Kessinger Motorports Adds Third S-10

INDIANAPOLIS (Sept. 5, 1999): James Kessinger, owner of Kessinger Motorsports, announced today that Stevie Johns, former Winston Champion in Competition Eliminator and shop foreman for Bill "Grumpy" Jenkins' engine-building operation, will drive a third Kessinger Motorsports Chevy S-10 in the Pro Stock Truck category of the NHRA Winston Drag Racing Series, debuting at the Winternationals in Pomona, Calif., in February of 2000. "For me there were no other choices", stated Johns. "By far, this is the best Pro Stock Truck team out there. "I've been itching to get behind the wheel again, and I'm overjoyed to hang my driving uniform with the Kessinger group." Although it is no surprise to see Johns at NHRA events, his role while at the track in 2000 will be somewhat different. "My position at Jenkins Competition in no way will be affected by my driving a Pro Stock Truck next season", said Johns. I feel very fortunate that Bill Jenkins is allowing me the opportunity to fulfill a dream, as I have guaranteed him my role at his shop will not be hindered." Johns' responsibilities extend past building engines with Jenkins and weekend racing events. As a husband and father of two, managing time efficiently is something that Stevie has learned to master over the years. "My wife, Rose, is wonderful", said Johns, of Mountville, Pa. "She is and has always been very supportive of the time I have spent racing on weekends and at Jenkins during the week." With the arrival of Stephen Jr., barely 2 months old, and his 3 year-old little girl, Victoria, there is never a dull moment for Johns. "The time I am home, I have my hands just as full as I do when I am at the track", he said. As Johns has spent a lifetime in the racing industry, involved since he was a little boy at the dirt tracks, his knowledge and expertise impressed team owner, James Kessinger. "The Kessinger Motorsports team has seen many vital changes over the past couple weeks," stated Kessinger. "Finalizing the driving deal with Stevie for the 2000 season is the icing on the cake for us. "The team is optimistic about what is in store for us as the '99 season comes to a close, with Mark Osborne currently sitting first in Winston Points and teammate Tim Freeman residing in sixth," Kessinger continued. "Now, with the addition of Johns in a third S-10, another proven winner and top class driver, the team is just as optimistic about what the 2000 season will hold." "As my goal for the 2000 season will be what every driver out there will be going for, the Championship," said Johns, "I know that the Kessinger Motorsports team, my team, will have the baddest group of drivers, tuners and crew chiefs in the pits. That's what it will take for me to win another Championship ring next season."