Atlanta Ernie Irvan to Make Final Lap

Retired "M&M's" Racing Team Driver Ernie Irvan To Make Final Lap At Atlanta Motor Speedway

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Retired Winston Cup driver Ernie Irvan will get a chance to make his final lap around a Winston Cup race track...this time on his own terms. Irvan, who retired from Winston Cup racing on September 3, 1999, will make one lap around Atlanta Motor Speedway driving a Pontiac Grand Prix pace car painted to match the Millenium-themed No. 36 Pontiac that will compete in Sunday's event.

Irvan will make his lap following driver introductions for Sunday's NAPA 500. Irvan's wife Kim and their two children, Jordan and Jared, will be on hand for his final 1.54-mile trip.

"Most drivers get to plan their retirement tour, but I didn't get that chance," said Irvan. "Retirement hasn't been easy, but it has been busy. Now Atlanta Motor Speedway and "M&M's" are giving me the chance to make one final lap as a way to salute my fans and fellow competitors. I really appreciate the support I've gotten from my fans and fellow competitors.

"Everyone in the racing community has been great for the past few months and this is another way for me to say thanks for all the well wishes, cards and letters."

Irvan's retirement followed a crash at Michigan Speedway on August 20, five years to the day after a crash that left him with only a 10 percent chance of survival. Irvan beat the doctor's odds, going on to win three more races to bring his career win total to 15. Irvan, named one of NASCAR's 50 Greatest Drivers, left the sport with 22 pole positions, 68 top fives and 124 top-10 finishes in 313 career start