Bobby Hamilton, hopes to campaign three trucks full time next year. The main concern is finding a sponsor to replace Dana, which is leaving the sport. Hamilton wants to keep Joe Ruttman’s [#18] team alive, but a sponsor is paramount. Bill Lester will drive the #8 truck sponsored by Dodge as part of its diversity program, replacing Willy T. Ribbs, who is contemplating a movie career. Hamilton will field a third truck if the right young driver and sponsor can be secured [Brian Rose, see story below].(Winston Cup Scene column)(11-8-2001) UPDATE: Dodge Motorsports and Bobby Hamilton Racing announced that Bill Lester will join the 2001 CTS Manufacturers’ title-winning Dodge factory racing program for the 2002 CTS season. Lester will drive the #8 Dodge Dealers Ram 1500 for Bobby Hamilton Racing. Lester was selected from a number of experienced candidates. The Oakland, CA native tested with the Hamilton team and competed in five races in Hamilton’s #4 Dodge Ram during the 2001 NCTS season.(Golin/Harris PR)(11-27-2001)
