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Early Race Predictions for the Cookout Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium

Photo by Andrew Boyd for SpeedwayMedia.com

Something new that I am looking to get started on this 2026 season is making early predictions for every race weekend. Whether we all agree or not, is completely fair and is up for discussion below!

Honorable Mention – Burt Myers – Didn’t show much in the Clash in 2025. Though has the most experience of anyone on the list and of those competing in 2026. 7 modified championships at Bowman Gray Stadium and over 100 career victories. This could be a surprising finish for Myers if he can figure out how to handle the Cup car.

Cookout Clash

Top Ten

10. Shane van Gisbergen – After having a couple of wins in 2025, he looks to get back into the playoffs in 2026. Although he has not had much success with short tracks, Bowman Gray Stadium is different. Gisbergen could find success as long as he stays out of trouble.

9. Ross Chastain – A mixture of wanting to be aggressive or be patient. Chastain will need to time his aggression to a tee. 200 laps give him a lot of time to make moves without crashing into himself.

8. William Byron – Being a part of Hendrick Motorsports will be able to help Byron. The speed is helpful, though Bowman Gray is a 1/4 mile track.

7. Denny Hamlin – A very solid pick for the Clash. A smart driver who has success at tracks of all sizes. He is also patient with short tracks, though he has a past of overthinking chaos. This could lead him to stay in the middle of the pack or to find his way to the front.

6. Joey Logano – A smart short track driver who loves being in contact races. That being said, contact with another car inches apart could be the difference in winning a race or wrecking out on lap 1.

Top Five

5. Bubba Wallace – A different pick from what most would put here, though it can’t be a prediction without having a bold call. There will either be momentum for Wallace or a lot of frustration. Bubba finished 5th in the 2025 running of the Clash at Bowman Gray.

4. Ryan Blaney – One of the best short track racers in the Cup Series. Calm, smooth, and sneaky when it comes to short track racing. His last win came on November 2nd, 2025, at Phoenix.

3. Ty Gibbs – Gibbs is another driver who is very aggressive on short tracks. Though he is also smart enough to stay out of trouble. Will his aggression help or hurt him?

2. Kyle Larson – Hard to displace him at second. One of three things will happen with Larson: either driving for the win, finishing just short, or wrecking himself.

Top Spot – Chase Elliott Winner of the Clash in 2025, and has the momentum to do it again in 2026. He’s a crowd favorite, very comfortable in short track racing, and a part of a very strong Hendricks team. Elliot also has a lot of experience at Bowman Gray Stadium, aside from his Cup Series win last season.

Top Spot - Chase Elliott
Photo by Andrew Boyd for SpeedwayMedia.com

NASCAR Clash will be at Bowman Gray Stadium on February 1st, 2026. 8:00 pm is the scheduled start time. The next race will be the Duels at Daytona, three days before the Daytona 500 on February 15th, 2:30 pm.

Back Home at Bowman Gray: Greensboro Native Cody Ware Grew Up at ‘The Madhouse’

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Jan. 26, 2026) – Growing up in a racing family in Greensboro, North Carolina, means frequent trips to Bowman Gray Stadium in neighboring Winston-Salem.

For Cody Ware, it began like it does for many – sitting in the grandstands to watch the track’s premier Modified division. Ultimately, it led to Ware sitting behind the wheel of a Modified at Bowman Gray, and then various kinds of racecars across all kinds of tracks. Today, Ware is a fulltime driver in the elite NASCAR Cup Series.

“There’s not another racetrack where I can say that I went from its grandstands to its weekly lineup to the NASCAR Cup Series,” said Ware, who attended Ragsdale High School in the suburb of Jamestown. “Bowman Gray is a part of my racing roots, and now with the Clash, I’m able to go back as a Cup driver. It’s a full-circle moment.”

It makes this weekend’s Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium a homecoming for Ware. The 30-year-old racer is back at “The Madhouse” for the NASCAR Cup Series’ soft opening of its 78th season, with the non-points exhibition race kicking off the longest season in all of sports – a 10-month campaign that concludes Nov. 8 with the championship finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

Ware enters his old stomping ground with a new look and feel to his familiar No. 51 from Rick Ware Racing (RWR). It’s now a Chevrolet Camaro powered by an ECR-built R07 engine – a thumping 358 cubic-inch V8 that puts out 750 horsepower. Ware got to sample his updated ride Jan. 13 during a test session at North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway, where RWR’s new technical alliance with Richard Childress Racing (RCR) was on display.

“Having to make the transition from Ford to Chevrolet was a big undertaking for the whole team,” Ware said. “The integration with RCR, their engineers and, really, all of their employees, has been impressive, and the test was another good example. It gave us renewed confidence that the direction we’re heading as a race team is the right one.

“Partnering with Chevrolet was the right choice. Everything from the engine package to the aerodynamics of the new body, there are just so many positives. It’s early, but we feel like it’s already paying dividends.”

Ware will look to cash in those dividends at the Clash. He needs to advance from his heat race into the 200-lap main event. Only 23 cars advance to the feature, meaning of the 38 expected entries, 15 will miss the cut.

A strong qualifying effort earns an up-front starting spot in a driver’s respective heat. That’s important, as passing on the quarter-mile, asphalt oval is a rough-and-tumble affair. A clean racecar has a better chance of finishing among the top-five, the cutoff position in each of the four heats to make the headlining Clash. Those outside the top-five in their respective heat get one final shot to make the race via a 75-lap Last Chance Qualifier (LCQ). Only the top-two finishers in the LCQ go on to compete in the primetime feature.

“You have to be aggressive. If you’re not going to be the person who’s making the aggressive moves, you’re probably going to be the person who’s going to have said moves used on you,” Ware said.

“You have to separate the ties and dynamics and relationships you have off the racetrack. Anyone who goes into Bowman Gray thinking it’s all going to be rainbows and sunshine where everyone’s going to walk away happy, they’re very much living in a fantasy. When you’re on the track, you have no friends, only enemies.”

It’s a race of rivalries at the country’s longest-running weekly racetrack. For Ware, it has included a good-natured sibling rivalry.

“My brother, Carson, in his first time ever in a Modified, won at Bowman Gray. He held off Burt Myers in the feature and won the race,” Ware said.

“So, last year he said to me, ‘If you don’t win this, there’s still only going to be one Ware brother with a win at Bowman Gray.’ You’d think he’d won the Daytona 500 or Indianapolis 500 with how he holds that Bowman Gray win over my head.”

It’s all in good fun, as the Ware brothers support one other in their racing pursuits.

“We both have family history at Bowman Gray,” said the elder Ware. “We’ve both raced Modifieds there, and any opportunity we have to race, we’re beyond grateful for. As my brother gets to race more and more here in 2026 and beyond, I want to be the biggest asset that I can be for him. He supports me every weekend. He’s watching the Cup races, cheering me on and texting me and talking to me after the races. And I do the same for him.”

The Clash weekend begins at 1:15 p.m. EST on Saturday with the Madhouse Classic, the 125-lap Modified race featuring the kind of cars the Ware brothers first raced at Bowman Gray. After the checkered flag drops on the Madhouse Classic, on-track activity for the Cup Series begins with practice at 6:10 p.m. before the heat races start at 8:30 p.m. FloRacing will stream the Madhouse Classic while FS1 will broadcast Cup action. Sunday’s LCQ race goes green at 6 p.m. to set the final lineup for the Cook Out Clash. FOX will broadcast the LCQ, transition to its NASCAR RaceDay studio show at 7:30 p.m., and then cover the Clash, which goes green at 8 p.m. SiriusXM NASCAR Radio will also provide live coverage throughout the event.

About Rick Ware Racing:

Rick Ware has been a motorsports mainstay for more than 40 years. It began at age 6 when the third-generation racer began his driving career and has since spanned four wheels and two wheels on both asphalt and dirt. Competing in the SCCA Trans Am Series and other road-racing divisions led Ware to NASCAR in the early 1980s, where he finished third in his NASCAR debut – the 1983 Warner W. Hodgdon 300 NASCAR Grand American race at Riverside (Calif.) International Raceway. In 1995, Rick Ware Racing was formed, and with wife Lisa by his side, Ware transitioned out of the driver’s seat and into fulltime team ownership. He has since built his eponymous organization into an entity that competes full-time in the elite NASCAR Cup Series while simultaneously campaigning winning teams in the Top Fuel class of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, Progressive American Flat Track, FIM World Supercross Championship (WSX) and zMAX CARS Tour.

How Digital Marketing Services Help Car Dealers Grow

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In the 2026 automotive market, the traditional “showroom floor” has fundamentally shifted from a physical tiles-and-glass location to a digital-first environment. With over 90% of vehicle shoppers starting their journey with a search engine and spending an average of 13 hours researching online before ever setting foot in a dealership, the digital landscape is where the sale is won or lost. For car dealers aiming to scale their operations and outperform local competitors, leveraging professional digital marketing services is no longer a luxury but a foundational operational necessity. These services provide the data-driven infrastructure and creative storytelling required to navigate a market defined by high-intent buyers and rapid technological shifts. In this article, we will explore how digital marketing enables dealerships to capture demand, build lasting customer trust, and utilize emerging technologies like AI and first-party data to drive sustainable growth.

Mastering Local Visibility through SEO and GEO

In 2026, being “visible” online has evolved beyond simple keyword ranking. While Search Engine Optimization (SEO) remains critical for appearing in “near me” searches, the rise of AI-driven search engines has introduced Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) and Generative Engine Optimization (GEO). Modern buyers don’t just search for “trucks for sale”; they ask AI assistants questions like, “What is the best hybrid SUV for a family of five in Auburn?” or “Which local dealer offers the best trade-in value for a 2022 F-150?”

Digital marketing services help dealers win in this new era by structuring website data so that AI and search engines can easily pull direct answers. This includes optimizing Google Business Profiles with real-time inventory, high-quality photos, and detailed service descriptions. By dominating the “local pack” on Google Maps and ensuring their dealership is the primary answer for complex AI queries, dealers can capture high-intent traffic at the exact moment a buyer is ready to visit a showroom.

Precision Targeting and Demand Capture with PPC

While SEO builds long-term authority, Pay-Per-Click (PPC) advertising provides the immediate “faucet” for lead generation. However, the “spray and pray” approach of previous years has been replaced by hyper-targeted, inventory-specific campaigns. Digital marketing experts now use dynamic ad sets that automatically sync with a dealer’s live inventory. If a specific model is sitting on the lot for too long, the system can automatically increase the ad spend for that vehicle to targeted demographics within a 20-mile radius.

Furthermore, retargeting has become more sophisticated. When a user views a specific Silverado on a dealership’s website and then leaves, digital marketing services ensure that user sees dynamic display ads of that exact truck—along with a localized incentive—on their Facebook feed, Instagram Reels, or even through Connected TV (CTV) apps. This multi-channel “surround sound” effect keeps the dealership top-of-mind during the critical 4.2 websites an average buyer visits before making a decision.

Building Trust through Social Proof and Reputation Management

Trust is the most valuable currency in the automotive industry, and in 2026, that trust is built through digital social proof. Online reviews have a direct impact on search rankings and consumer confidence; a dealership with a 4.8-star rating is statistically far more likely to convert a web visitor than one with a 4.1 rating. Digital marketing services implement automated systems to capture positive reviews from satisfied customers immediately after a sale or service appointment.

Beyond reviews, social media has shifted from a broadcast tool to a community engagement platform. Successful dealers use video marketing—specifically TikTok and Instagram Reels—to provide “behind-the-scenes” looks at their service departments, walkthroughs of new arrivals, and customer delivery stories. This humanizes the brand and reduces the “friction” buyers often feel when dealing with a large organization. By positioning the dealership as a transparent, community-focused expert, digital marketing helps turn one-time buyers into lifelong service customers.

Leveraging AI and First-Party Data for Personalized Journeys

The most significant shift in 2026 is the move away from third-party cookies toward a reliance on first-party data. A dealership’s most valuable asset is the data it already owns: service records, website interactions, and past purchase history. Digital marketing services utilize Customer Data Platforms (CDPs) and AI to analyze this information and create “predictive journeys.”

For example, an AI-powered system can identify a customer who bought a lease three years ago and is now reaching their mileage limit. Instead of a generic email, the system can trigger a personalized “upgrade offer” for a newer model with the specific features the customer has been browsing on the website. This level of hyper-personalization—showing the right car to the right person at the right time—significantly increases conversion rates and reduces the cost per lead, allowing the dealership to grow its revenue while optimizing its marketing budget.

Conclusion

Digital marketing has transformed from a supplemental support role into the primary engine of automotive retail growth. In an era where the customer journey is fragmented across dozens of digital touchpoints, the ability to maintain a consistent, visible, and trustworthy presence is what separates thriving dealerships from those that struggle. By mastering the nuances of local SEO, capturing demand through precision PPC, and fostering community trust through social media and AI-driven personalization, dealers can create a resilient marketing ecosystem. The goal of these digital efforts is ultimately to simplify the path from the screen to the showroom, providing the transparency and convenience that 2026 buyers demand. For the modern car dealer, the path to growth is paved with data, and digital marketing is the vehicle that drives them toward long-term success.

5 Maintenance Costs of High-Mileage Used cars

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Owning a high-mileage vehicle is often a badge of honor, signifying a machine that has successfully weathered thousands of miles of varied terrain and weather. However, as the odometer climbs past the 100,000-mile mark, the financial relationship between the owner and the vehicle begins to shift. While the initial purchase price of an older car is lower, the trade-off comes in the form of “delayed maintenance” and the natural wear of long-term components. For budget-conscious drivers looking at used cars for sale in Texas, understanding the predictable costs of high-mileage ownership is the key to avoiding “sticker shock” at the mechanic’s shop. In this article, we will detail five of the most common maintenance and repair costs associated with aging vehicles, helping you plan for a reliable and cost-effective journey into the triple digits.

1. Timing Belt and Water Pump Replacement

One of the most critical “big ticket” maintenance items for high-mileage engines is the timing belt. This rubber belt synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and the camshaft, ensuring the engine’s valves open and close at the correct intervals. Most manufacturers recommend replacement between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. Because the labor involved in reaching the timing belt is extensive, technicians almost always recommend replacing the water pump at the same time, as it is usually located in the same area.

The cost for this dual service typically ranges from $600 to $1,200. While this may seem steep, the alternative is much worse. In “interference engines,” a snapped timing belt can cause the pistons to strike the valves, resulting in catastrophic engine failure that can cost upwards of $4,000 to $10,000 to repair. Proactively addressing the timing belt is essentially an insurance policy for the heart of your high-mileage vehicle.

2. Suspension Overhaul: Shocks, Struts, and Bushings

By the time a vehicle reaches 120,000 miles, its suspension has absorbed millions of micro-impacts from potholes, speed bumps, and uneven pavement. Suspension components like shocks and struts do not usually fail suddenly; instead, they degrade slowly over time, leading to a “floaty” ride, increased stopping distances, and uneven tire wear.

A complete suspension refresh—replacing shocks, struts, and worn rubber bushings—can cost between $1,500 and $3,500 depending on the vehicle’s size and complexity. Beyond just comfort, a healthy suspension is vital for safety, as it keeps the tires in constant contact with the road. High-mileage owners should also look out for “clunking” sounds when going over bumps, which often indicate that ball joints or control arm bushings have reached the end of their service life.

3. Transmission Fluid Exchange and Seal Maintenance

The transmission is the second most expensive component in a vehicle, and its longevity depends entirely on the quality of its lubrication. As miles accumulate, transmission fluid can become contaminated with microscopic metal shavings and lose its ability to manage heat. While some manufacturers claim “lifetime” fluids, most experts recommend a professional fluid exchange every 50,000 to 100,000 miles for older vehicles.

A transmission service generally costs between $200 and $400. However, high-mileage cars are also prone to drying gaskets and seals. A slow transmission leak can lead to “slipping” gears or delayed engagement, which are precursors to a total transmission rebuild. Replacing a modern automatic transmission can easily run between $3,000 and $6,000. Keeping the fluid fresh and the seals tight is the best way to ensure your high-mileage car continues to shift smoothly for another 100,000 miles.

4. Catalytic Converter and Exhaust System Repairs

As a car ages, its exhaust system is subjected to extreme temperature fluctuations and environmental corrosion. One of the most expensive components in this system is the catalytic converter, which uses precious metals to convert harmful gases into less toxic emissions. Over time, these can become clogged or “poisoned” by engine oil or coolant leaks, leading to a failed emissions test and a “Check Engine” light.

Replacing a catalytic converter can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000, largely due to the high cost of the metals (platinum, palladium, and rhodium) inside. Additionally, high-mileage vehicles in humid or coastal areas may suffer from rusted mufflers or exhaust pipes. While a small exhaust leak might just make the car louder, it can also allow dangerous carbon monoxide to enter the cabin. Regular inspections can catch small leaks before they require a total system replacement.

5. Cooling System Refresh: Radiator and Hoses

The cooling system is the primary defense against engine-killing heat, but it is often neglected until a “steam cloud” appears under the hood. For high-mileage cars, the plastic components of the radiator and the rubber of the coolant hoses become brittle and prone to cracking. A single failed hose can dump all of the engine’s coolant in seconds, leading to a warped cylinder head or a blown head gasket.

A comprehensive cooling system refresh—including a new radiator, thermostat, and all major hoses—typically costs between $500 and $1,000. Considering that a blown head gasket repair can cost $2,500 to $3,500, this is a highly cost-effective preventative measure. Owners of older vehicles should also be diligent about “coolant flushes,” which prevent the internal corrosion that can eat away at the water pump and heater core from the inside out.

Conclusion

Navigating the maintenance of a high-mileage used car is a exercise in proactive management. While the costs of timing belts, suspension components, and cooling systems can feel like a burden, they are significantly lower than the cost of a new car payment or a catastrophic mechanical failure. In the 2026 market, where many vehicles are engineered to last well beyond 200,000 miles, these repairs should be viewed as investments in longevity rather than “money pits.” By setting aside a monthly maintenance fund and staying ahead of factory-recommended service intervals, you can enjoy the many benefits of a paid-off vehicle without the fear of the unknown. A well-maintained high-mileage car is more than just a bargain; it is a testament to the fact that with the right care, a machine can serve its owner faithfully for many years to come.

Speed, Focus, and Control in the Digital Age of Entertainment

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Speedway is built on focus. Riders operate within strict limits, where timing, discipline, and control matter more than raw aggression. This mindset extends beyond the track and influences how many fans approach digital life, including how they choose to spend their free time.

Modern digital entertainment reflects similar principles. The most engaging platforms are not those that overwhelm users with constant stimulation, but those that allow intentional participation. Structure has become as valuable as excitement.

Within this broader landscape of digital leisure, some users encounter structured digital environments, including Cosmo Casino online, not as chaotic distractions but as systems where pacing, limits, and decisions define the experience.

Why Motorsport Fans Value Structure Over Chaos

Motorsport culture rewards preparation and restraint. Success comes from understanding limits rather than ignoring them. This preference for structure often carries into digital behavior.

Fans accustomed to analysing racing conditions tend to avoid cluttered digital spaces. They prefer platforms that offer clarity and predictability. Excessive visual noise breaks concentration and reduces engagement.

Clear structure lowers cognitive load. When systems are easy to understand, users can focus on the experience itself rather than navigating the interface.

Digital Entertainment as a Competitive Environment

Digital entertainment has moved beyond passive consumption. It now requires attention, decision-making, and timing. In this sense, it resembles competitive environments more than traditional media.

Rules transform digital spaces into systems. When outcomes are tied to clear mechanics, users feel more confident engaging. Transparency supports informed participation.

Competition does not always involve opponents. Often, it is about managing time, attention, and impulse. Platforms that acknowledge this dynamic align more closely with competitive mindsets.

Decision-Making Under Pressure

Pressure exists whenever timing matters. In digital environments, pressure often comes from speed and choice. Poorly designed systems encourage impulsive reactions.

Well-structured platforms slow interactions just enough to promote deliberate decisions. This balance mirrors motorsport logic, where reacting too quickly can be as costly as reacting too late.

Focus improves when users feel in control of the pace.

How Control Shapes the Online Experience

Control has become a core expectation in digital environments. Users increasingly look for tools that help them manage engagement on their own terms.

In entertainment, control appears through transparency and settings that respect personal limits. When boundaries are visible, users feel empowered rather than restricted.

This shift mirrors broader digital trends, where awareness and self-regulation are standard features rather than optional extras.

Where Online Casino Platforms Fit Into Modern Leisure

Online casinos now exist alongside streaming services, video games, and social platforms. Their role has changed accordingly.

For many users, these platforms represent occasional digital leisure rather than constant engagement. The expectation is not prolonged sessions, but controlled experiences that fit into a broader routine.

When viewed in this context, online casinos function as one option within a diversified digital lifestyle rather than a standalone activity.

Responsible Play as Part of Competitive Discipline

Discipline defines high-performance environments. In sport, it prevents mistakes. In digital entertainment, it prevents loss of control.

Responsible play tools extend competitive discipline into online contexts. They help users set boundaries before impulse overrides judgement.

Digital Control ToolPurpose
Time limitsSupports session awareness
Spending capsEncourages budget discipline
Activity trackingEnables reflection on habits
Self-exclusionProvides structured breaks
Support accessConnects users to help resources

These mechanisms protect enjoyment by aligning entertainment with long-term balance.

Digital Focus vs Traditional Distractions

Traditional distractions often require minimal engagement. Television and radio allow passive consumption.

Digital entertainment demands active participation. This engagement can sharpen focus when managed correctly.

AspectTraditional DistractionsDigital Engagement
AttentionPassiveActive
ControlLowHigh
TimingFixedUser-defined
FeedbackMinimalImmediate

For users with competitive mindsets, active engagement feels more rewarding when control is maintained.

The Psychology of Timing and Restraint

Knowing when to stop is a skill. In motorsport, pushing beyond limits leads to errors. The same applies in digital environments.

Restraint protects performance. Short, focused sessions often deliver greater satisfaction than prolonged engagement.

Platforms that support timing and restraint encourage intentional participation rather than habit-driven behavior.

FAQ

Why does structure matter in digital entertainment?

Structure reduces overload and supports focused engagement. Clear systems help users make deliberate choices instead of reacting impulsively.

How does motorsport mindset influence digital behavior?

Motorsport emphasizes timing, discipline, and control. These values naturally transfer to how fans evaluate digital environments.

Can digital entertainment improve focus?

Yes, when platforms offer transparency and user control. Focus improves when engagement feels intentional.

Why is responsible play important in modern leisure?

Responsible play tools help maintain balance. They protect enjoyment by preventing overextension and loss of control.

Innovative Biotechnologies and Advanced Cell Therapies at AMSA Biotech

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At AMSA Biotech, we focus on exploring the power of regenerative medicine to bring new solutions for patients facing serious medical conditions. Our mission is to combine advanced biotechnology, evidence-based research, and clinical expertise to create therapies that support healing, improve quality of life, and open new horizons in modern healthcare. With a team of scientists and medical specialists, the company works on innovative approaches that utilize stem cells, exosomes, and other cell-derived technologies to restore damaged tissues and promote regeneration at the cellular level.

Our research is grounded in the belief that regenerative therapies have the potential to transform the way many chronic diseases are managed. Instead of focusing only on controlling symptoms, cell-based treatments aim to stimulate the body’s natural repair mechanisms and improve overall functionality. At AMSA Biotech, projects are dedicated to multiple therapeutic directions, including neurology, cardiology, orthopedics, gastroenterology, and metabolic disorders. By building strong collaborations with global research institutions and clinical centers, we ensure that our solutions are developed in line with international standards of safety, ethics, and scientific excellence. Patients and medical professionals who visit amsabiotech.com gain access to accurate, up-to-date information about the possibilities of modern regenerative medicine.

The Future of Medicine and Patient-Centered Care

The future of biotechnology lies in treatments that not only address disease but also actively rebuild health. At AMSA Biotech, we explore advanced stem cell technologies, exosome therapies, and personalized medical solutions designed to meet each patient’s unique needs. Clinical research has already shown that regenerative methods may contribute to improving outcomes in conditions such as neurodegenerative diseases, autoimmune disorders, liver and kidney dysfunction, musculoskeletal injuries, and age-related decline. By integrating the latest laboratory discoveries into practical medical applications, our goal is to make therapies accessible and effective for patients worldwide.

Our vision goes beyond innovation alone. We are dedicated to ensuring that each therapy is developed with responsibility, transparency, and a focus on patient safety. From rigorous laboratory testing to carefully designed clinical trials, AMSA Biotech follows international guidelines to deliver therapies that meet the highest medical standards. We also recognize the importance of education and awareness. That is why amsabiotech.com serves not only as a platform to showcase our work but also as a trusted source of knowledge where patients, doctors, and researchers can explore the latest achievements in regenerative medicine.

With biotechnology moving forward at an unprecedented pace, AMSA Biotech continues to stand at the forefront of change. Our commitment is to bring scientific discovery into real-world treatments, bridging the gap between research and patient care. By doing so, we aim to redefine healthcare and make regenerative medicine a reliable part of everyday clinical practice.

Greg Van Alst Motorsports Returns to NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Starting at Daytona International Speedway

ANDERSON, Ind: After making significant strides to close out its inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series season at Phoenix (Ariz.) Raceway last November, Greg Van Alst Motorsports ramped up its offseason efforts in preparation for the start of the 2026 season at Daytona (Fla.). International Speedway on February 13, 2026.

Veteran race car driver Greg Van Alst will pilot the team’s No. 35 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro for a partial NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series schedule in 2026, building on a four-race campaign last season that included starts at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway, Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway and the season finale at Phoenix Raceway in Avondale, Ariz.

Earning a career-best 18th-place finish in his ninth NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start, Van Alst qualified for the Championship Race on speed and used the 161-lap event to continue refining the balance of his No. 35 Greg Van Alst Motorsports Toyota, surpassing his previous best result of 25th at Talladega Superspeedway.

Continued investment in upgraded assets and new shop equipment has allowed Van Alst to implement key foundational improvements, positioning the veteran driver and his team to accelerate their program and contend for top-15 finishes throughout the season.

“Last season gave us a solid foundation to build on,” said Van Alst. “We learned a lot in a short amount of time, especially in Phoenix, and we’ve carried that momentum into the offseason.

“We’ve invested in the right areas, upgraded our equipment, and focused on the fundamentals that will allow us to keep improving. Our goal is to be more competitive every week and put ourselves in a position to fight for top-15 finishes throughout the season.”

Van Alst returns to the “World Center of Racing” with lifetime memories after pulling off a darling last lap pass in the ARCA Menards Series season-opener in 2023 that propelled the Anderson, Ind. native to his first career ARCA win.

With the 2.5-mile superspeedway often providing unpredictable storylines and dramatic finishes, Daytona International Speedway stands as one of the sport’s most magnificent stages, where speed, spectacle and tradition combine to open the season.

“Daytona will always be special to me,” added Van Alst. “I’m ready to make new memories, though. I don’t expect it to be easy to make the field, but we’ve learned a lot about our superspeedway truck since Talladega last October.

“I’m confident that once we’re locked into the field, my drafting experience and our race strategy will put us in a position to contend for a strong finish and hopefully carry momentum into our second year of Truck Series competition.”

While partnerships are still being finalized for the Fresh from Florida 250 at Daytona, Greg Van Alst Motorsports will welcome the return of Phil’s Heating and Air and Prescott Tire Pros & Automotive Service as partners throughout the 2026 season.

“Having partners who believe in what we’re building means a lot to our team,” reflected Van Alst.

“Phil’s Heating and Air and Prescott Tire Pros & Automotive Service have supported us from the start, and their continued commitment allows us to keep investing in our program and taking the next steps forward throughout the season.

“We look forward to making additional announcements as we get closer to Daytona and as the 2026 season progresses.”

The 100-lap Fresh from Florida 250 is set for Friday, February 13, 2026, at 7:30 p.m., with live coverage on FOX Sports 1 (FS1), the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM Satellite Radio Channel 90.

For more on Greg Van Alst and Greg Van Alst Motorsports, please visit GregVanAlst.com, like them on Facebook (Van Alst Motorsports) and follow him on X | Twitter (@GregVanAlst35).

Oscar Mayer Wienie 500 Returns for Second Year With Sizzling New Twist

Fans To Determine Sixth Wienermobile; New Nationwide Live Broadcast To Capture Hot Dog Spectacle

INDIANAPOLIS (Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026) – The meatiest race in motorsports is officially back!

Oscar Mayer today announced the second annual Wienie 500 will return to the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Friday, May 22 leading up to the 110th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge.

Serving as the unofficial kickoff to summer with 72 million hot dogs consumed every Memorial Day Weekend, the Wienie 500 sets out to remind fans that anywhere is the perfect time for an Oscar Mayer Wiener – even a professional racetrack.

Selling nearly half a million more wieners last year, the spectacle drew 85,000 fans in the stands at IMS and 8 million more via livestream. Revving up for its second lap, the race will feature the full fleet of six Oscar Mayer Wienermobiles, who will be competing for the title of Top Dog – this year with a new live nationwide broadcast and the chance for fans to get in on the action.

With each Wienermobile named after a regional hot dog, millions rallied behind their favorites – but it was Slaw Dog who secured last year’s victory. This year, Slaw Dog (Southeast) is back to defend its title along with Chi Dog (Midwest), New York Dog (East), Chili Dog (South) and Seattle Dog (Northwest). Following a disappointing performance, the Sonoran Dog is officially relegated due to not cutting the mustard, leaving a spot open for a new regional dog to enter the competition. Starting today, race lovers can visit @Wienermobile on Instagram to cast their vote in the first-ever ‘Pick Your Dog’ Wienie 500 bracket where they can choose from a fresh lineup of seven new regional hot dogs or opt to give Sonoran Dog another shot at qualifying.

“The response to the first Wienie 500 was overwhelming, and we heard the fans loud and clear that they were hungry for more,” said Kelsey Rice, brand communications director at Oscar Mayer. “This year, we’re supercharging the experience, delivering an even bigger, bolder and more unforgettable event that puts the fans at the forefront. With amplified engagement, intensified rivalries and more surprises in store, we’re giving the people what they want – an unparalleled live experience that will leave them craving more.”

Many of the beloved traditions from the inaugural Wienie 500 are back for this year’s race, including custom Wienermobile decals, Hotdogger racing suits, the iconic “Wiener Song” anthem and finally, the trophy presentation at the “wieners circle” podium—complete with a mustard spray and Borg-Wiener trophy. All part of an experience that only Oscar Mayer can provide, the Wienie 500 is designed to spark smiles and serve up a uniquely delightful race.

For more information on the second annual Wienie 500, ‘Pick Your Dog’ Wienie 500 bracket and how to follow along to see who the sixth regional hot dog will be, follow @Wienermobile on Instagram and @OscarMayer on TikTok.

Cadillac Has Strong Runner-Up Finish in Rolex 24 At Daytona

Action Express Racing team of Aitken, Bamber, Vesti and Zilisch Come Back from Lap Down

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 25, 2026) — The Rolex 24 At Daytona became a six-hour sprint race after overnight fog kept the race under yellow conditions for more than six-and-a-half hours.

But the No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R from Action Express Racing team stormed through the fog and came from a lap down to finish second and just 1.5 seconds behind the No. 7 Penske Motorsports car.

Jack Aitken, who drove along with Earl Bamber, Frederik Vesti and Connor Zilisch, made a hard charge throughout the final hour and nearly caught the No. 7 Penske machine twice, but had to settle for a podium finish.

It’s Cadillac’s ninth podium finish in 10 Rolex 24 At Daytona races and the second consecutive runner-up finish.

The No. 40 Cadillac Wayne Taylor Racing V-Series.R sponsored by DEX for Jordan Taylor, Louis Deletraz and Colton Herta finished sixth.

Their teammates – Ricky Taylor, Filipe Albuquerque and Will Stevens – driving the No. 10 car suffered a mechanical issue and, combined with the time remaining in the race, retired from the event.

With the runner-up finish, Cadillac Racing now has 105 podiums (21 GTP, 84 DPi) since joining IMSA prototype competition in 2017.

The Cadillac Racing team now heads to the 74th running of the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring on March 18-21 in Sebring, Florida.

Peacock (U.S.) and IMSA’s YouTube (not in the U.S.) will broadcast beginning at 10 am ET on Saturday, March 21, and NBCSN will broadcast beginning at 5 pm ET. Peacock (U.S.) and IMSA’s YouTube channel will stream the entirety of the race along with the IMSA Radio broadcast at IMSA.com, Sirius 211/XM 207.

Driver Quotes

No. 31 Cadillac Whelen

Jack Aitken: “We had to fight pretty much all the way through the race, and it was not an easy 24-Hour race. Not like some previous years where some things came our way. Couple of setbacks early on and we had to dig deep to get back on the lead lap and get through the field. There were some fantastic stints all the way through the night and the end. To fall just short is a bit heartbreaking. Hopefully this shows the strength of the Whelen Cadillac. We were able to take the challenge to them today and it’s a testament to the boys and girls that got the car on the grid today. Big thanks to them and to Cadillac as a whole. We’re going to keep flighting and get that win someday.”

Earl Bamber: “We had a good car and a good team and we knew Porsche was going to be strong at the start of the race and they were going to be our main contender. So yeah, I think it was going to be between the 7, the 6 and ourselves. We came up short by 1.5 seconds, but I think it was an amazing team effort by everyone on Cadillac and Whelen. We had quite a few setbacks and issues in the night and we just kept digging and digging and came home second. Obviously it’s not what we wanted, but we will finish second and take the points.”

Frederik Vesti: “It’s one of the first times in my life I’ve been extremely disappointed with a second-place finish. That just says so much about our potential this weekend. But to finish second in a race where we were a lap down, we had few minor issues throughout the race so to finish second is a very big result. Obviously finishing second by 1.5 seconds from P1 is extremely frustrating, but it’s a great start to the season. We can all be proud of everyone on the team and the efforts this weekend. And we’ll come back a do better.”

Connor Zilisch: “Yeah, it was a great day. Jack (Aitken) did everything he could there at the end to try and get us the win, but just came up a little bit short. I am so proud of the effort of everyone with Cadillac and Action Express Racing. I had a lot of fun being a part of it and getting to learn from all those guys, my teammates, so yeah just thankful for the opportunity and happy it went well. Second always sucks, but we did everything we could, and we have to be proud of that.”

No. 40 Cadillac Wayne Taylor Racing

Louis Deletraz: “Well, we made it to the end and congratulations to the 31 for the second place and to Cadillac. We made it to the end and no mistakes by the drivers and no mistakes from the team. I think sometime after midnight something broke at the back of the car, to be confirmed, but we lost a lot of pace out of it. I think we were quite good on deg (degradation), but then again when its losing pace, we just didn’t have it. We had good strategy on fuel and its good points on the championship. Looking forward to more and can’t wait to get to Sebring already.”

Colton Herta: “Hard fight to the end for us in the 40 car. Was not the race that we wanted, but good points for the full-time guys. We never gave up and tried our hardest, so proud of that and definitely some stuff to look at and get better on for Sebring. Looking forward to that one.”

Jordan Taylor: “Yeah, obviously not a great day for the whole team and for us. I think we salvaged sixth place there at the end with a good call on fuel strategy, but overall, disappointed because a couple of times I thought we were in the mix for the race. So, just hopefully we can go to Sebring with a little more pace and win there.”

No. 10 Cadillac Wayne Taylor Racing

Filipe Albuquerque: “What a shame, it’s a long race but for me a very short race because of the fog (overnight), but we still got to P3 and Ricky was looking very very strong. I think we could have battle for something and the pace is better from Wayne Taylor Racing.”

Will Stevens: “A disappointing result, but there are some positives to take away from the week. At times during the race, we had the pace to be up in the standings, but it’s disappointing, not to be at the end to fight for something. I think we made good steps over the winter, and we’ll take some time to digest it and move on to Sebring.”

Ricky Taylor: “What a shame. I feel bad because on that last stint, the last thing I did was make a mistake in turn six, but I think we had a really good Cadillac. We were the only ones on new tires and were making some progress and something went wrong. Really unfortunate but I am very proud of the team and the guys and coming here with a second year with Cadillac and I think we were finally doing justice to what the Cadillac GTP can do, so it’s encouraging for the remainder of the year.”

General Motors (NYSE:GM) is driving the future of transportation, leveraging advanced technology to build safer, smarter, and lower emission cars, trucks, and SUVs. GM’s Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands offer a broad portfolio of innovative gasoline-powered vehicles a

CORVETTE RACING AT DAYTONA: Hope to Heartbreak

Corvette GT3 teams show promise in Rolex 24 to open season

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (January 25, 2026) – Four of the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.Rs entered for the Rolex 24 At Daytona completed the opening round of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship as the Corvette Racing program kicked off its third season of competition.

Both Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller Motorsports and 13 Autosport recorded fourth-place class finishes at the end of a crazy race that featured running in both warm sunshine and cool, gloomy fog.

The No. 4 Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller Motorsports entry of Tommy Milner, Nicky Catsburg and Nico Varrone just missed the GTD PRO podium in their Corvette Z06 GT3.R, finishing fourth. In GTD, the 13 Autosport team of Matt Bell, Orey Fidani, Lars Kern and Ben Green showed the same performance that netted the team a class victory a year ago but came up just short this year.

Both of the Pro-class Corvette GT3s were the forces of the race through the first 20 hours. The pair of yellow Corvettes combined to lead for 319 laps – 160 coming from the No. 3 trio of pole-winner Alexander Sims, Antonio Garcia and Marvin Kirchhöfer. The cars ran in formation for much of the race – before and after a lengthy six-and-a-half, full-course yellow period due to fog – before the race went sideways.

It started with a suspension issue for the No. 3 Corvette with a little more than five hours to go that cost the team 46 seconds in its garage.

The sister Corvette continued to run at the front as late as two-and-a-half hours to go – due in part to a third-to-first move by Milner – before Varrone was shoved off-track shortly after a restart. That cost the No. 4 team time and track position back to seventh before the drive-back by Catsburg to the end.

GTD-class Corvettes also spent time out front of class before misfortune struck each of the customer cars. The 13 Autosport Z06 GT3.R led the GTD race four times for 32 laps in a solid start to its full-season championship push. The team mirrored its strategy to its 2025 victory by having Fidani and Kern drive much of the race’s first half before putting in the team’s two Pro-level drivers to the end.

DXDT Racing also led with its No. 36 Corvette with a similar strategy. After Salih Yoluc and Mason Filippi set the stage for most of the early parts, Charlie Eastwood and Scott McLaughlin pushed the DXDT entry to the front for 90 laps before a cracked gearbox ended the team’s day inside the final two hours.

New customer team DragonSpeed also had an encouraging early run in its Corvette debut. Giacomo Altoe, Henrik Hedman, Casper Stevenson and Matteo Cairoli ran solidly in the middle of the 21-car pack with their No. 81 Corvette, which was moving up before Cairoli was hit by a prototype car near the five-hour mark. The impact sent Cairoli into the tire barriers as the Corvette sustained left-side damage.

Despite losing 15 laps and nearly 25 minutes, the team carried on and used the rest of the race as an extended test session for its new Corvette.

The next event for Corvette Racing in IMSA is the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring on Saturday, March 21.

SELECT CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R DRIVER QUOTES

ALEXANDER SIMS, NO. 3 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “One of those that could have been for the whole team. The real shame is that it didn’t just happen to one car; both had issues to compromise the end result. Our Corvettes were working really well. We had decent pace but I don’t know if we would have been able to fight at the front right to the end. It seemed like others seemed to get quite strong at the end. Who knows. It would have been nice to have been in with a chance. The Pratt Miller team did a great job all race. We had flawless pit stops and just the one issue. The guys will look into that and we’ll come back stronger at Sebring.”

MARVIN KIRCHHÖFER, NO. 3 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “First off all, those six hours of full course yellow where I think I did three-and-a-half out of the maximum four was probably one of the most exhausting stints that I’ve ever had. It’s a lot of riding around and trying not to fall asleep. I’m gutted for the team, obviously. Everyone has done an outstanding job and worked very hard the last two weeks. When you lead the race for as long as we did and then have a mechanical issue in the last four or five hours, it’s tough. We were pushing hard along with the No. 4 car, which was always up front as well. The guys would have deserved a decent result here. Still, I enjoyed it. I’m not happy with the outcome but we will next go to the next race at Sebring and make it a good race over there.”

NICKY CATSBURG, NO. 4 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “Somehow it all went away for us. Of course there was the incident when the Ferrari smashed us off. I feel like even without that, it was not going to be easy. It seemed like everyone at the end of the race had an extra switch and could power up a bit. But that definitely did not help. Big hats off to the team. The execution was amazing with zero mistakes. The car was good and the setup was good. I think we finished second if you look at the full-season contenders so that’s not too bad. It’s unfortunate because I felt like we were going to come away with a new watch.”

MATT BELL, NO. 13 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “Thursday night, it looked like we were going to have a very different event, just to even finish the race flawlessly, let alone be not far up the order. Everybody should be really proud of themselves. I think we had a fourth-place car and we were in the game for a long part of it. There was a little bit of bumping and shoving at the end, but it didn’t change the outcome. Fourth is the maximum we had, and we achieved the maximum result that we were capable of this weekend. Everybody put together a great car. It was as fast as our Corvette was going to go, and we all drove the wheels off it. I am very proud of the team. It’s good to leave thinking you got the best out of your machine. We’ll crack on and try to get the win at Sebring.”

OREY FIDANI, NO. 13 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “After what we went through on Thursday, I couldn’t be prouder of this crew. Everyone dug deep, worked through the night, and we showed up ready to race, that says everything about this team. We were right in the fight all weekend, and while we wanted that podium, a fourth-place finish in the biggest race of the season is still extremely rewarding. Huge credit to the crew and my teammates for their work and dedication. We’ll take what we learned and go to Sebring even hungrier.”

LARS KERN, NO. 13 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I’m really, really proud of the team. The car was flawless, I loved it. Everything on our side was good. It just wasn’t in our hands. Honestly, it feels horrible. The race just unfolded in an unlucky way for us. You can’t win this race every year, and unfortunately it wasn’t meant to be for us this time. That’s racing, the racing gods decide if you get to win or not, and this year they decided we weren’t going to.”

BEN GREEN, NO. 13 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I’m really happy to finish the Rolex 24 at Daytona with 13 Autosport on my debut at the event. It’s great to make it to the end, and to finish fourth. Of course, we wish we were on the podium, because we were fighting for the win at different points throughout the race. I’m very proud of the effort from the entire team, and it’s been great to have support from GM as well. Our Chevy V8 was singing on the Daytona banking for 24 hours, faultless, and I’m proud of everyone’s work to make that happen.”

CHARLIE EASTWOOD, NO. 36 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “Not the finish we hoped for. This was probably one of the best weekends we’ve had together with DXDT. The pace was super-strong from rolling out for the Roar. It was the same in the race. We were keeping our nose clean and sitting in the top-three for a lot of the race and took the lead with about three-and-a-half hours to go before we developed a crack in the gearbox. We’re unsure how it happened, which is just gutting. It’s definitely the best chance I’ve had to win this race. But these things happen in endurance races. The pace was brilliant and Sebring is just around the corner. Hopefully we can go there and collect some trophies.”

GIACOMO ALTOÉ, NO. 81 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I can see the potential of the car and the team. We for sure are still in the learning phases with this car and there is a lot to improve. It was important for us to finish the race and collect all the data possible to analyze it and continue learning. We will build from here.”

About General Motors

General Motors (NYSE:GM) is driving the future of transportation, leveraging advanced technology to build safer, smarter, and lower emission cars, trucks, and SUVs. GM’s Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands offer a broad portfolio of innovative gasoline-powered vehicles and the industry’s widest range of EVs, as we move to an all-electric future. Learn more at GM.com.