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TRANS-AM: Johnny Miller to drive with Rocketsports Racing

5 January 2001

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

Lansing, Mich - Johnny Miller, winner of the 2000 Trans-Am season finale in San Diego, will drive with two-time Trans-Am championship team Rocketsports Racing during the 2001 Trans-Am Series. Miller, who previously was the owner/driver of Miller Racing, will contest the entire season in a mount prepared and campaigned by Rocketsports Racing.

Finishing seventh in the points standings last year, Miller will enter his sixth full season of Trans-Am competition. During the 2000 season, Miller scored his first career Trans-Am win, collected four top-five finishes, and captured two pole positions in the No. 64 Automationdirect.com/UPS Chevrolet Corvette.

"I'm so glad to have this opportunity," explained Miller who was voted the "Most Improved Driver" in 1998. "We'd always talked about it, and now is the right time to make the move. Rocketsports is the benchmark in Trans-Am racing, and I feel fortunate to become a part of it. It will definitely provide me with the opportunity to grow as a driver."

"This move was a logical progression," continued Miller, the 1996 "Rookie of the Year." "I'd bought three Rocketsports cars, several engines, and technical information and they've always treated me very well and provided top-notch equipment. I'll miss my guys from my team, but this was a business decision. It was tough trying to do everything, but now I can concentrate on just my driving and keeping my sponsors happy." Team owner Paul Gentilozzi is delighted to welcome Miller to the Rocketsports stable. "I look at the long-term credibility of a guy like John," said the two-time Trans-Am champion. "There are so many familiarities between where he is now and where I was 10 years ago. Johnny has the potential to be very fast and deserves the opportunity.

"Running a team can be a very difficult thing. That's where Rocketsports can be a valuable asset to Johnny. I've committed to giving Johnny everything he needs to win races. We're both absolutely running for the championship. We're both teammates and competitors, and we both understand that."

The Trans-Am season begins March 16th at Sebring International Raceway as part of the prestigious 12 Hours of Sebring weekend.

Text Provided By Wendy Gabers

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