Mark Martin

Sporting News, The, Dec 9, 2005

The main difference between Martin and the man this award is named for? Martin doesn't resort to intimidation to snuff out the competition; he relies on precision and determination.

The main similarity? The sheer grit behind the wheel--no other driver puts forth more effort on race day than the driver in the No. 6 car.

The combination of those two characteristics is why Martin's fellow competitors admire him so much.

"It's an honor," says Martin, who finished in the top 10 for the 15th time. "I do the best I can, and I guess folks appreciate that. I certainly have never given up, and I've been fortunate with the opportunities I've had and the career I've had."