Michael McDowell adds two extra events in 2009

MICHAEL McDOWELL ADDS TWO ADDITIONAL NASCAR NATIONWIDE RACES TO DRIVING SCHEDULE
McDowell to pilot No. 81 MacDonald Motorsports entry at Chicagoland and Gateway races

MOORESVILLE, NC (July 7, 2009) - In an effort to race his way into the top 10 in driver standings, NASCAR Nationwide Series driver Michael McDowell announced today that he has signed with MacDonald Motorsports to pilot the No. 81 Dodge Charger entry in the next two Nationwide Series races at Chicagoland Speedway and Gateway International Raceway. McDowell currently sits 11th in driver standings, just three points shy of 10th place.

McDowell, whose No. 47 JTG Daugherty Racing entry is in search of additional sponsorship funding to return to the race track, is also looking to get MacDonald Motorsports into the top 20 in ownership points.

"It's a win-win situation for both of us," said McDowell, a 24-year-old native of Phoenix, Ariz. "While JTG seeks the funding to continue our strong season, I hope to deliver great results for MacDonald Motorsports and give the No. 81 team a boost into the top 20."

McDowell brings NASCAR Sprint Cup experience to MacDonald Motorsports, earning six Rookie of the Race honors in 20 starts during the 2008 season. The 2007 ARCA RE/MAX Series Rookie of the Year quickly rose through the NASCAR ranks after getting his start in open-wheel racing, which included the 2004 Star Mazda Series championship and a stint on the now-defunct Champ Car World Series.

After 17 Nationwide starts in 2009, McDowell's season highlights include 11 top 15 finishes in the No. 47 car, which include three finishes in the top 10. His best finish is sixth at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

-credit: www.macdonaldmotorsports.com.