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CLUTCH PERFORMANCES GIVE DOUG KALITTA HIS CROWNING ACHIEVEMENT: A TOP FUEL WORLD TITLE

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Official Release
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INDIANAPOLIS (Nov. 16, 2023) – At long last, Doug Kalitta is a NHRA Top Fuel world champion, a moment that instantly entered the history books on Sunday at In-N-Out Pomona Dragstrip as one of the most memorable in NHRA history.

A championship runner-up six times in an otherwise remarkable 26-year career, Kalitta and his team, led by crew chiefs Alan Johnson and Brian Husen, came through with a clutch run that will be replayed forever, defeating Leah Pruett in a winner-take-all final round at the 58th annual In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals.

Kalitta went 3.673-seconds at 334.98 mph in his 11,000-horsepower Mac Tools/Toyota dragster, handing him the event win and a world title, erasing a career of championship heartbreak and giving the fan-favorite veteran a label that can never be removed: NHRA Top Fuel world champion.

“It definitely has a nice ring to it. It’s going to take a while for that to settle in, but I’m definitely going to be grinning here for quite a while,” Kalitta said. “What a blessing to have Alan (Johnson) on our team. To be one of the guys that has won a championship with him as a crew chief is what I’ve dreamed of, and winning it with Connie (Kalitta, team owner) here was extra special as well.

“It’s incredible to see all the fan support. This is one of the coolest places to run and this is just the pinnacle for me. At the end of the run, I was just so relieved. I’ve been trying to win this thing for so many years and it’s just really hard to believe. It will sink in eventually, but we’ve definitely had a great run.”

Kalitta and his Kalitta Motorsports team battled through adversity and got hot at the ideal time, winning three races in the Countdown to the Championship, including the playoff opener in Reading to pick up his milestone 50th career victory.

After starting the six-race playoffs in sixth, he jumped to third after Reading and then went into the points lead after winning the fall race in Charlotte. Pruett bumped Kalitta out of first with her Dallas win and then Steve Torrence moved ahead of everyone in Las Vegas, setting up a marquee three-car showdown in Pomona to close out the year.

All three advanced to the semifinals, and as the drama and intensity built, Kalitta and his team simply got better. He went 3.706, 3.733 and 3.723 during the first three rounds, defeating Justin Ashley in the semifinals. After Pruett slipped past Torrence in the semifinals, it set up the ultimate Pomona showdown where the race winner would also pick up their first world championship.

In what was the final pass of the 2023 NHRA season, Kalitta let wire-to-wire, setting off an epic celebration on both the starting line and the top end, and creating a legacy-making moment in the process.

“It’s incredible the way the points worked out for it to come down to that last run,” Kalitta said. “I just tried to stay focused and it played out perfectly. Everybody was down there on top end and it was something I’ve been looking forward to my whole life. It was a hell of a drag race and it was just nice to get the win.”

It was a moment that had long eluded Kalitta, long regarded as one of the best drivers ever to sit in a Top Fuel dragster. He was second to Torrence in both 2019 and 2020 – falling in 2019 by a mere three points – also recording runner-up finishes 2016, 2006, 2004 and 2003. The loss to Tony Schumacher in 2006, where Schumacher pulled off a record-breaking run with Johnson as his crew chief in the final round to claim the title, was agonizing, but Kalitta now has his own historic final-round moment in Pomona.

Johnson came in at the start of the 2022 campaign and after struggling last year, Kalitta and his team found their footing at the perfect time. It was never easy, but it all proved to be worth it, as Johnson helped guide Kalitta to Top Fuel immortality and a championship that came down to the final pass of an incredible 2023 season.

“Throughout the year, I just kept thinking I’ve got to get a win,” Kalitta said. “We definitely picked up momentum and I’m really proud of all my guys. We were digging really hard and we had to work for it. The guys really pulled it together and we started making good runs and getting win lights, so hats off to them for sure. It’s a big team effort, but I never really doubted my ability to work with these guys. I knew they had my back.”

The 2024 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series begins March 7-10 with the 55th annual NHRA Gatornationals at historic Gainesville Raceway. For more information about NHRA, including the 2024 schedule, please visit www.NHRA.com.

  • All photos courtesy NHRA

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, FuelTech NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Type A Motorsports, 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 120 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.

Fall Brawl Winner Kade Brown Sets Sights on Florence Motor Speedway Win

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Official Release
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FLORENCE, S.C.: On the heels of a dominating victory in last Saturday night’s Fall Brawl at Hickory (N.C.) Motor Speedway, teenage sensation Kade Brown returns to Florence (S.C.) Motor Speedway for Saturday night’s South Carolina 400, looking to continue his impressive 2023 racing season.

The 2023 Hickory Motor Speedway track champion is no stranger to the historic 4/10-mile Diamond of the Southeast short track. Last season, Brown captured the Florence Motor Speedway track championship, which aided him in conquering the South Carolina State Championship.

With more than 40 Late Model Stock Car competitors looking to add a Florence crown jewel to their trophy cases this weekend, Brown would love nothing more than to capture another checkered flag in his anticipated penultimate race of the season.

“I feel really good about heading into this race weekend,” said Brown. “Anytime you can return to a track where you have much experience is already a positive. This weekend’s race, though, isn’t a weekly show; it will be one of the season’s toughest Late Model Stock Car races.

“I feel confident in our team that we will not only be able to step up to the challenge but, like Hickory Motor Speedway last weekend, have an opportunity to be a serious contender for the race win.”

Over the past two seasons, Brown has visited Victory Lane at Florence Motor Speedway seven times, including a victory earlier this season. With his third South Carolina 400 on deck for Saturday, November 18, and looking to improve on his 14th-place result last fall, Brown hopes to utilize some of the same track fundamentals in his quest for his eighth track triumph.

“Even though the race is 250 laps, I feel like you can apply a lot of the fundamentals of a traditional weekly show into the South Carolina 400,” explained Brown. “You definitely have to keep up with the

track changes, lap traffic, and, of course, tire conservation is pivotal.

“There will be comers and goers on Saturday night, but whoever has the best balance and who can keep their momentum up while working both lanes of the race track when needed should be in a good spot. Luckily, we know where we need to be when we unload, so we’ll see how practice goes and go from there.

With a stacked field of competitors for Saturday night’s race, including NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr., 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year candidate Josh Berry, Stewart Haas Racing’s Ryan Preece and Late Model stalwarts Stephen Nasse, Brenden Queen and Sam Yarbrough, among others.

“In such prestigious races like the South Carolina 400, it is important to know who you are racing with,” added Brown. “I always try to race my competitors with respect because I would like that same respect in return. It’s also an opportunity to learn from some of the best of the best.

“There are a lot of great race car drivers that are chasing the same checkered flag as me on Saturday. I continue to learn as much as I can with every race. The goal remains the same each race, but the opportunity to strengthen my craft never changes and when you race drivers among the likes of Dale Earnhardt Jr., Josh Berry, Preece and Josh Williams, you inhale every piece of intel you can.”

ValAsta, Carolina Driveline, Race City Steel and Puryear Tank Lines will be the primary partners on Brown’s No. 23 Chevrolet for the Saturday night showdown.

“I am lucky to have great partners that allow me to go out there all year and live a dream,” explained Brown. “Without them, this weekend and this season would not have been possible. Celebrating in Victory Lane for the second consecutive weekend is the biggest thank you that I can give them and a return trip there on Saturday night is what I am aiming for.”

Following his 29th race of the season, Brown is tentatively scheduled to complete his season in the Thanksgiving Classic at Southern National Motorsports Park on November 25, 2023.

The 2023 South Carolina 400 at Florence Motor Speedway will be shown exclusively on FloRacing, the streaming home of all NASCAR Roots properties.

FloRacing’s coverage of Saturday’s action is scheduled to start at 4:30 p.m. ET. That’s when qualifying will begin for all three divisions (Street Stocks, Mini Stocks and Late Models).

Pre-race ceremonies are scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. ET, immediately followed by feature racing. Twin Late Model heat races will begin the feature action, followed by the Street Stock and Mini Stock races.

The 250-lap Late Model feature will close the night.

Brown’s plans for the 2024 racing season will be announced in due course.

For more on Kade Brown, please like his Facebook page (Kade Brown Racing), or follow him on Instagram (@kadebrownracing), TikTok (@kadebrown99) and X | Twitter (@kadebrownracing).

Josh Williams joins Kaulig Racing’s Xfinity Series lineup for 2024

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Official Release
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Williams, Alloy Employer Services, will continue long-term relationship in No. 11 Kaulig Racing Chevy

 LEXINGTON, N.C. (November 16, 2023) – Kaulig Racing announced today that Josh Williams will drive the No. 11 Chevrolet in the 2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) season. Williams’ long-time sponsor, Alloy Employer Services, will serve as a primary partner.

Williams began his national series career at the age of 16 and has made 186 starts in the NXS, earning three top-10 finishes in 2023. The Port Charlotte, Fla. native looks to capitalize on his biggest opportunity yet with Kaulig Racing.

“After only an hour in the shop, I already feel like it’s home,” said Williams. “I’ve known a lot of these guys for a long time, and I felt like coming over here would give us a good opportunity to get wins. That’s the goal, Trophy Hunting.”

“Josh Williams has fought tooth and nail for everything in his racing career, and we’re really excited to have him race for us,” said Chris Rice, president of Kaulig Racing. “We love his energy and passion at the track, and we think his personality and drive will fit right in with the Kaulig Racing culture.”

Alloy Employer Services, which focuses on proactive claims management for workplace injuries and risk management, began its relationship with Williams in 2020. The company creates cost reductions on premiums for employers that are complemented by long-term cost control.

“Josh Williams represents the spirit of racing as we know and love it,” said Alloy CMO, Chris Estey. “We are excited and confident in his potential for the 2024 season. His blend of competitive edge, skill and sportsmanship promotes a super opportunity for him and all his sponsors. For all of us to be aligned with Kaulig Racing produces a powerful recipe.”

Also joining Alloy Employer Services and Williams will be a host of long-term and new partners who have been with Williams throughout his NXS career.

Williams will make his first start for Kaulig Racing when the season kicks off at Daytona International Speedway in February. Additional partnership announcements will come at a later date.
 
About Alloy Employer Services

Since 1999, Alloy has helped to reduce costs and simplify administration for employers dealing with the complexities of workforce management. Alloy’s unique service model and approach to workers’ compensation and risk management allows clients to focus on their core mission with the confidence that they are supported by an efficient and effective coverage model for worksite injury along with other valuable benefits.

About Kaulig Racing™

Kaulig Racing™ is a full-time multi-car NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) and NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) team, owned by award-winning entrepreneur, Matt Kaulig. Established in 2016, Kaulig Racing™ has made the NXS Playoffs consecutively each season since the playoff system started and won back-to-back regular-season championships in 2021 and 2022. Before becoming a full-time NCS team, Kaulig Racing made multiple starts in the 2021 NCS season and won in its seventh-ever race with AJ Allmendinger’s victory at “The Brickyard” for the Verizon 200 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The team expanded to a two-car, full-time NCS team in 2022 and added a third, part-time entry during the 2023 season. In 2024, the team will once again field two, full-time entries in the NCS and continue to field three, full-time NXS entries. To learn more about the team, visit kauligracing.com.

American Jak Crawford Now Controlling His Own Formula 1 Future

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Official Release
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Houston, TX- November 16, 2023– Besides an extra boost of horsepower or more grip, there is little that is more compelling to racing drivers than controlling a race.

And control is what young Jak Crawford is looking forward to most as the Texan has already made late 2023 season moves in pursuit of his Formula 1 dreams. Crawford has forged a successful path with Red Bull since he was all of 14 years old. In his first season of European car competition—racing in the COVID-plagued 2020 season—he gained experience in a full season of German ADAC F4, as well some limited Italian F4 competition.

It wasn’t just new tracks, teams, and competition that young Crawford was learning. That first year he lived in an attic in The Netherlands and didn’t get to go home to the USA for a full nine months. Then the next year, a rapid, premature push, to FIA F3 and Euro Formula Open came when he was just 15 years old.

Once he was moved early to F3, it became nearly impossible to slow his upward progress inside of the Red Bull junior program. While the 2023 season has seen rapid acclimatization to the incredibly competitive F2 landscape that has included, to date, a race victory, a handful of podiums and a pole position, it could be argued that the debuts in both F3 and F2 each came one year too early.

Crawford will look to make the most of his experience and growing maturity in his second year of the F2 championship in 2024, still entering as an 18 year old, but with some big program changes.

“We are thankful for the Red Bull funding for four years, and honestly, we could not have done much of it without their substantial support,” said Crawford. “We were wanting to make key decisions and we let them know mid-year. After that, they didn’t pick up my fifth and final year, so we are in control now. I truly appreciate everyone at Red Bull, especially Rocky (Guillaume Rocquelin). I really enjoyed the last two years with him at the factory.”

USA driver Crawford’s 2024 F2 contract is signed and there be will more information in the near future about his new path to Formula One.

“Everyone has a different path, but mine has been to be moved up fast and to a different team every year.” offered the youthful, well-experienced, Crawford. “In two years, I will be only 20 years old, so we are going to slow it down and work a more thoughtful plan. That is all I can say about our plans at this point in time. Again, I am grateful for Red Bull for four years of support.”

Our Season 3 title contenders: X44 Vida Carbon Racing

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Official Release
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It is still mathematically possible for the 2022 champions to retain their Extreme E crown at the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix in Chile next month. Although Sir Lewis Hamilton’s outfit will need much to fall in their favour, two victories so far this season show that X44 Vida Carbon Racing still have that winning habit.

In the first of our five spotlights analysing our 2023 title contenders, we look back on X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s performance across Season 3 and how they remain in the championship picture heading to the finale in Chile.

X44 Vida Carbon Racing kicked off its 2023 Extreme E season with a revamped driver line-up, featuring the addition of Jamaican racer Fraser McConnell alongside resident driver and reigning Extreme E Champion, Cristina Gutiérrez. McConnell had debuted in the series at the Season 2 finale for Jenson’s Button’s JBXE after a stint as Championship Driver, and replaced Sebastien Loeb at the team.

With pressure to defend their championship title, Gutiérrez and McConnell started the 2023 Extreme E season in NEOM with undisputed pace. Both drivers posted impressive qualifying times for Round 1 and took a Heat victory but, in the end, it was not to be X44’s weekend. Technical issues prevented the duo from securing a podium spot across the weekend and, as a result, X44 Vida Carbon Racing left the Desert X Prix with only 23 points overall and a lot of work ahead after finishing fourth and sixth, respectively.

The tables seemed to be turning, though, as the series headed to Scotland for the Hydro X Prix for Rounds 3 and 4. Their strong Qualifying pace was retained in the opening race, ensuring their second Grand Final Appearance of the season.

Gutiérrez crossed the line in second place, but further reward was to follow as a penalty for the on-course winners, Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E, led to a first win of Season 3 for X44 Vida Carbon Racing, and McConnell’s maiden visit to the top step of the podium.

If it seemed that their first win of the campaign would kickstart X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s season, the next four rounds would be beset by issues that left their championship hopes hanging by a thread.

A ninth-place finish in the remaining round of the Hydro X Prix stalled their progress, while back-to-back eighth-place finishes in the series’ first visit to Sardinia in 2023 left them off the pace of the leading pack.

Nevertheless, their respectable showing from the opening three rounds ensured Sir Lewis Hamilton’s outfit remained in the top five of the Extreme E leaderboard.

It initially looked like X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s bad luck would continue when the series returned to Sardinia for Island X Prix II in September.

An eighth-place in Round 7 of the season left them with plenty of work to do, but come Round 8 the sun was shining on Gutiérrez and McConnell once more.

A feisty drive from the Jamaican in the Grand Final, passing Rosberg X Racing’s (RXR) Johan Kristoffersson, set the tone and that fast start would prove decisive. Gutiérrez kept her cool when taking over the reigns after the driver change, heading home RXR’s Mikaela Ahlin-Kottulinsky to take the team’s second win of 2023.

It would take a number of results to fall in their favour at the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix, but having come from behind in last year’s title battle X44 Vida Carbon Racing should not be discounted in the Season 3 finale.

Nevertheless, with a 52-point deficit to leaders ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team it will take a huge swing in fortune to secure back-to-back championships.

The team have proven pedigree in South America, and took the win when the series made its debut in the Atacama Desert in 2022 and will be looking to add to their two visits to the podium at the title decider next month.

The crowning of the 2023 champions will be live across ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.

To learn more about Extreme E, visit – www.Extreme-E.com

About Extreme E:

Now heading into its third season, Extreme E is a radical off-road racing series, founded by the same team behind Formula E, which showcases electric SUVs and futuristic technologies in some of the world’s most remote and challenging environments.

This five-event global voyage utilises its sporting platform for the purpose of promoting electrification, environment and equality. The series’ goal is to highlight the impact of climate change in some of the world’s most endangered environments, promote the adoption of electric vehicles to pave the way for a lower carbon future, and provide a world-first gender-equal motorsport platform.

The first sport to ever be built out of a social purpose, Extreme E aims to minimise environmental impact while maximising awareness, racing in places that have already been damaged or affected by climate change or human interference and taking fans deep into the heart of the most pressing issues facing our planet’s future.

Not only that, but Extreme E is also helping the car industry to develop future-facing technology using racing as a platform for road innovation, which accelerates change ten-fold.

Season 3 Calendar
Saudi Arabia: 11-12 March 2023
Scotland, UK: 13-14 May 2023
Sardinia, Italy: 08-09 July 2023
Sardinia, Italy: 16-17 September 2023
Chile: 02-03 December 2023

About Continental Tires: Founding Partner and Official Tire Partner

Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent, and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transportation. Continental generated preliminary sales of €37.7 billion in 2020 and currently employs more than 235,000 people in 58 countries and markets. In 2021, the company celebrates its 150th anniversary.

The Tires business area has 24 production and development locations worldwide. Continental is one of the leading tire manufacturers with more than 56,000 employees and posted preliminary sales of €10.2 billion in 2020 in this business area. Continental ranks among the technology leaders in tire production and offers a broad product range for passenger cars, commercial and special-purpose vehicles as well as two-wheelers. Through continuous investment in research and development, Continental makes a major contribution to safe, cost effective and ecologically efficient mobility. The portfolio of the Tires business area includes services for the tire trade and fleet applications, as well as digital management systems for tires.

About Enel X Way: Official Smart Charging Partner

Enel X Way is the Enel Group’s company fully dedicated to electric mobility. With around 25,000 managed public charging points, Enel X Way operates in 16 countries, both directly and through joint ventures such as Ewiva in Italy and Chargeway in India. As a global platform for e-Mobility, the company is focused on developing flexible charging technologies and solutions to improve the customer experience and to enable the electrification of transport for consumers, businesses, cities and public administrations.

LinkedIn: Enel X Way
Twitter: @enelxway
Instagram: @enelxway
Facebook: @enelxway

About Zenith: Official Timekeeper and Founding Partner

Zenith exists to inspire individuals to pursue their dreams and make them come true – against all odds. Since its establishment in 1865, Zenith became the first watch manufacture in the modern sense of the term, and its watches have accompanied extraordinary figures that dreamt big and strived to achieve the impossible – from Louis Blériot’s history-making flight across the English Channel to Felix Baumgartner’s record-setting stratospheric free-fall jump. Zenith is also highlighting visionary and trailblazing women – past and present – by celebrating their accomplishments and creating in 2020 its first-ever collection dedicated entirely to them, Defy Midnight.

With innovation as its guiding star, Zenith features exceptional in-house developed and manufactured movements in all its watches. Since the creation of the El Primero in 1969, the world’s first automatic chronograph calibre, Zenith has gone on to master fractions of the second with the Chronomaster Sport and its 1/10th of a second precision and the DEFY 21 with a precision of 1/100th of a second.

About ENOWA: Official Green Hydrogen Partner

About ENOWA: ENOWA is a world-class energy, water and hydrogen company founded in NEOM, Saudi Arabia. ENOWA produces and delivers clean and sustainable resources for industrial and commercial applications using a customer-centric smart and connected system, designed to be circular and takes advantage of NEOM’s optimal solar and wind energy profile. ENOWA benefits from NEOM’s greenfield site, which has no legacy infrastructure, to advance Energy, Water, and Hydrogen innovation.

ENOWA will act as a catalyst and incubator for developing new, sustainable energy and water businesses while creating a robust economic sector regionally. Through its commitment to renewable energy and efficient water management, ENOWA seeks to become a global reference for industry leaders and setting a benchmark for sustainable economic circular systems around the world.

For more information, please visit enowa.neom.com

About Vodafone Business: Official Technology and Communication Partner

With expertise in connectivity, global scale and the leading IoT platform, Vodafone Business is a leading technology communications company helping organisations succeed in a digital world and keeping society connected. Vodafone’s purpose is to connect for a better future, enabling an inclusive and sustainable digital society, and many of its solutions have sustainability and inclusivity embedded.

Unique in its scale as the largest pan-European and African technology communications company, Vodafone transforms the way we live and work through its innovation, technology, connectivity, platforms, products and services. Vodafone operates mobile and fixed networks in 21 countries, and partners with mobile networks in 52 more. As of 31 December 2021, they had over 300m mobile customers, more than 28m fixed broadband customers and over 22m TV customers.

This collaboration will see Vodafone Business leading innovations and capabilities such as 5G, MPN, IOT and MEC, integrated into Extreme E’s global operations and will include full involvement in the purpose- driven elements of the series, with special prominence on Extreme E’s Legacy Programmes and the Science Laboratory on board the St Helena.Through its IOT solutions, Vodafone Business is helping sustainability efforts, including agriculture, forestation and decarbonisation of energy grids.

Find out more on http://www.Vodafone.com/business and follow Vodafone on its social media channels:

Twitter: @VodafoneGroup

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/vodafone

About EY: Official Sustainability Partner

EY is a global leader in assurance, consulting, strategy, transactions and tax services, and already plays a significant role in working with Extreme E. Originally announcing its collaboration with the championship back in 2020, EY came on board to help Extreme E achieve its commitment to minimising its overall footprint whilst creating a positive legacy.

Whilst Extreme E strives ‘to race without a trace’, the framework provided by EY has helped the series to minimize its environmental impact across each of its remote race locations. Both prior and post-racing impact assessments have supported Extreme E to strategically plan their actions within these areas.

EY and Extreme E will work closely together to promote the five pillars of Extreme E (or “Five Es”) through the adoption of ‘XE Talks’. These informative presentations, facilitated by Extreme E’s Scientific Committee, will shed light on the Five Es, showcasing the joint commitment of EY and Extreme E.

About CBMM: Founding Supplier

CBMM is the world leading supplier of niobium products and technology. Headquartered in Brazil, with offices and subsidiaries in China, Netherlands, Singapore, Switzerland and the United States.

CBMM offers technical innovation to customers around the globe through a team of over 2,000 highly trained, dedicated professionals providing cutting-edge niobium products and technology to over 400 clients in around 40 countries.

About Kaizen Clean Energy: Official Clean Energy Technology Provider

Kaizen Clean Energy (KCE), a manufacturer of hydrogen generators, is developing integrated solutions for electric vehicle (EV) charging, hydrogen fuelling, and distributed power for the grid and critical assets.

KCE offers its mobile microgrid to customers through an Energy as a Service contract, which eliminates large capital expenses and provides customers with the flexibility to scale with energy needs over time.

Kaizen Clean Energy will support ENOWA – NEOM’s energy, water, and hydrogen subsidiary and Green Hydrogen Power Partner to Extreme E – in delivering a pioneering hydrogen microgrid solution to the championship.

Find out more on: www.kaizencleanenergy.com.

About ALLCOT: Official Environmental Contribution Partner

Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement, ALLCOT works together with communities, organizations, and governments worldwide in climate actions, to accelerate the transition to Net Zero. ALLCOT develops Climate action through projects and solutions with triple impact: environmental, social, and economic, using four strategies:

Sustainability strategies: Innovative, comprehensive, and tailored solutions for businesses to reduce and compensate greenhouse gas emissions and measures the socio-economic co-benefits through the SDGs.
Project development & implementation: Implementation of carbon projects in developing countries, rooted in community engagement, environmental stewardship, and economic viability, driven by integrity, equity, and transparency.
Capacity building: Providing individuals and communities with practical skills and knowledge, possible to apply in their daily lives.
Advocacy: Creating systemic change to work closely with policymakers and stakeholders to promote sustainable policies and practices at the local, national, and international levels.

Find out more on: www.allcot.com

Evaluating a Used Car Without a Mechanic

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SM
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Photo by cottonbro studio

It’s said that when you’re picking an apple from a tree, you give it a gentle turn and observe its color, feel its weight, and even smell its aroma. The best apples might have a few blemishes but are generally firm and free of major defects. Much like this, when considering purchasing a used car, you’re looking for that ideal vehicle – the one that holds the right blend of age, mileage, and maintenance. Whether you’re budgeting with the assistance of an unsecured personal loan or have saved up, making an informed choice is crucial.

Nature’s Classroom: What Trees Teach Us About Cars

Have you ever noticed how an arborist checks a tree’s health? They look for deadwood, signs of pests, and overall vigor. Similarly, while you’re not an automotive expert, some straightforward observations can help you ascertain a car’s condition.

1. The Tree Trunk: Vehicle Exterior

Trees with solid trunks are sturdy and reliable. The car’s exterior can be likened to this trunk. Check for:

  • Rust spots: They are like tree rot. Surface rust isn’t as concerning as deep-seated rust.
  • Mismatched colors: Like patches on bark, this could mean previous accidents or repairs.

2. The Leaves: Tires and Alignment

If the leaves of a tree are wilting or discolored, there’s an underlying issue. Tires are your vehicle’s ‘leaves.’

  • Tire tread: Ensure it’s even. Disparity in wear between the inside and outside suggests alignment or suspension issues.
  • Brand consistency: Just as all leaves on a tree are of the same species, all tires should ideally be of the same brand and type. Different tires can indicate patchy replacements.
  • Age: Tires can have good tread, but be too old to be safe. You can determine when a tire was made by looking at the DOT label embossed in the sidewall. The last two numbers of the code are the year the tire was produced. Anything over five years old should be considered to be in need of replacement. 

3. Branch Health: Under the Hood

Branches symbolize the mechanical aspects hidden under the car’s hood. Open it and check for:

  • Belt conditions: Like sturdy branches, belts shouldn’t be overly cracked.
  • Fluids: Ensure they’re at appropriate levels. Just as you’d check for sap in a tree, dark oil or milky transmission fluid can be signs of larger problems.

4. Soil and Roots: Under the Car

The health of a tree is deeply rooted – literally. A car’s foundation can be judged similarly by examining its underside:

  • Exhaust system: A corroded one is like rotten roots – neither supports longevity.
  • Puddles: These are akin to soil pests. Spotting leaks (oil, coolant, transmission fluid) can indicate wear or damage.

5. Tree’s Response to External Elements: Test Drive

A tree’s reaction to wind or sunlight is an essential health indicator. For cars, this is the test drive.

  • Engine sound: A smooth hum is like the rustling of healthy leaves. Unusual noises? That’s your cue to investigate further.
  • Brakes: They should feel firm and responsive, much like how a tree stands tall and resilient against strong winds.

Utilizing Available Resources

Beyond the ‘tree inspection’ technique, always ask for the car’s history. Trees have rings that narrate their age and the trauma they’ve faced – cars have logs and records.

Online platforms can also be of assistance. While it’s common for individuals to seek experts or a trusted friend for advice, don’t shy away from using online resources. Remember, the more you know about your potential purchase, the less likely you are to face regrets.

In Conclusion

While you might not have the intricate knowledge of a mechanic, you carry the inherent wisdom of observation. By correlating the process of evaluating a used car to understanding the health of a tree, you have a unique lens to assess your potential purchase. 

Now, with all of that said, seeking a pre-purchase inspection from a knowledgeable mechanic is always a wise thing to do. 

From Track to Screen: NASCAR’s Influence on Casino Games

By
SM
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The world of casino gaming has always been dynamic, constantly evolving to incorporate new themes and trends that captivate players. One unexpected but intriguing influence on the casino gaming industry is NASCAR, the high-speed, adrenaline-pumping world of stock car racing. In recent years, the marriage between the racetrack and the casino floor has become increasingly evident, creating a unique and thrilling gaming experience. 

Let’s delve into how NASCAR has left its tire marks on the screen of casino games, turning the excitement of the race into an entirely new form of entertainment.

The Need for Speed:

NASCAR is synonymous with speed, and the thrill of the race has an inherent appeal that transcends the track. Casino judi online game developers recognized the universal fascination with high-speed competition and sought to harness that energy for their games. As a result, we now have a variety of NASCAR-themed slot machines, video poker games, and even interactive online experiences that allow players to feel the rush of the racetrack from the comfort of their own homes.

Slot Machines Rev Into Action:

One of the most visible ways NASCAR has influenced casino gaming is through the creation of NASCAR-themed slot machines. These machines often feature iconic race cars, legendary drivers, and the unmistakable roar of engines as players spin the reels. The marriage of vibrant graphics and authentic sound effects creates an immersive experience, bringing the intensity of the race straight to the casino floor.

These slot machines not only appeal to NASCAR enthusiasts but also to a broader audience who can appreciate the excitement and energy that NASCAR embodies. The incorporation of racing symbols, checkered flags, and pit stops into the game design adds an extra layer of authenticity, making players feel like they are part of the action.

Interactive Experiences:

In addition to traditional slot machines, there has been a rise in interactive experiences that combine the thrill of NASCAR with the strategic elements of casino gaming. Online platforms now offer virtual races where players can bet on their favorite drivers, much like they would at the track. These simulations use advanced graphics and technology to recreate the atmosphere of a NASCAR race, complete with realistic commentary and dynamic visuals.

Furthermore, live dealer games have embraced the NASCAR theme, with charismatic hosts guiding players through the gaming experience as if they were race commentators. The real-time nature of these games adds an extra layer of excitement, and the element of competition keeps players engaged as they try to outpace their opponents in the virtual race.

Video Poker Takes the Checkered Flag:

NASCAR’s influence extends beyond slot machines and interactive experiences to video poker games. Developers have integrated racing elements into the gameplay, creating a fusion of strategy and speed. Players may find themselves faced with decisions that mirror the split-second choices drivers make on the track, adding an extra layer of excitement to the traditional poker experience.

The incorporation of NASCAR themes into video poker not only attracts fans of the sport but also introduces new players to the world of poker through a lens of speed and competition. The dynamic visuals and thematic elements create a memorable gaming experience that sets these video poker games apart from their more conventional counterparts.

Conclusion:

As the casino gaming industry continues to evolve, developers are constantly seeking innovative ways to capture the attention and imagination of players. The influence of NASCAR on casino games is a testament to the versatility of the industry, demonstrating its ability to adapt to diverse themes and interests. Whether you’re a die-hard NASCAR fan or simply someone who appreciates the thrill of high-speed competition, the fusion of the racetrack and the casino floor offers a unique and exhilarating gaming experience. So, the next time you hear the roar of engines and see the flash of checkered flags on the casino screen, know that you’re in for a gaming experience that has successfully transitioned from the track to the screen.

Phoenix Glory: 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Crowns Season Champion

By
SM
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The 2023 NASCAR Cup Series season was one for the books, filled with heart-stopping moments, fierce rivalries, and unexpected twists. The competitors left no doubt that the road to the championship would be a thrilling journey paved with grit and determination.

But only one driver emerged from the chaos and triumphantly claimed the crown as the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series champion, Ryan Blaney. Let’s get to know more about this victorious driver.

He Comes From A Racing Dynasty

Ryan Blaney is the latest scion of a racing dynasty that spans generations. Born into the legacy of speed, he inherited a passion for racing cultivated by his father, Dave Blaney, his uncle, Dale Blaney, and his grandfather, Lou Blaney.

Dave Blaney, a seasoned veteran with a racing career spanning 17 seasons, etched his name in the history books with 473 Cup Starts. Ryan’s uncle, Dale, also left a significant mark on the racing world as a sprint car champion.

Further back in the family tree, Lou Blaney was a luminary in the Midwest racing scene. His dedication, skill, and love for racing set the standard for future generations, inspiring his sons and grandsons to follow in his tire tracks.

It’s His First Career Cup Series Championship

Ryan Blaney’s journey to his first-ever Cup Series championship was nothing short of remarkable. The 29-year-old driver showcased his skill and determination throughout the 2023 NASCAR Playoffs, saving his best for the grand finale at Phoenix Raceway.

For fans engaged in motorsports betting, Blaney’s strategic prowess and resilience added an extra layer of excitement, turning each race into a thrilling opportunity to predict and cheer for their chosen driver.

In his first appearance in the Championship 4, Blaney faced stiff competition from fellow contenders Christopher Bell, Kyle Larson, and William Byron. The defining moment came with 37 laps remaining when a caution flag flew for a spin by Kyle Busch.

Holding the lead among the Championship 4 drivers, Blaney faced a challenge on the pit road and lost his advantage. However, the young racer displayed resilience and strategic prowess, battling back on the restart to surpass Byron and Larson with 20 laps to go.

Although Blaney finished second to race-winner Ross Chastain, he claimed the ultimate prize among the Championship 4 competitors. This victory marked the first Cup Series championship of his career, a moment that will forever be etched in the history of the Blaney racing legacy.

Significance of Blaney’s Win

Ryan Blaney’s championship win holds a profound significance, transforming his narrative from a driver with untapped potential to a NASCAR Cup Series champion. Earlier in the year, NBC Sports analyst Kyle Petty compared Blaney and former driver Kasey Kahne, noting their ability to show glimpses of greatness but not consistently fulfill expectations.

However, Sunday’s victory marked a turning point for Blaney, rewriting the narrative that had cast shadows over his career.

Blaney’s triumph was a personal achievement and a testament to resilience in the face of challenges. The summer had been burdensome, with his No. 12 car struggling for speed and Ford, his manufacturer, facing a challenging year.

Yet, in an unexpected turn of events, Blaney rallied during the playoffs, following the blueprint set by Team Penske teammate Joey Logano in the previous season. Making the playoffs, staying competitive, and then making a late-season charge to the final four became the winning formula.

While some question whether Ryan Blaney is a deserving champion with only eight top-5 finishes, it’s essential to look beyond the numbers and consider the quality of those performances. 

His top-5 count might be lower than other drivers, like Kyle Larson, William Byron, and Denny Hamlin, who boasted more top-5 finishes during the 2023 NASCAR season. However, a different story emerges when you delve deeper into Blaney’s achievements. 

Of his eight top-5 finishes, three were victories, and four were second-place finishes. It means Blaney was first or second in seven out of 36 races. It’s a remarkable feat in a field as competitive as NASCAR. It showcases his ability to perform at the highest level consistently and contend for wins.

Moreover, the victory is significant given Blaney’s family legacy in racing. His father, Dave Blaney, is a former World of Outlaws champion, his uncle, Dale Blaney, secured a sprint car championship, and his grandfather, Lou Blaney, boasts a remarkable record with over 200 sprint car wins. The Blaney family’s racing prowess is further solidified with Ryan Blaney joining the ranks of NASCAR champions.

The impact of Blaney’s championship extends beyond personal accolades. It poses a question of what it can do for NASCAR. Blaney, known for his willingness to engage in non-traditional media appearances, has become a popular figure in the sport. However, without a championship, the opportunities for exposure were limited. 

Blaney’s star power will likely rise with the NASCAR Cup Series champion title. At 29, he stands as a beacon for NASCAR’s quest for more star power, offering a dynamic and engaging personality to attract fans and viewers.

Conclusion

Critics might argue that he wasn’t as consistently strong as some other drivers. Still, Blaney’s ability to make the most out of his opportunities and perform exceptionally well when it mattered most should not be overlooked. In sports, timing is crucial, and Blaney got hot at precisely the right time, especially during the playoff format races.

Spy+ Optics and Mike Marsal Racing Ready to take on Baja 1000

By
Official Release
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The team will start from fourth as determined in the Baja 400

La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico (15 November 2023) – Mike Marsal Racing (MMR) and the No. 236 Spy+ Optics Spec Trophy Truck head to its third SCORE International Baja 1000 presented by K&N event this week. The 2023 Baja 1000 is unlike any other Baja 1000 in its 55 year history, this race will mark the longest Baja 1000 race (1,310.94mi) and it will start in La Paz, Baja California Sur for the first time.

The MMR team looks to surpass its best finish of seventh (2021) in the Baja 1000 this year and enter the event confident that the extensive preparation through the months will pay off with a strong result in the final race of the SCORE International season.

Creating a stout lineup with a well known name in the off-roading community, MMR has teamed up with Grabowski Brothers Racing. Brothers Jack and Troy Grabowski, sons of SCORE champion Neal Grabowski, will join Marsal in the Evan Weller Racing-prepped Spy+ Optic machine.

Troy Grabowski joined Marsal in the Baja 500 marking his first outing with the team. He also teamed up with Marsal in the Baja 400 qualifying race for the Baja 1000, where the duo scored a fourth place finish after starting at the rear of the field (33rd).

Marsal will be joined by navigator Hudson Hall, who has been by his side since last season. Jack Grabowski will have Austin Aube by his side navigating the way, the pair will make their debut with the MMR team. Navigator Matt Martinez will rejoin Troy Grabowski as the duo will complete the final stint of the race.

MMR is currently third in the SCORE International Trophy Truck Spec championship points standings just 39 points behind the class leader.

“I’m super excited to get back down there for the 1000,” said Marsal. “We have a great lineup this year and have really proved that we can be at the top of the class. We are third in championship points which is already past our goal of fifth. I think we have a great truck and with our starting position we should be in for a good result.”

The 56th Annual SCORE Baja 1000 presented by K&N will take the green flag on Thursday November 16th at 9:00 am MST. The race will start in La Paz, Baja California Sur (MST) and end in Ensenada, Baja California (PST), the estimated time to finish is 23 hours to complete all 1,310.94 miles.

Jake Garcia joins ThorSport Racing for 2024 Truck Series season

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Chad Wells for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Jake Garcia will be joining ThorSport Racing and will pilot a Ford F-150 for the 2024 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season.

The news comes as the 18-year-old Garcia from Monroe, California, is coming off his first full-time campaign in the Truck Series, where he contended for the Rookie-of-the-Year title. Driving for McAnally-Hilgemann Racing, Garcia notched three top-five results, nine top-10 results and an average-finishing result of 14.0 through 22 series’ starts. He was unable to compete in the series opener at Daytona International Speedway due to age restrictions and before turning 18 years of age in early March, but was able to end up in 13th place in the final driver’s standings and achieve a career-best runner-up result during the season-finale event at Phoenix Raceway.

“To have the chance to race for a championship organization like ThorSport Racing is huge for me,” Garcia said. “I’m extremely excited for this opportunity and cannot wait to get the 2024 season started.”

Garcia, who grew up competing in quarter midgets before ascending his way through the midget ranks and late model competition, is the 2021 Southern Super Series champion, where he became the youngest champion in the series at 16 years of age. He would also claim the 2023 North-South Challenge event in the Super Late Model division.

In 2021, Garcia competed in the final ARCA Menards Series West event for David Gilliland Racing at Phoenix, where he finished sixth. He would then compete in his first five Truck Series event for McAnally-Hilgemann Racing in 2022, where he achieved a season-best 16th-place finish at Phoenix in November, before notching a full-time Truck ride in MHR’s No. 35 entry for the 2023 season.

With Garcia set to make his series debut at Daytona International Speedway in February 2024, his entry’s number, crew chief and sponsors remain to be determined. ThorSport Racing’s 2024 driver lineup also remains to be determined as the team is coming off its fifth Truck Series driver’s championship with newly crowned two-time champion Ben Rhodes.

Garcia’s first Craftsman Truck Series season with ThorSport Racing is set to commence at Daytona International Speedway on February 16, 2024. The event’s broadcast time is slated to occur at 7:30 p.m. ET on FS1.

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