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Petty Announces Craftsman Truck Team Plans for 1998

26 September 1997

MARTINSVILLE, VA - In an effort to dispel the rumors surrounding his
NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series team, Richard Petty has announced that
his current pilot, Jimmy Hensley and head wrench, Freddie Fryar will
remain with Richard Petty Motorsports for the 1998 season.

"When we got together last year I asked Jimmy to drive for me and he
agreed and that's that," said Petty. "I have been very pleased with
his performance and the team's performance this year. This time of the
year everybody thinks everybody is switching drivers and crew chiefs
but we are not. Freddie Fryar will remain our crew chief and Jimmy
Hensley will be the driver."

"I'm glad Richard is informing the media so everyone can concentrate
on what they need to do," added the driver of the #43 Cummins
Dodge. "I am happy in the Craftsman Truck Series and I am not a
candidate for the Winston Cup car.  I think NASCAR has hit a home run
with the truck series and the series will continue to grow in the
future."