BUSCH: RWI Racing changes crew chief

(MOORESVILLE, N.C.) -- RWI Racing, Inc. announced today the release of NASCAR Busch Series crew chief, Blake Bainbridge. Bainbridge, who has worked for the team since it's inception in 2004, was released early Monday morning on amicable terms.

"Blake and I have parted ways on good terms," said car owner, Rusty Wallace. "He's been with me since I started this team and is a very talented crew chief; I wish him nothing but the best wherever he goes. The performance of this race team just isn't where it needs to be right now."

"We feel like this team has the best facilities, engines, crew members and equipment to perform on a championship level. My sponsors deserve better than the way this team has been performing, and I think this will be a step in the right direction."

Steve Darne, the team's current car chief, will serve as interim crew chief starting with the Food City 250 this Friday night with Jamie McMurray behind the wheel of the No. 64 Top-Flite Dodge.

"We've got a wonderful guy in Steve Darne to lead this team until we find a replacement," said Wallace. "I want to take my time in finding the right guy to take this team into the future."

RWI Racing, Inc. is competing in its first full-year on the NASCAR Busch Series schedule in 2005. After competing in only 17 races during the 2004 season, the team won its first victory at Darlington Raceway with current NEXTEL Cup Series driver, Jamie McMurray. By the end of the 2004 season, the team had posted one win, three top-five's and six top-10 finishes. In 2005 the team has had a series of NEXTEL Cup Series stars behind the wheel of the No. 64 Dodge including, Jeremy Mayfield, Jamie McMurray, Bill Elliott and car owner, Rusty Wallace.

-rwi-