Most of us recall the famous declaration by Clint Bowyer at Bristol in August of 2008. After Michael Waltrip triggered a wreck that involved Bowyer, who was fighting for a spot in the Chase for the Championship, he declared Waltrip as the 'worst driver in NASCAR, period'. He took it a step further and added 'I can't believe (sponsor) NAPA resigned with him'.
Waltrip's feelings were bruised a bit, but he responded by saying he was the 'worst driver to win two Daytona 500s and an All Star race'.
Clearly, that was a long time ago, and time heals most wounds. In a bit of irony, Bowyer will become employed by the man he publicly insulted.
Following a solid six-year tenure with Richard Childress Racing, Bowyer and his current team were unable to put together sponsorship package that would allow them to compete a full season in 2012 and beyond. Therefore, Bowyer was forced to look elsewhere for employment.
With 5-Hour Energy's support, Bowyer was able to talk to several teams, but it appears that Michael Waltrip Racing gave him the best opportunity from a sponsorship standpoint. After all, sponsors love Michael Waltrip.
On the surface, the move to MWR appears as a significant downgrade from RCR. Childress' teams have five wins this season alone. Waltrip's teams have two wins since 2007. Obviously, Childress has one of the elite organizations in Sprint Cup. Waltrip, on the other hand, is considered mid-pack. Martin Truex Jr and David Reutimann have displayed glimpses of speed over the years, but they have yet to really emerge as weekly contenders.
Can Bowyer give this team the spark they need in order finally get over that hump? I guess we will have to wait and see. Bowyer will have the luxury of working with a familiar face in Scott Miller, who will oversee competition aspects of MWR. Miller was a long-time employee for RCR. He could help ease the transition for Bowyer.
The announcement is expected to be for Friday at Kansas Speedway, which is considered Bowyer's backyard.
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