Julien Penaruiz Brings International Flavor To Salem Speedway

Topics:  Julien Penaruiz, Eddie Gilstrap Motors ARCA Fall Classic

Chris Knight
K&B Motorsports
September 12, 2007

SALEM, Indiana (September 12, 2007) - - With a taste of competing on tracks one-mile or longer in length, ARCA RE/MAX Series rookie Julien Penaruiz is preparing for another challenge this weekend, Salem Speedway.

For the second straight Eddie Gilstrap Motors ARCA Fall Classic by Advance Auto Parts, the track will be invaded by international flavor. Last September, Venezuelan Alex Garcia posted a top-20 finish in his ARCA RE/MAX Series debut.

Now, it’s France ’s turn.

Driving the No. 93 for K&B Motorsports, Paris France ’s Penaruiz is ready to tackle one of the biggest challenges of his career, the intimidating half-mile bullring.

The team is also hoping to rebound from a disappointing weekend at Chicagoland which saw the team load up and head home early after a problem with the compression of the team’s engine.

“We need some redemption after our troubles from last week,” said Penaruiz. “We are trying to make a positive name for ourselves in the ARCA RE/MAX Series. We’ll continue that motion this weekend at Salem Speedway. I’m excited about the chance to compete on a track like Salem . I’ve heard a lot about it. It sounds like a lot of fun.”

Despite not having the pleasure of meeting the track face-to-face, Penaruiz isn’t worried about his lack of experience, but instead he is banking on his K&B team for support and guidance.

“In racing you have to be surrounded by good people. David Boggs, my crew chief has done everything in his power to put me on the track. We’re still learning each other, but we’re making outstanding progress. This weekend will be another challenge for us, but we’re raising the bar and I think we’ll be able to accomplish all of our goals.”

When asked in details about what those goals will be Penaruiz paused, then replied.

“Finish the race. Complete all 200 laps. Unfortunately, our practice isn’t very long, but I plan to utilize every second of it. I want to use the session to familiarize myself with the track. It looks like it’s going to be more than a full field, so in order for us to keep out of trouble, I think it’s imperative to start near the front. I know we can do that. Staying focused and on track is the objective during the race. I’m not necessarily concerned about the finish, I hope it’s within in the top-20, but I want to conquer the track in my own way. This is a big test for me and I look forward to making the best out of it,” said Penaruiz, nicknamed “Frenchie” by members of his K&B Motorsports team.

Red Oil Jeans and Catchit Cam will continue to hold the primary sponsorship duties on the team’s No. 93 entry this weekend.

“Our sponsors are pleased with our progress but as a driver and spokesperson, there’s always room for improvement,” remarked the former Campus Series veteran. “Everything is progressing smoothly in Red Oil’s transition from France to the United States . I think the consumers are going to be extremely impressed with the types of clothing they are bringing. It’s going to sell.”

Following Salem , Penaruiz is expected to join many of his fellow colleagues at Talladega Superspeedway on September 25 for an eight-hour open test session at the 2.666-mile facility in preparation for next month’s ARCA RE/MAX 250 on October 5, the final superspeedway event of the 2007 season.

“The differences between Salem and Talladega will be night and day,” explained the 30-year old rookie. “That’s not a bad thing though. I’m looking forward to the pros and cons of both tracks. I’m excited about Salem Speedway, but I’m equally excited about the opportunity to test and race at Talladega Superspeedway. The next couple of weeks will be a lot of fun.”

The Eddie Gilstrap Motors ARCA Fall Classic by Advance Auto Parts (200 laps/110 miles) is the 21st of 23 races on the 2007 ARCA RE/MAX Series schedule. The 79th ARCA race held at Salem Speedway is a one-day show. Practice begins Saturday, September 15 with an hour and a half practice session planned from 1:30-2:35pm. ARCA SIM Factory pole qualifying is set for later in the day at 4:00pm Local Time. The event will take the green flag shortly after 7:15pm Local Time. The race will not be televised but additional race coverage is available online at arcaracing.com.

For more information on Red Oil Jeans, please visit redoil-group.com

MEDIA CONTACT:
NAME: Chris Knight, K&B Motorsports
PHONE: 239.834.9797
EMAIL: knight849@aol.com