West Covina, Calif. (Oct 14, 1997) -- LaDonna Motorsports announced today that St James Davis might have raced his last race in the Winston West Series, unless a sponsor can be found. Davis, who at one time had a streak of 13 years without missing a race has been badly hurt by the last 3 races.
If bad luck runs in threes then Davis knows it well. Davis was unable to start at Altamont, only made one lap at Sears Point and again did not start at Bakersfield.
Davis had been counting on the race in Japan to help get him through the winter. But the invitation to Japan did not come. Today Davis received a letter from NASCAR stating he would not be going to Japan. It was a stunning blow to Davis. Davis and his wife, LaDonna, were certain that their effort to put their car in the top ten in points this year would be rewarded with the invitation to Japan.
LaDonna Motorsports had looked to Japan with great expectations. It was a chance for Davis to have his day in the sun. Davis was to have raced Japan with a brand new Ron Shaver Engine, Shaver is the same engine builder that has been so instrumental in helping Butch Gilliland stay up-front this season. In addition, Davis was to have had new Circle rims and something Davis has rarely had all the new tires he needed. No one will ever know if the new equipment would have made a difference or not.
Davis and his wife wanted to publicly thank all the drivers, crews and car-owners that have been so supportive to them through the years as they sought to pursue their dream. The Davis' would like to thank Wayne Jacks and his crew for all their support including gas at Sears Point, Kevin Culver for the new nose for the #22, and so many more that have helped with tires, rims and other parts necessary to keep them racing, including but not limited to, Mike Steurer, Scott Gaylord, Tom Puskarich, Stephannie with Goodyear, Roy and Gary Smith, Bill Sedgwick, Butch Gilliland, Wayne and Connie Spears, Dan Obrist, Chad Little's Mom, Bill Schmidt, Doug George, Rick Scribner, Dick Midgley, Jim Bown, Barry Dodson and so many, many more. There are so many of you that have helped and not enough space to list you all, but know that all your assistance over the years has been greatly appreciated.
LaDonna Motorsports feels that they have improved their program significantly. They are certain with a little help from a sponsor they could continue racing. There are new people that have volunteered to help in the pits, and with scoring. With just a little financial backing the 22 car could continue turning laps. After watching the 22 for over twenty years the Winston West Series would not be the same without it. Anyone that may have an idea to help keep this operation running may contact St James Davis at (626) 966-1146.
