Pontiac Excitement 400 - Bobby Labonte Notes

LABONTE SAYS RICHMOND OWES HIM ONE THIS YEAR

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. (April 29, 2003) - A year ago Bobby Labonte was in the midst of what would become his most disappointing season since joining the NASCAR Winston Cup Series in 1993. On his way to finishing 16th in the final point standings, Labonte came to Richmond Raceway twice and unfortunately finished 32nd in both events. Something he is not very proud of and is not planning on repeating in 2003.

"We couldn't buy a break anywhere last year, but Richmond was a real disappointment for us," admitted Labonte. "We had good runs going and were running in the top-10 when we experienced problems in both the spring and fall events there. So I do think the track owes me a little something. I know we can be good there and I really like racing at Richmond, so I am looking forward to getting back up there this weekend."

When asked what his favorite track is on the NASCAR Winston Cup circuit is, Bobby Labonte is usually quick to point out that Michigan Speedway holds a special place in his heart. Yet if you spend any length of time with him, he will also admit that Richmond Raceway is as fun as any track on the circuit and always makes for good racing for not only the fans, but for the drivers as well.

"Richmond is almost a perfect racetrack in my book," said Labonte. "It's a great size in terms of the fans being able to see everything. More importantly though, you can really race on it and not worry about aero stuff too much. It comes down to a driver's abilities, the car's handling and horsepower. The things that should decide every race every weekend in my opinion."

Another thing exciting Labonte about this weekend's events in Richmond is the addition of crew chief Michael "Fatback" McSwain to the team this season. Through 10 races so far, the Labonte-McSwain combo have teamed up for one victory, two poles and five top-five finishes. While that has the entire team pumped up, Labonte is very aware of McSwain's track record at places like Richmond and can not wait to see what they are able to do in their first visit to the 0.750-mile oval together.

"He has been awesome there over the last couple years," noted Labonte. "I think he's got something like five straight top-10's or something like that. He knows what the cars need and is a great listener. I think that has been the biggest thing so far between us. I know I am probably not the best a lot of times at describing what the car might be doing, but Michael really helps get the information out of me."

"I think Martinsville was a good indication to everyone how good we can be at the short-tracks," added Labonte. "Michael is so particular about the cars and everything we are doing to them. Heck, he makes me want to try even harder inside the car. I see how hard he is working on making sure the car is right for me to drive it, it just gets me excited I guess."

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