Martin, U.S. Army Team Finish 21st in Richmond

By U.S. Army RacingSeptember 10, 2007

RICHMOND, Va. (Army News Service, Sept. 10, 2007) - Mark Martin finished 21st in Saturday night's Chevy Rock & Roll 400 at Richmond International Raceway. Mr. Martin and the U.S. Army team struggled early and couldn't find the proper rhythm in the Nextel Cup event.

"I'm proud of this U.S. Army team," said Mr. Martin. "We had a tough night, but they hung in there to the end. The track was a lot different than it was in practice on Friday, and we just never could get the car rolling like we needed."

Mr. Martin started 19th and had handling issues from the opening of the race. The Army crew made adjustments to the car during the 300-mile event, but was unable to find the necessary blend of speed and handling.

Though the Army Chevy moved into the top 15 after the race's ninth caution on lap 262 of 400, it couldn't maintain the position on the .75-mile circuit.

"The guys did an excellent job in the pits all night, and we were able to get the best finish we could," added Martin. "This team will continue to work hard during the final 10 races and we look forward to bringing home some solid finishes for our Soldiers."

Mr. Martin will step out of the car next week, before returning to action Sept. 23 in Dover, Del. Regan Smith will take the steering wheel of the 01 Dale Earnhardt, Inc. Chevy next weekend at New Hampshire International Speedway.