Kelley mothballs IPS team.

Kelley Racing team owner Tom Kelley and General Manager Jim Freudenberg today announced that Kelley Racing pledges 100% continued support for injured team members Jason Priestley and Bernie Hallisky.

In addition, Kelley and Freudenberg have made the decision to discontinue operation of the #7 HomeMed Pharmacy Indy Racing Infiniti Pro Series team driven by Priestley for the remainder of the 2002 season.

"Obviously, our focus first and foremost is the support we can lend to Jason and Bernie, their families and friends," said Kelley. "We are so encouraged by the incredible progress Jason has made thus far, but know there is still a long road to travel before he reaches complete recovery.

"Bernie's recovery has been slowed by a small set-back but we are confident the superb medical staff at Methodist Hospital has everything under control and we can expect Bernie to be back on the recovery track very soon."

Priestley was injured in an accident during the final practice session prior to the Pro Series race August 11 at Kentucky Speedway. Hallisky was injured in a pit road accident during the IRL race the same day.

"Out of our respect to our friend and driver, Jason, we feel it is in the best interest of Kelley Racing to discontinue the #7 Pro Series team for the remainder of the 2002 season," Kelley continued. "We will evaluate the program prior to 2003 and our decisions will be announced at the appropriate time."

"The support we have received from our sponsors as well as everyone in the motorsports world has been remarkable," said Freudenberg. "It has made this difficult time at Kelley Racing much easier for every member of our team.

"We are pleased to announce that HomeMed Pharmacy will join the #78 Kruse Special driven by Tony Renna as a sponsor for the remainder of this year in addition to maintaining their status as an associate sponsor on the #7 Corteco/Bryant car driven by Al Unser, Jr.

"We feel it is appropriate for Kelley Racing to focus on the success of three IRL teams for the remainder of this year," Freudenberg concluded. "The crew members from Jason's team will all join the #78 Kruse Special/HomeMed car. Each of our three entries will now have a dedicated full-time crew through the final three IRL events of this year."

Cards and well wishes for both Jason and Bernie can be sent to:

Kelley Racing,
6803 Coffman Road,
Indianapolis, IN 46268 or posted in the "Contact Us" section of the website, www.kelleyracing.com.