The Wheeler Company news 2009-03-31

H.A. "Humpy" Wheeler and The Wheeler Company Sign Young Race Car Driver Jordan Anderson as Client; Driver Endorsement a First for Wheeler and His Company

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - March 26, 2009 - The Wheeler Company, founded by promotions legend and former president of Speedway Motorsports, Inc., H.A. "Humpy" Wheeler, today announced its endorsement of 17-year-old, up-and-coming race car driver Jordan Anderson of Forest Acres, S.C. The news comes on the eve of Anderson's first 2009 race taking place this weekend at the Carolina Speedway.

"I know what it takes to succeed in the world of NASCAR, and believe Jordan has what it takes to make it to the Cup Series by his 21st birthday, which is our goal," said Wheeler. "You'll be hearing more and more about this young man as his star continues to rise. He is the complete package: driving ability, maturity, determination, personality and character...and he does it all from getting his own sponsorships to towing his own car."

While the endorsement is new, Wheeler has known and unofficially mentored Anderson for more than four years. Anderson's early success, winning the 2007 and 2008 Summer Shootout Legends Car Pro Division, first caught Wheeler's attention. That on track performance, combined with his ability to finance his own racing program since age 10 by securing sponsorships from local organizations and businesses were all contributing factors to Wheeler and his company's decision to represent the young driver. Anderson's sponsors currently include Dick Dyer Toyota, Leon Jones Insurance, Green Orthodontics, Cedar Creek Performance, and the City of Forest Acres, his hometown.

"I am humbled that Mr. Wheeler and his team have such faith and interest in my development and success," said Anderson. "I know their counsel will help take my racing career to new heights but I understand I am still responsible for winning races, generating sponsorship, and seeing that sponsors get value for their investments."

Wheeler has an immeasurable background in motorsports and is a member of nine Halls of Fame including the International Motorsports Hall of Fame. He has successfully operated short tracks; served as Director of Racing for Firestone Tire and Rubber Company; for 33 years was President and General Manager of Lowe's Motor Speedway as well as President of Speedway Motorsports Inc., the first motorsports company listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

Wheeler's expertise in identifying and promoting young talent is second to none. He has worked to get rides, build brands and get publicity for some of the best NASCAR drivers including Dale Earnhardt, Sr., Jeff Gordon, Kyle and Kurt Busch, Tim Richmond, Alan Kulwicki, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., David Ragan and numerous others.

The Wheeler Company is a management consulting firm focused on professional sports, motorsports and general business. H.A. "Humpy" Wheeler serves as chairman and his son Howard III (Trip) is president. The company collaborates with Wheeler Television that specializes in unique racing for TV. It also works with major drivers, tracks, sanctioning bodies and companies involved in racing.

-credit: twc