Ricky Carmichael Top Rookie
February 27, 2009 by Uzi Rider
Filed under On the Road
Carmichael Still Racing - Trucks This Time
After enjoying perhaps the most successful career in motocross history and dominating the sport for nearly ten years, Ricky Carmichael semi-retired from motocross in 2007, and has now begun capturing the attention of four-wheeled racing fans. His incredible career in motocross earned him the nickname "The GOAT" (Greatest of All Time). This past weekend, Carmichael’s performance at the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Auto Club Speedway in San Bernardino County 200, earned him the Raybestos "Rookie of the Race" award. Driving the No. 4 Monster Energy Chevrolet, retaining the same number he wore in motocross, Carmichael finished the race in eighth place, making him the only rookie driver to finish in the top 10. That will move him up 9 spots in the 2009 NCWTS point standings. Not bad, considering this was only Carmichael’s second race.
Most beginners of any sport would be estactic with that kind of showing, but comments he made after the race indicate Carmichael likes to be in the lead. In one interview, he said, "I’m super pumped, and I learned a lot. I wish we could have done better for KHI but personally, I’m happy." It will be interesting to see how he performs in upcoming races. On April 25th at the Kansas Speedway, Carmichael will get his next opportunity. He’s really missed by his fans at motocross, but glad we at least get to follow him with NASCAR.
