ACCIDENT ENDS DEBUT WEST DEBUT FOR RTD MOTORSPORTS EARLY

Source: RTD Motorsports, Inc. Media Relatison
Date: 03/31/2008

NORTH HIGHLANDS, California – Mike Gallegos of Wheat Ridge, CO and Rob Dixon’s RTD Motorsports, Inc. made their debut in the NASCAR Camping World Series West on Saturday at All American Speedway in Roseville, CA.

The RTD Motorsports, Inc. Chevrolet was unfortunately caught up in an accident and finished 22nd.

Friday practice was almost completely washed out by rain. The team also suffered some small teething problems on their car that left them unable to complete any full speed laps.

On Saturday, the team fared much better, but a persistent tightness with the race car allowed Gallegos to qualify only 24th.

The 25 year-old Gallegos showed great promise early in the 150 lap race, passing four cars in the first seven laps.

Gallegos made more progress before falling back in traffic on the tight one-third mile asphalt oval.

“We got shuffled back after getting caught up behind some slower cars,” Gallegos said.

Back in heavy traffic, Gallegos was in an almost inevitable situation. Several accidents occurred in Gallegos’ territory.

On lap 99, two cars spun into turn one, and Gallegos took evasive action. After making a hard left, Gallegos was hit hard by fellow Drive for Diversity driver Lloyd Mack, resulting in heavy damage to both cars and eliminating Gallegos from contention.

The RTD Motorsports, Inc. Chevrolet was officially scored 22nd.

“We definitely had a top-ten car,” Gallegos said. “We’re starting out as a new car and a new team. We just need to keep digging.”

Gallegos had high praise for his team and optimism for the race at Phoenix.

“The team has all the faith in me and this is such a change from last year, I almost feel like a rookie again,” Gallegos said. “In this deal everyone on the team takes responsibilities.”

RTD Motorsports, Inc. will now move forward to Phoenix International Raceway, on Thursday April 12. The race will be the first of two companion events with the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.

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