In his increasingly desperate attempt to end his slump on the NASCAR circuit, there is one possible remedy Tony Stewart has yet to try:
A return to dirt-track racing.
Tony Stewart too stubborn to change NASCAR race tactics?
The Columbus Post-Dispatch reported on a Stewart conference call in which the veteran NASCAR driver, who is winless in his last 59 races, had a dramatic change in mood when the conversation switched from his NASCAR slump to his ownership in Eldora Speedway a dirt-track in Rossburg, Ohio.
Stewart has not competed in a dirt-track race since his involvement in the tragic death of Kevin Ward Jr., in New York in August of 2014. That came on the heels of his crash in a 2013 dirt-track race that resulted in a broken leg.
Refusal by other drivers to help Tony Stewart during races plays role in his struggles?
During the teleconference this week, Stewart declared he will be at the track next week as the speedway prepares to host the truck series Midsummer Classic, the only NASCAR series race held on dirt, the Post-Dispatch reported.
"I can pull in and drive through the campground and see people having a good time and getting to see a good race," Stewart said. "I'm a race fan, too. If I go there, and the show runs smooth, we see a good race and see people as they're leaving, if they're smiling and if they're talking about what they saw, that makes all that worthwhile.
"You know, I love dirt-track racing. I always have, always will. I love Eldora Speedway. That's what I'm into. That's what I do on the side, and that's what my energy goes into."
The Post-Dispatch points out that Stewart, who has stakes in three small-time tracks and owns an open-wheel series, in addition to Stewart-Haas Racing, has been criticized for his multiple roles affecting his driving.
Stewart has been unable to figure out how to maneuver the reduced horsepower race cars, but he also has said that he would not consider changing strategy in NASCAR races, such as pit strategy or fuel mileage.
His problem at this point could be more mental than physical, much like the struggles Tiger Woods is experiencing.
Stewart's solution could be in a return to dirt-track racing, which could help him re-conquer whatever fears resulting from the Ward tragedy and free him to reacquire the daring that made him such a success in NASCAR.
Do you think a return to dirt-track racing can help Tony Stewart overcome his NASCAR struggles? Comment below or tell us @SportsWN.
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