Waltrip satisfied with ESPN Documentary

Michael Waltrip’s road to the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series as a full-time owner with multiple teams has been carefully documented through an 11-episode television series on ESPN2 called Michael Waltrip Racing: A New Era, which debuted Sunday, December 10.

“I feel ‘A New Era’ has accurately depicted the challenges we have faced and the successes we’ve already enjoyed as a team," Waltrip said.

Waltrip has allowed inside access to the building of Michael Waltrip Racing and ongoing construction of Waltrip Raceworld. The show has provided unprecedented access to one of Waltrip’s greatest feats.

“For the past several months ESPN has had a film crew follow our team around as we build Michael Waltrip Racing into something unique," Waltrip said. “Our team has allowed intimate access into meetings, projects, tests and appearances daily. I am most proud that Michael Waltrip Racing has been able to provide our sponsors with exposure through this show. After the show stops airing, I think the race fans will want to visit Waltrip Raceworld and carry on the excitement of our inaugural year."

With five episodes remaining, Waltrip fast forwards to today to see where his No. 44 UPS Toyota Camry team stacks up as Dale Jarrett turns laps in the first NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series test session at Daytona International Speedway. During the first practice session today, Jarrett was 14th quick (49.284 seconds – 182.615 mph) behind the wheel of No. 44B UPS Toyota Camry.

“It’s go time," Waltrip said. “We’ve done our absolute best to prepare for this test session and it’s time to see the results."

David Reutimann will pilot the No. 00 Domino’s Pizza Toyota Camry and Waltrip will steer the No. 55 NAPA Auto Parts Toyota in the second test session in Daytona Beach, FL., beginning on January 15.

I’m glad I’ll be there for David," Waltrip said. “David has been a big part of our story and we are all rooting for him during his rookie year. He’s been a great addition to our organization already. We’ve assembled a strong group of drivers and team members. Being proud of watching your hard work pay off is one thing, but watching your team excel is another."

The remaining episodes will air on ESPN2 during the following dates and times:
1/21/07 11 p.m. ET
1/28/07 11 p.m. ET
2/11/07 11 p.m. ET
2/18/07 11 p.m. ET
July – TBD Final Episode