or John Andretti who have failed as drivers.