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The HOOTER'S Pro Cup

Series

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2007 HOOTER'S Pro Cup Series Schedule

Holman, Henderson Motorsports find fun, future in Pro Cup

Abingdon, Va., team geared up for run at Miller Lite Rookie Title

Myrtle Beach, S.C.—The Hooters Pro Cup Series has long been tabbed as a throwback series. It’s a place filled with short tracks, hard-nosed racers and fan interaction. The sights and sounds remind everyone of the roots of racing.

Over the years, the grassroots appeal has attracted a virtual “Who’s Who” list of short-track greats. Each race pits Snowball Derby, ASA and Weekly Racing Champions, Busch Series winners and future Sunday racers against each other on bullrings across the country. The allure always brings new drivers to the fray each year, and Caleb Holman is happy to be the newest.

“[The Hooters Pro Cup Series] is like going to the Martinsville Late Model race, except you’re doing it all year,” said Holman, who will compete in the Southern Division in ’07. “Sometimes I don’t think people understand how tough the series is.”

Holman does, but he’s ready for the challenge.

Last season, Holman ran a handful of events and finished a season-high fifth at Hickory, picking up Miller Lite Rookie of the Race honors. Despite the early success, Holman remains cautiously optimistic about his rookie campaign.

“I think we’re going to be better this year. We’ve got a new Laughlin car ready,” said Colman. “I’m not going to say we’re going to win races; I try not to think of it like that. We just need to work hard and see what happens. It’s racing, and a lot of things can happen.”

Not matter what the outcome, Holman and team owners Charlie and Don Henderson are just happy to return to their roots.

“When we ran Hickory last year, my team owners told me everything reminded them of the way racing used to be,” said Holman. “It was fun again, and we’re looking forward to a full season of that this year.”

Holman’s car will remind longtime race fans of years gone by as well. The Abingdon, Va., driver will pilot the always-popular No. 75s Food Country Chevrolet.

“I remember that car and the No. 4 (Morgan-McClure) being around when I was growing up,” said Holman. “It’s going to be great to drive the [No.] 75 Food Country car next year and be part of that history.”

Holman is the latest driver to join the ever-growing Miller Lite Rookie of the Year class. To date, over 20 new rookies have registered for the upcoming season, including Holman’s unofficial teammate, Wade Day. The competition is stout, but just the way he wants it.

“You’ve got guys like Bobby Gill and Gary St. Amant that have won in everything they’ve been in,” said Holman. “If you can come in and run with those guys, you’ve done something.”

Johnson Motorsports Offers Lease Program

Wednesday, January 17, 2007

Midland, N.C.-Daniel Johnson and team announced today that they will have a lease program available to drivers for the 2007 season, allowing up-and-coming drivers a chance for the next step up in their career without the cost buying all the equipment necessary that it takes to test or race a Pro Cup car.

"The USAR Hooters Pro Cup Series is the best stepping stone for drivers in America today," says Johnson. "There is no better experience than being in a heavy stock car, with BFGoodrich Tires radials, and having well over 600 horsepower under the hood."

We think that each and everybody that has the will, the want to, and the talent, to drive a race car should have a chance.

"Having five years of experience in Hooters Pro Cup and over 50 years of experience in racing, we feel that we have a lot to offer a new driver on his way to the top" says Johnson.

Johnson Motorsports is a proven Rookie of the Year Champion contender team with top-notch equipment and crew.

Our lease program will offer testing packages, as well a one-race or multiple-race packages for the Northern and Southern Divisions. Full division packages will be offered as well.

The number of race packages is limited, so race packages will be sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. Testing packages will be available year round a will be in concordance and compliance to USAR official rule book. Purse money bonus programs will be made to driver as well as sponsor placement on the car.

Drivers will be able to work directly with series veteran driver Daniel Johnson, and series veteran crew chief and car owner Junior Johnson.

"We feel that someone new to the Series will be two steps ahead of the game working with a team that has lots of experience with these cars, engines, and tracks," says Johnson. "We are excited to be working with new talented race car drivers a providing them the equipment and knowledge they will need with their next step up."

Only serious inquiries Please!

For pricing and further information
Please contact Daniel Johnson:

Cell: 704-791-7741
Shop: 704-788-3653
Email: procup56@aol.com <mailto:procup56@aol.com>

Hickory Champ Aims at Pro Cup Rookie Title

Stancill Joins Forces with DLP Motorsports

Ayden, N.C.—Ben Stancill, 2006 Hickory Motor Speedway Super Late Model Truck Champion, will team with DLP Motorsports to compete in the 2007 Hooters Pro Cup Series, running the No. 24s Dodge Charger in hopes of a successful season.

Stancill, a 17-year-old high school senior, will compete in the Southern Division while setting his sights on winning Hooters Pro Cup Rookie of the Year. Racing since he was seven years old, Stancill has won numerous championships in go-karts and legend cars. Included in his list of achievements is the 2006 Rookie of the Year at Hickory Motor Speedway. When he is not racing, Stancill enjoys fishing, hunting, and taking part in activities at his school.

When questioned, Stancill smiles excitedly and says, “I love driving Pro Cup cars!”

Last year, Stancill had the opportunity to run three races, qualifying on the front row in the first race.

“I learned a lot from that first Pro Cup race, and I know that I will carry more momentum and confidence in this 2007 season,” said Stancill. “I will also get more experience this year, running the full season and working with DLP Motorsports owner/crew chief David ‘Buggy’ Pletcher. I am looking forward to working with Buggy; he’s a smart crew chief and has a lot of knowledge and experience to bring to our team.”

As Pletcher settles into his new race shop in Mooresville and new position as both owner and crew chief, the pair continues to make plans and is committed to run the entire Pro Cup season.

“I am looking forward to working with Ben, he has shown some great talent,” Pletcher states. “His abilities and dedication are going to help make this an exciting first season.”

For more information about Stancill, visit www.benstancillracing.com.

Bullet Racing Prepping for 2007

Consistent, Top-10 National Championship team seeks Driver and Marketing Partner for 2007 USAR Pro Cup Season

Cleveland, Ohio—The Holidays have passed and the 2006 USAR Pro Cup Season was celebrated in Myrtle Beach last weekend, so it is time to look forward to 2007.

Bullet Racing will begin the process of finding a qualified driver to pilot their vehicles for the upcoming 2007 USAR Pro Cup Championship Series.

Bullet Racing is an established team based out of Cleveland, Ohio. The team has a proven track record of consistent performance, a professional image and can offer an outstanding program not only to their driver, but their marketing partners as well.

Bullet Racing maintains its website with frequent updates about the driver and sponsors, including press releases, updated race results, same day practice and qualifying results and stories directly from the track as it happens. The posts include photos from the autograph session and race day pictures from every event in which they participate. In 2006, the website reached the 250,000-visitor mark. Those visitors had an opportunity to view sponsor and contingency links as well.

The Team will be looking for a qualified and skilled driver who can bring a marketing partner to the program with them. Please send introductory information to bill@bullet11racing.com, or by mail to: Bullet Racing, 4477 Renaissance Parkway, Warrensville Hts, Ohio, 44128.

BFGOODRICH TIRES REMAINS OFFICIAL TIRE OF THE HOOTERS PRO CUP SERIES; SEARS AUTO CENTER JOINS AS THE OFFICIAL TIRE RETAILER

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C.-BFGoodrich Tires will remain as the “Official Tire” of the Hooters Pro Cup Series for the 2007 season and will be joined by Sears Auto Center, making their debut in the series as the “Official Tire Retailer”, “Title Sponsor” for the Northern Division of Hooters Pro Cup races, and key sponsor of driver Shane Wallace for the 2007 season.

The announcement was made by Hooters Pro Cup Series and Sears Auto Center officials at the 2006 Awards Banquet in Myrtle Beach, S.C., on Saturday night. Starting in '07, the Northern Division will be titled the “Hooters Pro Cup Sears Auto Center Northern Division.”

"This is a big day for the Hooters Pro Cup Series," said Gene Cox, president of USAR. "We've been truly fortunate over the years to have great marketing partners. By adding a company with the reputation of Sears Auto Center, the series will only grow stronger for it."

“Sears Auto Center is excited being a sponsor of the USAR Racing Series for 2007,” said Rick Sawyer, Vice President and General Merchandise Manager of Sears Auto Centers. “I know I speak for all Sears Automotive associates in saying how proud we are to be a part of this great racing experience.”

Hooters Pro Cup is a spec-tire series and has had BFGoodrich Tires as the official tire since 2004. During this time, new track speed records have been set at over fifteen of the series’ race tracks on BFGoodrich Tires.

“BFGoodrich Tires has historically and successfully utilized motorsports as a proving ground for our tire technology.” said Pascal Couasnon, vice-president of marketing for BFGoodrich Tires, “We are proud to continue our relationship with the Hooters Pro Cup Series in 2007 and to offer on-site technical support to a wonderful family of race teams.”

BFGoodrich® Tires is involved in every type of racing, including oval, sports car, drifting, drag, desert, dirt, rally (Dakar and WRC) and extreme rock-crawling. BFGoodrich Tires combines technological expertise with vast motorsports experience, delivering a high-performance tire for every type of vehicle. BFGoodrich Tires are available at Sears Auto Centers nationwide. Visit BFGoodrich Tires online at www.bfgoodrichtires.com.

Champions Crowned, Drivers Honored at Awards Banquet

Coby Brooks, President of Hooters of America, and Gene Cox, President of USAR, present Clay Rogers with the Hooters Pro Cup Championship trophy.

Rogers picks up $270,000 in bonuses; Kale takes $51,000 home from rookie purse

Myrtle Beach, S.C.—The Hooters Pro Cup Series put the final touches on the 2006 season at the annual Awards Banquet in Myrtle Beach, S.C., on Saturday night. It was a moving ceremony that paid homage to the founder of the Hooters Pro Cup Series, Robert H. Brooks, who passed away on July 15.

“The 2006 season was probably one of the best we’ve ever had on the racetrack, but it was a tough one off the racetrack,” said Gene Cox, USAR President. “Mr. Brooks had a passion for this series. He wanted this series to be good for the sport of auto racing, and I’m proud of the fact that he got to see that happen.

“His long-term plan was to have four divisions and one champion crowned during the Championship Series. I don’t know how long that will take, but we’re going to work hard to make sure it happens.”

Clay Rogers was the one champion on Saturday night.

The 26-year-old driver picked up his second championship trophy in three seasons after an impressive season. Rogers drove his No. 44s Automotive Development Group Ford to seven wins, grabbed five poles, 15 top-5’s, 17 top-10’s and led 1481 during 2006. His stellar season was awarded with more than $400,000 in winnings.

“I wouldn’t be standing here tonight if it wasn’t for my team and my owners,” said Rogers. “A lot of people are responsible for this, not just me. I’m not sure what my future holds, but I’m proud of the time I spent with this team and in the Hooters Pro Cup Series.”

While Rogers took home the top prize of the evening, there were many other drivers that took home post-season awards.

Derek Kale, driver of the No. 22n Heritage Equipment Chevrolet, was crowned as the overall Miller Lite Rookie of the Year. Kale, who won the Northern Division ROTY as well, finished the season two points ahead of Dange Hanniford in the Championship Series to take home the $40,000 check from Miller Brewing. Combined with his regular-season bonuses, Kale pocketed $51,000 in rookie awards.

“I never thought I’d be standing here,” said Kale. “My team is the only reason I’m up here right now. The work they did to get my car fixed in the last race so I could get back on the track is what won this award. We’re all going to be back together next year and we’re going to be stronger.”

The crowning of Rogers and Kale was a mere formality, but there were several surprise awards given out during the proceedings.

In what has become one of the most coveted awards in Pro Cup, Sam Fullone picked up the Four Champions Award, given in the memory of Alan Kulwicki, Mark Brooks, Dan Duncan and Charlie Campbell to the driver that exudes a winning spirit at all cost.

Jeff Agnew’s car owner, Eddie Asbury, was recognized as the Humanitarian of the Year for his work in McDowell County, West Virginia. Asbury works diligently with the “Toys for Tots” program, supports any Little League program and the football team in War, West Virginia. Not one to mince words, Asbury has a simple philosophy on his philanthropic efforts.

“Take care of the little ones and the old ones, and the rest of us can take care of ourselves,” said Asbury.

Ken Butler III, driver of the No. 00n Aaron’s Dream Machine, picked up the SPEED51.com Most Popular Driver Award. Butler edged out over 40 drivers in the fan poll hosted by SPEED51.com.

Johnny Dangerfield, co-owner of East Coast Motorsports, picked up his second Car Owner of the Year award in the past three seasons with Clay Rogers as his driver. Rogers’ teammates also picked up their BFGoodrich Tires Pit Crew Challenge title, and Blake Bainbridge, Rogers’ crew chief, was named Crew Chief of the Year.

Benny Gordon, driver of the No. 66n Predator Performance Ford, accepted his third Northern Division title in a row. Though Gordon suffered misfortune in the Championship Series, his six-win season pushed him over the $200,000 mark in winnings for the year.

Trevor Bayne, driver of the No. 29s McDonald’s Ford, became the youngest divisional rookie of the year in the Southern Division. Bayne, 15, picked up three rookie of the race awards and finished seventh in the Southern Division standings.

Though most of the night was spent recognizing last year’s accomplishments, several announcements focused on the 2007 season.

In a landmark agreement, Sears Auto Center will become the “Official Tire Supplier” and “Title Sponsor” of the Northern Division of the Hooters Pro Cup Series next year. In addition, Shane Wallace was announced as the driver of the Sears Auto Center Ford for the upcoming season.

Predator Performance readies for 2007; Gordon seeking partner

Myrtle Beach, S.C.-Benny Gordon and Predator Performance burst onto the Pro Cup scene in 2004, winning the 19 races and a Pro Cup title in the last three seasons. The duo became synonymous with success and look forward to continuing that partnership in the upcoming season. "The Predator Engine and Chassis shop is fully operational," said Gordon. "We've got several new teams that are coming on board with us next season, and we're really excited about that. They're going to be top-notch teams." Though Gordon has taken a more hands-on approach in the engine and chassis shop, the 2005 Hooters Pro Cup Champion isn't ready to give up his role as a driver and proven winner. "We've still got all the equipment here that we've run over the past few years and it's ready to go for next season," said Gordon. "Right now, we may not run the entire season, unless we can secure a sponsor. With the way the schedule is now, we can run for the title again with a little sponsorship help." Over the last four seasons, Gordon is the only driver that has been mathematically eligible to win the title heading into the each season finale. And it's a position he hopes to be in again. "I know what this team is capable of," said Gordon. "We can win races and win a title. Hopefully, we can find a partner that allows us to keep doing that."

Snowflake winner sets sight on Pro Cup Rookie Title

Matt Hawkins aims to join Vickers, Gordon and O'Quinn as ROTY winners

Myrtle Beach, S.C.-Winning Snowflake 100 at Five Flags (Fla.) Speedway as part of the 39th Annual Snowball Derby weekend was the highlight of Matt Hawkins' career, but the 18-year-old driver is already looking forward to his next ultra-competitive race. In '07, Hawkins, of Canton, Ga., will compete for the one of the largest-and most prestigious-rookie of the year awards in motorsports: the Hooters Pro Cup Rookie of the Year. Brian Vickers, Benny Gordon, Jeff Agnew and Woody Howard all have a Miller Lite Rookie of the Year title on their mantles, and Danny O'Quinn, Joel Kauffman and Gary St. Amant have taken divisional rookie titles. Hawkins hopes to be the next name added to the list and sees no reason why he shouldn't. "I really don't see why we shouldn't come out, run competitively and win a few races," said Hawkins, who will drive the No. 2s H&H Electric Ford. "I know Pro Cup is tough, but the field in the Snowflake was tough too." Hawkins won't be the typical rookie, however. While he'll be seeing a lot of the tracks for the first time, Hawkins will have a short-track legend to lean on when needed. Former Pro Cup winner Mike Garvey will continue his mentor role with Hawkins in 2007, and Garvey believes in Hawkins as much as Hawkins believes in himself.

"Matt is a natural racer," said Garvey, who helped Hawkins throughout 2006. "He's very fast everywhere we go. But unlike a lot of guys who are fast, he's patient. I think he was in one wreck last year, and that's because somebody ran into him. He runs into a lot less stuff than I ever did." The youngster's uncanny maturity is likely due his lengthy racing resume. Since he was four years old, Hawkins has been racing competitively-and winning titles. In 2003, Hawkins won the WKA National Championship before moving to stock cars. In his rookie season in Late Model action, Hawkins qualified for the prestigious Snowball Derby, won two poles and notched seven top-five finishes in 15 starts in 2004. In '05, Hawkins won the SAS overall and rookie of the year titles. Last year, Hawkins claimed victory in two Georgia Asphalt Series events, notched 10 top-five finishes in 17 starts around the country and ended the year with a win in the Snowflake 100. But it may be the off-track insight gained last year that helps Hawkins the most in the longer races during his rookie season. "Mike really helped me learn what to do to make the car better," said Hawkins. "Just watching him and working with him, I learned a ton. I think that's going to be helpful in the longer races. "I've driven a Pro Cup car before, so I don't think I'm going to have to change my driving style. I'm looking forward to this year, and I think we should have just as good as of a season as we did last year." If so, Hawkins may need to clear a spot on his mantle.

DANNY JACKSON AWARDED CRA SUPER SERIES "ROOKIE OF THE YEAR" IN ANDERSON, INDIANA

CINCINNATI, Ohio (January 7, 2006) - Danny Jackson was recognized as the CD-2 "Rookie of the Year" Saturday, January 6, during the Champion Racing Association (CRA) Awards Banquet in Anderson, Ind.

Jackson, a 23-year-old third generation race car driver from Cincinnati, Ohio, won the award based on his accomplishments during the 2006 CRA Super Series Late Model season, in which he finished 5th place in the point standings. The next closest rookie was ranked 10th.

"This award really means a lot to me," said Jackson. "Not only does it reward my entire team for the things we've accomplished this season, but serves as good motivation for me to continually improve as a racer."

Some of Jackson's accomplishments during the 2006 season include: seven top ten finishes, 13 top twenty finishes, one No. 1 qualifier. He accumulated the second highest ranking in the "percentage of laps completed" category at 87.8 percent for the season. During the final race of the year, he set the Winchester Speedway record with a lap-time of 15.192 seconds.

Jackson recently announced he will race in the USAR Hooters Pro Cup during the 2007 season. In December, the team purchased a Pro Cup car formerly driven by Johnny Rumley, a veteran who's won multiple USAR and NASCAR Busch Series races.

"The CRA Series was a major stepping stone for me and I hope to use all that knowledge and experience we gained and take it to the Pro Cup," Jackson said. "We'll have some major challenges in 2007. The Pro Cup drivers are some of the toughest around. And while I'll never underestimate and opponent, I plan on winning some races and finishing in the top five in the point standings this year."

The team plans to attend the eight Northern Division events: April 14, South Boston, Va.; May 3, Shenandoah, Va.; May 26, Madison, Wisc.; June 9, Mansfield, Ohio; June 30, Salem, Ind.; July 14, Radford, Va.; July 28, North East, Pa.; and August 11, South Boston, Va. In addition, the team is tentatively scheduled to attend the first Pro Cup event of the 2007 season, Saturday, March 10, at USA International Speedway in Lakeland, Fla.

The Pro Cup season concludes with five Championship Series events. Jackson would like to attend all of these races, pending sponsorship funding.

The USAR Hooters Pro Cup series is a short, circle track stock car series, consisting of both experienced pro racers and young drivers trying to make a name for themselves. The races are broadcast on SPEED, offering a great television package and incentive for sponsors with a regional or national audience.

In addition to this season's CRA "Rookie of the Year" moniker, Jackson has amassed several achievements in a short time. He received the 2005 ARCA Lincoln Welders Truck Series "Rookie of the Year" honor, winning once on the series that year in Middlebourne, W.Va. He was the 2005 Legends Car Pro Asphalt National Champion. In 2006, he added two more ARCA Truck victories, winning at Winchester (Indiana) Speedway and Kentucky Speedway.

For more information, please log onto www.dannyjacksonracing.com.

Awesome Awnings, Leone and Premiere Motorsports form Powerful Package for '07

Myrtle Beach, S.C.-The New Year's resolution for Awesome Awnings and Premiere Motorsports is to win more races. And with today's announcement, they just may get their wish.

Kirk Leone has signed on to drive the No. 8s Awesome Awnings' machine during the 2007 season. The triple alliance is a great fit; just the right combination to give the No. 8 race squad the ammunitions they will need for a winning season.

Awesome Awnings and Premiere Motorsports have been working together for one year now, and while able to recruit several good drivers, Leone was always on their radar.

"It's been a tremendous goal to get Kirk Leone to join forces with us. We had a short collaboration at the Myrtle Beach, S.C., race last June and again in Kenly, N.C., in July, but his professionalism and dedication throughout the whole year made him stand out as someone we really wanted to be a more permanent part of our team," said Jason Leonard, President of Awesome Awnings, Inc. "After working together I saw his competitiveness and vigor and I knew I wanted him to drive our car. Awesome Awnings and Premiere Motorsports are tremendously grateful to have Kirk on board. We have big plans for the season ahead and we're excited to see how it all plays out."

However it plays out, Leone is grateful for the opportunity and help.

"It's such a different level of racing than I'm used to," said Leone, who ran his own team in 2006. "This series is so competitive; it's hard to run a business, a race track and a race team. I think this is going to be beneficial for all of us."

Leone competed full time in the Hooters Pro Cup Series while trying to run his real estate company and racetrack, Southern National Raceway Park. Though he faired pretty well in his sophomore season in Pro Cup, finishing 17th in the final standings, Leone knew it would be tough to keep up the hectic pace for another season.

"Hopefully, this will allow me to be more focused on just driving the car," said Leone. "Steve [Husketh, owner of Premiere Motorsports] has some full-time guys and a lot of knowledge about the series, and Jason Leonard and Awesome Awnings love the sport and want to win. They're very competitive people, and I'm really excited about the whole deal. Hopefully, we can win some races together."

For more information on Awesome Awnings, visit AwesomeAwnings.com. For more information on Premiere Motorsports, visit PremiereMotorsports.com.

Memorable Quotes from the Hooters Pro Cup Season

Myrtle Beach, S.C.—The Hooters Pro Cup season was one full of on-track rivalries, heated confrontations and witty retorts. As 2007 looms near, let’s take a look back at some of the most memorable quotes of the 2006 season.

10. Todd Peck on his green-painted car with a peanut on the hood (both racing no-no’s) at Lake Erie Speedway: “Our luck certainly couldn’t get any worse, so we embraced it,” said Peck, who had five consecutive DNFs before finishing 23rd at LES. “It might have started something. We’re leaving here with a racecar that’s a good starting point for Motor Mile. We’ve got some bugs to work out, but we’ll be alright. I think the peanut may stay around.”

9. Clay Rogers after being shoved out of the lead on the final turn at Concord Motorsports Park by Shane Huffman: “It’s tough,” said Rogers. "[My sponsor] was here, and we put on a good show for them, but I hate I lost the race right in front of them. Maybe we’ll have to go test Hickory, so we can demoralize Huffman in front of his hometown fans.”

Rogers did win the Hickory event.

8. Benny Gordon after spinning Clay Rogers out of the lead at Mansfield: “I ran Clay down from fifth, and he was stopping in the corner,” Gordon said. “I was two tenths [of a second] quicker than him, and I just barely made contact and he spun out. I didn’t mean to spin him out, but I’m sure he’s crying about it.”

7. Clay Rogers after catching Gordon on the final lap at Mansfield: “There were a lot of decisions being made going on down the backstretch on the final lap,” said Rogers. “Earlier in the week, Benny said that finishing second to me at South Boston was the most embarrassing moment of his life. He would have been real embarrassed if he was sitting backed into the Turn 4 wall. But I’ve been beat like that before, and I figured I’d give Benny one more chance.”

6. Daniel Johnson after visiting the Media Center at Iowa Speedway: “I’ve done more interviews tonight than I’ve done in my whole career,” said Johnson, who finished second in the inaugural event at Iowa Speedway.

5. Jeff Agnew on whether or not he was going to celebrate long into the night after breaking an 0-for-29 slump in his home state of Virginia: “I’ve got a seven year old and a two year old that I got to get home,” said Agnew after the race. “I’m just going to go home and go to bed.”

4. Shane Huffman after being caught up in a wreck at Myrtle Beach while trying to work his way back to the front after an unscheduled pit stop: “Once I got in the back, guys were racing like idiots! It beat anything I ever saw,” said Huffman. “People just drive in and beat the hell out of someone. If they wreck, well, then so be it.”

3. Mardy Lindley after winning at Bristol Motor Speedway: “Two weeks ago I was sitting on the couch watching TV,” said Lindley, who was out of a ride before joining up with Ricky Benton Racing. “This is awesome.”

2. Bobby Gill on who had the most influence on his racing career: “Me,” said Gill.

1. Clay Rogers after winning South Boston on April 1, 2006, 13 years after tragic news came out of Eastern Tennessee that defending NASCAR Winston Cup Champion Alan Kulwicki, along with Hooters of America representatives Mark Brooks, Dan Duncan and Charlie Campbell, all perished in a plane crash just outside of Bristol: “A lot of people don’t know a lot about this series and why it was started,” said Rogers. “Those four guys that died on that airplane are why we are racing today here and now in their honor and in their memory. What Hooters has done in light of that tragic accident allows me and Benny Gordon, Jeff Agnew, Woody Howard and everyone else out here to do what we want to do and that is very special. So I’m just happy to get the win on the anniversary of that bad day.”

Leavitt Racing Components (Formerly Steve Leavitt Racing) Relocates, Chassis Manufacturer Moves into 17,000 Sq. Ft. Facility in Lakeside Park

Mooresville, NC - Leavitt Racing Components Inc., LRC, (formerly know as Steve Leavitt Racing) has expanded its operations greatly over the past year. Still known as a premiere chassis builder to NASCAR Nextel Cup, Busch Grand National and USAR Pro Cup Series competitors, Leavitt Racing Components has many product lines including main stay products such as Centerlinks, Idler Arms, Truck Arms, and various suspension components and custom machining.

Beginning on December 1, 2006, LRC moved into a 17,000 sq. ft. facility located in Lakeside Park at 174 Gasoline Alley, Mooresville, NC 28117. The facility includes a full service machine shop, consisting of 4 Daewoo CNC Mills and 4 Daewoo Lathes. The new facility will also house a large showroom and the company's corporate offices. Along with the move, Leavitt Racing Components currently has 16 employees including the father and son led team of Steve & Stephen Leavitt as well as Sales Executive Vince Armentrout who started with LRC in September and brings 15 years of professional motorsports sales experience.

Look for Leavitt Racing Components to start a new advertising campaign and launch a new interactive website in January. The ad campaign will be print, online and contingency based in nature. For more information contact Leavitt Racing Components at 174 Gasoline Alley, Mooresville, NC 28117 or 800.943.4149 or go to leavittracingonline.com.

Lucky Dog Hits Pro Cup in ‘07

Orlando, Fla.—The Hooters Pro Cup Series announced today at the PRI Trade Show that the Aaron’s “Lucky Dog” would be added during the ’07 season.

Traditionally, the Hooters Pro Cup Series version of the Lucky Dog only allowed the cars lined up in front of the leaders on a restart to cycle back to the lead lap. But under the new version, the first car one-lap down will move to the tail end of the field for the restart.

“This is something we’ve been talking about for several years,” said Tony Cox, USAR Series Director. “The Hooters Pro Cup Series has tried to level the playing field on many fronts, and the ‘Lucky Dog’ is just an extension of that. If somebody has some bad luck early in the race, we’d hate to think that their chances of winning were over.”

The second-chance theory is the reason Aaron’s began its Lucky Dog program nearly two years ago.

“In racing, just like life, it’s good to have a second chance,” said Ken Butler, President of Aaron’s Sales & Lease Ownership. “The Lucky Dog was a natural fit for our company, because we don’t have credit checks, but it also applies to racing. As competitive as the Hooters Pro Cup Series is, it’s tough to get a lap back. I think it’s going to be good for the sport. The more people that are on the lead lap makes everything a little more exciting.”

There will be several differences in the version of the Lucky Dog, however.

Only cars one-lap down will be allowed to make up the lap. Also, no cars that are involved in the caution will be given the Lucky Dog.

Fischer Engineering Joins Hooters Pro Cup Series for '07

Proven Winner Brings 30 Years of Experience to Pro Cup

Orlando, Fla.—The Hooters Pro Cup Series and Fischer Engineering announced today at the PRI Trade Show that the longtime engine builder would be joining the Hooters Pro Cup family of sponsors for the 2007 season.

"Fischer Engineering is very excited to be joining the USAR Hooters Pro Cup Series as a contingency sponsor for the 2007 season," said Dennis Fischer, President and Owner of Fischer Engineering. "The USAR Hooters Pro Cup Series' success in providing the perfect avenue for a vast variety of drivers and teams to showcase their talents was one of the many deciding factors in our company wishing to offer sponsorship. With Fischer Engineering's 33 years of experience, establishing itself as one of the premiere independent engine builders in the racing world, this is a partnership guaranteed to reap long-term rewards."

Fischer Engineering was started by current founder and owner, Dennis Fischer, in 1973. And over the last 30 years, its powerplants have propelled many drivers to prestigious victories.

"We're proud to add a company with the history of Fischer Engineering to our family of contingency sponsors," said Tony Cox, USAR Series Director. "We've been fortunate over the last 10 years to have a variety of quality engine builders support the series, and it's made for some great competition. Fischer Engineering will only enhance the series-and level of competition-in 2007.

To its credit, Fischer Engineering has won championships in the NASCAR Elite, Grand National and Craftsman Truck divisions, as well as picking up two Trams-Am Series titles.

Fischer Engineering currently supplies engines to competitors in the Busch Series, NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, NGND Busch East Series, NGND AutoZone West Series and ARCA-RE/MAX Series.

Fischer Engineering will be offering a limited number of Hooters Pro Cup Series teams a 10% discount on all new engine purchases and lease programs prior to January 15, 2007.

For more information, call Fischer Engineering at (704) 809-1070.

BUCKSHOT JONES TO DRIVE FOR BOWEN FAMILY HOMES

Atlanta, Ga. –DMT Motorsports announced today that former NASCAR driver, Roy "Buckshot" Jones of Gwinnett County, Georgia, will be driving the No. 01 Southern Division Chevy Monte Carlo car for Bowen Family Homes in the 2007 Hooters Pro Cup. Buckshot last drove the No. 44 Georgia-Pacific Dodge Intrepid for Petty Enterprises in the Nextel Cup Series.

"We are thrilled to have Buckshot Jones drive the car for Bowen Family Homes in the Hooters Pro Cup Series," said David Bowen, one of the owners of Bowen Family Homes. "We have been involved in motorsports for five years and have been proud supporters of the Hooters Pro Cup Series since 2005. We are excited to have Buckshot join the team and the Bowen Family."

Jones, who recently drove in the Snowball Derby, is ready to return to racing on a full-time basis next season.

"I am proud to drive in the 2007 Hooters Pro Cup for Bowen Family Homes," said Jones, who has driven over 100 Busch Series and 50 Nextel Cup Series races and won the 1998 NBS Most Popular Driver award. "They are based near my home in Gwinnett County, Ga., and were recently ranked 30th in Atlanta’s Top 100 Private Companies by the Atlanta Business Chronicle. It is an honor to drive for such an excellent and reputable company."

Since 1969, Bowen Family Homes is a leading creator of new home communities in major markets nationwide, including Florida, Texas, and metropolitan Atlanta. Builder Magazine has recognized Bowen Family Homes as one of America’s 100 fastest growing builders and one of the top 50 builders overall in the nation. But Bowen Family Homes is still the family-owned builder who knows that family matters most.

Mac Hill Motorsports to field two teams in 2007

Hanniford, Frank to Drive Mac Hill Entries

Mooresville, N.C. – After notching four top-10 finishes in the six-race 2006 USAR Hooters Pro Cup Championship Series, Mac Hill Motorsports is pleased to announce that it will run the complete 2007 Pro Cup Northern and Southern Division campaigns with drivers A.J. Frank and Dange Hanniford.

Mac Hill tested the Pro Cup waters by fielding a team for Hanniford during the Championship Series, and team owner Jack McNelly liked what he saw. He said his team was impressed with how series officials were able to balance the sports and business sides of the circuit, and he found Mac Hill’s competition to be both tough on the track, and friendly off.

"It’s racing the way it should be," McNelly said.

USAR’s decision to scale the series back to eight regular-season dates and five championship races allowed Mac Hill to operate two teams, which McNelly said will mean his organization can get the most out of the knowledge and skill of its workers. Just like in any sport, he said, the more you compete, the better you will become.

"There’s a reason that these big Nextel Cup operations have multi-car teams," he said.

Hanniford, who finished 14th overall in the 2006 season, will continue to drive the No. 65 Chevy Monte Carlo after coming within two points of being named the Miller Lite Rookie of the Year. He collected six Top 10 finishes overall this year and one Top 5, a second-place finish in the next-to-last Championship Series contest.

He said that he learned a lot driving for Mac Hill, and that he feels the experience of driving for the team in the Championship Series will make for a good transition to the 2007 season.

"I feel really good about it, especially with the way the year ended," said Hanniford, who will compete in the Southern Division.

Indeed, McNelly said he is excited to have Hanniford back on the team. He is equally pleased to add Frank to the Mac Hill operation. Frank is an excellent driver, McNelly said, having posted a dozen Top 10 finishes this year with Bullet Racing and half a dozen Top Fives.

And, the team owner added, "Just like Dange, more importantly, he’s a very good young man."

The 32-year-old Frank is a third-generation racer who shares South Carolina roots with Hanniford. The 2007 campaign will be his third season in the Pro Cup. He will drive the No. 56 Chevy Monte Carlo in the Northern Division.

Frank said that his season with Bullet "definitely accelerated" his career, and he’s excited to work with McNelly, with crew chief Tony Lambert—who will lead both teams—with Hanniford and with the entire Mac Hill crew.

"I’ve got a lot of momentum rolling into this season, and I hope to bring it to Mac Hill Motorsports," Frank said.

For more information on Mac Hill Motorsports, visit www.machillmotorsports.com.

Post-Season Wins, Accolades Still Coming for Rogers

Pro Cup Champ Wins Snowball Derby, Grabs Second Team All-American Team Honors

Myrtle Beach, S.C.—During the Hooters Pro Cup season, Clay Rogers won seven races, five poles, $402,450 and his second Hooters Pro Cup Series Championship. For most, those accomplishments would be considered a "dream season." But for Rogers, the wins and accolades just keep coming.

Rogers, 26, won the 39th Annual Snowball Derby at Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola, Fla., on Sunday. Rogers, who started 27th in the 39-car field, became the third Pro Cup regular to win the prestigious event, joining Bobby Gill and Gary St. Amant, who both have two victories in the granddaddy of Late Model races.

"It doesn’t overshadow what I did in Pro Cup over the last three years, but it’s the single biggest race I’ve won," said Rogers, who drove the No. 2 Terminal Trucking entry for Bill Boger in the Snowball. "There are 38 names on that trophy, names like Bobby Gill, Rich Bickle, Rick Crawford, Gary St. Amant, Darrell Waltrip and Donnie Allison. I’m just glad to add my name to it."

But adding his name to the Snowball Derby Trophy won’t be the only place Rogers’ name appears with racing greats. Today, Rogers picked up second team All-American honors in a vote by more than 300 members of the American Auto Racing Writers and Broadcasters Association.

"Car owners and media are the two hardest people to please in this sport," said Rogers. "Anytime you can be nominated by the media, especially the national media, it’s a very special thing."

Benny Gordon, the Hooters Pro Cup Series Northern Division champion, was also on the ballot and named Honorable Mention in the Touring Series category, which included Todd Bodine, the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series champion, Eric Holmes, the NASCAR AutoZone West champion, Frank Kimmel, the ARCA champion, Mike Olsen, the NASCAR Busch East Series champion, and Rogers.

Todd Bodine and eight-time ARCA champion Frank Kimmel that took first team honors. Second Team honors were USAR Pro Cup champion Clay Rogers and NASCAR East titlist Mike Olsen.

FIRST TEAM

OPEN WHEEL: Sébastien Bourdais, Sam Hornish Jr.
STOCK CAR: Jimmie Johnson, Tony Stewart
ROAD RACING: Jorg Bergmeister, Rinaldo Capello/Allan McNish and Scott Pruett/Luis Diaz (tie)
DRAG RACING: John Force, Tony Schumacher
SHORT TRACK: Donny Schatz, Josh Wise
TOURING SERIES: Todd Bodine, Frank Kimmel
AT LARGE: J.R. Hildebrand, Travis Pastrana

SECOND TEAM

OPEN WHEEL: A.J. Allmendinger, Dan Wheldon
STOCK CAR: Denny Hamlin, Kevin Harvick
ROAD RACING: Max Angelelli, Olivier Beretta/Oliver Gavin
DRAG RACING: Doug Kalitta, Jason Line and Clay Millican (tie)
SHORT TRACK: Danny Lasoski, Jerry Coons Jr. and Bud Kaeding (tie)
TOURING SERIES: Clay Rogers, Mike Olsen
AT LARGE: Andy Lally/Marc Bunting, Frank Manzo

HONORABLE MENTION

(At least 5% of the vote)
OPEN WHEEL: Helio Castroneves, Justin Wilson
STOCK CAR: Kasey Kahne, Matt Kenseth
ROAD RACING: Colin Braun
DRAG RACING: none
SHORT TRACK: Tim McCreadie
TOURING SERIES: Eric Holmes, Benny Gordon
AT LARGE: Troy Herbst

Greased Lightning® Extends JFco Motorsports Sponsorship into 2007

The Works® Brand Joins the Ranks with a New Race Team

Durham, N.C.—Greased Lightning and JFco Motorsports extend their relationship today by securing the Atlanta based company as a primary sponsor of their team for the 2007 Hooters Pro Cup Series season. Joining them, a second brand, the Works®, will be sponsoring another JFco team, which will also compete in the Hooters Pro Cup Series.

As part of the pact, Jay Fogleman will be sporting new colors in 2007 by driving the Works-branded No. 4 race car in the Southern Division. Jody Lavender, a successful veteran Pro Cup driver for the past three years, will pilot the Greased Lightning car in the Northern Division.

"Having two cars in the Hooters Pro Cup Series come from the same stable is something new to us and we're excited about it," states Helmut Baker, Biolab’s Vice President of Household Chemicals. "Jay Fogleman and our relationship with JFco Motorsports has provided us a great opportunity to reach our audience with our cleaning products. We look forward to a successful year with Jay and the Works car and also Jody Lavender driving the Greased Lightning car in 2007."

"I'm proud to say I represented the Greased Lightning brand for the past two years," said Jay Fogleman. "We have a great relationship so I look forward to moving into 2007 with two cars and two brands. Next year is definitely the year for JFco to bring the No. 4 car into victory lane."

"I look forward to joining the JFco team and representing Greased Lightning next year," said Jody Lavender. "This is an opportunity for me to expand on the great success Jay has already had with the Greased Lightning branded car, and I will do everything I need to do to have a great season and get us to victory lane."

Fogleman leads all active Pro Cup drivers with the most starts and the most consecutive starts. Also, Fogleman has over 100 career wins with 10 of those coming from the Pro Cup Series. Lavender has one win under his belt in the Pro Cup Series thus far and was declared the Pro Cup’s Most Popular Driver just last year.

About Greased Lightning®
The Greased Lightning family of super-strength degreaser products tackle today's cleaning needs. From the kitchen and bathroom to the laundry room and garage, Greased Lightning products wipe out grease, grime and dirt, leaving your home sparkling clean and smelling fresh. For more information on Greased Lightning please visit www.greased-lightning.com.

About the Works®
The Works is a popular brand of high efficacy cleaning products at a good value. The Works makes toilet bowl cleaners, tub & shower cleaners, and drain openers. For more information please visit www.theworksworks.com.

East Coast Motorsports Wins BFGoodrich Tires Pit Crew Challenge

Lakeland, Fla.—Clay Rogers will be crowned the Hooters Pro Cup Series Champion later tonight, but his pit crew took their title a little earlier.

Prior to the start of the Robert H. Brooks Memorial Hooters 300, the East Coast Motorsports crew won the BFGoodrich Tires Pit Crew Challenge at USA Int’l Speedway.

Rogers’ crew turned in a time of 23.227 seconds to best the Dale Jr.-owned JR Motorsports team, who turned in a time of 23.578 seconds, for the $3,000 prize.

"That’s the reason we’ve won a lot of the races we’ve won this year is because of our pit crew," said Blake Bainbridge, Rogers’ crew chief. "These guys are so dedicated, and they’re just like racers. They want to do good at it, and they want to move up."

The East Coast Motorsports team also moved into the record book.

The 23.227-second stop was the fastest stop ever turned in during the five-year history of the competition—even with a two-second penalty for a loose lug nut.

"These guys are the reason this car runs good, so I’m glad they got to showcase their talents," said Rogers, driver of the No. 44s Automotive Development Group Ford. "To win it with a loose lug nut just shows how strong of a stop that was. Under race conditions, that would have been a 15-second stop."

Randy Humphrey Racing finished the contest in third with a time of 24.512 seconds.

BFGoodrich Tires Pit Crew Challenge Results

1. East Coast Motorsports Crew (Car No. 44s)- 23.277
2. JR Motorsports Crew (Car No. 80n)- 23.578
3. Randy Humprey Racing Crew (Car No. 93n)- 24.512
4. Lamb & Robinson Motorsports Crew (Car No. 29s)- 25.137
5. Dean Motorsports (Car No. 55n)- 26.184
6. Shane Wallace Motorsports Crew (Car No. 38s)- 29.28
7. Joe Gibbs Racing Oil Crew (Car No. 51s)- 31.984
8. McDonald's Drive Trhu Crew (Car No. 29s)- 33.366
9. Heritage Motorsports Crew (Car No. 22n)- 33.38
10. Predator Performance Crew (Car No. 66n)- 33.409
11. Speedco Crew/Tony Stewart Racing Crew (Car No. 20n)- 34.455
12. Team 7 Motorsports Crew (Car No. 73n)- 52.35

Gill Wins Robert H. Brooks Memorial Hooters 300

Clay Rogers Takes Overall Title; Derek Kale Grabs ROTY Honors

Lakeland, Fla.—Clay Rogers had already clinched the overall Hooters Pro Cup Series title, but he wanted more. So with 145 laps remaining the Robert H. Brooks Memorial 300, Rogers ducked to pit road while the rest of the field stayed on the track.

Rogers’ short-pit strategy appeared to be the right call as he took the lead on Lap 206, but not even pit strategy could beat Bobby Gill at USA Int’l Speedway on Saturday night.

Gill, who restarted 10th after making a pit stop on Lap 196, tracked down Rogers on Lap 250 and slipped past with 45 laps remaining. From there, Gill, driver of the No. 06s USG Sheetrock Brand Ford, pulled away to win by 7.802 seconds over Rogers.

The win was Gill’s 43rd career victory and his 12th at USA Int’l Speedway. But earlier in the day, Gill wasn’t sure he’d end up in victory lane at the end of the night.

“The car was junk in practice,” said Gill, driver of the No. 06s USG Sheetrock Brand Ford. “Clay [Rogers] told us to change the air pressure on the right front, and it was a different car when the race started.”

It was a dominant car.

Early in the race, Gill marched from 20th to first in just 68 laps to take the lead. Once there, Gill left the field behind for much of the race. Gill’s pace forced others to make strategy calls they wouldn’t normally try.

Mart Nesbitt, driver of the No. 88n ConstructionJobs.com Ford, and Rogers elected to short-pit. Nesbitt led 10 laps before Rogers took the lead. Rogers pulled out to a sizeable advantage over the field, but Gill was on the charge. Gill caught Rogers on Lap 250 and Rogers didn’t put up too much of a fight.

“When Blake [Bainbridge, Rogers’ crew chief] saw that Bobby was better than us, we figured we might better roll the dice and see if we could just get lucky and beat him,” said Rogers, who clinched the overall Hooters Pro Cup Series title by starting the race. “We had dominant car, but there was one car that was a good bit better than us. It’s hard to believe we could get our car that good and still get beat, but Bobby’s good here and always figures out how to end with a bang.”

Behind Gill and Rogers, Johnny Rumley also ended the season on a high note. Rumley, driver of the No. 80n Champion Spark Plugs Chevrolet, picked up his first podium finish since joining JR Motorsports at the start of the Championship Series.

Michael Ritch, driver of the No. 28s Jackaroo Ford, came home fourth, while Jeff Agnew, driver of the No. 73n Mark IV Honda/Team 7 Ford, completed the top five.

The Hooters 300 was slowed eight times for 42 laps of caution and featured nine lead changes among six drivers.

The Rookie

While the overall title was secured as soon as Clay Rogers took the green flag, the Miller Lite Rookie of the Year battle went down to the final lap.

After starting from the Advance Auto Parts Pole and leading the first 64 laps, Derek Kale, driver of the No. 22n Termidor Chevrolet, looked to be en route to an easy victory in the Miller Lite Rookie of the Year battle. But on Lap 154, Kale’s rookie dreams took big hit, literally.

Dominick Casola spun on the backstretch and Kale caught a piece of the accident. His team managed to keep him on the lead lap while repairing the damage. But on Lap 168, Kale pounded the Turn 2 wall.

“I thought it was over,” said Kale. “I came on the radio and told them that we’re done. But they pulled it behind the wall and dug in. As soon as I jumped out of the ambulance, the car was ready.”

When Kale returned to action, he was running 29th and trailed Dange Hanniford in the standings. As the race wore on, attrition helped Kale finish 25th and edge Hanniford by two points for the rookie title. But Kale—and his team—didn’t celebrate immediately.

“I didn’t even think I had a shot, and then my team told me to stay down there because they were still doing the math,” said Kale. “That’s the first time I thought we may still be in it.”

It may have been a blessing that Kale didn’t know what was going on, because the drama was heavy in the final laps as Hanniford closed in on Mart Nesbitt for the eighth position. After trailing Nesbitt by a straightaway with 20 to go, Hanniford, needing one position to claim the ROTY title, caught Nesbitt with two laps remaining. But after navigating past the lapped cars of Michelle Theriault and Joey Logano, Hanniford came up short.

“We started 39th in the standings, so we’re really happy with the way we finished,” said Hanniford, driver of the No. 65s Hager Cycle World Chevrolet. “If we had of lost by 20 points, it would have been a lot easier to take, though.”

The Champion

While Clay Rogers came up short of his eighth win of the season, his season was nothing short of spectacular.

Rogers finished the season with seven wins, 15 top-five and 17 top-10 finishes in 21 starts. More impressive is the fact that Rogers won three of the six Championship Series events, averaged a 6.5 finish during the six-race shootout and won the title by a gaudy 197 points over Shelby Howard.

“I had to drive a lot smarter this year than I did in the past,” said Rogers. “A lot of people have fast racecars out there. I learned a lot from Shane Huffman, Benny Gordon and Bobby Gill over the last few years that’s helped me. Those guys know how to save equipment and be ready for the end of the race. I had to learn that because the level of competition in the series is light years ahead of where it was just two years ago. But it’s not just me, my team is the reason we’re where we are. Those guys gave me good cars all year long, and their work on pit road was a reason we won so many races.”

Rogers finished the season with $402,250 in winnings.

Earlier in the day, Rogers’ East Coast Motorsports teammates won the BFGoodrich Tires Pit Crew Challenge. Rogers’ crew turned in a time of 23.227 seconds to best the Dale Jr.-owned JR Motorsports team, who turned in a time of 23.578 seconds, for the $3,000 prize.

The stop by Rogers’ team set a new record in the competition.

Robert H. Brooks Memorial Hooters 300 Notebook

Making Each Other Better
Bobby Gill gave credit to Clay Rogers for his win, saying that Rogers’ suggestion to change the air pressure in his car was the difference. But Rogers didn’t regret giving up the information, even after Gill slipped past him to win the event.

“Me, Bob and Bill [Boger] are real close, and I wouldn’t be where I’m at without them,” said Rogers. “Bobby helped me out a ton when I came into this series in 2000. I don’t think the air pressure change got us beat tonight. Bobby just had a better car.”

Believe…
With limited funding, Daniel Johnson wasn’t even sure he would be competing in the Championship Series. But when the final flag waved on the Hooters Pro Cup season, Johnson, driver of the No. 3s Charlotte Check Cashers Pontiac, walked away with an eighth-place finish in the final standings.

Wanting More
Shelby Howard, driver of the No. 20n Speedco/Tony Stewart Racing Chevrolet, finished the season with a sixth-place run in the Robert H. Brooks Memorial Hooters 300 at USA Int’l Speedway and jumped to second in the final standings. But even after three wins and his second-place finish in points, Howard wanted a bit more.

“We had a pretty good year, but I wouldn’t mind to have had a year like Clay [Rogers] did,” joked Howard. “We’re going to work hard over the winter and come out next year expecting to have the year that Clay did this year.”

Making Up For Lost Time
Driver Justin Hobgood and car owner Haskell Willingham partnered up halfway through the season and made a great run through the Championship Series, moving from 58th to sixth in points after three races. But after his 22nd-place finish in the Championship Series finale, Hobgood dropped to 20th in points and came up 32 points shy of the Miller Lite Rookie of the Year title.

“What can you say? These guys worked their butts off for me,” said Hobgood, driver of the No. 16s Naturally Fresh Ford. “We started halfway through the season, so we got a late start. If we get to run the whole deal next year, I think we can do some damage with this group. We just came up a little short tonight.”

Bad Kitty
Benny Gordon’s engine began to spew water out of the No. 66n Predator Performance Ford early in the Robert H. Brooks Hooters 300. Gordon eventually parked his machine on Lap 88. His 32nd-place finish dropped him to fourth in the final standings.

“The car was actually good,” said Gordon, who entered the race second in points. “I looked down 40, 50 laps in, and the water temperature was 250. We tried to cool it down, but I think it blew a head gasket or something. It’s the first time we’ve ever fallen out of a race due to an engine problem in three years. That’s just a testament to how good our engine shop is.”

Still Smiling
A.J. Frank started on the outside of the front row and pressured Derek Kale for the lead early in the Hooters 300. But on Lap 57, Frank’s No. 11n Ohio Technical College Pontiac went behind the wall with a mechanical failure. Despite the disappointing ending, Frank still managed a smile after the event.

“The positive thing about tonight is that we took a total volunteer team and had a chance to finish second in the points,” said Frank, who came into the finale fifth in points. “There’s a lot to be said for that. I just have to thank everyone who pitched in to help Bullet Racing out this year.”

Gordon has change of luck, wins Dan Duncan Memorial Travel Country RV 250

Northern Champ moves to second in points

Cecil, Ga.—Benny Gordon won five of the first 11 races he entered this season and then went into a tailspin. Over the last seven races, Gordon was shut out of victory lane and averaged a 19.14 finish.

The slide was a combination bad luck, mechanical gremlins and missed setups, but none of those issues slowed Gordon down at South Georgia Motorsports Park on Saturday night.

Gordon, driver of the No. 66n Predator Performance Ford, took the lead from Gary St. Amant on Lap 106 and cruised to victory in the rain-shortened Dan Duncan Memorial Travel Country RV 250.

“The car was coming to the front from the opening laps,” said Gordon, who started sixth in the 37-car field. “I ran first and second down and passed them really easy, and my lap times were really fast. I wasn’t even hustling the car, so I knew I had a good car. It was just a matter of getting a break and not having something happen to the car.”

Nothing happened to Gordon’s car, but the top three in points couldn’t say the same at SGMP.

Clay Rogers, driver of the No. 44s Automotive Development Group Ford, had won three races in a row and built a 191-point lead coming into the Travel Country RV 250, but he didn’t get a chance at making it four in a row. Rogers was swept up into a melee on Lap 137.

“It was just a product of this race track being so hard to pass on,” said Rogers, who finished 27th. “You can be a half second faster than the guy in front of you, and you can’t do anything, so people get frustrated.

“St. Amant got turned around by somebody getting into [Turn] 1, and everybody started jumping on the brakes. We had it cleared then somebody came down the track, caught us in the right side and turned us sideways. I hit Bobby Gill and then turned straight into the inside wall.”

With Rogers sidelined, Woody Howard, who was 191 points behind Rogers, and Shelby Howard, who was 193 points behind Rogers, were in a position to gain ground on the leader at SGMP. Instead, they tangled with each other battling for second position. The contact sent Woody spinning and Shelby into the outside wall, ending their chances to gain ground on Rogers. Woody came back to finish eighth, but Shelby dropped to 15th at the finish. The crash also allowed Gordon to leapfrog over both drivers into second in points.

“[Clay Rogers] had already fallen out the race, and [Woody and Shelby] really needed to have good finish so they could have a shot at Lakeland, but they wiped each other out,” said Gordon, who closed to within 141 points of Rogers. “I think that takes them out of contention.”

Actually, everyone is out of contention for the title, unless Rogers doesn’t show up at USA Int’l Speedway for the season finale. All Rogers needs to do is take the green flag to win the championship.

With the top three eliminated early at SGMP, a host of new faces joined the chase at the front of the field.

Dange Hanniford, driver of the No. 65s Mac Hill Motorsports Chevrolet, started ninth and hovered around the top five for much of the night. But as the laps wore down, Hanniford started to close the gap on Gordon before rain halted the race on Lap 226.

“I think, if the race had gone green the rest of the way, we could have given him a run for his money,” said Hanniford, who finished a career-best second. “We’ve had good runs in past, but something always happened. We went to Myrtle Beach and ran in the top 10 all night and finished seventh. We came here and ran in the top five all night and ended up second. I can’t complain. I think it’s all coming together. I’m just thankful for the opportunity Jack McNealy and Tony Lambert have given me and all the hard work the guys do in the shop.”

With his second-place finish, Hanniford moved to within 30 points of Derek Kale in the Miller Lite Rookie of the Year standings.

A.J. Frank, driver of the No. 11n Ohio Technical College Pontiac, matched his best finish of the season by finishing third. With the podium finish, Frank jumped to fifth in points.

“It was great night for us,” said Frank. “I’ve got to thank the whole Bullet race team. We’ve never set foot on this racetrack before tonight, and it was a good finish. We probably moved into the top five in points and have a cushion going into Lakeland, so we’re excited.”

Ken Butler III was another driver to post a career-best finish in the Travel Country RV 250. Butler, driver of the No. 00n Aaron’s Dream Machine, started 16th and finished the night in fourth position.

“We really had a good racecar tonight,” said Butler, whose previous best finish was fifth. “The car got tight on long runs, but I was able to avoid the big wrecks. It was just an awesome night for our team and Aaron’s.”

Daniel Johnson, driver of the No. 3 Johnson Motorsports Pontiac, picked up his second top-five finish of the Championship Series by coming home fifth. Johnson’s finish pushed him to sixth in the overall standings.

Joey Logano, driver of the No. 51s Joe Gibbs Racing Oil Chevrolet, finished sixth; Andrew Rogers, driver of the No. 18s Termidor Pontiac, finished seventh; Woody Howard, driver of the No. 55n Dean Motorsports Chevrolet, came home eighth; Lonnie Rush Jr., driver of the No. 71n Leavitt Racing Components Chevrolet, finished ninth; and Derek Kale, driver of the No. 22n Heritage Equipment Chevrolet, completed the top 10.

The Travel Country RV 250 featured five lead changes among four drivers and was slowed 13 times for 85 laps of caution.

Travel Country RV 250 Notebook

Underdog Gaining Ground
Daniel Johnson, driver of the No. 3s Johnson Motorsports Pontiac, is the battling the behemoths of the Hooters Pro Cup Series with a small budget and big dreams. But after his fifth-place finish in the Travel Country RV 250, Johnson vaulted into sixth in the standings, bypassing drivers like Gary St. Amant, Johnny Rumley, Shane Wallace, Jeff Agnew and Jay Fogleman.

“It was a good night for Johnson Motorsports,” said Johnson, who started 31st. “I knew we had a better car than where we qualified, but I messed up in qualifying and hit the wall. The crew made some good stops tonight. The car wasn’t handling the way we wanted it to at the start of the race, but the crew kept working on it and they got it fast.”

Johnson grabbed the Aaron’s Hard Charger Award for advancing 26 positions during the race.

Needing 41
It would likely take a 41-car starting field at USA Int’l Speedway for Clay Rogers to lose the title. As it stands now, Rogers has a 141-point lead over Benny Gordon heading into the season finale and needs to just take the green flag to wrap up the title.

Even if Gordon won, led a lap, led the most laps, led at halfway and picked up the hard charger award, he would still finish 25 points behind Rogers, if Rogers finishes last in a 36-car field.

Restoring Faith
Clay Rogers and Benny Gordon have had a testy relationship at times over the season, but Gordon’s team lent Rogers a helping hand at SGMP. Gordon’s Predator Performance teammates joined forces with Rogers’ team repair the No. 44s Automotive Development Group Ford.

“I’ve got to thank Benny’s guys, because they came over and helped us get everything back on our car where it needed to be,” said Rogers. “They showed a lot of sportsman-like conduct by doing that.”

Beer Battle
Derek Kale, driver of the No. 22n Heritage Equipment Chevrolet, took control of the Miller Lite Rookie of the Year battle by finishing 10th in the Travel Country RV 250. Kale is 30 points ahead of Justin Hobgood, driver of the No. 16s Naturally Fresh Ford, and Dange Hanniford, driver of the No. 65s Mac Hill Motorsports Chevrolet, going into the final race of the season.

With the slim margin, the rookie battle will likely come down to the last lap of the season-finale Hooters 300. If Kale finished 10th at USA Int’l Speedway, Hobgood or Hanniford would have to finish third to beat him.

40% Dixie
While it appears Clay Rogers will bring the Hooters Pro Cup Series Championship trophy back below the Mason-Dixon Line, he may be just one of four drivers from the Southern Division to finish inside the top 10. Going into the season finale, Daniel Johnson, Bobby Gill and Shane Wallace are the only other Southern Division drivers inside the top 10.

Five Star Kevlar/Composite body unveiled at Mansfield

Myrtle Beach, S.C.—The first version of the new Kevlar/Composite body produced by Five Star RaceCar Bodies was unveiled at Mansfield Motorsports Speedway several weeks ago. And the Hooters Pro Cup Series competitors and crew chiefs took notice.

“They’ve done a wonderful job with body,” said Darrin Shaw, crew chief for Shane Wallace. “If a piece gets knocked off, I’ll be able to paint a new one and put it on rather than having to send the entire car to the body shop and paint booth.”

The Five Star Kevlar/Composite bodies are not one-piece, allowing teams to restore their car to race-ready condition without mounting a full body. In addition to the easy maintenance, the new body drew rave reviews for other features as well.

“I’d put one on right now if I had it,” said driver A.J. Frank, “just for the front end.”

Point leader Clay Rogers agreed.

“Guys won’t be complaining about downforce now,” said Rogers.

Nor will they be complaining about the price. The body will cost competitors less than $4,000 when it becomes available later this year. Unlike other composite bodies on the market, the Five Star body does not require extra fabrication. The pieces come ready to mount. In addition, the body package includes the windows and spoiler.

“Five Star has put a lot of time and resources in this body, and it really shows,” said Tony Cox, USAR Series Director. “They worked hard to keep the price down for our competitors, while still producing a top-notch product.”

Starting in 2007, the Hooters Pro Cup Series will allow a new Kevlar/Composite body in competition, but the series will not mandate the body until 2008.

“The new all-composite body with aluminum doors and deck lid will be lighter than the existing body and will be extremely durable,” said Carl Schultz, co-owner of Five Star. “It was aerodynamically-designed and wind-tunnel tested to assure good aero balance, improved downforce and low drag. One of the best features of this body is how easy it will be for race teams to install their own bodies and replace damaged panels. Along with the body, there will be a long list of time saving installation and body related accessories available.

“It has been a pleasure to work with the USAR officials throughout the design process, and we are excited to see the cars with the new body on the track next year.”

In addition to being the “Official Body Manufacturer” of the Hooters Pro Cup Series, Five Star will join the series as an “Official Contingency” sponsor as well.

Through its contingency program, the stalwart body company will award two bodies to select competitors after the 2007 season and sponsor the “Five Star Hard Luck Award.”

Hooters Pro Cup Series plans for future, addresses present

2007 Pro Cup Schedule Released at Mansfield

Mansfield, Ohio—The Hooters Pro Cup Series unveiled its 2007 schedule today at Mansfield Motorsports Speedway prior to the running of the Alan Kulwicki Memorial Sears Auto Center 250

The 21-race schedule will feature eight Southern and Northern Division races as well as five Championship Series events to determine the overall 2007 Hooters Pro Cup Series Champion and Miller Lite Rookie of the Year.

The reduction in races for the Pro Cup Series, which ran 30 races in 2006, was implemented to allow more teams to compete on a full-time basis in 2007.

“We’ve discussed cutting back races with our competitor advisory board, and we had a very positive response,” said Tony Cox, USAR Series Director. “This series was built to give teams of varying backgrounds an opportunity to compete in a national touring series. From a budget perspective, by cutting back the number of regular-season races, we’ve opened the door further for teams wanting to compete full-time in the Hooters Pro Cup Series.”

Of the 135 teams that competed in the Hooters Pro Cup Series in ‘06, less than 30 will run more than 17 races. With the new schedule, those teams will still be able to compete in up to 17 races, but more teams would be able to run a full-time schedule.

“We’ve looked at all the angles and talked to many car owners, and we feel like this is a great step for the series,” said Cox. “We’ve always been proactive in trying to keep costs down for our competitors and a level playing field.”

The new schedule also opens the door for future expansion.

“In the next few years, we plan to expand to a third division,” said Cox. “The way our schedule is laid out now, all we will have to do is add the races.”