Solid start to 2015 season for Leavine Family Racing

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In: NASCAR Cup Series News

Leavine Family Racing has secured two team-best finishes in the first three races of the 2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season.  The No. 95 Ford, driven by Michael McDowell, secured a 27th place finish at Atlanta Motor Speedway and a 30th place finish at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, showing progress for the team, which is only in its fifth year of existence.

“Last year at this time, we would be telling a whole different story,” said Bob Leavine, team owner.  “Making Daytona was a huge momentum builder which we took with us to Atlanta and Vegas.  So far we’ve qualified and finished every race, which we couldn’t say this time last year. I’m proud of this entire team and excited for our sponsors, Thrivent Financial and K-LOVE Radio, who make this possible.”

At the season kick-off at Daytona International Speedway, the team had to race their way into the Daytona 500.  In a nail-biting last lap of the first Duels race, McDowell drove from 20th up to 12th place to earn his spot in The Great American Race.  The team went on to finish the Daytona 500 in 31st place.

Atlanta Motor Speedway marked the first 1.5-mile track on the schedule and the first time the new rules package came into play for all NASCAR teams.  Crew chief Wally Rogers worked closely with McDowell to make changes to the car throughout the race to help with handling and speed.  Having a “never give up” mindset and avoiding a few cautions, the No. 95 crossed the finish line in 27th place – a team best at that speedway.

The Kobalt Tools 500 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway was another demanding 1.5-mile speedway for the team, but McDowell battled hard for position and benefited from fast pit stops to secure a 30th place finish – which is a driver and team best finish at the track.

With the first three races of the 2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season under their belt, Leavine Family Racing will now prepare for upcoming races at Texas Motor Speedway and Bristol Motor Speedway.

The Duck Commander 500 at Texas Motor Speedway on April 11 will be a homecoming for the Texas-owned team as Bob and Sharon Leavine are based in Tyler, Texas.  Thrivent Financial will be the primary sponsor of the No. 95 Ford for this race.

LFR PR

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