Kevin Harvick leads the Busch Series standings by 619 points. Credit: Autostock

Coast Guard will not return to RCR in 2007

WELCOME, N.C. -- The United States Coast Guard will not return in 2007 as the primary sponsor of Richard Childress Racing's No. 21 Chevrolet in the Busch Series.

Budget restructuring allocated the proposed funding for the team sponsorship to other areas of the Coast Guard.

"It's been an honor for RCR to have the Coast Guard sponsor the No. 21 team Busch team this season," said Richard Childress, president and CEO. "We have been fortunate to spend some time with the brave men and women of the Coast Guard who are serving their country by keeping its maritime borders safe.

"While we hoped they would return in 2007, we understand the Coast Guard's decision and will do all we can to win them the NASCAR Busch Series championship."

Team Coast Guard, with drivers Kevin Harvick and Jeff Burton, currently leads the Busch Series point standings with seven wins (six with Harvick, one with Burton), 19 top-five finishes and 25 top-10s in 28 races.

Harvick has a 619-point lead in the driver standings with seven races remaining and is on track to have the largest season-ending point lead in series history.

"Richard Childress Racing has been a terrific partner. They have represented the Coast Guard extremely well both on and off the track, with numerous promotional events and an unprecedented level of success in the Busch Series this year," said Adm. Thad W. Allen, U.S. Coast Guard Commandant.

"We thank Richard, Kevin and Jeff for all they've done to raise the awareness of the Coast Guard with the legions of NASCAR fans everywhere. I congratulate the entire organization for what has truly been an unforgettable year."