Q&A: Mark Martin.(NASCAR)(Interview)

With one race to go before the cutoff, Mark Martin is fighting for a spot in the inaugural Chase for the NASCAR Nextel Cup. TSN Insider Lee Spencer recently caught up with Martin, who goes into Richmond in 10th place.

TSN: You have seemed like a new man since the season opener at Daytona. What do you attribute this newfound optimism to?

MM: I had a car in February that I thought I might be able win the Daytona 500 with, so that's what you read on my face. My moods have gone up and down some. We've taken some tough licks this year, but I've felt blessed to have the opportunity to work with these guys. They continue to give me better and better equipment as the season has gone along, and I'm grateful for that.

TSN: What is the biggest difference that you've noticed in the equipment this year?

MM: I couldn't tell you. I don't know why we were so bad last year, and I can't tell you why we're so much better this year. We just are. These guys are getting the job done.

TSN: What about the new horsepower? Can you tell a difference with the new Ford Racing engines?

MM: I definitely noticed a difference there, big time. That's been awesome.