NASCAR WWEST: Brendan Gaughan and Orleans Racing head to Irwindale
Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel
May 10, 2001Las Vegas…With a win at Fontana safely tucked in their pocket, Brendan Gaughan and Orleans Racing are looking to once again put their No.16 NAPA/Martin-Senour Chevy Monte Carlo in first place at the NASCAR Food 4 Less 250, Saturday, May 12 at Irwindale Speedway.
"We generally tend to do pretty well at this track," says Gaughan, who earned two top three finishes and one top five at Irwindale last season. " It's a 'super' fast ½ mile speedway and great fun to drive. We tested last week and were extremely pleased with the results. Our NAPA Chevy is dialed to go full force."
Earning the victory at Fontana propelled Gaughan, the reigning NASCAR Winston West champion, up to 3rd in the point's standings. "We started out a little slow this season," continues Gaughan. "But we knew it was just a question of time. It's almost impossible to keep Orleans Racing down. Our entire crew is totally committed to winning and with their dedication, hard work and enthusiasm, you just have to get out in front."
A champion in both off-road racing and pavement, Gaughan knows what it takes to win. "Part of our strength is due to the expertise of my crew chief Shane Wilson and my spotter Billy Holbrook," says Gaughan with full conviction. "It has often been said that a driver is only as good as his crew and boy is that true. They are truly the hidden heroes of racing. I can't say enough good things. In short, they are just awesome."
With five of twelve races completed on the 2001 schedule, Gaughan and Orleans Racing are 79 points shy of first place. "This a pretty good place to be in at the moment. We proved last year that consistent top finishes is what wins the championship," explains the popular twenty five year old, "and that is what we are aiming for this year…. consistency. Sure I'd like to get every pole and win every race, but in the long run, the championship is the big jackpot. I figure on just chipping away at the competition until we can call the title our own."
One of the very best crews in the racing industry, a fantastic sponsor, a great car and a highly talented driver all add up to make Orleans Racing the team to beat.
"It is really a pleasure to fly the NAPA banner," says Gaughan. "Their involvement and enthusiasm is a big plus. NAPA LA will be at Irwindale in full force this weekend, and we are looking forward to putting their colors in the Winner's Circle."
Qualifying for the NASCAR Food 4 Less 250 gets underway at 4:30 PM with drivers taking the green flag at 8:00 PM. The race will be televised on Fox Sport Net (Tape Delay) with airdate and time TBA.
Text provided by Nancy Wager
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