Nascar: Martin Skewers His Own Hopes!

NASCAR at Statleader.com:

Mark Martin was bubbling with enthusiasm Sunday after his fourth straight top 10 finish since leaving longtime employer Jack Roush for Ginn Racing.

In past seasons, there would be considerable speculation about the four-time NASCAR Nextel Cup points runner-up finally winning that elusive championship.

Not this year.

Despite the best start of his long career and being in the points lead, Martin confirmed Sunday that he will sit out the races next week at Bristol and the following week at Martinsville, ending a string of 621 consecutive starts.

It's the reason he changed teams after 19 years with Roush, the opportunity to run a partial Cup schedule, race only when he wants to and to have more time with his family and for himself.

NASCAR: Fans Ready To Push Mark To Race?

A column by Jerry Bonkowski for Yahoo Sports suggest that NASCAR fans should let Mark Martin and Ginn Racing know just how much they think Martin should stay behind the wheel.

Bonkowski writes "With just one race left – this Sunday at Atlanta – before he makes good on his plan (or threat, in some people's eyes) to skip Bristol and turn over the No. 01 Chevrolet to rookie Regan Smith, now is the time for all good men (and women) to come to the aid of their country, er, driver."

"It's time to let Martin, team owner Bobby Ginn and everyone else associated with Ginn Racing know just how much they want the current points leader to make a full run at the championship. Can you say write-in (or call-in) vote?"

"Grab the closest piece of paper and a pen. Fire up your computer and start typing an email. Pick up the phone and start dialing (Ginn Racing's contact info can be found on the team's Web site). "

NASCAR Commentary: Mark Martin has had a "hall of fame" career - let's give him an excuse to change his plans and focus on the Nextel Cup. If you love Martin - having him conquer his last hurdle and win the Cup is a fan's dream... If you hate Martin - then having him win the Cup may finally get him to retire for good! Either way, its a win-win! See you in Bristol Mark!

See "Mark your ballots" for the full text of Bonkowski's article.