Query to BGN? UPDATE 2: Wake County businessman Steve Husketh plans to start the area’s first NASCAR team by building a 42,000-square-foot complex in Chatham County(Pittsboro,NC) to house racing operations. Husketh, chairman of an auto-racing merchandising company and owner of six brake, tire and inspection shops in North Carolina, is the sole investor in a venture he estimates will cost about $2.5 million before the team tries to qualify for its first race. This story was first mentioned on this site on May 13th(Triangle businessman gears up NASCAR team – link good)(5-13-98), I have heard that the team will be called Premiere Motorsports – Steve Husketh owner – driver and sponsor yet to be named as the team is still actively looking for sponsors.(9-7-98) — I hear Premiere Motorsports, owned by Steve Husketh will run the BGN series in 1999 with Slim Jim All Pro Champion Freddie Query as the driver. The team will use Ford’s and the shop is still being built in Pittsboro, NC. Cars are now being built in a temp Charlotte shop. They may attempt a few Cup races later in the season(12-29-98)
Robinson back to BGN? hearing Shawna Robinson who was recently fastest in DIS ARCA testing will run some BGN events in 1999 or 2000 with Capel Rugs as a sponsor(12-29-98)
Bloomquist to BGN? SCR is hearing that the Emerald Performance Team that will field Busch cars for Mike Skinner with Yellow Freight as sponsor is in final negotiations with Hav-A-Tampa champion Scott Bloomquist. Skinner is scheduled to drive in 12 events in 1999 but the team has plans to enter 20 shows. It appears Bloomquist will run at least several of the remaining races with Mike Skinners son, Jaime, a possibility for some(StockCarRacing Mag)(12-28-98)
#30 to #66: Hearing that the #30 Phillips 66 Chevy to be driven by Todd Bodine in 1999 will switch to #66(12-26-98)
Kraft to the #17: Heads up by many readers on this – Kraft returns to Busch Series as associate sponsor of Reiser and Matt Kenseth who will drive the #17 DeWalt Tools Chevy in 1999. Kenseth ran a few races in 1997 with Kraft as the primary sponsor of the #17.(Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)(12-26-98)
#70 BGN team: Look for Eric Jones to be back in the #70 Adrian Carriers Monte Carlo. The team will be expanding their 1999 BGN schedule and Dale Fishchlein will serve as crew chief.(12-24-98)
Congrats: Craftsman Truck Series Offical, Kip Childress and wife Jenny are the proud parents of a new baby girl, Sarah Katelyn, their first. Sarah Katelyn became an instant race fan on December 21st at 6:24pm in Winston-Salem, NC. Mother and daughter are doing fine(12-23-98)
Hamilton Testing: Butch Miller and new team owner Bobby Hamilton tested their NCTS #18 Dana Dodge’s at the Greenville – Pickens Speedway on Monday(MRM)(12-22-98)
Robinson fast: Shawna Robinson, a veteran of the Busch and other series turned the fastest lap in a three day test session for the ARCA cars at Daytona. Robinson´s best lap was 189.190 mph which stood as fastest of the test. The ARCA cars return to Daytona to kick off speedweeks in early February(Stock Car Racing Magazine Website)(12-22-98)
Steele in CTS? Hearing that Tim Steele will be in the CTS this season with his own team. I have confirmation on this but no details, he will also drive in the ARCA race at Daytona in February. H&S Die will be the sponsor of the truck.(12-21-98)
Mark McFarland news: The #82 Mark McFarland BGN team will not have Carolina Shoe as their sponsor in 1999. The team has hired a PR company in Charlotte trying to get sponsorship.(12-20-98)
Bodine Released: Prime Performance Motorsports Inc. has released driver Barry Bodine and hired NASCAR Busch North Series champion Mike Stefanik to drive a limited NASCAR Grand National schedule in 1999. Stefanik and PPMI plan on entering at least 15 Grand National races, including the season-opener at Daytona in February. In 1998, Stefanik achieved a record-breaking 13 victories and back-to-back championships in both the NASCAR Busch North Series and NASCAR Featherlite Modified Tour(That’s Racin’)(12-19-98)
Raines/Rohring done? It appears as though one of the best teams in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series will not be around in 1999. Kurt Roehrig and driver Tony Raines are without a sponsor for next season after the departure of Pennzoil and the only option at this point may be to shut the doors. Raines finished fifth in the 1998 point standings, thanks to three wins and 15 Top 10 finishes in 27 starts. But without the proper backing the team is in trouble(Marty’s Two Cents-MRN), I hear Raines is up for one of the two open BACE driver jobs(#74 and third possible team) along with Steve Grissom(12-18-98)
Ruttman out? UPDATE I hear Joe Ruttman has been released from the #99 Exide Truck ride and Mike Bliss will take over the seat(12-17-98) — Yep, reported on NASCAR Online. Bliss will take over for Ruttman in 1999, no idea what Ruttmans plans are(12-18-98)
Liberty Racing Looking: The #84 Porter Cable Liberty Racing truck team has many possibilities as a driver out there: newly released Joe Ruttman along with Dave Rezendes, Tony Raines, Lonnie Rush, Tony Roper and Kevin Harvick(NASCAR Online)(12-18-98)
Ron Fellows/Nemechek: 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)
Dillon Tests: Mike Dillon tested the #59 Kingford’s Charcol Chevy at Greenville-Pickens, SC today, no speeds(MRM)(12-17-98)
Schneider National: From what I hear, Schneider National has still not signed with Jimmy Spencer’s team for the 1999 season with Dick Trickle driving. It probably will happen, but they are not happy with the idea of the team move(12-17-98)
Jeff Fuller News: I hear Jeff Fuller will again be driving for the #89 NorthStar Motorsports for 1999. Leon Fox will now be the crew chief and the team is switching from Ford’s to Chevy’s. Heritage Consumer Products will continue their sponsorship for 1999 as they did 98)12-16-98)
Schrader Truck Driver: Scott Hansen has been named the driver of the Oakwood Homes #52 Chevy Truck owned by Kenny Schrader(TNN’s Motorsports Site)(12-15-98)
#37 to #99?? UPDATE 2 – NOPE: I hear Brewco Motorsports will be carrying the #99 next year, and sporting The Green Red and Yellow colors of REDMAN TOBACCO(12-11-98) — Not true, the #99 J&J Racing team will merge with Brewco to form a third Brewco team. Kevin Lepage will drive the #99 Redman Chevy(WC Today Radio)(12-15-98) — Here is the press release from the Stock Car Magazine Site: Brewco Motorsports Inc. announced today that it will expand its operation to include a third NASCAR Busch Series team which will compete in 15 races in 1999 with NASCAR Winston Cup Series driver Kevin Lepage. Brewco Motorsports, through a joint venture with J&J Racing Inc., will field the #99 Chevrolet Monte Carlo with primary sponsorship from Red Man chewing tobacco, a product of Swedish Match North America Inc. The Red Man Racing team will not work from the Brewco Motorsports headquarters in Central City, Kentucky, but will be housed in the J&J Racing shop in Denver, North Carolina. In addition to fielding the No. 99 Red Man Chevrolet Monte Carlo, the Central City, Kentucky based Brewco Motorsports team also fields the #37 Timber Wolf Chevrolet Monte Carlo and the #27 Chevrolet Monte Carlo in the NASCAR Busch Series with drivers Kevin Grubb and Casey Atwood respectively(SCR)(12-16-98)
Skinner BGN schedule: The tentative 1999 schedule for Mike Skinner in the #19 Team Yellow Chevrolets – Feb 20 – Rockingham; Mar 6 – Las Vegas; March 13 – Atlanta; March 27 – Texas; May 1 – California; May 29 – Charlotte; August 21 – Michigan; September 25 – Dover; October 9 – Charlotte; October 23 – Rockingham; November 6 – Phoenix; November 13 – Homestead(12-15-98)
Truck Team News: Frank Tiscareno, President of Frontline Motorsports-South announced today that the #97 Chevrolet NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series team driven by Tim Bolton, has joined forces with Owens Racing Inc. and Frontline Motorsports-South, for the 1999 Season. Owens Racing Inc. will oversee the racing operations, truck maintenance, and implement race day strategies from their newly completed 13,000 square foot building, which is an addition to their existing operation which currently houses the #50 Busch Grand National Dr. Pepper team owned by Julius Irving and Joe Washington. This combination of experienced crew management, advertising, marketing and competitive driver is what is going to propel Frontline Motorsports-South towards the front throughout the 1999 season. A press announcement will be scheduled soon(Team PR)(12-15-98)
#16 Truck Crew Chief: DEI has hired Sandy Jones to be the crew chief on the #16 NAPA Brakes Chevy truck driven by CTS Champ Ron Hornaday(NASCAR Online)(12-14-98)
Waltrip to Switch: Micheal Waltrip Racing will switch to Chevy’s next year on the BGN series. They have one chevy ready as Ronnie Silver and crew work to prepare more Chevy’s for Waltrip’s 18 Race Schedule next year in the Band-Aid Chevy(MRM)(12-9-98) — The team will switch to Chevy’s and stay #21. The status of Waltrip’s second team, the #14 Rhodes Furniture Ford with driver Patty Moise, is “on hold” right now, but that it is “more than likely” that Waltrip’s operation would return to being a one-car team in 1999 unless a sponsor can be found(NASCAR Online)(12-14-98)
#14 Truck Crew Chief? Rick Crawford is also currently interviewing for a new crew chief opening for the #14 Circle Bar Motel & RV Park Ford. Hearing that Joe Shear Jr. is the leading candidate(12-13-98)
Truck Teams Merge: The #38 and 39 truck Chevy teams of Ridge Gate Motorsports Nos. 38 and 39 and the #78 PacWest S/T Motorsports Dodge team, announced before the banquet that they are merging their racing operations to form Ridge Gate Motion Sports. The new team will run two Dodges in 1999, with Bryan Reffner driving the #78 and Mike Clark and Dominic Dobson sharing driving duties for the #38. The team is looking for a primary sponsor but for now the associate sponsor on both trucks will be Ridge Gate Mortgage(NASCAR Online)(12-12-98)
Barfield Crew Chief: Gloy-Rahal Racing has named Kevin Caldwell the new crew chief for the Ron Barfield-driven #55 Icehouse Beer Ford F-150(SpeedNet)(12-12-98)
Houston and CAT: Caterpillar will sponsor Andy Houston and the #60 Chevy Truck for 1999. Caterpillar announced today that it will be the primary sponsor of Andy Houston and Addington Racing in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series beginning with the 1999 season. Caterpillar will use the sponsorship to promote The CAT Rental Stores owned by Caterpillar dealers throughout North America(12-11-98)
Smith officially named: Jay Smith has been named the crew chief of the #34 Goulds Pumps Chevy driven by Mike McLaughlin in the BGN. Steve “Big Guy” Helwig and John Birosh handled the duties for the 2nd half of the 1998 season. Birosh left the team a while back and Helwig goes back to his old job of Car Chief(NASCAR Online)(12-11-98)
Gordon BGN Team UPDATE: I hear the Jeff Gordon/Ray Evernham BGN car will be sponsored by Pepsi One (one calorie, the new Diet Pepsi), not the normal Pepsi(11-26-98) — I now hear it will NOT be Pepsi One but the original plan of just Pepsi with the blue look(12-11-98)
Emerald Performance Group/Skinner CC UPDATE: Emerald Performance Group has named Jay Smith as Crew Chief for the Team Yellow Racing Chevrolet Monte Carlos to be driven in 1999 by Winston Cup star Mike Skinner in the BGN series. Jay, a native of Marion, Virginia, brings over fourteen years of experience as a Crew Chief on the Winston Cup, Busch Grand National and Craftsman Truck Series level. Most recently he served as Crew Chief for Bobby Hillin and his Busch Series effort while prior to that was Crew Chief for Irvan-Simo Racing and driver Boris Said in the Craftsman Truck Series for three years. Team Yellow Racing will be competing on a limited schedule of 20 races in 1999 with Mike Skinner handling the driving chores in 12 of these events. The team will utilize several other drivers in the remaining events as they look to find a full time driver for the teams’ future. Team Yellow Racing debuts at Rockingham on February 20th, 1999.(Team Yellow Racing PR)(12-2-98) — Smith decided to take a crew chief job with Team 34 instead. Team Yellow Racing will have announcement on the new crew chief soon, rumor has it being C.R. Miller, formerly of Lone Star Motorsports(#88)(12-9-98) — It’s official, C.R. Miller is the new crew chief for the #19 Team Yellow Racing team(PR)(12-11-98)
#85 Team Closes: I hear that Stegall Motorsports has shut it’s doors this week. All team members have been let go and driver Shane Hall should make an announcement on his 1999 BGN plans soon. Rumors have him in either the #43 or #99 cars(MRM)(12-9-98) — I hear Hall has signed with the #43 team and an announcement will come soon(12-11-98)
Toyota? In its Dec. 14 issue, “Autoweek” reports that, if approved, Toyota will run in NASCAR-sanctioned events in 1999. The deal hinges on NASCAR’s acceptance of Toyota’s new multi-valve V6. If approved, Toyota Racing Development will use the engine in NASCAR’s Goody’s Dash Series. The Japanese firm is also discussing the possibility of running its new V8 Tundra pickup truck in the Craftsman Truck Series, though the talks are preliminary(SpeedNet)(12-10-98)
Dirt Tracker to BGN: Donnie Moran will be driving a Chevy in the BGN for 1999. Moran will be debuting at Rockingham and not at Daytona unless he lands a Sponsor. Moran’s plans are to run for the “Rookie of the Year” in 1999. No word on the team or sponsor(Dirt News and Notes/The SpeedZone)(12-9-98)
Purvis and Lance UPDATE: I hear it was announced that Lance Snacks and Jeff Purvis has signed a contract with Diamond Ridge Motorsports for the 1999 BGN season to drive the #4 Lance Snacks Chevy(12-5-98) — NASCAR Online sources say that Purvis will drive for Diamond Ridge in the 1999 BGN series with Lance Snacks as the sponsor and Ted Musgrave will drive a limited number of races in a chevy, sponsorship unknown.(NASCAR Online)(12-8-98)
Another Rudd: Al Rudd Sr., father of Ricky Rudd, has bought his grandson(and Ricky’s nephew) Jason Rudd a BGN car. The car was bought from Elton Sawyer(#38) and is currently garaged at Ricky’s shop in Mooresville, NC. Jason, 19, has been competeing in LMS for the last couple of years. Prior to that he raced legend cars and has several years experience in WKA Enduro Cart series with many victories and a championship. Jason Rudd’s first BGN test ended in the wall at Greenville-Pickens Speedway Saturday afternoon. Rudd was ok but the Ford Taurus was done(MRM)(12-6-98)
Pearson test: Larry Pearson made his first laps in his #00 Cheez-It Snack Crackers Pontiac at the Greenville-Pickens Speedway on Fri. Larry was very impressive with his lap times for his first test with Buckshot Racing(MRM)(12-6-98)
Parker/Sadler Crew Chief: Ron Parker, Owner and President of Parker Racing, Inc., has announced Cal Northrop, Jr. as the new Crew Chief for the #72 Parker Racing Team and driver, Hermie Sadler in the NASCAR Busch Series, Grand National Division(Parker Racing PR)(12-5-98)
Keller/IGA Update: Jason Keller will have IGA/Fleming as his sponsor of the #57 Chevy for at least 16 races in 1999(NASCAR Online sources)(11-30-98) — As of today there is not an official contract with the #57 Progressive Motorsports team and IGA, INC. There may well be a contract with Fleming Co. and Progressive Motorsports, but as of this date IGA, INC. has no plans for a NASCAR program in 1999. We will continue to explore all options.(IGA) From what I hear, Fleming has already done a photo shoot, I guess Fleming not IGA will be on the car for at least 15 races.(12-4-98)
Cope and the #61 Xpress Schedule: Derrike Cope will drive the #61 Xpress Motorsports Pontiac in a 20-race BGN schedule in 1999: Daytona(2/13); Rockingham(2/20); Las Vegas(3/6); Atlanta(3/13); Darlington(3/20); Texas(3/27); Nashville(4/3); Bristol(4/10); Talladega(4/24); California(5/1); Loudon(5/8); Richmond(5/14); Charlotte(5/29); Gateway(7/31); Michigan(8/21); Darlington(9/4); Richmond(9/10); Charlotte(10/9); Memphis(10/31) and Homestead(11/13). After the 12th race(Richmond), the team will decide whether to expand beyond the schedulded 20 races. The team is actively seeking sponsorship with a variety of packages under consideration. An extensive testing schedule is set to begin for the team in January(Xpress Motorsports PR)(12-3-98)
Fedawa to the #36 UPDATE: Sources tell me that Tim Fedawa will drive the #36 Stanley Tools Pontiac in 1999(11-25-98) — Stanley Racing announced today that Tim Fedewa will drive the #36 Stanley Pontiac, fielded by Cicci-Welliver Racing, for the 1999 BGN season. Vic Kangas will join the Stanley team as Fedewa’s crew chief. The two began working together at Bace Motorsports in April of 1998.(IMG Motorsports via Stock Car Racing Mag)(12-1-98)
Oakwood Homes to the CTS: Oakwood Homes Corporation announced today it has signed on as primary sponsor of the #52 Oakwood Homes Chevrolet owned by Ken Schrader for the full 25-race CTS season. A driver will be named at a later date(IMG Motorsports via GoRacing)(12-1-98)
Green/BGN? UPDATE: I hear Jeff Green will be a teammate to Jason Keller at Progressive Motorsports. Green to be sponsored by Kleenex and Keller by IGA(11-29-98) — Yep, Jeff Green will return to the BGN seires full-time in 1999 as driver for a second team fielded by Progressive Motorsports, informed sources told NASCAR Online on Monday. Green will drive the #32 Chevrylet with Kleenex/Scott Brand Products as his sponsor. Former Cup crew chief, Harold Holly will assume that role with the team. The source said an official announcement regarding Green and Kleenex as his team’s sponsor will be forthcoming in January.(NASCAR Online source)(11-30-98)
Graves leaves DEI: It was announced today that Fred Graves, crew chief for the Dale Earnhardt, Inc. (DEI) No. 16 NASCAR CTS team sponsored by NAPA, has resigned his position with the team. Graves is leaving to pursue other opportunities in motorsports. The DEI organization has begun the process of searching for a team leader.(GoRacing) and although not stated in the release from DEI, country.com/Motorsports has learned that Graves will be joining the Hendrick Motorsports Winston Cup organization in a team management role with the #5 car. Graves’ son, Andy Graves, will continue as the crewchief of the #5, driven by Terry Labonte, but the senior Graves will join the team to assist during testing, at the shop, and at the track(TNN’s website)(11-30-98)
Stefanik to trucks and…: 1997 and 1998 Busch North champ Mike Stefanik is leaving for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, and now his sponsor is moving on as well. Burnham Boilers will leave Mike Greci’s H&H Racing to sponsor Bryan Wall. Greci has hired Brad Bennett to fill the vacant seat, but Greci says he may fold the team if sponsorship cannot be secured.(11-30-98)
Phil Morris news: BGN newcomer Phil Morris was behind the wheel of the Harris Trucking Late Model Chevy and won the 200 lap LM win at the annual Thanksgiving 400 at Kenly NC, with a late race pass of Rodney Childers. The win was worth $7,500 and is Morris’ 30th of the season within six different race tracks for 1998. This was Morris’ last race for the year and the team is concentrating on cementing a major sponsor for their 1999 BGN program. It looks like, at this point the team is planning a four race BGN program at a minimum with the associate sponsors footing much of the bill(Racin’ with Russ)(11-30-98)
Purvis to Diamond Ridge? Hear that Jeff Purvis and Lance Snacks are looking at the #66 Diamond Ridge deal for 1999(11-25-98) — I hear this deal is closer to happening now(11-29-98)
Petty News: Adam Petty, son of Winston Cup veteran Kyle Petty, was rumored to be joining Dale Earnhardt Inc. Ty Norris, who manages DEI’s interests, said he talked to Petty, but it was just an exchange of information and Norris says that Petty is not driving for DEI in 1999 and they have no plans to run Petty in the BGN in 1999 and that 1999 will be the last year for DEI in the BGN series. Petty, who ran ASA and ARCA events, called to get information about putting together a Busch team for 1999.(Speed Magazine)(11-29-98)
Liberty Racing new CC: Liberty Racing team owner Jim Herrick announced the appointment of Roland Wlodyka as crew chief for the #84 Porter-Cable Power Tools Racing team in the CTS(Team PR)(11-25-98)
Green and the #36? NO and CORRECTION, I messed this one all up – RETRACTION BGN that is – saw on TNN’s Raceday that David Green is going to drive the #36 Stanley Tools BGN Pontiac on a limited basis. The Cup #41 team will be pitting the car on raceday. — Green(not Grissom, doh) will NOT drive the #36 BGN car, he will drive a Hedrick Motorsports BGN entry in some companion WC/BGN events, which will be crewed by the #41 Cup crew.(11-23-98) — CORRECTION, This is what was EXACTLY said on TNN’s RACEDAY: “If all goes according to plan, former BGN champ David Green could be back in busch part-time. Green drove for team 34, the second half of this year, his NEW team will be separate from his Winston Cup ride with Larry Hedrick, but will be pitted on raceday by the hedrick over the wall gang.” No mention of the #36 car being part of this deal, I regret this error(11-24-98)
Rhodes Gone: The Rhodes Furniture Company has announced that they would be canceling their sponsorship of the #14 Rhodes Furniture Ford, which is owned by Michael Waltrip. The deal will end the relationship one-year ahead of previous plans. See the story at Rhodes Pulls Sponsorship of BGN Effort(11-23-98)
Petty News: From a reader – were at an autograph session Kyle had at the Mervyn’s in Upland, CA and we asked Kyle if Adam had a Busch ride for next year. He told us that Adam is going to run Busch next year and that they are putting together their own new team. Kyle said they would be making an announcement in a couple of weeks(thanks Art)(11-23-98)
Finch News Jeff Purvis was released Saturday morning from his James Finch #4 BGN ride for 1999. Purvis will take Lance Snacks as a sponsor with him wherever he winds up in 1999, leaving Finch and Lajoie to work with “the new sponsor,” in 1999 which evidently is close to being firmed up(MRN Radio’s Marty Snider’s Two Cents’ Worth)(11-20-98)
#74 BACE team: The #74 BACE team is still without a driver or sponsor for next season. The team is close with the sponsor and one team member said, “the deal is in hand.” Rumor has Steve Grissom a possibility(MRN Radio’s Marty Snider’s Two Cents’ Worth)(11-20-98)
#2 Truck Team News: The #2 Ultra Motorsports Ford Truck has named Mike Wallace as driver and Tim Kohuth as crew chief. Both Wallace and Kohuth come from Ken Schrader Racing(NASCAR Online)(11-20-98)
#99 News UPDATE: I hear the #99 BGN team has laid off all but one of the crew. No idea of what the team’s plan is for 1999. — The #99 team plans to run next year and while they did lay four people off, they kept crew chief Dan Gibbs. As soon as sponsorship is found a new crew will be hired. The team is close on a few different deals and is also loking at drivers with sponsorhip attached to them.(11-19-98)
Jeff Fuller to BACE? I hear Jeff Fuller is under consideration for a ride in one of the BACE chevy’s. He may run his own BGN team.(11-18-98)
Barfield to the ‘House: Ron Barfield has been named to drive the #55 Icehouse Beer Truck in 1999(NASCAR Online)(11-19-98)
Finch story: A story on the state of the #4 James Finch – Phoenix team at – LaJoie to drive Phoenix Racing’s ‘new’ team in ’99. The team will change it’s number(no idea), driver(Randy LaJoie), crew chief(Mark Reno) and sponsor(no idea).(The News Herald thanks Rodney)(11-18-98)
Old now but now a number UPDATE: Akins-Sutton Motorsports will field a two-car operation next season in the BGN. Glenn Allen Jr. will drive the team’s #98 Fords and Elton Sawyer will drive the #38 Ford.(That’s Racin’), but NASCAR Online has Allen in the #38 and Sawyer in the #98 Lysol Ford. Allen will have Barbasol sponsorship, Sawyer will have Lysol(11-16-98) — It will be Elton Sawyer in the #98 Kysol Ford with 1998 owners points from the #38, and Glenn Allen, Jr in the #38 Barbasol Ford as the new team.(11-17-98)
Lance/Purvis gone: Heard during the race and TNN’s Raceday – That Lance Snacks will not return to James Finch’s #4 BGN Chevy and that Jeff Purvis will not either. Randy LaJoie looks to be the teams lone driver.(11-16-98)
Hamilton/Sadler: Bobby Hamilton Jr. said during an interview with Speedway Scene’s Jack Flowers on John Jenkin’s morning sports talk show(in Nashville, TN on WAMB – AM 1160 from 6:30-8:00am/ct) that he was going to sign a contract with Sadler Racing to drive in the BGN series. Team is looking for sponsorship, email [email protected], serious inquires only(11-15-98)
Bolton to Trucks: Frontline Motorsports – South has teamed up with Tim Bolton to drive in the 1999 Craftsman Truck Team. Frontline Motorsports – South is scheduled to debut Tim Bolton and his new Chevrolet truck team, beginning March 20, 1999 at the Homestead 400, Miami- Dade Homestead Motorsports Complex, Homestead Florida. Tim Bolton will compete for the 1999 CTS Rookie of the Year. In 1998 Tim Bolton drove the Tow Times sponsored race truck and competed in four CTS races.(MediaPro PR)(11-15-98)
BACE Motorsports UPDATE 2: I hear Jason Jarrett has signed to run with them full time in the #33 Chevy with the BAYER sponsorship. Also look for Johnny Bensen to be back in the #74 car part time next year with the possibility of Kenny Irwin to drive(a chevy??) part time.(11-8-98) — RPM2Nite reported that the announcement will be made about Jarrett signing with BACE on Saturday. I hear Bayer and Alka-Seltzer as the sponsor.(11-13-98) — Yep, Jarrett will drive the #33 Bayer/Alka-Seltzer Chevy(TNN’s Raceday). No idea what is up with DAJ(Dale Jarrett’ BGN team)(11-15-98)
ST and Parsons? UPDATE: From That’s Racin’ – ALLTEL and ST Motorsports will announce at a news conference today that ALLTEL will be the official sponsor for BGN driver Phil Parsons next season.(That’s Racin’)(11-13-98) — yep, but it’s more of a sharing operation and not a merger between Parsons and ST Motorsports(NASCAR Online), I still hear Adam Petty will drive a 2nd ST team on 1999.(11-15-98)
Spencer/Trickle UPDATE: It was just announced that Jimmy Spencer’s BGN team, Spencer Motor Ventures, will field a full time effort next year with Dick Trickle as the driver and Schneider National’s trucking division. Trickle currently drives the #64 Schneider National Chevrolet in the BGN.(SpencerFan Newsletter)(11-6-98) — not sure what to make of this, but am hearing that this is not a not a done deal and that Schneider is still not sure about it’s 1999 plans but wants to be with Trickle and is happy with Shoemaker racing, this could get interesting.(11-10-98) But during an interview Trickle said he was teaming up with Spencer.(11-15-98)
Bliss to #37? NOPE UPDATE I hear Mike Bliss will be the new driver of the #37 Timber Wolf Chevrolet, announcement expected Sunday.(11-13-98) — NOPE, it’s Kevin Grubb in the #37, teaming up with Casey Atwood at Brewco Motorsports(TNN’s Inside NASCAR)(11-15-98)
#63 Team UPDATE: Sources tell me that the #63 Hensley team have found a sponsor and Chuck Bown will return to drive for them in 1999.(11-10-98) — RPM2Nite announced Bown will return to the #63 Hensley team, didn’t say the sponsor but it looked like Exxon Superflo Oil, had the Tiger on the hood and was black.(11-13-98) — Sponsor is Exxon Superflo Oil and the car is painted like a tiger.(11-15-98)
LaJoie 99 plans? UPDATE I hear Randy Lajoie still has no signed deals for next year, but James Finch has guaranteed him a ride, either in the #4 car(Purvis ?) or as a 2nd team if the sponsor is found.(11-10-98) — basically said the same thing on TNN’s Raceday today(11-15-98)
Petree Sponsor UPDATE: Oakwood Homes will return to the #15 Andy Petree owned BGN Chevy for 14 races in 1999 with Kenny Schrader driving.(WC Today Radio)(11-11-98) and one Winston West race in 1999(TNN’s Raceday)(11-15-98)
BGN Schedule: It’s out via NASCAR Online – 1999 BGN Schedule.(11-13-98)
Ford gets serious in BGN: Ford Motor Co. has named Dan Stuczynski, a 15-year veteran with Ford Special Vehicle Operations, as new program manager for the NASCAR Grand National series. He will serve as a liaison between the teams, NASCAR, SVO and the Ford’s motorsports technology department.(That’s Racin’)(11-13-98)
Kat Update: From the Kat Teasdale Website: Kat and DK Ulrich are working hard putting together a Busch Grand National Team for next year. As soon as the many details are completed, a formal announcement will be made detailing sponsorship and who will be the crew chief. In the meantime, Kat and DK will be at the Busch series final race in Homestead Florida on November 15th as ‘observers’ of the Jiffy Lube Miami 300. They are both excited about their prospects for running for the Rookie of the Year title in 1999.(11-10-98)
Skinner to BGN – UPDATE 2: Mike Skinner will drive up to 12 BGN races in 1999 with Riddling Motorsports.(TNN’s Raceday) Sponsor will be Yellow Freight on a Chevy, supposedly Skinners son Jamie will run a few races.(NSSN)(11-8-98) — The team, which will donate 10 percent of all prize money earned next season to Motor Racing Outreach(MRO), is also looking for another driver to enter eight additional races in 1999.(That’s Racin’ notes) — The team is owned by the Emerald Performance Group and not Ridling Motorsports and will be referred to as Team Yellow Racing. They also have major associate sponsorship from Pameco Corporation and their Thermalzone brand of HVAC products. Other announcements concerning the other driver(s) in the very new future.(11-9-98)
Bodine/BGN/CTS?? During the 2nd rain delay, ESPN talked to Geoff Bodine who said he has offers to drive in the BGN and Truck series but is looking for a Cup ride. He said the BGN did appeal to him some as his son Barry will drive the series in 1999.(ESPN2)(11-8-98)
The Barbasol Racing Team, operated by Akins/Sutton Motorsports, made several personnel moves today that will affect both of its 1999 NASCAR Busch Series Grand National Division teams. Dean Johnson has been hired as the crew chief of the No. 38 Barbasol Ford for the 1999 season. Glenn Allen Jr. will drive the Barbasol Ford in 1999. Johnson has worked with driver Mike Dillon since 1993 and began the 1998 season as crew chief for Dillon’s Detroit Gasket Chevrolet team. Johnson became the crew chief of the Clearwater Forest Chevrolet, driven by Mark Krogh, in October. Wes Ward will replace Eddie Pardue as crew chief of the Barbasol Ford for the final two races of this season. Akins/Sutton Motorsports, based in Mooresville, N.C., hired Ward in June as the first crew member of its second team, which will race a full schedule beginning in 1999. In 1999, Ward will accompany current Barbasol Ford driver Elton Sawyer to the new team. Bobby Bakeef, currently a general mechanic for the Barbasol Racing Team, has been promoted to car chief and will be Johnson’s right-hand man.(SCR)(11-6-98)
Randy LaJoie was interviewed on RPM2Nite and said they have 4 1/2 cars built and he is looking forward to working with Marc Reno in the 2nd James Finch car, doesn’t sound like he is looking elsewhere.(RPM2Nite)(11-5-98)
The Winston Cup Scene reports that Jason Jarrett may sign with BACE Motorsports for the 1999 season, no idea what is the plan with DAJ Motorsports as Dale Jarrett plans to retire from the BGN(11-5-98)
I hear it was confirmed yesterday that Purolator will end their affiliation with Kenny Schrader and Mike Wallace at the end of the season.(11-5-98)
The Busch Series Ladies Association will be holding their annual Busch Preview on January 15, 1999. The location has not been decided yet. At the preview they have show cars, drivers, and an auction.(11-5-98)
Phil Morris has new crew chief, Neil Perkins, used to work for Hermie Sadler. The team comes off a great start and finish in their first outing with a fifth place finish at the ROCK. Morris says the phone hasn’t stopped all weekend, but nothing to announce at this time. The team is busy preparing the second car for an all day test session Wednesday at Homestead, FL, where he will race next. This is a second DEI car they bought and it is newer and is a more slippery package for the 1 1/2 mile track.(Racin’ with Russ)(11-3-98)
UPDATE: Cummins Engine Company will not be on the #43 Richard Petty Motorsports truck team in 1999. No word of a replacement as of yet.(TNN Racing)(10-22-98) — Cummins will be back with the #43 truck. Dodge is going to pick up sponsorship of the Richard Petty Motorsports truck in 1999. Announcement forthcoming November 2 in Las Vegas. Dodge will sponsor the #43 truck with the Dodge brand and Dennis Setzer with the Mopar performance parts brand.(10-23-98) — I hear the sponsor will be Chrysler Financial.(11-2-98)
Here is what I hear about Barry Bodine’s BGN plans for the rest of 1998 and next season. They have a primary sponsor for Homestead, The Miccosukee Indian casinos. Looks like they have a sponsor for the 1999 season and the car will be maroon with white lettering, the #05 Chevy Monte Carlo(11-2-98)
Patrick Donahue has been named the crew chief of the Jeff Gordon/Ray Evernham(GEM Motorsports) #24 Pepsi BGN Chevy team that Gordon will drive in 5 races and Ricky Hendrick will drive part time.(TNN During ACDelco 500 race)(11-1-98)
Bobby Hamilton Jr., who made his Grand National debut at Rockingham Saturday, will move to that series full-time in 1999 behind the wheel of the Sadler & Son Racing Chevrolets. The team, which has fielded Winston Cup and ARCA cars out of their Nashville, TN shops for a number of drivers including Jeremy Mayfield and Jeff Green, will continue to operate out of that city.(TNN)(11-1-98)
UPDATE: Strictly Rumor….Look for Mike Dillon to announce that he will drive for ST Motorsports and the Kingsford/Matchlite Chevy #59 on the BGN Series in 1999.(10-4-98) — Mike Dillon has been announced as the new driver for the #59 Kingsford/Matchlight Chevrolet of ST Motorsports and owner Tad Geschickter, beginning in 1999.(NASCAR Online)(10-31-98)
I hear CTS Driver Ron Hornaday will drive a 2nd BGN Dale Earnhardt Chevy at the Daytona BGN race in February 1999. NAPA will be the sponsor.(10-29-98) — was announced on RPM2Nite and will happen. It will be #08.(10-30-98)
The Terry Labonte Slim Jim BGN team will carry the #44 in 1999. Driving the #44 Chevy will be son Justin(not Jason) for 5 races, to keep his rookie status for 2000, Bobby Labonte will run around 5 and Terry will run the remainder of the races.(10-26-98)
BGN ROY points leader Andy Santerre and the IMI team have announced that Joe Carver, formerly of Darrell Waltrip Motorsports, has been hired as Team/General Manager. The team also announced they will have a new paint scheme for the final two races of 1998. Details at NE Racing.(10-26-98)
A college fund is being established by the Busch North Womens Auxilary to aid the daughter of the crewman who was killed in the BGNN series finale at Lime Rock, CT. Anyone wishing to contribute to the fund can find the details at NE Racing.(10-26-98)
During the Truck race on TBS Saturday, Dick Berggren mentioned that Jimmy Hensley would be back in the #43 Truck in 1999 and Adam Petty, who had been rumored(not that I heard) in the truck will race some BGN races next year.(TBS), I hear Petty will be in a 2nd ST Racing car in 1999.(10-25-98)
The 1999 BGN schedule has not been announced, but sources indicate that it will grow by one event from 31 to 32 races. Hickory Motor Speedway will be the only track to lose its date. South Boston, a short track in southern Virginia, also had its date in jeopardy but officials there were able to come up with the $540,000 minimum purse the BGN series will require next year. Two tracks will be added to the schedule – Phoenix and Memphis. Phoenix will have its race in November in conjunction with its Winston Cup event.(That’s Racin’)(10-25-98)
The Kurt Roehrig #19 truck team may lose Pennzoil as a sponsor after the 1998 season. Should the team come back to the Truck Series without Raines, look for Tom Hubert, a long-time Roehrig associate (and stand-in Truck racer), to be a front-runner for this seat.(TNN Racing)(10-22-98)
Brewco Motorsports announced today that Timber Wolf will remain the primary sponsor of its #37 Chevrolet in the BGN for the next two years. The driver of the # 37 Monte Carlo for the 1999 season and beyond will be named at a later date. In addition to fielding the #37 and the team will field a BGN team for driver Casey Atwood in the 1999 season.(NASCAR Online)(10-22-98)
UPDATE: I hear Randy Tolsma will be driving a second team for Impact Motorsports with Stacy Compton in 1999. Both will be driving Dodges (trading trucks with L&R). Bassett Furniture may be the sponsor for Tolsma(10-19-98) — Bill Weber on RPM2Nite mentioned that Tolsma and Compton will be teammates in 1999, no other details, announcement will be made at the Las Vegas race.(10-22-98)
I hear Lance Norick, currently driving NHL Dodge, will be switching back to Fords, without the NHL sponsorship and will go back to a one truck team for L&R Motorsports. Nowick will also be driving on the Winston West series next year and plans on competing in Japan in November.(10-19-98)
I hear Butch Miller, Norwick’s teammate, will no longer be driving the DANA Dodge owned by L&R Motorsports. DANA has taken their sponsorship to Bobby Hamilton. But I hear Miller will still drive the truck and it’ll be a Dodge(10-19-98)
Clean Shower will be Bobby Hillin’s BGN sponsor thru the 1999 season.(RPM2Nite), see some images of this cool car at Jayski’s Paint Schemes Gallery(10-14-98)
I hear ARCA driver Jeff Finley is going to move to BGN full time in 1999 with his current ARCA team, Team 83Motorsports. I also hear he will make an attempt in one of the remaining BGN races this year possibly Rockingham.(10-14-98)
I hear Dr Pepper will return to the Washington-Erving BGN team in 1999.(10-14-98)
New Holland has not yet announced plans for 1999 but is looking at several full-time BGN teams.(10-14-98)
A tad old but I missed it: Luxaire Heating and Air Conditioning has reached an agreement to become an associate sponsor for Reiser Enterprises’ 1999 Busch Series entry driven by Matt Kenseth.(SpeedNet/iRACE) Kennseth will drive the #17 DeWalt Tooks Chevy in 1999.(10-12-98)
Ron Parker, Owner/President of Parker Racing, Inc., has announced his new driver for the 1999 NASCAR Busch Grand National Series. BGN regular Hermie Sadler, age 29, of Emporia, VA will continue his streak of consecutive starts and his 8th year in the BGN series as pilot of the familiar red and black #72 Parker Racing Chevrolet beginning at Daytona February 13, 1999.(Parker Racing Press Release), interesting: With only 4 races to go Mike Dillon, current driver of the #72 is 11th in points, only 41 points behind 10th place Hermie Sadler and the #29 team in the NASCAR BGN Drivers Points Standings.(10-10-98)
UPDATE: Check out the story at the Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer about the Green Brothers(David, Mark and Jeff): Green brothers return to roots, Racing trio tours Owensboro for television feature by Jake Jennings.(10-6-98) — You can see the images from the TNN Inside NASCAR shoot at Official Mark Green Site.(10-8-98)
Crew Chief Barry Dodson will leave the #2 Truck Team(as will driver Mike Bliss) at the end of the season. Dodson will be the General Manager of the #35 Amick Racing and #53 Hank Parker BGN team who will merge.(RPM2Nite)(10-7-98)
UPDATE: Here are a few highlights from the Gordon-Evernham Motorsports press conference in Harrisburg, NC today: Jeff Gordon will run in 5 BGN races in 1999 in the #24 Pepsi Chevy: Both Charlotte races, Texas, Las Vegas, and Michigan. All are on the Saturday of a WC race weekend. Ricky Hendrick will race in other events (not the full season schedule). For Ricky, Gordon said that they just want him to qualify, stay out of trouble, and learn as much as he can. See the story on Jeff Gordon Online(by Larry), Ricky Hendrick, son of Hendrick Motorsports owner Rick Hendrick, will drive 5 short track events, including Richmond and South Boston. Other drivers and dates could be announced later. Associate sponsorship also from Fritos and Hasbro. See images and full stories at Gordon-Evernham Motorsports Unveil ’99 BGN Car and The Stock Car Racing Magazine Site.(10-2-98)
Entering the Busch Series in 1999, at least on a limited basis, will be America Online, which will back Andy Belmont for five Busch races and the entire ARCA schedule.(SpeedNet)(10-2-98)
Buckshot Racing has announced its addition to the 1999 Nascar Busch Grand National Series (BGN) line-up. Keebler Company has signed an agreement with Buckshot Racing to act as the primary sponsor for the #00 Buckshot Racing Pontiac which will run the entire BGN schedule in 1999. Keebler will showcase its Sunshine Biscuits brand, Cheez-It Baked Snack Crackers, in this new and exciting paint scheme. Larry Pearson, 1986 and 1987 BGN Champion, and Winston Cup driver has joined Buckshot Racing as the driver of the car. Larry is the son of Winston Cup legend David Pearson, and brother to the teams Winston Cup crew chief, Ricky Pearson and Buckshot Racing tire specialist, Eddie Pearson. See the rest of the story and an image of the car at the Buckshot Jones Website section Jamie’s Inside Sc00p.(www.buckshot00.com)(9-30-98)
UPDATE 3: I hear from sources that Matt Kenseth will have Dewalt Tools sponsorship on the #17 Chevy(will not switch to Ford as rumored) in 1999 and may run a few Cup races. Looks like the 2nd Wood Brothers team will be pushed back a year.(9-7-98) — Dewalt has announced they will not be back with Diamond Ridge Motorsports or Hermie Sadler in 1999. They expect to make an announcement on future plans at Charlotte in October.(RPM2Nite/WC Scene)(9-11-98) — According to a source close to the team, Matt Kenseth and owner/crewchief Robbie Reiser will return full time to the BGN series in ’99, but this time with DeWalt Tools sponsorship. The full details of the new sponsorship are expected to be released during the BGN/WC race weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The new deal also includes up to five Winston Cup starts next season, and the team will stay with Chevrolet cars and engines. One persistent rumor making the garage rounds was that a second Wood Brothers’ team was going to be formed with Kenseth as the driver and Jack Roush as a major participant. That no longer is the case. See the rest of Glen Grissom’s story at: Kenseth Full-Time In ’99 BGN.(TNN’s Motorsports)(9-16-98) — Surprise: In a press conference held at Charlotte Motor Speedway, it was announced that DeWalt Industrial Tool Company will back Robbie Reiser’s #17 Chevrolet, driven by Matt Kenseth, in the BGN next year.(NASCAR Online)(9-29-98)
I hear Autoweek(9-28 issue) posted this note: Insiders in Charlotte say to look for Kyle Petty’s son Adam to move from ASA racing to the Busch Series next year, with Sprint and Coke on board as sponsors.(thanks Marty)(9-26-98)
Budweiser, the Official Beer of NASCAR, today announced it has signed Dale Earnhardt Jr. to drive for the brand on the NASCAR Winston Cup circuit through 2004. Earnhardt Jr., the current NASCAR Busch Series points leader, will drive a Budweiser-sponsored car in five select Winston Cup races in 1999 while racing a full Busch Series schedule. He will move to Winston Cup full time in the year 2000. His 1999 Winston Cup schedule and the number of the car will be announced at a later date. As part of his deal with Budweiser, Earnhardt Jr. will be featured in an extensive line of point-of-sale materials and licensed merchandise for the “King of Beers.” He also will appear in a variety of advertising and promotional campaigns for Budweiser and the brand’s status as the Official Beer of NASCAR.(Press Release), Earnhardt Jr’s BGN crew will move up with him.(RPM2Nite)(9-21-98), just about every NASCAR site has a story about this deal, a few: Stock Car Racing Magazine Site and iRace. Also, no number has been announced for the car. According to several sources in the sport, the total value of the package makes it worth more than $10 million per year.(9-22-98)
