David Stremme Will Start 34th at Darlington Raceway

May 8, 2009


DARLINGTON, S.C (May 8, 2009) – The No.12 Star Trek Dodge Charger will line up 34th for the start of the Southern 500 at the famous Darlington Raceway.

Stremme drew the eighth position to make his two-lap qualifying run at the 1.366 egg-shaped track.  He rolled onto the banked speedway running a time of 28.092 seconds.  The time was good enough to line him up on the outside of the 17th row for the start of tomorrow night’s event. 

“The car was a bit loose in both corners on the first lap which hurt our time,” commented driver David Stremme.  “We did not get loose on our mock run in practice, so I was really not expecting it.  I know we have a good car and have 500 miles to get to the front tomorrow night.

“The team showed their strength today.  [Crew chief] Roy [McCauley] and all the guys on this No.12 Star Trek Dodge team worked extremely hard. We got into the wall early in the second practice and had to go to a backup.  The backup car was just as strong as the primary.  It is a testament to the Penske Racing organization and all the preparation they do every week at the shop. We know every week we have great cars when we go to the racetrack.  I love coming to Darlington and am looking forward to tomorrow. ”

The Southern 500 can be seen live Saturday, May 9th on the FOX television network. Race coverage is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. ET. The event can also be heard live on MRN Radio as well as Sirius Satellite Radio, channel 128.


Driver:  David Stremme
Position: 34th 
Time: 28.092 seconds
Speed: 175.053 MPH

Pole: 17-Matt Kenseth

Penske Racing Teammates:
2-8th 
77- 4th