The timing was perfect for seven-time IHRA Pro Stock champion Rickie Smith to sign Bailey Trucking to as associate sponsorship because he was hauling on Friday afternoon during the Mid-South Street Nationals in Memphis, Tennessee. Driving his Chevrolet Cobalt, Smith laid down an impressive 6.33 elapsed time at over 220 miles per hour. If this is the sign of things to come, then IHRA Pro Stock should encounter a season of monstrous proportions.

On a related topic, Smith's publicist released a statement clearing up some isolated confusion surrounding his recently announced program with Bailey Trucking.

The timing was perfect for seven-time IHRA Pro Stock champion Rickie Smith to sign Bailey Trucking to as associate sponsorship because he was hauling on Friday afternoon during the Mid-South Street Nationals in Memphis, Tennessee. Driving his Chevrolet Cobalt, Smith laid down an impressive 6.33 elapsed time at over 220 miles per hour. If this is the sign of things to come, then IHRA Pro Stock should encounter a season of monstrous proportions.

On a related topic, Smith's publicist released a statement clearing up some isolated confusion surrounding his recently announced program with Bailey Trucking.

According to the statement, Monte Bailey, owner of Bailey Trucking and Bob Panella approached Smith at last year’s NHRA Finals in Pomona, Calif.  The trio began talk of working together on Panella’s Pro Stock chassis and tune ups.  After becoming friends and working well together, Smith approached Bailey about a possible associate sponsor on his Pro Modified car for the 2008 season.  The two agreed to terms and the sponsorship is now on Smith’s car.

The statement went on to say, "Many have made their opinions known about the sponsorship of Bailey Trucking on Panella’s racecar.  Most stating things that are a far cry from the truth and Smith wants to set the record straight in the racing world."

“Bailey Trucking is not pulling out of Bob Panella Racing,” said Smith in the same statement.  “There has been a lot of controversy over the last few days and I just want to make it clear to the race fans.  Bob (Panella) and Monte (Bailey) are very good friends and great business partners.  I will have Bailey Trucking on my car as an associate and Bailey Trucking will remain as is with Bob Panella Racing, nothing is changing there.”