19 December 2023, London: Extreme H has completed the first major milestone in its development, having successfully carried out a shakedown of the series’ first prototype chassis ahead of the launch of the new championship in 2025.
For the first time, Extreme H can reveal a teaser of its hydrogen-powered prototype which recently undertook its debut laps out on track during testing.
Ahead of the launch of the Extreme H chassis later in 2024, a rigorous testing programme is now underway to ensure the championship – the first-ever off-road hydrogen racing series – is ready for its debut in just over a years’ time.
Its current incumbent, Extreme E, was designed to be a testbed for innovation and solutions for mobility. The transition to hydrogen-powered racing and the Extreme H series is a natural evolution of the series’ overarching mission to showcase the possibilities of new technologies in the race to fight climate issues, support decarbonisation and develop applications outside of motorsport.
Extreme H cars will be powered by a hydrogen fuel cell from the start of the 2025 season.
Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Extreme E, said: “Completing this initial first shakedown of the Extreme H prototype ahead of schedule is a sign of strong progress being made as we prepare for the launch of Extreme H in 2025. We are thrilled to reveal the first look at our hydrogen-powered concept, which we feel is going to be ground-breaking in motorsport.
“This a hugely important first step as we transition towards an exciting hydrogen future and launch the first-ever off-road hydrogen racing world championship.”
Mark Grain, Technical Director of Extreme E, added: “Preparations for the launch of Extreme H are well underway, and undertaking a successful first shakedown of the prototype chassis for the series is a critical milestone.
“It is has been huge team effort, and this first step would not have been achieved without the support from Spark Racing Technology who have delivered impressively. There is still plenty of work to be done ahead of the launch of Extreme H in 2025, but we are pleased with the progress of our concept, which believe will deliver strong performance levels and break the mould in terms of innovation not just in motorsport, but with potential for the future of mobility more widely.”
The FIA Formula One World Championship (F1), the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and Extreme H recently announced plans to establish a joint Hydrogen Working Group.
The group, comprised of representatives from all three organisations including Mark Grain, Extreme E Technical Director – who is leading the series’ transition to Extreme H – Pat Symonds, F1 Chief Technical Officer, and Nikolas Tombazis, FIA Single Seater Director, will bring together their collective expertise in a strategic alliance to evaluate developments and potential applications for hydrogen within motorsport and wider mobility.
Earlier this year, a pathway was established for Extreme H to become an FIA Championship from its inaugural season in 2025, with the intention that it will become an FIA World Championship from 2026, should the requisite criteria be met. This planned pathway to FIA World Championship status demonstrates the series’ progression since its inception in 2021 and a strong statement of intent for its growth towards its hydrogen-powered future.
As a result, Extreme H would join the company of just seven other official FIA World Championships, which put it in the same bracket as Formula One and Formula E in terms of motorsport recognition.
SPORT RS (2.5-liter Series Parallel Plug-in Hybrid Model) (Model with options shown)
Toyota City, Japan, Dec 19, 2023 – (JCN Newswire) – Toyota Motor Corporation announced that it will commence sales of its all-new Crown Sport Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) model in Japan today.
A new addition to the Crown line-up, the Sport PHEV model is designed to enhance its fun, sporty driving experience. While retaining a beautiful design that resonates with the senses, the Sport PHEV model promises drivers a sportier feel incorporating exclusive equipment enabling drivers to more fully experience the joy of driving. Furthermore, fitted with a large-capacity lithium-ion battery, the PHEV delivers a BEV-mode cruising range suitable for everyday use, thereby combining the joy of driving with superb environmental performance.
Alongside the Crown Crossover HEV, Sport HEV, Sedan HEV, and FCEV models, through the all-new Sport PHEV, Toyota provides customers with an important range of options as it continues its path of decarbonization. Going forward, Toyota intends to continue its multi-pathway approach, promoting the widespread uptake of electrified vehicles by expanding its line-up to cater to diverse needs, and contributing to the realization of a carbon-neutral society.
Vehicle outline
The characteristically fun driving experience of a PHEV
2.5-liter Series Parallel Plug-in Hybrid System
Equipped with a high-output density drive motor, the Sport PHEV reaches a maximum system output*1 of 225kW (306PS) and, by fully utilizing the motor, achieves seamless and powerful acceleration.
A large-capacity lithium-ion battery has been positioned beneath the floor in the center of the vehicle. It provides a BEV-mode cruising range suitable for everyday use without compromising on interior space, which enables operation in BEV mode for most everyday driving situations. A fully charged battery delivers a BEV-mode driving range of 90 kilometers2 and a hybrid-mode fuel economy of 20.3km/L3. With a gasoline tank capacity of 55L, the PHEV boasts a total cruising range of 1,200 kilometers or more*4.
High-performance Technologies
Thanks to an E-Four electric 4WD system, the power produced by the plug-in hybrid system is fully distributed between all four wheels. In addition to achieving superior driving stability, it also has enhanced the sense of stability even when cornering or driving in snow or rain.
The Crown Sport PHEV model is based on the Sport Z grade, HEV model, but features added braces to the floor tunnel to ensure an optimal balance of body rigidity. The friction and damping force characteristics of the front and rear shock absorbers have also been optimized. In addition, by controlling the damping force of the shock absorbers independently for each wheel in response to road surface conditions and driver input, the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS)*5system delivers a smooth, even, and planted ride.
Paddle shifters allow the driver to carry out smooth gear shifts with minimal hand movements.
The front wheels are fitted with 20-inch ventilated disc brakes, with the braking force delivered by exclusive 20-inch aluminum opposing six-piston calipers. Both front and rear brake calipers are colored red for a braking set-up that combines improved stopping performance with a sporty exterior.
The characteristic convenience of a PHEV
Power generation and supply
The Sport PHEV model comes with a “My Room Mode” that lets users enjoy air conditioning and audio systems from the external power source by turning the power switch on during normal charging. Creating a comfortable interior space without running the engine, this feature turns the car interior into an additional room that can be used for teleworking, rest, or any other activities.
The vehicle is equipped with a maximum 1,500W (AC 100V) external power supply function as standard―useful during blackouts and other emergencies, as well as for outdoor leisure activities. In addition to an accessory electrical socket in the luggage compartment and in the rear end of the center console box, the Sport PHEV model comes with a vehicle power connector that, when plugged into the vehicle’s charging inlet, functions as an external power socket providing 1,500W (AC 100V).
The vehicle is equipped with both standard charging and rapid charging functions. The rapid charging function is capable of charging the battery to approximately 80% of its full capacity*6 in approximately 38 minutes, providing significant time savings over standard charging with the 200V charging cable.
The vehicle is also equipped with Vehicle to Home (V2H)7, a system that allows electricity stored in the vehicle battery to be supplied to the home, enabling the vehicle to be used as a reliable storage battery during blackouts and other times of emergency. By setting the rapid charging inlet to external supply function-mode (V2H-mode)8 and subsequently connecting the V2H device (sold separately), the electricity stored in the drive battery can be used as household electricity. Surplus electricity generated via household solar power generators can be used to charge the vehicle’s drive battery to achieve a seamless supply and demand of electricity.
The vehicle comes with both a BEV external power supply mode, which enables electricity stored in the battery to be used to supply external power for outdoor, leisure, and other activities, and an HEV external power supply mode, which enables the car to be used as a power supply during blackouts, disasters, and other emergencies. In the HEV external power supply mode, electricity is supplied from the battery only until the remaining power falls to a set level, after which the engine starts to supply electricity. With a full battery charge and a full tank of gas, this system can provide enough electricity for about 6.5 days of use*9. It also comes with an external electric power supply attachment as standard so that an external power supply is possible with the door windows closed to prevent rain and insects from getting in the car when in use.
Sporty Credentials Underlined by PHEV-specific Equipment
Exterior design
The beauty of the Sport PHEV begins from the ground-up, with the use of 21-inch, large-diameter, wide tires and exclusive black aluminum wheels. The use of distinctive triple spokes and thin layered spokes underscore the vehicle’s sporty and luxurious feel.
Interior design
The interior of the Sport PHEV features a gorgeous black and sensual red asymmetrical color scheme for the driver’s seat and front passenger seat. This color scheme adds excitement to the driving experience and accentuates the individuality and sportiness of the vehicle. In addition, the combination of the interior fabric with newly developed luminous material has achieved both strong shading and vivid coloration. In addition, the front and rear seatbelts also feature red.
The vehicle is fitted with sports seats that firmly support the driver and which feature red stitching to enhance the thrill of driving.
Sales Outline Base sales volume for Japan 300 units per month
Production Plant Tsutsumi Plant, Toyota Motor Corporation
(1) System output provided by the engine and lithium-ion battery (Toyota Motor Corporation calculation) (2) Driving distance in WLTC mode while using battery charge. As evaluated by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. The engine will disable BEV driving irrespective of the remaining battery power under a certain state of the engine or drive battery, air conditioner use, or driving style (exceeding the prescribed speed). (3) As evaluated by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. WLTC mode (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Cycle) is an internationally recognized test cycle and is based on average usage ratios for urban, suburban, and highway driving. (4) Estimation calculated based on MLIT evaluation value (WLTC mode). For example, a BEV driving distance of 90 kilometers + (hybrid fuel consumption 20.3km/L X fuel tank capacity 55 liter) = 1,206 kilometers (5) Adaptive Variable Suspension (6) According to in-house measurements, when charged using a rapid charging station with an output of 50kW or higher and a maximum rated output current of 125A. Charging times can vary according to the amount of remaining battery charge, battery and ambient temperatures, and the specifications of the connected power source or charging stand. (7) V2HVehicle to Home (8) The V2H Device, sold separately, is required to transform DC electricity drawn from the rapid charging inlet (fitted with an external V2H power supply function) into AC electricity for household use. (9) Calculated from daily power consumption of 10kWh (400W per hour) for an average household.
(Perris, CA, December 17, 2023) When it comes to helping out in sprint car racing, Warner Springs, California chassis builder Stan Sexton is always ready to lend a hand. So, when he was asked if his company, GAS Chassis, would like to award the 2024 Young Guns series champion a brand new chassis, the personable car owner replied with a resounding, “Heck yes.” Thus, in 2024 the title for the group will be the GAS Chassis Young Gun Sprint Car Series.
The series, which was founded in 2013 by Perris Auto Speedway promoter Don Kazarian, was initially for drivers in their teens who had never raced sprint cars before. Rather than throw them to the lions to get pummeled in the USAC/CRA series, it allowed drivers to race at a more comfortable level with peers who were also learning.
Several drivers who honed their skills in the class have graduated to higher levels of racing. The first series champion was Logan Williams. One year after his triumphant season in the Young Guns, he was crowned USAC/CRA Rookie of the Year. 2016 Young Gun champ Courtney Crone has been climbing the racing ladder ever since she won the title. She spent 2023 competing in the IMCA series at such tracks as Daytona and Lime Rock Park. She also raced at Germany’s famous Hockenheimring, and Zandvoort circuits in the German Prototype Cup series. In 2018, Eddie Tafoya was crowned Young Guns champ. The following year he was named Rookie of the Year in USAC/CRA. Along with Williams, he is expected to be in the hunt for the USAC/CRA champion’s crown in 2024.
The series has always been a launch pad, trophy-only class. In 2024, it will still be a stepping-stone division but it will have a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow in the form of a brand-new GAS Chassis for the champion. Coming with the chassis will be a body, motor plate, all of the aluminum and tin work, front axle, and radius rods.
“Initially when we came back after Covid, our Young Gun series was hurting,” longtime promoter Kazarian said. “2021 virtually saw one car in the class and it was that way for most of 2022. However, the series had a nice bounce back in 2023 with eight drivers. We think most of them will be back in 2024 and have already heard that at least one other car is going to enter the fray.”
“A huge thank you goes out to Gas Chassis owners Stan Sexton and Nita Gatlin for stepping up and offering a nice package for next year’s champion. In addition to advancing their careers, it will give the competitors something else to shoot for. As well as the fine prize, the Young Guns can look for an expanded schedule next year that will see them race 10 times. It all adds up to what should be a great season for them.”
For Sexton, it was a no-brainer when he had the chance to jump in. While it is a way to get his company name out, it is more about helping the sport grow and prosper in the future.
“I am doing it to help the young kids starting out,” the personable racing businessman said. “They usually use hand-me-down stuff from dad, grandpa or whoever raced previously if they have racing experience. You do not always go out and buy the best of the best to find out you do not like or want to continue racing. I hope it will help bring up the car count and have people competing for it (the new car). After they get their first crash and couple of bruises out of the way, they will have something of quality to really start building on.”
While he wants to help the sport, there is one thing he will not skimp on and that is safety. Sexton owns the car his son Shane drives in the USAC/CRA Series. On April 15th of this year, the promising young driver was involved in one of the scariest crashes seen at Perris Auto Speedway in quite some time. Competing in the main event that night, contact with another car sent the GAS Chassis #74 catapulting down the back straightaway in a series of violent flips. He gained enough altitude in the terrifying tangle to see what was on the other side of the track billboards.
While the crowd anxiously awaited, the driver known as “Shugah Shane,” climbed out of the car. Shaken, he was able to walk away from the crash. However, the chassis held up and had little structural damage. That was due to his dad’s insistence on safety.
“We use nothing but what is called German Standard Chrome Molly,” the elder Sexton said. “I have certified welders that weld everything. It is standard (for GAS Chassis) to have the halo and the outlaw bars. That is standard. It is not an option. I will not send them out otherwise.”
“The motor plates I have machined for me to my specifications. The tin work, I like doing all of the aluminum lower panels and other trick work like that. I have a machine shop that handles all of the billet aluminum pieces. The Dumas family has been long in the off-road industry. They have been doing all of my tig welding for me. Cory McClenathan, the former top fuel dragster driver, has been doing all of our fiberglass and carbon fiber body pieces. Of course, the carbon fiber is an upgrade. The fiberglass, he reinforces with Kevlar in the high impact zones like the crown of the nose and stuff like that. He has been helping us out and started his own business so we kind of partnered right away.”
The first chance for drivers to earn points toward winning the Young Gun championship and the GAS Chassis is under 10 weeks away on February 24th. Throughout the 2024 season, the GAS Chassis Young Gun series will be joined at every race by the Avanti Windows & Doors CRA Sprint Cars, PAS Senior Sprints, and PASSCAR Stock Cars. The full schedule is listed below.
Tickets for all 2024 Perris Auto Speedway races will soon be on sale at www.tix.com or by calling 1-800-595-4849
2024 Perris Auto Speedway Schedule
February 10th LKQ Pick Your Part Presents NIGHT OF DESTRUCTION: DEMO CROSS, FIGURE 8’S, TRAILER FIGURE 8’S, MINI STOCKS AND
DOUBLE DECKERS
February 24th AVANTI USAC/CRA SPRINT CARS, PAS SENIOR SPRINTS, GAS CHASSIS YOUNG GUN SERIES AND PASSCAR SUPER AND STREET STOCKS
March 9th LKQ Pick Your Part Presents NIGHT OF DESTRUCTION: DEMO CROSS, FIGURE 8’S, TRAILER FIGURE 8’S, MINI STOCKS AND
DOUBLE DECKERS
March 16th AVANTI USAC/CRA SPRINT CARS PAS SENIOR SPRINTS, GAS CHASSIS YOUNG GUN SERIES AND PASSCAR STREET AND FACTORY STOCK CARS
April 6th LKQ Pick Your Part Presents NIGHT OF DESTRUCTION: DEMO CROSS, FIGURE 8’S, TRAILER FIGURE 8’S, MINI STOCKS AND
DOUBLE DECKERS
April 27th AVANTI USAC/CRA SPRINT CARS, PAS SENIOR SPRINTS, GAS CHASSIS YOUNG GUN SERIES AND PASSCAR SUPER AND FACTORY STOCKS
May 4th LKQ Pick Your Part Presents NIGHT OF DESTRUCTION: DEMO CROSS, FIGURE 8’S, TRAILER FIGURE 8’S, MINI STOCKS AND
DOUBLE DECKERS
May 25th “SALUTE TO INDY” AVANTI USAC/CRA SPRINT CARS, PAS SENIOR SPRINTS, GAS CHASSIS YOUNG GUN SERIES AND PASSCAR SUPER AND STREET STOCKS
June 1st LKQ Pick Your Part Presents NIGHT OF DESTRUCTION: DEMO CROSS, FIGURE 8’S, TRAILER FIGURE 8’S, MINI STOCKS AND
DOUBLE DECKERS
June 22nd AVANTI USAC/CRA SPRINT CARS, PAS SENIOR SPRINTS, GAS CHASSIS YOUNG GUN SERIES AND PASSCAR STREET AND FACTORY STOCKS
July 4th “FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR AND SKY CONCERT” (TENTATIVE)
LKQ Pick Your Part Presents NIGHT OF DESTRUCTION: DEMO CROSS, FIGURE 8'S, TRAILER FIGURE 8’S, MINI STOCKS AND
DOUBLE DECKERS
July 13th AVANTI USAC/CRA SPRINT CARS, GAS CHASSIS YOUNG GUNS SERIES, AND PASSCAR SUPER AND FACTORY STOCKS
August 10th LKQ Pick Your Part Presents NIGHT OF DESTRUCTION: DEMO CROSS, FIGURE 8’S, TRAILER FIGURE 8’S, MINI STOCKS AND
DOUBLE DECKERS
August 17th AVANTI USAC/CRA SPRINT CARS, GAS CHASSIS YOUNG GUNS SERIES AND PASSCAR SUPER AND STREET STOCKS
September 7th LKQ Pick Your Part Presents NIGHT OF DESTRUCTION: DEMO CROSS, FIGURE 8’S, TRAILER FIGURE 8’S, MINI STOCKS AND
DOUBLE DECKERS
September 14th TBA
September 21st AVANTI USAC/CRA SPRINT CARS, GAS CHASSIS YOUNG GUNS SERIES AND PASSCAR SUPER AND FACTORY STOCKS
October 26th LKQ Pick Your Part Presents NIGHT OF DESTRUCTION: DEMO CROSS, FIGURE 8’S, TRAILER FIGURE 8’S, MINI STOCKS AND
DOUBLE DECKERS
November 8th 27TH RUNNING OF THE OVAL NATIONALS Featuring AVANTI USAC/CRA SPRINT CARS, PAS SENIOR SPRINTS, GAS CHASSIS YOUNG GUN SERIES AND PASSCAR SUPER, STREET AND FACTORY STOCKS
November 9th 27TH RUNNING OF THE OVAL NATIONALS Featuring AVANTI USAC/CRA SPRINT CARS, PAS SENIOR SPRINTS, GAS CHASSIS YOUNG GUN SERIES – JERRY DODD CHAMPIONS NIGHT, PASSCAR SUPER, STREET AND FACTORY STOCKS
THIS SCHEDULE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
Perris Auto Speedway is conveniently located on the Lake Perris Fairgrounds (home of the Southern California Fair), one hour east of Los Angeles and one hour North of San Diego. To get to the track, take the 215 freeway, exit on the Ramona Expressway, and go three miles east to the fairgrounds. For directions online, the address to enter is: 18700 Lake Perris Drive and the zip code is 92571.
USAC/CRA races from Perris Auto Speedway are not streamed online.
Fans can stay up to date on track and driver news on The PAS social media efforts at the links below.
Perris Auto Speedway wants to thank the following corporate partners. Ahern Equipment Rentals, Anderson Chevrolet, Battery Systems, Bud’s Tire, Tire Choice Auto Service, Chris’ Hauling, City of Perris, Communication Innovations, Daytona Boat & RV Storage, Ed Moore Bullet Proof Driveshaft, Flowdynamics, HD Industries, Heimark/Anheuser Busch, Hoosier Tires, Inland Rigging, Living Water’s Hospice, LKQ Pick Your Part, Luke’s Transmission, Moose Racing, Pepsi-Cola, Performance Online, Pole Position Raceway, PrintItNow.com, Rainbow Bolt & Supply, Rene’s Bar & Grill, Rugged Radios, Shaver Specialties, Square H, Sunoco Race Fuels, Trench Shoring, Upland Rock, Varner Construction and Vista Paint.
DINWIDDIE, Va. (Dec. 18, 2023) – Tickets are now on sale for the 2024 Virginia NHRA Nationals, which takes place June 21-23 at Virginia Motorsports Park and marks the NHRA’s return to the fan-favorite facility.
The race will be the ninth of 21 races during the 2024 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and will feature racing in all four professional classes (Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle) at one of the quickest and fastest tracks on the NHRA circuit.
It will be NHRA’s first race at the track since 2022 and fans will again see a weekend filled with incredible 330-mph action, starting with qualifying on Friday, the Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge on Saturday and eliminations on Sunday, as all the stars of the NHRA will look for a win as the 2024 campaign nears the midway point.
Brittany Force (Top Fuel), Robert Hight (Funny Car) and Matt Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all won during NHRA’s last appearance at Virginia Motorsports Park, capping off a record-setting weekend at the facility and giving fans a glimpse at what could happen at the race in 2024. Racing on one of the smoothest surfaces on the NHRA tour, Force shattered the track record with a run of 3.654-seconds, also going a track-best 335.82 mph.
Reigning Funny Car world champion and Virginia native Matt Hagan of Tony Stewart Racing set both ends of the track record with an impressive blast of 3.853, also going 335.82, while Angie Smith broke track records in Pro Stock Motorcycle with a run of 6.756 at 201.37. Larry “Spiderman” McBride also captivated fans in Virginia in 2022 at his home track in Top Fuel Motorcycle, going 268.38 mph and making the fastest motorcycle pass in drag racing history.
Fans will also get a chance to see Pro Stock and defending world champion Erica Enders at VMP for the first time since 2019, as well as racing legend Tony Stewart, who is set to make his Top Fuel debut as part of his NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series rookie season in 2024.
NHRA returned to Virginia Motorsports Park in 2018, racing in consecutive years and also again in 2022. The standout facility has made continuous upgrades in recent seasons, making it a top choice among racers and fans. Top Fuel’s Steve Torrence won in both 2018 and 2019, while the legendary John Force has four wins in Virginia, with the last coming in 2000. Bo Butner won the most recent Pro Stock race in 2019, while M. Smith is the only active rider in Pro Stock Motorcycle with a win at the track.
Next year’s event includes the Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge, a unique bonus event that brings competitive racing to Saturday and offers a bonus purse and bonus championship points. With qualifying on Friday, final qualifying and the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge on Saturday and eliminations on Sunday, fans can experience a weekend loaded excitement in 2024.
To purchase tickets to the Virginia NHRA Nationals, visit www.nhra.com/tickets. For more information about the NHRA, including the 2024 schedule, visit www.NHRA.com.
About Mission Foods
MISSION®, owned by GRUMA, S.A.B. de C.V., is the world’s leading brand for tortillas and wraps. MISSION® is also globally renowned for flatbreads, dips, salsas and Mexican food products. With presence in over 112 countries, MISSION® products are suited to the lifestyles and the local tastes of each country. With innovation and customer needs in mind, MISSION® focuses on the highest quality, authentic flavors, and providing healthy options that families and friends can enjoy together. For more information, please visit https://www.missionfoods.com/
About Camping World Holdings, Inc.
Camping World Holdings, Inc., headquartered in Lincolnshire, IL, (together with its subsidiaries) is the World’s largest retailer of RVs and related products and services. Our vision is to build a long-term legacy business that makes RVing fun and easy. Our Camping World and Good Sam brands have been serving RV consumers since 1966. We strive to build long-term value for our customers, employees, and shareholders by combining a unique and comprehensive assortment of RV products and services with a national network of RV dealerships, service centers and customer support centers along with the industry’s most extensive online presence and a highly trained and knowledgeable team of employees serving our customers, the RV lifestyle, and the communities in which we operate. We also believe that our Good Sam organization and family of programs and services uniquely enable us to connect with our customers as stewards of the RV enthusiast community and the RV lifestyle. With RV sales and service locations in 43 states, Camping World has grown to become the prime destination for everything RV. For more information, visit www.campingworld.com.
About NHRA
Headquartered in San Dimas, Calif., NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 21 national events featuring the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series, NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, Flexjet NHRA Factory Stock Showdown™ and Top Fuel Harley Series. NHRA provides competition opportunities for drivers of all levels in the NHRA Summit Racing Series and NHRA Street Legal™. NHRA also offers the NHRA Jr. Street® program for teens and the Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League® for youth ages 5 to 17. With 110 Member Tracks, NHRA allows racers to compete at a variety of locations nationally and internationally. NHRA’s Youth and Education Services® (YES) Program reaches over 30,000 students annually to ignite their interest in automotive and racing related careers. NHRA’s streaming service, NHRA.tv®, allows fans to view all NHRA national events as well as exclusive features of the sport. In addition, NHRA owns and operates three racing facilities: Gainesville Raceway in Florida; Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park; and In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Southern California. For more information, log on to www.NHRA.com, or visit the official NHRA pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
