Petty Enterprises and Robert Yates Racing (RYR) jointly announce crew chief Todd Parrott will return to Robert Yates Racing. Greg Steadman, on an interim basis, will take over the crew chief duties on the #43 Cheerios/Betty Crocker Dodge driven by 2000 Nextel Cup champion Bobby Labonte effective immediately.
Parrott, one of the most talented crew chiefs in the Nextel Cup garage, has years of experience at RYR and helped lead the organization to a championship. Parrott won the Nextel Cup championship with driver Dale Jarrett in 1999. This season, Parrott led Petty Enterprises and Labonte to four top-10 and one top-five finishes in the first 21 races.
“Todd (Parrott) has been a vital part in getting Petty Enterprises and the #43 Cheerios/Betty Crocker back to competitive form,” said Robbie Loomis, Executive Vice President of Race Operations at Petty Enterprises. “Todd made a decision to return to Robert Yates Racing where he has enjoyed much success throughout most of his career. It’s where he has his roots. If there is anyone that understands what it’s like to ‘go back home’ it’s me.
“I have been in those shoes before. I’m sure it was a tough decision for Todd to make. I have a ton of respect for him. I am extremely grateful for what he has done for Petty Enterprises this season. We’re looking to move forward with Bobby, and we are confident that Greg (Steadman) will do the job for us.”
Steadman is no stranger to the crew chief position. A long-standing employee of Petty Enterprises, Steadman is known as one of the top mechanical minds at the shop. Steadman will work hand-in-hand with Loomis, who will take a more active role on the #43 Cheerios/Betty Crocker Dodge.
“Todd did a lot for this team and Petty Enterprises,” added Bobby Labonte , driver of the #43 Cheerios/Betty Crocker Dodge. “He is a winner and is truly dedicated to winning races. We accomplished a lot in a short amount of time. I appreciate everything he did. Greg and Robbie are committed to stepping in where Todd left off. We feel this will be a smooth transition that will help us get back in victory lane.”
[Petty Enterprises]
Bookmark to:
- David Gilliland Takes Over the #38 for Yates for 3 Years
- Quotes from Daytona front row qualifiers Gilliland and Rudd
- Ricky Rudd returns to Yates in the #28, Mars Candy as sponsor
- Yates may sell the #88 team to DEI, Red Bull may also be interested
- Labonte not Worried About Parrott’s Defection
Thats a good move For RYR ……Glad he is going back home to support their efforts and team structure ..look for them to be strong at Daytona …..