Earnhardt Elledge: Support Dale for His Authenticity

Dale Earnhardt Jr. wasn't the only one to breathe a sign of relief yesterday. His sister, Kelley Earnhardt Elledge, probably slept a little easier Tuesday night than she has in the past month, or maybe even this season.

In her Infield Parking blog post Tuesday, she wrote:

"Today is a monumental day for Dale and myself along with all of our employees at JR Motorsports. We are so relieved to have this decision behind us and announce that in 2008, Dale will drive for Rick Hendrick and Hendrick Motorsports. Rick is an outstanding person and has been a friend to us for a long time. I haven't seen Dale smile so much in a while. I was just reviewing pictures on the internet of the press conference and I can see the pure joy on his face during the whole thing."

She expressed her appreciation of the fans' support and sent a message to those wavering in their support:

"I know there are people on the fence of whether to support dale or not, but remember the reasons you like Dale and stay true to those reasons. If you like his for his person, then you will continue to like him because that's not going to change. If you liked him because he drove for DEI, then continue to support DEI, it's OK....we want you to support Dale for his authenticity and the fact he's real. What you see is what you get. If you are oK with that, we are ok with that.

"Of course, there are those that will choose their own direction and have negative things to say and that's OK too...its America and we are all entitled to our opinion. Just be true to yourself. The sport needs all of the fans whether they are Jimmy Johnson fans, Kurt Busch fans or Tony Stewart fans...it takes us all. Differences and opinions are what makes the world turn.

"For those of you that continue to support Dale Jr, thank you from the bottom of my heart. I'm sure that he will continue to give you what you are looking for in his honesty and integrity and definitely something to cheer for on the race track. I'm looking forward to a fun ride for many years to come."

For sure there have been plenty with negative things to say. Many of you here in The Fanhouse. Know what? DEI can have you. The rest of us are moving on.

Here's why: