Finley to lead No. 36 team
“Derrick has been an important part of the Bill Davis Racing organization for several years," stated team owner Bill Davis. “We look forward to once again giving him the opportunity to utilize his abilities both as an engineer and as a leader. He and Jeremy have had the chance to get to know one another over the past couple of months and we think the two of them will make a powerful and successful combination."
Finley, 35, began his tenure at Bill Davis Racing near the end of the 2003 season and was chosen to become the crew chief of the No. 22 Caterpillar team for the final two races of the 2004 campaign. Finley spent 2005 calling the shots for that team before moving to the No. 55 team for the 2006 season. Midway through 2006, Finley returned to his engineering roots and became a key part of both the No. 55 and No. 22 teams’ efforts. Finley will pair up with veteran driver Jeremy Mayfield in 2007.
“This is a great opportunity to work a driver who is as experienced as Jeremy," stated Finley. “He’s worked with some of the best teams out there and I’ve been impressed with his talent, attitude and ability. We’ve spent a lot of time together with the rest of the team testing and getting the chance to know each other and I think we have a ton of potential. Kevin Hamlin [crew chief of the No. 22 team] and I worked closely last year and there’s no doubt we’ll continue that relationship, which will make both of the Bill Davis Racing Cup teams stronger in the process. I’m looking forward to the challenges ahead of us."