The Q&A returns after the new year begins, with Motor Racing Network pit reporter and Motorsports Monday host Woody Cain. You can also catch him on Motorsports Monday on mrn.com every Monday at noon eastern the day after a race weekend. Cain began working for MRN as a turn reporter in 2008.
1. When did you get an interest in racing?
Woody: I remember going to the Metrolina Fairgrounds in Charlotte with my Dad when I was little. Don't even remember the names of the drivers then but loved it. Later, got interested in the history of the sport when my grandmother told me about Fireball Roberts.
2. How did you become an racing announcer?
Woody: In 1989, I was working with my local cable company in Kannapolis- doing public affairs shows and local sports and we started taping races at Concord Speedway's Big 10 series to replay during the week. Worked as one of 3 booth announcers when guys like Jack Sprague, Rich Bickle & Freddie Query were among the top regulars there. Joey Logano's spotter Tab Boyd raced there with his dad, Alton.
3. If you weren't an racing announcer. What would your career choice be?
Woody: I'd probably be doing something similar. Did a lot of football and baseball both on radio and local cable back in the day.
4. Name one talent that you have which no knows about?
Woody: Love to cook BBQ competitively. Our team doesn't compete as much because of the travel schedules, but the Wee Hour Squealers won 10 trophies at various contest when we were doing a handful of them a year.
5. Favorite Race Track?
Woody: Tie between Talladega and Watkins Glen.
6. Who was your hero growing up?
Woody: Racing-wise it was Richard Petty. Other sports: Roger Staubach, Dr.J
7. What's the most exciting race you've called to date?
Woody: Worked pit road for Daniel Suarez's first Xfinity win at Michigan, when he drove by Kyle Busch at the end and interviewed him live in VL (Victory Lane) afterwards.
8. Day Or Night Races?
Woody: I like day races, mainly for selfish reasons like scheduling. The August night race at Bristol is always cool, though.
9. If you had a chance to design a racetrack somewhere. Where would it be and Why?
Woody: I'd love to see something in the Pacific Northwest. Just a cool place to visit and a racetrack would give me a good excuse.
10. With 2017 finally here. Who is your pick to win the Daytona 500 and Why?
Woody: The cool thing about that race is the unpredictability and the anticipation. Wouldn't it be cool if Dale Jr would win his first points race after coming back there?
