1. How does Ryan Newman's passion for racing affect his NASCAR team?
             NASCAR driver Ryan Newman has been racing cars since the age of 4 1/2, and he combines a passion for racing with sound management skills. He has been racing for the Penske Racing Team since 2000, and with a degree in vehicle structure engineering, he understands the nuances of a racecar, making him an even more valuable team member. His Web site notes, "Newman's degree made him and then crew chief Matt Borland the first driver-engineer/crew chief-engineer combination in NASCAR history" ("About Ryan," 2008). His passion and knowledge seem to affect his team in very positive ways. For example, he understands vehicle engineering, so he has a close bond with the crew chief and the car's engineers, and because he understands the engineering, he can spot when there are problems with the car, and suggest solutions. A passion like Newman's has to rub off on the team and most of the team members are passionate about NASCAR racing too, or they would not be on the team, and so, Newman's passion infects others and creates more passion and teamwork throughout the team.
             2. What is the link between Newman's defeats and the success of his racing team?
             Newman's team has a long history in racing. The Penske name is one of the most well known teams in racing, and one of the most successful. For example, "The Alltel pit crew also earned the inaugural Checkers/Rally's Double Drive-Thru Challenge for spending the least amount of time on pit road throughout the season" ("About Ryan," 2008). They won the pit crew championships in 2007, as well, indicating that they are well rehearsed and efficient in their pit crew duties. Newman has won numerous awards for his racing skills, but some years, his victories number only one or two. It seems as if his defeats lead to a more concerted effort to make the car perform better, and it makes the team more aggressive in the car's...