NASCAR Trucks: Defending Champion Joe Ruttman ready for repeat at IRP

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

August 1, 2001

Defending Winner: Last year, Joe Ruttman and the Bobby Hamilton Racing Dana Dodge Team won the pole for the Power Stroke 200 with a record lap of 111.843 MPH. Then they went on to lead the most laps, 152, and win the event in a dominating fashion. Ruttman also raced his way to a new contract in the process. This year, Ruttman and the team will be looking for nothing less in their return trip to IRP than another win.

"This is one of the better races on the circuit. It's a throw back to good old' night, short track racing and the fans love it. I think everyone has a great time at this race, and I always want to win this event. Plus, this town holds a special place in my heart just because of what my brother (Troy) was able to do here."

In 1952, Troy Ruttman won the Indianapolis 500.

Season Statistics: Ruttman sits fifth in both laps and miles led. Currently, he has led 186 laps for 200.23 miles. Ruttman and the Dana Team have also established the best average start of 3.29 and the best average finish of 6.64 in the Series.

IRP Fast Facts: Ruttman is one of only two drivers that have competed in every event at Indianapolis Raceway Park. Jack Sprague is the other driver. Ruttman has the most top 10 finishes with five, and is tied for the most top five finishes with Sprague, three. He has also finished the most miles and laps at the speedway in Truck Series competition with 1,133 laps and 777.238 miles.

Busch Race: During the weekend off, Ruttman competed in the NASCAR Busch Series event at Pikes Peak International Raceway. He started 12th and finished in the 21st position after the car lost the handle in the middle of the event.

Peggy's Birthday: Ruttman will be racing for more than just the win. He will be racing to give his wife, Peggy, a belated birthday gift. Her birthday is on Thursday, August 2nd.

Looking for 65: Last week, Ruttman came up a little short of moving into second place in all-time top five finishes with 65. It is just a matter of time before he eclipses the mark held by Ron Hornaday. Jack Sprague is first in top fives, with 91 top five finishes to his credit.

This Week's Truck: Ruttman will be back in the defending winner of the Power Stroke 200. He will be piloting Goober at the tight, little half-mile speedway. This is the same truck that owner, Bobby Hamilton, crashed in happy hour practice in New Hampshire. The team spent the week off putting a front clip on the truck after the New England 200.

Text provided by David Pepper

Editors Note: To view hundreds of hot racing photos and art, visit The Racing Photo Museum and the Visions of Speed Art Gallery.