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LEGACY MOTOR CLUB Race Preview | Nashville Superspeedway

CLUB NOTES

42 New Hampshire Motor Speedway Race Recap: John Hunter Nemechek and the No. 42 Family Dollar team got caught two-laps down, running as far down as 32nd in the running order. Once the rain delay ended, the LEGACY MOTOR CLUB team rallied for an impressive eighth-place finish.

Erik Jones on the race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway: “New Hampshire [Motor Speedway] was good, was happy to come home with a top-15. For us, that’s a pretty solid day, we needed some momentum, it’s been a rough bunch of races and it’s good for everybody to have a good day and get some speed in the car and make some gains as well for some tracks going forward.”

Welcome to the CLUB Massey!: Massey Motor Freight, a trusted delivery service that’s dedicated to fast and reliable national road transportation was announced as a new primary partner for LEGACY MOTOR CLUB will be featured on the No. 42 entry at the Ally 400 this weekend at Nashville Superspeedway.

JHN Double Duty: John Hunter Nemechek jumps back into double duty racing at Nashville Superspeedway this weekend. On Saturday in the Tennessee Lottery 250 he will be behind the wheel of the No. 20 Pye Barker Toyota Supra while on Sunday he will pilot the No. 42 Massey Motor Freight Toyota Camry XSE.

Happy Birthday!: Ricky “Carl” Garcia, the front-end mechanic and interior specialist on the No. 43 LEGACY MOTOR CLUB team celebrates a birthday on Wednesday, June 26th!

Luke Combs and JHN: John Hunter Nemechek has a connection to country music! Earlier this spring, he was featured in two-time Country Music Association’s Entertainer of the Year and multi-platinum award-winning star Luke Comb’s music video, “Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma”. The video features tornado storm chasers and is the theme song for the summer blockbuster movie release of “Twister”. The music video starred Combs and LEGACY MOTOR CLUB’s Nemechek through the partnership with OLIPOP. To see the full video visit, www.lukecombs.com.

JHN at Nashville: The 27-year-old North Carolina native John Hunter Nemechek has an abbreviated history at the Nashville Superspeedway. He got his first of three starts at the 1.5-mile oval in 2021 in the NASCAR Truck Series. His most recent came last year when he finished sixth in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. This year will mark Nemechek’s first NASCAR Cup Series start.

Beshore at Nashville: No. 42 LEGACY MOTOR CLUB crew chief, Ben Beshore has sat atop the box and called the shots at Nashville Superspeedway for three races, including two NASCAR Cup Series races and one NASCAR Xfinity Series race.

Erik Jones at Nashville: Erik Jones of Byron, Michigan has completed three NASCAR Cup series starts at the 23-year-old track, Nashville Superspeedway. Jones has one top-10, stemming from his most recent start in June of 2023. With an average finish of 12.7, Jones looks ahead to his fourth NASCAR Cup series start at Nashville Superspeedway.

Elenz at Nashville: Crew chief of the No. 43 Dollar Tree Toyota Camry XSE entry, Dave Elenz, has two NASCAR Cup Series starts and one NASCAR Xfinity Series start at Nashville Speedway. Elenz retains two top-10’s at the Tennessee track and aspires to add another to his resume after leading Jones to the finish line at the 1.5-mile oval on Sunday.

Partner Spotlight: This weekend at Nashville, the No. 43 Family Dollar entry of Jones will carry a couple partners names on his Toyota Camry XSE, including Jack Links, Henkel, and Coca Cola.

Going for G.O.L.D.: Partners Dollar Tree and Family Dollar will honor store #556 this weekend as a part of the company’s “Go for G.O.L.D.” (Grand Opening Look Daily) program. The Dollar Tree and Family Dollar primaries will highlight these stores on the deck lid of all three LEGACY M.C. entries throughout the race season. Store #556 is located in Smyrna, Tenn.

CLUB QUOTES

John Hunter Nemechek, Driver of the No. 42 Massey Motor Freight Toyota Camry XSE:

“Nashville [Superspeedway] is a concrete intermediate racetrack that is different from anywhere else we go. It’s a cool venue with being close to the city and being in a different market that we get to cover. I have had decent results here the past couple years but it’s still a place I need to learn and get better at.”

Ben Beshore, Crew chief of the No. 42 Massey Motor Freight Toyota Camry XSE:

“The team is very professional by doing their job every week putting the best car out there that they can – sometimes the circumstances don’t work out but fortunately last weekend at New Hampshire they did so hopefully we can build that momentum into Nashville and moving forward and build off a good run. Obviously an odd set of circumstances at New Hampshire at the end but that fight to get from two laps down and drive up to a top-10 the last 70 laps, that take a special group to do that – real proud of everyone on the team and putting in that effort and not giving up after the rain delay and sticking with it and making the best out of the day.”

Erik Jones, Driver of the No. 43 Family Dollar Toyota Camry XSE:

“Nashville has been fun. This will be year four since we’ve [NASCAR Cup Series] gone back, and I’ve really enjoyed the race there every year. The track has widened out quite a bit from what it used to be. We’ve also run well there the last few years – I think we finished eighth last summer and hopefully we can go back and have a similar weekend and go run up towards the top-10. Excited to get there, it’s been a great track, but also a great crowd and a great area for us to race in the last four years.”

Dave Elenz, Crew chief of the No. 43 Family Dollar Toyota Camry XSE:

“We had a good car last year [at Nashville Superspeedway]; we know what it takes to get around there and hopefully some of the efforts we put forth will pay off for Nashville as well…Nashville is a little bit similar to Dover, but it’s its own racetrack, so the tires apply more than anything over to Nashville so we can reuse some of that stuff that we did at Dover which we felt we had a good car there, as well. Between that and our past history, hopefully we can come up with a good set up for there.”

PETTY 75TH ANNIVERSARY

ABOUT PETTY 75th: The 2024 season marks a significant milestone in the history of the Petty family as they have helped define stock car racing for 75 years. Their commitment to the sport and the people who make it possible – behind the wheel, under the hood, in the back office, and beyond – has shaped the growth and success of NASCAR. Their LEGACY lives on with the countless fans, drivers, technicians, and team members they touched. Throughout 2024, LEGACY M.C. will celebrate the Petty family and share countless memories with friends and fans at race tracks across the country.

This Week in Petty History: Richard Petty received his 33rd career win at the Piedmont Interstate Fairgrounds in Spartanburg, South Carolina on June 26, 1964. A few years later, on June 24, 1967, Petty earned his 60th career win at Greenville-Pickens Speedway. On June 27, 1998, Adam Petty, grandson of Richard Petty and son of Kyle Petty, won the Kansas City Excitement 300 on the ASA National Tour. Of note, LEGACY M.C. co-owner, Jimmie Johnson, finished 2nd in the race.

The King’s Hat: The King’s Hat will be in the Fan Zone at Nashville Superspeedway. On Friday at 3:00 p.m. CT, the design will be officially unveiled.

BROADCAST INFO

NASHVILLE SUPERSPEEDWAY
SUNDAY, JUNE 30TH @ 3:30 PM ET

ABOUT OUR PARTNERS

ABOUT MASSEY MOTOR FREIGHT: Massey Motor Freight is the premier choice in the transportation and logistics industry. Our team of professional drivers uses the most modern and well-equipped fleet to deliver not only your cargo but also peace of mind. Massey Motor Freight is family-owned, customer-centric, and driver-focused, serving thousands of customers across North America. Whether it’s heavy haul, temperature-controlled, or anything in between, Massey has you covered.

ABOUT DOLLAR TREE, INC.: Dollar Tree, a Fortune 200 Company, operated 16,622 stores across 48 states and five Canadian provinces as of October 28, 2023. Stores operate under the brands of Dollar Tree, Family Dollar, and Dollar Tree Canada. To learn more about the Company, visit www.DollarTree.com.

ABOUT LEGACY MOTOR CLUB: LEGACY MOTOR CLUB™ is a professional auto racing club owned by businessman and entrepreneur Maurice “Maury” J. Gallagher and seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson. The CLUB competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series fielding the No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE of John Hunter Nemechek, the No. 43 Toyota Camry XSE of Erik Jones, and the No. 84 limited schedule entry for Johnson. LEGACY M.C. also competes in the Extreme E Series. Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Petty “The King” serves as CLUB Ambassador. With a unique title signifying a nod to car clubs of past eras, LEGACY M.C. is an inclusive club for all motorsport enthusiasts to celebrate the past and future legacies of its members, while competing for wins and championships at NASCAR’s elite level. To keep up-to-date with the latest news, information and exclusive content, follow LEGACY MOTOR CLUB™ on Facebook, X, Instagram and at www.LEGACYMOTORCLUB.com.

Layne Riggs and the No. 38 Love’s / Fleetguard Ford F-150

Nashville Superspeedway Competition Notes

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (June 26, 2024) – The NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series is back in action this weekend at the Nashville Superspeedway. For Layne Riggs and the No. 38 team, this weekend provides another opportunity to further solidify Riggs in his Sunoco Rookie of the Year campaign.

Following a three-week break in the schedule, Riggs and the team are ready to get back on track. Riggs entered the break with a Top-5 finish after finishing 5th at the World Wide Technology Raceway in St. Louis, Missouri. Riggs currently sits 16th in Driver Points and is 76 points below the playoff cutline.

It will be a one day show for the Love’s / Fleetguard Ford F-150 team with practice and qualifying on Friday, June 28th at 4:30 pm ET. The Rackley Roofing 200 is scheduled for later that evening at 8:00 pm ET. Fans can watch the action live on FS2 or listen in from the Performance Racing Network and Sirius XM channel 90.

No. 38 Love’s / Fleetguard Ford F-150:

DRIVER LAYNE RIGGS:

“I’m glad the break is over, it was nice, but I’m ready to get back into the truck and pick up where we left off. Dylan (Cappello) and the team put in overtime during the break to make sure our truck is primed for Nashville. I’m really looking forward to this weekend and what they have in store. Our Love’s / Fleetguard Ford F-150 will be fast, we just have to execute and be there in the end.”

CREW CHIEF DYLAN CAPPELLO:

“Nashville is going to be a fun one for sure. I have two second place finishes there with Zane (Smith), so I know what to bring setup wise for us to run well, we just have to execute and not make any mistakes.”

ABOUT FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS

Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization in the NASCAR Cup and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The team is the 2021 Daytona 500 and 2022 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champions. The team was founded in 2004 and is owned by successful entrepreneur, Bob Jenkins. FRM fields the No. 34 and the No. 38 NASCAR Cup Series teams along with the No. 38 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series team from its Mooresville, N.C. headquarters. Visit teamfrm.com and follow FRM on social media: Twitter at @Team_FRM, Instagram at @team_frm and Facebook at facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

Todd Gilliland and the No. 38 gener8tor Ford Mustang Dark Horse

Nashville Superspeedway Competition Notes

 MOORESVILLE, N.C. (June 26, 2024) – Todd Gilliland and the No. 38 team return to the Volunteer State for the 300-lap event at the Nashville Superspeedway.

After a strong showing at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Gilliland has scored his seventh consecutive Top-20 finish, five of which were in the Top-15. This is now the longest run of Top-20 finishes ever scored by a Front Row Motorsports driver and is tied for the third longest streak of anyone in the NASCAR Cup Series, as of New Hampshire.

Gilliland will bring a new look to his gener8tor Ford Mustang Dark Horse to Music City, showcasing a splattered paint livery for the weekend.

Practice and qualifying for the NASCAR Cup Series will take place Saturday, June 29th at 2:00 pm ET. Sunday’s 400-mile race is scheduled for 3:30 pm ET and will be televised live on NBC. Fans can also listen in on the action from the Performance Racing Network and Sirius XM channel 90.

No. 38 gener8tor Ford Mustang Dark Horse:

DRIVER TODD GILLILAND:

“I’m excited for this weekend. Ryan (Bergenty), the road crew, and the men and women back at the shop have been working hard to continue to bring speed each week. It’s nice to run well and give those people something to be proud of. Our expectation is to run up front and close the points gap, I think we can make some big gains this weekend.”

“It’s cool to see gener8tor mix up their paint scheme, I really like how it all fades together and looks like splattered paint. They have taken full advantage of the partnership and really played into it. This is a big weekend for them and Carl Ruedebusch, so hopefully I can give them a good showing.”

CREW CHIEF RYAN BERGENTY:

“We’re ready for Nashville. Our finishes have been nice, but there is still a lot left to accomplish. We want a win and I think with how we’ve been running, a win is in our future. Hopefully we can make that happen this weekend.”

ABOUT FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS

Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization in the NASCAR Cup and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The team is the 2021 Daytona 500 and 2022 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champions. The team was founded in 2004 and is owned by successful entrepreneur, Bob Jenkins. FRM fields the No. 34 and the No. 38 NASCAR Cup Series teams along with the No. 38 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series team from its Mooresville, N.C. headquarters. Visit teamfrm.com and follow FRM on social media: Twitter at @Team_FRM, Instagram at @team_frm and Facebook at facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

Cost/Time Analysis – Car Detailing Services

Photo by Agent J on Unsplash

As most car owners know, the expense of owning a vehicle far exceeds its sticker price. These additional costs include maintenance, fuel, and cosmetics. While often overlooked, maintaining your car’s cosmetic value through detailing is a great way to preserve its worth and enhance your pride and enjoyment while driving.

The time involved in car detailing can often be substantial, making it wise to invest in professional car detailing services. Unlike DIY efforts, these services offer more comprehensive cleaning and cosmetic enhancements without wasting time. Read on to discover more about car detailing services and their benefits for your overall driving experience.

Why Opt for Professional Services?

Professional detailers are trained to detect and address even the smallest imperfections in your vehicle’s appearance. They are experts in maximizing both time and efficiency, handling everything from polishing chrome accents to conditioning leather upholstery.

Their expertise ensures that your car not only looks exceptional but also maintains its aesthetic appeal over time. Moreover, these professionals can transform even the dirtiest vehicle into a showroom-worthy beauty in just one business day.

Exterior Detailing

Exterior detailing is crucial for presenting your car at its best. A reputable car detailing service will restore your car to a sleek, elegant state reminiscent of a showroom floor. Exterior services include:

  • Washing
  • Clay Bar Treatment
  • Paint Repair & Correction
  • Polishing & Waxing
  • Ceramic Coating
  • Window Cleaning
  • Headlight Restoration

Typically, an exterior detailing service begins with a thorough wash to eliminate dirt, grime, and contaminants. Additional treatments such as clay bar or paint repair are applied as needed, each requiring meticulous care and time. Waxing and ceramic coating are optional enhancements that significantly improve your car’s appearance and shield it from future damage. If you want others to know that you care about your car’s appearance, exterior detailing is the best way to show that.

Interior Detailing

Interior detailing enhances your driving experience by ensuring a clean, pleasant environment inside your vehicle. Interior detailing includes:

  • Vacuuming
  • Carpet and upholstery cleaning
  • Leather cleaning and conditioning
  • Dashboard and console cleaning and dressing
  • Interior trim cleaning
  • Odor elimination

Everyone appreciates the allure of a new car smell, a sensation that a professional car detailing service can recreate. A refreshed interior not only enhances comfort but also preserves the condition of delicate components like leather.

Engine Bay Detailing

Engine bay detailing involves cleaning and conditioning the engine compartment to enhance its appearance and safeguard its components. This type of detailing reduces potential maintenance costs and prepares your car for events and exhibitions.

Typically, engine bay detailing includes thorough degreasing to remove accumulated oil, dirt, and grime from engine surfaces. Special care is taken to protect sensitive electrical components, plastic, and rubber, ensuring a lasting improvement in appearance.

Conclusion

Professional car detailing services offer more than just a clean car; they provide protection against wear and tear, enhance your driving experience, save you time, and preserve the value of your investment. Car detailing services aren’t solely for showcasing vehicles at events; they’re also invaluable for maintaining your everyday car to ensure optimal performance.

FUNNY CAR CHAMP MATT HAGAN NOMINATED FOR ESPYS BEST DRIVER AWARD

INDIANAPOLIS (June 26, 2024) – Reigning NHRA Funny Car world champion Matt Hagan has been nominated for the 2024 ESPYS Best Driver Award for his stellar performance during a standout 2023 NHRA championship season.

Hagan picked up his fourth career title and the first-ever NHRA world championship for Tony Stewart Racing in his 11,000-horsepower TSR Direct Connection Dodge//SRT Hellcat.

This is the first time Hagan has been nominated for the illustrious Best Driver Award, as Hagan entered select Funny Car company in 2023 with his fourth world title. With the championship, Hagan joined legends John Force, Kenny Bernstein and Don Prudhomme as the only Funny Car drivers in NHRA history with four or more world titles. He also gave Tony Stewart Racing its first world title in just its second year.

“I’m blown away to be nominated for the ESPYS,” Hagan said. “It just goes show what you can do when you’re surrounded by a great group of guys who are motivated and work hard. It takes a small army to do what we do, and it does take everyone. It’s a huge opportunity, but it’s not just me, it’s the entire team.

“It’s a humbling sport and it’s a humbling car to drive, and this is a group that just works hard. We’re thankful for all the fans who support us and hopefully they’ll go out and vote for us, but at the end of the day, I’m just very honored to be nominated.”

Fans can click here to vote for Hagan, who is again a championship contender during the 2024 NHRA Mission Series Drag Racing Series season. Voting is open until 5 p.m. ET Thursday, July 11, three hours before the ESPYS will air at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.

Hagan enjoyed an incredible 2023 season in the Funny Car ranks, picking up six victories and advancing to eight final rounds in the loaded category. He held the points lead for the bulk of the regular season and then got hot at a key time in the Countdown to the Championship, winning back-to-back playoff races in St. Louis and Dallas to take the points lead for good.

Other highlights of his banner title season included victories at Gainesville, Pomona 1 and Denver, as well as qualifying No. 1 at Bandimere Speedway. This year, Hagan recorded another milestone, earning his 50th career Funny Car win at the four-wide race in Charlotte, joining Force, Ron Capps and Robert Hight as the only drivers in Funny Car history with 50 or more wins. Hagan and Force are the only Funny Car drivers with four or more world titles and 50 or more wins. Hagan also earned his 51st career victory last month in Chicago and is currently third in points.

Joining Hagan on the ESPY Best Driver ballot is NASCAR’s Ryan Blaney, IndyCar’s Alex Palou and Formula One’s Max Verstappen.


About Mission Foods

MISSION®, owned by GRUMA, S.A.B. de C.V., is the world’s leading brand for tortillas and wraps. MISSION® is also globally renowned for flatbreads, dips, salsas and Mexican food products. With presence in over 112 countries, MISSION® products are suited to the lifestyles and the local tastes of each country. With innovation and customer needs in mind, MISSION® focuses on the highest quality, authentic flavors, and providing healthy options that families and friends can enjoy together. For more information, please visit https://www.missionfoods.com/

About NHRA

NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 20 national events featuring the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by LearnEV+, NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™, NHRA Holley EFI Factory X and Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage NHRA Mountain Motor Pro Stock at select national events. NHRA provides competition opportunities for drivers of all levels in the NHRA Summit Racing Series and NHRA Street Legal™. NHRA also offers the NHRA Jr. Street® program for teens and the Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League® for youth ages 5 to 17. With 110 Member Tracks, NHRA allows racers to compete at a variety of locations nationally and internationally. NHRA’s Youth and Education Services® (YES) Program reaches over 30,000 students annually to ignite their interest in automotive and racing related careers. NHRA’s streaming service, NHRA.tv®, allows fans to view all NHRA national events as well as exclusive features of the sport. In addition, NHRA owns and operates three racing facilities: Gainesville Raceway in Florida; Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park; and In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Southern California. For more information, log on to www.NHRA.com, or visit the official NHRA pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Michael McDowell and the No. 34 Love’s / Fleetguard Ford Mustang Dark Horse

Nashville Superspeedway Competition Notes

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (June 26, 2024) – Michael McDowell and the No. 34 team travel to the Music City for the NASCAR Cup Series race at the Nashville Superspeedway.

Coming off of a 15th place finish at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway, McDowell and company head to Nashville in hopes of a win to lock themselves into the playoffs. The Love’s Travel Stop Ford Mustang Dark Horse will reunite with their truck care partner, Fleetguard, on the car this weekend.

A global leading filtration brand within the Atmus Filtration Technologies portfolio, Fleetguard offers a full suite of filtration products for nearly all makes of vehicles and equipment across the truck, bus, agriculture, construction, mining, marine and power generation vehicle, and equipment markets.

Fleetguard heavy-duty filters give customers the ultimate protection for all their equipment. With availability in more than 45,000 independent aftermarket retail outlets globally, including approximately 5,800 locations in North America, Fleetguard products are available where customers need them and are backed by the competitive Fleetguard warranty.

Practice and qualifying for the NASCAR Cup Series will take place Saturday, June 29th at 2:00 pm ET. Sunday’s 400-mile race is scheduled for 3:30 pm ET and will be televised live on NBC. Fans can also listen in on the action from the Performance Racing Network and Sirius XM channel 90.

No. 34 Love’s / Fleetguard Ford Mustang Dark Horse:

DRIVER MICHAEL MCDOWELL:

“A Top-15 at New Hampshire was nice after how the race went, but we need a win to make the playoffs. We have the speed and strategy to run up front, we just need to be there in the end when it counts. I’m not worried though, we have a lot of good tracks coming up, including Nashville, so I think we have a win coming our way soon.”

CREW CHIEF TRAVIS PETERSON:

“We have had speed at a lot of tracks lately, and I feel like a broken record, but we just need to execute a full race. Nashville is one of the tracks we only go to once a year, so hopefully we can build on our notes from last year and hit it right for this weekend.”

ABOUT FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS

Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization in the NASCAR Cup and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The team is the 2021 Daytona 500 and 2022 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champions. The team was founded in 2004 and is owned by successful entrepreneur, Bob Jenkins. FRM fields the No. 34 and the No. 38 NASCAR Cup Series teams along with the No. 38 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series team from its Mooresville, N.C. headquarters. Visit teamfrm.com and follow FRM on social media: Twitter at @Team_FRM, Instagram at @team_frm and Facebook at facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

Essential Vehicle Parts for a Successful Racing Season

When it comes to racing, the key to achieving peak performance for a successful season is preparing your vehicle for every single race. Understanding the essential components can make a significant difference in your race outcomes. Equip yourself with knowledge and ensure your car is in top condition.

As you gear up for another thrilling racing campaign, ensuring your vehicle is equipped with the best parts is crucial. At times, success on the track can be as simple as having the right equipment and knowing how each component contributes to performance. This article will break down the must-have vehicle parts required to help you dominate this season.

Importance of Researching Parts

When it comes to finding the right parts for your vehicle, it is essential you take the time to conduct thorough research so that you can find the ideal match for optimum performance. For instance, if you own a motorcycle then it is essential to locate the parts that suit the type and brand. Honda, for example, is one of the leaders in producing bikes and its possible to find parts online for a range of models, from street bikes to dirt bikes. 

By spending time researching Honda motorcycle parts, you can select the components required, make the purchase and get riding. Thanks to the advent of ecommerce websites that sell aftermarket and OEM parts, it’s now possible to find the exact part you are looking for, no matter what kind of part it is.

High-Performance Tires

The importance of high-performance tires cannot be overstated. They are your vehicle’s direct contact with the track, impacting grip, handling and overall speed. Selecting the right tires for specific track conditions can give you a competitive edge. Boasting high-quality tires can be the difference between victory and defeat and so it is imperative to make sure they meet your racing needs and specifications.

Another factor to consider when selecting high-performance tires is their compound. Softer compounds offer better grip but wear out faster, while harder compounds provide longer tire life but less traction. Striking the right balance based on your racing style and the specific track conditions is key. It’s important to consult with experienced professionals or your racing team to determine the optimal tire compound for your needs.

Proper tire maintenance is also crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Regularly checking tire pressure, inspecting for wear and damage, and rotating tires as needed can help prevent premature wear and maintain consistent handling. Having a spare set of tires specifically for wet weather conditions can also be advantageous, as they provide better grip and control on slick tracks.

Engine upgrades

Your engine is the heart of your racing vehicle; therefore, it needs to be in pristine condition. Upgrading your engine components can significantly boost your car’s performance. Consider high-quality air filters, fuel injectors, and turbochargers to maximize horsepower and torque. Remember, the engine’s health is directly tied to your car’s speed and reliability during races.

When considering engine upgrades, it’s essential to ensure compatibility with your vehicle’s existing components. Consult with experienced mechanics or your racing team to determine which upgrades will provide the most significant performance gains without compromising reliability. Regular engine maintenance, such as oil changes and tune-ups, is also crucial to keep your engine running at peak performance throughout the racing season.

Aerodynamic Enhancements

Aerodynamics play a vital role in reducing drag and increasing speed on the track. Enhancements such as spoilers, splitters, and diffusers can dramatically improve your vehicle’s performance. These parts help manage airflow around the car, providing better stability and control at high speeds. By minimizing aerodynamic drag, you’ll achieve faster lap times and improved fuel efficiency.

Summing Up

Investing in these must-have vehicle parts will undoubtedly contribute to a more successful racing season. High-performance tires, advanced braking systems, engine upgrades, and aerodynamic enhancements are all essential for any competitive racer looking to excel on the track. Make sure you’re well-prepared and ready to face the challenges of the upcoming races with confidence.

Toyota Racing Weekly Preview 06.26.24

This Week in Motorsports: June 24 – 30, 2024

  • NCS/NXS/NCTS: Nashville Superspeedway – June 28-30
  • ARCA: Berlin Raceway – June 29
  • NHRA: Summit Motorsports Park – June 28-30

PLANO, Texas (June 26, 2024) – NASCAR’s three national series head to Nashville Superspeedway this weekend with the Truck Series’ return after three weeks off. The ARCA Menards Series is once again in action, this time at Berlin Raceway in Marne, Michigan. The NHRA Mission Foods Racing Series is back in the Midwest and Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio, as they hit their halfway point of the 2024 season.

NASCAR National Series – NCS | NXS | NCTS

Points standings continue to shake up … Following Sunday’s wild race at New Hampshire, the Cup Series points standings shifted across the board, with Toyota drivers making gains as the season gets closer to the Playoffs. Martin Truex Jr. (fourth) and Tyler Reddick (fifth) each moved up one spot following top-10 finishes on Sunday, and Christopher Bell (sixth) climbed two positions following his dominant win. Bell also climbed to second in the Playoff points standings following a Stage 2 victory and the race win. Denny Hamlin remains the lead Toyota Camry XSE in the third position.

Heim doing double duty … Along with his full-time duties in the NASCAR Truck Series, Corey Heim makes his third Cup Series start this weekend, this time in the No. 50 Mobil 1 Camry XSE for 23XI Racing. Heim filled in for an injured Erik Jones in the No. 43 Camry XSE for LEGACY MOTOR CLUB at Dover and Kansas earlier this season, where he finished 25th and 22nd, respectively. Heim has made two previous starts at Nashville Superspeedway in the Truck Series, including a fourth-place finish last season.

Bell rolls to Nashville with serious momentum … Not only was Bell victorious on Sunday, he also won the Xfinity Series race on Saturday, capping off a monumental weekend sweep. The Oklahoma native also comes into the weekend with five consecutive top-10 finishes and six in the last seven Cup Series races. Additionally, Bell has finished in the top-10 in each of the three Cup Series races at Nashville to-date, to which another would further help his rise in the points standings.

Smith holds second, Creed rises in points … Heading to Nashville this weekend, Toyota and Joe Gibbs Racing’s two full-time Xfinity Series drivers are in the thick of the championship battle. Chandler Smith remains second in the series points standings and currently leads the Playoff points thanks to his two race wins and five stage wins so far this season. Sheldon Creed, coming off another runner-up finish, climbed to fifth in the points after Saturday’s race.

Toyota Cup drivers running Xfinity … This weekend, three Toyota Racing full-time Cup Series drivers will be doing double duty by challenging the Xfinity Series race on Saturday. Ty Gibbs and John Hunter Nemechek return to Joe Gibbs Racing’s No. 19 and 20 Toyota GR Supras for their fourth and ninth Xfinity Series races this season. Additionally, Tyler Reddick is back in the Xfinity Series for the first time this season, first since Las Vegas last year, with Sam Hunt Racing and the No. 26 GR Supra. Reddick has 10 career Xfinity Series wins, with his last coming in 2022.

Points update in Trucks return … With the return of the Truck Series this weekend, here are where the Toyota Tundras currently sit in the series points. Heim is the lead Tundra at the moment, currently second in the series points standings, but leads the Playoff standings thanks to his four wins so far this season. Taylor Gray is currently fifth with his brother, Tanner, sitting ninth. Stewart Friesen is also just outside the Playoff field currently, sitting in 11th coming into the weekend.

Butterbean returns to the No. 1 Tundra … After a stellar debut at North Wilkesboro last month, Brenden “Butterbean” Queen is back with TRICON Garage and the No. 1 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro this weekend in Nashville. The Virginia native came home fourth at North Wilkesboro and will make his debut at Nashville Superspeedway Friday night.

NASCAR Regional Series – ARCA Menards Series

Sawalich seeks Berlin repeat … Coming off his win at Mid-Ohio last weekend, his third win of 2024, Toyota Development Driver, William Sawalich, heads to Berlin Raceway with a lot of momentum. The Minnesotan also seeks a repeat at Berlin with last year’s victory, with Toyota itself seeking a three-peat at the Michigan track.

NHRA – Top Fuel | Funny Car

Toyota controls Top Fuel points … Following his third victory of the 2024 season in Virginia, defending Top Fuel champion, Doug Kalitta, extended his points advantage now over teammate, Shawn Langdon, who climbed to second after his runner-up finish. Justin Ashley follows them in third, with Steve Torrence in fourth and Antron Brown in fifth as Toyota owns the top-five in Top Fuel. In Funny Car, J.R. Todd remains fourth in the standings with Ron Capps in seventh and Alexis DeJoria in eighth.

Toyota streaks continue … Additionally with the performances at Virginia last weekend, Toyota kept a couple of NHRA streaks alive. With Kalitta’s victory, Toyota has now won nine of the last 10 NHRA races in Top Fuel, dating back to his triumph at Pomona last November. Toyota has also now made 32 consecutive finals in either Top Fuel and/or Funny Car following the all-Kalitta Motorsports Top Fuel final in Virginia last weekend with Kalitta and Langdon.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs more than 49,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of more than 34 million cars and trucks at our nine manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 10th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 28 electrified options.

Through its Driving Possibilities initiative, the Toyota USA Foundation has committed to creating innovative educational programs within, and in partnership with, historically underserved and diverse communities near the company’s U.S. operating sites.

For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

VALVOLINE™ GLOBAL OPERATIONS EXPANDS PARTNERSHIP WITH HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS THROUGH 2029

INVESTMENT GROWS SPONSORSHIP OF WILLIAM BYRON, NO. 24 TEAM

CONCORD, N.C. (June 26, 2024) – Valvoline Global, a worldwide leader in automotive and industrial solutions creating future-ready products and best-in-class services for partners around the globe, has expanded and extended its strategic partnership with 14-time NASCAR Cup Series champions Hendrick Motorsports through 2029.

The extension will deepen the marketing and technical collaboration between the two organizations to maximize performance on and off the track. In addition to elevating Valvoline’s brand exposure, the relationship will focus on engineering innovation and the development of specialized solutions for Hendrick Motorsports tailored to the rigorous demands of NASCAR racing.

Notably, Valvoline will grow its partnership platform by appearing as a primary sponsor of the No. 24 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 of driver William Byron in eight Cup Series races in 2024 and six each year from 2025-2029. It will also continue as a three-race primary sponsor of Kyle Larson’s No. 5 Chevrolet through 2029.

“Valvoline has been the Official Lubricants Partner of Hendrick Motorsports for over a decade with its products used in the team’s Chevrolet racing engines since 2014,” said Jamal Muashsher, president and chief executive officer, Valvoline Global Operations. “We are thrilled to announce this extension and enhancement of our partnership. This collaboration represents the blend of two iconic, trusted brands driven by a shared passion for excellence and winning performance. Together, we look forward to pushing the boundaries of innovation and continuing to dominate the racetrack with our cutting-edge lubricant solutions and this world class team. Our continued alliance with Hendrick Motorsports reaffirms our commitment to delivering unmatched quality and technology to all drivers and fans alike.”

Valvoline will also continue as a full-season associate sponsor of the four-car Hendrick Motorsports stable, which includes 2020 NASCAR champion Chase Elliott and seven-time race winner Alex Bowman. The team has won three Cup Series titles (2016, 2020 and 2021) since it began using Valvoline products in its racing engines in 2014.

“We’re privileged to expand our incredible relationship with Valvoline,” said Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports. “They raise the bar each season, from the elite performance of the products in our race cars to the fan-favorite Valvoline paint scheme designs. William has quickly become a bona fide star in our sport, and I believe he’s just scratching the surface of what’s possible. He and Kyle are champions and proven winners, and we’re proud to have Valvoline as a primary sponsor of both of their teams. We look forward to many more victories together.”

Byron, 26, is one of NASCAR’s top drivers. In 2024, he has already registered three wins in 18 Cup Series races, including his first career DAYTONA 500 victory. Last season, he finished third in the final standings with a series-leading six wins, along with personal-best totals in top-five finishes (15), top-10s (21) and laps led (1,016). The Charlotte, North Carolina, native also made history by collecting Hendrick Motorsports’ milestone 300th Cup Series victory.

“Valvoline is such an iconic brand in racing,” Byron said. “I’m excited to carry their colors more often and continue to fight for wins with their brand on board. It has been a fun couple of years getting Valvoline to victory lane and we plan to do it more in the future.”

ABOUT VALVOLINE™ GLOBAL OPERATIONS:
Valvoline Global is a worldwide leader in automotive and industrial solutions, creating future-ready products and best-in-class services for partners around the globe. Established in 1866, the company introduced the world’s first branded motor oil and developed strong brand recognition and customer satisfaction ratings across multiple product channels. With sales in more than 140 countries and territories, Valvoline Global’s solutions are available for every engine and drivetrain, including high-mileage and heavy-duty vehicles, offered at more than 80,000 locations. Valvoline Global is powering the future of mobility through innovative solutions for vehicles with electric, hybrid and internal combustion powertrains – and the company will continue to solve for global automotive and industrial challenges as it moves forward. To learn more, visit ValvolineGlobal.com.

™ Trademark, Valvoline Global or its subsidiaries, registered in various countries.

ABOUT HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS:
Founded by Rick Hendrick in 1984, Hendrick Motorsports is leading team NASCAR Cup Series wins history. At the sport’s premier level, the organization holds the all-time records in every major statistical category, including championships (14), points-paying race victories (308) and laps led (more than 80,000). It has registered at least one race win in a record 40 different seasons, including an active streak of 39 in a row (1986-2024). Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2024, the team fields four full-time Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 entries in the NASCAR Cup Series with drivers Alex Bowman, William Byron, Chase Elliott and Kyle Larson. Headquartered on more than 100 acres in Concord, North Carolina, Hendrick Motorsports employs approximately 600 people. For more information, please visit HendrickMotorsports.com or interact on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X.

RFK Announces Wellness Walk at Pocono with Esperion

Brad Keselowski to Walk Infield Camping Route Alongside Fans Promoting Heart Health

CONCORD, N.C. (June 26, 2024) – In its continued effort to promote Heart Health, RFK Racing team partner Esperion invites fans and the public to walk a one-mile route on the infield camping area at Pocono Raceway. The walk will begin at 9 a.m. ET on Saturday, July 13th, with Brad Keselowski leading the way in the walk.

“We’re thrilled to activate with RFK and Brad at the upcoming race in Pocono,” said Sheldon Koenig, President and CEO, Esperion Therapeutics. “Staying active and living an active lifestyle is one of the best ways for us to promote health and wellness, and we’re excited to do that alongside the team next month. No strings attached, we welcome and encourage anyone who wants to participate!”

Fans interested in attending the walk are encouraged to stay tuned to RFK’s social media channels for updated maps and information. The walk will promptly start at 9 a.m. ET at the block party stage along the infield camping road and last until the one-mile loop is complete.

Track activity begins after the walk at 12 p.m. with group practice, followed by single-car qualifying at 12:45 p.m. Sunday’s race is set for 2:30 p.m. ET (USA, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio).

About RFK Racing
RFK Racing, in its 37th season in 2024, features an ownership lineup pairing one of the sport’s most iconic names, Jack Roush, along with NASCAR Champion, Brad Keselowski, and Fenway Sports Group owner John Henry. Roush initially founded the team in 1988 and it has since become one of the most successful racing operations in the world, propelling him to be the first NASCAR owner to amass three hundred wins and capturing eight championships, including back-to-back NASCAR Cup titles in 2003 and 2004. Keselowski, a former owner in the NASCAR Truck Series, is the 2012 NASCAR Cup Series Champion. In 2007, Roush partnered with Henry, who also owns Major League Baseball’s Boston Red Sox, English Premier League’s Liverpool F.C., and the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins, to form Roush Fenway Racing. Off the track, RFK is a leader and proven winner in NASCAR marketing solutions, having produced multiple award-winning social media, digital content and experiential marketing campaigns. Visit rfkracing.com, and follow the team on all social platforms @rfkracing.

About Pocono Raceway
Pocono Raceway, also known as ‘The Tricky Triangle,’ is family-owned and situated in the beautiful Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. In business for over 50 years, the Raceway hosts multiple, national motorsports events including the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series events each year. The facility’s calendar also consists of over 200 events including Elements Music & Arts Festival and a wide range of non-motorsports entertainment, car clubs and racing schools. Pocono Raceway is recognized as the world’s first, privately-owned solar-powered sports facility. Their 25-acre, three-megawatt solar farm provides the energy needs of the Raceway, as well as, adds electricity to the local power grid. Each member of our raceway staff is committed to creating exciting experiences and lifelong memories. For more information, please visit www.poconoraceway.com.