Short Track

Pass Master

In a race that featured more lead changes (88) than any other in the 62-year history of Cup racing, Kevin Harvick (below) made the pass that counted at Talladega on Sunday. With the finish line about five football fields away, Harvick dived to the inside of front-running Jamie McMurray to win the Aaron's 499 by .011 of a second—the eighth-closest finish since NASCAR began using electronic timing in 1993. A free agent after this season, Harvick has hinted that he wants to leave Richard Childress Racing, his home since 2001. Where might he end up in 2011? Most likely at Stewart-Haas Racing, a two-car team that is looking to eventually add a third driver. Important to Harvick, who is now second in points, SHR is a Chevy team, just like Harvick's successful operation in the Nationwide Series.