Joe Gibbs Driven Racing Oil Powers Justin Barger Lucas Oil Empire Super Sprint Champion

SYRACUSE, NY (December 2, 2009) - In front of another sell out crowd at the Holiday Inn Carrier Circle in East Syracuse, NY, Justin Barger took home his first ever Lucas Oil Empire Super Sprints (ESS) title. The Montrose, NY star took home $9,946 from the over $70,000 in cash and awards that were handed out in what was billed as the Night of Champions.

 

In all, four different drivers celebrated the crowning of the six different point categories with Barger being celebrated with the largest of all, the overall championship. On the strength of 4 wins and 17 top ten finishes, Barger’s Cortlandt Auto Body #32 was on top of many ESS stars from the United States and Canada.

 

“This is a thrill to be champion of ESS. To beat the best drivers around means a lot to me, my team and my family. It’s truly a special night.” said Barger who received a standing ovation upon the announcement of being champion. “We were real close in 2003 and wanted to give an all out effort to run for the championship. This year that was our goal with a lot of hard work and a little luck we finally took home the trophy.”

The trophy was a one of a kind, ceramic, hand painted and crafted eagle. To make it a family affair his father Chris, a former dirt modified star, was awarded the ESS mechanic of the year award. An award that was voted on the by the teams. Barger was also crowned the Gater Racing News lap leader titlist on the night.