“We have a good sponsor and feel like our alliance with Joe Gibbs Racing is what probably give us a little bit better opportunity over some of those who haven't had quite the success they hoped for when the got into the sport. Texas Instruments is obviously committed to this thing, and the fact that we do have the alliance with JGR, that we are able to use their technology and get their engines, gives a tremendous head start. Ultimately, you have to produce on the track and we recognise that, and if we are not able to do that, then our time in this sport will be brief as well.”
Q
HOW DID YOU DECIDE ON TERRY LABONTE AND TONY RAINES AS YOUR DRIVERS?
TROY AIKMAN
“Terry was attractive to us for a lot of reasons. He is obviously a great race car driver with the history he has had and the career he has had. In addition to that, recognising that, for instance this week, with his past champion's exemption and from a sponsorship side that is obviously very attractive to have Terry Labonte in the car. With Tony Raines, there were a number of people who were looked at as potential candidates as a driver. Tony Raines was recommended to us by a number of people in the sport, who thought he would best represent our team. We feel like he is an extremely talented guy that hasn't been given as much opportunity as he would like to be more successful. That is how the decision was made on those two guys.”
Q
WHAT KIND OF A TEAM OWNER WILL YOU BE AT THE DAYTONA 500? WILL YOU GO TO THE TEAM MEETINGS; WILL YOU SIT IN A SPONSOR'S SUITE? WILL YOU BE ON THE RADIO DURING THE RACE?
TROY AIKMAN
“I think all of the above. Texas Instruments, they have a role for Roger and I while we are there. We have some commitments on the sponsorship side, as I am sure all owners do. While I am at the track, I want to be as involved as I can be. I certainly want to get a taste of what is happening. I am not in Charlotte as I am sure you can imagine. I am not involved in the day-to-day operation of the team. My schedule is pretty hectic during the football year with the broadcasting and the things that go with that.
