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FAMOUS FIRSTS HIGHLIGHT RICH HISTORY AT AMALIE MOTOR OIL NHRA GATORNATIONALS

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Official Release
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GAINESVILLE, Fla. (Feb. 16, 2024) – Known for its remarkable history, Gainesville Raceway has been home to several historic firsts over the past five-plus decades at the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals.

From first career wins to milestones reached for the first time, magical moments have always been a part of Gainesville Raceway’s illustrious history. So, what comes next in 2024?

Odds are, something incredible will happen on March 7-10 during the 55th annual Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals to add to the amazing accomplishments that have taken place at the legendary facility.

To help prepare for the start of the 2024 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, let’s look at some of the historic happenings that have made Gainesville so special for so many years:

FIRST PROFESSIONAL WINS COMING AT THE GATORS: It’s happened the last three years, in fact, with a standout racer picking up their first NHRA professional win at Gatornationals. Eventual world champ Gaige Herrera did it last year en route to his record-breaking year, Tripp Tatum picked up his first Top Fuel win in 2022 and, in 2021, Josh Hart rolled to the Top Fuel win in his first career start (one of only eight drivers to do that in NHRA history).

It stretches back in history, too. Two-time world champ Brittany Force earned her first Top Fuel win in 2016 in Gainesville (as part of the first-ever John Force Racing double-up as well when Robert Hight won in Funny Car), while Bob Tasca III’s first Funny Car win took place in 2009. Plus, the likes of Andrew Hines (2004), Kenny Delco (1990) and Frank Hawley (1982) all picked up their first professional wins in Gainesville, and Eddie Hill’s first NHRA win came in 1988 at the renowned race.

MAJOR MILESTONES: Gainesville Raceway has been a proving ground for history-makers and record-breakers. The first 260-mph run in both Top Fuel (Joe Amato) and Funny Car (Kenny Bernstein) in NHRA history came in 1984, while Don Garlits became the first to 270 in Top Fuel just two years later.

Of course, the run heard around the world took place in 1992 when Kenny Bernstein became Mr. 300 with his historic 301.70-mph run, becoming the first driver in NHRA history to reach the 300-mph mark.

Hines made the first 6-second pass in Pro Stock Motorcycle history in 2005, while Hector Arana Jr. became the first rider to go 200 mph with his run of 200.23 in 2018.

REMARKABLE FIRSTS: Something unique also seems to happen in Gainesville as well, such as Connie and Scott Kalitta meeting in the first father-son final round in NHRA history in 1984. Connie won the final round in Top Fuel, while 14 years earlier, Candies & Hughes put together the first all-team Funny Car final in NHRA history with Leonard Hughes and Larry Reyes in 1970,

Some 46 years later, Jeff Strickland did something special on the sportsman side, becoming the first racers to win two classes at the same Gatornationals when he rolled to victories in Stock and Top Dragster.

LEGACY-DEFINING WINS IN GAINESVILLE: Legendary status is guaranteed with a Gatornationals win and so many of the NHRA’s best have thrived at the race.

Bob Glidden’s first – and only – Gatornationals win came in 1979, while the first Pro Stock win at the facility belonged to Bill “Grumpy” Jenkins. Garlits’ 1972 Gators triumph was the first of four for him, while Don Prudhomme won it three years in a row (1974-1976) en route to five total wins.

John Force won five straight from 1992-1996 in Funny Car and has enjoyed eight wins in Gainesville, but nobody has been better there than Warren Johnson. “The Professor” didn’t win at the track until 1984, but reeled off eight more after that, including four straight from 1991-1994. His nine Gatornationals wins are the most in NHRA history.

These days, four-time Funny Car world champ Matt Hagan has ruled Gainesville, posting back-to-back wins, with his boss, Tony Stewart, looking to make his own sizable impression at the race next month when he makes his Top Fuel debut.

Other active world champs who also hold wins at the historic race include Tony Schumacher (5), Greg Anderson (5), Ron Capps (4), Robert Hight (4), Doug Kalitta (3), Angelle Sampey (3), Jeg Coughlin (2), Matt Smith (2), Antron Brown (1), Steve Torrence (1), Cruz Pedregon (1), Bo Butner (1) and J.R. Todd (1)

Last year, Mike Salinas (Top Fuel and Troy Coughlin Jr. (Pro Stock) also won in Gainesville. This year’s race will air on FS1, including the Pep Boys Top Fuel All-Star Callout at 7 p.m. ET on Saturday, live coverage on Sunday from 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m., and continuing finals coverage at 9 p.m. ET on Sunday.

The Pep Boys NHRA Top Fuel All-Star Callout is back to open 2024 as well, pitting eight standouts against each other in a unique, big-money specialty race on Saturday, March 9. Local standout Josh Hart won the Callout last year. Action will also take place in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by LearnEV+ and Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown to open 2024.

Race fans at Gainesville Raceway can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies for drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk, which benefits the Darrell Gwynn Foundation in Gainesville, as well as a ring ceremony for the 2023 world champs (Kalitta, Hagan, Enders and Herrera) and a flyover from the U.S. Air Force. The final can’t-miss experience of any NHRA event is the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday, where fans are invited to congratulate the event winners.

The Nitro Alley Stage is a huge attraction and the main entertainment hub in the pits, hosting Nitro School, the NHRA Insider Podcast, Shirley Muldowney Q&A and meet and greets. Marching bands will also entertain the crowd each day, including the University of Florida on Sunday. As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. Fans can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their cars, get autographs from their favorite drivers and more. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and vendors create an exciting atmosphere of interactive displays, merchandise, food and fun.

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying features two rounds at 2 and 4:30 p.m. ET on Friday, March 8, and the final two qualifying rounds on Saturday, March 9 at 12 and 3 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 10:30 a.m. ET on Sunday, March 10.

The first round of the Pep Boys Top Fuel All-Star Callout takes place on Saturday at 1 p.m. ET and the semifinals at 2:45 p.m. The finals are slated for 4:25 p.m.

To purchase tickets to the 2024 Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals, visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. Children 12 and under are free in general admission areas with the purchase of an adult ticket. Get your tickets now for the Top Eliminator Club because these will sell out. For more info on NHRA, please 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 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 Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by LearnEV+, NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™, NHRA Holley EFI Factory X and Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage NHRA Mountain Motor Pro Stock at select national events. 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.

Golden Corral Partners with Driver Jeb Burton and Jordan Anderson Racing Bommarito Autosport

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Official Release
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Golden Corral Announces Its 2024 Partnership with Jordan Anderson Racing Bommarito Autosport’s driver Jeb Burton Who Will Wheel the No. 27 Golden Corral Chevrolet Camaro in Daytona for the start of the 2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series

STATESVILLE, N.C. & RALIEGH, NC (February 16, 2024) — Golden Corral will debut as a 2024 sponsor of the No. 27 Golden Corral Chevrolet Camaro at the “World Center of Racing” on February 17, with driver Jeb Burton and Jordan Anderson Racing Bommarito Autosport.

The race will mark Burton’s return behind the wheel of the Golden Corral No. 27 Chevrolet after a successful 2023 season where the driver contended for a championship in the NASCAR Xfinity Playoffs.

“Daytona is a very special place to me, and I’m honored that Golden Corral would choose to partner with us to kick off our season,” said Jeb Burton, driver of the No. 27 Golden Corral Chevrolet Camaro. “And, I can’t think of a better way to kick off the season and our partnership with Golden Corral.”

“Golden Corral is thrilled to return to NASCAR via a new partnership with Driver Jeb Burton, and his NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) Jordan Anderson Racing Bommarito Autosport (JAR) No. 27 Chevrolet Car for the entire 2024 NXS Season.” Said Paul “Skip” Hanke, CMO, Golden Corral.

“We’re extremely honored and blessed that Golden Corral would partner with our team this season,” said team owner Jordan Anderson. “We look forward to serving as ambassadors for this iconic North Carolina company within the extremely loyal NASCAR community.”

The partnership is one that extends off the track with a commitment to our military and shared values. Golden Corral CMO, Paul “Skip” Hanke added, “After meeting multiple members of the legendary NASCAR Burton family last summer at a fly-fishing event at Daytona International Speedway with Project Healing Waters, a national Veteran nonprofit, we began discussions on a possible 2024 sponsorship of Jeb’s No. 27 race car. Both Golden Corral and The Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation have been consistent supporters of important military causes over the years, and this shared commitment formed the foundation of our new 2024 Golden Corral partnership with Jeb Burton and the NASCAR Xfinity Series JAR No. 27 Chevrolet. Through the efforts of our restaurant teams, and the generosity of our guests and franchisees, Golden Corral has raised over $30 million for military charities. We look forward to continuing our deeply rooted tradition of supporting military philanthropic efforts such as DAV, Camp Corral, Military Appreciation Night, Project Healing Waters, and Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation in 2024, and are excited for the start of this year’s NASCAR Xfinity Series Season in Daytona on Saturday, February 17th!”

Golden Corral will return as the primary partner on the No. 27 Chevrolet at the Circuit of the Americas on March 23 and will also be featured as the primary sponsor at Talladega Superspeedway on October 5, the track where Jeb brought the No. 27 car to victory lane in 2023. In addition, the iconic brand will serve as an associate partner on the No. 27 team for the entire season.

About Jordan Anderson Racing Bommarito Autosport

Jordan Anderson Racing Bommarito AutoSport is a NASCAR team, owned by owner/driver Jordan Anderson and Bommarito Automotive Group President, John Bommarito. Established in 2017 the organization is fueled by an incredible, close-knit team of employees, fans, and sponsors with a focus on integrity in the pursuit of excellence. Our goal is to embrace the journey we’re on and to never give up – whether on the track, in the pits, or in life. Every single team partner, and fan of ours, is what keeps our race cars running strong and our team performing at the highest level.

ARCA Menards Series Season Opener at Daytona International Speedway Moved Up To Friday Night

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Official Release
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DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Sept. 15, 2023) – Daytona International Speedway and ARCA today announced that the season-opening Hard Rock Bet 200 at Daytona International Speedway will shift to Friday evening at approximately 10:30 p.m. ET due to forecasted inclement weather during Saturday’s original start time of 1:30 p.m. ET.

The race will follow the conclusion of the scheduled Fresh From Florida 250 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race, which begins at 7:30 p.m. ET.

The ARCA Menards Series race will start on FS2 and move to FS1 following the conclusion of college basketball, with radio broadcasts on MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. Viewers who subscribe to FS1 may also watch the race on the FOX Sports App in its entirety. The event will also re-air on FS1 during its original Saturday time slot.

Fans with Saturday grandstand tickets and admission to the Hard Rock Bet Fanzone may attend the Friday night double-header with their tickets.

For tickets to today’s festivities, visit DaytonaInternationalSpeedway.com.

About Daytona International Speedway    

Daytona International Speedway is a state-of-the-art motorsports facility and was awarded the SportsBusiness Journal’s prestigious Sports Business Award for Sports Facility of the Year in 2016. Daytona International Speedway is the home of The Great American Race – the DAYTONA 500. Though the season-opening NASCAR Cup Series event garners most of the attention – as well as the largest audience in motorsports – the approximately 500-acre motorsports complex, also known as the World Center of Racing, boasts the most diverse schedule of racing on the globe. Some of the exciting racing events include January’s Rolex 24 At DAYTONA and Roar Before The Rolex 24, February’s DAYTONA 500 and Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth, March’s Bike Week At DAYTONA Presented By Monster Energy, featuring DAYTONA Supercross and the DAYTONA 200, the August Coke Zero Sugar 400 weekend, and much more. The Speedway grounds are also used extensively for other events that include concerts (Welcome to Rockville, Heroes Honor Festival, etc.), sporting events (DAYTONA Soccer Fest, CLASH DAYTONA, etc.) civic and social gatherings, car shows, photo shoots, production vehicle testing and police motorcycle training.     

About ARCA 

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

NASCAR Powerball Playoff returns with new chances to win in 2024

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Official Release
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Official Lottery Game of NASCAR launches season-long promotion to send four players to the Cup Series Championship Race for a chance to win $1 million in-person.

JOHNSTON, Iowa (Feb. 16, 2024) – Powerball®, the Official Lottery Game of NASCAR®, announced today the return of its highly-anticipated national promotion, the NASCAR Powerball Playoff. First introduced last year, the season-long Powerball promotion will, again, culminate with four lottery players winning a VIP trip for two to NASCAR Championship Weekend™ in Phoenix, Nov. 8-10, and a 1 in 4 chance to win $1 million during a special drawing televised live from the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race™ on Sunday, Nov. 10.

“We’re excited to offer our players this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the exhilaration of NASCAR Championship Weekend first-hand, in addition to the chance of becoming a millionaire on the spot!” said Drew Svitko, Powerball Product Group Chair and Pennsylvania Lottery Executive Director. “Players should follow their local lotteries for information on how to enter. As always, every time you buy a Powerball ticket, a portion of that purchase stays in your home state to support good causes.”

“The inaugural NASCAR Powerball Playoff last year was thrilling to watch from start to finish, resulting in Stephanie Walker taking home the $1 million prize,” said Michelle Byron, NASCAR Senior Vice President of Partnership Marketing. “We anticipate the same drama in 2024 and look forward to someone becoming a millionaire during Championship Weekend in Phoenix this November.”

The national Powerball® promotion will begin at the state level with participating lotteries holding in-state contests and second-chance drawings throughout the 2024 NASCAR regular season to form a national pool of entrants. Entry periods and method of entry will vary by lottery. At the end of the NASCAR regular season, 16 semi-finalists will be drawn from the national pool to advance to the Powerball Playoff drawings, with no more than one semi-finalist per lottery advancing.

The Powerball Playoff drawings are a series of elimination drawings that mirror the elimination rounds of the NASCAR Playoffs™. In the NASCAR Playoffs, the top 16 drivers at the end of the regular season are eligible to compete for the Championship title. After each Playoff round, the bottom four drivers are eliminated until the field of eligible drivers decreases from 16 to 12 to 8 to 4.

Likewise, the NASCAR Powerball Playoff begins with 16 national semi-finalists. As the NASCAR Playoffs field of drivers is reduced, Powerball will reduce its playoff field of semi-finalists eligible to win the $1 million grand prize. Through a series of elimination drawings, the field of semi-finalists will be reduced from 16 to 12 to 8 to 4 – with the remaining four finalists winning a VIP trip for two to the NASCAR Championship Weekend™ at Phoenix Raceway and entry into the $1 million drawing in Victory Lane.

The results of each Powerball Playoff drawing will be revealed during select race broadcasts, beginning with the Round of 16 announcement on Sept. 1 during the NASCAR Cup Series Cook Out Southern 500™ race at Darlington Raceway in Darlington, S.C. Cash prizes will be awarded to all 16 national semi-finalists based on their elimination position, ranging from $2,500 to the $1 million prize:

PowerballPlayoff DrawingsDateRace AnnouncementNotes
Round of 16Sept. 1Cook Out Southern 500, Darlington Raceway, Darlington, SC16 semi-finalists advance
Round of 12Sept. 21Bass Pro Shops Night Race,Bristol Motor Speedway, Bristol, TN12 semi-finalists advance4 eliminated win $2,500
Round of 8Oct. 13Bank of America ROVAL™ 400,Charlotte Motor Speedway, Concord, NC8 semi-finalists advance4 eliminated win $5,000
Championship 4Nov. 3Xfinity 500,Martinsville Speedway, Martinsville, VA4 finalists advance & win VIP trip4 eliminated win $7,500
$1 Million ChampionshipNov. 10NASCAR Cup Series Championship,Phoenix Raceway, Avondale, AZ(1) $1 million winner(3) $10,000 winners

The VIP trip experience includes roundtrip airfare for two to Phoenix, three nights hotel accommodations – double occupancy, two Ally Curve Hospitality Club passes for both the NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship Race on Nov. 9 and the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race on Nov. 10, two passes for VIP experiences at Phoenix Raceway during the NASCAR Championship Weekend including NASCAR Cup Series™ VIP access, NASCAR team hauler tour, MRN radio booth tour, pace car rides, Victory Lane access, welcome dinner and all meals, and ground transportation to scheduled events and activities.

Players should stay tuned to their local lotteries for more information on how to enter. Participating lottery jurisdictions include Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Idaho, Indiana (Hoosier), Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, and West Virginia. Additional lotteries may join the Powerball promotion at a later time. Players can also follow the NASCAR Powerball Playoff on Facebook, Instagram, and online at Powerball.com.

Last year, four finalists from the Hoosier Lottery, Mississippi Lottery, New Mexico Lottery, and South Dakota Lottery traveled to Phoenix for a VIP experience at NASCAR Championship Weekend. Before the green flag dropped at the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race, Stephanie Walker of West Point, MS was declared the inaugural NASCAR Powerball Playoff Champion and $1 million winner during a special drawing held in Victory Lane.

The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season officially begins this Sunday with live action of the DAYTONA 500 from Daytona International Speedway. The race will air live at 2:30 p.m. EST on FOX, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

About Powerball

Powerball® holds the current world record for largest national lottery jackpot at $2.04 billion. Since its first drawing in 1992, the game has helped generate more than $31 billion for good causes supported by U.S. lotteries. More than half of all proceeds from the sale of a Powerball ticket remain in the jurisdiction where the ticket was sold. Powerball tickets are $2 per play. Tickets are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Powerball drawings are broadcast live every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET from the Florida Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee. Powerball drawings are also live streamed on Powerball.com.

About NASCAR

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 14 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Sprint Race, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Mexico Series, NASCAR Whelen Euro Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in five cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 11 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.

For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, X and Snapchat.

Caymus Vineyards Renews Partnership With Stewart-Haas

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Official Release
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Family-Owned and Operated Winery Aligns With Driver Ryan Preece and No. 41 Team

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Feb. 16, 2024) – Iconic wine producer Caymus Vineyards has renewed its partnership with Stewart-Haas Racing, the championship-winning NASCAR team co-owned by NASCAR Hall of Famer Tony Stewart and Haas Automation founder Gene Haas.

After serving as an associate partner last year, the family-owned and operated winery has expanded its role with Stewart-Haas in 2024. Caymus Vineyards will have a yearlong presence on the lower-rear quarter panel of the No. 41 Ford Mustang driven by Ryan Preece, along with branding on Preece’s firesuit. Additionally, Caymus Vineyards will have heightened signage on all four Stewart-Haas cars – the Nos. 4, 10, 14 and 41 of Josh Berry, Noah Gragson, Chase Briscoe and Preece, respectively – at select NASCAR Cup Series races. And at all Cup Series races, guests of Stewart-Haas can enjoy Caymus Vineyards’ lineup of wines, most notably, its renowned Cabernet Sauvignon, at the team’s trackside VIP hospitality area.

Last June at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway, guests toasted with Preece in victory lane, raising glasses of Caymus Vineyards’ Bonanza Cabernet Sauvignon after he won the ARCA Menards Series West race. Preece dominated in his Bonanza Cabernet Ford Mustang by winning the pole and leading twice for a race-high 50 laps, including the final 32 tours around the 1.99-mile, 10-turn road course, securing the victory with a commanding 9.675-second margin over his nearest pursuer. It was Preece’s first ARCA win and the first race victory for Caymus Vineyards.

“We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with Stewart-Haas Racing and we’re proud to have the Caymus name grace the No. 41 Ford Mustang of Ryan Preece, who memorably put our Bonanza Cabernet car in victory lane last year at Sonoma,” said Karen Perry, Executive Vice President, Caymus Vineyards. “Much like Chuck Wagner and his family, Tony Stewart and Gene Haas have worked incredibly hard to build a championship organization. Whether it’s on the track or in the vineyards and cellar, what we have in common is a drive to be the very best through a commitment to excellence.”

Chuck Wagner and his late parents, Lorna and Charlie Sr., opened Caymus Vineyards in 1972, starting off with 240 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon. Based at its original “home ranch” in Rutherford, California – deep in the heart of Napa Valley Wine Country and just a 45-minute drive north of Sonoma Raceway – Caymus Vineyards remains a hands-on family affair. In addition to their famed Cabernet Sauvignon, Chuck, Charlie and Jenny Wagner make a range of white and red wines, each with a character all its own.

“Representing Caymus Vineyards and Bonanza last year at Sonoma allowed me to see just how hands-on the Wagner family is when it comes to their wine-making,” Preece said. “It’s impressive, and it’s something I can really appreciate. I’m hands-on with my racecars because I want them to be the very best. They have the same mindset at Caymus. That’s why they’re a great partner for our race team.”

The partnership with Stewart-Haas complements Caymus Vineyards’ portfolio of championship teams and iconic drivers the company has partnered with in the last decade. In 2024, Caymus Vineyards is also a full-season sponsor of Meyer Shank Racing driver Felix Rosenqvist in the NTT INDYCAR Series.

About Caymus Vineyards:

The Wagner Family has a long history in Napa Valley dating back to the 1850s. Through the years, they have embraced a hands-on work ethic and are constantly trying out new ideas in pursuit of making exceptional wines. Whether it’s venturing to different regions to find diverse sources of top-quality grapes or experimenting with new farming techniques, the result is a pairing of tradition with innovation, a respect for the old and the promise of the new. The Wagners’ dedication to agriculture will be celebrated in June of 2024 when the family will proudly release their 50th vintage of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

Chuck Wagner and his late parents, Lorna and Charlie, started Caymus Vineyards in 1972. They were a family of farmers who worked together for decades to create a signature style of Cabernet Sauvignon. Today, the family’s Napa Valley Cabernet and Special Selection are among Napa Valley’s most celebrated wines. Chuck now works alongside two of his children, Charlie and Jenny, and the family produces diverse wines from Napa Valley, other parts of California and beyond. Continually pursuing new ideas, they feel extremely fortunate to spend their days farming grapes and making wine. For more information, please visit us online at caymus.com or wagnerfamilyofwine.com, and on social at Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.

About Stewart-Haas Racing:

Stewart-Haas Racing is the title-winning NASCAR team co-owned by three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Tony Stewart and Gene Haas, founder of Haas Automation – the largest CNC machine tool builder in North America. The Kannapolis, North Carolina-based organization has won two NASCAR Cup Series titles, two NASCAR Xfinity Series championships and 100 NASCAR races, including such crown-jewel events as the Daytona 500, Brickyard 400 and Southern 500. For more information, please visit us online at StewartHaasRacing.com and on social at Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Young’s Motorsports Daytona International Speedway Truck | Xfinity Team Preview

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Official Release
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Young’s Motorsports | NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series
Daytona International Speedway | Fresh From Florida 250

Fast Facts
No. 02 Young’s Motorsports Team:
Driver: Mason Massey
Primary Partner(s): BRUNT Workwear | Anderson Power Services
Manufacturer: Chevrolet Silverado RST
Crew Chief: Joe Lax
2023 Driver Points Position: N/A
2023 Owner Points Position: 28th
Engine: Ilmor Racing Technologies

Notes of Interest:

Welcome To The Team: Earlier this week, Young’s Motorsports announced that Mason Massey will compete full-time in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series this season aboard the team’s flagship, No. 02 Chevrolet Silverado RST.

Massey arrives on the scene at Young’s Motorsports after running a limited NASCAR Xfinity Series schedule last season for SS-GreenLight Racing, including a top-10 performance at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.

The Douglasville, Ga. native started his 2023 Truck Series season with Reaume Brothers Racing and competed in seven races with a season-high 11th place finish at Texas Motor Speedway, but later shifted his presence to Xfinity for five races throughout the 33-race season.

About Mason: Massey has over 20 years of experience behind the wheel, launching his racing career at age five. Since then, he has garnered over 200 feature wins, 11 championships, and 10 track records across multiple series, including the U.S. Legends Pro National Championship.

Amongst the many Late Model victories to Massey’s credit during his tenure in the Bill Elliott Racing Development Program is the 2012 triumph in the Alabama 200. He eventually graduated to NASCAR in 2019, competing in the Truck Series before advancing to the Xfinity Series in 2020.

After part-time Xfinity stints in 2020 and 2021, respectively, the Georgian captured the attention of many with an impressive sixth-place finish in the spring 2022 NASCAR Xfinity Series contest at Atlanta (Ga.) Motor Speedway in front of the hometown crowd.

With 32 more NASCAR starts to his resume since his first career NASCAR top-10 effort, Massey has landed with Young’s Motorsports, a longtime fixture in the Truck Series, hoping to impress and land the organization back in Victory Lane this season.

All-Aboard!: For the first of 23 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series races this season, BRUNT Workwear will serve as the primary marketing partner on the No. 02 Chevrolet Silverado RST for the 100-lap race on Friday night.

BRUNT is a brand here to redefine everyday work gear for blue-collar workers and everyday guys that have never had the convenience, pricing, or quality available to them from traditional brands.

Founded by Eric Girouard, BRUNT aims to support the American workers through their work day by delivering the tools you wear to get the job done.

Longtime Massey supporter Anderson Power Systems will serve as an associate partner for the series’ lone trip to the “World Center of Racing” in 2024.

Anderson Power Services specializes in supplying, installing, repairing, and replacing residential and commercial generators all throughout Georgia, Florida, Alabama and South Carolina.

Mason Massey Truck Series Daytona International Speedway Stats: Friday night’s season-opener will mark Massey’s second NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series race at the 2.5-mile superspeedway.

Last February, Massey finished 24th after starting 35th in the 2023 edition of the rain-shortened NextEra Energy Resources 250 for Reaume Brothers Racing.

In addition to his lone Truck Series start at Daytona, Massey also holds two NASCAR Xfinity Series starts for B.J. McLeod Motorsports and DGM Racing, respectively.

Mason Massey Truck Series Career Stats: Entering Daytona, Massey has 14 career NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series races to his credit, earning a career-best 11th place finish at Texas Motor Speedway after starting 27th in the SpeedyCash.com 250 for Reaume Brothers Racing.

Since 2019, he has carried an average finish of 25.6.

Calling the Shots: Guiding Massey as crew chief of the No. 02 BRUNT Workwear | Anderson Power Services Chevrolet Silverado is longtime crew chief Joe Lax

On Friday night, he will be crew chief in his 118th NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series race. In his previous 117 races, he has one pole and nine top-10 finishes.

The season’s first race will be his 10th tango at Daytona as crew chief in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series.

Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series at Daytona International Speedway: This weekend will mark Young’s Motorsports’ 20th NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series start at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway.

The organization posted a team-best finish at the track of fourth with Truck Series veteran Spencer Boyd at the wheel in the 2019 NextEra Energy Resources 250 on February 15, 2019.

Since 2014, the Mooresville, N.C.-based Young’s Motorsports team has had an average starting position of 20.3 and an average finish of 16.3 in 19 Daytona International Speedway starts overall.

Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series History: Since entering the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series in 2012, the Mooresville, N.C., – based organization has logged 472 starts from 58 drivers, resulting in solid performances that include two victories (Talladega Superspeedway 2019 and 2021), seven top-five finishes and 33 top-10 finishes, with an average starting position of 22.8 and an average finishing position of 21.9.

Follow on Social Media: For more on Mason Massey, please visit masonmassey.com, like him on Facebook (Mason Massey Racing), and follow him on Instagram (@mason_massey) and X |Twitter (@mason_massey).

For more on Young’s Motorsports, please visit YoungsMotorsports.com, like them on Facebook (Young’s Motorsports), and follow them on Instagram (@youngsmotorsports) and X |Twitter (@youngsmtrsports).

Mason Massey Pre-Race Quote:

On Daytona International Speedway: “I always look forward to driving through that tunnel at Daytona International Speedway for the year’s first race. That’s your dream as a kid, being a part of the biggest weekend of the season on the high banks. We’ve all been working hard, and I look forward to starting the season strong with my guys on Friday night.”

On Joining Young’s Motorsports for the 2024 Truck Series Season: “I couldn’t be more excited to go full-time racing with Tyler (Young) and everyone at Young’s Motorsports. I see the work ethic in all the guys and how much they want it.

“I knew this was definitely something I wanted to be a part of. I also look forward to bringing BRUNT Workwear and Anderson Power Services on board this year. We’re ready to kick the season off strong in Daytona on Friday night!”

Race Information:

The Fresh From Florida 250 (100 laps | 250 miles) is the first of 23 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series races on the 2024 schedule. Qualifying is set for race day, Fri., Feb. 16, beginning at 3:00 p.m. The field will take the green flag shortly after 7:30 p.m. with live coverage on FOX Sports 1, the Motor Racing Network (Radio), and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90.

Young’s Motorsports | NASCAR Xfinity Series
Daytona International Speedway | United Rentals 300

Fast Facts
No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Team:
Driver: Leland Honeyman Jr.
Primary Partner(s): Ohio Logistics
Manufacturer: Chevrolet Camaro
Crew Chief: Andrew Abbott
2023 Driver Points Position: N/A
2023 Owner Points Position: 36th (SS-GreenLight Racing No. 07)
Engine: Earnhardt-Childress Racing

Notes of Interest:

Movin’ on Up!: In January, Young’s Motorsports announced it would graduate from the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series to the NASCAR Xfinity Series full-time in 2024 with rising star Leland Honeyman Jr. behind the wheel of the team’s No. 42 Chevrolet Camaro for the entire 33-race season beginning with Saturday afternoon’s United Rentals 300 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway.

About Leland: The Phoenix, Ariz. native began honing his racing skills at the tender age of two racing Quads. By four years old, he moved into Trophy Karts and then collected three series championships in off-road racing Trophy Karts.

After an instrumental tenure in Go Karts, he moved into the Bandolero competition in 2015 and was crowned a Bandolero National Champion two years later. From there, he moved into Limited Late Models before graduating to the Carolina Pro Late Model Series division in 2021, where he earned championship-runner-up honors and picked up an astounding victory in the annual Hickory (N.C.) Motor Speedway Fall Brawl.

Honeyman, 18, returns to the Mooresville, N.C.-based organization, where he ran an impressive ARCA Menards Series East Series campaign, finishing third in the 2022 championship standings.

During the 2023 season, he made eight NASCAR Xfinity Series starts, highlighted by a 21st-place finish at the Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway Road Course.

All-Aboard!: For the first of 33 NASCAR Xfinity Series races this season, Ohio Logistics will serve as the primary marketing partner on the No. 42 Chevrolet Camaro for the 120-lap race on Saturday afternoon.

Ohio Logistics provides all of the assets and operational support necessary to meet your most sophisticated logistics requirements. ·

Its mission is to provide its customers with the best possible warehousing and transportation services while maintaining competitive and fair prices. They accomplish this through the creative involvement of their most excellent resource, their associates.

LH Waterfront Construction will serve as an associate marketing of Honeyman’s No. 42 Chevrolet for his rookie Daytona Xfinity debut.

Since 1995, LH Waterfront Construction has been building custom homes and performing remodels at the highest level.

Leland Honeyman Jr. Xfinity Daytona International Speedway Stats: Saturday afternoon’s season-opener will mark Honeyman’s first NASCAR Xfinity Series start at the 2.5-mile superspeedway.

Leland Honeyman Jr. Xfinity Career Stats: Entering Daytona, Honeyman has eight career NASCAR Xfinity Series races to his credit, earning a career-best 21st place finish at the Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway Road Course after starting 26th in the Drive for the Cure 250 for Alpha Prime Racing.

Since 2023, he has carried an average finish of 25.4.

Double Duty: Honeyman’s season is off to a fast start in 2024 with double duty action at the “World Center of Racing.” In addition to attempting his NASCAR Xfinity Series debut with Young’s Motorsports, he will also compete in Saturday’s Daytona ARCA 200 at Daytona in the ARCA Menards Series, the developmental series owned by NASCAR.

Honeyman, aboard the team’s No. 02 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet SS, was one of over 70 drivers who tackled the 2.5-mile superspeedway during ARCA preseason testing in January.

Calling the Shots: Guiding Honeyman Jr. as crew chief of the No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro is longtime crew chief Andrew Abbott.

On Saturday, he will be crew chief in his 98th NASCAR Xfinity Series race. In his previous 97 races, he has three top-five and 11 top-10 finishes.

The season’s first race will be his 10th tango at Daytona as crew chief in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.

Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR Xfinity Series at Daytona International Speedway: This weekend will mark Young’s Motorsports’ first NASCAR Xfinity Series start at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway.

Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR Xfinity Series History: The 2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series season will mark the inaugural year of competition for the Mooresville, N.C.-based organization.

Follow on Social Media: For more on Leland Honeyman Jr., please visit LelandHoneymanRacing.com, like him on Facebook (Leland Honeyman Racing) and follow on Instagram (@lelandhoneymanjr) and X |Twitter (@lelandhoneyman3).

For more on Young’s Motorsports, please visit YoungsMotorsports.com, like them on Facebook (Young’s Motorsports), and follow them on Instagram (@youngsmotorsports) and X |Twitter (@youngsmtrsports).

Leland Honeyman Jr. Pre-Race Quote:

On Daytona International Speedway: “Daytona marks the beginning of our Xfinity Series journey with Young’s Motorsports reuniting with my ARCA Menards Series East crew, which adds a special touch to this race.

“My goal is to bring home a clean race car and prepare for Atlanta next weekend. We have 33 races. This is just the start. I’m excited to see how we kick off 2024.”

On Joining Young’s Motorsports for the 2024 Xfinity Series Season: “In 2024, I’m thrilled to be racing full-time for Young’s Motorsports in their newly launched Xfinity team. Joining them as they enter this exciting series, I’m confident about our collective potential for the upcoming season.

“The prospect of racing full-time in Xfinity adds an extra layer of excitement, and I can’t wait to contribute to our team’s journey and make our mark on the track.”

Race Information:

The United Rentals 300 (120 laps | 300 miles) is the first of thirty-three (33) NASCAR Xfinity Series races on the 2024 schedule. Practice will take place on Fri., Feb. 16, from 4:35 p.m. – 5:25 p.m., and the qualifying session begins on Sat., Feb. 17, at 11:30 a.m. The field will take the green flag shortly after 5:00 p.m. with live coverage on FOX Sports 1 (FS1), the Motor Racing Network (Radio), and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90.

AM Racing | Hailie Deegan Daytona International Speedway Xfinity Preview

By
Official Release
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AM Racing | NASCAR Xfinity Series
Daytona International Speedway | Hard Rock Bet 200

Fast Facts
No. 15 AM Racing Team:
Driver: Hailie Deegan
Primary Partner(s): Klutch Vodka
Manufacturer: Ford Mustang
Crew Chief: Joe Williams Jr.
Spotter: Michael Fisher
Chassis Intel: AMR Chassis No. X-718
Engine: Roush-Yates Engines

Notes of Interest:

Sophomore Journey: On the heels of a successful rookie campaign in the NASCAR Xfinity Series last season with driver Brett Moffitt, AM Racing will embark on its sophomore journey in 2024 with driver Hailie Deegan for the entire 33-race tour, beginning with Saturday night’s United Rentals 300 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway.

The Statesville, N.C.-based team plans to expand its footprint in the NASCAR Xfinity Series to also run two cars throughout the season with its No. 25 AM Racing entry.

Future Focused: Last October, AM Racing announced that Hailie Deegan joined the family-owned operation to pilot the team’s No. 15 Ford Mustang beginning with Saturday night’s 120-lap contest at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway in a multiyear agreement.

Deegan, a native of Temecula, Calif. has been a staple in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series for the past three seasons but will embrace her rookie season in the NASCAR Xfinity Series as part of the Ford Performance program.

Deegan, 21, arrives on the scene at AM Racing after a stint in 2023 driving for ThorSport Racing.

Coming in Klutch!: Earlier this week, AM Racing announced a multiyear deal with Klutch Vodka to serve as the primary partner of Deegan’s No. 15 Ford Mustang for Saturday night’s Xfinity Series season-opener at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway.

Klutch Vodka is 100% made in the United States. Our vodka is made from local Midwestern corn, distilled 5 times through an eight-column still, and filtered or “polished” 12 times through 4 different materials in a proprietary process to create one of the finest vodkas in the world.

Klutch Vodka is the founder and proud sponsor of Klutch Kares. Klutch Kares’ provides financial assistance to those with special needs arising from childhood defects as well as students who have demonstrated the desire to achieve a higher education and need aid to achieve their goals.

Klutch Vodka can be found in Total Wine & More locations throughout Florida. “Drink Responsibly. Act Responsibly.”

Hailie Deegan NASCAR Xfinity Daytona International Speedway Stats: Saturday night’s United Rentals 300 will mark Deegan’s inaugural Xfinity start at the 2.5-mile superspeedway.

Deegan does, however, have three NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts at the “World Center of Racing. Her track-best result occurred during the 2022 Truck Series season-opener when Deegan steered to a 17th-place finish in the NextEra Energy Resources 250 after starting 26th for David Gilliland Racing (now TRICON Garage).

Hailie Deegan NASCAR Xfinity Series Career Stats: In one NASCAR Xfinity Series start at Las Vegas (Nev.) Motor Speedway in October 2022, Deegan has a career-best 13th-place finish after starting 20th for SS-GreenLight Racing with Jeff Lefcourt.

In addition to one Xfinity Series start, she has achieved 70 ARCA Menards Series starts, including three wins and 69 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts to her credit.

AM Minute: It’s a busy week for AM Racing at the “World Center of Racing.”

In addition to the team’s NASCAR Xfinity Series team being in action, the team will also participate in Saturday afternoon’s Daytona ARCA 200 with sophomore driver Christian Rose aboard the No. 32 West Virginia Tourism Ford Mustang.

Rose returns to the organization on the heels of a successful ARCA Menards Series rookie season, which included two top-five and 13 top-10 finishes, third in the championship standings, and the most laps completed by a driver in the series.

Veteran leader Ryan “Pickle” London will return as crew chief for the full 20-race season.

Austin Wayne Self has also been keeping the AM Racing Dirt Division team hopping with Late Model competition throughout the Sunshine State.

Thanks For Your Support: With the start of the 2024 season on deck, AM Racing and Hailie Deegan would like to thank their associate marketing partners for their support: AirBox, Flying Circle, Mechanix Wear, Monster Energy Drink, Mobil 1, Viva Tequila Seltzer and WIX Filters.

From the Pit Box: Industry veteran Joe Williams Jr. is Hailie Deegan’s crew chief.

He will be crew chief for his 132nd NASCAR Xfinity Series race on Saturday night and his 10th race at the 2.5-mile superspeedway nestled in Daytona Beach, Fla.

In his previous 131 NASCAR Xfinity Series starts, he has collected one win (Auto Club Speedway | February 2022), eight top-five and 30 top-10 finishes.

Follow on Social Media: For more on AM Racing, please visit AMRacingteam.com, like their Facebook page (AM Racing), or follow them on Instagram and X | Twitter @AMRacingNASCAR.

For more on Hailie Deegan, please visit hailiedeegan.com, like her Facebook page (HailieDeegan4), or follow her on Instagram (@hailiedeegan), YouTube and X | Twitter (@hailiedeegan).

Hailie Deegan Quoteboard:

On Daytona International Speedway: “I am excited to get to Daytona this weekend with my AM Racing team. We’re excited to have Klutch Vodka on the car. AM Racing showcased a lot of speed with their superspeedway program last year, and I would like to capitalize on it during the race on Saturday afternoon.

“Our goal is to stay out of trouble and be in contention when the checkered flag is near.”

On 2024 Season Outlook: “I am very optimistic about my rookie season. The AM Racing team has worked incredibly hard to assemble a good group of people who want to see me succeed and put together strong results from the start of the season in Daytona to the checkered flag at Phoenix in November.

“I am focused and I believe I am ready.”

Race Information:

The United Rentals 300 (120 laps | 300 miles) is the first of thirty-three (33) NASCAR Xfinity Series races on the 2024 schedule. Practice will take place on Fri., Feb. 16, from 4:35 p.m. – 5:25 p.m., and the qualifying session begins on Sat., Feb. 17, at 11:30 a.m. The field will take the green flag shortly after 5:00 p.m. with live coverage on FOX Sports 1 (FS1), the Motor Racing Network (Radio) and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90.

About AM Racing:

AM Racing is a multi-tiered, multi-faceted Motorsports program headquartered in Statesville, N.C.

Established in December 2015, AM Racing is prided on faith, honesty and intelligent performance.

The family-owned team will compete in the ARCA Menards Series, the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series, the NASCAR Xfinity Series and various Dirt Modified events in its eighth year of competition.

The team has named Hailie Deegan, Christian Rose, and Austin Wayne Self as their primary drivers for the 2024 Xfinity, ARCA Menards Series, and Dirt Modified seasons, respectively.

DAYTONA 500 To Air In More Than 185 Countries And Territories, Reaching Over 550 Million Households Worldwide

By
Official Release
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Fans can now watch NASCAR in India, Japan, Greece; New partners join in New Zealand, Spain, China

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Feb. 16, 2024) – An international phenomenon, the 66th running of the DAYTONA 500 (Sunday, Feb. 18) will be broadcast to fans in more than 185 countries and territories, reaching over 550 million households worldwide.

Notably, the full NASCAR Cup Series season will air free in New Zealand via new partner Three Now, so fans can watch countryman Shan Van Gisbergen, the winner of the inaugural Chicago Street Race. India (Eurosport), Japan (Gaora Sports – DAYTONA 500 only), and Greece (Antenna) join the group of countries and territories broadcasting NASCAR in 2024. New international partners include DAZN in Spain, and Billibili in China, which joins alongside incumbent HUYA.

Additionally, for the first time, fans in Canada and Brazil will have extended viewing options for the DAYTONA 500 via incremental free-to-air coverage with existing partners in Canada and Brazill. CTV will simulcast the race alongside TSN in Canada, while fans in Brazil can watch live on Canal 21 in addition to BandPlay.

“We can’t wait to kick off the season with the prestigious DAYTONA 500 and continue to provide the thrill of some of the closest, high-passing racing in the world to fans around the globe,” said Nick Skipper, NASCAR managing director of media strategy. “Adding coverage in these new territories, as well as strategic new partners in existing ones, emphasizes the universal appeal of our sport and reinforces our dedication to providing fans with unparalleled access to the excitement of NASCAR racing.”

NASCAR continues to partner with IMG to secure rights deals outside the Americas.

In the United States, fans can watch the DAYTONA 500 live on FOX or listen on MRN or SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

For a full list of countries and territories, and the broadcast partners airing NASCAR, click here.

About NASCAR

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 14 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Sprint Race, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Mexico Series, NASCAR Whelen Euro Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in five cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 11 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.

For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, X and Snapchat.

Gil Linster Brings International Flair to ARCA Menards Series at Daytona International Speedway

By
Official Release
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DAYTONA BEACH, Fla: Gil Linster was determined. And the determination paid off.

After participating in the open ARCA Menards Series preseason test at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway last month with Kimmel Racing, Linster was focused on acquiring the necessary funding after receiving his superspeedway ARCA license to participate in Saturday afternoon’s season-opening Hard Rock Bet 200.

While making nearly the 20-hour trip home back to Luxembourg, Linster spent most of the plane ride strategizing his plan to attract the marketing dollars to make the most significant start of his racing career.

Less than two weeks later, Linster reached an agreement with a local marketing partner poised to expand to the United States. Linster, 30, is ready for Saturday’s 80-lap showdown.

“For me, Daytona was like what you see in the movies; it’s a big dream,” said Linster. “You hear about NASCAR. You want to be at Daytona. You want to race at Daytona – especially the Daytona 500. The first time I was here, I got the chance to visit Daytona. I was super lucky to have the opportunity to race at New Smyrna, which was the same week as the Daytona 500. I was smiling and feeling OK, and then some of the Cup guys came down there to watch the races, and I felt super close.

“Then, when I showed up (to watch the 500), it was like, ‘No way. It’s a huge track. It’s crazy.’ And then also the show. It was my first time to see the flyover, and I was like, ‘No way. No way.’ The whole atmosphere was just ‘wow.’ Even a week later, I was still asking myself if it was real.

“Now, I’m returning to race at Daytona, which is a dream come true. I can’t even begin to describe what it means. I’m thankful to Hoosh.com, Kimmel Racing, and my supporters for the opportunity. It’s a dream come true, and I plan to soak it all in.”

Linster, who competes full-time in the NASCAR Whelen Euro Series Elite 2 division for Hendrix Motorsports, is keeping his expectations realistic for this weekend’s race but is determined to earn the respect, confidence, and trust of his competitors.

“I know I am the new guy with the yellow rookie stripe, but I feel with my Kimmel Racing team and their successes for speed on the bigger superspeedway track, we can be competitive this weekend,” added Linster.

“I realize I am still learning, but I have surrounded myself with good people to help that learning curve. I want to come out, be competitive, and have a good finish so I can keep returning to Daytona for years to come.”

It’s not just about Daytona for Linster. While already set for a championship run in the NASCAR Whelen Euro Series Elite 2 division this season, Linster – who speaks five languages fluently is already working on expanding his presence in the ARCA Menards Series this season with other starts at tracks big and small.

“It’s not just about Daytona; it’s about the bigger picture,” which includes more ARCA races this season,” explained Linster.

“I also want to be racing full-time in the ARCA Menards Series in 2025. That would be a huge dream, which I am focusing on. I know we will have a good season in the NASCAR Whelen Euro Series, but I want to make that next huge leap and race full-time in the United States next season.

“I know it’s not going to be easy, and I do not expect it to be, but with a lot of hard work, determination, and surrounding myself with positive people, I can achieve my goals.

As for his goal on Saturday afternoon, finishing the race is a top priority; a top-10 finish would feel like a win.

“From what I understand, this is one of the biggest ARCA fields at Daytona in a long time,” said Linster. “This is good for me as far as a learning experience, but I have to qualify for the race, and from there, we can set our strategy for the race.

“I just want to learn and work with my teammate Scott (Melton) and see if we can put ourselves in a good position near the end of the race to have a satisfying finish. A top-10 would feel like a win and give us some momentum to put more ARCA races together for the 2024 season.”

HOOSH and HOOSH.com will serve as the primary marketing partner for Linster’s premier ARCA Menards Series debut.

As the fastest-growing vape company in Europe and the Emirates, HOOSH is poised to enter the American market with their 0% nicotine vapes and is a proud partner of Gil Linster as the first European driver to make his ARCA Menards Series debut at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway on February 17, 2024, with Kimmel Racing.

HOOSH: Avant-garde vape products are made for “Strictly Made for Generation Cool.”

In final ARCA practice, Linster maneuvered the 24th fastest of the 49 entries that took time.

For more on Gil Linster, please like him on Facebook (Gil Linster Official), and follow him on Instagram (@gillinster) and X | Twitter (@gillinster).

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

Team Penske NASCAR Cup Series Race Report – Daytona Duel Races

By
Official Release
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BLUEGREEN VACATIONS DUEL RACES
Daytona Beach, Florida – February 15, 2024
DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY – NASCAR 101

AUSTIN CINDRIC No. 2 DISCOUNT TIRE FORD MUSTANG

START: 2ND FINISH: 2ND DAYTONA 500 STARTING POSITION: 6TH

RACE RUNDOWN: Austin Cindric, driver of the No. 2 Discount Tire Ford Mustang, charged to a strong runner-up finish in the second Duel Thursday evening at Daytona International Speedway, narrowly missing out on the race victory. The 25-year-old Team Penske driver rolled off the grid from the front row and maneuvered throughout the pack over the course of the 150 miles, ultimately finding himself in contention to win on the final lap. The second-place finish in the 60-lap sprint earned him a sixth-place starting position for Sunday’s prestigious DAYTONA 500.

CINDRIC’S THOUGHTS: “It was a really strong effort by everyone on the Discount Tire Ford Mustang. Obviously we had good pace in qualifying and had a really strong car and great execution in the race. I wish things would have played out differently in the last five laps. We were able to get back up to the front and had some good runs and we got a couple Fords up there in the top-five. Overall, I am just poised to get to the 500 and see what we’ve got for the long race.”

RYAN BLANEY No. 12 MENARDS/PEAK FORD MUSTANG

START: 9TH FINISH: 18TH DAYTONA 500 STARTING POSITION: 32ND

RACE RUNDOWN: Ryan Blaney’s run in Thursday night’s second Daytona Duel was cut short with 11 laps to go as the No. 12 Menards/Peak Ford Mustang was collected in a multi-car incident in the tri-oval to halt a late charge to the front of the field. Due to the damage sustained in the wreck, the No. 12 team will go to backup car for Sunday’s Daytona 500.

Blaney began the 60-lap event from the ninth position before dropping to the back half of the field during the opening run as the reigning Cup Series champion was feeling out which line had the greater momentum in the early going. As green flag pit stops began on lap 42, Blaney cycled to second in the running order before hitting pit road on lap 44 for fuel only. Blaney assumed the lead coming off of pit road before settling into sixth with under 15 laps to go. As the field made its way through the tri-oval coming to 11 to go, Blaney was turned into the outside wall head-on, setting off a multi-car wreck in the process and ending the night for the No. 12 team.

BLANEY’S THOUGHTS: “I’m OK. By the replay it just looks like awful pushes in terrible spots. That’s usually how these wrecks happen. Three times in a row here I’ve been right-reared by someone else’s awful push, so I’m getting pretty sick of it. I don’t get it, so just a shame we have to be the one with a tore up race car when it’s someone else’s issue.”

JOEY LOGANO No. 22 SHELL-PENNZOIL FORD MUSTANG

START: 1ST FINISH: 7TH DAYTONA 500 STARTING POSITION: 1ST

RACE RUNDOWN: After securing the pole for the 66th Daytona 500 Wednesday night, Joey Logano wheeled the No. 22 Shell-Pennzoil Ford Mustang to a seventh-place finish in the first 60-lap Duel race. After starting from the inside of row one, Logano gave way to the top lane with a better run before dropping back in the field after experiencing a loose-handling condition. As green flag pit stops began to cycle, Logano cycled to second in the running order before pitting with a group of Fords on lap 44 for fuel only. Logano led the group off of pit road to assume the lead with 15 laps to go, but gave way to four Chevrolets in the draft before settling at the tail end of the pack in fifth. Following a caution on lap 49, Logano lined up from the inside of row three for the restart and ultimately crossed the line seventh.

LOGANO’S THOUGHTS: “I was a little further back than I wanted to be. We did a good job with our cycle and got ourselves out there, but there weren’t a lot of Fords with me. I was on my own there and the Chevy gang came and got by us and the Toyotas were coming and there’s no defending it. We just didn’t have enough numbers in this race and that was just by luck. That kind of cycled us a little bit too far back and I thought I could maybe push the bottom row and get going, but just kind of ran a little bit short.”

The NASCAR Cup Series will have practice for the 66th DAYTONA 500 Friday at 5:35 p.m. ET on FS1.

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