Michael Shank Racing Announces Rolex 24 Drivers

Hard on the heels of Michael Shank Racing’s announcement that Crown Royal Extra Rare has signed on to sponsor the No. 60 Ford-Riley, the team presented the full driver line-up for the organization’s two-car 2010 Rolex 24 At Daytona campaign during the Roar Before the 24 at Daytona International Speedway.

Full-season Michael Shank Racing drivers Ozz Negri and John Pew will be joined in the No. 60 Crown Royal Extra Rare Ford-Riley by Burt Frisselle and Mark Wilkins in the season-opening race, as the No. 6 Michael Shank Racing Ford-Riley will see Mark Patterson team with Michael Valiante, AJ Allmendinger, and Brian Frisselle.

Ever since making it to the race finish in the team’s 2004 debut in the race, Michael Shank Racing has repeatedly shown strength in the Rolex Series season kick-off endurance format, finishing runner-up in the 2006 Rolex 24 and threatening for a race win late in the event again in 2008.

Seven of the eight drivers have previous race starts with Michael Shank Racing, something that team owner Mike Shank carefully considered as he assembled his team.

“We have had a lot of very strong driver line-ups for this event in the past, and I’m as confident in this group that we have this year as I’ve been for any we’ve had before," said Shank. “Every one of these guys has a lot of Daytona Prototype experience, and a lot of miles at this track. To be successful in the 24, and to even make it to the finish of this race, takes speed, smarts, and a lot of experience. You have to make the right decisions, every minute of the way for 24 hours. With the guys we have in both cars, we have the right mix to make sure we are there at the finish and in position to fight for a podium on Sunday afternoon."