Nineteen year old JR Patton of Las Cruces, New Mexico has one goal on his mind and that’s to win Rookie-of-the-Year for the 2003 Featherlite Southwest Series. The well-spoken New Mexico State University student is not a stranger to Rookie-of-the-Year having won that title with the Sprint Car Owners of Arizona in 2000 and the Super Late Model division at Tucson Raceway Park in 2001. Patton qualified for a few races last year with the Southwest Tour, his best starting spot being 14th at Colorado National Speedway.
The car is once again based out of Tucson, Arizona at Patrick’s Motorsports. “Pat and Lynn Robley are two of the nicest people out there,” says Patton. “They really love the sport and we can’t thank them enough.” Las Cruces Motorsports is also back on board for 2003.
Some new additions to the team include former Featherlite competitor and teammate Scott Brandt. Brandt is excited about his new role helping JR. “This kid has a lot of talent and the team seems to blend together well,” says Brandt. Brandt will be teaming up with Ted Cummins as crew chief.
“Scott really knows his stuff and he will be a person JR can talk with about his driving style,” explains Cummins. “Scott will also bring his mechanical skills and setup knowledge with him.” Accompanying Brandt will be his long time crewmember Russell Anderson who will be a big asset to the team.
“We’ve stepped up our program this year with two new crew members, a new Port City chassis, and a new motor that should be ready in time for El Cajon,” says Patton. “Also in attendance at the track will be our motor builder Jeff Koerner. Having Jeff based out of Tucson will be vital to our success.”
High hopes and determination has JR Patton and his team looking forward to the 2003 season. “Last year was a big learning curve,” admits Cummins. “But this year, we’re ready.”
