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Newgarden Finds Peace by Setting Pace in Barber Practice

Birmingham, AL - during the INDYCAR Children's of Alabama Indy Grand Prix at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, AL. (Photo by Joe Skibinski | IMS Photo)

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (Friday, April 26, 2024) – After a tumultuous week for himself and Team Penske, Josef Newgarden said Friday morning he couldn’t wait to strap back into his race car at Barber Motorsports Park.

It showed.

Two-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion Newgarden led practice Friday for the Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix powered by AmFirst with a top lap of 1 minute, 6.7045 seconds in the No. 2 PPG Team Penske Chevrolet. The strong performance came just hours after Newgarden participated in an emotional press conference in which he offered his first public comments after he and teammate Scott McLaughlin were disqualified from the season-opening Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding for illegal use of the series’ Push to Pass system.

The quick lap on Firestone Firehawk alternate tires at Barber came despite Newgarden spinning off track in Turn 15 early in the 75-minute session after running wide, triggering a red flag. The car didn’t make any contact and continued.

“It’s definitely the best medicine in the world for someone like me,” Newgarden said. “It’s great to be out here, just getting to turn laps. I was a little bit off my game in the beginning, for sure. I dropped a wheel and made a mistake and threw away a set of tires, which was unfortunate.

“We just kept going. We came up with a new plan, and I think the positive thing is the car was really fast, even when I made the mistake.”

Pato O’Ward, who inherited the St. Petersburg victory Wednesday after Newgarden was disqualified, ended up second today at 1:06.7875 in the No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet. Like Newgarden, O’Ward went off track during the session while exploring the limits of grip but also made no contact.

Two-time series champion Will Power, who didn’t use Push to Pass illegally at St. Petersburg but was docked 10 points as part of the penalty for having override programing code on the car, was third at 1:06.7914 in the No. 12 Verizon Business Team Penske Chevrolet.

Colton Herta was fourth at 1:06.8002 in the No. 26 Gainbridge Honda fielded by Andretti Global, while Christian Lundgaard rounded out the top five at 1:06.8972 in the No. 45 Hy-Vee Honda of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing.

Defending Barber race winner McLaughlin, who expressed a similar desire today to find peace in his car like Newgarden, ended up ninth at 1:07.0935 in the No. 3 Good Ranchers Team Penske Chevrolet.

Christian Rasmussen was the quickest of the six rookies in the field this weekend, 13th overall at 1:07.4418 in the No. 20 Guy Care Chevrolet fielded by Ed Carpenter Racing.

Up next is practice at 12:15 p.m. ET Saturday on the 17-turn, 2.3-mile natural road course, followed by NTT P1 Award qualifying at 3:30 p.m. Competition should be taut for the pole, as less than one second separated the top 19 drivers in the 27-car field in practice Friday.

Live coverage of the 90-lap race starts at 1 p.m. ET Sunday on NBC, Peacock, INDYCAR LIVE and the INDYCAR Radio Network.

Abel Gets Big Jump on Field in Barber Practice

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (Friday, April 26, 2024) – Jacob Abel led the opening practice Friday for the INDY NXT by Firestone Grand Prix of Alabama at Barber Motorsports Park, with an uncommon margin of dominance for the INDYCAR development series.

Abel led the 21-driver field with a top lap of 1 minute, 11.9990 seconds in the No. 51 Abel Construction entry. He was more than a half-second quicker than his closest pursuer, fellow series veteran James Roe of Andretti Global, who ended up second at 1:12.5148 in the No. 29 TopCon car.

The big gap by Abel over the field was even more impressive considering he turned his best lap on his final trip around the 17-turn, 2.3-mile natural road course on used Firestone Firehawk tires.

“It’s fantastic,” Abel said. “Basically after St. Petersburg, it was the start of another offseason for us. Last year, St. Pete went really well, and Barber not so much. So, this year St. Pete went well, so we’re going to make Barber go well, too. A lot of work in the past six weeks to keep in it.

“No new tires there. So, we’ll see what she does on new tires for qualifying. I’m feeling pretty good about it.”

Qualifying starts at 2:35 p.m. ET Saturday, preceded by a practice at 11:05 a.m. Both sessions will be streamed on INDYCAR LIVE and available on the INDYCAR Radio Network. The 35-lap race starts at 11:05 a.m. ET Sunday, with live coverage on Peacock and the INDYCAR Radio Network.

Points leader Nolan Siegel was third at 1:12.8955 in the No. 39 HMD Motorsports entry, followed by rookie Bryce Aron at 1:13.1150 in the No. 27 Jaguar Land Rover Chesterfield entry fielded by Andretti Global.

Series veteran Josh Pierson rounded out the top five at 1:13.1425 in the No. 14 HMD Motorsports car.

The 45-minute session featured one red flag, to tow in the stalled No. 26 Copart/Novara Technologies entry of Andretti Global driven by series veteran Louis Foster.

U.S. military members, including Miss America 2024 and four combat aviation veterans, honored as dignitaries for Würth 400 NASCAR Cup Series race on Sunday, April 28

  • Air Force 2nd Lt. Madison Marsh, Miss America 2024, to serve as honorary pace car official.
  • Four combat aviation veterans to serve as grand marshals for Dover’s 106th NASCAR Cup Series race.
  • Visit DoverMotorSpeedway.com to order NASCAR tickets and follow all track announcements.

DOVER, Del. (April 26, 2024) – Air Force 2nd Lt. Madison Marsh, Miss America 2024, is among the dignitaries to be honored before the Würth 400 NASCAR Cup Series race at Dover Motor Speedway on Sunday, April 28.

Marsh will serve as the honorary pace car official for the 106th NASCAR Cup Series event in the Monster Mile’s history. Marsh is also scheduled to make an 11:15 a.m. appearance at the Monster Monument in Victory Plaza on Sunday.

Serving as grand marshals for the event are four combat aviation veterans: Air Force Maj. (Ret.) Elester “Hollywood” Latham; Navy Lt. (Ret.) Jim “Zeke” Lloyd; Navy Cmdr. (Ret.) Jack “Razor” Gillett; Navy Lt. (Ret.) Bill “Offender” Moir.

The four pilots, who will give the command to America’s best drivers to start their engines, are featured in the new Xfinity short film “The Aviators,” which honors the enduring bonds forged among those that keep our country safe.

Through the pilots’ shared experiences, “The Aviators” celebrates a pioneering generation of military aviators while showcasing the power of technology in fostering meaningful connections across generations.

Other VIPs scheduled to attend the April 26-28 NASCAR weekend at The World’s Fastest One-Mile Oval include:

  • General Jim Slife, Vice Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force
  • Richard Petty, 2010 NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee (200 Cup Series wins, seven Cup Series championships) and seven-time Dover winner
  • Dale Inman, 2012 NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee and eight Cup Series championships
  • Donnie Allison, 2024 NASCAR Hall Of Fame Inductee and member of the famed “Alabama Gang”
  • Brandon Graham, a Super Bowl champion, Pro Bowl defensive end with the Philadelphia Eagles
  • Alvin Kamara, a five-time Pro Bowl running back with the New Orleans Saints and NASCAR’s growth & engagement advisor

Petty (Noon), Kamara and Graham (12:15 p.m.) are also scheduled to make pre-race appearances at the Monster Monument on Sunday. See a full list of appearance times and event schedules at https://www.dovermotorspeedway.com/fans/fan-zone/.

See a full list of planned race weekend dignitaries below:

FRIDAY, APRIL 26
General Tire 150 ARCA Menards Series Race

  • Welcoming Remarks: Mike Tatoian, president/general manager, Dover Motor Speedway; Adam Keiser, senior communications and content specialist, General Tire
  • Presentation of Colors: Delaware National Guard Joint Color Guard
  • Invocation: Delaware National Guard Chaplain William Guy
  • National Anthem: Tech. Sgt. Jovon Newman, Delaware Air National Guard
  • Grand Marshal: Justin Bennett, on behalf of General Tire
  • Honorary Starter: Tori Farley, on behalf of General Tire

SATURDAY, APRIL 27
BetRivers 200 NASCAR Xfinity Series Dash 4 Cash Race

  • Welcoming Remarks: Mike Tatoian, president/general manager, Dover Motor Speedway; Dan O’Toole, BetRivers Online Casino and Sportsbook Ambassador
  • Presentation of Colors: Caesar Rodney High School (Camden, Del.) Air Force JROTC Color Guard
  • Invocation: 1st. Lt. Ronald Gogan, chaplain, Dover Air Force Base
  • National Anthem: Airman First Class Nolan Kuhn, representing the Dover Air Force Base Eagle Choir
  • Grand Marshal: Dan O’Toole, BetRivers Online Casino and Sportsbook Ambassador
  • Flyover: Dover Air Force Base, C-17.

SUNDAY, APRIL 28
Würth 400 NASCAR Cup Series Race

  • Welcoming Remarks: Mike Tatoian, president/general manager, Dover Motor Speedway; Tom O’Neil executive vice president and CEO, The Wurth Group in North America.
  • Presentation of Colors: 436th Airlift Wing Honor Guard, Dover Air Force Base
  • Invocation: Chaplain Dan Schafer, Calvary Assembly of God, Hightstown, N.J.
  • National Anthem: U.S. Naval Academy Drum & Bugle Corps
  • Grand Marshals: Air Force Major (Ret.) Elester “Hollywood” Latham; Navy Lt. (Ret.) Jim “Zeke” Lloyd; Navy Cmdr. (Ret.) Jack “Razor” Gillett; Navy Lt. (Ret.) Bill “Offender” Moir
  • Honorary Pace Car Official: Air Force 2nd Lt. Madison Marsh, Miss America 2024
  • Flyover: Maryland National Guard, A-10s
  • Honorary Starter: Mr. Benjamin Wurth, deputy chairman of the supervisory board of the Würth Group

The Monster Mile’s race schedule this week includes:

  • Friday, April 26: General Tire 150 ARCA Menards Series race (5 p.m., FS2)
  • Saturday, April 27: BetRivers 200 NASCAR Xfinity Series Dash 4 Cash race (1:30 p.m., FS1, PRN, SiriusXM)
  • Sunday, April 28: Würth 400 NASCAR Cup Series race (2 p.m., FS1, PRN, SiriusXM)

Visit DoverMotorSpeedway.com to register for the Speedway’s email list to receive updates and announcements.

The Würth 400 is the Monster Mile’s 106th NASCAR Cup Series race. 2024 marks 55 consecutive years that Dover Motor Speedway has hosted a NASCAR Cup Series event. The Monster Mile is one of only 10 tracks in the country to host 100 or more NASCAR Cup Series races.

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Keep track of all of Dover Motor Speedway’s events by following on Facebook, X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, Instagram and TikTok (@MonsterMile). Keep up with all the latest information on DoverMotorSpeedway.com and our mobile app.

Zachary Tinkle Named Recipient of 2023 General Tire Spirit Award

TEMPERANCE, Mich. (April 26, 2024) – The 2023 General Tire Spirit Award will be presented to ARCA Menards Series East driver, and one of the most well-liked personalities in the garage area, Zachary Tinkle. The award will be presented to the Speedway, Indiana native during the ARCA Menards Series/ARCA Menards Series East combination race at Dover Motor Speedway on Friday, April 26.

Tinkle will receive a unique commemorative General Tire helmet and a check for $2,500. A second check, also for $2,500, will be presented to Moose’s March, a pet charity of Zachary’s choosing.

“We have enjoyed watching Zachary’s career blossom over the course of the last three years in the ARCA Menards Series platform,” said Adam Keiser, content specialist for General Tire. “Zachary has proven to be extremely competitive on the racetrack despite racing with a budget a fraction of the bigger teams, and he has created relationships with virtually everyone in the garage area. You know when you bump into Zachary, you’ll be greeted with a huge smile and a firm handshake.

“We couldn’t think of a better recipient for the General Tire Spirit Award in 2023. We’d like to pass along our congratulations to Zachary and his entire team on an impressive season, and we wish them the best in 2024.”

Tinkle, driving for 1995 ARCA Menards Series national champion Andy Hillenburg’s Fast Track High Performance Racing Team, scored four top-ten finishes in the ARCA Menards Series East in 2023, with two sixth-place finishes at ultra-fast mile at Dover and the tight quarter-mile bullring at Flat Rock Speedway. Perhaps more impressive, he never finished lower than 13th in the four combination races with the ARCA Menards Series, including an eleventh-place finish at Iowa Speedway.

Tinkle, whose team was led by 2000 NASCAR Cup Series championship-winning crew chief Todd Parrott, finished fourth in the final ARCA Menards East standings.

The General Tire Spirit Award is presented annually to a recipient who displays dedication to and support of ARCA, is uplifting by example, and by such actions earns the respect of the community, displays perseverance in the face of adversity, and maintains a supportive, helpful, and positive attitude even under duress.

Previous winners of the General Tire Spirit Award include Darrell Basham, Jack Bowsher, Andy Hillenburg, Kerry Scherer, Bill Kimmel, Brad Smith, and in 2023, Bob Bruncati. Now retired, Bruncati – a member of the West Coast Stock Car Motorsports Hall of Fame – earned four ARCA Menards Series West championships with drivers Jason Bowles (2009), Derek Thorn (2013, 2018) and Jake Drew (2022).

About ARCA

The Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA), founded in 1953 by John and Mildred Marcum in Toledo, Ohio, and acquired by NASCAR in April 2018, is the leading grassroots stock car sanctioning body in the United States. Bridging the gap between NASCAR’s top three national touring series and weekly racing all across the country, the organization administers more than 100 events annually, including the ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East, ARCA Menards Series West, plus weekly racing at Toledo and Flat Rock Speedways. For more information about ARCA visit www.arcaracing.com, or follow ARCA on Facebook (@ARCARacing) and Twitter (@ARCA_Racing).

About Menards

A family-owned and run company started in 1958, Menards is recognized as the retail home center leader of the Midwest with 236 stores in 15 states. Menards is truly a one-stop shop for all of your home improvement needs featuring a full-service lumberyard and everything you need to plan a renovation or build a home, garage, cabin, shed, deck, fence or post frame building. You’ll find a large selection of lumber, roofing, siding, construction blocks, trusses, doors and windows, plus cabinets, appliances, countertops, flooring, lighting, paint, plumbing supplies and more. To complete the job, Menards has quality hand tools, power tools, fasteners, electrical tools plus storage options and supplies for everyone from the weekend warrior to the pro!

Menards has what you need to complete your outdoor projects and keep your yard in tip-top shape including mowers, trimmers, blowers, pressure washers and more, plus a beautiful garden center stocked with plants, shrubs, trees, landscaping tools, grass seed, fertilizer options, outdoor décor and patio furniture. Menards also has everyday essentials like health & beauty products, housewares, pet and wildlife supplies, automotive items and even groceries. And at Christmas, an Enchanted Forest display area with impressive trees, lighting, decorations, ornaments, inflatables and more.

Menards is known for friendly Customer Service and as the place to “Save Big Money” with low prices every day, and sales too! For more information, please visit Menards.com to learn about our store locations, offerings and services.

About General Tire

For over 100 years General Tire has offered a complete quality line of ultra-high performance, passenger, light truck, off-road and commercial tires to meet all your needs. General Tire is a proud supporter of Major League Fishing, The ARCA Menards Series, Team Lucas, ROUSH Performance, Expedition Overland, a2aExpedition, Zero One Odyssey, and Jeep Jamboree USA. Team GT supports: Speed Freaks Radio, The Jim Beaver Show, Hailie Deegan, Natalie Eva Marie, Gas Monkey Garage, Skeet Reese, Edwin Evers, Mark Rose, Ott DeFoe, Andy Montgomery, Alton Jones Jr., and Britt Myers.

SOX & MARTIN® AND MCCANDLESS COLLECTION TO SPONSOR NHRA HEMI® CHALLENGE

Burlington, NC. (April 26, 2024) — Sox & Martin and the McCandless Collection are thrilled to announce their sponsorship of the 2024 HEMI Challenge as part of the 70th annual NHRA U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. The world’s biggest and most prestigious drag race takes place Aug. 28-Sept. 2.

The HEMI Challenge is the longest running continuous specialty race in NHRA history and has been a fan favorite for over two decades. This event features exciting heads-up, wheel-standing, side-by-side racing of HEMI-powered 1968 Super Stock Dodge Darts and Plymouth Barracudas competing in the NHRA SS/AH class. These limited production ‘HEMI Package Cars,’ built specifically for Super Stock competition, have been a part of drag racing history for more than five decades and made the Sox & Martin name legendary among fans and feared among the competition. The Sox & Martin HEMI Challenge presented by the McCandless Collection will elevate this celebrated event to even greater heights with an enhanced social media and marketing focus, bringing even more recognition to the hardworking and diehard SS/AH racers and their HEMI-powered machines.

“I’m so excited and pleased to have the Sox & Martin brand sponsor the HEMI Challenge at the 2024 NHRA US Nationals, especially since this is the 60th anniversary of this tremendous engine. I’ve always been attached to the 426 HEMI engine and Ronnie (Sox) won many races and championships driving HEMI-powered Plymouth race cars starting in 1965,” said Mopar legend Buddy Martin. “When we opened our new race shop back in the late 1960s, I intentionally used ‘426’ for our P.O. Box number. The 426 HEMI is legendary and the Mopar drivers who currently compete in the Super Stock HEMI class keep this iconic engine’s legacy alive for the next generation of racers. To see how fast these 1968 HEMI Barracudas and Darts are going today is simply amazing. To be a part of ‘The Big Go’ is an honor for me and the Sox & Martin name. I have many great memories from the NHRA US Nationals, including the 1969 event when Ronnie won Super Stock and then our back-to-back Pro Stock wins in 1970 and 1971 with Ronnie and Herb (McCandless) driving our team cars.”

Along with Buddy Martin serving as the Grand Marshal and Honorary Starter during the 2024 Sox & Martin NHRA HEMI Challenge presented by the McCandless Collection, another Mopar Legend, Herb McCandless, will once again be in the pits talking to racers, swapping stories, and up in the tower announcing the round-by-round action during this exciting event that’s been a part of the NHRA US Nationals tradition for more than two decades.

“If it wasn’t for Sox & Martin, there’d be no HEMI Challenge, no McCandless Collection, or even a Herb McCandless. Not only did Buddy Martin have a positive impacted in drag racing, but also in my racing career. When Buddy hired me to drive the team’s second Pro Stocker in 1970, it changed my life forever!” said Mopar icon and 1970 NHRA US Nationals Pro Stock champion Herb McCandless. “The annual HEMI Challenge is an event I look forward to every year and I’ve attended around 20 of them at Indy. Despite being the same basic engine and vehicle package we ran way back then, it’s mind boggling to see how fast these 1968 HEMI Barracudas and Darts are going now. The technology and refinement the racers have put into their cars is impressive and this year’s event will be extra special as it’s the 60TH anniversary of the 426 HEMI. I’m very proud of my son Mike (McCandless) in getting Sox & Martin and the McCandless Collection as the sponsor of the NHRA HEMI Challenge!”

“Thanks to NHRA, my father was able to make a career out of drag racing and the motorsports parts industry. When I was presented with the opportunity to give back not just to NHRA, but to the Sportsman Racers who are the backbone of the sport, I jumped at the opportunity. Over 50 years ago, Buddy Martin of Sox & Martin fame gave my father the opportunity to showcase his driving and tuning skills for the number one team in drag racing. I can’t think of a better way to show my appreciation than lending my support to this unique event, which will now become the Sox & Martin HEMI Challenge presented by the McCandless Collection. Since this is also the 60th anniversary of the 426 HEMI, an engine that totally changed drag racing, we felt this was another great reason to take over this event,” said Mike McCandless, founder and CEO of The McCandless Collection and youngest son of iconic Mopar drag racer Herb McCandless.

The Sox & Martin NHRA HEMI Challenge presented by the McCandless Collection is scheduled for Friday, Aug. 30 at Indianapolis Raceway Park during the running of the 70th annual NHRA US Nationals. The Sox & Martin HEMI Challenge presented by the McCandless Collection is open to all NHRA SS/AH competitors and will require one Grade Point from a Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series event or National Open before entering the NHRA US Nationals to compete in the HEMI Challenge. All SS/AH racers are encouraged to submit their event entry before Friday, Aug. 23.

“The HEMI Challenge has always been a huge part of the U.S. Nationals weekend, and to add Sox & Martin and the McCandless Collection to this great event will make the HEMI Challenge even more special,” NHRA Vice President and Chief Development Officer Brad Gerber said. “Those are iconic names in our sport and have been such incredible ambassadors for the HEMI and Mopar brands, which makes them a perfect fit for an event like the HEMI Challenge. We’re thrilled to have Sox & Martin and the McCandless Collection be a part of the biggest weekend in drag racing, and we can’t wait to see all these terrific cars compete in the HEMI Challenge.”

To purchase tickets to the 70th annual NHRA U.S. Nationals, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. All children 12 and under will be admitted free in the general admission area with a paid adult. For more information about NHRA, including the full 2024 schedule, visit www.NHRA.com.


About Sox & Martin

Sox & Martin is known far and wide as one of the most legendary teams in the history of drag racing. With the precise, Superman-like driving skills of Ronnie Sox, and the marketing and business acumen of Buddy Martin that brought new sponsors into the sport, drag racing was forever changed. From spotless race cars, matching team uniforms, and an overall professional clean image, Sox & Martin raised the bar. In 1967, Sox & Martin, along with their primary sponsor at the time, Chrysler’s Plymouth Division, initiated the revolutionary Supercar Clinic program at dealerships across the country. It showcased Plymouth’s latest muscle cars, Mopar and aftermarket performance parts, and driving tips that encouraged young enthusiasts to race at NHRA sanctioned drag strips. Sox & Martin were also instrumental in the creation of NHRA’s Pro Stock class in 1970 and went on to become multi-time world champions. Ronnie Sox passed away in 2006, but Buddy Martin is still active in the Mopar community and enjoys the opportunity to attend enthusiast events.

Sox & Martin is a registered trademark of the McCandless Collection

About the McCandless Collection

The McCandless Collection was founded by Mike McCandless in honor of his father, Herb McCandless. Known as “Mr. 4 Speed,” Herb McCandless blazed a trail across the country racing his HEMI-Powered machines in the 1960s before being hired by the legendary Sox & Martin racing team in 1970. The McCandless family’s passion for racing was passed down through the generations, and now numerous classic cars, as well as many other examples of vintage automotive memorabilia are on display at this museum located in Burlington, North Carolina. The McCandless Collection is also the culmination of Mike McCandless’s passion for all things Mopar and his love of Chrysler’s 1955-1961 “Forward Look” era. The vision of the McCandless Collection is to properly preserve, restore, and share the history associated with these rare Mopar artifacts.

The McCandless Collection is a Nonprofit 501-C3

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.

Educating Teens About the Dangers of Reckless Driving

Photo by Courtney Corlew on Unsplash

Teenage years are often filled with excitement, newfound freedoms, and the thrill of independence. However, along with these newfound freedoms come responsibilities, particularly when it comes to operating a vehicle. Reckless driving among teens is a serious issue that can have devastating consequences, not only for the driver but also for passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists on the road. 

What is Considered Reckless Driving?

Reckless driving encompasses a broad spectrum of dangerous behaviors behind the wheel that pose significant risks to oneself and others on the road. Speeding, aggressive driving maneuvers such as tailgating or weaving in and out of traffic, distracted driving (including texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting music), and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are all examples of reckless driving. Essentially, any action that disregards the safety of oneself and others, violates traffic laws, or demonstrates a lack of care or consideration for the well-being of others on the road can be classified as reckless driving. It is important for teens to understand that even seemingly minor infractions can have serious consequences when behind the wheel. 

Consequences of Reckless Driving

The consequences of reckless driving for teens can be devastating, extending far beyond the immediate aftermath of an accident. From severe injuries to fatalities, the impact of reckless driving can alter the course of a teen’s life and cause irreparable harm to themselves and others. Experienced car accident lawyers share that physical injuries resulting from accidents can range from minor cuts and bruises to life-altering disabilities, affecting the teen’s ability to lead a normal life and pursue their dreams. Moreover, reckless driving incidents often result in emotional trauma for all parties involved, with families and communities left grappling with grief, guilt, and anguish. 

Beyond the personal toll, there are also legal and financial consequences to consider, including hefty fines, potential jail time, increased insurance premiums, and legal battles that can drain both financial resources and emotional energy. Legal consequences along with steep medical bills and insurance premiums can place a heavy burden on all parties involved. The ripple effects of reckless driving reverberate throughout society, serving as a stark reminder of the importance of safe and responsible driving practices for teens.

Factors Contributing to Reckless Driving Among Teens

Several factors contribute to reckless driving behaviors among teenagers, making it a complex issue to address. Peer pressure plays a significant role, as teens may feel compelled to engage in risky driving behaviors in order to fit in or impress their peers. Additionally, the combination of limited driving experience and a sense of invincibility can lead teens to overestimate their abilities behind the wheel, making them more prone to taking unnecessary risks. 

Lack of maturity and impulse control further exacerbate the problem, as teens may act impulsively without fully considering the potential consequences of their actions. Furthermore, societal influences such as media portrayals of driving as thrilling and adventurous can contribute to a culture that glorifies reckless behavior on the road. Overall, a combination of social, developmental, and environmental factors contribute to the prevalence of reckless driving among teens, highlighting the need for comprehensive education and intervention strategies.

Strategies for Educating Teens

Education is key to preventing reckless driving among teens. One approach is to incorporate safe driving education into school curriculum, offering courses or workshops that cover topics such as defensive driving techniques, the consequences of reckless behavior, and strategies for making responsible choices on the road. Another strategy is to utilize interactive tools and simulations that allow teens to experience the potential consequences of reckless driving in a controlled environment, helping them understand the real-life implications of their actions. 

Additionally, involving parents and caregivers in teen driving education can reinforce safe driving habits at home and provide additional support and guidance for young drivers. Leveraging technology, such as educational apps, videos, and social media campaigns, can also be effective in reaching teens and raising awareness about the importance of safe driving practices. By combining these approaches and providing teens with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to make responsible decisions behind the wheel, we can work towards reducing the incidence of reckless driving among young drivers.

Tips to Promote Responsible Driving

Promoting responsible driving habits starts with leading by example. Parents and other adult role models should demonstrate safe driving behaviors and set clear expectations for their teen drivers. Encouraging open communication and providing guidance on how to handle peer pressure can help teens navigate challenging situations on the road. Emphasizing the importance of obeying traffic laws, practicing defensive driving techniques, and avoiding distractions while driving are all essential components of promoting responsible driving habits.

In conclusion, educating teens about the dangers of reckless driving is crucial in reducing the number of accidents and fatalities on our roads. By understanding what constitutes reckless driving, recognizing its consequences, addressing contributing factors, implementing effective education strategies, and promoting responsible driving habits, we can empower teens to make safer choices behind the wheel. 

How a Dash Cam Can Help with Your Accident Case in Florida

Photo by Nicole Logan on Unsplash

Dash cams have become a technological mainstay in recent years and are increasingly popular with drivers for a variety of reasons. For example, some people like to review the footage searching for great scenic pictures, but most drivers like knowing everything in front of their vehicle is being recorded—the video recording gives some drivers a little extra peace of mind. 

Did you know that dash cams are an effective tool in car crash cases? The same footage that captures gorgeous scenery can also record the events leading up to your accident. Even the wreck collision is often captured by the dash cam. However, the dashcam evidence is only useful when you’re able to use it in your accident case.

Legally Installing a Dash Cam in Your Vehicle

As the number of road rage incidents and car accidents increases, more drivers are installing dashcams in their vehicles. A recent AutoPacific study reports an estimated third of drivers plan on either purchasing a vehicle with a dash cam or installing one in 2024.

If you’re wondering if it’s legal to have a dashcam in your vehicle, the answer is yes but there are limitations. Florida Statutes § 316.2004 prohibits drivers from blocking their windshield and this is where you install the dashcam. While the statute doesn’t prohibit dash cams, it does mean you need to think carefully about placement.

You can receive a fine for obstructing your windshield and this also means removing the dashcam. If you need assistance with installation, most vehicle repair shops can install your dashcam so it meets all of Florida’s legal requirements.

What Florida Says About Using Dash Cam Footage in a Car Accident Claim

In most accident cases, Florida law isn’t going to prevent you from using the footage as evidence in your car accident case. However, don’t start downloading hours of video footage and getting it ready to show the insurance adjuster or court. The state has a couple of conditions before you can use dashcam footage in your accident case.

The video footage must be directly related to your case. In other words, don’t upload hours of scenic footage. You can only use footage of events right before and during the time of the accident. In most cases, this is only a couple of minutes of video. 

Your video must be clear and easy for everyone to see. If the video is blurry or shaky, it may be considered unusable. The video must be authentic and recorded on your vehicle’s device. 

If you’re submitting footage taken from another vehicle’s dashcam, you’re probably going to need the car’s owner to sign a release form. The dashcam’s owner may also need to provide in-person testimony to support the video evidence. 

Not all footage recorded off of someone else’s dashcam is allowed to be used as evidence. You can swear under oath to attest to the video’s authenticity. 

If you can meet all of these requirements, there’s a good chance you can use the dashcam footage as evidence in your vehicle accident case.

Will an Insurance Company Accept Your Dash Cam Footage

Since Florida is a no-fault insurance state, you may not need to submit footage from your dashcam to support your accident case. You’re only turning to your auto and PIP insurance to cover your damages. Most insurance providers will settle your claim without too much fuss, especially if you provide them with a copy of your accident report.

While it’s often easier to receive compensation in no-fault insurance states, there’s almost always the issue of the policies’ caps. Drivers in Florida only need to carry a minimum of $10,000 in property damage insurance and the same amount for their PIP policy.

 Unfortunately, a $10,000 cap doesn’t go very far when it comes to medical costs. This often means turning to the at-fault driver’s insurance carrier to cover the remainder of your damages.

This type of situation is exactly when your dashcam footage can be invaluable since footage of the minutes and seconds leading up to your accident typically identifies the at-fault driver. Video of the accident as it happens can also help support your claim. 

Sometimes, having the video footage is enough to convince the at-fault driver’s insurance company to settle your accident claim before it becomes a personal injury lawsuit in civil court.

Benefits of Having Dash Cam Footage After a Car Accident

You already have a general idea of some of the benefits of having dashcam footage. You have real-time evidence supporting your accident claim and this is something even insurance adjusters have difficulty counteracting.

Some of the additional benefits you may get by installing a dash cam can include:

  • Support your recollection of the events leading up to the accident
  • Backup or refute witness statements
  • Provide additional information not always included in a police report
  • Assist with accident reconstruction

Did you know you don’t need to rely solely on dashcam footage? You can also use recordings from nearby surveillance and red light cameras. The primary difference with dashcam footage is there’s no need to wait for someone to send the video; you also aren’t going to need a subpoena to review the footage since it’s your dashcam.

Does Law Enforcement Have the Right to Confiscate Your Accident Footage

When it comes to whether or not law enforcement has the right to take your dashcam footage of your accident, the answer is a little tricky. Most of the time, law enforcement can’t force you to release the video to their custody. The only exception may apply if law enforcement believes you’re guilty of a crime.

Since your video is only of the car accident, this shouldn’t be an issue. As for showing the video to the police, this is typically your decision. Your video may make it easier for the responding officers to accurately file out your accident report. If you’re hesitant to turn over your dashcam footage, contact an attorney for legal advice.

Let an Attorney Explain How Dash Cam Videos Can Help with Your Accident Case

While your dash cam video can serve as powerful supporting evidence in an accident case, it’s generally not advisable to handle the matter on your own. An experienced personal injury attorney can help ensure that your evidence portfolio is comprehensive, extending beyond just dash cam footage. 

Consulting with an attorney can provide you with deeper insights into how to effectively use your dashcam video and other evidence to strengthen your case. Reach out to a lawyer today to better understand the full scope of your legal options.

Wiksons Group Review: Learning The Necessity to Have A Sturdy Risk Prevention [wiksn-group.com]

As you are going to trade with Wiksons Group you must know what risk management means for its business portal. This system for an exchanging site includes a thorough way to distinguish, survey, and relieve different dangers innate in financial exercises to safeguard the interests of merchants, backers, and the actual stage. Different types of risks are associated with the market, including credit, operational works, liquidity, etc.  

Now, it’s time to focus on the points that show how important risk prevention is for the progress of Wiksons Group.

Upgraded Client Experience:

Consumers’ experience is the most important aspect of the development of Wiksons Group. Executing successful gamble-the-board measures can prompt a smoother and more dependable business experience for clients. This incorporates highlights, for example, constant gamble checking, edge necessities, and mechanized risk controls, which can further develop the general client experience on the stage.

Wiksons Group’s Sincereity:

An exchanging site with an unfortunate gamble the board rehearses unwanted occurences which harm its standing among dealers. Misfortunes caused because of an absence of risk handling can prompt doubt among clients and a deficiency of validity for the stage. An exchange site like Wiksons Group that focuses on this preventive measure imparts trust in its clients, empowering them to connect all the more effectively with the stage. At the point when merchants feel that their capital is safeguarded and that dangers are being overseen successfully, they are bound to exchange regularly and remain faithful to the stage.

Consistency of Online Portal:

Many exchanging sites work inside administrative systems that expect them to have satisfactory gamble the board estimates set up. Maintaining this trait with these guidelines is fundamental for the drawn-out reasonability of the business. Consistency with administrative prerequisites is vital for the turn of events and activity of an exchange site. On that note, Wiksons Group gets you covered. A legitimate gamble the executives’ system guarantees regulations with important guidelines, subsequently decreasing the gamble of fines, punishments, or lawful issues that could impede the stage’s turn of events.

Fascination of Institutional Financial Backers:

Institutional financial backers frequently have tough gambling the board necessities. By exhibiting a vigorous gamble in the executives’ system, an exchanging site can draw in institutional financial backers, in this way expanding liquidity and exchanging volume on the stage. For that mater, Wiksons Group looks after the fact that in a congested business center, powerful gamble the executives can act as a special selling recommendation for an exchange site. By offering unrivaled hazard controlling instruments and highlights contrasted with contenders, the stage can separate itself and draw in clients searching for a more secure exchange climate.

Conclusion:

Thus, it can be concluded that Wiksons Group’s gamble the board system not just shields clients and the stage from likely misfortunes yet in addition adds to upgraded client experience, expanded commitment, separation from contenders, versatility, and administrative consistence, which are all essential for the turn of events and outcome of an exchanging site.

Comparing NASCAR Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems to Standard Vehicle Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems

Photo by Obi - @pixel8propix on Unsplash

Introduction to Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems

Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) are critical for both performance and safety in vehicles, from high-speed NASCAR race cars to everyday passenger vehicles. While standard TPMS in consumer vehicles primarily alerts drivers to potentially unsafe tire conditions, NASCAR TPMS provides comprehensive real-time data crucial for race strategy and performance. This article delves into the complexities and functionalities of TPMS in both settings, illustrating how technological advancements in racing can influence consumer vehicle safety features.

Understanding NASCAR Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems

Sensor Technology in NASCAR TPMS

NASCAR vehicles are equipped with highly sophisticated tire pressure monitoring systems that provide teams with real-time data essential for making split-second decisions during races. The sensors used in NASCAR are typically radio frequency (RF) based and operate at frequencies around 433 MHz. They are designed to withstand extreme conditions, including:

– Temperatures ranging from -40°C to 125°C (-40°F to 257°F)[1]

– Centrifugal forces up to 3,000 g[1]

– Vibrations up to 50 g[1]

These robust sensors provide measurements with an accuracy of ±1 psi for pressure and ±2°C (±3.6°F) for temperature, offering crucial data for optimizing performance and safety[1].

Data Transmission and Reliability

The data transmitted by NASCAR TPMS sensors is encrypted and uses error-checking protocols to ensure reliability and prevent interference. The system is designed to maintain a stable connection even in the presence of other wireless devices commonly used in racing, such as telemetry systems and two-way radios. This high level of data integrity is vital for real-time strategic decision-making in races.

Overview of Standard Vehicle Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems

Components of Standard TPMS

In consumer vehicles, TPMS can be direct, providing real-time tire pressure data via tire pressure sensors, or indirect, estimating pressure based on wheel speed and other dynamics via wheel speed sensors. This system alerts drivers via a low pressure indicator light when tire pressure drops below a safe threshold, typically set by the manufacturer for optimal safety and efficiency.

Adoption of TPMS in Consumer Vehicles

TPMS became mandatory for all new passenger vehicles sold in the United States as of 2008, following a ruling by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This regulation aimed to improve vehicle safety by reducing the number of accidents caused by underinflated tires.

Indirect TPMS Limitations

While cost-effective, indirect TPMS does not offer the precise, tire-specific pressure readings available with direct systems and may not detect slow leaks effectively. They are also prone to false alerts influenced by changes in driving conditions or tire rotation.

Key Differences Between NASCAR and Standard Vehicle TPMS

The primary distinction lies in their operational contexts and technical demands. NASCAR systems are engineered for extreme accuracy and resilience under race conditions, providing data critical for immediate and strategic decisions. In contrast, consumer TPMS focuses on general safety and maintenance, ensuring tires maintain pressure within safe limits for regular driving conditions.

The Future of TPMS in Racing and Consumer Vehicles

Emerging technologies like AI and predictive analytics are set to enhance TPMS functionality further. For NASCAR, advancements may lead to predictive capabilities, foreseeing potential tire issues before they occur. For consumer vehicles, next-generation TPMS could offer more detailed diagnostics and maintenance predictions, enhancing vehicle safety and efficiency.

Conclusion: The Significance of Advanced TPMS in Automotive Safety and Performance

This comparison not only highlights the crucial role of TPMS in both NASCAR and standard vehicles but also reflects the dynamic interchange between racing technology and consumer vehicle safety features. As automotive technologies evolve, the influence of high-performance racing advancements on everyday vehicle safety continues to grow, illustrating a powerful example of how specialized systems can lead to broader innovations in the automotive industry.

RCR Race Preview: Dover Motor Speedway

Richard Childress Racing at Dover Motor Speedway… Richard Childress Racing has four NASCAR Cup Series victories at Dover Motor Speedway. Dale Earnhardt won three times, including a sweep of both races in 1989 and the 1993 spring event. Jeff Burton won the 2006 fall event to claim his first win at Dover and first victory of the season. The Welcome, N.C. based organization has 24 top-five and 59 top-10 finishes at the Monster Mile.

Xfinity Series Stats at the Monster Mile… RCR owns three NASCAR Xfinity Series wins at Dover Motor Speedway, two of which belong to Clint Bowyer (fall races in 2006 and 2009). Jeff Burton won the spring event in 2006, rallying from the 36th-place starting position and giving RCR a sweep of the Xfinity Series races.

Big Power on the Drafting Tracks… ECR has dominated all three drafting tracks in the NASCAR Xfinity Series this season (Daytona International Speedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway and Talladega Superspeedway). ECR has won and swept the pole position in all three events. How strong has ECR been on those tracks? ECR teams have led 315 of 413 possible laps (76.27 percent) and 640.14 of 890.10 miles (71.91 percent).

Catch Saturday’s Action… The Dover 200 will be televised live on Saturday, April 27 at 1:30 p.m. ET on FS1 and will be broadcast live on the Performance Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Follow Sunday’s Action in Dover… The Wurth 400 will be televised live on Sunday, April 28 beginning at 2 p.m. ET on FS1 and will be broadcast live on the Performance Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Austin Dillon and the No. 3 BREZTRI AEROSPHERE® (budesonide, glycopyrrolate, and formoterol fumarate) Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 at Dover Motor Speedway… Austin Dillon has made 18 career NASCAR Cup Series starts at Dover Motor Speedway, earning a best finish of seventh in October 2018. The Welcome, N.C. native has eight NASCAR Xfinity Series starts, earning one pole award and a best finish of fourth. He has made two NASCAR Truck Series starts at the track with a best finish of fourth. He also has one ARCA Menards Series East race under his belt at the one-mile concrete oval.

BREZTRI AEROSPHERE® (budesonide, glycopyrrolate, and formoterol fumarate) Team Up with Dillon… Dillon and the No. 3 Richard Childress Racing team will be supported by BREZTRI AEROSPHERE®, an AstraZeneca product, at Dover Motor Speedway. This partnership is about more than just racing. You can learn more about Austin Dillon and his family’s personal connection to the brand at Breztri.com. AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases, and Biopharmaceuticals, including Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism, and Respiratory & Immunology. AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide.

Meet Austin Dillon… Fans traveling to Dover Motor Speedway this weekend will have the chance to meet the driver of the No. 3 Chevrolet. Dillon is scheduled to appear at the RCR Merchandise Hauler on Sunday at 10:30 a.m. to greet race fans and sign RCR gear.

AUSTIN DILLON QUOTE:

What does the sensation of speed at Dover Motor Speedway feel like?

“Racing at Dover Motor Speedway is like a rollercoaster ride with no tracks. There isn’t another track like it. You carry a lot of pace there. When you drive down into the corner to get to the bottom of the track, it feels like you’re coming off a four-story building with the banking. You just try to catch your breath and get back on the gas to drive off the corner. We do that for 400 laps. Once you get into the race, you get into a rhythm, and you start to feel comfortable. The first couple of laps are always hard on you though. It’s a hard concrete track. We have to make sure our shock package is good, and hopefully, the No. 3 Chevrolet handles well. Maybe the line will move around, but it’s usually right around the bottom. As the rubber lays down, it gets harder to do more with the car. Dover is a Monster, but my team is up for the challenge.”

Kyle Busch and the No. 8 FICO Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 at Dover Motor Speedway… Kyle Busch will make his 36th start at Dover Motor Speedway in the NASCAR Cup Series this weekend. Busch enters Sunday’s race with three wins at the one-mile Delaware speedway (2008, 2010, and 2017), which is third best among active drivers. In 2008, Busch led 158 of 400 laps and finished with an average running position of 1.913. The Las Vegas, Nevada native has 21 top-10 finishes, giving him a top-10 in 60 percent of his Cup starts at Dover. He won the pole in 2017 and started first in 2018 and 2023 after qualifying was canceled. Busch has led 1,341 laps in 20 Dover races, the second-best among active Cup drivers.

Welcome FICO… FICO, Richard Childress Racing and Kyle Busch are teaming up to raise awareness about the need for financial education. For the millions of NASCAR fans across the country, knowledge about money, financial planning, how credit works and the importance of building good financial habit are critical life skills. FICO, RCR and Kyle Busch want to share information and resources so that everyone in the NASCAR community can achieve their financial goals, such as paying for education, buying a home, or running a business.

FICO is a leading analytics software firm best known for its gold standard FICO® Score. Learn more about the FICO, RCR and Kyle Busch partnership, here: https://www.fico.com/en/newsroom/fico-and-richard-childress-racing-kick-financial-and-credit-education-partnership-nascar.

KYLE BUSCH QUOTES:

Last year rain cut Cup Series practice short at Dover Motor Speedway and you started the race on a green track. How big of a challenge is that?

“Track conditions at Dover are challenging because they’re always changing. When you’re on a green racetrack, you really fight tire wear and you’re wearing out the tires quite rapidly. As the weekend progresses and as the race progresses, rubber gets put down on the track and that makes tire life better.”

Is racing at Dover Motor Speedway physically demanding for a driver?

“Racing at Dover is physically demanding. You’re in the corner around that track longer than you are going straight on the straightaways which means the time in which you’re doing the most work is the longest. It’s also very physically taxing just because of the roughness of the concrete surface and the constant beating that the driver takes in the seat from going over all the joints in the track.”

How easy is it for a driver to get into trouble at Dover Motor Speedway?

“I would say it’s pretty easy for drivers to find trouble at Dover. Typically, the looser you are, the faster you are, but when you get too loose, it’s really easy to spin. If you spin it at Dover, more than likely you are going to hit both the outside and inside walls. As crashes happen, you’re going so fast that sometimes you can’t get checked up fast enough.”

Jesse Love and the No. 2 Whelen Chevrolet Camaro SS at Dover Motor Speedway… Jesse Love has made two career starts at Dover Motor Speedway, both in ARCA Menards Series East competition in 2021 and 2022. During the 2022 event, the Menlo Park, California native qualified in the fourth position, led a total of nine laps, and finished in second place. Love will make his inaugural NASCAR Xfinity Series start at the Monster Mile this Saturday.

First Career Victory… In just his ninth start, Love secured his first career Xfinity Series win last Saturday at Talladega Superspeedway. The victory locked Love into the Playoffs and extended the 19-year-old’s lead to 122 points in the Sunoco Rookie of the Year point standings.

Stacking the Top-10s… The top-10 streak for Love and the No. 2 Whelen Camaro currently sits at six consecutive weeks, dating back to their second-place result at Phoenix Raceway on March 9.

Did You Know? Love’s win at Talladega Superspeedway was not only his first career Xfinity Series victory, but it also marked Whelen Engineering’s first win as a primary partner in the series. Whelen Engineering has been a loyal partner in the Xfinity Series for 28 years.

About Whelen Engineering… Whelen Engineering is a family-owned company with a pioneering spirit and a passion to protect the lives of those who protect and serve others. The company mission is to provide industry-defining safety solutions around the world, while creating a community of problem-solvers who are inspired to push boundaries and continue our legacy of delivering ground-breaking innovation. As a global leader in the emergency warning industry, Whelen has been trusted to perform since 1952, when George Whelen III invented the first rotating aviation beacon. Whelen now encompasses two state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Connecticut and New Hampshire with over 750,000 square feet of engineering and manufacturing space and the largest design staff in the industry. Every part of every Whelen product is proudly designed and manufactured in America. We embrace quality as our foundation, we celebrate innovative engineering in every product we produce.

Dashing 4 Cash… After capturing the checkered flag at Talladega Superspeedway, Love enters Dover Motor Speedway with a chance to win an extra $100,000 through the Xfinity Dash 4 Cash program. Love will battle Ryan Sieg, Riley Herbst, and Anthony Alfredo on Saturday afternoon, with the highest finisher earning the Dash 4 Cash title. This marks Love’s second career attempt at competing for the bonus.

Meet Love… On Saturday, April 27 at 9:45 a.m. ET, Love is scheduled to sign autographs with fellow Xfinity Series drivers in the Fan Zone at Dover Motor Speedway. Directly after at 10:40 a.m. ET, Love and his RCR teammate Austin Hill are scheduled to sign autographs at the RCR Merchandise Trailer located in the Fan Zone at Dover Motor Speedway. A limited-edition, new t-shirt highlighting Love’s win at Talladega Superspeedway will be available for purchase.

JESSE LOVE QUOTE:

Why is Dover Motor Speedway one of your favorite tracks? What will it take to have a good race on Saturday?

“I feel like Dover suits my driving style well. I like the sensation of speed, the high banks, and the concrete surface. I personally prefer concrete surfaces over asphalt. Coming off our first win though, the No. 2 Whelen team is looking to keep that momentum rolling. It will take a good car to be able to lead laps and run consistently up front at Dover, but I know that Danny Stockman and all the guys have worked hard this week to make sure we are in the best position possible once we unload. The goal is to maximize points, but thankfully the pressure is now off with having locked ourselves into the Playoffs.”

Austin Hill and the No. 21 Nuthin Fancy Co. Chevrolet Camaro SS at Dover Motor Speedway… Austin Hill has made two career NASCAR Xfinity Series starts at Dover Motor Speedway, securing a fourth-place finish last season while driving the No. 21 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet. The Winston, Ga. native has competed in six NASCAR Truck Series races (best finish of seventh) and three ARCA Menards Series East events (two wins – 2013, 2014) at the high-banked, Delaware oval.

Points Check… Hill currently holds the third position in the Xfinity Series driver championship point standings, 16 points behind leader Chandler Smith.

Did You Know? With his laps pacing the field at Talladega Superspeedway, Hill has led in 14 straight superspeedway races, tying Kyle Busch and Dale Earnhardt Jr. for the all-time record in the Xfinity Series.

About Nuthin Fancy Co… Nuthin Fancy Co. is an outdoor lifestyle clothing brand founded in the foothills of Maryland. Serving as the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts, we cater to individuals who truly embrace an active lifestyle. Whether it is hunting, fishing, golfing, relaxing by the lake, or attending race days, our brand is dedicated to offering top-quality clothing that will elevate those experiences. For more information and to purchase Nuthin Fancy Co. gear, please visit nuthinfancyco.com.

Meet Hill… On Saturday, April 27 at 10:40 a.m. ET, Hill and his RCR teammate Jesse Love are scheduled to sign autographs at the RCR Merchandise Trailer located in the Fan Zone at Dover Motor Speedway. A limited-edition Nuthin Fancy Co. hat will be available for purchase.

AUSTIN HILL QUOTES:

Do you get a sense of speed from inside the car at Dover Motor Speedway?

“You definitely get a very big sense of speed at Dover. The first laps that I always make there take your breath away until you get settled in. You feel like you’re running 200 miles per hour around that place.”

You had success at Dover Motor Speedway dating back to your first race there in 2013. What do you like about that track?

“I won the first time that I was there in the ARCA Menards Series East back in 2013 and then when we came back the following year, I won again. I didn’t win at the Truck Series level, but it always seemed like we had speed and ran inside the top-five a lot. Dover is so fast and it’s so much fun to get around. From the first time I went there, I understood how you had to approach the entry of the corner to be good on exit. That’s one of the key elements that makes me pretty good around Dover.”