Hofmann Racing Releases Jimbo Ermalovich

(August 11, 1999) Al Hofmann has released Jimbo Ermalovich as crew chief of the Hofmann Racing Pontiac Firebird Funny Car. Ermalovich had served as crew chief in the Hofmann camp since 1997. "Our goal at the beginning of the year was to contend for the Winston championship," Hofmann said. "Unfortunately we've struggled this season to be competitive, and although it's always difficult to do something like this, I felt like it was the best time to make the change. Jimbo put a lot of hard work and effort into this team and I will always appreciate that. "This will give us time reevaluate our program, rebuild for 2000 and make a run at the title next season. We would still like to win a race or two this year and get back into the top-10 in the points chase. I'm confident that we will do that." During the last two races, Jim Dunn has provided technical advice for the Hofmann Racing team. Hofmann still plans to use Dunn as a technical advisor, but will also use current crew member Andy Neering as interim crew chief with Hofmann also contributing to the tune up of the race car. Hofmann has been a competitor on the NHRA Funny Car tour since 1979. During the last 11 race seasons, the 51 year-old Umatilla, Fla., resident has chalked up 15 career wins in 31 final rounds, with his last victory coming last October at the Pennzoil Nationals in Memphis, Tenn. His best season was in 1995 when he finished second in the Winston points standings and won five national events. He has finished third twice (1992, 1994), in the top-five five times, and in the top-10 seven times including last year's ninth-place performance.