Carpentier to drive for NAPA in Montreal

Patrick Carpentier with his NAPA car

NAPA Auto Parts is proud to announce that Canadian driver Patrick Carpentier will be a competitor in the NAPA Auto Parts 200 as the NASCAR Nationwide Series crosses the border for the third year in a row to compete at the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve on Parc Jean Drapeau, August 30th. Patrick Carpentier and NAPA Auto Parts entered into an agreement allowing the Canadian driver to be at the wheel of the No. 99 NAPA Auto Parts Toyota Camry fielded by Michael Waltrip Racing.

The good news continues – Today, NAPA Auto Parts and Stock-Car Montreal announced that they have extended their agreement, making NAPA Auto Parts the primary sponsor for the event over the next three years until 2011.

“Patrick was our first choice, and we are undoubtedly very happy with this agreement. Not only is he from the region but his name is synonymous with talent, perseverance and sportsmanship wherever he performs," said Robert Hattem, president and COO of UAP Inc. "It was a natural fit for us to offer Patrick the wheel for this event and allow the public to witness his unique know-how," indicated Hattem.

Patrick Carpentier, a native of Joliette (Quebec), scored his career-first pole award (2007) and finished second in both events at the 2.71-mile road course. This time around, the objective is for Carpentier to clench his first NASCAR Nationwide Series victory for NAPA in just his 12th career start.

“The quality of the car he is driving this year puts him in a great position to achieve this goal. I am proud that Patrick Carpentier will represent both Michael Waltrip Racing and long-time partner, NAPA Auto Parts in the NAPA 200. Our organization is looking forward to competing at the legendary Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve in August," concluded Hattem.

From his point of view, Carpentier is pleased to have the chance to race in front of his Montreal fans with the NAPA Auto Parts team: "By being the official race sponsor, it is clear to me that NAPA wishes more than anything the success of this important event for the City of Montreal. It is an honor to partner with such a talented team like NAPA. My greatest desire is to give the spectators and viewers a great performance that meets their expectations."

The NAPA Auto Parts 200 is a stop on the NASCAR Nationwide Series circuit, one of the most important racing events in Canada. The event will take place on Saturday and Sunday August 29th and 30th at the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve on Parc Jean Drapeau in Montreal.