SNOHOMISH, Washington -- Bill Shaw, Crew Chief for the Raybestos Brakes Northwest Series #87 Powell Awards & Engraving Pontiac, Returned home after 4 weeks working with one of NASCAR’s legendary drivers, Morgan Shepherd.
Bill has worked with Shepherd and his Victory in Jesus team on several previous occasions, the last time was for the Daytona Truck race last Feb. during Speed Weeks. In mid June, Shepherd called and asked Bill’s help, and on July 1, Bill flew to Hickory North Carolina near Charlotte.
The past month was a productive one for Shaw who acted as Crew chief for Craftsman Truck Series races at Kansas City and Kentucky as well as the Car Chief for the Winston Cup races in Loudon, NH and Pocono PA. Bill was interviewed by Speed Channel while Shepherd was leading the Race in Kentucky and during the Pre-race show in Loudon.
Shaw did not just sit back and supervise, he worked hands on, 10-14 hr days, 7 days a week preparing the Truck and Cup Car for the races and then driving the transporter to and from the tracks, he was not alone in this endeavor, Jim Eby, father of local late model driver Jack Eby, worked as Shepherds tire specialist and support vehicle driver. This was a major step up and learning experience for both.
Many useful contacts were made with drivers and crews alike, in both the Craftsman Truck and Winston Cup Series. “I’m exhausted but, I had a great time and learned a lot. I am anxious to apply some of what I learned to our Tour car,” said Shaw, “I am glad to be back on the Tour and looking forward to our next race at Pacific Raceways, in Kent WA. My knowledge and abilities are being frequently utilized. Although I enjoy being a crew chief, my first love will always be driving and I will be getting some more time behind the wheel before the end of the season."
