Mark Reed started the 2001 NASCAR Winston West Series the way every team wants to, from the pole. Ready for the second race of the season in the series, Reed is right where he needs to be to meet his goals, leading the Rookie-of-the-Year points with an eye on the championship.
This professional talented driver will be put to the test at The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway this Wednedsday (February 28th). Reed does not like to settle for a position on the track, he likes to go for the win. Those who have seen him know that he will be focused on one thing, getting the Food 4 Less/PriceRite/Foods Co Grand Prix across the stripe first on the final lap of the NAPA Auto Parts 300.
A fierce competitor on the track, Reed is just as fierce off the track where he is a hard-charger for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, a charity Reed is very much committed to. He has also surrounded himself with a great team. Stop by and meet Reed and the crew after the race or at his driver appearance!
The place to be Wednesday is not the casinos, the shows or the roller-coasters. The place to be Wednesday is The Bullring! Those slot machines are there 365 days a year, but the NASCAR Winston West will only visit this short track one day this year, it is a show not to be missed! Bet on it!
RacingWest: What are your goals for this season?
Mark Reed: Our teams first priority is trying to win the 2001 Rookie of the year and our second is the Championship.
RW: How did the season-opener at Phoenix International Raceway go for you and the team?
MR: The Food 4 Less Motorsports Team had a great start, capturing the Bud Pole and finishing the race 4th.
RW: Have you had a chance to test at The Bullring in Las Vegas?
MR: Yes, we tested at the Bullring last Monday and were very pleased. The track is outstanding.
RW: What are you expecting at the event and what do you think it will take to win?
MR: The race should be one of the best of the year, close racing with lots of passing. The new surface and high banking should keep the field very tight.
RW: How do you feel now that the series is on one tire?
MR: It definitely levels the playing field and should make for better racing.
RW: Do you think there is less of an advantage for the Winston Cup drivers on a short-track than a larger track like PIR and why or why not?
MR: The cup drivers have a lot of experience and tire management may play a factor at the Bullring. I will just run my hardest and try and give the Food 4 Less / Price Rite Pontiac a great run!
RW: Do you like running with or without the Winston Cup drivers in a Winston West event?
MR: Its a double edge sword the experience is priceless but so are the points and winnings.
RW: Do you have a car or driver appearance scheduled at Vegas?
MR: Yes I will be on hand along with our Food 4 Less / Price Rite Pontiac simulator Thursday and Friday at the Las Vegas Price Rite stores and Friday Night at the Race Rock Cafe. Please visit our site at markreed.com for times and details.
RW: What is your favorite thing to do at Vegas when not busy with the car?
MR: Definitely hitting the tables but my wife (Karla) and I will try to catch a show on Thursday.
RW: What is your game-plan now that one race is down and your goals may have to be adjusted?
MR: With the limited number of races each race is critical. Our team focuses on a good qualifying effort and staying clean and on the lead lap, then try to battle at the end.
SPONSORS: Food 4 Less / Foods Co / Price Rite
TRANSPORT DRIVER: James Garner
SPOTTER: Brian Brown
CREW: Matt Reed, Karla Reed, Mike Hurst, Jim Reed, Barry Holland, Curtis McClenny, Mike Myers, Chris Bailey, Benji Reyes, Adam Otten, Cathy Odem, Joey Lazano
