Jimmie Johnson Nominated For Two Espys
Although the 2009 season is well underway, Jimmie Johnson has one more
chance to be honored for his spectacular 2008 season, which saw him win his
third consecutive NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship. Johnson has been
nominated for two ESPY awards, for "Best Male Athlete" and "Best Driver."
The ESPYs gather top celebrities from sports and entertainment to
commemorate the past year in sports by recognizing major sports
achievements, reliving unforgettable moments and saluting the leading
performers and performances.
Johnson won the award for "Best Driver" last year after locking up his
second championship. While hoping to defend his "Best Driver" honor,
Johnson's eye is on the bigger prize of "Best Male Athlete." His competition
includes Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps and NBA stars LeBron James and Kobe
Bryant.
"I was honored to win an ESPY last year, especially considering the other
amazing drivers I was up against," Johnson said. "To be nominated this year
for two ESPYs and to be up for Best Male Athlete with LeBron (James),
Michael (Phelps) and Kobe (Bryant) is really cool."
The ESPY's are decided by a fan-vote that will be open through July 11. Fans
can vote for Johnson online at www.espys.tv or via mobile phone at
www.espn.mobi. The 2009 ESPYs will be televised Sunday, July 19, at 9 p.m.
ET on ESPN/ESPN HD.
"Our fans are awesome for voting for me last year, and I hope they show
their support again this year," Johnson said.
Johnson is up against Helio Castroneves, Scott Dixon, Tony Schumacher and
Lewis Hamilton for "Best Driver."
-credit: nascar
