The Buzz: Nov. 14, 2001
November 14, 2001
3:23 PM EST (2023 GMT)
GORDON TO KEEP NO. 31 RIDE?
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Robby Gordon
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If anyone needed another clue as to who's going to drive Richard Childress Racing's third car during Speedweeks 2002 at Daytona next February, RCR presented its latest hint on Tuesday when Robby Gordon arrived at Daytona International Speedway to share a pair of Chevrolet Monte Carlos with 2002 teammate Kevin Harvick.
Jeff Green's No. 30 America Online transporter unloaded the two cars, one a brand new version and the other a car used at the recent EA Sports 500 at Talladega, Monday at the 2.5-mile speedway.
A group of RCR crewmen including general manager Bobby Hutchens, Green's crew chief Todd Berrier and engine specialist Danny Lawrence worked a full day of testing with Harvick, using the newly-mandated 2002 aero regulations. Rain on Tuesday limited the team's running time.
RCR is expected to announce Gordon as the driver of its No. 31 Cingular Chevrolet this weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
KERRY EARNHARDT LOOKS AT BUSCH SERIES
Kerry Earnhardt may have a full-time ride in the Busch Series next year. The No. 8 Chevrolet owned by Armando Fitz had enough people in the driver's seat this season to fill a late-night talk show guest list for a week.
Starting next year, the ride will be starring the oldest son of the late Dale Earnhardt. It is believed that DEI will do the fabrication and hang bodies on the car, but Fitz will maintain the overall servicing and building of the cars.
Earnhardt made three starts in the Busch Series this year and also competed in ARCA, winning two races in that division.
WHO IS IN THE NO. 2 TRUCK?
Ultra Motorsports owner Jim Smith has been very tight-lipped about who is going to fill the vacancy of his No. 2 Dodge in the Craftsman Truck Series next year. Garage talk has included Ron Hornaday and Jason Leffler taking over for Scott Riggs. Riggs is moving to the Busch Series No. 10 Ford being departed by Jeff Green for the No. 31 Chevrolet in Winston Cup.
As of now, Smith said the deal is done, but isn't saying anything about it. With multiple press conferences at Atlanta this weekend, the Silly Season picture could be clearing up. Leffler's future will be solidified by the Chip Ganassi Racing driver announcement scheduled for Friday regarding the No. 01 Dodge currently being driven by Leffler. If Leffler were to be let go, his new home could be with Ultra. Stay tuned.
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