I can't get excited about the Oscars, and I don't care two hoots about the Super Bowl, but next month, the NASCAR season starts, and that is serious business.

I'm going to keep an eye on Kerry Earnhardt. He will be driving a few races for Richard Childress this year. Childress is the car owner who made a champion's champion of Kerry's father.

But my pre-season pick for 2004 Champ is Jeff Gordon. I think he is approaching his peak.

Bill Elloitt is not going to drive every race this year. He is winding down to retirement. I think that is the way to do it, and I wish Darrell Waltrip and Richard Petty had eased off in their later years. Don't be surprised if Awesome Bill goes out a winner.
Howard