NASCAR BGN: Keller heads into the unknown at Kentucky Speedway

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

June 14, 2001

Kentucky...The Unknown... The NASCAR Busch Series, Grand National Division is competing at four new tracks during the 2001 season. For the first time since 1989 (Louisville Speedway), the Busch Series will be heading to Kentucky. Jason Keller and the Albertson's team are preparing to compete on the new speedway step-by-step.

"The first thing we needed to do as a team to prepare for the Kentucky race was test there," said Steve Addington, crew chief for the No. 57 Albertson's Ford. "The only way we were going to know how a car will react to the track, is to put Jason behind the wheel and go. Jason tested in Jeff's (Green) car there, so he was able to get some seat time. We compiled valuable information about the track that we could bring back to the shop to continue working on our set-up.

"After our initial test, we looked at the dimensions, configuration and banking of the track. You take your notes from other tracks and compare it to what we learned during the test session. For example, the Kentucky track is similar in banking and configuration to Nashville. The surface at Nashville however is bumpy and has a rougher surface, so we know the Kentucky track will carry more speed heading into the corners."

The Importance of Adapting... When Keller steps into the Albertson's Ford on Thursday, he will have the same concerns and empty notebooks as the other drivers in the series. Keller knows the importance of finishing well at Kentucky and the other new NASCAR-sanctioned tracks. He has faith in the Albertson's team to make the right calls to put him up front.

"I finished second in the Albertson's Ford at Nashville," said Keller. "That's a testament to what this race team can do at a new track. It's important for the Albertson's team to remain competitive week in and week out if we want to contend for the championship. That means finishing well at the new speedways. With the points race so close this year, there just isn't room to slip up."

Text provided by Heather Kincel

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