I know its early?

Question

Even though we have a long season of racing yet to come, what do you think Bobby LaBontes chances of making the chase are? He is in 14th in points now. Need to be top 12. Mark Martin is ahead of him still & will recieve no points again this week.

Answer 1

I think Bobby will be close, but not quite. I can see him finishing 15th to 20th in points this year, primarily because of the competition.

I don't know if Petty's equipment is at the level of some of the others. They're a two car team up against the normally top-performing teams like Roush, Hendricks, Joe Gibbs Racing, and Evernham Motorsports. This year, teams like Richard Childress Racing and Chip Ganassi Racing are also really performing well. If my count is correct, that's 21 cars right there that one might consider Petty Enterprises to be behind. Obviously, some of those cars aren't having the best luck right now, such as Scott Riggs, Kasey Kahne, or Casey Mears, so that's why I would think that Bobby is in 15th to 20th place equipment. Bobby is certainly talented, and as long as he doesn't get caught up in wrecks or has to deal with engine/equipment failures, he'll be fine.

Another thing I think Petty Enterprises has going for them is the Car of Tomorrow. They jumped onto the Car of Tomorrow bandwagon early in order to try and gain an advantage. The COT seems to be the big wildcard this season, so that also makes it anybody's game. Not that Petty's COT seems to be much better than anybody elses, it's just that the COT kind of levels the playing field a bit at this point, since everybody is learning it.

Petty Enterprises continues to rebuild and improve and I think it's starting to show, but they've still got a ways to go. They're getting good people in place, building chemistry, and trying some new things. I know they will be moving their shop soon, too. I am excited to watch them rebuild and I hope to see them return to their past glory. I respect Bobby Labonte for taking the opportunity to be part of that.

Answer 2

25-35 years ago, I would say excellent chances (heck, maybe 10 years ago too, when Bobby Hamilton helped bring the 43 back to a respectable status, I would say good chance)

Petty Enterprises isnt the team it was. For it to succeed in my opinion, Kyle Petty has to retire, and fully focus on running PE with his dad. Bobby Labonte is a good driver, so thats one thing going for them though.

I would say decent odds, if luck goes Labonte's way

Answer 3

He may be able to reach the top 15 but the chase is doubtful.
The Petty family is one of the most respected family's in NASCAR history, however they have not be able to prove them selves as top runners on the track as owners.
They at least have better talent behind the wheel and a better shot with Bobby.

Answer 4

I think this could be Bobby Labonte's year.If he stays steady and consistant he should be in the top 12 easily.
That's all I have to say about that.

Answer 5

If he can stay constant, and not have any slumps he stands a chance. Like you said Martin isn't running a full season. And that leaves him in 13th thus far so the chase is not out of the question.

Answer 6

He will not make the Chase (this year or future years) until Petty Enterprises is back on top of their game. Their equipment is too hit or miss.

Answer 7

Slim & none. [And Slim just left town on the last train to nowhere.] I like Bobby, and wish him and Petty Enterprises the best of luck. They sure do need it. His average finish for the last two years is 20th.
But keep the faith, strange things can happen in racing. Strange things man, strange things....
http://www.nascar.com/drivers/dps/blabonte00/cup/index.html#stats

Answer 8

As the English say "NOT BLOODY LIKELY!" And, BTW, it's Labonte, not LaBonte.

Answer 9

i like the pettys and all but they will never win another champioship ol richard is a good driver but i think it was mostly the dodges back in the day

Answer 10

TO MANY OTHER TEAMS WITH MORE MONEY BETTER