A.J. Foyt IV to Race the Great Clips Dodge

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (October 8, 2005) - Akins Motorsports owner Doug Stringer named Anthony Joseph Foyt IV, as the driver of the No. 38 Great Clips Dodge for the last four races of 2005 and the entire 2006 NASCAR Busch Series season.

“I’m thankful for the opportunity to drive the No. 38 Great Clips Dodge,” said Foyt. “I’m thrilled that I have the opportunity to associate myself with a team such as Akins Motorsports. I’m hoping that the last four races this season will help me get dialed in for a full season next year.

“I tested with Akins Motorsports in Memphis a few weeks ago and everything went really well. With the support of Great Clips and Evernham Engines, we should be a strong contender for rookie- of-the-year.”

Foyt, the grandson of legendary racer A.J. Foyt, began his racing career at age nine in junior dragsters and by the age of 21, has already compiled an impressive list of accolades. Foyt IV, is currently in his third year of competition in the IRL IndyCar Series. In 2005, running a limited schedule, he has posted two top-10 finishes.

Prior to joining the IRL, Foyt captured the Inaugural IRL Infiniti Pros Series championship in 2002, winning four races and four poles. In 2001, the Hockley, Texas native added the southwest regional championship in the SCCA Formula Continental Series and rookie-of-the-year title to his resume, claiming six victories in nine starts.

“I’m thrilled that we have the opportunity to align ourselves with a talented rookie such as A.J.,” said Stringer. “With Great Clips on board for another season and backing from Evernham Motorsports that will bring engineering support along with a strong motor program, the elements are in place for a highly competitive season next year.”

Kasey Kahne will compete in his last race for Great Clips at Lowe’s Motor Speedway on October 14. Foyt’s first NASCAR Busch Series event will be the Sam’s Town 250 at Memphis Motorsports Park on October 22.