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Flying Lizard Motorsports Accelerates into 2024 GT4 America Season with Nissan Z GT4 Effort

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Official Release
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PHOENIX, Ariz. (February 15, 2024) – In anticipation of the approaching 2024 season, Flying Lizard Motorsports is set to embark on a new chapter, incorporating another distinguished manufacturer into its already illustrious roster. This year, the 14-time champions will strike a new partnership with Nissan as it takes on the role of a Nissan Z GT4 Customer Team in the Pirelli GT4 America series. This strategic collaboration marks a significant milestone for Flying Lizard Motorsports, showcasing its commitment to pushing boundaries and achieving unparalleled success on the racing circuit.

Steering the No. 5 Nissan Z GT4 through the competitive landscape of the Pirelli GT4 America championship will be the Canadian duo of Damir Hot and Stefan Rzadzinski, racing under the iconic red and silver Flying Lizard Motorsports livery, entry sponsored by Applewood Auto Group.

“This is a really exciting program for us this year,” said Program Manager Darren Law. “I have been speaking with Nissan for quite a while and happy we were able to put this program together. Stefan and I initially discussed him joining our team late last year and when this opportunity came up it was a great fit. His teammate Damir has been putting in a lot of seat time over the off-season and we are looking forward to watching his progress this year. Having Darren Graham of Applewood Auto Group on board is a key part of our operation and I am looking forward to growing this relationship. We have a lot to do before the start of the season as this is a very new program, but as always, Flying Lizard is up for the challenge.“

PHOENIX, Ariz. (February 15, 2024) – In anticipation of the approaching 2024 season, Flying Lizard Motorsports is set to embark on a new chapter, incorporating another distinguished manufacturer into its already illustrious roster. This year, the 14-time champions will strike a new partnership with Nissan as it takes on the role of a Nissan Z GT4 Customer Team in the Pirelli GT4 America series. This strategic collaboration marks a significant milestone for Flying Lizard Motorsports, showcasing its commitment to pushing boundaries and achieving unparalleled success on the racing circuit.

Steering the No. 5 Nissan Z GT4 through the competitive landscape of the Pirelli GT4 America championship will be the Canadian duo of Damir Hot and Stefan Rzadzinski, racing under the iconic red and silver Flying Lizard Motorsports livery, entry sponsored by Applewood Auto Group.

“This is a really exciting program for us this year,” said Program Manager Darren Law. “I have been speaking with Nissan for quite a while and happy we were able to put this program together. Stefan and I initially discussed him joining our team late last year and when this opportunity came up it was a great fit. His teammate Damir has been putting in a lot of seat time over the off-season and we are looking forward to watching his progress this year. Having Darren Graham of Applewood Auto Group on board is a key part of our operation and I am looking forward to growing this relationship. We have a lot to do before the start of the season as this is a very new program, but as always, Flying Lizard is up for the challenge. “

Still relatively new to the professional sports car racing arena, Hot began his sports car racing career in 2020. He most recently raced in the recent running of the European GT Winter series, earning five top-five finishes and two podiums in a Porsche 992 Cup car.

“I’m proud to be entering my first season of GT4 racing surrounded by some of the most professional and experienced folks around,” said Hot. “My goal in racing is to explore how far discipline, dedication, and rigor can take me in the sport; I can’t think of a better setup in that regard than teaming up with Stefan, Nissan, and the legendary Flying Lizard Motorsports organization.”

Like many sports car racing drivers, Rzadzinski started his professional racing journey in open wheel racing, winning a Skip Barber Racing Series scholarship to compete in the Road To Indy in 2011. He boosted his racing career with a successful three-year stint in the Nissan Micra Cup Championship from 2015 to 201, most recently participating in the GT Winter Series last month. He earned one podium in two races, hot on the heels of a 16-race season in the 2023 Porsche Deluxe Carrera Cup North America.

“It’s an honour to join a team with the legacy and history of Flying Lizard Motorsports,” said Rzadzinski. “I’m confident that with the support of Applewood Auto Group and our partners at Nissan, we will have a strong season in GT4 America. The series will be new for us, but my co-driver Damir and I will be up for the challenge. We look forward to fighting for the top step of the podium.”

Hot and Rzadzinski will make their GT4 America debut at Sonoma Raceway on April 5-7 for the first double header of the 13-race championship. The race format will show the pair of drivers splitting the driving duties in the No. 5 Nissan Z GT4 for each of the 60-minute races. With the exception of round five at Circuit of the Americas, each weekend will host two races a weekend. Round five will hold a three-hour endurance race, a first for the GT4 race series.

The No. 5 entry joins Flying Lizard’s previously announced GT4 America lineup of the No. 13 Aston Martin entry of Todd Parriott and Tom Dyer, also racing their first full season with the 2020 and 2023 series team champions. The Lizards will also field two other entries under the SRO America umbrella, with Elias Sabo and Andy Lee racing the No. 8 Aston Martin Vantage GT3 in the Fanatec GT World Challenge America Powered by AWS, and Jason Bell racing the No. 2 Aston Martin in the GT America Powered by AWS.

About Flying Lizard Motorsports

Flying Lizard Motorsports is a premier motorsport team known for its unwavering commitment to excellence and success on the racing circuit. With a rich history spanning over two decades, Flying Lizard Motorsports has earned a formidable reputation as a powerhouse in the world of motorsports, boasting 24 championship titles and a legacy of podium finishes across North America and at the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans. Fueled by passion, expertise, and a relentless drive for perfection, the team continues to push boundaries and set new standards of performance in every competition it enters. Through strategic partnerships and a dedicated team of professionals, Flying Lizard Motorsports remains at the forefront of motorsport innovation, delivering thrilling racing experiences and unforgettable moments for fans worldwide.

Applewood Auto Group

Applewood Auto Group, established in 1998, has grown into a prominent player in the automotive industry in British Columbia, with 11 dealerships across Greater Vancouver and Vancouver Island. The group offers a vast selection of vehicles from manufacturers such as Nissan, Kia, Infiniti, Ford, GM, and Mitsubishi, alongside a dedicated Performance Center. With a strong emphasis on community engagement, Applewood Auto Group has dedicated itself to making a positive impact within the communities it serves by providing unparalleled customer service and fostering long-term relationships built on trust and satisfaction.

Chuck E. Cheese and Hendrick Motorsports Rev Up for Program’s 2nd Year

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Official Release
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More rewards for ‘They Win, You Win’ promotion, New kid-friendly racing YT content, New licensed products, and Sweepstakes winners every month

IRVING, Texas, Feb. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Chuck E. Cheese, the number one global family entertainment venue, and 14-time NASCAR Cup Series champions, Hendrick Motorsports, are celebrating the successful two-year milestone of their innovative program, and the start of the 2024 racing season with a winning lineup of new promotions and content for race fans to enjoy around the world.

Just in time for the biggest race of the year, this dynamic collaboration continues to accelerate the world of racing with family entertainment to reach the shared goal of bringing families together to create memories of a lifetime.

“They Win, You Win” Promotion is BACK with MORE E-Tickets
On January 29, Chuck E. Cheese and Hendrick Motorsports launched an enhanced “They Win, You Win” promotion with DOUBLE the prizes this year, giving participants a chance to win free E-Tickets based on the performance of Hendrick Motorsports’ powerhouse lineup of talented drivers, including #5 Kyle Larson, #9 Chase Elliott, #24 William Byron, and #48 Alex Bowman. Now through November 11, participants can win up to 1,750 free E-Tickets every week whenever the team places in the top 3. This weekly promotion adds an extra layer of thrill to the racing season, allowing families to celebrate victories both on and off the track. Sign-up now and tune in every week to cheer on all four Hendrick Motorsports drivers for a chance to win Free E-tickets: https://www.chuckecheese.com/theywinyouwin/.

“Racing World” Program Expands
The popular, co-branded “Racing World” features Hendrick Motorsports, the record-holding team with 301 Cup Series victories, to bring the exciting sport of racing to kids and families throughout the country offering a variety of licensed products and merchandise, kid-focused content and an immersive mobile app game that brings the thrill of the track to the fingertips of racing enthusiasts. Download the Chuck E. Cheese Racing World mobile app game for free in the iOS and Android app stores and start racing today!

New Merchandise Collection:
Chuck E. Cheese unveils an expanded collection of exclusive co-branded “Racing World” merchandise at retail for both kids and adults across its classic, retro and current styles. From trendy tees and wrapping paper to high-end hats and shoes, fans can race to victory sporting a diverse range of items that blend the iconic Chuck E. Cheese charm with the high-speed spirit of Hendrick Motorsports. Plus, the highly anticipated Chuck E. Cheese Die-Cast will be available for purchase at all Chuck E. Cheese U.S. locations this summer.

Check out the Chuck E. Cheese Racing World Collection across the following online retailers:

Chuck E. Cheese Shop
Hendrick Motorsports Shop
New Era Caps
Select apparel on Target, Amazon and Walmart

Original YouTube Video Content
To provide young fans with an immersive and educational experience, Chuck E. Cheese and Hendrick Motorsports are excited to launch exclusive co-branded “Racing World” video content on the official Chuck E. Cheese YouTube channel throughout the season. Join Chuck E. and the Hendrick Motorsports pit crew as they bring kid-friendly racing facts to life, offering a behind-the-scenes look into the exciting world of professional racing. The content aims to entertain, educate, and inspire the next generation of racing enthusiasts.

Sweepstakes with Monthly Prizes:
New for 2024, Chuck E. Cheese and Hendrick Motorsports are teaming up to give fans the chance to win incredible prizes, every month, throughout the entire season with the Racing World Sweepstakes. Fans will now have the chance to win prizes ranging from VIP race experiences to Ultimate Birthday Parties at Chuck E. Cheese and so much more. The sweepstakes, which opened on February 1st, will run for the entire racing season, and offer fans repeated opportunities to be a part of the racing action. Check out the full lineup of prizes at www.chuckecheese.com/racingsweeps/.

David McKillips, President and CEO of CEC Entertainment, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The 2023 NASCAR season proved to be an exciting and wild ride thanks to the Hendrick Motorsports organization. Not only did the team earn themselves a reputation as a formidable force on the track, but their commitment to excellence off the track – speaks to the great success and impact of this partnership. We have so many new and engaging integrations on the horizon, and we can’t wait to continue celebrating major milestones with Hendrick Motorsports in 2024.”

Jeff Gordon, four-time NASCAR champion and vice chairman of Hendrick Motorsports, added, “The past year has been incredible, working with Chuck E. Cheese to bring the thrill of auto racing to even more families than ever before. It’s been an absolute joy to watch new fans of all ages fall in love with racing.”

The 2-year anniversary is a testament to the success of the Chuck E. Cheese and Hendrick Motorsports program in creating lasting memories and shared experiences for families across the nation. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for more surprises, announcements, and promotions throughout the year.

For more information, visit www.chuckecheese.com/racingworld.

About CEC Entertainment, LLC.
CEC Entertainment, LLC. is the nationally recognized leader in family entertainment and dining with its Chuck E. Cheese, Peter Piper Pizza brands and virtual kitchen concept, Pasqually’s Pizza & Wings. Chuck E. Cheese is the place where half a million happy birthdays are celebrated every year, and where positive, lifelong memories for families are made through fun, food, and play. It’s the place Where A Kid Can Be A Kid® with a commitment to providing a fun, safe environment, and helping to protect families through industry-leading programs such as Kid Check®. As a strong advocate for its local communities, Chuck E. Cheese has donated more than $21 million to schools through its fundraising programs. Peter Piper Pizza features dining, entertainment and carryout with a neighborhood pizzeria feel and “pizza made fresh, families made happy” culture. Peter Piper Pizza takes pride in delivering quality food and fun that reconnects family and friends. Created in 2020, Pasqually’s Pizza & Wings offers a distinct, customized eating experience outside of a restaurant environment that amplifies classic pizza and wings and operates out of 400 ghost locations nationwide. The Company and its franchisees operate a system of nearly 600 Chuck E. Cheese fun centers and more than 120 Peter Piper Pizza venues, with locations in 47 states and 16 foreign countries and territories. For more information, visit chuckecheese.com, pasquallyspizza.com, and peterpiperpizza.com.

About Hendrick Motorsports:
Founded by Rick Hendrick in 1984, Hendrick Motorsports is the winningest team in NASCAR Cup Series history. At the sport’s premier level, the organization holds the all-time records in every major statistical category, including championships (14), points-paying race victories (301) and laps led (more than 79,000). It has earned at least one race win in a record 39 different seasons, including an active streak of 38 in a row (1986-2023). The team fields four full-time Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 entries in the NASCAR Cup Series with drivers Kyle Larson, Chase Elliott, William Byron and Alex Bowman. Headquartered on more than 100 acres in Concord, North Carolina, Hendrick Motorsports employs approximately 600 people. For more information, please visit HendrickMotorsports.com or interact on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Jason Kitzmiller; A.L.L. Construction Racing Focused on Daytona ARCA Return

By
Official Release
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DAYTONA BEACH, Fla.: Last year’s BRANDT 200 Supporting Florida FFA at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway certainly brought a lot of positive memories for ARCA Menards Series veteran Jason Kitzmiller and his No. 97 A.L.L. Construction Racing | CR7 Motorsports team.

Unfortunately, the strongest race of Kitzmiller’s ARCA career left more to be desired after his No. 97 A.L.L. Construction Chevrolet was shuffled out of the draft and left with a 19th-place finish in the season-opener.

Fast forward 12 months later, Kitzmiller and his Todd Myers–led team return to the “World Center of Racing” focused on finishing what they started and delivering a defining performance in Saturday afternoon’s Daytona ARCA 200.

“Last year was so much fun,” said Kitzmiller.

“Yes, the race did not end the way that we hoped, but we were able to showcase the capabilities of our race team and I’m eager to get back to Daytona this week and see if we can duplicate our performance but earn the finish I feel like we deserve.”

The family-owned team opted not to participate in the series pre-season test last month at Daytona, but Kitzmiller doesn’t see the missed track time as anything to necessarily be concerned about. He believes with the leadership of Myers and the guidance of spotter Tim Fedewa, his team will quickly adapt.

“Traditionally it works out for us to be able to test, but the stars did not align last month,” offered Kitzmiller.

“It’s a bummer because the test always gives you the opportunity to knock the rust off a little bit – and shake down the car pretty good. Todd (Myers) does an amazing job with our equipment, and I believe our group will quickly make up any gaps.

“Talking to some folks, some teams only tested a couple of hours on Friday night, and it seemed like a chaotic day on Saturday, so maybe it was for the best. I know our No. 97 A.L.L. Construction Racing Chevrolet is going to be fast and we’ll see if we can’t fight for a pole and win this weekend.”

Kitzmiller is set for another year of racing – which includes a limited ARCA Menards Series schedule, but he is poised to deliver his first top-10 finish since finishing ninth at Pocono (Pa.) Raceway in 2022.

“We’ll be at some of our favorites,” added Kitzmiller. “I am expecting us to be at Talladega, Kansas, Michigan, and another race or two throughout the season. I’m disappointed that the series isn’t making the trip to Pocono Raceway this year, but we’ll look and see if we can find another racetrack to take its place – maybe Dover, we’ll see.”

In addition to the ARCA Menards Series, A.L.L. Construction Racing will also participate in select Grand National Super Series events this season.

“Between the ARCA Menards Series and the Grand National Super Series, I think we can not only have some fun but, hopefully, even find ourselves in a position to contend to win some races. The competition is probably at its best right now in both worlds of racing, but I am ready for it.

“Our team works hard even with a limited schedule to make sure we come to the track and be as competitive as possible. We’ll keep doing that and hopefully make 2024 our best year yet.”

Outside of his own busy racing schedule, Kitzmiller will also be traveling to races to watch his son Isacc’s career blossom.

“I am excited to watch Isacc build his craft,” mentioned Kitzmiller. “He has done a great job thus far, and as he adjusts to new tracks and new beginnings, I plan to be there to support him as much as I can. Maybe, who knows – someday we just might be racing together on the same ARCA track.”

Since 2020, Kitzmiller has 22 ARCA Menards Series starts to his credit with four top-10 finishes overall, including a career-best eighth-place finish twice at Talladega Superspeedway (April 2020) and Michigan International Speedway (August 2020) respectively.

The Daytona ARCA 200 (80 laps | 200 miles) is the first of 20 races on the 2024 ARCA Menards Series schedule. Practice begins Thurs., Feb. 15, with a fifty-minute session from 4:05 p.m. – 4:55 p.m. Group qualifying is set for Fri., Feb. 16, at 1:30 p.m. The season-opener for the 72nd consecutive ARCA season is set for the following afternoon on Feb. 17 to take the green flag shortly after 1:30 p.m. The event will be televised live on FOX Sports 1 (FS1) with the Motor Racing Network (MRN) and SiriusXM Satellite Radio (XM channel 391 | online channel 981) handling the radio waves. ARCARacing.com will also stream live timing and scoring throughout the entire weekend festivities.

Mandy Chick Ready to Kick Off Season at Daytona

By
Official Release
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DE SOTO, Kan. (02/15/24) – After a successful four-race slate last year, Mandy Chick is set to begin her 2024 campaign with the ARCA Menards Series Daytona ARCA 200 at Daytona International Speedway this Saturday.

Chick turned in an impressive fifth-place result in the 2023 edition of the event – her first-ever superspeedway race. She started 25th on the grid but navigated tight packs in the draft and vaulted forward 20 spots on the famed 2.5-mile tri-oval in Daytona Beach, Florida. This year, the 22-year-old De Soto, Kansas, native is looking to again deliver a head-turning performance and be up front when the checkered flag flies.

Chick has already found success at the World Center of Racing this season; she rounded out the ARCA Menards Series test session at Daytona in January sitting in P2.

“Daytona is one of my favorite tracks – it has so much history and character,” Chick said. “I am honored to have the opportunity to race there.”

Chick will again be behind the wheel of her family-owned No. 74 Chevrolet SS in her ARCA Menards Series efforts throughout 2024. In addition to her duties behind the wheel, Chick is finishing her senior year at Terre Haute, Indiana’s Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology where she majors in mechanical engineering. She also remains the president of her Tri Delta sorority chapter.

“I am so thankful for the awesome people who support me, from my family and sorority sisters all the way to my dedicated marketing partners,” Chick said. “We had much success at Daytona last year and learned a lot! I can’t wait to continue the momentum this weekend.”

At Daytona, Chick’s support comes from JRC, FK Rod Ends, Fragola Performance Systems, Dynamic Drivelines, Aero Race Wheels, Day Construction, Pro Fab Headers & Exhaust, Whirlwind Ranch and Victory 23 Designs.

The Daytona ARCA 200 gets underway at 1:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 17. Television coverage is on FOX Sports 1 and the FOX Sports App. The radio broadcast is available on the Motor Racing Network (MRN).

More information on Mandy Chick can be found at www.mandychick.com.

Greg Van Alst Returns to Daytona Hoping to Defend Daytona ARCA Title

By
Official Release
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DAYTONA BEACH, Fla.: Did you really think he wouldn’t be back?

Despite breaking his back in a NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway last fall, Greg Van Alst was determined nothing would keep him from defending his ARCA Menards Series Daytona title on February 17, 2024.

After months of rigorous recovery and sometimes painful physical therapy, Van Alst received the all-clear to return to competition following the Holidays. He returned to the cockpit for the first time in nearly three and a half months at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway during the annual two-day preseason test session in mid-January.

For Van Alst, it was emotional.

Returning to the “World Center of Racing,” knowing the last time he left the hollowed grounds of Daytona Beach, Fla., a winner.

But Van Alst also climbed the high banks of the 2.5-mile superspeedway on January 12, 2024, without the physical support of his father, who lost a short but courageous battle with cancer last April. Still, the Anderson, Ind. native was able to put his emotions aside and focus on the job at hand – returning to Victory Lane.

With his No. 35 Chevrolet fixed after a monstrous incident in the ARCA Menards Series race at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway last April, Van Alst quickly showcased early on that his car had the speed it had showcased during the 2023 season-opener last year.

Unfortunately, Van Alst’s luck at the test was short-lived while in the draft, and in a tight pack, the group ran over a piece of debris on the track that ultimately caused heavy damage to his race car and ended their test early.

With the necessary repairs made and the car as good as new, Van Alst is focused on reliving the moment from February 18, 2023, and pulling his No. 35 Greg Van Alst Motorsports Chevrolet back into Victory Lane for his second career ARCA Menards Series victory.

Van Alst, however, knows it’s not relatively that easy.

“I’m ready to do this,” said Van Alst. “A lot has certainly changed in a year. Some good, some bad, but we are back as a team to defend our ARCA Menards Series title at Daytona, and I’m so thankful for that.”

Knowing the dominoes will once again have to fall his way and the stars realign on the last lap of the 80-lap contest, Van Alst believes that magic can happen twice, and through a relentless effort and sheer devotion, his team won’t go down without a fight.

“There is a lot that has to happen to win two in a row at Daytona,” added Van Alst. “Everything just has to set perfect. You have to be at the right place at the right time. Have that perfect opportunity to take advantage of that open door that leads to Victory Lane. We’re back and going to try and make it happen again.”

With a focus on attempting to run the full ARCA Menards Series schedule again in 2024, Van Alst knows the importance of starting the year on the right foot.

It’s super important,” added Van Alst. “It’s so hard to play catchup if you have a poor finish at Daytona. I try to stay positive and not think about that, though. We’ll worry about it afterward if we have to.

“Our goal throughout the weekend, though, is to ensure our car is strong in the draft and I can maneuver the car well. Handling will come into play, especially near the end of the race. Just need to make sure we are in a place to execute.”

Unlike last year, Greg Van Alst will need a different kind of help in 2024.

Greg Van Alst Motorsports will field two cars for the first time as a car owner in the first of 20 ARCA Menards Series races this season.

Midwest racing standout and fellow Martinsville, Ind. native Isaac Johnson has been tapped to drive the No. 34 Ford Mustang as a teammate to Van Alst’s No. 35 Chevrolet SS this weekend.

Johnson, 23, boasts experience in various racing disciplines, including Go-Karts, Kenyon Midgets, Dirt Late Models, and Pavement Late Models – but Saturday afternoon’s race will mark the biggest race of his career.

“There were a lot of options on the table as far as what I could do to kick off the season,” sounded Van Alst.

“I am all about giving back and creating a platform where the next wave of racers can come to Greg Van Alst Motorsports and be confident about what they will be driving and knowing that they are going to have the same opportunity to contend for wins – just as if I was driving the race car.

“We are so excited to have Isaac racing with us this weekend. In August, he did a great job in his ARCA Menards Series debut at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. I believe he can benefit our team by continuing to build our notebook from the test in January and being an asset during the race on Saturday.”

Zaki Ali (Injury & Criminal Trial Attorney; 1-888-649-1-ALI) has joined the winning ARCA Menards Series operation as the primary partner of the team’s No. 35 Chevrolet SS for the highly contested 80-lap race on Saturday afternoon.

Nine other companies have also pledged their support in hopes of Van Alst’s securing back-to-back ARCA Daytona trophies, including CB Fabricating, Top Choice Fence, Verns Concrete, ACDirect.com, Delaware Valley Septic Sewer, Storm Lifeline Fire and Safety Systems, Hertz Law Firm, Norton Transport and Mikes Hardscape Supply.

“Zaki Ali, CB Fabricating, Top Choice Fence, Verns Concrete, ACDirect.com, Delaware Valley Septic Sewer, Storm Lifeline Fire and Safety Systems, Hertz Law Firm, Norton Transport and Mikes Hardscape Supply have all also been instrumental in helping keep my motorsports dream alive for a second consecutive,” added Van Alst.

“Without these 10 companies, our participation in Saturday afternoon’s Daytona ARCA 200 would not have been possible. For me, there is only one way to thank them properly: putting our No. 35 Chevrolet back in Victory Lane!”

For more on Greg Van Alst and Greg Van Alst Motorsports, please visit GregVanAlst.com, like them on Facebook (Van Alst Motorsports) and follow him on X | Twitter (@GregVanAlst35).

For more on Isaac Johnson, please like him on Facebook (Isaac Johnson Racing), or follow him on Instagram (@isaacjohnsonracing), TikTok (@isaacjohnsonracing) and X | Twitter (@isaac72johnson).

The Hard Rock Bet 200 (80 laps | 200 miles) is the first of 20 races on the 2024 ARCA Menards Series schedule. Practice begins Thurs., Feb. 15, with a fifty-minute session from 4:05 p.m. – 4:55 p.m. Group qualifying is set for Fri., Feb. 16, at 1:30 p.m. The season-opener for the 72nd consecutive ARCA season is set for the following afternoon on Feb. 17 to take the green flag shortly after 1:30 p.m. The event will be televised live on FOX Sports 1 (FS1) with the Motor Racing Network (MRN) and SiriusXM Satellite Radio (XM channel 391 | online channel 981) handling the radio waves. ARCARacing.com will also stream live timing and scoring throughout the entire weekend festivities.

Stage set for Extreme E Season 4 opener in Saudi Arabia

By
Official Release
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15 February 2024, London: The fourth instalment of Extreme E is almost upon us, with the 2024 campaign opening in Saudi Arabia this weekend (17-18 February).

There are new teams and new line-ups joining the fray in Season 4, along with plenty of familiar faces, as the pioneering all-electric off-road racing series returns to action for the Desert X Prix.

The deserts of Saudi Arabia have launched each of the three previous Extreme E campaigns, all offering astonishing backdrops for the opening rounds of the championship season, and another special event can be expected for Rounds 1 and 2 of the 2024 campaign in Jeddah.

Extreme E’s inaugural season race in Jeddah forms part of a wider, ground-breaking multi-year partnership with the Public Investment Fund (PIF). PIF plays a vital role in this championship through the recently announced Electric 360 partnership, which also incorporates Formula E and E1, to support the growth and transformation of electric motorsports globally.

The 2024 grid

It is only a couple of months since Extreme E’s dramatic 2023 finale in Antofagasta, Chile, which saw Nico Rosberg’s Rosberg X Racing (RXR) come out victorious to take the championship in a five-team showdown at the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix.

That win ensured their second championship in three seasons and, with the team retaining their strong pairing of Johan Kristoffersson and Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky once again, you can be sure RXR will be amongst the front runners.

ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team (ASXE) were narrowly beaten to their maiden Extreme E title in 2023. Laia Sanz returns for the Spanish outfit in a bid to capture the championship this term, and will be joined by Jamaican Fraser McConnell.

McConnell, who initially joined the series as a Championship Driver, took two victories for X44 Vida Carbon Racing in Season 3, and will look to add to his tally under the guidance of the team’s advisor, two-time World Rally Champion and 2024 Dakar Rally winner Carlos Sainz Snr. ASXE took their debut win in Extreme E in Saudi Arabia last year and will be keen to return to the top step in the desert.

E.ON Veloce Racing also took their inaugural Extreme E win at the 2023 Desert X Prix. After enduring mixed fortunes in their first two Extreme E campaigns, the team surged up the order in Season 3, finishing third overall with Molly Taylor and Kevin Hansen behind the wheel. Taylor and Hansen have proven to be a strong pairing ever since debuting together, and their three wins in 2023 was the joint-highest across the field. After claiming two podiums on their last visit to Saudi Arabia, the British outfit will be looking to replicate their strong start this time around in Jeddah.

There are plenty of new faces in the Extreme E paddock for 2024, but consistency is key for the Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E squad. Their driver line-up of Timmy Hansen and Catie Munnings have competed in every event together for the team since the series’ inception in 2021. The duo will be looking to return to the front of the pack in 2024.

Although Hansen and Munnings claimed two podium finishes in 2023, the pair suffered misfortune and bad luck throughout the campaign, ensuring they could only finish as high as seventh overall. Saudi Arabia, though, brings back good memories for Andretti Altawkilat, the scene of the team’s debut podium at the series’ first event in 2021, and replicating that would signal strong progress for the team.

The NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team returns in 2024 with an all-new driver line-up, signalling a statement of intent for the campaign ahead. Yet to score a victory in the series so far, the team have been frequent challengers and have scored two podium finishes. Their new pairing, however, has experience in Extreme E of taking race wins and the overall championship, with Cristina Gutiérrez and Mattias Ekström leading the team in 2024.

Gutiérrez took the Season 2 title with Sébastien Loeb for X44 Vida Carbon Racing in 2022, and the four-time race winner has yet to finish below fourth in her Extreme E career to date. Two-time DTM champion Ekström finished as runner-up for ASXE last-term, and will look to build on his two victories in the series with NEOM McLaren XE.

Jenson Button’s JBXE return for the 2024 season with a new driver pairing, as they bid to climb up the order in Extreme E. Andreas Bakkerud joined the team from the Hydro X Prix onwards last term, and will look to showcase his off-road racing pedigree across a full campaign in the series to launch the team up the order.

Bakkerud will be joined by debutant Dania Akeel, with the Dakar Rally and Baja competitor set to get behind the wheel of the ODYSSEY 21 for the first time at her home event. The first Saudi female to participate in an international rally competition, Akeel epitomises the series’ ethos of trailblazing and will be hoping for a strong start at the Desert X Prix.

The SUN Minimeal Team will make their Extreme E debut, but the series rookies will have plenty of experience in the ranks when the 2024 season begins. The outfit will be led by Timo Scheider, who will race for the team and utilise his wealth of motorsport experience in the role of Team Principal. The versatile Scheider will be joined by Extreme E race-winner Klara Andersson for the campaign. Rivals in the FIA World Rallycross Championship, the duo have shared a similar path in Extreme E having made the journey from Championship Driver to the podium in the series’ short history, and will be a formidable pairing for SUN Minimeal Team’s maiden Extreme E outing.

The final team to join the Extreme E grid for 2024 is LEGACY MOTOR CLUB IN ASSOCIATION WITH JIMMIE JOHNSON (LEGACY M.C.), an exciting new outfit joining the championship and led by motorsport royalty Jimmie Johnson. Headed by seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and Hall of Famer Johnson, LEGACY M.C. will make its Extreme E debut boasting an all-US line-up and plenty of off-road racing pedigree. Exciting talent Gray Leadbetter will make her debut in the series, alongside three-time motocross champion and a multi-disciplinary X Games gold medalist Travis Pastrana, capturing a unique blend of youth and experience as the team prepares for its Extreme E bow.

Pastrana will make a one-off appearance in Saudi Arabia, before Johnson debuts from Round 3 for LEGACY M.C..With eight teams in the running for championship glory, Extreme E Season 4 is all set to be another classic, with twists and turns throughout the campaign.

The rulebook

Each X Prix is a double-header and plays host to back-to-back rounds across the weekend. With eight teams battling it out for victory at each event, the main change is that there will be four cars per Heat in 2024. What’s more, come the end of the campaign, the starting drivers between men and women must be equal across the campaign, which should spice up the action for the year ahead.

Redemption Race victors will now receive 12 points, an increase of four from the previous eight, with the winners minimising the deficit to those competing in the Grand Final, which could have a significant impact come the end of the season in the overall points tally.

For Qualifying, the grid choices are also now automatically reversed for Q2 as opposed to Q2 starting positions being based upon the results of Q1 Heats. As with last season, the winners of each of the four Qualifying Heats will receive one championship point.

Grid positions for the Grand Final will continue to be determined through the fan voting process called GridPlay. The teams that do not make it to the Grand Final must ‘gift’ their votes to their preferred team on the Grand Final grid. Grid positions for the Redemption Race will be defined by the Intermediate Classification results from Qualifying, with the team that finished 5th choosing grid position first, followed by the team that finished 6th, and so on.

The Continental Traction Challenge will be returning in 2024 and will be crucial to the overall points total once again. The team that sets the fastest time, a combination of both the male and female drivers’ fastest times, through the allocated sector will win the Continental Traction Challenge and earn one championship point. This will run for each of the individual race days on Saturday and Sunday. If any teams are tied in the Qualifying standings, their positioning will be determined by their time in the Continental Traction Challenge – the team with the quicker run through the allocated sector during Qualifying will receive the higher overall position.

Distances for each X Prix course and the number of laps will vary depending on the characteristics of the location, such as the terrain and the environmental conditions. What remains consistent, though, is a driver changeover in the ‘Switch Zone’, taking place at the halfway point.

An ‘ENOWA Hyperdrive’ boost will also be available to each driver once in a race. Activated when the driver presses a button on their steering wheel, they will enjoy an increase in power for a fixed amount of time. The timing for this will be crucial when either attacking and defending out on track.

Claudio Toldi, Head of Marketing Communications, Replacement Tires EMEA, at Continental, said: “Continental is proud to be a partner in the fourth season of Extreme E and to support the series with our latest tyre innovation, the CrossContact Extreme E. We continue our commitment to sustainability and technological excellence with the start of the Desert X Prix in Saudi Arabia.

“The CrossContact Extreme E is the result of our continuous research and development, and is made from around 43 per cent recycled and renewable materials. This underlines our endeavour to reduce the environmental impact and increase the performance of our products.

“We look forward to equipping Extreme E and its teams with our high-performance tyres, and together setting an example for sustainability and innovation in motorsport.”

The form guide in Saudi Arabia

Two-time champions RXR have been the most successful team in Saudi Arabia, taking two victories and two additional podiums from the fourth races held so far. As Season 3 champions, Nico Rosberg’s outfit will be the team to beat.

Nevertheless, last year’s Desert X Prix showed that they can be beaten despite their formidable form, with E.ON Veloce Racing and ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team both taking their debut wins in the series.

With eight teams in the running for victory when the lights go out, the Season 4 opener in the Saudi Arabian desert is set for another spectacular.

To learn more about Extreme E, visit – www.Extreme-E.com

Team Penske NASCAR Cup Series Qualifying Report – DAYTONA 500

By
Official Release
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DAYTONA 500 Qualifying
Daytona Beach, Florida – February 14, 2024

DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY – NASCAR 101

With an already well-decorated history, Team Penske driver Joey Logano achieved another first for team owner Roger Penske Wednesday by capturing the organization’s first pole for the prestigious DAYTONA 500. Teammate Austin Cindric also advanced to the final round of qualifying, clocking in fourth on the charts. Ryan Blaney finished the session 18th. The No. 22 Shell-Pennzoil Ford Mustang leads an all-Ford front row as Michael McDowell claimed the second-place starting position, a manufacturer first since 2012. Logano and McDowell leading the field marks the first time since 2015 that the front row consists of two previous DAYTONA 500 champions.

Tonight’s qualifying session sets the lineup for Thursday’s pair of 150-mile races that ultimately determine the starting order for Sunday’s 66th DAYTONA 500.

Joey Logano, driver, No. 22 Shell-Pennzoil Ford Mustang
1st

Austin Cindric, driver, No. 2 Discount Tire Ford Mustang
4th

Ryan Blaney, driver, No. 12 Menards/Peak Ford Mustang
18th

HEAR FROM LOGANO: “This is all about the team. Honestly, I’d like to take credit but I can’t today. The guys have done such an amazing job working on these cars. This superspeedway qualifying is 100 percent the car. There’s only so much the driver can do, so I’m really proud of them. That’s a big win for our team, for everyone at Team Penske, Ford with the new Dark Horse Mustang. Being able to come down here and put it on the pin and finally someone else wins the pole here. That part feels good. I’ve never even been close to a superspeedway pole before, so this is my first pole on a speedway. It couldn’t be at a cooler event, obviously at the Daytona 500. I’m proud of the team. I can’t thank everybody enough. Shell-Pennzoil, Hunt Brothers Pizza, AAA, Autotrader, everybody that supports this No. 22 car. It’s a huge deal for Team Penske.”

DUEL LINEUPS: Logano will lead the field to green in the first Duel, with teammates Cindric and Blaney slated to start second and ninth, respectively, in the second Duel. Coverage of the races begins at 7:00 p.m. ET on FS1, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

TEAM PENSKE AT DAYTONA: Team Penske has started 154 races at Daytona International Speedway, 77 of which were in the league’s marquee event, the DAYTONA 500. Of the organization’s three wins in The Great American Race, the most recent came in 2022 when Cindric, driver of the No. 2 Discount Tire Ford Mustang, etched his name in history as the first rookie to win the crown jewel event. Ryan Newman recorded Team Penske’s first win in the event in 2008, followed by Logano in 2015.

Burton, Motorcraft/DEX Imaging Team Among Top 10 in Daytona 500 Qualifying

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Official Release
-

February 14, 2024

Harrison Burton and the No. 21 Motorcraft/DEX Imaging team turned in a top-10 performance in Wednesday night’s pole qualifying for the Daytona 500 and are set to start fifth in the second Bluegreen Vacations Duel on Thursday night.

Burton was 10th fastest in the opening round of qualifying on Wednesday with a lap around the 2.5-mile Daytona International Speedway at 180.350 miles per hour.

That advanced him to the second qualifying round where his Motorcraft/DEX Imaging Mustang Dark Horse was 10th fastest again with a lap at 180.328 mph.

“That’s a decent start for us,” Burton told reporters at the track. “It’s exciting to be in the hunt and make the top 10.”

Burton said the Mustang Dark Horses are fast so far at Daytona. (Joey Logano and Michael McDowell swept the front row and Austin Cindric joined Burton among the top-10 qualifiers.)

“I’m excited to get out and see how [the Mustang Dark Horse] drives in the race,” Burton said. “It’s going to be interesting to see who gave up what for handling versus speed.

“I don’t think we gave up too much, so I’m excited to race and excited to carry that speed into the race as well…

“I’m proud of our guys. They brought me a fast race car, and I’m ready to go drive it well.”

Only the top two qualifiers earned starting spots on Wednesday. The rest of the Daytona 500 line-up will be determined during the two 150-mile Duel races on Thursday.

The first 60-lap Duel is set to get the green flag at 7 p.m., with the second race rolling off at approximately 8:45 p.m.

Two practice sessions are scheduled, the first on Friday at 5:35 p.m. and the second on Saturday at 10:30 a.m.

The green flag for Sunday’s 200-lap Daytona 500 is set to fly just after 2:30 p.m., with Stage breaks planned for Laps 65 and 130.

FOX Sports 1 will televise the Duels and practices, with the coverage switching to FOX for the 500.

About DEX Imaging
DEX Imaging is the digital document imaging division of Staples, the world’s largest business solutions provider. DEX sells and services the broadest selection of copiers, printers and data management solutions, such as HP, Konica Minolta, Canon, Kyocera and numerous others.

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES:
Reducing Operating Costs
Reducing Paper Consumption
Increasing Productivity

DEX Imaging has been the recipient of virtually every industry award since the company’s inception, including the JD Power & Associates Award for Best Customer Experience, the prestigious ProTech Service award by Konica Minolta, the Diamond Premier Dealer Award by Kyocera, and the Elite DEALER Award by ‘ENX’ magazine. Other accolades include being named ‘Best Place to Work’ by numerous business journals in the markets DEX serves.

About Motorcraft®
Motorcraft offers a complete line of replacement parts that are recommended by Ford Motor Company. From routine maintenance to under hood repairs, Motorcraft parts offer value with high quality and the right fit at competitive prices. Motorcraft parts are available nationwide at Ford Dealers and Lincoln Retailers, independent distributors and automotive-parts retailers, and are backed by the Service Parts Limited Warranty* of Ford Motor Company. For more information, visit www.motorcraft.com.
*See your dealer for limited-warranty details.

About Quick Lane® Tire & Auto Center
Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center offers extraordinary service for routine maintenance, serving all vehicle makes and models. Quick Lane provides a full menu of automotive services, including tires, oil change and maintenance, brakes, batteries, alternator and electrical system, air conditioning system, cooling system, transmission service, suspension and steering, wheel alignment, belts and hoses, lamps and bulbs and wiper blades plus a thorough vehicle checkup report. Service is performed by expert technicians while you wait at any of nearly 800 locations in the U.S., with evening and weekend hours available and no appointment necessary. For more information about Quick Lane, please visit www.quicklane.com.
*See your dealer for limited-warranty details.”

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for customers and deepen their loyalty. Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, along with connected services. The company does that through three customer-centered business segments: Ford Blue, engineering iconic gas-powered and hybrid vehicles; Ford Model e, inventing breakthrough EVs along with embedded software that defines exceptional digital experiences for all customers; and Ford Pro, helping commercial customers transform and expand their businesses with vehicles and services tailored to their needs. Additionally, Ford is pursuing mobility solutions through Ford Next, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 177,000 people worldwide. More information about the company and its products and services is available at corporate.ford.com.

About Ford Performance
Ford Performance is based in Dearborn, Mich. It is responsible for Ford’s performance vehicle development and major racing operations globally, including NASCAR, IMSA, SRO British GT, FIA World Rally Championship, Supercars Championship, World of Outlaws, Ultra4, SCORE-International, FIA Rally-Raid, Formula Drift, NHRA, Rebelle Rally, Thailand Super Series and our latest commitment in Formula 1 with RedBull Ford Powertrains. Ford Performance also maintains a constantly evolving fleet of electric performance demonstrators to showcase the limits of electrification technology. In addition, the organization also oversees the development of Ford’s racing engines, as well as the outreach programs with all Ford Clubs and Ford enthusiasts. For more information regarding Ford racing’s activities, please visit Performance.Ford.com or follow @FordPerformance on Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, TikTok and YouTube.

Wood Brothers Racing
Wood Brothers Racing was formed in 1950 in Stuart, Va., by Hall of Famer Glenn Wood. Wood Brothers Racing is the oldest active team and one of the winningest teams in NASCAR history. Since its founding, the team won 99 races (including at least one race in every decade for the last seven decades) and 120 poles in NASCAR’s top-tier series. Fielding only Ford products for its entire history, the Wood Brothers own the longest association of any motorsports team with a single manufacturer. Glenn’s brother, Leonard, is known for inventing the modern pit stop. The team currently runs the Ford Mustang driven by Harrison Burton in the famous No. 21 racer.

Logano and McDowell Sweep Daytona 500 Front Row in Mustang Dark Horse Season Debut

By
Official Release
-

Ford Performance Notes and Quotes
NASCAR Cup Series
Daytona 500 Qualifying | Wednesday, February 14, 2024

NEW FORD MUSTANG DARK HORSE MAKES CUP SERIES REGULAR SEASON DEBUT BY SWEEPING THE FRONT ROW FOR SUNDAY’S DAYTONA 500

  • Joey Logano of Team Penske won the pole for Sunday’s Daytona 500 while Michael McDowell of Front Row Motorsports was second in the regular season debut for the new Ford Mustang Dark Horse.
  • Both drivers are locked into the front row for Sunday’s 66th Annual Great American Race.
  • This marks the first Daytona 500 pole for Team Penske owner Roger Penske.
  • It’s also the first Daytona 500 pole for Ford since Carl Edwards in 2012.
  • The last time Ford swept the front row for the Daytona 500 was also in 2012 (Edwards and Greg Biffle).

Ford Performance Top-10 Qualifying Results:

1st – Joey Logano
2nd – Michael McDowell
4th – Austin Cindric
10th – Harrison Burton

JOEY LOGANO, No. 22 Shell/Pennzoil Ford Mustang Dark Horse (Qualified 1st) – “This is all about the team. Honestly, I’d like to take credit but I can’t today. The guys have done such an amazing job working on these cars. This superspeedway qualifying is 100 percent the car. There’s only so much the driver can do, so I’m really proud of them. That’s a big win for our team, for everyone at Team Penske, Ford with the new Dark Horse Mustang. Being able to come down here and put it on the pin and finally someone else wins the pole here. That part feels good. I’ve never even been close to a superspeedway pole before, so this is my first pole on a speedway. It couldn’t be at a cooler event, obviously at the Daytona 500. I’m proud of the team. I can’t thank everybody enough. Shell/Pennzoil, Hunt Brother’s Pizza, AAA, everybody that supports this No. 22 car. It’s a huge deal for Team Penske.”

WALKING INTO VICTORY LANE YOU ARE THE POLE-WINNER FOR THE DAYTONA 500. “Anytime you walk into this area we’re standing here in Victory Lane, I don’t care if it’s qualifying or the Duel or the 500 it’s always special. This is about the team. The driver doesn’t really do a whole bunch in qualifying here. I can’t take much credit today, so these guys did a tremendous job giving me a really fast Mustang. A couple Fords on the front row is something pretty special seeing those Mustangs up front here. It’s a pretty exciting start to Speedweek and hopefully tomorrow night we have a good one and we’ll be in the same spot.”

THIS IS THE FIRST DAYTONA 500 POLE FOR ROGER PENSKE. THAT HAS TO BE REWARDING FOR YOU. “I think this team should take the credit for it. I was the lucky jockey behind the wheel. That’s all I was on this one. It’s obviously something really special. There is more pride taken as a team for winning the Daytona 500 pole than any other pole in the season because of the amount of effort that goes in all winter long working on this race car. It’s nice to see that there’s a lot of speed there and it’s a pretty special moment for everyone at Team Penske and everybody back at the shop, Roush Yates building our engines. This is a real big team moment.”

MICHAEL MCDOWELL, No. 34 Love’s Travel Stops Ford Mustang Dark Horse (Qualified 2nd) – “The feeling is awesome. This is the best that we have ever qualified down here. We’ve always had fast Ford Mustangs, but we really put an emphasis on seeing how much speed we could get out of it. We know that we can work on it Thursday and Friday and all those things. A pole is something that is on the bucket list this year to try and get done. I don’t have a Cup Series pole, so I thought we had a good shot at that one. Obviously, Joey got us there, but two Dark Horse Mustangs on the front row for the Daytona 500 is awesome. A big thanks to everybody at Ford Performance and Doug Yates and Roush Yates Engines. We know a lot has to do with all the hard work that they put in, but I’m just really proud of my guys. We put in a massive effort to try to come down here and have a lot of speed and we did, so it’s a good start to the weekend.”

AUSTIN CINDRIC, No. 2 Discount Tire Ford Mustang Dark Horse (Qualified 4th) – “Obviously, the Ford Mustang Dark Horse is pretty good in its debut. I’m really happy with the speed in our Discount Tire Ford. I’m looking forward to going racing with it.”

HARRISON BURTON, No. 21 Motorcraft/DEX Imaging Ford Mustang Dark Horse (Qualified 10th) – “That’s a decent start for us. It’s exciting to be in the hunt and make the top 10. The Fords in general look really strong, so that’s exciting with our new Dark Horse Ford Mustang. I’m excited to get out and see how it drives in the race. It’s gonna be interesting to see who gave up what for handling versus speed. I don’t think we gave up too much, so I’m excited to race and excited to carry that speed into the race as well. I’m really, really excited. I’m proud of our guys. They brought me a fast race car and I’m ready to go drive it well.”

David Ragan, driver of the No. 60 BuildSubmarines.com Ford Mustang Dark Horse, was the second-fastest Open qualifier and automatically made it into the field for Sunday’s Daytona 500.

DAVID RAGAN, No. 60 BuildSubmarines.com Ford Mustang Dark Horse – “It’s always big to be in the Daytona 500 and the whole week I’ve just been trying to make sure we didn’t make any mistakes. I really felt like we were going to have a shot at a top 10 or top 12 starting spot, but it just shows all of the hard work this BuildSubmarines.com Ford team has done. Derrick Finley, he puts a lot of effort into the race team at RFK. I’ve worked with him in the past and he’s been nervous as a cat all afternoon and so I’m really proud for Derrick and proud for all of the RFK guys, and appreciate Brad Keselowski and Jack Roush giving me an opportunity to come down here to try to win a Daytona 500.”

CHEVROLET NCS AT DAYTONA: Qualifying Report

By
Official Release
-

NASCAR CUP SERIES
DAYTONA 500
DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY
TEAM CHEVY QUALIFYING REPORT
FEBRUARY 14, 2024

 Six Team Chevy Drivers Post Top-10 Qualifying Results at Daytona

Team Chevy Top-10 Qualifying Results:
3rd Kyle Larson, No. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM Camaro ZL1
5th Chase Elliott, No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Camaro ZL1
6th William Byron, No. 24 Axalta Camaro ZL1
7th Austin Dillon, No. 3 Bass Pro Shops Camaro ZL1
8th Kyle Busch, No. 8 Zone Camaro ZL1
9th Ross Chastain, No. 1 Busch Light Camaro ZL1

 
· Six drivers from three different Chevrolet teams posted a top-10 qualifying lap in the first round of qualifying to vie for the pole position for the 66th running of the Daytona 500.

· In the final round of qualifying, Hendrick Motorsports’ Kyle Larson laid down the fastest lap among the Chevrolet drivers, clocking-in a lap at 181.635 mph to land third on the speed chart.

· Anthony Alfredo and the No. 62 Death Wish Coffee Camaro ZL1 team was one of the two open entries to punch a ticket into Sunday’s event through qualifying, with this marking just his second career start in the crown jewel event.

· The two 60-lap, 150-mile, Bluegreen Vacation Duels at Daytona will determine the remaining starting lineup for the 2024 Daytona 500. FS1 will telecast the Duels on Thursday, February 15, beginning at 7 p.m. ET. Live coverage can also be found on MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

 
ANTHONY ALFREDO, NO. 62 DEATH WISH COFFEE CAMARO ZL1, Post-Qualifying Quote:

What are these emotions like for you guys?

“This is insane. We had just talked about any possible scenario we might find ourselves in today, tomorrow and obviously Sunday. But to make it to Sunday is such a challenge with such a competitive field of open cars and drivers behind the wheel, and I am just really thankful for the Beard family to give me this opportunity and for Death Wish Coffee coming on board. We clearly have a fast No. 62 Death Wish Coffee Chevrolet Camaro.

To know we are in and to not have to race in tomorrow; to remove ourselves from some of the sketchy circumstances and focus on Sunday is just an amazing feeling.”

About Chevrolet

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

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