Mears making final start with Hendrick's No. 5 team

By Mike Harris

The Associated Press

Friday, Nov. 14, 2008

Casey Mears, who will move to Richard Childress Racing in 2009, will make his 72nd and final start for Hendrick Motorsports on Sunday.

While being a lame duck driver could have made the last part of this season difficult for everyone on the No. 5 Chevrolet, Mears said it has been a great experience.

"The last nine races of this season have been the high note of the season for (this) team," Mears said. "We got our intermediate package figured out and really improved there. And our short track racing has really been our best of any track this year.

"I really want to win for the 5 team, and Miami is the last chance to do that. It's been a good track for me in the past and, hopefully, we can make the best of our last opportunity on Sunday."

Despite limited success, Mears said he will carry good memories away from his time with Hendrick.

"I earned my first Cup win with Hendrick Motorsports, and that will always be very important to me," he said. "There were good moments, but there were also times of frustration. I appreciate the opportunity that Rick (Hendrick) gave me to race for him.

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