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2024 Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge Field Notes

Indianapolis, IN - during practice for the Indianapolis 500 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Chris Jones | IMS Photo)

INDIANAPOLIS (Sunday, May 19, 2024) – Facts and figures about the starting field for the 108th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on Sunday, May 26 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

  • Scott McLaughlin earned his first career Indianapolis 500 pole. He is the first New Zealand native and the second New Zealand citizen to win a pole for “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.” Scott Dixon, who is a New Zealand citizen but was born in Australia, has won five Indianapolis 500 poles.
  • Scott McLaughlin’s best qualifying position in three previous Indianapolis 500 starts was 14th in 2023.
  • Scott McLaughlin produced the fastest four-lap average speed in history for an Indianapolis 500 pole winner, 234.220 mph. The previous record was 234.217 set in 2023 by Alex Palou. Arie Luyendyk set the all-time four-lap qualifying average speed record of 236.986 in 1996, but his run came on the second day of qualifications and wasn’t eligible for the pole.
  • Team Penske earned its record-extending 19th Indianapolis 500 pole. The team’s last pole was delivered by Simon Pagenaud in 2019. Team Penske also has a record 19 Indianapolis 500 victories.
  • Team Penske swept the front row for the Indianapolis 500 for just the second time in Indianapolis 500 history, with Scott McLaughlin on pole, Will Power second and Josef Newgarden third. Team Penske first achieved the feat in 1988 with Rick Mears on pole, Danny Sullivan second and Al Unser third.
  • In 1988, pole sitter Rick Mears drove a yellow Pennzoil-sponsored car, No. 2 starter Danny Sullivan was a one-time winner of the Indianapolis 500, and No. 3 starter Al Unser was the defending winner of the “500.” This year, Scott McLaughlin drives a Pennzoil-sponsored car, No. 2 starter Will Power is a one-time winner of the Indianapolis 500, and No. 3 starter Josef Newgarden is the defending winner of the “500.”
  • Chevrolet-powered drivers earned the first eight starting spots this year. The last time one manufacturer earned as many of the top starting spots was 2013, when Chevy took the top 10 starting positions.
  • This is the 10th time car No. 3 has won the Indianapolis 500 pole. The last time was 2010 with Helio Castroneves of Team Penske. Car No. 1 has won the pole a record 13 times.
  • This is the second-fastest starting field in Indianapolis 500 history, with an average speed of 231.943 mph. The record of 232.184 mph was set last year.
  • This is the second-fastest front row in Indianapolis 500 history, with an average speed of 233.981 mph. The record of 234.181 mph was set last year.
  • Kyle Larson turned the fastest qualifying lap by a rookie in Indianapolis 500 history, 233.453 mph on the first lap of his Top 12 Qualifying attempt. The previous record was 233.297 by Benjamin Pedersen in 2023.
  • Kyle Larson recorded the second-fastest four-lap qualifying average by a rookie in Indianapolis 500 history, 232.846 mph. The record is 233.100 set by Tony Stewart in 1996.
  • There are eight former Indianapolis 500 winners in the starting field: Helio Castroneves (2001, 2002, 2009, 2021), Scott Dixon (2008), Ryan Hunter-Reay (2014), Alexander Rossi (2016), Takuma Sato (2017, 2020), Will Power (2018), Marcus Ericsson (2022) and Josef Newgarden (2023). Between them, they have 12 victories. The record for most former winners in the field is 10, in 1992. The fewest, other than the inaugural race in 1911, is zero in 1912.
  • There are six rookies in the field: Kyle Larson (starting fifth), Marcus Armstrong (16th), Kyffin Simpson (18th), Christian Rasmussen (24th), Tom Blomqvist (25th) and Linus Lundqvist (27th).
  • Other than the six rookies, Pietro Fittipaldi is the only driver in the field who didn’t start the race in 2023. Fittipaldi’s last start was in 2021.
  • Helio Castroneves is the most experienced driver in the field, with 23 previous Indianapolis 500 starts. The record is 35, set in consecutive years from 1958-1992 by A.J. Foyt.
  • Scott Dixon has led 665 career laps in the Indianapolis 500, the all-time event record. The only other driver in the field who has led more than 200 laps is Helio Castroneves (326).
  • The oldest driver in the starting field is Helio Castroneves, 49 years, 16 days on Race Day. The youngest driver is Kyffin Simpson, 19 years, 230 days. A.J. Foyt is the oldest driver to start the Indianapolis 500. He was 57 years, 128 days old when he made his last start in 1992. A.J. Foyt IV is the youngest driver to start the Indianapolis 500. His 19th birthday was on Race Day, 2003.
  • Helio Castroneves will be older on Race Day than Al Unser when he became the oldest winner of the Indianapolis 500 in 1987 at age 47 years, 360 days old.
  • Kyffin Simpson will be younger on Race Day than Troy Ruttman when he became the youngest winner of the Indianapolis 500 in 1952 at age 22 years, 80 days old.
  • Twenty different drivers in this year’s field have led a total of 2,279 laps in previous Indianapolis 500s.
  • There are a combined 222 previous Indianapolis 500 starts among the 33 drivers in this year’s field. The record is 260 years of experience, set in 1987 and 1992. There were 235 years of combined experience in last year’s field.
  • The most-experienced row in this year’s starting lineup is Row 7, with a combined 62 career starts (Marco Andretti 18, Helio Castroneves 23, Scott Dixon 21). The least-experienced rows are Rows 8 and 9, with two combined career starts (Row 8: Agustin Canapino 1, Sting Ray Robb 1, Christian Rasmussen 0; Row 9; Tom Blomqvist 0, Romain Grosjean 2, Linus Lundqvist 0).
  • There are seven former Indianapolis 500 Rookies of the Year in this year’s field. The record is nine, in 1991 and 2021.

Toyota Gazoo Racing North America NHRA Joliet Post-Race Report – 05.19.24

BROWN VICTORIOUS AT ROUTE 66 NATIONALS FOR 75TH CAREER WIN
Toyota earns seventh consecutive Top Fuel victory

JOLIET, Ill. (May 19, 2024) – On a hot, slick Sunday in Joliet, Illinois, Antron Brown took home his first Wally Trophy of 2024 at the Route 66 NHRA Nationals. The win by Brown marks the 75th of his historic career, as well as his sixth overall NHRA win at Route 66 Raceway. Brown’s triumph is also the seventh consecutive Top Fuel win for Toyota, dating back to November 2023.

Brown defeated Toyota teammate Shawn Langdon in the finals Sunday evening, which was Langdon’s 52nd career final round appearance. Steve Torrence and Justin Ashley also advanced out of the first round for Team Toyota, only to both be defeated by Brown on his way to victory.

In Funny Car, Alexis DeJoria advanced the furthest of the Toyota GR Supras Sunday afternoon, falling to John Force in the second round. J.R. Todd and Ron Capps were defeated in round one.

With the final round appearances by Brown and Langdon in Top Fuel, Toyota has now reached the finals in 29 consecutive NHRA events.

Toyota Post-Race Recap
NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series
Route 66 NHRA Nationals
Route 66 Raceway
Race 6 of 20

TOYOTA TOP FUEL FINISHING POSITIONS 

NameCarFinal ResultRound-by-Round
Antron BrownMatco Tools Toyota Top Fuel DragsterWinnerW (4.113) v. J. Salinas (No Time) W (3.891) v. J. Ashley (5.081) W (3.894) v. S. Torrence (5.467) W (3.838) v. S. Langdon (3.869)
Shawn LangdonFuture Energy Solutions Toyota Top Fuel DragsterFinalistW (3.801) v. C. Krohn (3.930) W (3.866) v. S. Reed (4.317) W (3.764) v. D. Mercier (4.972) L (3.869) v. A. Brown (3.838)
Steve TorrenceCAPCO Contractors Toyota Top Fuel DragsterSemi-finalsW (3.838) v. B. Torrence (3.904) W (3.854) v. C. Millican (3.894) L (5.467) v. A. Brown (3.894)
Justin AshleySCAG Power Equipment Toyota Top Fuel DragsterSecond RoundW (3.827 – holeshot) v. D. Kalitta  (3.790) L (5.081) v. A. Brown (3.891)
Doug KalittaApplied Innovation Toyota Top Fuel DragsterFirst RoundL (3.790) v. J. Ashley (3.827 – holeshot)
Billy TorrenceCAPCO Contractors Toyota Top Fuel DragsterFirst RoundL (3.904) v. S. Torrence (3.838)

TOYOTA FUNNY CAR FINISHING POSITIONS 

NameCarFinal ResultRound-by-Round
Alexis DeJoriaBandero Tequila Toyota GR Supra Funny CarSecond RoundW (4.166) v. J. Todd (9.674) L (4.237) v. J. Force (4.008)
J.R. ToddDHL Toyota GR Supra Funny CarFirst RoundL (9.674) v. A. DeJoria (4.166)
Ron CappsNAPA Auto Care Toyota GR Supra Funny CarFirst RoundL (4.650) v. M. Hagan (4.087)

*= Non-Toyota driver

TOYOTA QUOTES

ANTRON BROWN, Matco Tools Toyota Top Fuel Dragster, AB Motorsports

TF Final Result: Winner

What was the key to victory today?

“You have to step up when you race a team like that over there (Shawn Langdon, Kalitta Motorsports). We knew it was going to be a crazy final, and we know what they ran – a 3.82, 3.83. But first off, all the glory goes to God. For Don Schumacher, our boss, our guy that got us all out here, dedicated this to him and his family. We had a special memorial this weekend for him. Another that’s down, we’re missing our crew guy, Alex. Alex, you know what’s going on man. This is for your dad. We love you, we miss you. This is special for Matco Tools, Lucas Oil, all our sponsors. Summit Racing, Sirius XM, Toyota, FVP, everybody. We love all of these people and thanks for making it happen. And thanks to the fans here in Chicago. It feels good to be back here at Route 66 Raceway. What a blessing for win No. 75 and it’s true blessing to be on this team. And God gets all the glory.”

SHAWN LANGDON, Future Energy Solutions Toyota Top Fuel Dragster, Kalitta Motorsports

TF Final Result: Finalist

Take us through your day today, reaching the final round.

“It was a good day. The Future Energy Solutions Toyota team made great runs out here on a very tricky race track with the hot conditions. It was probably one of our first true tests of a summer track with a lot of UV. We made great runs but just missed it a little bit in the final and didn’t give the track enough credit. It started cooling off, and Antron (Brown) made a good run. We’ll take the runner-up spot – we’re very pleased with that for Future Energy Solutions, Revchem, Safety Kleen and everybody at Kalitta Air. It’s good to see this car going rounds again after a tough couple of races. The car qualified well and maintained well on race day so we’re looking forward to heading to Epping.”

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.

Team Penske NASCAR Cup Series Race Report – All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro

NASCAR All-Star Race – North Wilkesboro Speedway
North Wilkesboro, NC – May 19, 2024

AUSTIN CINDRIC No. 2 KEYSTONE LIGHT FORD MUSTANG

START (All-Star Open): 6TH FINISH (All-Star Open): 20TH

RACE RUNDOWN (All-Star Open): After extraordinary rainfall cascaded over North Wilkesboro Speedway Saturday, clear skies and warm temperatures greeted teams Sunday afternoon for the NASCAR All-Star Open, including Austin Cindric, driver of the No. 2 Keystone Light Ford Mustang, who started the event from the sixth position. Determined to race his way into the 200-lap main event, Cindric marched forward early, taking over the third position less than 10 laps in. Unfortunately, shortly after the restart on Lap 59, Cindric was turned into the wall, causing heavy damage to the Team Penske car that led to lengthy repairs on pit road. As a result, Cindric was unable to race his way into the All-Star Race.

CINDRIC’S THOUGHTS: “Unfortunate to get collected and lose our shot at racing our way into the All-Star Race. Our No. 2 Keystone Light Ford Mustang had speed, but we obviously weren’t able to capitalize on it after the damage. We’ll regroup and turn our focus to the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte.”

RYAN BLANEY No. 12 MENARDS/WRANGLER FORD MUSTANG

START: 17TH FINISH: 5TH

RACE RUNDOWN: Ryan Blaney and the No. 12 Menards/Wrangler Ford Mustang came away with a fifth-place finish in Sunday night’s All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway after starting 17th in the 20-car field. Following an early caution on lap two, the 12-team was one of five to stay out as the rest of the field hit pit road to put on four primary tires, vaulting Blaney to fifth in the running order for the ensuing restart. Blaney reached third on the leaderboard by lap 30 before crossing the line fourth at the time of the scheduled caution on lap 100. With all teams mandated to make a four-tire stop under caution, crew chief Jonathan Hassler called for four fresh soft option tires before lining up for the restart from the outside of row two. After a lengthy battle with the No. 11 following the restart, Blaney made the to take second away and set his sights on the lead. The final scheduled caution of the night on lap 150 saw the No. 12 team opt to stay on the track for what was the eventual final restart as Blaney took the green from the inside of row one. Blaney was shuffled out of line in the opening laps of the run, relegating him to fifth in the running order where he was ultimately scored at the time of the checkered flag.

BLANEY’S THOUGHTS: “It was an alright race. We knew we had to be creative to get up through there and we did a good job in the first caution when a lot of guys came up and put yellows on. We left the reds on and that’s how we got our track position, and then we had to leave them on until the end and actually held on alright. I didn’t get a very good restart on the front row, and then I about spun out into one and that lost me second and lost me third and then I’m just trying to make it back up, although I probably could have run about third. Overall, not a bad night from where we started.”

JOEY LOGANO No. 22 SHELL-PENNZOIL FORD MUSTANG

START: 1ST FINISH: 1ST

RACE RUNDOWN: Joey Logano led a NASCAR All-Star Race record 199-of-200 laps to win at North Wilkesboro Sunday night in dominant fashion, marking his second-career All-Star Race victory (Charlotte, 2016). Logano becomes the third Ford driver to win multiple All-Star races, joining Davey Allison and Mark Martin as he took home the $1 million payday. After starting from the pole, the Shell-Pennzoil Ford Mustang led the entirety of the opening 100-lap segment before mandatory, four-tire pit stops were made under caution. Crew chief Paul Wolfe called for four soft option tires and the 22-team reeled off a fast stop in its only opportunity of the night as Logano won the race off pit road. Logano was locked into a battle for the lead with the No. 20 on the ensuing restart, culminating in a three-wide battle that saw the No. 22 come away as the leader. Logano led all the way through the scheduled caution on lap 150 when Wolfe kept the Shell-Pennzoil Ford on track to maintain the lead heading into the final run of the night. Logano battled the No. 11 for the top spot in the opening laps of the run before distancing himself from the field and leading the rest of the way en route to his second-career All-Star Race victory.

LOGANO’S THOUGHTS: “A lot of fun when you’ve got a car this fast. The Shell-Pennzoil Mustang, it’s just so great to get in Victory Lane. All of our sponsors and everyone who stuck with us to get a win, it feels nice. It’s been a while. I wish it was for points, but a million bucks is still a lot of money and I feel great about that.”

The NASCAR Cup Series takes on the longest race of the season next Sunday, May 26, at Charlotte Motor Speedway with the running of the Coca-Cola 600. The 400-lap event is set for 6:00 p.m. ET with coverage on FOX, PRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

RCR NCS Race Recap: North Wilkesboro Speedway

Austin Dillon and the No. 3 SENIX Tools Chevrolet Team Make Short Track Gains in All-Star Open Race

Finish: 9th
Start: 15th

“We gave it all we had. Our No. 3 SENIX Chevrolet was really fast, and I enjoyed racing on the newly-paved North Wilkesboro Speedway. This track is fun to race! We had the fastest lap in qualifying but, unfortunately, we had to start back in 15th after the session was canceled due to inclement weather. Our SENIX Tools Chevrolet was fast to start the race, and we were on a mission because we knew we had to finish in the top-two in order to advance into the All-Star Race. We made our way forward into the top-10 with 50 laps to go. We decided to put yellow tires on, and everyone in front of us took reds. We were hoping that because of that, they would fade, but it didn’t happen fast enough. We were making a pretty good charge at the end, but there just wasn’t enough time and we lost too much ground on the hard tires on takeoff. Would have liked to have seen what happened with reds because they got to beating and banging up front and I think we could have taken advantage of that. We learned a lot that we can take to the short tracks coming up. I think this is a big win for RCR and our short track program, so hopefully we can take what we learned, apply it and have some better runs moving forward.” -Austin Dillon

Wild Night Under the Lights for Kyle Busch and the No. 8 Lenovo Chevrolet Team in North Wilkesboro Speedway’s All-Star Race

Finish: 10th
Start: 14th

“It was an eventful All-Star Race in the Lenovo Chevrolet. The first lap of the race we didn’t even have water temperature in the car yet and we were wrecking each other off Turn 2. We were able to continue on, but I’m getting tired of getting run over by everybody. We got into another incident later in the race with the No. 54 car. He got his tires hot and checked up early and I didn’t check up early, so that was my fault. Crew chief Randall Burnett and all the guys did a good job making adjustments to our Chevy and choosing tires to help with the handling throughout the race. We were able to pick up a few spots in that last 40-lap run and come away with a 10th-place finish.” -Kyle Busch

Joey Logano Takes Ford To Victory in NASCAR All-Star Race

Ford Performance Notes and Quotes
NASCAR Cup Series
All-Star Race | Sunday, May 19, 2024

JOEY LOGANO WINS SECOND CAREER ALL-STAR RACE

  • Joey Logano won the NASCAR All-Star Race for the second time in his career tonight (2016).
  • Logano led 199-of-200 laps, which is the most ever in a NASCAR All-Star Race.
  • He becomes the third Ford driver to win multiple All-Star Races, joining Davey Allison and Mark Martin.
  • Ford has now won the NASCAR All-Star Race 14 times and twice in the last three seasons.

Ford Finishing Results:
1st – Joey Logano
3rd – Chris Buescher
5th – Ryan Blaney
9th – Michael McDowell
11th – Noah Gragson
16th – Brad Keselowski

JOEY LOGANO, No. 22 Shell/Pennzoil Ford Mustang Dark Horse – VICTORY LANE INTERVIEW – HOW FUN WAS THAT? “A lot of fun when you’ve got a car this fast. The Shell/Pennzoil Mustang, it’s just so great to get in Victory Lane. All of our sponsors and everyone who stuck with us to get a win, it feels nice. It’s been a while. I wish it was for points, but a million bucks is still a lot of money and I feel great about that.”

THOUGHTS ON THE OPTION TIRE AND GOING 100 LAPS? “Well, we did the first 100, so why wouldn’t it last the second 100. That was our thought, so it was definitely an aggressive strategy, but it worked out good.”

ROGER PENSKE PUT A CAR ON THE POLE AT INDIANAPOLIS AND YOU WIN TONIGHT. THAT’S A PRETTY GOOD DAY. “You said it. Not a bad day.”

CHRIS BUESCHER, No. 17 Fastenal Ford Mustang Dark Horse – “We stayed on reds all night, so that worked out pretty good for us. I’m really proud of our team. Friday wasn’t very good to be straight up about it and they worked really hard and pulled some strings, hit some buttons and got us a whole lot better for tonight, so I was proud of that to bring our Fastenal Mustang home third. I felt like we had a decent shot at it there. I was able to pace the 22 pretty good, but there at the end just took too long to get around the 5 car and really didn’t have sight of the leaders at that point. It’s a good night on a night where only one position matters. I’m proud of the group. It’s good to keep our momentum up and we’ll go onto the 600 and go win us one.”

HOW IMPORTANT IS THE MOMENTUM YOU HAVE GOING WITH THE 600 COMING UP? “I’m pumped for it. That’s a track that was really good for us last year. We led laps and got a stage win at a time of the year where we hadn’t hit our stride, so that speaks volumes for us going into it. I’m pumped. Momentum is just a product of running good and being on our game and our team has done a fantastic job. Again, I couldn’t be more proud of them. Tonight, I wanted two more, but this is a heck of a way to lead us right into the 600 next weekend.”

RYAN BLANEY, No. 12 Menards/Wrangler Ford Mustang Dark Horse – “It was an alright race. We knew we had to be creative to get up through there and we did a good job in the first caution when a lot of guys came up and put yellows on. We left the reds on and that’s how we got our track position, and then we had to leave them on until the end and actually held on alright. I didn’t get a very good restart on the front row, and then I about spun out into one and that lost me second and lost me third and then I’m just trying to make it back up, although I probably could have run about third. Overall, not a bad night from where we started.”

NOAH GRAGSON, No. 10 Overstock Ford Mustang Dark Horse – “We started in the back and got a lap down early, but got the lucky dog and came back to 11th. We just never got a handle on the balance all weekend. We were pretty loose in, so we need to go back and do our homework on this place. It’s tough. It’s a new place, but we’re a better race team than we showed all weekend. I’m certainly grateful for the fan support to allow us the opportunity to get in the All-Star Race. It was a fun weekend overall, but we just kind of struggled. It seemed like the soft tire was better for our car than the hard tire for whatever reason that is, but I’m just super grateful.”

FORD NASCAR CUP SERIES ALL-STAR RACE WINNERS

1986 – Bill Elliott (Atlanta)

1991 – Davey Allison (Charlotte)

1992 – Davey Allison (Charlotte)

1994 – Geoffrey Bodine (Charlotte)

1996 – Michael Waltrip (Charlotte)

1998 – Mark Martin (Charlotte)

2002 – Ryan Newman (Charlotte)

2004 – Matt Kenseth (Charlotte)

2005 – Mark Martin (Charlotte)

2011 – Carl Edwards (Charlotte)

2016 – Joey Logano (Charlotte)

2018 – Kevin Harvick (Charlotte)

2022 – Ryan Blaney (Texas)

2024 – Joey Logano (North Wilkesboro)

Rick Ware Racing: All-Star Race from North Wilkesboro

RICK WARE RACING
All-Star Open and All-Star Race

Date: May 19, 2024
Event: NASCAR All-Star Open and NASCAR All-Star Race (non-points events)
Series: NASCAR Cup Series
Location: North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway (.625-mile oval)
NASCAR All-Star Open: 100 laps, with a competition break at or around lap 50

● Race Winner: Ty Gibbs of Joe Gibbs Racing (Toyota)
● Second Place: Bubba Wallace Jr. of 23XI Racing (Toyota)
● Fan Vote Winner: Noah Gragson of Stewart-Haas Racing (Ford)

Note:The All-Star Open was the undercard event to the NASCAR All-Star Race, where non-qualified drivers attempted to race their way into the All-Star Race by winning the Open, finishing second in the Open, or by winning the fan vote.

NASCAR All-Star Race: 200 laps, with competition breaks at or around lap 100 and lap 150

● Race Winner: Joey Logano of Team Penske (Ford)

Note: The NASCAR All-Star Race was comprised of drivers who won a points-paying race in 2023 or 2024, fulltime drivers who have previously won the All-Star Race, fulltime drivers who have won a NASCAR Cup Series championship, and drivers who advanced from the All-Star Open.

RWR Race Finish in the All-Star Open:

● Justin Haley (Started 16th, Finished 4th/ Running, completed 100 of 100 laps)
● Kaz Grala (Started 18th, Finished 11th/ Running, completed 100 of 100 laps)

RWR Notes:

● Haley was vying for his second All-Star Race appearance. He competed in the 2020 All-Star Race by virtue of his 2019 win at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway and finished 14th.

● Haley’s fourth-place finish was one spot short of tying his best All-Star Open finish – third earned in 2022.

● This was Grala’s first career All-Star Open.

● Both RWR cars qualified in the top-five prior to the session being interrupted by rain while the final two cars were on track. The field was set by points according to the rule book.

Race Notes:

● Logano won the All-Star Race with a .636 of second margin of victory over runner-up Denny Hamlin.

● This was Ford’s 14th win in the All-Star Race.

● The All-Star Race featured two lead changes among two different drivers. Twenty drivers comprised the field.

Sound Bites:

“We had a good car. I wish we could have started where we qualified in second, but all around it was a good day for us. We’ll keep riding this momentum. We’ve brought fast race cars every week, so we’ll just keep going with it. I had a lot of fun, especially on the red tires. We had a little more grip so I could move quicker to make things happen, but they wear out a little more. It was just hard to pass so it was nice to have that option to make up some ground.”– Justin Haley, driver of the No. 51 Pinnacle Home Improvements Ford Mustang Dark Horse

“It was cool to have as much speed as we had this weekend. We got shuffled back on the last restart, and still drove back up to 11th. Both of our RWR cars were top-five on pace in the Open and I think both of us would have had a great chance to transfer if we had lined up in order of qualifying. We’ve had a lot of potential lately, and it’s exciting every week when we show up to the racetrack. I like the momentum that we have heading into the Coca-Cola 600.” – Kaz Grala, driver of the No. 15 Remixers.com Ford Mustang Dark Horse

Next Up:

The NASCAR Cup Series returns to points-paying racing on Sunday, May 26 with the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway. The longest race on the series’ schedule gets underway at 6 p.m. EDT with live coverage provided by FOX and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

Toyota Racing – NCS North Wilkesboro All-Star Race – 05.19.24

HAMLIN SECOND IN ALL-STAR RACE
Bubba Wallace drives through field from All-Star Open to top-10

NORTH WILKESBORO, N.C. (May 19, 2024) – Denny Hamlin had an impressive run to a runner-up finish at the annual All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway on Sunday evening to lead Toyota.

Bubba Wallace drove through the field as his runner-up finish in the All-Star Open qualified him for the All-Star Race. The 23XI Racing driver drove from 19th to sixth at the finish.

Toyota Post-Race Recap
NASCAR Cup Series (NCS)
North Wilkesboro Speedway
All-Star Race – 125 miles, 200 laps

TOYOTA FINISHING POSITIONS
1st, Joey Logano*
2nd, DENNY HAMLIN
3rd, Chris Buescher*
4th, Kyle Larson*
5th, Ryan Blaney*
6th, BUBBA WALLACE
12th, MARTIN TRUEX JR.
13th, TY GIBBS
14th, TYLER REDDICK
17th, CHRISTOPHER BELL
*non-Toyota driver

TOYOTA QUOTES

DENNY HAMLIN, No. 11 Mavis Tire Toyota Camry XSE, Joe Gibbs Racing

Finishing Position: 2nd

Could fresh tires have made a difference?

“I don’t know. I needed more of an advantage to pass for sure. I would run to him, and then you couldn’t pass. I would lose a little bit of air there, and I would try to give my car a break and then run to him again – just have to be so much faster to get around. Hats off to the track, NASCAR and Goodyear for giving it a try. Hopefully, we learned something here for future short tracks. I hate it for our whole Mavis Tire team, but at least we had an exciting fight in the end – something to talk about. (laughter).”

BUBBA WALLACE, No. 23 Alltroo Toyota Camry XSE, 23XI Racing

Finishing Position: 6th

The battle you had to stay on the lead lap was epic. Can you tell us about it?

“That is what you have to do. You have to survive. We were just okay. It was a good rally for the team. Just didn’t have what it took to get up there. I thought we were pretty good. I was like here we go – the 5 (Kyle Larson) and the 23 charging through the field again, just kind of stalled out and our stuff got burnt up. It was a fun battle with the 12 (Ryan Blaney). I wanted to act like I was mad at him, but I wasn’t. It was fun.”

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.

The Ultimate Guide to Chevrolet Cars: Detailed Specifications

Photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash

Chevrolet has been a leading brand in the automotive industry for more than a century, with a rich history and a strong reputation for producing high-quality, reliable vehicles. From its humble beginnings in 1911, the brand has evolved into a global powerhouse, offering a diverse range of cars, trucks, and SUVs that cater to a variety of needs and preferences. With such a vast lineup of vehicles, it can be overwhelming for potential buyers to navigate the specifications, features, and options available. 

Whether you are a die-hard Chevy fan or simply in the market for a new car, this guide will serve as a comprehensive resource to help you understand and compare the various options available from Chevrolet. For those specifically searching for cars for sale in Enid, OK, you’ll find a wide range of Chevrolet models to suit your needs. So buckle up and get ready to dive into the world of Chevrolet cars, as we take you on a journey through their detailed specifications.

Engine options for top performance:

When it comes to achieving top performance in Chevrolet cars, choosing the right engine option is crucial. Chevrolet offers a range of powerful engines designed to deliver exceptional performance on the road. From the renowned small-block V8 engines to the advanced turbocharged options, there is a perfect match for every driving enthusiast. The V8 engines, known for their impressive horsepower and torque, provide exhilarating acceleration and a thrilling driving experience. 

For those seeking a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, the turbocharged engines combine power and efficiency seamlessly. With innovative technologies and meticulous engineering, Chevrolet continues to push the boundaries of performance, ensuring that drivers can enjoy a dynamic and exhilarating driving experience behind the wheel of their Chevrolet car.

Innovative technology for enhanced driving:

Chevrolet is committed to equipping its cars with innovative technology to enhance the driving experience. One notable feature is the advanced infotainment system, providing drivers with seamless connectivity and entertainment options. With features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, drivers can easily access their favorite apps, music, and navigation right from the car’s touchscreen display. 

Additionally, Chevrolet offers advanced driver-assistance technologies to prioritize safety on the road. Features like lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control work together to provide an extra layer of protection and help prevent potential accidents. 

For those looking for a heightened driving experience, Chevrolet also offers performance-enhancing technologies such as magnetic ride control and sports-tuned suspension systems, allowing drivers to truly feel connected to the road. With a wide range of innovative technologies, Chevrolet cars are designed to enhance every aspect of the driving experience, making each journey comfortable, connected, and ultimately enjoyable.

Safety features for peace of mind:

Chevrolet understands that safety is a top priority for drivers, which is why their cars come equipped with a variety of advanced safety features for peace of mind on the road. One notable feature is the comprehensive airbag system, which includes front, side, and curtain airbags to protect occupants in the event of a collision. 

Chevrolet also offers a range of driver-assistance technologies, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera, to help drivers stay aware of their surroundings and avoid potential accidents. 

Additionally, Chevrolet vehicles are built with high-strength steel frames and advanced structural designs to provide enhanced crash protection. With these safety features, Chevrolet ensures that drivers and their passengers can feel confident and secure, knowing that their well-being is a top priority.

Customizable design for personalization:

Chevrolet also recognizes the importance of personalization when it comes to the design of their cars. With a focus on customizable options, Chevrolet allows drivers to truly make their vehicles their own. Whether it’s choosing from a wide range of exterior colors, selecting different wheel designs, or opting for various interior trims and upholstery options, Chevrolet offers a plethora of choices to suit individual preferences. 

Additionally, Chevrolet provides optional packages and accessories that allow drivers to further customize their vehicles, from adding sporty accents to enhancing convenience features. This level of personalization ensures that every Chevrolet owner can create a car that reflects their unique style and taste, making their driving experience truly one-of-a-kind.

Impressive fuel efficiency ratings:

Chevrolet vehicles are known for their impressive fuel efficiency ratings, providing drivers with a cost-effective and environmentally friendly driving experience. With advancements in technology and engineering, Chevrolet has made significant strides in improving fuel efficiency across their vehicle lineup. From compact sedans to hybrid models, Chevrolet offers a range of options that prioritize fuel efficiency without compromising performance. 

These innovative designs, combined with aerodynamic features and efficient powertrain technologies, contribute to Chevrolet’s commitment to sustainable driving solutions. Whether you’re commuting in the city or embarking on a long road trip, Chevrolet’s impressive fuel efficiency ratings ensure that you can go the distance while minimizing your carbon footprint.

Conclusion: 

Chevrolet continues to be a trusted and reliable brand in the automotive industry, with a wide range of models to suit the needs and preferences of various drivers. From the fuel-efficient Spark to the powerful Silverado, each Chevrolet car offers impressive performance, advanced technology, and a sleek design. 

With this ultimate guide, you now have a detailed understanding of the specifications of various Chevrolet models and can make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing your next car. Drive with confidence and style in a Chevrolet.

Navigating Finances with Atton Accounting & Consulting

Atton Accounting & Consulting is a leading provider of comprehensive financial services, dedicated to empowering businesses of all sizes with streamlined financial processes and efficient systems. The firm’s team of experienced professionals recognizes that managing finances can be a daunting task, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises. That’s why they have developed a suite of solutions tailored to address the unique challenges faced by their clients.

One of the key areas where Atton Accounting & Consulting excels is in simplifying financial processes. The firm’s experts work closely with clients to understand their specific needs and pain points, and then implement customized strategies to streamline their financial operations. This includes automating repetitive tasks, integrating cloud-based accounting software, and implementing robust internal controls to ensure accuracy and efficiency.

By leveraging the latest technologies and best practices, Atton Accounting & Consulting helps its clients achieve greater visibility and control over their finances. This translates to improved decision-making, reduced errors, and enhanced overall financial health. Whether it’s managing accounts payable and receivable, processing payroll, or generating financial reports, the firm’s comprehensive approach ensures that clients can focus on their core business activities while leaving the financial complexities to the experts.

Accurate Bookkeeping and Accounting Services

Accurate bookkeeping and accounting are the foundation of any successful business, and Atton Accounting & Consulting is committed to providing its clients with the highest level of service in these critical areas. The firm’s team of certified public accountants (CPAs) and bookkeepers are well-versed in the latest accounting standards and regulations, ensuring that clients’ financial records are meticulously maintained and up-to-date.

From daily transactions to month-end closings, Atton Accounting & Consulting’s professionals handle all aspects of bookkeeping and accounting with precision and attention to detail. They utilize state-of-the-art software and tools to streamline the process, while also providing valuable insights and recommendations to help clients make informed financial decisions.

Whether it’s reconciling bank statements, preparing financial statements, or managing accounts payable and receivable, Atton Accounting & Consulting’s comprehensive accounting services ensure that clients have a clear and accurate picture of their financial standing. This, in turn, allows them to make strategic decisions, identify growth opportunities, and maintain compliance with relevant tax laws and regulations.

Effective Budgeting and Forecasting

Effective budgeting and forecasting are essential for businesses to plan for the future, allocate resources efficiently, and achieve their financial goals. Atton Accounting & Consulting recognizes the importance of these critical functions and offers its clients a suite of services to help them navigate the complexities of financial planning.

The firm’s experienced professionals work closely with clients to develop customized budgets and forecasts that align with their business objectives and industry trends. They utilize advanced analytics and data-driven insights to identify potential challenges, assess risks, and make informed projections about future financial performance.

By implementing robust budgeting and forecasting processes, Atton Accounting & Consulting empowers its clients to make more informed decisions, allocate resources more effectively, and anticipate and mitigate potential financial risks. This, in turn, helps businesses achieve greater financial stability, improved cash flow management, and enhanced profitability.

Whether it’s creating a detailed annual budget, preparing monthly cash flow projections, or analyzing the impact of various scenarios, Atton Accounting & Consulting’s budgeting and forecasting services provide clients with the tools and insights they need to navigate the ever-changing business landscape.

Comprehensive Auditing Services

Maintaining financial integrity and compliance is of paramount importance for businesses of all sizes, and Atton Accounting & Consulting offers comprehensive auditing services to help its clients achieve these critical objectives. The firm’s team of experienced auditors is well-versed in the latest accounting standards and regulatory requirements, ensuring that clients’ financial records and processes are thoroughly reviewed and validated.

Atton Accounting & Consulting’s auditing services encompass a wide range of areas, including internal controls, financial reporting, tax compliance, and operational efficiency. The firm’s professionals work closely with clients to identify potential risks, assess the effectiveness of existing systems and procedures, and provide actionable recommendations to enhance overall financial governance and compliance.

Whether it’s conducting a comprehensive financial audit, performing a compliance review, or assisting with a specific regulatory requirement, Atton Accounting & Consulting’s auditing services are designed to provide clients with the peace of mind and confidence they need to navigate the complex financial landscape. By leveraging their expertise and industry-leading best practices, the firm helps its clients maintain the highest standards of financial integrity and mitigate potential legal and financial risks.

Risk Management and Compliance

In today’s ever-evolving business environment, managing financial risks and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations are crucial for the long-term success of any organization. Atton Accounting & Consulting understands the importance of these critical functions and offers its clients a comprehensive suite of risk management and compliance services.

The firm’s team of risk management experts works closely with clients to identify potential financial, operational, and regulatory risks, and then develops tailored strategies to mitigate these threats. This includes implementing robust internal controls, establishing effective policies and procedures, and ensuring that clients are fully compliant with all applicable laws and regulations.

Atton Accounting & Consulting’s compliance services cover a wide range of areas, including tax planning and filing, payroll management, and financial reporting. The firm’s professionals stay up-to-date with the latest regulatory changes and industry best practices, ensuring that clients can navigate the complex compliance landscape with confidence.

Unveiling the Diamond: MLB Picks and Parlays for Today

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Baseball fans, rejoice! The crack of the bat, the roar of the crowd, the electrifying tension of a tight game – Major League Baseball is back in all its glory. But for some, the thrill extends beyond the diamond. Enter the captivating world of MLB picks and parlays, where informed fans can leverage their baseball knowledge and a dash of calculated risk to potentially score big wins.

However, navigating this exciting yet intricate realm requires a well-oiled arsenal of information and a keen understanding of the intricate mechanics of parlays. So, grab your metaphorical scorecard, statistical cheat sheet, and a cold beverage, because we’re about to embark on a comprehensive journey through MLB picks and parlays for today’s games. By the end, you’ll be equipped to craft winning wagers and potentially turn your baseball IQ into a profitable (remember, always prioritize responsible gambling) pursuit.

Why MLB Picks and Parlays? A Playground for Baseball Brainiacs

MLB picks and parlays offer a captivating way to elevate your baseball fandom. Here’s why you might consider incorporating them into your viewing experience:

  • Heightened Excitement: Parlays add an extra layer of excitement to watching the games. As each leg of your parlay unfolds successfully, the anticipation builds, culminating in a potentially thrilling climax if your entire parlay hits. It transforms watching a game from passive enjoyment to an active, invested pursuit.
  • Strategic Creativity: Parlays allow you to showcase your baseball knowledge and strategic thinking. Combining different types of bets, like money lines, run lines, and totals, allows you to tailor your wager to your specific beliefs about the game’s outcome.
  • Potential for Bigger Wins: The beauty of parlays lies in their ability to magnify your potential winnings. By successfully picking multiple winners, you can multiply your initial wager across all the winning legs, leading to a significantly larger payout compared to a single bet.

Before diving headfirst into the world of picks and parlays, let’s solidify the fundamentals:

The Bedrock of Success: Understanding Picks and Parlays

  • MLB Picks: Strong parlays are built upon well-informed individual picks. This involves delving into player statistics, team trends, recent performances, weather conditions, and even injury reports. Utilize expert analysis, player data, and your own baseball knowledge to make informed decisions about potential winning teams or player performances.
  • Parlays: A parlay, in essence, is a single wager that combines multiple individual bets. Each leg (or individual bet) of the parlay must win for the entire wager to be successful. While this may seem like a high-risk proposition, the potential rewards can be incredibly enticing. However, remember, the more legs you add to your parlay, the exponentially higher the difficulty of winning becomes.

Crafting Your Parlay Masterpiece: Strategies for Today’s Games

Now that you understand the fundamentals, let’s explore some winning strategies specifically for crafting MLB parlays for today’s games:

  • Start Small: As a beginner, it’s wise to start with simple parlays, combining 2-3 well-researched picks. This allows you to refine your strategy and gain confidence before venturing into more complex parlays.
  • Favorable Odds: Focus on picks with favorable odds displayed by sportsbooks. While high potential payouts can be tempting, remember, the more legs you add to your parlay, the exponentially harder it becomes to win. Balance the potential payout with the likelihood of success.
  • Correlation is Key: Don’t just throw random picks together. Look for correlated bets that complement each other. For example, parlaying a team’s moneyline win with a high total runs bet on the same game might not be the wisest move.
  • Consider Weather Conditions: Check the weather forecast before placing your bets. A light drizzle might be a non-factor, but a heavy downpour could favor a strong pitching team or negatively affect offensive production.
  • Hedge Your Bets (Optional): Hedging involves placing additional bets that counteract your original parlay. While it reduces your potential profit, it can mitigate losses. For example, if your parlay hinges on a dominant pitcher throwing a shutout, you could place a small wager on the opposing team scoring a run as a safety net. However, hedging can be complex and requires a strong understanding of betting strategies.

Example Picks and Parlay Ideas for Today (Remember, Conduct Your Own Research)

Disclaimer: These are just examples, and it’s crucial to conduct your own research before placing any bets. Always prioritize responsible gambling and only wager what you can afford to lose.

Matchup 1: New York Yankees (Away) vs. Tampa Bay Rays (Home)

  • Expert Analysis: The Yankees boast a potent lineup featuring powerhouses like Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton. However, the Rays are known for their deep pitching staff and success against the Yankees in recent seasons.
  • Potential Picks:
    • Yankees Moneyline (Risky): The Yankees have the offensive firepower to overpower the Rays’ pitching, but it’s a close matchup.
    • Under 8.5 Total Runs (Safer): Both teams have solid pitching, so a lower-scoring game is a possibility.
  • Parlay Idea: Combine the Under 8.5 Total Runs with a bet on another favored team with a strong chance of winning to potentially increase your payout while mitigating risk.

Matchup 2: Los Angeles Dodgers (Home) vs. Arizona Diamondbacks (Away)

  • Expert Analysis: The Dodgers are a perennial powerhouse, and the Diamondbacks are widely considered underdogs. However, the Diamondbacks have occasionally pulled off upsets against the Dodgers.
  • Potential Picks:
    • Dodgers Moneyline (Highly Favored): The safer bet, but the payout will be lower due to the Dodgers’ strong favoritism.
    • Mookie Betts Over 1.5 Hits (Moderate Risk): Betts is a consistent hitter, and this offers a chance for a decent payout.
  • Parlay Idea: Combine the Dodgers Moneyline with Mookie Betts Over 1.5 Hits for a potentially larger payout, but be aware of the inherent risk associated with parlays.

Matchup 3: Atlanta Braves (Home) vs. Philadelphia Phillies (Away)

  • Expert Analysis: The Braves are the defending champions with a well-rounded roster, while the Phillies are a wildcard team with a potent offense.
  • Potential Picks:
    • Braves Run Line -1.5 (Moderate Risk): The Braves are favored at home, and the run line provides a slightly higher payout than the moneyline.
    • Ronald Acuña Jr. Home Run (High Risk, High Reward): Acuña Jr. is a power hitter, but home runs are inherently unpredictable.
  • Parlay Idea: This is a riskier parlay, but potentially rewarding. Combine the Braves Run Line -1.5 with a bet on Ronald Acuña Jr. hitting a home run for a high potential payout, but remember, the risk is also high.

Remember:

  • These are just examples, and it’s crucial to conduct your own research before placing any bets. Consider factors like player injuries, recent performance trends, and weather conditions before finalizing your picks.
  • Always prioritize responsible gambling and only wager what you can afford to lose. The enjoyment of baseball should be the primary focus, with betting seen as an additive element.

Beyond the Picks: Additional Strategies for Parlay Success

  • Explore Prop Bets: Spice things up with proposition bets, or “props,” that focus on specific game events. Will a certain player hit a home run? Will there be extra innings? Prop bets can add an exciting layer to your parlay strategy and potentially lead to big payouts.
  • Live Betting: The thrill of the game gets even more intense with live betting. This allows you to place wagers throughout the game as the odds fluctuate. However, live betting requires a keen eye for the game’s flow and a strong understanding of how in-game situations can impact betting lines.

With a well-equipped arsenal of knowledge, strategic thinking, and a dash of responsible gambling, you’re well on your way to crafting winning MLB parlays and elevating your enjoyment of America’s pastime. Remember, research is key, and prioritizing enjoyment over chasing wins is crucial. Now, grab your peanuts and cracker jacks, delve into the intricacies of parlays, and let’s make this baseball season an unforgettable one!