NASCAR notes

Hendrick: NASCAR doesn't need Danica

FONTANA, Calif. -- Don't tell Rick Hendrick that NASCAR needs Danica Patrick.

Hendrick said while he'd be intrigued if the IndyCar driver opted to make a move to stock cars, he doesn't think the sport needs her to thrive.

"I don't think she's important to our future," Hendrick said. "I mean, she would add a new dimension, maybe if she participated in the Nationwide Series or Cup Series one day. But I don't think that's going to make any difference where NASCAR is."

Patrick has reportedly agreed to an extension to remain in Indy Cars with Andretti Green Racing, but she has expressed an interest in running at least part-time for JR Motorsports in the Nationwide Series.

Where is everyone?

NASCAR hoped moving the second California race from Labor Day weekend to October would help it become a better draw in the crowded Southern California sports calendar.

Despite near-perfect conditions with temperatures hovering around 70 degrees, there were plenty of empty spaces in the stands at the 2-mile oval, where the grandstand seats 92,000.

That didn't seem to bother track president Gillian Zucker. She said she was pleased with the turnout, particularly in the lower seats, which she said were sold out.

Nevertheless, she said the track is considering shortening one of its two annual races from 500 miles to 400 miles.

Faces in the crowd

Actor Kelsey Grammar served enthusiastically as Grand Marshal for yesterday's race.

"I have an affinity for it, if no skill," Grammar said of Sprint Cup racing. "I would love to race the fastest cars in the world . . . it's a very heady trip being here."

Less buoyant was pop star Jesse McCartney, who forgot a verse while singing the national anthem.

Old enough to drive?

Roush Fenway Racing has signed Chris Buescher to a driver development contract.

The 16-year-old Buescher has spent the 2009 season competing part-time in the ARCA RE/MAX Series for Roulo Brothers Racing. He had three top-five and five top-10 finishes. -- The Associated Press