Some New Starters Hitting Talladega In The Nationwide Series

Several drivers are aiming making their first NASCAR Nationwide Series start of the 2009 year.

• Ryan Newman (No. 33 Rheem Chevrolet), 
• Kerry Earnhardt (No. 31 Chevrolet, owned by Stanton Barrett),
• Bobby Gerhart (No. 275 Chevrolet, owned by Bob Schacht) and
• Justin Hobgood (No. 91 Chevrolet, owned by Randy Humphrey).

Earnhardt attempted to compete earlier in the season but was unable to earn a starting spot.

Meanwhile, 22 drivers have competed in all seven Nationwide Series races this season. The highest positioned driver who has not competed in all seven is Joey Logano (No. 20 GameStop Toyota).

There are 47 drivers hitting the timing lights for the 43 starting spots in this weekend's Nationwide race.

Among those looking to make the field on speed are

• Scott Wimmer (No. 40 StopRepairBills.com Chevrolet; 31st in car owner points),
• Jeff Green (No. 05 31W Insulation; 32nd),
• Brian Keselowski (No. 26 Schweitzer Tile Dodge; 33rd),
• Kenny Hendrick (No. 42 Dodge, owned by Chip Ganassi; 34th) and
• John Wes Townley (No. 09 Zaxby's Ford; 35th).