2008 Champion Matt Kobyluck Set To Defend Title
Matt Kobyluck, the 2008 NASCAR Camping World Series East Champion and driver of the #40 Mohegan Sun Casino Chevrolet, has enjoyed a winter of appearances, charity events, and parades in which his accomplishments of the last season were honored. But the 39-year-old driver is anxious to get back behind the wheel and defend his title on the racetrack.
“I always look forward to getting back on the track,” said Kobyluck. “I’ve really enjoyed my winter. It almost felt like the race season never ended because we were so busy, and with the Showdown win, it was just a fantastic year. I’m hoping that we, as a team, get to experience it all over again come the fall.”
The NASCAR Camping World Series East opener is fast approaching and Kobyluck’s team, led by crew chief Perry Waite, is ready to right last years performance at Greenville-Pickens Speedway. A flat tire forced the team to pit under green flag conditions, and on a tight ½-mile oval, a pit stop spells disaster. The team left there with a 23rd place finish.
“You can’t control flat tires and not getting the opportunity to get your lap back,” said Kobyluck. “It wasn’t that we didn’t have a competitive car, but unfortunately we were two laps down. We’re hoping for a better finish this year. I know we’ll be prepared and be ready to win.”
Kobyluck was able to make up the difference from the 2008 opener with a series leading four wins throughout the season, but with only eleven races on the schedule this year, every venue will have a significant impact on the point battle. Mohegan Sun Racing doesn’t want one bad race to put them into catch-up mode. Their goal for Greenville is simple: win it.
“We’re going for the win, but we’ll settle for a top-five considering our past finishes there. Patience and tire conversation are so important at Greenville. The tires go away so quick and if that happens you struggle all night. You have to save what you can for the end so you don’t have play catch-up.”
The NASCAR Home Tracks 150 presented by Kevin Whitaker Chevrolet at takes place Saturday, April 11th with qualifying at 5 and the green flag at 8. The SPEED Channel will broadcast the race on Thursday, April 16th. Check your local listings for specific times.