DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – The audition is over for Brad Keselowski. Now it’s time to focus on the task at hand.
In 2007, as a “try-out”, Keselowski, drove Dale Earnhardt's Nationwide car for three weekends. Prior to that Chicagoland debut, Keselowski pointed out, “We'll re-evaluate where we are after three races.”
This year he sits firmly and confidently behind the wheel of the JR Motorsports No. 88 U.S. NAVY Chevrolet after signing a two-year deal as he gets ready to compete in the 2008 NASCAR Nationwide Series.
“At this point in my career I can’t think of anywhere else I’d rather be,” Keselowski said as he waited patiently through a rain delay Saturday morning at Daytona International Speedway during the second day of Nationwide testing. “We know we have what it takes to be competitive and we’re looking forward to getting JR Motorsports a Nationwide victory. That’s our goal and that’s what we’re working toward.”
“I’ve been racing my whole life.” The 24-year-old said. “Still I consider myself an unproven driver and as an unproven driver, you’re always concerned about how you’ll perform. Being that Dale Jr.’s the owner, that adds a bit more pressure. But I feel like I’m ready for it. I’ve gone through some other deals that have prepared me for this situation and I feel like now is my time to shine and make things work out.”
Old man Coleman: Hard to believe that Brad Coleman, driver of the No. 27 Baker Curb Racing Ford, at 19 was the oldest driver on stage during the lunchtime press conference. “Uncle Brad,” said 18-year-old Landon Cassill; “Grampa Brad,” added 18-year-old Bryan Clauson, both who took part in the presser.
Late start: Due to inclement weather, the Day 2 morning testing session at Daytona International Speedway was delayed. The first car – Kenny Wallace in the No. 37 Baker Curb Racing Ford – finally got on track at 1:10 p.m. – more than four hours late.
Dad on hand: Bob Keselowski, 1989 ARCA Champion, was on site over the weekend keeping a watchful eye over sons Brad and Brian, both taking part in Nationwide testing at DIS.
More Nationwide: NASCAR Nationwide Series drivers will continue testing at “The World Center of Racing” through Tuesday in preparation for the season-opening Camping World 300 presented by Chevy on Feb. 16.
Auction: The NASCAR Preseason Thunder Silent Auction is online at www.nascar.com/foundation The auction started Monday, Jan. 7 and will run through Sunday, Jan. 20 at 5 p.m. Available tobid on are many autograph items from drivers and stars such as Nicolas Cage, Kelly Clarkson, Big and Rich, Jeff Gordon, Michael Waltrip, Buddy Baker, Pete Hamilton and Jimmie Johnson.
Tickets: Race tickets for all DIRECTV Speedweeks 2008 events at Daytona International Speedway are available online at www.racetickets.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Saturday’s speeds from NASCAR Nationwide Series testing in preparation for the Camping World 300 presented by Chevy:
