SCARBOROUGH – Joe Bessey of Scarborough will try to become the second Maine native to win the NASCAR Grand National Rookie of the Year honors next season, after announcing his commitment to race full time on the Southern tour.

Ricky Craven of Newburgh was GN Rookie of the Year last season.

Bessey, who has been named Driver of the Year in Maine, finished second in the NASCAR Grand National North standings last season. He made his announcment on Monday.

Bessey is setting his goals high for next season.

“The goals we’ve set for ourselves this year include becoming the second consecutive Maine native to win Rookie of the Year and maintain a top 10 standing in the points,” Bessey said.