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NorthernLight IRL: Jeff Andretti to drive for second Walker Racing Team

26 May 2000

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel
INDIANAPOLIS -- Walker Racing owner Derrick Walker announced today that Jeff Andretti will drive a second Walker Racing car in the Indy Racing Northern Light Series through 2002, starting with the Atlanta 500 on July 15 at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Emlrockfort Company will be the primary sponsor of Andrettis car and also serve as an associate sponsor on the car of his Walker Racing teammate, rookie Sarah Fisher.

"Im really excited about this opportunity and am really looking forward to joining the Walker organization," said Andretti, whose brother, Michael, shared the Indianapolis 500 Bank One Rookie of the Year Award in 1984. "I think we can do some good things for the team. Im also looking forward to having Sarah as a teammate and to racing in the Indy Racing Northern Light Series."

Andretti, son of 1969 Indianapolis 500 winner Mario Andretti, will drive the #25 Emlrockfort Special. He has three Indianapolis 500 starts, with a best finish of 15th as a rookie in 1991. He earned the Indianapolis 500 Bank One Rookie of the Year Award in 1991.

"For any race team, there are many gains to be had by running a two-car program," Walker said. "With Jeff coming on board with Emlrockfort, that provides us with a second platform where we can learn and develop a stronger race program in the Indy Racing Northern Light Series. Its a very welcome addition to our team.

"Jeff has driven Indy cars in the past and has sufficient experience to be a compliment to our lineup, and the advent of Emlrockfort to the series is another positive. Were very pleased that they approached us to join the Walker Racing program."

Andretti, 36, has vast open-wheel experience, including starts in CART, Toyota Atlantic and SCCA. Andretti, from Bethlehem, Pa., competed in a limited NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series schedule in 1999.

Emlrockfort produces film, video, music and multimedia content. Additional services include Web development and marketing, and a complete motorsports program.

"Well be expanding the entertainment value of the Indy Racing Series to the fan while providing our products and services to Corporate America," said Erik Lech, CEO of Emlrockfort. "The Walker Racing organization within the Indy Racing Northern Light Series is the perfect platform for us to launch such a program. Jeff is committed to giving 110 percent, and we feel our involvement will allow us to do just that."

Text provided by Paul Kelly

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