Jayski's® NASCAR Silly Season Site - Kenny Irwin News and Tribute Page

JAYSKI's SILLY SEASON SITE
Kenny Irwin News and Tribute Page

Kenny Irwin 1969-2000
image from SpeedVision

the sticker ran at NHIS on the Cup cars
from an image on the Speedway Illustrated site

(links last checked on 12-15-2001)

Irwin Jr. Dare to Dream Camp to close: The New Castle, IN-area The Kenny Irwin Jr. Foundation's Dare to Dream Camp for underprivileged, at-risk, neglected and abused children was supposed to carry on for years to come, just like the racing career of its namesake, Kenny Irwin Jr. But the camp is coming to an end 11 years after the passing of the popular Indianapolis driver killed July 7, 2000, in a NASCAR Cup Series crash at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. The former U.S. Auto Club midget champion and NASCAR Rookie of the Year was 30 years old. The Kenny Irwin Jr. Foundation's Dare to Dream Camp, which hosts a minimum of 300 children a year and about 4,000 over the past eight years, grew from Irwin's love of children. His parents learned after his fatal crash that he had paid hospital bills of children they didn't even know. The camp gave children a week to forget the challenges in their lives, making them feel special, loved and wanted. They were allowed to eat as much as they wanted, with some having ice cream for the first time. They could play basketball, miniature golf and swim while sharing new adventures. "We could take a tragedy in our life and make something good of it," Irwin's father, Kenny Sr., said of the camp. But keeping things going became too much of a physical challenge for the Irwins. Kenny's mother, Reva, has endured a series of heart procedures in the past year-plus, leading to the decision to sell the camp. "We're both 65, and it's beyond our ability to take care of the camp like we did," Kenny Sr. said Thursday afternoon. "I normally took care of all the maintenance, and in fact I'm out here right now mowing all the property. Reva took care of all the bookwork, bringing the kids in, taking care of campers, and she just told me she couldn't do it anymore. And I can't do it without her." It is a 45-mile drive from the Irwins' longtime home in Lawrence to the camp, which has five buildings, cabins, a six-acre lake, pool, sports fields and 100 campsites on 27 acres along I-70. The foundation had many financial donors over the years, including Bob Bahre and his family, former owners of the New Hampshire track. Two potential buyers toured the property this week, including a church group. If it's still unsold, an auction is scheduled Sept. 14. The Irwins won't stop helping children, though. The foundation that Reva and their three grown daughters operate plans to pay to send 150 children per year to three one-week camps around the country.(Indianapolis Star)(8-19-2011)

Memorial campground honoring Kenny Irwin opened on Saturday: The parents of NASCAR driver Kenny Irwin Jr., who was killed nearly three years ago, plan to open a campground for underprivileged children in his memory. Kenny and Reva Irwin were scheduled to open the campground this weekend in Henry County, about 40 miles northeast of Indianapolis, IN. Irwin, an Indianapolis native and the 1998 Winston Cup Rookie of the Year, was killed July 7, 2000, in a crash during practice at the New Hampshire Speedway in Louden, N.H., less than a month before his 31st birthday. "We were going to build it in North Carolina," Reva Irwin said. "But when we found this place, we were led to put it here." The 27-acre property has a new lodge and recreation hall, new rest rooms and showers, and a new swimming pool. It has been open since April 4, but grand opening ceremonies were scheduled for Saturday. Primitive camping and trailer sites and cabins are available. A bunkhouse for 40 children is also under construction. A 6-acre stocked lake provides fishing, paddle boating and canoeing. Irwin said the 19 months spent rebuilding the camp has been therapeutic for her and her husband. "It took a lot more work than we thought," Irwin said. "We're glad we're finally open."(Miami Herald/AP), also see articles at the Courier Times [IN]: Deceased NASCAR driver's parents dare to dream and Camp's grand opening celebration is May 24 and check out the Kenny Irwin Jr Foundation Site.(5-24-2003)

Irwin Race: The Kenny Irwin Jr. Memorial Winternationals will be held February 19th thru 23rd at Orlando SpeedWorld in Bithlo, Florida. This is the first time in several years that full-sized midgets have run in Florida and the NAMARS sanctioned event has drawn a number of competitors including USAC Midget Champion Tracy Hines and 2001 Rookie of the Year Bobby East as well as several other USAC drivers. Jimmy McCune, the winningest driver in NAMARS, will also be in the field of the forty midgets expected to come. The last Winternationals that were held in Florida was won by Kenny Irwin Jr. and therefore this has become the Kenny Irwin Jr. Memorial Winternationals. Lap money sponsors will see part of that money go to the Kenny Irwin Jr. Memorial "Dare to Dream Camp" established in Irwin's honor. Racing will start at 7:30 PM each night and on Wednesday night, there will be a "ladies only" midget feature. Also on the program will be FASCAR Mini-Stocks, Super Stocks, Dwarf Cars (Mod Lites), Legends Cars, and on the final three nights, the Classic Auto Racing Series cars. There will be FREE RV parking provided at the speedway and admission each night will be $20.00 adults, teens $10.00.(Florida Stock Car Racing)(2-18-2002)

Nice Gesture: Jim Herrick, owner of Liberty Racing and Liberty Auto Group, of Vermillion, OH. presented to Reva and Kenny Irwin the 98 truck that Kenny Jr. drove in the Craftsman Truck Series in 1996 and 1997. Kenny won a pole at Richmond in 1996 and at Texas and Homestead in 1997, along with the Rookie of the Year Award. The truck will be on permanent display at the Kenny Irwin Jr. Memorial Campground, 25 miles east of Indianapolis, In. on I-70 at the New Castle, In. exit.(Kenny Irwin Jr Memorial Foundation Site)(1-28-2002)

Official Kenny Irwin Jr. Memorial Foundation.org website now online: Kenny and Reva Irwin, parents of the late Kenny Irwin Jr., have unveiled the official Kenny Irwin Jr. Memorial Foundation.org website. Located at kennyirwinjrfoundation.org, the website has a "fan club" section to learn how to support the foundation, as well as a contact section with e-mail addresses, phone numbers, directions information, and a printable donation form. Another feature is current photos and regularly updated news about the Dare to Dream Camp, located near New Castle, Indiana. The 27 acre campground with a six acre lake is under construction with a targeted June 2002 completion date. The foundation was established in 2000, as a way for the Irwin's to honor Kenny's legacy, and continue his generosity to under-privileged children. The Irwin's wanted an official website to serve as an ongoing tribute to Kenny's memory by creating awareness for upcoming foundation events and projects.(12-10-2001)

Irwin Memorial Campground: Reva and Kenneth Irwin Sr. are working to transform the former Lakewood and Gypsies' Paradise campground south of New Castle into the Kenny Irwin Jr. Memorial Campground. The campground, located at 75 W. Road 500S, is to become a facility for disabled and underprivileged children. The request to complete the work was officially approved Thursday at the Henry County Planning Commission meeting. The board unanimously granted a commission-approved use rating to operate the facility on the 27-acre campground. Irwin Sr. told the board he and his wife had known little about their son's charitable givings until shortly after his death in July 2000 at the New Hampshire Speedway. The Winston Cup driver had always kept those dealings to himself.(Courier Times)(11-19-2001)

That's Racin': Irwin, Adam Petty still on many minds by David Poole(7-22-2001)

Thanks TNT for the silent 3rd, 42nd and 45 laps at New Hampshire in memory of Dale Earnhardt(#3), Kenny Irwin Jr(#42) and Adam Petty(#45)

Kenny Irwin: nice stories at NASCAR.com about Kenny Irwin:
Kenny, you are not forgotten by Dave Rodman.
Remembering Kenny Irwin by Liz Allison
A parent's love lasts foreverby Jim Huber
Jayski Idea: NBC - at NHIS, how about a sillent lap 42 during the broadcast?(7-17-2001)
and also at Catchfence: Remembering Kenny Irwin For His Family and Fans by Marty Tyler

Las Vegas Review Journal: Kenny Irwin, Adam Petty also deserve tributes by Jeff Wolf(7-20-2001)

ESPN: Gone, but not forgotten(Kenny Irwin) by Jonathan Baum(7-9-2001)

Irwin/Earnhardt/Petty Tribute: NHIS will hold a race-day tribute to the late seven-time champion, Dale Earnhardt. Details are still being worked out and are expected to be announced tomorrow(Union Leader), no word on if they will have a tribute for Kenny Irwin(7-18-2001)
UPDATE: According to NHIS owner Bob Bahre, track officials are planning a ceremony to honor Dale Earnhardt, Adam Petty and Kenny Irwin Jr. prior to Sunday’s New England 300. Earnhardt, also known as The Intimidator, was one of NASCAR’s best-known drivers. With his trademark black racing suit and aggressive style of driving, Earnhardt quickly gained the respect of his NASCAR peers. The 49-year-old Earnhardt was killed during the Daytona 500 in February, when his No. 3 Chevrolet Monte Carlo hit the wall on the final lap of the race. Earnhardt won a record seven Winston Cup points titles and hd 76 career victories. Petty was killed last May when his car barreled into the wall in Turn 3 at NHIS. Irwin was killed two months later when his car hit the same wall at NHIS, near the spot where Petty’s car hit. Race officials blamed stuck throttles for both incidents. "We’ve got a lot of respect for Dale and the other two kids," Bahre said. "We couldn’t have a ceremony for Dale and not the other two. That just wouldn’t be right." The ceremony, which will be performed prior to the race on Sunday, will include a prayer from Bishop Michael Cody of Portland, Maine. Along with the prayer service will be Winston Cup’s season-long ritual of having complete radio silence during Lap 3 in memory of Earnhardt. While race fans and drivers alike will remember Earnhardt for his intimidating character, Bahre said he always will remember a softer side of The Intimidator, one that included regular visits to him and his son, Gary, when the Winston Cup Series was in town. While the death of Earnhardt was a shock for Bahre, the NHIS owner was taken aback this week by the reaction of several Winston Cup drivers following Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s victory at Daytona in the Pepsi 400. Following the race, several drivers voiced concerns that Winston Cup officials and other drivers, specifically Michael Waltrip, fixed the race to let Earnhardt Jr. win. "Earnhardt Jr. has been running strong since February," Bahre said. "What’s wrong with these people? If he had the best car, he deserved to win the race."(Fosters Daily Democrat)(7-19-2001)

Irwin Tribute by Stewart: Tony Stewart, who raced against the late Kenny Irwin since their teenage years in Indiana, plans to honor his longtime rival on Sunday. Stewart is scheduled to wear a race helmet painted like Irwin's in the Dura-Lube 300(Atlanta Journal Constitution)(9-15-2000)

Irwin Honored: The late Kenny Irwin was to be inducted into the Darlington Record Club for winning the pole at the 1999 Southern 500(AP)(9-2-2000)

Racindeals: Kenny Irwin: The Final Goodbye with images of the Balloon release, by Tammy Brewington(8-10-2000)

Balloons for Kenny - Two Releases: there are plans for fans of Kenny Irwin across the nation to release balloons on Saturday, August 5th, which would had been Irwin's 31st birthday. In honor of that, his fans will be sending up a rainbow of balloons. The first release is scheduled for 11:00am/ct time. Any fan wanting to be involved can meet up at Irwin's souvenier hauler at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Questions about the event can be sent to: Kimberly(7-27-2000)
UPDATE and CORRECATION: the balloon release has been moved the to the Coca-Cola lot on the Northwest side of the speedway. There is a building that runs the length of the parking lot that says 'Coca-Cola' on it, that is where the meet will take place. The Irwin trailer will NOT be present at the track(7-28-2000)
thanks to Great Day Party Rental located at 248 E. High St. in Mooresville, IN who will be donating balloons and gave a discount on the helium(7-31-2000)
AND Debi Musgrave, Ted's wife, has just received permission to hold a balloon release this Saturday at Team Sabco's offices in Mooresville, NC. The time will be the same - 1 EST - and she plans to release the balloons from near the small lake in front of the building. Debi is inviting anyone in the Charlotte, NC area who wants to honor Kenny with a rainbow to join her at Team Sabco (see Team Address page for address) this Saturday(Ted Musgrave Site)(8-3-2000)

Irwin Honor: The Busch Series Ladies Association will honor Kenny Irwin Jr. during this weekend's Econo Lodge 200 at the Nazareth Speedway. Irwin, who was killed during a practice session last week at New Hampshire International Speedway, was a part-time driver on the NASCAR Busch Series circuit for Team SABCO. The Busch Series Ladies Association will distribute decals that read "In Loving Memory of Kenny Irwin." The Busch Series Ladies Association are asking teams to run the decals in a prominent place on their cars during this weekend's race. The Busch Series Ladies Association is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to helping drivers and crew members of the Busch Series that are in need, as well as other charitable organizations. NOTE: there were only enough made to run on the BGN cars this weekend and the Busch Series Ladies Association has been asked not to distribute them to the public and they will not be available(7-13-2000)

Irwin Funeral: Hundreds of mourners packed a church Wednesday to remember NASCAR driver Kenny Irwin, whose great passion in life also brought his death. Irwin, 30, crashed into a concrete wall and died of a crushed skull Friday while practicing for the New England 300 at New Hampshire International Speedway in Loudon, N.H. The Rev. Peter Bosworth recounted a recent conversation with Irwin in which he said the driver told him, "You know what, I'd drive for free. I'd race for free. That's my passion. That's my passion." "He died doing what he absolutely loved," Bosworth said. At least 500 people attended the service at Abundant Life Church, spilling out of the sanctuary into a gymnasium to watch on closed-circuit television. Irwin's casket was draped in red roses, with hundreds of floral arrangements on either side stretching across the front of the church and down two hallways(Infobeat/AP) and an AP story at ESPN: Irwin died 'doing what he loved'(7-12-2000)

Irwin dies in a crash at NHIS: Kenny Irwin, driver of the #42 BellSouth/Sabco Chevy, died Friday as a result of a crash during practice at New Hampshire. Irwin was 30. Irwin's car went straight at speed into the third-turn wall at the 1.058mi oval. The right-side wheels rode up the fence, flipping the car onto the driver's side. The car then skidded into the wall at the apex of the corner and fell onto its roof. Rescue workers reached the site quickly. The first to the driver's window waved frantically for assistance. Irwin was removed from the car within five minutes, was taken briefly to the track infield hospital, then taken out of the track to Concord Hospital. The hospital provided the official announcement three hours later. In a statement, the hospital stated, "NASCAR Winston Cup driver Kenny Irwin, 30, passed away today due to multiple injuries sustained in a practice accident at New Hampshire International Speedway."(SpeedVision)(7-7-2000)

Nice Gesture: Tony Stewart offered the use of his private plane to Kenny Irwin's family and the offer accepted and used by the Irwin family(RPM 2Night)(7-9-2000)

All 43 cars in Sunday's race and the pace car carried a black and white oval decal with the words, "In Memory of Kenny Irwin." Irwin, 30, was killed in a practice session crash Friday at the New Hampshite Intl Speedway(That's Racin')(7-10-2000) and no, I have no idea where to get the stickers and have seen no images of them

Donations in Kenny Irwin, Jr.'s name can be made to the Riley Children's Hospital, 702 Barnhill Drive, Indianapolis, Ind., 46202, (317) 274-5000.

thanks to Laura Hermes for the image, taken at Rockingham in 1999

If you would like to send a sympathy card to the Irwin family, I hear you can send it to the Kenny Irwin Fan Club: at PO Box 17166, Indianapolis, IN 46217

Statements about Irwin's death from a NHIS PR:
THE FOLLOWING IS A STATEMENT FROM CONCORD HOSPITAL: NASCAR Winston Cup driver Kenny Irwin, 30, passed away today due to multiple injuries sustained in a practice accident at New Hampshire International Speedway. Further details will be provided when available.

THE FOLLOWING IS A STATEMENT FROM NASCAR PRESIDENT, BILL FRANCE, REGARDING KENNY IRWIN: "We are deeply saddened at today's passing of Kenny Irwin. On behalf of all us at NASCAR and the entire NASCAR community, our deepest sympathies, all our thoughts and prayers are with Kenny's family, friends and everyone at Team SABCO. Kenny was a fine competitor and will be missed very much by the entire NASCAR community."

THE FOLLOWING IS A STATEMENT FROM BOB & GARY BAHRE, REGARDING KENNY IRWIN: "We extend our utmost sympathy to the family of Kenny Irwin during this time of grief. This is a time of great sadness for us and everyone in racing."

THE FOLLOWING IS A STATEMENT FROM THE PETTY FAMILY: "The Petty family would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the Irwan family," said Richard Petty. "Our thoughts and prayers are, and will continue to be, with the Irwin family and the employees of Team SABCO during this difficult time."

THE FOLLOWING IS A STATEMENT FROM TEAM SABCO: "On behalf of everyone at Team SABCO, we want to express our sincere sympathy to Kenny Irwin's mother, father, sisters and relatives. Kenny was a great teammate and wonderful friend, and we will miss him terribly. Because out hearts will be elsewhere this weekend, Team SABCO and Bell South have opted to withdraw the No. 42 Chevrolet from all racing activities at the New Hampshire International Speedway."(NHIS PR)(7-7-2000)

Irwin dies in a crash at NHIS: Reports from trackside observers at New Hampshire International Speedway indicate that #42 Cup driver Kenny Irwin crashed hard during practice at 11:15am/et. The accident was described as happening in the same place and same manner as the one which killed Adam Petty there on May 12 during BGN practice. Rescue workers were using the Jaws of Life to remove the Indiana native from his BellSouth Mobility Chevrolet. No initial word on Irwin's condition was released(TNN Motorsports Site) AND from SpeedVision: The crash began at the end of the back straight -- the same place where Adam Petty was fatally injured in a crash May 12. Irwin's car hit the third turn wall at speed, climbed the concrete barrier with its right-side wheels, and skidded through the third turn on the driver's side. It then struck the wall in the fourth turn and fell onto its roof. Rescue workers got Irwin out of the car relatively quickly, within 10 minutes, and he was taken by ambulance to the care center. Team members said they understood he was unconscious at least some of the time. After 35 minutes, Irwin remained in the care center, and neither team nor NASCAR officials would say anything about Irwin's status
UPDATE: from the CNN/AP: Irwin is in the in the infield care center and is about to be transported to a local hospital. The early suspicion is that the throttle stuck wide-open on his BellSouth Chevy, sending him into the wall. Irwin's Chevrolet was a crumpled hulk, tossed upside down between the third and fourth turns at the speedway. There was no immediate comment from track and NASCAR officials
UPDATE 2: ESPN2's BottomLine crawl is reporting that Kenny Irwin, 30, has passed away due to injuries in a practice crash at NHIS, also is now being reported at ESPN site. Prayers and thoughts go out to Irwin's family
Statement from BellSouth: The BellSouth family is saddened by the sudden death of BellSouth NASCAR Driver Kenny Irwin earlier today. Kenny was an excellent representative for BellSouth and was very popular with our employees and customers. Our thoughts and prayers are with Kenny's family and his teammates. Out of respect for Kenny's memory the BellSouth Racing Team has withdrawn from competition this weekend(That's Racin'). Also the #40 Coors Light Sabco team, owned by Felix Sabates, who also owns the #42 team Irwin drove for, has opted not to run in first round qualifying and will make an attempt in 2nd round on Saturday(7-7-2000)

From TachZone

Links to Kenny Irwin Stories/News:

7-14-2000

Diehard Fans: Saying Goodbye...A Fans Perspective... by Traci

7-13-2000

That's Racin': Friends family bid farewell to Kenny Irwin and Racing takes Irwin home to tears instead of cheers by David Poole

7-12-2000

SpeedVision: Notes From The Margin(some comments on Irwin) by Brock Yates

Victory Lap: Grateful for rainbows by Sue

7-11-2000

SpeedVision: NASCAR Inside Winston Cup - Kenny Irwin Remembered by Bill King

7-10-2000

Alabama Live: Must the race really go on? Can't ask Irwin by Clyde Bolton

7-9-2000

About.com NASCAR: Tragedy In New Hampshire by Steve McCormick

That's Racin': Eerie coincidences surround tragedy by David Poole

7-8-2000

ESPN: Tragic encore takes Irwin's life by Bill Weber

Lakeland Ledger: Irwin Remembered For Heart and Drive

from the USA Today site

News and Observer: Eerie tragedy by Barry Svrluga

News and Record: Questions Follow After the Loss of Irwin by Ed Hardin

RacinDeals: To Kenny Irwin's Mother by Tammy Brewington

Speed Magazine: Sting of this slap will linger awhile by Ken Willis

Star Telegram: Irwin killed in crash in practice; Winston Cup driver's car hits wall at same track where Adam Petty died by John Sturbin

Tennessean: Ohio residents remember Kenny Irwin by Dave Lance;

That's Racin': Slideshow: Remembering Kenny Irwin; and Kenny Irwin's bio; and Irwin's death shakes up team owner Sabates by Tom Sorensen; and Irwin family follows Pettys down path of grief by David Poole

Union Leader: Irwin dead in NHIS crash and Irwin’s death hits home at Loudon speedway by Kevin Provenvher

from the DieHard Yates Fan Kenny Irwin Page

#42 Team Past News andRumors
(NOTE: some older links may not work)

Dodge and Sabco/Ganassi UPDATE: Felix Sabates says he and Chip Ganassi have "agreed to agree" on a transaction that could bring Ganassi aboard as majority partner in Sabates' NASCAR racing organization(SABCO). Such a deal, Sabates said, would likely happen in the next 30 days. SABCO, fields the #40 Coors cars(Chevys) for Sterling Marlin and the #42 BellSouth car for Kenny Irwin. Sabastes says they have not discussed drivers and that any deal must be done in the next two or three weeks. Reports last fall had said Ganassi would link with Pontiac, which may be in need of teams with the defections to Dodge of Petty Enterprises and Bill Davis Racing. More recent rumors, however, pointed Ganassi in Dodge's direction(in part from SpeedVision)(5-17-2000)
UPDATE: Speedway Scene has learned that it is likely that the Chip Ganassi/Felix Sabates SABCO collaboration are expected to make the change to Dodge sheet metal in 2001. Where SABCO will fit into the program as far as team alignment goes is unknown, but Bill Davis, owner of the #22 and #93 Pontiacs says that they'll not be part of the three team consortium that includes himself, Ray Evernham and Petty Enterprises(Speedway Scene)(6-25-2000)
Glover back to the #4? There is speculation that Tony Glover may return to the Morgan McClure #4 Kodak team, which has won only once since Glover left more than three years ago(PitNow). Glover is presently with SABCO(#'s 40 and 42) and with Chip Ganassi buying a large stake in SABCO and bringing Andy Graves in, the time would be right for Glover to make a move(6-2-2000)
Gannasi/Sabco to Dodge? TNN's Raceday reports that that Sabco who will be bought by Chip Ganassi next month will change to Dodge from Chevy in 2001(5-28-2000)
Schrader to Ganassi/Sabco? from today's St Louis Post-Dispatch - One hot rumor flying around the Speedway(Indy) is that Chip Ganassi, who runs the highly successful Target team featuring Juan Montoya and Jimmy Vasser, will form a NASCAR Winston Cup operation and hire former St. Louisan Ken Schrader as his driver. The story reports that Gannassi had lunch with Schrader 'the other day'. Schrader drives the #36 M&M's Pontiac(St Louis Post Dispatch) AND Driver Sterling Marlin is meeting with owner Felix Sabates and CART owner Chip Ganassi on Monday and Tuesday. The deal hasn't been finalized, but Ganassi could buy 80 percent of Sabates' team, which includes the cars driven by Marlin and Kenny Irwin(Times-Dispatch)(5-21-2000)
Sabco/Ganassi? UPDATE 5: hearing SABCO owner Felix Sabates(#'s 40 and 42) and CART championship team owner, Chip Ganassi are getting close to forming some sort of partnership that would bring a Ganassi team (an Andy Graves) to the Cup series for 2001(5-9-2000)
UPDATE: Chip Ganassi, who has won four consecutive championships as a team owner in CART, may be on the verge of entering NASCAR. Ganassi is negotiating with Felix Sabates to become a part-owner of Team Sabco. If there's a partnership with Ganassi, it wouldn't begin until next year(Dallas Morning News)
UPDATE 2: On Thursday's ESPN2 RPM2 Night, Robin Miller reported that the Ganassi-Sabates is a done deal with Ganassi owning 80% and Sabates owning 20% with Ganassi talking to Jeremy Mayfield and Bobby Hamilton as part of a two car team to run in 2001. Target is the rumored sponsor(RPM2 Night). Note: Mayfield is signed with Penske-Kranefuss thru 2002 and Hamilton with Morgan-McClure thru 2001(5-11-2000)
UPDATE 3: in a story at SpeedNet: Ganassi to join NASCAR, source says, no drivers mentioned like on RPM2 Night but the story adds: "According to a source in Charlotte, who requested anonymity, Ganassi will become a majority owner of Felix Sabates' operation and run a two-car effort starting in 2001 with Dodges." No mention of what would happen with the current drivers, Sterling Marlin or Kenny Irwin, on RPM2 Night it sounded like a deal in addition to Sabates current teams, but the story sounds more like a partnership. Three of the drivers have contracts at least thru the 2001 season, Marlin has the option to leave at the end of the 2000 season(5-12-2000)
UPDATE 4: Felix Sabates says he and Chip Ganassi have "agreed to agree" on a transaction that could bring Ganassi aboard as majority partner in Sabates' NASCAR racing organization(SABCO). Such a deal, Sabates said, would likely happen in the next 30 days. SABCO, fields the #40 Coors cars(Chevys) for Sterling Marlin and the #42 BellSouth car for Kenny Irwin. Sabastes says they have not discussed drivers and that any deal must be done in the next two or three weeks. Reports last fall had said Ganassi would link with Pontiac, which may be in need of teams with the defections to Dodge of Petty Enterprises and Bill Davis Racing. More recent rumors, however, pointed Ganassi in Dodge's direction(in part from SpeedVision)(5-17-2000)
UPDATE 5: According to CNNSI.com motorsports insider Marty Snider, Felix Sabates has agreed in priniciple to the sale of 80% of SABCO to Chip Ganassi, who will take over day-to-day operation of Team SABCO on July 1. Sabates will continue to own 20 percent of the team. The three SABCO BGN teams will be disbanded at the end of the 2000 season. Target will join both the #40-Marlin and and #42-Irwin teams as an associate sponsor after July 1.(CNN/SI)(5-19-2000)
Irwin Special Scheme UPDATE Image: To commemorate BellSouth’s initial trip to The Winston with Kenny Irwin as driver, Team SABCO will unveil a special paint scheme on the #42 BellSouth Chevrolet at a press conference on Thursday, May 18, in Charlotte, N.C. Irwin and BellSouth are announcing an extended Lifeline partnership with the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) initiative Project Impact: Building Disaster Resistant Communities, educating NASCAR fans that fast action can and should be taken to protect their homes and businesses from disasters and disruptions. Irwin will Unveil Bold New Car Paint Scheme Promoting Disaster Prevention(BellSouth PR)(5-17-2000)
UPDATE: NASCAR Winston Cup driver Kenny Irwin and BellSouth announced today their extended partnership with the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) initiative Project Impact: Building Disaster Resistant Communities. To focus attention on disaster prevention, Irwin is introducing a new paint scheme highlighting the Lifeline initiatives and FEMA Project Impact on the car he will drive in NASCAR's all-star race, The Winston. The race takes place at Lowe's Motor Speedway. See an image of the car and the PR at BellSouth - Project Imapct PR or the Paint Schemes Gallery(5-18-2000)
Irwin Injured? UPDATE 2: #42-Kenny Irwin was caught in #27-Mike Bliss' wreck(Bliss cut a tire on #77-Pressley's broken Brake part) on Lap 171 and was reported treated and released at the track infield center. Later word, however, was that Irwin had to be taken to an area hospital when he lost awareness while talking to others after his release. As of 2am/et, there was no further word(SpeedVision)(5-7-2000)
UPDATE: Team sources tell me that Kenny Irwin was not transported to the hospital. He was treated and released at the infield care center following the accident. The neurosurgeon on staff checked him out. Kenny went from there to the airport. A discussion did take place about going to the hospital after Irwin left the track, but it was not necessary. Irwin is sore but fine and is recovering
UPDATE 2: Kenny Irwin is recovering at home in Charlotte following an accident Saturday evening in the Pontiac Excitement 400 at Richmond. After the incident on lap 170, Irwin was treated and released from the infield care center. Contrary to published rumors, he was not transported to the hospital. “I am doing just fine,” Irwin said. “I’m just a bit sore from the accident but nothing more than that. I was very tired during the trip from the race track to the airport Saturday night, but I was not taken to the hospital.”(SABCO PR)(5-8-2000)
#42 Hauler Accident: Team SABCO transporter driver David Walker suffered minor injuries in a traffic accident with a pickup truck on I-40 outside Waverly, Arkansas, early Sunday morning. The pickup truck driver was killed when he crossed the I-40 median and collided with the Team SABCO transporter. Walker was en route to Las Vegas on I-40 westbound when the accident occurred. The tractor and transporter jackknifed and fell down an embankment. Walker suffered only minor cuts and bruises. The tractor sustained irreparable damage but the race car hauler suffered only minor exterior damage(Williams Co)(1-31-2000)
No Surprise: As rumored for months, Kenny Irwin will drive #42 BellSouth Chevys for Team SABCO in 2000 after agreeing to multi-year agreement. Tony Glover will serve as the crew chief and Irwin will also drive 16-18 BGN races in the #42 BellSouth Mobility Chevy for SABCO. The Cup car is bright green(NOL)(11-19-1999)
Irwin signs with SABCO? UPDATE: Kenny Irwin has signed with Team Sabco to take over the driving duties of the #42 Chevys beginning next season. An official announcement with car owner Felix Sabates and Irwin is not expected until the weekend of the Nov. 21 NAPA 500 at Atlanta, the headquarters of the car's sponsor, BellSouth, according to sources close to the driver(That's Racin')(9-7-1999) -- UPDATE: from Kenny Irwin in an NOL story - "It's really not much of a secret anymore that I'm going to be driving for the BellSouth team," Irwin said. "The deal will be officially announced at Atlanta."(NOL)(11-7-1999)
Nemechek/Petree UPDATE 2: hearing Joe Nemechek has signed to drive the #33 Andy Petree Chevy in 2000(9-30-1999) -- UPDATE: Andy Petree has a new driver for next season, and Joe Nemechek has a new job. The two signed yesterday to team for the next two seasons, with a third-year option. Petree said that he expected Nemechek to run his own Busch cars next season, and Petree said he was putting together a package for Kenny Wallace, now Nemechek's new teammate in the Petree camp, to run a number of Busch races(PitNow)(10-1-1999) -- UPDATE: Petree will also return to being a crew chief on the #33 in 2000(RPM2Nite)(10-2-1999)
Nemechek news UPDATE: Joe Nemechek, who scored his first Winston Cup victory last weekend in New Hampshire, is the leading candidate to take over the driving duties of the #33 Chevrolets next season, The Charlotte Observer has learned. Nemechek spoke with car owner Andy Petree this weekend in Dover about the ride, but no final agreement has been reached, sources said(That's Racin')(9-26-1999) -- UPDATE: Winston Cup Today Radio reports that Joe Nemechek is the likely driver for the #33 Oakwood Homes Andy Petree Chevy. Andy Petree said it looks that way if they can come to an agreement(9-27-1999)
Nemechek UPDATE...whoops: hearing Joe Nemechek turned down the #33 Andy Petree ride over concerns with Oakwood Homes financial woes(9-23-1999) -- UPDATE - incorrect: #33 car owner Andy Petree, looking to replace departing Ken Schrader, says he is close to a deal with Joe Nemechek, first-time winner last week at New Hampshire. Petree met with Nemechek for more than an hour Thursday night and hopes to make it official in a few days. Nemechek admitted he had talked to Petree and is interested, but he hinted he’s also talking to others and that “it’s nice to have choices.”(Racer Magazine)(9-25-1999)
Nemechek: hearing Joe Nemechek turned down the #33 Andy Petree ride over concerns with Oakwood Homes financial woes(9-23-1999)
Sabates Chat: #01, 40 and 42 SABCO team owner, Felix Sabates was in NOL Chat Tuesday. A few of the highlights were "No" to Joe Nemechek staying with SABCO, and when asked about the third team(currently the #01 Chevy), he said "probably going to run 5-8 races in 2000 with a third car" and about #40 driver, Sterling Marlin: "We've signed a new three-year deal with Coors and Sterling will be back with us for the next three years", so forget the earlier rumor of Marlin leaving. As for Tony Glover: "Tony will be team manager, but on Sunday he will be crew chief of the 42 car"(9-21-1999)
Nemechek and... It may have taken 180 races, but Joe Nemechek broke his maiden today with a convincing win at New Hampshire International Speedway. His previous best finish ever was only a 4th(on two occasions), the last coming at Texas Motor Speedway in April of 1998....51 races ago. The win is the first for SABCO Racing since Kyle Petty won at Dover in June of 1995. Nemechek's victory gives us 7 different race winners in a row. He also became our 11th different winner this year, making 5 years in a row we've had 11 different drivers to win races. You've got to go back to 1994 (12) to find more(Henry's Ramblings, Stock Car Fans Newsletter)(9-20-1999)
Nemechek Wins: Joe Nemechek's win at New Hampshire was his first ever career Winston win and it was the first time since 1970 that two first time winners(Tony Stewart won last week) have won in consecutive races when Pete Hamilton won at Daytona and James Hylton won at Richmond(TNN TV coverage)(9-19-1999)
Irwin signs with SABCO? UPDATE and Gordon: Kenny Irwin has signed with Team Sabco to take over the driving duties of the #42 Chevys beginning next season. An official announcement with car owner Felix Sabates and Irwin is not expected until the weekend of the Nov. 21 NAPA 500 at Atlanta, the headquarters of the car's sponsor, BellSouth, according to sources close to the driver(That's Racin')(9-7-1999) -- UPDATE: RPM2Nite also reports they hear the deal is done, just need Irwin to sign. Supposedly, Irwin will also run selected BGN events for SABCO. Also mentioned was that CART driver and former SABCO #40 driver Robby Gordon could be a third Cup driver for SABCO if he can bring a sponsor with him(9-9-1999)
Nemechek: From Wednesday's NOL chat with Joe Nemechek - The Question: In your search for a new team, how much does a manufacturer make in your decision? The Answer: "I think it does factor in. But mainly, it's trying to find a good Cup ride. Our Busch program will most likely remain Chevrolet. We're putting new 2000 sheet metal on them, and we're skinning them that way. Chevrolet has been good to me, and my plan is to continue on with Chevrolet." Makes you wonder about the Nemechek to the #28(Ford) rumors(9-9-1999)
Bodine, Todd that is: Todd Bodine continues to chart his future in racing. The ten time winner in the Busch Series would like to get a another shot at Winston Cup and has discussed a move with a couple of Winston Cup owners. His owner, Frank Cicci, has plans, eventually, to move the #66 team, en masse, to Cup, but it is probably too late for that move to happen for the 2000 season. There is no sponsor currently in place for a run in Winston Cup and it is probably too late in the season to get one lined up now for next season. Bodine stated that he would not move to Cup, just to be IN Winston Cup and would feel very comfortable running the Busch Series for the Cicci-Welliver team again in 2000. Bodine's name had been linked with Yates Racing and with the new Cal Wells Winston Cup (Tide) team as a potential driver, but now it appears he may get a shot in Felix Sabates' #01 Chevy(Inside Motorsports) Note: Sabates has said he doubt's he'll run a third team in 2000, Bodine may get considered for the #42 ride if Irwin goes elsehwere(9-6-1999)
Irwin/Nemechek Swap: For several weeks, it has been speculated that Felix Sabates and Robert Yates would simply trade drivers, much like Cale Yarborough and Michael Kranefuss did with Jeremy Mayfield and John Andretti in 1996. But according to Yates, his selection of drivers is not conclusive. Yates has participated in ongoing discussions with Ricky Rudd, but the veteran's ability to find a sponsor has delayed a final decision. Sabates is not interested in a mid-season swap whatsoever, unless his sponsor BellSouth or Nemechek requests a driver change. Although he has spoke with Robby Gordon, Sabates says that Irwin is on top of his list(SpeedVision)(9-6-1999)
Irwin: Kenny Irwin said his future is far from a done deal. Irwin says he has talked to Felix Sabates about the #42 car, but nothing is done yet. Irwin also says he has not talked to anyone outside of Winston Cup about a ride(SpeedNet)(9-4-1999)
SpeedVision Article: In this story it mentions that Felix Sabates has had a driver in the top 10 call him in the last couple of days asking Sabates to buy them out of their contract. He said he is willing to talk but not buy out their contracts. Also mentioned that Jeremy Mayfield and Robin Pemberton were under consideration for the Yates ride, but that won't happen now since Mayfield just signed a two year extension and Pemberton isn't looking to go elsewhere(8-30-1999)
SABCO/Irwin/Gordon: Felix Sabates said that even though he and Joe Nemechek are parting ways at the end of the season, he will not replace the driver before November. He admits he is talking to Kenny Irwin and Robby Gordon about running for his team in 2000, denies he will run three Winston Cup teams full time and plans to put money into improving what he deemed a junk 2000 Monte Carlo. Sabates talked about honoring other owners' contracts and the seven drivers -- one which he says is in the top 10 in Winston Cup points -- that he is considering for next season. He wants to find someone to join Sterling Marlin at Team SABCO. He plans to trim that list this week. Ron Hornaday is testing at Richmond tomorrow and Tuesday because he will drive the September race in Sabates' third Cup car(#01). Hornaday, however, will only compete in the Busch Grand National Series next season. No one will run a full schedule in the #01 car. Sabates also plans to join Busch programs with owner Jim Mattei. The pair could run three or four teams in the series. At least two of the drivers would be full-time. As for his second Cup team, Sabates said he would not have a "recycled" driver, an experienced veteran that has worked for a variety of other teams. Sabates dined with Robby Gordon earlier this week and said the driver could be Sabates' second driver next season. He added that he is not the only Cup owner interested in the open-wheel driver(Times-Dispatch)(8-29-1999)
Irwin UPDATE: sources tell me that Irwin will make a choice on his next ride within the next week to ten days. Supposedly three(forgot one) choices are SABCO or the 2nd Morgan-McClure team, and the #23 Travis Carter team(8-26-1999) -- UPDATE: Hearing it'll be the #42 Bellsouth Chevy in which Irwin will drive in 2000, supposedly he has asked for an early release so he can get a head start in the car for 2000(8-27-1999)
Irwin to a Chevy? UPDATE 3 SABCO: hearing rumors that Kenny Irwin is the top candidate for the #42 BellSouth Chevy ride with SABCO -- UPDATE: that was quick, from PitNow: It appears that General Motors' Herb Fishel may have plucked another promising young driver out of the Ford camp. Kenny Irwin could be headed to Felix Sabates' Chevrolet team next season, according to sources close to Irwin(PitNow) -- UPDATE 2: TNN's Raceday reports that Irwin may be at the top of AJ Foyt's list for his possible Cup team, Cup veteran Waddell Wilson may be part of the AJ Foyt Cup team(8-22-1999) -- UPDATE: Felix Sabates' abrupt break with Joe Nemechek may pave the way for Kenny Irwin taking over Team Sabco's #42 Chevrolet. Irwin's availability may have speeded Sabates' decision to bring an end to his relationship with Nemechek, who will no doubt go in the pool for other available rides(SpeedNet)(8-23-1999) --UPDATE 4: Hmm...I hear Irwin met with Felix Sabates Monday and will go to Atlanta to visit with BellSouth reps sometime this week and that he could end up in the #42 as soon as early to mid September allowing current driver, Joe Nemechek to go elsewhere, I hear the #28 is a possibility(8-25-1999)
More SABCO: Blaise Alexander, an ARCA(and BGN) driver who has been trying to break into Winston Cup racing, may soon be getting a shot with car owner Felix Sabates, according to sources(PitNow)(8-23-1999)
Nemechek/SABCO will split: It was announced on ESPN2's Qualifying that Joe Nemechek and Felix Sabates/SABCO will part ways after the 1999 season. That leaves the #42 ride open and adds Nemechek to the 'Silly Season' mix. From the official PR: Joe Nemechek, driver of the #42 BellSouth Chevrolet, and Team SABCO will be parting at the end of the 1999 NASCAR Winston Cup Racing season, it was announced today. Both parties mutually agreed upon the decision. (8-20-1999) -- UPDATE: It is unclear if sponsor BellSouth would stay with Sabates or with Nemechek(PitNow)(8-21-1999)
Nemechek Colors: The #42 BellSouth Chevy, driven by Joe Nemechek, will be sporting an impressive new car design featuring the BellSouth® Prepaid Phone card. His familiar blue and neon-stripped Chevrolet is being replaced with a new purple, red and white design for the Daytona night race(BellSouth PR)(6-30-1999)
SABCO Crew Chief CORRECTION, UPDATE 2: Jay Smith has been named as the crew chief for the #40 Coors Light SABCO Chevy and driver Sterling Marlin(NASCAR Today Radio) Smith was most recently the crew chief of the #34 Goulds Pumps BGN Chevy. Also worked for Bobby Hillin's BGN team and Irvan-Simo in the past few years -- CORRECTION: hmmm....I hear this incorrect, folks from SABCO tell me that Smith is not the new #40 crew chief but has been hired by SABCO to work on the #42 shocks. An announcement should be coming in the next day or two concerning the #40 crew chief(6-2-1999) -- UPDATE 1: Hearing that Scott Eggleston will switch over from the #42 to be the #40 crew chief -- UPDATE 2: it's official - Scott Eggleston has been named crew chief for Team SABCO's #40 Coors Light Chevrolet and driver Sterling Marlin. He moves the 20 feet or so from where he was crew chief for Team SABCO's #42 BellSouth Chevrolet and driver Joe Nemechek. Team manager Tony Glover will serve as interim crew chief for the BellSouth team and Nemechek(The William Co/SABCO)(6-3-1999)
Nemechek/McReynolds? Saw on PitNow this AM that Larry McReynolds is interested in Joe Nemechek who drives the #42 BellSouth Chevy for Felix Sabates. Also heard from a few sources the same thing. One problem is that Nemechek is signed through 2001(see 11-30-98), could get interesting(5-31-1999)
SABCO 3rd Car returns UPDATE 1 Sponsor: Driver Jeff Green and car owner Felix Sabates will be reunited later this year in the Winston Cup series. Sabates has decided to return to a three-car operation and has obtained sponsorship from a 'a major communications company' to run a seven-race schedule this season. And depending on the results, it may translate into a full schedule in 2000. Sabates fielded the #46 Chevys for Green last season. Sabates lost his sponsor, First Union/Money Store, at the end of last season and dissolved the team. The new team will not carry the #46. An official announcement of Sabates' plans is expected this week in Charlotte(That's Racin'/Jim Utter) -- UPDATE 1: Hearing the sponsor may be Florida based Topps Communication, found a little info on this company on the 'net, not much, seems they are based in Miami and deal with Sprint(5-17-1999)
Felix, changes? I hear from some readers that #'s 40 and 42(not 43 doh!) owner, Felix Sabates appeared on Speedvision's Inside Winston Cup Racing Show on the Hot-Seat segment and indicated that if his teams don't start performing better soon, it will be time for some drastic changes, though he did say in general he is happy about being down to two teams keeping the best personnel from last years three team effort, and that the team is much better than their bad-luck finishes show(3-23-1999)
Vegas Testing: Bobby Labonte(#18), Tony Stewart(#20), Sterling Marlin(#40), Joe Nemechek(#40) and Kenny Wallace(#55) tested at Las Vegas Motor Speedway last week. Nemechek posted the fastest unofficial lap speed of 166.02 mph in his BellSouth Chevrolet while Stewart was second fastest at 165.73 mph in The Home Depot Pontiac. The top qualifying speed for last year's inaugural Las Vegas 400 was 168.224 mph, set by pole sitter Dale Jarrett(Concord Monitor)(1-19-1999)
Ron Fellows/Nemechek UPDATE: Ron Fellows' will be a semi-regular on both the BGN and CTS in 1999. Joe Nemechek, who will drive for SABCO racing next year, has contracted Fellows to drive about 12 races for him in 1999 including the Winston Cup event at Watkins Glen, which has become a favorite track for the Canadian(TSN Motorsports)(12-18-98) -- NASCAR Online reports that as of now, Fellows is contracted to run the BGN race at Watkins Glen and four truck races with AER Manufacturing as the sponsor. Fellows schedule could expand if he finds additional sponorship, which he feels confident about. Nemechek will run 13 BGN events in 1999 in the #87 Chevy. No mention of a Cup race at all in the story.(NASCAR Online)(12-21-98)
SABCO PR: Team SABCO will return to a two-car NASCAR Winston Cup operation in 1999 after fielding a third entry for the past several seasons. The #46 Chevrolet had been sponsored by First Union and The Money Store, however, the financial institution opted to refocus their involvement in the Winston Cup series. "If in the next few weeks a sponsor shows interest in SABCO, we'll investigate further into the possibility of bringing the 46 team back," said Team SABCO owner Felix Sabates. "At this time, we've chosen to concentrate our efforts on a two-car operation and focus on returning to a top-notch Winston Cup organization." Sabates' two other teams will remain intact. Joe Nemechek extended his contract to drive the #42 BellSouth Chevrolet through 2001, while two-time Daytona 500 winner Sterling Marlin returns to the #40 Coors Light Chevrolet for the next two years.(SABCO PR via Stock Car Racing Mag)(11-30-98)

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