Daytona "News" and Notes--Waltrip-Free Edition

After a surprising showing in the Duels, James Hylton has announced that he'll be returning to attempt the Pepsi 400 in Joo-lye. While he owns the car, the engine is on lease from Joe Gibbs. Careful, James--go over the mileage limit, and Joe'll hit you with a BIG payment.

ESPN officially restarts its Nascar race coverage Saturday with the Busch Series Orbitz 300. Despite new graphics, cutting-edge reporting, and a tight announcing crew, fans will be most surprised to learn that Brent Musburger is still alive.

As in past years, the Daytona 500 follows a rigid format--eight laps, sometimes less if you don't get a time extension.

Last place gets over $250,000. Over $250,000! Meanwhile, the last place finisher in the season-opening Champ Car race somehow OWES $40.

Fox and MRN are planning pre-races of over an hour long each. With Kenny Wallace sitting this one out, it'll be a challenge.

ODDS
EVEN--Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s first question after the race will be, "Junior, do you see yourself staying at DEI past this season?"
8:1--Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s first question in Victory Lane will be, "Junior, do you see yourself staying at DEI past this season?"
100:1--Mike Joy will refer to Mike Wallace's car as being "...on the warpath", then be fired by Fox mid-week.