Rusty's Rundown: Charlotte

What to watch for

	Credit: Autostock

The main thing you want to watch for at Charlotte is that the points race is getting closer and closer. With six races left, we're running out of time and everybody is on edge, trying to get the most points they can and using their best cars.

I think you're going to see one of the most, competitive, action-packed races you've seen in a long time at the fall race at Charlotte because the intensity level is so high right now.

This is real slick racetrack and one of the best ones we go to pass on. We're supposed to have cool weather this weekend, so I expect to see lightning-fast speeds. It's a track that a lot of guys are focused on because it's late in the year.

I like Charlotte

This is a good track for me. I know it's a home track, but I've always liked the track because of the way it's shaped. Now, I've had some troubles in the past getting qualified here, for some stupid reasons, but I've had times where I've qualified well, too.

I've always run well here. The best part is that you don't have to sleep in a motel or motorhome this week. That sure does feel good, after being gone for so long, to finally stay at home.

Home-track importance

RUSTY WALLACE  •  Driver Page  •  Crew chief Bill Wilburn  •  More Rusty's Rundown  •  RustyWallace.com

Only for bragging rights, that's it. It's just like any other track in that the winner gets the most points. But, there is something special about the Charlotte race --- it's considered one of the big races.

Points and the win streak

I've got to tell you, after 16 straight years, I'm getting a little on the nervous side that the win hasn't come yet. I was looking at all the competitors that have won this year, and they all had one, two and three wins.

Mine has a zero.

It just feels crappy to lose out on the Bristol race, to run second at the July race in Daytona, leading at Richmond only to lose a tire -- there's just been so many close ones.

It's just gets to me, to be honest.

Where's Wallace

	Credit: Autostock

I will be making several appearances around the city for sponsors, but I won't be out at the souvenir rig this time. I'll be back at it in Atlanta.

Last Call

You know, a lot of people ask me about pets and if I've ever named them after anything to do with racing.

Well, I probably have one of my favorite dogs we've ever had that is a Chihuahua mix. We named him Miller, I don't think I need to explain that one.

We've had him forever.