The one event that has always eluded Dale Earnhardt just happens to be the biggest race of the season.

The Daytona 500 has been within his grasp on many occasions, only to slip away in the closing laps. He says that Championships are more important than individual races, which is correct, but we all know how much he would cherish a victory in this year's 500.

This may just be his year to pull off the win. The addition of Larry McReynolds as Earnhardt's new crew chief will give him an edge. They have the duration of today's 125 mile race to figure out the chasis and prepare setups for Sunday's race. McReynolds' knowledge base from his years of experience with Fords will help him understand the competition.

So, look for the black number 3 up front on Sunday. It could just be Earnhardt's day, unless misfortune strikes, yet again.