NASCAR Cup

Phoenix: Joe Nemechek preview

With An Added Incentive, Nemechek Looking to Hit Full Stride in Phoenix PHOENIX (April 18, 2006) -- As the driver of the No. 01 U.S. Army Chevrolet, Saturday evening's Nextel Cup race at Phoenix International Raceway takes on a special meaning ...

Published: Apr 19, 2006, 10:12 PM

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With An Added Incentive, Nemechek Looking to Hit Full Stride in Phoenix

PHOENIX (April 18, 2006) -- As the driver of the No. 01 U.S. Army Chevrolet, Saturday evening's Nextel Cup race at Phoenix International Raceway takes on a special meaning for Joe Nemechek.

Billed as "Salute to Military Families", Nemechek knows the significance of the race and making soldiers and their families proud of the 01 Army car.

"Every race is special, and with this weekend's event focused on the military families it makes it even more special for me," offered Nemechek. "We take great pride in what our soldiers do for our freedom, and yet, we can never overlook the sacrifices of the soldiers' families. I want to run up front and have all of the soldiers and their families cheering for their 01 Army Chevy."

Though he doesn't need it, the added incentive is welcomed by Nemechek, who is looking for a breakthrough race at the eighth Nextel Cup event of the season.

"We haven't hit full stride and it's time to get into gear," said Nemechek. "Everyone is working closely together to get us on the right path. We've run well at Phoenix in the past and I have a good feeling about this weekend."

At last year's spring race at Phoenix, Nemechek finished 10th, but ran as high as second before a pit-road glitch shoved him to the back of the field.

"We know what it takes to be competitive at Phoenix," noted Nemechek. "It's just a matter of putting it all together and avoiding mistakes and accidents."

Nemechek, who finished the 2005 season 16th in the driver point standings, is currently 25th. At the same time last year (after seven races), he was 26th in points.

"If we can get the performances that I am anticipating in the coming weeks, we should take a good jump in the standings," said Nemechek, who has been running at the finish in 39 consecutive races.

-mb2m

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