Tony Stewart Will Compete in Chili Bowl Midget Nationals: Fan View

Tony Stewart has announced that he will be competing in the 2012 Lucas Oil Chili Bowl Midget Nationals. After an absence of three years, Stewart will return to this competition and attempt to add another trophy to his collection. The reigning NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion has many plans for the 2012 season.

Going Back to the Chili Bowl

The last time that Tony Stewart participated in the Chili Bowl Midget Nationals was in 2008. Although he finished in eighth place in 2008, he has won this competition twice. Stewart has not provided many details on his decision to return to the Chili Bowl, but it seems that winning the Sprint Cup three times is not enough for this champion.

A Return to His Roots

Stewart has previously commented that he enjoys the midget races. In 2011, he mentioned, "I've always taken pride in being able to jump around in different race cars and be competitive." Midget racing gives Tony Stewart the opportunity to return to his roots. He has competed in multiple races throughout his career and is an inducted member of the National Midget Auto Racing Hall of Fame.

A Full Schedule for the 2012 Season

Tony Stewart has been busy creating a full schedule for the 2012 racing season. He plans on participating in the Lucas Oil Chili Bowl Midget Nationals on Jan. 10. Prior to the Chili Bowl, he will also be part of the Rumble in Fort Wayne on Dec. 30 and Dec. 31. He will continue to pursue a fourth championship in the Sprint Cup and multiple NASCAR races. In addition, there is a strong possibility that he will return to the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series and race at some of the events.

Joined By Others

Several NASCAR drivers will join Tony Stewart at the Lucas Oil Chili Bowl Midget Nationals in 2012. Stewart will be driving the No. 14 Chevrolet Spike at the race. Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Bryan Clauson and Jake Blackhurst will also be competing in the Chili Bowl. The drivers are expected to finish well because of their background and experience in midget racing.

More from this contributor:

NASCAR May Ban Radio Communication Among Drivers: Fan Reaction

Uncertainty for Brian Vickers in 2012: Fan View

David Reutimann's Future in NASCAR: Fan View

Growing up in Indiana, Lana developed a love for motorsports at an early age. She follows NASCAR, IndyCar and Formula One. Follow @Lana_Bandoim on Twitter.

Note: This article was written by a Yahoo! contributor. Sign up here to start publishing your own sports content.