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Towing Basics and Essential Knowledge

By
SM
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Photo by Salah Ait Mokhtar on Unsplash

Whether you’re a seasoned driver or just starting out on your automotive journey, towing can be a daunting task. Whether you’re hauling a trailer, boat, or any other load, it’s crucial to understand the fundamentals of towing to ensure safety and legal compliance on the road. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know as a beginner to towing.

Understanding Towing Capacities

Before you hitch up a trailer or attach any load to your vehicle, it’s essential to understand its towing capacity. Every vehicle has a specified towing capacity set by the manufacturer, which dictates the maximum weight it can safely tow. Exceeding this limit can lead to mechanical failures, accidents, and potentially legal issues.

When determining your vehicle’s towing capacity, consider not only the weight of the trailer or load but also any passengers, cargo, or accessories in your vehicle. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer to find the exact towing capacity for your specific make and model.

Choosing the Right Hitch

Selecting the appropriate hitch for your towing needs is crucial for safe and secure towing. There are several types of hitches available, including ball mounts, fifth-wheel hitches, and gooseneck hitches, each designed for different towing applications.

When choosing a hitch, consider factors such as the type of trailer you’ll be towing, its weight, and the towing capacity of your vehicle. Ensure that the hitch is compatible with both your vehicle and the trailer, and always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for installation and usage.

Proper Trailer Loading

Properly loading your trailer is essential for safe towing and stability on the road. Distribute the weight of the load evenly across the trailer, with heavier items positioned towards the front and lower to the ground. Secure the load with tie-downs or straps to prevent shifting during transit.

Additionally, ensure that the trailer’s tongue weight—the downward force exerted on the hitch—is within the recommended range for your vehicle. Improper tongue weight can cause instability and affect your vehicle’s handling, especially at high speeds or during turns.

Safe Towing Practices

Once you’re on the road, there are several safety precautions to keep in mind while towing:

Maintain a Safe Speed

Always adhere to posted speed limits and drive at a safe and controlled speed, especially when towing. According to the Albuquerque car accident attorney at Davis Kelin, speed is one of the top contributors of car accidents, highlighting the significance of maintaining safe speeds. Keep in mind that towing adds additional weight and length to your vehicle, which can affect braking distance and maneuverability. On some highways, towing vehicles may have a reduced speed limit compared to non-towing passenger cars. 

Allow for Extra Stopping Distance

The added weight of a trailer increases the distance required to come to a complete stop. Leave ample space between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you, and anticipate stops well in advance to avoid sudden braking.

Practice Defensive Driving

Remain vigilant and attentive while towing, scanning the road ahead for potential hazards and adjusting your driving accordingly. Be prepared for sudden changes in traffic or road conditions and always signal your intentions well in advance.

Monitor Tire Pressure

Proper tire inflation is crucial for safe towing. Check the tire pressure on both your vehicle and the trailer before each trip, and adjust as needed to meet the manufacturer’s recommendations. Tires themselves also have a weight capacity, ensure the gross weight of your vehicle and trailer are within manufacturer specified limits. 

Tow with Care and Arrive Safely

Towing can open up a world of possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers, but it’s essential to approach it with caution and respect for the rules of the road. By understanding your vehicle’s towing capacity, choosing the right hitch, properly loading your trailer, and practicing safe towing practices, you can enjoy worry-free travels wherever the road may lead.

Remember, safety should always be your top priority when towing. By following these guidelines and staying informed, you can tow with confidence and peace of mind on your next journey.

Addressing Myths and Misconceptions About Modern Turbocharged Cars

By
Barry Albert
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Photo by Cameron Edwards on Unsplash

In the world of automotive innovation, turbocharging has become increasingly prevalent, offering a blend of performance and efficiency that car enthusiasts and manufacturers alike find irresistible. However, with the widespread adoption of turbocharged engines, several myths and misconceptions have been perpetuated throughout the community, leading to confusion among consumers. Let’s delve into some of these misconceptions and separate fact from fiction.

Myth 1: Turbocharged Engines are Unreliable

One of the most persistent myths about turbocharged engines is that they are inherently less reliable than naturally aspirated ones. While it’s true that early turbocharged designs faced reliability issues due to factors like inadequate cooling and lubrication systems, modern turbocharged engines have come a long way in a short time.

Today, advancements in materials, engineering, and manufacturing processes have significantly improved the reliability of turbocharged engines. Automakers rigorously test their turbocharged powertrains under various conditions to ensure durability and longevity. Routine maintenance and proper care are essential for any engine, whether turbocharged or not, to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Myth 2: Turbo Lag is Unavoidable

Turbo lag, the delay between pressing the accelerator and feeling the increased power from the turbocharger, was once a common issue with early turbocharged engines. However, technological advancements have largely mitigated this phenomenon in modern turbocharged cars.

Engineers have implemented strategies such as twin-scroll turbochargers, variable geometry turbochargers, and electronic wastegates to minimize turbo lag and build boost low in the RPMs. Additionally, advancements in engine management systems and the integration of hybridization technologies, like electrically assisted turbochargers, further reduce lag by providing instantaneous torque delivery.

Myth 3: Turbocharged Cars are Always Fuel-Thirsty

Another misconception surrounding turbocharged cars is that they guzzle fuel compared to their naturally aspirated counterparts. While it’s true that turbocharged engines can consume more fuel under heavy load or aggressive driving, they often deliver better fuel efficiency in real-world driving conditions.

The downsizing trend, where automakers replace larger naturally aspirated engines with smaller turbocharged ones, contributes to improved fuel economy without sacrificing performance. Turbocharged engines can operate more efficiently by extracting more power from a smaller displacement, resulting in better fuel economy when driven conservatively.

Myth 4: Turbocharged Engines Require Premium Fuel

There’s a common belief that turbocharged engines necessitate the use of premium gasoline to prevent engine knock and maintain performance. While some high-performance turbocharged engines may benefit from higher octane fuel to optimize power output, many modern turbocharged cars are designed to run efficiently on regular gasoline.

Automakers engineer turbocharged engines to adjust their performance parameters based on the octane rating of the fuel, allowing them to run safely and efficiently on lower-octane fuel without sacrificing reliability or performance. However, for drivers seeking maximum performance from their turbocharged engines, using premium fuel may yield slight improvements in power and responsiveness.

Myth 5: Turbocharged Cars Lack Longevity

There’s a misconception that turbocharged engines have a shorter lifespan compared to naturally aspirated engines. However, with proper maintenance and care, turbocharged engines can endure just as long as their naturally aspirated counterparts.

Routine maintenance, including regular oil and oil filter changes, is essential for preserving the longevity of any engine, turbocharged or not. Following the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals and addressing any issues promptly can help ensure the long lifespan of a turbocharged engine. However, occasional defects can still occur, just like any other vehicle. According to the Orange County accident attorneys at Bridgford, Gleason & Artinian Law, manufacturer defects are a common cause of car accidents, so it’s best to address any issues early on. 

Enjoy the Boost

As technology continues to advance, turbocharged engines have become an integral part of the automotive landscape, offering a compelling blend of performance and efficiency. While myths and misconceptions about turbocharged cars abound, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction. Modern turbocharged engines are more reliable, efficient, and refined than ever before, debunking many of the misconceptions that have persisted over the years. As consumers, embracing these advancements can lead to a deeper appreciation for the capabilities of turbocharged cars and the engineering ingenuity behind them.

Organizing an Amateur Car Race: 3 Tips for Incentivization

By
SM
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Whether you’re a seasoned event organizer or a first-time enthusiast, organizing a car race can be a thrilling experience for participants and spectators alike. But to truly make your event stand out, you want to go beyond just the racing itself. 

That’s where incentivization comes in and here are 3 tips for you. 

Prizes and Rewards

First, you can’t really go wrong with offering some sweet prizes. It means participants have something tangible to aim for beyond just the adrenaline rush of racing; it really adds to the overall vibe of the event, making it more thrilling for everyone involved.

So, figure out your budget for prizes. Then, do some digging to see what kind of rewards would appeal to your crowd—cash, trophies, or maybe even some cool pre-owned accessories. Next, divide up the prizes into different categories, like overall winner, fastest lap time, or best-looking car.

For instance, let’s say you’re hosting an amateur car race. You could offer up a cash prize for the grand winner, a shiny trophy for the fastest lap time, and maybe some gift cards from local auto shops for things like best paint job or most improved racer.

Recognition and Acknowledgment

Giving participants a shoutout and a pat on the back is key to keeping them motivated. It means their hard work and skill don’t go unnoticed, which really boosts their morale and makes them want to perform their best.

So, plan out different ways to give props to your racers—like announcing winners at the event, shouting them out on social media, or even getting their names in the local paper. Then, keep people in the loop with a live leaderboard during the race, so everyone can see who’s killing it. 

Picture this: as each winner crosses the finish line, you bring them up on stage, hand them their prize, and snap a picture for online. Then, you blast it out on all your socials, tagging the winners and any sponsors to spread the love.

Community Engagement

Getting the local community involved is a game-changer. It means more people in the stands cheering on the racers, more buzz around the event, and just an all-around better time for everyone.

Reach out to nearby businesses, schools, and groups to see if they want in on the action. Spice things up with some extra activities besides the racing, like food vendors, live music, or maybe even a mini car show.

Imagine this: alongside the roaring engines on the track, you’ve got food trucks serving up tasty treats and a live band belting out tunes.

Organizing an amateur car race can be a great experience for you and everyone else. Really, it’s just a matter of prioritizing things like incentivization! So consider these tips and put on a great time! 

Tips for Roadtripping with an EV

By
SM
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Photo by Zaptec on Unsplash

With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) in the automotive industry, more and more drivers are considering them for their road trips. While the idea of road-tripping in an EV may seem daunting at first, with careful planning and some tips, it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience while minimizing range anxiety. Whether you’re a seasoned EV owner or considering making the switch, here are some essential tips to keep in mind when taking on a road trip with your electric vehicle.

1. Know Your Range

Understanding the range of your EV is crucial before setting out on a road trip. Take into account factors such as weather conditions, terrain, and driving speed, as these can all significantly impact your vehicle’s range. Plan your route accordingly, making sure there are charging stations along the way, and consider destinations where you can recharge overnight if needed.

2. Utilize Navigation Apps

Make use of navigation apps and resources specifically designed for EVs, such as PlugShare, ChargePoint, or the DOE’s interactive charging station map to locate stations along your route. These apps provide real-time information on charger availability, types of connectors, and pricing, allowing you to plan your stops effectively. Additionally, some EVs come equipped with built-in navigation systems that include charging station locations and can help you optimize your journey.

3. Plan Charging Stops

When planning your road trip, factor in charging stops to ensure you have enough power to reach your destination. It’s advisable to aim for charging stations that offer fast charging capabilities, allowing you to replenish your battery quickly and minimize downtime. Plan your stops strategically, taking breaks for meals or sightseeing while your vehicle charges. During an extended car ride, charging stops are a great way to rest and prevent driver fatigue, a common cause of accidents according to the Las Vegas car accident lawyer at Koch & Brim.

4. Be Prepared for Longer Travel Times

Unlike traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, EVs may require longer travel times due to charging stops. Factor in these additional stops when planning your itinerary and allow for some flexibility in your schedule. Embrace the slower pace of travel, and use the extra time to relax, explore new places, or simply enjoy the journey.

5. Monitor Your Battery

Keep a close eye on your battery’s state of charge throughout your trip, especially in remote or unfamiliar areas where charging options may be limited. Most EVs come equipped with onboard systems that display battery status and estimated range, allowing you to track your usage and plan your next charging stop accordingly. Avoid letting your battery level drop too low, as this can lead to range anxiety and unnecessary stress.

6. Pack Essentials

Pack essential items to ensure a comfortable and worry-free road trip with your EV. Bring along charging cables and adapters compatible with different types of charging stations, as well as any necessary memberships or RFID cards for accessing charging networks. Additionally, consider carrying emergency supplies such as a flashlight, first aid kit, and portable power bank in case of unexpected situations.

7. Familiarize Yourself with Charging Etiquette

When using public charging stations, it’s important to be mindful of charging etiquette to ensure fair access for all EV drivers. Avoid hogging charging spots once your vehicle is fully charged, and move it promptly to allow others to use the station. Be courteous to fellow drivers, and follow any posted guidelines or restrictions at charging locations.

8. Stay Informed About EV Policies and Incentives

Stay updated on EV policies, incentives, and regulations in the areas you’ll be traveling through. Some regions offer incentives such as HOV lane access, toll discounts, or free parking for electric vehicles, which can make your road trip more economical and convenient. Take advantage of these benefits wherever possible to enhance your journey.

9. Plan for Overnight Charging

If your road trip includes overnight stays, research accommodations that offer EV charging facilities. Many hotels, resorts, and campgrounds now provide charging stations for guests, allowing you to top up your battery while you rest. Prioritize lodging options with EV-friendly amenities to ensure a seamless and hassle-free experience during your trip.

10. Enjoy the Experience

Above all, remember to enjoy the experience of road-tripping with your EV. Embrace the eco-friendly benefits of electric driving, explore new destinations, and appreciate the convenience of silent and smooth acceleration. With proper planning and a positive attitude, road-tripping in an EV can be an enriching and memorable adventure.

In conclusion, road-tripping with an EV requires careful planning and consideration, but with the right mindset and preparation, it can be a rewarding experience. By knowing your vehicle’s range, utilizing navigation apps, planning charging stops, and packing essentials, you can embark on an enjoyable journey with confidence. Stay informed about EV policies and incentives, be courteous to fellow drivers, and remember to savor every moment of your electric road trip adventure.

How Can Autosport Enthusiasts Benefit from Storage Units?

By
SM
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Photo by JOSHUA COLEMAN on Unsplash

Unlike housing basic vehicle commodities, dedicated automotive enthusiasts invest heavily customizing speed performance parts worth protecting. For instance, Alex allocated over $8,000 upgrading his turbo charger, shocks, halogen lights ready for regional rally races this season. Rather than leaving specialty equipment vulnerable unattended in the garage, he wisely transports inventory into his secured climate-controlled 10×20 storage unit minimizing exposure risks when not actively wrenching on beloved projects targeting the podium down the road.

Provide External Workshop Space For Equipment Upgrades

Rather than confining messy automotive upgrades like torching custom exhaust pipes or wiring electrical mods exclusively inside residential garages, some self storage facilities like NSA Storage units permit nominally functioning on smaller projects stored onsite Adam confirms. “We allocate secured spaces enabling owners conveniently enhancing vehicles then containing tools afterwards rather than overtaking prime household real estate semi-permanently,” the long-time manager endorses. 

Given inevitable oil spills, fume residue, hardware clutter associated with leveling up competitive vehicles, segregating enhancements offsite prevents imposing major imposition on shared domestic spaces afterwards.

Secure Secondary Seasonal Autosport Vehicles

Storing lower-priority vehicles like classic race cars, ATVs, snowmobiles, and dirt bikes during off seasons conveniently opens home garage capacity for favored daily drivers. 

Some specialty considerations include:

  • Battery tenders preventing deterioration
  • Fuel stabilizers protecting engines
  • Mice-deterring containers shielding wires
  • Rust-inhibiting coverings
  • Pictures documenting existing damages

Protecting motorsport vehicle investments according to National Association of State Fire Marshals safety protocols ensures smooth running restarting engines when favorable conditions return.

Note: Also inquire about onsite electrical hookups available supporting battery maintainers 24/7.

Accommodate Overflow Components As Autosport Interests Expand

Enthusiast collections inevitably outgrow limited garage capacities over time as motorsport interests and project investments accelerate explains industry expert Dale Earnhardt. “We advise hobbyists resist compromising quirky excess inventory through impatient sales just because present shelters maxed out,” he recommends. 

Instead using affordable self storage for autosport parts and memorabilia overflow enables conveniently retrieving favorite artifacts when priorities shift. Initially laser measure garage footprints accounting for comfortable workshop equipment positioning around key showpieces. Then calculate remaining standing overflow space versus total offsite room wanted for safely collating all components accessible together. 

For instance, segmented parking outlines keep vintage signs/neon separate from leftover hardware bins minimizing retrieval hassles later. Gradual space scaling prevents wasting irreplaceable artifacts merely because short-term housing crunches squeezed temporarily.

Secure Trailers, Hitches, and Track Day Tools Conveniently

Frequent racing enthusiasts utilize storage for mobility gear like:

  1. Enclosed trailers transporting multiple vehicles secured per Department of Transportation safety recommendations.
  2. Adjustable vehicle hitches, racks, ramps inbetween events.
  3. Specialized track tools like torque wrenches, funnels, and coolant overflow cans used periodically.
  4. Portable generator/pressure washer kits enabling rapid cleaning between heats minimizing long-term garage lingering.

With consolidating paddock support equipment conveniently together in one resting spot, pulling everything needed during race days again proves vastly simplified.

Compare Specialty Storage Insurance for Costly Vehicles

When securing motorsports assets beyond basic personal policies, specialty carriers better accommodate higher-risk possession categories like custom performance cars worth appraising accurately then protecting according to industry media outlets featuring miscellaneous category coverage education. 

“Standard renters contracts Cap most claims around five thousand dollars absent added riders that we now offer starting at just twelve percent premium hikes,” explains veteran agent Hank Hill. “Appetite for comprehensive protection grows as more Gen X gearheads become retirement age.” 

Evaluating enhanced classic/collectible car coverage plus navigating umbrella liability buffers makes prudent sense shielding hard-earned automotive investments potentially business enabling for semi-pro hobbyists when devastating accidents strike at the track.

Stat Box: The Average motorsport vehicle burglary claim reported values around $41,000 while engine fires cause $15,500 and track collisions lead to $350,000 according to specialty insurer Protect Farm.

Scout Space Accommodations Before Transporting

When stratizing specialty motorsport storage transitional plans, first scope facility sizes and layouts to assure having enough room properly distributing customized vehicles and equipment assets appropriately.

TEAM CHEVY NASCAR RACE ADVANCE: Las Vegas Motor Speedway

By
Official Release
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TEAM CHEVY ADVANCE
Las Vegas Motor Speedway
Las Vegas, Nevada
March 1-3, 2024

CHEVROLET CARRIES UNDEFEATED RECORD OUT WEST

Chevrolet continues to live up to its title as the winningest manufacturer in NASCAR history with a record-setting start to the 2024 season. The Bowtie brand has been the only manufacturer to earn a trip to victory lane across NASCAR’s three national series with back-to-back weekend sweeps at Daytona International Speedway and Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Courtesy of wins by William Byron, Austin Hill and Nick Sanchez – Chevrolet swept the season-opening weekend at Daytona International Speedway for the second time in history. The Bowtie brand first accomplished that feat in 2018, with this season’s sweep making Chevrolet the only manufacturer to sweep the series’ season-opening weekend more than once. Chevrolet backed that performance up with yet another sweep at Atlanta Motor Speedway – marking the first time in NASCAR history that a sweep streak by a manufacturer has lasted through the second weekend of the season.

The NASCAR Cup Series (NCS), NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) and NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) will make the trek out west to Las Vegas Motor Speedway this weekend for the third-straight tripleheader of the season. Looking to remain undefeated, Chevrolet has fared well at the 1.5-mile Nevada oval in recent years – returning to the track with wins in all three series last season:

· NCS: William Byron (March 2023) and Kyle Larson (Oct. 2023)
· NXS: Austin Hill (March 2023)
· NCTS: Kyle Busch (March 2023)

 
…AND THE STREAK CARRIES ON

Victories by Team Chevy’s AJ Allmendinger and Sam Mayer at the Charlotte Motor Speedway Road Course in October 2023 ultimately marked the start of an impressive run for the Bowtie brand in the NASCAR national ranks. Dating back to the ROVAL race weekend last season, Chevrolet has since recorded at least one victory in NASCAR’s three national series each points-paying race weekend – further demonstrating the strength in the Chevrolet camp across the NASCAR national ranks. Those victories include:

Charlotte Motor Speedway Road Course (Oct. 7-8, 2023): AJ Allmendinger (NCS) and Sam Mayer (NXS)

Las Vegas Motor Speedway (Oct. 15, 2023): Kyle Larson (NCS)

Homestead-Miami Speedway (Oct. 21, 2023): Sam Mayer (NXS) and Carson Hocevar (NCTS)

Martinsville Speedway (Oct. 28, 2023): Justin Allgaier (NXS)

Phoenix Raceway (Nov. 3-5, 2023): Ross Chastain (NCS) and Christian Eckes (NCTS)

Daytona International Speedway (Feb. 16-19, 2024): William Byron (NCS), Austin Hill (NXS), Nick Sanchez (NCTS)

Atlanta Motor Speedway (Feb. 24-25, 2024): Daniel Suarez (NCS), Austin Hill (NXS), Kyle Busch (NCTS)

 
NEXT GEN IN NEVADA

NASCAR’s premier series made its first appearance at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in March 1998, with Sunday’s Pennzoil 400 presented by Jiffy Lube marking the series’ 33rd appearance at the 1.5-mile Nevada oval. Career Chevrolet driver Jeff Gordon delivered the Bowtie brand its first NASCAR Cup Series win at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in March 2001, and the manufacturer has since collected 12 all-time victories at the track.

Since the Next Gen vehicles were introduced to the series at the beginning of the 2022 season, the Camaro ZL1 has earned victories in three of the series’ four events – recorded by Alex Bowman (March 2022), William Byron (March 2023) and Kyle Larson (Oct. 2023). Two of those victories were supported by a podium sweep by the Bowtie brand – with Bowman leading fellow Team Chevy drivers Larson (second) and Ross Chastain (third) in March 2022; and Byron leading his Hendrick Motorsports teammates Larson (second) and Bowman (third) in March 2023.

Alex Bowman

No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports Camaro ZL1 March 6, 2022

William Byron

No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports Camaro ZL1 March 5, 2023

Kyle Larson

No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Camaro ZL1 October 15, 2023

 
CHEVROLET IN THE NASCAR XFINITY SERIES AT LAS VEGAS

In the NASCAR Xfinity Series’ 33-race history at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Chevrolet leads the series with a winning percentage over 50 percent – heading into the weekend with 17 victories at the 1.5-mile Nevada oval.

The NXS’ debut at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in March 1997 saw Chevrolet atop the leaderboard in both qualifying and the race – both courtesy of Jeff Green in the No. 8 Chevrolet for team owner Gary Bechtel. In recent years, drivers from three different Chevrolet teams have recorded a combined four wins in the series’ past six races at the track – most recently one year ago by Richard Childress Racing’s Austin Hill and the No. 21 Camaro SS team.

HILL AIMS FOR RECORD WEEKEND

Team Chevy’s Austin Hill is off to dominant start in 2024 – making back-to-back trips to victory lane in the series’ first two races of the season. The 29-year-old Winston, Georgia, native will have the opportunity to make history in the series this weekend. A victory in Saturday’s ‘The LiUNA!’ race at the 1.5-mile Nevada oval would make Hill the first driver in series’ history to win the first three races in a season. Hill is no stranger to victory lane at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, with the Team Chevy driver returning as the series’ defending winner of the track’s spring event. Hill also owns two victories in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at Las Vegas Motor Speedway – recorded in Sept. 2019 and Sept. 2020.

 
CHEVROLET IN THE NASCAR CRAFTSMAN TRUCK SERIES AT LAS VEGAS

The Truck Series was the first of NASCAR’s three national series to compete at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, with Jack Sprague driving the No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports Silverado to the win in the series’ inaugural event (Nov. 1996). In the series’ last appearance at the 1.5-mile Nevada oval (March 2023), Kyle Busch took Chevrolet to a double-digit win count at the track – driving his No. 51 Kyle Busch Motorsports (KBM) Silverado RST to the manufacturer’s 10th NCTS victory at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

REIGNING ROWDY

Born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, Las Vegas Motor Speedway holds a special place in Kyle Busch’s storied NASCAR career. The “hometown hero” made his first career NASCAR Cup Series start at his home track in March 2004 while competing in select races with Hendrick Motorsports that season. Busch has since made 25 NCS starts at the 1.5-mile Nevada oval – collecting one win (2009), two poles and a series-leading 12 top-five and 15 top-10 finishes.

The 38-year-old Nevada native has recorded victories in all three NASCAR national series at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. In addition to his one win in NASCAR’s top division at the Nevada oval, Busch has also tallied two NASCAR Xfinity Series wins (2016 and 2019) and four NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series wins (2018, 2019, 2020, 2023) at the track.

Busch’s most recent trip to victory lane at Las Vegas Motor Speedway came one year ago in the NCTS – leading a race-high 84 laps and pulling away to a nearly five-second lead to take the checkered-flag. The victory came in Busch’s first start with KBM following the organization’s manufacturer switch to Chevrolet at the beginning of the 2023 season. The Team Chevy driver is heading to his home track as the series’ most recent winner this season after capturing his series-leading 65th NCTS victory at Atlanta Motor Speedway last weekend.

 
BOWTIE BULLETS:

· Chevrolet is the only manufacturer to win across all three NASCAR national series this season – the first time in NASCAR history that a sweep streak by a manufacturer has lasted through the second weekend of the season.

· Chevrolet has the opportunity to extend its sweep record even further this weekend at Las Vegas Motor Speedway – returning to the track with wins in all three series last season:

NASCAR Cup Series: William Byron (March 2023) and Kyle Larson (Oct. 2023)
NASCAR Xfinity Series: Austin Hill (March 2023)
NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series: Kyle Busch (March 2023)

· Active Chevrolet drivers with a NASCAR Cup Series win at Las Vegas Motor Speedway:

Kyle Larson – two wins (March 2021, Oct. 2023)
William Byron – one win (March 2023)
Alex Bowman – one win (March 2022)
Kyle Busch – one win (March 2009)

· In 32 NASCAR Cup Series races held at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Chevrolet has recorded 12 victories. Hendrick Motorsports leads the series in wins at the track with nine, recorded among five drivers: Jeff Gordon (2001), Jimmie Johnson (2005, 2006, 2007, 2010), Kyle Larson (2021, 2023), Alex Bowman (2022), William Byron (2023).

· Since the debut of the Next Gen vehicles in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2022, Chevrolet has won three of the series’ four races at Las Vegas Motor Speedway – recorded by Alex Bowman (March 2022), William Byron (March 2023) and Kyle Larson (Oct. 2023).

· With its victories at Atlanta Motor Speedway last weekend, Chevrolet continues the streak of earning at least one win in the NASCAR national ranks each race weekend since the Charlotte Motor Speedway Road Course events in October 2023.

· With its 42 NASCAR Cup Series Manufacturer Championships, 33 NASCAR Cup Series Driver Championships, and 853 all-time NASCAR Cup Series wins, Chevrolet continues to hold the title as the winningest brand in NASCAR Cup Series history.

Manufacturer Points Standings

Chevrolet: 80
Toyota: 66 (-14)
Ford: 63 (-17)

Manufacturer Points Standings

Chevrolet: 80
Toyota: 70 (-10)
Ford: 53 (-27)

Manufacturer Points Standings

Chevrolet: 80
Toyota: 69 (-11)
Ford: 65 (-15)
 
TUNE-IN:

NASCAR Cup Series

Pennzoil 400 presented by Jiffy Lube

Sunday, March 3, at 3:30 p.m. ET

(FOX, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)

NASCAR Xfinity Series

The LiUNA!

Saturday, March 2, at 5 p.m. ET

(FS1, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)

NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series

Victoria’s Voice Foundation 200 presented by Westgate Resorts

Friday, March 1, at 9 p.m. ET

(FS1, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)

 
QUOTABLE QUOTES:

ROSS CHASTAIN, NO. 1 KUBOTA CAMARO ZL1

How much are you looking forward to racing at Las Vegas?

“We’ve obviously had strong cars for the first two races of the season and Daniel has too. Trackhouse as a whole has had good start to the season with Daniel’s win last week at Atlanta. This weekend is the first mile-and-a-half we’re going to, so we’ll get to see how much our off-season work is going to pay off for us. I enjoy racing at Vegas, and we’ve had some strong runs there in the Cup car with Trackhouse and obviously I’ve won there in the Xfinity Series.”

AUSTIN DILLON, NO. 3 BETMGM CAMARO ZL1

What are your thoughts on Las Vegas Motor Speedway?

“I can’t wait to get to Las Vegas Motor Speedway. It’s one of my favorite racetracks. It’s big, fast, bumpy, and it has a lot of lines that you can choose. It’s going to be a great race weekend for everyone coming to check us out. We’re on a mission on the No. 3 team to turn our luck around and Las Vegas is the perfect place to do that.”

How has racing on 1.5-mile tracks with the Next Gen car changed and how do you think it’s improved?

“I think the racing on the 1.5-mile tracks is probably the best racing we have now with this new car. It really seems to put on a good show, and you find certain times and tracks that race really competitively. The restarts are really pretty wild.”

COREY LAJOIE, NO. 7 USANA CAMARO ZL1

LaJoie on the start of the 2024 season:

“I think it’s super-important to start the year out strong, especially to get through the west-coast swing in as good of a points position as possible. Jeff Dickerson’s favorite thing to say is ‘get out ahead of it early.’ We want to try and build ourselves a little bit of a points cushion between our team and the guys who might catch you throughout the course of the year. If you start the year strong, like we have, and we continue that, it’s going to be tough for some of those guys to catch us.

I’m always excited to go to Las Vegas. I’ve had some really good runs there the last couple years. That’s going to be a true barometer of where we stack up as a team with downforce and horsepower. I think we have a lot of the tools we need to bring a really good USANA Chevrolet Camaro to the race track this weekend. I’m excited to go out there and see how we stack up at the first true intermediate track of the season.”

Are you relieved to get Daytona and Atlanta out of the way? Those two tracks are variables and now you can focus on the bulk of the season.

“You’re much less in control of your own destiny at those places. You are, but you aren’t. Someone else’s mistake can take you out of the race. No different than Vegas, with the crazy restarts, but I feel like you’re in control of your destiny a little bit more at Vegas than the first two. The angst is the same no matter what racetrack you go to. You want to perform and you want to do the best you can for your partners, team and fans. I don’t know if I’m excited or happy to get those two out of the way, I just know there are 34 more race where we need to try and make a notch in the win column.”

Are you a fan of mile-and-a-half racing?

“Those tracks have become one of the strengths of our team, which is a little surprising because I’m more of a short-track guy at heart. We’ve had some really good runs at Vegas and Charlotte and some other places like that. Ryan Sparks has a pretty good knack for setting a car up at mile-and-a-halves so hopefully we’ll see that this weekend, as well.”

KYLE BUSCH, NO. 8 BETMGM CAMARO ZL1

What do you remember of your first Cup win at Las Vegas in 2009 and what did that victory mean to you? Being in front of the home crowd, what did that mean to you?

“It was huge and such a cool deal. That to me felt like my Daytona 500. I’ve had some big wins. I’ve won Indy. I’ve won the Southern 500. I’ve won the Coke 600, All-Star Race, all that stuff. But the Vegas win, it was just like such a relief, such a monumental win for me because I remember I grew up right down the street watching that place be built.”

Is there less pressure when you go back to Vegas?

“Because I’ve won there, yes, there’s less pressure, but I’ve never backed it up. You still want to win there every time you go, being the hometown. I think I have four or five third-place finishes there in the last six or seven races, whatever the hell it is. We’re right there, we just don’t get it.”

DEREK KRAUS, NO. 16 WESTERN STATES FLOORING CAMARO ZL1

“I’m really excited to make my first Cup Series start with Kaulig Racing, the team that I also made my Xfinity Series debut with! I’m thankful to Matt Kaulig and Chris Rice for believing in me, as well as Western States Flooring, a partner that has supported me throughout my career. I can’t wait to get to work with Travis Mack’s group and see what we can do in Las Vegas.”

DANIEL HEMRIC, NO. 31 SOUTH POINT HOTEL AND CASINO CAMARO ZL1

“I’ve said for many years that Las Vegas feels like a second home now. It’s really special to have South Point Hotel Casino and Spa back on the Cup car after a five-year hiatus in the series. They have done so much for me in my career since 2017, so returning to the top level of racing with them feels like having family at the racetrack. Las Vegas is a track that has always been a good one for me. I think this No. 31 team is excited for our first, true mile-and-a-half event to show the work that we’ve put in throughout the off-season. I’m looking forward to seeing where we shake out once we unload and hopefully having a solid weekend.

ALEX BOWMAN, NO. 48 ALLY CAMARO ZL1

Bowman on racing at Las Vegas Motor Speedway:

“I’m excited for this weekend at Las Vegas (Motor Speedway). I went to the simulator this morning trying to get dialed in. There are places we are starting to get pretty consistently good at and (Las) Vegas (Motor Speedway) is one of them. We scored a podium finish last spring (2023) and then I did crash there last fall (2023), but hopefully I won’t do that again. It would be awesome to get the No. 48 team and Ally another win there (Las Vegas Motor Speedway). I look forward to going back and to get back to where we should be running. Getting back to victory lane, winning races, making the playoffs and going to contend for a Championship is really this year’s goal.”

BLAKE HARRIS, CREW CHIEF, NO. 48 ALLY CAMARO ZL1

Harris on racing at Las Vegas Motor Speedway:

“We had a couple really fast cars there (Las Vegas Motor Speedway) last year. Obviously being a part of the Hendrick Motorsports 1-2-3 finish in the spring (2023) was great. We had a fast car again in the fall and got ourselves in the top-10 before we wrecked. I expect to go back there (Las Vegas Motor Speedway) with speed. It’s a good track historically for Hendrick Motorsports and we hope to kick-off our intermediates the right way.”

ZANE SMITH, NO. 71 FOCUSED HEALTH CAMARO ZL1

Are you excited to get back and race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway?

“I’m very eager to get back to Las Vegas and race there. I classify Las Vegas as my home track so it is always a special weekend. Especially because this will be my first start in the Cup Series at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, so it is bittersweet. I always dreamed of racing in the Cup Series at that track.”

How did you feel leaving Atlanta and what are you looking to capitalize on this weekend in Las Vegas?

“I was disappointed with how our race ended on Sunday at Atlanta. My City of Refuge Chevy Camaro was super-fast and unfortunately, I made some contact with the wall. This No. 71 Spire Motorsports team is special and I know we will have another fast Focused Health Chevy Camaro this weekend in Las Vegas. I’m looking forward to getting on the track and seeing what this team can accomplish together.”

CARSON HOCEVAR, NO. 77 PREMIER SECURITY CAMARO ZL1

“I feel good heading to Vegas, excited to start working on our mile 1/2 package in our No. 77 Premier Security Chevy. I’m even more excited to see where we stack up with all our off season work and preparation and have a solid smooth day after what happened at Daytona and then Atlanta. Wrong place wrong time sometimes but hey that’s racing, and we have another chance this next week to finish better!”

DANIEL SUAREZ, NO. 99 FREEWAY INSURANCE CAMARO ZL1

What does the Atlanta victory mean to you?

“We have done a lot of work on this race team to make it better and to keep moving forward. This is just the beginning of something amazing that we are going to go through together. I am so happy for all my Amigos at Freeway Insurance who have been with us for so long. That victory was a group effort. Our partners at Chevrolet, all of our sponsors and all of the people at Trackhouse Racing.”

Are you ready to relax now that you have a victory and likely secured a playoff spot?

“No way. Atlanta will be the first of many victories. This makes us want to keep working and win more. I have always said I don’t want to just get in the playoffs. We want to win and advance in the playoffs.”

What are your thoughts on Las Vegas?

“I hope practice and qualifying go better than last year. We had an issue and crashed, but on race day our backup car was pretty quick. I was very proud of my guys. That wreck Saturday put us back and we had to get the backup car ready with no laps of practice. They stayed late Saturday night and came in early on race day. The car didn’t feel like a backup and if we had another 100 miles we would have finished even better than 16th. We passed many cars coming from the back a few times.”

What did you do in the offseason to make Daniel Suarez stronger?

“Well, I did a lot of work with my crew chief Matt Swiderski and the rest of the engineers in the simulator and analyzing myself what can I be better at. This is not just ‘we changed the crew chief’ that’s the solution. No, it has to be way more than that and I think we all need to change a few things here and there. Myself, crew chief, engineering department, pit crew department. With these changes, I believe we’ll be in a different place this year.”

What will it take for Trackhouse to break through?

“There are a lot of young teams like Trackhouse that are getting stronger every year. I truly believe that this year Trackhouse is really going to be stronger than last year. I can’t wait to see that reflected on track and hopefully we can give them a run for the money.”

 
Chevrolet NASCAR Cup Series Statistics

Manufacturers Championships:

Total (1949-2023): 42

First title for Chevrolet: 1958

Highest number of consecutive titles: 13 (2003-15)

Years Won: 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1996, 1998, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2021, 2022, 2023

Drivers Championships:

Total (1949-2021): 33

First Chevrolet champion: Buck Baker (1957)

Highest number of consecutive titles: 7 (2005-11)

Most Recent: Kyle Larson (2021)

Years Won: 1957, 1960, 1961, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1979, 1980, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2020, 2021

Event Victories:

Record for total race wins in single season: 26 (2007)

2024 STATISTICS:

Wins: 2

Poles: 0

Laps Led: 117

Top-five finishes: 5

Top-10 finishes: 8

Stage wins: 1

· Chase Elliott: 1 (Daytona)

CHEVROLET IN NASCAR CUMULATIVE STATISTICS:

Total Chevrolet race wins: 853 (1949 to date)

Poles won to date: 743

Laps led to date: 249,292

Top-five finishes to date: 4,303

Top-10 finishes to date: 8,869

Total NASCAR Cup Wins by Corporation, 1949 to Date:

       General Motors: 1,187

       Chevrolet: 853

       Pontiac: 154

       Oldsmobile: 115

       Buick: 65



       Ford: 828                                                           

       Ford: 728

       Mercury: 96

       Lincoln: 4



       Fiat Chrysler Automobiles: 467

       Dodge: 217

       Plymouth: 191

       Chrysler: 59



       Toyota: 180

 

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.

Four RAFA Racing Club Members Ready For U.S. Pro Debuts This Weekend at Sebring During Porsche Sprint Challenge

By
Official Release
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Caroline Candas, Ian Porter, Paige Morales and Rafael Martinez Continue to Chase Their Individual Motorsports Dreams in the Season Opening Round

SEBRING, Florida (February 28, 2024) – The “RAFA” in RAFA Racing stands for Race As Family Always, and this week’s family vacation aims to mix business with pleasure. RAFA Racing by JDX makes its North American professional debut with a four-pack of Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsports in Porsche Sprint Challenge North America this weekend at Sebring International Raceway.

And an impressive debut it is. Caroline Candas has the most experience of any of the racers, though that’s limited to a successful karting career followed by two seasons of front wheel drive Touring cars in France. Rafael Martinez has just a season of wheel to wheel racing in Europe, but Ian Porter and Paige Morales are all taking on a strong field of competitors for the first time.

Even so, hopes are high while remaining realistic for the success of the season. More than just an arrive and drive program, the RAFA Racing Team has worked closely on all aspects of racing – mental and physical training, simulator work and a test at Sebring to get the feel of the cars.

That comes to fruition with a doubleheader race weekend to open the season. The Porsche Sprint Challenge North America by Yokohama Cayman class races for 35 minutes (plus one additional lap) at 1:35 p.m. ET on Saturday, March 2, and repeats on Sunday morning at 9:40 a.m. ET. That follows unofficial testing on Thursday, with practice on Friday and qualifying on Saturday morning. Each race is streamed live at PorscheSprint.com.

Candas enters her first event in a rear wheel drive race car and will drive the No. 84 8Twelve Wheels Porsche Cayman this season. Candas was the RAFA Racing Shootout winner last November, topping eight other up and coming female drivers for the prize. Her journey is being documented as part of a new racing competition tv series titled The Shootout to find, develop and sign some of the world’s best and highest potential racing talent. Candas topped drivers from seven different countries in tests that included sim racing, a fitness test, media training and a full test and race day simulation at Circuit of the Americas in a Porsche Cayman. Candas’ progress and her Shootout battle, along with the upcoming television show, has a home on Instagram @theshootoutofficial.

Porter, known as CrimSix to his legion of fans, is making his racing debut this weekend at Sebring. The all-time winningest Call of Duty player in eSports history, Porter retired from his first professional sport and, after some sim racing and track days, has paired with RAFA Racing by JDX to start a new career. He’ll combine his digital background with partner GridFinder to take the platform into the analog world in the No. 86 GridFinder Porsche Cayman.

Morales’ love of cars from a young age has brought her to a lead position in the RAFA Racing family, which includes her professional racing debut. Morales secured her racing license in mid-February, then promptly landed on the podium in her opening race weekend at the Sports Car Club of America’s Hoosier Super Tour weekend at NOLA Motorsports Park. Morales will drive the No. 87 RAFA Racing Club Porsche Cayman.

Martinez is aiming for his first U.S. championship run, having competed in 2023 overseas in the McLaren Trophy Cup and already announced his intention to double up in 2024, racing the SRO GT4 European Series Powered by RAFA Racing Club with RAFA Racing driver coach Cameron Lawrence. Martinez’ ride for the 2024 Porsche Sprint Challenge Series is the No. 85 RAFA Racing Club Porsche Cayman.

Each driver will run the 14-race Porsche Sprint Championship with Race As Family Always ingrained in their spirit. The RAFA Racing Team is just a part of the RAFA Racing Club vision to bring motorsports to the masses in a way that works for each individual automotive enthusiast, whether that participation be as part of an amateur or professional racing program, as a street car owner, mechanic, or sim racer.

The season gets underway with testing on Thursday, February 29 on the 17-turn, 3.741-mile road course, before the first official session of the new year on Friday, March 1 at 9:30 a.m. ET. Friday’s practice sessions give way to Saturday morning qualifying at 9:15 a.m. ET, followed by racing at 1:35 p.m. ET Saturday and 9:40 a.m. ET on Sunday. More information on the Championship, including a link to watch the races live, can be found at PorscheSprint.com.

RAFA Racing Quoteboard

Ian Porter, Driver, No. 86 GridFinder Porsche Cayman: “I’m really excited for Sebring and to get the season started. It’s a track I’ve done a lot on the sim. What’s interesting to me is that usually on the sim I get bored of the track in a week or two, but it’s a lot different when you’re using it as a tool to prepare. I have to practice because I’m racing it in real life. I’ve done two to three months of straight up Sebring just to get ready for this. Time wise, I’m looking really strong on the sim. Your main competitor is always the clock. If you’re fast, no one will catch you. I’ m still expecting a battle. For me, I’ve found the more simple I make things the better I can be. I want to take it turn by turn, and if there happens to be a car in front or behind me it’ll be something to handle. Mostly I’m just focusing on myself.”

Caroline Candas, Driver, No. 84 8Twelve Wheels Porsche Cayman: “I’m looking forward to this week and my first Porsche Sprint Challenge North America race of the season. We did a two-day test at Sebring to get to know the circuit. It’s one of those mythical tracks with a very special surface, and I love it. My goals are the same as ever, to gain experience and aim for the best position in each race.”

Rafael Martinez, Driver, No. 85 RAFA Racing Club Porsche Cayman: “I’m excited for our young team to take the grid and have a good time in Porsche Sprint Challenge North America. We have a lot of talent and will develop a lot over the year, but we also need to be mindful that we are all new to racing. Caroline is the most experienced racer, and it’s only her third season. Going to Sebring for the test was a ton of fun and a nice bucket list checkmark. It lived up to the expectations of being a racer’s track and presented me with quite a bit of challenge to get up to speed. The Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport is super fast and a lot to handle, particularly on a bumpy track. As a team owner, our goals remain the same – to have a positive impact on the series, the paddock and the sport all while further developing ourselves as drivers and hopefully coming away with some podiums!”

Paige Morales, Driver, No. 87 RAFA Racing Club Porsche Cayman: “I’m thrilled to debut in Porsche Sprint Challenge North America. The Porsche Cayman feels incredible, and I’m fully committed to giving my all to secure the championship. It’s an honor to race alongside my talented teammates Ian, Caroline and Rafael. Together, we’re ready to take on this exciting challenge and showcase our skills on the track. I can’t wait to see what this season holds for us.”

About RAFA Racing Club:

RAFA Racing, utilizing the motto “Race As Family Always,” is a motorsports club and race team founded by and made for high-performance auto drivers, supporters, and fans of all types. Started by Rafael Martinez, the Club aims to create a space for high-performance car enthusiasts to enjoy like-minded individuals, network and share ideas on and off the track, and bond as one team with a common interest. The RAFA Racing Team made its debut in 2023 with a runner-up finish in the McLaren Trophy Europe Series, and expands that footprint to include Porsche Sprint Challenge North America and SRO GT4 Europe in 2024. The Club’s off-track presence can be felt on social media and beyond, including YouTube, Instagram and Facebook and at RafaRacing.Club.

Victoria’s Voice Foundation 200 Presented by Westgate Resorts Spire Motorsports Race Advance

By
Official Release
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The Victoria’s Voice Foundation presented by Westgate Resorts will mark the first time Spire Motorsports will field a NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) entry at Las Vegas Motor Speedway (LVMS).

Spire Motorsports fields the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados full time in the NCTS. An all-star driver lineup will rotate throughout the 2024 season in the No. 7 Chevy. Rajah Caruth will drive the No. 71 entry and Chase Purdy rounds out the team’s fleet of Chevrolets in the No. 77.

The Victoria’s Voice 200 presented by Westgate Resorts from Las Vegas Motor Speedway will be televised live on FS1 Friday, March 1, beginning at 9 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. The third of 23 NCTS races on the 2024 schedule will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Kyle Busch – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Kyle Busch, the defending winner of the Victoria’s Voice Foundation 200, will make his second of five starts for Spire Motorsports Friday night at LVMS. The Las Vegas native led a race-high 84 laps en route to his fourth career NCTS victory at the 1.5-mile tri-oval. Additionally, Busch has one Cup Series win and two NASCAR Xfinity Series triumphs at LVMS.
  • The 38-year-old driver opened his 2024 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series campaign last weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway by picking up his series-record extending 65th career victory in his Spire Motorsports debut. It was his first NCTS victory for a team other than his own since Kyle Busch Motorsports (KBM) originated in 2010.
  • KBM collected a series’ record 100 wins, seven owner’s championships and two driver’s championships (Erik Jones 2015 and Christopher Bell 2017), before selling its assets to Spire Motorsports at the end of the 2023 season.
  • Busch will get behind the wheel of the No. 7 Chevrolet for three additional races in 2024: Bristol Motor Speedway (3/16), Texas Motor Speedway (4/12) and Darlington Raceway (5/10).
  • Group 1001 will serve as the primary sponsor on Busch’s Chevy this weekend. Group 1001 is a collective that empowers companies to create positive growth. Our insurance and annuities are easy to understand and accessible to all. Our online investing platform gives individuals control over their savings. Our technology and innovation help companies succeed. And our strategic partnerships bring people together through education and sports. As of September 30, 2023, Group 1001 had combined assets under management of $59.8 billion. It comprises the following brands: Delaware Life, Gainbridge®, Clear Spring Health, Clear Spring Property and Casualty Group, Clear Spring Life and Annuity Company, and RVI Group.
  • In addition to being the winningest driver in NCTS history, Busch also leads the series all-time with an average finish of 6.4 and ranks second in laps led (7,820).
  • “Rowdy” has won 38 percent (65/171) of the Truck Series races he has entered going into the 2024 season and has finished first or second in 57.3 percent (98/171). Over his last 32 NCTS starts, he has posted an average finish of 3.03, while registering 17 wins and nine runner-up finishes.
  • With his win at Atlanta, he extended his series-best streak of winning at least one race to 12 consecutive seasons (2013-2024).
  • Busch will be pulling double duty this weekend, as he heads into his second season behind the wheel of the No. 8 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in the NASCAR Cup Series.
  • The No. 7 Silverado, which competed in 11 NCTS events in 2023, graduated to a full time-effort in 2024 with multiple drivers competing for an owner’s championship. Veteran crew chief Brian Pattie leads the team. Details regarding the rest of the No. 7 team’s driver lineup are forthcoming.
  • All three of Spire’s NCTS wins have been registered by the No. 7 team. In addition to Busch’s win last weekend, William Byron collected the organization’s first-ever Truck Series win at Martinsville Speedway in April of 2022 and Kyle Larson was victorious last May at North Wilkesboro Speedway.

Kyle Busch Quotes
Coming off a win last weekend at Atlanta, what’s your outlook heading into Friday night’s race at Las Vegas?
“It’s always cool to be able to run in multiple series going back to my hometown track and having multiple shots to get to Victory Lane. Last year at KBM, the Las Vegas race was probably the best truck, handling-wise, that we had all year, so I’m confident that (Brian) Pattie and my team will be unloading another really fast Group 1001 Chevy Silverado Friday night. It’ll be a brand-new truck, so I’m sure after having a year of being in the Truck Series under his belt he has observed and learned a lot that he’s put into making this newest piece even faster than what we had last year. Obviously, my goal every year in the Truck Series is to go five-for-five with the races that I can run. You can’t be perfect if you don’t win the first one, so we’ve got that one under our belts, now it’s on to the next one,”

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

  • Rajah Caruth will make his second NCTS start at LVMS in Friday’s Victoria’s Voice Foundation 200 where HENDRICKCARS.COM will be featured as the No. 71 team’s primary sponsor for the third consecutive week.
  • HENDRICKCARS.COM has extended its partnership of Caruth and Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 NCTS team to include the entire calendar of races on the 2024 schedule.
  • HENDRICKCARS.COM is the online home for everything Hendrick Automotive Group. Visitors can shop thousands of new or pre-owned vehicles, locate centers for service and collision repair, receive a value to sell or trade their car, chat online with customer service, discover career opportunities, learn more about vehicle protections programs, and explore how the company gives back to the community.
  • The Washington D.C. native opened the season with a third-place finish at Daytona International Speedway and backed it up with an eighth-place showing last weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
  • Caruth will be answering questions about his season in the LVMS Media Center Friday, March 1, at 1 p.m. local time.
  • Race fans can meet the 21-year-old on Friday at 3:30 p.m. while he signs autographs in the LVMS neon garage.
  • The rising star has one prior NCTS start and three NASCAR Xfinity Series starts at the 1.5-mile Las Vegas oval and looks to better his venue-best 20th-place effort in Friday night’s 200-miler.

Rajah Caruth Quotes
A top five and a top 10 to start the year. How do you keep the momentum going into Las Vegas?
“I don’t think we will do anything different, necessarily. I think we’ve had a solid start and we’ve got good chemistry flowing so we won’t change any of the ingredients. We’ll just adjust the process to a different racetrack but otherwise we keep doing the same things the same way and adjust accordingly. So, there’s no reason why we can’t go to Vegas and do a little bit better than what we’ve done so far this year.”
You mentioned how it’s a different racetrack, and you’ve had two superspeedways to begin the year. How do you feel heading into Vegas with a different track setup?
“I feel prepared. I know there’s a lot of things out of my control but honestly, I’m relieved to get out of two of the wildcard races so far with having a solid amount of points and being in a good position. Going into Vegas, the Spire Motorsports equipment is really good. You’ll see it on the racetrack this weekend.”
As the season progresses, are there any upcoming tracks that you’re particularly excited about or anticipate will be especially challenging?
“I think each one probably for different reasons. I think about the tracks where I had speed last year and then I think about the tracks where I needed to be a little bit better. Overall, I’m just excited to go racing with my team every week. I know we’re going to elevate each other.”

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

  • Chase Purdy will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Bama Buggies Chevrolet Silverado in Saturday’s NCTS Victoria’s Voice Foundation 200.
  • Purdy comes into Round 3 of the 2024 NCTS campaign 21st in points.
  • In five NCTS starts at LVMS, Purdy has earned an average starting position of 15.6 and a 17th-place average finish. The Meridian, Miss., driver has completed a total of 667 of 670 laps (99.6 percent) contested over that stretch.
  • Purdy started third and finished eighth in last season’s Victoria’s Voice Foundation 200.
  • Last weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway, Purdy started ninth, raced inside the top-10 for most of the event, but ultimately came home 15th after battling an ill-handling Chevrolet Silverado in the late stages of the race.
  • Purdy’s crew chief Jason Trinchere is looking to capitalize on his previous NASCAR Xfinity Series success at LVMS. In six previous Xfinity Series races, leading the effort for Kaulig Racing, Trinchere has called one win and six top-10 finishes with four different drivers. The Penn State University graduate led A.J. Allmendinger to the checkered flag in the 2021 Alsco Uniforms 300.

Chase Purdy Quotes
Las Vegas Motor Speedway presents a very different style of racing than Daytona and Atlanta. How do you prepare differently for a more traditional intermediate track?
“Going to Vegas is going to be a test for everyone. It’s the first non-speedway track, so I’m excited to get there and see how everything plays out. I love this track and have run well there in the past, so hopefully we can have a solid showing on Friday night.”
You’ve run well during the races but haven’t had the finishes to show it. How do you stay confident knowing that you can run well?
“I think the biggest thing is focusing on what I can control. I know that I have the ability, tools, and the right people around me. I will just stay working at it, doing the best I can. The stars will align for our team soon if we keep putting in the work.”
How do you rate your Atlanta race?
“I’d say my race at Atlanta was eventful. We started the weekend on a positive note with our qualifying effort, but we struggled during the race. My team really worked hard to fix the balance, so we’ll take the positives and use those to our advantage in Las Vegas.”

From the Top of the Box

Brian Pattie – Crew Chief, No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado

  • Brian Pattie comes to Spire Motorsports from Kyle Busch Motorsports (KBM), where he earned two victories last year, both with team owner-driver Kyle Busch. The duo started off the 2024 campaign with a victory at Atlanta last weekend.
  • In addition to his three NCTS triumphs with Busch, he also won with Ron Fellows at Watkins Glen International in 1999.
  • Pattie was atop the pit box for six wins across 14 seasons in the NASCAR Cup Series and has 11 career victories as a crew chief in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
  • Pattie’s lone start at Las Vegas in the Truck Series resulted in a win with Busch in last year’s event.

Chad Walter – Crew Chief, No. 71 Chevrolet Silverado

  • Chad Walter has over two decades of experience and began his career with Hendrick Motorsports in 1996.
  • He comes to Spire Motorsports with Caruth after spending last season in the same role with GMS Racing.
  • Some of his most notable accomplishments include a pair of Daytona 500 victories (2001 & 2003) with Michael Waltrip, along with Cup Series wins with Steve Park and Terry Labonte.

Jason Trinchere – Crew Chief, No. 77 Chevrolet Silverado

  • Jason Trinchere earned his Bachelor of Science from Penn State University and began his professional career in 2005 as the race engineer for the iconic No. 75 Spears Manufacturing NCTS team, owned by series’ pioneers Wayne and Connie Spears.
  • Notable accomplishments include Daytona 500 and Brickyard 400 wins with both Ganassi Racing and Penske Racing. He was a key member of the 2018 NASCAR Cup Series Championship team with driver Joey Logano.
  • He comes to Spire Motorsports from Kaulig Racing where he began as an engineer before being promoted to crew chief in 2021, ultimately serving in that capacity for all three of the organization’s NXS teams.

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

Spire Motorsports earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway on July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado to its inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win on April 7, 2022, at Martinsville Speedway. The team’s most recent win came on May 20, 2023, when Kyle Larson took the checkered flag in the Tyson 250 at North Wilkesboro Speedway.

LEGACY MOTOR CLUB Race Preview | Las Vegas I

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Official Release
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CLUB ENTRY LIST

JOHN HUNTER NEMECHEK
POINT STANDINGS: 13TH

ERIK JONES
POINT STANDINGS: 17TH

CLUB NOTES

Survivors of Atlanta: LEGACY MOTOR CLUB drivers John Hunter Nemechek and Erik Jones had an eventful race last weekend at the Atlanta Motor Speedway. After fighting handling woes in qualifying, the No. 42 and No. 43 Toyotas were both involved in a multi-car incident on lap two. Both teams repaired the cars and continued to race in the 400-mile event, but the damage sustained in the crash hindered forward progress. Nemechek would finish in the 21st position followed by Jones in 25th.

Checkout lane: Nemechek’s Toyota Camry XSE will debut a new paint scheme in Las Vegas with grocery store chains Safeway and Albertsons featured as the primary sponsors. The door panels on the No. 42 will showcase brands all, Dial ,Persil, Snuggle, Baja Vida Beef Jerky, Daisy Brand, Pete & Gerry’s, and RedBird Farms as associate partners

Hitting the jackpot: Both LEGACY M.C. drivers have claimed NASCAR Truck Series victories at Las Vegas Motor Speedway while driving Toyota Tundras fielded by Kyle Busch Motorsports. Jones went to victory lane first in the 2014 event, followed by Nemechek in 2021.

Vegas domination: LEGACY M.C.’s co-owner Jimmie Johnson and competition advisor Matt Kenseth completely dominated Las Vegas Motor Speedway throughout the 2000’s. During the five years between 2003 and 2007, Kenseth and Johnson were the only Cup Series drivers to win at the track. Johnson’s four wins (‘05, ‘06, ‘07, and ‘10) and Kenseth’s three (‘03, ‘04, and ‘13) account for nearly a quarter of all NCS races held at Vegas.

Doubling down in the desert: Nemechek will make his third NASCAR Xfinity Series start of the season behind the wheel of the No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing GR Supra on Saturday. Both of Nemechek’s cars this week will feature the same primary sponsors, Safeway and Albertsons.

Community ties: LEGACY M.C. co-owner, Maury Gallagher, has his roots firmly planted in Nevada. Gallagher, who also serves as chairman and CEO of Allegiant Travel Company, is a full-time resident of Las Vegas and oversees the airline from its headquarters located just over 20 miles from the track. Gallagher recently served as the Chairman of the Super Bowl Host Committee and Allegiant has been a national partner of the Make-A-Wish Foundation since 2012. Also in 2023, Allegiant Travel Company pledged $1 million to Boys & Girls Clubs of America to develop and launch a new program that will inspire children to choose future careers in aviation.

Remembering Spencer Clark: Gallagher’s introduction to the sport of NASCAR came from a partnership with a bright local racer who competed at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway Bullring, Spencer Clark. Sadly, as Clark’s career began to take shape in the NASCAR national ranks, he lost his life in a highway accident in 2006. Gallagher’s book, “Fueling a Legacy, The Long-Shot Success of GMS” details Gallagher’s relationship with Clark and the origins of GMS Racing (now LEGACY M.C.).

Marathon Matt: Kenseth won’t be in Vegas this weekend but is competing in a race of his own – the 2024 Tokyo Marathon in Japan. Kenseth gained an interest in running in 2014, as his wife Katie has always been a runner, and his first 5k was ironically a Jimmie Johnson Foundation-sanctioned fitness event. Towards the end of his driving career, Kenseth gained interests in cycling, and running, and decided to train for marathons. Since 2019, Kenseth has competed in five of the six Abbott World Marathon Majors: Berlin (3:07:44), London (2:58:23), Chicago (3:09:08), Boston (3:01:40), and New York (3:11:33). Tokyo marks the final event for Kenseth to earn his “Six Star Medal” which is an elite award to honor the runners who compete in all six major marathons. Upon completion, he will be included in the “Six Star Hall of Fame”. The 26.2-mile event takes place on March 3 in Tokyo.

West Coast Hall of Fame, Class of 2024: The West Coast Stock Car/Motorsports Hall of Fame named its Class of 2024 today, which includes LEGACY M.C.’s co-owner Johnson and chief executive officer Cal Wells III. Johnson and Wells III will be joined by Eric Holmes, Jimmy Vasser, and the late Dick Cobb. The Class of 2024 will be enshrined Thursday, June 6, during the West Coast Stock Car/Motorsports Hall of Fame’s induction gala, at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway’s Turn 11 Club VIP/Hospitality complex encircling the road course’s iconic Turn 11.

ICYMI: This week LEGACY M.C. announced a partnership with D3O®, (pronounced Dee – three- oh) the world’s leading protection brand. D3O develops unique products used to protect against impact and dampen vibration. The iconic orange D3O material is used by global brands in sports, electronics, motorcycle, mountain bike, defense, law enforcement, and industrial workwear.

CLUB QUOTES

John Hunter Nemechek, Driver of the No. 42 Safeway / Albertsons Toyota Camry XSE:

On the importance of managing patience throughout longer Cup Series races compared to the Xfinity Series: “I think the best mindset or approach is to go into these races without any expectation and just do the best you can as a team and the best I can do as a driver. If we’re fast, we’re fast, but if not, we’ll just have to keep working at it because we’re continuing to try and build our program at LEGACY M.C. It’ll be the first true test at a mile-and-a-half this year to see the speed we have in our Safeway / Albertsons Toyota Camry XSE, so we’ll see what we’ve got.”

Ben Beshore, Crew chief of the No. 42 Safeway / Albertsons Toyota Camry XSE:

From what you’ve seen in simulation, how well do you anticipate the new Camry XSE to handle aerodynamically on these intermediate tracks? “That’s tough to tell right now. I think we’ll have to get some laps under us in real-life conditions in traffic and around other cars to know what we’ve got there. Vegas is one of the first true intermediate tracks we go to with the new body style, so it’ll be a good learning experience and hopefully what we learn here can be carried over in some of the other tracks coming up like Texas, Charlotte, and Kansas. It’ll be a good proving ground for some of those upcoming intermediate tracks.”

Erik Jones, Driver of the No. 43 Dollar Tree Toyota Camry XSE:

On what makes a driver successful at 1.5-mile tracks. “I think the 1.5-mile tracks now are so momentum-based that having a car where you can keep your momentum up and be able to move around in traffic is probably the most important thing. The 1.5-mile tracks have become pretty enjoyable with this car and this package, I feel like they are pretty ‘racy’ and they are challenging. Everyone is running close to the same speed and time, but I feel like you can move around and do a lot of different things on these 1.5-mile tracks like Vegas.”

Dave Elenz, Crew chief of the No. 43 Dollar Tree Toyota Camry XSE:

“The core of our season is intermediate tracks, so it is important to have speed at all of these tracks and have good results. Last year, that (intermediate tracks) was a strength for us. To end the season, we had a lot of good runs at some 1.5-mile tracks. We look forward to seeing what we have this year with Toyota, seeing where our speed stacks up, and getting an understanding of what we have to work on moving forward.”

PETTY 75TH ANNIVERSARY

The 2024 season marks a significant milestone in the history of the Petty family as they have helped define stock car racing for 75 years. Their commitment to the sport and the people who make it possible – behind the wheel, under the hood, in the back office and beyond – has shaped the growth and success of NASCAR. Their LEGACY lives on with the countless fans, drivers, technicians and team members they touched. Throughout 2024, LEGACY M.C. will celebrate the Petty family and share countless memories with friends and fans at race tracks across the country.

Family affair in Vegas: The Petty family was well represented at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in March of 2000 as the father-son duo of Kyle and Adam Petty shared the track for the race weekend. Adam Petty competed in the then-Busch Series finishing 17th. Father Kyle then raced in the NASCAR Cup Series event leading for six laps and finishing 29th.

CLUB PHOTOS OF THE WEEK

Pre-race teammate pose with “The King’s Hat” in Atlanta.

(Photo courtesy of LEGACY M.C.)

BROADCAST INFO

LAS VEGAS MOTOR SPEEDWAY

SUNDAY, MARCH 3RD | 3:30 PM ET

ABOUT OUR PARTNERS

ABOUT DOLLAR TREE, INC.: Dollar Tree, a Fortune 200 Company, operated 16,622 stores across 48 states and five Canadian provinces as of October 28, 2023. Stores operate under the brands of Dollar Tree, Family Dollar, and Dollar Tree Canada. To learn more about the Company, visit www.DollarTree.com.

ABOUT SAFEWAY: In 1915, M.B. Skaggs, an ambitious young man in the small Idaho town of American Falls, purchased a tiny grocery store from his father. M.B.’s business strategy, to give his customers value and to expand by keeping a narrow profit margin, proved spectacularly successful. By 1926 he had opened 428 Skaggs stores in 10 states. M.B. almost doubled the size of his business that year when he merged his company with 322 Safeway (formerly Selig) stores and incorporated as Safeway, Inc. Two years later, M.B. listed Safeway on the New York Stock Exchange. M.B. did not let the difficulties of the Great Depression dilute his pioneering focus on value for customers. In the 1930s, Safeway introduced produce pricing by the pound, added “sell by” dates on perishables to assure freshness, nutritional labeling and even created some of the first parking lots.

M.B. Skagg’s value vision still drives Safeway, though on a dramatically larger scale. Today, Safeway operates as a banner of Albertsons Companies, one of the largest food and drug retailers in the United States. With both a strong local presence and national scale, the company operates stores across 35 states and the District of Columbia under 20 well-known banners. Albertsons Companies is committed to helping people across the country live better lives by making a meaningful difference, neighborhood by neighborhood. In 2017 alone, along with the Albertsons Companies Foundation, the company gave nearly $300 million in food and financial support. These efforts helped millions of people in the areas of hunger relief, education, cancer research and treatment, programs for people with disabilities and veterans outreach.

ABOUT LEGACY MOTOR CLUB: LEGACY MOTOR CLUB™ is a professional auto racing club owned by businessman and entrepreneur Maurice “Maury” J. Gallagher and seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson. The CLUB competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series fielding the No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE of John Hunter Nemechek, the No. 43 Toyota Camry XSE of Erik Jones, and the No. 84 limited schedule entry for Johnson. LEGACY M.C. also competes in the Extreme-E Series. Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Petty “The King” serves as Club Ambassador. With a unique title signifying a nod to car clubs of past eras, LEGACY M.C. is an inclusive club for all motorsport enthusiasts to celebrate the past and future legacies of its members, while competing for wins and championships at NASCAR’s elite level. To keep up-to-date with the latest news, information and exclusive content, follow LEGACY MOTOR CLUB™ on Facebook, X, Instagram and at www.LEGACYMOTORCLUB.com.

Todd Gilliland Las Vegas Media Availability

By
Official Release
-

Ford Performance Notes and Quotes
NASCAR Cup Series
Pennzoil 400 Advance | Wednesday, February 28, 2024

Todd Gilliiland, driver of the No. 38 Ford Mustang Dark Horse for Front Row Motorsports, ranks first in the number of laps led after two NASCAR Cup Series races. GIlliland led a race-high 58 circuits in Sunday’s event at Atlanta Motor Speedway and has 73 overall going into this weekend’s race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Gilliland spoke about the start to his season during a Ford Performance media call this morning.

TODD GILLILAND, No. 38 Front Row Motorsports Ford Mustang Dark Horse – HOW DO YOU FEEL GOING INTO VEGAS? “I think it’s definitely bittersweet. We definitely could have come out of here with absolutely no positives, so it’s still really nice to be leading laps led. Obviously, we need to start adding up the points, but this is speed like I’ve never had before in the Cup Series, regardless of the racetrack even though they’ve both been superspeedway type races. That’s still exciting for me and it’s definitely gonna be interesting to see where we stack up this weekend.”

HOW DO YOU MENTALLY AND STRATEGICALLY HANDLE THE FACT YOU’VE LED ALL THESE LAPS BUT ARE IN A POINTS HOLE? “There’s definitely no hiding it. We are in a hole in points, but at the same time I think Joey Logano is right behind me. I think Keselowski is right there and those are guys that you know are gonna be up there and probably most likely in the playoffs by the end of the season. Obviously, it’s bigger for us as maybe a smaller team to rack up the points as quickly as you can because you never know when the opportunities are gonna stop coming up. Overall, I’m just trying to take the positives out of it. I think this is definitely the most I’ve ever raced around the sport’s best drivers for the last couple of weeks, and hopefully I have a long career ahead of us. Obviously, we need to get points right now, but any of these high spots are obviously gonna help me moving forward also.”

POINTS WON’T MATTER IF YOU WIN. HOW MUCH CLOSER DO YOU FEEL YOU ARE TO CHALLENGING FOR A WIN COMPARED TO A FEW MONTHS AGO? “To me, this year has been miles closer to having the speed and the execution of a full race to potentially get the win. I think it’s still a very long road ahead. I think, truthfully, at Atlanta if everything went right, we could have had a really good chance at the win. To me, that’s definitely gonna be looked at as a missed opportunity. I think if we could have been up there, we could have at least gotten a good finish but, honestly, could have been battling for that win. That’s what we have to change our expectations to. I think we’re miles closer to potentially winning a race, but there’s also so much that goes into a full 400 or 500-mile race that we probably still need to get quite a bit better at.”

IS THIS A DAYTONA/ATLANTA/SUPERSPEEDWAY THING WITH THE SPEED YOU’VE SHOWN OR IS THIS A SIGN OF THINGS TO COME FOR THIS TEAM THE REST OF THE YEAR? “I think it’s probably a little bit of both. I think we have a lot of new exciting partnerships, whether it’s the Tier 1 program with Ford or our new alliance with Team Penske, I think all of that stuff has been helping us, pointing our team in the right direction to make these decisions, but at the same time I think it’s even past the speed of it. It’s the speed plus how good my car drove, even at Daytona. Taking pushes, I could lead a line and all of that stuff, whereas before I’ve been up in the mix but the cars I’ve had the last couple of weeks have just had a different feeling of having the potential speedwise, but also handling-wise, whereas before we would have had to pick one or the other. Let’s say we wanted to go qualify really well at Atlanta, we would probably have had to give up quite a bit of handling, so, to me, there’s more layers to it. I’m hopeful that we’re gonna show more speed here at Vegas, but on the same foot I think we finished 28th and 31st there last year, so we have tons to improve on, but I’m really excited and very hopeful that this weekend will at least be a couple of steps in the right direction.”

WHERE IS YOUR CONFIDENCE NOW WITH BEING ABLE TO RUN AT THE FRONT WITH A LOT OF THESE OTHER TOP DRIVERS? “It’s super exciting for me. As still a youngerish guy that is still trying to find my way and make a name for myself, racing against the best of the best is just a huge confidence booster for myself. I think I can do it and expect myself to be able to run well in those positions, but you never know what the other guys or the industry is gonna think of yourself when you’re up there, so, for me, it’s been really awesome and just have to put those experiences in the memory bank. This is a huge confidence sport. Like when we unload at Vegas, I’m gonna need to be very confident in my car to go almost wide-open around that place from lap one, so it definitely carries over and even if it’s not so much as the on-track results, I think even if it’s our race team we have mostly new mechanics, new car chief. I really think the expectation of our team this year, even if it’s through the first two races, we’ve seen the potential of what we can do at these type of racetracks and that needs to be the expectation going forward. It’s confidence inducing for me as well as my whole team.”

WHAT ARE YOU DOING DIFFERENTLY NOW THAN MAYBE A COUPLE OF YEARS AGO? IS YOUR PREPARATION THE SAME? “My preparation, for the most part, is very similar, but you definitely learn stuff along the way and, honestly, from the past three years there was the first year of the Next Gen car. You didn’t even know what to prepare on and then me being a rookie and then now three years in I definitely as a whole that our race team and myself know what is important, maybe what’s not so important and all that stuff. But from a race team side of it, you prepare the same and my race cars have just been much faster the last couple weeks, and it’s been really nice to prepare and be able to take semi-advantage of the situations. We’ve been up front, so that’s the biggest thing, and just confidence. It’s my crew chief’s second year as a crew chief. This year, all of those things help of just showing up to the racetrack where we need to, in a spot where we can go race and race confidently. I think that’s the biggest thing.”

WHAT IS DIFFERENT IN TERMS OF RACING UP AT THE FRONT WITH THAT GROUP VERSUS THE MIDDLE OF THE PACK? “You hear everyone say it. I think at the front of the pack the guys just get single-filed out really quickly and everyone’s cars are driving fairly good for the most part. And then you get back in the pack and everyone is putting each other four-wide and everyone is out of control. It’s definitely more fun up front. For me, that was Atlanta. As soon as I got back in the pack it was fairly out of control. It’s just nice to be up front. You have way more confidence in your car when you’re obviously running up front. You have more grip and more speed. Those guys, for the most part, you just have more room to get single-filed out and more so running your own race.”

CAN YOU DISCUSS THE LAP TWO SITUATION WHERE IT LOOKED LIKE YOU WERE MAYBE TRYING TO LET MICHAEL IN? THAT SEEMED TO BOTTLENECK THINGS BEHIND YOU. “It’s been a couple days since then and I’ve seen all of the replays of it. It’s lap one or two and we were working together with Michael and I was definitely trying to let him back in line, trying to make a little bit of a hole for him. There’s kind of one already there. I don’t think I really slowed down as much as it looks like as the 2 is kind of hitting the 12 and then everyone is kind of getting a run back to each other, and then obviously it just gets jammed up like 15 rows back and everybody is jammed together. Obviously, I hate that maybe we caused that in some sort of way, but, at the same time, we qualified well. We were trying to work together up at the front and just let a teammate in. People do it all the time, so I don’t know. I hate that it didn’t work out for a lot of guys, but I don’t think it was as bad as it looked just as everyone was kind of tightening up naturally at that point also.”

DO YOU HAVE TO SAY SOMETHING TO SOME OF THE OTHER DRIVERS WHEN SOMETHING LIKE THAT HAPPENS? “I think all of that stuff is still stuff that I’m trying to go through and learn through, but from this one in particular I haven’t heard anything from anyone. As a younger guy, in general in this sport, you need to get ahead of any situation. I feel like this one is a little bit different. I think there’s a little bit more shared blame everywhere. If it was something where I just wrecked a veteran guy, that’s definitely a situation where I would want to get ahead of it and reach out as a younger guy, for sure.”

HOW HAVE YOU BUILT RELATIONSHIPS WITH SOME OF THE VETERAN DRIVERS AND DOES THAT HELP YOU ON THE RACETRACK? “It is really nice. My first year I came in and I was just really trying to get to know everybody on the highest level of just knowing their names. Obviously, I know everybody, but being confident enough to walk up and just start a conversation. All of that stuff has gotten much easier. I think everyone has learned me on the racetrack, probably a little bit off the racetrack just here and there seeing stuff on social media. I think all of that stuff just gets easier with time. It’s just like any co-worker. The more you’re around them for years and years you guys eventually talk here and there, whether it’s just crossing paths randomly. All of that stuff has gotten a lot easier, but it definitely helps once you’re on the racetrack, whether that gives you something to talk about the next week and it just leads to a little bit deeper relationship over time as you guys race together.”

WHAT ARE YOU CURIOUS ABOUT THIS WEEKEND AT LAS VEGAS WITH THE NEW CAR? “I am very curious about everything. I think there’s tons of stuff that is very unknown, whether it’s the other manufacturer’s body. Obviously, the Dark Horse Mustang has been super fast the first couple of weeks, so I feel confident about where we’re at, but it’s just about where we stack up with everybody else. I think that goes for everyone in the field, honestly. Everyone feels good about where they’re at, so we’ll see. From our side, the team side, I’m excited to see where our preparation is at, where we unload and our potential speed is at. There’s lots of unknowns. Even our pit crew. It’s been kind of easy the first couple weeks as far as a lot of fuel only, a lot of two tires, where this is really gonna be something that separates the field also is pit crews going from here on out, so there’s tons of different layers that are gonna be exposed, so I’m just excited to see where it all kind of stacks up.”

HOW DO YOU DEBRIEF OR KEEP NOTES AFTER EACH RACE? “I do a debrief. I usually do it on the plane back home and usually try to knock it out, and also I have a bad memory, so I just need to get it out of the way in general. That stuff is super important. I think our team takes really good notes during the race. In the Cup Series, I think that’s one thing that’s different than other series in NASCAR is how much information you have to look at after the race, too. We have our post race meetings on Tuesday mornings, which kind of gives us a day on Monday and take it all in, take in the weekend of general what it was. Also, even going back to practice and qualifying day there’s gonna be a ton of stuff to look at from that night – seeing where everyone stacks up, seeing what we need to do quite a bit better, whether it’s stuff that we can implant for Las Vegas weekend or going forward for the rest of the season. There’s definitely a lot of data and a lot of stuff to look at, but as far as my debrief we fill it out after the race and then talk about it all with the team on Tuesday.”

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