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Previewing Shane van Gisbergen’s 2024 season-Can SVG prove he’s the next big thing?

Shane Van Gisbergen, driver of the No. 91 Enhance Health Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, celebrates his victory Sunday, July 2, 2023, after winning the first-ever NASCAR Cup Series street race, the Grant Park 220, through the streets of Chicago, Illinois. Photo by Jim Fluharty/HHP for Chevy Racing

Shane van Gisbergen’s 2024 season could easily be one of the most influential in NASCAR history. His results will likely alter the future of NASCAR in a big way, and I’m here to give an unsolicited prediction on how he will fare. SVG will run a limited schedule in the Cup Series, so let’s start there, go through it race by race, and predict how he will do. 

Circuit of The Americas, March 24: Finish Prediction – 10th-15th

While his most memorable moment of last year was winning Chicago, van Gisbegergen followed up his win in the Windy City with a solid 10th-place run at the Indianapolis road course. I think he’ll run about the same in Austin, and if there’s late-race chaos for the third straight year, he could have an outside shot at pulling off another upset win. 

Talladega, April 21: Finish Prediction: 15th-20th

I think Trackhouse will bring SVG a good race car, and if he can learn quickly, he’ll be in the lead draft late in the going. That’s really all you can ask for in a modern superspeedway race, and I think if SVG stays out of trouble, he can count his first Talladega race as a success. 

Coca-Cola 600 (Charlotte) May 26: Finish Prediction – 25th-30th

Van Gisbergen may run well for a portion of this race, but asking him to run 600 mistake-free miles in his first (normal) oval race in the Cup Series is a tall task. SVG’s main goal for the World 600 should just be to finish the event. Anything more will be a cherry on top for a driver with little experience on intermediate racetracks. 

Chicago Street Race, July 7: Finish Prediction – 5th-10th

SVG will be fast in Chicago, but everyone else in the field now has experience at the course, and in the rain, if Mother Nature presents another monsoon to the masses. He’ll still be a contender for the race win, but I’m not sure I would put money on him to pull into victory circle. 

Watkins Glen, September 15: Finish Prediction: 10th-15th. 

The Project 91 car was solid at WGI in 2022 when Kimi Raikkonnen’s good run was ruined by a late-race incident. SVG will have already run two road courses in the Next-Gen car in 2024, and with notes from the previous day’s Xfinity Series race on hand, I see SVG having another solid run in his road course finale. 

Talladega, October 6: Finish Prediction: 20th-25th

Talladega is simply too much of a wildcard for me to predict these races, but with notes from the spring and a little more trust in the draft from his competitors, I think he can have a top-15 run. However, The Big One will likely claim him in one of these races, so I’ll put him finishing around 20th in the fall. 

Las Vegas, October 20th: Finish Prediction – 20th-25th

In his final Cup Series race of the season, I think SVG finishes on the lead lap in a respectable 20th position. More notes, experience, and a more confident driver will lead to their best run on an intermediate track in 2024. 

Now for the Xfinity Series, where van Gisbergen will run his first full-time campaign in NASCAR. It’s a little hard to predict his season, but I’ll do my best. We won’t break it down race by race with this one, rather writing a comprehensive report on my prediction for his year. 

Points finish: 12th
Top Fives: 6-8
Top 10s: 13-15
Avg Finish: 16
Wins: ????

I’ll start by explaining the question marks in the win column. I truly don’t know how many wins he’ll get this season. He could win three or four road course races and be a championship contender or he could go winless and miss the Playoffs. I wouldn’t be surprised either way, simply because SVG is a huge unknown. I have him as my “last one in” driver to make the postseason, but I said the same thing in my playoff prediction article as I am now; we don’t know how many wins he could get, but he has the talent to win as many as he wants to. 

I feel like the top five, top 10, and average finish numbers are self-explanatory when you look at my predicted points standing. With only one road course in the Playoffs for the Xfinity Series, I think he’s a first-round exit, and I predict that the final seven-race stretch as a whole will be a struggle. Road courses will obviously be a strong suit, and once you throw in a couple of top 10s each at intermediates, short tracks, and superspeedways, you can chalk up double-digit top 10s. I think most of his top fives come on road courses as well, and if he wins a race, that’s where it will be. The average finish may be a bit low for my predicted number of top 10s, but I could see van Gisbergen ending up in a couple of wrecks that he didn’t start by running mid-pack. 

Overall, I think SVG will put together a very respectable season. For him to be seriously considered for a full-time Cup Series ride in 2025, he’ll have to have a few solid runs, and I think he’ll do much more than that. He may be NASCAR’s biggest unknown, but his talent is the most obvious thing in NASCAR in quite a while.

Magnus Racing Rings in New Season with New Lineup

Just kidding. We’re excited to officially confirm that we’re ready for the new year ahead of us with the announcement of the same driver lineup as last year in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship: John Potter, Andy Lally, and Spencer Pumpelly will continue their run as the three Magnus Racing drivers in all five rounds of the Michelin Endurance Cup, with the legendary mane of Nicki Thiim again joining us for the Rolex 24 At Daytona.

“We already had the WhatsApp chat setup with these drivers, so it seemed easier to continue as is,” said Team Somebody John Potter. “Our goal at Daytona is also the same as last year, move up only one position from the year before. I’m excited to be back with these guys and so much of the same crew and with AMR again!”

“Woooooooooooooooooooooot,” said Andy Lally as his 2024 contract was signed. He continues to hold the record for most consecutive participations in the Rolex 24, with this year marking year 22. He continues to be the winningest active driver at the iconic event with five wins to his name (2001, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2016).

Another longtime staple of Magnus Racing, bringing Spencer Pumpelly back was a no-brainer. He’s finished second with us in 2020 and 2022, and we probably couldn’t get rid of him even if we tried. This race will mark Spencer’s sixth Rolex 24 with our merry little band of rebels.

“I’m excited to begin another season with Magnus,” said someone of the Pumpelly family pretending to be Spencer. “We have traditionally started strong at the Rolex 24 where we have finished on the podium three of the last four years. It’s a great team of guys and bringing Nikki back is just frosting on the hair cake.”

Aston Martin factory driver Nicki Thiim wouldn’t be reached for comment, as he was probably too busy getting his hair ready for the exciting new season ahead. Given that his hair likely gives him superpowers, we approve of his priorities.

We feel like our 14th year of racing is the lucky one as we aim to one-up our multiple second-place finishes at the Rolex 24 At Daytona, the first race of the season on January 27th and 28th. This year, the Michelin Endurance Cup—the endurance championship within the full season championship—will expand from four races to five, with the addition of the Battle on the Bricks at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, joining the Rolex 24 At Daytona, Twelve Hours of Sebring, Six Hours of the Glen, and Petit Le Mans.

The No. 44 Aston Martin Vantage GT4 remains our reliable steed, but with some exciting new Evo updates. We have a new livery in store, but it remains under wraps (get it??) for a little longer.

Tim Dugger and Friends to kick off concert tour at Ambetter Health 400

Concert series will bring live entertainment to nine NASCAR race weekends coast to coast in 2024, starting at Atlanta Motor Speedway on Sunday, Feb. 25.

HAMPTON, Ga. (Jan. 5, 2024) – American country singer and songwriter Tim Dugger and his friends will entertain race fans across the country during a tour of premier NASCAR races at Speedway Motorsports venues, starting at Atlanta Motor Speedway on Sunday, Feb. 25.

From North Carolina to California, the Tim Dugger and Friends Tour will crank up during nine race weekends in 2024. A NASCAR enthusiast himself, Dugger is no stranger to performing his country hits for race fans and hanging out with NASCAR drivers since his first race weekend performance at Atlanta Motor Speedway in 2011.

He’ll kick his concerts into high gear this season, with his race weekend tour visiting Atlanta Motor Speedway, Bristol Motor Speedway, Charlotte Motor Speedway, Dover Motor Speedway, Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Nashville Superspeedway, North Wilkesboro Speedway and Sonoma Raceway.

“I’ve played several of these tracks and I always have the MOST fun with the race fans,” said Dugger. “For 2024 we’re going to kick it up a notch and throw some big-time parties before those green flags fall. Can’t wait to go coast-to-coast with Speedway Motorsports and the best sports fans in America.”

Dugger’s racing and country music roots run deep. The Alabama native developed a passion for songwriting as he spent summers jamming with bluegrass pickers at his local music store. When he later met NASCAR team owner Richard Childress, Dugger was hooked on America’s most popular form of motorsports. Since then, Dugger has brought his two passions together by performing his original songs and popular covers at racetracks all across the country. Fans have enjoyed Dugger’s songs and his habit of bringing surprise guests onto the stage to share in the fun.

“It’s a party every time Tim Dugger takes the stage, and NASCAR fans absolutely love him because he’s one of them,” said Speedway Motorsports President and CEO Marcus Smith. “Tim is true entertainer and I always look forward to see how many of his friends in the NASCAR garage come out to join him on stage.”

Dugger and his friends will kick off their tour at Atlanta Motor Speedway, getting fans revved up for 400 miles of NASCAR action with a pre-race concert on Sunday, Feb. 25, before NASCAR’s stars hit the high banks for the Ambetter Health 400. Subsequent shows will take place on the following race weekends with exact dates, times and at-track locations to be announced.

2024 Tim Dugger and Friends Tour:

Feb. 25 Ambetter Health 400 Atlanta Motor Speedway
April 27-28 Wurth 400 weekend Dover Motor Speedway
May 17-19 NASCAR All-Star Race Weekend North Wilkesboro Speedway
May 24-26 Coca-Cola 600 weekend Charlotte Motor Speedway
June 7-8 Toyota/Save Mart 350 weekend Sonoma Raceway
June 29-30 Ally 400 weekend Nashville Superspeedway
Sept. 20-21 Bass Pro Shops Night Race weekend Bristol Motor Speedway
Oct. 12-13 Bank of America ROVAL 400 weekend Charlotte Motor Speedway
Oct. 19-20 South Point 400 weekend Las Vegas Motor Speedway

Fans attending the Ambetter Health 400 at Atlanta Motor Speedway can get stage-front access to Dugger’s concert with a pre-race track pass. This race weekend upgrade also provides access to pit road, AMS victory lane, and a close-up view of driver introductions on the speedway’s frontstretch. Limited pre-race track passes are available; Insiders Club season ticketholders can get pre-race track passes for a discounted price of $65; all other fans can experience the pre-race festivities up close for $75, or $35 for kids 12 and under.

AMS ticketholders who do not have a pre-race track pass can still enjoy Dugger’s concert from their grandstand seat as part of their admission to the Feb. 25 Ambetter Health 400. Tickets and camping accommodations for the Feb. 23-25 Ambetter Health 400 NASCAR weekend are available at www.AtlantaMotorSpeedway.com.

About the Ambetter Health 400 weekend:

Atlanta’s spring NASCAR weekend is headlined by the Ambetter Health 400 on Sunday, Feb. 25, 2024, with intense, superspeedway pack racing and high stakes with a spot in the NASCAR playoffs on the line.

The race weekend also features the tenth year of Atlanta’s same-day NASCAR doubleheader on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024. The thrills of the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series races both happen in one action-packed day that race fans look forward to every year.

More information on the Feb. 23-25, 2024, Ambetter Health 400 weekend and ticket availability can be found online at AtlantaMotorSpeedway.com.

Follow Atlanta Motor Speedway:

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

About Speedway Motorsports:

Speedway Motorsports is a leading marketer, promoter and sponsor of motorsports entertainment in the United States. The company, through its subsidiaries, owns and operates the following premier facilities: Atlanta Motor Speedway, Bristol Motor Speedway, Charlotte Motor Speedway, Dover Motor Speedway, Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Nashville Superspeedway, New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Sonoma Raceway, Texas Motor Speedway, North Wilkesboro Speedway and Kentucky Speedway. Speedway Motorsports provides souvenir merchandising services through its SMI Properties subsidiary; manufactures and distributes smaller-scale, modified racing cars and parts through its U.S. Legend Cars International subsidiary; and produces and broadcasts syndicated motorsports programming to radio stations nationwide through its Performance Racing Network subsidiary. For more information, visit speedwaymotorsports.com.

DraftKings and NASCAR Announce Written Designation Agreement for Sports Betting in North Carolina and Expansion of Sponsorship

Boston – (Jan, 5, 2024) – Today, DraftKings (Nasdaq: DKNG) and National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, LLC (“NASCAR”), announced that they have agreed to terms on a written designation agreement, paving the way for the digital sports entertainment and gaming company to operate in the state of North Carolina, pending licensure and regulatory approvals.

“DraftKings and NASCAR have collaborated closely with each other over the years, sharing a likeminded commitment to enhancing the fan experience,” said Matt Kalish, President, DraftKings North America. “We look forward to the next chapter in our journey together and offering our leading mobile sportsbook to fans in the state of North Carolina.”

DraftKings also has been named the exclusive daily fantasy sports partner of NASCAR in the United States and Canada, becomes an Authorized Gaming Operator of NASCAR, and will receive additional sponsorship benefits within the NASCAR ecosystem nationally.

“DraftKings has a proven track record of enhancing the fan experience across sports,” said Joe Solosky, NASCAR managing director, sports betting, “We are thrilled to continue working with DraftKings to deliver NASCAR fans more engagement opportunities and bring its leading mobile sportsbook to North Carolina.”

Once live, North Carolina would mark the 27th state in which DraftKings Sportsbook operates, following the company’s announced plans to enter Vermont on January 11. DraftKings is committed to creating inclusive and responsible pathways for people to build, create, imagine, and innovate through the DraftKings S.E.R.V.E.S. program. Responsible gaming is a key pillar of the S.E.R.V.E.S. program and DraftKings’ collective mission is to protect the vulnerable with groundbreaking technology, training, resources and the support of evidence-based research. More information about DraftKings is available at www.draftkings.com and fans can download the DraftKings mobile apps via iOS and Android.

About DraftKings

DraftKings Inc. is a digital sports entertainment and gaming company created to be the Ultimate Host and fuel the competitive spirit of sports fans with products that range across daily fantasy, regulated gaming and digital media. Headquartered in Boston and launched in 2012 by Jason Robins, Matt Kalish and Paul Liberman, DraftKings is the only U.S.-based vertically integrated sports betting operator. DraftKings’ mission is to make life more exciting by responsibly creating the world’s favorite real-money games and betting experiences. DraftKings Sportsbook is live with mobile and/or retail sports betting operations pursuant to regulations in 25 states and in Ontario, Canada. The Company operates iGaming pursuant to regulations in five states and in Ontario, Canada under its DraftKings brand and pursuant to regulations in three states under its Golden Nugget Online Gaming brand. DraftKings’ daily fantasy sports product is available in 44 states, certain Canadian provinces, and the United Kingdom. DraftKings is both an official daily fantasy and sports betting partner of the NFL, NHL, PGA TOUR, and UFC, as well as an official daily fantasy partner of NASCAR, an official sports betting partner of the NBA and an authorized gaming operator of MLB. In addition, DraftKings owns and operates both DraftKings Network and Vegas Sports Information Network (VSiN), to provide a multi-platform content ecosystem with original programming. DraftKings is committed to being a responsible steward of this new era in real money gaming with a Company-wide focus on responsible gaming and corporate social responsibility.

About NASCAR

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 16 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Sprint Race, NASCAR Mexico Series, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Whelen Euro Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in eight cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 12 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.

For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Facebook, X, Instagram, and Snapchat (‘NASCAR’).

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements made in this press release are “forward looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this press release, the words “estimates,” “projected,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “forecasts,” “plans,” “intends,” “believes,” “seeks,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “future,” “propose” and variations of these words or similar expressions (or the negative versions of such words or expressions) are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside DraftKings’ control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. For a discussion of additional risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, see DraftKings’ filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. DraftKings does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

BetMGM Announces North Carolina Market Access Agreement with Charlotte Motor Speedway

King of Sportsbooks expanding to 29th market online and with mobile app

JERSEY CITY, N.J. (January 5, 2024) – BetMGM, a sports betting and iGaming leader, and Charlotte Motor Speedway, the iconic motorsports and entertainment venue, announced today a new market access agreement enabling BetMGM to bring its online sports betting platform to North Carolina once legalized sports betting launches.

“We have been eagerly awaiting legal, safe, regulated online sports betting in North Carolina, a state with more than 10 million people and one of the most vibrant sports environments in the country,” said BetMGM CEO Adam Greenblatt. “BetMGM’s partnership with Charlotte Motor Speedway meets a great demand for entertainment from North Carolinians. Together we will deliver a premier and responsible gaming product that benefits many state agencies.”

In addition to supporting many of North Carolina’s publicly funded colleges, tax revenues from sports betting will also support a major event fund, allowing the state to recruit national sports and entertainment events to drive additional tourism, job creation and economic impact.

“BetMGM has established itself as a signature source for sports betting with partnerships in every major league sport and with venues across the country,” said Charlotte Motor Speedway Executive Vice President and General Manager Greg Walter. “With Charlotte Motor Speedway’s history of innovation, we wanted to move forward into this new era of sports entertainment with a progressive sportsbook. This partnership with BetMGM will bring sports fans new ways to enjoy their favorite events while expanding North Carolina’s tax base, supporting colleges and facilitating recruitment of major events for the future.”

Subject to regulatory approval, BetMGM expects to offer online sports betting as soon as North Carolina’s regulated market commences, expected to be in the first quarter of 2024.

As BetMGM continues to expand to new markets, responsible gambling education remains a key focus. BetMGM is proud to provide resources to help customers play responsibly including GameSense, an industry leading program, developed and licensed to MGM Resorts by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation. Through the integration within BetMGM’s mobile and desktop platforms, customers can receive the same GameSense experience they have grown to count on at MGM Resorts properties nationwide. This complements BetMGM’s already existing responsible gambling tools which serve to provide customers with an entertaining and safe digital experience.

For more information, follow @BetMGM on X (formerly Twitter).

About BetMGM

BetMGM is a market-leading sports betting and gaming entertainment company, pioneering the online gaming industry. Born out of a partnership between MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) and Entain Plc (LSE: ENT), BetMGM has exclusive access to all of MGM’s U.S. land-based and online sports betting, major tournament poker, and online gaming businesses. Utilizing Entain’s U.S.-licensed, state-of-the-art technology, BetMGM offers sports betting and online gaming via market-leading brands including BetMGM, Borgata Casino, Party Casino and Party Poker. Founded in 2018, BetMGM is headquartered in New Jersey. For more information, visit https://sports.betmgm.com/en/blog/

About Charlotte Motor Speedway

For nearly 65 years, Charlotte Motor Speedway has set the standard in motorsports entertainment for fans of all ages. Known as America’s Home for Racing, Charlotte Motor Speedway is the only race vacation destination where fans can immerse themselves in the heart of NASCAR country. Visitors can attend one-of-a-kind race spectacles including the Coca-Cola 600 and Bank of America ROVAL™ 400; take behind-the-scenes speedway and race shop tours; explore the NASCAR Hall of Fame and drive an 800-horsepower stock car. Through every event and every decade, Charlotte Motor Speedway puts FANS FIRST with a never-ending commitment to enhance the fan experience. For all the latest news and information, visit www.charlottemotorspeedway.com, follow on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, or download the Charlotte Motor Speedway mobile app.

Statements in this release that are not historical facts are “forward-looking” statements and “safe harbor statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that involve risks and/or uncertainties, including those described in MGM Resorts’ public filings with the SEC. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and assumptions and not on historical facts. Examples of these statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the benefits of the partnership. Among the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in such forward-looking statements include effects of economic conditions and market conditions in the markets in which MGM Resorts operates and competition with other destination travel locations throughout the United States and the world, the design, timing and costs of expansion projects, risks relating to international operations, permits, licenses, financings, approvals and other contingencies in connection with growth in new or existing jurisdictions and additional risks and uncertainties described in MGM Resorts’ Form 10-K, Form 10-Q and Form 8-K reports (including all amendments to those reports). In providing forward-looking statements, MGM Resorts is not undertaking any duty or obligation to update these statements publicly as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. If MGM Resorts updates one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that it will make additional updates with respect to those other forward-looking statements.

zMAX CARS Tour Adds West Coast Schedule for 2024

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Jan. 5, 2024) – The zMAX CARS Tour will expand to the West Coast in 2024 in the form of the zMAX CARS Tour Pro Late Model Series West. The season-opening race kicks off at Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway on March 2nd.

Continuing to focus on building grassroots racing, the new partnership brings together the CARS Tour and Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway owner and California native Tim Huddleston. With Huddleston’s extensive knowledge of West Coast racing and his success of promoting various series and tracks, combined with the CARS Tour ownership group of Kevin Harvick, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Justin Marks and Jeff Burton, the wealth of knowledge of grassroots racing and building local tracks is immeasurable.

“We’re excited for this partnership and to add the CARS Tour to the West Coast racing schedule for 2024,” said Huddleston. “To have Kevin, Dale Jr., Justin and Jeff bring the CARS Tour to the West Coast and support the grassroots racing is what we need to continue to build a healthy series and showcase the next generation of drivers.”

The move to add the zMax CARS Tour to the West Coast is the next step in Harvick’s return to his roots and continuing his vision for the future of motorsports. Announced in November 2023, Huddleston acquired Kern County Raceway Park and renamed it Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway to honor the NASCAR Champion and Bakersfield, California native. As part of the new partnership, Harvick is working closely with the leadership at the track to ensure the best product for the track, the competitors, and the overall health of motorsports at the grassroots level. The zMax CARS Tour make two stops at the track in 2024, showcasing Harvick’s commitment to the West Coast and grassroots racing.

“The West Coast is home for me and the tracks we’ll be going to this year with the zMAX CARS Tour Pro Late Model Series West are some of the ones that helped shape the path of my career,” Harvick said. “I was fortunate enough to have people help me along the way to make it to the top level of NASCAR, and that is what we want to do with the CARS Tour. We want to continue to build the series, bring attention to the drivers, the local tracks and help usher the next generation of drivers to the top levels of racing. Adding this West Coast schedule for 2024 is the next step to making that happen.”

In addition to the newly announced series, the U.S. Legend Cars will follow the same 10-week schedule and accompany the Pro Late Model races as an added feature for each weekend.

2024 zMAX CARS Tour Pro Late Model Series West Schedule:

March 2 – Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway (Bakersfield, Calif.)

April 13 – Irwindale Speedway (Irwindale, Calif.)

May 11 – Irwindale Speedway (Irwindale, Calif.)

May 25 – Stockton 99 Speedway (Stockton, Claif.)

June 15 – The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway (Las Vegas)

July 3 – The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway (Las Vegas)

July 20 – Stockton 99 Speedway (Stockton, Calif.)

August 31 – Irwindale Speedway (Irwindale, Calif.)

October 5 – All American Speedway (Roseville, Calif.)

November 16 – Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway (Bakersfield, Calif.)

For more information regarding the zMAX CARS Tour Pro Late Model Series West please contact Tim Huddleston at Tim@kernraceway.com.

About zMAX CARS Tour:

Founded in the fall of 2014, the zMAX CARS Tour is the Southeast’s premier asphalt Late Model series. Now under the ownership of motorsports icons Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jeff Burton, Kevin Harvick and Justin Marks, the zMAX CARS Tour began as a quality pavement racing series based in the Carolinas and MidAtlantic region that featured both Late Model Stock Cars and Pro Late Models. Both premier series race on the same night at the same track, and this unique arrangement makes the zMAX CARS Tour the first organization of its kind anywhere in the country. Many of today’s stock car superstars got their start in the zMAX CARS Tour and it is a primary breeding ground for the racing champions of tomorrow.

Van Gisbergen, Andretti Lead ARCA Menards Series Daytona Pre-race Practice Entry List

TEMPERANCE, Mich. (January 5, 2024) – Two drivers with experience across the international motorsports spectrum are among the drivers who have filed entries to participate in the ARCA Menards Series pre-race practice session at Daytona International Speedway.

Shane Van Gisbergen shocked the motorsports world when he won the inaugural NASCAR Sprint Cup Series street course race in Chicago last year. The improbable victory, in his series debut driving a part-time third entry for Trackhouse Racing, led the three-time Australian V8 Supercar Series champion to a full-season opportunity with Kaulig Racing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.

Van Gisbergen’s statistics in Australia speak for themselves. In 508 career Supercar races, he’s collected 81 checkered flags – fourth all time – and has finished in the top three 176 times. He’s also started from pole position 48 times.

Van Gisbergen will drive a Chevrolet prepared by team owner Mark Webb’s Pinnacle Racing Group in the pre-race practice and the ARCA Menards Series season-opener at Daytona. He’ll race a same-day double-header in February, competing in the ARCA race first before closing the day in the NASCAR Xfinity Series race. Crew chief Shane Huffman, who led Bret Holmes to the 2020 ARCA Menards Series championship, will oversee Van Gisbergen’s effort.

Marco Andretti is the grandson of 1967 Daytona 500 and 1969 Indianapolis 500 winner Mario Andretti, and the son of 1991 CART Indycar World Series champion Michael Andretti. The third-generation racer has made a name for himself in open wheel racing, picking up a pair of IndyCar victories driving for his father’s organization. He finished second in the 2006 Indianapolis 500, just 0.064 seconds behind winner Sam Hornish.

In recent years, Andretti has cut his open wheel racing schedule to just the Indianapolis 500 but he has branched out to other forms of racing, including stock cars. He’s participated in the Superstar Racing Experience each of the last two years, winning the championship in 2022. He’s also made one start in the NASCAR Xfinity Series in the 2022 race at the Charlotte ROVAL driving for team owner Scott Borchetta, and three starts in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series for Spire Motorsports.

Andretti will participate in the pre-race practice for the team that won the 2023 ARCA Menards Series West owner’s championship, Cook Racing Technologies, led by co-owner Steve McGowan and Bruce Cook, who also serves as crew chief.

A total of 63 drivers spread across 35 cars are currently entered for the two days of practice at Daytona International Speedway, which is set for Friday and Saturday, January 12 and 13, with Sunday, January 14 reserved in case of inclement weather.

The 2024 ARCA Menards Series season kicks off at Daytona with practice on Thursday, February 15, General Tire Pole Qualifying on Friday, February 16, and the 61st Annual Daytona ARCA 200 set for 1:30 pm ET on Saturday, February 17. The race will be televised live on FS1 and broadcast nationwide on select affiliates of the MRN Radio Network. Live timing & scoring for all on track sessions is available at ARCARacing.com.

About ARCA

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

Step-by-Step Guide to Conducting a Digital Vehicle Inspection

Vehicle inspections are an essential aspect of maintaining and ensuring the safety and performance of automobiles. Traditionally, these checks have been carried out manually using pen and paper, making the process time-consuming and prone to human error. However, with technological advancements, digital car inspections have emerged as a more efficient and accurate alternative. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the step-by-step process of conducting a digital car check.

The Importance of Vehicle Inspections

Owning a car comes with a certain level of responsibility, and regular vehicle checks are a crucial part of keeping your wheels in shape. Whether for safety reasons or to prevent unexpected breakdowns, conducting inspections is key to maintaining a healthy and reliable car.

Gone are the days of endless paperwork when it comes to car checks. Thanks to modern technology, we can now conduct digital checks – no more reading illegible handwriting or losing vital inspection records. Digital assessments have made the whole process more efficient and organized, saving time and headaches for both car owners and technicians.

Preparing for a Digital Vehicle Inspection

Gather the Necessary Tools and Equipment

Before you dive into the world of digital checks, make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment. This includes a tablet or smartphone with a compatible inspection app, a reliable internet connection, and any additional hardware required for scanning vehicle components.

Ensure a Safe and Suitable Inspection Environment

You don’t want to conduct a car check in the middle of a bustling highway or a torrential downpour. Find a safe and suitable environment to examine without any distractions. A well-lit garage or an open area with enough space to move around the vehicle is ideal.

Prepare the Vehicle for Inspection

To get the most accurate results, it’s important to prepare the car before starting the check. Park the car on a level surface and ensure it is clean inside and out. Remove any personal belongings or clutter that may obstruct the inspection process, and ensure that all doors, windows, and compartments are accessible.

Step-by-Step Process of Conducting a Digital Vehicle Inspection

  • Step 1: Initial Vehicle Assessment and Documentation

Start by documenting the car’s basic information, such as make, model, year, and mileage. It’s also a good idea to take photos or videos of the car’s exterior and interior for reference.

  • Step 2: Exterior Assessment

Thoroughly inspect the car’s exterior, checking for any signs of damage, rust, or wear and tear. Pay close attention to the body, glass, lights, and tires. Don’t forget to document any findings using the inspection app.

  • Step 3: Interior Assessment

Move inside the car and carefully inspect the interior. Check the condition of the seats, dashboard, controls, and all other features. Look for any signs of damage, odd smells, or malfunctions. Again, document your findings as you go along.

  • Step 4: Engine Inspection

Take a look at the engine bay. Inspect the engine, belts, hoses, fluid levels, and any visible components. Be cautious and avoid touching hot or moving parts. If you’re unsure about any findings, consult a professional.

  • Step 5: Undercarriage Inspection

Get dirty by inspecting the car’s undercarriage. Check for leaks, damage, or signs of excessive wear on the exhaust system, suspension, and other components. Safety first – make sure the car is securely supported before crawling underneath.

  • Step 6: Testing Vehicle Systems and Components

This step involves testing various car systems and components, such as brakes, lights, horns, wipers, and electronics. Use the inspection app to note any issues or malfunctions you encounter during the testing process. Get a holistic overview of the different parts of a car system here.

Key Components to Inspect During a Digital Vehicle Inspection

Below is a list of the key components to inspect during a digital car check:

  • Engine and Transmission
  • Braking System
  • Suspension and Steering
  • Electrical System
  • Tires and Wheels
  • Exterior Body and Paint
  • Interior Upholstery and Features

Remember, conducting a digital car check not only helps you stay on top of maintenance and roadworthiness but also gives you peace of mind.

Benefits and Advantages of Conducting Digital Vehicle Inspections

1. Enhanced Customer Experience:

Customers appreciate transparency and clear communication when it comes to their cars. Digital car checks provide a more interactive and informative experience for customers. They can see detailed reports and visuals, understand the condition of their car, and make decisions based on clear recommendations. This enhances their overall experience and satisfaction.

2. Improved Efficiency and Accuracy:

Digital car checks eliminate the need for manual data entry and significantly reduce the chances of human error. There’s more to scope out at https://shopboss.net/what-is-digital-vehicle-inspection/ about the entire process. Ultimately, technicians can quickly input information into the software, saving time and ensuring accuracy. This improved efficiency allows for more checks to be completed promptly.

3. Streamlined Workflow and Documentation:

Digital vehicles check streamline the entire workflow from start to finish. Technicians can access previous inspection records and vehicle history easily, making it more straightforward to track maintenance and repair needs. Additionally, electronic documentation eliminates the need for physical paperwork, reducing clutter and improving organization.

Conclusion

Digital vehicle inspections offer numerous advantages over traditional methods, providing automotive professionals with a comprehensive and efficient approach to assessing the condition of vehicles. By leveraging software tools and other technologies, inspectors can ensure accuracy, improve productivity, and enhance customer experience.

From the initial preparation to the final documentation and reporting, following the step-by-step process outlined in this guide will enable professionals to conduct thorough and reliable inspections.

Exploring the Difference between Ceramic and Regular Tint

Photo by Erik Mclean

Do you have a car? Are you interested in improving its beauty factor? You will get many more options to improve the look and features of your car. The first thing you need to do here is to check multiple options available on the internet. Car lovers have shared many more ideas on the internet to guide people. If you are a car lover, you must check these options. It will be good enough to pick the best idea for your car to make it more elegant and stylish. Usually, people prefer few options for their cars to make them attractive in look and powerful in operations. 

How do you make your car more engaging in look and powerful in operations?

All of these changes you can bring in your car to make it more attractive in look and powerful for road operations. 

  1. Change the Color of the Car

Changing the car’s color per your desire and need will be good enough. You can select professional services to make your car more attractive and smart. It will be costly, and you must choose professional help for a permanent solution. 

  1. Artistic Touch on the Car

Applying an artistic touch to your car will be more than effective in making it more attractive and smart. For instance, you can apply stickers to make it catchy to the eyes. Check multiple ideas available online, and you will understand everything perfectly. 

  1. Improve Engine Power

Are you interested in improving your car’s engine power? You should consider the engine power boost-up process. Hire professional support, and they will tell you the right solutions that will be effective for the car. They will improve its power and make it a perfect vehicle for road operations. 

  1. Tint Glass

Glass tint is the best solution that will entirely change the outlook features of your car. This change for the car will ultimately bring impressive attraction. This solution effectively avoids the sunlight factor while driving the car. There are two main types of tinted glass for the car. Ceramic window Tint and Regular Tint. You can choose the right option for the car you must apply. 

  1. Interior Changes

You need to check the best options to change the car’s interior. It will require more money, and you need to choose the right option to make your car interior perfect in look. The help and support of the professional service provider will be more than enough for you all the way. 

All of these changes will entirely make your car look perfect and stylish. We recommend you choose a glass tint option to make your car more attractive and smart in look. We will discuss in detail which type of glass tint you must choose for your car. 

Is It Good to Choose the Glass Tint Option? 

Yes, choosing a glass tint option for the car is quite an impressive solution. There are two different types of glass tint, and you need to know in detail about these options. Deciding which option is better for your car to make it more attractive will be easy. 

  • Ceramic Tint

It is an advanced version of window glass tinting, and it is also available in different colors. The basic difference between regular and ceramic tint is that it is coated with ceramic particles. The best thing about ceramic tints is that it will effectively control UV Rays, extreme heat factor, and glare. It will perfectly provide the best solution for window glazing as compared to the regular tint option. Feel free to contact the nearest option around you for this purpose. You will get the most reliable and efficient solution you are searching for. They will provide you with the most durable and efficient solution you are searching for. 

  • Regular Tint

A regular window tint is a sheet that can be easily dyed in different colors and is made of polyester. The best thing about a regular tint laminated sheet is that it can easily dyed in different colors. It can be dyed in light and dark colors per the owner’s desire and need. Black is the most preferred color for car owners, and car owners also prefer to choose gray and brown colors for their cars to look impressive and smart. It is normally used to block sunlight factor while driving the car. It will perfectly maintain the inner temperature of the car. 

Conclusion:

All these points are most effective and reliable for you to know in detail. Both options are most effective for the glass to cover extreme heat factors. Using a ceramic tint sheet will provide the car’s most reliable and effective solution. It will be more durable and has the quality to control UV rays, which are harmful to everyone. 

The Worst NASCAR Accidents in History

Image by Annick Vanblaere from Pixabay

For people used to other types of car racing, watching NASCAR for the first time can seem like its objective is to maximize the possibility of car accidents. While that’s far from the case, the rules, vehicles, and tracks are much simpler in NASCAR than they are in most other racing competitions. As a result, this necessitates a different skill set from NASCAR drivers that other racers just aren’t accustomed to.

This makes for a unique viewing experience, especially if you’re watching live from the stands. And whether you’re using a sportsbook or any of the new online casinos that have been recently launched in the US, NASCAR is even more fun with some bets on the line.

All that being said, there is no denying that car accidents are “relatively common” in NASCAR, at least more so than in most other races. This has forced NASCAR to take numerous safety measures over the years, which is why even the most horrific-looking car pileups often end up victimless. However, that’s not always the case, as even people in the stands aren’t safe from some of the worst NASCAR accidents in history. Without any further ado, let’s examine some of the most significant examples of major car pileups and other accidents in NASCAR over the years. 

Talladega Superspeedway, 1987 – Bobby Allison

The Winston 500 race on the Talladega Superspeedway in 1987 saw an accident so frightening that it forced NASCAR to mandate speed restrictor plates to regulate the maximum speed of the cars. That became necessary after Bobby Allison hit a speed of 212 miles per hour, which caused his car to tear up a wheel and fly into the protective railing.  

Allison’s car wasn’t bumped from behind or anything – the astonishing speed was just too much for the vehicle to handle. Fortunately, Allison survived, but the debris from the crash injured some of the fans. NASCAR did what it had to do so that the cars’ speeds would no longer exceed 200 mph. The decision to force teams to use restrictor plates applied exclusively to the Talladega and Daytona tracks, as those two are the most dangerous NASCAR races.

Daytona International Speedway, 1988 – Richard Petty

Richard Petty was left temporarily blind after a crash on the Daytona 500 in 1988. On lap 106 of the race, his car got hit from behind, flipped over multiple times, and collided with another vehicle. Thankfully, Petty not only survived but regained his sight after a while too. What’s especially curious about this accident is that Petty’s father also had a horrendous NASCAR accident on that same track in 1961. 

Daytona International Speedway, 2015 – Austin Dillon

The Daytona Coke Zero 400 race in 2015 saw one of the most horrific crashes in NASCAR history. The accident involved a chain reaction of multiple vehicles near the end of the race. Most notably, Austin Dillon got spun into a wall and flew into the track’s safety netting, throwing debris onto the stands. Fortunately, he and the other drivers involved managed to walk away from the accident.

Talladega Superspeedway, 2012 – A 25-Car Pileup

You may have heard about the 2012 Good Sam Roadside Assistance 500 race in reference to the “Big One.” Of course, it’s not the only Big One, as that term refers to every pileup involving five or more cars. Still, the 2012 race on Talladega saw one of the “Biggest Ones,” as Tony Stewart hooked bumpers with Michael Waltrip in the final lap, which threw Stewart into the more than two dozen vehicles racing behind them. Fortunately, there were no fatalities. 

Daytona International Speedway, 1984 – Ricky Rudd

The 1984 Busch Clash on Daytona saw a horrific accident for Ricky Rudd after he lost control of his Ford due to a bump from the back. The driver survived with “just” a concussion and severely swollen eyes, but that’s not what made this accident famous. The truly memorable part is that Rudd decided to race the next week, even though he was still concussed. He even had to tape his swollen eyes open with duct tape so that he could race. This whole hullaballoo became the reason NASCAR, after decades of accidents, finally implemented mandatory physical exams for the drivers before every race. 

Daytona International Speedway, 2001 – Dale Earnhardt Sr. 

The infamous 2001 Daytona 500 race on the Daytona International Speedway saw Dale “The Intimidator” Earnhardt spin out of control after a touch from Sterling Marlin’s car on the last lap of the race. As a result, Earnhardt ended up in front of Ken Schrader’s vehicle, ending a decades-long career. There is a silver lining, at least, and it’s that The Intimidator is succeeded by his son, Dale Earnhardt Jr., who has also grown into a famous NASCAR driver in his own right.

Daytona International Speedway, 1960 – A 37-Car Pileup

Probably the most infamous NASCAR accident is the 1960 Daytona Modified Sportsman Race. Not only did that race see some of the sport’s legends (including Junior Johnson, Edward Glenn “Fireball” Roberts, and Ralph Earnhardt) compete against each other, but it was also the scene of a monumental 37-car pileup. The accident occurred on the first lap, just two minutes into the race. Stunningly, there were no fatalities, though there were plenty of injuries.

That race is why NASCAR reduced the number of competing cars from 68 to 43. The maximum number of cars was further reduced from 43 to 40 in 2016 when NASCAR introduced a new charter system for the racing teams.

The Finish Line

The eight accidents above are just a tiny sample of all the hundreds of NASCAR pileups over the decades. In fact, it’s pretty challenging to say which really are “the worst” accidents, as there are many different ways to rank them – the most cars involved, the most spectacular pileup, the most injuries, etc.

The criteria we chose to go with, if you could call it that, is how famous the accident is overall or how significant it has been for the sport. Even by that measure, however, we’re sure plenty of people would disagree and say we’ve missed one accident or another – that’s how many there are to choose from.