31.   But then defending NCAA champion Arizona dealt the Longhorns a dose of the here and now.

32.   But this year, they return as defending national champions, following their shocking run to the throne room last March.

33.   But the traffic never cleared and they finished fifth, behind Admise and a nose ahead of defending champion Alpride.

34.   But will it mean enough to want to do it all over again as defending champion next year?

35.   Chevy claimed three of the top five spots, including defending champion Ron Hornaday Jr., who made a late attempt to pass, but finished third.

36.   Dale Jr., defending champion of the California Busch race, joined his father in the trophy room by claiming the Busch championship last season.

37.   David Duval is defending champion.

38.   Defending champion Wildcats roar down the road to repeat.

39.   Defending Futurity champion Winston Hansma of Weatherford agreed.

40.   Defending Giro champion Gilberto Simoni now is emerging as the main challenger to Armstrong.