Darnell Set to Run 15 Nationwide Races in 2009

CONCORD, N.C. February 10, 2009: Roush Fenway Racing driver Erik Darnell will get behind the wheel of the No. 6 Northern Tool + Equipment Ford Fusion for 15 races in the NASCAR Nationwide Series beginning with the Lipton Tea 250 at Richmond International Raceway on May 1. Darnell and Northern Tool + Equipment will split time in the No. 6 Ford Fusion with David Ragan and Discount Tire.

This will be Darnell’s first season in the Nationwide Series following three full seasons in the Camping World Truck Series where he recorded two wins, three poles, 16 top-five and 32 top-10 finishes. The Beach Park, Ill. native does have experience at NASCAR’s next level. In 2008 he filled in for Carl Edwards and David Ragan for several practice sessions as well as running in the Corona Mexico 200 in Mexico City.

“I’m looking forward to my first season in the Nationwide Series. Sure, I wish I was running a full schedule, but I’ve been given a great opportunity and I’m going to make the best of it,” said Darnell. “There are several tracks on the schedule I’ve had success at in the past. Hopefully, I can put together some good runs this season and get the No. 6 Northern Tool + Equipment Ford Fusion into Victory Lane.”

“Northern Tool + Equipment has high expectations for Erik and the No. 6 team going into 2009. We’re excited to see Erik take the next step in his racing career as he shares the No. 6 Ford Fusion with David Ragan.” said Wade Kotula, owner of Northern Tool + Equipment.

Darnell’s complete 15 race schedule includes Richmond (May 1), Darlington (May 8), Nashville (June 6), Kentucky (June 13), Milwaukee (June 20), Loudon (June 27), Gateway (July 18), Iowa (August 1), Watkins Glen (August 8), Montreal (August 30), Dover (September 26), Kansas (October 3), Charlotte (October 16), Memphis (October 24) and Homestead (November 20).