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Josh Berry Marches #4Ward

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Official Release
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Stewart-Haas Racing Names Berry the Successor of its No. 4 Ford Mustang in the NASCAR Cup Series, Replacing the Retiring Kevin Harvick in 2024

KANNAPOLIS, N.C. (June 21, 2023) – One of the most coveted seats in the NASCAR Cup Series has been filled.

Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) has named Josh Berry the driver of its No. 4 Ford Mustang in the NASCAR Cup Series beginning with the 2024 season. He will replace the retiring Kevin Harvick, whose 23-year Cup Series career will come to an end following the season finale Nov. 5 at Phoenix Raceway.

“I can’t imagine a better opportunity for me – to get in a car that’s been as successful and iconic as the No. 4,” Berry said. “Kevin is a future NASCAR Hall of Famer, and it’s going to be a challenge trying to come after someone so successful. But I know I’m going to have an amazing group of people around me, led by Rodney Childers, to where we can hit the ground running.”

Harvick and his crew chief, Childers, have combined for 37 points-paying wins since their pairing in 2014, when they came out of the gate in impressive fashion by winning the 2014 Cup Series title.

“We’re incredibly proud to have Josh Berry begin the next chapter of his racing career in our No. 4 Ford Mustang,” said Tony Stewart, co-owner of SHR with Haas Automation founder Gene Haas. “Kevin Harvick has obviously set a very high bar, but Josh brings maturity, experience and, above all, a winning record to Stewart-Haas Racing. He is the right driver, at the right time, for the No. 4 team and our organization.”

Berry currently competes in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, the stepping-stone division to the elite Cup Series. The 32-year-old from Hendersonville, Tennessee, is a five-time Xfinity Series race winner who advanced to the Championship 4 in 2022. Berry’s on-track exploits have made him the go-to solution for Cup Series teams in need of an interim driver. He has already made 10 Cup Series starts, highlighted by a second-place finish April 2 at Richmond (Va.) Raceway while subbing for the injured Chase Elliott.

“Josh Berry has proven himself in the Xfinity Series and this year showed how quickly he can adapt to the cars and the level of competition in the NASCAR Cup Series,” said Greg Zipadelli, chief competition officer, SHR. “He’ll be a rookie in our racecar next year, but he drives like a veteran. He puts in the work to ensure that he’s always ready for the opportunities that come his way, and we’re very happy that his next opportunity is with Stewart-Haas Racing.”

Just as Berry earned his 2024 seat with SHR via strong and consistent performances in the Xfinity and Cup Series, Berry earned his spot in the Xfinity Series by dominating Late Model racing across a variety of grassroots series.

While winning six Legend Cars championships as a teenager, Berry also competed in iRacing, and it was during online racing sessions where Berry caught the attention of Dale Earnhardt Jr. Earnhardt offered a Late Model test to Berry and he seized the moment. Berry joined JR Motorsports’ Late Model program in 2010 and soon delivered wins and championships, most notably the 2017 CARS Late Model Stock Tour championship and then the 2020 NASCAR Weekly Racing Series championship.

Earnhardt’s belief in Berry had been duly rewarded, so Earnhardt double-downed on his faith in Berry by promoting his protégé to one of JR Motorsports’ Xfinity Series entries, albeit on a limited schedule. In just his 13th career Xfinity Series start, Berry won on April 11, 2021 at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The site of one of Berry’s most prominent Late Model victories – the 2019 ValleyStar Credit Union 300 – became the site of his breakthrough NASCAR moment. A second Xfinity Series victory was earned on Sept. 25 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, setting the stage for a three-win campaign in 2022 where Berry competed for the championship in his first full-time season.

“I’m really proud of how I’ve gotten to this point and earned this opportunity,” Berry said. “I don’t like to use the word luck. It’s also been about preparation meeting opportunity.

“The Xfinity Series win at Martinsville changed my career and allowed us to point toward a full-time season for 2022 where we competed for the championship.

“It’s also been very meaningful to get some opportunities in the Cup Series this year. I’m proud of how they went, but I cannot wait to drive a Cup car that’s got my name on it.”

After subbing for race-winning drivers in the Cup Series, most notably Elliott and Alex Bowman, Berry will indeed get his own racecar in 2024, but one that has been driven for a decade by Harvick.

“Late Model racing is where I came from, and I think it’s the best place to learn and prepare to eventually race in the NASCAR Cup Series,” said Harvick, who is an ardent supporter of Late Model racing and its presence as a feeder system to NASCAR’s Truck, Xfinity and Cup Series. “Josh is a really good example, and probably the best and most recent example, of applying all that he’s learned in Late Models to what he’s doing in the Xfinity Series.

“Winning the CARS Late Model Stock Tour championship and the NASCAR Weekly Racing Series championship requires a lot of skill and an equal amount of determination. Josh did both and won a lot of races along the way. That experience allowed him to be fast and successful right off the bat when he got to the Xfinity Series, and when he had his opportunities to race in the Cup Series earlier this year, he again showed speed and an ability to race at the front.

“I’m very happy for Josh and proud to see him get this opportunity. He’s going to be a really good fit with Rodney and the No. 4 team.”

In May, Harvick partnered with Earnhardt, Jeff Burton and Justin Marks to purchase the CARS Late Model Stock Tour, the same series Berry ran from 2015 through 2022, winning 22 races and the 2017 title.

“When I was racing the Late Model car, I just wanted to be the most bad-ass short-track racer that you could be, and that’s how we progressed,” Berry said. “We won a ton of races, a national championship and a CARS Tour championship. We had a list of things that we wanted to accomplish and big races we wanted to win, and we’d go out there every time with the intent of checking things off that list.”

Childers can relate to Berry’s Late Model ambitions. Before becoming a successful crew chief, Childers was a successful Late Model driver.

“I think one of the many things that’s made Kevin and I work so well together is our history in Late Model racing and our respect for it,” Childers said. “Late Model racing is a really great proving ground, and Josh showed that he was the best of the best when it came to pavement Late Model racing. And when he got to the Xfinity Series, he kept on winning. To be the guy who will help Josh get his first Cup win is something I’m really looking forward to.”

A road that began with karting in his home state of Tennessee that segued to iRacing with Dale Earnhardt Jr., which landed Berry a shop job at JR Motorsports as a parts washer while he worked to make a name for himself in Late Models and then the Xfinity Series, has finally culminated with a full-time drive in the Cup Series.

“I wouldn’t change anything about how I got here. It made me who I am,” Berry said. “Throughout my teenage years, it was a fight just to keep racing, to get to the next race.

“The timing of Dale and I getting together, that was crucial. If that doesn’t happen, I don’t know that I would’ve ever raced a stock car, or how much more I would’ve raced at all, just because racing overextended us financially. And when you race that way, it’s hard to set any kind of a long-term goal. But your goals just change as you grow.

“Those years of racing and winning, and the people I was around and worked with, prepared me for the opportunities that I’ve gotten, and they’ve prepared me to capitalize on this opportunity with Stewart-Haas Racing. Even without knowing where it would ultimately take me, I’d do it all over again.”

About Stewart-Haas Racing:

Stewart-Haas Racing is the title-winning NASCAR team co-owned by three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Tony Stewart and Gene Haas, founder of Haas Automation – the largest CNC machine tool builder in North America. The Kannapolis, North Carolina-based organization has won two NASCAR Cup Series titles, one NASCAR Xfinity Series championship and nearly 100 NASCAR races, including such crown-jewel events as the Daytona 500, Brickyard 400 and Southern 500. For more information, please visit us online at StewartHaasRacing.com and on social at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Porsche Penske Motorsport works team aims to defend championship lead

By
Official Release
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Preview, IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, Round 5, Watkins Glen (USA)

  • Atlanta, June 21, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —
  • Porsche Penske Motorsport travels to round five of the season leading the championship
  • Nick Tandy and Mathieu Jaminet at the top of the drivers’ standings
  • Second race outing for the customer-run 963 from JDC-Miller MotorSports
  • A total of six Porsche 911 GT3 R contest the two GTD classes
  • Porsche GT4 e-Performance demonstrates its potential in show runs

Porsche Penske Motorsport travels to round five of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship as the leader of the team classification. In the 6 Hours of the Glen in New York state, the factory squad aims to extend its championship lead and propel Porsche to the top of the manufacturer’s standings. Porsche Penske Motorsport fields two Porsche 963 at Watkins Glen International, with the customer team JDC-Miller MotorSports campaigning one identical hybrid prototype in the top GTP class. In the two GTD categories, four partner teams run a total of six Porsche 911 GT3 R.

Atlanta. After scoring top results at the Californian circuits of Long Beach and Laguna Seca recently, the works drivers Mathieu Jaminet from France and Nick Tandy from the UK moved to the top of the leaderboard in the drivers’ classification. The pair in the No. 6 Porsche 963 is determined to defend their lead in the championship at Watkins Glen International. Felipe Nasr from Brazil and Australian Matt Campbell share driving duties in the sister car. The No. 7 entry secured the first pole position for Porsche Penske Motorsport in Laguna Seca. In the manufacturers’ classification, Porsche currently ranks second. In the long and illustrious history of the race track in the Fingerlakes region of New York, the sports car manufacturer from Germany has achieved eleven overall victories.

“After the disappointment at Le Mans, we now want to continue the clear uptrend that we’ve demonstrated previously in the IMSA series,” explains Thomas Laudenbach, Vice President Porsche Motorsport. “Our two Porsche 963 will be well prepared for the race and the driver pairings have already impressively displayed their ability. The North American endurance racing scene offers fans some gripping, balanced and spectacular racing at every event. I hope that we’ll also be mixing with the main players at this fantastic show at Watkins Glen.”

“We recently achieved some fantastic results in the sprint races of the IMSA series. Now it’s time for another endurance event. We aim to shine there as well,” states Urs Kuratle. The Director of Factory Motorsport LMDh adds: “Our team went testing at Watkins Glen a few weeks ago and has already set up the Porsche 963 to the special characteristics of this stunning parkland race track. Our goal is clear: we also want to take the lead in the manufacturers’ championship.”

“The team is completely focused on the task ahead at Watkins Glen. We want to continue fighting for the lead in the championship – especially after what happened at Le Mans,” Jonathan Diuguid clarifies. The Managing Director of Porsche Penske Motorsport adds: “We learn something new at every race and we continue to improve the car and the team. Watkins Glen will be a huge challenge. The race is not as long as those in Daytona, Sebring or Le Mans, but the six-hour event should not be underestimated. We hope to benefit from our two days of testing at Watkins Glen and we look forward to heading into the second half of the season.”

The race
The six-hour race has its roots in the Grand Prix Watkins Glen, which was contested on public roads for the first time in 1948. Eight years later, it switched to a purpose-built closed race track under the name Watkins Glen International. From 1961 to 1980, Formula One was contested regularly on the 3.4-mile (5.47-kilometer) course. At the same time, endurance racing became a regular fixture at the circuit, which features eleven turns and spectacular uphill and downhill passages. To date, Porsche has eleven overall victories at Watkins Glen.
The course nestles harmoniously into the forested and undulating landscape of the Finger Lakes, which lie close to the Canadian border and are extremely popular with tourists. Fast and flowing with dramatic elevation changes make it a favorite among drivers. Like on almost all North American tracks, Watkins Glen has very few run-off zones. This adds to the thrill for drivers and spectators alike. Alongside long-distance races at Daytona, Sebring and the season finale at Road Atlanta, the six-hour event counts towards the IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup. This special classification includes the four longest races of the season.

The drivers
Mathieu Jaminet from France and Nick Tandy from the UK share the cockpit of Porsche Penske Motorsport’s No. 6 car. The Englishman won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2015. In April, the pair clinched the maiden victory for the Porsche 963 at Long Beach. Scoring second at the previous race in Laguna Seca, Jaminet/Tandy moved to the top of the drivers’ standings. The crew in the No. 7 sister car, Felipe Nasr from Brazil and Australian Matt Campbell, currently ranks sixth. Campbell achieved the first pole position for the Porsche 963 at Laguna Seca.

The customer teams
The Porsche 963 fielded by the customer team JDC-Miller MotorSports tackles the top GTP class. The squad from Minneapolis put in a strong drive at its debut in Laguna Seca and crossed the finish line in seventh place. The experienced German driver Mike Rockenfeller and the young Dutchman Tijmen van der Helm share driving duties in the yellow No. 5 hybrid prototype.

In the GTD-Pro class, Pfaff Motorsports fields one Porsche 911 GT3 R. The defending champion of the top GT category currently ranks third in the championship after a win in Sebring and podium finishes in Long Beach and Laguna Seca. The No. 9 racer from the Canadian squad is helmed by Austrian Klaus Bachler and Patrick Pilet from France. In the GTD category, three customer teams field a total of five GT3 cars from Weissach, Germany. The Laguna Seca class winners Kellymoss with Riley and the Wright Motorsports outfit each field two vehicles, with AO Racing running one car.

Porsche GT4 e-Performance demonstrates its potential at Watkins Glen
As part of the support program of the IMSA race weekend in Watkins Glen, spectators will not only be treated to two races of the hotly contested Porsche Deluxe Carrera Cup North America. In addition, Porsche brand ambassador Jörg Bergmeister will turn demo laps in the Porsche GT4 e-Performance on Friday (June 23) and Sunday (June 25). The overall Daytona winner and Le Mans class victor will push the all-electric test car delivering up to 800 kW (1,088 PS) to the limit. The aim is to underline the power of the potential customer racer of the future. The demo run of the impressive concept car is part of the GT4 e-Performance World Tour. The vehicle has already made appearances in Goodwood (United Kingdom), Leipzig (Germany), Austin, Los Angeles and Atlanta as well as at the Race of Champions in Sweden.

Overview of vehicles and drivers
GTP class (Porsche 963):
JDC-Miller MotorSports No. 5: Mike Rockenfeller (D) / Tijmen van der Helm (NL)
Porsche Penske Motorsport No. 6: Mathieu Jaminet (F) / Nick Tandy (UK)
Porsche Penske Motorsport No. 7: Matt Campbell (AUS) / Felipe Nasr (BR)

GTD-Pro class (Porsche 911 GT3 R):
Pfaff Motorsports No. 9: Klaus Bachler (A) / Patrick Pilet (F)

GTD-class (Porsche 911 GT3 R):
Wright Motorsports No. 16: Ryan Hardwick (USA) / Zacharie Robichon (CDN) / Jan Heylen (B)
Wright Motorsports No. 77: Alan Brynjolfsson (USA) / Trent Hindman (USA) / Maxwell Root (USA)
AO Racing No. 80: PJ Hyett (USA) / Sebastian Priaulx (UK) / Gunnar Jeannette (USA)
Kellymoss with Riley No. 91: Alan Metni (USA) / Kay van Berlo (NL) / Jaxon Evans (NZ)
Kellymoss with Riley No. 92: David Brule (USA) / Alec Udell (USA) / Julien Andlauer (F)

The schedule (all times ET)
Friday, June 23
11:50 am – Noon: Demo laps GT4 e-Performance
4:30 pm – 6:00 pm: Free practice 1

Saturday, June 24
8:00 am – 9:45 am: Free practice 2
1:20 pm – 1:35 pm: Qualifying GTD-Pro/GTD
2:10 pm – 2:30 pm: Qualifying GTP

Sunday, June 25
8:00 am – 8:20 am: Warmup
8:30 am – 8:50 am: Demo laps GT4 e-Performance
10:40 am – 4:40 pm: “Six Hours of the Glen” race

Drivers’ comments on the Watkins Glen race
Mathieu Jaminet (Porsche 963 No. 6): “I wasn’t particularly happy with Le Mans. So, I’m pleased to quickly get back into the IMSA series in the Porsche 963. Nick and I are leading the IMSA drivers’ championship. The main thing is that we get through the six hours at Watkins Glen in one piece and collect a lot of points. Our two-day test at the track was helpful. We gained important experience and data, but we still don’t know where we stand compared to the opposition.”

Matt Campbell (Porsche 963 No. 7): “I’m super excited about the race at Watkins Glen. A few weeks ago we conducted very successful tests there, and we made noticeable progress. Before this test, I’d only ever driven GT cars at Watkins Glen. I like the track. It’s wonderfully fast and offers a lot of grip. It’s even more fun with a prototype. I hope we can take home maximum points with our number 7 car.”

Mike Rockenfeller (Porsche 963 No. 5): “The Watkins Glen course is fantastic to drive. I know the track and I can’t wait to get back in the Porsche 963 for our second race in the car. We learned a lot at our debut in Laguna Seca, but unlike many others, we didn’t test at Watkins Glen. So, we have to quickly work out a good setup in practice. If we finish the race cleanly and unscathed, then we should get a good result. I’m not expecting miracles though – we have to be realistic. In a way, the season is only just starting for me, because from now on I can focus fully on the IMSA series.”

Klaus Bachler (Porsche 911 GT3 R No. 9): “We tested at Watkins Glen about a month ago. The track is super cool with plenty of grip – significantly more than the circuits in Long Beach and Laguna Seca. Watkins Glen is really fast and offers several overtaking opportunities. It’s going to be fun because the LMP2 and LMP3 classes are back. With such a packed grid, it should be an action-packed six hours. We’re currently in third place and are in the fight for the championship. So, we must be well prepared, make it safely over the race distance and score as many points as possible.”

RISI COMPETIZIONE WATKINS GLEN IMSA PRE-RACE

By
Official Release
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Risi Competizione Ferrari 296 GT3 No. 62:

Davide Rigon (ITA)
Daniel Serra (BRA)

(Houston, Texas, June 21, 2023) …Risi Competizione’s No. 62 Ferrari 296 GT3 GTD Pro team and car returns to Watkins Glen International this week for Round three of four of the IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup (IMEC) Championship for 2023.

Ferrari Competizioni GT factory drivers Davide Rigon and Daniel Serra, the defending IMEC GTD Pro champs, return to the U.S. following Ferrari’s big overall victory at the Centenary 24 Hours of Le Mans race earlier this month. Their 24 Hours of Daytona teammates, James Calado and Alessandro Pier Guidi, along with third factory driver, Antonio Giovinazzi, captured a popular Hypercar overall victory at the Circuit de la Sarthe in the fourth round of FIA WEC 2023.

The Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen at Watkins Glen International, June 22-25, 2023, has a 57-car field entered, set to match the track’s largest yet. The 3.4-mile, 11-turn road course will feature all five IMSA WeatherTech classes — Grand Touring Prototype (GTP), Le Mans Prototype 2 (LMP2), Le Mans Prototype 3 (LMP3), Grand Touring Daytona Pro (GTD PRO), Grand Touring Daytona (GTD) classes on track together.

Last year Italian Rigon and Brazilian Serra finished in second place in class at the legendary New York state race circuit, helping them with strong points towards their IMEC championship.

Risi Competizione driver, Brazilian Daniel Serra

Daniel Serra, driver, No. 62 Risi Competizione Ferrari 296 GT3:

“I’m really happy to be back in IMSA. It’s one of my favourite championships. Racing Watkins Glen is one of the best tracks we have. It’s a very high-speed track, a lot of grip. It’s been a while since we raced together the last time with Risi. I think the guys will do a good job in the shop to get ready. We are looking forward to the race. We had a nice race last year there…finished in second place and close to winning. Let’s see what we can do with the new car this weekend.”

Davide Rigon, driver, No. 62 Risi Competizione Ferrari 296 GT3:

“Yes, we are coming from Le Mans. From my side in regard with the 499P,

I’m so happy as well and proud for everything we have done. I participated in most of the tests with the 499P. I’m so happy the No. 51 won Le Mans. For me at Le Mans it was a very nice race. We led a lot of time. I was very happy for my pace and in the end, we finished P5 in the LMGTE-Am class with our Ferrari 488 GTE.

I’ve been waiting a long time to come back to the U.S. It’s always such nice moments with Risi and I like driving in IMSA so much. I’m really focused to do the best I can at Watkins Glen. It looks like the weather will not be as good as last year, but we will all do our best and see what happens. Our team with Rick (Mayer), our engineer, and all the crew members have so much experience with the IMSA championship so we’ll be ready for everything.”

Risi Competizione driver, Italian Davide Rigon

With the official race start time at 10:40 a.m. (Eastern), the race will be televised live in the U.S. on USA Network from 2:00-5:00 p.m. There will also be streaming cover flag-to-flag beginning at 10:30 a.m. for the full six hours on Peacock and IMSA.com/TVLive (outside U.S.). IMSA Radio will cover select sessions live on IMSA.com/RadioLeMans.com, and SiriusXM coverage begins Sunday, June 25 at 10:30 a.m. (XM 207, Web/App 992).

The weekend schedule includes qualifying on Saturday, June 24 at 1:20 p.m. ET for the GTD Pro class. The Sahlen’s Six Hours of the Glen race starts at 10:40 a.m. on Sunday.

Sponsors for the 2023 season for Risi Competizione include Pennzoil, Michelin, OMP Racing and Rotiform.

For more information about Risi, please go to www.risicompetizione.com and follow us on Facebook/RisiCompetizione, Twitter @RisiComp and Instagram @RisiComp.

LLumar extends sponsorship of Hendrick Motorsports

By
Official Release
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RENEWAL INCLUDES TWO ADDITIONAL RACES WITH THE NO. 9 TEAM IN 2023, THEN TWO PER SEASON THROUGH 2026

CONCORD, N.C. (June 21, 2023) – Eastman Performance Films, LLC, a subsidiary of Eastman Chemical Company (NYSE: EMN), has extended its sponsorship of Hendrick Motorsports, 2020 NASCAR Cup Series champion Chase Elliott and the No. 9 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 team for three additional seasons.

The sponsorship, which features the LLumar® brand of window film and paint protection film, will run through 2026. LLumar will be a primary sponsor of Elliott, 27, for two races each season and a major associate sponsor in all other Cup Series events.

“We are excited to extend our sponsorship with Hendrick Motorsports and the No. 9 team,” said Erin Bernhardt, general manager of Eastman Performance Films, LLC. “This sponsorship has helped increase awareness of the LLumar brand and the benefits of window tint and paint protection film for vehicle and homeowners.”

As part of the extension, LLumar will be the primary sponsor on the No. 9 Chevrolet for two additional races this season: the Aug. 26 regular season finale at Daytona International Speedway and the Oct. 1 event at Talladega Superspeedway where Elliott is the defending race winner. LLumar will also be the primary sponsor at the Oct. 15 Las Vegas Motor Speedway race as previously announced.

“We’re delighted to extend our program with Eastman and the LLumar brand,” said Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports. “LLumar offers tremendous products that we stand behind through the No. 9 team and in our Hendrick Automotive Group car dealerships across the country. It’s been rewarding to see them win races with Chase, translating to even more success off the track. We look forward to the future and continuing to grow our relationship together.”

LLumar high-performance films help improve the appearance and driving comfort of vehicles as well as enhancing the comfort, appearance and privacy in homes and commercial buildings around the world. The LLumar portfolio of products includes window tint and paint protection films for vehicles, and solar control, decorative and safety and security films for residential and commercial buildings.

“I’m excited to continue our relationship with LLumar and to get two additional chances to get them to victory lane this season,” Elliott said. “I’ve really enjoyed getting to meet many of the Eastman employees over the years, whether it’s at their facilities near tracks where we compete or having them out for the races. I look forward to seeing what we can continue to accomplish together in the coming years.”

ABOUT EASTMAN PERFORMANCE FILMS, LLC:
With over 65 years of experience, Eastman Performance Films, LLC is a leading manufacturer and marketer of high-performance window tint and paint protection film for automotive applications and window film for residential and commercial applications. The company is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, USA and is a subsidiary of Eastman Chemical Company. For more information, visit www.llumar.com.

ABOUT EASTMAN CHEMICAL COMPANY:
Founded in 1920, Eastman is a global specialty materials company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With the purpose of enhancing the quality of life in a material way, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. The company’s innovation-driven growth model takes advantage of world-class technology platforms, deep customer engagement, and differentiated application development to grow its leading positions in attractive end markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. As a globally inclusive and diverse company, Eastman employs approximately 14,500 people around the world and serves customers in more than 100 countries. The company had 2022 revenues of approximately $10.6 billion and is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA. For more information, visit www.eastman.com.

ABOUT HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS:
Founded by Rick Hendrick in 1984, Hendrick Motorsports is the winningest team in NASCAR Cup Series history. At the sport’s premier level, the organization holds the all-time records in every major statistical category, including championships (14), points-paying race victories (296) and laps led (more than 78,000). It has earned at least one race win in a record 39 different seasons, including an active streak of 38 in a row (1986-2023). The team fields four full-time Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 entries in the NASCAR Cup Series with drivers Alex Bowman, William Byron, Chase Elliott and Kyle Larson. Headquartered on more than 100 acres in Concord, North Carolina, Hendrick Motorsports employs approximately 600 people. For more information, please visit HendrickMotorsports.com or interact on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

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

By
Official Release
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COLE CUSTER | RILEY HERBST
Nashville NASCAR Xfinity Series Advance
NASCAR Xfinity Series Overview

  • Event: Tennessee Lottery 250 (Round 15 of 33)
  • Date: Saturday, June 24
  • Location: Nashville (Tenn.) Superspeedway
  • Layout: 1.33-mile, concrete oval
  • Time/TV/Radio: 3:30 p.m. EDT on USA/PRN/SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Cole Custer Notes of Interest

  • Cole Custer and the No. 00 Haas Automation team are rested and ready after the season’s fourth of five off weekends and look to continue their impressive streak of top-10 finishes in his first NASCAR Xfinity Series race at the 1.33-mile oval of Nashville (Tenn.) Superspeedway. In the series’ last race on June 10 at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway, Custer earned a sixth-place result for his eighth consecutive Xfinity Series top-10. The streak started April 1 with a fifth-place result at Richmond (Va.) Raceway. He went on to finish third April 15 at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway, fourth April 22 at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway, seventh April 29 at Dover (Del.) Motor Speedway, third May 13 at Darlington (S.C.) Raceway, third May 29 at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway, and he won the June 3 race at Portland (Ore.) International Raceway. The eight consecutive top-10s, which include five top-five finishes, equals his career best Xfinity Series top-10 streak set in 2018 with Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR).
  • Win and you’re in. That’s the mentality of the NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs. In the past eight races, Custer was able to elevate himself from 10th in the driver standings to fourth, and he has secured his spot in the 12-driver playoff field with his victory at Portland. His eyes are now set on the regular-season championship, where his top-10 streak is helping him close the gap to points leader John Hunter Nemechek. Custer heads to Nashville 59 points behind Nemechek with 12 regular-season races to go.
  • While Saturday’s Tennessee Lottery 250 will be Custer’s first Xfinity Series race at Nashville, it will be his third overall in NASCAR. He made two NASCAR Cup Series starts there in 2021 and 2022, which resulted in finishes of 30th and 26th, respectively.

Riley Herbst Notes of Interest

  • As a native of Las Vegas, Riley Herbst should feel right at home in Nashville as he heads to Saturday’s Tennessee Lottery 250 at Nashville (Tenn.) Superspeedway. The capital of Tennessee may be best known as Music City, but its bright lights and lively nightlife have earned it another nickname – “Nashvegas.” The fact that Nashville’s 1.33-mile concrete oval is an intermediate-style track makes Herbst feel even more at home. His history at intermediates is strong. His best career NASCAR Xfinity Series results have come at intermediates, where he owns a pair of second-place finishes – February 2020 at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California, and July 2020 at Kentucky Speedway in Sparta. After some bad luck followed the No. 98 Monster Energy Ford team throughout the first half of the 2023 season, the team looks to get a fresh start at Nashville after an off weekend.
  • The No. 98 Monster Energy team will see a new leader atop the pit box when it arrives at Nashville this weekend. Former crew chief Richard Boswell has moved up to SHR’s No. 14 NASCAR Cup Series team with driver Chase Briscoe. Replacing Boswell as crew chief for the No. 98 Xfinity Series team is Davin Restivo. Since 2022, Restivo has been the lead engineer for SHR’s No. 10 Cup Series team driver Aric Almirola. Prior to his time in the No. 10 outfit, Restivo was the lead engineer for Custer, first in the Xfinity Series (2019) and then moving up with Custer to the Cup Series (2020-2021). Before joining SHR in 2019, Restivo was an engineer at Chip Ganassi Racing.
  • Saturday’s Tennessee Lottery 250 will mark Herbst’s third race at Nashville. Last year, Herbst won his second career pole and finished third behind race-winner Justin Allgaier and runner-up Trevor Bayne. In 2021, he rallied for a solid top-10 finish from the 20th starting position.

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

While you’re never been to Nashville in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, you do have two NASCAR Cup Series starts at the track. What are your expectations heading into the Tennessee Lottery 250?

“Nashville is a hard track. It’s a very disconnected racetrack, so you really have to be disciplined. Just like Sonoma, it’s a very easy track to overdrive and get yourself in some trouble. You really have to make sure as a driver that you’re hitting your marks. Hopefully with it being a concrete track, it can build some rubber and we can move around a bit. It’s definitely a unique track with how it’s shaped and how you have to drive it. I had some rough Cup races at this track, but hopefully we can take advantage of that full practice session on Friday to put it all together.”

With so many races coming up in this summer stretch, how do you and the team stay focused?

“This is the point in the season where we really have to put the gas pedal down and we have to start taking advantage of the momentum. We’ve really started to hit our stride here recently with the top-10s and the win at Portland, so it’s just about keeping that momentum going. We’ve put together everything we’ve needed and now it’s just about perfecting that each and every week. The No. 00 Haas Automation team is working hard, and we’re excited for these summer months.”

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

You should feel right at home in “Nashvegas” this weekend after growing up under the neon lights of Las Vegas. How excited are you to get back to Nashville Superspeedway for Saturday’s Tennessee Lottery 250, where you had such a strong weekend last year?

“I’m pumped to head back to Nashville again. The city itself is so much fun, but so is the racing at the superspeedway. I don’t know how to describe it, but the track works for my style of racing. This is a race that I had circled on the calendar for this summer after winning the pole and running well here last year. It can be a difficult track with how slick it can get in the summer heat, but you just have to put the pieces together at the end of the day. No mistakes, fast pit stops, and speed in the racecar.”

Nashville will mark your first race with new crew chief Davin Restivo. Talk about the change and your outlook for the rest of the season.

“First off, I want to congratulate Richard (Boswell, new SHR No. 14 crew chief) on being promoted up to the Cup Series. It’s bittersweet, but I’m happy for him to get this opportunity. I’m excited to work with Davin on the No. 98 Monster Energy team. It’s his first time as a crew chief, but I think that we can continue to grow this program. Hopefully, we can go to Nashville and start the second half of the season strong.”

Flying Lizard Lamborghinis Flock to Watkins Glen International for Next Super Trofeo Rounds

By
Official Release
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WATKINS GLEN, N.Y., (June 21, 2023) – Six weeks have passed since the start of the Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America season commenced, and Flying Lizard Motorsports has arrived to Watkins Glen International for Rounds Three and Four of the championship fight. The ten-time sports car racing champions have four-full season Lamborghini Huracan Super Trofeo Evo2 cars, and with two rounds complete, the team currently sits fifth in the overall team standings.

“We had a good start to the season at Laguna Seca with getting two of our four cars on the podium and a pole position in qualifying,” said Program Manager Darren Law. “We are all looking forward to Watkins Glen this weekend. It is one of the best tracks in the US and we have had a lot of success there in the past.”

After scoring the Pro-Am class victory in race one at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, Chris Bellomo and Johannes van Overbeek (No. 68) currently stand in third in the Pro-Am driver championship rankings. The pairing of Paul Nemschoff and Marc Miller (No. 41) also celebrated podium success at Laguna Seca, earning a third-place finish from pole position in race two. Momentum is on Tom Tait’s side (No. 64) after a Super Trofeo career-best fourth-place finish in the series, while Slade Stewart and Andy Lee (No. 14) hope to shake off the bad luck that plagued the duo in the previous rounds to return to their first podium of 2023.

Running in support of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship’s Six Hours of the Glen, the Lamborghini Super Trofeo paddock will be accessible to all fans, who will also get a large dose of racing all weekend long, at one of North America’s favorite road courses. Watkins Glen International, often referred to as “The Glen,” it is one of the most iconic road racing circuits in North America. The track has a rich history and has been hosting various forms of motorsport events since its establishment in 1956.

The circuit is set amidst the picturesque Finger Lakes region of upstate New York, providing a beautiful and scenic backdrop for racing enthusiasts. The track itself spans 3.4 miles (5.43 kilometers) and features a combination of fast straights, challenging turns, and elevation changes, making it a favorite among drivers and fans alike.

The 2023 Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America championship allows for both professionals and amateurs to race in the one-make series across the country, competing in four classes: Pro, Pro/Am, Am, and LB Cup. Each entry in the series can have either one or two drivers per car, with one mandatory pit stop required for all cars mid-race in a ten-minute window. In order, the series will host five doubleheaders at some of North America’s best and favorite road courses. The championship will conclude in Vallelunga, Italy where the North American competitors will fight in two final rounds for their series, then two more against all worldwide Lamborghini Super Trofeo competitors for the world title. For schedule information, visit lizardms.com.

Schedule | Rounds 3 & 4 | Watkins Glen International
All Times Eastern

Thursday, June 22

10:45 AM – 11:30 AM Practice 1
2:40 PM – 3:25 PM Practice 2

Friday, June 23

9:20 AM – 9:35 AM Qualifying 1
9:40 AM – 9:55 AM Qualifying 2
10:30 AM Garage Tour, Open to Public
2:25 PM – 3:15 PM Race 1 (imsa.com/TVlive)

Saturday, June 24

11:10 AM – 12:00 PM Race 2 (imsa.com/TVlive)

2023 Race Schedule

May 12-14, 2023
Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
Salinas, California

June 22-25, 2023

Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America
Watkins Glen International
Watkins Glen, New York

August 4-5, 2023

Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America
Road America
Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

August 25-27, 2023

Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America
VIRginia International Raceway
Alton, Virginia

September 15-17, 2023
Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Indianapolis, Indiana

November 16-17, 2023

Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America
Autodromo Vallelunga Piero Taruffi
Campagnano di Roma, Italy

About Flying Lizard Motorsports

Based out of Sonoma, California, Flying Lizard Motorsports is one of the most iconic sports car teams in motorsports, having celebrated ten driver and team championships, as well as competed internationally at the 24 Hours of Le Mans eight times.

The Lizards burst on the American Le Mans Series scene in 2004, competing in the GT class until 2012. In 2013, the team moved to the GTC class, still competing in legendary events such as the 12 Hours of Sebring and 24 Hours of Daytona. In 2014, the team expanded its program to include running two Audi R8 LMS in the TUDOR Championship, and in 2015, again expanded the program to include two Porsches in Porsche Club racing. Flying Lizard closed out the season with a dominating win at the 25 Hours of Thunderhill with Toyo Tires, a win they repeated in 2016, 2017, and 2018. The 2020 season proved the team’s most successful to date, earning four titles in the GT4 America championship. Flying Lizard Motorsports has proven to be a championship contender no matter the race series or race car. For more information, visit lizardms.com.

About Lamborghini Newport Beach

Lamborghini Newport Beach is the authorized sales & service franchise for Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. serving Orange County, California.

Representing Lamborghini since 2010, Lamborghini Newport Beach is continuously one of the top US retailers year after year. With many years of combined experience, their team of professionals has all the knowledge and expertise necessary to assist you with purchasing the Lamborghini of your dreams, or properly maintaining the one in your garage. All Lamborghini Newport Beach technicians are fully factory certified, and all sales staff holds master certifications. Their newly opened state of the art facilities are now located at 44 Auto Center Drive, inside the Irvine Auto Center.

About Emerald Center

Emerald center is a premier lifestyle and home furnishings retail mixed use center featuring IKEA and over 2 million square feet of mixed use development serving the Southeast Phoenix market. Emerald center is located at the Northeast corner of I-10 and Warner Rd., Tempe, AZ.

About Chandler Pavilions

Chandler Pavilions is the most successful retail power center in Chandler, Az. With Marquis tenants including Home Depot, Lowes, Sam’s Club, REI, Flemings Steak House, and over twenty restaurants l, totaling 2 million square feet of retail tenants. Chandler Pavilions is located at the northeast and southwest corners of I-10 and Ray Rd, Chandler Az.

JR Motorsports — NXS Nashville Preview

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Official Release
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JR MOTORSPORTS TEAM PREVIEW:
TRACK: Nashville Superspeedway
RACE: Tennessee Lottery 250 (188 laps / 250.04 miles)
DATE: Saturday, June 24, 2023

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

Sam Mayer
No. 1 Huck’s Market Chevrolet

  • Sam Mayer heads to Nashville Superspeedway carrying the
    colors of returning partner Huck’s Market in the first of five
    primary races this season.
  • Mayer is making only his second start at the 1.33-mile concrete track after a solid fifth-place finish in this race last year.
  • The Franklin, Wis. native has a total of 29 career starts on
    intermediate tracks and has recorded six top-five and 15
    top-10 finishes.
  • In the last five NXS starts, the young driver has rallied to one top-five and four top-10 efforts and currently sits ninth in the championship point standings.

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

  • Josh Berry will seek to return to the top five at his home track this weekend after a flat tire derailed a solid run at Nashville last season. Running in the top five with less than five laps remaining, the flat put him 29th at the finish. In his only other start at Nashville, Berry was a solid fourth in 2021.
  • Berry has been very good on tracks measuring 1-2 miles in his career, earning four wins, 12 top-five and 22 top-10 finishes in 38 career starts.
  • This week, Berry returns to the Bass Pro Shops/TRACKER Boats & ATVs livery for Nashville. In four previous starts in Bass Pro colors this year, Berry has a best finish of fourth.

Brandon Jones
No. 9 Menards/DuPont Filters Chevrolet

  • Coming off his 250th series start, Brandon Jones has a best finish of sixth in his two starts at Nashville. Overall, he holds an average finish of 10.0 at the concrete oval.
  • Jones has made two starts (‘21 and ’22) in the DuPont Filters colors and holds an average finishing position of 10.5 when DuPont is showcased on the hood.
  • In 123 starts on tracks measuring 1-2 miles in length in the NXS, Jones has recorded four wins, 18 top fives and 55 top 10s, while pacing the field for 375 laps.
  • Crew chief Jason Burdett has been atop the pit box for a pair of races at Nashville in the NXS and has recorded one win (2022) and one second-place finish. Burdett’s average finish as crew chief is 1.5.

Justin Allgaier
No. 7 BRANDT Professional Agriculture Chevrolet

  • Justin Allgaier heads to the “Music City” this weekend as the defending race winner at Nashville, having gone to Victory Lane in this event last year after leading a race-high 134 laps en route to the win.
  • To accompany the victory, Allgaier has amassed five top fives and five top 10s in eight career NXS starts at the concrete oval.
  • The JRM driver has also placed fourth or better in five of the previous six events at Nashville, dating back to April of 2010.
  • In 221 combined starts on tracks between 1 and 2 miles in the NXS, the Illinois native has scored 12 wins, 74 top fives mand 139 top 10s.

Driver Quotes

“I am so ready to get back to the track after the off week and see what we can do at Nashville. The No. 1 Huck’sMarket Chevrolet had a great fifth-place run here last year and I am excited to have them back on the car this weekend for their first race of the season. The guys have been working hard and I am confident we can contend for the win.” – Sam Mayer

“I really enjoy racing at Nashville. It’s always been one of my favorite places, and it’s great going into this weekend as the defending race winner. We had an unbelievable car here last season and I know that Jim (Pohlman, crew chief) will give me a BRANDT Professional Agriculture Chevrolet that will be capable of being that strong again. We’ve had the momentum on our side here lately, and hopefully we can keep that going on Saturday.” – Justin Allgaier

“It’s always nice to go back home to race, and being from the Nashville area, it is a track I’d like to win on. We’ve been pretty good this year on these types of tracks, and Taylor (Moyer, crew chief) and the No. 8 team have a good plan for this weekend. It’s nice to be back in Bass Pro Shops colors this weekend as well, and I look forward to giving them a win on Saturday.” – Josh Berry

“Jason (Burdett, crew chief) and this No. 9 team have built fast cars for Nashville in the past and that shows with how well Justin ran here in the two races. I know when we unload on Friday that this Menards/DuPont Filters Chevrolet is going to have the speed they have showcased in the past, so I can’t wait to hit the track this weekend. This weekend starts a long stretch of races, so there are a lot of points that can be gained quickly and that is what we plan on doing.” – Brandon Jones

JRM Team Updates

  • JR Motorsports at Nashville: JR Motorsports has competed in the “Music City” a combined 26 times in the NXS. Over the course of those starts at the 1.33-mile concrete oval, the organization has recorded two wins, nine top fives and 15 top 10s. JRM’s most recent win came with Justin Allgaier taking home the coveted guitar trophy last season.
  • Souvenir Rig Signing: JRM drivers Justin Allgaier, Josh Berry, Brandon Jones and Sam Mayer will be signing autographs at the JR Motorsports/Legacy MC souvenir rig on Saturday, June 24 from 9:45 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. local time.
  • Fan Zone Stage: JRM drivers Sam Mayer and Brandon Jones will be appearing at the Nashville Fan Stage located in the Fan Zone this weekend. Sam Mayer will appear on Friday, June 23 from 2:45 p.m. – 3 p.m. and Brandon Jones is on Saturday, June 24 from 9:30 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. local time.

No. 10 Smithfield Ford Racing: Aric Almirola Nashville Advance

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Official Release
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ARIC ALMIROLA
Nashville Advance
No. 10 Smithfield Ford Mustang for Stewart-Haas Racing

Event Overview

● Event: Ally 400 (Round 17 of 36)
● Time/Date: 7 p.m. EDT on Sunday, June 25
● Location: Nashville (Tenn.) Superspeedway
● Layout: 1.333-mile, concrete oval
● Laps/Miles: 300 laps/399.9 miles
● Stage Lengths: Stages 1: 90 laps / Stage 2: 95 laps / Final Stage: 115 laps
● TV/Radio: NBC / PRN / SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Notes of Interest

● 2021 marked the inaugural NASCAR Cup Series race at Nashville (Tenn.) Superspeedway, which was new for most everyone involved. This weekend, Almirola and the No. 10 team will head back to the 1.333-mile concrete oval with a little extra confidence. Not only did he earn the inaugural Cup Series pole at Nashville in 2021, he piloted his No. 10 Ford to a fourth-place finish. Last year, Almirola qualified 11th and finished 17th.

● Almirola is one of the few drivers in this weekend’s Ally 400 field who has raced at Nashville Superspeedway in the NASCAR Xfinity Series Truck Series. In four Xfinity Series starts at the track, he has three top-10 finishes and one top-five with a best finish of fifth. In four Truck Series starts, Almirola has earned two top-10s and a top-five with a best finish of third.

● While a Cup Series win is the ultimate goal for Almirola, the 39-year-old veteran made his way to victory lane two weekends ago in the Xfinity Series at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway, behind the wheel of the No. 28 RSS Racing Ford Mustang. It was the first road-course victory of his career.

● Driver Points: Almirola arrives at Nashville 26th in the driver standings, 265 points out of first.

● Almirola’s career: In 440 career NASCAR Cup Series starts, Almirola has three wins, 28 top-five finishes, 92 top-10s, four poles, and has led 1,018 laps.

● Smithfield has been a sponsor of Almirola’s for the entirety of his fulltime NASCAR Cup Series career – making it one of the longest-lasting partnerships in NASCAR. Smithfield is an American food company with agricultural roots and a global reach. Its 63,000 team members are dedicated to producing “Good food. Responsibly.®” Smithfield is one of the world’s leading vertically integrated protein companies. The company has pioneered sustainability standards for more than two decades, including its industry-leading commitments to become carbon negative in U.S. company-owned operations and reduce GHG emissions 30 percent across its entire U.S. value chain by 2030. Smithfield believes in the power of protein to end food insecurity and has donated hundreds of millions of food servings to local communities.

● Beyond the 10 YouTube Series:In 2023, Almirola is continuing to share his life beyond the No. 10 Ford with season five of his award-winning YouTube series. Fans and media can subscribe on YouTube to see Almirola’s personality on and off the track. Episodes have already featured life as a dad, a husband and an athlete, and the show gives fans a unique perspective on what goes on in the life of a professional NASCAR driver. Fans can also follow Almirola’s social media channels: @Aric_Almirola on Twitter and Instagram, and @AricAlmirola on Facebook.

Aric Almirola, Driver of the No. 10 Smithfield Ford Mustang for Stewart-Haas Racing:

You won a pole and ran in the top-five at Nashville two years ago, but didn’t have the same speed last year. Do you look forward to going back there?

“I do think we learned some things last year at Nashville, where we missed the setup and where we felt like we were off, so I do look forward to going back there. I really enjoy that racetrack. It’s a track that I liked a lot when I ran Trucks and Xfinity races there, and then the first time there in a Cup car qualified on the pole and ran top-five, so it’s a place that I really enjoy running at and I hope that we learn from some of the things we felt like we did wrong last year with this new car that will make us better.”

It hasn’t been the easiest path to success for you. Is there something to be said about embracing the challenge and fighting to get what you want?

“Absolutely. Life is not easy. Everybody has good days and bad days. Everybody has good years and bad years. There are seasons to life. There are seasons to a career and, for me, it doesn’t water down the fact that I’m still racing at the highest level of stock car auto racing – something that I dreamed about as a kid. I’m getting to live out my childhood dream driving a NASCAR Cup Series car against 39 of the other best race car drivers in the world that drive stock cars, so I am very appreciative and very grateful of what I get to do. Do I want more wins and championships and all those things? Absolutely. I’m a competitive person, but at the end of the day you sit there and you look at Richard Petty, who is the king of our sport. I’ve gotten the opportunity to spend a lot of time with Richard and he doesn’t ever sit down at Thanksgiving with all 200 of his trophies – ever. He sits down at Thanksgiving with his family and he sits down to share a meal with people he cares about. All the time I’ve ever gotten to spend with him and talk about things outside of racing and talking about life, he’s been a huge impact on me just being able to recognize and realize that you don’t always have to chase the success because it doesn’t really define who you are once you stop driving a racecar. What defines who you are is how you treat other people and how you are with the people you love, so, yeah, I think as a competitive person I want to win everything, but the reality is that’s not the case.”

Your fellow Ford driver Ryan Blaney won the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte and ran up front all day. Does that give you more direction as a Ford team heading into tracks similar in length?

“I think that we have potential in our cars. Blaney at Charlotte showed that. I still think that our cars are really aero sensitive in traffic compared to the other manufacturers. Blaney did a great job of executing for all 600 miles and never really lost his track position, so when you look at that, I think that’s a key component of it. I feel like our cars have the capability and the potential to go fast, but one of the things we’re continuing to work on is just making our cars raceable. It seems like we don’t quite have that figured out as well as the other manufacturers as far as being able to race in traffic. I know that all the cars are bad in traffic, but it seems like we tend to be a little bit worse in traffic than our competition, so that’s one of the things we’re continuing to strive to get better at is making our cars better in dirty air. But we certainly know that we have potential to make our racecars go fast. We’ve got to execute and I feel like, as a manufacturer, if you talk to all the Ford drivers, our window is pretty small. If we hit it, we hit it. If you’re slightly off, you’re really off, where it does seem like the competition has a little bit bigger of a window to be closer to hitting the setup.”

No. 10 Smithfield Ford Team Roster

Primary Team Members

Driver: Aric Almirola

Hometown: Tampa, Florida

Crew Chief: Drew Blickensderfer

Hometown: Decatur, Illinois

Car Chief: Jerry Cook

Hometown: Toledo, Ohio

Engineer: James Kimbrough

Hometown: Pensacola, Florida

Spotter: Joel Edmonds

Hometown: Dobson, North Carolina

Over-The-Wall Members

Front Tire Changer: Ryan Mulder

Hometown: Sioux Center, Iowa

Rear Tire Changer: Trevor White

Hometown: Arlington, Texas

Tire Carrier: Tyler Bullard

Hometown: King, North Carolina

Jack Man: Sean Cotton

Hometown: Mooresville, North Carolina

Fuel Man: James “Ace” Keener

Hometown: Fortuna, California

Road Crew Members

Mechanic: Chris Trickett

Hometown: Grafton, West Virginia

Mechanic: Jacob Cooksey

Hometown: Westbrookville, New York

Engine Tuner: Matt Moeller

Hometown: Monroe, New York

Tire Specialist: Russel Simpson

Hometown: Medford, New York

Transporter Co-Driver: Steven Casper

Hometown: Salisbury, North Carolina

Transporter Co-Driver: Matt Murphy

Hometown: Augusta, Georgia

PT Autosport Gears up for the Glen

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Official Release
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  • PCCNA driver/team development director lies fourth in series points
  • NJ-based team prepares for its second annual Aspiring Driver Shootout in August
  • 2022 Shootout winner contested his first race weekend at WGI
  • Shootout t-shirt design contest open now

MILLVILLE, NJ (20 June 2023) – For PT Autosport with JDX Racing driver Alex Sedgwick, the past year has been one of the most extraordinary of his life. Less than a year ago, it appeared that his racing career was over – and now, he lies fourth in points in the Porsche Deluxe Carrera Cup North America, looking for his first series victory on one of the legendary American racing circuits.

“Honestly, it makes my brain explode a bit,” said Sedgwick. “It wasn’t even a year ago that I’d walked away from racing entirely. That part of my life was done – and that’s what led me here, in the best position I’ve ever been in.”

The 24-year-old Warwickshire, UK native heads to legendary Watkins Glen International this weekend as he returns behind the wheel of the No. 98 PT Autosport Porsche 911 GT3 Cup Car. The former karting champion and Ginetta Junior scholarship winner had all but given up his racing career when a chance encounter completely changed the direction of his career – and his life.

Sedgwick’s family didn’t have a racing background, but often traveled to nearby Silverstone Super Bike races, and went to Le Mans with his father, a Peugeot public relations executive. Like so many kids, heading to the karting track for his birthday was a seminal moment – and after winning the British karting championship, secured the 2014 Ginetta Junior scholarship. Earning a fully funded ride the next year.

“Right place, right time, which seems to be a theme in my career!” said Sedgwick. “Racing cars had never been on our radar since we didn’t have that kind of budget. I’d never driven a car before, so it was a big learning curve, but I finished 10th in the championship with really no testing. We’d planned to do a second year but two weeks before the first race, the sponsor pulled out.”

Sedgwick took a racing timeout, finished his school exams, and then embarked on what would end up being several years of scraping together enough sponsorship to do a few races a year in wildly different series, including French Formula 4, Clio Cup, the Dubai 24 hours and earned support to race in the European NASCAR series against drivers like Marc Goossens, Bobby Labonte, Jacques Villeneuve and Lucas Luhr. COVID shut down his chances to continue in 2020, but the chance to do a NASCAR race in the U.S. – an ARCA West Series event – once again showed his mettle.

With no practice and no qualifying, it was straight into the race – starting from the back and coming up through the field to finish 13th. He was hoping it would lead to more but as the realities of COVID set in, Sedgwick returned to do a few European NASCAR races but at age 23, knew he had to find a more sustainable career.

Sedgwick had been coaching and working at ride and drives, so he and a friend started a track day company for owners’ clubs. They were quite successful – until the UK went back into lockdown, which halted their momentum. A driving tour company offered him a job, first as team member and then as full-time operations manager.

“That forced my hand a bit: now there was no time to go racing. So I thought my career was done.”

Not so fast.

At his first solo event, managing all aspects of the driving tour, Sedgwick met Jason Myers, who had stepped away from racing after a decade-plus as a successful sports car team manager and executive. They got on well and exchanged information, and just as Sedgwick had returned home, he received a message from Myers – who had begun working with Jeph Dais, who’d bought a Porsche Cup Car. Sedgwick got on a Zoom in July of 2022 with the pair and soon discovered that there was a grander vision in place. One week later, he was in New Jersey.

“Jeph already had a vision for what PT Autosport could be. He had a great deal of background in youth mentoring and providing opportunities for deserving young people was important to him. The three of us clicked, bounced around ideas, and set the program.”

Sedgwick competed in the team’s car at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in August then returned to New Jersey Motorsports Park for the first PT Autosport Aspiring Driver Shootout, won by fellow Brit Henry Drury. But in order to have a top tier program, they would have to go racing, so Sedgwick tested with JDX Racing in November – and the Porsche Deluxe Carrera Cup North America team was set.

The team tested again just before the season opener at Sebring International Raceway and once again, it was jump in and go. And he did: impressing right out of the box, with four top 10 finishes in six races including a podium at the Miami Grand Prix, only his second ever street course event (the previous race weekend at Long Beach having been his first).

“I’ll never forget how fortunate I am to be in this position, it means so much to me that Jeph and Jason gave me this opportunity. Everything happened so fast. So many people want to be involved in racing and talk really big, but Jeph and Jason are good at what they do and very serious about this program.”

“Having Will (Martin) as my teammate is so beneficial. He’s raced these cars for a year so to be able to work with him helps enormously. We had some issues along the way, but mostly with things I just had to relearn – like restarts, tire prep, adapting to how the car changes over a race distance. I’d never driven the Porsche before, but we’ve had some solid results and have progressed every weekend. We tested at Watkins Glen last month and it went well. It’s such a high commitment track and the car moves around quite a bit, which seems to suit me. Our pace was strong, so I think we’re in a really good spot for the rest of the year.”

PT Autosport to feature t-shirt design contest

The team has invited all graphic artists to design a limited-edition t-shirt that will be worn by all attendees of the 2023 Aspiring Driver Shootout, which takes place August 1 to 3 at NJMP. Unique and creative designs are encouraged, though of course, appropriate for all age groups. Submissions will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. on June 30, with fans voting for their favorite on the team’s social media channels from July 2 through 7. More info at PT Autosport.com.

2022 Aspiring Driver Shootout winner makes racing debut

Henry Drury had waited a long time for this moment. The former competitive figure skater postponed back surgery to compete in the Shootout and worked hard over the past six months to recuperate and prepare to begin his racing career. The 22-year-old London native-turned Tampa, Fla. resident raced the team’s PMR Precision Motorsports-prepared Spec Boxster in the Finger Lakes Area Porsche Club of America’s Porsche Clash last weekend at Watkins Glen International.

“I was really impressed with Henry on his first race weekend,” said Sedgwick. “Across a few days we had it all: thunderstorms, damp, slicks on a wet track, drying line and then full sun/dry weather. Seasoned drivers can struggle adapting to conditions and he took it all in his stride, whilst building up his racecraft, confidence and pace step by step. We were on for a good finish in the final race to top off the weekend but unfortunately hindered by a mechanical issue. All in all, a great starting point for his program!”

“Like Alex said, Henry did a really great job last weekend across all sorts of challenges and conditions,” said team principal Myers. “He’s got a strong set of the basic skills required to be a great driver, and we’re just helping him build experience through track time and coaching from Alex.

“Having Alex as our in-house pro is a huge benefit to our young drivers. His experience comes from almost two decades of driving across a slew of motorsport disciplines, and he is an invaluable team asset in helping coach these aspiring drivers. We’re looking forward to seeing Henry progress through the club racing ranks as he continues to learn and grow as a driver. We’re on track for a few more races this year, and more as we head into 2024!”

Sedgwick and PT Autosport with JDX Racing are back in action this weekend, as the Porsche Deluxe Carrera Cup North America doubleheader joins the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship’s Sahlen’s Six Hours at Watkins Glen International. Race one takes the green flag Friday, June 23 at 1:25 p.m. EDT, with race two Saturday at 12:20 p.m. The race will be broadcast live in the U.S., on IMSA.tv, the NBC Peacock streaming app and PorscheCarreraCup.us.

PT Autosport would like to thank JDX Racing partners Byers/Porsche Columbus, Renier Construction, PDCA Inc., and Revamp Marketing.

About PT Autosport

PT Autosport is a newly formed racing team currently based at New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, NJ. The team campaigns rising star Alex Sedgwick (U.K.) in the Porsche Deluxe Carrera Cup North America series with JDX Racing and 2022 Aspiring Driver Shootout winner Henry Drury (UK) in select PCA, SCCA, and WRL races during the 2023 season.

PT Autosport is working towards bringing diversity and opportunity to the motorsport industry, hosting their annual Aspiring Driver Shootout, in which aspiring drivers aged 18-23 can compete for a $100,000 racing partnership with the team. Visit PTAutosport.com for more info.

No. 93 HARRISON CONTRACTING COMPANY ACURA NSX GT3 Evo22 PUSHING FOR REDEMPTION AT WATKINS GLEN

By
Official Release
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(Deland, Fla.) June 21, 2023 — The No. 93 Harrison Contracting Company Acura NSX GT3 Evo22 team heads to Watkins Glen International for Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen on June 22-25. Racers Edge Motorsports with Wayne Taylor Racing Andretti Autosport (WTRAndretti) drivers Ashton Harrison, Danny Formal, and Kyle Marcelli are hungry for redemption after an early retirement at the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring. All three NSX pilots have seen success in upstate New York, including several podium results among the trio last season. The 3.4-mile course in upstate New York is known for its’ rich history, dating back to when the races were held on public roads throughout the hills and downtown Watkins Glen, beginning in the late 1940’s.

The Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen marks the third of four races in the IMSA WeatherTech Michelin Endurance Cup. The first two events of the series, the Rolex 24 at Daytona International Speedway and the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring resulted in a mixed outcome for the Racers Edge Motorsports with WTRAndretti team. The RELY on RED NSX earned a hard fought sixth-place finish in the twice around the clock race in Daytona. But unfortunately, after Marcelli earned the GTD class pole at Sebring, the Acura machine was collected in an on-track incident, ending the team’s race in Hour 7.

The 2023 Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen weekend begins Friday, June 23, with official practice at 4:30 p.m. EST. Green flag for the six-hour race drops Sunday, June 25, at 10:40 a.m. EST. The race will be streamed on Peacock live starting at 10:30 a.m. EST, and on USA Network at 2:00 p.m. EST. Peacock and IMSA.com will also cover qualifying live at 1:15 p.m. EST on Saturday, June 24.

No. 93 Harrison Contracting Company Acura NSX GT3 Evo22 DRIVER QUOTES:

Ashton Harrison:
“I’m excited to be back in the IMSA paddock, so I’m looking forward to going back to a track where Racers Edge Motorsports with WTRAndretti and the Acura NSX has had success in the past. It’s a really fun track that’s notorious for the uphill esses, and in the GT3 cars, that’s a great part of the track to drive. I’m looking forward to the IMSA competition, with 57 cars in the field, and to be back with the whole team, and Kyle and Danny as well. We’ve shown some really great pace in the No. 93 Harrison Contracting Acura NSX GT3 Evo22, so going into the halfway point of the endurance rounds, it’s time to have luck on our side and push for a podium.”

Kyle Marcelli:
“Watkins Glen International (WGI) is one of my favorite race circuits on our schedule. I love the high-speed, high-grip nature of the circuit. I will be piloting both the Acura NSX GT3 and Lamborghini Super Trofeo this event so will need to manage my time, my rest and my nutrition wisely. Thankfully IMSA did nice job on the schedule, and it’s quite friendly with minimal overlap. Although a six hour race, it’s treated like a sprint. We will need to be pushing ourselves and the car every lap to challenge for the win at the end. As always looking forward to rejoining my Racers Edge Motorsport with WTRAndretti family, sharing the cockpit with Ashton and Danny and putting on a good show for our team, partners, and fans.”

Danny Formal:
“We’re back in the No. 93 Harrison Contracting Acura NSX GT3 Evo22 at my favorite track on the IMSA WeatherTech series calendar at Watkins Glen. I’m super pumped to be back with Racers Edge Motorsports with WTRAndretti to try to get our first podium of the season in the Michelin Endurance Cup. I’ve never driven a GTD car on Watkins Glen and that has me so excited to get behind the wheel. I’m grateful for this opportunity Harrison Contracting Company has given me to represent the company and these great teams.”

About Harrison Contracting
Harrison Contracting Company, Inc. (HCC) is a commercial painting and facility maintenance contracting company headquartered in Villa Rica, GA with divisional offices in Florida and Texas. HCC provides repainting/reimaging and facility maintenance services nationwide, and new construction painting across the southeastern US. At HCC, red is more than the company color, its culture. RED stands for Reliable, Experienced, and Diligent, and is the cornerstone for all we do. We are more than just your painter; we are your partner.

Racers Edge Motorsports with WTRAndretti is also proudly sponsored by Acura Motorsports and Honda Performance Development (HPD).

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