Richmond, VA (May 14, 2004) – Brendan Gaughan will start the Chevy American Revolution 400 from the 42nd position in the No. 77 Jasper Engines and Transmissions Dodge and though it was not the qualifying effort he was hoping for, his focus is on the race.

Gaughan was the 17th driver to make his qualifying attempt at Richmond International Raceway, directly behind fellow rookie competitor Kasey Kahne, who lost control of his Dodge and hit the wall delaying Gaughan’s effort.

The track was cleared and Gaughan took the green flag for his qualifying attempt. Under sunny skies and on the newly-paved surface, the tires on the No.77 Jasper Engines and Transmissions Dodge had little grip, just like many of the other cars.

“I gave it everything I had but I almost lost it a couple of times,” Gaughan said. “I had hoped for a better showing for the folks at Jasper Engines and Transmissions in their race. I don’t really know what happened. All I can say is I have complete confidence in my team and whatever they can do to give me a competitive car for the race, I will have it.

“Another bonus I have is arguably the fastest pit crew in the series,” he continued. “The Penske-Jasper pit crew will get me out quickly so I know we will gain positions during our pit stops. The rest is in my hands.”

Gaughan turned a 21.941 second qualifying lap, but improved his time in race trim during “Happy Hour”.

The Chevy American Revolution 400 will air live on FX with pre-race activities beginning at 7:00 pm, EDT.

Position Driver Lap Time Speed
2nd Ryan Newman 20.774 Seconds 129.970 MPH
7th Rusty Wallace 20.894 Seconds 129.224 MPH
42nd Brendan Gaughan 21.941 Seconds 123.057 MPH