American Ethanol to sponsor Dillon, No. 3 in '12

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- In a nod to its commitment to the sport, American Ethanol announced Saturday at the NASCAR Preview fan event in Charlotte, N.C., that it will continue its relationship with Richard Childress Racing for the 2012 season.

Austin Dillon, the 2011 Camping World Truck Series champion, will drive the No. 3 Chevrolet during the 2012 Nationwide Series season with American Ethanol serving as the primary sponsor for six races, as well as one race in the Sprint Cup Series in 2012. Dillon's No. 3 American Ethanol Chevrolet paint scheme was unveiled at the event.

"I'm proud to carry the American Ethanol colors in NASCAR," Dillon said. "Growth Energy is committed to clean air, and as an avid outdoorsman I truly appreciate their desire to protect our nation's air and water for future generations. I commend the work they do and I am looking forward to representing American Ethanol, Growth Energy and the National Corn Growers Association."

In addition to American Ethanol's partnership with Dillon, the organization will serve as an associate sponsor with the entire RCR family of drivers. Team owner Richard Childress, as well as RCR's Cup Series drivers Kevin Harvick, Jeff Burton and Paul Menard will also serve as spokesmen for the cause.

"American Ethanol is in this for the long haul. Through our partnership with Austin Dillon, we are telling NASCAR and its fans that American Ethanol is committed to the sport," said Tom Buis, CEO of Growth Energy, which led the effort to create American Ethanol. "These drivers are ideal ambassadors for the American Ethanol team and will help tell the story of how American-made ethanol creates jobs, cleans our air and fosters energy independence."