Harrisburg, NC (April 9, 2008): He’s proved himself on dirt and now he’s ready to do it in NASCAR.
Austin Dillon will make his series debut in the NASCAR Camping World Series East two weeks from now when the season gets underway at Greenville-Pickens Speedway. The 17-year old, who will be piloting the #3 Garage Equipment Supply Chevrolet’s fielded by ASM Motorsports, couldn’t be more pleased with the venue – having posted nearly a handful of top-10 finishes at the historic ½-mile oval.
“I have a bunch of laps at Greenville and I’m glad it’s the first race of the season,” he admitted. “I feel pretty comfortable there so I can concentrate more on the car rather than the track.”
Dillon is the newest driver to work with famed car owner Andy Santerre. Dillon is the grandson of Richard Childress and son of former NASCAR Busch Series driver Mike and Tina Dillon. Santerre has been keeping the young driver busy with two test sessions already completed at Greenville. A third is in the works.
“I think he’s going to do real well. I think the main thing is to keep him focused on finishing the race. He was as fast as anybody that’s been there while we were testing so I’m pretty confident,” Santerre said. “Greenville is a tough place because its hard to pass, but race setup-wise we’re going to be better than we’ve ever been.”
Dillon only got five laps in during his second test session at Greenville. A right front sway bar bolt broke in the car and caused Dillon to wreck.
“The first session went really well and the few laps we got in on the second day were pretty good too,” Dillon said before continuing on about his expectations for the season opener. “I would be pleased with a top-10 in the race, but I’d really like to win it.”
An American Revolution 150 presented by Kevin Whitaker Chevrolet will take the green flag on Saturday, April 19th at 8 PM. Fans can meet Dillon during the on track Meet & Greet one hour before the race.