By Gary Costa

Hanford, Ca, (March 14, 2009) – Clovis, Ca, pilot, Peter Murphy showed that he didn't get too "rusty" during the off-season. Murphy, piloting the Tom Tarlton No. 21 took 3rd in the opening night 30-lapper in the newly formed "West Coast 360 Sprint Car Series".

"I'm real proud of my team. We didn't finish where we wanted too, but it's still a good start to the '09 season," Murphy said. "We will look to move up a couple of spots in our next race."

"I would also like to congratulate Jace (Vanderweerd 1st) on his win, and Justyne (Hamblin 2nd), they ran a good race and continue to improve every night out. I would also like to thank all the fans that came out to watch us race. Without them, none of this would be possible."

In preliminary action, Peter guided the immaculately prepared Sprint Car around the smooth 3/8-mile speedway to 3rd quick. Heat 1 would become the first test for Murphy. When the green flag dropped, Murphy "got 'em up", and finished 2nd in the 10-lap affair.

Murphy, who has been itching to race since the checkered flag dropped on his amazing 12 main event season in '08, was glad to back behind the wheel of Tom Tarlton's familiar mount again.

"It feels so good to be back in a Sprint Car. I'm really excited about this season," said the 2008 Grand Slam Series Champion. "I've been working out hard in the gym so I don't miss a step out on the race track. I have a great team, sponsors and a fantastic legion of fans behind me and I don't want to let them down."

Special Thanks to: Ridgeline Framing, Shark Racing Engines, Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino, Matt & Glass, M & S Motorsports, Tarlton & Son, Inc., Sharp Insurance, McLellan Equipment, BG Products, Pro Signs and VMAC.