Casey Mears

[MDS]

So... based on that analysis, Michael Waltrip racing hired Steve Hallam, so they must be looking at F1? Got it.

So when I said it probably means nothing you just read over that part?

[beachbum]

So when I said it probably means nothing you just read over that part?

IMHO, the implication was that the addition of Iain Watts might indicate Robbie's interest in moving to series with cars more in line with Watts experience. As you say it might mean nothing. If it means nothing, why suggest the implication?

Again, IHMO this may imply that NASCAR is moving to a technical level where engineers with experience in other "high tech" racing bring additional value to the teams.

[MDS]

Watts has been in NASCAR for at least two years now. The only reason I think their might be something more to it is that Robby has no money. He's looking at making the first eight or so races before having to shut his team down for lack of funds. I get the job market in NASCAR isn't what it was two years ago, but it looks a bit odd for an engineer of Watt's caliber to go to a team that might not make it to Charlotte.

[Mark in Oshawa]

Watts has been in NASCAR for at least two years now. The only reason I think their might be something more to it is that Robby has no money. He's looking at making the first eight or so races before having to shut his team down for lack of funds. I get the job market in NASCAR isn't what it was two years ago, but it looks a bit odd for an engineer of Watt's caliber to go to a team that might not make it to Charlotte.

Watt's may not have had any other offers. As good as he may or may not be, there is a lot of smart guys out there. He may also already be in Charlotte and not wanting to move up to Indy.

[MDS]

So to sum up my position: Robby hired an engineer with a lot of open wheel experience. Probably means nothing, small chance it could signify something else. Just total speculation on my part. No idea what's really going on.

[Mark in Oshawa]

That's what the silly season is for.

I find Silly season often better entertainment than some races..and that goes for other forms of racing besides NASCAR as well. Silly season and gossip is more.....up in the air, and opinions can fly every which way.

[MDS]

And as it turns out Robby is in fact pursuing a ride in 500.

He was a guest on some NASCAR program, and when asked about making an attempt at Indy this year he replied, "We giving it serious consideration right now... I would like to go to the Indy 500."

Guess my "Crystal Ball" was fairly accurate. It looks like he is going to do a partial schedule, he's lost Jim Beam as a sponsor, but Monster looks to be upping their involvement with him. He also has a very good relationship with John Menard.

http://www.planetrobby.com

[Chamoo]

And as it turns out Robby is in fact pursuing a ride in 500.

He was a guest on some NASCAR program, and when asked about making an attempt at Indy this year he replied, "We giving it serious consideration right now... I would like to go to the Indy 500."

Guess my "Crystal Ball" was fairly accurate. It looks like he is going to do a partial schedule, he's lost Jim Beam as a sponsor, but Monster looks to be upping their involvement with him. He also has a very good relationship with John Menard.

http://www.planetrobby.com

Well KVRT might pick him up for the 500 if he has Monster backing (PT connection).

[MDS]

Well KVRT might pick him up for the 500 if he has Monster backing (PT connection).

If he has money I think he'll have his pick of teams, he could also use his own team with rented equipment, as he's done in the past.

[Josh1985]

Mears was unable to make the field for the Daytona 500. I'm thinking that can only help the chances of us seeing him at Indy this May.