Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Ballew Merges With Vision Aviation Racing

Billy Ballew Motorsports has merged with Vision Aviation Racing, with the new combined operation continuing to field the #15 and #51 Toyotas in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series.

The team will compete under the Vision Aviation Racing banner, using the trucks, equipment and resources previously run by Billy Ballew Motorsports. Super Late Model and K&N Pro Series West drivers Justin Johnson and Dusty Davis will drive for the team this season, with continued factory support from Toyota.

Ballew commented on the move, saying, “Partnering with a winning and committed team like Vision Aviation Racing was a great way to keep the Billy Ballew Motorsports brand alive in the series. We've worked diligently since the season ended with Tom Davis and his organization to make this happen. Vision Aviation Racing is well positioned to be a top contender and continue the winning tradition of Billy Ballew Motorsports."

Ballew won two races last season with driver Aric Almirola en route to a second-place finish in the championship standings. The team will compete out of VAR's Mooresville, NC, shop, with additional personnel still to be announced.

Ballew told Sirius NASCAR Radio’s Sirius Speedway with Dave Moody that he will play a major role in the operation of the newly merged team. “I’m going to be very involved in the operation for at least the next 12 months,” he said. “I am also exploring a couple of options in the Sprint Cup Series for next year. I’m not going away.”

Ballew said 2010 sponsorship struggles played a major role in his decision to merge operations. “I needed help,” he said. “From a financial standpoint, I couldn’t continue to do it on my own. (A merger) seemed to be the best way to ensure that we continue on in the Truck Series. The biggest part of the puzzle was finalized last night, and we’ll take care of the minor details after the holidays.”

No comments:

Post a Comment