SANTA ROSA, CA -- The 1998 NASCAR Featherlite Southwest Series Championship team of Steve Portenga Racing has decided to combine forces with Golden Gate Racing Team owner Jim Offenbach to campaign the #3 Roto Rooter Chevrolet for the full 1999 NASCAR Winston West season. Last week, the decision was made by Portenga to turn his racing focus to the Winston West Series and to raise his successful racing program to the challenges of new equipment, new tracks and new competition.

Portenga, currently 11th in the Winston West point standings, has assumed leadership for the #3 team, bringing in not only his extensive mechanical knowledge and championship team, but also his 11 years of NASCAR Racing experience in an effort to bring the championship home to sponsors Roto Rooter, AutoPro of Hawaii and Mission Linen & Uniform Service.

"The decision was really tough to make," said Portenga. "The Southwest Series has been a huge part of my life but I feel its time to meet new challenges and move my career into a new direction. I will be so curious to know who wins at Cajon on the night of the 27th but I feel very good about continuing on with the Winston West season. This move brings my team's focus into the points race and allows us to be better prepared for every race, all of which translates into our best chance at success."

Phoenix International Raceway will be a fitting place to begin this new venture as Portenga dominated February's Copper World Classic until a lapped car spun in Lap #48 of the 50-lap event sending Portenga's #14 Chevrolet into the wall. "I don't feel like the place owes me or anything, I'm just preparing for a good qualifying position and a solid Top 5 finish." Portenga commented.

Portenga still plans to run several Southwest Series races this year including Mesa Marin, Sears Point and the season finale at Phoenix.

Fans can find out more about Steve's sensational career by visiting his website at www.jps.net/race14.

Source: Steve Portenga Racing
Posted: 3/22/99