AF sponsors Busch Series race car
/ Published November 14, 2003
RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AFPN) --
The next generation of the Wood Brothers racing team dynasty is “Crossing into the Blue” driving a specially painted Ford Taurus prominently featuring the Air Force logo and colors.
Coming on the heels of his recent NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series win at Martinsville, Va., Jon Wood is making his 2003 debut in the NASCAR Busch Series at the Ford 300 on Nov. 15 in Homestead, Fla.
“It’s really special that the car will be Air Force blue because we have such a great relationship with the United States Air Force,” said Eddie Wood, Jon’s father and co-owner of Wood Brothers Racing. “We are so proud of that association and to have your kid driving for them, too, really makes you feel good.”
To NASCAR fans, the Air Force partnership at the race with 22-year-old Jon is not in the least bit unusual. The Air Force is an associate advertiser in the NASCAR Winston Cup Series with the Wood Brothers’ No. 21 Motorcraft Racing Ford Taurus, driven by Ricky Rudd.
“I know how my dad and Uncle Len (Wood) feel about their Motorcraft team’s association with the Air Force,” Jon said, “and for me to be able to represent the Air Force, too, really makes me proud. It’ll be tough to qualify for the Busch race, and we’ll have our work cut out for us, but some of my guys from the truck crew are going to help out, and I’m really looking forward to the experience and challenge.”
Air Force officials are excited about the chance to work again with Wood Brothers Racing, said Lt. Col. Steve Murray, Air Force Recruiting Service spokesman.
“NASCAR provides the Air Force an outstanding opportunity to reach potential recruits and their families, provide support to our recruiting effort and increase awareness of the Air Force among the general public,” Murray said. (Courtesy of Air Education and Training Command News Service)