Newman Files First Entry for October 10 Jani-King Southern Showdown

CONCORD, N.C. -- NASCAR NEXTEL Cup series driver Ryan Newman has submitted the first entry for the Oct. 10 Jani-King Southern Showdown at The Dirt Track at Lowe's Motor Speedway.

Presented by Ferris Commercial Mowers, the World of Outlaws Late Model Series event kicks off Bank of America 500 Week and features a unique format that could result in the winner of the 50-lap finale taking home $30,000.

Newman, 29, of South Bend, Ind., is slated to compete as a teammate to World of Outlaws Late Model Series points leader Steve Francis. He will drive the No. 39 late model with sponsorship from Jasper Engines & Transmissions and Ranger Boats.

Prior to joining Penske Racing in 2000, Newman was a star in USAC's three open-wheel divisions, competing on both dirt and paved tracks throughout the Midwest. His best season came in 1999 when he captured the USAC Silver Crown championship and finished second in the National Midget Series standings.

Since joining the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series full-time in 2002, Newman has won 12 races and captured 41 poles, including six at Lowe's Motor Speedway.

More than 50 of the biggest names in dirt late model racing are expected to join Newman for the Oct. 10 Jani-King Southern Showdown, including World of Outlaws series regulars Chub Frank, Clint Smith, Josh Richards, Shane Clanton and Rick Eckert.

If purchased in advance, adult tickets for the Jani-King Southern Showdown presented by Ferris Commercial Mowers are $25 with children 12 and under admitted for just $10.

Reserved seats for this race are also available as part of the four-race $99 SUPER Ticket which includes Bojangles' Pole Night on Thursday night, Oct. 11; the Dollar General 300 on Friday night, Oct. 12; and the Bank of America 500 on Saturday night, Oct. 13.

Tickets are available online at www.lowesmotorspeedway.com or by calling the Lowe's Motor Speedway ticket office at 1-800-455-FANS.