Chasing Checkers 7-24-21

It may be an off week for both NASCAR and IndyCar, but that didn't stop Chase McCabe from taking a deep dive into some of the big topics in racing.

Listen:

Or watch

Some highlights include: What is the fallout of NASCAR's decision to start the race at New Hampshire even when drivers reported rain? Kyle Busch wrecked while leading and was not happy.

When the race was red flagged, NASCAR Senior SVP, Steve O'Donnell went to the booth and discussed the situation with Dale Earnhardt Jr., Steve Letarte and Jeff Burton.

Clearly the communication between the drivers and NASCAR needs to improve, but how can it? Also, Chase dives into if the fans truly understand the position of the drivers or if a majority of them have the "shut up and drive" mentality. While at the Atlanta motor speedway, Chase asked Denny Hamlin that very question.

Aric Almirola would win the race, his first of the season. This win changed the playoff picture because Almirola is 23rd in points, but in the playoffs with the win. Chase discussed that and what that could mean for those in the playoffs without a win currently.

SRX also came to Nashville to a sold out crowd at the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway. Chase was there, but asked Cup drivers like Kevin Harvick in Atlanta if they thought two cup races at both tracks could work.

The SRX race was very exciting as Chase Elliott won, but had some great side by side racing with his father, Bill. It was a huge night for the Speedway and its future.

PHOTO: By Chase McCabe/Chasing Checkers Radio - Nashville, TN - Chase Elliott straps in for the feature race for SRX at the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway.

Tony Stewart took home the SRX Championship in its inaugural season. The younger Elliott said he was there to help build support for the historic short track. A sold out crowd on National TV (CBS) was huge for the track. Nashville Mayor John Cooper and Nashville Superspeedway President, Erik Moses, were both in attendance. 3 Time Cup Champion and NASCAR Hall of Famer, Darrell Waltrip, a former Nashville Speedway Champion, was also there along with veteran driver, Jeremy Mayfield.

Other things we covered:

- The Big Machine Music City Grand Prix is just 2 weeks away!

- Brad Keselowski has finally been announced to drive/co-own the 6 at Roush Fenway

- Silly Season is in full swing

You can always subscribe to the podcast or listen every Saturday at 9:00AM CT on ESPN 102.5 the Game in Nashville.

PHOTO: by Chase McCabe/Chasing Checkers Radio - Nashville, TN 7/17/21: Bill Elliott gets set for the feature race at the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway.

PHOTO: by Chase McCabe/Chasing Checkers Radio - Nashville, TN 7/17/21: Michael Waltrip gets some adjustments on his machine.

PHOTO: by Chase McCabe/Chasing Checkers Radio - Nashville, TN 7/17/21: SRX Champion, Tony Stewart briefs with his crew chief ahead of the feature race.

PHOTO: by Chase McCabe/Chasing Checkers Radio - Nashville, TN 7/17/21: NASCAR Champion, Bobby Labonte & 4-Time Indy 500 Champion, Helio Castroneves debrief after the final SRX race of the season.