I've been covering NASCAR for more than 35 years, and I can't recall a story like Kurt Busch's.

We've seen drivers mature on the track, going from a scrap heap of wrecked cars to championship wins. We've also seen drivers recover from serious injury to return to Victory Lane.

But, Kurt's journey has been a unique one.

No one has ever disputed his talent behind the wheel; Kurt's problem has always been when Competitive Kurt didn't stay in the car when Kurt got out. He will admit that he was his own worst enemy. And, that cost him a ride with one of the top teams in the sport.

Then, he did something a lot of folks never thought he could; keep his nose clean, serve his penance and land a ride with a premiere organization. Now, he's completed a huge step in his journey by returning to Victory Lane.

Love him or hate him, I believe you should respect what the man has done in taking advantage of one last chance.