Ward Burton's name was central in a lot of driver-change rumors last season, but he stayed put. He admits that he and his former crew chief spent much of last season at odds, and is openly enthused to have Baldwin in that role now. Burton believes his team is more organized than ever, and feels like he has a shot at the top 10 in points.
Career
Two poles weren't enough to net Ward Burton a win in 1998, the final year of sponsorship by MBNA. He finished 16th in the standings after tallying five top-10s and one top-five.
The year's main highlight was the signing of Caterpillar as primary sponsor and Siemens Energy & Automation as an associate sponsor. It will be a reunion of sorts, as Burton raced 12 Busch races in a CAT-sponsored car in 1995, posting three top-five and five top-10s.
Began racing go-karts at age 8. Drove Street Stock and Late Model Stocks on Virginia short tracks, mainly South Boston. Voted Most Popular Driver at South Boston Speedway in 1989.
Joined Busch Grand National Division in 1990, posting three top-10 finishes. Scored four Busch Grand National wins in 111 career starts. Competed for Rookie of the Year in 1994, finishing behind brother Jeff and had a runner-up finish at July Pocono event.
The 1995 season was a roller-coaster ride for Ward Burton. He drove for two teams, failed to qualify for the spring Atlanta race and the fall North Wilkesboro event, won his first race at Rockingham, then finished 42nd the following race at Phoenix and completed the season with fifth place at Atlanta.
Graduated from Hargrove Military Academy and attended Elon College for 2 1/2 years. Became first lieutenant and was first place on rifle team at Hargrove. Loves the outdoors. Would be hunting guide or professional trapper if not for racing. Enjoys hunting, skeet shooting, boating and game conservation.
Sources: NASCAR Press Guides, Star and News staff reports.
