Up and coming
A look at some young drivers who are making their marks

CARMICHAEL

Ricky Carmichael, the 15-time American Motorcycle Association national champion and winner of 144 events, is now a developmental driver with MB2 Motorsports. He spoke with reporters, including Rick Minter of Cox News Service, at Phoenix on Sunday about life in the fast lane:

Q. Why did you decide to come to NASCAR?

A. "I was born to race. It is a great opportunity that I have gotten through people that I know by what I have accomplished in motorcycles. I am really looking forward to it."

Q. Why are you leaving motorcycle racing at this time?

A. "I have had a great career and accomplished so much, but when it is your time, it is your time. I feel like I have done enough in that industry and I don't need to prove anything. I am very happy and excited about having a new challenge."

Q. Have you driven a stock car yet?

A. "No racing, just testing in late models and stuff in North Carolina and Florida."

Q. How will it be to have Mark Martin as a mentor and instructor?

A. "It is going to be a huge advantage. I can't believe it. It was icing on the cake when I heard he was coming. I had actually already signed my deal and they said he was coming in. [MB2 Motorsports] did a good job of keeping it secret. It just made my decision that much better."

Q. What is the main thing you need to do to get ready to race in NASCAR?

A. "I need to get behind the wheel. I lack a lot of seat time. These guys told me they can teach me. One thing I have is

that racing mentality, and hopefully I can put it to work. I have a great opportunity. I am just going to try and make the best of it."

Q.Will your motorcycle skills transfer to NASCAR racing?

A. "In this, you have to have a little more patience. I am looking forward to getting rid of some of that motorcycle mentality. I have hung my neck out enough and I am looking forward to getting to where I don't have to do that."

Q. What is your schedule for 2007?

A. "I have to do 15 stock-car races next year. Then I'll do 25 the following year and then a full series hopefully after that. I have a three-year deal. It is a long process. I don't know which ones yet. I am going to do 15 motorcycle races and 15 stock-car races, so I think it is a good story.

"We are juggling a lot of stuff, but having fun at the same time."