With sponsorship and driver lineup announcements for 2007 expected by Labor Day, Wood Brothers/JTG racing will make several personnel moves effective this weekend.

Michael “Fatback” McSwain will assume the duties of crew chief for Ken Schrader’s #21 NEXTEL Cup car. David Hyder will take over Crew Chief duties for Jon Wood’s #47 Busch Series car, as the third generation driver prepares for his anticipated entry into NEXTEL Cup next season. Ernie Cope will move from his duties as Crew Chief for Stacy Compton’s Busch Series car to assist Michael “Fatback” McSwain. Jay Guy, Jon Wood’s Busch Series Crew Chief will move to teammate Stacy Compton’s #59 Busch Series car.

Team co-owner Eddie Wood explained the transition. “Our goal is to improve our performance this year, while giving our drivers and crew chiefs an opportunity to work together in preparation for next year. We have made a lot of changes this season, including the merger with ST Motorsports’ Busch Series teams and the expansion of a driver development program in the Truck Series. We have been playing catch up and wanted to get a jump on next year to see how everyone progresses with these management moves.”

McSwain is a veteran, race winning crew chief who serves as the company’s competition director. “I’m excited to be heading back to the race track. I’ve been pretty busy getting things well organized at the shop for our new, multi-car operation. My favorite part of being a competition director so far has been the opportunity to coach and mentor our company’s future leaders. I look forward to being on the road to see how I can help our folks at the track.”

Wood Brothers Racing