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Tickets On-Sale Now for the 2024 SuperMotocross World Championship Playoffs and Final

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Official Release
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Pre-sale kicks off today with public on-sale starting next Tuesday, April 9
Charlotte, Fort Worth, and Las Vegas track maps revealed

ELLENTON, Fla. (April 2, 2024) – Tickets are officially on sale for the 2024 SuperMotocross World Championship Playoffs and Final. As previously announced by the SMX League from Round 8 in Daytona, Playoff 1 will take place on Saturday, September 7 at zMAX Dragway, adjacent to Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, N.C. and Playoff 2 will take place on Saturday, September 14 at Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, TX. The SuperMotocross World Championship Final will take place on Saturday, September 21, at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in Las Vegas, NV.

SuperMotocross World Championship Playoffs and Final Schedule:

SuperMotocross Priority Members can purchase tickets starting today, April 2 with public on-sale availability beginning Tuesday, April 9 at SuperMotocross.com.

Last year’s landmark inaugural season saw two of the sport’s youngest and brightest stars cement their place in the history books. At just 17, Haiden Deegan earned Rookie of the Year and captured the 250cc World Championship while Australian sensation Jett Lawrence, at 20, became the first-ever 450cc World Champion in the premier class, also as a rookie.

zMAX Dragway is situated adjacent to Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, N.C. and its world famous four-lane dragstrip and dual grandstands provided the perfect backdrop to host last year’s first-ever SMX World Championship Playoff. The Charlotte area is a hotbed for fans of the sport and is an easy city to get to from most points in the Eastern region. Last year’s playoff became the “must see” event of the year and is a primary reason for our return. zMAX Dragway proved to be a world-class facility in every way where the SMX experience was fully brought to life with a full day of fan activities on Friday, an industry packed FanFest on Saturday and a multitude of prime camping options for every budget.

zMAX Dragway Track Map
Custom designed track layout will feature the best of both worlds – Supercross and Pro Motocross.

Texas Motor Speedway, located in Fort Worth is easily accessible for fans traveling by car or plane with its central location and proximity to multiple international airports. The 1.5-mile quad-oval superspeedway sits on over 1400 acres of land and is one of the largest sports facilities in the country. Being a world-class venue, Texas Motor Speedway is no stranger to marquee events as they are a regular stop on the NASCAR Cup Series and provide all the modern amenities motorsports fans expect when purchasing an event ticket.

Texas Motor Speedway Track Map
Custom designed track layout will feature the best of both worlds – Supercross and Pro Motocross.

The SuperMotocross World Championship will culminate with the World Championship Final on Saturday, September 21 at the The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. “The Strip” is one of the most iconic dragstrips in the country and joins zMAX Dragway as being one of just two dragstrips in the nation to feature four-wide racing. This expansive footprint will allow our master track builders to get very imaginative in creating the final SMX World Championship track of the season. Situated right across the street from the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, the Strip is home to more than 50 events a year and provides an intimate viewing experience from the grandstands and suites while also offering fans the ability to “line the fence”, similar to what is done at a Pro Motocross event.

The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway Track Map
Custom designed track layout will feature the best of both worlds – Supercross and Pro Motocross.

Fans can expect a two-day experience at all three rounds as each track will offer a Friday Fan Zone and a Saturday FanFest experience. Friday’s Fan Zone will be open from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and will feature access to the pre-race press conference, free practice sessions, and the SMX Insiders live show. Additionally, camping options for every budget and experience level will be available at each round. At zMAX Dragway and Texas Motor Speedway, camping will be open Friday – Sunday with an early Thursday open at The Stip at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Make sure to check SuperMotocross.com for available packages and price levels.

The pre-race press conference from the Friday Fan Zone sets the stage for an exciting weekend of racing. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

The SuperMotocross World Championship Playoffs and Final will feature the best athletes in the world as the top 20 in combined Supercross and Pro Motocross points will be automatically seeded into the playoff rounds. The final two gate positions will be determined through a Last Chance Qualifier (LCQ) featuring athletes positioned 21 – 30 in combined points, plus any Supercross Main Event winners and Pro Motocross Overall Winners. The SuperMotocross World Championship Playoff races and Final will operate under a two-moto format for both the 450cc class and 250cc class. Each moto will be 20 minutes, plus one lap, in which Olympic Scoring will determine an overall finishing position for which SuperMotocross Championship points will be awarded.

The SMX World Championship series pays the sport’s largest prize payout of $10 million – $4.5 million is awarded throughout the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship and Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, leaving $5.5 million to be earned through the SMX World Championship Finals, fueled by Monster Energy.

All 31 rounds of the SuperMotocross World Championship are now on sale, including 17 Rounds of Monster Energy AMA Supercross and 11 Rounds of Pro Motocross sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing. To purchase tickets and stay up to date on the latest news and highlights, visit SuperMotocross.com, SupercrossLIVE.com or ProMotocross.com.

For information about the SuperMotocross World Championship, please visit www.SuperMotocross.com and be sure to follow all of the new SMX social media channels for exclusive content and additional information on the latest news:
Instagram: @supermotocross
Facebook: @supermotocross
Twitter: @supermotocross
YouTube: @supermotocross

About the SuperMotocross World Championship:

The SuperMotocross World Championship™ is the premier off-road motorcycle racing series that combines the technical precision of stadium racing with the all-out speed and endurance of outdoor racing. Created in 2022, the SuperMotocross World Championship combines the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship and the AMA Pro Motocross Championship into a 31-event series that culminates in a season-ending two round playoff and SuperMotocross World Championship Final.

Visit SuperMotocross.com for more information.

About Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship:

Monster Energy AMA Supercross is the most competitive and highest-profile off-road motorcycle racing championship on the planet. Founded in America and sanctioned by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) since 1974. Over 17 weeks, Supercross attracts some of the largest and most impressive crowds inside the most recognizable and prestigious stadiums in North America to race in front of nearly one million live fans and broadcast to millions more worldwide. For more information, visit SupercrossLIVE.com.

About AMA Pro Motocross Championship:

The AMA Pro Motocross Championship features the world’s fastest outdoor motocross racers, competing aboard homologated bikes from one of seven competing manufacturers on a collection of the roughest, toughest tracks on the planet. Racing takes place each Saturday afternoon, with competition divided into two classes: one for 250cc machines, and one for 450cc machines. MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc. the industry leader in off-road powersports event production, manages the AMA Pro Motocross Championship.

More information can be found at www.ProMotocross.com.

About Feld Motor Sports, Inc.:

Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting specialized arena and stadium-based motorsports entertainment. Properties include Monster Jam®, Monster Energy AMA Supercross, and the SuperMotocross World Championship. Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is a subsidiary of Feld Entertainment, Inc.

Visit monsterjam.com, SupercrossLIVE.com, and feldentertainment.com for more information.

About MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.:

MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc. manages and produces the world’s most prestigious motocross series – the AMA Pro Motocross Championship and the SuperMotocross World Championship. The industry leader in off road powersport event production and management, its mission is to showcase the sport of professional motocross competition at events throughout the United States. Through its various racing properties, partnerships and affiliates, MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc. organizes events for thousands of action sports athletes each year and attracts millions of motorsports spectators.

Visit www.mxsportsproracing.com for more information.

NHRA MISSION FOODS DRAG RACING SERIES TRAVELS TO ZMAX DRAGWAY FOR EXCITING NHRA FOUR-WIDE NATIONALS

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Official Release
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CONCORD, N.C. (April 2, 2024) – The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season is ramping up and teams will soon head to zMAX Dragway, dubbed the “Bellagio of Drag Strips,” for one of the most unique events in motorsports, the NHRA Four-Wide Nationals, April 26-28.

The event marks the fourth of 20 races during the 2024 NHRA season and will put drivers to the ultimate test in the wild and can’t-miss four-wide format. Fans will be treated to a sensory overload of 44,000-horsepower when four nitro-burning machines take to the track each lap, making for one of the biggest spectacles in drag racing.

The weekend is filled with some of the most spectacular action on the NHRA circuit, including Friday night Primetime under the lights, the first-ever Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge at zMAX Dragway on Saturday and eliminations on Sunday. Fans can watch nitro at night to kick off the event, catch the bonus event in a four-wide format on Saturday and teams battling it out for the Wally on Sunday in an action-packed three days at the state-of-the-art facility in Charlotte.

Austin Prock (Top Fuel), Robert Hight (Funny Car), Deric Kramer (Pro Stock) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) claimed victories at the 2023 NHRA Four-Wide Nationals. The event will again be broadcast on FS1, including eliminations at 6 p.m. ET on Sunday, April 28.

Last season, Prock collected his first win from zMAX in Top Fuel to complete a John Force Racing nitro double-up. However, this season he has hopped into the Funny Car field to take over driving duties for Hight. To claim the Funny Car win in Charlotte, Prock will need to get past some of the best drivers in the world, including reigning champion Matt Hagan, three-time champ Ron Capps, Bob Tasca III, Chad Green, Cruz Pedregon, Gainesville winner J.R. Todd and teammate John Force.

The Top Fuel field is also packed with competition including reigning champion Doug Kalitta, Gainesville winner Shawn Langdon, Justin Ashley, two-time champion Brittany Force, Steve Torrence and Antron Brown, who both have six wins from zMAX. Also in the mix will be motorsports legend and Charlotte Motor Speedway winner Tony Stewart.

Kramer’s win last season gave him his second Charlotte victory. If he wants to make it three, he’ll need to get past the four-time and reigning Pro Stock champion Erica Enders as well as Dallas Glenn, Cristian Cuadra, and five-time champs Jeg Coughlin and Greg Anderson, who picked up a win at the Charlotte fall race.

Pro Stock Motorcycle phenom Herrera dominated the category last season. His 2023 campaign featured 11 wins, including both Charlotte races. He is already off to a hot start in 2024 with a win at Gainesville. When the Pro Stock Motorcycle class returns to the circuit in Charlotte, other competitors including six-time champion Matt Smith, three-time Charlotte winner Steve Johnson, Angie Smith and Hector Arana Jr.

New for the 2024 season will be the Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge at the two four-wide events in Charlotte and the Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Quarterfinalists from the NHRA Four-Wide Nationals in Las Vegas will meet up again for round one of the Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge. The final Challenge round will feature a quad of racers and will award purse and bonus championship points.

The NHRA Four-Wide Nationals will also feature thrilling competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, which features some of the sport’s top drivers, as well as the Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage Mountain Motor Pro Stock and the new Holley EFI Factory X category. The Summit Racing Equipment Jr. Drag Racing League Shootout will also take place in Charlotte. Fans can also look forward to the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Autograph Session at the Mission Foods Display and the Toyota Autograph Display, both of which take place on Saturday morning.

All weekend long, fans are invited to the Nitro Alley Stage at zMAX Dragway, which will help create a festive atmosphere leading into the nitro pits. The Nitro Alley Stage will be the main entertainment hub in the pits when the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series competitors are not on the track, hosting Nitro School, meet and greets, music and much more. Race fans at Firebird Motorsports Park can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce and celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk.

Fans at zMAX Dragway can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce and celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and includes the fan-favorite SealMaster Track Walk. The final can’t-miss experience of any NHRA event is the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday after racing concludes, where fans are invited to congratulate the event winners of the NHRA Four-Wide Nationals.

As always, fans also get an exclusive pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet in Charlotte. This unique opportunity gives fans a unique chance to see teams in action and service their hot rods between rounds, get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers and more. Fans can also visit NHRA’s popular Nitro Alley and Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and race vendors create an exciting atmosphere that includes interactive displays, simulated competitions, merchandise, food and fun for the entire family.

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 4:30 and 7:00 p.m. ET on Friday, April 26 and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, April 27 at 12 and 2:15 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 12 p.m. ET on Sunday, April 28. Television coverage includes qualifying on FS1 at 11 a.m. ET on Sunday and then eliminations action at 6 p.m. ET to follow.

To purchase tickets to the NHRA Four-Wide Nationals, please visit www.charlottemotorspeedway.com or call 800-455-3267. For more information about NHRA, visit www.NHRA.com.

About Mission Foods

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

About NHRA

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

Wright Motorsports Primed for GT World Challenge America Season Start at Sonoma

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Official Release
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NEXT UP: GT WORLD CHALLENGE AT SONOMA RACEWAY
SONOMA INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY | APRIL 5-7

SONOMA, Cali., (April 2, 2024) – The 2024 season for the Fanatec GT World Challenge America championship begins this weekend at Sonoma Raceway, and Wright Motorsports is ready to get the festivities started with their one-car full season entry in the sports car racing championship. Piloting the No. 120 Porsche 911 GT3 R, Adam Adelson and Elliott Skeer, co-drivers also competing in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, are poised for a thrilling double-header weekend.

The duo’s past exploits at Sonoma Raceway show strong potential for the future, with a stellar season opener in 2023 that saw them clinch a first-place victory in race one and a podium finish in race two, securing third place in the Pro-Am class. Their six wins throughout the 2023 season propelled them to a commendable second-place finish in the championship standings, establishing a formidable reputation in their debut year in the series.

This year marks their ascent to the Pro class, the pinnacle tier of the SRO America sanctioned race series. The upcoming season opener will see 13 formidable cars vying for glory in a pair of 90-minute races. Adelson and Skeer will take turns behind the wheel in each race, with one commencing the race and the other bringing it to a thrilling conclusion. The series will no longer have a 10-minute pit window where all teams must pit, but instead mandate that a single driver can run no more than 50 minutes in each race

, adding to the strategic intrigue of the competition. Viewers can catch all the action live and free on the GT World YouTube page.

The picturesque terrain of Sonoma Raceway has long been a favored setting for the season’s inaugural race across various SRO America series. Anticipation is high as Wright Motorsports wraps up their final private pre-season test ahead of the official sessions starting on Wednesday at the renowned 2.52-mile road course.

In true GT World Challenge fashion, fans with general admission tickets can enjoy unfettered access to the paddock and public seating areas. An exciting highlight awaits on Saturday, as all drivers take part in a free series autograph session beneath the main grandstand from 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM. For comprehensive event details, visit gt-world-challenge-america.com.

Event Schedule | Sonoma Raceway

All Times Pacific

Friday, April 5

10:10 AM – 11:10 AM Practice 1

3:10 PM – 4:10 PM Practice 2

Saturday, April 6

9:20 AM – 9:35 AM Qualifying 1

9:40 AM – 9:55 AM Qualifying 2

1:00 PM – 1:45 PM Autograph Session

3:05 PM – 4:35 PM Race 1 (YouTube.com/GTWorld)

Sunday, April 7

2:15 PM – 3:45 PM Race 2 (YouTube.com/GTWorld)

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.

BETRIVERS ANNOUNCED AS TITLE SPONSOR FOR NASCAR XFINITY SERIES DASH 4 CASH RACE AT DOVER MOTOR SPEEDWAY

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Official Release
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CHICAGO & DOVER – April 2, 2024 – BetRivers, powered by Rush Street Interactive, Inc. (NYSE: RSI) (“RSI”), a leading US-based online betting and gaming company, has proudly announced its partnership as the title sponsor for the upcoming NASCAR Xfinity Series Dash 4 Cash race at Dover Motor Speedway. The BetRivers 200, set for Saturday, April 27, is being undertaken with the Delaware Lottery and marks the beginning of a thrilling new chapter in NASCAR history, as RSI commits to the long-term support of this top tier sporting event. With the recent online launch in Delaware of online sportsbooks powered by BetRivers, this will be the first time in Delaware history where fans can place mobile sports wagers from inside a sporting event, elevating the excitement surrounding race weekend.

The BetRivers 200 (1:30 p.m., FS1, PRN, SiriusXM) promises to deliver an electrifying experience for fans, drivers and sponsors alike. Inside the Fan Zone, RSI will have an activation team on site with exclusive offers for BetRivers Delaware players. BetRivers will add to the excitement by hosting special events for VIP players throughout the race weekend. With Dover Motor Speedway serving as the backdrop for this adrenaline-fueled competition, spectators can anticipate edge-of-the-seat action and unforgettable moments on the track.

“We are thrilled to join forces with Dover Motor Speedway as the title sponsor for this prestigious NASCAR event,” said Richard Schwartz, Chief Executive Officer of RSI. “We have worked in collaboration with the Delaware Lottery to bring this partnership to life. As BetRivers is dedicated to providing top-notch entertainment and experiences, this partnership is a natural fit and we are excited to see this important hometown event grow even bigger as we continue to invest in the community for years to come. The BetRivers 200 will showcase the pinnacle of racing excellence and provide fans with an unmatched spectacle.”

For more than five decades, Dover Motor Speedway has been a cornerstone of NASCAR racing, known for its high-speed thrills, passionate fanbase, and one-of-a-kind venue. The collaboration with BetRivers adds a new dimension to the event, blending the excitement of motorsports with the innovation and dynamism of the gaming industry. The BetRivers 200 NASCAR Xfinity Series Dash 4 Cash race is the 78th NASCAR Xfinity Series race at the World’s Fastest One-Mile Oval.

“With the recent launch of RSI’s award-winning online sportsbook in Delaware, we are delighted to welcome BetRivers as our title sponsor for the upcoming race,” remarked Dover Motor Speedway President & General Manager Mike Tatoian. “BetRivers commitment to excellence and passion for delivering exceptional experiences align perfectly with our values. Together, we look forward to creating memorable moments for fans and the drivers at the BetRivers 200 for years to come.”

The BetRivers 200 NASCAR Xfinity Series Dash 4 Cash race at Dover Motor Speedway promises to captivate audiences with its blend of speed, skill, and sheer excitement. As fans eagerly anticipate raceday, the partnership between BetRivers and Dover Motor Speedway sets the stage for an unforgettable event that will feature local casinos: Delaware Park Casino & Racing, Harrington Raceway & Casino, and Bally’s Dover Casino Resort, and will leave a lasting impression on motorsports enthusiasts worldwide.

“Through our continued conversations with Rush Street Interactive, the topic of the importance of community involvement and local economic impact has surfaced many times,” said Helene Keeley, Director, Delaware Lottery. “Investing in the local community is important and Rush Street Interactive has done just that, including partnering with the Xfinity Series NASCAR Race at Dover Motor Speedway with the newly named BetRivers 200, we continually confirm our relationship with BetRivers is right for Delaware.”

For more information about the BetRivers 200 and ticketing details, visit DoverMotorSpeedway.com.

About Rush Street Interactive

RSI is a trusted online gaming and sports entertainment company focused on markets in the United States, Canada and Latin America. Through its brands, BetRivers, PlaySugarHouse and RushBet, RSI was an early entrant in many regulated jurisdictions. It currently offers real-money mobile and online operations in fifteen U.S. states: Pennsylvania, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Delaware, Michigan, Indiana, Virginia, Colorado, Maryland, Iowa, West Virginia, Arizona and Louisiana, as well as in the regulated international markets of Ontario, Canada, Colombia and Mexico. RSI offers, through its proprietary online gaming platform, some of the most popular online casino games and sports betting options in the United States. Founded in 2012 in Chicago by gaming industry veterans, RSI was named the 2023 EGR North America Awards Customer Services Operator of the Year, the 2022 EGR North America Awards Operator of the Year, Customer Services Operator of the Year and Social Gaming Operator of the Year, and the 2021 SBC Latinoamérica Awards Sportsbook Operator of the Year. RSI was the first U.S.-based online casino and sports betting operator to receive RG Check iGaming Accreditation from the Responsible Gaming Council. For more information, visit www.rushstreetinteractive.com.

About Dover Motor Speedway

Dover Motor Speedway, owned by Speedway Motorsports, LLC, has hosted exciting racing and entertainment events for national and international guests for more than 50 years. The green flag dropped on Dover Motor Speedway events on July 6, 1969, when Richard Petty won that day’s Mason-Dixon 300 by six laps. In 2024, the 1-mile oval nicknamed the “Monster Mile®” hosts another NASCAR tripleheader weekend on April 26-28, including the Würth 400 NASCAR Cup Series race on Sunday, April 28. It will be the 106th NASCAR Cup Series race at the track. Dover is one of only 10 tracks in the country to have hosted 100 or more NASCAR Cup Series events. Visit DoverMotorSpeedway.com for more information.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. RSI’s actual results may differ from their expectations, estimates and projections and consequently, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Words such as “expect,” “estimate,” “project,” “budget,” “forecast,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “believes,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue,” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, RSI’s expectations about its partnership with the Dovor Motor Speedway, its sponsorship of the XFINITY SERIES NASCAR race and the anticipated benefits of that partnership and sponsorship. These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results to differ materially from the expected results. Most of these factors are outside RSI’s control and are difficult to predict. Factors that may cause such differences include, without limitation, changes in applicable laws or regulations, unanticipated product or service delays, and other risks and uncertainties indicated from time to time in RSI’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, including those under “Risk Factors” therein, and in RSI’s other filings with the SEC. RSI cautions that the foregoing list of factors is not exclusive. RSI cautions readers not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. RSI does not undertake or accept any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in its expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

RFK Advance | Martinsville I

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Official Release
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Martinsville I Event Info:
Date: Sunday, April 7
Time: 3 p.m. ET
Series: NASCAR Cup Series (NCS)
Location: Martinsville, Virginia
Format: 400 Laps, 210.4 miles, Stages: 80-100-220
TV: FS1
Radio: MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Channel 90)

Weekend Schedule:
Saturday: 4:35 p.m., Practice (FS2, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Saturday: 5:20 p.m., Qualifying (FS2, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Sunday: 3 p.m. ET, Race (FS1, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)

Pace Laps:

  • The NASCAR Cup Series goes short-track racing for the second week in a row as Martinsville Speedway hosts its first of two race dates this weekend.
  • Jack Roush’s Fords have five top-10 qualifying efforts at Martinsville in the last two seasons alone, as Chris Buescher is coming off his career-best result at ‘The Paperclip’ last fall.
  • Buescher is one of just four drivers thus far this season with five top-10s.

6 Team Info:
Crew Chief: Matt McCall
Partner: Body Guard

17 Team Info:
Crew Chief: Scott Graves
Partner: BuildSubmarines.com

Keselowski at Martinsville
Starts: 28
Wins: 2
Top-10s: 17
Poles: 1 (2020)

  • Keselowski, a two-time winner at Martinsville, is set for his 29th Cup start at ‘The Paperclip.’
  • Martinsville stands as one of Keselowski’s best tracks statistically with an average finish of 13.2. He’s coming off a 33rd-place finish last fall after being collected in an incident, and last spring finished 24th.
  • He has finished top-10 in 61 percent of his starts there. Of the 17 top-10s, 12 have been inside the top five. He earned his first Grandfather clock back in 2017 and won the same race two years later in the spring.
  • He carries an average starting position of 11.4 into the weekend with 16 starts inside the top-10 and one pole (2010). He’s qualified 10th or better in seven of the last eight races at Martinsville, including P10 last fall.
  • Keselowski also made four Truck Series starts from 2004-07.

Buescher at Martinsville
Starts: 17
Wins: —
Top-10s: 2
Poles: —

  • Buescher is coming off his career-best finish at Martinsville, and is set for his 18th Cup start at ‘The Paperclip’ this weekend.
  • Last fall he finished eighth in the final race in the Round of 8, and last spring ran 14th.
  • He has four-straight top-15s in the spring event dating back to 2020 with a P13 result that spring, followed by another 13th-place finish in 2021, last season’s P15, and last season’s 14th-place result.
  • Buescher has an average starting position of 21.5 at Martinsville and is coming off some of his best qualifying efforts to date. He qualified 10th last spring and fourth the spring prior (2022).

RFK Historically at Martinsville
Cup Wins: 4 (Mark Martin, 1992, 2000; Jeff Burton, 1997; Kurt Busch, 2002)

  • For Whom the Bell Tolls: RFK has earned four Grandfather Clocks at Martinsville with former drivers Mark Martin (two), Jeff Burton and Kurt Busch. RFK most recently went to victory lane with Busch in Oct. 2002.
  • Rock Around the Clock: RFK had its overall most-successful outing at Martinsville in the spring of 2002 when it placed all four of its cars inside the top 10 with drivers Martin, Burton, Busch and Matt Kenseth.
  • Closing Time: RFK earned a one-two finish in the April 9, 2000 event at Martinsville with former drivers Martin and Burton. Martin paced the field for 64 laps en route to the victory.
  • Short-Track Prowess: RFK has started a total of 708 NCS races on short tracks, recording a total of 24 wins, 127 top-five finishes, 256 top-10 finishes and 8,079 laps led.
  • Tale of the Tape: RFK has started 228 NCS races at Martinsville, recording four victories, 26 top-five finishes, 70 top-10 finishes, an average finish of 17.9 and has led 1,385 laps. RFK also boasts two NASCAR Truck Series wins in 46 starts at Martinsville (fall of ’03 and ’05).

RFK Martinsville Wins

1992-1 Martin Cup
1997-2 Burton Cup
2000-1 Martin Cup
2002-2 Busch Cup
2003-2 Wood Truck
2005-2 Craven Truck

Last Time Out & Where They Stand
Richmond: Both RFK cars again finished inside the top-10 at Richmond with Keselowski running eighth and Buescher ninth. It marked Buescher’s fourth-straight top-10, the longest streak of his career, and Keselowski’s third of the young season.

Points Standings (17: 12th, 6: 16th): While the points standings remain unchanged coming off of Richmond, an 11-point gap separates 13th-17th, with Buescher carrying a 18-point cushion to P13.

Ball Bearings vs. Roller Bearings: What’s the Difference and Why Does It Matter?

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SM
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Photo by Sobhith Ullas on Unsplash

In the world of mechanical parts that keep our machines and vehicles running smoothly, ball bearings and roller bearings are stars. But what sets them apart, and why does it matter to you, whether you’re fixing up a car, maintaining industrial machinery, or just curious about how things work? Let’s dive into the basics, compare these two types of bearings, and explore why choosing the right one can make a big difference.

What Are Ball Bearings?

Imagine tiny, hard spheres rolling between two pieces of metal – that’s essentially what ball bearings are. They’re designed to reduce friction and handle both radial (perpendicular to the shaft) and axial (parallel to the shaft) loads. This makes them perfect for a wide range of applications, from the wheels of your skateboard to the hard drives in computers. Their ability to handle loads from multiple directions makes them versatile for many applications.

What Are Roller Bearings?

Now, picture cylinders rolling between two pieces of metal. These are roller bearings, and they’re a bit different from their spherical counterparts. Roller bearings are specifically good at handling heavier radial loads. They come in various shapes and sizes, from cylindrical to tapered, each with its own special role. For instance, cylindrical roller bearings are great at handling high speeds and heavy loads, while tapered roller bearings can handle large axial forces, making them ideal for vehicle hubs.

The Key Differences

The main difference between ball and roller bearings lies in the shape of the rolling elements – balls versus rollers. This difference affects how they handle loads and speeds. Ball bearings, with their point contact, are better at handling both radial and axial loads and can operate at higher speeds. However, the smaller contact area means they might not be the best choice for very heavy loads.

Roller bearings, with their line contact, excel at managing heavier radial loads. They’re the go-to for applications that require carrying hefty weights or dealing with high-pressure situations. However, this comes with a trade-off in speed, as the larger contact area can generate more friction, slowing things down a bit.

Why Does the Choice Matter?

Selecting the right bearing for the job is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, efficiency: the right bearing can reduce friction to a minimum, saving energy and keeping your machinery running smoothly. Secondly, lifespan: using the correct bearing for the application can significantly extend the life of both the bearing and the machine it’s part of. Lastly, cost: while bearings might not be the most expensive component, choosing the wrong type can lead to more frequent replacements and downtime, adding up to higher costs over time.

Practical Applications

In the automotive industry, for instance, roller bearings are often found in wheels, transmissions, and engines where they support heavy loads. On the other hand, ball bearings might be used in accessories like alternators and air conditioning units, where speed and lighter loads are common.

In industrial machinery, the choice between ball and roller bearings can depend on the specific machine’s requirements for speed, load, and precision. For example, precision ball bearings are often used in aerospace and robotics for their ability to handle both radial and axial loads with high precision and speed.

Making the Right Choice

So, how do you choose between ball and roller bearings? It comes down to understanding the needs of your application. Consider factors like the type of loads (radial, axial, or both), the load magnitude, speed requirements, and operating conditions (like temperature and environment). Sometimes, the decision might be clear-cut; other times, you might need to weigh the pros and cons of each type based on your specific requirements.

Conclusion

Ball bearings and roller bearings are fundamental components that play critical roles in the functioning of machinery and vehicles. While they might seem similar at first glance, understanding their differences and knowing which to use can greatly impact efficiency, lifespan, and cost-effectiveness of your equipment. Whether you’re a seasoned engineer or a DIY enthusiast, getting to grips with these differences can help you make informed decisions, ensuring your machines run smoothly for years to come.

OP FUEL’S JUSTIN ASHLEY LOOKS FOR ANOTHER MULTI-WIN WEEKEND AT NHRA ARIZONA NATIONALS

By
Official Release
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PHOENIX (April 1, 2024) – When it comes to multiple wins in one weekend, Top Fuel standout Justin Ashley enjoyed impressive success in the unique scenarios last season.

The former NHRA Rookie of the Year will get another opportunity for a multiple-win weekend at the 39th NHRA Arizona Nationals, which takes place Friday through Sunday at Firebird Motorsports Park. Ashley will take part in the final round of the postponed Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals against Tony Schumacher on Saturday as part of the final qualifying session and is also part of the Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge.

The specialty race begins on Friday with the first qualifying session, with a chance for two wins on Saturday and an Arizona Nationals victory on Sunday. Ashley is the defending Winternationals and Arizona Nationals winner, which adds another exciting layer for the standout in his 11,000-horsepower Scag Power Equipment dragster. A year ago, he won three times in one weekend in Bristol, so pulling off something spectacular in one weekend isn’t exactly new for Ashley, who had six wins in 2023.

“It really is a great opportunity, a unique opportunity and we’ve got a lot on the line,” Ashley said. “I don’t know that we’ve ever gone into a national event and had every run, starting with Q1, be so meaningful. It’s exciting and all we have to do is turn on seven win lights this weekend. It’s such a difficult thing to do with the depth of this class and you’ve already seen that this year. It’s going to take a lot of toughness from this team to capitalize on this and we’re really looking forward to it and we’re grateful for it.”

Ashley (Top Fuel), Robert Hight (Funny Car) and Camrie Caruso (Pro Stock) all won at Phoenix in 2023. This year’s race will again be broadcast on FS1, including a special NHRA in 30: Pomona Finals show at 10 p.m. ET on Saturday and Arizona Nationals eliminations at 6:30 p.m. ET on Sunday.

The other Winternationals final rounds in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series include John Force and Matt Hagan meeting in an epic matchup in Funny Car, and Erica Enders and Dallas Glenn in Pro Stock.

In addition to defending his Arizona Nationals victory, Ashley is after his first win of the season. Ironically, he’ll take on Schumacher, the winningest driver in Top Fuel history, who was his final-round opponent last year in Bristol when Ashley finished off the sweep of three wins in one weekend.

He may have to race Schumacher twice on Saturday as well, as Ashley takes on Brittany Force in one of the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge matchups, with Schumacher taking on Billy Torrence. It makes for a hectic weekend, while also dealing with the likes of defending world champ Doug Kalitta, Gainesville winner Shawn Langdon, Antron Brown and Tony Stewart. But the added incentive seems to bring out the best in Ashley and his team, led by crew chief Mike Green.

“Under normal circumstances, you go out for first round on Sunday and it’s the first time something is on the line, so it’s the first time you’re in that mindset,” Ashley said. “Now, that mindset starts in Q1 on Friday. Last year was the first year of the (Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge) and helped our team gain confidence. It also helped create that winning culture and it all helps. It was a unique experience and we’re looking forward to that format again. It’s great for the fans, it’s something they enjoy and it’s great for the teams to compete at a high level throughout qualifying and then raceday.”

The opening round of the Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge will take place during Friday’s qualifying session that begins at 4 p.m. PT. The finals of the bonus event follows during the second round of qualifying at 11:30 a.m. PT on Saturday. The final rounds in Top Fuel, Funny Car and Pro Stock for the Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals taking place as part of final qualifying, which begins at 2 p.m.

In Funny Car, Hight defeated Ron Capps last season to pick up his third NHRA Arizona Nationals win. This season, Hight stepped out of the car and passed driving duties to Austin Prock. With a runner-up finish and No. 1 qualifier to his credit in Gainesville, Prock is ready to take on the likes of reigning Funny Car champ Matt Hagan, Bob Tasca III, John Force, Capps, Chad Green and Gainesville winner J.R. Todd.

Caruso captured her first career Pro Stock win last season in Phoenix. In order to repeat her victory, she’ll need to get past reigning champion Enders, who won in Gainesville to open the year, Matt Hartford, Troy Coughlin Jr., Greg Anderson, Aaron Stanfield and Glenn.

The Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge features a wealth of intriguing matchups, too, including Force and Ron Capps in Funny Car, and Hagan taking on Gainesville winner J.R. Todd. Enders and longtime rival Greg Anderson meet in one of the Pro Stock matchups, while the other pairing in the opening round of the specialty race features Glenn and Mason McGaha.

The NHRA Arizona Nationals also includes thrilling competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series and the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by LearnEV+, featuring the top racers in the country. It also marks the debut of the NHRA Pro Mod category in Phoenix.

All weekend long, fans are invited to the Nitro Alley Stage, which will help create a festive atmosphere leading into the nitro pits. The Nitro Alley Stage is the main entertainment hub in the pits, hosting Nitro School, meet and greets, music and much more. Race fans at Firebird Motorsports Park can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce and celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk.

As always, fans also get an exclusive pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet in Phoenix. This opportunity gives fans a unique chance to see teams in action and service their hot rods between rounds, get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers, and more. Fans can also visit NHRA’s popular Nitro Alley and Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and race vendors create an exciting and interactive atmosphere.

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature one round at 4 p.m. PT on Friday, April 5, and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, April 6 at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11 a.m. PT on Sunday, April 7.

To purchase tickets to the final NHRA Arizona Nationals, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. Children 12 and under are free in general admission areas with the purchase of an adult ticket. For more information on NHRA, please visit www.NHRA.com.

About Mission Foods

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

About NHRA

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

NASCAR Top-10 Power Rankings: Richmond

By
Jeffrey Boswell
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Denny Hamlin, driver of the #11 Mavis Tires & Brakes Toyota, leads Martin Truex Jr., driver of the #19 Auto-Owners Insurance Toyota, on the restart to win the NASCAR Cup Series Toyota Owners 400 at Richmond Raceway on March 31, 2024 in Richmond, Virginia. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)

Note: The quotes in this article are fictional.

1. Denny Hamlin: Hamlin outgunned Martin Truex, Jr. on an overtime restart and held on to win the Toyota Owners 400 at Richmond, earning his second win of the season.

“As a native of Virginia,” Hamlin said, “it’s always heartwarming to race in my home state. Mostly because there’s less people booing me here than in the other states. Granted, it’s still a lot, but still less.”

2. Martin Truex Jr.: Truex dominated the latter part of the Toyota Owners 400, but a late caution flag allowed Denny Hamlin to take the lead on an overtime restart. Truex settled for second and showed his frustration by banging doors with Kyle Larson in the closing laps.

“To use an Easter analogy,” Truex said, “I’m hopping mad. But everyone knows I’m not a hothead, so the chances of this ‘Joe Gibbs Racing driver going ‘JGR’ on another driver are pretty slim. To be clear, the ‘JGR’ in that context means ‘Joey Gase Rage.'”

3. William Byron: Byron finished seventh at Richmond, recording his fourth top-10 result of the year.

“It’s not often that NASCAR races on Easter Sunday,” Byron said. “There was a time when if you would have suggested that NASCAR should race on Easter, you would have been crucified.”

4. Christopher Bell: Bell finished sixth at Richmond.

“There are so many products sponsoring NASCAR cars,” Bell said. “There’s bourbon, beer, pharmaceuticals, and even Sunny D. Mix them all together, and you get a cocktail known as the ‘Tim Richmond.”

5. Chase Elliott: Elliott finished fifth at Richmond as Hendrick Motorsports placed three cars in the top 10.

“I’m still looking for my first win since Talladega in October of 2022,” Elliott said. “While the good folks down at the Dawsonville Pool Room have plenty to say ‘Cheers’ about, I’d like to give them something to cheer about.”

6. Ty Gibbs: Gibbs finished 16th in the Toyota Owners 400, only his second finish outside the top 10 this season.

“After last week’s snorefest at COTA,” Gibbs said, “it was good to give fans an exciting race. I’ve learned to never underestimate NASCAR. They even found a way to make road course racing boring. You could call the race at COTA the ‘Brickyard 400 Of Road Course Races.'”

7. Ryan Blaney: Blaney struggled for much of the night at Richmond on his way to a 19th-place finish.

“We really didn’t bring our ‘A’ game to Richmond,'” Blaney said. “We brought a lot of other letters, like ‘S,’ ‘O,’ ‘B,’ ‘M,’ and ‘F,’ but definitely not ‘A.'”

8. Ross Chastain: Chastain finished 15th at Richmond.

“Because of moisture on pit lane,” Chastain said, “we had to have what is known as ‘uncompetitive pit stops’ early in the race. Apparently, that’s where Kyle Larson and Martin Truex Jr. got the idea to make it an uncompetitive race until the very end.”

9. Kyle Larson: Larson was strong all night at Richmond, starting on the pole, winning Stage 1, and leading 144 laps on his way to a third in the Toyota Owners 400.

“I did everything but close the deal,” Larson said. “I had a lot of deals ‘closed’ back in the spring of 2020.”

10. Tyler Reddick: Reddick finished 10th at Richmond, posting his fourth top 10 of the year.

“My No. 45 Toyota was primarily sponsored by SiriusXM,” Reddick said. “A quick glance of a NASCAR crowd evokes a similar phrase—-‘Serious XL.'”

The Evolution of Automobile Safety Features In the Last Decade

By
SM
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Photo by Therese Mikkelsen Skaar on Unsplash

In the early days of automobile history, safety was a secondary concern compared to speed and convenience. However, as the number of vehicles on the road increased and technology advanced, so too did the need for improved safety measures. 

Over the years, automobiles have undergone a remarkable transformation in terms of safety features, with each innovation aimed at reducing the risks associated with driving. This article delves into the fascinating evolution of automobile safety features, highlighting key advancements that have shaped the way we approach road safety today.

The Early Years of Automobile Safety

In the early 20th century, automobiles were rudimentary machines lacking even the most basic safety features. Cars had no seat belts, airbags, or crumple zones, leaving occupants vulnerable to serious injuries in the event of a crash. However, as awareness of road safety grew, so too did the demand for better protection for drivers and passengers.

One of the first significant safety features to be introduced was the seat belt. Invented in the 19th century, seat belts began to gain widespread adoption in the 1950s and 1960s. Initially, seat belts were simple lap belts, but they proved to be effective in preventing ejections and reducing the severity of injuries during collisions.

The Rise of Passive Safety Features

As automotive technology advanced, so did the sophistication of safety features. In the 1970s, automakers began incorporating passive safety features designed to protect occupants in the event of a crash. This included the introduction of shoulder belts, which provided additional upper body protection, as well as padded dashboards and collapsible steering columns to reduce the risk of impact injuries.

Perhaps one of the most significant advancements in passive safety came with the introduction of airbags. First developed in the 1950s, airbags became more prevalent in the 1980s and 1990s, eventually becoming a standard feature in most vehicles. Airbags are designed to inflate rapidly in the event of a collision, providing a cushioning effect to reduce the risk of head and chest injuries.

How Automobile Safety Can Prevent Crashes

While passive safety features are essential for protecting occupants during a crash, there has been a growing emphasis on active safety systems aimed at preventing accidents from occurring in the first place. These systems utilize advanced technology such as cameras, sensors, and radar to detect potential hazards and alert the driver to take corrective action.

One of the earliest active safety features was anti-lock braking systems (ABS), introduced in the 1970s. During hard braking, ABS prevents the wheels from locking up, allowing the driver to maintain control and avoid skidding. ABS has since become a standard feature in most vehicles and has saved countless lives by reducing the risk of accidents.

Another important active safety feature is electronic stability control (ESC), which helps drivers maintain control of their vehicles during emergency maneuvers or slippery road conditions. ESC automatically applies brakes to individual wheels and adjusts engine power to prevent skidding and loss of control. Since its introduction in the early 2000s, ESC has been credited with significantly reducing the number of single-vehicle crashes.

The Future of Automobile Safety

Looking ahead, the future of automobile safety lies in autonomous driving technology. Automakers and tech companies are investing heavily in the development of self-driving cars equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence algorithms. 

These vehicles have the potential to virtually eliminate human error, which is a leading cause of accidents on the road. Even with these automations in motor vehicles, there are still numerous crashes on the road. 


If you or a loved one has been affected by a serious car accident, get in touch with a Broomfield, Colorado car accident lawyer today. They can help you protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. 

Autonomous vehicles are equipped with a range of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These systems work together to detect and respond to potential hazards, making driving safer and more efficient.

 While fully autonomous cars are still in the testing phase, they hold the promise of revolutionizing transportation and reducing the number of accidents on our roads.

The Evolution of Automobile Safety Is Continuous

The evolution of automobile safety features is a testament to the tireless efforts of engineers, researchers, and policymakers to make our roads safer for everyone. From simple seat belts to advanced autonomous systems, each innovation has played a crucial role in reducing the risk of accidents and saving lives. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more sophisticated safety features designed to protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike.

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing roars to fourth successive Safari triumph

By
Official Release
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TOKYO, Apr 1, 2024 – (JCN Newswire) – TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team has won the legendary Safari Rally Kenya for the fourth year in a row, with Kalle Rovanperä leading Takamoto Katsuta in a one-two finish on the demanding African event.

The team continues its unbeaten run on the toughest round of the FIA World Rally Championship since its return to the calendar in 2021, while also extending the all-time Safari record set by Toyota to 12 victories.

The result once more demonstrates the strength and reliability of the GR YARIS Rally1 HYBRID, which for this event featured an updated suspension package as well as a distinctive snorkel system: a modern take on an iconic feature of Safari-specification cars of the past.

It is the second time that Rovanperä and co-driver Jonne Halttunen have won the event after their 2022 success. Their victory was built on a phenomenal performance on the first full day of the rally on Friday, where they were fastest in all six stages to open up a lead of almost one minute. This enabled Rovanperä to take caution where required on the longest and toughest day on Saturday – where he still won the rally’s longest stage by nearly 25s as most of his competitors hit trouble.

With his lead up above two minutes, Rovanperä could take a safety-first approach through much of the final day’s six stages and 74.38 competitive kilometres, ultimately sealing victory by 1m37.8s.

Katsuta achieved his third podium result from four starts in Kenya, repeating his second-place finish from 2021. He and co-driver Aaron Johnston drove a well-measured rally, with two stage wins on Saturday helping them overcome a double puncture that had cost them over a minute.

Elfyn Evans and co-driver Scott Martin ensured that all three Toyotas finished inside the top four. They ran as high as second before sustaining punctures on three separate occasions through Saturday’s rough and rocky stages. That left the podium places out of their reach, but they still gave their all to score as many points as possible on Sunday, where they were third-fastest over the day and fifth in the Power Stage.

With its one-two finish, TGR-WRT took the maximum manufacturers’ points from the overall classification plus an extra 11 bonus points on Sunday and moves into a four-point lead in the championship. Evans took a total of 16 points from his weekend to keep him second in the drivers’ standings, six from the lead.

Quotes:

Akio Toyoda (TGR-WRT Chairman)
“For all the team members, congratulations on the first victory this season and on winning Safari Rally Kenya for the fourth year in a row! Kalle, Jonne, congratulations on another victory in Kenya after two years, and thank you for the clever driving and running through those rough roads without trouble.Takamoto and Aaron, congratulations on returning to the podium in Kenya also after two years! It was great that you completed all those stages.The pre-event test just before Kenya was done in Portugal and it was raining heavily at the time. The team reported to me that they had heavy rain “luckily” and many parts got broken. Unlike previous years, the rally was held during the rainy season, and the engineers and mechanics continued to make improvements including the countermeasures for rain until just before the rally started. When I heard the word “luckily”, I recalled the words from GR Yaris engineers. They always tell me, one of the master drivers in Toyota, “Thank you for breaking the car as it will become even stronger!” So this time, on behalf of the team, I want to thank the rain in Portugal for making the GR Yaris Rally 1 stronger and brought us the first win. And of course I would like to thank all the team members who improved the car until the very last minute. The same road can be a different road in different seasons and weather, and because we compete on such roads and in such conditions, cars become stronger and our ever-better car making progresses. I believe rally is that kind of sport.The next events will be happening with two-week intervals. I am hoping that everyone in the team will take care of their health and continue to make ever-better cars.”

Jari-Matti Latvala (Team Principal)
“We are very happy to win the Safari Rally once again and take our first win of the season in such style here in Kenya. Kalle was really dominating the rally from the beginning with a very clever approach. He didn’t have any issues the whole weekend, thanks to the team which provided such a good car, and also the way he was able to drive, thinking about when to attack and when to save the car. We’re also really happy to see Taka on the podium in second place. This seems to be a rally that he really loves, and after the disappointment he had in Sweden, this is a really good result for him and the team. Luck was not on Elfyn’s side but he was fighting really hard and well to take as many points as he could for the championship. For now we will enjoy this moment and then work towards the next challenge in Croatia.”

Kalle Rovanperä (Driver car 69)
“It’s special to be able to win the Safari for the second time. This event is so tough and it’s also a legendary one for Toyota: we have always been good here and we are still continuing that record. Like they say in Africa, the car in front is always a Toyota. A big thanks to the team, because everybody made a big effort to make the car work so well. I think we did a good job, I think you cannot do a better Safari than what we did, with no issues and clever driving. Today was difficult, having to drive the roughest stage on the calendar twice when you have a huge lead, trying to avoid everything, it’s not easy. We just needed to stick to the plan and it worked out.”

Elfyn Evans (Driver car 33)
“It’s not been an easy weekend for us. At least we could reach the end of the rally which is a positive thing, but we wanted more from this weekend. Today we had good speed at points but there were just a few little issues so we didn’t get as many points as we’d like. The first loop was not easy: the opening stage was extremely rough and we were probably too conservative there compared to the others. In the Power Stage we gave it a go but already in the first half it was very difficult.”

Takamoto Katsuta (Driver car 18)
“It’s a very nice feeling to achieve this second place and to be on the podium again in Kenya. It was a tough rally like always, so we need to say a huge thanks to the team because they prepared very well and the car was working so well. I made some mistakes yesterday and we got the punctures, but I could always trust the car. When we needed to push, we were able to push and the times were good. Reliability is a strong point for Toyota and I’m very proud to drive this car.”

PROVISIONAL FINAL CLASSIFICATION, SAFARI RALLY KENYA

1 Kalle Rovanperä/Jonne Halttunen (Toyota GR YARIS Rally1 HYBRID) 3h36m04.0s
2 Takamoto Katsuta/Aaron Johnston (Toyota GR YARIS Rally1 HYBRID) +1m37.8s
3 Adrien Fourmaux/Alexandre Coria (Ford Puma Rally1 HYBRID) +2m25.1s
4 Elfyn Evans/Scott Martin (Toyota GR YARIS Rally1 HYBRID) +4m20.2s
5 Thierry Neuville/Martijn Wydaeghe (Hyundai i20 N Rally1 HYBRID) +10m.17.5s
6 Gus Greensmith/Jonas Andersson (Škoda Fabia RS Rally2) +18m05.4s
7 Oliver Solberg/Elliott Edmondson (Škoda Fabia RS Rally2) +19m28.5s
8 Ott Tänak/Martin Järveoja (Hyundai i20 N Rally1 HYBRID) +21m02.0s
9 Jourdan Serderidis/Fréderic Miclotte (Ford Puma Rally1 HYBRID) +26m13.3s
10 Kajetan Kajetanowicz/Maciej Szczepaniak (Škoda Fabia RS Rally2) +26m34.4s

(Results as of 15:30 on Sunday, for the latest results please visit www.wrc.com)

2024 FIA World Rally Championship for drivers after round 3:

1 Thierry Neuville 67 points
2 Elfyn Evans 61
3 Adrien Fourmaux 46
4 Ott Tänak 33
5 Kalle Rovanperä 31
6 Takamoto Katsuta 30
7 Sébastien Ogier 24
8 Esapekka Lappi 23
9 Oliver Solberg 12
10 Andreas Mikkelsen 6

2024 FIA World Rally Championship for manufacturers after round 3:

1 TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team 131 points
2 Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team 127
3 M-Sport Ford World Rally Team 72

What’s next?

The Croatia Rally (April 18-21) is held on challenging asphalt roads around the country’s capital city, Zagreb. As well as a mix of fast and more technical sections, the stages feature constant surface and grip changes.

News URL: https://www.acnnewswire.com/press-release/english/90004/

URL: https://plus.google.com/+toyotaglobal | Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/ToyotaMotorCorporation/ | Twitter : https://twitter.com/TOYOTA_PR/ | Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/user/toyotajpchannel/ | Linkedin : https://linkedin.com/company/toyota |

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