ATHENS, Ga. — Zaxby’s has announced it will continue its involvement in NASCAR in 2009 as a sponsor of the No. 09 Ford Fusion in the Nationwide Series, a step up from the Craftsman Truck Series it has participated in for the past two years.

John Wes Townley, a rookie driver who has already proven himself in NASCAR’s Craftsman Truck Series, the ARCA RE/MAX Series and several turns behind the wheel already in NASCAR’s Nationwide series, will drive a full schedule for Zaxby’s and RAB Racing in 2009.

“Zaxby’s roots are in the Southeast, but just like the sport itself, we’re pushing beyond those traditional boundaries,” said Zaxby’s CEO and co-founder Zach McLeroy. “Our company has experienced significant growth over the past several years and we attribute part of that to greater brand awareness from our association with NASCAR. As we graduate to this next level in this sport, we hope to gain even more visibility for our brand in new places with new people.”

During Zaxby’s first full season as primary sponsor of RAB Racing’s No. 09 Ford Fusion in the ARCA RE/MAX Series, 18-year-old Townley amassed one top five, nine top 10 and 15 top 15 finishes. On the strength of his efforts, the team finished seventh in the series’ championship point standings.

“We are excited about the opportunity to make the jump to NASCAR’s Nationwide Series with RAB Racing,” McLeroy said. “Competing in front of large crowds at top-notch venues throughout the United States and Canada for 35 weekends, coupled with the live television coverage on ABC and ESPN networks, will take Zaxby’s to another level, in terms of brand recognition.”

2009 will mark the team’s first full-time season in the NASCAR’s second-tier division. Townley will battle other notables for Raybestos Rookie of the Year honors starting at Daytona International Speedway in February.

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