October 2005

10 Questions: Johnny Benson
By Dave Rodman, NASCAR.COM

Johnny Benson of late has diversified his championship racing career to include television work and promoting a racetrack, Berlin Raceway in his home state, Michigan

But he's concentrating most on breaking his winless bubble in the Craftsman Truck Series, where he drives Bill Davis Racing's No. 23 Toyota Certified Used Vehicles Tundra pickup.

During a break at New Hampshire last month, Benson sat down to answer 10 questions not necessarily related to his racing career.   Complete Q & A
(10-04-05)

September 2005

Q & A With Johnny
I saw that you sponsored Mikey's Operation Marathon effort last year.  Any chance you might join him in running 26.2 miles in the future?      (E Tucker - Maryland)
     No, I do not see myself joining Mikey for his Marathon effort by running 26.2 miles.  I'm going to leave the running to Mikey! 

Q & A With John Benson Sr.
I know you have spotted for Johnny in NASCAR.  I was wondering if he ever spotted for your when you raced?  (Sandi Beideman - Delaware)
     No, Johnny never had the opportunity to spot for me.  Most of the races that I competed in did not allow radio communication as they do today.

Can you describe what it was like when you make your one Winston Cup start at MIS?  (Eric Tucker - Maryland)
     It was exciting to be racing with the big name racers at MIS.  I believe it was called Grand National Racing at that time.   I qualified 36th and finished 21st.   The sensation of speed was not as great as I thought it would be. It made it kind of boring because of the long straightaways.  The team I raced with was under funded and not prepared as they should have been.  They only had six used tires for the whole race which obviously was not competitive.  Other than that, it was great to have the opportunity to experience "big time" racing. 

July 2005

Have you ever been to Canada before? Just wanted to say how great it is that you are coming to our area. I wish you all the luck at the Irving Oil 250!! See you there!   (K. Norwood - Canada)
   Yes, I have actually raced at Calgary, Cayuga and Mosport in the American Speed Association Series.  I'm looking forward to crossing the border to meet the  Canadian race fans on Labor Day weekend.   (07-26-05) 

Johnny - Ever think about entering your late model at Berlin for the entire year and having a local driver sit in for you except the 3 or 4 times you make it back to MI in the summer.  (Mike Toering - Michigan)
     I haven't given it much thought.  The shop I keep my late model is located in North Carolina, so logistically it would be hard to compete on a weekly basis. 

June 2005
Here is the fourth and final installment of questions and answers from the JB fans who post on the JBFC message board. (06-05-05)

May 2005

Here is the third installment of questions and answers from the JB fans who post on the JBFC message board. (05-10-05)

March 2005

Q & A With Drew Brown
The JBFC thanks Drew Brown for taking time out of his busy schedule to answer questions from the JB fans.  Drew worked with Johnny as a PR Rep during the Pennzoil and Valvoline years.  He is a great friend to the entire Benson Family.  Currently, Drew is handling the Lowes account and made the trip to Mexico.  Drew was in charge of handling Adrian Fernandez - the most popular driver in Mexico.   (03-24-05)

First, I want to say CONGRATULATIONS on the great run!!  My Question is... What is the cost of going to Mexico City in comparison to going to the races on the west coast?   (JB Hat Lady - Bobbie)
Actually, the cost was relatively cheap for travel and accommodation. I think some of the articles you might have read in the media talking about the cost probably had more to do with the Busch Series adding  two road courses back on the schedule. I think most of the Busch teams have to build two if not four road course cars to race at Mexico City and Watkins Glen. Throw in some test sessions and you can see why some of the owners might have brought up the cost of going to Mexico. I think our room rates were less than $100 a night. You would never find anything that cheap in a U.S. race market. The food and drink were relatively cheap as well.

Do you think there will be Cup and Truck races there in the near future?
     I hear rumors that there might be a truck race at another site in Mexico some time next season but those are just rumors. Speculation is the trucks will race at Monterrey with the open wheel cars and the  Busch cars will definitely be back in Mexico City. I hope that is true. I'd love to see Johnny on a road course with his Toyota.  As for a Cup race I can't see one any time soon. There are so many places here in the U.S. that would want another or an additional race date. But you never know. I wish there was an oval where NASCAR could race and put on a great show for the fans.

This is the 2nd installment of the question and answer session with the message board users

Is there a great deal of difference with the handling characteristics between the Cup, Busch and CTS vehicles and is there one that is easier to handle than the others?  (Mike - Tenn10Fan) 
     The difference is due to the wheel base of the each car / truck in their respective series.  The trucks are more forgiving and easier to handle.

How much does the sponsor really impact the driver?  Like when you drover for Valvoline, Pennzoil and Cheerios, did you actually use the product?  Has Toyota given you a Tundra?  Come on, you can be honest. 
(PremoSpeed) 
     No reason to be dishonest on this question.  Yes, I always use the product that I am sponsored by.  In fact, I still use Valvoline oil and my family eats all varieties of the Cheerios product.  Yes, I am driving a Toyota Sequioa.   

Good luck in 2005 .....  Are you still going to be with Schrader and Waltrip on Inside Nextel Cup?  I saw that Kenny Wallace is heading your way.
(Heath) 
     Yes, I am going to be part of the show in 2005.  The format has changed to 90 minutes to give us more time to review the Nextel Cup, NBS and Craftsman Truck Series along with the race preview, questions and hot seat guest.  The program begins at 8:00 pm - eastern time on SPEED.  I believe Kenny Wallace will continue as a fill in when the "expert panel" can not make the show.

I always wanted to know what kind of personal cars NASCAR drivers own.  What kind of street cars do you drive?  Any old hot rods or muscle car?
(Jon Cornette - JON68RT)
     The manufacturer usually gives the driver a selection of their cars.  My family has a Toyota and I do own a hot rod.  A picture of it can be found on the history page of johnnybenson.com

February 2005
In January, we gave the message board users to ask Johnny a series of questions.  Here is the first installment.  (02-05-06)

When a driver/crew chief/owner gets fined by NASCAR, when must they fine be paid by and what does NASCAR do with the money?  The NBA gives it to charity.  (Chris) 
     The fine should be paid by the next race.  It goes to the point fund.  (Barb's note:  do you remember a couple of year back when Rusty Wallace paid his fin in pennies!) 

Do you sometimes look at NASCAR racing as more of a job than racing?  It just seems tome that you are one of the "real racers'.  You don't seem to mind the over-exposure of NASCAR, but does it make you want to go our and race most of the time and forget the other stuff?  (Geno)
     As I have moved through the ranks of the different racing series, I have learned to adapt to the other responsibilities of racing in the NASCAR series.  It's all part of the job.  And yes, I love to go racing. 

Do you thing that having the Chase format in the Truck Series would benefit the series or do you think it would be a bad idea?  (Benson109Rules)
     At this point, I feel they should leave it the way it is.  Maybe in a couple of years, it would be at a point to add it to the NBS and Truck series. 

January 2005

I had several opportunities to compete in a CUP ride, but did not feel that they were competitive so I turned them down.  Driving the #23 Toyota Tundra for Bill Davis Racing was competitive.  Bill Davis called and asked me to drive at Kansas, but sponsorship issues were not resolved.  By the time the Craftsman Truck Series rolled into Michigan International Speedway, BDR moved forward.

December 2004

From Keaton Johnson of Michigan:   Hi JB.  Are you going to be driving the 23 Busch car?  I love Bill Davis Racing and I  think you are the right one.  
     No, I will not be driving the #23 BGN car.  It appears that Bill Davis Racing is closing down the that team.  Kenny Wallace and Stacker 2 have moved to another team.

October 2004

Q & A with Johnny - Part 5
JB fans who post on the JBFC message board submitted questions for Johnny.  This is the final portion of our question and answer session.  (10-21-04)

Is the number on the car that you race significant to you?  If not, what would be your favorite number to drive?  (DoubleShot)

     I kept the #10 on my late model, because the fan club still had merchandise with the #10 on it.  My favorite number would be #21 because of my dad - but he uses that number at Berlin Raceway .....

This is on the technical side.  Can you reveal the lift and duration of the cam you use without telling an secrets to your fellow Berlin Late Model racers?  (Dj882000)

     I do not build or refreshen my engines.  Katech Engines on the east side of the state is in charge of my engines ..... 

Johnny, have you ever raced at the Rockford Speedway (our home track?)  That's northwest of Chicago and a fun place for a race (Klaus and Paulette)

     No, I have never raced there.  If my memory serves me correctly, the closest tracks would be Milwaukee and Lake Geneva that I traveled to.

What have you missed the most while out of a full time ride in the Nextel Cup weekly racing?   What have you missed the least?  (The Inspector)

     I miss the competition.  I do not miss the travel and complaining. 

Where do you like to eat when in Grand Rapids?  What do you feel would be the perfect sponsor for yourself?   (RSQ-Ranger)

     I like to eat at local restaurants.  Sponsorwise - the best for me would be Home Dept, Lowes or UPS. 

Did you have a different direction or dream that you wanted to go in or do if you didn't become a racer?  What do you still want to accomplish as a driver in this sport?  (BensonRulesBusch)

     I would become a fabricator and use my tool and die skills.  I would like to be competitive, win races and have an opportunity for a championship. 

What is your favorite paint scheme you ever driven?  (JBOHIOFan)

     The Cheerios - Bunny car and Toy Story Car

Who are some of your favorite drivers to watch in the Nextel Cup Series?    (Waltripbensonfan)

     Matt Kenseth

What's one thing you wish other drivers paid more attention to on the track?  (HighLineDrifter)

     Less bumping

With all the drivers and crew member's children getting into racing, what would your reaction be if either of your daughters wanted to race?   (TheBangorFan)

     It would be totally up to them to decide their career paths

What kind of student were you in school?  (Lugnut)

     Quiet student

Have you ever tried NASCAR racing on the computer?  (doc utts)

     No, it is something I have not tried

In your trips back to Berlin, what drivers in particular do you feel have the ability to move on?  (BIGDOG)

     Berlin is one of the hardest tracks to compete at.  There are a few young drivers that look like they will move on to the next level. 

Is there rally a main driving difference in Chevy vs Ford?  (#1BensonFan)

     No, not really

September 2004

Q & A with Johnny - Part 4
JB fans who post on the JBFC message board submitted questions for Johnny.  Here is the fourth part of our question and answer session.  (09-24-04)

You have been quite busy this year with your different rides and committments to Berlin.  Do you have someone drive your motorhome and hauler?  Or do they share the driving with you?  (FayfromPA)

     The first year I was in Winston Cup in 1996, I drove my own motorcoach.   I then hired Russ Hoekwater to drive and maintain the motorcoach.  Russ would drive it to all the races with the exception of the west coast events.  You are right, this year has been unique.  We both share the driving of the race hauler for the Berlin events.  Depending on my schedule, I may fly out of Grand Rapids or drive depending the next state I am racing in.  

Have you considered writing a book about your experience in racing?    (Mew1701 - Matthew)
     No, it is not something I have considered doing.     

You had the privilege to race Dale Earnhardt for a little over 5 years.  You have Dale, you was known from his timely aggressiveness, where you are known for your timely patience. I've also wondered, what's your best one-on one memory or run-in with the intimidator?    
 (Premo Speed)
     My first encounter was at Berger Chevrolet.  Dale and I did an autograph session there and his pit crew did a pit stop exhibition with my ASA car.  Another encounter was when he called me to drive his BGN car at Dover.  One of the most memorable was when I finished 2nd in the truck race in Phoenix.  The day of the Cup race he came up from behind me, grabbed my neck and told me I should have won the race!

Q & A with Johnny - Part 3
JB fans who post on the JBFC message board submitted questions for Johnny.  Here is the second part of our question and answer session.  (09-15-04)

Some of the drivers talk about getting out to play golf in their leisure time.  Do you get a chance to get out much, and do you play with any of the drivers?  Would you ever entertain the possibility of a Johnny Benson Charity Outing when you make your trips to Grand Rapids?  The Meadows at Grand Valley would be a great setting.  (wmijbfan)
     Over the years, I have participated in golf outings with various drivers for a charity event.  At this point, I do not spend my leisure time on the golf course.  I rather be working on my late model.  Yes, I would be willing to participate in a charity golf event in Grand Rapids when I am in town if my schedule permits it.  

Johnny great job on the Truck and Busch races as a commentator.   When you are on INC, does Mikey get paid based on how much he talks?  You and Kenny really need to speak up and not let him talk too much.  (JBFan in CA - Craig)
     Kenny and I try our best to get a word in when Mikey is there.  We get paid by the number of shows that we do.   

When you are done racing NASCAR in 20 years or so, are you interested in owning a race team, broadcasting full time or both if the opportunities are there? How much of lining up a ride depends on the owner and how much does it depend on the driver asking around "tactfully" without ruffling other's feathers.   (KzooJBFan)
     When I finally retire, I plan to have my feet up in the air - ha!  Seriously, I do not plan on owning a NASCAR team.  Many drivers have tried it and did not succeed.  Broadcasting has been a lot of fun and is something I might be interested in.  As far as lining up a ride, it depends 100% on the owner and sponsor to ensure they have the right driver fit. 

Q & A with Johnny - Part 2
JB fans who post on the JBFC message board submitted questions for Johnny.  Here is the second part of our question and answer session.  (09-07-04)

Johnny, if you were GOD of NASCAR for a day what would be the one change you would make to the sport?  (Chris)
     There would be less rules. 
 

What make and model boat do you have?  Do you go boating with other drivers/families?  (StokedfoJB)
     My boat is a Colbalt.   Due to the hectic racing schedule, I just use the boat for my family and friends. 

Do you believe that you will get another shot at a Nextel Cup Championship?  If the opportunity was there, would you works again with James Ince to achieve that championship?  (JW Westerholt)
     I hope that I get another shot in the Nextel Cup Series and would work with James again if the opportunity arose. 

Q & A with Johnny - Part I
JB fans who post on the JBFC message board submitted questions for Johnny.  Here is the first part of our question and answer session.  (08-30-04)
 

I would like to know if Johnny likes the road courses or if he just wants to get its over with and move in to the next race.  (Toolbox)
     I like the road courses - they are a lot of fun to drive.  I just wish they were a non points race. 

Johnny, when did you change your autograph from "Johnny Benson" to "Johnny B"? Was it a conscious decision or did it just happen? I have some of both and the newer ones all have "Johnny B". Just curious.   JBfaninNC - Martha. 
     It just happened around 2000.  People started calling me JB and that is what I put on my cars. 

August 2004
Johnny did an interview with Mike Harper of the Spin Out Zone

Johnny Benson - Inside the Spin Out Zone NASCAR Driver and Speed TV personality visits with columnist Mike Harper.  This Grand Rapids, Michigan native holds honors that some of NASCAR's greatest drivers can't claim.

Prior to his NASCAR premier series victory in 2002 at Rockingham, he won the 1994 Busch Series Rookie of the Year and 1996 Winston Cup Series Rookie of the Year awards. Between the two rookie awards, he achieved the goal of all Busch Series drivers by winning the 1995 Busch Series Championship.

During the 2000 Winston Cup season, he fell just short of taking one of NASCAR's most prestigious prizes - the Daytona 500.

Over the last two years he has seen the highs of winning in NASCAR's premier series and the lows of injuries and team breakups, but one thing remains for certain, he is highly respected by his peers and loved by the fans.

It's my great pleasure to say Johnny Benson you are Inside the Spin Out Zone.

SOZ: Johnny thanks for taking time to jump into the zone and answer a few questions.  It's been a crazy 2004 season for you. Looking back to the beginning of the year, if you could put a finger on your most rewarding experience what would it be and why?

JB: I guess the most rewarding experience would be winning the pole position at Rockingham Speedway. I ran Busch for 2 years and never got a pole. It has been also nice to be in a competitive ride.

SOZ: We've seen you jump into the Speed TV booth during the Craftsman Truck Series races and you've done quite well. Are we seeing the start of a new career path for Johnny Benson?

JB: Not at this time. Although the television broadcasts have been fun. I am not ready to move onto that career path. However, if I have a free weekend where I am not racing and the broadcast scheduling works out I plan to be in the booth.

SOZ: Many NASCAR personalities have decided to test the waters in owning a Busch Series or Craftsman Truck Series team. Have you thought about NASCAR ownership in either of those two series and if not, why?

JB: Probably not. My pockets are not deep enough and sponsorships are not scarce. Another problem is the lack of an alliance with a multi-car team that has their own engine program.

SOZ: This year you've driven for James Finch and you've filled in for Matt Kenseth in his #17 Busch Series ride. Could you tell the difference in equipment between the two stables and if so, what stood out most?

JB: Both race teams had good equipment and I enjoyed working with both of them. There was not much difference between the Dodge and Ford teams.

SOZ: It seems like we find your name in the rumor mill on a daily basis. Where do you stand on securing a ride for this year or for the 2005 season?

JB: At this point in time, I have not secured a ride for 2005. Hopefully, something will come in the future.

SOZ: How did the test session go at Nashville in the #23 Bill Davis Racing truck? Do you look at testing opportunities as a practice session for yourself or a way to stay in front of owners that are possibly looking at making driver changes?

JB: The test session at Nashville went fair - we have something we can improve on. I look at testing at helping that particular team. It also gives me an opportunity to see what other teams have. I enjoy my time in testing a car or a truck.

SOZ: You have one of NASCAR's best fan clubs. From a driver's perspective, what makes a fan club successful?

JB: I would have to say it's the amount of effort that one puts into it. It needs to be informative. I appreciate the fan base that I have - especially through this transitional year.

SOZ: Excluding racing, what professional sports do you follow and what teams do you support?

JB: I like to follow the X games - motorcycles. I do like to watch other sports, but do not follow any particular team.

SOZ: I've got to ask, your incident during the last Busch Series race at Bristol, on a scale from 1 to 10, how mad were you?

JB: Seven

SOZ: If you would, please share with us any special projects or charities that you support and/or any sponsor that you would like to recognize.

JB: Women's Auxiliary of Motorsports, MRO, Victory Junction Gang, Sponsors: Berger Chevrolet, Aaron's - Huge Supporter of Late Model Program - All sponsors in Cup Career - Pennzoil, General Mills, Aaron's and Valvoline.

I would like to thank Johnny for joining us and hopefully we will see him back in a NASCAR NEXTEL Cup ride soon. In the meantime, Johnny can be seen on Speed TV's Inside the NEXTEL Cup on Monday nights.  For more information about Johnny please visit www.johnnybenson.com.  Until next time, happy bumping!
 

May 2004 - Interview with Phoenix Racing Team
(Thanks to all the message board users who submitted questions for Barb to interview the Phoenix Racing Team at Nashville) 

Over the wall crew:  How much and what kind of training do you do? 
JB Hat Lady - Bobbie
     Per Marc Reno -  the pit crew does practice during the week, but we do not make an investment in training.  Last year, we hired a pit stop coach to train and condition with the same group out guys going over the wall.  After all the time and money investment, two of the guys quit and moved on. 

Marc Reno - What is the hardest part of being a spotter and how much dealing do spotters really do?  JB Hat Lady - Bobbie
     For me the hardest part is because I am too involved in with the car.  (Set-ups, pit strategy, etc).  I have to force myself to look ahead for problems.  As far as setting deals - I do not waste my time.  The drivers back out or by the time you find who you are looking for, the situation has changed. 

James Finch - Why pick a veteran like Johnny Benson and not follow the trends of picking a young guy to pilot your cars?  Premo Speed
     Because you know what type of driver you are getting. With a rookie, you do not always know. 

James Finch - We all know that you seem to be entering a car in cup every race.  Is the real reason for provisionals to build up owners points?   Terryjbfan
     It's part of the reason

Is there any chance they will add any Nextel races to the posted schedule, particularly either Michigan race for JB?  KzooJBFan     Please inquire about JB running the #09 car at Michigan with a Michigan or Canadian Casino Sponsor.  DaveNextel09. 
     There are no plans for Johnny to be competing at the CUP events at Michigan with Phoenix Racing. 

Johnny - Have you and David Stremme cleared the air and come to an agreement concerning the incident at Bristol?  Lugnut - Larry
   Yes, we have discussed our Bristol issue and we are moving forward. 

Johnny - Are you changing your number on the late model you will be racing at Berlin Raceway?  StokedforJB
   No, I am going to remain the 10.

How many cars are in the #1 Fleet?  Tenn109 Fan
     Per crew chief Jon Wolfe, they have 11 cars in their fleet.

James Finch - How do you feel about the teams who are not running the fully Busch season but are competing seriously in just some of the races with Cup funding and / or drivers.  Joe
     Doesn't really matter to me - competition is competition.  That is what is great about living in America. 

Johnny - when you get an award - ie:  The Mobil 1 Command Performance Driver of the Race or the Featherlite Most Improved Driver Award what does he get?  A trophy, or a can of Mobil oil?  GoJohnnyB - Klaus and Paulette
     The team gets the check that they present to Johnny prior to the next race.  (No oil!)

Jon Wolfe and JB:  When I take my scanner to the track and listen to the team during practice I often hear a lot of cross talk (things like the track concession workers or other teams).  Does this race team hear that as well or do they have better stronger radios.  Etucker - Eric
     Yes, it has been a problem for us at some tracks.  Other people may have their frequency close to ours, which causes the problem.  One of the teams I was with had a problem with sponsors who came into the trailer and starting picking up the extra radios and trying them out. Caused a little problem! 

James Finch - NASCAR claims it is trying to find ways to curb costs ...  yet with all the news changes they have called for over theses last few years, it appears that costs are rising instead.  Is NASCAR listening to the owner's concerns and what may be on the horizon to really help these escalating costs?  DE4JB - Nancy in Dover. 
     I do not really feel that they listen to the car owners or have them in mind when some of the rule changes take effect.  

Johnny - what kind of challenges have the softer tires created?
DE4JB - Nancy in Dover. 
     I face the same challenge regardless of the type of tire.  The goal is to get you car handling perfect through the center of the corner.

Engine Guy - Chuck Johnson - how much of the engine is reused after each race?  wcfcstr - Bob
     We are able to reuse the crank, possibly the cam and rods depending on mileage.  External components such as the water pump and balancer are reused quite a bit.  

April 2004

Johnny - it was cool to see you in the front row to shake hands with President Bush.  I was wondering what if anything he was saying to you as an individual or did he address his comments to all that was standing there?  Faye Roman from Pennsylvania.  
     It was a great moment for myself and the rest of the competitors to meet President Bush.  The comments he made were general - he was glad for the opportunity to be at the Daytona 500 and wished us luck in the race. 

Will Press Pass make Johnny NASCAR cards in the #1 or the #09 in the near future?  Andy Greenman - Minnesota
     They might - I know that there will be cards available with diecast. 

Is there a big difference between the Dodge and Pontiac with the handling and Aero. etc.?  Kris Hemstad - North Dakota
     At this point - it is too early to tell.  With common templates the aero package should be pretty even. 

What is the hardest track to race on and what do you like better - night racing or day racing?  Good luck and God Bless you.  Mike Lewis - Ohio
     All of the tracks present different challenges.  Daytona and Talladega are easier to drive since you are flat foot most of the time - just need to try and avoid the big wreck.  I prefer night racing .... 

What chassis are you running the BGN and Cup series?  JBSrFan - Indiana
     We are running a mixture of different chassis.

Do you think ASA and USPRO series merger is going to be the advantage of the young and upcoming drivers?  And do you think you being such an accomplished Super Late Model driver that you would ever throw your hat into the ring and race with them -like Matt Kenseth is going to do? 
Chris Blanch - Michigan
     I do not know much about the USPRO series.  However, I do know about ASA which provides a solid training ground for up and coming drivers in providing them with longer races and pit stops- which you normally do not find at your weekly local tracks.  I have committed to running my late model at Berlin three times this year and with the BGN and Cup schedule that I have - it does not leave me much time for another series.  However, if the timing was right I would consider it.

With all the concern over tire costs going up with the new softer tire, would you be in favor of a rule similar to the BGN Series limiting the # of sets per race?  Mike - North Carolina
     Yes, I would.  It would have to be an increase of sets since the Cup races are twice as long as the BGN series.  It would benefit the owners and competitors. 

Have you ever dreamed of, or had a desire, to run in the Indianapolis 500 or the entire IRL series?  Tom Maier -Indianapolis
     No, that type of car does not hold an interest for me to run competitively.  However, I would not mind testing an open wheel car. 

Johnny - Is there any way the drivers in NASCAR can have assigned numbers?  It is so hard to keep track when drivers change rides.  That way we can always know the number for you, Kenny Schrader, John Andretti, etc.   James Maier - Indianapolis
     Unfortunately, no.  The cars owners are the one who own the number.  Some of them are even trade marked - like the #3. 

March 2004

JB, how much racing have you ever done on dirt, and do you ever plan be involved in it again?   Anson Malfaire - PA
     I began my racing career on dirt competing at Thunderbird Speedway in Muskegon, MI and also at Ionia Speedway in Ionia, Michigan.  I do not have any plans to return to dirt racing - preferring to concentrate on racing activities at Berlin Raceway. 
   

Which engines does Yellow Transportation use in its trucks? I work for Cummins.    Gary VanderLind - Indiana
     Phoenix Racing uses engines from Ernie Elliott.  They send a employee to each race.  One for the BGN team and one for the Cup team    
 

October 2003

William Eckley from Virginia writes in ...  This is a question for John Benson Sr. - who was your most feared rival competitor?  My greatest memory from Berlin Raceway in the mid 70's is of yourself, Randy Sweet and Bob Senneker running nose to tail.  (You won me a hot dog from my grandma)    .....  John Sr. says that he feared no one - but his most rival competitor was Ed Howe.  Thanks for submitting a question! 
 

September 2003

Check out the questions that our message board users submitted for Johnny and the Valvoline Racing team.  More  

August 2003

Denny Olin from Michigan wants to know ...  Johnny, will you be racing in August at Berlin? I saw my first race, when you and Tony Stewart were at Berlin in June. We would love to come watch you again. Please let us know when you might be back to Berlin. Thanks  Glad to hear that you made it out to Berlin Raceway in 2003.  Unfortunately, I will not be back in August to race.  Once my schedule for 2004 is finalized, it will be posted on this website. 

Troy Sherman from Michigan asks .....  Does MBV/MB2 Motorsports plac on having an engine department or is the plan to keep leasing engines from Henrick Motorsports?   The teams currently lease their engines through Hendrick Motorsports.  For each team, a Hendrick Motorsports employee is considered part of their team.  He wears a  #10 or #01 team uniform and is  responsible for all engine activity.  Hendrick also provides engine management support at the track.  There is no plans for an engine department within MBV / MB2 Motorsports.   

Chuck from Maryland sent in this question  .....    I have jb's collectible cars for cheerios, pennzoil, and lipton tea.   Was a diecast made for his  Staff America Busch car?  No, unfortunately this car was never made into a diecast. 

July 2003

Tom Medlin from North Carolina asks .....  Johnny, quick question for you here, do you still follow F1 racing, and if so who is you're favorite F1 driver? Also, have you ever driven a F1 car? Yes, I still follow Formula One racing.  I had an opportunity to attend one in person a couple of years ago.  I can count on my PR rep - Drew Brown to keep me up to date on what is going on with the races when they are telecast at all hours.  I have not had the opportunity to get behind the wheel .....

June 2003

Faye from Pennsylania writes in .....  Dear Johnny, At a night race I noticed a lot of flash going off from cameras in the stands as you go around the track. Doesn't this bother you? I know your helmet has a tinted shield but, still isn't it distracking?     No,  the flashes don't really bother us that much, so take as many pictures as you want.  Also, for the night races we do use a clear shield. 

May 2003

Danielle of Connecticut wants to know .....  When I was at the Bristol race, I noticed Dale Jr. and Matt Kenseth both drove out of the parking lot in their own cars. Do other drivers ever drive themselves to races and how do they get through the traffic?  A lot of the drivers will drive themselves to the tracks closest to their homes to tracks such as Charlotte, Rockingham, Martinsville and Darlington.  Many of the drivers and their wives will drive their motorcycles to Bristol and Charlotte.  At many tracks, NASCAR has a route for the crews and drivers to take to try and bypass the crowds. 

JB from Michigan wants to know  .....  What is pictured on the hood of Johnny's late model car he ran on Saturday, May 10th at Berlin Raceway in Marne, MI   It is a picture of the Splash~Go drink that Johnny is promoting with other drivers.  It is currently being sold at Publix stores in the south.  They are currently working on getting a distributor in the midwest. 

Josh Emmons from Michigan asks .....  Do you think you will ever run a race at Kalamazoo Speedway?  Probably not ....  I have run at Kalamazoo Speedway in the past when I was running late models and I came back for special events after I started running NASCAR.  My off weekends are pretty limited right now and I scheduled those dates to compete at Berlin Raceway. 

April 2003

Aric Thorne from Michigan asks .....  Since the track conditions must be different, do you or any of your team practice or test after dark in preparation for any of the night races?  We would normally just test in the day time because most tracks won't turn on the lights for a test. But some tracks like Charlotte has a night practice once a year.

Jon Wood from California wants to know .....  I really like the way you guys use the red grille tape. It makes your Grand Prix really stand out!  Where did you come up with that idea?  The tape is for cooling purpose.  The color was selected to match the number on the roof at that time and we just stayed
with it. 

Brandon Dykstra from Michigan asks .....  Please explain how the field is set for restarts.  I see that sometimes cars 2 or more laps down restart in front of those one lap down.  The lapped cars are allowed to line up in running order.  However, the cars that are two laps or more down often wave the one lapped cars around them as a courtesy ....  And sometimes not.  It is the same situation with the leader letting the lapped cars get their lap back - an unwritten rule .....  

Becki from California asks .....  What kinds of drugs does NASCAR test for?  Do they test weekly, monthly or periodically?  At this time, they test for everything.  All drivers must participate in a physical and drug testing prior to getting on the track at Daytona .....  

March 2003

Scott from Michigan asks .....  Johnny, are you going to race in the Busch Series this year?  It is a possibility, but we do not have definite plans to run in the Busch Series. 

Sean from Indiana asks ....  Johnny, do you intend to get tested for carbon monoxide contamination?  They don't have anyone at the track to do the testing. They did couple of years ago, but not now.

Mike Sills from Tennessee asks .....  Johnny, my wife and I have noticed at the bigger tracks, like Charlotte, when the cars get spread out that some cars are really loud and some are really quiet. What is the reason for this?   Some cars are more quiet because the pipes are coming out the left side of the car and some go out the right side.
 

February 2003
Rob Richardson asks .....  After going to common nose pieces for all makes have they changed the spoiler height to match on all makes also or is there separate heights for each make?  Yes, they have changed the spoiler height on the rear of the car, but do not have common noses for all the cars. 

Why is Jeff Gordon doing a television ad for Berger Chevrolet in Grand Rapids, Michigan?   It's an opportunity for Berger Chevrolet to have Jeff Gordon promote their dealership.  It is part of their sponsorship package with FOX Sports.  It is also a benefit that Jeff Gordon drives a Chevrolet.  The Benson's are excited that Berger Chevrolet has the opportunity to have Jeff be a part of their advertisement.    

Why isn't Johnny in the Bud Shootout?  He won the Rockingham Race  .....  The Bud Shootout is for drivers who won a pole position in 2002.  Past winner of the Bud Shootout are automatically entered too.  Johnny's win at Rockingham earns him a position in the Winston Race in Charlotte on May 17th. 

January 2003

Morris Rottman of Michigan sent this question: 
     Will there be any specialty paint schemes for the #10 car this year?
At this time, they are planning in Eagle One and Zerex paint schemes.  The dates / races are not confirmed.   
    
Nancy Lambert of Delaware wants to know:
     Will Pit Bull be back as a sponsor of the #10 Valvoline Racing team?
There are no plans to have them back as an associate sponsor. 

Mike Parsons of Canada asks Johnny: 
      What engine builder do you use for your Berlin Late Model?
I use Katech Engines for my Berlin Late Model.  I have been using their engines since I competed in the ASA series and won the championship in 1993.  Thanks for the question!

When will there be a Johnny Benson bobblehead?
     They are already available.  If there is an interest, then Barb will have to get them in stock. 

What are your thoughts on the 2003 Pontiac?   Do you feel it will be competitive? 
     Feel pretty positive about the new Pontiac.  The Valvoline Racing team will be using all of our test sessions at the beginning of the year - so we can get a jump on the learning curve. 

Are you concerned with Gibbs racing switching to Chevrolet and the number of teams running Pontiacs dwindling?
     Even though Gibbs racing is switching to Chevrolet, there are other teams that are making the switch to Pontiac which will even it out.  One good reason for Valvoline Racing to remain with the Pontiacs is that they are at the top of the list - if they switched to Chevrolet - they would be at the bottom

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2002

Are you planning to drive a car sponsored by the University of Kentucky?    (Kent Cundiff - North Carolina)
     Yes, at the Atlanta race

What's going to happen with the #36 part of your team, Johnny?  And it is good to have you back racing buddy, sorry for the injuries you had.  (Mike - New Jersey)
     They are working hard to find a sponsor for the #36 and keep it running. At this time, there are no definite answers other than M & M's is no longer sponsoring the #36 team for 2003. 

I was at Bristol on Saturday when you rode by in your golf cart.  You were waving at everyone.  My question is I noticed that most of the other drivers were very rude.  Are they jerks to work to everyone around them or are they pleasant to work with?  (Dan Newsom - Tennessee)
     This is a tough question.  Most of my interaction with other drivers off the track go quite well.  On the track may be a different story, depending on the line they are driving or how there car is handling.  Or how bad that want a win. 

In 2003, will MBV and MB2 still run Hendrick Motors? 
(Jon Cornette - Mississippi) 
     Yes, we are planning to. 

Johnny did not seem to hit the wall that hard at Richmond.  Why was there no attempt to fix the car and come back out to run for points.  (Bob - Ohio)
     Actually, we did try to fix the car.  The crew even gave me a hammer to work on it!  It was too damaged to continue

Will Johnny be making any appearances at the race in Charlotte this fall?    (Nancy Benner - Ohio)
     The only appearance scheduled at this time is for Valvoline hospitality.  

What is your favorite track in NASCAR?  (Andy Piercefield, Michigan)
     I like the intermediate tracks such as Charlotte, Richmond and Indy

What Motor do they use in the #10 Pontiac Race car?   (Lew - Michigan)
     Hendrick Motors

The car that you drove in the brickyard 400 last year, the one with the James Dean on it, I was wondering who did the paint job on that car they did a really nice job!!  I was also wondering if we would see that car again?  (L. Jerabek - Minnesota)
     Glad you liked the car.  It was done with decals.  The James Dean paint job coincided with his anniversary and was a one time event.  

After Joe Gibbs announced changing from a Pontiac to a Chevrolet, are there any plans for the #10 Valvoline team to switch to a Chevrolet? 
(Becky Irving - Michigan)
     No, we are planning to stay with the Pontiac Brand.  Other teams are joining the Pontiac team too. 
 

JULY 2002

Do you think Texas Motor Speedway should get a second date? There is only one track (Kansas) within 700 miles driving distance of TMS. No other track on the WC circuit can say that. PS, thanks for signing autographs for us Texans last year.  (Kent - Texas)
     I would like to see a second date at Texas.  Unfortunately, I do not have anything to do with the track selection for the schedule.

Johnny, how much do you and James talk (on radio) during the normal course of a race, and what do you say? Also, how important is "deal-making"?   (Joe - Michigan)
     I don't think that I can give this to you in minutes, we only talk when we have to, to make the car better. And for making a deal, there's not really any deals just talk, to make great TV.

If someone who wins the poll crashes in practice and has to use a back up car and go to the end of the field to start the race, how is the line adjusted?  Does everyone in that line move up or does the 2nd place car move to the poll position?  (Steve Skula, Michigan)
     The entire line moves up. 

During the race weekend, where does the crew sleep?  In hotels or in trailers?  (Arlene Chandar, California)
     The crew stays in a hotel.  James and I own motorcoaches and we stay at the track. 

What do you do with your vacation time other than test at tracks?   
(Jennifer Schuster - Iowa) 
     Most of my time off is spent in Grand Rapids, Michigan.  I have been racing at Berlin Raceway during the off weekends.  My wife, Debbie and my daughters visit our families during this time too. 

What is a provisional in the qualifications for the starting lineup? 
(Robert Alink - South Dakota)
     A provisional is issued to team when their car does not make the top 36th fastest from qualifying.  Provisional are handed out by current owners points and past championships. 

Regarding the Richmond race, does Johnny receive any drivers points for Joe's 12th place finish due to Johnny qualifying and practicing the car?   
(Jay Baum, Michigan)
     Unfortunately, I did not get any points.  However, the good news is that the team did! 

When did you start racing?  (Brandon - Michigan)
     In 1983.  I started at the dirt tracks

When I lived in Rockford, MI I watched your dad drive at the old Grand Rapids Speedrome and also at Berlin.  Your dad was one heck of a supermodified driver. Is John Sr. still with you?  (Jim Lindemulder, Texas)
     My dad is doing well.  He help spots for me on the big tracks -Daytona, Talladega and Indy. 

When will you run the postponed race at Berlin that was scheduled for May 8, 2002.  (Russell Sekeet, Michigan)
     It has been rescheduled for Tuesday, September 10th

Will Johnny be leaving at the end of the year?  I have heard rumors about him driving for the Wood Brothers?   (Luke Warner - Michigan)
     My contract is up at the end of this year.  I hope to stay where I am. 

When and where do you tape your weekly show - Inside Winston Cup?   (Jeremy Podczerwinski - Illinois)
     The show is taped on Monday mornings at 11:00 am in Charlotte. 

Qualifying on the track for position to go out is done by the draw.  How is the draw determined ...  car number ...  point standings or what?
(Chuck Youcheff, Pennsylvania)
     NASCAR holds a drawing Friday morning. It looks kind of like a Bingo. There is a little cage with balls individually number. A NASCAR officials pulls the ball out for each corresponding team and qualifying order is determined our spot