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SCCA: Epic Racing to campaign two cars in 2000 BFGoodrich Tires Trans-Am Series; Pelke, Johnson to drive

3 February 2000

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel
ENGLEWOOD, Colo.--Epic Racing will field two entries in the 2000 BFGoodrich Tires Trans-Am Series, with Steve Pelke and Gary Johnson named as drivers of the teams Roush-built Ford Mustang Cobras.

Epic Racing owner Harry Schwartz, producer of the SEMA Show, formed his team in 1999, and contested three races last season.

"We came out last year to test ourselves against the competition," said Schwartz. "I was very pleased both with our equipment and our personnel. At the end of the season we established objectives to accomplish in order to really get out and race in 2000. We have upgraded our race and engine shops, acquired a Featherlite transporter and added some new members to our team. We are very excited about our chances."

Pelke, of Lansing, Ill., finished 12th overall in 1999, scoring 11 top-20 finishes, including three top-10 efforts, to claim the third spot in the Red Line Oil Rookie of the Year standings. Pelke will pilot the No. 19 KAY Manufacturing Mustang Cobra, with crew chief duties handled by Mike Duncombe.

"I am very excited to be working with Harry Schwartz, Gary Johnson and the whole Epic Racing group," said Pelke. "There were several options out there, but after seeing the operation here, my decision was easy. This is a top-notch professional organization with a tremendous team attitude and aggressive goals."

Rookie contender Gary Johnson, of Knoxville, Tenn., will drive the No. 9 Hoffend Xposition Mustang Cobra while overseeing the preparation of both cars. Johnson made his BFGoodrich Tires Trans-Am Series debut in 1999, scoring one top-10 finish in the three races he contested.

"Gary ran real strong for us last year," added Schwartz. "We participated in just three races last season so he would still be eligible for the rookie title in 2000a goal we certainly feel is attainable."

Epic Racings engine program will be handled by Mylon Keasler.

Text Provided by SCCA

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