Marc Davis, an 18-year-old African-American NASCAR driver in tomorrow's CARQUEST Auto Parts 300 at the Lowe's Motor Speedway, may be praying that his earthly sponsor with heavenly contacts will help him win the race.

The Silver Spring, Maryland competitor will be driving the number 36 Toyota, which is being sponsored by The Word Network, a cable and satellite media broadcaster of urban church ministries and gospel music.

This is Davis' first NASCAR Nationwide Series start. He has competed in six previous Nationwide Series events with a best start, fourth, and best finish, 23rd, at Memphis Motorsports Park in October. Davis competed in the Nationwide Series at Bristol Motor Speedway in March. His car number, #36, represents the number of years since Wendell Scott - the last African-American owner/driver - competed in NASCAR in 1973.

"The Word Network is proud to help support his efforts in this country's biggest sport. In my opinion, Marc Davis' participation in and love for auto racing is good for the sport. His success could introduce a whole new fan base to NASCAR," said Steve Antoniotti, Word Network director of development.

Qualifying for the Concord, North Carolina race begins at 3:45 p.m. tomorrow. The race begins at 7 p.m. and will be carried on ESPN2 and The Performance Racing Network.

SOURCES: marcdavismotorsports.com and PRNEWSWIRE.