Martin would replace father-to-be Gordon
CONCORD, N.C. | Jeff Gordon believes Mark Martin's successful run as a part-time driver "has probably extended my career."
So when the Nextel Cup points leader was trying to decide who to ask to replace him if his wife goes into labor on a race weekend, Martin immediately popped into his head.
"I threw it out to him. It took a little while to convince him, but he's been very gracious," Jeff Gordon said Thursday. "I hope we don't have to use him. I hope it doesn't come to that. But wow, what an awesome opportunity."
Jeff Gordon's wife, model Ingrid Vandebosch, is due to give birth to a girl in late June. Jeff Gordon, who has never missed a race, will leave the track if his wife goes into labor -- even though he would lose a week of driver points.
"I wouldn't miss that for anything. I love racing, but I don't love it that much," Jeff Gordon said.
So Hendrick Motorsports struck a deal with the 48-year-old Martin. Despite running in only eight of 11 races, Martin has four top-five finishes and is 15th in the points standings racing for Ginn Racing, which gets its motors from Hendrick.
"I'm really proud of Jeff to make his No. 1 priority being there for the birth of his daughter," Martin said. "It's an honor for him to ask me help out if need be."
Martin said he's having the "most relaxed career in his life" running a part-time schedule. The 35-year-old Jeff Gordon said it's inspired him to perhaps do the same late in his career instead of retiring outright.
"That is a scenario I can possibly see," Jeff Gordon said.
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