Bill Davis Racing [BDR] crew chief Phillipe Lopez has two new cars ready for the second week of Daytona testing, which starts Jan. 13, and two additional cars for the Las Vegas test on Jan. 26. The only piece missing from the #23 car puzzle is a driver; sources say BDR has a sponsor lined up. Former Davis pilot Dave Blaney is on the short list, as is Johnny Benson. If a driver isn’t enlisted this week, expect Kenny Wallace to test the car.( Yahoo Sports/Sporting News )(12-30-2003) AND: From the Johnny Benson Fan Club web site [dated 12-28]: At this point in time, it doesn’t look like Johnny will be competing full time in the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series. Since the notification of his release, Johnny has been taking to several owners and owners have been talking to him – but a full time ride has not transpired.( JBFC Site – check out the ‘Renewal Contest’ while there)(12-31-2003) UPDATE: Toward the end of last season, PPI Motorsports owner Cal Wells said that, sponsorship permitting, he would start a second team and [Johnny] Benson would be the leading candidate to drive. But when sponsorship fell through, the second team and deal with Benson were put on hold. “I’m still talking to (PPI),” Benson said. “I’m still thinking that’s where I’d like to end up.” But for now Benson is in driver limbo. With mandatory testing for the Daytona 500 beginning this week, time is running out if he hopes to secure something for opening day.( ESPN )(1-4-2004)
