The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

NASCAR BGN: Ward Burton to drive for Mike McLaughlin at Darlington

1 September 2000

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel
HIGH POINT, NC - Winston Cup regular Ward Burton, driver of the No. 22 Caterpillar Racing Pontiac, will fill in for Mike McLaughlin in the No. 48 Goulds Pumps Chevrolet in this weekend's Busch Series event at Darlington Raceway on Saturday.

"Mike's father has been very ill for some time and Mike needed to be with him in New York," said car owner George deBidart. "Everyone at Innovative Motorsports and Goulds Pumps are very appreciative that Ward is stepping in and helping us out. It is a difficult time for Mike and hopefully with Ward filling in for him, he'll have one less thing to worry about.

"Ward is an outstanding driver and he does a great job at Darlington, so we can't think of anyone better to fill in for Mike," added deBidart. "Ward has been a great friend of mine and this just proves that he'll go out of his way to help his friends."

Although his schedule this weekend will become extremely hectic, Burton is quick to lend a hand to a friend in need.

"George has been a great friend and confidant on and off the track and I am glad to be able to help him out this weekend," said Burton. "George has always been there for me in time of need, this was my opportunity to reciprocate. We have a great friendship. Once I got the okay from Bill Davis (car owner of the No. 22 Caterpillar Racing team) and Caterpillar, I agreed to do it.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Mike, his father and his family. He needs to be there with them and make sure they are taken care of. I hope by me driving his Busch car that he can focus on what's really important - his family."

Burton currently drives the No. 22 Caterpillar Pontiac, owned by Bill Davis, in the Winston Cup Series. He also competes part-time in the Busch Series for Polaris.

Text provided by Heidi Stoddard

Editors Note: To view hundreds of hot racing photos and art, visit The Racing Photo Museum and the Visions of Speed Art Gallery.