Woody Howard Grabs Top Ten Finish at USA International Speedway

LAKELAND, Fla., (February 27, 2006) - Joe Gibbs Racing development driver and 2005 Miller Lite Rookie of the Year Woody Howard brought home a 7th-place finish in his first race of the 2006 season, the Naturally Fresh 250 at USA International Speedway.

With the start of the USAR Hooters Pro Cup Northern Division still weeks away, Howard and the #55 Dean Motorsports team made their way to USA International Speedway in Lakeland (FL) for an extended test session in preparation for their season opener on April 1st. Their mission was accomplished as they tried several adjustments during numerous pit stops in the 250 lap event.

"We did our best to stay out of the way of the teams running for points but with a limited testing schedule and a few rule changes we decided to make the trip to Lakeland. We learned a lot and expect to come back to the Championship Series strong. My crew gave me some great pit stops too."

Woody and the #55 Dean Motorsports Team will compete next at the South Georgia 250, presented by Astro Exterminating & Termidor on Sat. March 11th in Cecil, GA. The Northern Division begins April 1st at South Boston Speedway in South Boston, VA.