Casey Mears to run in Busch Series race at Lowe's Motor Speedway

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (May 21, 2003) --- Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates announced today that driver Casey Mears will compete in the CARQUEST Auto Parts 300 NASCAR Busch Series race at Lowe's Motor Speedway on May 24, 2003.  In a partnership with Braun Racing, Mears will pilot the No. 19 Microsoft Dodge for this one event.  

"We are pleased to partner with Braun Racing and Microsoft to put Casey in a Busch car this weekend at Lowe's Motor Speedway," said Chip Ganassi, team owner.  "The only way for Casey to grow is to get him as much seat time as we can.  We're looking for some solid finishes from him in all three races this weekend."  Ganassi added, "Microsoft has been a great partner for all of our teams.  They're not just on the car; they are helping us develop innovative solutions both on and off the racetrack."

"All of the team members at Braun Racing are excited to have the opportunity to work with Casey and the Chip Ganassi race team in Charlotte," said Braun Racing team owner Todd Braun.  "Casey is a very talented driver, and I'm positive that we will gain a wealth of knowledge from this experience."

Casey Mears, driver of the No. 41 Target Dodge, is a NASCAR Winston Cup Series rookie of the year candidate.  Last year, Mears was a rookie in the NASCAR Busch Series, finishing the season 21st in points with one top-5 and two top-10 finishes.

"I'm looking forward to a busy weekend at Charlotte," Mears said.  "Chip has given me the opportunity to run in three races this weekend and gain a lot of seat time at Lowe's Motor Speedway.  I'm very appreciative for the opportunity to learn and get better and we're going to be working for some good solid finishes in all three cars."

Patrick Donahue will serve as crew chief on Mears' Microsoft Dodge.  Braun Racing will also enter Steadman Marlin in the No. 30 Keystone Light Dodge in the CARQUEST Auto Parts 300.