Besides the switch to Joe Bessey's Chevrolet, the most difficult adjustment for Bodine will be getting people to use his preferred "Geoffrey" instead of "Geoff." "I just felt like it was time to put Geoff behind me. I've got a lot of laps behind me as Geoff Bodine -- this is a brand new start for us," said Bodine.
Bessey, a regulary on the Busch Series, is a first year owner of a team that will make its debut at Daytona in February. A longtime fan of Bodine, Bessey had only one name on his list when it came to picking a driver for his new team.
Though the team is making its maiden voyage, it can't be considered a "rookie" team by any means, thanks to its veteran crew, including chief Jim Long.
Career
For the third consecutive season, Bodine finished without a win, though he did tally five top-10s. AT the Winston 500, Bodine made his 500th career Winston Cup start. With 2,864 points, Bodine finished in 27th place in the Winston Cup standings. The downward spiral concluded with Mattei Motorsports owner Jim Mattei firing Bodine from the No. 7 Ford Bodine had owned before selling out.
Geoff returned to victory lane in 1996 when he won the Bud at the Glen in front of his hometown fans. Finished 17th in WC points.
Started driving micro-midgets in New York in 1955. Became Northeast Modified terror, finishing second in national modified standings in 1977. Won six Busch Grand National races; introduced modern-day power steering to Winston Cup at Martinsville in 1981. Winston Cup Rookie of the Year in 1982. First career pole came in 19th attempt in 1982 Firecracker 400 in Daytona. First career win came in 69th start at Martinsville inspring of 1984. Won 1987 IROC title.
Career best third in 1990 Winston Cup standings. $1.3 million in 1994 winnings. First full season as a driver-owner was 1994, finishing 17th in Winston Cup points and posting three victories. Also won five poles in 1994. Captured the 1994 Winston Cup Select at Charlotte despite spinout in first segment. 1995 failed to produce a win but still finished 16th in the point standings.
Purchased Alan Kulwicki Racing in May 1993. Developed Bo-Dyn Racing. Helped engineer a new and sleek bobsled for 1994 USA bobsled team.
Sources: NASCAR Press Guides, Star and News staff reports.
