Pocono: Sterling Marlin preview

Marlin Due for Problem-Free Race at Pocono

LONG POND, Pa. (June 6, 2007)-- Driving the No. 14 Pep Boys Chevrolet, Sterling Marlin will be looking for a reversal in Sunday's Nextel Cup event at Pocono Raceway.In both of his visits to the Pennsylvania track last year, the Ginn Racing driver experienced problems-- first with an engine failure (June race) and then with brake issues (July race).

"To get good finishes at Pocono, you have to have everything at its best," said Marlin, who has 16 career top 10s at the 2.5-mile tri-oval. "I've seen a lot of good runs go downhill fast there because of transmission failures, faulty batteries and engines. To be successful, not only does your race car have to be stout and the driver on top of his game, but all of the other components have to be top notch too."

"Problem free races are important each week," continued Marlin, who was credited with 2nd and 30th-place finishes at Pocono after last season's issues. "But Pocono is infamous for those mechanical problems."

With its long straightaway of 3,740 feet, Pocono Raceway has a history of chewing up brakes in Nextel Cup events. That, coupled with transmission and engine problems, can make for a long day.

"We had good race cars last year," noted Marlin. "We were passing people, but when the engine broke and the brake problem hit, that pretty much halted our move to the front. The two Pocono races last year were awfully frustrating-- hopefully we can turn things around this trip."

Marlin is coming off a 16th-place run in Monday's rain-delayed Cup event at Dover International Speedway, his third top-20 finish in the last five races.

"Top 20s aren't what we're aiming for each week, but consistency is a step in the right direction," said Marlin. "I expect our Pep Boys Chevy to be quick off the truck. I have a feeling that things will work out for us differently this time around at Pocono."

-credit: gr