Kenseth, Winston share spotlight in New York

NEW YORK -- Friday night's NASCAR Winston Cup Series Tribute and Awards Ceremony at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel is like the holiday season wrapped up into one evening.

It's a chance to give thanks to a long-time sponsor, shower the new champion and fellow competitors with gifts and prepare for the upcoming year -- and a new series sponsor.

Allen Bestwick and Bill Weber will co-host the televised broadcast of the show, tape-delayed beginning at 9 p.m. ET on TNT. Harry Connick Jr. and LeAnn Rimes are the musical entertainers, while Keifer Sutherland will narrate the Winston Cup tribute segment.

After contributing to the sport's growth for over three decades, R.J. Reynolds is stepping down as primary series sponsor, with Nextel scheduled to come on board for the 2004 season.

Drivers who finished in the top 10 in points this season will be present to accept their share of the approximately $17 million in contingencies and awards. Jamie McMurray will also be honored as Raybestos Rookie of the Year and NASCAR.com's Most Dramatic Moment will be announced.

It's been a tradition since 1981 to celebrate the end of the season in New York. However, Friday night's ceremony is only the culmination of a busy week for champion Matt Kenseth, wife Katie and his family.

After flying to New York on Sunday, Kenseth was scheduled to appear on the Today Show and Live with Regis & Kelly, visit with New York firefighters and police officers and attend the champions welcome dinner on Monday.

A trip to the White House and a reception with President Bush was on tap for Tuesday.

After ringing the opening bell for the NASDAQ and meeting with the media on Wednesday, Kenseth was scheduled to meet New York mayor Michael Bloomberg on Thursday in Times Square, with an autograph session to follow.

The Myers Brothers breakfast was scheduled to open Friday's festivities. Later in the day, family and team photos will be taken, followed by receptions for Goodyear and Ford. Bill France hosts a reception for the champion just before the awards ceremony.