Black Voice News Online - NASCAR and breakthrough driver Bill Lester return to Fontana

NASCAR and breakthrough driver Bill Lester return to Fontana

Thursday, 01 March 2007

FONTANA

Seventy-five million fans, one-third of the U.S. adult population, thrive on a sport which features one African American driver. That driver is Bill Lester and he returned to our local area to compete on the two mile oval.

Fan favorite Jeff Gordon races Kasey Kahne in front of the grandstands during the Auto Club 500.

Lester leaves Bill Davis Racing to take a ride with Billy Belew Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado Team for 2007. Last week, in his inaugural race, Lester started 33rd, battled all night and exceeded his goal of a top 15 finish, crossing the line in 11th place. A promising start for Lester who needs to get off to a good start this year.

Racing, #15 Bill Lester in his truck.

The Friday night race was led by veteran Mark Martin all night until he spun out onto the infield grass. Mike Skinner became the first native born Californian to win a truck race. Lester finished in the middle of the pack, nevertheless a good result for the first two races of the season.

Brian McKnight belts out the National Anthem at California Raceway before the Auto Club 500 on Sunday.

Bill Lester stands as the only African American to compete in NASCAR Craftsman Trucks and Nextel Cup. He is a sought after spokesman for Coca Cola, General Mills, The United States Army and also supports the Urban Youth Racing School.

The remainder of the weekend featured Brian McKnight (National Anthem), Kevin Costner (Official Starter) and Matt Kenseth who won his sixth race at Fontana for mega owner Jack Roush Racing. The rain stayed off the track during the races and Fox and ESPN featured over 10 hours of national television coverage as local fans enjoyed the best in live competitive sports entertainment.