NASCAR #47 Makes Special Appearance in North Phoenix

One of the easiest ways to become a better photographer is to remember this simple rule: Always bring your camera. Today I went out to pick up a few things at the store and like always, I brought my camera with me "just in case." Well today my strategy paid off, because I spotted this awesome car parked outside of the Wal-Mart on Happy Valley Road this afternoon!

This #47 Toyota Camry is driven by Marcos Ambrose who races in the NASCAR Sprint Cup series. The Australian-born Ambrose is currently ranked 29th out of 57 drivers for the 2010 season according to the NASCAR website.

The next race of the season is scheduled for Saturday, April 10th at Phoenix International Raceway, which is probably why the JTG Daugherty Racing team hauler was on display. Several things about this year's Phoenix race are unique. First, it is one of the few races in NASCAR measured in kilometers instead of miles.

Second, this year's race has been extended by 100 km over last year's race, for a total of 600 km or 375 miles. Finally, the Phoenix has been renamed from the Subway Fresh Fit 500 to the Subway Fresh Fit 600. The race is also unique because it starts in the late afternoon and finishes at night under the bright lights of the track (NASCARs are not equipped with headlights).

While I am not a huge NASCAR fan, it was really neat to see one of the cars up close and personal. I would have liked to have talked with the crew but they were nowhere to be found when I arrived late in the afternoon. Anyway, it just goes to show you what good things can happen when you are prepared with your camera!