Nextel All Star Challenge

 This weekend’s race at Lowe’s Motor Speedway near Charlotte, NC, is NASCAR’s version of an All-Star event. This may be an exhibition event, and the drivers will not be getting any points but, with a $1 million first prize, the ‘dash for the cash’ is sure to be competitive. That’s almost twice as much more money than any other race so, whoever you back to win this week, you’re sure to be on a trier. That doesn’t make picking the winner any easier, of course, but you should at least get a good run for your money from Jeff Gordon. Gordon, who has won the All-Star race three times in his career, could have this track better figured-out than some after a successful test session earlier this month. Of his main challengers, Greg Biffle is bringing a new car to the race, while Ryan Newman didn’t test his car on the new surface.

Checkered Flag Tip: Jeff Gordon @ 4/1 at bet365

Nextel All-Star prices… Jeff Gordon 4/1, Jimmie Johnson, Greg Biffle 6/1, Kasey Kahne 9/1, Kurt Busch, Tony Stewart 10/1, Ryan Newman 12/1, others on bet365 website