---

Change in PacWest Dodge Lineup for Orlando NCTS Debut

18 January 1998

Rich Bickle, New colors for '98

PacWest/TheRaceNet.com/Rich Bickle will be returning to the driver's seat in a Dodge Ram today, assisting the #78 MCI PacWest S/T Motorsports team with its qualifying and race this weekend during the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season debut. This PacWest decision was the result of an on-track incident during yesterdays practice which forced the team to compete this weekend without their primary truck. Team co-owner Dominic Dobson made the following Statement:

"Looking at the big picture, having Rich drive this weekend is the best thing for MCI and for Dodge. plus it will give the PacWest team a a chance to get some experience. It was a great opportunity when Rich came by and said he was available, and it all just kind of fell into place.

"As a driver, it's a tough decision to get out of the cockpit, but as a co-owner its much easier. We're approaching this as a one-off deal and starting with Homestead, we'll be going for the Cintas Rookie of the year.

Rich Bickle raced a Dodge Ram during 1996, Dodges first year of NCTS competition, and set the first Dodge pole position in the Craftsman Truck Series at Portland that year. In 1997, Bickle finished second in the overall series points.

"It's an opportunity for me to come here and help these guys out," said Bickle. "It's tough for a new team with only one day's practice before qualifying, and my guaranteed starting spot will give them the chance to get in the race. We'll try to pick up a few more tenths and not need to use that provisional spot."

Editors Note: The images displayed in this article (plus many more) can be viewed in the Racing Image Galleries from The Callahan Racing Page.