Source: Tim Thurein/JR Patton Racing
Date: 06/12/2003

TUCSON, Arizona -- To say Featherlite Southwest Series driver JR Patton had a good weekend at Irwindale Speedway would be an understatement. The day started off right running at the top of the speed charts in practice. He then won the Bud Pole Award with a lap of 98.820 mph. After starting sixth due to the invert, Patton was able to pass cars and stay out of trouble to finish third. With such a great finish, he moved into first place in the Victory Circle Chassis Rookie of the Year Award point standings.

Ninth in overall points also had the team excited. "We have seen so much growth in JR's abilities," described Cummins. "To be nineteen years old and running up front shows how much talent this kid really has."

The team would like to credit Las Cruces Motorsports, Patrick's Motorsports, and Koerner Racing Engines for the successful weekend. A special thanks goes out to crew chiefs Ted Cummins and Scott Brandt for their tireless efforts on and off the track. "Associating yourself with hard-working people that have the same goals is key to running up front," stated Patton. "The team has worked so hard to put us into position to win races and I think we're there now."

Infineon Raceway is next on the schedule and is a very demanding track. Mechanical problems last year kept JR from making the show, but the team has vowed not to disappoint their driver this year. "Many things have changed since last year," mentioned Cummins. "Having Scott there this year will allow JR to consult him on braking and shifting points."

The New Mexico State student is still seeking sponsorship for the remainder of the year and will not be able to finish the year without it. For anyone interested in contributing to the team, please contact Dennis Patton at (505) 644-5980 or visit www.JRPattonRacing.com for further details.

See Also .:

• JR Patton Driver Card

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