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TONY STEWART RACING POINTS LEADERS LEAH PRUETT AND MATT HAGAN FOCUSED ON TASK AT HAND AT NHRA NEVADA NATIONALS

LAS VEGAS (Oct. 24, 2023) – After a first-time double up for the Tony Stewart Racing nitro teams of Leah Pruett and Matt Hagan, the duo heads into Las Vegas in a unique and exciting position: leading the points in both Top Fuel and Funny Car with two races remaining.

Pruett leads Doug Kalitta and Steve Torrence by just four and 13 points, respectively, heading into this weekend’s 23rd annual NHRA Nevada Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, while in Funny Car, Hagan holds an advantage of 36 points over Bob Tasca III, with Robert Hight 69 points behind.

It adds up to an exciting opportunity for both Pruett and Hagan, with Pruett trying to pick up her first Top Fuel world championship. But with two races left in the Countdown to the Championship playoffs and a loaded field well within striking distance, Pruett knows there is plenty of work still to be done in her 11,000-horsepower Dodge Direct Connection dragster.

“We are four points ahead. That means literally nothing,” said Pruett, who has 12 Top Fuel wins. “We were so happy as a team that Sunday night (in Dallas), but the next day were back in our race mode preparing for the Las Vegas event. I think Tony’s overall team atmosphere helps everyone here. The highest virtue that Tony has is treating people well. He helps me and our team with a racer’s mentally because he has been there and won in everything. It’s a huge help for everyone on the TSR team.”

Brittany Force (Top Fuel), Hagan (Funny Car), Erica Enders (Pro Stock) and Hector Arana Jr. (Pro Stock Motorcycle) won the 2022 NHRA Nevada Nationals. This season’s race will be broadcast on Fox Sports 1 (FS1), including eliminations at 5 p.m. ET on Sunday. It is the 20th of 21 races during the 2023 season and the fifth of six races in the Countdown to the Championship.

Hagan brings plenty of confidence into Vegas, helped in part by last year’s win at the penultimate race of the year. That kept him in title contention, but Hagan and his team have been on point in 2023, winning six times and advancing to eight final rounds. Nothing is close to being decided, but Hagan likes where his team is at heading into Vegas in his 11,000-horsepower Dodge Direct Connection Charger SRT Hellcat. To add to the team’s momentum, Hagan, who is also a victory away from 50 career NHRA wins, has won the fall Vegas race three of the past four years.

“Having back-to-back wins (this season) rolling into Vegas gives us a lot of confidence,” Hagan said. “Funny Car racing is very humbling, so you never know what you’re going to get. When we’re in Vegas, we’re halfway to Denver’s altitude as far as making power goes. You have to change a lot on the car. I have faith in my crew and my job is to drive the wheels off of it. We have a lot of momentum, so we just have to keep it going. I’m proud of my team. They’re turning the car around really quick and that’s all you can ask for. I’ve won two of my championships with Dickie (Venables – crew chief), so we know what we need to do and what we’re capable of.”

Pruett has also made impressive strides this season. They’ve been in the top five for the bulk of the season, entering the playoffs in fourth. Since then, they’ve been remarkably consistent, advancing to the semifinals or better at all four playoff races, including back-to-back final rounds at the last two races. It’s propelled the standout into the points lead in the Countdown to the Championship for the first time in her career. But she also knows Kalitta and Torrence, a four-time champ, as well as the likes of Justin Ashley, Antron Brown, Mike Salinas and Force are lurking, which means she’ll need another big weekend in Vegas to stay in front.

“Honestly, our confidence is higher than it’s ever been,” Pruett said. “We experienced multiple moments of validation last week in Dallas. Being able to make small adjustments through race day with a power-balanced car brought on peak performance and consistency. That’s what we knew it would take to win that race, and that’s what it will take to stretch our lead.”

Thanks to two straight playoff wins, Hagan moved back into the points lead in Dallas over Tasca, who is seeking his first Funny Car world title. But Hight is capable of a late-season run as well and back-to-back world champ Ron Capps is within 99 points. For Hagan, that means there’s no opportunity to let up and he’s aiming for a big finish, one he knows will be necessary to clinch a fourth world championship.

“It’s still anybody’s ballgame out here,” Hagan said. “You can pat yourself on the back, but there is still a lot of work to be done. We have seen these things flip back and forth a lot. (But) I feel like we’ve had a great car all year long. We’ve won six races so far this season. We just need to keep doing what we do. We are in a fight for the championships, and we’ll use Tony’s experience in chasing a championship.”

Enders has been dominant in Las Vegas in recent years with nine wins from the facility, the most of any driver in NHRA history. A year ago, her Vegas win clinched a fifth championship for the star. She holds a commanding lead over Greg Anderson following her Dallas win this year, which also gave her the most wins by a female in NHRA history. Other contenders include Dallas Glenn, Aaron Stanfield and Matt Hartford.

Arana Jr., who has one win on the 2023 season, powered his way to victory last year by defeating Matt Smith in the final round. But this season has been dominated by Gaige Herrera, who has nine wins and will have the opportunity to clinch his first world championship in Las Vegas.

The NHRA Nevada Nationals also will feature thrilling competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, which includes some of the sport’s top drivers, and the Summit Racing Series ET Finals, where national champions will be crowned, including the first EV national championship in NHRA history. The weekend will also include action in the thrilling Nostalgia Funny Car class, while fans can watch a spectacular jet dragster exhibition from Team “Muy Caliente” after nitro qualifying on Friday and Saturday.

It’s also the final race of the season in Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown, the FuelTech NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Type A Motorsports and the new Factory X presented by Holley category. Fans can also enjoy the finale of the NHRA Summit Series, with drivers competing for a national championship.

As an added attraction, a special drag-and-drive exhibition will take place during the event, with participants in Sick The Magazine’s “Death Week” will be on display for fans interested in NHRA Street Legal Drag Racing. The cars will be paraded in front of the crowd, with fans getting to see the unique cars taking part in the drag-and-drive event.

Before the race weekend, the NHRA’s biggest stars will take over the Fremont St. Experience for the annual fan fest from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 26. An autograph session takes place from 5:30-6:30, allowing fans to meet their favorite drivers as part of this great event leading into the race weekend.

On Saturday, the Las Vegas Golden Knights marching band will also perform. Race fans at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and includes the SealMaster Track Walk. The final can’t-miss experience of any NHRA event is the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday after racing concludes, where fans are invited to congratulate the NHRA Nevada Nationals event winners.

Fans are invited to the Nitro Alley Stage all weekend, which will help create a festive atmosphere leading into Nitro Alley. The Nitro Alley Stage will be the main entertainment hub in the pits when the Camping World Drag Racing Series competitors are not on the track, hosting Nitro School, meet and greets, influencer interviews and much more. As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. Fans can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their hot rods between rounds, get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers, and more. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and race vendors create an exciting atmosphere that includes interactive displays, merchandise, food, and fun.

NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 12:00 and 3:00 p.m. PT on Friday, Oct. 27, and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, Oct. 28 at 12:00 and 3:00 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. PT on Sunday, Oct. 29. Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 7:00 p.m. ET on Friday with eliminations on FS1 at 5:00 p.m. ET on Sunday.

To purchase tickets to the NHRA Nevada Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, call 800-644-4444 or visit www.lvms.com. Children 12 and under are admitted free in general admissions areas with a paid adult. For more information about NHRA, visit www.nhra.com.


About Camping World Holdings, Inc.

Camping World Holdings, Inc., headquartered in Lincolnshire, IL, (together with its subsidiaries) is the World’s largest retailer of RVs and related products and services. Our vision is to build a long-term legacy business that makes RVing fun and easy. Our Camping World and Good Sam brands have been serving RV consumers since 1966. We strive to build long-term value for our customers, employees, and shareholders by combining a unique and comprehensive assortment of RV products and services with a national network of RV dealerships, service centers and customer support centers along with the industry’s most extensive online presence and a highly trained and knowledgeable team of employees serving our customers, the RV lifestyle, and the communities in which we operate. We also believe that our Good Sam organization and family of programs and services uniquely enable us to connect with our customers as stewards of the RV enthusiast community and the RV lifestyle. With RV sales and service locations in 43 states, Camping World has grown to become the prime destination for everything RV. For more information, visit www.campingworld.com.

About NHRA

Headquartered in San Dimas, Calif., NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 21 national events featuring the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series, NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, 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.

Auto-Owners Insurance Racing: Martin Truex Jr. Martinsville Advance

Martin Truex Jr.
Martinsville Advance
No. 19 Auto-Owners Insurance Toyota Camry TRD for Joe Gibbs Racing

Event Overview

● Event: Xfinity 500 (Round 35 of 36)

● Time/Date: 2 p.m. EDT on Sunday, Oct. 29

● Location: Martinsville (Va.) Speedway

● Layout: .526-mile oval

● Laps/Miles: 500 laps / 263 miles

● Stage Lengths: Stage 1: 130 laps / Stage 2: 130 laps / Final Stage: 240 laps

● TV/Radio: NBC / MRN / SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Notes of Interest

● Martin Truex Jr., and the No. 19 team for Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) set the tone for the season right out of the gate by winning the 150-lap feature in the non-points Clash at the Coliseum on Feb. 5 in Los Angeles. Truex won his heat race, then went on to lead the final 25 laps of the feature en route to a victory that gave him and the team much-needed momentum heading into the 2023 season. While the team was knocking on the door over the first 10 points-paying races, the breakthrough win finally came at Dover (Del.) Motor Speedway on May 1, and Truex has added two more points-paying victories and four overall this season – June 11 at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway and July 17 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon.

● Round of 8: Heading to the third and final race in the Round of 8 of the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs, Truex sits sixth in the standings with 4,071 points, 17 points below the top-four cutline as the team will do all it can to bring home a victory in order to make it to the Championship 4.

● All three of Truex’s Martinsville wins in the NASCAR Cup Series have come in his time at JGR, now in its fifth season. He has a total of five top-five finishes with the team at the .526-mile, paperclip-shaped oval.

● Truex’s three Martinsville wins are included in his 10 top-five finishes and 16 top-10s at the track, and he’s led a total of 1,016 laps in 35 career Cup Series outings at Martinsville. Truex’s average Martinsville finish is 16.0.

● 34 and Counting: Truex’s win at New Hampshire was the 34th of his Cup Series career, putting him in a tie with 2004 Cup Series champion Kurt Busch for 25th on the all-time win list in NASCAR’s top series.

● So far this season, Truex has scored three points-paying wins, nine top-five finishes, 16 top-10s and has led an impressive 851 laps through 34 races.

Martin Truex Jr., Driver of the No. 19 Auto-Owners Insurance Toyota Camry TRD

This will be your 36th Cup Series start at Martinsville. What has made you so good there, especially during your time at Joe Gibbs Racing?

“Martinsville for a long time in my career was a really tough place to figure out. We eventually hit on some things and it’s been pretty good for a while. Then we went to the NextGen car last year and it was a struggle for us. I’m really optimistic going into this weekend because we ran third there in the spring. Martinsville looks so easy, it’s just a small, little half-mile track, but it’s so tricky with the concrete in the corners and, every time you go there, it’s different. It doesn’t make sense because the track is the same, but it does make it different depending on the temperature and the tire and everything that’s going on with these cars. Running third there in the spring, I think we learned a lot we can use going forward and, hopefully, we can find some of that old magic we had there a few years ago again this weekend with our Auto-Owners Insurance Camry.”

Seems like there’s a lot of emotion from drivers who win at Martinsville. Why is that?

“I think it’s because it’s difficult and it’s been a staple in our sport for so long. Really, the track has remained unchanged and we’ve been through years of different cars and so many different things. And it’s always put on a great race and it’s always been difficult to win there, that’s why it’s such a big deal. There’s always a potential for beating and banging there and for tempers flaring. We’ve been in the middle of that before, as well.”

What are the challenges of racing at Martinsville as far as navigating it lap to lap?

“The biggest thing is just the beating and banging that happens there and getting knocked out of the way, which there seems to be a bit less of that so far with this car. For me, I’ve really only had one issue there, which was getting taken out of the race at the end in 2018. It gets like that at Martinsville, it’s just a tough track. When it comes down to a few laps to go, you can go down there and blow the corner and run into somebody and get the spot. That’s where the frustration comes from there, from a lot of drivers (doing that) over the years.”

Will this weekend at Martinsville be more aggressive than normal?

“I doubt it. I think it’s going to be as aggressive as it’s been with this car. You can only beat and bang with this car so much, and then you can’t get to someone’s bumper to get them out of the way. Just the way it is.”

No. 19 Auto-Owners Insurance Team Roster

Primary Team Members

Driver: Martin Truex Jr.

Hometown: Mayetta, New Jersey

Crew Chief: James Small

Hometown: Melbourne, Australia

Car Chief: Chris Jones

Hometown: Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia

Engineer: Nick Burton

Hometown: Arvada, California

Engineer: Jeff Curtis

Hometown: Fairfax Station, Virginia

Spotter: Drew Herring

Hometown: Benson, North Carolina

Road Crew Members

Underneath Mechanic: Ryan Martin

Hometown: Mechanicsburg, Virgina

Mechanic: Todd Carmichael

Hometown: Redding, California

Interior/Tire Specialist: Tommy DiBlasi

Hometown: Annapolis, Maryland

Engine Tuner: Gregg Huls

Hometown: Beatrice, Nebraska

Transporter Driver: Kyle Bazzell

Hometown: Fairbury, Illinois

Transporter Driver: Eddie DeGroot

Hometown: Baldwinsville, New York

Over-The-Wall Crew Members

Gas Man: Matt Tyrrell

Hometown: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Jackman: Caleb Dirks

Hometown: Riverside, California

Tire Carrier: CJ Bailey

Hometown: Outer Banks, North Carolina

Front Tire Changer: Lee Cunningham

Hometown: Leaf River, Illinois

Rear Tire Changer: Kevon Jackson

Hometown: Chicago, Illinois

RFK Advance | Martinsville II

Martinsville II Event Info:
Track Info: Martinsville Speedway, 0.5-mile short track
Date: Sunday, Oct. 29
Time: 2 p.m. ET
Series: NASCAR Cup Series (NCS)
Location: Martinsville, Virginia
Format: 500 laps, 263 miles, Stages: 130-130-240
TV: NBC
Radio: MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Weekend Schedule:
Saturday: 12:35 p.m. ET, Practice (USA, NBC Sports App, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Saturday: 1:20 p.m. ET, Qualifying (USA, NBC Sports App, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Sunday: 2 p.m. ET, Race (NBC, NBC Sports App, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)

6 Team Info:
Crew Chief: Matt McCall
Partner: King’s Hawaiian

17 Team Info:
Crew Chief: Scott Graves
Partner: NEXLETOL (bempedoic acid and ezetimibe)

Pace Laps:

  • The penultimate race of the 2023 season takes place at the famed Paperclip this weekend, as Martinsville hosts its second race of the campaign.
  • Chris Buescher enters the weekend in a must-win situation, sitting eighth in the playoff standings, with two spots still up for grabs as this weekend’s race locks in the Championship 4 that will race for the title next week in Phoenix.
  • In short track races in 2023, RFK has one win (Buescher – Richmond II) two top fives and three top-10s.

Keselowski at Martinsville
Starts: 27
Wins: 2
Top-10s: 17
Poles: 1 (2020)

  • Keselowski, a two-time winner at Martinsville, is set for his 28th Cup start at ‘The Paperclip.’
  • Martinsville stands as one of Keselowski’s best tracks statistically with an average finish of 12.5. He’s coming off a 24th-place finish this spring, and crossed the line fourth last fall before later being disqualified.
  • He has finished top-10 in 63 percent of his starts there. Of the 17 top-10s, 12 have been inside the top five. He earned his first Grandfather clock back in 2017 and won the same race two years later in the spring.
  • Keselowski has finished fifth or better in 11 of his last 17 races at the track with a pair of runner-up results and three finishes of third.
  • He carries an average starting position of 11.4 into the weekend with 15 starts inside the top-10 and one pole (2010). Last season he qualified ninth in the spring and sixth in the fall.
  • Keselowski also made four Truck Series starts from 2004-07.

Buescher at Martinsville
Starts: 16
Wins: —
Top-10s: 1
Poles: —

  • Buescher is set for his 17th Cup start at Martinsville this weekend where he has one top-10 (P9), which came in the 2021 fall race.
  • He’s coming off a 14th-place finish this spring, and finishes of 24th and 15th last season.
  • He has four-straight top-15s in the spring event dating back to 2020 with a P13 result that spring, followed by another 13th-place finish in 2021, last season’s P15, and this season’s 14th-place result.
  • Buescher has an average starting position of 21.7 at Martinsville and is coming off his two best qualifying efforts of his career. After qualifying fourth in the 2022 spring race, Buescher qualified 10th this spring.

RFK Historically at Martinsville
Cup Wins: 4 (Mark Martin, 1992, 2000; Jeff Burton, 1997; Kurt Busch, 2002)

  • For Whom the Bell Tolls: RFK has earned four Grandfather Clocks at Martinsville with former drivers Mark Martin (two), Jeff Burton and Kurt Busch. RFK most recently went to victory lane with Busch in Oct. 2002.
  • Rock Around the Clock: RFK had its overall most-successful outing at Martinsville in the spring of 2002 when it placed all four of its cars inside the top 10 with drivers Martin, Burton, Busch and Matt Kenseth.
  • Closing Time: RFK earned a one-two finish in the April 9, 2000 event at Martinsville with former drivers Martin and Burton. Martin paced the field for 64 laps en route to the victory.
  • Short-Track Prowess: RFK has started a total of 702 NCS races on short tracks, recording a total of 24 wins, 126 top-five finishes, 251 top-10 finishes and 8,061 laps led.
  • Tale of the Tape: RFK has started 226 NCS races at Martinsville, recording four victories, 26 top-five finishes, 69 top-10 finishes, an average finish of 17.8 and has led 1,385 laps. RFK also boasts two NASCAR Truck Series wins in 46 starts at Martinsville (fall of ’03 and ’05).

RFK Martinsville Wins

1992-1 Martin Cup
1997-2 Burton Cup

2000-1 Martin Cup
2002-2 Busch Cup

2003-2 Wood Truck
2005-2 Craven Truck

Last Time Out & Where They Stand
Homestead: Buescher finished 21st Sunday at Homestead-Miami, while Keselowski led laps four different times, earned stage points in each of the first two stages, before being collected in a late-race incident to finish 28th.

Points Standings (17: 8th, 6: 9th): Buescher is in a must-win situation entering the final race in the Round of 8 this weekend, while Keselowski is ninth.

By the Numbers at Martinsville

Race      Win       T5           T10         Pole       Laps       Led        AvSt      AvFn     Miles
226         4              26           69           4              108422  1385       20.2        17.8        54211
3              0              0              1              0              750         0              28.0        19.3        394.5
46           2              14           24           3              10256    270         12.4        12.3        5394.6
275         6              40           94           7              119428  1655       20.2        16.5        60000.1

Ford Performance NASCAR – Martinsville Playoff Advance

MARTINSVILLE SPEEDWAY PLAYOFF NOTES

Saturday, October 28 – NASCAR XFINITY Series, 3:30 p.m. ET (USA)
Sunday, October 29 – NASCAR Cup Series, 2 p.m. ET (NBC)

The final races in the Round of 8 for the NASCAR Cup and NASCAR Xfinity Series take place this weekend at Martinsville Speedway with spots in the Championship 4 still up for grabs. Ryan Blaney and Chris Buescher are vying for the final two spots in Cup while Cole Custer looks to advance in NXS.

CURRENT CUP PLAYOFF STANDINGS

The Round of 8 comes to a close this weekend at Martinsville Speedway with Ford drivers Ryan Blaney and Chris Buescher still in contention for a spot in the Championship 4. Here’s where they stand with two races remaining in the elimination round.

4th – Ryan Blaney (+10)
8th – Chris Buescher (-43)

NOTE: The Championship 4 field will be determined after Martinsville

BLANEY’S BEST

Even though Ryan Blaney does not have a NASCAR Cup Series win in 15 starts at Martinsville Speedway, it’s still a place where he has a lot of confidence. Look no further than the fact that he has an average finishing position of 9.5, which is a personal best on tracks he’s had more than two starts. Blaney has seven top-5 and nine top-10 efforts at the track, including finishes of fourth, third and seventh in his last three races. He goes into this weekend clinging to the fourth and final spot in the playoff standings, 10 points ahead of fifth-place Tyler Reddick.

MARTINSVILLE CHALLENGE FOR BUESCHER

Chris Buescher comes into this weekend’s elimination race at Martinsville Speedway knowing that a win will automatically clinch his spot in the Championship 4. As it stands, he comes into the weekend in eighth place, trailing the final transfer spot for the Championship 4 by 43 points. In 16 career starts, he has managed only one top 10 finish with that being a ninth in the 2021 playoff event. Buescher, who won a year ago on the half-mile bullring at Bristol Motor Speedway, has an average finish of 19.4 at Martinsville and is coming off a 14th place showing in the spring.

LOGANO LIKES MARTINSVILLE

Few tracks on the NASCAR Cup Series circuit have been better for Joey Logano when it comes to qualifying than Martinsville Speedway. Logano enters this weekend with an average starting position of 8.2, which is his second among all tracks in which he has more than 10 starts (Las Vegas is 8.1 in 21 starts) He has six poles, including three in a row in 2015-16, and had an active streak of 18 straight top-10 starts (including races where qualifying was rained out) from 2013-22. In 29 career races at the half-mile short track, Logano has an average finishing position of 11.1 and has been running at the finish of every event.

KESELOWSKI WINS FIRST CLOCK

Brad Keselowski outdueled Kyle Busch down the stretch to win his first grandfather clock after capturing the STP 500 on Apr. 2, 2017. The two drivers waged a memorable battle that saw them swap the lead five times in the last 160 laps, but Keselowski ended up making the decisive pass on lap 458 and led the final 43 circuits to become the first repeat winner in 2017. Prior to winning at Martinsville, Keselowski took the checkered flag at Atlanta in the second race of the season.

CUSTER ON THE BUBBLE

Cole Custer is in the thick of the championship battle going into this weekend’s elimination race, finding himself on the bubble with two other drivers. Custer, who finished 13th after winning the first stage in Saturday’s race at Homestead-Miami Speedway, holds the third spot over Austin Hill on a tiebreaker as each driver has 3113 points. Justin Allgaier is fifth and only three points behind both drivers as three berths remain in the Championship 4 at Martinsville. Custer made his first NXS start at the half-mile paperclip earlier this year when he sat on the pole and finished third. In six career Cup starts on the speedway, he had a pair of top five qualifying runs and a best finish of 13th in 2020.

FORD’S NASCAR CUP SERIES WINNERS

AT MARTINSVILLE

1961 – Fred Lorenzen (1)

1962 – Nelson Stacy (2)

1963 – Fred Lorenzen (2)

1964 – Fred Lorenzen (Sweep)

1965 – Fred Lorenzen and Junior Johnson

1966 – Fred Lorenzen (2)

1969 – Richard Petty (Sweep)

1986 – Ricky Rudd (1)

1990 – Geoffrey Bodine (Sweep)

1992 – Mark Martin and Geoffrey Bodine

1993 – Ernie Irvan (2)

1994 – Rusty Wallace (Sweep)

1995 – Rusty Wallace (1)

1996 – Rusty Wallace (1)

1997 – Jeff Burton (1)

1998 – Ricky Rudd (2)

2000 – Mark Martin (1)

2001 – Dale Jarrett and Ricky Craven

2002 – Kurt Busch (2)

2017 – Brad Keselowski (1)

2018 – Clint Bowyer and Joey Logano

2019 – Brad Keselowski (1)

FORD’S NASCAR Xfinity Series WINNERS

AT MARTINSVILLE

1994 – Kenny Wallace

Todd Gilliland and the No. 38 Quincy Compressor Ford Mustang Team Martinsville Speedway Competition Notes

TEAM AND RACE NOTES:

Todd Gilliland and the No. 38 team return to the Martinsville (Va.) Speedway this weekend.

Quincy Compressor, a Bay Minette, Alabama-based compressor manufacturer founded in 1920, returns to the hood and sides of the No. 38 Ford Mustang after last riding with Gilliland at the Darlington Raceway.

Quincy Compressor is a leading designer and manufacturer of reciprocating and rotary screw air compressors, vacuum pumps, and a full line of air treatment components. Quincy has built its reputation on quality and rugged reliability, building tough air compressors for the most demanding applications.

Track activity will begin with practice and qualifying on Saturday at 12:35 p.m. ET. Sunday’s 263-mile race is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. ET on NBC.

COMPETITION NOTES:

After a 25th-place finish at the Homestead-Miami Speedway, Gilliland and the No. 38 Quincy Compressor Ford Mustang team head just two hours north to the Martinsville Speedway. Gilliland returns to the track hoping to bring the same speed he had in the Spring. Gilliland ran with top-10 and top-five pace before his Ford Mustang dropped a cylinder resulting in a 25th-place finish.

The Martinsville Speedway is also home to Gilliland’s first NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win.

CREW CHIEF RYAN BERGENTY:

“There is still a lot to fight for in the last couple weeks of the season. Todd has really improved this year and we want to keep the momentum going with another solid finish.”

DRIVER TODD GILLILAND:

“I think Ryan is right. There is a lot to race for. We’re looking at those areas where we need to improve. That can be qualifying, or race craft, or how we build our cars. So, it’s a process that never stops for us even when there are only a few races left in the season. I want to be better and I want the team to be better.

“We know it’s all there. The 34 group and Michael have been strong, but we have been strong, too. We’ve had top-10 and a ton more top-15 finishes this season (Gilliland has 10 top-15 finishes). We just had a dip in the middle of the season, so it’s important to end the season back in the top-15 where we know we are.

“We’re heading to the track with Quincy Compressor this weekend. The fans and I really like the colors on the car. It stands out. We just want to make sure we have it up front!”

ABOUT FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS

Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization in the NASCAR Cup and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The team is the 2021 Daytona 500 and 2022 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champions. The team was founded in 2004 and is owned by successful entrepreneur, Bob Jenkins. FRM fields the No. 34 and the No. 38 NASCAR Cup Series teams along with the No. 38 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series team from its Mooresville, N.C. headquarters. Visit teamfrm.com and follow FRM on social media: Twitter at @Team_FRM, Instagram at @team_frm and Facebook at facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

Michael McDowell and the No. 34 Stage Front VIP Ford Mustang Team Martinsville Speedway Competition Notes

TEAM AND RACE NOTES:

Michael McDowell and the No. 34 team return to the Martinsville (Va.) Speedway with plenty to race for as the 2023 season comes closing in.

McDowell and the No. 34 team continue their fight for the best finish by Front Row Motorsports (FRM) in the premier NASCAR Cup Series season. McDowell is hoping to improve from his 16th-place points finish in 2021. The team is on their way as they sit 15th in points and have their sights set on 14th.

It’s another big weekend for Stage Front VIP, too. They return as McDowell’s primary partner aboard the No. 34 Ford Mustang. The Stage Front VIP program is tailored as a one-of-a-kind experience for fans to purchase a VIP package that includes joining the No. 34 race team on race day.

You can join the team during the championship race in Phoenix, Arizona. Each package includes an insider’s look at the race team, tour of the hauler, a meet-and-greet with McDowell, garage and pit road access, team merchandise from Stage Front VIP and more. Check out www.stagefrontvip.com to learn more and purchase.

Track activity begins with practice and qualifying on Saturday at 12:35 p.m. ET. Sunday’s 500-lap race is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. ET on NBC.

COMPETITION NOTES:

After competing at the Homestead-Miami Speedway, Michael McDowell is 15th in point standings. McDowell comes into Martinsville with 25 previous starts at the track. His best start is fifth with FRM and his best finish is 14th.

CREW CHIEF TRAVIS PETERSON:

“We really need to work hard this weekend because we need a top-10 at this track. We have to put it together and have a better race than we’ve ever had there before. Martinsville is a lot about not making mistakes and getting to that final 100 laps when you can really race. It’s a long day, so we need to be focused.”

DRIVER MICHAEL MCDOWELL:

“I always enjoy going to Martinsville. It’s a challenging track. You need grip, you need speed, you need to rotate the car in the turns and then there is the race strategy. Pit road is so difficult and tight. So, execution is critical.

“Our short track program has been better, but we’re at the time of the season when everyone has their stuff dialed in. You need to be on top of your game. I know we will be on Sunday.”

ABOUT FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS

Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization in the NASCAR Cup and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The team is the 2021 Daytona 500 and 2022 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champions. The team was founded in 2004 and is owned by successful entrepreneur, Bob Jenkins. FRM fields the No. 34 and the No. 38 NASCAR Cup Series teams along with the No. 38 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series team from its Mooresville, N.C. headquarters. Visit teamfrm.com and follow FRM on social media: Twitter at @Team_FRM, Instagram at @team_frm and Facebook at facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

NHRA TO HONOR VETERANS DURING WEEKEND-LONG CELEBRATION AT HISTORIC IN-N-OUT BURGER NHRA FINALS

POMONA, Calif. (Oct. 24, 2023) – As part of a weekend-long celebration of veterans, the NHRA announced a number of special Veteran’s Day promotions that will take place during the historic 58th annual In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals on Nov. 9-12 at legendary In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip.

While supplies last, fans will be given a special limited edition NHRA Challenge Coin in Pomona that salutes our veterans and showcases NHRA’s longtime support of the armed forces. A one-off Veteran’s Day event t-shirt will also be available for purchase at the NHRA NitroMall in Pomona, with proceeds going to Veterans Ticket Foundation, a veterans support organization that purchases tickets for active military, veterans and their families.

Veterans will also be able to utilize a separate red-carpet box office window at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip to purchase tickets during the weekend, allowing for quick and convenient access during the memorable race. NHRA and race teams will host veteran VIPs throughout the event as well, including highly-decorated veterans, Gold Star Families and more.

“We’re extremely honored to celebrate our military on Veteran’s Day during our event and we also have a great fanbase that is always proud to support our veterans,” said Evan Jonat, NHRA Vice President of Live Events. “Working with our partners like Air Force, Vet Tix, GOVX, as well as our race teams, we’re excited to recognize our veterans and their families during the weekend, and it’s a wonderful chance to celebrate them with our fans as we close out the 2023 season in Pomona.”

Additional Veteran’s Day pageantry throughout the weekend will include a pre-race flyover on Championship Sunday from the Condor Squadron, which features three planes from World War II, and more at the famed finale in Southern California.

Since 1984, the NHRA Finals has been where champions are crowned, and the world will again be watching this year, as the famed facility plays host to intense championship battles, incredible action and unforgettable moments. The weekend includes two qualifying sessions on both Friday and Saturday leading into championship Sunday, along with the weekend-long celebration of veterans.

Austin Prock (Top Fuel), Cruz Pedregon (Funny Car), Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) and Angie Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) won last year’s event, while Brittany Force (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car), Erica Enders (Pro Stock) and Matt Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) claimed world championships. The race will be broadcast on FS1, including eliminations at 4 p.m. ET on Sunday, Nov. 12.

Top Fuel points leader Leah Pruett is after her first world title competing against of Doug Kalitta and Steve Torrence. Matt Hagan is the Funny Car points leader and he’ll look to hold off stars like Bob Tasca III and Robert Hight. In Pro Stock, Enders will aim to get her fourth world title in five years taking on longtime rival Greg Anderson, and Pro Stock Motorcycle’s Gaige Herrera is on track to clinch his first world title.

Fans are also invited to the Nitro Alley Stage all weekend, as the entertainment hub hosts Nitro School, meet and greets, influencer interviews and much more. As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet and can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their hot rods between rounds, get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers, and more.

Race fans at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and includes the SealMaster Track Walk. The final can’t-miss experience of any NHRA event is the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday after racing concludes, where fans are invited to congratulate the event winners and 2023 world champs.

NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 12 and 3 p.m. PT on Friday, Nov. 10, and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, Nov. 11 at 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11 a.m. PT on Sunday, Nov. 12. Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 2 p.m. ET on Sunday, leading into eliminations at 4 p.m. ET.

To purchase tickets to the 58th annual In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. All children 12 and under will be admitted free in the general admission area with a paid adult. Fans can get closer to the action with a Top Eliminator Club experience, offering the best seats in the house and a premium experience, as well as a members-only hospitality center, complimentary food and beverage, driver appearances, a premium view and more.


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.

Restoration vs. Modification: Enhancing Classic Car Performance

Photo by Oli Woodman on Unsplash

Classic cars hold a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts. These vintage vehicles are not just relics of the past; they are symbols of craftsmanship, style, and performance. However, when it comes to classic car ownership, there’s often a debate among enthusiasts about whether to restore a car to its original specifications or modify it to enhance its performance. This article explores this age-old dilemma and sheds light on the pros and cons of restoration and modification, using examples like the Jaguar Mark II to illustrate the choices classic car owners face.

The Classic Car Enthusiast’s Dilemma

Classic car enthusiasts share a common passion for preserving automotive history. The allure of classic cars lies in their nostalgia and the unique driving experiences they offer. However, when it comes to enhancing their car’s performance, owners often face a fundamental decision: should they restore it to factory condition or modify it to improve power, handling, and overall performance?

Restoration: Honoring the Original

Restoration is the process of returning a classic car to its original factory condition, or as close to it as possible. This meticulous approach requires sourcing original parts, ensuring period-correct paint and upholstery, and addressing mechanical issues to ensure the car is in perfect working order.

Pros of Restoration:

  • Preservation of History: Restored classic cars are a testament to their original design and craftsmanship, preserving the heritage of the automotive industry, with many owners searching for classic mini spares for sale.
  • Collector’s Value: Authentic restorations often fetch higher prices among collectors, as they appreciate the historical accuracy.
  • Respect for Tradition: Many classic car enthusiasts value the tradition and authenticity of the vehicle, enjoying the experience of driving a vintage car as it was intended to be.

Cons of Restoration:

  • Limited Performance: Restored cars typically have performance characteristics typical of their era and may not meet modern expectations.
  • Costly and Time-Consuming: High-quality restoration projects can be expensive and time-consuming, requiring extensive research and craftsmanship.

Modification: Enhancing Performance

Modification involves making changes to a classic car to improve its performance, handling, and overall driving experience. This can range from engine swaps and suspension upgrades to brake improvements and the integration of modern technology.

Pros of Modification:

  • Enhanced Performance: Modified classic cars often outperform their original counterparts, with improved horsepower, handling, and braking.
  • Personalization: Owners can tailor their classic car to their preferences, creating a unique driving experience.
  • Compatibility with Modern Roads: Upgrades like disc brakes and modern tires make modified classics safer and more practical for daily use.

Cons of Modification:

  • Altered Authenticity: Modifications can compromise the historical accuracy and originality of the vehicle, potentially reducing its collector’s value.
  • Technical Challenges: Modifying a classic car requires expertise and can be technically complex, leading to unexpected challenges.
  • Expense: While modifications can enhance performance, they often come with a significant price tag.

The Jaguar E-Type: A Case Study

To illustrate the restoration vs. modification dilemma, let’s consider the iconic Jaguar E-Type, often referred to as the XK-E in the United States. This British sports car, produced from 1961 to 1975, is renowned for its stunning design and exceptional performance, making it a classic car enthusiast’s dream.

Restoration

 A Jaguar E-Type enthusiast who chooses restoration would meticulously research the original specifications of their specific E-Type model, source authentic Jaguar parts, and painstakingly restore the car to its factory condition. This process involves ensuring the car’s original paint color, interior, and mechanical components are faithful to the manufacturer’s design. The result would be a meticulously restored E-Type that captures the essence of Jaguar’s historical legacy, showcasing the car as it rolled off the production line.

Modification

Conversely, an E-Type owner inclined towards modification might embark on a journey to enhance the car’s performance and handling. This could involve engine upgrades for increased horsepower, suspension improvements for sharper cornering, and modern amenities like power steering or electronic fuel injection. While these modifications can significantly enhance the E-Type’s performance and driving experience, they often come at the expense of historical accuracy. However, such changes can create a unique and personalized E-Type, catering to the owner’s modern preferences without compromising the car’s iconic design.

The restoration vs. modification debate is a central aspect of the classic car enthusiast’s journey. Ultimately, the choice depends on the owner’s goals and preferences. Some prioritize preserving automotive history and tradition through authentic restorations, while others seek to improve performance and tailor their classic cars to modern standards. Whichever path they choose, classic car enthusiasts continue to contribute to the preservation and evolution of these automotive treasures, ensuring they remain relevant and cherished for generations to come.

Exploring the Finest Auto Body Shop in Los Angeles

Photo by Khunkorn Laowisit

In the sprawling landscape of Los Angeles, where cars reign supreme and auto body repair is an art, one name stands tall as the unrivaled maestro of the craft – LA West Collision Center. Like an artisan meticulously carving their masterpiece, LA West Collision Center has honed its craft to perfection over the years. This is not merely a place for car repairs; it’s a sanctuary where your vehicle is transformed into a work of art.

A Symphony of Expertise

Founded in 1995, LA West Collision Center’s journey is a symphony of expertise that has crescendoed to unparalleled heights. They have spent nearly three decades fine-tuning the art of auto body repair, transcending mere mechanical work to create harmonious vehicular symphonies.

Masters of the Craft

In the halls of LA West Collision Center, you will find not just technicians, but true masters of their craft. Their profound knowledge spans across the entire automotive spectrum, from the classics to the cutting-edge. They treat every vehicle as a canvas for their artistry, no matter the size of the task.

Cutting-Edge Elegance

The stage for their symphony is set within a state-of-the-art facility, filled with cutting-edge technology and instruments that would make any conductor proud. Computerized paint matching, precision frame straightening, and avant-garde repair techniques are just some of the tools in their virtuoso repertoire.

A Symphony of Quality

Quality is the crescendo in LA West Collision Center’s symphony, a note that lingers long after the performance. Their dedication to delivering the finest auto body repairs is more than a promise; it’s a melodic oath.

Harmonious Paintwork

When LA West Collision Center applies paint, it’s more than a touch-up; it’s a symphony of color and finish that rivals the artistry of a composer’s palette. Premium paints and revolutionary techniques ensure that your vehicle’s appearance not only matches but often surpasses its original glory.

The Overture of Lifetime Warranty

Their work doesn’t fade into the background. Instead, it takes center stage with a lifetime warranty that echoes the confidence in their performance. It’s a lasting note that assures your vehicle’s longevity and maintains its perfect harmony.

A Sonata of Customer Service

Customer service at LA West Collision Center isn’t just about making the experience seamless; it’s about composing a harmonious relationship with each client. They take the time to understand the needs and wants of their clients, ensuring that each note played is perfectly attuned to their desires.

A Symphony of Communication

From the very first note, LA West Collision Center is a model of transparency and communication. Every step of the repair process is conveyed with the precision of a conductor’s baton, ensuring that you’re in tune with the progress.

A Cadence of Professionalism

The team at LA West Collision Center doesn’t just perform; they exude professionalism and friendliness. Their commitment to understanding your unique needs and expectations is the cadence that sets them apart.

The Green Sonata

In a world increasingly attuned to the ecological orchestra, LA West Collision Center leads the way in eco-friendly auto body repair, performing a green sonata that resonates with environmental responsibility.

Eco-Friendly Paint Compositions

Their choice of eco-friendly paints isn’t just a choice; it’s a commitment to preserving the environment’s natural beauty. These paints not only protect the planet but also safeguard the health of their technicians and clients.

Recycled Harmonies

In the rhythm of recycling, LA West Collision Center plays an essential tune. They diligently participate in recycling initiatives, ensuring that materials are reincarnated into new forms, minimizing waste and maintaining a sustainable cycle.

Conclusion

In a city where cars dominate the landscape, LA West Collision Center stands as the conductor of Los Angeles’ auto body repair symphony. Their legacy of expertise, dedication to quality, harmonious customer service, and eco-conscious practices compose a unique masterpiece.

Your vehicle isn’t just repaired here; it’s transformed into an automotive symphony. With a stage set for virtuosic technicians, an orchestra of cutting-edge tools, and a commitment to excellence, LA West Collision Center is the virtuoso of auto body repair. When you trust your vehicle to their care, you’re not merely mending; you’re participating in the harmonious restoration of an automotive masterpiece.

The Rise of Online Auto Parts Stores in the UAE

In recent years, the UAE has witnessed a significant shift in consumer behavior, with more and more individuals turning to online platforms for their shopping needs. This trend is particularly evident in the auto parts industry, where convenience, variety, and speed are of the essence. Amidst this digital transformation, Exist.ae has emerged as a frontrunner, setting new standards for online auto parts shopping. With its user-friendly interface, vast product range, and commitment to quality, Exist.ae has successfully carved a niche for itself in the crowded online marketplace.

Navigating the Vast Catalogue of Exist.ae

One of the standout features of Exist.ae is its expansive product catalogue. Whether you’re in search of suspension parts, brake pads, or car care products, this platform has got you covered. But what truly sets Exist.ae apart is its dedication to sourcing auto parts directly from European Union manufacturers. This not only ensures the authenticity of the products but also guarantees that customers receive parts that adhere to the highest European standards, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.

The Importance of Genuine Spare Parts for Optimal Car Performance

The auto industry is rife with counterfeit and substandard parts, posing significant risks to vehicle performance and safety. These inferior products can lead to frequent breakdowns, higher maintenance costs, and even jeopardize the safety of the vehicle’s occupants. Recognizing these challenges, Exist.ae has made it its mission to provide only genuine spare parts. By partnering with reputable manufacturers and implementing rigorous quality checks, Exist.ae ensures that every product listed on its platform is authentic and of the highest quality.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Ordering Spare Parts on Exist.ae

Ordering auto parts online can be daunting, especially for first-time users. However, Exist.ae has streamlined this process to make it as intuitive as possible. Start by entering your vehicle’s VIN code or selecting its make and model. Once done, you can browse through the relevant product categories and add items to your cart. Before checking out, you can compare products, read descriptions, and even check customer reviews. And if you’re ever in doubt, Exist.ae offers expert advice and customer support to guide you through the process, ensuring you get the perfect part for your vehicle.

The Future of Car Maintenance in the UAE

As technology continues to evolve and the UAE grows as an automotive hub, the auto parts industry is set for a revolution. Online platforms like Exist.ae are at the forefront of this change, offering customers unparalleled convenience and choice. With features like AI-driven product recommendations, virtual mechanic consultations, and augmented reality parts visualization on the horizon, Exist.ae is poised to redefine car maintenance in the UAE.

Customer Testimonials: Real Stories of Satisfaction with Exist.ae

The true testament to Exist.ae’s excellence lies in the stories of its satisfied customers. From professionals to everyday car enthusiasts, the platform has garnered rave reviews for its product range, delivery speed, and customer service. Many applaud the platform’s transparency, especially in addressing concerns and resolving issues. These testimonials underscore Exist.ae’s commitment to customer satisfaction and its drive to continuously improve and innovate.

Exploring the Specialized Categories: Oils & Fluids, Wheels & Tires, and Audio & Electronics

Exist.ae isn’t just about spare parts; it’s a holistic platform catering to all automotive needs. Dive deep into specialized categories like Oils & Fluids, where you can find premium lubricants and coolants. Explore the Wheels & Tires section for the latest in alloy rims and high-performance tires. Or satiate your tech cravings in the Audio & Electronics section, boasting the latest in-car entertainment and security systems. Each category is curated by experts, ensuring customers get the best products tailored to their needs.

In conclusion, Exist.ae is more than just an online auto parts store; it’s a revolution in the way we perceive car maintenance and shopping in the UAE. With its vast product range, commitment to quality, and focus on customer satisfaction, Exist.ae is setting new benchmarks in the industry.