Bill Strauser is joining forces with Dave Byrd Racing as they bring what they hope will be the winning car to the track. Fans have long known the power of BMR Motorsports and now they will be treated to the enthusiastic driving style of Dave Byrd. Byrd is a veteran driver with 11 track championships and 165 NASCAR Main Event wins.

Mark Johnson, team owner of the #50 NASCAR Featherlite Southwest Series car that Byrd will drive is hoping that Byrd plus BMR will equal the win! Now on to the answers from the car owner, Johnson.

RacingWest: What's your favorite part about racing at the Copper Classic and what significance does the Copper World Classic have in your career as a driver?
Mark Johnson: The opportunity to race. Big event

RW: Track record being a 27.386 held by Hornaday from the 1995 CWC, do you feel that this record will go down this year and how will you do it?
MJ: We will see, BMR builds awesome cars. Ask Ron.

RW: NASCAR has a new Monte Carlo body this year (straight up). Do you feel this is an advantage on the PIR mile?
MJ: We've got it so we will see.

RW: Since this is only a 50-lap race, will it be 50 flat out or will you have to conserve the car a little?
MJ: Dash for cash

RW: What is your goal, Win? Exposure? Experience?
MJ: Win Win Win the rest comes.

RW: Do you have any sightseeing planned during your trip to Phoenix?
MJ: Golf Tourney

Source: RacingWest
Posted: 1/26/99