Home Blog Page 1205

JR Motorsports Solidifies Crew Chief Lineup for 2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series Season

By
Official Release
-

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Dec. 18, 2023) – JR Motorsports has added a pair of crew chiefs to its roster for the 2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series season, the organization announced today, and both are former team members.

Adam Wall will lead JRM’s No. 8 team for driver Sammy Smith while Phillip Bell returns as crew chief for the No. 9 team and driver Brandon Jones. Reprising their roles with the No. 1 and No. 7 teams will be Mardy Lindley and Jim Pohlman, who led Sam Mayer and Justin Allgaier, respectively, to the Championship 4 in 2023.

Wall and Bell are products of the Hendrick Motorsports-JRM conduit. Bell spent seven seasons as a lead engineer with JRM before heading to the Cup Series last year. Wall started at HMS in 2011 and then joined JRM as an engineer for three seasons (2016-18). He reunited with HMS the following year, rising to lead engineer for Kyle Larson and winning a championship in 2021.

“I feel very confident in our group of crew chiefs for 2024,” said JRM’s Director of Competition Mike Bumgarner. “Both Adam and Phillip have previous experience here with our guys and that chemistry alone makes the flow of communication even better. The process speaks volumes to what Dale and Kelley have been able to do here.”

Wall, a 34-year-old from Teutopolis, Ill., had previously been with JRM alongside crew chief Kevin Meendering and then-driver Elliott Sadler as an engineer beginning in 2016. He left JRM with Meendering at the end of 2018 and moved back to HMS, first with the No. 48 team and then with its No. 5 unit.

“It’s a lot of the same people here at JR Motorsports, so I’m excited to hit the ground running,” Wall said. “It’s a really efficient process that they have going with HMS and JRM in terms of personnel, and I’m an example of how it works. To be able to come back to JRM on the crew chief level is a really nice path.”

Bell, entering his first season as a NXS crew chief, was the lead engineer for JRM’s No. 9 car during a 2022 season that produced a single-season team record eight victories and a second straight Championship 4 appearance. The 33-year-old Senoia, Ga. native worked at JRM beginning in 2016 and in 2022 rose to the post of lead engineer during his tenure.

“I’m very appreciative of the opportunity,” said Bell. “I couldn’t have asked for a better place to be, because I know the systems and the people. It feels like coming home. The 9 team means a lot to me. We spent a lot of time and effort and helping build that legacy, getting the right systems in place to win races, and it means a lot to me to be here with them.”

2024 JRM Driver/Crew Chief Lineup:

  • No. 1 Chevrolet: driver Sam Mayer, crew chief Mardy Lindley
  • No. 7 Chevrolet: driver Justin Allgaier, crew chief Jim Pohlman
  • No. 8 Chevrolet: driver Sammy Smith, crew chief Adam Wall
  • No. 9 Chevrolet: driver Brandon Jones, crew chief Phillip Bell

ABOUT JR MOTORSPORTS:

JR Motorsports is the racing operation co-owned by NASCAR Hall of Fame member and 15-time Most Popular Driver Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kelley Earnhardt Miller and NASCAR Hall of Famer Rick Hendrick. Now in its 22nd year of overall competition, JR Motorsports competes in multiple divisions, including the NASCAR Xfinity Series where it currently fields four full-time teams and earned championship in 2014, 2017 and 2018. The company also races in Late Model competition and owns five championships in regional Late Model divisions and added a prized national title in 2020. To learn more about the organization, its drivers and its sponsorship opportunities, visit www.jrmracing.com.

My official way too early 2024 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series playoff predictions

By
Samuel Stubbs
-
Photo by Patrick Sue-Chan for SpeedwayMedia.com.

With two months remaining until the 2024 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season begins at Daytona, I thought I’d do what every sensible NASCAR fan does every offseason, and make way too early (and likely incorrect) Playoff predictions. 

So without further ado, sit back, relax, and please, do not revisit this article after the regular season finale at Richmond on August 10th of next year. 

Virtual Locks

Nothing is guaranteed in the wild world of NASCAR racing, but there are a few standout drivers who should have no issue making the postseason. 

Corey Heim, No. 11 Toyota Tundra, TRICON Garage:

Coming off a Championship race that was disappointing on multiple counts for Heim, he’s looking to avenge his narrow loss and win his first NASCAR championship. Heim had 3 wins, 12 top 5’s, and 19 top 5’s in just 22 starts last year, and still won the regular season championship despite missing the race at Gateway. So long as the speed is still in the shop at Tricon, Corey Heim could be in a great position to win a Truck Series championship and cement his spot as a top 3 prospect in the sport. 

Christian Eckes, No. 19 Chevrolet Silverado, McAnally-Hilgemann Racing:

While Eckes narrowly missed the Final 4, he still won 4 races and proved his critics wrong. In his 2nd year with MHR, Eckes is primed to make the Championship 4 and compete against the big dogs. He could be asked to be a bit more consistent, as he only turned in 13 top tens last season, but as long as he puts his Silverado in Victory Lane, he’ll be a lock for the Playoffs. 

Ben Rhodes, No. 99 Ford F-150, ThorSport Racing:

Coming off a quiet 2nd championship, Rhodes is aiming to have more winning speed in 2024. Only 7 top 5’s and 1 win for the team that eventually won the championship is a statline that seems a bit shocking, but in the Playoff era, all you have to do is perform at the right time. I think Rhodes at least doubles his win total from ‘23 in ‘24, and he’ll be coasting into the postseason. 

Ty Majeski, No. 98 Ford F-150, Thorsport Racing:

Majeski only won once last season, at IRP, but it feels like there were at least 2 missed opportunities to get to Victory Lane. A pit road penalty at Richmond ruined one of the most dominating performances in Truck Series history and the rough weekend at Milwaukee (after fellow driver Carson Hocevar allegedly said the No. 98 team had their “superpower” taken away) seem like races that Majeski should want back. Going into his 3rd year with ThorSport, it seems like Majeski needs a big season to stay in a coveted seat, and I think he wins at least twice in the Regular season to slot himself into the Playoffs. 

Feeling Alright, Alright, Alright…

I feel confident that these next few drivers will make the Playoffs, but I wouldn’t say they’re locks yet. 

Nick Sanchez, No. 2 Chevrolet Silverado, Rev Racing:

While Sanchez didn’t get to Victory Lane in 2023, the rookie was the man to beat in Qualifying and finished top 10 in over half the races. (12) He goes into 2024 with big expectations, and I think he meets them, winning his first race and not having to worry about points as the regular season winds down. 

Stewart Friesen, No. 52 Toyota Tundra, Halmar Friesen Racing:

Friesen had a pretty disappointing campaign in 2023, going winless, missing the Playoffs, and only finishing top 10 7 times. But in a weakened field, the veteran from Canada should have an easier time making the Playoff field. I think he will find Victory Lane before the postseason begins.

Matt Crafton, No. 88 Ford F-150, ThorSport Racing:

What’s more impressive than Crafton’s 15 wins and 3 championships? The fact that in 8 years of them being in place, Matt Crafton has never missed the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Playoffs. Heck, he’s never finished below 15th in the points and hasn’t finished outside the top 10 since 2006. Crafton has just snuck in the past couple of seasons, and I think he will do so again, but I simply can’t predict that the 47-year-old will miss the postseason, because there’s simply no evidence to suggest it. Will he break his 3-and-a-half-year winless streak dating back to Kansas in July of 2020? I doubt it, but don’t be surprised if the crafty vet gets back into Victory Lane. 

By The Skin of Their Teeth

The Truck Series Playoff bubble battle usually comes down to the final few races, if not the final race. I think these last 3 drivers barely sneak into the 2024 Playoffs. 

Layne Riggs, No. 38 Ford F-150, Front Row Motorsports

The No. 38 team took a step back with Zane Smith last year, but it was a lame-duck year for Smith, who was looking forward to his Cup Series plans in 2024 and beyond. While young, Layne Riggs has shown flashes of talent in the Truck Series over his select starts. Combining his raw talent, great equipment, and a veteran team, I think Riggs sneaks in. His best shot at a win is likely COTA. Riggs may not be the best road course racer, but the 38 truck is 3-0 in Austin, winning with Todd Gilliland and Zane Smith (twice) when the Truck Series ventured to the Texas road course. 

Grant Enfinger, No. 9 Chevrolet Silverado, CR7 Racing

Though disappointed to come up just short of the championship, Enfinger still had a fantastic year in 2023. 3 wins gave way to his best season in quite a while. However, GMS shut down their Truck Series program after Phoenix, leaving Enfinger without a ride until he signed with CR7 Racing a few days ago. I think Enfinger is talented enough to lift sub-par equipment to the postseason, even if it’s just by a few points. Plus, Enfinger is an excellent superspeedway racer, and with the first 2 destinations on the schedule being Daytona & Atlanta, Enfinger has a decent chance to win his way into the Playoffs early in the year.

And finally…

Jake Garcia, No. 13 Ford F-150, ThorSport Racing

Garcia turned in a very solid effort in his rookie campaign, finishing 13th in points with 9 top 10s. In slightly better equipment and with a slightly weakened field, the path seems open for Garcia to make the Playoffs, however, narrow a margin it might be. He’ll have plenty of other drivers on his tail, but I think the strength of ThorSport lifts him into the Playoffs. 

Close, but no Cigar

A few drivers that will narrowly miss out on the postseason…

Tanner Gray, No. 15 Toyota Tundra, TRICON Garage 

Gray has been steadily improving over the past few seasons but hasn’t been able to finish the regular season as well as he’s started it. That issue will plague Gray again, as he’ll narrowly miss out on the postseason. 

Taylor Gray, No. 17 Toyota Tundra, TRICON Garage

In what will be his first full-time year in the Truck Series, Gray’s path will be very similar to that of his brother. Gray will have a strong start, but will eventually fall off as crunch time grows near. Maybe in 2025, he’ll make the postseason for the first time.

Tyler Ankrum, No. 18 Chevrolet Silverado, McAnally-Hilgemann Racing

Since his win at Kentucky in 2019, Ankrum has missed the Playoffs in 3 out of the last 4 seasons. After leaving Hattori Racing for MHR, he’s hoping a new team will re-invigorate him. However, I think he still has a ways to go before he gets back in victory lane, or the championship conversation. I think he outperforms teammate Daniel Dye, who I predict to be nowhere near the bubble come Playoff time, but Ankrum needs to find consistent speed soon. 

Matt Mills, No. 42 Chevrolet Silverado, Niece Motorsports 

Mills impressed at Richmond last summer with KBM, and I think he’ll outrun Niece teammate Bayley Currey this year. However, he’s still young and doesn’t have a ton of experience in big-time moments. Mills will have his moments, and he’s driving for a great team, but it won’t be enough to lift him to the Playoffs. 

Thad Moffitt, No. 46 Chevrolet Silverado, Faction46

When I asked Thad Moffitt about his expectations for 2024, he said that he thinks the team could be in Playoff contention, running around 10th-15th. Seeing as Faction46 is a brand new race team, I’ll take the lower end of that, but I do think they’ll have a few solid runs, and have a good shot at winning the season opener at Daytona. A top 15 season in the points would be a fantastic jumping-off point for Lane Moore and the all-new Faction46 team. 

Next 4 Out: Dean Thompson, Bayley Currey, Daniel Dye, Timmy Hill

There you have it, folks. My way too early Truck Series playoff predictions. Again, please don’t come back to this article after the regular season finale to see how many of my predictions have aged like milk.

Here’s to a great season of Truck Series Racing!

Speedway Motorsports COO Mike Burch’s Passion For NASCAR Video Games and Short Track Racing An Uplifting Sign

By
Samuel Stubbs
-

Sitting in his office in Concord, North Carolina, Speedway Motorsports Chief Operating Officer Michael Burch smiled through much of our chat. Working at Speedway Motorsports for over 20 years, Burch brings a smile and a positive attitude into the workplace day in and day out. 

“It’s really fun when you can come and spend a significant part of your day, eight hours of your day, with the people that you work with,” Burch said. “Without people, it’s a big asphalt circle or a big asphalt road course, and it’s a grandstand. And it’s really the experience that people make work. Their creativity, their energy, their hospitality, their friendliness, all those things I think is really what you remember when you go to the races.”

Burch got into the sport differently than most people of his experience, and in a way that would make current Cup Series Driver William Byron proud: He fell in love with NASCAR video games. 

“I grew up in Reading, Pennsylvania, where Roger Penske has his trucking empire based. I was more of an IndyCar fan, watching the Indy 500 on Memorial Day,” Burch said. “I was aware of NASCAR, but it was actually the NASCAR video games that got me involved. I was a big gamer growing up and that’s what really taught me who drove what cars and the sponsors, and manufacturers and drivers, but also gave me an understanding of how the cars actually work. There was so much interesting feedback, that dynamic, you know, you could see that right front tire going from black, to green, to yellow, to red as it wore out, and you had to decide when to pit. You could feel the car start to move around and lose its optimal line.”

Burch’s love for the gaming side of NASCAR extends to the future of the sport as well. 

“It’s been a real passion of mine, and I really think it’s important in bringing new fans to the sport. You look at William Byron who literally went from iRacing to driving the No. 24 for Hendrick Motorsports. It’s one of the rare video game experiences where the inputs are exactly the same as what you’d do in the real world. You can get as good as you want pressing that X button and moving that controller in Madden, or NBA 2K, or ESPN FC, but that really isn’t going to help you on the soccer pitch, or the basketball court, or the football field.”

“I’m really excited that iRacing has gotten that (NASCAR) license, they’ve done some great work, and I’m really looking forward to them bringing their expertise to consoles, and making sure we do have some good console games.”

When I asked Burch about his favorite moment in his over 2 decade-long career at SMI, his face lit up. 

“The experience at North Wilkesboro has been something that I think everyone involved will always remember. The smile on (the fans) faces, the energy, the excitement, they just couldn’t believe they were back at North Wilkesboro watching racing,” Burch says, recounting the return of the famed track in May of this year. 

Burch ended by saying words that all race fans should do their best to live by. 

“I just encourage everybody to get to a race in 2024. Make that a New Year’s Resolution,” he joked. “It doesn’t have to be a Speedway Motorsports facility. Make sure you’re supporting your local short track. If you can get to a Cup race, fantastic. If you get to one of our facilities, fantastic. Racing only survives if fans continue to support it, and there’s an awful lot of race tracks out there that are really being challenged.”

In a sports world where loyalty and sincerity are becoming a lost art, Mike Burch’s passion and love for racing shines a light on all the good still left in those who choose to share it with the masses. 

Developing Young Talent: The Key to Success in Mississauga Basketball

By
SM
-
Photo by Pixabay

A. Importance of Basketball Coaching for Youth

Youth basketball coaching plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of aspiring athletes in Mississauga. The right guidance not only helps kids improve their basketball skills but also instills valuable life lessons, discipline, and teamwork. In this article, we’ll explore the essential aspects of Mississauga Basketball coaching, focusing on how it impacts young athletes.

B. Overview of the Basketball Scene in Mississauga

Mississauga, a vibrant city in Ontario, has emerged as a hotbed of basketball talent. With a growing interest in the sport, it’s crucial to understand the coaching landscape and the opportunities available for budding basketball stars in this dynamic community.

II. Finding the Right Coach

A. Qualities of a Good Basketball Coach

A good basketball coach possesses a unique set of qualities that go beyond mere knowledge of the game. Patience, leadership, communication skills, and a passion for nurturing young talent are vital attributes. Finding a coach who embodies these traits can make all the difference in a young athlete’s development.

B. How to Identify the Right Coach in Mississauga

In Mississauga, where basketball continues to gain momentum, identifying the right coach is crucial. Seek recommendations from experienced players and parents, attend coaching clinics, and assess potential coaches based on their qualifications, experience, and coaching philosophy.

III. Coaching Methods for Youth

A. Age-appropriate Techniques

Coaching young athletes requires an understanding of age-appropriate techniques. Coaches in Mississauga Basketball programs tailor their approach to cater to the developmental needs of children, ensuring that fundamental skills are solidified before progressing to more advanced techniques.

B. Balancing Fun and Discipline

Effective youth coaches strike a balance between fun and discipline. They create an enjoyable learning environment while instilling a sense of responsibility and dedication in young players, nurturing both their basketball skills and character.

IV. Essential Skills in Youth Basketball

A. Fundamental Skills

Fundamental skills like dribbling, shooting, passing, and defense are the building blocks of a successful basketball career. In Mississauga, coaches focus on honing these core skills to lay a strong foundation for aspiring athletes.

B. Advanced Skills for Older Youth

As young athletes progress, coaches introduce more advanced skills, such as pick-and-roll plays, zone defense strategies, and intricate offensive moves. Mississauga coaches prepare older youth for higher levels of competition, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed.

V. The Role of Teamwork and Sportsmanship

A. Building Team Spirit

Basketball is a team sport, and teamwork is a fundamental aspect of the game. Mississauga coaches emphasize the importance of collaboration, fostering team spirit that extends beyond the court.

B. Instilling Sportsmanship Values

Sportsmanship is a core value in Mississauga Basketball coaching. Coaches teach young athletes to win with humility and lose with grace, instilling essential values that extend far beyond the basketball court.

VI. Physical and Mental Fitness

A. Physical Conditioning

Youth coaches in Mississauga prioritize physical conditioning to ensure young athletes are in top shape. This includes strength training, agility drills, and cardiovascular conditioning, all aimed at improving overall performance and preventing injuries.

B. Mental Toughness in Young Athletes

Mental toughness is equally critical. Coaches help young athletes develop mental resilience, teaching them to stay focused, handle pressure, and maintain a positive attitude during games and practices.

VII. Customized Training Programs

A. Individual Attention

In Mississauga, basketball coaches understand that each player is unique. They provide individual attention to help players develop their strengths and address their weaknesses, tailoring training programs to suit individual needs.

B. Group Sessions and Their Benefits

Group sessions also play a significant role. They encourage healthy competition, teamwork, and camaraderie among young athletes, fostering a sense of belonging within the team.

VIII. Parental Involvement

A. Guiding Young Athletes

Parents are essential partners in a young athlete’s journey. Coaches in Mississauga maintain open lines of communication with parents, keeping them informed about their child’s progress and offering guidance on how to support their development.

B. Communication Between Coaches and Parents

Effective communication between coaches and parents is vital for the holistic development of young athletes. Mississauga coaches ensure that parents are well-informed and involved in their child’s basketball journey.

IX. Competitive Opportunities in Mississauga

A. Local Tournaments and Leagues

Mississauga offers a plethora of competitive opportunities for youth basketball players. Local tournaments and leagues provide a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills and gain valuable experience.

B. Pathway to Higher Levels

Success in Mississauga’s youth basketball programs can open doors to higher levels of competition, such as college and even professional basketball. Coaches play a pivotal role in guiding talented players along this pathway.

X. Success Stories

A. Testimonials from Young Athletes

The success stories of young athletes who have benefited from Mississauga Basketball coaching are inspiring. Their testimonials reflect the positive impact of effective coaching on their development as both players and individuals.

B. Coaches’ Success in Training Youth

Mississauga boasts a roster of dedicated coaches who have played a pivotal role in nurturing young talent. Their commitment and expertise have paved the way for countless success stories in the local basketball scene.

XI. Keeping Up with Trends

A. Modern Coaching Techniques

To stay at the forefront of youth basketball development, coaches in Mississauga continually update their coaching techniques. They incorporate modern methods, including video analysis, data-driven insights, and innovative training drills.

B. Technology in Training

Technology has revolutionized basketball coaching. Coaches in Mississauga utilize video analysis, training apps, and wearable technology to enhance their coaching and provide players with valuable feedback.

XII. Overcoming Challenges

A. Common Obstacles in Youth Coaching

Youth coaching comes with its fair share of challenges, such as handling diverse skill levels, maintaining discipline, and addressing parental expectations. Coaches in Mississauga are well-equipped to tackle these obstacles head-on.

B. Strategies for Overcoming Them

Mississauga coaches employ effective strategies to overcome challenges, including personalized coaching plans, effective communication, and creating a positive learning environment that fosters growth and resilience in young athletes.

XIII. Future of Youth Basketball in Mississauga

A. Growing Popularity

The popularity of youth basketball in Mississauga is on the rise, with more young athletes eager to embrace the sport. This trend bodes well for the city’s future in basketball.

B. Long-Term Prospects for Young Athletes

With the right coaching, young athletes in Mississauga have promising long-term prospects. Whether they pursue college scholarships or professional careers or simply enjoy the game recreationally, the skills and values they learn through basketball will serve them well throughout their lives.

XIV. Conclusion

A. Summing Up the Importance of Good Coaching

In Mississauga, basketball coaching for youth is not just about winning games; it’s about nurturing the potential of young athletes, instilling values, and preparing them for success on and off the court.

Thad Moffitt embraces family legacy as he prepares for his first year with Faction46

By
Samuel Stubbs
-
https://thadmoffitt.com/

It seems poetic that in the 75th year, his family is involved in NASCAR, Thad Moffitt would lead a new generation of the sport.

Being the great-grandson of NASCAR pioneer Lee Petty, and the grandson of King Richard I, Thad Moffitt has racing in his blood, and he was just signed to his first full-time gig in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, being tapped to drive a Silverado for the brand new Faction46 team. 

Moffitt says he knew he wanted to drive for the team as soon as he met owner Lane Moore. 

“As soon as I met him at Bristol, I was like, man. This has got to happen. He’s a fourth-generation grocer and I’m a fourth-generation race car driver, so we’re kind of cut from the same cloth. And it just kind of had to happen, and so we went back to work, and here a couple months later it’s out, it’s public, it’s announced, and I don’t have to walk around on eggshells anymore.”

When asked about his expectations for the team and himself, Moffitt says he keeps himself grounded. 

“You know, I think having realistic expectations is a big thing of mine. I want to go out and compete for a championship, but we’re a brand new team and brand new teams have hiccups. They have bad days. At this point I have a crew chief, a car chief, a mechanic, and an interior guy. We’re still looking for a tire guy, we’re still looking for an engineer. So every role has definitely not been sealed. But I don’t see any reason why we can’t be a competitive top 15, top 10 team for the majority of the year. A major goal of mine would just be to be in the playoff conversation next year when that time rolls around.”

Despite a few understandable shortcomings so far, the team is more prepared than you would think a brand-new team would be. 

“We’re pretty ahead of schedule as far as our trucks go equipment wise, we’re already getting seats mounted in the Vegas truck, which isn’t until March of next year,” Moffitt explained. 

When I mentioned Moffitt’s family legacy, a small smile crept across his face as I asked him about the difficulty of distinguishing himself from just being Richard Petty’s grandson. 

“I want to make a name for myself. Is it kind of hard to bridge that gap sometimes? I would say yeah, absolutely, I think it’s hard to bridge that gap, but there’s a lot of opportunity that comes with that too. Being the grandson of Richard Petty helps me with all kinds of things. It opens doors for me. But then it’s a double edged sword because then I’m compared to him in everything I do, whether it’s the way I interact with fans, what I post on social media, or how I perform in the car, everything I do is compared to the way he lives his life. At the end of the day, I’m my own person, and that’s kind of what Faction46 is, kind of molded after what Trackhouse is, just doing things different.”

“I’m not ashamed of being Richard Petty’s grandson. I’m definitely proud to be part of the family and be a small part of everything he’s accomplished.”

Moffitt’s family legacy also played into his next answer, where I asked him about his dream first-win scenario. 

“Man, what it would mean to me to win at Daytona, a place that’s so historic for my family. Grandpa won there several times and Great Grandpa won the very first 500 at the big track, so to be able to be a part of what the Petty’s have done at Daytona would be incredible.”

Moffitt will get his chance to add to that Daytona legacy and start his tenure with Faction46 off on the right foot on the evening of February 16th in the 2024 Fresh From Florida 250 (7:30 PM ET, FS1, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio).

GMG Racing 2023 in Review: A Parade of Podium Finishes and a Storybook Finish to Close the Year with a Pair of Comeback Victories

By
Official Release
-
  • Kyle Washington Cruises to Nearly 10 Podium Finishes in GMG Racing Porsches in Packed Season-Ending Schedule of Carrera Cup North America and Sprint Challenge Races
  • GMG Racing Founder and Principal James Sofronas Scores Debut Double Victories in Season-Ending Carrera Cup Races at COTA in the No. 14 GMG Racing Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
  • CJ Moses Earns Multiple Podium Finishes Carrying the GT2 Flag for GMG Racing in GT America Powered by AWS Competition in the No. 58 CrowdStrike/AWS Audi R8 LMS GT2

SANTA ANA, California (December 15, 2023) – GMG Racing is firmly focused on the 2024 North American sports car racing season after a competitive 2023 campaign across multiple racing series delivered a solid run of podium results and a storybook finish with a pair of comeback race wins in the season-ending IMSA Porsche Deluxe Carrera Cup North America at Circuit of The Americas (COTA).

GMG once again fielded numerous drivers and a variety of modern sports car machinery, anchored primarily by Porsche 992 and 991 Cup and GT3 cars, in a select schedule of races spanning nearly the entirety of the 2023 calendar. Even in the recent and closing weeks of the year, GMG Racing has been hard at work with its “Winter Series” of track day and race events on their home circuit at the Thermal Club, where GMG Racing will open its expanded and soon-to-be-completed headquarters operation next year. Among the cars GMG is putting through its paces this December at Thermal is the new 992 Porsche 911 GT3 R Kyle Washington and co-driver Jeroen Bleekemolen debuted in Fanatec GT World Challenge competition in August at Road America.

“The 2023 racing season provided the perfect preparation for next year as it required a no-quit performance and 100% focus from each and every member of GMG Racing,” said James Sofronas, GMG Racing Founder and Principal. “The results were fantastic, particularly as we raced through the busy final months of the year with maximum momentum. There was nobody we couldn’t race with in several different series and the victories and podiums speak for themselves. It bodes well for even more success in 2024 and we can’t wait to get started.”

Longtime GMG driver Washington once again ran a packed schedule of races in multiple series, including Carrera Cup, USAC Porsche Sprint Challenge by Yokohama, IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge, GT America powered by AWS and more. Washington delivered the first major podium finish of the season for GMG in his No. 32 GMG Racing Porsche 911 GT3 Cup in the opening Carrera Cup sprint at the Grand Prix of Miami Formula 1 race where he improved an incredible 20 race positions to finish third in Pro-Am and in the top-10 overall.

The Miami Grand Prix victory lane visit set the tone for GMG Racing driver podium showings and race wins on the biggest stages in North American motorsports all season. Washington added to his Pro-Am Carrera Cup haul with a pair of third-place showings in mid-September on the hallowed ground of Indianapolis Motor Speedway and continued to shine in major race events with another third in the opening Carrera Cup race at Rennsport Reunion 7 at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca two weeks later.

The Carrera Cup Pro-Am success anchored a late-season surge in more than a month of nearly non-stop competition for Washington with a mix of Carrera Cup and multiple Porsche 992 and 991 races in Porsche Sprint Challenge starting in early September. The hectic schedule of 10 races on a pair of race weekends at both IMS and Laguna Seca produced an amazing run of nine podium showings – including second-place runs in the opening Sprint Challenge 992 race in early September at Laguna Seca and another runner-up result in the first Sprint Challenge 991 race at IMS in October – heading into the COTA Carrera Cup finale.

Washington closed out his competitive season with a pair of top-five Pro-Am finishes in the stacked Carrera Cup field that assembled to support the COTA Formula 1 race, but it was GMG team owner and driver Sofronas who made a triumphant return to professional competition in front of the massive Formula 1 crowd with a clean sweep in the Pro-Am class in the No. 14 GMG Racing Porsche 911 GT3 Cup.

In his IMSA Carrera Cup series debut, Sofronas turned in the perfect performance in his first major race since recovering from a back injury sustained this past summer in a race testing incident. He improved several positions in both COTA races, climbing from fourth on the starting grid on Saturday and second on Sunday for the pair of victories. The run to the top of the order in both races was even more impressive considering both sprints were slowed by time-draining caution periods. Sofronas wasted no time getting to the front in either race.

“For me personally and as the owner of GMG, it was very rewarding and incredibly emotional to finish the year like we did at COTA,” Sofronas said. “Just getting back in the car after my injury and realizing I could still perform at a highly competitive level as I have for my entire 30 year career was gratifying and, honestly, a relief. I had a couple of Sprint Challenge podiums earlier in the season but to return to the top step of the podium not once but twice in our last major race of the year – and my first in Carrera Cup – was incredible. The GMG team gave me a perfect Porsche 992 and it was great seeing Kyle finish fifth in Pro-am in both races too and wrap it all up with two GMG Racing Porsches in the top five in a pair of races. Kyle singlehandedly delivered our team’s best race results while I was recovering and his strong end to the season shows the incredible progress he has made. It is only going to get better next year.”

GMG Racing’s other podium player in 2023 was familiar team driver CJ Moses who was a frequent visitor to victory lane in the emerging GT2 division in the GT America powered by AWS series. Ending his season on a high note as well, Moses drove his unique No. 58 CrowdStrike/AWS Audi R8 LMS GT2 to a pair of podium showings at the Indy finale. After a third place finish in Friday’s race, Moses improved to a second-place finish on Sunday.

“We have been proponents of the GT2 format in SRO Motorsports America since it was announced and CJ Moses has been right there with us,” Sofronas said. “He had a limited but competitive schedule this year but he continues each season to develop his race craft and improve overall as a driver. There was a small but diverse GT2 field at Indy and it is great to see the class starting to grow. We know it will only get bigger in the future and we plan to continue to be a part of it.”

Sofronas has endless praise for the GMG Racing crew that stayed the competitive course – even through some heartbreaking times – throughout the 2023 season and is already hard at work on preparations for 2024.

“The crew is just incredible,” Sofronas said. “They know how to deal with the long and tough days at the track like the professionals they are, but we all head into this holiday season thinking about our teammate Bryce Cords who we lost in a fatal crash right at the height of the busy stretch run to close out the year. Losing a race is one thing, but with Bryce we lost a teammate, a leader and a brother. Earlier in the year, another primary member of our team, Michael Shanes, was sidelined as he fights cancer. We think of them both everyday, we will probably never race again without Bryce in our thoughts, and we look forward to Michael returning to the track with us as soon as possible.”

As 2023 comes to a conclusion, Sofronas and GMG are finalizing multiple team and driver development programs across several different North American racing series. The first announcements will be made in early 2024.

About GMG Racing: Founded in 2001, GMG Racing quickly established itself as North America’s premier performance tuning facility. What began as a small 1,200 sq. ft. shop, maintaining two race cars, has grown into a 30,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art performance tuning, racing and service facility located in Santa Ana, California in Orange County and with a trackside motorsports facility at 28,000 sq. ft. currently being built at The Thermal Club. The staff, attention to detail, and passion are what make GMG the choice of professionals and enthusiasts worldwide. GMG, in its early years, was located directly across the street from Porsche Motorsport North America (PMNA). This close proximity allowed GMG to build a strong relationship with the legendary racing brand which has helped us support our customers to the highest level possible. From club racing to Sebring, Daytona and Spa, GMG can take you as far as you want to go. More information can be found at www.gmgracing.com.

2024 NTT IndyCar Series Silly Season Update

By
Andrew Kim
-
Photo by Tim Jarrold for SpeedwayMedia.com.

With less than three months remaining until the commencement of the 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season, a majority of teams and competitors have new or familiar faces or homes set in place while select seats remain within a handle of organizations.

The most recent name to be scratched off this year’s Silly Season topic is Sting Ray Robb, who will join A.J. Foyt Racing to pilot the No. 41 Dallara-Chevrolet. The news comes three months after the 26-year-old Robb from Boise, Idaho, completed his first campaign in the IndyCar circuit for Dale Coyne Racing with Rick Ware Racing, where he ended up in 23rd place and accumulated 147 points.

Robb, a former champion of the Pro Mazda/Indy Pro 2000 Championship region and a runner-up finisher in the 2022 Indy Lights standings, is the only competitor currently confirmed to be competing for A.J. Foyt Racing for the upcoming season as the rest of the team’s driver lineup remains to be determined.

Another organization that is left undetermined regarding its driver lineup is Robb’s former team, Dale Coyne Racing. The team fielded two full-time entries for Robb and David Malukas, and a third entry for the Indianapolis 500 piloted by two-time Indy 500 champion Ryan Hunter-Reay. With both Robb and Malukas venturing to new teams and Hunter-Reay not having any racing plans set for the near future, the team’s search to fill its vacant seats continues approaching the 2024 season.

Despite having plans to field two cars for the 108th running of the Indianapolis 500 in May 2024, Dreyer & Reinbold Racing have also yet to determine its two competitors who will be assuming the reigns of both entries. This past season, the team fielded the Nos. 23 and 24 Chevrolets for Hunter-Reay and Graham Rahal, respectively, with the latter replacing the injured Stefan Wilson. Having fielded at least one entry in the Indy 500 for 24 consecutive seasons, the team approaches the 2024 season aiming to extend the streak to 25 years with select names still on the market.

In the midst of a handful of teams who have vacant seats yet to be filled, a majority of organizations (Andretti Global, Arrow McLaren, Chip Ganassi Racing, Ed Carpenter Racing, Juncos Hollinger Racing, Meyer Shank Racing, Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing and Team Penske) have driver lineups for the 2024 season set, with nearly all having new names joining their stable to compete alongside notable veterans, race winners and champions.

After fielding four full-time entries and a fifth for the Indianapolis 500 this past season while recording a total of two season victories, Andretti Global, which has been rebranded from Andretti Autosport, will shrink to a three-car operation for the upcoming season and for its lineup consisting of Colton Herta, Kyle Kirkwood and Marcus Ericsson. Ericsson, the 2022 Indianapolis 500 champion from Kumla, Sweden, joins Andretti following a four-year campaign at Chip Ganassi Racing, where he had also recorded four career victories, as he will be piloting the No. 28 Dallara-Honda, thus replacing Romain Grosjean, while Herta and Kirkwood, the latter who earned his first two career victories at the Streets of Long Beach and Nashville Street Circuit in 2023, retain driving responsibilities of the Nos. 26 and 27 Hondas, respectively.

The 2024 season will mark the second consecutive season where Arrow McLaren will field three full-time entries. On this occasion, a new face joins the organization. David Malukas, from Chicago, Illinois, will replace Felix Rosenqvist to pilot the No. 6 Dallara-Chevrolet, as he will compete alongside returning names Pato O’Ward and Alexander Rossi, both of whom endured winless seasons in 2023 and strive to return the McLaren name to Victory Lane in 2024. In addition, McLaren will field a fourth entry in conjunction with 14-time NASCAR championship-winning team Hendrick Motorsports for the upcoming 108th running of the Indianapolis 500 as the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Larson will attempt to qualify for the event while piloting the No. 17 Dallara-Chevrolet. For his bid, Larson, a native of Elk Grove, California, will also attempt to join the late John Andretti, Robby Gordon, Tony Stewart and Kurt Busch as competitors to perform “Double Duty” on Memorial Day weekend by competing in both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day, thus comprising a total of 1,100 miles of racing.

Coming off championship No. 15 and winning half of the events in this past season’s IndyCar campaign, Chip Ganassi Racing returns with an expanded lineup that features two new names and a new promotion for one name alongside two championship-winning competitors in a bid to defend the title. Retaining their spots as full-time competitors of the Nos. 10 and 9 Hondas include the reigning two-time IndyCar champion Alex Palou and six-time IndyCar champion Scott Dixon, respectively, while Marcus Armstrong, the 2023 IndyCar Rookie of the Year from Christchurch, New Zealand, will campaign in his first full-time season with CGR in the No. 11 entry. New to the team are Linus Lundqvist, the 2022 Indy Lights champion from Tyresö, Sweden, who made select IndyCar starts for Meyer Shank Racing this past season and will pilot the No. 8 CGR Honda in 2024, and Kyffin Simpson, the 2023 European Le Mans Series champion in the LMP2 class division from Bridgetown, Barbados.

Ed Carpenter Racing will feature a new name. Christian Rasmussen will campaign on a part-time basis alongside team owner Ed Carpenter after celebrating a championship in this past season’s Indy NXT season. The 23-year-old Rasmussen from Copenhagen, Denmark, will drive ECR’s No. 20 Dallara-Chevrolet in all 11 road course and street events on the schedule, starting with the season opener at the Streets of St. Petersburg, while Carpenter, an Indianapolis veteran, will campaign in the remaining six oval events that includes the 108th running of the Indianapolis 500. Rasmussen will also attempt to compete in the Indy 500 in a third ECR entry that remains to be determined. With two competitors, the No. 20 entry will compete alongside the No. 21 entry that returns for returning full-time competitor Rinus VeeKay from Hoofddorp, Netherlands.

Coming off a strong season to date, Juncos Hollinger Racing, which has entered into a technical alliance with Arrow McLaren, will feature a new face piloting the team’s No. 77 Dallara-Chevrolet as Romain Grosjean replaces Callum Ilott in the entry while Agustin Canapino returns for a second stint with the team. Grosjean, a former Formula One competitor who competes under the French flag, transitions to JHR following a two-year campaign at Andretti Global, where he has registered six podiums and five runner-up results to date. Meanwhile, Canapino, a 33-year-old native from Arrecifes, Argentina, retains driving responsibilities of the No. 78 Chevrolet after ending up in 21st place with 180 points during last season’s championship standings.

Meyer Shank Racing will feature a new overhaul to its driver lineup for the 2024 campaign with the additions of new full-time competitors Tom Blomqvist and Felix Rosenqvist. Blomqvist, the 2022 IMSA SportsCar champion from Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, England, who made select starts with MSR this past season, joins the team as a first-time IndyCar competitor on a full-time basis in the No. 66 Dallara-Honda while Rosenqvist, a one-time IndyCar race winner from Värnamo, Sweden, joins MSR to drive the No. 60 Honda, replacing veteran Simon Pagenaud, following a five-year campaign competing between Chip Ganassi Racing and Arrow McLaren, where he has registered a total of six podiums to his IndyCar resume. Returning to the team for the 108th running of the Indianapolis 500 is Hélio Castroneves, a four-time champion of the Indianapolis 500 who delivered the team’s first IndyCar victory during the 2021 Indy 500 and returns to compete for his record-setting fifth Indy 500 crown in the No. 06 Dallara-Honda.

Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, which achieved a single victory in the Streets of Toronto, Canada, this past season, welcomes Pietro Fittipaldi to its driver lineup as he will be piloting the No. 30 Dallara-Honda on a full-time basis and compete alongside returning names Graham Rahal and Christian Lundgaard, the latter who achieved his first career victory at Toronto. The 2024 season is set to mark Fittipaldi’s first full-time campaign in the IndyCar circuit after he made a combined nine starts during the 2018 and 2021 seasons. He is a former champion of the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series and the World Series Formula V8 3.5 division.

Lastly, Team Penske returns as a three-car stable with the same competitors for a third consecutive season, headlined by returning champions Josef Newgarden and Will Power along with Scott McLaughlin. Newgarden, the reigning Indianapolis 500 champion and a two-time IndyCar champion from Hendersonville, Tennessee, retains driving responsibilities of the No. 2 Dallara-Chevrolet, where he won four races in 2023, as he competes alongside Will Power, the 2018 Indy 500 champion and another two-time champion from Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia, who returns to pilot the No. 12 Chevrolet and strives to return to Victory Lane after going winless in 2023. After recording a single victory and finishing in third place during this past season’s IndyCar campaign, McLaughlin, a three-time Supercars champion from Christchurch, New Zealand, returns to pilot Penske’s No. 3 Chevrolet for a third full-time season. With familiar names retaining their places at Team Penske, the organization strives for both an 18th IndyCar championship and a 20th Indianapolis 500 title for the 2024 season.

Photo by Simon Scoggins for SpeedwayMedia.com.

With nearly the entire grid of the 2024 NTT INDYCAR Series field set, the season is scheduled to commence at the Streets of St. Petersburg for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on March 10, 2024. The opener’s air broadcast coverage will be provided on NBC while the time start remains to be determined.

Common Car Repair Issues: When to Visit an Abbotsford Auto Repair Shop

By
SM
-

Even with regular maintenance, car issues are inevitable. From replacing light bulbs to engine replacement, repairs can be expensive.

Staying ahead of common issues saves both money and keeps drivers safe on the road.

Check Engine Light

When your Check Engine light illuminates, it is a sure sign something is amiss with your vehicle.

Some problems can be easily remedied such as tightening a loose gas cap while other more complex problems require professional diagnostic equipment and analysis to locate. Whatever the cause, don’t ignore its warning light – as doing so could result in irreparable damage and costly repairs.

Vehicle onboard computers monitor performance data and relay it to an information display panel which activates the Check Engine Light when there is an issue – for instance due to poor fuel economy or elevated emissions levels.

Home repairs that can easily turn off the Check Engine light may include replacing an oxygen sensor or spark plugs; this should make it go away after several driving cycles.

Other issues, like transmission failure and overheating, may require professional diagnostic equipment in order to identify and repair. You can visit https://www.hubmotor.ca/ for professionals that can help you diagnose your car issues. Working with professionals ensures safe repairs.

Cooling System Issues

The Cooling System is an essential part of your vehicle. Without it, your engine could quickly overheat and fail completely. Over time however, its functionality may deteriorate or wear out leading to issues like leaks, failed water pumps and bad radiators.

Signs that your cooling system may be failing can include seeing coolant leaks beneath your car – usually caused by cracking hoses and gaskets – and/or your temperature gauge approaching red; should this occur you should stop driving immediately and let it cool before driving again. You can click here to learn more about coolant.

Other telltale signs that your cooling system has gone bad include sudden drops in coolant levels or your vehicle overheating – these should both prompt a visit to a mechanic. When these occur, bring it in immediately for service.

The Cooling System includes components like the radiator, expansion tank or coolant reservoir, thermostat, fans and temperature sensors. While each of these systems works independently of one another, they all serve an important function by cooling engine components or sending control signals directly to ECU. You can click the link: https://auto.howstuffworks.com/cooling-system.htm to learn more.

Regular inspection of all of these systems by certified mechanics can reduce risks of overheating and costly repair bills.

Warning Lights

Modern cars are like computers on wheels; they feature numerous sensors that monitor everything from fuel systems and transmissions, to emissions systems. These sensors help the engine control unit (ECU) identify what caused an issue before activating a dashboard warning light to illuminate.

These lights typically use color coded warning lights – green and blue ones being less urgent than red or amber warnings. If a red warning light comes on, it is extremely important that you stop driving immediately and have the problem investigated as long-term neglect may lead to more serious mechanical problems.

Some warning lights are evident, such as an air conditioning light indicating it’s time to recharge the system; others, like the Diesel Particulate Filter warning light, could indicate there may be issues with pollution control systems in your vehicle.

Tires

At some point in time, every driver experiences issues with their car. From minor fixes such as replacing a bulb to major issues that need professional intervention, keeping an eye out for minor issues that can easily be repaired on your own can save both money and time.

Flat tires are one of the most frequently occurring problems, and punctures aren’t the only cause.

Another contributing factor can be deterioration and leakage of valve stems used to fill tires up with air — usually as a result of pothole damage or curb hits; or wear-and-tear on O-rings in tire pressure monitoring systems leading to air loss from certain tires.

Flat tires can usually be repaired fairly easily if you have a spare. First, pump enough air into your tire until finger pressure is firm, then examine closely for any visible holes or leaks that might exist.

If there’s one present, look for its source; either listen out for faint hissing noises near its location, or feel around with your hand to locate punctures or puncture leaks. You can click the link: https://www.azdiyguy.com/fix-easy-trick-fix-flat-utility-tire.html to learn more.

Lift the damaged tire off of the ground using a jack, remove its lug nuts, and set them aside as safekeeping. Roll the tire to the back of your vehicle where tools and safe working environments await; cover its exterior in soapy water to coat all exposed areas, wait a few minutes, check for bubbles; if any appear, mark the spot with a marker pen.

BuzzBallz Named Taylor Reimer’s Primary Sponsor for the 2024 Chili Bowl Nationals

By
Official Release
-

Carrollton, TX, Dec. 15, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — After a year of career high performances including 8 podium finishes, professional driver Taylor Reimer is preparing for one of her biggest annual races, the Chili Bowl Nationals, with BuzzBallz backing her as primary sponsor.

Dubbed as the “Super Bowl of Midget Racing,” the 2024 Chili Bowl Nationals are presented by NOS Energy Drinks and will take place January 8-13, 2024 at the Tulsa Expo Raceway in Tulsa, OK. This year marks the 38th annual occurrence of the event.

Reimer said her main goal for this year’s Chili Bowl is to put the BuzzBallz race car in the feature race.

“The Chili Bowl is a hometown race for me,” Reimer said. “I want to give every effort to make my first national sponsor proud.”

From January 8-12, over 300 cars plan to race in preliminary races, each driver competing in one preliminary night. With those results, elimination feature events begin on Saturday, January 13 to determine the starters for the 55-lap A feature race.

The feature winner is awarded the “Golden Driller” trophy and earns their spot on the list of previous winners.

BuzzBallz EVP of Sales & Marketing, Tracy Frisbie, said Reimer and her racing align with the brand identity of BuzzBallz, making it a perfect partnership.

“Midget cars are small and mighty, just like BuzzBallz. Taylor is just as mighty as a driver and person, and we’re so proud of all she’s accomplishing,” Frisbie said.

Reimer is currently competing in USAC and Xtreme midget racing events, but is preparing to focus on pavement racing and ARCA Menards Series selected events during her busy 2024 schedule. BuzzBallz will be a primary sponsor for both types of events.

JP Moery, Reimer’s sponsorship liaison, said Reimer’s BuzzBallz race car has become an iconic car over the last three years.

“The two have grown together, BuzzBallz as a fantastic cocktail brand and Taylor as an aspirational driver,” Moery said.

For more information visit buzzballz.com, chilibowl.com and taylorreimerracing.com.

About BuzzBallz, LLC/Southern Champion:

Since its founding in 2009, BuzzBallz, LLC/Southern Champion has been a leader of innovation and originality in the ready-to-drink cocktail industry. Owning the only woman-owned distillery, winery, and brewery in the United States, CEO and Founder Merrilee Kick has taken her master’s degree thesis project from an idea by her pool to a worldwide brand with distribution nationwide and in 25 countries. The company’s two staple brands, BuzzBallz and Uptown Cocktails, have won dozens of awards for their design, flavor, and popularity, with BuzzBallz rising to the #1 selling RTD in convenience stores and going viral on social media with hundreds of millions of views on posts mentioning the one of a kind cocktail.

The company’s mission is to create fun and innovative premixed cocktails for the world with a vision to reinvent happy hour. With premium natural ingredients and all gluten-free and Kosher-certified flavors, the Texas-based business is dedicated to high quality in their products for consumers and community alike. Through partnerships like their TerraCycle® program, BuzzBallz, LLC/Southern Champion values environmental responsibility with an emphasis on sustainability and economic improvement. The family-owned company cultivates a familial relationship with their teams to make a positive and lasting impact one sip at a time. Learn more at: www.southern-champion.com, www.uptowncocktails.com, and www.buzzballz.com.

Former Atlanta Motor Speedway President Ed Clark’s career is a blueprint for a racing career

By
Samuel Stubbs
-

Talking to Ed Clark on the phone, you might not think you’re talking to a man who was once the President of one of NASCAR’s premier race tracks. A smooth, southern drawl covers up the wisdom that Clark gained after nearly three decades working in executive roles at the Atlanta Motor Speedway in Hampton, Georgia. 

Clark’s interest in the sport came from an uncle, and his interest eventually turned into a job at a local bi-weekly paper in rural Virginia, where Clark covered races before going off to college at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg. After he graduated from VT, he got his first job in NASCAR at Bristol Motor Speedway in 1977. “Working in NASCAR is all I’ve done since,” Clark said. 

Tennessee also ended up being the home of Clark’s first executive role in the sport. While still working at Bristol, he took up the role of Track Manager of the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway in 1979. In 1981, Clark went to his first corporate boardroom, accepting a role at Speedway Motorsports, which wasn’t the behemoth we know today. “At the time, Charlotte Motor Speedway was the only track we held. In 1990, we purchased Atlanta, and in the summer of ‘92, they asked me to come down and be the General Manager,” Clark explained. 

“You know, I got to do something that everybody would love to do and got to do something that wasn’t like a job. It was a pleasure to do it day in and day out,” he added. 

After a 27-year career at the track, Clark’s last weekend as President was marked on the calendar as March 13-15 of 2020, the track’s traditional tripleheader spring weekend. However, the COVID-19 pandemic, which was ramping up in the U.S. at that point, had other plans. 

“The transporters and cars were in the infield. Then we got a call from NASCAR that, hey, you know, we may be changing the plan for the weekend a little bit. A few hours later, the call was that we might be running this race without any fans. So, you know, we kind of went into, how is this going to work? Before we could even get word out about that decision, they called and said that we’re not going to race at all.”

Not only did Clark not get to see the final scheduled race of his tenure, his retirement dinner was also called off. 

“Basically, we all packed up and went home, and none of us were there that weekend,” Clark says. “It was the most bizarre thing when we finally did run the race, you know, like so many events that year. We ran it with no fans in the stands, and that was the most bizarre race I ever attended in my life.”

Asking Clark about his favorite moment as AMS President felt redundant, but I thought I’d try my hand anyway. Sure enough, he gave exactly the answer I thought he would. 

“That was the race where Bill Elliott and Alan Kulwicki raced head to head for the championship. Those two guys raced and dueled all day long. And it came down to if Bill Elliott had waited one more lap to pit and led one more lap,” Clark said, recounting the infamous story of the 1992 Hooters 500. 

“It was one of the greatest championship duels of all time, if not the greatest,” Clark said. “A couple other things were also happening that weekend. A guy named Richard Petty retired, ran his last race. A guy named Jeff Gordon made his very first Cup start. So there were so many storylines that weekend that made it special. The race was great. That buildup to Richard, for me, was like nothing I’d ever seen,” Clark says. “Of course it’s my first race. I’d never done a race in Atlanta before. So many great memories though,” he added. 

Ed Clark may not be the flashiest name in NASCAR history, nor the most well-known employee in the history of SMI. His story of working his way up the ladder to the top rung of a premier track, however, is one that can inspire everyone seeking a career in NASCAR.

And it all started at a bi-weekly newspaper in rural Virginia. 

1...1,2041,2051,206...6,667Page 1,205 of 6,667