BAM Racing solidifies 2007 plans
Bliss, a Milwaukie, Ore. native, has built an impressive resume across NASCAR’s three elite divisions. He has captured wins in both the former Busch Series and Craftsman Truck Series, including a championship title. He last competed in the Nextel Cup Series on a full-time basis in 2005. That season, he earned five top-10 and 10 top-15 starts with a total of two top-10 and nine top-15 finishes.
Bliss joined BAM Racing toward the end of last season amidst restructuring efforts for the team. In just seven attempted starts with BAM Racing, he qualified on time for six events with an average starting position of 27.0 and an average finish of 32.8. He garnered attention in Atlanta and Charlotte by nearly capturing top-10 finishes in both events.
“I welcome the opportunity to build upon the success we achieved as a team at the end of last season," said Bliss. “I am looking forward to competing full-time in the Nextel Cup Series again and have high expectations for both myself and the BAM Racing organization."
With the anticipated increase in the number of teams in the Nextel Cup Series coupled with tighter competition, BAM Racing has opted to utilize Evernham Engines in 2007. After a successful relationship with Arrington Engines, the move provides additional research and support for the team.
“We value the relationship we have built over the past four years with Arrington Engines," commented team general manger Eddie Jones. “We realize that we could not have achieved the place we hold in this sport without Joey Arrington. The move to Evernham Engines provides our team with race engines as well as the resources of Evernham Motorsports. Both elements are invaluable to a single-car team in NASCAR racing today."
Veteran crew chief Lee McCall brings the wisdom and insight of over 20 years in motorsports to BAM Racing. McCall comes to BAM Racing from Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates after years with the organization. Most notably, he served as crew chief for Sterling Marlin for over three seasons with the team contending for the championship title in 2002.
“I look forward to working with Mike Bliss and BAM Racing this season," commented McCall. “There are certainly challenges facing single-car teams in our sport today. However, with hard work and determination, great rewards are possible."
“Last season, our team learned what it takes to compete at this level," said team owner Beth Ann Morgenthau. “Amidst the obstacles we faced, BAM Racing was supported by motivated and talented people including our driver, crew members, employees and sponsors like WhatsOnline.com. With the return of Mike Bliss, and the guidance and insight of Lee McCall, we are fully prepared to have our best season ever in 2007."