Team BCR Racing

Graham, a former Hydroplane racer moves to Team BCR Racing after competing in four races this season with Mark Gibson Racing (MGR). Before his transition to ARCA, he also competed in three CARS Pro Cup Series under the MGR umbrella. In his ARCA outings, Graham posted a best finish of 15th at Iowa Speedway while qualifying a career-best 15th in his final race of the year at Kansas Speedway. Graham finished outside the top-20 just once at Pocono (Pa.) Raceway in a spectacular incident on the opening lap.

Buster Graham, driver of the Batter’s Dream Ford Fusion in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards for Team BCR Racing.

The duo will make their first on-track appearance together when the ARCA Racing Series storms onto the high-banks of Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway for three days of testing in preparation for next year’s season opener beginning on Friday, December 16.

“My heart beat increases just thinking about Daytona,” Graham added. “We’ve been able to purchase some really good racecars from Roush Fenway Racing and with the horsepower from RoushYates Engines, I’m looking forward to seeing what we can accomplish at the test.”

Team owner Howard Bixman is eagerly excited about having Graham joining his two-car operation.

“You cannot overlook what Buster has accomplished in just a short amount of time,” Bixman sounded. “I was able to watch him in the couple of races that he competed in this year and you could easily see the comfort and confidence not only with himself but with the racecar as well. With our resources, we are working hard to give Buster everything he’s looking for and more.”

Batter’s Dream will continue to adorn the role as the primary marketing partner for Graham in 2012.

Batter’s Dream is an automated ball feeding system (pitching machine) that allows baseball hitters and softball hitters to maximize time in the batting cage by getting more quality cuts without fixing a tee. One of the key benefits of the Batter’s Dream batting machines is that it allows batters the freedom to focus on rhythm, stance, timing and swing speed without the need for a second person. Simply put, Batter’s Dream is the most effective, simple and easy-to-use soft toss system ever invented to help improve a hitter’s mechanics and increase their batting average.

“Without the help and support of my father in-law Don Mashburn, none of this would be possible,” Graham explained. “We’re working hard on bringing additional marketing partners into the ARCA Racing Series with Team BCR, but we’re eager to keep spreading the word about Batter’s Dream and its capabilities.”

With the addition of Graham to the Mooresville, North Carolina’s operation, Team BCR Racing will officially become a two-car operation with the recent announcement of an expanded schedule for 21-year old Charles Evans Jr. in the Elevator Transportation Services / Casite / RoushYatesParts.com Ford Fusion.

“I’m looking forward to working with CJ,” Graham concluded. “I don’t know a lot about him, but from what I hear, he’s a pretty talented driver. I’m looking forward to working with him and learning things together and us representing Team BCR Racing with stellar results on the track.”

For more information including marketing partnerships for the 2012 ARCA Racing Series season for Team BCR Racing and Buster Graham, please log onto teambcr.com.

For more on Batter’s Dream, please visit Battersdream.com.

Connect with RoushYates Performance Products and RoushYates Engines through their official web site at roushyatesparts.com.

About Batter’s Dream:

Batter’s Dream is an automated ball feeding system (pitching machine) that allows baseball hitters and softball hitters to maximize time in the batting cage by getting more quality cuts without fixing a tee. One of the key benefits of the Batter’s Dream batting machines is that it allows batters the freedom to focus on rhythm, stance, timing and swing speed without the need for a second person. Simply put, Batter’s Dream is the most effective, simple and easy-to-use soft toss system ever invented to help improve a hitter’s mechanics and increase their batting average.

- Team BCR Racing Press Release

Buster Graham

While Graham received plenty of attention for the frontstretch melee in August, he returns to the track this week looking to earn a place in the spotlight on his own in his No. 59 Batter’s Dream Ford Fusion in his fourth career start and inaugural debut in the “Land of Oz” under the lights Friday night.

To better prepare the Winder, Georgia-based Mark Gibson Racing team towards the 18th race of the season, the team led by veteran car owner and former ARCA winner Mark Gibson participated in the open ARCA test at the 1.5-mile oval on Tuesday, September 20.

The day was to be considered paramount for the MGR organization as the team debuted a Ford Fusion at the racetrack after years of running a Dodge Charger or Chevrolet Impala. During the eight-hour session, Graham and the MGR team spent a majority of the day with the setup on their blue oval hoping to give the Lafayette, Louisiana native a comfortable setup for his first mile-and-a-half track.

Overall, the team was pleased with the end result and has since poured tireless efforts into their No. 59 Batter’s Dream Ford Fusion hoping to give the former hydroplane boat racer turned stock car pilot an opportunity at a gratifying finish.

“I’m looking forward to going back to Kansas this week,” said Graham, who has starts at Pocono (Pa.) Raceway and Iowa Speedway respectively in ARCA this year. “To me, the track is incredibly fast and smooth and should be a blast to race on. I feel like going out and testing will help us tremendously this week. I’m also looking forward to competing with a Ford. RoushYates Engines are stout and I think our chassis is one of the best on the track, I’m anxious to see what we can put together.”

Even though the weather scenarios are expected to be much different this week compared to last month, Graham still has an open-mind with a well-planned goal settling into the next-to-last race of the year.

“We tested during the day and will be ending the race at night, that’s a big difference,” added Graham. “We know that we’re going to have to start the day conservative and adjust on the car as the track changes in correspondence with the weather. I expect the speeds to increase and the action to be more intense. Nonetheless, it will be a good show for the fans for sure.”

With two top-20 finishes including a respectable 15th place finish at Iowa Speedway earlier this summer, Graham knows that his Mark Gibson Racing team is capable of dishing out another top-20 run but he also doesn’t rule out the fact that with strategy and a little luck, a top-10 may not be out of the picture.

“We’ve all seen a lot of interesting things happen in the ARCA Racing Series this year, Pocono was a perfect example of one of them,” offered Graham. “It’s going to be a strong and competitive field. That much is evident. If we can keep the fenders on the car and our focus on the race, we have the ability to be a welcomed surprise when the checkered flag falls. It also would be a good way for us to close the curtain on this season and begin to prepare for next year.”

Looking to increase his schedule in 2012, Graham initiated his thoughts on competing in the ARCA Racing Series. “This series is so cool,” he offered. “Everyone is real nice and willing to help out. The competition is strong and you really have to fight every lap for every spot on the racetrack. I’m looking forward to being a round a little bit more in 2012 and I think with some more testing, confidence and luck; we can raise some eyebrows and be considered a threat when the green flag drops.”

Gibson, a four-time winner in the ARCA Racing Series offered his thoughts on Friday’s event. “I really feel that Kansas is going to go smooth,” he said. “Buster seemed very relaxed and well in-control when the test ended last month. We know what we need to work on in practice and we feel like if we can get a solid starting spot and we can avoid any headaches, Busters should be able to complete all the laps and bring the No. 59 Batter’s Dream Ford Fusion home somewhere in the top-15.”

Following Kansas, the team is hoping to begin to prepare for the much anticipated three-day open ARCA Racing Series test at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway setting the stage for the 2012 season opener in February. Should everything materialize, Graham will make his restrictor plate debut in his fifth career ARCA start.

The Kansas Lottery 98.9 (99 laps / 148.5 miles) is the 18th of 19 events on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The 11th ARCA event held at Kansas Speedway is a one-day show. Practice begins Friday, October 7 with a two hour and 15 minute practice session planned from 9:00 a.m. -11:15 a.m. Menards Pole by Ansell qualifying is slated to begin later in the day at 5:35 p.m. The field will take the green flag approximately two hours later at 7:30 p.m. The event will be televised live on SPEED with additional race coverage including live timing and scoring throughout the 1,330th race for the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards since it was formed in 1953 will be available through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com presented by ARCANation.com. All times are local.

For more on Batter’s Dream, please visit Battersdream.com.

About Batter’s Dream:

Batter’s Dream is an automated ball feeding system (pitching machine) that allows baseball hitters and softball hitters to maximize time in the batting cage by getting more quality cuts without fixing a tee. One of the key benefits of the Batter’s Dream batting machines is that it allows batters the freedom to focus on rhythm, stance, timing and swing speed without the need for a second person. Simply put, Batter’s Dream is the most effective, simple and easy-to-use soft toss system ever invented to help improve a hitter’s mechanics and increase their batting average.

- Mark Gibson Racing Press Release

Brevak Racing

Earlier in the week, the Brevak Racing team announced a new marketing partner for ARCA’s return to Madison International Speedway as the Legendary Waters Resort and Casino leaped aboard the team’s No. 3 Dodge Charger for the 15th race of the season.

Armed with the support and guidance of long-time ARCA veteran Mark Gibson, Brevak and the team knew that the short hour and a half practice session would be crucial in helping dial in the team’s No. 3 Legendary Waters Resort and Casino Dodge Charger.

With the field extremely tight, Brevak posted the 19th fastest lap overall after posting a time of 19.300 seconds at 93.264 miles per hour. Somewhat satisfied with their effort, Brevak, Gibson and other members of the family-owned team connected together and agreed on a setup for qualifying which included a gear change.

When time trials rolled around, Brevak, the son of 1990 ARCA Racing Series champion Bob Brevak maneuvered his No. 3 Legendary Waters Resort and Casino Dodge Charger around the half-mile short track in 18.614 seconds or 96.701 miles per hour, landing them 10th overall in Brevak’s first short track contest of 2011.

Exceptionally pleased with the performance of their Dodge Charger in qualifying, the team set their attention towards the 200-lap race.

Knowing the characteristics of Madison International Speedway, Brevak knew that being around in the end would be pivotal to a good finish. From the moment the green flag dropped, Brevak remained on his toes but mounted consistent and respectable lap times.

With the track being extremely difficult to pass, the ARCA Racing Series teams would have to use different types of strategy to make their way through the field. For Brevak, one of his strategies was to keep his No. 3 Legendary Waters Resort and Casino Dodge Charger on the lead lap and within the sights of the lead pack.

Able to do both and hovering comfortable inside the top-15 during the race’s first quarter, it appeared that Brevak was setting himself up for his second top-10 finish of the season but the team’s night began to go array just after lap 50.

Under green flag conditions, Brevak informed his team of a problem with the brakes, which was later proven to be a malfunction in the brake bias which almost completely eliminated Brevak’s front brakes.

While dealing with hardly any brakes, Brevak impressively maintained his position on the lead lap and utilized a caution flag near the half-way point hoping to make a statement.

Knowing that fresh rubber could be the winning element in the Herr’s Live Life With Flavor! 200, the team stayed out on the race track which lined the No. 3 Legendary Waters Resort and Casino Dodge Charger fifth on the grid.

As the cars began to accelerate on the restart, more gremlins would bite the Ashland, Wisconsin native as a failure in the drivetrain would force Brevak to end his fifth race of the season wondering what could have been.

The team would be credited with completing 92 laps and finishing 25th overall.

Brent Brevak

The recent college graduate added, “I want to thank the Legendary Waters Resort and Casino for jumping aboard with us for ARCA’s return to Madison. I really enjoyed representing them. I hated that we could not give them a better finish, but hopefully we’ll have a chance to make it up to them down the road. For us now, we’ll get ourselves back together and head to Kansas in October and see if we can’t have a nice recovery there.”

In addition to the Legendary Waters Resort and Casino, Club Lamark also served as an associate sponsor on the No. 3 Dodge Charger on Friday night.

Next up for the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards is the second and final installment on the dirt when the sanctioning body makes their annual trip to the DuQuoin State Fairgrounds for the running of the Southern Illinois 100 presented by Federated Auto Parts on Labor Day, Monday, September 5.

Brevak Racing encourages their fans and supporters to check out their official Brevak Racing Group Facebook page where you can find more about the team and the “Ride Along With Brent” fan participation program.

Also, be sure to visit the NEWLY redesigned and re-launched Brent Brevak and Brevak Racing website at brevakracing.com. The team would like to thank TYG Media for their expertise and support of the Brevak Racing team.

About Legendary Waters Resort and Casino:

Legendary Waters is a new “destination resort” in Red Cliff, Wisconsin located just three (3) miles north of Bayfield, Wisconsin in northern Wisconsin. Fans looking for a unique year round vacation experience like no other should visit legendarywaters.com for more information.

This brand new destination resort is not only a casino but a resort like no other. All rooms face beautiful Lake Superior. There is a beautiful golf course with a magnificent view of Lake Superior nearby. Lake view campground sites are available on the complex for a special camping experience.

The area not only promotes boating, sailing, fishing, sea kayaking and trail running in the summer months. Guests can also enjoy the beautiful fall colors and enjoy skiing, snowmobiling or ice fishing on Lake Superior during the winter months. Bar none, Legendary Waters is the total resort & casino package, a destination resort you’re going to want to revisit year after year to take advantage of the beautiful seasons the area offers. Legendary Waters Resort & Casino will host their Grand Opening on September 16 – 19, 2011. Please visit legendarywaters.com for additional details.

- Brevak Racing Press Release

No. 59 Batter’s Dream Dodge Charger

Two months ago, Graham, a former boat racer made his ARCA Racing Series debut at the track known as the “Tricky Triangle” and claimed a respectable top-20 finish. The team had all the intentions of doing improving on that performance in the 13th race of the season.

In the lone practice session on Friday, Graham in the No. 59 Batter’s Dream Dodge Charger circled the 27th quickest lap overall. Somewhat satisfied with the handling of his racecar, Graham conferred with Gibson where the two agreed to make some changes before qualifying that would hopefully improve the team’s lap times.

Time trials took place a couple hours after practice allowing Graham to gather his thoughts. During the down-time, Graham climbed on top of his race hauler and observed the NASCAR action on-track, hoping by seeing the cars on the track; he would learn something that would help him for the remainder of the weekend.

In time trials, Graham hustled his No. 59 Batter’s Dream Dodge Charger around the 2.5-mile oval in 56.027 seconds or 160.637 miles per hour, picking up nearly two seconds from his fastest lap in practice. At the conclusion of qualifications, the MGR team would land 18th overall.

“We made some changes and the car felt extremely good,” said Graham with a smile. “I have to thank Mark (Gibson) and his team for giving a good car here at Pocono.” Leaving the track smiling, it was clear that Graham felt like he had a chance of hitting a homerun on race day.

Just two hours before the Pennsylvania ARCA 125 was set to take the green flag on Saturday, Mother Nature stormed her way into eastern Pennsylvania where she completely drenched the 2.5-mile oval leaving the race in jeopardy for the day. Shortly after 5:00 p.m., officials from ARCA and Pocono (Pa.) Raceway elected to postpone the race until after the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series dash, which was also delayed until Sunday morning.

With a quick turn-around following the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series dash, Graham climbed aboard his Dodge Charger ready for battle.

Taking the green flag shortly after 10:00 a.m., Graham began shifting through the gearbox while also figuring out the best way to pass his competitors. Locked in the 17th position at the conclusion of the first lap, Graham’s day would take a dramatic turn.

As the cars of Kyle Martel and Tom Berte made contact, Graham tried to escape the chaos but would be clipped by Brandon Kidd which sent the No. 59 Batter’s Dream Dodge Charger skidding toward a retaining guardrail on the infield. Just before he would have contacted the wall, Graham’s car struck a paved path and launched over the three-tier rail. The car then spun and came to a rest inside the guardrail after sliding through the grass, with the car’s rear end resting on the top of the barrier. Shortly after coming to a stop, Graham dropped the window net and climbed from his automobile when cheers abruptly were heard from the race fans in the stands. Waiving to them, he climbed into an ambulance for the mandatory ride to the infield care center.

Nearly a half-hour after the incident, the Lafayette, Louisiana native exited the infield care center where he was greeted with members of the media to offer his take on his wild ride.

Buster Graham

“It happened so fast,” he said. “I had no idea that I had gone over the rail until I was told. I know it was an incredible wreck, but its sheer disappointment for Batter’s Dream and Mark Gibson Racing. We really had such a good racecar and I thought we would have been able for a strong finish, but now we’ll never know. I’m just glad that everyone is okay, but I hate that we have a tore up racecar.”

Gibson, a four-time winner in the ARCA Racing Series and car owner said, “first, I am glad that Buster is okay. It was an interesting accident that’s for sure. I thought for a second we were going to be okay and then all heck broke loose. It’s frustrating, but the main thing is Buster is okay. We’ll be back soon.”

In all, five cars were entangled in the mess. Including Berte, Graham and Martel, MGR teammate Brent Brevak also was involved along with the No. 7 of Brandon Kidd.

Next up for the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards is the first of two dirt races of the season. The 14th race of the year steers the teams to Illinois before landing at the Illinois State Fairgrounds (Springfield) for the running of the Allen Crowe 100 set for Sunday, August 21.

For more on Batter’s Dream, please visit Battersdream.com.

About Batter’s Dream:

Batter’s Dream is an automated ball feeding system (pitching machine) that allows baseball hitters and softball hitters to maximize time in the batting cage by getting more quality cuts without fixing a tee. One of the key benefits of the Batter’s Dream batting machines is that it allows batters the freedom to focus on rhythm, stance, timing and swing speed without the need for a second person. Simply put, Batter’s Dream is the most effective, simple and easy-to-use soft toss system ever invented to help improve a hitter’s mechanics and increase their batting average.

- Mark Gibson Racing Press Release

No. 59 Batter’s Dream Dodge Charger

Graham, a former hydroplane boat racer turned stock car pilot is returning to the track known as the “Tricky Triangle” on the heels of a commendable 15th place finish in the brutal heat at Iowa Speedway late last month. Surviving those conditions is a battle in itself but Graham was determined to build on his inaugural debut in the No. 59 Batter’s Dream Dodge Charger for the veteran Mark Gibson Racing (MGR) team.

Nearly two months later after surviving his debut at Pocono (Pa.) Raceway with a solid 20th place finish, Graham returns to a track of familiarity looking to duplicate or better his success from Iowa Speedway.

“I’m having a blast in these ARCA cars,” offered Graham. “This is a huge 180 from boat racing, but I’m loving every second of it. I would lying if I said I wasn’t eager to get back to Pocono. I learned so much in my first race and I’m hoping I can take from what I learn and apply it even more on Saturday.”

In June, Graham and his MGR team had 80 laps under their belt, this weekend though a double-header race with the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS) shortens the distance from 80 laps to just 50 laps. The large decrease means that the MGR team but have their ducks in-a-row when the green flag flies on Saturday afternoon.

Buster Graham

With two top-20 efforts in his record books thus far, Graham wouldn’t mind knocking out a third, but the USARacing Pro Cup Series racer is thriving on the possibility of a top-10 finish.

“You’ve seen over times, that strange things happen in racing,” Graham explained. “Mark (Gibson) does a great job preparing these Dodge Chargers and I know that we’re facing some tough competition but I think that’s a motivating factor for us. We know that we can find ourselves in that same class soon.”

For his third ARCA race, Batter’s Dream returns to the role as the primary marketing role of Graham’s No. 59 entry this weekend.

Batter’s Dream is an automated ball feeding system (pitching machine) that allows baseball hitters and softball hitters to maximize time in the batting cage by getting more quality cuts without fixing a tee. One of the key benefits of the Batter’s Dream batting machines is that it allows batters the freedom to focus on rhythm, stance, and timing and swing speed without the need for a second person. Simply put, Batter’s Dream is the most effective, simple and easy-to-use soft toss system ever invented to help improve a hitter’s mechanics and increase their batting average.

“None of this would be possible without my father-in-law Don (Mashburn),” sounded Graham. “Batter’s Dream is an amazing project and everyone will soon see why I stand behind this product. It’s just not because I have a personal tie to it, it’s because I truly believe in it. Hopefully we can bat ourselves to a good finish; if not a homerun.”

For Gibson, the opportunity to work with Graham again in ARCA is pleasurable. “I’ve been truly impressed with how quick Buster has adapted to these ARCA cars,” he said. “For his lack of experience in these heavier cars, I’ve been blown away with his feedback and his dedication.”

The four-time winner in ARCA competition went onto say, “I think it’s a confidence booster for Buster going back to Pocono this weekend. He’s going to a place he’s already been too and knows how to get around. With the race only being 50 laps, we don’t have time to tittle around; we have to be ready when to fire away when the moment that green flag drops!”

The Pennsylvania ARCA 125 (50 laps / 125 miles) is the 13th of 19 events on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The 53rd ARCA race at Pocono Raceway is a two-day show. Practice begins Friday, August 5 with a one hour and twenty minute practice session planned from 1:40 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Menards Pole by Ansell qualifying is slated to begin later in the day at 5:40 p.m. The field will take the green flag shortly after 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 6. The event will be televised live on SPEED beginning at 3:00 p.m. EST. Live timing and scoring throughout the 1,325th race for the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards since it was formed in 1953 will be available through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com presented by ARCANation.com. All times are local.

For more on Batter’s Dream, please visit Battersdream.com.

About Batter’s Dream:

Batter’s Dream is an automated ball feeding system (pitching machine) that allows baseball hitters and softball hitters to maximize time in the batting cage by getting more quality cuts without fixing a tee. One of the key benefits of the Batter’s Dream batting machines is that it allows batters the freedom to focus on rhythm, stance, timing and swing speed without the need for a second person. Simply put, Batter’s Dream is the most effective, simple and easy-to-use soft toss system ever invented to help improve a hitter’s mechanics and increase their batting average.

- Mark Gibson Racing Press Release

No. 59 Batter’s Dream Dodge Charger

Revving up from a 20th place run in his inaugural ARCA debut at Pocono (Pa.) Raceway last month, Graham climbed back into his No. 59 Batter’s Dream Dodge Charger looking to mount more experience in a stock car while also striving to improve on his Pocono run.

The first of two practice sessions on Friday afternoon offered a chance for the former hydroplane boat racer to become accustomed to the .875-mile paved oval.

At the conclusion of practice, Graham racked up the 25th fastest time. Consulting with Gibson, Graham informed his team that he could not get his No. 59 Batter’s Dream Dodge Charger to turn coming out of the turn like he wanted. With changes made to their Chrysler nameplate heading into happy hour, the final practice session of the week, Graham was optimistic.

Picking up nearly three tenths of a second from the first session, Graham was pleased with the direction his MGR team was heading. “We really made some gains in practice,” the USARacing Pro Cup Series rookie said. “Mark and the team worked hard to get the car to my liking. We had to thrash on it pretty hard but the last run in the final practice, the car was the best it had been the entire weekend.”

Moving forward, the Winder, Georgia-based team turned their attention to qualifying. During time trials, Graham maneuvered his automobile around the Newton, Iowa facility in 24.864 seconds at 126.68 miles per hour, once again gaining momentum and speed as he claimed the 25th starting position.

With a heat index topping out at 125 degrees, the stars and cars of the ARCA Racing Series took the green flag shortly after 4:00 p.m. Graham’s attempt to gain position on the track would be stalled when the No. 63 of Milka Duno spun in turn three. Holding steady inside the top-25, Graham would find himself in the 23rd position when racing resumed on lap six.

Through the race’s first long-green flag run, Graham continued to inch forward in rundown with cheerleading and coaching from his crew chief and car owner Gibson. When the caution flag flew on lap 49, Graham has muscled his way into the 20th position giving an ample opportunity for the team to bring their driver to pit road where tires, fuel and a chassis adjustment were in order for Graham.

Restarting the race in the 20th position, Graham would continue to hover comfortably inside the top-20 leaning into the halfway mark. Through lap 100, Graham began to make his trek forward. With a comfortable feeling for his No. 59 Batter’s Dream Dodge Charger, Graham despite unbearable conditions inside the race car continued to turn respectable lap times.

Throughout the final 100 laps of the 11th race of the season, Graham would use patience and determination to climb through the field and hover comfortably in the top-15 with the final laps approaching.

On his own lap cycle, Graham soldiered on to take the checkered flag in the 15th position, improving five places from his season debut at the 2.5-mile triangle of Pocono (Pa.) Raceway.

Buster Graham

He added, “I want to thank Mark Gibson, the guys on the Mark Gibson Racing team for giving me the opportunity to race at Iowa. Of course, none of this would have been possible without my father-in-law Don (Mashburn) and the folks at Batter’s Dream. We’re taking this finish in stride and we’ll see if we can’t drum up a top-10 at Pocono in a few weeks.”

Gibson, a four-time winner in the ARCA Racing Series offered his thoughts on Graham’s debut at Iowa Speedway. “I tell you what, I was impressed. Every lap, Buster seemed to get better and better. He learns a lot racing with others on the track and that’s what you need to do here in the ARCA Racing Series. He also keeps the car clean and out of trouble and that’s a huge benefit to his learning curve. I couldn’t be happier with the way our weekend turned out.”

Next up for the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards is a welcomed trip back to Lucas Oil Raceway at Indianapolis, formally known as O’Reilly Raceway Park (ORP) for the running of the Ansell Protective Gloves 200 set for Thursday, July 28th. The iconic short track event will be aired live on SPEED beginning at 7:00 p.m. Eastern.

Graham and Mark Gibson Racing will resume competition in the ARCA Racing Series when the series returns to the “tricky triangle” of Pocono (Pa.) Raceway for the running of the Pennsylvania 125 set for Saturday, August 6.

For more on Batter’s Dream, please visit Battersdream.com.

About Batter’s Dream:

Batter’s Dream is an automated ball feeding system (pitching machine) that allows baseball hitters and softball hitters to maximize time in the batting cage by getting more quality cuts without fixing a tee. One of the key benefits of the Batter’s Dream batting machines is that it allows batters the freedom to focus on rhythm, stance, timing and swing speed without the need for a second person. Simply put, Batter’s Dream is the most effective, simple and easy-to-use soft toss system ever invented to help improve a hitter’s mechanics and increase their batting average.

- Mark Gibson Racing Press Release

Buster Graham

Recording a solid 20th place finish at the tricky triangle of Pocono, Graham returns to short track racing, something he’s experienced first-hand in the USARacing Pro Cup Series for the 11th installment of the 2011 ARCA Racing Series season.

With an understanding and adaption to how an ARCA car handles and maneuvers, Graham has raised his expectation levels just a notch for his first tango with the .075-mile paved oval.

“I’m looking forward to returning to the ARCA Racing Series this weekend, especially with Mark Gibson Racing,” said Graham. “I had a blast at Pocono and everyone in the ARCA garage was so welcoming, it was almost overwhelming. We did what we needed to do and that was to finish the race. Now that I have some laps under my belt, I think it would be fair to raise the bar for myself just a tad and collect a top-20 finish on Saturday.”

Not knowing what to expect from the impressive Iowa Speedway, Graham will lean on his car owner and crew chief Mark Gibson – who is often considered one of the most respected individuals in the garage.

“I don’t have a better person on my side rather than Mark Gibson,” offered Graham, a native of Lafayette, Louisiana. “Thankfully, Mark has been to Iowa before, so he’ll have a setup that we can start with and then adjust as needed. I’m still learning these ARCA cars, they are a lot different than anything I’ve ever raced before, but I’m having a blast with them. Getting comfortable with the track is my main objective leading up to the race, because once I’m familiar with the track – then I’m hoping I can keep up with the pace of some of the regulars.”

For his second ARCA race, Batter’s Dream returns to the role as the primary marketing role of Graham’s No. 59 entry this weekend.

Batter’s Dream is an automated ball feeding system (pitching machine) that allows baseball hitters and softball hitters to maximize time in the batting cage by getting more quality cuts without fixing a tee. One of the key benefits of the Batter’s Dream batting machines is that it allows batters the freedom to focus on rhythm, stance, and timing and swing speed without the need for a second person. Simply put, Batter’s Dream is the most effective, simple and easy-to-use soft toss system ever invented to help improve a hitter’s mechanics and increase their batting average.

“None of this would be possible without my father-in-law Don (Mashburn),” sounded Graham. “Batter’s Dream is an amazing project and everyone will soon see why I stand behind this product. It’s just not because I have a personal tie to it, it’s because I truly believe in it. Hopefully we can bat our way to a good finish.”

For Gibson, the opportunity to work with Graham again in ARCA is one that he is welcoming with open arms. “I tell you that Buster really impressed me at Pocono,” he said. “For his first time ever in an ARCA car, especially at that track he really did a great job. I’m not necessarily surprised though because Buster has amazed me a lot this year with his lack of experience and all. We’ve set our own personal goals for this weekend at Iowa and there’s no reason in my mind that we shouldn’t be able to accomplish those hands down.”

The four-time winner in ARCA competition went onto say, “Iowa Speedway is such a great place to race. It resembles Richmond (Va.) International Raceway in a lot of ways – but the track has produced some great racing in the ARCA Racing Series and I don’t expect anything less on Saturday afternoon. As for Buster, his biggest challenge may be adjusting to the heavier car on a smaller track, but I’m sure with some guidance and self-confidence, we’re going to be just fine.”

The Prairie Meadows 200 (200 laps / 175 miles) is the 11th of 19 events on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The sixth ever ARCA race at Iowa Speedway is a two-day show. Practice begins Friday, July 15th with an hour and twenty minute practice session planned from 3:00 p.m. – 4:20 p.m. A final fifty minute session has been etched in from 5:30 p.m. – 6:20 p.m. Menards Pole by Ansell qualifying is slated for race day, Saturday July 16th set to begin at 12:10 p.m. The event will take the green flag shortly after 4:15 p.m. The event will air live on SPEED. Additional event coverage including live timing and scoring throughout the 1,323rd race for the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards since it was formed in 1953 will be available through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com presented by ARCANation.com. All times are local.

For more on Batter’s Dream, please visit Battersdream.com.

About Batter’s Dream:

Batter’s Dream is an automated ball feeding system (pitching machine) that allows baseball hitters and softball hitters to maximize time in the batting cage by getting more quality cuts without fixing a tee. One of the key benefits of the Batter’s Dream batting machines is that it allows batters the freedom to focus on rhythm, stance, timing and swing speed without the need for a second person. Simply put, Batter’s Dream is the most effective, simple and easy-to-use soft toss system ever invented to help improve a hitter’s mechanics and increase their batting average.

- Mark Gibson Racing Press Release

Buster Graham

“It’s completely night and day between boat racing and stock car racing but, I’m having a blast,” said Graham, a native of Lafayette, Louisiana. “Mark (Gibson) has mentally prepared me for Pocono this weekend. I hear its one heck of a track. I’m ready though. I’m going in with an open mind and eager to learn and produce a good finish.”

To prepare for his transition to ARCA, Gibson and Graham have been competing in the ever potent USARacing Pro Cup Series where the duo has competed in three events thus far in 2011. Despite his limited experience behind the wheel of a stock car, Graham has impressed producing three top-15 runs including a top-10 run at Dillon (S.C.) Motor Speedway in his first ever stock car contest.

“Mark forewarned me that the USAR Series is very competitive and boy was he ever right,” the former Supercross competitor explained. “I cannot tell you though the input and experience I’ve learned in just a short amount of time. I wouldn’t be coming to Pocono this weekend if Mark (Gibson) didn’t think I was ready.”

Batter’s Dream will adorn the primary marketing role of Graham’s No. 59 entry in the seventh race of the 2011 ARCA season.

Batter’s Dream is an automated ball feeding system (pitching machine) that allows baseball hitters and softball hitters to maximize time in the batting cage by getting more quality cuts without fixing a tee. One of the key benefits of the Batter’s Dream batting machines is that it allows batters the freedom to focus on rhythm, stance, timing and swing speed without the need for a second person. Simply put, Batter’s Dream is the most effective, simple and easy-to-use soft toss system ever invented to help improve a hitter’s mechanics and increase their batting average.

“I’m thankful to my father in-law Don Mashburn and everyone at Batter’s Dream for jumping aboard for my ARCA debut this weekend. It truly is an amazing product. We’re going to actually bring it to the track and have some fun with it. Hopefully we can bat our way to a good finish.”

When asked of his goal for Saturday afternoon, Graham remained heavily optimistic.

“I would be satisfied with a top-20, but be thrilled with a top-15. Mark has the experience at Pocono, so I think it will be good to tell him what I’m feeling and he can help me translate it in the car. Overall, it will be a good weekend if we make gains start to finish and take the checkered flag.”

Gibson, a four time winner in ARCA is looking forward to returning “home” and showing Graham the ropes.

“The ARCA Racing Series has been so good to me and my career over the last couple of decades. It’s nice to be coming back at Pocono. Buster obviously has a lot to learn, but he accepts that and is eager to please. As long as he stays focused and confident in himself, we’ll be fine this weekend.”

The Pocono ARCA 200 (80 laps / 200 miles) is the seventh of 19 events on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The 52nd ARCA race at Pocono Raceway is a two-day show. Practice begins Friday, June 10 with a one hour and fifty minute practice session planned from 10:00 a.m. – 11:50 a.m. Menards Pole by Ansell qualifying is slated to begin later in the day at 2:05 p.m. The field will take the green flag shortly after 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 11. The event will be televised same-day delayed on SPEED beginning at 8:00 p.m. EST. Live timing and scoring throughout the 1,319th race for the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards since it was formed in 1953 will be available through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com presented by ARCANation.com. All times are local.

For more on Batter’s Dream, please visit Battersdream.com.

- Mark Gibson Racing Press Release

Brent Brevak

After running the first two races of the season at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway and Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway which yielded frustrating results, the Brevak Racing team headed to Chicagoland Speedway with the simple goal of finishing the race.

The first intermediate track of the weekend was a welcomed one for Ashland, Wisconsin native Brevak. The cookie-cutter mile and a half tracks are a favorite of his despite limited experience on its sister tracks.

In the lone practice on Friday, Brevak in the No. 3 Red’s Auto / Brevak Racing Dodge Charger with the guidance of crew chief Mark Gibson negotiated the 19th fastest lap overall with a time of 32.557 seconds at 165.863 miles per hour.

After consulting with Gibson, a veteran in the ARCA garage, the decision was made to free up the car even more as the 23-year old mentally prepared himself for Menards Pole by Ansell qualifying Saturday afternoon. It proved to be a bit too free as the No. 3 Red’s Auto / Brevak Racing Dodge Charger was coming to take the green flag in time trials, the car broke loose and Brevak took a ride through the grass. Luckily, he did not hit anything and ultimately decided to bring his automobile down pit road and officially abort his initial qualifying run.

Being put on the five-minute clock, Gibson and the No. 3 crew checked the tires over carefully to be sure they were not flat spotted and sent his driver back into the grind. Brevak completed two laps around the 1.5-mile speed plant with a best time of 32.716 seconds or 165.057 miles per hour landing the family-owned team 19th on the starting grid. Following the run, ARCA found the right front to have a slight chunk of rubber out so having to replace it for safety issues he would be forced to start at the rear of the field.

An hour before the green flag was to wave; Mother Nature invaded Chicagoland Speedway and completely drenched the facility, ultimately forcing officials from ARCA and Chicagoland Speedway to postpone the start of the event until the conclusion of the NASCAR Nationwide Series’ STP 300.

Several hours later and nearly 20 degrees cooler, the ARCA Racing Series would be given the command to start the engines.

After being delegated to the rear for the changed tire, Brevak managed to regain all those positions on the first lap. By the time the caution flag waved on lap two, he was back to the 20th position just trying to find his comfort zone.

On the restart, Brevak carefully began threading the needle and had moved into the 17th position when the second caution flag of the night waved on lap 17.

Racing resumed a few laps later with the No. 3 Red’s Auto / Brevak Racing Dodge Charger on the move climbing into the top-15 by lap 28.

The caution flag waived just nine laps later for an incident in turn four with Brevak hoisting the 14th position. When pit lane opened up two laps later, Brevak relinquished his now 13th place spot on the track to refuel but save his only set of tires in the pits for later in the race.

Restarting the race in the 13th spot, Brevak would hope to utilize the second half of the Messina Wildlife Animal Stopper 150 to inch his way through the running order.

By lap 55, Brevak in a neutral-balanced Dodge Charger hovered comfortably in the top-15 after what would be his final stop for fuel and tires. Lap 70 showed Brevak in the 12th position aiming towards the top-10.

15 laps from the conclusion of the event, leader Chad Hackenbracht blew a tire bringing out the caution flag. A few laps before the leader’s misfortune his torrid pace had put much of the field a lap down including Brevak Racing’s Brent.

When Hackenbracht endured his issues, Brevak was able to beat the second place competitor back to the line and return to the lead lap.

With much of the field electing to come to pit road, Gibson decided to keep his driver out on the track which shot the No. 3 to fifth on the scoring pylon. A hungry group of competitors behind Brevak would fight tooth and nail with the No. 3 Red’s Auto / Brevak Racing Dodge Charger.

Cars on fresher tires would slide Brevak to the 11th position on lap 92 but when the No. 96 and No. 97 machines made contact on the backstretch, the yellow flag waved again moving Brevak back into the top-10 in ninth.

Coming to a green-white-checkered finish, Brevak was able to fend off 10th place competitor Maryeve Dufault to finish ninth, completing all 100 laps.

“We worked hard for this one,” explained Brevak, who made just his seventh career ARCA start Saturday night. “We’re a low budget team trying to race with some of the more funded teams in the series and we proved we were able to do that tonight. Our motor was definitely under power compared to the stout engines at RCR and Roush. Where most teams had 2 sets of fresh tires in the pits, all we had to work with were our 25 lap practice tires so our strategy had to be a little different. I knew the cars with the fresher tires would be coming hard so I told my spotter to let them know I wouldn’t do anything crazy to try to hold them off and jeopardize a good run, but they would also have to work for it and pass me clean on the outside when they could. We didn’t quite have enough for a top-five but to hang on for a top-10 overall, I couldn’t ask for anything more.”

Brevak continued, “Mark (Gibson, crew chief) is really great to work with. He is a smart guy who can definitely keep you calm behind the wheel. With his guidance and the hard work of our team, we were able to put together a finish that we’re all proud of. I’m hoping that we can build on this to go to Michigan in a couple weeks if we can find some support.”

Before posting his ninth place finish on Saturday, Brevak wheeled a previous best effort of 26th in April at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway.

The team would like to thank Johnny Davis and his JD Motorsports NASCAR Nationwide Series team who pitted the No. 3 Red’s Auto / Brevak Racing Dodge Charger in the Messina Wildlife Animal Stopper 150.

Brevak Racing encourages their fans and supporters to check out their official Brevak Racing Group Facebook page where you can find more about the team and the “Ride Along With Brent” fan participation program.

Sponsorship dollars will ultimately determine Brevak’s remaining ARCA Racing Series schedule but the team is hopeful to continue the season at Michigan International Speedway on Friday June 17.

For more on Brevak Racing, please visit brevakracing.com.

For additional input on Red’s Auto, please log on to redsautosales.com.

- Brevak Racing Press Release

Brent Brevak

After tackling the two superspeedway events on the schedule at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway and Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway respectively, the Brevak Racing team took a breather to reorganize their organization as Brevak prepares to make his Windy City debut this weekend.

“I’m anxious for this weekend,” said Brevak, who graduated last Saturday from UW-EauClaire with a degree in Broadcast Journalism. “I’ve had some experience on these mile and a half tracks and actually have found them to be a favorite, but this will be my first start at Chicagoland Speedway this weekend. I’m optimistic that we can have a good run in our No. 3 Red’s Auto / Brevak Racing Dodge Charger.”

To better assist the 23-year old with the Joliet, Illinois race track, Brevak has turned to the ever popular iRacing; where he has mounted an enormous amount of laps practicing and participating in simulated races. Additionally, Brevak is hoping that his prior experience at Michigan International Speedway and Rockingham (N.C.) Speedway will pay dividends.

“Believe it or not, iRacing is very helpful,” Brevak explained. “A lot of the same fundamentals that apply at the track execute in the game. I’ve learned a lot about the line.”

After finishing 38th and 26th respectively in the first two events of the year, Brevak is oriented on obtaining a solid run that could potentially allow the family owned team to increase their limited ARCA schedule.

“We’re still digging hard to find some sponsorship,” sounded the son of 1990 ARCA Racing Series championship driver Bob Brevak and owner Shelly Brevak. “It’s still real tough out there but we have a lot of local support who continue to believe in me and this race team and that’s what is propelling us to Chicagoland this weekend.”

Undoubtedly winning the ARCA championship 21 years ago means that the team has reputable help at the race track, including the support of veteran ARCA car owner and winner Mark Gibson for the sixth race of the season.

“You cannot say enough about Mark Gibson,” Brevak mentioned. “He is just a great guy with an enormous amount of experience and dedication. He was definitely an asset to our program at Talladega and I know he will be even more helpful this weekend at Chicagoland. I am also looking forward to building a solid relationship with Mark as my crew chief as well.”

Brevak Racing encourages their fans and supporters to check out their official Brevak Racing Group Facebook page where you can find more about the team and the “Ride Along With Brent” fan participation program.

Sponsorship dollars will determine Brevak’s remaining ARCA Racing Series schedule but the team is hopeful to continue the season at Michigan International Speedway on Friday June 17.

For more on Brevak Racing, please visit brevakracing.com.

For additional input on Red’s Auto, please log on to redsautosales.com.

The Messina Animal Wildlife Stopper 150 (100 laps / 150 miles) is the sixth of 19 events on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The 11th ARCA event held at Chicagoland Speedway is a two-day show. Practice begins Friday, June 3 with a one hour and twenty minute practice session planned from 2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Menards Pole by Ansell qualifying is slated to begin at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 4. The field will take the green flag shortly after 5:00 p.m. The event will be televised same-day delayed on SPEED beginning at 10:00 p.m. CST / 11:00 p.m. EST. Live timing and scoring throughout the 1,318 race for the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards since it was formed in 1953 will be available through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com presented by ARCANation.com. All times are local.

- Brevak Racing Press Release

Cunningham Motorsports

The organization is the official driver development partner for Penske Racing, where drivers are developed in order to gain experience and knowledge to continue their careers within the Penske Racing stables. As one of the most respected teams in the racing community, Cunningham Motorsports is dedicated to delivering performance in all aspects of the motorsports platform. In the past five years of full-time competition, Cunningham Motorsports has driven to four poles, 15 wins and a best driver and ownership championship position of second, with Parker Kligerman/Mark Gibson in 2009.

With current leadership from veteran NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship crew chief Paul Andrews, the organization is a proven contender in the ARCA Racing Series championship battle. In the last two seasons, Cunningham Motorsports’ drivers were in contention for the championship through the final race of the year. In addition, the team has completed the most laps in both 2010 and 2009, leading the most laps in 2010, while placing second in that category in 2009.

On any given weekend, as many as 6 or 7 previous Cunningham Motorsports drivers are racing in the top three NASCAR Series races.

At the 2010 ARCA Racing Series Championship Awards banquet, co-owner Kerry Scherer was awarded the Spirit Award, for his dedication and support of ARCA, his uplifting spirit by way of example, and his perseverance and positive attitude.

Contact Cunningham Motorsports at 704.658.1171

- Cunningham Motorsports Press Release

Andy Belmont Racing (ABR)

“My expectations are very high,” said Ferrier. “I have a very competitive race car with Roush/Yates power. It has had a lot of really good aero work done to it by AJ Johnson. He built a brand new body for us, specifically for Daytona, so my expectations are high. My goal is to come out of Daytona with a top-10 finish.”

Ferrier, a Middletown, N.Y. native, may only have three previous ARCA Racing Series starts (Daytona, Talladega, Pocono), but he has over 25 years of experience behind the wheel of a racecar. The dirt-track driver got his start as a motocross racer in 1985 and hasn’t looked back since. Racing modifieds in the northeast, his connection with team owner Andy Belmont runs much deeper than a driver/owner connection.

“Both Andy and I are from up around this area (N.Y.),” explained Ferrier. “He has a lot of dirt modified experience as well as I do, and we know a lot of the same people from racing up here in the Northeast. Andy did race modifieds up here as well. We never competed against each other, when he was racing up here I was still racing motocross, but that is how I ended up getting his name and getting tied in with him. I know Andy has a top-notch team and organization so I’m really looking forward to getting down to Daytona.”

One would think Daytona’s 2.5-mile oval would be a huge challenge for a driver used to slinging dirt on the short tracks, but Ferrier proved otherwise in his first and only Daytona start in 2009. Ferrier competed in the top-10 for much of the race, and was looking to stage a late climb to the top-five when an oil pump failed with only nine laps to go. Ferrier ultimately finished 17th, but that run only fueled his fire for a top finish this year at one of the most prolific tracks in all of motorsports.

“Daytona is the Superbowl of stock car racing, it always is,” said the N.Y. native. “If you ask any driver if they can start anywhere it would definitely be Daytona, there is no question about it. Speedweeks at Daytona is a huge event worldwide, so for me to take part in that, it really means something.”

When the checkered flag falls on Saturday’s ARCA Racing Series season-opener, Ferrier’s biggest goal is to see an ABR car cross the finish line first.

“My commitment to Andy Belmont Racing is to have an ABR car finish first. If I can help Chad (McCumbee) get there I absolutely will, and I’m sure he feels the same way. Ultimately the goal is to put ABR in the winner’s circle.”

John Ferrier and the No. 14 CGS Imaging Ford Fast Facts:

Ferrier at Daytona: Ferrier made one previous start at Daytona International Speedway in 2009 driving for Randy Baker. After a late change was made to his car after qualifying, Ferrier was forced to start from the 39th position. Ferrier raced his way into the top-10, where he remained until an oil line broke forcing him to retire from the race 11 laps shy of the finish. Ferrier came home with a 17th-place finish in his first ARCA Racing Series start.

Did You Know?: Ferrier will have a strong Stewart / Haas racing connection in Daytona. Crew Chief Mark Gibson is the brother of Tony Gibson who is Ryan Newman’s Crew Chief. Ferrier will also have Tony Stewart’s NASCAR Sprint Cup Series spotter Bob Jeffery calling the shots from high above Daytona International Speedway.

This Week’s Ford: John Ferrier will be piloting chassis No. RK271/704 at Daytona International Speedway. This is a former Roush Racing car that was originally driven by Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and was used as a backup car for ABR in 2010.

Autographs: Fans will have the chance to meet John Ferrier and all of their favorite ARCA Racing Series drivers on Saturday, February 12 from 12:30 – 2:00 p.m. EST during an all-access open garage.

Ferrier on racing with teammate Chad McCumbee:

“Having Chad McCumbee as a teammate at Daytona is really exciting and will definitely be an advantage. I mean Chad is a NASCAR Driver, he had Sprint Cup starts, and that is a positive thing that is going to help me a ton. I have a good idea that when we get down to Daytona Andy (Belmont) will really set us down as a team and have us come up with a strategy, because the way the pavement is down there it’s not going to be a surprise if you get shuffled all the way around the track. There is nobody I would rather work with in the draft than a guy like Chad who has a lot of experience.”

Ferrier on racing on Daytona’s new pavement:

“I tested on the new pavement during the ARCA test in January, and I loved it. It is very similar to Talladega. There’s just a bump between turns three and four, and I honestly wouldn’t even call it a bump. I would call it more of an imperfection in the pavement. I love it. I think it’s great. The old pavement could definitely be a handful when you were running in a pack of cars. This should definitely tighten things up, it will be pretty exciting.”

About Andy Belmont Racing:

Andy Belmont Racing (andybelmont.com) currently fields race cars in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards. ABR race cars have been winning races and championships for nearly 35 years. Currently, the team fields a full-time ARCA Racing series for two-time ARCA winner and NASCAR standout Chad McCumbee in the No. 1 ModSpace Ford Fusion, John Ferrier in the CGS Imaging Ford and Darrell Basham in the Industrial Depot 34 Ford Fusion.

Dakoda Armstrong

Since that low point in his season, Armstrong’s season improved. In the 5th event of the season, and only his 12th career race, Armstrong put his Dodge on the pole and took the victory at the 2.66 mile Talladega Superspeedway, just two months shy of his high school graduation from Shenandoah High School . After celebrating in victory lane with his crew, the New Castle, Indiana, native said, “This is a dream come true. Every young racer dreams of winning at a place with this much history. And my dreams have come true. I don’t think I really believe it yet.”

Six races later, at Pocono Raceway, Dakoda could sense another opportunity to visit victory lane, but fell short of the checkered flag by 2.844 seconds, finishing 2nd. After disappointing finishes of 10th at New Jersey Motorsports Park, 9th at Illinois State Fairgrounds, 11th at Chicagoland Speedway and DuQuoin State Fairgrounds and 9th at Toledo Speedway, Dakoda found victory lane again at Salem Speedway in September. Armstrong led the final 88 laps of the 200 lap event at Salem, to take over the race record of average speed for the race at 87.630 mph. The second victory of the young rookie’s career came with just two races remaining in the season, at Kansas Speedway and Rockingham Speedway. After the win an exhausted Armstrong said, “We needed the win. We had that good win at Talladega, but had a little bad spree here and we were looking for some good luck. We needed to boost our morale a little bit. I just didn’t want to give up the lead that my pit crew had given me. It seems like each time that my crew gives me an awesome stop, we win the race.” Maybe there is something to that…

Armstrong finished 11th in the final two races in 2010, at Kansas Speedway and Rockingham Speedway. In spite of the disappointing way the season ended, Dakoda had a stellar rookie season. Armstrong stated, “We have had some pretty good races this season, with some bad luck sprinkled in there, too. I have learned a lot this year –from getting used to the stock car, adjusting to the different race tracks and trying to give more valuable feed back to my crew chief (Paul Andrews). We had a pretty decent rookie season. But, it could have always been a little better.”

As proof of how good his rookie year was, Armstrong will walk off the stage at the ARCA banquet, in December, with the rookie of the year trophy. Dakoda joins an impressive fraternity of notable ARCA rookie of the year award winners, including Benny Parsons, Davey Allison, Bill Venturini, Mark Gibson, nine-time champion Frank Kimmel and former Cunningham Motorsports teammate, Parker Kligerman. The ARCA Racing Series presented by RE/MAX and Menards will honor their champion and all other award winners Saturday, December 4 at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center (NKCC) in Covington, Kentucky just south of Cincinnati, Ohio.

- Cunningham Motorsports Press Release

Dakoda Armstrong

Armstrong picked up speed during his qualifying run, with a 31.887, to start on the outside of row 4, in 8th. As the green flag flew, Armstrong picked up one spot. The caution was brought out on lap2 for a spin. When crew chief Paul Andrews asked Armstrong about his car, Armstrong commented, “The car is a little free, in both corners.” As the field restarted racing on lap 5, Armstrong fell back to 11th. During this extended green flag run, of 40 laps, Dakoda told Andrews that “the car is really loose getting off (the corners).

Dakoda Armstrong

The final yellow flag flew on lap 86. During this caution, Armstrong told Andrews, “The car is not rotating in the center, at all. It did turn better at the start of the run than it is now.” Armstrong brought the Ferrellgas Dodge to pit road for 4 tires, fuel and to add a rubber to the right rear spring. The pit crew had problems getting the rubber into the spring and had to send Armstrong back on track, in order not to lose a lap. After making a couple more trips to pit road, Armstrong was ready to make his final attack on the field. After restarting in 12th, Armstrong picked up the 11th spot, with 6 laps remaining in the race.

After the race Armstrong commented, “We just couldn’t quite get the car right. We had moments when it felt pretty good. But, on the long runs we got too tight in the middle of the corners. Our car was just not the same as it was in the test here 9 days ago. We are looking forward to the season finale in Rockingham, where we started 6th and finished 8th last year, after leading the first laps of my ARCA career.”

The eleventh place finish dropped Armstrong to 7th in championship points, 55 points behind 4th place. Armstrong remains solidly in the lead of the RE/MAX Rookie of the Year award, which is a coveted award that is presented at the ARCA Racing Series banquet in December. Previous winners of this award include former Cunningham Motorsports teammate, Parker Kligerman, Frank Kimmel, Mark Gibson, Davey Allison, Bill Venturini, Benny Parsons, and Charlie Glotzbach. Some pretty fine company for the 19 year old.

Next up for the Cunningham Motorsports team is the 2010 ARCA Racing Series season finale at Rockingham Speedway, which is scheduled for Saturday, October 9. The American 200 presented by Black’s Tire & Auto Service weekend begins with an open test session on Thursday, October 7.

Practice for the 200 lap event is scheduled for Friday beginning at 11:30am EST. Qualifying will take place at 2:30, with the main event taking place Saturday at 1:30pm EST. The race will be covered live on SPEED. Live audio coverage and live timing and scoring of all track events will be available via the ARCA Racing Network at ARCARacing.com. Dakoda will attend an autograph session Thursday from 6-8 pm at the Thunderfest Street Party in downtown Rockingham.

Follow Cunningham Motorsports on their official twitter page:@cunningham_race

- Cunningham Motorsports Press Release

No. 59 Operation Free / Race to Energy Independence Dodge Charger

Münter was sitting 21st on the practice board when with 5 minutes left in the practice the team went out for a mock qualifying run and the car got loose coming out of turn 1 and backed into the wall. “We had been loosening the car up all practice” Münter said “then we taped up the nose and put stickers on to take a mock qualifying run to see how it would
handle, the car felt great through 3 and 4 as I was getting up to speed but as I went through turn 1 it got loose and backed into the fence. Finding the edge is part of the game, and I certainly found it yesterday. It’s obviously not what I wanted for my first ARCA race back since Daytona, but in racing we all have our bad days and today it was my turn.”

The MGR crew worked to get the back-up car ready and the team used the qualifying run to shake down the car since Leilani hadn’t had any laps in it. The car was way too loose and Münter spun coming out of turn four but did a great job keeping the car off the wall and went through the grass.

The team made changes to tighten up the car after qualifying. Starting at the back, Leilani took a cautious approach, hanging back and feeling the car out when 5 laps in tragedy struck again with the engine overheating.

Leilani Münter

“Some of the drivers in the garage were kind enough to tell me stories of similar moments in their racing career to cheer me up,” said Leilani, “and even though I know that all race drivers have stories of going into a corner and never coming out the other side – it still doesn’t make it any easier when it happens to you. I just have look forward and focus on
putting something together for next year now that we’ve got all our bad luck out of the way.”

“With our partnership with Leilani, we set out to reach an entirely new audience with our message that America needs to take control of its energy future with clean, American power,” said Jonathan Murray, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Operation Free Campaign Director. “Leilani has been a great partner in delivering the message that our dependence on oil is a threat to our national security. By making small but significant changes like raising fuel efficiency standards to 60 mpg by 2025, we will become far less dependent on oil and therefore less vulnerable to the whims of our enemies. And someday, we can look forward to race cars doing 200 miles per hour at 40, 50, even 60 miles per gallon. The “Race to Energy Independence” effort drives that point home.”

Leilani will be along side top retired military leaders and veterans at the Operation Free tent located in the fan area right outside Kansas Speedway Saturday and Sunday to meet with race fans, sign autographs and spread the message about the importance of energy independence and the threats posed to our nation by our current energy policy.

- Mark Gibson Racing Press Release