G. J. Mennen Signs With Derhaag for 2000

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- G.J. Mennen, of Austin, Texas, will pilot the familiar No. 40 Chevrolet Camaro of Derhaag Motorsports for the 2000 BFGoodrich Tires Trans-Am Series. "I'm definitely excited and grateful for the opportunity that Derhaag Motorsports has presented me," said Mennen, who was runner-up for 1999 Red Line Oil Rookie of the Year honors. "Working with Jim, I believe I can continue my progress from last year and challenge for some race wins -- maybe even take a shot at the championship." Mennen comes off a roller coaster rookie season where he secured three top-five and six top-10 finishes, but suffered from mechanical gremlins at other races. Mennen also qualified in the Fast Five at three events, and posted the fastest race lap at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. "It's great to have yet another bright young star join us," said team owner Jim Derhaag. "G.J.'s raw talent has been obvious for a couple of years, but his maturity and competitiveness last season really impressed me. He's set some ambitious goals, and we'll work hard to achieve them." Prior to racing in the BFGoodrich Tires Trans-Am Series, Mennen competed for three seasons in the Barber Dodge Pro Series. Mennen is a graduate of the University of Vermont, where he earned a degree in Economics. Mennen joins Simon Gregg, the 1999 BBS Most Improved Driver, at the Derhaag stable. Derhaag's driving alumni include 1998 Red Line Oil Rookie of the Year Chris Neville, Dorsey Schroeder, Tony Ave and Darin Brassfield.

-SCCA/SCCA Pro Racing-