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NASCAR WCUP: Richmond is a 'special place' for Ken Schrader

5 May 2000

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

Ken Schrader Said

"Richmond has always been a pretty special place for me because it always brings back memories of when I drove for Junie. I really got my start in Winston Cup in Richmond and I had some good times there. But most importantly I want something good to happen this weekend for the "M&Ms" Team. We havent had a real good run in a week or two and I want us to change that. Richmonds a pretty good track for me so well see what happens."

Ken Schraders Stats

The "M&Ms" Pontiac the team will use at Richmond International Raceway is a brand new Grand Prix that has yet to race in the 2000 season. The team planned for two days of testing with the car April 19, but rain cut the test to one day. Schrader and crew chief Sammy Johns said they were pleased with the test results.

"M&Ms" Racing Team driver Ken Schrader had a stellar year at the .75-mile track in 1998. Schrader completed the season with two fourth-place finishes. From start to finish of the two races, Schrader was solidly in the top 10. In the spring race he started seventh en route to a fourth-place finish and in the fall he started from the outside pole position to finish fourth.

A Richmond legend helped introduce Ken Schrader to the NASCAR Winston Cup ranks, and 16 years later he is a seasoned veteran making his 31st start at the .75-mile track. The legend was Winston Cup owner Junie Donlavey and the result was 1985 rookie of the year honors. Schrader drove for Donlavey Racing from 1985-1987, collecting 17 top-10 finishes and his first career top five. Schrader, still a rookie at the time, finished an impressive 16th, 16th and 10th in final point standings during his Richmond tenure.

Schrader had a busy schedule planned for the week between California and Richmond. He left California Speedway after finishing 24th in the "M&Ms" Pontiac as part of the Kyle Petty Charity Ride. He rode cross-country until mid day on Wednesday when he flew to Phoenix for an appearance.

Text provided by Laura Ehret

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