Road Racing Ace Lally Steers Towards Stock Cars

CONCORD, North Carolina (November 8, 2006) - - When Andy Lally straps himself in the No. 1 Ford Taurus this Thursday at Lowe’s Motor Speedway, he’ll take one of the biggest leaps in his young and talented racing career by making his transition into stock car racing.

Lally has teamed up with veteran racecar driver Andy Belmont who will guide the three-time and 2006 Rolex Grand Am Champion towards a smooth and successful transition to oval racing. Belmont is no stranger being a mentor as he has filled the role in the past for drivers like Pierre Bourque, Christi Passmore, Sunny Hobbs, Brack Maggard, Dustin Maherg, Ryan Vos and Casey Dean. Lally soars into this new venue with a successful and impressive resume to his credit. In addition to his Rolex Grand Am Championships, Lally has experience In the 24 Hours of Le Mans, SPEED World Challenge Series, Barber Dodge Pro Series and USF2000 Series. Lally heads to LMS on the heels of a commanding six wins in the Rolex Grand Am Series.

"I’m excited to have a chance to test with Andy,�?? said Lally. “I have raced at Charlotte before but in a light weight formula car which is very easy to hold flat around there. This will be a new experience for me. From time to time I get to do some oval racing and would love to do more but my opportunities keep coming in road courses. I’m trying to change that and really give a good push to get myself involved in more stock car racing, on both oval and road courses.�??

Belmont, who spent the 2006 season competing in the ARCA RE/MAX Series and NASCAR Nextel Cup Series sees a bright future for Lally and is excited about the test.

“Andy is a great kid,�?? stated Belmont. “His credentials are very impressive and we’re utilizing the test to allow him to get as comfortable as he needs to before we exercise or entertain any options for further oval racing for him during the 2007 season. I’ve worked with a lot of talented drivers, but Lally is one that will make a name for himself and will be in the world of stock car racing for a long time to come, I guarantee it.�??

Thursday’s test at Lowe’s Motor Speedway will be a joint effort between Belmont and Fast Track Racing, owned by fellow colleague and close friend Andy Hillenburg.

“Lowe’s is a fast track,�?? added Belmont. “We’re looking for consistency from Andy on Thursday. I know he has what it takes, but I don’t want to rush things. His lap times should be pretty accurate compared to the ARCA level and I think once he is comfortable with the car and track, he’ll really shine.�?? “When asked about his expectations for the test, Lally gave a modest answer “ None,�?? the 29-year old explained. I’m just going to have a feel and enjoy myself a bit. I’d like to have Andy (Belmont) baseline the car for me and then just take a smart, methodical approach to getting up to speed in it without taking any risks. To be totally honest, as much as I’m sure I will be tempted to go fast I only want to complete the test trouble free and have something to reference in case there are future opportunities.�??