Brett Bodine, has an associate's degree in mechanical engineering from the University of New York at Alfred.

And, he applied the knowledge he learned in college onto the track.

Bodine moved up to NASCAR Modifieds and the Busch Series, where he was runner-up to Larry Pearson for the championship in 1986.

Bodine was a relief driver for Terry Labonte in Junior Johnson' s Budweiser Chevrolet in 1987 (Martinsville and North Wilkesboro).

Bodine made his Winston Cup debut in the 1986 Coca-Cola 600 in a Rick Hendrick-owned car. He finished 17th.

Over the years, securing steady sponsorship is a never-ending battle for all NASCAR team owners. But in the case of Bodine who has been NASCAR's only full-time owner/driver -- it is absolutely critical.

That is why Bodine has a never been a full-time regular force on the Cup circuit. But, when Bodine has been needed to help somebody out, he is always available.

Motorsports,