Mears vs. The Monster Mile, Part II

Contact: Nealie Hamilton, Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates, cell: (704) 500-6068, nhamilton@ganassi.com

For Immediate Release

DOVER, Del. (September 21, 2003) --- It was Casey Mears vs. The Monster Mile for the second time this season and this time, Mears won.

In his first battle with The Monster Mile last spring, rookie Casey Mears was involved in two accidents at Dover International Speedway and only spent half of the race on the track.

This Sunday's MBNA America 400 was a different story. The starting grid was determined by owner's points, putting Mears in the 35th starting position. Although Mears finished the race back in 36th place, his second battle with The Monster Mile had a more positive outcome.

Mears completed all but eight laps during the race, gaining valuable seat time in his Target Dodge along the way. During the second half of the race, Mears' Target Dodge had two right side flat tires within 15 laps of each other but Mears kept control of his car and was able to continue the race.

Ryan Newman, driver of the No. 12 Alltel Dodge, won the race. Mears' teammates Jamie McMurray and Sterling Marlin finished sixth and 13th respectively. Mears currently sits 34th in the championship points standings.

Team Target races at Talladega Superspeedway for a second time next weekend. The race will be broadcast live on NBC television and MRN radio on September 28, 2003.

XXX

Nealie Hamilton
Media Relations
Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates
office: (704) 662-9642 x1130
cell: (704) 500-6068
nhamilton@ganassi.com