Martin Motorsports, of Auburn California, has announced it will be returning to Phoenix International Raceway February 2. After a successful 5th place qualifing run in October 2001, team owner, John Martin, has been preparing the car and team for the NASCAR South West Touring Series opening race. John Martin, owner of Strictly Toy-Ondas and Martin Motorsports, has moved the race team to a new location in the Sutherland Complex on Auburn Ravine Road. Strictly Toy-Ondas remains on Stadium Way, their same location of ten years.
Thomas Martin will be driving the #21 Martin Motorsports Chevy Monte Carlo. While major sponsorship is being sought, help from local businesses: American Body and Frame, Strictly Toy-Ondas, Naake Motorsports, Uptown Signs, RPM, and Carl's Concrete of Santa Rosa have make it possible to return for the season opener. In the past season, the #21 car has carried the City of Auburn logo and following September 11, the American Flag on its hood. In this race the hood will be dedicated to David Pook, who was injured during testing this month. The hood will serve as a Get Well card for other racers, team members and fans to leave thoughts and best wishes during the race weekend.
For this race, Shawn Capenter has been named Crew Chief with Dan Joiner Sr. as team consultant. Full time crew of Ralph Whitcom, Al Patrick, Ray Bateman, Tom Vukovich, Doug McGregor, and Janette Martin are looking forward to the challenge of this exciting race. When available, Ty Joiner, of Orleans Racing, assists. Team photographer, Lee Whiting, and Thom Smith, team motivational consultant will ot be able to attend this race.
