Murrieta, California's Rocky Nash plans on entering the 22nd Annual Copper World Classic with a different game plan than most drivers. The majority of Featherlite Southwest Series competitors are preparing to run the entire race flat out, but not Nash. He has devised a scheme that he hopes will propel him to a win.

What is his plan? It is simple really, he will sit back for the first one-third of the race, then when everyone's tires are fading away, he will make his move to the front of the pack. Once in the front of the pack, he plans on holding that position.

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?
RockMarMotorsports: Our favorite part about racing at the Copper Classic is the television exposure.

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?
RMM: We try to set the car up to get a "happy medium" between both corners.

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?
RMM: To beat the record may be tough this year, our times now aren't as good as in the past.

RW: NASCAR has a new Monte Carlo body this year (straight up). Do you feel this is an advantage on the PIR mile?
RMM: We have the new Monte Carlo body and hope it will be an advantage.

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?
RMM: We feel it is best to conserve the tires at least 1/3 of the race.

RW: If you could compare Phoenix to any other track the Series races on, which one would it be?

RMM: This track doesn't compare to any others.

RW: What is your goal, Win? Exposure? Experience?
RMM: Phoenix will give us great exposure, but we sure would like to win!!!

RW: What advantages can you offer a sponsor for this race over other teams?
RMM: We have a great car, a great crew and the will to win. Our driver has over 20 years of experience in a race car and several local and regional championships in other divisions over the years. We are an innovative team, always trying to get the most out of our car at whatever budget we are under.

RW: What will you do now that there is not longer the Toolies/drivers get together on Thursday night before the race?
RMM: We will probably be driving in on Thursday night.

RW: Do you have any sightseeing planned during your trip to Phoenix?
RMM: No sightseeing, just racing.

Source: RacingWest
Posted: 2/4/99