Tryson Joins Front Row Motorsports

Veteran crew chief Pat Tryson has signed to serve as crew chief for David Gilliland’s No. 38 Front Row Motorsports Ford in 2012. 

Pat Tryson has a new job.

The Malvern, Pennsylvania native began his racing career in drag racing, working with Kenny Bernstein’s King Racing team on the NHRA drag racing circuit. He has more than 15 years experience atop the NASCAR pit box, earning victories with drivers Kurt Busch, Elliott Sadler and Mark Martin at a roster of organizations that includes Geoff Bodine Racing, Roush Fenway Racing, Wood Brothers Racing, and Penske Racing. His most recent position was with Michael Waltrip Racing as the crew chief for the No. 56 NAPA Auto parts Toyota driven by Martin Truex, Jr. 

The move is the latest of numerous off-season improvements for the team and allows interim crew chief Derrick Finley to return to his former position as Director of Competition.

 

"We made some pretty big changes this off-season to take this team to the next level, and adding Pat is one more critical piece that we've put in place for our 2012 season," said Front Row Motorsports General Manager Jerry Freeze. "With Jay Guy on the No. 34 car and Derrick returning full-time to the Competition Director role, the depth and experience of our leadership team is better than it's ever been before." 

Tryson said he is ready to step in and help the team, adding, “I like what this team has done in the last few years, making the right changes to get better every season. Gilliland's a competitive driver; he's got the fire in his belly and I'm really looking forward to working with him."

Gilliland, who scored a season-best third in last year's Daytona 500, said he is ready to hit the track next week in Daytona Beach with Tryson running the program. "He's a great 'get' for this team," said Gilliland. "There's just so much that he brings to the table with all his experience. I can't wait to get started."