HOMESTEAD, Fla. (Nov. 30, 2007) — David Ragan, driver of the Discount Tire-sponsored Ford Fusion in the NASCAR Busch Series, captured the series' rookie of the year title recently as the most consistent first-year driver.

Mr. Ragan, 21, finished fifth overall in the Busch Series standings, based on nine top- 10 finishes, including four times in the top five in the series' 35 races. His best finish was third at the Sam's Town 250 Oct. 27 at Memphis Motorsports Park. He also earned two pole positions and 11 "rookie of the race" awards.

"It's very cool to be the Raybestos Rookie of the Year," Mr. Ragan said. "(Team owner) Jack Roush has got a niche for finding younger guys that are able to come into this sport and do this."

The 2007 season was Discount Tire Co. Inc.'s third full season as a NASCAR Busch Series sponsor. Its plans for next year are not known.