Kelly Bires to Start 31st in Daytona Opener

Kelly Bires, driving the No. 47 Clorox Ford, will start 31st in the field for today’s running of the Camping World 300 at Daytona International Speedway.

After minor problems forced a lack of practice time in both official sessions, Bires and crew chief Scott Zipadelli decided to focus on the handling package for the race, rather than a fleeting starting spot at a restrictor plate track.

During Wednesday’s practice session, the team had to work out an inner axle seal problem and on Thursday, the No. 47 Clorox Ford was involved in a very minor on-track incident with another competitor. Though there was minor damage to the left front fender, the team was able to make complete repairs.

WHAT THE TEAM HAS TO SAY:
Kelly Bires, Driver of the No. 47 Clorox Ford:
"We didn't focus on qualifying. If we get a top 20 or 25 starting spot, it doesn't matter. It's a matter of the car driving well and we know it will drive good in the draft. I'm really happy with the car and looking forward to the race."

Scott Zipadelli, Crew Chief of the No. 47 Clorox Ford:
“Ah, we’ve had a couple of hiccups here in both sessions, but it wasn’t anything this group of guys can’t overcome. The car is fast in the draft—and stable—and that’s what Kelly wants. We’re all here to make sure he’s comfortable in this race car. When he’s comfortable, he’s fast and when he’s fast, he brings home great finishes. I think Saturday will be fine…I’m really looking forward to it.”

FAST & FUN FACTS:
-Kelly Bires will start the No. 47 Clorox Ford in 31st place for the Camping World 300 at Daytona International Speedway on Friday, February 15th at 3:10 p.m. EST on the ESPN 2 Network.
-The No. 47 Clorox team is using Chassis No. 20 as their primary Daytona car. Chassis 20 qualified third one year ago at this same event.
-Kelly Bires has two starts at the Daytona International Speedway, one in the Craftsman Truck Series and one in the Nationwide Series, with a best finish of 16th in July of 2007.