Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, May 20, 1993 TAG: 9305200041
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: B5 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: FRANK VEHORN LANDMARK NEWS SERVICE
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
A source close to the Hendrick team, located in Harrisburg, N.C., said Rudd informed team officials after returning from last Sunday's race in Sonoma, Calif., that he would be pursuing other opportunities for the 1994 season.
Rudd, in the fourth and final year of his contract with Hendrick, declined to comment on future plans.
"It is something I am unable to discuss at this time," he said.
The source said Hendrick had been trying to re-sign Rudd for several weeks, but Rudd delayed giving an answer until this week.
There was no indication where Rudd may be headed next year.
A few weeks ago he expressed mild interest in purchasing the late Alan Kulwicki's operation, which since has been bought by Geoff Bodine.
Hendrick also fields teams for Ken Schrader and rookie Jeff Gordon on the Winston Cup circuit.
Rudd had his best season with Hendrick two years ago when he finished second to Dale Earnhardt for the Winston Cup championship. He has won at least one race in each of the past 11 seasons, and last year won the International Race of Champions Series.
Rudd, who is considered the best road-racer on the NASCAR circuit, was third last Sunday on the twisting Sonoma Course in the Save Mart 300. It was his best finish of the season. His only other top-five finish was at Atlanta in March.
Most of Rudd's problems this season have been mechanical failures, although he wrecked at Bristol and at Martinsville.
He has won $192,900 in 10 races this year and is 17th in the Winston Cup standings.
Rudd will compete in The Winston all-star race Saturday night at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
by CNB