Labonte looking forward to some real racing.

Had it not been for an engine failure in the 1998 running of the NAPA Auto Parts 500, Bobby Labonte would have a record that would be hard to top at the pristine California Speedway. Even with that 38th place finish though, Labonte has been able to manage three top-10 finishes out of the four races run there and was actually runner-up to Jeremy Mayfield in last year's event.

"We had a pretty good run there last season," said Labonte. "We sure would have liked to have gotten around Jeremy for the win, but after starting so far back in the field, we were pretty pleased with our second-place finish.
That kind of run gives you confidence that you can start in the back at a place like that and still run up front, as long as you get your car is handling right."

Through the first quarter of the season, Labonte finds himself mired back in 14th position in the NASCAR Winston Cup Series point standings. Over the last two weeks though, Labonte has had two top-10 finishes and is starting to see signs of a season ago in which it seemed nothing went wrong for he and the Interstate Batteries Racing Team.

"I won't say we've turned the corner, but I see signs we're starting to find our rhythm," commented Labonte. "We have had our share of misfortune so far this season, but the season is far from over and we still feel we have a chance to redeem ourselves. It has taken me a little while to get used to the new tire this year and that has hurt us and we have had some motor problems and that hasn't helped either, but maybe everything is coming together and we can show that this weekend."

For Labonte to say he is getting more comfortable with the new tire and finding his rhythm could spell trouble for his competition. It has been no secret that Labonte's favorite track on the circuit is Michigan Speedway and with California Speedway being so similar in terms of characteristics, it could mean great things for the entire Interstate Batteries Racing Team this weekend.

"I like that racetrack," explained Labonte. "The groove has gotten wider the past couple years so you can try different lines. It's kind of like Michigan and that is my favorite track. California has those same characteristics, so that makes me feel even better about going out there."

Bobby Labonte Stats:

Date / Race / Site / Start / Finish Poss. / Comp. / Status / Earnings.

97 California 500 Fontana, CA 15 6 250 250 Running $48,950
98 California 500 Fontana, CA 7 38 250 191 Engine $42,350
99 California 500 Fontana, CA 4 3 250 250 Running $99,850
00 NAPA Auto Parts 500 Fontana, CA 36 2 250 250 Running $135,300

Total Completed Laps: 941
Avg. Start: 15.50
Winnings: $326,450
Total Possible Laps: 1,000
Avg. Finish: 12.25
Total Earnings: $326,450