DeLange Racing Joins Forces with Ed Bennett Racing in 2009
The 2008 racing season has just ended. But plans for 2009 are already underway at DeLange Racing. Team owner Dave DeLange is proud to announce that his team will be working with Ed Bennett Racing in Lakewood, New Jersey to compete on the full 2009 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour schedule.
The exact Tour program won’t be finalized until the 2009 schedule is released Saturday, December 13 at the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Awards Banquet at the Mohegan Sun Resort in Uncasville, Connecticut. The initial plan is to split the season equally between the two teams with Erick Rudolph of Ransomville, New York as the driver. The partnership makes it possible for both teams to maximize their chances of winning races and give the talented teenage driver an opportunity to compete for the 2009 Tour championship.
“I met Ed Bennett early in the 2008 season,” explains DeLange. “As we got to know each other we found we have a similar approach to racing. His equipment is top-notch and his methods are very similar to our team. After the final race of the year Ed and his driver parted company. We began talking about teaming up in 2009 and we both agreed it made sense, so last weekend we closed a deal for a partnership in 2009. From a logistical viewpoint this arrangement will allow both teams to put forth a maximum effort at every race to make the most of our results. For our team it will also allow us to race locally more often and meet our commitments to our sponsors and our loyal fans. Both Ed and I see it as a win-win situation.”
Bennett is excited about the partnership as well. “As I got to know Dave DeLange, I realized we had a similar style and outlook. After my driver and I went our separate ways after the last race of 2008, Dave and I began to discuss teaming up for the 2009 season and we both saw the benefits of such an arrangement. We finalized an agreement to join forces last weekend. I have a great deal of respect for Dave and his team. I truly believe Erick Rudolph has the talent to race successfully on the NASCAR Modified Tour. I see a bright future for both teams and I’m really looking forward to next season.”
The exact 2009 listing of races for DeLange Racing will be assembled in the coming weeks as the various tracks and series release their schedules. Stay tuned for more news in the near future. Last season is behind us and now we are completely focused on an even better season next year.
Sources: Bruce Boucher/DeLange Racing PR