DJ Kennington, driver of the Mahindra Tractors, N.P. P., #81 Dodge in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, will be pulling double duty this weekend, but none like any other driver. As many drivers attempt double duty (driving in the Nationwide Series and Nextel/Sprint Cup Series) in the same weekend, no one else does it having to pass through customs.
“This is one of the toughest doubles to pull this season”, claims St Thomas Ontario, Canada native, Kennington. “The race in the Nationwide Series is in Louden, New Hampshire at 3:00pm and the Canadian Tire Series is at Barrie Speedway at 8:00pm. All I have to do is cross over a big pond, right? “
Becoming a familar face at the Canada/USA border, the driver usually has his trusty Hans Device in hand. “Its kind of funny, you see kids walking around with a basketball or football in their hands,..... I carry a Hans! “
Kennington who sits 22nd in driver points in the Nationwide Series wants to get as much seat time while he strives for the 20th position. “I really want to have a round number and twenty is good for our team. We have 1/4th the staff and 1/8 the resources but 100% of the heart and desire. ” In the Canadian Tire Series, Kennington has climbed from last to 7th in driver points in just a few short weeks.
“We got behind the eight ball at the first race when we blew a motor. This isnt the first time we came from behind and with the experience and confidence Im recieving in the Nationwide Series, I feel the Championship is within reach for 2008. “
Kennington who lead the point standing last season during the final race, knows nothing is a lock. “It was humbling last season. Leading the points and final race only to have a flat tire in the closing laps yanked the Championship away! “
Kennington will attempt the International Double Duty again next week as well. The second race of the Canadian Tire Series at St. Eustache’ was postponed to July 5th. “Daytona on the 4th and St Eustache’ on the 5th, now thats a haul. ” The “haul” Kennington is referring to is the 1,407 mile trek from one series to another.
“This double duty is not for everyone, but Im a racer. If I have to sew a passport on my drivers suit, thats O. K. with me, I would just rather tape it to my Hans. “
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