Series Focus
© 2006 Dwight Drum
Story and photos by Dwight Drum
Web Work by Gary Larsen

"It's time to go outside and get a new pair of sunglasses."
Joe Blash

Joe Balash has a bright forecast for the NASCAR Busch Series when he mentioned getting new sunglasses, but outside at the time was the spacious Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla. during the NASCAR Busch Series Championship Week. The proficient NASCAR staff planned luncheons, banquets, a Richard Petty Driving Experience ride with drivers for the media, fishing, golfing and batting practice all on manicured Disney property.

Fun-packed days are a reward for the top 10 NBS drivers and crew chiefs. In 2006 eight of those drivers were NASCAR NEXTEL Cup regulars as the season had numerous opportunities for the drivers to race in NNCS and NBS. The competition level for NASCAR'S three top levels has escalated in recent years and it takes dedication and resources to finish the season with wins and good results. A Disney vacation reward is appropriate after a long season.

NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series 2006 champion Todd Bodine team was also treated to Disney amenities by the sanction.

With routine excellence NASCAR Public Relations arrange media moments with drivers, directors, owners and crew chiefs throughout the season. Celebration weeks are even better for media because sanctions, drivers and teams aren't pressed with the grinding timetables of racing. Zoomster.com is happy to present many interviews garnered from cordial surroundings.

NASCAR Busch Series Director Joe Balash talks about the need for sunglasses in 2007.

Joe Balash:

Dwight Drum asked Joe Balash:

Can NASCAR fans expect big changes in the Busch Series for 2007?

"I don't think NASCAR fans will see any big change at all in the Busch Series for 2007. I think our mix of drivers will change a little bit as we get the influx of new class of rookies that are coming in. I don't we'll have as many full-time drivers running both series going into 2007. As far as the cars, the equipment and the rules, everything, the standard package is going to go forward and I think you just going to see the same exciting racing that's been in years past."

The forecast for the Busch Series, is it mostly sunny?

"Oh, absolutely. I think it's time to go outside and get a new pair of sunglasses, because it's going to be bright and sunny. It's going to be exciting for us."

What have been your biggest challenges over the past two years?

"I think the biggest challenges are always the logistics of getting from event to event and making sure everything is ready to go and do those type of things. Once we get there and you get everything set up I think everything flows pretty smoothly if no glitches or anything take place. Then it's just that we get to sit back and watch the competition unfold in front of us."

Are there unique challenges to the Busch Series that are separate from the NEXTEL Cup Series?

"I do think we have some things that are a little different than with the Cup Series, basically we're reaching out more to expand our international markets. Our events in Mexico City and now going up to Montreal will make things a little different and a little more exciting for us."