Rensi to run 'Patriotism Car' to mark 9/11.

In a unique tribute that marks the first anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, Team Rensi and the United States Marine Corps will give the #25 Team Marines Ford a new look for the Funai 250 at Richmond on September 6, 2002.

Appropriately named, "The Patriotism Car" will serve as a patriotic tribute to the unwavering spirit of America and to the heroism of the United States Marines who have made and continue to make sacrifices to protect our country against international terrorism.

As the first anniversary of the tragedy approaches and as the uncertainty in the world grows, Team Rensi Motorsports and their marketing partner, the United States Marine Corps felt it was important to recognize and celebrate the tremendous rise of patriotism in the United States since the terrorist attacks. The "Patriotism Car" is their way of doing just that.

Former McDonald's CEO and President, Ed Rensi, co-owner of Team Rensi Motorsports, feels that this is a time where all Americans should be grateful for the wonderful country we live in.

"Everyone in our country is under a great deal of stress at this time of uncertainty in the world," said Rensi. "As Americans we should take the time to be thankful for the freedoms and liberties we enjoy as citizens of this country. We should take the time to recognize the sacrifices made by our public servants, especially the young men and women in the Marine Corps.

We, the management and employees of Team Rensi Motorsports, are very grateful for the opportunity to represent the United States Marine Corps and we dedicate "The Patriotism Car" to all of the Marines deployed around the world, as well as to the efforts of our other military services and our allies to end international terrorism. NASCAR and its millions of fans are pillars of patriotism and we hope that "The Patriotism Car" serves as a reminder to them and to all Americans to be proud; of this great country. God bless America!"

Bobby Hamilton Jr., driver of the No. 25 Team Marines Ford Taurus, is honoured to be a part of such an incredible tribute.

"I am proud to be a part of such a tribute," Hamilton, Jr. said. "I don't think anyone will forget where they were or how they felt when they first received word of the terrorist attacks. In some way, each and every American was affected by it. For many of us it was a wake up call that freedom and peace should not be taken for granted. I want to send a sincere thank you to the thousands of Marines who make sacrifices in their lives to protect the people of this country."

Team Rensi Motorsports co-owner, Sam Rensi, hopes that Marines around the world will see the "Patriotism Car" and know that the American people appreciate all of their hard work and dedication.

"This race car is dedicated to our Marines around the world," said Rensi. "It is their honour, courage and commitment that allow the people in this country to enjoy continued peace and freedom. We want them to know that the sacrifices that they, as well as their families make in their lives are appreciated and do not go unnoticed."

The NASCAR Busch Series and "The Patriotism Car" will take the green flag at 8pm on Friday, September 6, 2002 at Richmond International Raceway.

A die-cast replica of the Patriot Car is being produced by Mattel in 1/64th scale. The product is expected to be available at retail by December 1, 2002.