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Childress-Howard Motorsports Fields Formidable Rolex24 Team

Daytona Beach, FL – Childress-Howard Motorsports hopes to run with the leaders in the upcoming Rolex24 at Daytona. For the 47th anniversary of 24-hour race, the driving team is led by accomplished sports-car drivers Andy Wallace and Rob Finlay, NASCAR Sprint Cup star Casey Mears and IndyCar sensation Danica Patrick.

Wallace has won sports-car races all over the world and as always, he exudes confidence for the race ahead. “I can’t wait to get started,” the Brit said. “To have a ride in the race is a thrill and to have one this good is even better. I have three really good teammates, and all we have to do is to learn how to work together.” Wallace and Finlay will campaign the full season for the team.

The Crawford car is powered by a Pontiac. Although the team made its debut at Watkins Glen in August, a new chassis has been assembled for the Rolex24. The bodywork is not new, just the chassis.

“We have done a lot of work on the car,” Wallace said. “We tested here in November and we did another test at Virginia International Raceway.” A second car has been considered but it is questionable whether it comes about due to the flagging economy.

Said Patrick about her second Rolex24, “I had such a good time in 2006. With so many drivers coming together for this event, it is very special. And the camaraderie is so different from the IndyCar Series. The cars are fun to drive and the difference in doing a 24-hour race is so fresh and new to me.”

Patrick admitted she lacks sports car experience and that her IndyCar experience carries no weight. “An IndyCar goes fast, has lots of downforce and big tires, which is so different from a sports car. I will take as much advice as I can get and try to absorb as much as I can from the others. Racing is racing but I am looking forward to this one in particular.”

Looking ahead to the 2009 IndyCar Series, Patrick said she is using the Rolex24 as a warm up for the season ahead. “I will be turning my mind and muscles on for the job ahead. I am looking forward to the new season and to see who the top dog will be.

She added, “What I remember most about 2008 was my victory in Japan. I thought when I won the first one there would be more to come but that didn’t happen. But we are looking forward to winning again in 2009.”

Regarding Dario Franchitti’s return to IndyCar, she stated firmly but with a smile, “No, I am not looking forward to having him around; he’s too good.”

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