Travis Kvapil takes over the No. 77 Dodge ride from Brendan Gaughan. Credit: Autostock

Kvapil tabbed to drive No. 77 car for Penske

MOORESVILLE, N.C. -- Penske-Jasper Racing has named Travis Kvapil driver of the No. 77 Kodak EasyShare Dodge, and he will compete for Raybestos Rookie of the Year honors in the 2005 Nextel Cup Series.

Kvapil, the 2003 Truck Series champion, succeeds Brendan Gaughan. Kvapil participated in a development program during 2004 with Penske Racing and competed in three Nextel Cup Series races.

Travis Kvapil

"Travis showed solid potential and demonstrated the skill and determination it takes to be a winner and we look forward to building on this foundation with our sponsor partners Kodak and Jasper." Roger Penske said.

"The opportunity to drive for Penske-Jasper Racing is more than a dream come true. I have been a fan of Roger Penske since I was a little kid watching Rick Mears. It's a once in a lifetime chance for a young driver and I'm excited to get that opportunity," Kvapil said. "I'm honored to represent Kodak. Their history in NASCAR racing is impressive and they are one of the longest running sponsors in the sport."

A Wisconsin native, Kvapil resides in North Carolina with his wife, Jennifer, and their two children.