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LEGACY MOTOR CLUB Race Preview | North Wilkesboro Speedway

By
Official Release
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CLUB ENTRY LIST

JOHN HUNTER NEMECHEK
POINT STANDINGS: 24th

ERIK JONES
POINT STANDINGS: 27th

CLUB NOTES

The “Double”: It was recently announced that LEGACY M.C. co-owner and seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson is joining NBC Sports for their motorsports coverage in four upcoming races in 2024. Johnson will contribute to pre-race and race coverage of NBC Sports’ presentation of the 108th Running of the Indianapolis 500 from Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) on May 26 on NBC and Peacock. Johnson previously joined NBC in the network’s coverage of “The Month of May” and the Indianapolis 500 in 2021. Johnson was crowned the 2022 Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year after competing in the event for Chip Ganassi Racing where he started 12th and finished 28th. Additionally, Johnson will serve as an analyst on NBC Sports’ NASCAR coverage of the events at Daytona Superspeedway on Aug. 24 and Talladega Superspeedway on Oct. 6, one of three playoff races in the Round of 12. He will also contribute to NBC Sports’ coverage for select NASCAR races in which he is competing this year, including the NASCAR Cup Series Championship from Phoenix Raceway on Nov. 10.

EJ All-Star: Over the years, Erik Jones has had seven NASCAR All-Star weekend appearances, with his first coming back in 2017. Of those, Jones has made the NASCAR All-Star race a total of four times with some memorable moments through the years. Jones and the No. 43 Family Dollar LEGACY MOTOR CLUB team looks to transfer this weekend through the NASCAR All Star Open for their shot at $1 million dollars.

JHN Returns: John Hunter Nemechek will return to the North Wilkesboro Speedway 0.625-mile oval this weekend for the first time since running an Allison Legacy Racing Series car at the 0.625-mile paved oval more than 12-years ago. This weekend he will be turning his first laps around the North Wilkesboro Speedway behind the wheel of a NASCAR Cup Series car. It will be the 26-year-old driver’s second attempt at a NASCAR All-Star Open event.

Throwback: Last week during Nemechek’s Race Hub appearance, he announced that this weekend’s NASCAR All-Star Weekend will feature a special scheme on the No. 42 Dollar Tree Toyota Camry XSE. The LEGACY MOTOR CLUB entry will dawn a Harry Gant scheme with the iconic green, white, and gold colors. One of the 18 career wins the Taylorsville, N.C., NASCAR veteran collected came at the North Wilkesboro Speedway on September 29, 1985.

OLIPOPPIN’ with Luke Combs: Last week, two-time CMA Entertainer of the Year and multi-platinum award winning country music star Luke Combs released a teaser for his new song, “Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma”. In credits for the music video, LEGACY MOTOR CLUB’s Nemechek was listed with a starring role thanks to the partnership with OLIPOP. The song and official music video will be released Thursday, May 16 at 8:00 a.m. ET on Luke Combs’ official channels at www.lukecombs.com and shared through John Hunter Nemechek’s social media outlets. Check out a tease of the music video now by visiting, HERE.

May with the EJF: May marks an important month for the Erik Jones Foundation (EJF) as it represents melanoma awareness month. The EJF focuses on three key pillars: early cancer detection and prevention, childhood literacy, and animal welfare. For a full list of events with the EJF in May, click here.

Going for G.O.L.D.: Partners Dollar Tree and Family Dollar will honor store #9617 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 #9617 is located in North Wilkesboro, N.C.

Thinking of DC8: All LEGACY M.C. entries will run decals through the Charlotte Motor Speedway race in support of the Dollar Tree Distribution Center 8 (DC8) in Marietta, Oklahoma. DC8 was impacted by the devastating tornadoes that hit the Oklahoma region last weekend. Although the distribution center was severely damaged, fortunately, none of the 456 associates employed by the distribution center were injured by the disaster.

Fan Vote: Fans can vote for their favorite LEGACY MOTOR CLUB driver to make it in the NASCAR All-Star race by visiting www.NASCAR.com/fanvote. Fans are eligible to vote up to five times per day.

Celebrating Mother’s Day: Jones and his mother, Carol, sat down with NASCAR on Fox’s Shannon Spake at the townhome the young driver moved to when he first left Michigan. Click here to check out the Mother’s Day feature.

CLUB QUOTES

John Hunter Nemechek

Driver of the No. 42 Dollar Tree Toyota Camry XSE:

With this weekend being a non-points race and knowing you need to finish top two or win the NASCAR All-Star Fan Vote to lock into the All-Star race, do you take a more aggressive approach?

“Some will probably take a more aggressive approach, some may not take as an aggressive approach, but you definitely want to run as good as you possibly can and finish top two to get in; I mean who doesn’t want to have a shot to go race for $1 million in the All-Star race.”

What are you doing to prepare for this track?

“I ran North Wilkesboro on the old pavement back in 2010 or 2011 in an Allison Legacy car, it’s definitely changed a lot since then, and now with the repave, it sounds like there’s a lot of grip, so I’m not exactly sure what to think about it, everyone’s in the same boat of going there and having to jump in and adapt really quick and hope that the setup is where they need it to be.”

What do expect the racing to be like with the new pavement vs. what you saw and heard last year in the return to the track?

“I think there’s going to be a lot of grip, not sure if we’re going to be able to move around a lot or if [the groove] is going be right along on the bottom. It definitely is going to be interesting; last year, there was grip in the patches that they put down and not a lot of grip elsewhere on the racetrack, so it is definitely going to be completely different. Last year, they had rain, so who knows, could be in for a very exciting weekend.

Ben Beshore

Crew chief of the No. 42 Dollar Tree Toyota Camry XSE:

NASCAR is returning to North Wilkesboro this weekend. With no points on the line, and knowing you need to finish in the top two of the open or win the NASCAR All-Star Fan vote, do you take a more aggressive approach than what you may during a regular season event?

“Yes, for sure. Qualifying will be important, and with the race being a shorter distance than normal, we will focus on short-run speed. “

With new pavement down on the 0.625-mile oval, what type of racing do you feel we’ll see?

“I think we’ll have to see how practice goes. Typically, repaved tracks take a while for the groove to widen out, so it may be very hard to pass unless a second lane comes in.”

What would it mean to make the NASCAR All-Star race?

“It would mean a lot to the team from a confidence standpoint. We were able to race our way into the Clash in February and hope to do the same this weekend. “

Erik Jones

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

How do you feel about the track’s repave going into this year’s All-Star Open race?

“North Wilkesboro this year looks a little bit different, this year it looks like we are going to have to race our way in, so that will be our first challenge, and the track is going to be quite a bit different this year with the repave. We will go through and learn that during practice and see what we need out of the race car with that, but we had a good car there last year during the race, and we were able to run up in the top 10, sixth and seventh place most of the day. So, I am excited to get back; it is a really cool race and a really cool atmosphere. I think North Wilkesboro is a great place for the All-Star race now, and hopefully, we can race our way in and go run well in the All-Star race.”

Dave Elenz

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

Will your strategy change at all because you’re in the open race this year, and how do you think the repave will change the racing style?

“Last year, it was pretty exciting to be able to go to North Wilkesboro. The old pavement provided quite a few challenges; we really didn’t know what we were going to have until we got there. This year we will have another challenge with the repave, but it should be a little more consistent and easier to get a hold of. I think the repave will provide some interesting opportunities for tire strategies, and the “open” will be a little more interesting because it will be a short race, so you’re going to want to go all out and make it to the end. It will be interesting to see how the tires play out on the repave and what the fall-off is going to be like.”

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.

Lee Petty at NW: Lee Petty has three wins at North Wilkesboro Speedway, all coming consecutively, as he swept the 1959 and spring race of 1960. Petty drove the No. 42 to 12 top-five and 16 top-10 finishes, and 265 laps led. The elder Petty had an average start of 8.5 and an average finish of 7.1 across his 20 starts.

The King at NW: Richard Petty has 15 wins at North Wilkesboro Speedway, taking his first victory in 1962 and his final in 1981. “The King” won three in a row on two occasions, sweeping the 1962 season and the spring of 1963. Ten years later, Petty again won three in a row, sweeping the 1972 season and the spring race of 1973. Across his 66 starts at the historic short track, Petty has 33 top-five, 42 top-10’s, , and has led 5,315 laps along the way.

Kyle Petty at NW: Kyle Petty had a great career at North Wilkesboro Speedway, earning seven top-five and 13 top-10 finishes. Petty led 155 laps in 32 attempts at the 0.625-mile speedway with an average start of 15.0 and an average finish of 15.9. He also earned the pole position in the fall of 1990.

Three Generations of Racers: Three generations of Petty’s have a dominant LEGACY at North Wilkesboro Speedway. Lee, Richard, and Kyle totaled 18 wins, four pole positions, and 5,735 laps led. The three combined for 118 starts at the track, earning 52 top-five and 71 top-10 finishes in the Cup Series, establishing themselves as one of the most dominant families for 75 years in the history of the sport.

King’s Hat: The North Wilkesboro “King’s Hat” display will be unveiled on Friday at 2:00 p.m. at the main gate in the Fan Zone. The display will remain in the Fan Zone throughout the weekend for fans to see throughout the race weekend.

BROADCAST INFO

NORTH WILKESBORO SPEEDWAY
SUNDAY May 19th @ 5:30 PM ET

ABOUT OUR PARTNERS

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 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 LEGACYMOTORCLUB.com

Spire Motorsports Wright Brand 250 Race Advance

By
Official Release
-
  • The Wright Brand 250 will mark the second time Spire Motorsports will field a NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) entry at North Wilkesboro Speedway. Last May, 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Champion Kyle Larson led 138 laps and drove the team’s No. 7 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet Silverado to the Winner’s Circle in the division’s first race at the legendary Wilkes County (N.C.) oval. Spire Motorsports fields the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados full time in the NCTS. An all-star driver lineup will rotate throughout the 2024 season in the No. 7 Chevy. Rajah Caruth drives the No. 71 entry and Chase Purdy rounds out the team’s fleet of Chevrolets in the No. 77.
  • The Wright Brand 250 will be televised live on FS1 Saturday, May 18, beginning at 1:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. The 10th of 23 races on the 2024 NCTS schedule will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90. NASCAR RaceDay’s pre-race coverage on FS1 will take the green flag at 1 p.m. EDT.

Sammy Smith – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Sammy Smith will steer Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet in Saturday’s Wright Brand 250 at North Wilkesboro Speedway in his second of four NCTS starts this season. The Iowa native came from the 13th starting position to finish eighth earlier this season at Martinsville Speedway.
  • The talented teenager will be pulling double duty this weekend as he is also slated to drive the No. 88 for JR Motorsports in the zMAX Cars Tour Late Model Stock race Wednesday night. While it will be his first time in a truck at the 0.625-miile oval, Smith won the Racetrack Revival Super Late Model race there in 2022 and finished fourth in last year’s ASA Stars National Tour event.
  • Smith, 19, is the full-time driver of the No. 8 Chevrolet Camaro for JR Motorsports in the NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS). He has logged six top-10 finishes in 11 races this season and earned a season-best seventh-place effort last month at Martinsville Speedway.
  • Smith will return to the cockpit of the No. 7 Chevy Silverado July 19 at Indianapolis Raceway Park (IRP) and finish out his limited schedule August 25 at the Milwaukee Mile.
  • Pilot Travel Centers LLC keeps North America’s drivers moving as the leading energy and experience provider people rely on to fuel their journeys. Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Knoxville, Tenn., Pilot Travel Centers LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway and employs approximately 30,000 team members. As the largest network of travel centers, Pilot Travel Centers LLC has more than 870 Pilot, Flying J and One9 locations in 44 states and six Canadian provinces, serving an average of 1.3 million guests per day. In addition to travel center services, Pilot Travel Centers LLC offers trucking fleets a variety of solutions for fuel, credit, factoring, maintenance, and rewards. The company operates the third largest fuel tanker fleet in North America and supplies approximately 14 billion gallons of fuel per year. Pilot Travel Centers LLC is committed to shaping the future of energy as the largest provider of biodiesel and renewable fuels and through the development of a coast-to-coast EV charging network and low carbon fueling alternatives. For additional information about Pilot Travel Centers LLC, visit pilotflyingj.com.
  • Smith is a six-time ARCA Menards Series national tour race winner, who has won eight times in the ARCA Menards Series East and once in the ARCA Menards Series West. He earned a CARS Pro Late Model Tour victory in 2021 at Jennerstown (Pa.) Speedway and four pavement super late model wins that same season. A year later, he picked up another super late model victory in a combination ARCA CRA Super Series/Southern Super Series race at North Wilkesboro. He has also earned wins in some of the United States’ most notable late model races including the Winchester 400, Red Bud 400 and Florida Governor’s Cup.
  • After nine races, the No. 7 team ranks fifth in the 2024 NCTS owner point standings. The Brian Pattie-led program has notched one pole, two wins, led 268 laps and recorded four top-five and five top-10 finishes with five different drivers.

Sammy Smith Quotes
You’re running the Late Model race Wednesday night. How beneficial will that be heading into Saturday?
“It’ll be very beneficial getting laps at a new track that a lot of people probably haven’t been to with the repave. That will be big and hopefully, we can go out and capitalize on that extra track time with our No. 7 Pilot Flying J Chevrolet Silverado.”

Is it easier to prepare for this weekend now that you have a race under your belt with Brian Pattie and the No. 7 team?
“I feel really good heading into North Wilkesboro. I have a better understanding of what the truck needs balance-wise and how it drives. I also having a better feel of how the drivers in the Truck Series race. That helps a lot. I know that Brian Pattie and everyone on the No. 7 Pilot Flying J team will bring me a fast Silverado. With the repave, we’ll also be able to get a full practice, which will allow me to continue to get a better feel for the truck. I need all the practice I can get since this will only be my third time racing in the Truck Series and one of those races was on a superspeedway.”

Rajah Caruth – Driver, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Rajah Caruth will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet Silverado in Saturday’s Wright Brand 250 at North Wilkesboro Speedway.
  • Caruth started 26th and finished 30th in last week’s Buckle Up South Carolina 200 at Darlington Raceway. It was his only DNF (did not finish) of the 2024 season.
  • HENDRICKCARS.COM is the online home for everything Hendrick Automotive Group. Visitors can shop thousands of new or pre-owned vehicles, locate centers for service and collision repair, receive a value to sell or trade their car, chat online with customer service, discover career opportunities, learn more about vehicle protections programs, and explore how the company gives back to the community.
  • The Winston-Salem (N.C.) State University senior started 23rd and finished 34th in last May’s Tyson 250 NCTS race at North Wilkesboro Speedway.
  • Caruth is currently sixth in the NCTS championship point standings after nine races. He has logged one pole, one win, five top-10’s and eight top-15 finishes. He’s recorded a 11.8 average start, a 10.8 average finish and completed 96 percent of the laps contested this season.
  • With his first career NCTS win and pole position earlier this season at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Caruth became the third African American driver, alongside NASCAR Hall of Famer Wendell Scott and current NASCAR Cup Series regular Bubba Wallace, to win a NASCAR National Touring Series race.
  • Caruth raced his first season in NCTS in 2023, earning four top-10 finishes and coming home 16th in the division’s championship point standings.

North Wilkesboro has such a deep history within NASCAR, what does it mean to you to get to race here again?
“Honestly, it’s really special to go to North Wilkesboro because I know the history and I am a nerd about NASCAR as a whole. It’s been really cool to be part NASCAR’s return to a track with such a deep history. It shows that it’ll be there for hopefully, some years to come and can continue to foster racing in that region. It’s really special just because I’m a huge nerd about this stuff and it’s super important to remember the history within NASCAR in the years to come.”

How does the repave factor into your outlook for this weekend?
“So, that’s a really good question. It’s an unknown for everybody who didn’t get to be part of the tire test and, of course, the guys and gals who will run late models at North Wilkesboro will have a good feel, too. It’s exciting because we all have the same resources to kind of go off of, and lack thereof, because it’s a new element. I think it’ll be a good exercise for everybody. I do know I have a good set of tools to go to the racetrack with. We’ll adapt on the fly and look to be as competitive as I know we’re capable of.”

You had a tough day at Darlington. How do you bounce back after a less-than-ideal weekend?
“It’s not really hard for me to get over setbacks like that, because I’ve been through them before and it’s not something I did, you know, terribly wrong. There are obviously things I could have done better to not lose some spots on pit road or choose a different lane on the restart, but if you get wrecked out of the top 10 or better, there’s not much you can really do, especially when you didn’t cause it. It’s not super hard for me to reset just because there’s a lot of worse things that we could be struggling with. The thing is that we have speed every week and we’re competitive every week, so we just get back in our stride and keep doing what we’ve been doing to start the season. It’s time to go to a new race track, a new day, and finish out this five-race stretch with three solid races.”

Chase Purdy – Driver, No.77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Chase Purdy will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No.77 Bama Buggies Chevrolet Silverado in Saturday afternoon’s Wright Brand 250.
  • Purdy heads to North Wilkesboro Speedway 16th in the NCTS driver point standings. He started 19th and finished sixth last week at Darlington Raceway.
  • In his single start at North Wilkesboro, Purdy started 24th, finished eighth and completed all 252 laps in his Bama Buggies Chevrolet Silverado.
  • In the NCTS most recent race at a short track, Purdy drove his Bama Buggies Chevrolet to a third-place finish at Martinsville Speedway.
  • The Wright Brand 250 will mark Purdy’s 85th NCTS start and his 10th behind the wheel of Spire Motorsports’ No.77 Bama Buggies Chevrolet.
  • Purdy’s Crew Chief Jason Trinchere will be making his North Wilkesboro debut in the Wright Brand 250. In 12 NASCAR Xfinity Series short-track races, the Penn State University alumnus has called one win, an average start of second, and an average finish of fifth. His one win was in 2021 with driver A.J. Allmendinger at Bristol Motor Speedway.

Chase Purdy Quotes
Fresh surface, how do you think it’s going to affect your driving?
“I think there’s a lot of unknowns going into the weekend, so I’m relying on the sim a lot for this week. But it’s a short track and it’s going have a lot of grip, so I don’t think there will be too many surprises.”
You had a solid finish at Darlington last weekend. How do you take that finish and build consistency?
“I think by just keeping the nose clean and having a mistake free race. We have the speed, just need to capitalize on our opportunities.”

From the Top of the Box

Brian Pattie – Crew Chief, No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado

  • In his first season at Spire Motorsports, Brian Pattie has led the No. 7 team to two victories, both with Kyle Busch. The duo also won twice across five races last year at KBM.
  • Pattie also collected a victory with Ron Fellows at Watkins Glen International in 1999 to give him five career NCTS wins.
  • Pattie was atop the pit box for six wins across 14 seasons in the NASCAR Cup Series and has 11 career victories as a crew chief in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.

Chad Walter – Crew Chief, No. 71 Chevrolet Silverado

  • Chad Walter has over two decades of experience and began his career with Hendrick Motorsports in 1996.
  • Walter guided Caruth to his first NCTS win March 1, 2024 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
  • Some of his most notable accomplishments include a pair of Daytona 500 victories (2001 & 2003) with Michael Waltrip, along with Cup Series wins with Steve Park and Terry Labonte.

Jason Trinchere – Crew Chief, No. 77 Chevrolet Silverado

  • Jason Trinchere earned his Bachelor of Science from Penn State University and began his professional career in 2005 as the race engineer for the iconic No. 75 Spears Manufacturing NCTS team, owned by series’ pioneers Wayne and Connie Spears.
  • Notable accomplishments include Daytona 500 and Brickyard 400 wins with both Ganassi Racing and Penske Racing. He was a key member of the 2018 NASCAR Cup Series Championship team with driver Joey Logano.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports is a NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race team co-owned by long-time NASCAR industry executives Jeff Dickerson and Thaddeus “T.J.” Puchyr. In 2024, Spire Motorsports will campaign the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the NASCAR Cup Series with drivers Corey LaJoie, Zane Smith and Carson Hocevar, respectively. The team will also field the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados full time in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. An all-star driver lineup will rotate throughout the 2024 season in the No. 7 Chevy. Rajah Caruth will drive the No. 71 entry and Chase Purdy rounds out the team’s fleet of Chevrolets in the No. 77.

Spire Motorsports earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway on July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado to its inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win on April 7, 2022, at Martinsville Speedway. The team’s most recent win came on April 12, 2024, when Kyle Busch took the took the checkered flag in the SpeedyCash.com 250 at Texas Motor Speedway.

NHRA AT ROUTE 66: Team Chevy Race Advance | Notes & Quotes

By
Official Release
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CHEVROLET IN NHRA
2024 GERBER COLLISION AND GLASS ROUTE 66 NHRA NATIONALS
ROUTE 66 DRAGWAY
JOLIET, ILLINOIS
TEAM CHEVY RACE ADVANCE | NOTES & QUOTES
MAY17-19, 2024

CHEVROLET TAKES ON THE 2024 GERBER COLLISION AND GLASS ROUTE 66 NHRA NATIONALS AT ROUTE 66 RACEWAY WITH JOHN FORCE RACING

Notes:

  • Team Chevy heads to the 2024 Gerber Collision and Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals at Route 66 Raceway May 17-19, 2024, the sixth round of the season.
  • Entering the Route 66 NHRA Nationals, Austin Prock, driver of the Cornwell Tools Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car remains the Funny Car points leader ahead of J.R. Todd by 17 points.
  • In 2023, Prock’s teammate Robert Hight captured the No. 1 qualifier at Route 66 Raceway in the Cornwell Tools Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car.
  • Both John Force (Funny Car) and Brittany Force (Top Fuel) look to potentially capture a double-up in Joliet, with Brittany also representing PEAK Antifreeze and Coolant along with Team Chevy.
  • Brittany Force, driver of the PEAK Antifreeze and Coolant Chevrolet Top Fuel dragster, looks to Joliet to break her slump and add to her 16 event wins, 35 final round appearances, and 47 No. 1 qualifiers in Top Fuel.
  • Still seeking her first win at Route 66 Raceway, B. Force has one final round appearance in 2014, as well as a two-time No. 1 qualifier in 2016 and 2017. Additionally, she raced to the track speed record in 2023 with her pass of 334.82 mph.
  • John Force, also in PEAK Antifreeze and Coolant colors on his Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car, enters Route 66 Raceway aiming to add to his three previous wins at the track in addition to his 156 career wins.
  • J. Force, after finishing runner-up in Charlotte, will also participate in the Mission Foods #2Fast2Tasty Challenge at Joliet in Funny Car this weekend.
  • Pro Stock saw Dallas Glenn racing to victory for the Bowtie brand in 2023’s Joliet event after also going No. 1. Glenn looks to Route 66 Raceway to go back-to-back in a drive to the Winner’s Circle amongst an ever-tight Pro Stock field.

What They’re Saying (Quotes):

BRITTANY FORCE, DRIVER OF THE PEAK ANTIFREEZE & COOLANT CHEVROLET TOP FUEL DRAGSTER:

“Our team struggled last year, and we need to get our car back on track. We were lost all last season. I already feel the improvement that’s come into this season, looking at what we did last year and all the testing we’ve done this year. We’re kind of combining the last few years and trying to create our tune-up that way, combining all the good from those last few years. But it’s something you can’t do overnight, it’s always a work in progress. But this extra testing is definitely getting us closer to the ultimate goal, to turning on the win lights and getting us back into the winner’s circle.”

“Our team is very structured with how we move through the season. So we had a goal coming into the first quarter, the first five races. That we should have so many round wins. Well, the problem is we’re already behind, which is why we’ve been doing (so much) extra testing to get us moving forward quicker than what we’ve been doing this year. We need to get ahead of ourselves if we want to be competitive at that point when that Countdown (to the Championship six-race playoff) kicks off, and that is what we’re aiming to do.”

“I look forward to coming to Chicago because it’s a unique setting. This year, with my dad running PEAK and me running PEAK, it gives us the opportunity for a double-up in all-PEAK colors and gives us the opportunity to do something we’ve never been able to do.”

AUSTIN PROCK, DRIVER OF THE CORNWELL TOOLS CHEVROLET CAMARO SS FUNNY CAR:

On racing at Joliet this weekend…

“They’re all big races throughout the season, but this is always a good one for us. Growing up in Lansing (Mich.), (Route 66 is) kind of like a home race in a sense to have some family members and friends out there, it’s always a good time and it’s a huge race for PEAK and quite a few of our partners.”

On being the current points leader and the thought of a target on his back heading into the next part of the season…

“There’s some very challenging tracks coming up. New Hampshire is always a challenging track, you’ve got Bristol, of course, and Chicago as well. How do we keep our momentum going? I’m just excited to get back to the racetrack, sitting out of the seat for three weeks.

“I’m just excited to get back in the seat. Yeah, there are some tough tracks ahead, but we’ve also done well at some other hard tracks in the first part of the season already. This team and this car has been really successful at all those racetracks. So I’m looking forward to getting back doing what I love, driving this race car. It’s like riding a bike. it’ll all come back real quick, but we just got to keep our heads down and keep being really focused. So I’m looking forward to what should be a good weekend.”

Do you still pinch yourself at the success you’ve instantly had in Funny Car this year?

“This year has just been a blur. It’s crazy that we’re already a quarter of the way through the season. It just seems like it’s flown by, and it’s been a lot mentally to process and it just doesn’t seem like it’s really happened. So I’ve just got to keep doing the same job I’ve been doing.”

“It’s been working so far, but we’ve got a long ways to go. I’m just head down, got to stay focused, can’t get too caught up in everything surrounding you and just go up there and do everything one moment at a time and try to be perfect every moment you do something.”

JOHN FORCE, DRIVER OF THE PEAK ANTIFREEZE & COOLANT CHEVROLET CAMARO SS FUNNY CAR:

“This is a very important race for us. It’s our home office (PEAK is headquartered in north suburban Northbrook, IL.), but Route 66, where NHRA puts on that national event, is unbelievable. It’s fun to race there, the access to it is great, the stands wrap around so that the fans can see everything. It’s just a great place to be.”

“I’m also excited to be representing PEAK and Blue Def. And with myself, a Funny Car world champion and Brittany (Force), a Top Fuel world champion, if we were to double up wearing PEAK colors and at a PEAK race, that’ll be huge. We’d love to double up, so we’re going to be trying. And this is also a home race for my son-in-law (and crew chief), Danny Hood, who is from Chicago.”

“I’ve always said Indy (U.S. Nationals) was our granddaddy of races and, of course, the world finals at Pomona. And this is major, just as big to me because of all the things that we’re doing.”

“We’ve got a big event at PEAK’s headquarters on Wednesday, we’re going to have media all over town, TV and radio appearances and then we’re going out to the racetrack for photo shoots. So, all this is exciting. I love this race, the track and we’ve run good at it. We’re going in there with guns blazing.”

On returning to Chicago in 2023…

“I love the concept of Route 66, from the old days of the highway (Route 66 Raceway) that went from Chicago and across the country, all the way to California,” Force said. “You never want to lose a race. But you especially don’t want to lose one that’s in a market that’s as huge as Chicago. We’re excited that we’re back in Chicago because that’s where my major sponsor is. That’s where we need to be.”

How to Watch:

The 2024 Gerber Collision and Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK kick off Friday, May 17 at Route 66 Raceway with qualifying, airing at 7:30 p.m. ET that evening. Saturday’s qualifying airs Sunday before eliminations, at 1 p.m. ET. Round 1 of Finals air also Sunday at 4 p.m. ET, with the remaining rounds airing at 10 p.m. ET from near Chicago. All sessions from Route 66 Raceway air with NHRA on FOX on FOX Sports 1 (FS1). Coverage streams live throughout the weekend on NHRA.tv, and is available via AppleTV, Android TV, and Roku devices.

TEAM CHEVY BY THE NUMBERS:

1,450: Round wins for John Force (1st all-time).

626: Round wins for Robert Hight; 13th all-time. Cruz Pedregon (Funny Car), sits 12th, with 629.

167: Number of career No. 1 qualifiers for John Force (1st all-time).

161: Number of Chevrolet Racing Funny Car wins since 1967.

84: Number of career No. 1 qualifiers for Robert Hight (6th all-time). Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel) is fifth with 88.

81: Number of Chevrolet Racing Funny Car wins with the Camaro SS body.

47: Number of career No. 1 qualifiers for Brittany Force.

28: Number of NHRA championships Chevrolet holds as a manufacturer since entering the first in 1966. This is the seventh consecutive award and ninth in 11 seasons. No other manufacturer has won it more than Chevrolet.

25: Wins by John Force in a Chevrolet-bodied Funny Car.

20: Chevrolet career Top Fuel wins in NHRA.

16: Number of Chevrolet career wins by Brittany Force.

7: Number of Funny Car driver championships.

2: Number of Top Fuel driver championships.

About Chevrolet

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands. Chevrolet models include electric and fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

Wright Motorsports Charges Ahead to Austin for Circuit of the Americas Double Header

By
Official Release
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AUSTIN, Tex., (May 15, 2024) – With two first-place and two-second place finishes locked in after the first four races of the Fanatec GT World Challenge America powered by AWS, Wright Motorsports enters the next two rounds as the points leaders in both the team and driver categories. Adam Adelson and Elliott Skeer are on a roll this year, heading full steam ahead into rounds five and six at Circuit of The Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas.

“We have great momentum heading into Circuit of The Americas,” said Team Owner John Wright. “We’ve delivered to the best of our ability in the first four races and are heading to a track that we’ve had many successes at. It makes me proud to see Adam, Elliott, and the crew to flourish as they have this season, and we’re going to keep it up as we head into Austin.”

With a 16-point lead over ST Racing, the young energetic duo of Adelson and Skeer have the advantage, with both their season and past successes on their side. In 2023, the pair swept the Austin, Texas weekend, taking both wins in the PRO/Am class. This year, they compete in the more advanced PRO class but have adjusted to the increased level of competition with ease. Sixteen cars are competing this weekend, showing an increase from the first two events in the 2024 season. The No. 120 Porsche 911 GT3 R will compete against other rivaling GT3 makes, such as the BMW M4 GT3, Corvette Z06 GT3.R, and Acura NSX GT3 EVO.

The race weekend will again consist of two 90-minute races, with Adelson and Skeer splitting the drive time in each round. With a length of 3.436 miles, 20 turns and a steep uphill climb to Turn 1, Circuit of The Americas is a unique track on the GT World Challenge calendar. Purpose-built for Formula 1, the track has its own character and always delivers exciting race action.

Both qualifying sessions and races are accessible for free to fans watching from home, streaming live on YouTube.com/GTWorld.

DRIVER QUOTES

Adam Adelson

I’m super excited to be coming back to the place where I got my first-ever race win! COTA is a very special place to me because of that, and I feel like my affinity towards COTA has only grown since then. I love the dynamic nature of the track, with lots of flowy sections that are super unique. I’m also excited about the new additions to the Pro class. It’s going to be a challenge to get to the top step on the podium, but I know Wright Motorsports will give us the best possible chance of doing so.

Elliott Skeer

I can say that the feeling going into this weekend is optimistic for everyone at Wright Motorsports. We have seriously found our grove in 2024 and are ready to try and repeat the results we had here a year ago. Adam and I both love this track, and finally driving it in the newest generation [type 992] Porsche 911 GT3 R will be a fantastic experience.

Event Schedule | All Times CDT

Friday, May 17

10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Practice 1

3:05 PM – 4:05 PM Practice 2

Saturday, May 18

9:00 AM – 9:15 AM Qualifying 1

9:20 AM – 9:35 AM Qualifying 2

12:30 PM – 2:00 PM Race 1

Sunday, May 19

1:30 PM – 2:00 PM Open Grid Fan Walk

2:15 PM – 3:45 PM Race 2

Wright Motorsports
Wright Motorsports is the premier Porsche race engineering facility in Ohio and a multi-series and international racing team known for superb car preparation, expert race strategy, and driver development. Located in Batavia, Ohio, it is owned and directed by John Wright, a certified Porsche factory-trained technician. As a crew chief John Wright has played a key role in winning eight driver and seven team championships in World Challenge, IMSA (ALMS) and the Grand-Am Rolex Series. Wright Motorsports won the team championship in Porsche GT3 Cup USA in 2012, 2013, and 2015, and went on to win the Pirelli World Challenge Overall, Sprint, Team, and Manufacturer’s titles in 2017. In 2020, the team captured the GT World Challenge America Am championship. In 2021, Wright Motorsports had a wildly successful season, capturing nine championships across their five racing efforts.

HaasTooling.com Racing: Ryan Preece All-Star Advance

By
Official Release
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RYAN PREECE
North Wilkesboro / All-Star Race Advance
No. 41 HaasTooling.com Ford Mustang Dark Horse

Event Overview

● Event: NASCAR All-Star Open | NASCAR All-Star Race (non-points races)
● Time/Date: 5:30 p.m. EDT on Sunday, May 19
● Location: North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway
● Layout: .625-mile oval
● Laps/Miles: 100 laps/62.5 miles | 200 laps/125 miles
● TV/Radio: FS1 / MRN / SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Notes of Interest

● Ryan Preece is headed to North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway this weekend to compete for a spot in Sunday’s NASCAR All-Star Race. The driver of the No. 41 HaasTooling.com Ford Mustang Dark Horse for Stewart-Haas Racing will have to race into the main event by finishing in the top-two positions during Sunday’s undercard All-Star Open. NASCAR returned to North Wilkesboro after a 27-year hiatus for last season’s All-Star event. Preece qualified eighth and finished fourth in last year’s All-Star Open, falling just two spots short of advancing to the main event.

● Preece is known for success on short tracks similar to North Wilkesboro. He made a name for himself racing on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, which competes on racetracks 1 mile or less. He clinched the championship in 2013 and has 26 career Tour wins. His two career NASCAR Xfinity Series win both came on short tracks – the .87-mile Iowa Speedway in Newton on July 29, 2017, and the half-mile Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway on April 14, 2018. In the April 2023 NASCAR Cup Series race on the half-mile Martinsville (Va.) Speedway, Preece qualified on the pole and led 135 of 400 race laps. He also finished fourth at the .75-mile Richmond (Va.) Raceway in the July 2023 Cup Series race, marking his best result of 2023. Preece’s ninth-place finish last month at Martinsville remains his best result thus far in 2024.

● Preece arrives at North Wilkesboro after starting 26th and finishing 17th in last Sunday’s Goodyear 400 at Darlington (S.C.) Raceway. It was his sixth top-20 finish this season and the 10th time in 13 races he finished better than he started. This weekend’s All-Star event provides drivers and teams with a break from the points-paying season. The regular season will resume on Memorial Day Weekend with the traditional Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway. Preece currently sits 28th in the driver standings with 192 points.

● Joining Preece and the No. 41 Ford Mustang for the second consecutive All-Star Open is HaasTooling.com, the cutting tool division of Haas Automation. HaasTooling.com allows CNC machinists to purchase high-quality cutting tools at great prices. Haas cutting tools are sold exclusively online at HaasTooling.com and shipped directly to end users. Haas Automation, founded in 1983, is America’s leading builder of CNC machine tools. The company manufactures a complete line of vertical and horizontal machining centers, turning centers, rotaries and indexers, and automation solutions.

Ryan Preece, Driver of the No. 41 HaasTooling.com Ford Mustang Dark Horse

North Wilkesboro has been paved since last season’s All-Star Race. How do you envision it will affect the race compared to last season?

“With North Wilkesboro’s repave and all the improvements to the racetrack, some of that takes away from the tire fall-off. However, at the same time, I had the opportunity to go there earlier this year to do a tire test, and it’s still the same North Wilkesboro that all of us love. It should be an exciting weekend from both a competition and entertainment standpoint.”

What’s your mindset heading into the weekend, as you will have to race your way into the main event via the All-Star Open?

“This is the weekend where no points are on the line. We’re looking to bring as much speed as possible and race for the money. It’s over a million dollars on the line, so it’s a really big deal for a lot of us. Having a strong performance there can certainly give you a boost when we go back to points racing at Charlotte next week.”

What are your thoughts on North Wilkesboro hosting the All-Star Race and being on the schedule in years to come?

“Going back to North Wilkesboro, a track that was closed for many years, seeing the improvements that have been made to the facility is really good to see. It really has been a resurrection. It’s been a resurrection of the town and the racetrack. North Wilkesboro is an important place for our sport and certainly an important place for our sport to continue to be and grow with into the future.”

What would it mean for you to race your way into the All-Star Race?

“Someone like myself who’s a big short-track racer and grassroots type of guy, getting into the All-Star Race and being a part of that event would be huge for me and my career. Having an opportunity to race for a million dollars would be nice, as well.”

No. 41 HaasTooling.com Team Roster

Primary Team Members

Driver: Ryan Preece

Hometown: Berlin, Connecticut

Crew Chief: Chad Johnston

Hometown: Cayuga, Indiana

Car Chief: Jeremy West

Hometown: Gardena, California

Engineer: Marc Hendricksen

Hometown: Clinton, New Jersey

Spotter: Tony Raines

Hometown: LaPorte, Indiana

Over-The-Wall Members

Front Tire Changer: Devin Lester

Hometown: Bluefield, West Virginia

Rear Tire Changer: Austin Chrismon

Hometown: China Grove, North Carolina

Tire Carrier: Chad Emmons

Hometown: Tyler, Texas

Jack Man: Kapil Fletcher

Hometown: Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

Fuel Man: Dwayne Moore

Hometown: Griffin, Georgia

Road Crew Members

Front End Mechanic: Joe Zanolini

Hometown: Sybertsville, Pennsylvania

Interior Mechanic: Robert Dalby

Hometown: Anaheim, California

Tire Specialist: Matt Ridgeway

Hometown: Carrollton, Georgia

Engine Tuner: Jimmy Fife

Hometown: Orange County, California

Transporter Co-Driver: David Rodrigues

Hometown: Santa Clarita, California

Transporter Co-Driver: Charlie Schleyer

Hometown: Youngsville, Pennsylvania

10 Reasons Why Everyone’s Obsessed with Pre-Owned Honda Accords

By
SM
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When shopping for a used car, many people prioritize reliability, cost-effectiveness, and longevity. Honda Accords, especially pre-owned models, are often a top choice among savvy car buyers. Here are ten compelling reasons why pre-owned Honda Accords continue to capture the interest of drivers everywhere.

1. Proven Durability 

Honda Accords have a longstanding reputation for durability. These cars are built to last, and it’s not uncommon for them to exceed 300,000 km and continue to perform with proper maintenance. This endurance is a significant factor for buyers who want a reliable vehicle without the new car price tag.

2. Resale Value 

One of the standout features of Accords that have been well-maintained, like an Autorama pre-owned Honda Accord, is its ability to retain value. Even after several years of use, these vehicles can be resold at a comparatively high value, making them a smart investment for budget-conscious consumers.

3. Cost-Effective Maintenance 

Maintaining a Honda Accord doesn’t break the bank. Parts are readily available and affordable, which keeps repair costs lower than many other brands. This accessibility of parts also means that service can be performed almost anywhere, reducing maintenance hassles.

4. Fuel Efficiency 

Fuel efficiency is a critical concern for Canadian car buyers, and the Honda Accord excels in this area. Pre-owned Accords don’t need premium gasoline and are known for their ability to maximize fuel economy, reducing the overall cost of ownership and benefiting the environment.

5. Versatile Design 

The design of the Honda Accord strikes a balance between functionality and style, appealing to a wide range of buyers. Its sporty exterior, spacious interior and comfortable seating configuration make it suitable for families, commuters, and car enthusiasts alike.

6. Advanced Safety Features 

Safety is paramount, and even older models of the Honda Accord are equipped with advanced safety features. From anti-lock braking systems to multiple airbags and stability control, these cars have a history of protecting their occupants effectively.

7. Positive Consumer Ratings 

The Honda Accord consistently receives high marks from both consumers and automotive experts, being dubbed the “reigning family-sedan champ.”This widespread approval is reflected in consumer testimonials and professional reviews, which often praise the car’s performance, comfort, and reliability.

8. Wide Range of Options 

When choosing a pre-owned Accord, buyers have a broad selection of interiors, engine types, and amenities to choose from. This variety ensures that there is likely a perfect Accord to meet any preference or budget.

9. Strong Community and Support 

The community of Honda owners is a robust and supportive network. New Accord owners find a wealth of resources from fellow owners and enthusiasts, including online forums, clubs, and events. This community support can be invaluable, particularly for those new to Honda vehicles.

10. Innovative Technology 

Even older models of the Honda Accord come with innovative technology that enhances the driving experience. Features like Bluetooth connectivity, advanced navigation systems, and premium audio options add a modern touch to the driving experience without the need to purchase a new vehicle.

The Bottom Line 

Choosing a pre-owned Honda Accord is a decision that offers reliability, efficiency, and value, all wrapped in a stylish package. It’s no wonder Accords have earned their status as a popular choice among discerning buyers.

Justin Haley All-Star Weekend Media Availability

By
Official Release
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Ford Performance Notes and Quotes
NASCAR Cup Series
All-Star Media Advance | Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Justin Haley, driver of the No. 51 Rick Ware Racing Ford Mustang Dark Horse, is coming off a ninth-place finish in last weekend’s Goodyear 400 at Darlington Raceway. He took part in a media call earlier today to discuss the progress his team has shown since the season started and what his expectations are for this weekend’s All-Star Open.

JUSTIN HALEY, No. 51 Rick Ware Racing Ford Mustang Dark Horse – HOW GOOD WAS DARLINGTON? “It’s something I feel like we’ve been working towards throughout the season. At the start of the season we had some struggles just with a new crew chief, new spotter, new pit crew, just kind of the issues you probably don’t realize moving to a new team that are quite so significant as they are, just having everyone mesh together, and I feel like over the past two weeks we’ve started to execute how we feel like we should be able to and Darlington was another step at that. I feel like our cars have been fairly competitive and quite quick recently, and I feel like the balance is what I like. I just feel like it’s taken longer than what we wanted to reach this point of having relative speed to be able to compete for top 10s and in the top 15 area, but I feel like that’s where we should run every once in a while, so the speed is starting to get there.”

DOES THE PERFORMANCE AT DARLINGTON GIVE YOU ANY EXTRA MOMENTUM THAT YOU CAN RACE YOUR WAY INTO THE ALL-STAR RACE? “Yeah, of course. Kansas, we were right on the cusp of a top 10 as well before the caution came out and we took four instead of two. That was a difficult call there, but the past few weeks I feel like we’ve had top 10 speed or at least top 15 to the field throughout the race, and I feel like our car has been quick in the race – not maybe in qualifying – but we’ve brought really good race cars and I’m kind of following through with RFK and what they’re doing and kind of leaning on them has been beneficial. I’m super proud of every one at Rick Ware Racing. I feel like we’ve got a good shot this weekend, so we’ll just go and try to do our best and go from there.”

HAVE THE SOCIAL VIDEOS BEEN FUN OR UNCOMFORTABLE TO PROMOTE YOURSELF? “I said this yesterday with the professional and the personality side of things. You’re expected and held to a level of professionalism when you’re in our sport and it’s hard to cross that over to the personality side of things. This has been a great spot for me to break out and show some personality in a professional setting. It’s definitely been cool for me, especially like this week at Darlington. Just leaving the racetrack there were a lot of fans screaming “HaleYes” and things like that, so the reaction from the fans at the track is more than I ever expected and it kind of realizes what we’re doing. You can do it and you can post it and it’s all cool, but until you have the fans interact with you it really validates what you’re doing. I feel pretty good about it going into Sunday.”

HOW MANY TAKES ON ALL THAT STUFF? “I’m a one shot kind of guy. If I don’t do it in the first take, I will mess up the rest of the takes forever, so we filmed twice. We did it at Bristol and a little bit at Kansas. It was fun. I love working with Rick Ware and True Speed on it, so it’s super fun with great ideas. Hopefully we can start to show a little bit more of it.”

CAN YOU GIVE MORE INSIGHT INTO THE RELATIONSHIP WITH RICK WARE? “Rick has a lot of race teams so he’s always flying around. Usually, if there’s an NHRA event or a flat track event, he will be there for parts of the weekend. He normally shows up for Sunday unless the dragster is doing really well or something. I’d say we have a close relationship. We try to have lunch every once in a while and talk. He’s always in our competition meetings and trying to bring value to what we’re doing, so it’s definitely a close relationship. I like how hands-on he is. It’s a little bit different for me to have a team owner that’s here every day and who really encapsulates himself on the competition side of the team as well. It’s been cool. Rick gave me this opportunity to continue my Cup Series career, so I definitely appreciate him and his family.”

HAVE YOU LEARNED ANYTHING THAT WILL HELP MOVING FORWARD FROM A TEAM BUILDING ASPECT? “He definitely spreads himself and then also Robby Benton not only is over the NASCAR stuff as well, he kind of spreads himself to all the teams, so it’s kind of a group effort. I haven’t been to another one of his racing series races because we obviously race every weekend, but he’s definitely successful in all of his forms. We’re just trying to take the Cup Series side of things and prove that we can get it to a spot where it’s pretty competitive.

WHAT IS YOUR PERSPECTIVE ON THE MOVE TO FORD AND THE CHALLENGES SO FAR THIS SEASON? “It’s tough for me to comment on it just because it’s all new to me and I really don’t know what was in the past and what’s new now. For me, it’s definitely different with engines coming from Roush Yates. We struggled a little bit with that in the start of the season with different procedures and things that they require compared to what I was used to. I probably got that figured out and got past that. The Ford body, I guess you could say they’re all relatively close within NASCAR’s parameters. To be truthfully honest, I feel like every car I’ve driven this year has been balanced well. We might lack speed here and there, but I couldn’t pinpoint what that is, but I feel like all the cars I’ve driven are well. I don’t know if that’s Ford aero balance or just my car doing a really good job with the setup, but it’s hard for me to comment because I don’t have a place of maybe where they were in the past. It’s all so new to me that I’m just trying to get a firm grip on it.”

HOW MUCH DO YOU LEAN ON YOUR PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE OF JUMPING TEAMS? “Every team has a different style and the way they go about it. You have different people and relationships and sponsors and things like that, so I don’t really feel like it was a tough transition. It was probably more than I thought it was going to be just because I was in a place for so long and with a race team for so long. I knew everyone’s names and relationships and everything, so it’s the unexpected things. It’s different shift points or RPMs in an engine, or remembering certain engine procedures and learning names and learning how to talk and debrief with your crew chief and just stuff like that. That was all brand new to me. I didn’t have a single similar thing that I have had for the past few years in Cup racing or racing in general. Everyone was new, except my motorhome driver. You’re just taking a leap of faith and betting on yourself and hoping it works out. I feel like, again, it probably took us longer to climb the mountain than we expected, but I feel like we’re at a height now where we can compete. I feel like we’re trying to start filling the potential that I feel like we’re capable of, so if we just keep working hard. It’s obviously a tough sport and one race isn’t gonna change anything, so we have to go out and continue to do it. I said yesterday when someone asked me where this ranked on races that I remember, I really can’t rank it because there’s always next week. Last week really didn’t matter at this point. We’re focused on North Wilkesboro.”

THIS PERFORMANCE CAME AT THE HALFWAY POINT OF THE REGULAR SEASON. HOW DO YOU BUILD ON THAT MOMENTUM? “We’ve showed speed at a lot of racetracks. Again, I feel like the month of April to May was kind of where we started to show speed at Bristol and COTA and Dover and Kansas. The 15 car has been quick as well with Kaz behind it. I feel like Kaz has been doing an awesome job for as little experience he has. I feel like he’s been crushing it as well. It’s not only just my car that’s running good, I feel like as a team we’re elevated and leaning on each other. We’ve got to keep working. The car we brought last week probably wouldn’t even be able to compete later in the year because of how fast the Cup Series grows. The cars are always getting faster and evolving and little stuff is happening, so it’s all in the details and we just have to keep working. You can’t just say, ‘OK, that car was fast, leave it together and we’ll run it in three months,’ because in three months the car probably won’t be competitive compared to the field. The field is always moving and getting faster and that’s where the smaller teams might struggle is just keeping up with the fast pace and the millions and millions of dollars that the big teams spend. It’s all in the details and we’re trying to refine those.”

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE IN-SEASON TOURNAMENT ANNOUNCED EARLIER THIS WEEK AND WHAT WOULD IT MEAN TO WIN THAT? “I feel like it’s definitely cool for maybe a smaller organization like us because I feel like we probably have a better chance than what we would in a regular season playoff. If we have a string of good races, it could be pretty big for us. I like it. I think it’s fun. Hopefully, it drives a little bit more attention and maybe makes it get a little more exciting for the middle of the season races that are just kind of trickling along. It’s definitely an improvement. I like to see the innovation the sport has taken recently and it should be fun.”

THERE ARE A LOT OF QUALITY DRIVERS AND TEAMS IN THE OPEN. WHAT WOULD IT MEAN TO GET THE FAN VOTE IF YOU DON’T RACE YOUR WAY IN? “Obviously, it would be cool. I looked at the Open yesterday and didn’t realize there are more cars in the Open this year than there are in the All-Star Race. It’s definitely a competitive field and a lot of big names. We just have to go out and bring our best performance. It’s definitely gonna be a little tricky this year with the repave and things like that and tire selection, but we’re just gonna have to keep working forward. I’m not trying to rely on the fan vote. I don’t think anyone is, but it would definitely be cool to win that.”

IF NASCAR GAVE THE IN-SEASON TOURNAMENT WINNER A PLAYOFF SPOT, HOW WOULD THAT IMPACT THINGS AND DO YOU THINK THAT WOULD GIVE A TEAM LIKE RWR A BETTER CHANCE TO MAKE THE PLAYOFFS OR WOULD IT JUST MAKE THE BIG TEAMS DO MORE DURING THOSE FIVE? “Both, probably. I think it’s a great idea. I don’t think NASCAR would probably pay much attention to the idea, but I don’t mind it. I feel like the more opportunities there are for a playoff spot, the better it is for the position I’m in right now. I don’t mind the idea. I feel like either way the five races are gonna be tough. There’s a lot of competition every week, but those five will kind of be capitalized similar to the Dash 4 Cash in Xfinity.”

TNT kicks off NASCAR return with Atlanta’s Night Race in June 2025

By
Official Release
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  • Atlanta’s Night Race returns as the first race of the NASCAR Cup Series In-Season Tournament for an action-packed Saturday night 400-mile thriller under the lights on June 28, 2025
  • The Saturday night showdown will be the first of five NASCAR Cup Series events TNT Sports will cover starting in the 2025 season

HAMPTON, Ga. (May 15, 2024) – TNT Sports will launch its coverage of the NASCAR Cup Series in 2025 with a Saturday night showdown as the opening race of the In-Season Tournament at the network’s home track, Atlanta Motor Speedway.

For the 2025 season, Atlanta Motor Speedway’s second NASCAR event shifts to the summer with the return of Atlanta’s Night Race: the Quaker State 400 Available at Walmart on Saturday night, June 28, 2025.

Earlier this week, NASCAR announced it will hold a first-of-its-kind In-Season Tournament for the Cup Series in 2025. The bracket-style head-to-head event will be broadcasted on TNT Sports’ full five-race schedule with the first race of the In-Season Tournament hosted under the lights at Atlanta Motor Speedway. The winner of the tournament will receive a $1 million prize.

Already one of the most exciting tracks on the NASCAR circuit, the night time has been the right time for unbelievable racing at AMS in recent years. The 2023 running of Atlanta’s Night Race was lauded by NASCAR Legend Darrell Waltrip as “the best (race) I’ve ever seen!” That same event led NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr. – who will join TNT Sports broadcast team for its NASCAR coverage next year – to dub Atlanta “the hottest ticket” in NASCAR. That distinction was solidified when Daniel Suarez edged Ryan Blaney and Kyle Busch in a three-wide photo finish under the lights earlier this year.

“The energy and the atmosphere a night race at Atlanta brings is second to none,” said AMS Executive Vice President and General Manager Brandon Hutchison. “That’s why our fans have been telling us they want the night race back in Atlanta and we’re thrilled to make it happen.”

The Quaker State 400 Available at Walmart will mark the return of NASCAR to TNT for the first time since 2014. TNT Sports, a division of Warner Bros. Discovery, will broadcast five NASCAR Cup Series events starting next year through 2031.

NASCAR’s summer trip to AMS will also feature the NASCAR Xfinity Series Focused Health 250 on Friday, June 27, 2025. Atlanta’s full slate of NASCAR events in 2025, including its spring weekend NASCAR Cup Series weekend, will be announced at a later date.

Ticketholders for the 2024 Quaker State 400 Available at Walmart – the first race of the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs – on Sept. 8 will get first choice on preferred seats in 2025. A limited selection of tickets are currently available for all other fans.

For the latest information on Atlanta Motor Speedway’s 2024 and 2025 NASCAR events, visit www.AtlantaMotorSpeedway.com.

About the 2025 Quaker State 400 Available at Walmart:

The Quaker State 400 Available at Walmart headlines the summer slate of NASCAR racing at Atlanta Motor Speedway on Saturday, June 28. Featuring racing under the lights on one of NASCAR’s most action-packed tracks, Atlanta’s Night Race comes with increased stakes as the NASCAR playoffs loom large.

More information on the June 27-28, 2025, Quaker State 400 Available at Walmart weekend and ticket availability can be found online at AtlantaMotorSpeedway.com.

About Atlanta Motor Speedway:

Keep track of all of Atlanta Motor Speedway’s events by following on Twitter, Instagram, and become a Facebook fan. Keep up with all the latest news and information with the Atlanta Motor Speedway mobile app.

About TNT Sports

TNT Sports is a global leader in the delivery of premium sports content. The TNT Sports U.S. portfolio includes expansive, multi-platform partnerships with the National Basketball Association, Major League Baseball, the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship, National Hockey League, United States Soccer Federation and NASCAR (coming in 2025). Owned and operated platforms are highlighted by Bleacher Report, the #1 digital destination for young sports fans, along with House of Highlights, HighlightHER, Golf Digest, and a full suite of digital and social portfolio brands. Additionally, TNT Sports co-manages NBA Digital — comprised of NBA TV, NBA.com, NBA LEAGUE Pass, the NBA App and NBAGLEAGUE.com — as well as NCAA.com and NCAA March Madness Live. TNT Sports in Europe and the Republic of Ireland includes partnerships with the NBA, Premier League, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UFC, WWE and more, as well as much-loved brands Eurosport, Global Cycling Network (GCN), Global Mountain Bike Network (GMBN) and multi-sport programming and content on discovery+ and Discovery’s free-to-air TV networks.

Toyota Racing Weekly Preview 05.15.24

By
Official Release
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This Week in Motorsports: May 13 – 19, 2024

· NCS/NCTS: North Wilkesboro Speedway – May 17-19
· ARCA EAST: Flat Rock Speedway – May 18
· NHRA: Route 66 Raceway – May 17-19

PLANO, Texas (May 15, 2024) – NASCAR is back at the historic North Wilkesboro Speedway, where the Truck Series holds its 10th race of 2024, and the Cup Series runs its annual All-Star race. The ARCA Menards Series East is at Flat Rock Speedway for its second consecutive race weekend. The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series is back in action after a few weeks off, heading to the Midwest and Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, Illinois.

NASCAR National Series – NCS | NCTS

Four Camry XSEs top 10 in points … With a week between its next points-paying race, half of Toyota’s full-time Cup Series drivers are currently in the top 10 of the points standings. Martin Truex Jr. and Denny Hamlin of Joe Gibbs Racing continue to be the lead Camry XSEs in points, sitting in second and third, respectively. The two are joined inside the top 10 by their teammate, Ty Gibbs (seventh) and 23XI Racing’s Tyler Reddick (sixth).

Toyota seeks another All-Star triumph … A win on Sunday for one of the Toyota Camry XSEs would mark the third for Toyota in NASCAR’s All-Star race. The manufacturer captured its first All-Star race victory in 2015 with Hamlin, as well as another event win in 2017 with former Toyota driver Kyle Busch.

Heim, Gray brothers leading Toyota Tundras … After last weekend in Darlington, three Toyota Tundra TRD Pros continue inside the top 10 of the Truck Series points. Corey Heim sits in second position, only 14 points behind of the top spot. His TRICON Garage teammates, Taylor and Tanner Gray, join him in the top 10 in fifth and ninth positions.

Butterbean makes Trucks debut … In the opportunity of a lifetime, Brenden “Butterbean” Queen will pilot the No. 1 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro for TRICON Garage this Saturday in his Truck Series debut. The Virginia native and CARS Tour racer will look to go back-to-back at North Wilkesboro as he was victorious in the CARS Tour race last year, one of his four victories on the season en route to a second-place finish in the series standings.

NASCAR Regional Series – ARCA Menards Series East

Toyota Camrys take on Flat Rock … The ARCA Menards Series East heads to Flat Rock Speedway in Monroe, Michigan, for its fourth race of 2024. For Team Toyota, Gio Ruggiero and Toni Breidinger will pilot Toyota Camrys for Venturini Motorsports, and William Sawalich will once again run for Joe Gibbs Racing. Sawalich and Ruggiero sit just five and six points behind the series points lead entering the weekend.

NHRA – Top Fuel | Funny Car

Toyota racers at the top of points standings … After a few weeks off, the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series is back on track with Team Toyota drivers off to strong starts in 2024. In Top Fuel, Toyota’s six drivers own the top six points standings positions, with Justin Ashley atop the points after his victory at Charlotte three weeks ago. In Funny Car, J.R. Todd remains in second position, with Ron Capps in sixth and Alexis DeJoria in seventh entering the sixth race of the 2024 season.

Toyota’s Top Fuel streak … This weekend in Joliet, Toyota’s Top Fuel dragsters look for their seventh straight victory, a streak that dates back to the 2023 season’s final round at Pomona last November. Team Toyota has six chances at victory across its driver lineup, including Antron Brown who seeks his sixth overall win at Route 66 Raceway in his NHRA career.

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.

ARCA Menards Series East at Flat Rock Speedway – Dutch Boy 150 Pre-race Notes & Stats Update

By
Official Release
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ARCA Menards Series East

The Race: Dutch Boy 150
The Place: Flat Rock Speedway, Flat Rock, Mich.
The Date: Saturday, May 18, 2024
The Time: 7:30 pm ET
TV: Live, FloRacing
Distance: 150 Laps / 37.5 Miles

  • The Dutch Boy 150 at Flat Rock Speedway is the fourth race of the 2024 ARCA Menards Series East season and the 599th race in East Series history dating to 1987. It is the third and final stand-alone race for the East series this season; the remaining races are all combination races with the ARCA Menards Series.
  • The Dutch Boy 150 is the second ARCA Menards Series East race at Flat Rock; last year’s race, won by William Sawalich, was the first. The ARCA Menards Series raced 56 times at Flat Rock Speedway from 1953 through 2000.
  • Seventeen-year-old Connor Zilisch enters the Dutch Boy 150 with a five-point lead in the ARCA Menards Series East championship standings over William Sawalich. Zilisch has started the season with three top-five finishes, including his first career series win at Dover Motor Speedway in April. Zilisch started the season with an LMP2 class victory in the Rolex 24 at Daytona and backed it up with a class victory at the 12 Hours of Sebring.
  • Reigning series champion William Sawalich returns to Flat Rock Speedway to defend his 2023 race victory fresh off his first win of the 2023 season; Sawalich dominated last Saturday’s Music City 150 at Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway to record his first East win of the season. Sawalich won the ARCA Menards Series / ARCA Menards Series West combination race at Phoenix Raceway in March.
  • Gio Ruggiero dropped to third in the ARCA Menards Series East standings after a disappointing 14th-place finish at Nashville after a cut left rear tire sent him into the turn one wall. Ruggiero will look to rebound at the series tightest, smallest track, a track that has a lot of similarities to his home track, Seekonk Speedway. Ruggiero is the 2023 ASA CRA Super Series champion, the 2023 ASA Southern Super Series champion and started the 2024 season with a win in the ARCA Menards Series East opener at Five Flags Speedway.
  • Toni Breidinger will round out the Venturini Motorsports stable in the Dutch Boy 150. Breidinger will be making her first stand-alone East start since Dover in 2023 where she finished seventh. He best career East finish was fifth in the combination race at Iowa Speedway in 2023.
  • Venturini Motorsports founders and co-owners Bill and Cathy Venturini earned their first career ARCA Menards Series victory at Flat Rock Speedway in June 1983. Bill would win 12 races in his career as a driver in the ARCA Menards Series and is the 1987 and 1991 series champion. Cathy Venturini, his crew chief and over-the-wall pit crew member, was also the championship-winning car owner in 1987 and 1991.
  • Zachary Tinkle heads into the Dutch Boy 150 off his best career East finish, fourth, last Saturday night at Nashville. Tinkle drives for 1995 ARCA Menards Series national champion Andy Hillenburg, who won at Flat Rock en route to the title.
  • Sawyer, Michigan native Matt Kemp returns to Fast Track High Performance Racing to make his second career East start. Kemp, who has visited victory lane at Flat Rock in the Midwest Classic Racers dwarf car series, finished 19th in his series debut last year at Iowa Speedway.
  • Reigning ARCA Menards Series West champion Sean Hingorani set the ARCA Menards Series East qualifying record at Flat Rock Speedway in 2023 with a lap at 12.761 seconds/70.527 miles per hour.
  • William Sawalich established the 150-lap ARCA Menards Series East race record at Flat Rock Speedway in 2023, winning the race in 38 minutes, 48 seconds at an average speed of 57.990 miles per hour.
  • Last year’s Dutch Boy 150 was slowed by cautions 3 times for a total of 17 laps.
  • Previous ARCA Menards Series winners at Flat Rock Speedway include Julian “J.H” Petty (2, 1953), Bob Hunter (1957), Bill Lutz (1958), Les Snow (1965), Iggy Katona (1966), Bobby Watson (1969), Andy Hampton (1970), Ramo Stott (1971), Ron Hutcherson (1972, 1974), A. Arnold (1973), Moose Myers (1976, 1978, 1979), Bill Green (1977), Bill Kimmel (1978), Jim Cushman (1979), Marvin Smith (3, 1980; 2, 1981, 1995), Bob Dotter (1981), Lee Raymond (1982, 1983), Bobby Jacks (1982) Bill Venturini (1983; 2, 1984), Ed Hage (1985; 1986; 2, 1987), Bob Keselowski (1988, 1991), Tracy Leslie (1988), Dave Weltmeyer (1989; 2, 1992; 1994, 1996), Grant Adcox (1989), Bobby Bowsher (1990, 1991), Harold Fair (1993), Jeremy Mayfield (1993), Gary Bradberry (1994), Andy Hillenburg (1995), Joe Ruttman (1995), Tim Steele (1996, 1997), Frank Kimmel (1998, 2000), and Bill Baird (1999).
  • From 1954 through 1956, Flat Rock Speedway was promoted by “Big Bill” France, and the cornerstone event in 1954 was a 500-lap main event for NASCAR-style cars. That race was won by Lee Petty. His cousin Julian won twin 250-lap main events that were a part of the ARCA Menards Series calendar the previous year.
  • NASCAR legend Curtis Turner won a NASCAR Convertible Series race at Flat Rock Speedway in July 1956. Turner started eighth and was the only driver to complete all 250 laps; he finished two laps ahead of “Tiger” Tom Pistone. Allen Adkins won a 200-lap main event for the Convertible Series in August 1956 by a whopping 19 laps over second-place finisher Dick Joslin.
  • The 1956 Convertible races included two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Joe Weatherly, who finished fourth in July, nine-time Cup Series winner Bob Welborn, who was third in July and sixth in August, and 1955 ARCA Menards Series West champion Danny Letner. Glen Wood, one of the founding members of the famed Wood Bros. Racing team and a member of the NASCAR Hall of Fame, also competed in the August race but finished 18th after a right front tire failure. Seven-time USAC Champ Car winner (now the NTT IndyCar Series) winner Jud Larson was also in the July race; he finished 19th in the 23-car field.
  • The Dutch Boy 150 will run straight through with no scheduled breaks; teams will have two tires in their pit stall for emergency use only. All tire changes must be for damaged tires only and have to be approved by ARCA officials.
  • Should the race need to be extended into overtime, there will be unlimited attempts at a two-lap “green-white-checkered” finish. Should the caution be displayed after the white flag, there will be unlimited attempts at a one-lap “green and white together” finish.
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