Nationwide Series - Crafton: Expert Driver and Now Coach

Indianapolis, July 28, 2011: With two victories and more than 250 starts in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, ThorSport Racing’s Matt Crafton has earned a reputation for being one of the most consistent drivers on the circuit. That experienced background makes Crafton the perfect choice as the driver coach for Travis Pastrana in his first NASCAR season.

This weekend at Lucas Oil Raceway, Pastrana, the action sports superstar, will make his much-anticipated NASCAR Nationwide Series debut. All the while, Crafton has served as Pastrana’s tutor, dating back to January and the beginning of his NASCAR initiation with K&N Pro Series events. Crafton has been at Pastrana’s side during each test and each race patiently coaching him throughout.

In his “full-time” job, Crafton is currently sixth in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series standings and earned his second career victory earlier this month at Iowa Speedway. Crafton, driver of the No. 88 Menards Chevrolet, started his NASCAR national series career in 2008 and has consistently placed well in the standings. He ranks fourth in career starts among active series drivers and has 135 top-10 finishes. His first win came at Charlotte in 2008.

Crafton – who will compete in Friday night’s AAA Insurance 200 – will be on site for Pastrana’s NASCAR Nationwide debut this weekend at LOR.