Eddie Sharp Racing news 2009-07-16

ARPIN NEARS END OF DRIVING AGREEMENT WITH ESR

Steve Arpin has had a successful rookie season to date behind the wheel of the No. 20 Toyota for Eddie Sharp Racing. Although, prior to the start of the 2009 season, both Arpin and ESR circled next weekend's event at Berlin Raceway as the final race for Arpin.

"Unfortunately, Steve has been unable to secure the necessary funding for him to continue past Berlin. He's a talented racer and we wish him the best," team owner Eddie Sharp said.

With the No. 20 Toyota vacant, Eddie Sharp Racing is actively seeking a replacement driver. ESR has quickly become the hotbed of talent within the ARCA RE/MAX Series, developing the talents of Scott Speed, Michael McDowell, both who have achieved status in the NASCAR Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series. Justin Lofton, who drives the No. 6 team car, will make his NASCAR debut in August.

Speed, known for his stint in F-1 competition, now drives the No. 82 Toyota in the Sprint Cup Series. Together, Speed and Sharp scored four wins in 2008.

"Our driver development program really speaks for itself," said Sharp. "We're looking for a serious racer who can bring funding to the No. 20 and join a very strong team. "

-credit: esr