Notebook: Indiana Boy Does Good: Tony Stewart Wins Second NASCAR Nextel Cup Championship

What a year it’s been for Tony Stewart. First he fulfills a life-long dream by winning at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, then he clinches his second NASCAR Nextel Cup Championship, one of only 14 drivers to have won it more than once. Why, it would even be correct to say that Stewart has won 50% of the championships in the last four years! (don’t you just love statistics?)

Oh yeah, and this year he became a Sagamore of the Wabash too, Indiana’s highest honor.

I’m really happy for what Tony has accomplished, but I’m even happier about the way he accomplished it. I wouldn’t go as far as to say he’s the new “kinder, gentler Tony”, nor do I think any of his true fans would ever want him to be that way. But it’s obvious that he has worked hard to smooth out a few of the rough edges, without losing any of the fiery passion and competitiveness that makes him so successful. He’s just matured a little and adjusted his perspective on things, and that’s good for him.

From the “Rushville Rocket” to two-time NASCAR Nextel Cup Champion (not to mention purveyor of his own barbecue sauce… now THAT’S success!) Tony Stewart has always had the performance to call himself a Racer. Now he’s got the unquestionable respect of his peers as well, and that’s got to feel good in a way that no trophy or big fat multi-million dollar check could (I have to make a rather large assumption regarding the check).

The City of Columbus, IN will have their second parade of the year in honor of Tony Stewart on December 17th at 12:20pm. Aside from impromptu appearances at his favorite hometown Dairy Queen, Stewart is also scheduled to compete in the “Rumble in Ft. Wayne” indoor midget races on December 29th and 30th.

Congratulations Tony!