TEAM REPORTS (DAYTONA, FLA.) - SIXTH FASTEST FOR AMBROSE IN DAYTONA PRACTICE

Marcos Ambrose has kicked off the 2008 NASCAR Nationwide Series season with sixth place in opening practice of the Camping World 300 at Daytona International Speedway in Florida today.

The Australian driver made it a top ten start to the season for the #59 Kingsford Hickory Ford Fusion, with both Ambrose and his JTG Racing team with the progress made and speed achieved in the 80-minute practice session.

Ambrose and crew chief Walter Giles came away happy with the day’s times and are looking for further improvement in final practice tomorrow morning.

Ambrose will then be 28th in the running order for Friday’s qualifying before the 120-lap Camping World 300 is held on Saturday afternoon (Sunday morning Australian time).

Dale Earnhardt Jr was fastest in practice today ahead of Clint Bowyer and Kevin Harvick.

Marcos Ambrose – #59 Kingsford Hickory Ford Fusion

“This is a good start to for our team here in Daytona,” said Ambrose.

“We had the car running well out there and I felt like we have started with a good package. Now we will work away and getting it that little bit better for the weekend.

“I couldn’t be happier with how the team worked today. The atmosphere in the number 59 Kingsford garage is really strong. I just can’t thank this team enough. Walter has our car going well and our team is very positive.

“This is still early days so we are certainly not getting carried away, but this is the sort of start to a weekend that gives you a good feeling. We will all keep working hard and see what we can do tomorrow.”

CLICK HERE to see Marcos’ special green Daytona livery on TheHotLap.com.