NASCAR Truck Series Team Joint-Venture
The relationship between the two teams advanced recently when SS-Racing began exploring options to start its own full time truck team. At the same time co-owner of Green Light Racing, Gene Christensen had made the decision to direct most of his efforts towards his campaign in Texas for the U.S. Congress. “My racing responsibilities will be much less going forward so that my efforts can be concentrated on the Congressional run." stated Christensen. “Having Bobby (Dotter), Butch (Miller) and Greg (Carr) a part of this team will add a development program that is not to be under valued. These winning drivers and their knowledge will take this team to the next level."
“It’s tough in today’s racing climate to make it on your own as an independent team," said Dotter. “The Joint-Venture with SS Racing and their sponsorship group will add to our resources both on and off the track. They have a solid understanding of the business and marketing side to motorsports. This venture will provide greater opportunity for our team and drivers. We’re looking forward to building this relationship and having a successful 2008 season."
Since 2002 SS-Racing has operated a full time multi-car ASA Late Model Series team out of Indianapolis, Ind. The primary focus of SS Racing has been on driver development programs, which they have conducted for various drivers and teams including Nextel Cup Championship team Hendrick Motorsports. Ken Smith, President of both SS Racing and ASI Limited has been gravitating towards the NASCAR Craftsman Truck series to fulfill his company’s vendor/sponsorship program growth.
“We’ve been a sponsor in the truck series with Green Light Racing since 2004," said Smith. “The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series has been a great value for our sponsors and our company ASI Limited. This will allow us to grow the sponsors and develop the business in a larger geographical area. We’re looking forward to gaining new resources with Green Light Racing and building on a solidly founded race team." Greg Carr, National Sales Manager for ASI Limited is excited as well. “I have seen our presence grow over the last few years in the Truck Series," said Carr. “I think this is a natural progression and I’ll be working immediately to get this new relationship off and running."
The SSR-GLR team will operate from the current Mooresville, North Carolina facility. SS Racing Driver/Coach and short track legend, Butch Miller and ASA Crew Chief Deon Deneau will provide continued leadership, competition and driver coaching support for the teams. “This new opportunity will provide all of our Driver Development participants a real chance for advancing their driving careers at the NASCAR level," said Miller, the 3-time ASA Touring Series Champion. “I am excited to be back full time in the Craftsman Truck Series. I was there as a driver when it started in 1995 and I feel that this brings my career full circle."
Crew Chief, Deon Deneau looks forward to the opportunity to work in NASCAR. “I have been out of NASCAR since 2002, but I am confident I can add value to this new entity and help raise the competition level to compete on a weekly basis. It’s an exciting move for our team." Drivers and primary sponsorships will be announced before the first race of the season February 15th at Daytona International Speedway.