Trevor Bayne will make his Sprint Cup debut in the No. 21 Motorcraft/Quick Lane Ford with the Wood Brothers at Texas Motor Speedway next weekend.
Bayne joins a long list of drivers who have wheeled the venerable 21 ride over the past 57 years, which includes soon-to-be Hall of Famer David Pearson, Cale Yarborough, Curtis Turner and A.J. Foyt.
“It seems a little surreal right now, but it’s just an awesome opportunity to get in this No. 21 Ford,” Bayne said. “The Wood Brothers have such a history in the sport, and it’s great to get to become a small part of that.
“I look forward to going out and making some laps and learning a ton. I know it’s going to be a big learning experience, and I’m just really looking forward to it, and I am extremely thankful for the opportunity.”
Bayne, 19, joined Roush Fenway Racing prior to the Nationwide Series race at Kansas Speedway on Oct. 2. Bayne has blossomed during his second season on the tour with five top-fives and 10 top-10 finishes. He posted three consecutive pole positions this summer, and, since moving to RFR, scored two 11th-place finishes in the past four races. Bayne remains fourth in the NNS point standings.
While Jack Roush had planned to run his latest acquisition before season’s end in preparation for 2011, the Wood Brothers were happy to help their fellow Ford Racing owner.
“I’m really excited about this opportunity,” Bayne said. “I’ve been looking forward to it pretty much my whole life; since I was 5 years old I’ve dreamed of running a Cup race. Now it’s not just a dream anymore, it’s becoming a reality.”
Since the Wood Brothers are currently 45th in the point standings, Bayne will have to qualify on time for the Texas 500.
Although Wood Brothers driver Bill Elliott will be sidelined next weekend, he has offered to help Bayne acclimate to the ride.
“I’m ready to do anything I can to help Trevor with the race,” Elliott said.
