By Ryan - Posted on December 16, 2009

During the 2008 NASCAR racing season, Carl Edwards, driver of the number 99 car, won 9 races and was expected to be the one driver who could overthrow Jimmie Johnson and dash his hopes for a fourth consecutive Sprint Cup title. Unfortunately, this dream would be shattered early on in the season.

From the moment the 2009 season began, Edwards consistently found himself at the back of the pack, and fighting for every spot he could steal. His brilliant performance only a year earlier would not carry over. Throughout the entire season, Edwards led for only 164 laps, with the majority of his lead coming in one race. True to the year’s record, Edwards did not even win that contest.

Perhaps the most memorable, and talked about, moment for Carl Edwards, occurred during the last lap in Talladega. In an attempt to prevent second place Brad Keselowski from taking over the lead, Edwards was involved in a spectacular crash that had many fans holding their breath and hoping that he emerged alive. Unscathed, Edwards leapt out of his destroyed vehicle and sprinted across the finish line. This behaviour is expected from Edwards, whose drive and determination keep him focused and positive. He makes the best of every situation that is thrown at him, and this is what makes him such a fierce competitor and contender.

This powerful energy is evident both on and off the track. Not only is Edwards a seasoned and experienced racer, he also devotes his time to helping others who are less fortunate. His personality and sense of humour make him an extremely likable guy.

True, 2009 proved to be less than successful and memorable for Carl Edwards, but we definitely haven’t seen the last of him. Guaranteed, when the next season starts in approximately 9 weeks, Edwards will again be vying to topple the four time reigning champion from his throne. Hopefully, the 2010 season will be more gracious to Edwards and launch him once again to where he belongs – among the best of the best.