Earnhardt Jr. looks forward to first Bud Shootout.

The 2001 Budweiser Shootout at Daytona kicks off the Winston Cup season with a star-filled lineup of Bud Pole winners and past champions of the Shootout (formerly known as the Busch Clash and the Bud Shootout).

A 70-lap format with a mandatory pit stop replaces the former 25-lap sprint. This is the first Budweiser Shootout for Dale Earnhardt Jr. (pictured celebrating his Busch Championship victory) and the Dale Earnhardt Inc. (DEI) Bud Winston Cup team. The team earned their way into the field with two Bud Poles during the 2000 season at Charlotte (May) and Michigan (August).
"I think everyone's going to be going as hard as they can for 70 laps," remarked Earnhardt Jr. "It's going to be fun because this type of race encourages more passing. It's not as big of a deal if you drop back a few spots. I mean, the worst you can drop to is 19th."

Earnhardt Jr. explained: "In the 500, if you find someone that you work well with, you may stay behind 'em or work together with them for 100 laps, but this event means you are more willing to sacrifice a few spots to try and make a move... you know, really get out there and try to pass some people."

"I think it's going to be good for me and for the team. It's a chance to learn as much as we can about the aerodynamic package and the new tires. Anytime I can get more laps around this place (Daytona International Speedway), I'm all for it."

The Shootout will follow Dale Jr's debut in another race, the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona. Dale will team with his father and road racers Andy Pilgrim and Kelly Collins in a factory Corvette effort this weekend.

"I don't think the 24 Hours will help me as much here as much as it will when we get to the road courses (at Sears Point and Watkins Glen). It's going to be great seat time and great road course experience," enthused Earnhardt Jr.