HJM debuted in 1999 as Herzog Motorsports with SODA and
ASA driver
Jimmie Johnson, who had previously worked with them in SODA. The team ran full-time in 2000, sponsored by wireless company
Alltel. Johnson would finish 10th in the points and place third in the
2000 Rookie of the Year points, behind
Ron Hornaday Jr. and
Kevin Harvick. Johnson's rookie year was notable for a crash at
Watkins Glen International, where his brakes failed heading into turn 1 and he slammed the barrier head on. He was not injured and even pumped his fists after exiting the car. After Alltel left for
Penske Racing, Johnson remained with the team for
2001, sponsored by
Excedrin. Johnson gave the team its first ever win at the inaugural race at
Chicagoland Speedway. Herzog's plans were to field a Cup team with Johnson, but he had already signed a deal with
Hendrick Motorsports for 2002. Herzog hired
Andy Houston for the 2002 season, but they would release him after Las Vegas due to "performance issues" as they would replace him with
Todd Bodine. Bodine would take the team's second win at
Kentucky Speedway and finished 23rd in points. After Excedrin's departure, Herzog Motorsports joined with former baseball player Reggie Jackson to form Herzog–Jackson Motorsports in 2003. With Bodine back at the wheel, the team took its third and final victory at
Darlington Raceway. Despite the added presence of fame, the team had sponsors for a few races, but could not attract a major sponsor to pay the bills, despite Bodine leading the points. Troubles were evident when the team skipped the Chicago race and Bodine was released. HJM returned at
Kansas with
Jeff Green, who finished 11th. Before shutting down, they ran one more race with Green at Homestead, finishing 27th.
Busch Series results ==References==