CREW PROFILE: Bob Mueller
In the NASCAR world, a crew member is the backbone of any team that helps a driver achieve success on the track. Often times the person leading the way behind the scenes is the crew chief. In the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, the crew chief is the person that works tirelessly behind the scenes to help his driver and team become winners.
This week’s profile features Bob Mueller, crew chief of the No. 4 “Mystic Missile” Dodge owned by Bob Garbarino and driven by Bobby Santos. The team has three wins in four races so far in 2010, and Mueller was crew chief when the team won championships in 2007 and 2009.
Bob Mueller
AGE: 56
HOMETOWN: Hilton, N.Y.
MARITAL STATUS: Wife, Beth
CHILDREN: Vicky, Kate
TEAM: Mystic Missile Racing
DRIVER: Bobby Santos
AT-TRACK JOB: Crew chief
FULL-TIME OCCUPATION: Parts and sales for Troyer Race Cars
RACING BACKGROUND: Started in racing as a Modified team crew member in 1970. Was a chassis specialist for Jan Leaty in 1996-97. Has been crew chief for Mystic Missile Racing since 2002, where he has since earned 27 wins and two championships.
MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT IN RACING: Winning the 2008 New England 100 in a photo finish, the closest finish in NASCAR history, after coming from the back through the field after pitting.
OTHER INTERESTS OR HOBBIES: Playing golf.
SOMETHING PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT ME: I’m more easy-going that it seems at the track, because at the track I’m so focused.
FAVORITE KIND OF MUSIC: Country
FAVORITE MOVIE: Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
FAVORITE FOOD: Steak
PERSONAL VEHICLE: Chevy Trailblazer
PERSON I MOST ADMIRE: Richie Evans
Sources: Jason Cunningham/NASCAR WMT PR