Dave Whitlock announces retirement end of season

Whit's Race to the Finish
Whitlock Announces 2009 to be Final Season

Wyoming, ON, (Tuesday May 19, 2009): This morning, I am announcing my retirement from racing at the end of the 2009 season. It has been a difficult decision to make, but I have made it, and 2009 will be my final season on the NCATS.

I have raced in various racing series for over 25 years. Now it is time to move on and enjoy some other interests. I have had a great career with many memorable wins and championships. Most importantly, I have made numerous lifelong friends throughout my motorsports career.

First and foremost, I want to have more time with my family. Over the years, they have sacrificed many plans and activities in order for me to go racing. I want to give some of this time back. And secondly, my other business ventures have grown to the point that they require more of my attention.

I felt compelled to make this announcement prior to the start of the season. I simply wanted my family, friends, crew, sponsors and all other supporters to be aware that this will be my final season.

I would like to convey a sincere thank you to all, including my crews, fans, sponsors and the businesses that have supported me throughout my career.

A special thank you to my wife Corinne, my girls Chelsea, Carlene, Carissa, my Mom, Janet and my late father Doug, who have allowed me to pursue my passion for all these years.

2008 was not a banner year, by any means! It is my full intention to get the # 39 Dickies Dodge back up front battling for wins this year!

"It has been a pleasure and an honour to be associated with Dave and his motorsports team for the past 3 years" said Bill McFarlane, VP of Marketing for Dickies Canada. "Dave is still a young man with lots of race left in him, but we respect his decision and his commitment to his family and wish them the very best in the future". "We look forward to supporting Dave throughout the 2009 season in hopes that it will be one of the most memorable of his career".

"I am certain that there will be no shortage of well deserved accolades pouring in once word gets out that this will be Whit's last season" stated Dave Orosz, owner of Nitrex Metal Technologies (NMT). "Dave has a long history of success as both a team owner and driver, has earned the respect of all that have come to know him and has been a huge ambassador for Canadian stock car racing. He will be missed. But I fully support the choice that Dave has made and his reasons for doing so......nothing is more important than family. NMT is proud of the relationship that we have had with Dave and with all of the Whitlock Motorsports team, both personally and professionally it has been a resounding success and a great ride! And we look forward to the 2009 season set to get underway next week, our lucky 7th year with Whitlock Motorsports, and fully expect to see Whit on the podium once again".

For more information on the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series please visit www.nascar.ca

-credit: www.whitlockmotorsports.com