Allmendinger and Frisselle join Michael Shank Racing

Michael Shank Racing will turn to some fast and familiar faces as the Columbus-based team has inked Red Bull Racing NASCAR Sprint Cup pilot AJ Allmendinger and Daytona Prototype expert Burt Frisselle to join full-season drivers John Pew and Ian James in the No. 6 Michael Shank Racing Ford-Riley for the 2008 Rolex 24 At Daytona.

“It’s great we were able to get AJ and Burt back with us for the 24," said team owner Mike Shank. “There are a million factors that go into a good finish in this race and obviously chemistry with the drivers is a big one. We’ve seen what AJ does in these cars, and I’m happy to be racing with Burt rather than against him, so we’re looking forward to this race big time."

Allmendinger made a fast start in his first Rolex appearance, leading twenty-seven laps on the way to a strong second place finish in 2006. The California native re-joined the squad in 2007 and once again stormed to the front for twenty-seven laps before a motor issue hampered the effort.

“I love this race-the chance to go up against almost everyone in the sport and race for 24 hours, it’s just fantastic," said Allmendinger. “Mike (Shank) is a racer to the core and his team is really focused on this event. We came so close to a win in 2006 and I really want to get back on that podium to start this year off on the right foot and with a new watch!"