From Bad Boy to Good Guy?
From the moment Kurt Busch entered the Cup Series in 2003, the was labeled the “bad boy.” He was cocky and not afraid to say what was on his mind. He continuously talked poorly about the more experienced, veteran drivers. He simply showed no one respect. Now, eight years later, he appears to have completely changed. Is this possible?
For the last four seasons, Kurt Busch has uncharacteristically flown below the radar. He has not been nearly as successful as he was in the past and has kept his arrogance in check. This is quite a drastic change. During interviews, he says just the right thing, complementing other drivers and even NASCAR’s leadership skills. At first I was skeptical. Is this just really good PR work? Or has he changed? Up until these last few weeks, I was sticking to the former. I thought that the perfection of his interviews was deceiving. I often wondered if he knew how obvious he was. But, I am beginning to think this really is the new and improved Kurt Busch. I am very close to believing his change is sincere. I never would have allowed those words to come out of my mouth a year ago, but I do not think someone can flawlessly pretend to be good for over three years.
However, I still cannot completely believe he is changed. It seems that all the current facts point against me, but I cannot let go of what happened in the past. Is this wrong? I am beginning to think it might be. If I had gone through a change like it appears Kurt Busch has, I would long for acceptance. I would get tired of the boos I no longer deserve. I would begin to question if anyone would give me a second chance. So, should I and the rest of the NASCAR world believe in him and give him a second chance? Or is there still good reason to be skeptical?
