by Tony Pedregon, FOXSports.com

( / Special to FOXSports.com)

I believe that all of the challenges we have been through as a team have taken its toll on track performance. However, we enter a close third and can only try to finish strong. Winning is important, but racing teams only succeed and stay in business as long as they can deliver a strong bottom line to the companies that invest in their programs.

That may sound familiar; it's a lot like what makes any business a success.

With that out of the way, it's time for the cool part.

I've been fortunate in my career to have been involved in some great promotions. I got to hang out with Carlos Santana, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley (KISS). I've won a Championship as a driver and one as an owner/driver. Cruz and I were the first pair of brothers to race each other in a final round ...

But last week I did something truly magnificent. I raced the Las Vegas Motor Speedway with the likes of NASCAR stars Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Kevin Harvick, Clint Bowyer, Casey Mears, Paul Menard, and team owner Richard Childress.

The event was coordinated by Shell/Quaker State. It was aimed at inviting customers and media to spend an evening in a racing environment while viewing current and new products that were part of the attraction. In the end it will leave a lasting impression on all the guests that went for a few laps close to 180 mph!

(Tony Pedregon / Special to FOXSports.com)

For me, I just thought it was the coolest thing to be behind Dale Jr. at that kind of speed. Many assumed that because I race at speeds in excess of 330 mph a Nationwide car would be slow. But it seemed pretty scary to me — Banked tracks and turns keep you really busy in the seat.

Did I mention I had the privilege of driving Lisa Davis, the new President of Shell North America around the track? No pressure.

So my parting words for this year will be it has been a pleasure to share some of my experiences with those who were interested. Although it takes some work, I would gladly do it again, and I hope you enjoyed the ride.

Best to All!

Tony Pedregon, a two-time NHRA Funny Car champion and 40-time race winner, will be sharing his thoughts and expertise before every NHRA race weekend in 2009.

Have any questions or comments for the driver of the Quaker State NHRA Funny Car? E-mail him at tpblog@pedregonracing.com