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DiBenedetto departing Rackley W.A.R. following 2023 Truck Series season

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Kirk Schroll for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Matt DiBenedetto took to social media to announce that he will not be returning to Rackley W.A.R. for the 2024 NASCAR season.

The news comes as the 32-year-old DiBenedetto from Grass Valley, California, is currently competing in his second season with the organization in the Craftsman Truck Series. Having made the 2023 Truck Series Playoffs, DiBenedetto is currently situated in 10th place in the Playoff standings and is 20 points below the top-eight cutline to transfer to the Round of 8 entering the Round of 10 finale that will occur next weekend at Kansas Speedway.

The following message features DiBenedetto’s statement on X that depicts his planned departure from Rackley W.A.R. at season’s end and reflection while planning his future.

DiBenedetto joined Rackley W.A.R. as a full-time competitor prior to the 2022 NASCAR season. By then, he was also set to embark in his first full-time stint in the Truck Series after spending the previous five seasons in the NASCAR Cup Series. During his first season, he missed the Playoffs, but scored his first career victory at Talladega Superspeedway in October, which marked his first win across NASCAR’s top three national touring series and the first ever for Rackley W.A.R. He also recorded a total of seven top-10 results during the 23-race schedule before finishing in 13th place in the final standings.

This season, he has achieved 10 top-10 results, 14 laps led and an average-finishing result of 14.8 through 18-scheduled events. His current best on-track result is a third-place run at North Wilkesboro Speedway in May as he pursues his first victory of the season.

Having made a current total 41 starts in the Truck Series, DiBenedetto has also made 69 career starts in the Xfinity Series and 248 in the Cup Series, where he has notched 50 top-10 career finishes between all three series.

Plans for DiBenedetto and Rackley W.A.R. for the 2024 season remain to be foreseen. In the meantime, the duo will return to action at Kansas Speedway on September 8 as they aim to keep their championship hopes for this season alive. The event’s broadcast time is scheduled to occur at 9 p.m. ET on FS1.

Kaulig Racing Weekly Advance | Darlington Raceway

By
Official Release
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Cook Out Southern 500
Darlington Raceway
NASCAR Cup Series (NCS)
Sunday, September 3 at 6:00 p.m. EDT on USA

  • Kaulig Racing has made six NCS starts at Darlington Raceway and has earned one top five and two top-10 finishes.
  • So far in the 2023 NCS season, Kaulig Racing has earned two top fives, nine top-10 finishes and led 37 laps.

AJ Allmendinger, No. 16 Action Industries Camaro ZL1

  • AJ Allmendinger has made 12 NCS starts at Darlington Raceway and has an average finish of 22.9.
  • So far in the 2023 NCS season, Allmendinger has led 17 laps and earned two top five and five top-10 finishes.

“Darlington is a place that I’ve had success at in the Xfinity car. Our first race there this year in the Cup car was not as good as we hoped, but we’ve improved our race cars since then so I’m looking forward to getting back there and seeing what we have. We’ll use these next 10 races to build momentum and continue to get better as a team.” – AJ Allmendinger on Darlington Raceway

Justin Haley, No. 31 LeafFilter Gutter Protection Camaro ZL1

  • Justin Haley has made five NCS starts at Darlington Raceway, earning a best finish of third and a second-best finish of eighth with Kaulig Racing.
  • So far in the 2023 NCS season, Haley has earned one top five and five top-10 finishes with a best qualifying effort of third.
  • Haley’s best finish of the season came from his runner-up finish in the first-ever race at the Chicago Street Course where he led 23 laps, the most he has led in a single race.
  • After completing the 2023 Coca-Cola 600 and Alsco Uniforms 300, Haley now holds the record for the most NASCAR National Series miles completed in a single day by any driver in NASCAR history.

“Darlington has slowly become one of my favorite race tracks. We’ve has some really good runs there, including a third place last year and a top 10 this past spring. I’m excited to get to a track where we can really get after it and race hard.” Justin Haley on Darlington Raceway

Sport Clips Haircuts VFW Help A Hero 200
Darlington Raceway
NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS)
Saturday, September 2nd at 3:30 p.m. EDT on USA

  • Kaulig Racing has made 23 NXS starts at Darlington Raceway, earning one win, five top five and 10 top-10 finishes. The team has started from the pole twice and led 136 laps at Darlington.
  • So far in the 2023 NXS season, the team has earned four wins, six pole awards, 17 top fives, 38 top-10 finishes and led 553 laps.
  • The Sports Clips Haircuts VFW Help a Hero 200 will mark start Nos. 498, 499, and 500 for Kaulig Racing in the NXS.

Kyle Busch, No. 10 LA Golf Chevrolet Camaro

  • Kyle Busch has made 12 NXS starts at Darlington Raceway, earning five pole awards, two wins, seven top five and eight top-10 finishes. Busch has also led 509 laps at Darlington.
  • In his three starts with Kaulig Racing in 2023, Busch has earned one top five and a top-10 finish.
  • Throughout his NXS career. Busch has amassed 102 wins, 70 pole awards, 226 top fives, 265 top-10 finishes and 20095-laps led.

“Darlington is going to be my final Xfinity Series race I get to run with Kaulig. They won there earlier this year with Kyle Larson behind the wheel. I’d like to think that I could go out there and win there too. Kyle is so good at driving a loose car and I know he was really loose for most of the day and I’ve been loose in the Kaulig car for the majority of the races that I’ve ran this year. I was looking forward to Charlotte, and didn’t get my chance to run there, but it’s going to be neat to close out the season and see how far those guys have come. I feel like they’ve made some good improvements throughout the season. That 10 car has been fast, they’ve won some races with about all their drivers except me, so we’ve got to get out there and get one.” – Kyle Busch on Darlington Raceway

Daniel Hemric, No. 11 Cirkul Chevrolet Camaro

  • Daniel Hemric has made nine NXS starts at Darlington Raceway where he has earned one top five and three top-10 finishes. Hemric has led 56 laps at Darlington.
  • Hemric currently sits eighth in the NXS standings and has earned five top five and 12 top-10 finishes so far in the 2023 season.

“Darlington is a race track that all the drivers get excited about, and I fall right in that category. It takes a lot of patience, thinking ahead and trying to be methodical about what you want your racecar to feel like when you end practice to begin the race. Then, it comes to risk vs reward with how close you want to run to the wall. It takes something different to be good on the short run or good on the long run. I am excited to go there and try to put ourselves in position to have a good weekend. We look to continue to build as we get close to the playoffs.” – Daniel Hemric on Darlington Raceway

Chandler Smith, No. 16 Quick Tie Products Chevrolet Camaro

  • Chandler Smith will make his second NXS start at Darlington Raceway in the Sport Clips Haircuts VFW Help A Hero 200.
  • Smith currently sits ninth in the NXS point standings with one win, five top five and nine top-10 finishes.

“I felt like we were gaining speed in the few laps we ran at Darlington back in May. Our one-lap speed was good, but it was a really hot day and we pushed hard, killing the tires early. Then we didn’t get a chance to move back up into the top 10 after getting wrecked. We’re taking what we learned then and will hopefully build off it this weekend.” – Chandler Smith on Darlington Raceway  

 
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 an all-star lineup, the No. 11 Chevrolet driven by Daniel Hemric, and the No. 16 Chevrolet driven by Chandler Smith. To learn more about the team, visit kauligracing.com.

NHRA AT INDIANAPOLIS: Team Chevy Race Advance

By
Official Release
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CHEVROLET IN NHRA
2023 DODGE POWER BROKERS NHRA U.S. NATIONALS
LUCAS OIL INDIANAPOLIS RACEWAY PARK
CLERMONT, INDIANA
TEAM CHEVY RACE ADVANCE
SEPTEMBER 1-4, 2023

CHEVROLET LOOKS TO GO BIG AT THE BIG GO IN INDIANAPOLIS

DETROIT (August 30, 2023) – The biggest event that’s circled on many calendars in professional drag racing, the Dodge Power Brokers NHRA U.S. Nationals, returns this weekend with Chevrolet drivers and teams looking to capture glory and the Wally trophy while solidifying their spot in NHRA history.

Erica Enders, driver of the Johnson’s Horsepower Garage Melling Chevrolet Camaro SS Pro Stock car for Elite Motorsports, is just one victory away from surpassing Angelle Sampey (Pro Stock Motorcycle, Top Alcohol) to become the winningest woman in NHRA history. Currently with 45 Pro Stock wins and one Super Gas victory, Enders stands to further make her mark known as one of the top racers in drag racing on its biggest stage.

“Rolling into ‘The Big Go’ will always feel different,” said Enders. “The significance of the U.S. Nationals will never be lost on me regardless of how many times we race it or win it. The timing of the biggest race of the year couldn’t be better for us right now. Momentum is swinging in our favor, and our climb from 15th in points at the beginning of the season to fifth shows the tenacity of this Elite Motorsports team. We’ve won three U.S. Nationals titles together as a team, and if you ask us, a fourth win at Indy is exactly what the story of our 2023 championship run needs. As always, my money is on us to snag our third Wally of the season with points-and-a-half right before the Countdown points reset. I couldn’t be more excited to be headed to ‘The Big Go’.”

Greg Anderson, driver of the HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro SS Pro Stock car for KB Titan Racing, may be just one of many challengers for Enders she’ll face this weekend, and enters this year’s U.S. Nationals as both defending winner and No. 1 qualifier after topping the leaderboard in 2022 after qualifying and racing to the winner’s circle. Additionally, Dallas Glenn, driver of the RAD Torque Systems Chevrolet Camaro SS Pro Stock car for KB Titan Racing, is on a hot streak this season, earning his fourth Pro Stock victory most recently at Brainerd International Raceway of his eight total career victories. Additionally leading the NHRA Championship standings heading into the points-and-a-half race weekend at Indianapolis, Glenn stands to kick off his NHRA Countdown to the Championship run with strong momentum his side towards Chevrolet’s potential 28th title as a manufacturer.

For John Force Racing’s Brittany Force, driver of the Flav-R-Pack/Monster Energy Chevrolet Top Fuel dragster, looks to not only defend her No. 1 qualifier from 2022 this year and repeat the same feat but also race her way to the winner’s circle for her first time in 2023 after racing to runner-up in Topeka. A momentum shift would benefit B. Force and the team, and with points-and-a-half on the line at Indianapolis ahead of the start of the Countdown, along with a win, could turn her season around as she looks to fight for her fourth championship.

“Heading into the biggest race of the season, the U.S. Nationals in Indy this weekend and we’re sitting fourth in points. We’ve come very close to winning this event with two runner-up finishes but this Flav-R-Pac/Monster Energy team is looking to seal the deal and end up in the winner’s circle this year,” B. Force said. “It’s the final race before points reset so our team needs to grab as many points as we can to close the gap as much as possible. It’s points and a half with an extra qualifying session so we’re going to try and really take advantage. Our goals haven’t changed, we want to qualify top five, and have clean and solid passes every run. We’re looking for a winner’s circle finish.”

With five rounds of qualifying before Monday’s eliminations on Labor Day, the Funny Car drivers of John Force Racing of Robert Hight and John Force, look to catapult to the top of the ladder sheets while also seeking sweet victory.

“When you have a crew chief like Jimmy Prock and a team that has won championships, you just believe in them. And I do, I believe in this whole Cornwell Tools team and I’m doing my part, so I know it’s coming. We’re chasing more wins. I know they’re coming, and they’ll be coming at just the right time. We know it’s going to be a fight, but we have the opportunity this weekend to make up some ground and give ourselves the best position possible going into the Countdown,” Hight said. “We tested Monday in Brainerd to get this Cornwell Tools Chevy where it needs to be for the biggest race of the year and into the Countdown. I’m confident, this team is confident. We’re just ready to get out there.”

Returning to competition this weekend, the FlexJet Factory Stock Showdown takes the stage, with Chevrolet also seeking a repeat win. David Barton, defending champion and winner of the 2022 U.S. Nationals, looks to race to the win light in his Chevrolet COPO Camaro in Indianapolis.

Finally, NHRA’s new Factory X presented by Holley category takes to the track this weekend, facing off with Greg Stanfield and Jim Cowan representing Chevrolet in their 630-hp Magnuson 2.65-L supercharger-powered COPO Camaros. Four cars are entered in the new and budding category, and Chevrolet stands to potentially pick up it’s first win in competition.

The 2023 Dodge Power Brokers U.S. Nationals from Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park airs first with Friday’s qualifying broadcasting Sunday, Sept. 3 at 11:30 a.m. ET on FOX Sports 1 (FS1). Saturday’s qualifying from Indianapolis airs also Sunday at 5:30 p.m. ET on FS1. The Pep Boys NHRA Funny Car All-Star Callout airs Sunday at 4 p.m. ET on FOX. Finals from the U.S. Nationals air Monday at 12 p.m. ET on FS1, and 2 p.m. ET on FOX. Coverage streaming live throughout the weekend can be found through NHRA.tv, and is available via AppleTV, Android TV, and Roku devices.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING:

Austin Prock, driver of the Rocky Mountain Twist / Montana Brands Chevrolet Top Fuel dragster for John Force Racing:

“I’m excited for the biggest race of the year. This Montana Brand / Rocky Mountain Twist team is putting in the work to make sure we can battle with the rest of them. We will have a few new faces on our team this weekend, but we are not new to battling adversity. These small setbacks only make us stronger as a team. I believe we have a strong chance at leaving here with the hardware.”

John Force, driver of the PEAK Antifreeze and Coolant Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car for John Force Racing:

“Busy weekend for the U.S. Nationals, always is, as it should be. Biggest race of the year, biggest drag race in the world. We have to act like it too. There’s a lot of opportunities to celebrate with the Mission Foods Challenge and the Pep Boys Callout. That’s before we even get to race day. This PEAK Chevy, we’ll be looking to get the job done for all our sponsors. A lot of them in town for our sponsor summit earlier in the week. It’s going to be exciting, a great show for the fans. I’m looking forward to it.”

Camrie Caruso, driver of the Tequila Comisario Chevrolet Camaro Pro Stock car for KB Titan Racing:

“The U.S. Nationals is the biggest race of the year, and it leads right into the Countdown, so you want to build some positive momentum. The competition has been so tough this year we really want to make some good runs in qualifying so we can give ourselves the best chance on race day. I am excited about getting five qualifying sessions because I think we can get a lot of good data for this Tequila Comisario Chevrolet Camaro team.”

Do you look at Indianapolis differently with it being the U.S. Nationals, or is this a “run your race” type of event?

“You try and think of every race as being the same, but Indy definitely has a different feel. Last year during my rookie year we had a lot going on and honestly Indy was a long race. I feel a lot more confident this year. I am with KB Titan Racing which has been great. I have a better idea of what to expect from a longer race weekend. I really feel good about our chances. We had a good race in Brainerd and just lost a close race to Kyle (Koretsky) in the second round.”

On the points reset after Indianapolis in the Countdown, and how she feels about racing for her first potential NHRA Pro Stock Championship…

“After Indy when the points are reset, we would love to be just a few rounds out of first place. We’ll have six races in the playoffs to get some more wins and race for our first championship. I don’t want to think about that too much because really getting the win at the U.S. Nationals is my focus right now. I feel very comfortable in my race car and I can’t wait to get to the track.”

Erica Enders, driver of the Johnson’s Horsepower Garage Melling Chevrolet Camaro SS Pro Stock car for Elite Motorsports:

“Rolling into ‘The Big Go’ will always feel different. The significance of the U.S. Nationals will never be lost on me regardless of how many times we race it or win it. The timing of the biggest race of the year couldn’t be better for us right now. Momentum is swinging in our favor, and our climb from 15th in points at the beginning of the season to fifth shows the tenacity of this Elite Motorsports team. We’ve won three U.S. Nationals titles together as a team, and if you ask us, a fourth win at Indy is exactly what the story of our 2023 championship run needs. As always, my money is on us to snag our third Wally of the season with points-and-a-half right before the Countdown points reset. I couldn’t be more excited to be headed to ‘The Big Go’.”

TEAM CHEVY BY THE NUMBERS:

1,436: Round wins for John Force (1st all-time).

611: Round wins for Robert Hight; 13th all-time. Cruz Pedregon (Funny Car), sits 12th, with 622.

375: Number of wins in Pro Stock since 1970; 256 won in the Chevrolet Camaro body.

166: Number of career No. 1 qualifiers for John Force (1st all-time).

157: Number of Chevrolet Racing Funny Car wins since 1967.

80: Number of career No. 1 qualifiers for Robert Hight (6th all-time).

77: Number of Chevrolet Racing Funny Car wins with the Camaro body.

47: Number of career No. 1 qualifiers for Brittany Force.

27: Number of NHRA championships Chevrolet holds as a manufacturer since entering the first in 1966. No other manufacturer has won it more than Chevrolet.

24: Wins by John Force in a Chevrolet-bodied Funny Car.

18: Number of Pro Stock championships.

20: Chevrolet career Top Fuel wins in NHRA.

16: Number of Chevrolet career wins by Brittany Force.

7: Number of Funny Car driver championships.

2: Number of Top Fuel driver championships.

UPCOMING NHRA MILESTONES:

950: Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) is second all-time with 925 elimination round wins. He could reach 950 round wins with a decent run in the 18-race schedule.

621: Robert Hight achieved 611 Funny Car elimination wins in Chicago to rank 13th on the all-time NHRA list; Cruz Pedregon (Funny Car) sits 12th with 622.

447: By qualifying for his next race, Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) will extend his NHRA record from 446 to 447 consecutive race day appearances. His first appearance came in 2002 at Pomona 2, and he holds the longest career qualifying streak in NHRA.

138: Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) ranks third on the NHRA all-time list with 122 No. 1 qualifiers. He will tie Warren Johnson (Pro Stock, 138) for second to John Force (165) on the list.

272: By qualifying for his next race, Robert Hight will extend his NHRA record to 272 consecutive race day appearances. His first appearance came in 2010 at Pomona 2, and he currently sits seventh in career qualifying streaks in NHRA (Doug Kalitta is sixth at 281).

65: Robert Hight moved into the top-10 in 10th on the all-time NHRA victory list with his win in Pomona 1 with 63. Jeg Coughlin Jr. (Pro Stock, retired) is next ninth on list with 65.

47: Erica Enders has 46 career Pro Stock victories (all with Chevrolet, first win coming at Chicago, 2012 and last win at Las Vegas 2, 2022). Angelle Sampey (Pro Stock Motorcycle) and Enders are tied as the all-time NHRA female leader with 46.

18: Brittany Force (16 Top Fuel career wins) will move past Shirley Muldowney (18 wins) into third on the NHRA all-time victory list for females. Erica Enders (Pro Stock, 46) and Angelle Sampey (Pro Stock Motorcycle, 46) are ahead.

6: Erica Enders (Pro Stock) could tie Warren Johnson (6 Pro Stock championships) for second on the class list. The same holds for Greg Anderson. Bob Glidden is the leader with 10.

3: Brittany Force (Top Fuel, 2 championships) would tie Shirley Muldowney (Top Fuel) and Angelle Sampey (Pro Stock Motorcycle) for second on the NHRA all-time championship list by females with another title in 2023. Erica Enders (Pro Stock, 5) is the leader.

About Chevrolet

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands. Chevrolet models include electric and fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

Toyota Racing – Weekly Preview – 08.30.23

By
Official Release
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This Week in Motorsports: August 29-September 4, 2023

· NCS/NXS: Darlington Raceway – September 2-3
· NHRA: Indianapolis Raceway Park – September 4
· ARCA: DuQuoin State Fairgrounds – September 3

PLANO, Texas (August 30, 2023) – It’s a special motorsports weekend as NASCAR takes on the annual Labor Day Classic at Darlington Raceway, while NHRA has the biggest race of the year – the U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis.

NASCAR National Series – NCS | NXS

Truex ready to battle for second title… Martin Truex Jr. clinched his second regular season championship on Saturday in Daytona. The last time Truex won the regular season title in 2017, he also walked away with the overall championship. Truex starts his Playoff push as the no. 2 seed. He had a great run going in the Spring – winning the pole and leading 145 laps before being caught up in a crash. Truex has two wins in Darlington, including this race in 2016.

Wallace experiences Playoffs for the first time … Bubba Wallace is making his Playoff debut after a clutch performance in Daytona on Saturday night. Wallace heads into Darlington as the no. 16 seed. He has been very good at Darlington Raceway recently, with back-to-back strong runs. Wallace earned a track-best fifth-place run in May.

Hamlin double duty… Denny Hamlin heads into Darlington as the no. 3 seed in the Cup Series Playoffs. Hamlin, who will run the Xfinity Series race as well on Saturday, has four Cup Series victories in Darlington, including in this race two years ago. Hamlin also owns five Xfinity Series wins at Darlington.

Nemechek desires final push for regular season title… John Hunter Nemechek sits just 28 points out of the championship lead heading into Darlington. Nemechek has had impressive runs in the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Darlington – as he has three consecutive top-10 finishes at the track. Nemechek also won the Truck Series race at Darlington last season.

Heim makes fourth career Xfinity Series start… Corey Heim will make his fourth career NASCAR Xfinity Series start on Saturday in the No. 24 Toyota GR Supra for Sam Hunt Racing (SHR). Heim, who clinched his Round of 8 berth in the NASCAR Truck Series Playoffs on Sunday in Milwaukee, earned his first career Xfinity Series top-10 finish in the spring race at Darlington, as part of the first double top-10 weekend for SHR.

NASCAR Regional Series – ARCA

Love continues ARCA domination… Jesse Love finished second in Milwaukee on Sunday to extend his streak to 13 consecutive top-five finishes in ARCA Menards Series competition. Love currently leads the ARCA championship standings by 120 points. The 18-year-old ran at DuQuoin last season and finished second after leading 15 laps.

NHRA – Top Fuel | Funny Car

Toyota holds down top three in Top Fuel… Justin Ashley, Steve Torrence and Antron Brown are leading the pack in Top Fuel as Toyota-partnered drivers and teams hold down the top-three spots in the Top Fuel point standings. The three drivers have won the last four Top Fuel races with Ashley picking up wins in Sonoma and Topeka, Torrence earning Toyota’s 200th NHRA victory in Seattle and Brown delivering most recently in Brainerd. Brown also won the U.S. Nationals last season.

Capps looks for second straight U.S. Nationals win with special scheme… Ron Capps finally got his long-awaited U.S. Nationals win last season, defeating a tire-smoking Robert Hight in the final round. Capps will look for his second straight U.S. Nationals victory with a special scheme to highlight drag racing legend and his former owner, Don Prudhomme.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs more than 63,000 people in North America who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 45 million cars and trucks at our 13 manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 14th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 24 electrified options.

Betting Markets Unleashed: Diverse Options in Online Sports Wagering

By
SM
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Online sports wagering is not merely a contemporary fad but a booming industry in its own right. Statistics reveal that global online gambling market size is projected to reach $153.57 billion by 2030, with sports betting playing a significant role in this exponential growth.

The revolution is not just in the medium, but in the democratization of participation. Online sports betting has opened its doors to a global audience, erasing the geographical boundaries that once restricted engagement.

Enthusiasts from different corners of the world can now converge on digital platforms, sharing the common language of sports enthusiasm.

Traditional Betting vs. Online Sports Betting

In the past, betting was largely confined to physical locations like casinos and racetracks. The advent of online sports betting has revolutionized the industry, making it more accessible and convenient for enthusiasts.

Online bookmakers and sportsbooks have played a pivotal role in this transformation. With just a few clicks, enthusiasts can now engage in sports wagering through digital platforms offered by these online entities.

Exploring Popular Sports Betting Markets

As the canvas of sports betting expands, so do the markets available to enthusiasts. This section embarks on a journey through the most popular and foundational betting markets, shedding light on how they function and what makes them enticing.

  • Moneyline Bets: Moneyline bets are straightforward wagers on which team or individual will win a particular game or match.
  • Point Spread Bets: Point spread bets level the playing field by giving an advantage to the underdog and a handicap to the favorite.
  • Over/Under Bets (Totals): Over/Under bets, also known as totals, involve predicting whether the final score will be over or under a certain value.
  • Prop Bets (Proposition Bets): Prop bets allow bettors to wager on specific occurrences within a game, often unrelated to the final outcome.
  • Parlay Bets: Parlay bets combine multiple individual bets into a single wager, offering higher potential payouts.
  • Futures Bets: Futures bets involve predicting outcomes that will be determined in the distant future, such as championship winners.

Emerging Trends in Betting Markets

In a landscape that refuses to stand still, emerging trends reshape the contours of sports wagering. These latest developments are capturing the attention of both seasoned bettors and newcomers alike:

In-Play Betting (Live Betting)

In-Play Betting, also known as Live Betting, unfolds in real-time, allowing bettors to immerse themselves in the ebb and flow of a game. The dynamic nature of sports is mirrored in this market, enabling enthusiasts to place bets as events transpire on the field, court, or arena.

E-Sports Betting

The convergence of technology and competitive gaming has birthed E-Sports Betting, a phenomenon that mirrors the traditional sports betting landscape. As professional video gaming gains recognition, enthusiasts can now engage with E-Sports Betting, navigating a digital arena filled with its own stars and narratives.

Novelty Bets

Novelty Bets extend an open invitation to unconventional and often whimsical wagering. From predicting the outcome of entertainment awards ceremonies to foreseeing political decisions, this market celebrates the diverse spectrum of events that capture public attention.

Factors Influencing Betting Market Dynamics

The ebb and flow of sports events are influenced by a myriad of factors that extend their reach to betting markets. These variables contribute to the dynamic nature of sports wagering:

Team and Player Performance

At the heart of every bet lies the variable of performance. The ebbs and flows of team dynamics, coupled with individual brilliance, intertwine to shape the odds and betting trends. Factors such as recent form, historical matchups, and player availability weigh heavily on bettors’ considerations.

Weather Conditions and Venue

Nature, often unpredictable, can exert its influence on the course of a game. Weather conditions can be a game-changer, impacting strategies and player performance. Moreover, the venue itself can harbor advantages or disadvantages, further enhancing the complexity of betting predictions.

News and Events

The fluidity of sports is mirrored in the unpredictability of news and events. Injuries, trades, or unforeseen developments can drastically alter the landscape of a match. A piece of breaking news can send ripples through the betting world, prompting quick recalibrations of strategies.

The Role of Data Analytics in Betting

Data analytics has emerged as a formidable ally in the world of sports wagering. This section unveils how statistical analysis and machine learning models contribute to informed decision-making.

Statistical Analysis

The marriage of sports and data analytics has given rise to Statistical Analysis, a practice that empowers bettors with insights derived from historical performance. This methodological approach embraces the power of numbers, enabling informed decisions based on patterns and trends.

Machine Learning Models

The advent of Machine Learning has introduced a new dimension to sports betting. Complex algorithms process copious amounts of data, identifying hidden correlations and offering predictive models that transcend human intuition. Machine Learning Models epitomize the marriage of technology and wagering.

Ensuring Responsible Betting Practices

As the allure of betting grows, responsible practices have assumed utmost importance. Online platforms diligently provide tools and resources to promote responsible betting.

Self-imposed limits, cool-off periods, and exclusion options are a testament to the industry’s commitment to maintaining a safe and enjoyable betting environment.

Conclusion

As the final whistle blows on this journey through the multifaceted world of online sports wagering, we find ourselves at the intersection of tradition and innovation.

The tapestry of betting markets offers something for every kind of enthusiast, from the strategic mind to the imaginative spirit.

With technology as its driving force, sports betting continues to evolve, inviting us to embrace the future of uncertainty with open arms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do parlay bets work?

Parlay bets involve combining multiple individual bets into a single wager for higher potential payouts.

Q: What is in-play betting?

In-play betting, also known as live betting, allows bettors to place wagers while a game is in progress.

Q: Are e-sports betting markets popular?

Yes, e-sports betting has gained popularity, allowing enthusiasts to bet on professional video gaming competitions.

Q: Can weather conditions affect betting outcomes?

Yes, weather conditions can impact player performance and match outcomes, influencing betting strategies.

Q: How can I ensure responsible betting?

Online betting platforms provide tools like self-imposed limits and resources for responsible betting to prevent addiction.

Motorcraft/Quick Lane Team Gearing Up For Big Darlington Weekend

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Official Release
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Harrison Burton and the No. 21 Motorcraft/Quick Lane team are headed to Darlington Raceway for Sunday’s Labor Day weekend classic with Jeremy Bullins back as crew chief and long-time crew member and friend William “Jabo” Fulp being honored with his name above the right door of the No. 21 Mustang.

Bullins, who got his racing start with the Wood Brothers and served as crew chief of the No. 21 from 2015-2017, is returning to the team from the No. 2 car at Team Penske having swapped jobs with Brian Wilson, who led the No. 21 team for the past two seasons. Wilson is taking over Bullins’ old post.

“First of all I’m excited to be back with the Wood Brothers and the iconic 21 car,” Bullins said. “It always feels like home for me, being where I got my start in the sport.

“Obviously none of us have had the season we were hoping for but I’m confident we can hit the reset button and use these last 10 races as a head start on the future.”

Bullins helped deliver the Woods their 99th Cup win, at Pocono Raceway in 2017, and hopes to help them add at least one more.

“One of my biggest disappointments was that we never got that 100th win for the Wood Brothers,” he said. “We will do our best to make that happen.”

Fulp, who has been working with the Woods for more than 25 years, also owns a wrecker service and initially was called on numerous times by the team to move cars, including the No. 21.

He was the one the Woods called when Neil Bonnett wrecked at Daytona in 1989 and the team needed a back-up hauled to Daytona in a hurry.

Eventually he became a full-time team employee, handling a variety of duties, before retiring from his full-time position.

“He’s a common-sense guy,” Eddie Wood said. “If we have an impossible job, we call Jabo.”

When Eddie’s son Jon Wood started his driving career, his dad often was away tending to the No. 21 Ford.

Jabo was the one who hauled Jon Wood’s race cars all over the Southeast. But, as Jon attests, he was much more than just a hauler driver. He was like a father and best friend rolled into one.

“Jabo acted as a fill-in father type role during my early racing days,” Wood said, adding that Jabo also came to the rescue when he wound up in a ditch somewhere after an episode of horseplay. “Jabo is that guy you can call with any sort of problem, utter the words ‘Uh, Jabo, you ain’t gonna believe this one.’

“He laughs and says, ‘OK, I’ll be right there, say no more.’

“He really did act as a sort of father-type figure for me for quite a number of years. I was racing, and in those days it was a fairly demanding schedule. My dad couldn’t be there most of the time, so it was basically up to Jabo to fill in and make sure i did what i was supposed to, but more importantly that I didn’t do what I wasn’t supposed to.

“And he did a fine job at both.”

As Jon’s aunt Kim Wood Hall said in nominating Jabo for recognition at Darlington: “He started out as a family friend, but became more like family instead.”

Practice for the Labor Day Weekend at Darlington Presented by Crown Royal is set for Saturday at 12:35 p.m. Eastern Time and will be followed by qualifying at 1:20.

Sunday’s 367-lap, Southern 500 is set to get the green flag just after 6 p.m. Stage breaks are planned for Laps 115 and 230.

USA Network will carry the TV coverage all weekend.

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.

JR Motorsports – NXS Darlington II Preview

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Official Release
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JR MOTORSPORTS TEAM PREVIEW:
TRACK: Darlington Raceway
RACE: Sport Clips Haircuts VFW Help A Hero 200 (147 laps / 200.8 miles)
DATE: Saturday, Sept. 2, 2023

Broadcast Information – TV: 3:30 p.m. ET on USA / Radio: 3 p.m. ET on MRN and Sirius XM Ch. 90

Sam Mayer
No. 1 Accelerate Professional Talent Solutions Chevrolet

  • Sam Mayer will make his fifth start at Darlington Raceway this weekend, where he has raced his way to one top-five and two top-10 efforts, including finishes of 11th or better in his last three starts there.
  • With 15 top 10s this season, Mayer is tied for third most among NXS regulars and leads all JRM drivers.
  • In 32 starts on tracks measuring 1-2 miles in length, Mayer has scored eight top-five and 17 top-10 finishes, with his best of second coming at Fontana early this season.
  • The No. 1 Chevy Camaro will return to the colors of Accelerate Professional Talent Solutions this weekend at the track “Too Tough to Tame.”

Josh Berry
No. 8 Bass Pro Shops/TRACKER Boats & ATV’s Chevrolet

  • Josh Berry’s best finish in five starts at Darlington is second, coming in 2021. Berry dueled with teammate Justin Allgaier for the win in the closing laps in that race.
  • In his five starts at Darlington, Berry’s best start is second, coming in the spring of 2022.
  • With the cutoff for the NXS Playoffs just two races away, Berry and the No. 8 team will look to lock up a postseason berth this weekend. Berry and the team are currently sixth in the series standings, 110 points above the cut line.
  • Berry has made 41 starts at tracks measuring 1-2 miles in length in the NXS and has scored four wins, 13 top fives and 23 top 10s.

Brandon Jones
No. 9 Menards/Klearvue Cabinets Chevrolet

  • Brandon Jones has made 11 starts in the NXS at “The Lady in Black” and has compiled one win, two top-five and five top10 finishes. Jones’ win came during the 2020 season after taking the lead with two laps remaining.
  • Three of Jones’ five career wins have come at the next pair of tracks on the NXS schedule (Darlington and Kansas).
  • He has made 126 starts on tracks measuring 1-2 miles in length in the NXS and has recorded four wins, 18 top fives and 55 top 10s.
  • Jason Burdett has gone to Victory Lane at Darlington with JRM as crew chief of its No. 7 team in 2021 and 2022.

Justin Allgaier
No. 7 Hellmann’s Chevrolet

  • Justin Allgaier heads to “The Lady in Black” fresh off his second victory of the season, which he won in nail-biting fashion last weekend at Daytona International Speedway. With the win, Allgaier advanced to second in the NXS standings (-27) with just two races remaining in the regular season.
  • In 16 career NXS starts at Darlington, Allgaier has scored two wins, seven top fives and 12 top 10s.
  • Allgaier has been victorious in each of the last two seasons at Darlington, going to Victory Lane in the spring of 2021 and 2022.

Driver Quotes

“I am looking forward to getting back to Darlington this weekend. Daytona got us once again but I know we still have great momentum going that we can take to “the Lady in Black” and hopefully put this Accelerate Professional Talent Solutions Chevrolet back in Victory Lane.” – Sam Mayer

“I’m really looking forward to getting to Darlington this weekend. We finished second here in the spring and I can’t think of a better place to come to off of a win than here.We’ve had extremely strong cars the last couple of years here, and I feel very confident that our Hellmann’s Chevrolet will be just as fast again on Saturday. Hopefully, we can go out and execute the way we have been and continue to close that gap on the point lead and the regular season championship. We know what is ahead of us and what we have to do, now we just need to make it happen.” – Justin Allgaier

“We’ve run really well at Darlington in the past, and we need to run that way this weekend. We would like to start the playoffs with some momentum, and a win or a good finish here would help that along. Darlington is tough, but we’ve been second here so we proved we can do it. I knowthe Bass Pro Shops/TRACKER Boats & ATVs Chevrolet is up to it and so is our No. 8 team.” – Josh Berry

“We were working our way towards the front when we visited Darlington a few months ago, but got caught up in someone else’s mess that ended our day. I know Jason (Burdett, crew chief) and this entire No. 9 team are working extremely hard to make sure we have that speed and a little more for this weekend. Darlington has been good to me in the past, and hopefully we can be in contention for the win at the end.” – Brandon Jones

JRM Team Updates

  • JR Motorsports at Darlington: JR Motorsports has competed at the historic “Lady in Black” a combined 63 times in the NXS. In those starts at the 1.366-mile egg-shaped speedway, the organization has recorded six wins, 20 top fives and 40 top 10s. JRM has won four of the last five races at Darlington Raceway and holds a winning percentage of 9.5 percent, the highest of any active track in the NXS for the organization.
  • Souvenir Rig: JRM drivers Justin Allgaier, Josh Berry, Brandon Jones and Sam Mayer will be signing autographs at the JR Motorsports / Legacy MC souvenir rig on Saturday, Sept. 2 from 1 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Booze Pops back with Jeremy Clements Racing at Darlington

By
Official Release
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Spartanburg, SC – Jeremy Clements Racing is ready to cool down the start of Labor Day weekend at the Lady in Black. As Booze Pops out of Charleston, SC, returns as primary sponsor at The Track Too Tough To Tame. The Sport Clips Haircuts VFW Help A Hero 200 will take place this Saturday, September, 2nd at Darlington Raceway.

“This last month has really been challenging for us and what better way to get back on track is here at our home track and with our great South Carolina partner Booze Pops,” said Clements.

“Having Woody and his team not only on the car but at the track to help the Fans cool down is going to make for a fun weekend. Plus, I can’t thank Woody enough for the tremendous support to JCR over the last three years as well as his dedication in giving back to our Veterans is unmatched. I can’t wait to take the #51 Booze Pops Chevy Hot Rod to the front,” Clements went on to say.

Joining Booze Pops as associate sponsors will be: RE Goodson, One Stop Convenience Stores, Fox Sports Spartanburg, Spartan Waste, Whitetail Smokeless, Matman Designs, ELITE Towing & Recovery LLC, E3 Spark Plugs, Mechanix Wear, Wix Filters, Carolina Driveline, Cometic and ZMAX

RACE PREVIEW

Track: Darlington Raceway
Race: Sport Clips 200
Date: Saturday, September 2, 2023
Broadcast Information – TV: 3:30 pm EST on USA

FAST FACTS

Best Start 12th – 5/2021
Best Finish 6th – 5/2021
17th career start at Darlington

JCR TEAM

Crew Chief: Mark Setzer
Manufacturer: Chevrolet
Engine: Clements Racing Engines
Twitter: @JClement51 @JCR_Clements51
Instagram: @jclements51 @jeremyclementsracing
Facebook: Jeremy Clements Racing

ABOUT BOOZE POPS

Booze Pops from Charleston, SC was the brainchild of Woodrow (Woody to his friends, and since you are reading this that means you too) Norris, a former US Army mechanic after a tour of duty in Iraq. He was at a friend’s birthday party where he was offered a popsicle infused with alcohol. Woody immediately wondered if anything like this was available on one of America’s favorite pastimes, an ice cream truck. After researching the market, Woody learned that no ice cream men were cool enough to pass out alcohol-infused popsicles and so Woody bought an ice cream truck.

On his first trip through a neighborhood, Woody wasn’t sure if his idea would be a hit, but when he returned for a second trip, he had everyone from Little League coaches to housewives lined up on street corners waiting on him, and Booze Pops has been bringing communities together ever since.

Booze Pops offers a menu based on customer-tested products of Adult Pops, Jello Shots, and ice cream for the kids.

They are available for corporate events, weddings, bachelor/bachelorette parties, birthday parties, block parties and more. Check them out at www.boozepop.com.

TPC Racing Secures a Pair of Race Wins in Dual Weekend of Competition at Circuit of The Americas and VIRginia International Raceway

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Official Release
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  • TPC Racing Competitive at VIR in Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America and Porsche Sprint Challenge North America by Yokohama at COTA
  • Monoflo International Driver Chloe Chambers Wins Two of Three Sprint Challenge Cayman Races at COTA to Extend TPC Racing’s Cayman GT4 Clubsport Team Championship Lead
  • David Williams Retakes Porsche Sprint Challenge 992 Am Class Championship Lead in No. TPC Racing No. 237 Mission BBQ Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
  • Shehan Chandrasoma Competitive at VIR in Renewed Partnership with Co-Driver Nikko Reger in the No. 20 TPC Racing/Lamborghini Austin Huracán Super Trofeo EVO2

JESSUP, Maryland (August 30, 2023) – TPC Racing and its lineup of four cars and five drivers put in a competitive performance in dual races last weekend at VIRginia International Raceway (VIR) and Circuit of The Americas (COTA). The No. 20 TPC Racing/Lamborghini Austin Huracán Super Trofeo EVO2 raced in the IMSA Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America doubleheader at VIR while a trio of Porsches carried the TPC Racing flag in the USAC Porsche Sprint Challenge event weekend at COTA.

The team’s top performer on the weekend was Chloe Chambers who rebounded from a fourth-place finish in Saturday’s opening round to win both Porsche Sprint Challenge Cayman races at COTA on Sunday in the TPC Racing No. 70 Monoflo International Cayman GT4 Clubsport.

The victories boost to seven the series-leading total of wins Chambers has secured this season and bolstered TPC Racing’s lead in the Cayman Pro-Am Team Championship with just the season finale weekend of competition at Indianapolis Motor Speedway remaining on the 2023 calendar. TPC Racing brings a 24-point lead in the standings to the Brickyard doubleheader, 577 – 553.

Chambers raced alongside at COTA Monoflo International teammate Tillman Schmid who drove his No. 77 Monoflo International Cayman GT4 Clubsport to a weekend-best finish of sixth in Sunday’s first race.

David Williams continued at COTA his bid for the Porsche Sprint Challenge 992 Am class driver championship. With top qualifying efforts, personal-best laps and top-five race finishes at COTA in his TPC Racing No. 237 Mission BBQ Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, Williams will come to the Indianapolis finale at the top of the 992 Am championship standings with 550 points, 14 clear of his nearest challenger.

At VIR, TPC Racing ran its second weekend of 2023 IMSA Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America competition with Shehan Chandrasoma, who reunited with teammate Nikko Reger for the weekend’s pair of 50-minute races.

A red flag kept Chandrasoma from posting a flying lap in qualifying for race one on Saturday, but that didn’t stop him and Reger from a charge from deep in the field to a top-five Pro-Am class finish.

The duo improved to second in Pro-Am in Sunday’s final race despite a contact incident on the opening race lap that sent Reger off course. Quickly rebounding, Reger continued in the race and joined closing driver Chandrasoma in an incredible charge to the front of the field.

Reger took the checkered flag second in the Pro-Am class but the TPC Racing team and its pair of young Super Trofeo talents soon realized the opening lap hit had serious implications.

The contact damaged and lowered the rear suspension enough that the No. 20 was unable to pass IMSA’s ride-height test in post race inspection. Although the infraction was not intentional, IMSA relegated the No. 20 team and drivers to the ninth and final finishing position in the final race results.

Despite the VIR disappointment, Chandrasoma still factors into 2023’s Pro-Am Championship standings as part of a five driver tie in fourth place with 56 points. Chandrasoma and the group trail the third-place driver by just five points.

Next up for TPC Racing is a pair of trips to Indianapolis. Chandrasoma, Reger and the No. 20 team compete in the Super Trofeo doubleheader that is part of the IMSA Battle on the Bricks Weekend at Indy, September 15 – 17.

The Porsche Sprint Challenge in turn makes its appearance at IMS as part of the 8 Hours of Indianapolis Intercontinental GT Challenge race weekend, October 5 – 7.

Harris Levitas, TPC Racing Director of Race Operations: “I am extremely proud of the entire TPC racing team, the crew at Circuit of the Americas with Porsche Sprint Challenge and then at Virginia International Raceway for the Lamborghini Super Trofeo series. Both teams did an amazing job putting competitive cars together. In the Sprint Challenge series we had Chloe Chambers with two wins over the weekend. After struggling through a couple of hurdles, she and the team got it together and pulled through for the victories. Tillman Schmid powered through a couple of setbacks but did have a good finish in Saturday’s second race, and David Williams did a fantastic job in 992 qualifying on the pole and setting some personal best times at Circuit of the Americas to retake the championship lead. At VIR the Lamborghini Super Trofeo team did a great job with the No. 20 Lamborghini Austin car with Shehan Chandrasoma and Nikko Reger. Both did an amazing job, just putting their heads down and doing it all right. In Race 1 we weren’t able to maximize that because in qualifying a red flag kept Shehan from being able to turn a flying lap. We started deep in the field but the guys never quit and finished fifth at the end. In Race 2, we were able to start the race in P3 and move forward from there. Nikko had a strong start but unfortunately got hit on the first lap in turn 4 that caused suspension damage to the car but he still continued to drive well. Shehan got in and did an amazing job driving the car from third to second. Unfortunately, due to damage sustained in the first lap incident, part of the left rear suspension on the car collapsed and we were assessed a post-race technical ride height penalty. We were dropped to the ninth and final finishing position for something that was basically out of our control.”

Statement on VIR Race 2 Penalty: “As a family run and established race and championship-winning team, TPC Racing competes with integrity and full respect for the rulebook and our competition. The fact that Shehan and the Chandrasoma family share those values of sportsmanship and fair competition is what attracted TPC Racing to their program, and we are proud to say Nikko fits right in with those values as well. The early contact incident in Sunday’s race altered the ride height of the No. 20 Lamborghini just enough for the car to not meet IMSA’s required specifications. It was completely unintentional and incredibly unfortunate, but TPC Racing has to accept IMSA’s decision and shift our focus to the remaining four races of the season. We did not start the race, or any other race for that matter in our team’s long history, with any intention of fielding a car not in full compliance with the rules. The infraction was the result of the in-race damage completely out of our control and ultimately will not detract from an otherwise great performance by Shehan, Nikko and the TPC Racing crew. We are proud to race with them all and now move forward to competing for four race wins on the final doubleheader weekends of the season at Indianapolis and Vallelunga.”

Chloe Chambers, Driver – No. 70 Monoflo International Cayman GT4 Clubsport: “So happy to get two wins Sunday after a P4 Saturday. We struggled with the setup at the beginning of the week, but the TPC Racing team worked hard at it and we got the results in the end! Thanks to them and Monoflo International for all of the support. Indianapolis Motor Speedway is up next in October for the season finale. The goal is to finish strong, win two more races and clinch the Porsche Sprint Challenge team championship for Monoflo and TPC!”

Shehan Chandrasoma, Driver – No. 20 TPC Racing/Lamborghini Austin Huracán Super Trofeo EVO2: “It was definitely an interesting one in qualifying one. When I went out, there was a red flag on the first lap so I didn’t get to do a good, timed lap before the tires were broken in and that put us all the way back for race one. We wound up finishing P5 in class, which is very good given where we started. For Sunday’s race we had a little better qualifying starting position but Nikko got punted out on the first lap on the first corner, so that put us significantly behind. But he kept is head in the game, pushed forward and I put the car in a good position.”

Nikko Reger, Driver – No. 20 TPC Racing/Lamborghini Austin Huracán Super Trofeo EVO2: “The car was amazing. We worked on it all weekend, a little progress every session, and by this race it was unreal. I came out with an awesome start in Sunday’s race. We were really rocking it, then I got three wide with some cars in turn 4 and I ended up getting punted off the road. I lost some time and position but when I got all four wheels on the tarmac we were flying. So we came back. I gave the car to Shehan in third, got a little help from a full-course yellow and we got up to P2. TPC has been awesome, Shehan and the family are amazing and I really appreciate the opportunity and I’m having fun racing Lamborghinis.”

About TPC Racing: TPC Racing is the Mid-Atlantic’s premier maintenance, service, tuning and modification center dedicated solely to Porsche sportscars. TPC Racing specializes in R&D and sales of high-performance modifications for Porsche sports cars and race cars, offering a wide range of vehicle upgrades. Best known for a line of forced induction solutions for the Porsche 911, Cayman and Boxster, a long-time focus on only one make, Porsche, has enabled TPC Racing to become experts in Porsche service, tuning, and racing. In 2000, TPC Racing began entering races under its own banner, scoring an SGS-class Championship in 2004 in the Grand-American Rolex Series and was a class winner in the 2006 Rolex 24 At Daytona, and captured the 2013 and 2016 IMSA Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge USA Gold Cup Championships. More information can be found at www.TPCRacing.com.

Tough Weekend for The Heart of Racing Team at VIR

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Official Release
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Alton, Va. (30 August 2023) – Facing temperatures in the high 90s and a tough balance of performance (BOP) hit, the Heart of Racing (HOR) team scored a fourth and twelfth place finish at VIRginia International Raceway during the Michelin GT Challenge at VIR weekend.

The weekend started with two practice sessions on Friday and Saturday before a hot Saturday afternoon qualifying session with track temperatures reaching 102 degrees. Unfortunately, the Aston Martins had a BOP hit after winning at Lime Rock Park and Road America, leaving the two Heart of Racing cars with little power.

Ross Gunn qualified for the No. 23 Aston Martin entry, the English driver currently holds the track records in both GTD PRO and GTD competition at VIR. Due to the limitations on the Aston Martins, Gunn qualified fifth in class. Roman De Angelis set the sixth fastest lap of the session in GTD competition.

For Sunday’s race, Gunn was first behind the wheel of the No. 23 Heart of Racing Aston Martin, quickly moving up to fourth place on the first lap. Gunn handed the Aston Martin over to Alex Riberas on lap 25. Once the No. 23 Heart of Racing team discovered that the speed was topped out in the Aston Martin, it switched to a fuel saving strategy. The Spanish driver was involved in an incident that forced him off course on lap 60, but Riberas suffered minimal damage and was able to continue without stopping in the pit box. Riberas was able to maintain the fourth place position for the remainder of the two hour and 40 minute race.

“It was a difficult day at the office,” said Gunn. “We struggled for pace throughout the weekend and could never really get into a groove that was competitive. So disappointing, we’ve come here off two very strong weekends. This weekend had a bit of a touch of reality. The guys did an awesome job with the car, the pit stops, everything from the technical side was awesome and Alex had a great stint. We just didn’t have the pace this weekend, which is why it’s very frustrating.”

“It was a tough day here at VIR,” said Riberas. “We knew today was going to be a long day at the office. So we tried to maximize everything we had. The car actually felt pretty good out there. The engineers and the mechanics did a phenomenal job to prepare the car, but we just didn’t have the speed. Some days, you just are not competitive and today was one of those days. It’s very hard to process, but the only thing we can do is try to learn from it and try to improve for Indy. I’m looking forward to coming back strong for that race.”

De Angelis began to pass cars right away, making his way to sit fourth on the first lap. Marco Sorensen took over the Aston Martin on lap 23 in fourth, but had to fulfill a drive through penalty just two laps later due to not meeting minimum refueling time requirements. Sorensen and the No. 27 Heart of Racing team decided to play the fuel game moving forward and pitted one more time for a quick splash of fuel before the team’s final stop on lap 47 which consisted of four tires and fuel. Sorensen crossed the finish line in twelfth.

“The weekend wasn’t great, we qualified ninth and eleventh overall which is not where we expected to be,” said De Angelis. “In the race, right at the back in both cars, the team did a great job doing everything they could with strategy. The setup on the car felt good, but just didn’t have any pace to everybody else. We did what we could to try to get some points, but it’s going to be difficult now to fight the BMW in the championship. We’ll see what we can do the next few rounds and see if we can get some pace back, so hopefully it’s not a tough end to the season.”

“Well, the only positive thing this weekend is that the track is awesome,” said Sorensen. “The rest of the weekend was pretty bad. I think what they did to the BOP and all was the wrong way to go because we literally had no chance of a realistic fight out there. We were just using so much tire just trying to stay in the game and then when you’re fully gone then they just drive around you. There’s just no way you can fight it. We got a penalty as well, but it wouldn’t have changed too much because they always had an easy time getting past us.

The Heart of Racing team will head to Indianapolis Motor Speedway, September 15-17, for the first time in recent IMSA history.

About The Heart of Racing

The Heart of Racing races to raise funds and awareness for Seattle Children’s Cardiology Research. The team competes internationally with concurrent campaigns in IMSA, SRO, Formula Drift and the 24H SERIES. Last season The Heart of Racing won the IMSA GTD Championship title in the No. 27 Aston Martin Vantage GT3. The Heart of Racing team hosted their first all-female driver shootout in November of 2022, bringing to the team Hannah Grisham and Rianna O’Meara-Hunt for the 2023 SRO GT4 America season. To contribute to The Heart of Racing’s fundraising efforts please visit: https://give.seattlechildrens.org/fundraiser/3642390

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