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MRM Media
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (October 21) - The wait is finally over. After a disappointing second place finish in the 2007 Advance Auto Parts Thunder Series championship, Rick Rogers can finally be called series champion in 2008.
Rogers wrapped up the title Sunday evening in the series finale at Mountain Raceway Park & Fairgrounds in Maryville, Tennessee. All Rogers had to do was complete one green flag lap to secure the title. Once the first lap was in the books, the title was in hand for Rogers and the BKW race team.
The title drive was based on consistency and total performance. Rogers won two series races in 2008 and also had 5 second place finishes in 18 races with the Advance Auto Parts Thunder Series. Rogers also had 3 third place finishes and only finished outside of the top 10 twice, the first two races of the season.
"We've been building our program for this," Rogers said. "We should have won it last year. We worked even harder this year and it paid off. I can't think everyone enough for their support this season."
Rogers' series clinching run took place during the Buddy Rogers Memorial 44, a race named after his late father who passed away almost three weeks ago. An emotional Rogers drove his father's last racecar around the track during the national anthem.
"I almost didn't get through that," Rogers said. "It was pretty tough. We had a lot of people work on the car to get it ready so we could bring it out here."
Despite the emotion, Rogers still found room to celebrate his championship following the Buddy Rogers Memorial 44.
"I have to think my best friend, Bill Webb, and his wife, Karen, for everything they have done," Rogers said. "Without them, I couldn't be racing today. They have provided us with good equipment. I also have to thank Sanford Goddard with Warrior Race Cars for building such great cars. I wouldn't be here now without their help."
Rogers' #44 Warrior is sponsored by BKW Disaster Recovery, Greeneville Forest Products, Goddard Performance, West Haven Speed Equipment, Deep South Speedway, MRM Racing Photos, and Fast Lane Graphics. The car is powered by Vic Hill Racing Engines. Fans can visit Rogers' web site at www.RickRogersRacing.com to view photos, order merchandise, and learn more about the Rick Rogers race team.
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