BUSCH: Petree joins Michael Waltrip Racing

Sherrills Ford, N.C. (Aug. 27) -- Andy Petree, former car owner and championship crew chief, joins Michael Waltrip Racing, Inc. (MWR) effective in Bristol, Tenn., this weekend.

"In an effort to continuously improve our race cars," car owner Michael Waltrip explained, "we've turned to a man whose knowledge of NASCAR has carried him to the pinnacle of stock car racing. Andy's experience will help us assess and grow our existing Busch and Cup programs. Aaron's Sales and Lease Ownership is a great sponsor and we have to win for them.

"In general, Andy has become a part of Michael Waltrip Racing to help move us forward. Performance has been respectable overall, but we are not up to par with the teams consistently winning races. While spending time at the race shop, evaluating our equipment and getting to know the team members, Andy will also serve as the acting crew chief on the weekends."

"Michael needs help and I am available," Petree said. "I am going to hang out with these guys for a while and see what we can accomplish. Michael has a great organization in place, so I am here to simply give my opinion and see where I can be beneficial to his teams."

Petree began his racing career working with friend Johnny Newsome with Dale Jarrett as their driver. In 1982, Petree went to work for Leo Jackson Motorsports as a mechanic and became crew chief for Harry Grant in 1989 winning nine races including four in a row for Gant earning him the name "Mr. September."

Eager for a new challenge, Petree became Dale Earnhardt's crew chief in 1993. Petree and Earnhardt went on to win fifteen races together along with consecutive NASCAR Winston Cup Championships in 1993 and 1994 (and just 34 points shy of a third in 1995).

At the end of the 1995 season, Petree returned to Leo Jackson Motorsports as crew chief. He eventually became the owner of the ream when Leo Jackson retired.

In 1996, Andy Petree Racing was formed and has evolved as a NASCAR success story based on hard work, vision, and dedication to the team's growth and competitive development.

PETREE CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

* One of the original owners of DAJ Racing with partner Dale Jarrett

* Became crew chief of Leo Jackson Motorsports at the age of 28

* Purchased Leo Jackson Motorsports on October 1, 1996

* Finished 10th in 1997 car owner points in his first full season as car owner

* Became a multi-team car owner with the addition of Kenny Wallace as driver of the #55 Square D Chevrolet

* Winnings exceed $23 million as crew chief and car owner

* 1st win as an owner came on April 22, 2001

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