Up and Coming Racer in the Fast Lane of the 2003 Mechanix Wear Speed Truck Challenge

SIMI VALLEY, Calif., March 24 -- Jake Hodges of Simi Valley, California is racing through his rookie year of professional racing in the 2003 Mechanix Wear Speed Truck Challenge. The speed truck racing competition will be driven on the top tracks throughout the Southwest. From the Tucson Raceway Park to the Irwindale Speedway -- this year's circuit will be filled with exciting racing.

Jake's interest in racing came from watching his idol, Dale Earnhardt and his father who is a veteran racer. In his sophomore year, he raced in two different series and completed 26 races in one year. His overall 7th place ranking in points in the Ultra Wheeled Spec Truck Series established him as a serious racer.

In 2002 Jake had the opportunity to race an ASA Stock Car and feel the adrenaline rush of racing against the professional racers. He gained valuable experience preparing and racing in the 300 lap Irwindale Speedway event. The 2003 Mechanix Wear Speed Truck Challenge 3 offers many incredible exposure venues for Jake and his sponsors. The Fox Sports Net will be broadcasting each race delivering extensive coverage throughout the Southwest. The 18 race schedule is televised in California, Nevada, New Mexico, Arizona, Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas and the Hawaiian Islands with a full distribution to 20 million households.

Jake will be driving toward building his career stats in this year's Speed Truck Challenge that will carry him o a full ride into an ASA car. From there he hopes to reach his ultimate goal of participating in NASCAR Winston Cup Series.

To find out more about Jake or if you are interested in joining the Jake Hodges Racing Team as a sponsor visit his website at: www.jakehodgesracing.com or call 805-428-2607. See you at the race track!