Michigan: Chase Austin preview

Chase Austin:

You make your 2010 season debut this weekend at Michigan. How excited are you to get back on the track?

"Very excited! I'm a racer -- it's my passion and what I love to do, so not being on the track has been incredibly difficult. I'm very thankful for this opportunity and I look forward to getting back out there and getting more seat time."

You competed in two NASCAR Camping World Truck races in 2009 and ran very respectable in those two appearances. Why do you think this Series is such a gateway for up-and-coming drivers?

"The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series is perfect for young drivers. It's very competitive and you see exciting racing, because you have NASCAR veterans mixing it up with young drivers who are hungry to show their talents."

Parents always sacrifice for their children, as yours have done to make sure you never went hungry, along with chasing your dreams. What does it mean to you to be supporting such a noble cause as the Forgotten Harvest and the Million Meal Challenge for the Kids?

"It's an honor to be representing such a gracious organization as Forgotten Harvest. What they do in the Detroit Metro area is remarkable and a blessing to so many. Their program, the Million Meal Challenge for the Kids, just shows their strong commitment to making sure all children get the chance to chase their own dreams."

What are some of the challenges about racing at Michigan International Speedway?

"This weekend will be my first opportunity to compete at Michigan and I'm eager for Friday to get here so I can get on the track for some laps during practice. I have raced at Fontana, which is similar. I expect fast straight-aways and long sweeping turns."

Fun Fact: What is your favorite music and favorite musician?

"I like listening to Hip-Hop and I guess I would consider Eminem my favorite musician."

-source: team gill racing