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Rewind | Commentary and some of the key moments

- jutter@charlotteobserver.com
Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009

Rewind

About that consistency thing ...

Throughout NASCAR this season, there was one common denominator: Finishing second is nothing to be disappointed about.

Yes, Jimmie Johnson has won four straight Cup titles, but the performance required to win it has improved each season, just as it has in the Nationwide Series. Running second could have won five of the last six championships.

And then there was Ron Hornaday in the Truck series – with five-straight wins at one point on his way to his record fourth title.

Heading the right direction?

If anyone can look for some hope for next season, it’s the people at Richard Childress Racing. After struggling most of the 2009 season, they ended the year on a high note.

Kevin Harvick was second in the number of laps led Sunday. Teammate Jeff Burton finished second for the second consecutive race.

Logano proves Martin a prophet

About three years ago, Mark Martin said he would put then-16-year-old driver Joey Logano in a Cup car that very day if he could.

And now Logano is rookie of the year in the Cup series and, at 19, the youngest to win the award. He is also the youngest race winner in Cup history.

Key moments

Lap 1

Jimmie Johnson leads the first lap and collects five bonus points, putting even more distance between himself and Mark Martin in the championship battle.

Lap 86

Kevin Harvick passes leader Tony Stewart and leads the next 49 laps, but won't lead again.

Lap 116

Part I of Tony Stewart vs. Juan Pablo Montoya. Montoya bumps Stewart from behind, then Stewart slams into Montoya as they race side-by-side.

Lap 156

Part II of Stewart-Montoya. Montoya comes back out after repairs from the previous incident and wrecks Stewart. Montoya is penalized two laps.

Lap 223

Denny Hamlin passes Joe Gibbs Racing teammate Kyle Busch and holds off Jeff Burton for the win.

Next race

2010 Daytona 500

Where: Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, Fla.

When: 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 14.

TV: Fox.

Radio: Motor Racing Network.

Last year’s winner: Matt Kenseth.

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