TALLADEGA AL (4-22-09) - ARCA RE/MAX Series veteran Bobby Gerhart is pulling double duty this weekend at Talladega Superspeedway.

In addition to racing in the ARCA RE/MAX 250 on Friday, the Lebanon, Pennsylvania driver will be attempting to qualify for the Aaron's 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race on Saturday.

Gerhart, who last raced in the Nationwide Series at Daytona in 2003, has teamed with ARCA veteran driver/car owner Bob Schacht for the Nationwide race this weekend.

Gerhart's ARCA sponsor Lucas Oil will also be the title sponsor on the no. 75 Bob Schacht Motorsports Chevrolet for the Nationwide race.   

"This is something we've wanted to do for a while," said Gerhart. "We were able to put all the pieces together so we decided to give it a shot. We have a good car and a strong engine so I think we'll have a real good chance to qualify and be competitive. Plus, I know how to get around this track."

Gerhart, a five-time Daytona ARCA 200 winner, won the ARCA race at Talladega in 2001.

"We're confident that we can make a good showing. "We wouldn't be here if we didn't think we could compete with these guys. We're just going to go out there and give it our best shot."

Gerhart also posted his career-best Nationwide finish of 22nd at Talladega in 2001.

The team tested at Talladega two weeks ago and was pleased with the results.

"We tested two cars there a couple weeks ago," said Bobby's brother and crew chief Bill Gerhart. "Everything went very well. We think we have a strong package that is comfortable for Bobby to drive. We anticipate a good weekend."

While the team is excited about the ARCA race, they are also looking forward to a return to the NASCAR Nationwide Series. 

"The economy is having an effect on a lot of teams, ours included," added Bill Gerhart. "We're running a limited ARCA schedule this year. But the opportunity to get into the Nationwide race presented itself and we wanted to take advantage of it. I think we have a great shot to get in the race and do well."