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Ryan Blaney Wins Cup Series Title as Ford Captures All Three 2023 NASCAR Championships

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  • Ford’s Ryan Blaney drove Mustang to its second straight NASCAR Cup Series championship today at Phoenix Raceway.
  • Blaney’s title capped a weekend that saw Ford win all three of NASCAR’s major touring championships for the first time in its history.
  • The championship is Blaney’s first and marks consecutive titles for Team Penske after Joey Logano won in 2022.
  • Ford has won the Cup Series championship 11 times by nine different drivers.

Avondale, AZ., November 5, 2023 – Team Penske’s Ryan Blaney drove Mustang to its second straight NASCAR Cup Series title by winning today’s championship race at Phoenix Raceway, capping a weekend that saw Ford claim all three of NASCAR’s major touring titles for the first time in its history.

Blaney got the job done by finishing second in the race, and beating fellow Championship 4 drivers Kyle Larson and William Byron, who ended up right behind in third and fourth, respectively.

The race came down to a 31-lap dash to the finish. Blaney restarted sixth while Larson was third and Byron fifth, but the Team Penske driver passed Byron three laps later and then battled Larson for the next eight circuits before finally getting past him on lap 292 of the 312-lap event.

From that point on, he was able to maintain his advantage and finish second to race-winner Ross Chastain.

“I didn’t want a caution,” said Blaney after he passed Larson for the championship lead. “Once I got to the white, I felt pretty good about it, but it’s just about getting there and finishing it off.”

For Blaney, it capped off a 10-race playoff season that saw him win twice (Talladega and Martinsville) and finish the last six races with an average finishing position of 4.0.

“It was somewhat of an up and down year, but you’re going to have those moments,” said Blaney. “Through the summer, we just worked really hard to get back to where we needed to be and set a deadline for the playoffs and we met that deadline.

“I was telling everybody all week that having the opportunity to go back-to-back Cup champions for Mr. Penske hasn’t been done,” continued Blaney. “He hasn’t done that and it’s not very often you get to do something in motorsports that RP hasn’t done because he’s done everything and accomplished everything, so to be able to be a part of this and bring him another championship and be a driver that’s brought him a championship is very special.”

The championship is the 11th for Ford in NASCAR’s top series with Blaney becoming the ninth different driver to achieve the feat.

“We didn’t win as many races as we would have liked to this year, but to win three championships just makes a statement about the team we have at Ford Performance and the partnership and the family that we have racing our cars and trucks on track, so I’m really proud of what everybody has done,” said Mark Rushbrook, global director, Ford Performance Motorsports. “Things could have gone in any direction, but Ryan was so strong today that he was driving to the front on every run and he was racing hard against everybody. He certainly earned the championship today.

“We’ve increased the emphasis on our program every single year and we were really big at pushing for the Next Gen car back in the early days when it was first being talked about because of the relevance. That made it even more important for us to be successful with it, so we were working hard, obviously, on the Next Gen car before we were ever racing it, and not just on the body but also making sure we understood what the common chassis was, running it in our simulator, and really understanding what it takes to be successful.”

Ben Rhodes kicked off the trio of championships by winning the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race Friday night after four overtime restarts, and then Cole Custer followed suit on Saturday as he won his first NASCAR Xfinity Championship in a dramatic overtime finish that saw him go from third to first in the space of one lap.

The Ford weekend championship sweep marks the first time a manufacturer has accomplished that feat since 2001, and it’s the sixth time in NASCAR history.

FORD’S NASCAR CUP SERIES CHAMPIONS

1965 – Ned Jarrett
1968 – David Pearson
1969 – David Pearson
1988 – Bill Elliott
1992 – Alan Kulwicki
1999 – Dale Jarrett
2003 – Matt Kenseth
2004 – Kurt Busch
2018 – Joey Logano
2022 – Joey Logano
2023 – Ryan Blaney

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for customers and deepen their loyalty. Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, along with connected services. The company does that through three customer-centered business segments: Ford Blue, engineering iconic gas-powered and hybrid vehicles; Ford Model e, inventing breakthrough EVs along with embedded software that defines exceptional digital experiences for all customers; and Ford Pro, helping commercial customers transform and expand their businesses with vehicles and services tailored to their needs. Additionally, Ford is pursuing mobility solutions through Ford Next, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 177,000 people worldwide. More information about the company and its products and services is available at corporate.ford.com.

About Ford Performance

Ford Performance is based in Dearborn, Mich. It is responsible for Ford’s performance vehicle development and major racing operations globally, including NASCAR, IMSA, SRO British GT, FIA World Rally Championship, Supercars Championship, World of Outlaws, Ultra4, SCORE-International, FIA Rally-Raid, Formula Drift, NHRA, Rebelle Rally, Thailand Super Series and our latest commitment in Formula 1 with Red Bull Ford Powertrains. Ford Performance also maintains a constantly evolving fleet of electric performance demonstrators to showcase the limits of electrification technology. In addition, the organization also oversees the development of Ford’s racing engines, as well as the outreach programs with all Ford Clubs and Ford enthusiasts. For more information regarding Ford racing’s activities, please visit Performance.Ford.com or follow @FordPerformance on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Twitter, TikTok and YouTube.

Kaulig Racing Post-Race Report | Phoenix Raceway

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NASCAR Cup Series Championship

Justin Haley, No. 31 Campers Inn RV Camaro ZL1

  • Justin Haley qualified 35th for the NASCAR Cup Series Championship race at Phoenix Raceway.
  • Within the first seven laps of the 2023 finale, Haley moved up three positions from his starting spot. In lap 15, he radioed that his No. 31 Campers Inn RV Chevrolet was loose on entry, especially in turn one. The opening stage stayed green for its entirety, and Haley finished 32nd and one lap down.
  • During the stage break, Haley pitted for tires, fuel and adjustments to help tighten up the No. 31. He started the second stage in 32nd. The first caution of the second stage came out on lap 110. Haley pitted for four tires and fuel. The green flag came back out on lap 117 and remained green until the end of the stage. Haley finished 29th and had just gone down a second lap.
  • During the second stage break, Haley pitted for four tires, fuel and a similar adjustment to the first stop, relaying that the No. 31 Chevy had begun getting free again. Haley made his first green-flag stop on lap 239 for four tires and fuel. The first caution of the final stage came out with 37 laps remaining, and Haley elected to take the wave around to put him two laps down. He restarted 29th on lap 280 where he went on to finish the race.

“We didn’t have the speed we needed to start the race, and that put us behind. We made some good adjustments on pit road and got it better and were able to run well enough to keep us in the top 25 in owners points.” – Justin Haley

AJ Allmendinger, No. 16 Action Industries Camaro ZL1

  • AJ Allmendinger qualified 32nd for the NASCAR Cup Series Championship race at Phoenix Raceway.
  • Allmendinger gained positions on the initial start, making his way up to 28th place within the first lap. By lap nine, he had fallen back to 31st place, reporting he had no grip. Allmendinger battled the handling of his car for the duration of the opening stage and went on to finish 31st. During the stage break, the team made a wedge adjustment and added brake tape to help Allmendinger with the handling of the car.
  • On lap 68, Allmendinger restarted in 33rd place and had taken over 32nd by lap 70. When the caution came out on lap 108, Allmendinger radioed to the team that the last round of adjustments helped, but he needed more front turn. The No. 16 Action Industries Chevy came to pit road for four tires, fuel and an air pressure adjustment to help Allmendinger with front turn. The team restarted in 32nd on lap 116 and by lap 117, Allmendinger had taken over the 31st position. The team continued to battle handling as Allmendinger had lost grip and was struggling with the rear of the car. On lap 154, Allmendinger came down pit road under green to make a big adjustment. Allmendinger went on to finish the second stage in 31st place, three laps down.
  • At the stage break, Allmendinger reported the changes helped tighten the car back up, but the rear of the car was still bouncing through the corner. The team too the wave around and restarted in 32nd on lap 192. On lap 227, the No. 16 Chevy came to pit road under green from 30th place. The team made an air pressure adjustment to help with the rear handling of the car. Allmendinger went on to finish 31st in the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race at Phoenix Raceway.

“My guys deserved to close out the season on a high note, but we just missed it this weekend. It’s unfortunate, but we’ll take what we learned today, and throughout the year, to keep building for the future.” – AJ Allmendinger  

NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship

Chandler Smith, No. 16 Quick Tie Products Chevrolet Camaro

  • Chandler Smith qualified sixth for the NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship race at Phoenix Raceway.
  • The race opened with two quick cautions, the first of which forced Smith to slow to avoid the spinning No. 7 on lap four. The race restarted on lap 13 after its second yellow, running green for the remainder of the first stage. Smith took fifth on lap 14 and held off a challenge from the No. 00 for the next 13 laps, but he was passed on lap 27. He charged late in the opening stage’s closing laps, catching and clearing three cars by the green-white-checkered to finish third.
  • No. 16 Crew Chief Bruce Schlicker called for a chassis and air pressure adjustment aimed at helping Smith’s lateral drive on corner-exit under the yellow flag pit cycle. The Quick Tie Products crew also changed tires and added fuel during the No. 16’s stop, and Smith restarted on lap 53 in sixth. He lost a position on the restart but passed two cars over the next 34 laps to move into fifth with five to go in stage two. A caution came out, ending the stage with Smith in fifth.
  • After pitting for tires, fuel and a wedge adjustment under caution, Smith restarted in sixth on lap 96 but once again lost a spot, falling to seventh. Another caution came out on lap 103, and Smith took the ensuing green from the inside line in seventh. He fired off strongly and forced the No. 16 Chevy in the middle, three-wide to grab third with 91 to go. The night brought cooler temperatures, and Smith began dropping spots, ending up in seventh by the lap-138 yellow. The No. 16 was called back down pit road to make another right-rear adjustment and grab tires and fuel. He restarted seventh, this time in the outside line, with 58 laps remaining. He again sent the car three-wide and into third, but similarly to the last green-flag run, began falling down the order. He was relegated to eighth with 20 laps to go. A caution bunched the field back together on lap 182, and Smith came down pit road for the final time for tires, fuel and another air pressure adjustment. He restarted in eighth with 12 laps to go but couldn’t find a hole to move forward. The race’s final caution came out on lap 197, setting up an overtime finish. Restarting ninth, Smith moved up one spot to finish the season finale in eighth.

“Once the sun set, we couldn’t quite find the speed we had in the beginning of the race. We made some pretty aggressive adjustments, but with how the restarts played out and the shorter green flag runs, it was hard to take what we learned from our earlier long-run speed and adapt it. I’ve made a lot of memories this season with our No. 16 Quick Tie Products team, and I’m proud that we kept pushing through all the ups and downs, even if we weren’t competing for a championship in the end.” – Chandler Smith

Daniel Hemric, No. 10 Action Industries Chevrolet Camaro

  • Daniel Hemric qualified 12th for the NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship race at Phoenix Raceway.
  • After a quick caution on lap four, Hemric restarted 10th on lap eight. The caution came out again on lap nine. Hemric radioed that he was happy so far with his car before restarting ninth on the outside on lap 12. Hemric made contact on the restart and got a left-front flat. He came down pit road on lap 15 for four tires and fuel, which put him the first car one lap down. Not able to receive the free pass position, Hemric finished the opening stage 37th.
  • At the stage break, Hemric took the wave around and put him back on the lead lap. After restarting 30th on older tires, he tried to keep up with the field but fell back to the first car one lap down again with seven to go in the stage. The caution came out on lap 87 and the stage ended under caution. Hemric finished the second stage 31st.
  • Hemric pitted at the stage break for four tires, fuel and a track bar adjustment. He restarted 37th as the first car one lap down. Having new tires on, Hemric started making his way up the field. When the caution came out on lap 103, Hemric was the lucky dog and got back on the lead lap. Under the caution, Hemric also pitted for four tires and fuel before the restart with 91 laps to go. Making massive moves since the restart and happy with the adjustments from the previous pit stop, Hemric was up to 16th with 65 laps to go. The caution came out with 64 to go. Under the caution, Hemric brought the No.10 Chevy down pit road for four tires and fuel. After restarting 10th on the outside with 58 laps to go, Hemric stayed in the top 10 with 25 to go. When the caution came out with 20 to go, strategy call had Hemric come down pit road for right sides only. Hemric became the leader on the restart with 12 to go. The field having fresher tires behind Hemric had him slipping back on the restart. A caution came out with just five to go. Crew Chief called Hemric back down pit road for four tires before restarting 26th. The race ended under overtime after the first attempt at a G-W-C, Hemric finished the race 21st.

“Not the way we wanted to end the season here at Phoenix. Having a left- front flat tire put us behind early on. Proud of this 10 team for never giving up. Looking forward to a reset during the off season and preparing for 2024.” – Daniel Hemric

Derek Kraus, No. 11 Western States Flooring Chevrolet Camaro

  • Derek Kraus qualified 23rd for the NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship race at Phoenix Raceway.
  • The first caution of the day came on lap four after Kraus had moved up two spots from his starting position. He radioed that the No. 11 was better than it had been in practice, and he just needed track position. Just after the restart on lap eight, the second caution of the day came out as Kraus sat 20th. The green flag came back out on lap 13, and Kraus went on to finish the opening stage in 15th.
  • During the stage break, Kraus pitted for four tires, fuel and a track bar adjustment but was sent to the tail end of the field for the start of stage two due to an uncontrolled-tire violation. After starting 32nd, Kraus made up 10 positions before his right-front tire went down and sent the No. 11 Chevy into the wall with heavy damage. Kraus’ day ended early, and he was scored 37th.

“We blew a right-front tire, which was not a great way to end the weekend. We were struggling a little the whole weekend, but we made the No. 11 Western States Flooring Chevy much better throughout the race. We just lost a bunch of track position from that pit road penalty. After that, I felt like we were decent and could have run in the top 10 until the tire blew. I had a lot of fun racing this year with Kaulig racing and learned a ton. I can’t thank Matt Kaulig and Chris Rice for the opportunity.” – Derek Kraus  
 
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 has won back-to-back regular-season championships. Before becoming a full-time NCS team, Kaulig Racing made multiple starts in the 2021 NCS season and won in its seventh-ever start 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 with Justin Haley piloting the No. 31 Camaro ZL1, and an all-star lineup featured in the No. 16 Camaro ZL1. Haley will continue to drive the No. 31 full-time in 2023, alongside AJ Allmendinger, who will drive the No. 16 Camaro ZL1. The team will continue to field three, full-time NXS entries; the No. 10 Chevrolet driven by Daniel Hemric, the No. 11 Chevrolet driven by an all-star lineup, and the No. 16 Chevrolet driven by Chandler Smith. To learn more about the team, visit kauligracing.com.

Team Penske NASCAR Cup Series Race Report – Phoenix Finale

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Official Release
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Photo by Ron Olds for SpeedwayMedia.com.

PHOENIX RACEWAY

RACE: NASCAR CUP SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP RACE DATE: NOVEMBER 5, 2023

AUSTIN CINDRIC No. 2 DISCOUNT TIRE FORD MUSTANG

START: 27TH STAGE ONE: 30TH STAGE TWO: 35TH FINISH: 35TH POINTS: 24TH

RACE RUNDOWN: Austin Cindric closed out his sophomore season in the NASCAR Cup Series with a 35th-place finish at Phoenix Raceway. The driver of the Discount Tire Ford Mustang started 27th and reported to crew chief Brian Wilson that his car was a little free on entry and exit. Cindric would manage to bring his car home in the 30th-position at the end of Stage 1. When the race resumed on lap 68, Cindric would battle for the free-pass position back on the lead lap, which he would get thanks to a caution on lap 110. With some improved adjustments on the Discount Tire Ford Mustang, Cindric hoped to use the opportunity to gain track position. Unfortunately, he would contact the outside wall coming off turn 4, which prompted an extended pit stop for repairs. Great work got the Discount Tire Ford Mustang back on track and Cindric managed to cross the line in 35th-position under power at race’s end.

CINDRIC’S THOUGHTS: “Certainly bummed to end our season like that. We made a lot of progress on our Discount Tire Ford Mustang in a short amount of time. We managed to get the free pass and started driving back through the field. I made a small mistake in traffic and touched the wall. We had to change a toe link under green and put us several laps down. Thanks to my guys for getting the car back together. Of course, super happy for Ryan [Blaney] and everybody on the No. 12 team and cool for Team Penske to go back-to-back.”

RYAN BLANEY No. 12 MENARDS/DUTCH BOY FORD MUSTANG

START: 15TH STAGE ONE: 10TH STAGE TWO: 6TH FINISH: 2ND POINTS: 1ST

RACE RUNDOWN: Ryan Blaney joined elite company Sunday night at Phoenix Raceway as the 29-year-old became the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series champion. With the triumph, Team Penske secured it’s 44th national championship in the team’s 57-year history. This marked the first time the organization has won back-to-back NASCAR Cup Series championships and became the 12th-time Team Penske has won back-to-back titles in various racing series.

Blaney started Sunday’s race from the 15th position and methodically began his charge toward the front. He would follow fellow Championship contender Christopher Bell through the field to bring home a 10th place finish in Stage 1. Strong service by the Menards crew would see Blaney gain two spots off pit road.

A strong restart would see Blaney move up to sixth and battle both Bell and Kyle Larson for most of Stage 2. As the long run progressed, Blaney began to catch William Byron, who to that point had led the Championship 4 drivers since the drop of the green flag. Blaney would struggle with drive off and manage to bring home a sixth-place finish in Stage 2.

He would restart fifth for the final run to the championship in the final stage. Around lap 206, Blaney passed Martin Truex Jr. for third and eventually passed Byron for second and the championship lead. By lap 221, Blaney began to close the gap to leader Ross Chastain. The Menards Ford proved to be strong on the long runs and Blaney used various lines to try and pass the No. 1 car. He would eventually fall to third when the final caution of the race came out on lap 276. Strong service got Blaney off pit road in the sixth position. On the restart, Blaney made some nifty moves around both Byron and eventually Larson to move back into the second position and the Championship 4 leader. Blaney utilized long run strength again and began to pull away from the Nos. 5 and 24 cars. He claimed the runner-up position in the race, but most important, the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series championship.

BLANEY’S THOUGHTS: “I think our team did an amazing job not giving up. It was somewhat of an up and down year, but you’re going to have those moments and through the summer we just worked really hard to get back to where we needed to be and set a deadline for the playoffs. I am just super proud of the effort by everybody at Team Penske who put in tons and tons of hours of hard work, and nobody really got down. They just put their heads down and decided to really put in a lot of work and it showed up, especially in these playoffs and in particular the last five weeks. It’s so cool to have all their hard work pay off, so they should be proud.”

“It’s been over 10 years since I walked through the doors of Team Penske. It’s hard to believe it’s gone by so fast. I was telling everybody all week that having the opportunity to go back-to-back Cup championships has not been done. It’s not very often you get to do something in motorsports that Mr. Penske hasn’t done, so to be able to be a part of this and bring him another championship is very special.”

JOEY LOGANO No. 22 SHELL-PENNZOIL FORD MUSTANG

START: 17TH STAGE ONE: 16TH STAGE TWO: 15TH FINISH: 18TH POINTS: 12TH

RACE RUNDOWN: Joey Logano wrapped up his final day as the reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion with an 18th-place finish in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series season finale at Phoenix Raceway. Logano started in the 17th position and would hold station in what proved to be a track position race. He radioed to crew chief Paul Wolfe he would need a big adjustment on his first pit stop to improve a loose-handling condition. Logano would finish Stage 1 in the 16th position. Stage 2 would see much of the same as the Shell-Pennzoil Mustang would remain on the free side. He remained around the top-15. Logano would contact the outside wall late in Stage 2; but would come home in 15th position. The final stage would see him make his way near the top-10 for the first time all day. He would run as high as 11th when the final caution of the day waved on lap 276. Unfortunately, Logano would be caught speeding on entry to pit road which forced him to restart 24th. Try as he might, Logano would rally for an 18th-place finish at the end of 312 laps of competition.

LOGANO’S THOUGHTS: “Certainly wish we could have been more competitive with our Shell-Pennzoil Ford Mustang. Congratulations to Ryan [Blaney] and Roger [Penske] on back-to-back titles. So cool for the organization and proud of what the No. 12 team and everybody at Team Penske has accomplished.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The 2023 NASCAR Awards will be held November 29 and 30 at the Music City Center in Nashville.

Buescher Caps Career Season with Top-5 in Phoenix

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No. 17 Team Finishes Fifth in Season Finale at Phoenix

AVONDALE, Ariz. (Nov. 5, 2023) – Chris Buescher capped off a career season Sunday at Phoenix Raceway, finishing fifth in the Fastenal Ford Mustang.

“I wish we would have been in the Championship 4 because we certainly had a shot at it here today,” Buescher said after the race. “I’ve never had that much fun here at Phoenix and I surely appreciate all those guys and girls’ hard work to get us to that point. It was a great race. We got behind on one pit stop and then I think we had something happen at the end. It felt like we dropped a cylinder or something to the point we weren’t 100 percent. To still battle and come home fifth was a fantastic race for us.”

Buescher was the winner of stage two, and led 18 laps midway through the 312-lap Championship race Sunday. His weekend began with a solid, ninth-place qualifying effort, the best of his career at Phoenix.

The opening stage of 60 laps ran caution-free, with Buescher driving to a sixth-place result. He restarted inside the top five, and maintained the top five position for the next 80 laps. The first non-stage caution flew at lap 108 with Buescher in fifth, and he lined up fourth on the ensuing restart.

From there, he set sail and took the lead on lap 171, and held it to the stage end at lap 185. The pit stop under the stage break saw troubles on the right front with Buescher lining back up eighth for stage three.

A green-flag pit cycle, and final caution on lap 274, were the only breaks remaining in the race. Buescher was sixth at the final yellow with 37 to go, and restarted 10th with 31 laps remaining. He again showed his prowess, powering back into the top five in the closing laps to fifth.

It marked Buescher’s ninth top five of the season and 17th top-10 of 2023, both career records.

“I’m super proud of everybody on this team. What a fantastic year. I would have loved to been in that Championship 4 because I think we would have had a real shot at this thing today. It’s a huge accomplishment for this season and I can’t wait until next year.”

Keselowski Finishes 15th in Season Finale at Phoenix

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Castrol Edge Ford Earns Top-15 after Early Stage Points

AVONDALE, Ariz. (Nov. 5, 2023) – Brad Keselowski finished 15th at Phoenix Raceway Sunday in the Castrol Edge Ford Mustang, capping off a strong end to the 2023 NASCAR season.

The 2012 Cup Champion battled all the way back from the rear, after missing qualifying Saturday due to the birth of his son back in North Carolina. Despite starting at the tail end, Keselowski powered his way through the field and into contention midway through the action.

The Castrol Edge Ford was 17th to end the first stage at lap 60, and restarted 13th for stage two. A caution midway through the stage split it even, with Keselowski in 13th at the time of the restart. He went on to enter the top-10 at lap 171, the same time his teammate – Chris Buescher – took the lead.

Keselowski would finish ninth in stage two, and restarted seventh for the final segment. A green-flag pit cycle, and final caution with 37 laps left, put Keselowski with solid track position late. He restarted eighth with 31 to go, and was well inside the top-10 in the closing laps, before getting hit in the final five laps to finish 15th.

Keselowski and the No. 6 team finish eighth in the points standings to end the 2023 campaign.

Burton Ends 2023 Campaign With 26th-Place Finish At Phoenix

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Harrison Burton and the No. 21 Motorcraft/Quick Lane team closed the 2023 Cup Series season with a 26th-place finish in Sunday’s Cup Series Championship Race at Phoenix Raceway.

Burton started the 312-mile race from 25th place and finished 27th in the first 60-lap Stage, which ran under the green flag from start to finish.

In the second Stage, Burton finished 26th but was lapped by the leaders in the closing laps.

In the third and final segment of the race, Burton spent countless laps in the Free Pass position as the first driver a lap down, but the caution flags didn’t fly in his favor and he ended the race in 26th place, one lap down.

The finish of Sunday’s race saw Team Penske’s Ryan Blaney, a former Wood Brothers driver, outrun his fellow championship contenders to capture his first Cup Series title.

It also was the first Cup title for Blaney’s crew chief Jonathan Hassler, whose first stint as a Cup crew chief was on the No. 21 Ford in 2021. Blaney drove for the Wood Brothers from 2015-2017 and delivered the team its 99th win at Pocono in his final season aboard the No. 21 Ford.

Team Penske, which fields three Cup entries including the No. 12 team of Blaney and Hassler, shares an alliance with the Wood Brothers and the No. 21 team.

“All of us here at Wood Brothers Racing are really happy for Ryan, Jonathan, everyone on the No. 12 team and all their families,” Eddie Wood said. “Every team starts the season hoping to win a championship, but it’s extremely difficult to actually do it.

“To see people we’ve worked with accomplish what they did makes us very proud. They were – and still are – part of our Wood Brothers racing family.”

Wood also congratulated team owner Roger Penske,Team Penske and all the people at Ford Performance for their second-straight title in NASCAR’s elite division.

“It’s a victory for all of us in the Ford camp,” he said.

Burton and the No. 21 team will return to the track on Feb. 4 for the non-points Clash at the Coliseum in Los Angeles. The points-paying, season-opening Daytona 500 gets the green flag on Feb. 18.

About Motorcraft®
Motorcraft offers a complete line of replacement parts that are recommended by Ford Motor Company. From routine maintenance to underhood repairs, Motorcraft parts offer value with high quality and the right fit at competitive prices. Motorcraft parts are available nationwide at Ford Dealers and Lincoln Retailers, independent distributors and automotive-parts retailers, and are backed by the Service Parts Limited Warranty* of Ford Motor Company. For more information, visit www.motorcraft.com.
*See your dealer for limited-warranty details.

About Omnicraft®
Omnicraft is part of the Ford lineup of parts brands: Ford Parts, Motorcraft and Omnicraft. Omnicraft is the exclusive non-Ford/Lincoln parts brand of premium aftermarket parts. With over a century of parts heritage to build upon, Omnicraft provides excellent quality and fit and is a preferred choice of professional automotive technicians. To find out more about Omnicraft, visit www.omnicraftautoparts.com or contact your local Ford or Lincoln Dealership.
*See your dealer for limited-warranty details.

About Quick Lane® Tire & Auto Center
Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center offers extraordinary service for routine maintenance, serving all vehicle makes and models. Quick Lane provides a full menu of automotive services, including tires, oil change and maintenance, brakes, batteries, alternator and electrical system, air conditioning system, cooling system, transmission service, suspension and steering, wheel alignment, belts and hoses, lamps and bulbs and wiper blades plus a thorough vehicle checkup report. Service is performed by expert technicians while you wait at any of nearly 800 locations in the U.S., with evening and weekend hours available and no appointment necessary. For more information about Quick Lane, please visit www.quicklane.com.
*See your dealer for limited-warranty details.

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, that is committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for and deepen the loyalty of those customers. Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, as well as connected services. Additionally, Ford is establishing leadership positions in mobility solutions, including self-driving technology, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 176,000 people worldwide. More information about the company, its products and Ford Credit is available at corporate.ford.com.
*See seller for limited-warranty details.

Wood Brothers Racing
Wood Brothers Racing was formed in 1950 in Stuart, Va., by Hall of Famer Glenn Wood. Wood Brothers Racing is the oldest active team and one of the winningest teams in NASCAR history. Since its founding, the team won 99 races (including at least one race in every decade for the last seven decades) and 120 poles in NASCAR’s top-tier series. Fielding only Ford products for its entire history, the Wood Brothers own the longest association of any motorsports team with a single manufacturer. Glenn’s brother, Leonard, is known for inventing the modern pit stop. The team currently runs the Ford Mustang driven by Harrison Burton in the famous No. 21 racer.

LEGACY MOTOR CLUB Race Recap: Phoenix Raceway II

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Official Release
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Carson Hocevar, No. 42 Sunseeker Resort Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

START: 22ND
FINISH: 19TH
OWNERS POINTS: 32ND

Carson Hocevar’s Post-Race Thoughts: Pretty solid run for you today, you hung inside the top-15 a lot. How would you describe your day?

“I thought it was pretty good. It was a good way to cap off the year, and I don’t want to say graduate, but just know that I can run with a lot of these guys. We’ve had a bit of a dry spell here in this No. 42 car, so it was good to give these guys a good run. The No. 43 car was really fast, they just were kind of hurt on track position obviously there with their call. But I thought the No. 42 car was a top-15 car, I just kind of slid through my box a little bit and cost us a few spots. We just didn’t fire off as good as what we needed probably. I think we had a good long run car, just needed a little more.”

Reflecting on your time with LEGACY M.C., how have they helped prepare you for your full-time run next year? How good of an experience has this been for you?

“It’s been great honestly. I checked all my boxes per se. I’ve had a little bit of everything. I’ve had good performances like today, had days really good, had days really bad, and far in between. You know, it’s been a lot of fun to get to learn this car and some of the characteristics and what it takes to run here on Sunday. Laps are so valuable.”

Erik Jones, No. 43 Allegiant Allways Rewards Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

START: 7TH
FINISH: 20TH
DRIVER POINTS: 27TH

Erik Jones’ Post-Race Thoughts: “Just an okay day and it just didn’t end up really good. I wish we could have finished it off better, but it was a good season overall. We just have to execute. Thank you to our friends at Chevrolet and Allegiant for everything.”

ABOUT LEGACY MOTOR CLUB:

LEGACY MOTOR CLUB is a professional auto racing club owned by businessman and entrepreneur Maurice J. Gallagher and seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion (NCS) Jimmie Johnson. The club competes full-time in the NCS fielding the Nos. 42 and 43 Chevrolet Camaro entries, respectively, along with the No. 84 part-time entry for Johnson in 2023. Richard Petty “The King” serves as team ambassador.

In 2021, Gallagher acquired Richard Petty Motorsports and renamed the team to Petty GMS. With the addition of Johnson to the ownership structure in 2023, the organization rebranded to LEGACY MOTOR CLUB (LEGACY M.C.). With a unique title signifying a nod to car clubs of past eras, LEGACY M.C. is an inclusive club for all motorsport enthusiasts to celebrate the past and future legacies of its members, while competing for wins and championships at NASCAR’s elite level.

Based in Statesville, N.C., LEGACY M.C. operates alongside GMS Racing (GMS), which currently fields three full-time entries in the NASCAR Truck Series. Since the formation of GMS in 2012, Gallagher and Mike Beam, team president, have shared incredible success. GMS Racing captured the 2015 ARCA Racing Series championship, the 2016 and 2020 NASCAR Truck Series championships and the 2019 and 2020 ARCA East championships, accumulating over 65 wins across six national racing circuits.

SOCIAL MEDIA:

To keep up-to-date with the latest news, information and exclusive content, follow LEGACY MOTOR CLUB on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Six Exciting Motorsports Gift Ideas for 2023

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SM
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As we approach Halloween and the 2023 holiday season, many of us are faced with the perennial question: “What are the best driving experience gifts near me?” Finding the perfect motorsport-related gifts for our loved ones can be a difficult task, but fear not, as there are plenty of exciting options to choose from. In this article, we’ll explore some fantastic motorsports gift ideas that are sure to thrill any enthusiast. From high-octane track day experiences to personalized racing art, these gifts are bound to rev up the excitement for the upcoming holiday season.

High-Octane Track Day Experience

For the ultimate thrill-seeker, a high-octane track day experience is an unforgettable gift. Many local racetracks offer packages that allow motorsports fans to take the wheel of a high-performance sports car or ride shotgun with an experienced race car driver. It’s a chance to experience the rush of speed in a controlled and safe environment, making it a gift that will be remembered for years to come.

Weekend Supercar Rentals

If you’re not near a racetrack that offers track day experiences, renting a luxury vehicle for a weekend is the next best thing. This gift provides not only an exciting driving experience but also a short getaway from the daily grind. It’s the perfect option for those with busy schedules who yearn for a break from the monotony of everyday life.

Tickets to a Live Race

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of witnessing a motorsports event in person. Consider gifting tickets to a live race, whether it’s Formula 1, IndyCar, NASCAR, or a local motorsports event. Attending a race allows your loved one to feel the roar of the engines and the energy of the crowd, providing a genuine and unforgettable experience.

Immersive Virtual Racing

With the growing popularity of Virtual Reality and E-Sports motorsports, consider gifting accessories and peripherals for an immersive motorsport gaming experience. These setups often include high-quality steering wheels, pedals, and seats that replicate the feeling of being in a real race car. Pair it with a popular racing video game, and you’ll be giving a gift that guarantees hours of entertainment without leaving the house.

Customized Racing Art

While live experiences are exhilarating, a thoughtful and personalized gift can be just as rewarding. Show your thoughtfulness by commissioning custom racing art for the motorsports fan in your life. Websites like Etsy and Fiverr offer talented artists who can create unique pieces, whether it’s a painting of their favorite race car or a portrait of their racing hero. Custom artwork adds a one-of-a-kind touch to their collection that can’t be found anywhere else.

DIY Car Maintenance Kits

For those who enjoy working on their cars, a DIY car maintenance kit can be a practical and considerate gift. These kits typically include high-quality tools, maintenance manuals, and supplies to help keep their vehicles in top condition, ensuring that their passion for motorsports is well-maintained.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these motorsports gift ideas for 2023 cater to a wide range of enthusiasts and budgets. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience or a personalized touch, these gifts are sure to make the upcoming year a memorable one for your loved ones who are passionate about all things motorsports. So, get ready to rev up the excitement and make this holiday season unforgettable with the perfect motorsports gift.

Mastering the Flow: Essential Maintenance Tips for Your Water Systems

By
SM
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Photo by Dominika Roseclay

Are you prepared for the unprecedented increase in demand for clean and safe water? With the global population expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, it is more important than ever to ensure your water systems are functioning at their best.

In this guide, we will discuss essential maintenance tips to help you master the flow of your water systems. From routine inspections to proactive repairs, we will cover all the necessary steps to keep your drinking water system running smoothly.

Routine Inspections

Regular inspections are crucial for detecting any potential issues before they become major problems. Here are some tips to help you conduct effective routine inspections:

  • Schedule regular inspections: Make sure to schedule monthly or quarterly inspections, depending on the size and complexity of your water system.
  • Document everything: Take note of the date, time, and location of the inspections. Keep a record of any issues or repairs that were found during the inspection.
  • Check for leaks: Conduct a thorough check for leaks in pipes, valves, and other components. Even small leaks can lead to significant water loss over time. This can also lead to increased water bills and damage to your property.
  • Test water quality: Use a water testing kit to check for any impurities or contaminants in your water. This is especially important if you have a private well as the responsibility of ensuring safe drinking water falls on the homeowner.

Proactive Repairs

Don’t wait until something breaks down before taking action. Here are some proactive repair tips to keep your water systems running at their best:

  • Address issues immediately: As soon as you notice any issues during your routine inspections, take action right away. This could mean fixing a leak or replacing a damaged component.
  • Replace old parts: Over time, pipes and other components can wear out and become less efficient. Make sure to replace any old or damaged parts before they cause bigger problems.
  • Invest in upgrades: Consider investing in upgrades for your water system. Newer technologies and more efficient systems can help save water and energy, leading to cost savings in the long run.

Long Term Maintenance

In addition to routine inspections and proactive repairs, there are some long-term maintenance tasks that you should keep in mind:

  • Drain your water heater: Sediment and mineral buildup can affect the efficiency of your water heater. Make sure to drain it regularly to prevent any issues.
  • Winterize your outdoor faucets: If you live in an area with harsh winters, make sure to properly winterize your outdoor faucets to prevent freezing and damage.
  • Consider a maintenance contract: If you don’t have the time or expertise to conduct regular inspections and maintenance yourself, consider hiring a plumbing company in Salt Lake City that offers maintenance contracts. This way, you can ensure your water systems are being taken care of by professionals.

Seeking Professional Help

While regular maintenance is crucial, there may be times when you need to seek professional help for your water systems. Here are some signs that it’s time to call a plumber:

  • Low water pressure: If you notice a decrease in water pressure, it could indicate a blockage or leak in your pipes.
  • Strange noises: Unusual sounds coming from your pipes or water heater could indicate a problem.
  • Discolored water: If your water is discolored, it could be a sign of rust or other contaminants in your pipes.

Remember, it’s always better to address issues sooner rather than later. Regular maintenance can help prevent major problems and save you time and money in the long run.

In conclusion, mastering the flow of your water systems is essential for ensuring clean and safe water for years to come. By following these maintenance tips and seeking professional help when needed, you can keep your water systems running at their best.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Start implementing these tips today and see the difference they can make in the efficiency and longevity of your water systems. So, stay on top of your water system maintenance and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your water systems are functioning at their best.

Title-deciding Bahrain win for TOYOTA GAZOO Racing

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Official Release
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Toyota City, Japan, Nov 6, 2023 – (JCN Newswire) – TOYOTA GAZOO Racing brought the curtain down on a thrilling 2023 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) season with a one-two victory in the 8 Hours of Bahrain to decide the destination of the drivers’ title.

Sébastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley and Ryo Hirakawa won the race in their #8 GR010 HYBRID to secure their second successive drivers’ World Championship. Sébastien and Brendon also set a new record of four drivers’ title apiece, while Ryo has now won titles in both his seasons of Hypercar competition so far.

A battling race from Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi and José María López in the #7 GR010 HYBRID saw a fine recovery drive following a first-corner incident. They needed victory to challenge for the title but had to settle for second place, earning runners-up spot in the championship. TOYOTA GAZOO Racing confirmed its fifth consecutive World Championship double of manufacturers’ and drivers’ titles for the perfect end to an exciting season of Hypercar competition which featured fierce challenges from Cadillac, Ferrari, Glickenhaus, Peugeot, Porsche and Vanwall.

That challenge continued into the final race of the season, which began on a hot, sunny afternoon in Bahrain. Sébastien led from pole position but the #7 crew’s title chances were derailed a few metres later when Mike was knocked out of second place at the first corner by the #2 Cadillac, dropping him to the back of the field.

He immediately began a stirring fight back, pulling off a series of decisive overtaking manoeuvres to pass the Peugeots and Porsches within opening first 35 minutes to get back into the top five. Meanwhile, Sébastien’s consistent speed at the front saw him build an advantage over the two Ferraris.

As the first pit stops approached at the one-hour mark, Mike made two more stunning overtakes to return to the top three, passing the #50 Ferrari before muscling his way beyond the #38 Hertz Team Jota Porsche into third a few moments later. Sébastien stretched his lead further through the second hour while Mike closed on the second-placed #51 Ferrari, although tyre degradation prevented him finding a way past. Just before the start of hour three, Mike handed the #7 to Kamui, who quickly set a new fastest lap and made the move on the #51 Ferrari for second.

Brendon took the wheel of the #8 and led the race as darkness fell, with Kamui around half a minute behind. Pacy and precise driving through the lapped trafic saw the situation stabilise at the front and, at half distance, José and Ryo began their stints with the GR010 HYBRIDs running comfortably in first and second.

As the race entered its last two hours, the penultimate driver changes saw Mike return to the #7 and Sébastien resume battle in the #8. Kamui and Brendon took over for the final hour of the race. With a 40-second advantage in the lead, Brendon guided the #8 safely through the closing laps while Kamui was under no threat from behind but nevertheless showed the pace of the #7 by setting the fastest lap of the race.

The chequered flag waved for Brendon after 249 laps and he finished 47.516secs ahead of Kamui in the #7. That brought the 2023 season to an end after seven events, 64 hours of racing and six wins for TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, including four one-twos, to take the team’s tally to 45 victories since its WEC debut in 2012.

For more information, visit https://toyotagazooracing.com/wec/release/2023/rd07-race/.

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