From the September, 2007 issue of Stock Car Insider

Sharp Aquos at California Speedway Recap

Sweltering heat and low tire pressures are about the only story to note in yesterday's Sharp Aquos at California Speedway. How does that sound for a headline? I'm all for growing NASCAR into the premier sport in the country (which means moving to tracks that cater to larger markets), however, I miss the good 'ole action packed Southern 500 that occurred on Labor Weekend at Darlington Raceway for decades.

Any race at Darlington produces better headlines than "Sweltering head and low tire pressures". Instead, fans are stuck with another boring and hot race at California Speedway. Oh well, back to the story.

NASCAR drivers had to endure extreme temperatures in yesterday's Sharp Aquos 500. The cockpit temperature recordings stayed in the 3-digit range the entire evening taxing even the most conditioned drivers. Tire pressures also played a critical role. To gain more grip on the extra slippery hot asphalt, teams would lower the left front tire pressures at the risk of causing a blow-out. Just ask drivers like Robby Gordon and Reed Sorenson. Both suffered late race blow-outs that cost them a chance at a respectable finish.

Other drivers to note:

Series leader, Jeff Gordon, won't hold the lead for much longer if he doesn't win next week. The four time champion finished 22nd, and did not pick up his much needed 5th victory of the year..

Matt Kenseth bounced back after a bad showing in Bristol. The "Silent Assassin" Kenseth snuck in a 7th place finish and is locked into the Chase.

Denny Hamlin followed up his first DNF ever in the Nextel Cup series last week at Bristol with a 19th place finish in California. Not the best finish. However, Hamlin is just killing time until the Chase starts. He has nothing left to gain.

Dale Earnhardt Jr did all he could to help his team earn a spot in the Chase. Jr finished in 5th place. The only problem is, his bubble-buddies also had outstanding finishes. Earnhardt is still in 13th and over 150 points out of 12th.

See complete 2007 NASCAR Schedule