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Burton, Wood Brothers Team To Honor Veteran Ford and Lincoln Technicians At Michigan

Harrison Burton and the No. 21 Wood Brother team are set once again honor Ford’s 20-Year Senior Technicians with a special paint scheme for Sunday’s FireKeepers Casino 400 at Ford’s home track – Michigan International Speedway.

Once again, the honorees will have their names on the No. 21 Mustang and will be invited to attend Sunday’s race on the two-mile oval in Brooklyn, which is like a home track for the Woods and the No. 21 team. The Woods have raced Ford Motor Company vehicles exclusively throughout their decades-long NASCAR career and have a long-term sponsorship relationship with Motorcraft and Quick Lane.

The track also is home turf for crew chief Brian Wilson.

“I was born in Detroit and went to many races at MIS growing up,” he said. “Any time we’ve had success there it’s been a special weekend.”

Wilson, like most everyone in the Cup garage, knows how important it is to represent their manufacturer well in a race in the heart of the American automobile manufacturing world.

“Everyone at Ford knows how important it is to run well at Michigan,” he said. “Continuing the win streak and bringing home the Heritage Trophy is the primary focus this week.”

Wilson also is pleased to be a part of the celebration of veteran Ford and Lincoln technicians.

“The car looks especially mean this week with the primarily black scheme,” he said. “We hope to put it up front to make everyone proud.”

Practice for the FireKeepers Casino 400 is set for Saturday at 12:35 p.m. Eastern Time and will be followed immediately by qualifying.

Sunday’s 200-lap race is scheduled to get the green flag just after 2:30 p.m. with Stage breaks planned for Laps 45 and 120.

USA Network will carry the live TV coverage both days.

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.

Teenager George Phillips Captures Summer Shootout Crown

CONCORD, N.C.: George Phillips could not have asked for a better birthday present on Tuesday night.

Celebrating his 15th birthday, Phillips captured the VP Fuels Semi-Pro Cook Out Summer Shootout championship at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway.

Over the course of eight weeks, Phillips visited Victory Lane four times but the strength of consistency propelled him to his first Legends Car Series championship in dominating fashion.

During Tuesday night’s Champions’ Night at Cook Out Summer Shootout presented by the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Phillips was able to lead the finale for six laps aboard his No. 55 machine before finishing second and earning more than enough points to capture the 30th annual Cook Out Summer Shootout for the VP Fuels Semi-Pro division.

“It absolutely means so much to me,” said Phillips.

“I was able to stay consistent every week. I had great competition and I just want to thank the Lord most of all, as well as my Miller Performance Motorsports team, including Zach Miller, Riley Halverson and Davis Rochester for their amazing coaching and guidance over the last 10 races.”

An emotional night for Phillips was full of gratitude.

“There are so many people that helped make this VP Fuels Semi-Pro Cook Out Summer Shootout championship possible,” added Phillips. “Big or small, I am incredibly grateful and appreciative to everyone who made time to make sure we could compete for the championship.

“Without the support of my marketing partners, Ross and Witmer Inc. HVAC, Citrusafe Racing, The Racing Warehouse and Simpson Racing Products this opportunity would not have been possible. I’m glad I was able to deliver them the big trophy after two months.”

With the championship in the basket, Phillps will return to the Carolina Pro Late Models scene with his Setzer Racing and Development team this weekend at Hickory (N.C.) Motor Speedway.

Phillips is the current championship leader and is boasting three wins this season aboard his No. 6 Setzer Racing and Development Chevrolet in his inaugural year of competition.

“I’d like to thank my Setzer Racing and Development for being patient with me while I had a lot of focus on the VP Fuels Semi-Pro Cook Out Summer Shootout championship,” added Phillips.

“With one championship down and one to go, I’m excited to return to the Carolina Pro Late Models this weekend and not only challenge for our fourth win – but pad our points lead to give our team some additional momentum for the rest of the season.”

In addition to Carolina Pro Late Models, Phillips will also compete in select CARS Tour Pro Late Model Series to complete his 2023 season, also aboard the No. 6 Setzer Racing and Development Chevrolet.

Find out more on George Phillips at his website: GeorgePhillipsRacing.com and on Instagram @GeorgePhillipsRacing.

WIGHT MOTORSPORTS SET FOR GP3R

Credit: Matthew Manor

WIGHT MOTORSPORTS SET FOR GP3R

(August 3, 2023) Wight Motorsports Inc. (WMI) is delighted to announce its participation in the highly anticipated NASCAR Pinty’s Series Race at the prestigious Grand Prix of Trois-Rivieres (GP3R) on Sunday, August 6, 2023. The team is geared up and ready to take on the challenge of this exhilarating street course.

Andrew Ranger, a veteran driver with an illustrious racing career, has an extraordinary track record at the Grand Prix of Trois-Rivieres, having clinched victory in the Pinty’s Series event four times in the past. Glenn Styres makes his second start on the famed street circuit and continues to improve his on-track performance.

The entire Wight Motorsports Inc (WMI) team is looking forward to the adrenaline-fueled action and the cheers of passionate fans as they take on the twists and turns of the Trois-Rivieres Street circuit.

Race Event Preview
Sunday August 6th, Green Flag approx. 2:18PM ET
Les 60 Tours Rousseau Metal
Race nine of 14 in 2023
This is the 16th NASCAR Pinty’s Series race at the Grand Prix of Trois-Rivieres

The Track: 1.521-miles, 11-turn, street circuit

Best finish: Ranger, 1st in 2008, ’09, ‘10’ & 12, Styres, 22nd, 2022

Quotes:
“We are beyond excited to be back at the Grand Prix of Trois-Rivieres. Andrew’s success at this event is no secret, and we have full faith in his capabilities to get the job done again”.
“Seeing the growth and improvement in Glenn’s performance and consistency gives us a lot of confidence and we’re eager to see what he can do in his second visit to GP3R”.
The Grand Prix of Trois-Rivieres is one of the most thrilling events on the NASCAR Pinty’s Series calendar, and we’re looking forward to a successful weekend”.
-David Wight, WMI Principal

TV & Live Streaming
All races will be streamed live on TSN+ and through FloRacing in the United States. Les 60 Tours Rousseau Metal will also be live on RDS2 and air later on TSN, date and time TBD.

The 2023 NASCAR Pinty’s Series will consist of 14 total races in five provinces on a mixture of oval tracks along with road and street courses.

Race fans can get the latest information regarding WMI and the drivers on these social media channels:

Wight Motorsports Inc Twitter @Wightmotorsport Instagram @wightmotorsport

Andrew Ranger: Twitter @AndrewRanger51 Instagram @andrew_ranger27

Glenn Styres: Twitter @GlennStyres Instagram @glennstyres

CHEVROLET INDYCAR AT NASHVILLE: TEAM CHEVY RACE ADVANCE

CHEVROLET IN NTT INDYCAR SERIES
BIG MACHINE MUSIC CITY GRAND PRIX
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE
TEAM CHEVY RACE ADVANCE
AUGUST 4-6, 2023

CHEVROLET RACES INTO MUSIC CITY WITH MOMENTUM FOR THE BIG MACHINE MUSIC CITY GRAND PRIX

DETROIT (August 3, 2023) – Racing into Music City this weekend, Nashville hosts its third annual Big Machine Music City Grand Prix on the temporary street circuit downtown. Seeking the first win for Chevrolet on the 2.17-mile, 11-turn track full of unique features, the Bowtie brand has one NTT P1 Pole Award (Scott McLaughlin – 2022) as well as one podium (Scott McLaughlin – 2022) and 34 laps led (McLaughlin – 22 laps, 2022, Josef Newgarden – 12 laps, 2022).

With the Team Chevy drivers and teams navigating the one-of-a-kind course that sees

553 yards of bridge exclusive to INDYCAR and 300 feet of pit lane, the track offers tight racing around Nissan Stadium and over the Korean War Veterans Memorial Bridge while blending three loves of Nashville – music, food, and racing.

Josef Newgarden, the driver of the No. 2 Team Penske Chevrolet, calls Music City home and looks forward to racing in front of a hometown crowd saying, “It’s great to get back to Nashville. For me, it’s special being a home track event. We’ve got some good momentum, but I don’t know that it will translate fully to Nashville. The tough thing about INDYCAR is that (the tracks) are all are so different. The tracks that we go to, this street circuit is 180 degrees from what we had in Iowa. The second GP race in Indianapolis will be a totally different challenge again. It’s about being flexible. I think if we can have a good run here on these last five races, then we can still challenge for this championship. I’m feeling really confident in what Chevrolet has done for us, and we’re going to try and put all that work to use this weekend.”

“Chevrolet is heading to Nashville with momentum after a successful double race weekend in Iowa,” said Rob Buckner, IndyCar Program Manager at General Motors. “As is always the case in the NTT INDYCAR Series, going from a very fast short oval to a tight, technical street course presents a new set of demands for both the driver and his Chevrolet-powered car.

“With the additional consideration of high heat and humidity, not to mention the long run over the bridge and the twisty sections on both sides of the river, our Chevrolet engineers have been working closely with our Chevrolet teams to arrive with a package as close as possible when they roll off the transporter. The track can present a lot of different options on the amount of downforce you can run. There have been lots of time spent looking at both previous races’ data to see where we can improve. Working to score a W on the last street course of the season.”

The Big Machine Music City Grand Prix race weekend on the streets of Nashville kicks off with practice Friday, Aug. 4 at 4 p.m. ET. The second practice of the event takes place Saturday at 11:40 a.m. ET, with qualifications following at 2:45 p.m. ET. The Big Machine Music City Grand Prix takes the green flag Sunday, Aug. 6 live on NBC at 12 p.m. ET. All practice and qualifying will be live on Peacock, INDYCAR Radio, and SiriusXM Channel 160.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING (QUOTES):

Pato O’Ward, No. 5 Chevrolet at Arrow McLaren INDYCAR:

“This weekend will be a test to a lot of the training we’ve done in the offseason just because of how humid and hot it will be, as it usually is every single year. It’s a very tough, physical race because of the heat, and it’s also a bumpy and challenging track. Nashville has probably been the track where we haven’t quite reached our potential either due to getting hit or having other issues.”

Felix Rosenqvist, No. 6 Chevrolet at Arrow McLaren INDYCAR:

”It’s super cool to be back in Nashville. It’s obviously one of the most fun cities in the Midwest and the U.S. It’s really a growing city, and it’s awesome to be here representing the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. I love the track layout; there have been some dramatic events there in the past. This is my third time coming here, and it’s one of those where you have to survive until the end because there’s so much going on, especially in the restarts. We’ll see if we can be a little quicker this year and have a good weekend.”

Alexander Rossi, No. 7 Chevrolet at Arrow McLaren INDYCAR:

”Nashville is such an electrifying city, and that energy really translates to the track. The blend of music, culture and passionate fans creates an atmosphere that’s unparalleled. This race has become a flagship event on the NTT INDYCAR SERIES calendar, and we all feel that prestige and excitement. Every year, the race always seems to be chaotic and a bit of a coin flip, but hopefully we are on the right side of it come Sunday for our final street course race of the year.”

Gavin Ward, Race Director at Arrow McLaren INDYCAR:

“We hope the rest of the field will be following our Arrow McLaren Chevrolets over the Cumberland River and through the streets of Nashville come Sunday. Street circuits haven’t been our strongest discipline this season, but we’ve got some fresh ideas and new developments to try as we aim to have some fun and build a better race team week-after-week. When it comes to race strategy, Nashville has proved it can reward the gambler. So, teams are really going to need to know when to hold ‘em and know when to fold ‘em this weekend.”

Ryan Hunter-Reay, No. 20 Chevrolet at Ed Carpenter Racing:

“The Music City Grand Prix presents another opportunity for us as a team to push forward and improve on our 2023 season. We have some positives to draw upon from our Toronto race weekend. Hopefully, we can apply those findings to the BITNILE.COM cars on a similarly bumpy street circuit in Nashville!”

Rinus VeeKay, No. 21 Chevrolet at Ed Carpenter Racing:

“It’s going to be an exciting weekend in Nashville! There is definitely a chance to us to get the BITNILE.COM car into the Top 10 and get some points. It’s a cool track, very bumpy, and there is always a lot of stuff happening. Staying out of that stuff is going to be important! It’s going to be a really warm weekend so living Florida and being used to the heat all the time should help. I just love the city of Nashville. Being able to drive there for the third time already is so exciting, it doesn’t feel like it’s been that long but it has!”

Santino Ferrucci, No. 14 Chevrolet at AJ Foyt Racing:

“I would say the key to getting around Nashville is being able to hit your marks, and be consistent like on every street course. The thing with Nashville is you also have to drive a very uncomfortable race car to go fast, that meaning it’s a very bumpy track and you have to be comfortable with being shook at 180 miles an hour consistently.”

Benjamin Pedersen, No. 55 Chevrolet at AJ Foyt Racing:

“The key to Nashville is having a package for the car that can allow it to turn really well in the low-speed corners and a car that is very compliant over bumps. I have been preparing by doing a lot of heat training, along with my normal training and sim time.”

CHEVROLET AT NASHVILLE (V6 era, since 2012):

Wins on the streets of Nashville: 0

Pole Awards in Nashville: 1

2022: Scott McLaughlin

Podiums in Nashville by Team Chevy since 2012: 1

Laps Led in Nashville by Team Chevy since 2012: 34

2023 CHEVROLET BY THE NUMBERS:

193: NTT INDYCAR SERIES races as V6 engine supplier since 2012 return to INDYCAR.

111: Wins in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES since 2012.

124: Earned poles since 2012.

7: Manufacturer Championships since 2012.

7: Driver/entrant champions since 2012.

12: Indianapolis 500 victories by Chevrolet at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

5: Indianapolis 500 wins by Chevrolet since 2012 in the V6 2.2-liter twin turbo direct injected era.

26: Wins by Will Power since 2012 – all with Chevrolet power – most of any driver with the same manufacturer.

14: Consecutive seasons with at least one win by Will Power, including the past 11 with Chevrolet power.

9: Wins from the pole by Will Power with Chevrolet power since 2012, most by any driver.

46: Pole starts by Will Power since 2012 in a Chevrolet-powered car, most of any driver.

*Will Power’s career total of 70 poles makes him the all-time pole winner in INDYCAR.

About Chevrolet

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, available in 79 countries with more than 3.2 million cars and trucks sold in 2020. 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.

How to Start Sports Betting: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Image by top10-casinosites from Pixabay

There are a number of ways you can bet these days, and one of the most popular ones for sure is sports betting. According to the statistics, its fame has drastically increased over the past couple of years.

And this comes as no surprise since people generally love to bet. Plus, what’s great about sports betting is the fact that it keeps its fans entertained and engaged, plus they are able to communicate with their teams, which makes them happier.

We assume that you are currently reading this article because you’re interested in getting started with sports betting. If that’s the case, then scroll below because we’re about to give you some awesome tips and tricks.

Don’t Forget To Do Your Research

We know that sports betting seems very tempting to you right now, but since you’re a newbie, you cannot take any further steps without first getting your facts straight when it comes to this. Keep in mind that sports betting brings a lot of money to casinos, sports books, and others so they are going to make things a bit hard for players to win some cash.

But don’t worry. It doesn’t instantly mean that you cannot win anything, but you just need to outsmart them by providing yourself with some useful information. Thereby, you should start by doing some research.

For instance, you can rely on Twitter to gather all the relevant info that’s related to lines, and of course, make sure to get a grasp on your own stats as well, your units, winning percentages, and ROI. 

It may seem to be a bit time-consuming to do all of this, but remember that this is time well spent!

Select The Right SportsBook 

Picking the right SportsBook can make a significant impact on your overall experience and outcome, so you should definitely pay attention to this aspect too. For starters, you should choose a website that seems safe and reliable.

Besides that, it would be great if that site offered different betting sections, like bingo rooms, sports sections, casino games, etc. This way you’ll know for sure that you are “dealing” with someone who is professional and trustworthy.

Now, we are moving on to the payment options. Luckily, a lot of operators nowadays, provide gamblers with a variety of different payment options, which is a great thing, however, it’s still advisable to first check to see if the one you picked offers the payment option that suits you most.

Ensure to do this before you create an account. And then, let’s not forget all the alluring amenities, like the bonus system. For example, Xbet Casino and Sportsbook these days provide its players with Xbet no-deposit bonus, which is one of the reasons why so many punters are choosing this website. These are the things that will immediately grab a gambler’s attention.

Consequently, don’t forget to check out the bonus section just to see what’s at your disposal when it comes to this.

Budget, Budget, Budget

There’s no doubt that sports betting is extremely entertaining and potentially very profitable if you’re good at it, but since you are just getting started, you need to remember that things won’t always work the way you want them to.

And that’s completely normal since, after all, you are inexperienced, so some losses can be expected. That’s precisely why you must be very strategic and smart when it comes to your budget, otherwise, you’ll be dealing with some major losses.

And we assume that that’s not something you want, right? Thereby, it’s pivotal to first determine the amount of money you are ready to spend on this, and then you can proceed with everything else. 

Once this is executed, it’s time to determine your staking plan. What’s the point of this? The point is to place your bets and avoid losing all your cash in a flash. Keep in mind that even the most seasoned players are prone to losing some money if they are careless when wagering. If you want to prevent that, then you should take consider these factors:

  • Probability to win – The higher the probability of a bet to win, the more you are allowed to take some risks
  • How good the bet is – If you conclude that a bet is great, then feel free to stake more

Before we proceed with other tips, we would like to remind you that no matter how phenomenal the bet appears to be at first glance, you shouldn’t put more than five percent of the total bankroll on the line.

Prioritize Smaller Areas

A lot of punters (especially those who are not experienced enough) begin by betting on bigger games and their favorite teams, such as the NCAA basketball tournament. And then, they tend to place a bet on something they are not familiar with, which is a huge mistake.

Instead of distributing your money all over the place, it would be much more recommendable if you concentrated on one thing only. We know that some of you think that it’s a good idea to bet on NBA, NFL, MLB, and others, but that’s actually not true.

As previously stated, focusing on one sport for starters would be wiser. Why is this a good idea? Namely, if you focus on a smaller area, you will get the chance to properly build a knowledge base that will help you “recognize” the winners.

Don’t forget that you cannot be a successful sports bettor if your knowledge concerning the players and teams is slim. In this world, if you want to earn lots of money, you must continuously work on expanding your knowledge.

Only when you collect all the right and necessary information you’ll be able to make a profit. One of the best ways to achieve that is by specializing. It may not seem like a good idea to you right, but time will show you otherwise.

Even though there’s no denying that luck at times plays a major role when it comes to sports betting, there are still some strategies you need to implement if you want to be successful, so be sure to follow all these above-mentioned tips.

A Guide to Betting on Nascar Events in Pennsylvania

Betting on Nascar events in Pennsylvania comes with unique minutiae that differentiate it from other forms of sports betting. This blog post serves as a comprehensive guide for both seasoned bettors and novices interested in understanding the nuances of this activity.

The Basics

First, it’s important to understand the basic principles. The nature of betting on Nascar races differs from traditional sports betting. You are not predicting the outcome of a two-sided event but rather selecting winners from a pool of many competitors. This requires a different mindset and strategic approach.

Understanding the Odds

One integral component to consider is the betting odds. They provide insight into how likely a certain outcome is according to the sportsbooks. These odds are derived from various factors, including driver skill, past performance, and race conditions.

Types of Bets

Next, you need to comprehend the different types of bets available for Nascar events. From race-winner bets to proposition bets, each type of bet comes with its distinct intricacies. Having a clear understanding of these bets and how they operate is beneficial for effective betting.

Race Winner Bets

Race-winner bets are the most common type of bet. As the name implies, you’re betting on which driver will cross the finish line first in a race.

Proposition Bets

Proposition bets, or prop bets, involve wagering on specific scenarios that may occur during a race. This could be anything from a driver finishing in the top 10 to the number of caution flags in a race.

Strategies and Considerations

Betting on Nascar events also involves some strategic thinking and careful consideration. Keep in mind that factors like track history, driver form, and current season performance play a significant role in determining the outcome of a race.

Remember to always exercise responsible betting habits. Set a budget for your betting activity and stick to it. It’s also wise to spread your bets across multiple races or events to distribute your risk.

It’s also noteworthy that many sportsbooks offer PA sportsbook promos, which can provide added value to your betting. Be sure to review the terms and conditions of any promotional offers before participating.

Legality and Regulations

Betting on Nascar races is legal in Pennsylvania. However, you must adhere to the regulations set by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. This includes being at least 21 years old and physically present in Pennsylvania when placing your bet.

Choosing a Betting Platform

Finally, selecting a reputable and reliable betting platform is fundamental for a seamless betting process. Many platforms offer mobile apps for convenience. Read reviews, compare features, and choose a platform that best suits your needs.

Analyzing Drivers and Teams

In NASCAR betting, your understanding of drivers and their teams can significantly influence your betting outcomes. When assessing a driver, consider their driving style, record on specific tracks, and recent performances. Seasoned drivers may offer consistent performance but don’t discount newcomers who may bring unpredictability into the race.

Teams play a considerable role as well. Successful teams usually have efficient pit crews, proven strategies, and high-quality vehicles, all contributing to their drivers’ performance. Researching these aspects can help inform your betting choices.

Weather Impacts

The weather can often be an overlooked factor when betting on NASCAR events, but it plays a significant role in race outcomes. Different weather conditions can affect a race in various ways. For instance, rain can lead to postponed races or affect drivers’ visibility and track conditions. Warm conditions may impact tire performance, while windy conditions could impact car handling. Keeping a close eye on the forecast and understanding how different weather conditions might affect a race is an essential part of NASCAR betting.

Understanding the Tracks

Finally, the specific characteristics of individual tracks in the NASCAR circuit can have a significant impact on race outcomes. Some tracks are short and steep, leading to more aggressive racing, while others are long and flat, requiring different driving skills and strategies. Some drivers may perform better on certain tracks due to their driving style or team strategy. Understanding these nuances can help bettors make more informed decisions.

Summary

Engaging in NASCAR betting in Pennsylvania is an activity that requires knowledge of the sport, an understanding of betting fundamentals, and a methodical approach. This guide should help you comprehend the dynamics involved in NASCAR betting and assist you in making more informed decisions. Remember to stay within your betting budget, be patient, and enjoy the process. Betting should be an enjoyable activity where you can test your knowledge of the sport, not a means to earn an income.

Exploring the World of Slot Themes: Find Your Favorite Storyline

Image by stokpic from Pixabay

Slot themes play a vital role in shaping the gaming experience for players, adding an element of storytelling and immersion to the reels. From ancient civilizations to futuristic adventures, slot themes come in a wide variety, catering to diverse interests and preferences. Whether players enjoy history, mythology, fantasy, or sports, there is a slot theme to suit every taste. In this article, we will explore the world of slot themes and the captivating storylines that bring excitement and entertainment to players in the virtual casino realm.

I. Ancient Civilizations:

Egyptian Mythology: Transport yourself to the land of pharaohs and pyramids with slots themed around ancient Egypt, featuring iconic symbols like pyramids, scarabs, and Cleopatra.

Greek Mythology: Embark on a journey with Greek gods and heroes, exploring legendary tales of Zeus, Hercules, and Athena in slots filled with mythical creatures and powerful artifacts.

II. Fantasy and Adventure:

Fairy Tales: Rediscover classic fairy tales like Cinderella, Snow White, and Little Red Riding Hood in enchanting slots that bring beloved characters to life.

Magical Creatures: Enter the realm of dragons, unicorns, and other magical creatures in slots that offer spellbinding adventures and mystical rewards.

III. Sports and Competitions:

Football Fever: Experience the thrill of the pitch with football-themed slots, celebrating the world’s most popular sport and featuring famous teams and players.

Racing Thrills: Feel the adrenaline rush with slots inspired by racing events, from horse racing to Formula 1, where speed and excitement collide.

IV. Hollywood and Pop Culture:

Movie Magic: Immerse yourself in the world of cinema with slots based on blockbuster movies, offering cinematic graphics and familiar characters from popular films.

Music Legends: Pay homage to musical icons with slots that celebrate legendary artists and bands, bringing iconic tunes to the gaming reels.

V. Nature and Wildlife:

Safari Adventures: Venture into the wild with slots that showcase magnificent creatures like lions, elephants, and zebras on the African savannah.

Underwater Wonders: Dive into the depths of the ocean with underwater-themed slots, featuring marine life and hidden treasures beneath the waves.

VI. Futuristic and Sci-Fi:

Space Odyssey: Embark on intergalactic journeys with slots set in outer space, where futuristic technology and alien encounters await.

Cyberpunk Delights: Enter a cyberpunk world of neon lights and technological marvels in slots that explore futuristic cityscapes and cybernetic enhancements.

The world of slot themes is a vast and imaginative realm, offering players an opportunity to find their favorite storylines and immerse themselves in captivating adventures. Whether it’s exploring ancient civilizations, delving into fantasy realms, or celebrating sports and pop culture, slot themes provide endless entertainment and excitement. The variety of themes ensures that every player can find a slot that resonates with their interests and preferences. From thrilling action to heartwarming nostalgia, the world of slot themes invites players to embark on unique journeys and experience the magic of storytelling through the spinning reels of online slot games. Contact us for more information on PG Slot.

Weekend schedule for Michigan

The green flag to start the NASCAR Cup Series FireKeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway on August 22, 2021 in Brooklyn, Michigan. (Photo by Logan Riely/Getty Images)

This weekend the NASCAR Cup Series and the Xfinity Series head to Michigan International Speedway with only four races remaining in the regular season. Twelve drivers have already earned a spot in the Playoffs by virtue of wins. The CRAFTSMAN Truck Series is off until August 11 at Indianapolis Raceway Park when the series Playoffs begin with the Round of 10.

Friday, August 4

1:30 p.m.: ARCA Practice (All entries) No TV
2:30 p.m.: ARCA Qualifying – Impound (Timed, All Entries) No TV
3:35 p.m.: Xfinity Practice (All entries) USA
4:05 p.m.: Xfinity Qualifying – Impound (Single Vehicle/1 Lap/All Entries) USA
6 p.m.: ARCA Henry Ford Health 200 (100 Laps = 200 Miles) FS1/FloRacing/MRN

Saturday, August 5

12:35 p.m.: Cup Series Practice (Groups A & B) USA/MRN
1:20 p.m.: Cup Series Qualifying – Impound
Groups A & B (Single Vehicle/1 Lap/2 Rounds) USA/MRN
3:30 P.M.: Xfinity Series Cabo Wabo 250 – NBC//MRN
125 Laps = 250 Miles (Stages 30/60/125 Laps)
Purse: $1,367,625

Sunday, August 6

2 p.m.: Cup Series Driver Intros
2:30 p.m.: Cup Series FireKeepers Casino 400 – USA/MRN/SiriusXM
200 Laps = 400 Miles (Stages 45/120/200 Laps)
Purse: $7,544,696

TEAM CHEVY NASCAR RACE ADVANCE: Michigan International Speedway

TEAM CHEVY ADVANCE
Michigan International Speedway
Brooklyn, Michigan
August 5-6, 2023

 RACE TO MICHIGAN HERITAGE TROPHY

Two of NASCAR’s top series will take center stage in the “auto capital of the world” this weekend as the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) and NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) is set to make its annual appearance at Michigan International Speedway. Located just outside General Motors’ headquarters in Detroit, the two-mile oval has more than just a checkered flag at stake for NASCAR’s premier series. Chevrolet’s drivers and teams will also be vying for the prestigious Michigan Heritage Trophy – an award presented to the winning manufacturer in Sunday’s FireKeepers Casino 400. A recognition that was introduced to the series in 2013, Chevrolet has taken the honor six times – with the last three courtesy of Kyle Larson’s three-peat, recorded from August 2016 to August 2017.

Heading to the manufacturer’s home race, the NCS has only competed on one two-mile oval (Auto Club Speedway) this season – a race that saw Kyle Busch collect his first win since returning to the Bowtie brigade.


HOME OF LARSON’S FIRST CAREER NCS WIN

“Motor City” holds a special place in Kyle Larson’s career with Michigan International Speedway being the home of his first career win in NASCAR’s premier series. In his 99th career NASCAR Cup Series start; Larson drove the No. 42 Chevrolet for car owner Chip Ganassi to the win by a 1.478-second margin over now Hendrick Motorsports teammate Chase Elliott (August 2016).

The California native went on to sweep the series’ two races at the Michigan oval the following season – making him one of only 10 drivers in series’ history to post consecutive NCS wins at the track.

ELLIOTT: LOOKING AT THE NUMBERS

Chase Elliott is continuing to inch closer to the NASCAR Cup Series’ playoff picture – now sitting in the 20th position in the points standings and only 40-points below the cutline. Elliott is on the horizon of a few of his best tracks, including Michigan International Speedway. Despite still looking for his first victory in the Irish Hills, Elliott’s career statistics at the two-mile oval boosts the Team Chevy driver as a frontrunner heading into the race weekend.

In 12 career NCS starts at Michigan International Speedway, the 27-year-old Georgia native has amassed 10 top-10 finishes. Of those results include three top-five finishes, all of which were runner-up results that were posted in his first three starts at the track. Elliott also leads the series in average finishing position at the track with 8.0. In the series’ only two-mile oval appearance of the season at Auto Club Speedway, Elliott was part of Chevrolet’s top-four sweep – driving his No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports Camaro ZL1 to a career-best runner-up finish at the track.


NXS WIN LEADER IN “MOTOR CITY”

Chevrolet holds a winning percentage of over 50 percent in the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Michigan International Speedway – collecting wins in 17 of the series’ 30 appearances at the track. The manufacturer’s first victory came in the series’ debut at the two-mile oval in August 1992 with Todd Bodine – a win that saw the Bowtie brand sweep the podium with Hut Stricklin in second and Dale Earnhardt Sr. in third. The Camaro SS has taken the victory in three of the series’ last four Michigan events – recorded by three different Team Chevy drivers (Austin Dillon – 2018; Tyler Reddick – 2019; and AJ Allmendinger – 2021).

MAYER SECURES PLAYOFF BERTH WITH HOMETRACK WIN

After conquering a double-overtime finish, JR Motorsports’ Sam Mayer earned his first career NASCAR Xfinity Series victory at Road America. A victory made extra special at his home track, the Wisconsin native became the eighth NXS driver – and fifth from the Chevrolet camp – to clinch a spot in the series’ playoff field. This will mark Mayer’s second appearance in the series’ post-season with the first coming in his rookie campaign in 2022 – making his way into the Round of Eight and ultimately ending the season seventh in the final driver points standings.


PLAYOFF BOUND FOR FIVE NCTS TEAM CHEVY DRIVERS

At the drop of the checkered flag at Richmond Raceway, the 2023 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Playoff field was officially set with the 10 drivers that will compete for the championship title. Chevrolet accounts for 50 percent of the Playoff field with five drivers from five different Chevrolet teams set to compete for the manufacturer’s 15th NCTS Driver’s Championship. Carson Hocevar, Christian Eckes and Grant Enfinger – each already making repeat visits to victory lane this season – sit in the third through fifth positions, respectively, in the playoff standings. NCTS rookie Nick Sanchez (eighth) and Matt DiBenedetto (ninth) were two of four drivers that pointed their way into the post-season.

The first of three races in the NCTS Playoffs Round of 10 will take place at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park next Friday, August 11. The Bowtie brand will head to the historic track as the event’s defending winners with Playoff contender Grant Enfinger and the No. 23 GMS Racing Silverado RST team.


TEAM CHEVY HITS DOUBLE-DIGIT WINS ACROSS ALL NASCAR NATIONAL SERIES

With Carson Hocevar’s victory in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series regular season finale at Richmond Raceway, Chevrolet has officially hit a double-digit win count across all three NASCAR national Series. The manufacturer continues to maintain a winning percentage of more than 50 percent in each series – collecting 12 wins in 22 NASCAR Cup Series races, 11 wins in 20 NASCAR Xfinity Series races and 10 wins in 16 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series races.

Chevrolet has proven to be a frontrunner in the battle for the Manufacturer’s Championship in all three NASCAR national series as the Bowtie brand continues to hold steady atop all three manufacturer points standings. Chevrolet has a history in sweeping the Manufacturer’s Championship titles across all three NASCAR national series in a single season – accomplishing that feat on four separate occasions (2012, 2005, 1998, 1996).


BOWTIE BULLETS:

· Chevrolet will pace the field in the doubleheader race weekend at Michigan International Speedway. The Camaro SS 1LE will lead the NASCAR Xfinity Series in Saturday’s Cabo Wabo 250, and the Camaro ZL1 will lead the NASCAR Cup Series in Sunday’s FireKeepers Casino 400.

· NASCAR Cup Series victories by active Chevrolet drivers at Michigan International Speedway:

Kyle Larson – three wins (2017 sweep, 2010)
Kyle Busch – one win (2011)

· In 105 NASCAR Cup Series races held at Michigan International Speedway, Chevrolet has recorded 26 victories and 27 poles.

· Three of the five repeat winners in the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series season come from Team Chevy:

William Byron: series-leading four wins (Las Vegas, Phoenix, Darlington & Atlanta 2)
Kyle Busch: three wins (Auto Club, Talladega, WWTR)
Kyle Larson: two wins (Richmond & Martinsville)

· In 22 points-paying NASCAR Cup Series race this season, Chevrolet continues to lead the series in wins (12), top-fives (49), top-10s (93), stage wins (18) and laps led (2,344).

· Chevrolet leads the series in wins across all three NASCAR national series this season with 12 victories in 22 NASCAR Cup Series races, 11 victories in 20 NASCAR Xfinity Series races and 10 wins in 16 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series races – all with a win percentage of at least 50%.

· With William Byron’s win at Atlanta Motor Speedway, Hendrick Motorsports now sits at 297 all-time NASCAR Cup Series victories – all recorded with Chevrolet.

· Chevrolet’s series-leading 12 NASCAR Cup Series wins this season have been recorded by drivers from four different Chevrolet teams: Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (JTG Daugherty Racing), Kyle Busch (Richard Childress Racing), William Byron and Kyle Larson (Hendrick Motorsports) and Ross Chastain and Shane van Gisbergen (Trackhouse Racing).

· Chevrolet drivers have recorded 18 of the 44 NASCAR Cup Series stage wins this season: William Byron (seven; series-leading), Ross Chastain (five), Kyle Larson (three), Kyle Busch (two) and Chase Elliott (one).

· Chevrolet continues to sit atop the manufacturer points standings in all three NASCAR national series, leading by 56 points in the NASCAR Cup Series, 61 points in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and 51 points in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.

· Chevrolet has swept the Manufacturer Championships across all three NASCAR national series in a single season four different times (2012, 2005, 1998, 1996).

· With Grant Enfinger’s NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series win at World Wide Technology Raceway, GMS Racing is now the winningest Chevrolet organization in NCTS’ history with 44 all-time wins in the series.

· With its 41 NASCAR Cup Series Manufacturer’s Championships, 33 NASCAR Cup Series Driver’s Championships, and 845 all-time NASCAR Cup Series wins, Chevrolet continues to hold the title of winningest brand in NASCAR Cup Series history.


FOR THE FANS:

· Fans can visit the Team Chevy Racing Display in the Fan Plaza at Michigan International Speedway.

· Fans can check out an assortment of Chevrolet vehicles at the Team Chevy Racing Display including: Silverado 2500 LTZ, Tahoe RST, Blazer RS, Trax 2RS, Equinox Premier, Silverado ZR2, ‘NASCAR 75th Anniversary’ themed Camaro ZL1 and the Corvette E-Ray.

· Fans can also view Chase Elliott’s No. 9 Camaro ZL1 show car.

Team Chevy Driver Appearances at the Display:

Saturday, August 5

· Justin Allgaier: 12:15 p.m.

· Brandon Jones: 12:30 p.m.

· Josh Berry: 12:45 p.m.

· Sam Mayer: 1 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.

Sunday, August 6

· Erik Jones: 10:30 a.m.

· Daniel Suarez: 11:15 a.m.

· Alex Bowman: 11:30 a.m.

· Kyle Busch: 11:45 a.m.

· Josh Bilicki: 12 p.m.

Chevrolet Display Hours of Operation:

· Friday, August 4: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

· Saturday, August 5: 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

· Sunday, August 6: 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.


TUNE IN:

NASCAR Cup Series: FireKeepers Casino 400

Sunday, August 6, at 2:30 p.m. ET

(USA Network, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)

NASCAR Xfinity Series: Cabo Wabo 250

Saturday, August 5, at 3:30 p.m. ET

(NBC, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)


QUOTABLE QUOTES:
ROSS CHASTAIN, NO. 1 JOCKEY CAMARO ZL1

How important is it to have things on a high note as the regular season comes to a close?

“We always want to run well but as long as we keep bringing fast cars and nailing the balance or getting it close at least. We’ve been a bit off there recently where we’ve been sliding the fronts a little too much or the rears a little too much. It’s not a fundamental issue, it’s just small tweaks. We’ re just looking for those last little bits.”

So you feel like you’re in a good place?

“I do. There aren’t any fire alarms at Trackhouse Racing.”

You guys have had a little bit of a quiet summer, no that it’s a bad thing, but just flying under the radar just doing what you guys need to do to be ready for the playoffs?

“Absolutely. We want to win and contend for wins, lead laps, put ourselves at the front during the race. There’s no panic. Just go about our business and see the fruits of our labor.”

KYLE LARSON, NO. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM CAMARO ZL1

Larson on racing at Michigan International Speedway:

“Our team is looking forward to running at Michigan (International Speedway) this weekend. My first ever NCS win was at Michigan (International Speedway), so it’s certainly a special place to me. With only two 2.00-mile tracks on the (NASCAR Cup Series) schedule, our team is looking for redemption following Fontana (Auto Club Speedway). I’ve had two solid top-10 finishes with the No. 5 team in my last two starts, so I hope to be able to repeat that. The guys have been putting in hard work at the shop to build a fast HendrickCars.com Chevy, so I’m eager to hit the track and give it our best.”

CLIFF DANIELS, CREW CHIEF, NO. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM CAMARO ZL1

Daniels on racing at Michigan International Speedway:

“We are definitely looking forward to Michigan (International Speedway). It’s a super-fast track. Lots of wide-open throttle time but your car also has to handle good. It’s (Michigan International Speedway) got its own unique challenges but we have a lot of confidence in our engine shop. They have been giving us great engines and obviously that has a big impact at this track. We’ve got to do a good job of putting a good car under Kyle and let him do his thing. Hopefully we can go have a nice solid (race) day.

KYLE BUSCH, NO. 8 KWIK TRIP / KWIK STAR CAMARO ZL1

What makes the Cup races so difficult to win at Michigan?

“Michigan is always a difficult track just because it’s so fast. You’re going through the corners at such a fast speed that you’re sustaining high speeds all the way around. I’ve won at Michigan once years ago but that was on the old asphalt and now it’s finally getting to where the current racetrack asphalt is aging and leading itself to wider grooves that you can kind of maneuver around the racetrack a little bit better. Hopefully that’s the case this time around when we go back to Michigan.”

Is there any track on the schedule that you can compare to Michigan? Fontana was similar but now it’s off the schedule.

“Fontana is the closest just because it’s a two-mile racetrack, but the asphalt, grip level, and banking level is entirely different at each of those tracks. I would say Kansas, maybe, is the most similar. Kansas has really aged well and has progressive banking from the bottom to the top so you can run all over the racetrack. You can run to the top, right up against the wall for the majority of the day at Kansas. Michigan is not quite there yet. I’m not really sure anywhere compares entirely to Michigan.”

Is there a fine line on how far to trim the car out at Michigan between practice/qualifying and the race?

“Michigan, for practice, qualifying and the race, you’ve got to put it in race trim. There’s not enough time between practice, qualifying and the race and not enough allowed adjustments to give yourself a slick, low-drag car for qualifying and then a high-downforce car for being in traffic for the race. You just put as much downforce in it as you can because you know you’re going to be out of the throttle at some point during the race. You just need as much grip as you possibly can get to keep your car going on the long run.”

CHASE ELLIOTT, NO. 9 NAPA AUTO PARTS CAMARO ZL1

Elliott on racing at Michigan:

“Michigan (International Speedway) is an important race on the schedule with it being close to Detroit. It’s also a part of the country I really enjoy during the summer months and I’m looking forward to going up there. It would be great to go there this weekend, get a win for Team Chevy and lock ourselves into the playoffs.”

AJ ALLMENDINGER, NO. 16 FARMSMART CAMARO ZL1

“I’m looking forward to going to Michigan; we’ll have a lot of on-throttle time and it’s a racetrack I’m excited to go drive at. Last year, Noah [Gragson] had really good speed in the No. 16 car, and our big racetrack speed has been there this year so, I think it’s a track we can go to and do well at.”

JUSTIN HALEY, NO. 31 LEAFFILTER GUTTER PROTECTION CAMARO ZL1

“I’m looking forward to going back to Michigan. Our No. 31 LeafFilter Gutter Protection Camaro ZL1 has had a lot of speed on the larger tracks this year, so hopefully we can break our string of bad finishes and start gaining back momentum.”

ERIK JONES, NO. 43 ALLEGIANT CAMARO ZL1

“Michigan for me is always fun, getting to go home, and spending some time up there, I will be there a little bit extra this year with the wedding on Wednesday and everything else going on, so it is kind of a cool way to cap everything off with the race on Sunday. Getting to tailgate with fans is something that we have done on and off a bit ever since I started coming to Michigan in the Cup Series, but cool to have the hometown fans at the track and have a big group coming up to watch the race. I feel like our car was good there last year, it was kind of an up and down race, but we came home with a solid finish through it all. We had speed there the whole time, and hopefully we can have a solid car. It’s always fun to go run well there, and it’s important to me to go out and run well in front of so many people that grew up in this area like I did. No guy from Michigan has ever one there, so that’s always something that you want to keep in your mind and try to make that happen, so I am looking forward to being home and the weekend in general.”

RICKY STENHOUSE JR., NO. 47 KROGER / MINUTE RICE CAMARO ZL1

“It’s in the backyard of our manufacturer and you always want to win there. It’s a racetrack that is fast and hard to pass. We don’t have a lot of off throttle time. We’re in the gas a lot and it’s high-speed. For us, it’s a fun racetrack, but also a frustrating racetrack at the same time. You’re trying to calculate your passes and when you are going to pass. I was just at the shop with my team, and they were working on our No. 47 Kroger/Minute Rice Camaro, and I feel good about the setup we have in it and looking forward to going up to Michigan and performing well.”

DANIEL SUAREZ, NO. 99 WORLDWIDE EXPRESS CAMARO ZL1

Is it time to panic about making it into the playoffs?

“No, there is a lot of racing left. I told my guys all of us need to relax and have fun. That’s when we perform our best. We have some really good tracks coming up for us. Trackhouse Racing has a great road course program and we have run really well at Daytona and Michigan.”

You led 33 laps at Michigan the last time you raced there. What do you remember about that race?

“I really thought Ross and I had great cars that day. That wreck couldn’t come at a worse time. It cost both Ross and I a shot at the victory. My guys gave me a great Worldwide Express Chevrolet there last year and I hope we are as fast on Sunday.”


Chevrolet NASCAR Cup Series Statistics

Manufacturers Championships:

Total (1949-2022): 41

First title for Chevrolet: 1958

Highest number of consecutive titles: 13 (2003-15)

Years Won: 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1996, 1998, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2021, 2022

Drivers Championships:

Total (1949-2021): 33

First Chevrolet champion: Buck Baker (1957)

Highest number of consecutive titles: 7 (2005-11)

Most Recent: Kyle Larson (2021)

Years Won: 1957, 1960, 1961, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1979, 1980, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2020, 2021

Event Victories:

Record for total race wins in single season: 26 (2007)

2023 STATISTICS:

Wins: 12

Poles: 7

Laps Led: 2,344

Top-five finishes: 49

Top-10 finishes: 93

Stage wins: 18

· Ross Chastain – 5 (Daytona), (Auto Club x2), (Dover), (Darlington)

· William Byron – 7 (Las Vegas x2), (Phoenix), (COTA), (Richmond), (Dover), (Charlotte)

· Kyle Larson – 3 (Phoenix), (Bristol Dirt), (Pocono)

· Chase Elliott – 1 (Talladega)

· Kyle Busch – 2 (WWTR), (Sonoma)

CHEVROLET IN NASCAR CUMULATIVE STATISTICS:

Total Chevrolet race wins: 845 (1949 to date)

Poles won to date: 741

Laps led to date: 247,888

Top-five finishes to date: 4,270

Top-10 finishes to date: 8,805

Total NASCAR Cup Wins by Corporation, 1949 to Date:

       General Motors: 1,179

       Chevrolet: 845

       Pontiac: 154

       Oldsmobile: 115

       Buick: 65



       Ford: 823                                                           

       Ford: 723

       Mercury: 96

       Lincoln: 4



       Fiat Chrysler Automobiles: 467

       Dodge: 217

       Plymouth: 191

       Chrysler: 59



       Toyota: 177


About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, available in 79 countries with more than 3.2 million cars and trucks sold in 2020. 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.

The White Zone: Johnson worthy inductee of the hall

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - AUGUST 2: Josh Hamilton(C), Director of Racing Communications at NASCAR, speaks during the NASCAR Hall of Fame Voting Day at Charlotte Convention Center on Aug. 2, 2023, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Photo: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Jimmie Johnson took his seat at the center of the Grand Hall of the NASCAR Hall of Fame to answer questions from the media. I watched from the second row, staring dead ahead of the seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion. A man who, as a Jeff Gordon fan, caused me grief and broke my heart so many times, during his five-year span of championships.

Now as a member of the NASCAR media corp, I sit back and realize I witnessed the entire career of arguably NASCAR’s greatest driver.

From dislike to respect

As Johnson celebrated in victory lane at Phoenix Raceway on Nov. 11, 2007, Gordon approached him and waved the white flag.

“I surrender,” he said, bowing to Johnson. “I surrender.”

After Gordon won back-to-back races at Talladega Superspeedway and Charlotte Motor Speedway, Johnson rattled off four-straight wins to clinch his second Cup Series title.

In a film script of my life, the camera cuts to 13-year-old me and my gaudy 24 DuPont Chevrolet shirt, as I hang my head in despair. During a season in which Gordon set a modern-era record for most top-10 finishes in a single season (30), Johnson did what Gordon did to Mark Martin in 1998; out-win him to a championship.

It didn’t stop there.

2008, Johnson duels it out with Carl Edwards to win his third-straight championship. Meanwhile, Gordon goes winless for just the second time in his career.

2009, Gordon breaks a 43-race winless streak by holding off Johnson to win at Texas Motor Speedway for the first time in his career. Gordon even led the points for the first time in two years.

Cut to November, Johnson wins his four-straight title.

Fast-forward to 2010. Johnson breaks the heart of Denny Hamlin fans to win his fifth-straight title. Gordon blows an engine in the final race to secure his third winless season.

Cut to me, a socially-awkward sophomore in high school, combined with the beginning of my future alma mater’s descent into the football abyss (it’s in my bio), that five-year period wasn’t much fun.

HAMPTON, Ga. – FEBRUARY 28: Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Lowe’s Chevrolet, celebrates in victory lane after winning the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway on Feb. 28, 2016, in Hampton, Georgia. Photo: Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

Six years later, I jumped from the grandstands to the press box. Johnson won the first NASCAR race I covered on-site. Now as someone who retired his fan allegiance to join the media, I found an immense level of respect for him. Especially when he gave such detailed answers to questions from a stammering mess like me.

I covered four of his six wins in 2016, on the way to his seventh Cup Series championship. Furthermore, I covered his penultimate Cup Series victory on a Monday afternoon at Bristol Motor Speedway.

Beyond his wins, however, I saw a side of Johnson that he doesn’t usually show. In public, he was very stoic and a great spokesperson for his sponsors (like former teammate, Terry Labonte). Off-camera, however, and while nowhere near Matt Kenseth, I saw his more snarky demeanor shine through.

Looking back

Cut to Wednesday, Johnson stands in front of a video screen in loafers, light brown pants and a blazer, and poses for pictures with Knaus and Donny Allison. As I said, earlier, I’m in the second row of people asking him questions.

I asked him what it means to him to hear someone say he’s one of NASCAR’s all-time greatest.

It humbles Johnson.

“We just want to go racing and from a very young age, racing is in our life,” he said. “Our parents raised their families raced and we just wanted to be racers and sure we wouldn’t, I know I tried to dream big, but I couldn’t have dreamed this big and to have everything play out as it has. Even then, looking back on those moments in time and five in a row and seven championships in total, these different moments along the way, I still can’t believe it’s happened.”

Grateful as ever, Johnson made me see why I’ve gone from a disgruntled Gordon fan to having nothing but respect for the seven-time champion.

That’s my view, for what it’s worth.