IN HIS OWN WORDS... When did you begin driving?
Howie Liebengood: First, I have always been a fan of auto racing. My father grew up in Northern Indiana and he and my grandfather would always go to the Indianapolis 500. My father kept that tradition alive in his family so every May, my family makes a pilgrimage to Indianapolis to watch the Indy 500. I think that I have seen 22 Indianapolis 500 mile races.

By going to the 500, my family became big fans of auto racing. For many years, all I ever wanted to do was to race in the Indianapolis 500. I knew that I very much wanted to be around the sport but I really had no idea how to get involved into the world of motor racing.

However, when I checked into my dorm for my fist year at Purdue University, there were go-kart trophies in the lobby. Purdue University has a go-kart race called the Purdue Grand Prix. So when I was in college, I got involved in the Purdue Grand Prix go-kart race and twice competed in the event. Former Purdue Grand Prix winner and midget racer, Doug Wright, is who I credit with getting me behind the wheel of a race car. Doug took me under his wing and helped me with my endeavors with the Purdue Grand Prix and showed me how to get involved in motorsports.

What is your favorite thing about racing?
Howie Liebengood: I don't think that there is one thing that is my favorite. There are so many things about racing that I enjoy. Just having the opportunity to race is a real blessing. I never thought that I would have the chance to race cars so I am extremely grateful for every opportunity that I have had to get behind the wheel.

What is the most challenging part of racing?
Howie Liebengood: Without a doubt, funding! There are so many outstanding drivers that are on the outside of the fence looking in because the only thing that is holding them back is funding. Hitting a Major League baseball pitch is sometimes refered to as the "hardest thing to do in sports." But, I think that hardest thing is trying to secure adequate funding for motorsports. It doesn't matter what level you are competing, racing is very expensive and it takes serious funding to be able to compete and win. I am most grateful for Pennzoil's support throughout the years.

Which is your favorite track? Why?
Howie Liebengood: My favorite tracks are Mosport Park and Sebring. Mosport is so challenging and so fast. Sebring is where I had my first professional race and I love the history of the track.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Howie Liebengood: I am a huge sports fan. Schedule permitting, I like to watch sports and even go to some games. I follow the Washington Capitals in hoc