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Embrace the Great Outdoors: Enhancing Family Health and Bonds

  • Outdoor activities foster physical health, reduce stress, stimulate learning, enhance family bonds, and boost immune systems.
  • Technology has decreased outdoor time for children, impacting their healthy development.
  • Outdoor exploration is a unique opportunity for education and appreciation of nature, contributing to a healthier lifestyle.
  • Preparation for outdoor adventures includes researching locations, acquiring suitable transportation, and packing necessities.
  • Spending time outdoors with family creates lasting memories and can be an enriching experience with proper planning.

The modern age of technology comes with the convenience of indoor entertainment. Because of this, it can be easy to forget the importance of spending quality time with your family outdoors. Being outdoors can grant your family different benefits. Here’s what you need to know about spending outdoors today, the benefits that come with it, and how you can prepare for this great adventure.

Outdoors and Families Today

Studies have found that fewer children spend time outdoors now than in previous generations. This can be partially attributed to the rise of technology, in which kids play video games and use different devices. Giving your children a break from screens is essential for healthy development, and bonding with family members outdoors can help make up for any screen time that has been lost.

Benefits of Spending Time Outdoors

Spending quality time outdoors comes with various benefits. Here are some of them:

Promotes Physical Health

Spending time outdoors with your family promotes physical health through various activities such as hiking, biking, or simply playing catch. It increases activities like running, jumping, and breathing fresh air while being in nature. This will enhance their fitness levels and help them to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Spending time outdoors can help to reduce stress and relieve anxiety, especially when you find yourself in a natural environment surrounded by the sound of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the scent of fresh air. It’s a refreshing change of scenery that will help lift your mood and keep your mental health in check. It’s a great way to calm down after a long work day and relish the moments of togetherness.

Stimulates Learning

When children spend time outdoors, it allows them to explore and stimulate their curiosity. Through nature exploration, they will learn new things about the world around them and spark their imagination to inquire. Not only will it be educational, but it will also build their knowledge of appreciation and respect for nature.

Enhances Family Bonding

Outdoor activities provide a great bonding experience for families. Activities like camping, fishing, and hiking provide opportunities for families to spend prolonged periods together, creating positive memories while deepening their relationships. Bonding through nature exploration will make the experience with your loved ones all the more special and meaningful.

Contributes to a Stronger Immune System

Spending time outdoors with your family can also strengthen your immune system. Being in nature helps rejuvenate our systems with natural vitamins, fresh air, and direct sunlight. Enough exposure to these has a positive impact on physical health. Therefore, kids will be more resistant to certain illnesses outside in the fresh air.

How to Prepare For Your Outdoor Adventure

There are various ways you can prepare for this adventure. Here are four tips:

Purchase a Truck

It’s good for your family to have a truck if you’re planning on going out for camping trips or long drives. This way, you’ll be able to quickly bring the necessary equipment, such as tents, sleeping bags, and cooking supplies. If you want to save money, consider buying from a used truck dealer. These dealers offer reliable trucks at an affordable price. Used trucks are still a great choice, especially if you choose one that’s fairly unused by the previous owner, so don’t be afraid to invest in one.

Research the Location

Make sure to research the area you’re going to beforehand. This will help you know about potential hazards, such as poisonous plants or dangerous wildlife. It’s also beneficial to know what kind of activities are available in that location, so you can plan accordingly and decide which ones your family might like.

Get a Tent

You should also purchase a tent that can fit your entire family to keep everyone warm and safe from the elements. If you’re a beginner, some basic tents are suitable for families.

Pack the Necessities

Lastly, pack all the essentials, such as food, water, and first aid supplies. Bring enough clothes to keep your family warm during cold months and sun protection if it is hot outside. Don’t forget your camera, binoculars, and a map to explore the area.

Spending time outdoors with your family brings numerous benefits, big and small. It opens new opportunities for everyone to explore nature, learn something new, and create strong bonds with each other. All it takes is preparation to ensure you have the best experience possible. So grab your family and head out on an outdoor adventure! You won’t regret it.

10 Essential Accessories and Upgrades for Your Car

Photo by Garvin St. Villier

Ah, the open road! There’s nothing quite like the feeling of cruising in your car, the wind in your hair, and the freedom to go wherever you please. But let’s face it: our cars could use a little sprucing up.

That’s where accessories and upgrades come into play. These nifty additions can transform your vehicle into a comfortable, safe, and stylish haven. So buckle up and get ready to discover the 10 essential accessories and upgrades that will take your car to the next level.

Safety Enhancements

1. Emergency Kit: Picture this—you’re stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire and no help in sight. That’s where an emergency kit swoops in to save the day. Packed with a first-aid kit, jumper cables, a flashlight, and reflective triangles, it’s your trusty companion during unforeseen situations.

2. Backup Camera System: Say goodbye to those nerve-wracking moments of reversing blindly. Installing a backup camera system provides you with an extra set of eyes at the back of your vehicle. It not only enhances rear visibility but also helps prevent accidents and makes parking a breeze.

3. GPS Tracking System: Worried about the security of your car? With real-time location tracking, a GPS tracking system helps you keep tabs on your vehicle’s whereabouts and receive alerts in case of unauthorized movement or theft. Peace of mind is guaranteed!

Comfort and Convenience Upgrades

4. Smartphone Mount: Let’s face it, our smartphones have become an indispensable part of our lives, even while driving. A quality smartphone mount is a must-have accessory, keeping your device within reach and allowing you to use GPS navigation or play your favorite tunes hands-free. Safety and convenience combined!

5. Seat Covers: Protecting your car seats from spills, stains, and general wear and tear is essential. Seat covers not only extend the life of your seats but also add a touch of personal style to your ride. From leather to fabric, there are countless options to suit your taste and budget.

6. USB Car Charger: The struggle to keep our devices charged on the go is all too real. Enter the USB car charger, a tiny but mighty gadget that keeps your smartphones, tablets, and other USB-powered devices juiced up during long drives. No more low battery anxiety!

Entertainment and Connectivity

7. Bluetooth Car Kit: If your car lacks the latest Bluetooth technology, fear not. A Bluetooth car kit can transform your vehicle into a high-tech hub. Not only can you make hands-free calls, but you can also stream your favorite music wirelessly, making those long commutes more enjoyable.

8. In-Car Wi-Fi Hotspot: Imagine having a reliable internet connection right in your car. An in-car Wi-Fi hotspot makes this dream a reality, keeping your passengers connected, entertained, and productive during road trips. It’s like having a portable Wi-Fi café on wheels.

Performance and Exterior Upgrades

9. LED Headlights: Shed some light on the road ahead with LED headlights. Not only do they provide superior brightness and clarity, but they also consume less energy and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional halogen bulbs. Talk about seeing the road in a whole new light!

10. Tire Upgrade: Your tires are the only point of contact between your car and the road, so it’s crucial to have the right ones. Upgrading to high-quality tires designed for your specific driving needs can improve traction, handling, and overall safety. Whether it’s all-season, performance, or off-road tires, choose wisely for a smoother ride.

Conclusion

There you have it—the top 10 essential accessories and upgrades to transform your car into a haven of safety, comfort, and style. Whether it’s equipping your vehicle with a backup camera system for stress-free parking or adding a touch of luxury with seat covers, these upgrades are sure to enhance your driving experience. So, go ahead and invest in these smart additions. Your car—and your passengers—will thank you for it. Happy driving!

Why Mercedes abandoned the ‘zero sidepod concept’ in F1

Photo by Jenda Kubeš

It’s been a rough few years in Formula 1 for Mercedes. After winning the drivers’ and constructors’ championships for seven straight seasons, Lewis Hamilton was pipped to the title by Max Verstappen in a dramatic and controversial finale in Abu Dhabi in 2021.

The Silver Arrows still secured an eighth constructors’ championship, but it was Max Verstappen of Red Bull who topped the drivers’ standings.

Mercedes debuted the ‘zero sidepod’ concept alongside the introduction of new design regulations for the following season. It provided their cars with vastly superior high-speed downforce, but they were unable to win a single race as Verstappen succeeded again.

The German manufacturer initially stuck with the concept for 2023, but they have now moved back to a more familiar design that they hope can restore them to past glories.

Why was it abandoned?

While the superior downforce should have helped Mercedes, it ended up leading to a porpoising effect that made it an incredibly difficult drive. While most teams suffered from this aerodynamic phenomenon during the early stages of the season, Mercedes was a persistent struggle, and Hamilton even suffered injuries as a result.

With the seven-time champion experiencing the longest winless run of his career, it was suggested that Mercedes decided to abandon the zero sidepod to avoid losing Hamilton when his contract expires at the end of this season.

Lessons learned

Mercedes’ form picked up after they changed the sidepods for the Monaco Grand Prix, with Hamilton and George Russell on the podium at the following race in Spain.

However, the team also introduced a new floor and front suspension at the same time, so the improvement cannot be put solely down to sidepods.

Speaking to Sky Sports F1 after the Spanish Grand Prix, Russell said: “It’s not the sidepods that make the difference. It may be a factor, but the magic isn’t in the sidepods.

“We brought that design to the car to kind of rule it out, the sidepods. The magic was done underneath the car, on the floor. That’s the same for every single team.”

Future implementation

There’s every chance that Mercedes could return to the zero sidepod in the future. Significant changes to the sport are coming in 2026, when a greater emphasis will be placed on electric power and sustainable fuels.

It is hoped these new rules can level the playing field in F1 – at least in engine terms. The Silver Arrows could look to refine the concept in the intervening years in a bid to find an advantage over their competitors at that time.

And even if the innovation does not return in F1, it may still be used by the German manufacturer in the production of road cars for the general public. So, if your Mercedes gap insurance pays out in the coming years, you could get a new model that has integrated technology based on the zero sidepod concept.

TrustedAG review: Select the best forex brokerage platform in TrustedAG this 2023!

Forex trading is very important if you’re looking forward to growing in the capital markets. What it means is that the right forex brokerage platform can help you to proceed further in the forex journey. Yet finding out the right brokerage platform can be very tricky. A brokerage platform that offers excellent technical analytic tools backed by some great customer support should be the one to choose. Not only do they ensure that you stay on top of the trading market, but they are also available in case there is any technical issue. TrustedAG is one such brokerage platform that gives the best solution for forex traders. As per the TrustedAG review, traders who are looking forward to growing their forex journey must not think twice before joining this platform. 

What are the key things to look into before joining a brokerage platform?

Before joining any brokerage platform, there are certain key things that you must look into:

  1. Leverage options: Having the right leverage is very important when it comes to forex trading. Leverage options should always be tested and tried out before purchasing any brokerage plan. TrustedAG Offers a wide range of leverage options for traders in order to make the most of the trading account based on their trading capital. 
  2. Account opening process: For a brokerage platform, the account opening process should be as smooth as possible. If the account opening process is not smooth, it might discourage traders from trading with the platform. A Seamless account opening process backed by an even simpler account verification method is required.
  3. Technical tools available: Forex trading is highly dependent on technical tools. Technical analysis is very critical when it comes to trading in this market as the profitability is on a quicker time frame. If the technical tools are not working properly in this situation, then it might lead to a failure in forex trading. Thus a brokerage platform that offers extensive analytical tools should be the one to go ahead with.

Now that we have understood the key things that are required before you select a brokerage platform, let us find out the three things that every Forex trader should keep in mind while trading.

3 Things Every Forex Trader Must Keep in Mind While Trading

Here is a list of the three things that every forex trader should take note of:

  1. Keeping a tab of the global markets is critical. The Forex market is highly coupled with international news and happenings. Thus staying updated with the global markets helps in understanding the forex movements.
  2. Hedging your positions is also very important when the market is not in any specific direction. Hedging your positions help in reducing the risk and enhancing the portfolio.
  3. Following the trend of the forex market is important. If the trend is not followed, it might lead to failure in the trading dynamics – thus resulting in a complete failure of the trading strategy. 

Lagrand Group Review: Futures for High Returns and Diversification

In the search for high returns and portfolio diversification, active traders are turning to the dynamic world of Lagrand Group Futures. With extended trading hours and the ability to trade long and short positions, Lagrand Group offers competitive advantages in one of the world’s most expansive markets. Leveraging Future Contracts for Difference (CFDs), traders can experience greater exposure to underlying assets while requiring less capital. The benefits of Lagrand Group Futures highlight their potential for high returns, portfolio diversification, and ease of market access.

Capitalizing on an opportunity with extended Trading Hours

Lagrand Group recognizes that marketing events can occur outside regular trading hours. With Lagrand Group Futures, traders can access extended trading hours, providing a huge advantage. Unlike traditional markets with limited trading hours, Lagrand Group allows traders to grab opportunities in global markets around the measure. This flexibility empowers traders to react quickly to breaking news, economic reports, or geopolitical developments, ensuring they are at the lead of potential profit opportunities.

Lagrand Group Futures Portfolio Diversification

Lagrand Group Futures simplify the process of portfolio diversification by providing access to shares and various instruments from multiple global markets through a single trading account. This convenience allows traders to build a well-rounded portfolio spanning different industries, sectors, and regions. By diversifying their holdings, traders can mitigate risk and enhance the potential for long-term returns. With Lagrand Group Futures, achieving a diversified portfolio is not only accessible but also efficient, as traders can easily manage and monitor their positions from a centralized platform.

Profit Flexibility Towards Market

Unlike traditional stock trading, Lagrand Group Futures allow traders to profit in rising and falling markets. Traders can open buy positions if they expect the price to rise or Sell positions if they expect a price decrease. This utility is a significant advantage, enabling traders to take advantage of market fluctuations regardless of the overall market direction. With the ability to profit in any market condition, Lagrand Group Futures present a gripping opportunity for traders seeking diverse income streams.

Bottomline

Lagrand Group Futures offer active traders a gateway to high returns and portfolio diversification. With extended trading hours, leverage opportunities, and the flexibility to profit in rising and falling markets, Lagrand Group empowers traders to seize opportunities and maximize their potential. Additionally, the ease of accessing global markets and instruments from a single account is efficient in portfolio diversification, enabling traders to build flexible investment strategies. Embrace the power of Lagrand Group Futures and unlock the path to financial success.

Weekend schedule for Richmond-2 and Road America

APRIL 02: Alex Bowman, driver of the #48 Ally Chevrolet, leads the field to the green flag to start the NASCAR Cup Series Toyota Owners 400 at Richmond Raceway on April 02, 2023 in Richmond, Virginia. (Photo by David Jensen/Getty Images)

This weekend the NASCAR Cup Series and the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series head to Richmond Raceway while the Xfinity Series competes at Road America. There are only five races remaining in the Cup Series regular season and eight of the active drivers have previously won at the 0.75-mile track.

Kyle Busch leads with six victories while Kevin Harvick (the defending race winner) and Denny Hamlin have four victories each. Martin Truex Jr. has collected 3 checkered flags while Brad Keselowski, Kyle Larson and Joey Logano have each won twice and Alex Bowman has claimed one win.

Eleven Cup Series drivers (Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Kyle Busch, William Byron, Joey Logano, Tyler Reddick, Kyle Larson, Christopher Bell, Martin Truex Jr., Ross Chastain, Denny Hamlin, Ryan Blaney) have already earned a spot in the Playoffs by virtue of wins, leaving five open spots in the 16-driver post-season field.

As the Xfinity Series heads to Road America, seven drivers have secured a spot in the 12-driver playoffs – John Hunter Nemechek, Austin Hill, Cole Custer, Justin Allgaier, Chandler Smith, Sammy Smith, and Jeb Burton. This leaves five open spots in the Xfinity Series Playoffs with seven races to go.

There are seven CRAFTSMAN Truck Series drivers who have clinched a spot in the 10-driver Playoff field – Corey Heim, Zane Smith, Grant Enfinger, Ben Rhodes, Ty Majeski, Christian Eckes and Carson Hocevar. Richmond is the last race of the regular season.

NASCAR Press Pass will be available throughout the weekend.

All times are Eastern.

Friday, July 28

5 p.m.: Xfinity Series Practice – Road America – USA
6 p.m.: Xfinity Series Qualifying – Road America – USA
5:05 p.m.: Truck Series Practice at Richmond (All entries) No TV
5:35 p.m.: Truck Series Qualifying at Richmond (Impound) No TV
Single Vehicle/2 Laps/All Entries

Saturday, July 29

12:35 p.m.: Cup Series Practice at Richmond
Groups A & B
USA/MRN/SiriusXM

1:20 p.m.: Cup Series Qualifying at Richmond (Impound)
Groups A & B – Single Vehicle/2 Laps/2 Rounds
USA/MRN/SiriusXM

3 p.m.: Xfinity Road America 180 at Road America
45 Laps = 182.16 Miles
Stages end on Laps 22/34/45
NBC/MRN/SiriusXM
Purse: $1,347,310

7:30 p.m.: Truck Series Worldwide Express 250 at Richmond
250 Laps = 187.5 Miles
Stages end on Laps 70/140/250
FS1/MRN/SiriusXM
Purse: $808,354

Sunday, July 30

3 p.m.: Cup Series Cook Out 400 at Richmond
400 Laps = 300 Miles
Stages end on Laps 70/230/400 LAPS
USA/MRN/SiriusXM
Purse: $7,565,800

21 Team Hoping To Build on Pocono Finish at Richmond

Fresh off a top-10 finish on Sunday at Pocono Raceway, Harrison Burton and the No. 21 DEX Imaging team are hoping to keep things rolling along this weekend in the Cook Out 400 at Richmond Raceway.

At Pocono, Burton and the DEX Imaging team rallied from a 26th-place start to finish eighth in the HighPoint.com 400.

“Last weekend in Pocono was a great result for everyone on the DEX Ford Mustang team,” said crew chief Brian Wilson. “Personally, I’ve always enjoyed the strategy opportunities that Pocono provides, but there’s no guarantee those plays work out.

“I’m proud of our team for putting ourselves in positions where the strategy could work out, as well as continuing to work on the balance of the car. That ensured we had the speed to hold on to any track position gains we made.

“It was also exciting to see Harrison execute some great restarts at the end to pick up several more spots and secure a top-10 finish.”

Now the attention turns to the three-quarter-mile oval at Richmond, Va., where the Cup Series will make its second appearance of the season.

“Heading into any race in Virginia will have the Wood Brothers team excited,” Wilson said of his No. 21 team which has its roots in Stuart, Va. “In the April race we were able to get a top-20 finish. At Loudon, which has always had similar setups to Richmond, we raced in the top 15 and had lap time ranks that matched the running position.

“It was an obvious gain in competitiveness. We’ll try to improve on that setup direction to give Harrison the car he needs to continue our progress.”

Practice for the Cook Out 400 is set for Saturday at 12:35 p.m. Eastern Time and will be followed immediately by single-car qualifying.

Sunday’s 400-lap, 300-mile race is scheduled to get the green flag just after 3 p.m. Stage breaks are planned for Laps 70 and 230. TV coverage for the weekend will be provided by USA Network.

About DEX Imaging
DEX Imaging is the digital document imaging division of Staples, the world’s largest business solutions provider. DEX sells and services the broadest selection of copiers, printers and data management solutions, such as HP, Konica Minolta, Canon, Kyocera and numerous others.

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES:
Reducing Operating Costs
Reducing Paper Consumption
Increasing Productivity

DEX Imaging has been the recipient of virtually every industry award since the company’s inception, including the JD Power & Associates Award for Best Customer Experience, the prestigious ProTech Service award by Konica Minolta, the Diamond Premier Dealer Award by Kyocera, and the Elite DEALER Award by ‘ENX’ magazine. Other accolades include being named ‘Best Place to Work’ by numerous business journals in the markets DEX serves.

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.

Stewart-Haas Racing: Road America NXS Advance (Cole Custer | Riley Herbst)

COLE CUSTER | RILEY HERBST
Road America NASCAR Xfinity Series Advance
NASCAR Xfinity Series Overview

  • Event: Henry 180 (Round 20 of 33)
  • Date: Saturday, July 29
  • Location: Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
  • Layout: 4.048-mile, 14-turn road course
  • Time/TV/Radio: 3 p.m. EDT on NBC/MRN/SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Cole Custer Notes of Interest

  • Cole Custer and the No. 00 Haas Automation team head to Saturday’s Henry 180 at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, ready to embrace another NASCAR Xfinity Series road-course weekend. In the team’s four races going left and right this season, Custer has won in two of them – June 3 at Portland (Ore.) International Raceway and July 2 in the Inaugural Chicago Street Race. In the season’s first road-course race March 25 at Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas, Custer looked to be on his way to a solid finish until a late-race incident took him out of contention. Saturday’s race marks Custer’s 20th career Xfinity Series road-course starts. In his previous 19, he has earned 14 top-10 finishes and led a total of 41 laps with an average finish of 10.4. Custer’s average road-course finish is identical to his average finish in 21 Xfinity Series starts on short tracks – ovals less than 1 mile in length.
  • Saturday’s Henry 180 will mark Custer’s fifth Xfinity Series start at Road America. In his four prior starts from 2017 to 2022, he only finished outside the top-10 once. He earned a best finish of fourth after starting from the front row in the August 2018 race on the 4.048-mile, 14-turn circuit. In his most recent start last season, in the No. 07 SS Greenlight Racing Ford Mustang, Custer qualified fourth and led six laps before an accident took him out on lap 43. Custer also has three starts outside of the Xfinity Series at Road America – two in the NASCAR Cup Series with a best result of 15th in July 2022, and one in the ARCA Menards Series, which resulted in an 11th-place finish after starting fifth in August 2017.
  • Custer finished in the top-10 in all three of his NASCAR Truck Series outings on road courses, all at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park in Bowmanville, Ontario. His best was his most recent, a second-place run from the pole with a race-high 39 laps led in the No. 00 JR Motorsports entry in 2016.

Riley Herbst Notes of Interest

  • Riley Herbst and the No. 98 Monster Energy team for Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) hope to keep their momentum rolling as they head to Saturday’s Henry 180 at Road America. Last Saturday at Pocono (Pa.) Raceway, Herbst was in prime position to fight for his first career Xfinity Series victory when the team took a gamble and stretched his fuel run in the closing laps of the race. Herbst inherited the lead by staying on track during a lap-81 caution, but on the ensuing restart was unable to hold off his competitors on fresh tires. He held on for a fourth-place finish, his fourth top-five of the season and second with new crew chief Davin Restivo.
  • Saturday’s race at Road America will mark Herbst’s fourth Xfinity Series start at the track. He posted back-to-back seventh-place finishes in his most recent outings at the iconic circuit, both with SHR, in 2021 and 2022. He qualified third for last season’s race and charged from the 34th starting position in the 2021 race. Herbst started fifth and finished 18th in his Road America debut in 2020. Herbst has one start outside of the Xfinity Series at Road America, a lone August 2017 outing during his rookie season in the ARCA Menards Series that resulted in a runner-up finish for the then-18-year-old driver. It was one of six top-fives and 10 top-10s in 19 starts for Herbst that season, which included a victory at Pocono.
  • Only seven races remain before the NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs begin Sept. 15 at Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway, and Herbst is currently defending his spot in the 12-driver playoff field. Heading into the weekend at Road America, he sits 11th in the driver standings but 12th in the playoff standings. With last weekend’s fourth-place finish at Pocono, Herbst extended his buffer over 13th-place Parker Kligerman from 18 to 26 points. He’s in position to secure his top-12 position on points, but a win, of course, would guarantee Herbst a spot in the playoffs. Meanwhile, he and the team are focused on continuing to string together solid finishes and score stage points through the regular-season finale Sept. 9 at Kansas Speedway in Kansas City.

Cole Custer, Driver of the No. 00 Haas Automation Ford Mustang

You’re headed to the 4.048-mile, 14-turn circuit at Road America after winning your last two road-course starts at Portland and Chicago. What are your expectations heading into the weekend with the No. 00 Haas Automation team?

“Road America is always a really fun place just because it’s a challenging course. There are so many different corners, and you kind of have a little bit of everything there. You have high-speed corners, slow-speed, so your car has to be ready for everything. The new pavement is definitely going to be different, so it’s going to be interesting to see how that changes things and how much the speed picks up. I still think it’ll be one of the best road courses we go to just because it has everything. I’m excited to go there with the No. 00 Haas Automation team this weekend to try to go for the win.”

What do you need to do in order to continue your road-course winning streak this weekend?

“I mean, there’s just so much that plays into these road courses, so you have to be prepared for anything it throws at you. There are so many different factors with the restarts and whether guys make mistakes or not. You just hope that you’re there to fight at the end of it all. So I think as long as we keep ourselves in a good position, have some solid speed in our Ford Mustang, and avoid making any big mistakes, we’ll have a shot to go to victory lane again this weekend.”

Riley Herbst, Driver of the No. 98 Monster Energy Ford Mustang

You’ve said Road America is one of your favorite road courses on the schedule, and you’ve had some good runs with seventh-place finishes the past two years. What are your expectations for the weekend?

“Road America is always a fun place to go race. The fans are awesome, and it’s just such a unique road course. There’s a lot of room to move around and try to pass, but it can also get you into some trouble just like any other road course. We’ve been decent on road courses this year, and I’m hoping that we can get a good run this weekend in Wisconsin. If we can have a good qualifying run on Friday, it can really help us out in the race. This No. 98 Monster Energy team can get this Ford Mustang in victory lane, but we just have to put a good weekend together – a fast car, no mistakes, and being there at the end. I’m ready for the challenge.”

With your runner-up finish in the ARCA Menards Series race at Road America in 2017 to go with your back-to-back seventh-place finishes in the Xfinity Series there the past two seasons, do you feel you have some unfinished business there?

“Not really. You never want to finish second as a racecar driver, but we outperformed our car back in 2017 after making some mistakes at the beginning of the race. Two years ago, we had a rough start to the race weekend after wrecking in practice, but we were able to battle all the way from the back to get a top-10 finish. I think if we can make it through the weekend without any mistakes and stay out of trouble, we can be in contention for the win at the end. We have the speed.”

Matt Mills – No. 51 J.F. Electric Silverado Craftsman Trucks Richmond Preview

Matt Mills: Driver, No. 51 J.F. Electric Chevrolet

 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Overview:

Event: Worldwide Express 250, Race 16 of 23, 250 Laps – 70/70/110; 187.5 Miles

Location: Richmond Raceway (0.75-mile D-shaped oval)

Date/Broadcast: July 29, 2023, at 7:30 p.m. ET on FS1, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR 90

Meet Matt:

Matt Mills will make his Kyle Busch Motorsports (KBM) debut behind the wheel of the No. 51 Silverado in Saturday’s Worldwide Express 250 at Richmond Raceway. Saturday’s start will be the first of a two-race deal with KBM that also will see him behind the wheel of the No. 51 at The Milwaukee Mile Speedway Aug. 27.

J.F. Electric, an electrical contractor that’s in the business of creating connections, will be the primary sponsor adorning Mill’s Silverado for both events. Mills will also carry associate sponsorship from Utilitra, a women-owned utility and technology solutions provider with a diverse team of specialized professionals, and Thompson Electric, a full-service electrical contracting company, for his two-race schedule.

The 26-year-old driver, who was born two hours from Richmond in Lynchburg, Va., has made 20 career starts in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series including five this season. He registered a season-best 19th-place finish in the Truck Series’ event at World Wide Technology Raceway in June. He produced a career-best starting position of fourth at Michigan International Speedway in 2018 and a career-best 15th-place finish at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in 2022.

In the NASCAR Xfinity Series, the Virginia native has made 121 career starts with a best result of 10th coming at Daytona International Speedway in 2019. He also made one NASCAR Cup Series start at Kansas Speedway in 2021. Mills has made seven Xfinity Series starts at Richmond, registering a track-best 13th-place finish twice. He has not competed in a Truck Series race at Richmond.

KBM owner-driver Kyle Busch, who claimed KBM’s first-ever Truck Series victory at Nashville Superspeedway in April of 2010, collected his organization’s 100th NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series victory last Saturday at Pocono in the No. 51 Silverado. The No. 51 team currently ranks seventh in the Craftsman Truck Series owner’s point standings. Across 16 starts in 2023, the team has recorded two wins, one pole, 170 laps led, six top-five and nine top-10 finishes resulting in an average finish of 12.2. Entering the final race of the regular season, they sit 62 points above the cutoff line for making the owner’s playoffs without a new winner this week and 50 points above the cutoff line if there is a new owner winner this week.

Veteran crew chief Brian Pattie is calling the shots for the No. 51 team this year in his first season at KBM after spending the last 14 seasons atop the pit box in the NASCAR Cup Series. In the Cup Series, his drivers produced six wins, nine poles, 57 top-five and 131 top-10 finishes across 528 starts. In 2012, he guided Clint Bowyer to three victories and a runner-up finish in the Cup Series championship standings. In 2017, he guided Ricky Stenhouse Jr. to two wins and a berth in the playoffs. The Florida native has also recorded 11 wins in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and now has two wins as a crew chief in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Saturday will be Pattie’s first time calling a Truck Series race at Richmond Raceway. He won the 2012 September Cup Series race at Richmond with Bowyer.

Jack Wood will return to the No. 51 Chevrolet Aug. 11 at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park.
Matt Mills, Driver Q&A:

What do you think the differences between driving an Xfinity car and a truck will be at Richmond?

“In the truck I feel like I’ll be able to be a tad more aggressive off the corners. In the Xfinity car, being able to feather the throttle off the corners kind of fits my driving style not having to be so aggressive and attacking every lap. Hopefully, the style of driving the Xfinity car will be able to transfer over to the truck. I think you’ll have to be a little bit more aggressive with the truck but still feel like you have an egg under the throttle and make sure that you take care of your tires. It’s usually a race where you have to be smooth throughout the race and be there at the end.”

Have you set any goals for this weekend?

“The way I look at it is I want to prove that I’m not wasting this opportunity. A top 10 would be good, top five would be great and if I’m able to win it would be a dream come true. Really, this is going to be a learning curve for me. It’s going to be a great experience and kind of open up my eyes to the sport and see how the upper echelon teams operate. I feel like I need to go out there and not make a fool of myself, gain respect and take everything that I learn this weekend at Richmond and go out and be even better when we show up at Milwaukee.”

Matt Mills Career Highlights:

  • Finished 38th in his lone NASCAR Cup Series start at Kansas Speedway in 2021.
  • Has recorded one top-10 finish across 121 career NASCAR Xfinity Series starts, which came at Daytona International Speedway in July of 2019.
  • Has produced an average finish of 25.8 across 20 career starts in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Produced a career-best starting position of fourth at Michigan International Speedway in 2018 and a career-best 15th-place finish at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in 2022.
  • Kyle Busch’s No. 51 Chevrolet Silverado RST:

KBM-69: The No. 51 J.F. Electric team will unload KBM-69 for Saturday night’s race at Richmond. Across eight starts, KBM-69 has recorded a best result of second twice, both at Las Vegas Motor Speedway with Busch (2021 and 2022). Most recently, Jack wood finished 18th with this Silverado at Charlotte Motor Speedway in May.

KBM-69 Performance Profile:

KBM Notes of Interest:

  • KBM drivers have produced two wins, six top-five and six top-10 finishes resulting in an average finish of 7.9 across nine Truck Series starts at Richmond. Chandler Smith won last year’s race at Richmond and John Hunter Nemechek was victorious in 2021. Kurt Busch picked up the team’s lone NASCAR Xfinity Series victory at the Virginia track in April of 2012.
  • KBM holds the Craftsman Truck Series records for most career wins (100) and most wins in a single season (14 in 2014). KBM owner-driver Kyle Busch picked up his organization’s first-ever win at Nashville Superspeedway in April of 2010 and also picked up its 100th Truck Series victory at Pocono Raceway in July of 2023. In addition to collecting a series-record seven owner’s Championships, the organization has produced two championship-winning drivers: Erik Jones (2015) and Christopher Bell (2017).
  • With 42 victories, the No. 51 is the winningest number in KBM’s Truck Series fleet.

Chase Purdy- No. 4 Bama Buggies Silverado Craftsman Trucks Richmond Preview

Chase Purdy: Driver, No. 4 Bama Buggies Chevrolet

 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Overview:

Event: Worldwide Express 250, Race 16 of 23, 250 Laps – 70/70/110; 187.5 Miles

Location: Richmond Raceway (0.75-mile D-shaped oval)

Date/Broadcast: July 29, 2023, at 7:30 p.m. ET on FS1, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR 90

‘Chase’n a Playoff Spot:

Chase Purdy and the No. 4 Bama Buggies team head to Richmond Raceway for Saturday’s Worldwide Express 250. Purdy enters the final race of the regular season 13th in the Truck Series point standings, 54 points below the cutoff line, putting him in a must-win situation to make the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series playoffs. The Mississippi native entered the 2022 season having never earned a top-five result in Truck Series action but has produced two across 15 races in his first season at Kyle Busch Motorsports (KBM), including a career-best runner-up finish at Texas Motor Speedway in April. He has already produced a career-high seven top-10 finishes this season, after posting just two each in 2021 and 2022.

Purdy has recorded an average finish of 7.2 and finished inside the top 10 on all four paved ovals that are less than 1.3 miles in length raced in the Truck Series so far this season. His best result on those tracks was a fifth-place finish at World Wide Technology Raceway at Gateway in June.

The 23-year-old driver is in his third full-time season in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and first with KBM. He enters Saturday’s race having totaled two top-five and 12 top-10 finishes across his 67 career Truck Series starts. Across two Truck Series starts at Richmond, Purdy has an average finish of 21.0 with a best result of 14th coming in last year’s race. A KBM driver has won the last two Truck Series races at Richmond. John Hunter Nemechek won in 2021 and Chandler Smith was victorious last year.

Purdy finished 16th in the Truck Series final standings in 2022 after competing in 22 of the 23 events. He posted two top-10 finishes and nine laps led, with a season-best finish of seventh coming at Talladega Superspeedway in October.

Jimmy Villeneuve is atop the pit box for Purdy and the No. 4 Chevrolet team this season. Prior to being promoted to crew chief for the 2023 season, Villeneuve had served as a Truck Chief at KBM since the 2017 season and in that role was a part of 18 wins, a driver’s championship with Christopher Bell in 2017 and the 2019 owner’s championship with the No. 51 team. This will be Villeneuve’s first race calling the shots for a race at Richmond.

Bama Buggies, your one-stop shop for all the biggest names in powersports and utility vehicles, will be the primary sponsor on Purdy’s No. 4 Chevrolet Saturday night and for the majority of the events on the 2023 schedule. They are Central Alabama’s powersports experts, serving as an authorized dealer of Polaris, Slingshot, and Seadoo.
Chase Purdy, Driver Q&A:

What is your approach heading into Saturday’s race?

“I would say our approach is to do everything we can to put ourselves in position to win. That’s our only option to make the playoffs and that’s what we plan to do.”

Is there a track that you’ve raced at in any series that is similar to Richmond?

“Richmond is similar to 5 Flags Speedway in Pensacola (Florida) in a lot of ways. It’s a worn out short track where you have to manage and save tires and be there at the end of the race. I’ve had a lot of strong runs at 5 Flags — won the Snowflake and almost won the Derby — so I feel like Richmond is a place where I can go out and compete for the win.”

Chase Purdy Career Highlights:

  • Across 67 career Truck Series starts, has produced 20 laps led, two top-five and 12 top-10 finishes. Posted a career-best runner-up finish at Texas Motor Speedway in April of 2023.
  • Finished 16th in Truck Series championship standings in 2022.
  • Finished fourth in the 2018 ARCA Menard’s Series championship standings after recording 84 laps led, 10 top-five and 14 top-10 finishes.
  • Earned the 2017 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East rookie of the year honors and finished fourth in the championship standings after posting four poles, 200 laps led, five top-five and eight top-10 finishes across 14 starts.
  • Won the prestigious Snowflake 100 Pro Late Model race at 5 Flags Speedway in Pensacola, Fla., in Dec. of 2018.
  • Chase Purdy’s No. 4 Chevrolet Silverado RST:

KBM-56: The No. 4 Bama Buggies team will unload KBM-56 for Saturday’s race at Richmond. This chassis has two career victories across 18 starts, most recently with John Hunter Nemechek at Kansas Speedway last September. Nemechek also won with KBM-56 at Pocono Raceway in June of 2021. Purdy has piloted this Silverado twice this year, with a best result of eighth coming at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

Click Here for KBM-56 Performance Profile:

KBM Notes of Interest:

  • KBM drivers have produced two wins, six top-five and six top-10 finishes resulting in an average finish of 7.9 across nine Truck Series starts at Richmond. Chandler Smith won last year’s race at Richmond and John Hunter Nemechek was victorious in 2021. Kurt Busch picked up the team’s lone NASCAR Xfinity Series victory at the Virginia track in April of 2012.
  • KBM holds the Craftsman Truck Series records for most career wins (100) and most wins in a single season (14 in 2014). KBM owner-driver Kyle Busch picked up his organization’s first-ever win at Nashville Superspeedway in April of 2010 and also picked up its 100th Truck Series victory at Pocono Raceway in July of 2023. In addition to collecting a series-record seven owner’s championships, the organization has produced two championship-winning drivers: Erik Jones (2015) and Christopher Bell (2017).
  • The No. 4 has 18 career victories at KBM and was the number for both of the organization’s driver championships.