Kennedy named crew chief for 55 in MWR role switch

CORNELIUS, N.C. -- Michael Waltrip Racing on Tuesday announced that Bobby Kennedy and Paul Andrews will switch managerial roles beginning this week at Martinsville Speedway.

Kennedy will now serve as crew chief for Michael Waltrip and his No. 55 Toyota Camry team as Andrews will continue in a leadership role to supervise Michael Waltrip Racing’s test teams.

“Paul did a great job in helping us reach our top-35 goal and I know he will continue his diligence with our test teams for the betterment of our organization,” Waltrip said.

Waltrip is 30th in owner points after five races. He finished 23rd at Bristol to move up three spots in the standings and secure an guaranteed starting position for the Goody’s Cool Orange 500 at Martinsville (1:30 p.m. ET Sunday, FOX).

Despite being on the outside of the 2007 owner points, Waltrip has qualified for every race this season including a front-row starting spot for the Daytona 500.

Kennedy and Waltrip have worked together since the late 1990s when they forged a crew chief-driver relationship in the former Busch Series.

“Bobby has always been there for me and my NAPA Auto Parts Camry team to help with our decision-making process,” Waltrip said. “We have known each other for a very long time and I guess you can say that we are made for each other. Going to Martinsville with Bobby knowing we have the luxury of being in the top 35, is a relief. Now, it is all about being successful in the race.”