2003 ZR Motorsports News

(Atlanta, GA) April 7, 2003 - Peter Petropoulos of Flowery Branch, Ga. dreams of rubbing fenders with drivers in the NASCAR Winston Cup Series. In the interim, he's mastering his trade competing each Saturday night in the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Racing Series Pro Late Model division at Lanier National Speedway.

In last Saturday's season opener at Lanier, the 24-year old Petropoulos had one of the fastest cars in practice. But, he qualified 15th after being allowed to run just one lap in time trials due to a miscue by a pit crew member.

Running sixth by lap 26 in the feature, Petropoulos was sent to the rear of the field by track officials after getting involved in an incident with veteran Dwayne Buggay. In the end, Petropoulos brought the No. 28 Battle Paint and Drywall Chevrolet home to a respectable 15th place finish.

"I overcame a lot tonight as a young driver," said Petropoulos. "This week I learned enough that next week we'll have a better run. Sponsor wise, it was what we needed coming from the back to the front which created a lot of excitement."

"One thing I've got to gain is respect. I've come out of the box a little hot and I've got to calm down so hopefully I can gain some respect."

Petropoulos and his Battle Paint and Drywall sponsored team will be back in action on Saturday April 12 at Lanier National Speedway in Braselton. Prior to the Pro Late Model feature that evening, fans will be allowed to enter the frontstretch for autographs.

Fans are reminded to stop by and visit Petropoulos and his crew.

On Friday May 2, Petropoulos will take part in the Race Against Drugs (RAD) program at Brockett Middle School. In addition, Petropoulos will bring his Port City chassis, Wayne Willard built Chevrolet along giving students a chance to see the No. 28.