It was an exciting race…when the Goodyear tire issues actually allowed racing. It was okay for us though. My son’s favorite driver is Jimmie Johnson and Jimmie pulled a victory on Sunday despite the stop and go nature of this year’s bizzare race. All those cautions about every 10 to twelve laps were called by NASCAR to allow teams to replace tires under yellow. 

One of my friends was sitting in the second turn. When he got home from the race, his face was covered in dark tire soot. The tires were in such bad shape they created a slippery rubber residue. From our vantage point, we could see several pits. I was wondering why the Pit crews were sweeping the pit area after each stop.

No matter. Our driver won.

I enjoy going to the Brickyard. While the Indy 500 has more tradition (nothing comes close to the ceremonies leading up to the start of the 500) I enjoy the crowd and feel of the NASCAR race just a bit more. I don’t worry about my son seeing too many wild scenes at the Brickyard race. The Indy race tends to still draw people more interested in the experience of the 500, instead of the racing at the 500. Fortunately the IRL is on the right track to compete with NASCAR. Though NASCAR may have more well known drivers and drama now, I think the Indy cars made a tremendous leap forward with the reunification this year.

But for now, that doesn’t matter. Because on Sunday our driver won. Yea!

*****

Tuesday night at 10PM ABC NEWS is updating the excellent and emotional “Last Lecture.” Diane Sawyer profiled and interviewed Randy Pausch, the college professor that inspired millions with his internet supported last lecture, a love letter to his two young children. Pausch succumbed to cancer on Friday.

I dare you to watch this special and not be moved. It is inspiring television. Do not miss it. It will change the way you look at your life. Honest.