Melling Racing scores sponsorship for Daytona

January 16, 2002
3:18 PM EST (2018 GMT)

Concord, N.C. -- NASCAR Winston Cup team owner Mark Melling confirmed Wednesday his team's plans to compete in the 2002 Daytona 500 with sponsorship from BrandSource.

This marks the 21st year of competition in the famed race for Melling Racing, and the first year of competition for sponsor BrandSource, a buying group of home appliance, electronics and furniture stores.

"We are thrilled to be part of NASCAR, and to team with Mark Melling and Melling Racing" said Bob Lawrence, Executive Director of BrandSource. "Mark and his team have a long history of success and being tough competitors. This is just like our BrandSource stores. We have been in business for a long time, and compete everyday in the tough appliance, electronics and furniture business. We look forward to a very long relationship with Mark and the Melling Racing team."

Melling has also come to terms with veteran NASCAR driver, Robert Pressley, to drive the #92 BrandSource Dodge, with engine support coming from Ernie Elliott Engines, Inc.

"We are extremely grateful and excited that BrandSource has come on board for Daytona, and we hope our relationship them will blossom" said Melling.

"Looking long-term, all the pieces are still in place, operationally, with regard to this racing team. The key now is to secure a long-term sponsor, so we can continue on with the NASCAR Winston Cup Series season. It's a tough environment out there, sponsorship-wise, but we know we have a quality operation, with good equipment, experienced people, and a long history in the sport."

Associate sponsors Cabela's outfitters, Craftsman tools, Dodge, Duck Head Footwear, Freightliner trucks, Wix filters, and Worldcom telecommunications will be part of the Melling team in 2002 as well.