You know the Martinsville hot dog has been called many things in its tenure as NASCAR's most loved concession stand delicacy.

Some have called it artery-clogging and fat-laden while others simply say the $2 portable meat meal is a heart attack stuffed inside a bun.

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Wow, that's just harsh and unfair.

Still, it doesn't stop Martinsville Speedway from selling at least 50,000 of these culinary gems every time NASCAR comes to town. Be it inside or outside the garage, rich or poor, everyone adores these Jesse Jones-made hot dogs officially dubbed the "Famous Martinsville Speedway Hot Dog."

So why must the consumers and industry insiders talk so much trash about their favorite wax paper-wrapped pork product? Because they are misinformed and they must know that below its cellulose casing, their beloved red-colored wiener has feelings.

Tired of the bad rap, the "Famous Martinsville Speedway Hot Dog" set the record straight on a few or five things about the Martinsville hot dog.

1. The skinny ...

Martinsville Speedway

The Famous Martinsville Speedway Hot Dog ... with the works.

So you're telling me that by yourself, you're only 110 calories and contain no trans fat or byproducts?

"Yes, that is correct, and I think the problem is that I'm so good people automatically think I'm bad and fattening. People relate anything that tastes good with bad for you or high in calories. I've gotten a bum rap over the years and it's disheartening. I'm good and kind of good for you at the same time."

But the chili and coleslaw, that can't help.

"No, so I suggest dressing me with mustard only -- it's a low-calorie condiment. But you know people only get to enjoy my company twice a year so they can splurge. Just watch your weight before you get here. Then you can pile on the works. Besides, it's a special occasion coming to Martinsville Speedway and I'm just like anyone else -- I look a little better when I'm dressed up!"

At first glance, you don't look all that appetizing. Your "Red 40" ingredient kind of drips onto your bun and makes a pink mess inside.

"Yeah, well, the same way with you all, we like to have some color, that's all. We are unique and you won't find anything like us anywhere in the South."

3. Controversy aside ...

Autostock

At least 50,000 hot dogs are sold every time Martinsville hosts a race.

You made some folks very angry in 2004 didn't you? But it wasn't your fault. What happened?

"Well, we had a hiccup. It was well-known that when Americrown [catering service] bought me, things changed but they were not supposed to change. But they did, and right away everyone recognized that and I was back to my true form in no time."

The change came when International Speedway Corp. purchased the track from its family owners. Once the ownership changed, so did the beloved hot dog. Apparently the dogs were naked, not as red, and being served in foam containers. The NASCAR garage and media center was in an uproar.

Did Eddie Wood ever forgive you?

"I think so. Everything is fine now and I just look forward to the thousands of people who will enjoy my company this weekend."

Technically you're made of: pork, mechanically separated chicken, water, salt, as well as 2 percent or less of corn syrup, extrose, beef, flavorings, potassium lactate, sodium phosphates, sodium diacetate, sodium erythrobate, sodium nitrite and Red 40.

But what makes you so good?

"You know, I'm so good people eat me for breakfast. My boss has to start preparing a week before the race even starts to feed all the fans and people inside the garage. We even have unofficial eating contests and I have to be ready for that by 8 a.m.

"I think it goes back to earlier days when we ran our own concessions and my grandfather, Clay Earles, formed the speedway.

"The works -- the chili, slaw and onions -- that makes me really good, but I think also tradition. I'm pretty special, but I try not to let it go to my head. And I'm certainly not jealous of the Coney Dog or the Corn Dog. They have nothing on me.

"Last, I'm only $2. But don't call me cheap; I'm affordable."

5. Doing the job ...

Martinsville Speedway

A track employee enjoys a hot dog as the pink pleasures cook in the background.

So tell me about your boss, track president Clay Campbell. He helped prepare you for this interview.

"He's a real big fan of mine. And I think the world of him. It's a pleasure working for such a great guy."