By Ryan - Posted on January 22, 2010

 Dale Earnhardt Jr., a 3rd generation driver, obviously has racing in his blood. However, he also possesses a natural finesse for running a business. His company, JR Motorsports, was established in 1999 with only 1 employee, and has now grown into an organization that employs more than 30 people and houses more than 25 cars.

Over this time span, Earnhardt has seen his share of ups and downs. He certainly possesses the talent and ability to succeed in the Sprint Cup Series, but lately, his luck has taken a turn for the worse. The 2009 season ended with Earnhardt being winless and encountering many obstacles, such as mechanical failures and spectacular crashes.

In the upcoming 2010 racing season, Earnhardt hopes to abolish this string of bad luck and once again propel himself into Sprint Cup contention. He has the skill and attitude to do so; he just needs a little bit of good luck on his side. According to his team mates and even his competitors, Earnhardt poses a real threat on any track. It just seems like destiny hasn’t been on his side as of late.

However, at the end of the 2009 season, it was announced that Lance McGrew had secured the position of Crew Chief for the 88 team. This move could prove to be the turning point in Earnhardt’s career. It ended a long period of uncertainty and hopefully, will help the team build more trust and confidence in themselves.

The most important aspect to Earnhardt is, and always has been, the fans. When he doesn’t perform well in a season, he honestly feels as if he has disappointed them. He races for numerous reasons; because it’s in his blood and heritage, because he loves a challenge, because he is competitive by nature; but, the most important reason, is because of the fans.

This upcoming season will surely present many challenges for Earnhardt and his competitors alike, but with his drive and determination, it would not be a surprise if he clawed his way into the top of the standings by the end of the 2010 Sprint Cup Season.