What EXACTLY Are We Chasing?

As we head into Kansas, Race 4 in the 10 race Chase for the Sprint Cup, Denny Hamlin is still holding fast to 12th in the point standings.  He is all but forgotten as a major player or contender in this Championship run.  Poor qualifying runs, running out of gas, late pit stops to fix lingering issues and mechanical failures have plagued this team from the first time they rolled onto the track clear back in February at Daytona.

Some are calling for Mike Ford's head on a platter, others have completely given up on him, while others refuse to waver in their undying devotion to the FedEx Toyota wheel man.  What it all comes down to is chasing after 5-Time Champion Jimmie Johnson and trying to block his attempt at a sixth reign in NASCAR's pinnacle series.  Simply making the Chase, from the top spot to the last, is an accomplishment in itself.  What was supposed to be a positive thing in the sport has become a confusing disaster that puts the most irritating drivers in the running for a Championship that they're undeserving of.  The points shake up has proven to be ridiculous and aggravating.  Why do they insist on fixing what isn't broken?

Seems Mr. Hamlin is seeking the help of a Sports Psychologist, to help him focus on his racing and improve his performance.  WHAT? Since when did he lost faith in himself? Since when did he doubt his own talent and forget who he is, where he came from and how hard he's fought to get this far? And WHEN did he give up???  Get out of your head and get back into your heart. You know, that place where you're at peace with the racecar and you push aside the whole rest of the world and all you care about is getting to the checkered flag first!  You can do this! You are a Rock Star and not just to your Mama. To your fans and the people who will NEVER give up on you. Now go out there and do this. Did you forget?....ALL YOU DO IS WIN!!!!