McSwain looking for to new challenges with JGR

ROCKINGHAM, N.C. -- Michael McSwain is hoping that greener pastures lie ahead for him as a crew chief -- as in Interstate Batteries green.

	Michael McSwain (center) is getting to know his new co-workers.

Earlier this week, Robert Yates Racing and McSwain parted ways after three victories and the better part of three seasons with Ricky Rudd and the No. 28 Ford team. A few hours later, Joe Gibbs Racing welcomed McSwain into the fold to crew chief for Bobby Labonte and the No. 18 Pontiac team beginning in 2003.

On Friday, McSwain walked through the garage area of North Carolina Speedway sporting the emerald green of his new team.

"It's hard to be at one of the greatest operations in the world and even think about going anywhere else," McSwain said. "But, then when an opportunity came up from the other 'greatest operation in the world,' I just looked at my future and looked at how fast can I win a championship.

"Bobby won a championship just a couple of years ago (2000) and he's young. We're about the same age. I know he wants some more (championship) rings and right now I don't have any.

"It's all about rings. It's all about trophies. That's what made me make my decision."

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With the switch, comes a whole new group of people for McSwain to guide. By coming onboard with JGR with three races left in the season, it gives McSwain a head start on what to expect before heading into battle next year.

"Originally, I didn't feel it would happen that way," McSwain said. "But, I think it's going to be beneficial when I finally do become the crew chief. I'll already know everybody's name, I'll already know everybody's attitude, I'll already know how the operation works and it should make for a smoother transition going into next year.

And, what will the toughest part be for McSwain?

"Probably learning Bobby," McSwain said. "Learning what his quirks are, what makes him tick and what makes him aggravated. And, that's true with anybody and everybody.

"But, it's especially true with him because he is the key to the whole deal."

With McSwain's departure from RYR, that leaves a crew chief opening at the No. 28 Ford team. Raymond Fox III will step up from his role as car chief to lead the team for the remainder of the season.

	The No. 18 Pontiac of Bobby Labonte has five top-five finishes this season. Credit: Autostock

Yates says he's happy for McSwain and hopeful for the future.

"He's gone to the No. 18 car and it's a good opportunity for him," Yates said. "But, I'm sure that will open up a good opportunity for someone else. I'm sure he felt that opportunity was good for him because that was his choice.

"Raymond Fox was the crew chief for us for a few races three years ago (with Kenny Irwin) and did a great job. The thing that I still feel good about is that we have great people working on the team and we're not concerned.

"We may go out and run over something and have a flat tire. But, I don't think it's because we don't have the right people."