Invitation Only Test Proves to be a Stepping Stone for Owens

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. (July 30, 2010) – Alli Owens has taken another stride in her career path towards racing’s top series. Owens completed a two-day test session with Roush Fenway Racing at Rockingham (N.C.) Speedway, turning fast laps at the one-mile oval and the short track among seven participants.

Owens, along with six other drivers, was invited to test with the Roush Fenway Racing R&D team on July 27 and 28 at Rockingham Speedway. The participants were tested on all aspects of a driver’s responsibilities, which included on-track and off-track undertakings.

A NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Ford Fusion housing a Nationwide Series engine was supplied by Roush Fenway Racing for the drivers to use throughout the session. Drivers Matt Kenseth and David Ragan, along with Roush Fenway Racing crew and management, were on-hand to help assess the up-and-coming talent. Drivers were gauged on their lap times, consistency, car handling diagnosis and team communication.

“It’s one thing to be invited to something like this, but another if you pay attention and take this opportunity as a tremendous learning experience,” Owens expressed.  “It seemed like I learned a world of knowledge about NASCAR Sprint Cup racing.  I gave it 110% during the two days and I’m thankful for the opportunity.”

Owens showed her potential to reach the next level while piloting the Ford in a structured test session at the half-mile oval track known as Little Rock and the one-mile Rockingham Speedway.

In addition to driving duties, Owens and the other drivers were tested in a variety of media settings. They were scored on their ability to represent a sponsor and communicate their message.

“I am so impressed with the entire Roush Fenway Racing organization,” said Owens.  “It was an honor to be invited and participate in the test. They are very careful in selecting who represents them, on and off the track, and I’m thrilled that I had the chance to work with them.

“I learned so much at the test.  The data acquisition was incredible.  It was amazing to see how detailed the information was and how the crew interpreted it.  The entire team was fantastic to work with. They were extremely professional and very talented.  I feel like I left the track a better driver than when I arrived, thanks to them.”  

Owens currently pilots the No. 15 ElectrifyingCareers.com Chevrolet fielded by Venturini Motorsports in the ARCA Series. She raced Quarter Midgets, Mini Stock and Late Model series before graduating to the ARCA Series in 2008.