JEFF GORDON TO SKIP IROC IN 2002

    HARRISBURG, N.C. - Jeff Gordon, 2001 NASCAR Winston Cup champion, will 
not participate in the 2002 IROC series. The four-time Winston Cup champion 
cited several factors in his decision.              
    "It's definitely an honor to be recognized by IROC and compete against an 
elite group of drivers," said Gordon, driver of the DuPont Chevrolet. "I'll 
never forget the first invitation I received from IROC in 1995. It was very 
exciting. 
    "Unfortunately, due to the demands on my time with the number of races on 
the NASCAR Winston Cup schedule and commitments to my sponsors, in addition 
to my increased involvement with the No. 24 and No. 48 teams, I have to 
decline the invitation (to participate in the 2002 IROC series).
    "This decision was made after lengthy discussions with my wife, my team 
and Rick Hendrick."