Darrell LaMoure is not going out to preserve his equipment at the Copper World Classic. LaMoure, driver of the #17 NASCAR Southwest Series Monte Carlo is out to make an impressive show for his sponsors and hometown fans. How is he going to do this? Is he really going to "treat it like a rental car"? Find the answers and much more below.

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?
Darrell LaMoure: Lets look at the facts, many drivers have been noticed at this event! Mostly open wheel guys but still the potential of being noticed is there. Favorite part of this event is all the racers from all over hanging out, strutting their stuff and enjoying common interests, going real fast.

RW: Considering that PIR has two distinctly different corners, which do you, set your car up for to be the best you can or can you get both?
DL: If we were able to get both corners working or the one who does will drive away. This team will be concentrating on turns 1 & 2. These two corners set you up for a faster lap time, get off # 2 good and your going to beat the competition (at least in the race) But if you get to good in 2 you may lose at the other end, it's a gamble?

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?
DL: OK, I don't wish to slam Goodyear but No way with these tires! To stiff and look at when Ron did it 95 with real sticky tires, known as Gumballs.

RW: NASCAR has a new Monte Carlo body this year (straight up). Do you feel this is an advantage on the PIR mile?
DL: This we will see, in Homestead Freddie beat a new body there!

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?
DL: Ask Mr. Kanke and he will say be patient, I am starting this season with this mentality "Drive it like a rental car" take that for what its worth?

RW: I f you could compare Phoenix to any other track the Series races on, which one would it be?
DL: I hear that Pikes Peak is similar but we don't run there. I’m curious to read replies to this question.

RW: What is your goal, Win? Exposure? Experience?
DL: Who doesn't go to Win? Exposure adds value to the relationship with the sponsors and experience, well this isn't the place to start racing!!!

RW: What advantages can you offer a sponsor for this race over other teams?
DL: "Drive it like a rental car" should put us in the spotlight? Win or crash who knows? Running up front is the most important feature we can offer our partners (sponsors). This team is very confident that we can run up front. Also, we have the local support on our side, fan base and media attention. Oh don't forget the motor Sports Radio program (Racing Round Up AZ 1360KGME) I work as a host every week! Giving the drivers perspective & color on all racing issues, Plugs and commercial spots are a piece of cake. Oh I need a sponsor! Did I get off the subject? Sorry

RW: What will you do now that there is not longer the Toolies/drivers get together on Thursday night before the race?
DL: Glad you asked, The Racing Round Up AZ program has a special program slated for the 4th of February at Backtracks at 47th. & Thunderbird Rd. We will be doing one of our turnstile interview shows, with big time drivers like Kevin Harvick, Steve Portenga & Roger Corrigan. You can at anytime check our radio schedule at the 1360 KGME. Com site. Look for RRAZ. Or look for more info in your drivers packet when you enter the track! Big, Big, Big show. Don't miss it!!!

Source: RacingWest
Posted: 1/29/99