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Patrick Liddy to debut at the Six Hours of The Glen with Forte Racing’s Huracan #78 GT3 EVO2

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Official Release
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Los Angeles, CA – June 14, 2023

Forte Racing by USRT is proud to announce that 25-year-old racer Patrick Liddy will enter the Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen under its banner.

The US driver competed with Shane Seneviratne’s team in multiple Lamborghini Super Trofeo campaigns, distinguishing himself as one of the quickest drivers to recently emerge from the one-make series.

The chance to move up the sportscar ladder while staying in a team and an environment he already knows will be a boost as he looks forward to continuing a successful story. Liddy, who was born in Pasadena, had the chance to drive the team’s GT3 Huracan EVO 2 in a test day together with Loris Spinelli in Watkins Glen. Liddy started his career in 2018, entering the North American Lamborghini Super Trofeo series and finishing 3rd in his debut season as Pro-Am.

Forte’s 2023 IMSA campaign is supported by long-standing title partners Arrow Electronics (NYSE:ARW) , O’Gara Coach and Change Racing.

Patrick Liddy, #78 Driver:

“I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to step up to the big leagues with Forte racing for the rest of the Endurance season. I have enjoyed working with this crew in Super Trofeo for years, so it has been great to jump into the GT3 car and immediately mesh with the whole team. This opportunity would not have happened without the support of Lamborghini and all of our partners — a Special thanks is also due to Edoardo and Shane. Feelings are very good after our test at Watkins Glen. Let’s go get some podiums!”

Shane Seneviratne, Team Manager:

“We are delighted to continue our collaboration with Patrick Liddy and partner with him for his move to the WeatherTech Sportscar Championship which is always a key step for a driver’s career. I think that moving up within the same organization is an important added value in terms of continuity. He knows the team very well, and we will be able to support him in the best possible way. Patrick had some remarkable seasons with us in Super Trofeo, and I think there are all the components that are needed to perform at a high level this year as well.”

Road America Welcomes Back the WeatherTech® Chicago Region SCCA June Sprints®

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Official Release
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America’s National Park of Speed is ready for its longest-running event.

ELKHART LAKE, Wis., June 13, 2023 – Road America, the renowned motorsports venue, is thrilled to announce the return of the highly anticipated WeatherTech® SCCA Chicago Region June Sprints® June 23-25. This historic event holds a significant place on the Road America calendar and serves as the first step towards achieving the prestigious SCCA Triple Crown of Racing.

As the host of the June Sprints, Road America proudly upholds its rich tradition and deep connection with the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA). Road America remains grateful to the loyal Chicago Region SCCA Members, who have been integral in cementing the event’s enduring legacy. With its picturesque park-like setting, prime trackside viewing, and unparalleled access to drivers and teams, the June Sprints has become a highlight for amateur racers nationwide.

From June 23 to 25, spectators will experience four days of non-stop action featuring exhilarating qualifying rounds and high-stakes racing. The June Sprints marks the start of a thrilling journey for competitors vying for the SCCA Triple Crown of Racing, where victory in three consecutive events – beginning with the June Sprints, followed by the regional championships, and culminating in the SCCA National Championship Runoffs® – crowns the ultimate champion. For those unaware, the SCCA National Championship Runoffs® will return to Road America in 2024 and 2025 for the 61st and 62nd running of an event that caps the SCCA Road Racing program each year and has evolved into what is widely known as the pinnacle of U.S. amateur road racing.

In addition to the heart-pounding racing on an entirely new surface, visitors enjoying the June Sprints are encouraged to explore the many enhancements Road America has made for their enjoyment. Stroll through the grounds and discover the latest additions, including captivating wood carvings, new paddock lighting, and the exciting carousel viewing trail. Among the notable highlights is “The Beach,” a new and immensely popular feature near Turn 11. With its relaxed atmosphere, comfortable grandstand seating, beach chairs, swaying palm trees, and exceptional vantage points, The Beach provides the perfect setting to bask in the sun while witnessing the adrenaline-fueled races.

Daily admission to the June Sprints is $25 Friday and $35 each Saturday and Sunday.

Active Military, Reserves, and Retired Members with ID can also enjoy the WeatherTech® Chicago Region SCCA June Sprints® for free.

Tickets are available, and fans are welcome. Additional event details, ticket pricing, and camping information can be found at www.roadamerica.com or by calling 800-365-7223. Anyone 16 years old and under is FREE with a paying adult at the gate. Racing runs rain or shine.

To plan your visit, check out Road America’s Frequently Asked Questions webpage at www.roadamerica.com/faq

About Road America: Established in 1955, Road America is conveniently located between Milwaukee and Green Bay in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. The world’s best racers have competed at this legendary four-mile, 14-turn road circuit for over 65 years. Along with over 500 events held seasonally at the 640-acre facility, several major weekends are open to the public, which include the INDYCAR Series, the MotoAmerica Series, three vintage racing events, numerous Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) events, the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, and NASCAR. Road America’s park-like grounds offer amazing viewing opportunities, numerous camping options, fantastic concessions, and high-speed excitement to hundreds of thousands of spectators each year. Fans can also stay and play in cabins conveniently on the grounds and find all sorts of souvenirs, collectibles, and apparel at the 7,500 sq. ft Paddock Shop. Affectionately known by many as America’s National Park of Speed, Road America can accommodate groups of all sizes, including weddings and corporate events in the Tufte Conference Center. In addition to public race weekends, Road America offers various group event programs, including geocaching, disc golf, and off-road adventure tours, karting, and the Road America Motorcycle and Driving Schools. For more information, visit www.roadamerica.com Follow Road America on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or YouTube or call 800-365-7223

NO. 93 HARRISON CONTRACTING COMPANY ACURA NSX GT3 EVO22 ROLLS INTO VIR FOR GT WORLD CHALLENGE AMERICA

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Official Release
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(Deland, Fla.) June 13, 2023 — The No. 93 Harrison Contracting Company Acura NSX GT3 Evo22 heads to the rolling hills of VIRginia International Raceway hungry to build on Racers Edge Motorsports with Wayne Taylor Racing with Andretti Autosport (WTRAndretti)’s thrilling win at Circuit of the Americas (COTA) and continues the hunt for the Fanatec GT World Challenge America powered by AWS championship. The 3.27-mile, 17-turn track near Alton, VA, made famous by the iconic Oak Tree, host Rounds 7 and 8, marking the halfway point of the 2023 season.

Ashton Harrison and Mario Farnbacher enter the weekend holding second place in the Pro class title standings after a class podium and overall victory in Austin, Texas. Despite a challenging weekend last year, Racers Edge Motorsports with WTRAndretti has earned several wins and podium finishes with the Acura NSX GT3 platform at VIR, including a class win in both 2019 and 2020, and a podium in 2021.

The Fanatec GT World Challenge America powered by AWS weekend at VIRginia International Raceway begins on Friday, June 16 with official practice for all classes. The green flag flies in Virginia on Saturday, June 17, at 3:10 pm and Sunday, June 18, at 2:15pm, Eastern Standard Time, and will be streamed live at GT World on YouTube.

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

Ashton Harrison:
“I’m looking forward to being back with Mario and the whole Racers Edge Motorsports with WTRAndretti team. I’m excited we’re back in the championship fight after our overall win at COTA, but it’s still a tight race and we know we need to keep winning. Thankfully, I feel like VIR is a good track for our NSX, and we saw that last year, although not necessarily in our results. I feel like I have some unfinished business I need to handle at VIR, based off our struggles last year. Everyone at Racers Edge Motorsports puts in mega work, day in and day out, and always arrives at the track with a perfectly prepped car. I’m grateful to Jon, Jim, Nick, and the crew who are constantly working to keep Mario and I at the front of the field. I think our Harrison Contracting Company Acura NSX will be quick. Obviously, we have high expectations to win the race and get back in the championship lead, and I think we can accomplish that. I feel I’m in a better place as a driver now than I was last year here, and I feel more confident going into this weekend to tackle the high speed, high grip surface. I know there is little margin for error, so it’s important for us to be smart on track and with our strategy.”

Mario Farnbacher:
“VIR is one of my favorite races tracks in North America – it’s a fast, technical track where you need to dig to be quick and this is the kind of track I really like. This track has a lot of grip. It’s always a challenge to take the risk here, because there’s so much opportunity to go off track if you make the slightest mistake, but the risk makes you faster if you keep pushing. But in the end, it’s a great layout and cool, old-school track – the complete opposite of COTA, actually, with no track limits. I’m really looking forward to being at VIR again with Ashton, the Racers Edge Motorsports with WTRAndretti crew, and Harrison Contracting Company. I think Ashton and I have business to take care of after our finish here last year, and we want to keep pushing from the success at COTA.”
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.

About the HPD Driver Academy Program
The Honda Performance Development (HPD) Driver Academy Program was developed to enable qualified racers to accelerate their racing career via ‘on-track’ and ‘off-track’ training from experienced Acura/Honda professional drivers, HPD-supported teams, and HPD personnel. The program includes sessions in the championship winning Acura NSX GT3 Evo or Honda Civic Type R TCR teaching the special knowledge and various skills required for professional sports car racing. The program is available by application-only and is limited to eight students per year.

About Honda Performance Development
Honda Performance Development, Inc., (HPD) has a rich heritage creating, manufacturing, and supporting Honda Racing and Acura Motorsports customers since 1993 from pinnacle racing in INDYCAR and IMSA to commercial racing programs. HPD is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. and leads all of Honda and Acura’s high-performance racing programs in North America, specializing in the design and development of race engines, chassis and performance parts, as well as technical and race support.

Mazda Welcomes James Hinchcliffe as Guest Driver in MX-5 Cup at Watkins Glen

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Official Release
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WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (June 13, 2023) – IndyCar veteran and current member of the NBC Sports motorsports broadcast team James Hinchcliffe will make his Idemitsu Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by BFGoodrich® Tires debut at Watkins Glen International, June 22 – 24. The Canadian will drive the No. 3 JTR Motorsports Engineering entry for Rounds Seven and Eight.

Hinchcliffe was the 2011 IndyCar Rookie of the Year and has nearly 150 starts to his credit, including nine at the Indianapolis 500 where he earned the pole position in 2016.

Though he has numerous open-wheel races at Watkins Glen under his belt, this will be the first time Hinchcliffe has raced a sports car at the upstate New York circuit.

“We’ve had the benefit of having MX-5 Cup run at a bunch of IndyCar races over the years and I’ll tell you everyone in the paddock is either on the pit wall or switching over the feed in the engineering office to watch those races because they look like so much fun,” Hinchcliffe said. “I think the series does a great job keeping everything nice and even. I think the competition is incredibly fierce and as drivers, that’s what you want to see. I’ve always enjoyed watching it and always thought it would be a blast to get the opportunity to try it. I’m very much looking forward to this.”

Hinchcliffe’s ties to Mazda go back to 2005 when he ran in the Star Mazda series. He followed it up with three seasons in the Atlantic Championship (2006 – 2008), which was powered by Mazda at the time. Most recently, Hinchcliffe was part of Mazda’s prototype driver lineup for the Rolex 24 at Daytona in 2014, 2015 and 2017.

The guest drive is reminiscent of last year’s MX-5 Cup races at Road America where NASCAR driver Parker Kligerman took part.

“The love Mazda MX-5 Cup receives from top-tier, world-famous drivers is something really special,” Mazda Motorsports Program Manager Jonathan Applegate said. “We’re thrilled once again to welcome a tremendously talented guest driver to the series in James Hinchcliffe. Having a driver with a unique Mazda connection is great, but most importantly we want James to enjoy his time with us and share the fun of MX-5 Cup racing with his fan base.”

Hinchcliffe will have two 30-minute practice sessions before qualifying and Race 1 at 12:20pm ET on Friday, June 23. Race 2 will go green at 10:05am ET on Saturday, June 24. Both races will be streamed live on RACER.com and IMSA.com/tvlive.

About: The Idemitsu Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by BFGoodrich® Tires is the signature spec series for Mazda Motorsports. The series has been operated by Andersen Promotions since 2017 and is currently sanctioned by IMSA. Mazda-powered grassroots champions can earn Mazda scholarships for this pro-level series. The Idemitsu Mazda MX-5 Cup awards more than $1 million in prizes and scholarships.

Find out more at http://www.mx-5cup.com.

Bolin Claims Emotional Boston Reid Pro Division Win on Opening Night of Cook Out Summer Shootout

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Official Release
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Cameron Bolin claimed the first Boston Reid & Co. Pro division trophy of the 2023 Cook Out Summer Shootout season during a wild and emotional victory Monday night. (CMS photo)
  • Bryson Nichols (Beginner Bandits), Colt Johnson (Bandits), Alison Johnson (Outlaws), Neal Dulin (Young Lions), George Phillips (VP Racing Fuel Semi-Pro), Robbie Woodall (Masters) and Cameron Bolin (Boston Reid & Co Pro) all claimed victory on opening night
  • Tuesday’s Round 2 action will feature the school of hard knocks as seven area principals race for the checkered flag in an epic school bus race, in addition to a full slate of Legend Car and Bandolero action
  • Tickets for adults are $10 Tuesday; kids 12 and under get in FREE. Tickets can be purchased online at www.charlottemotorspeedway.com/tickets or at the gate

CONCORD, NC (June 12, 2023): Drivers revved their engines Monday night around Charlotte Motor Speedway’s frontstretch quarter-mile, signifying the start of the summer racing season at America’s Home for Racing. The first of back-to-back nights of racing to start the 30th anniversary season of the Cook Out Summer Shootout was highlighted by 156 drivers from across the United States, Canada and Mexico battling for the first trophies of the season. When the dust settled, Bryson Nichols (Beginner Bandits), Colt Johnson (Bandits), Alison Johnson (Outlaws), Neal Dulin (Young Lions), George Phillips (VP Racing Fuel Semi-Pro), Robbie Woodall (Masters) and Cameron Bolin (Boston Reid & Co Pro) claimed victory.

Boston Reed & Co. Pro Division

What looked like a land-slide win for Alex McCollum became a monumental final lap for the Boston Reid & Co. Pro Division and an emotional win for Cameron Bolin. From beginning to end, McCollum had most of the drivers in his rearview, it wasn’t until, the white flag waved, Daniel Wilk who too had his short-lived lead, crept up behind McCollum on turn four ultimately knocking himself and McCollum out of the running. Bolin, who battled the leaders all night long, saw an opening and snuck around to claim the checkered flag.

After four cautions and six lead changes, the Pro Legend Car driver honored his grandfather at winners’ circle as he took the Round 1 win by 0.002 seconds to close off the night with the first Pro division trophy of the summer.

“I wasn’t driving that car tonight; he was,” Bolin said of his grandfather who passed away on Friday. “To do this in Round 1 was pretty special.”

VP Racing Fuel Semi-Pro Division

The VP Racing Fuel Semi-Pro feature revealed the need for speed and patience as Charlotte native George Phillips kept his eye on the prize and ultimately prevailed. Adam Congrove and Preston Wrisley started the race head-to-head. Canadian Parker Traves, took the lead after an early red flag and kept the pedal to the metal, leading from Lap 2 through Lap 7.

Phillips worked his way from starting 11th to second place on Lap 8. Weaving through traffic, the young hotshoe used the inside line of Turn 4 to steal the lead and never looked back. The 13-year-old showed perseverance and skill to take home his first checkered flag in the VP Racing Fuel division.

“We started from qualifying in 11th, then we made our way through the field. I can’t believe it,” said Phillips. “It is so amazing to win at the Summer Shootout, it’s so amazing.”

NEXT UP:

School may be out for the summer, but class will be in session during Round 2 as Cook Out Summer Shootout resumes Tuesday. Seven local principals will take the ultimate test as they race to see who will become the valedictorian of this year’s school bus race. Students’ school spirit will be on full display as they cheer on their own school’s personalized clunker around the quarter-mile.

TICKETS: Adult tickets are just $10; kids 12 and under get in FREE. For tickets, schedules and more details about all the happenings at Charlotte Motor Speedway, visit www.charlottemotorspeedway.com/tickets.

KEEP TRACK: Follow all the thrilling Cook Out Summer Shootout action at Charlotte Motor Speedway on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram

NASCAR Gained Respect After Le Mans Performance

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SM
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In some races, you’re not looking for a podium finish. Instead, you’re looking for respect. 

Considered a long shot to win (and rightfully so), NASCAR competed at Le Mans for the first time since 1976. Decades have flown by without a NASCAR stock car making its way to the hollowed grounds of a Le Mans race. 

That all changed in 2023. 

While NASCAR’s Garage 56 Camaro failed to be crowned champions (NASCAR was entered in a class reserved for non-competitors), the stock car’s 39th overall positioning justified thousands of miles and tests to compete at the premier event. Known as the world’s most prestigious endurance race, seeing what NASCAR could accomplish was a spectacle of its own. The racing world gathered around to see what Garage 56 could produce in an event not built for their specific car. 

NASCAR entered unfamiliar territory and made its mark. For a team looking to see what they could muster against the world’s most innovative cars, Garage 56 put some respect on its name. 

The Garage 56 Camaron competed and showed up, finishing with 285 laps and 2415.66 miles. NASCAR looked to make a name for itself in Europe and they did exactly that. There was a potential for catastrophe but Garage 56 battled hard. For some, that could have been their first introduction to NASCAR and its capabilities. And for the team, that’s all they could ever ask for. 

Of course, NASCAR bettors and fans of stock car racing knew of their capabilities. Stock car racing is dominant in the United States and the sport is looking to expand its reach around the globe. With initiatives in Mexico, Canada, and Europe, NASCAR is looking to hit markets outside of the United States. Ontario sports betting apps are seeing increased activity as well, from the Canadian NASCAR Pinty’s Series to NASCAR’s top competition. NASCAR’s attempt at expanding beyond its current environment has paid off from a fan perspective to a business and betting perspective. 

And at Le Mans, NASCAR was looking to further its reach in the motorsports world. 

It will be interesting to see what NASCAR has planned for the future to expand around the globe. Its most recent appearance at Le Mans could help draw eyes to its product and its recent push into markets like Europe, Canada, and Mexico have gone swimmingly for the brand. While Formula 1 may dominate the motorsport scene, NASCAR is doing everything in its power to reach new audiences. 

Creating a social media presence can do wonders for NASCAR too. Social media companies like TikTok, Reddit, and Instagram have boosted the viewership of products, especially with younger audiences. If NASCAR could solidify a deal with a streaming service like Netflix, that would help boost viewership as well. 

Fans of NASCAR can look back at Garage 56 and applaud the team’s attempt. No one knew for certain what would happen at Le Mans, but NASCAR pulled it off in fine fashion. For a team that hasn’t raced at the event in decades, they had a terrific performance and can use this momentum to gain interest around the globe. 

We don’t know if it will translate into anything significant, but you have to applaud NASCAR for trying. 

SUNNYD® CONTINUES LONG-STANDING PARTNERSHIP WITH DAYTONA 500 CHAMPION RICKY STENHOUSE JR. ANDJTG DAUGHERTY RACING

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Official Release
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SUNNYD’s bold colors return at the inaugural Chicago Street Race on the No. 47 Mariano’s Camaro.

HARRISBURG, N.C. (June 12, 2023) — SUNNYD®, the iconic orange drink with a boldly original taste, has once again partnered with 2023 DAYTONA 500 CHAMPION Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and JTG Daugherty Racing’s Kroger Racing program.

The team takes great pride in nurturing a multi-year partnership and looks forward to SUNNYD’s first co-primary race of the season at the inaugural Chicago Street Race on Sunday, July 2 on the No. 47 Camaro with Mariano’s.

“Ricky has had the SUNNYD paint scheme on his ride since 2015,” said Henk Hartong III, chairman and CEO of Brynwood Partners. “We are excited to have SUNNYD on the No. 47 Camaro for the historic first Chicago Street Race along with our partners from Mariano’s.”

This enduring partnership, spanning multiple years with the Kroger Racing program, means SUNNYD receives in-store merchandising and digital support in addition to at-track visibility, placement on Stenhouse Jr.’s fire suit and much more.

“For SUNNYD and the majority of our partners, this partnership surpasses being merely a decal on the race car; it holds a much deeper significance,” said JTG Daugherty Racing co-owner Tad Geschickter. “We’re excited to have SUNNYD on board and participating in the 2023 Kroger Racing program. They see the true value in what Kroger delivers and the ability to connect with shoppers by means of this racing program.”

To connect even more with consumers, Stenhouse Jr. will be appearing at Mariano’s on Friday, June 30 at the store located 2112 N. Ashland Avenue, Chicago from 3 PM to 4:30 PMCT before he races the No. 47 Mariano’s / SUNNYD Camaro at Chicago on July 2.

“I’m excited to have SUNNYD on our car at Chicago and put together a good run for them,” said Stenhouse Jr. “The Chicago Street Race is of course an unknown and will be a wild race. We want to make them proud.”

Live coverage of the Chicago Street Race on July 2 begins at 5:30 PM ET on NBC, MRN Radio and SiriusXM Satellite Radio.

About Harvest Hill Beverage Company:

Harvest Hill Beverage Company, based in Stamford, Connecticut, is owned by private equity firm Brynwood Partners, and acquired the SUNNYD brand from J.W. Childs in February 2016. Harvest Hill markets some of America’s most beloved beverage brands, including SUNNYD, JUICY JUICE, LITTLE HUG and DAILY’S Cocktails. SUNNYD products are widely distributed through leading retailers in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. For complete nutrition facts, recipe and activity ideas, and other helpful information, visit SUNNYD.com. For more information on Harvest Hill, please visit www.HarvestHill.com.

LEGACY MOTOR CLUB Race Recap: Sonoma Raceway

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Official Release
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Grant Enfinger, No. 42 Sunseeker Resorts Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

START: 35TH
FINISH: 26TH
POINTS: —

Grant Enfinger Post-Race Thoughts: “Overall, it was a tough circumstance getting here, tough for Noah and his whole team, but I really appreciated all of his help in getting me as prepared as he did for this. It was a little bit of a slow start to the race for us, I was just trying not to do anything stupid and put us in a hole. We had a decent Sunseeker Resorts Chevrolet as best as I could tell, but I still have a lot to learn with these things and was trying to take it conservative at the beginning. I didn’t want to mess up any of my shifts or lock up one of the tires or hit anybody, so I was just being as ultra conservative as I could be. That probably got us a little bit behind the eight ball, and the race went green for so long that I ended up going a lap down. Luke made some good calls to get us back on the lead lap, and I think that we actually had decent pace in the second half of the race.

It’s unfortunate the way that we had to play things after going a lap down, but we were fortunate enough to get that last caution to put us back on track with the field. Either way, we were going to end up okay, but I didn’t put any damage to the car and we finished 26th. Overall, I would say that it was a pretty cool experience; I felt like I learned a lot and for the most part I did my job. By the end of the race I still wasn’t quite able to figure out what I was doing wrong in turn 7, but I felt like everywhere else I felt pretty comfortable, and I would consider it to be a good run all things considered. I’m very appreciative of the opportunity from Maury Gallagher, Jimmie Johnson, Mike Beam, Sunseeker Resorts, Luke Lambert and this whole No. 42 team, and Noah, and certainly look forward to him getting back as quick as possible.”

Erik Jones, No. 43 Allegiant Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

START: 28TH
FINISH: 32ND
POINTS: 30TH

Erik Jones Post-Race Thoughts: “It was a tough day in Sonoma for our Allegiant Chevy. I felt like we struggled with the rear grip on our car all day, and for some reason it just didn’t want to respond to the changes as well as we would have hoped. I’m appreciative of Joey Cohen to step in as my crew chief; he and the whole crew did all they could to try and get us handling as best as they could. Unfortunately we had an issue in the late stages of the race and weren’t able to get a caution to get us caught back up, but that’s just how road course racing goes sometimes. We’ll take what we can get and move onto Nashville in a couple of weeks, I’m glad that we have an off week ahead of us to catch up and relax for a little while. There’s no give up with this LEGACY MOTOR CLUB team; we will get there and I really appreciate everyone’s support from our partners and the No. 43 fans.”

ABOUT LEGACY MOTOR CLUB:

LEGACY MOTOR CLUB is a professional auto racing club owned by businessman and entrepreneur Maurice J. Gallagher and seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion (NCS) Jimmie Johnson. The club competes full-time in the NCS fielding the Nos. 42 and 43 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for drivers Noah Gragson and Erik Jones, respectively, along with the No. 84 part-time entry for Johnson in 2023. Richard Petty “The King” serves as team ambassador.

In 2021, Gallagher acquired Richard Petty Motorsports and renamed the team to Petty GMS. With the addition of Johnson to the ownership structure in 2023, the organization rebranded to LEGACY MOTOR CLUB (LEGACY M.C.). With a unique title signifying a nod to car clubs of past eras, LEGACY M.C. is an inclusive club for all motorsport enthusiasts to celebrate the past and future legacies of its members, while competing for wins and championships at NASCAR’s elite level.

Based in Statesville, N.C., LEGACY M.C. operates alongside GMS Racing (GMS), which currently fields three full-time entries in the NASCAR Truck Series. Since the formation of GMS in 2012, Gallagher and Mike Beam, team president, have shared incredible success. GMS Racing captured the 2015 ARCA Racing Series championship, the 2016 and 2020 NASCAR Truck Series championships and the 2019 and 2020 ARCA East championships, accumulating over 65 wins across six national racing circuits.

To keep up-to-date with the latest news, information and exclusive content, follow LEGACY MOTOR CLUB on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and at www.LEGACYMOTORCLUB.com.

NHRA AT BRISTOL: Team Chevy Post Race Recap

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Official Release
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CHEVROLET IN NHRA
2023 NHRA THUNDER VALLEY NATIONALS
BRISTOL DRAGWAY
BRISTOL, TENNESSEE
TEAM CHEVY RACE REPORT
JUNE 11, 2023

ERICA ENDERS TAKES CHEVROLET TO THE THUNDER VALLEY NATIONALS WINNER’S CIRCLE AT BRISTOL DRAGWAY

  • Racing to her 44th career NHRA Pro Stock victory, Enders gives Chevrolet their 373rd win in the class and 254th in the Chevrolet Camaro SS Pro Stock car.
  • Enders now inches closer to becoming the all-time female leader in NHRA victories, earning her 44th behind Angelle Sampey in Pro Stock Motorcycle with 46.
  • Enders finished where she started race day, qualifying No. 1 for the Thunder Valley Nationals with her run of 6.627 ET at 206.95 MPH to earn her 30th NHRA career No. 1 qualifier.
  • Enders 30th No. 1 qualifier sees her third on the female leaders in No. 1 qualifying positions in pro classes behind Angelle Sampey (Pro Stock Motorcycle with 59) and Brittany Force (Top Fuel with 45).
  • Setting low ET of the event as of Q4 with his run of 3.938 ET at 321.35 MPH, Robert Hight qualified No. 1 in Funny Car, his 79th of his career, for the Thunder Valley Nationals.

BRISTOL, Tenn. (June 11, 2023) – Concluding a crazy weekend at Bristol Dragway in this weekend’s NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals, Erica Enders and her Johnson’s Horsepower Garage SCAG Chevrolet Camaro SS Pro Stock crew and team at Elite Motorsports raced their way to her first win of the 2023 NHRA season, and her 44th of her NHRA career, all with Chevrolet.

Inching closer to becoming the female leader in NHRA victories behind Angelle Sampey (Pro Stock Motorcycle, 46 wins), Enders noted this win will hopefully be the spark needed to turn her 2023 season around.

“More than most people will understand,” Enders noted when asked about how liberating the win in Thunder Valley feels after so much success. “I talked about it in the press room Friday when we were No. 1 qualifier, but I don’t think anything will replace that blinking light up on the guardrail wall about this time on Sunday. This is for my guys. I have two new guys on my team, Conner and Declan. Conner won with JR Todd, but Declan is new to drag racing. So these are for my boys. They don’t quit, they don’t give up, and they don’t get down. That’s the biggest, most challenging part of this is to hear all of the negative scuttlebutt, the people saying my career is over. And this goes to show it isn’t. I’m just so proud. This is awesome.”

“I tell you what, it’s been a tough start to the season, noted Elite Motorsports’ Richard Freeman. “We’re not done yet. We struggled at the first of the year, My guys, they don’t quit and they keep going. KB (Titan Racing), those guys are tough. We’re glad.”

Competing in two events this weekend, including Saturday’s conclusion of last weekend’s NHRA New England Nationals that were postponed for weather to this weekend’s event at Bristol Dragway, the Chevrolet Nitro teams at John Force Racing look to shift their sights to Norwalk for redemption. Racing to the semifinals, Austin Prock, driver of the Montana Brand/Rocky Mountain Twist Chevrolet Top Fuel dragster, raced his way to a semifinal appearance before falling to Justin Ashley. Also making a semifinal round appearance, Robert Hight, driver of the Cornwell Tools Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car, ultimately had to settle for an early end after smoking the tires versus Alexis DeJoria. Kicking off his Thunder Valley Nationals weekend, Hight showed strength by capturing the Thunder Valley Nationals No. 1 qualifier and setting low ET of the event with his run, then resetting the low ET of the event with his race day lap of 3.913 seconds.

In his 2023 Chevrolet COPO Camaro, Aaron Stanfield raced to his first Wally trophy of the 2023 FlexJet NHRA Factory Stock Showdown season, defeating Del Holbrook in the finals. Lenny Lottig, in his Chevrolet COPO Camaro, was No. 1 qualifier at Bristol Dragway.

Up next for the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series is the NHRA Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals at Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio. Broadcast of Sunday’s eliminations will air live at 4 p.m. ET on FOX Sunday, June 25, 2023.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING:

Brittany Force, driver of the Monster Energy Chevrolet Top Fuel dragster for John Force Racing:

“It was a rough weekend in Bristol for the Thunder Valley Nationals, but we still leave here on a positive note. This Monster Energy / Flav-R-Pac team qualified number two. We did get beat early but we feel like we learned a lot on this car and tune-up this weekend to set us up for going into Norwalk, Ohio in two weeks. We are leaving tied at third in points, which is a great position to be in and I’m excited to get back to Ohio.”

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

“Not the finish we wanted but a heck of a rebound from earlier in the weekend. Just got a little too aggressive in the semifinals. We will continue to progress with this Montana Brand / Rocky Mountain Twist hot rod. I’m proud of what we’ve done as a team so far and it’s early in the season. On the bright side, we get a shot back at Justin Ashley in Norwalk for the #2Fast2Tasty Challenge.”

Robert Hight, driver of the Cornwell Tools Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car for John Force Racing:

“Obviously not the way we wanted to end the weekend for this Cornwell Tools Chevy. Busy weekend, we had our hands full. We haven’t had a lot of consistency this year and that’s what we’re working on. Was hoping we would have it today,” Hight said. “Once we get that consistency we’ll be back to our usual form. We just have to stay focused. I believe in this team and Jimmy Prock and they believe in me and we’ll get the job done.”

John Force, driver of the BlueDEF Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car for John Force Racing:

“I’m having fun, going a couple of rounds. Obviously don’t love that we didn’t make it further for the Thunder Valley Nationals, but it’s been a busy weekend. It’s been exciting. We’ll be good. We’re doing okay. We’ll head to Norwalk and see if we can get it done in this BlueDEF Chevy.”

Erica Enders, driver of the Johnson’s Horsepower Garage SCAG Chevrolet Camaro SS Pro Stock car – Thunder Valley Nationals Winner’s Press Conference:

FIRST WIN OF THE SEASON, 44TH OF YOUR CAREER AND THIRD AT BRISTOL, YOU STARTED THE WEEKEND IN THE MEDIA CENTER TALKING OF FRUSTRATIONS OF THE EARLY PART OF THE SEASON. TO SEE THIS WIN COMING THROUGH, QUALIFYING NO. 1, HOW GRATIFYING IS IT?

“It’s super gratifying and I don’t know if people truly understand what it means. Yes, we’ve won a lot of races but to have finished the year we had last year in the fashion that we did, and then to start the year as horribly as we did, you know, it was a real gut check. It’s just one of those things you have to battle through. My team owner always reminds us that winning races doesn’t define us. That we’re winners off the race track too. Even though we go through these valleys, you just have to put your head down and go to work. I said it in my Top End interview, but I want to reiterate here is how hard my guys work, not just on my JHG Chevy Camaro, but all nine of our cars that we have. We have almost 60 people on the road full time, and that is a little bit of controlled chaos. I wouldn’t take anything for any of the guys we have. They are truly amazing. They are talent, and the two guys working on my car this weekend, Conner has won with JR Todd before, but Declan is new to drag racing. So, it’s his first win and our first win as the new Team Red. I could not be more proud of them and their hard work. They didn’t ever get discouraged or give up, so that’s what it’s all about. It’s just trying to remain as positive as possible, and just go to work and shut the naysayers up.”

TO GO TO THE FINAL ROUND, AND THEN WITH THE REACTION TIME THAT YOU HAD AND TO WIN ON A HOLESHOT, WHAT DOES THAT MEAN FOR YOU AS A DRIVER?

“We won on a holeshot? Even better. It means a lot to me. We’ve struggled as a racecar, but I’ve struggled mentally as a driver as well, so it definitely takes a toll on you and you question a lot of things. You lose your confidence and maybe a little bit of your swagger. I talked to my dad right before that final round, and he was like remember who you are. Just put your head down and do it. You’re a five-time champ. So the encouragement from him, the encouragement from my sister who is the ultimate hype girl ever in the history of the world, it’s refreshing to know that so many people believe in me, and I just have to believe in myself. Honestly, I was 21 I think on the tree second round. I had a competition bye when Greg (Anderson) broke in the semis, so I kind of threw that reaction time out. But I sped my pedal up a bit and I thought I could be 12 to 16 on the tree and we were right in there at 15. I finally did my job, and I was able to park our JHG Chevy Camaro in the Winner’s Circle.”

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED DURING THIS DRY SPELL SINCE YOUR LAST ONE?

“The last one was excruciating. This one has just been slightly painful. Knowing what we had every weekend, if there were 16 cars on the property, we weren’t going to qualify. So that was how sucky our 2016 year was. But we were a new program, it was the year that all of the rules changed for Pro Stock, going from carburetors to electronic fuel injection, the rev limiter. And then we switched manufacturers on top of that. It took a toll on our team, and it was a two-year deal. They opted out, we opted out and we went back to our Chevy powerplant and went to work. It took us a couple of years to recover. We really struggled. I only won one race in 2017, but we rallied. So the lesson is you don’t give up. It’s horsepower and win lights are really great deodorant for underlying issues, and it just shows that what would tear most teams apart, makes us stronger. I started in 2014 with Elite Motorsports, and there were eight on our team including myself, and now there are 60. I think it speaks volumes for our leadership, for the kind of work ethic the guys have, and the never give up attitude. It’s easy when things aren’t great to just get down and get negative and want to quit.”

YOU HAD SAID THIS YEAR EARLIER WHEN YOU WERE HAVING THOSE CHALLENGES YOU’VE WON CHAMPIONSHIPS FROM NINTH. WE’RE PAST HALFWAY IN THE REGULAR SEASON OF PRO STOCK, AND YOU KNOW A CHAMPIONSHIP CAN COME DOWN TO JUST A COUPLE OF POINTS. SO A RUSH TO THE FRONT WOULD BE A VERY WELL ADVISED. WHAT DO YOU SEE AHEAD GOING AHEAD TO NORWALK?

“It’s definitely crucial now that we’re closing in on Indy. It’s hard to believe that we’re already in the month of June, let alone getting close to the Countdown. We’ve got to go to work. I think we entered Bristol in either 14th or 15th which is the lowest ever since I drove a Ford. So it’s been challenging. But all you have to do is be there when it counts and that’s something that my guys are tremendous at. When our backs are against a wall, they perform and I perform. We get things done. I’m not worried. I said it on Friday when we qualified for the pole that it doesn’t matter until the countdown. We’re solid. We’ll be just fine. I wouldn’t want to go to battle without the guys I have behind me.”

Round 1 Recap:

Top Fuel:

No. 2 Brittany Force fell to No. 15 Brown with his run of 3.767 ET, 328.78 MPH to Force’s 3.749 ET at 327.51 MPH.
No. 8 Austin Prock defeated No. 9 Ferre with his run of 3.777 ET at 327.66 MPH.
Funny Car:

No. 1 Robert Hight defeated No. 16 Alex Laughlin with his run of 3.962 ET, 324.36 MPH.
No. 10 John Force defeated No. 7 JR Todd with his run of 3.999 ET at 326.95 MPH.
Pro Stock:

No. 8 Kyle Koretsky defeated No. 9 Shane Tucker with his run of 6.652 ET at 205.29 MPH.
No. 7 Deric Kramer defeated No. 10 Troy Coughlin with his run of 6.656 ET at 204.35 MPH, to Coughlin’s 6.690 ET at 205.13 MPH.
No. 6 Camrie Caruso defeated No. 11 Bo Butner III with her run of 6.653 ET at 205.38 MPH, to Butner’s 8.531 ET at 98.53 MPH.
No. 5 Dallas Glenn defeated No. 12 Matt Hartford with his run of 6.665 ET at 205.19 MPH, to Hartford’s 6.694 ET at 203.68 MPH.
No. 4 Greg Anderson defeated No. 13 Jerry Tucker with his run of 6.652 ET at 204.39 MPH to Tucker’s red light.
No. 2 Aaron Stanfield defeated No. 15 Fernando Cuadra, Jr. with his run of 6.646 ET at 206.10 MPH.
No. 1 Erica Enders defeated No. 16 Mason McGaha with her run of 6.659 ET at 206.04 MPH, to McGaha’s 6.723 ET at 203.235 MPH.

Round 2 Recap:

Top Fuel:

A. Prock defeated Massey with his run of 3.732 ET at 328.94 MPH.
Funny Car:

J. Force fell to Capps during his Round 2 run, facing issues on track early during his run.
Hight defeated Hagan with his run 3.913 ET at 324.20 MPH and resetting low ET of the event during the run.
Pro Stock:

Enders defeated Koretsky with her run of 6.667 ET at 205.26 MPH, to Koretsky’s at 6.671 ET at 203.95 MPH.
Anderson defeated Glenn with his run of 6.856 ET at 175.71 MPH, to Glenn’s 6.926 ET at 156.08 MPH.
Kramer defeated Stanfield with his run of 6.678 ET at 204.23 MPH while Stanfield’s car shut off on the start line.
Caruso fell to C. Cuadra after a chaotic run that showed veteran prowess in the rookie driver, deploying her parachutes early to prevent further issue during the run.

Semifinals Recap:

Top Fuel:

A. Prock fell to Ashley after smoking the tires early on the semifinal run.
Funny Car:

Hight falls to DeJoria on the semifinal run after smoking the tires early in the run.

Pro Stock:

Kramer defeated C. Cuadra on his run of 6.680 ET at 204.39 MPH to Cuadra’s smoking of the tires early in the run.
Enders defeated Anderson on her solo run of 6.722 ET at 204.51 MPH after Anderson was shut off on the starting line.

Finals:

Pro Stock:

Enders defeated Kramer with her run of 6.680 ET at 204.08 MPH to Kramer’s 6.727 ET at 197.05 MPH.

About Chevrolet

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is one of the world’s largest car brands, doing business in more than 100 countries and selling more than 4.0 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

Inaugural HSR Classic 6 Hours of The Glen Comes to a Competitive Conclusion Sunday at Watkins Glen International

By
Official Release
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  • Gray Gregory, Randy Buck and Ethan Shippert Score “HSR Classics” Record-Extending Win in the 1974 No. 26 Chevron B26 in Run Group A
  • Dante Tornello Gives Hudson Historics a Home Track Victory in Run Group C in the 2014 No. 80 Coyote Corvette Daytona Prototype
  • Todd Sloan Leads Riley 1-2 Finish in 2006 No. 60 Riley XX Daytona Prototype in Run Group B

WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (June 11, 2023) – The Inaugural Historic Sportscar Racing (HSR) Classic 6 Hours of The Glen came to a safe and successful conclusion Sunday with the first three Run Group winners in the history of the newest “HSR Classics” race honored after two days of competition on the legendary Watkins Glen International Grand Prix circuit. The Classic 6 Hours joins the HSR Classic Daytona 24 Hour and HSR Classic Sebring 12 Hour as the third race in the HSR Classics triple crown and delivered in its first edition this weekend the same intense competition and drama for which the Daytona and Sebring HSR Classics have become known.

The weekend’s trio of Run Group winners were each awarded custom designed watches carrying the race’s logo from B.R.M. Chronographes.

One of the weekend’s most notable victories was a record-extending seventh HSR Classics win by the 1974 No. 26 Chevron B26 co-driven by car owner/driver Gray Gregory and his teammates Randy Buck and Ethan Shippert. The always-quick Chevron swept all three Run Group A rounds at The Glen over the course of Saturday and Sunday to become the first team and drivers to win each of the HSR Classics races at Daytona, Sebring and Watkins Glen at least once.

This weekend’s win at The Glen was also the third-consecutive HSR Classics victory for the No. 26 Chevron team and drivers after sweeping the 2022 Daytona and Sebring HSR Classics races late last year. Gregory and his teammates have four career HSR Classic Sebring victories – 2018 through 2020 and ’22 – and a pair of HSR Classic Daytona wins last year and in 2020. Along with the Classic 6 Hours, the seven victories are the most for any single team and driver lineup in the nearly 10-year history of the HSR Classics events.

The biggest challenge for the Group A winners came from the similar 1975 No. 62 Chevron B31 of Mitchell Eitel that pressured Gregory’s No. 26 throughout the event on the way to a second-place finish. The final podium spot went to the highest finishing production-based GT car as Yves Scemama capped a full weekend of podium results with a third-place showing in his Arnage Motorsports 1974 No. 52 Porsche 911 IROC.

The Run Group B victory was secured by Todd Sloan in his ex-Michael Shank Racing 2006 No. 60 Riley XX Daytona Prototype. Sloan finished a solid third-place overall as the top prototype finisher in his Run Group in last November’s HSR Classic Daytona in a similar Riley Daytona Prototype. At The Glen, Sloan stepped up to take overall Group B honors and led a one-two Riley finish as David Huber and Chip Vance scored runner-up honors in a 2004 No. 10 Riley XI Daytona Prototype.

Another quick GT car claimed the final Classic 6 Hours podium spot. The family team of Theo Ruijgh and his son Tjebbe Ruijgh finished third overall and topped the GT field in their Alex Job Restorations 1997 No. 23 Porsche 993 RSR.

The Daytona Prototype and GT-podium trend continued in Run Group C that saw Dante Tornello and Hudson Historics break through for the overall victory in the 2014 No. 80 Coyote Corvette Daytona Prototype. The win was particularly sweet for the Hudson Historics operation that is based in upstate New York and calls Watkins Glen a home track.

Dominick Incantalupo finished second in his 2014 No. 54 Roin Realty Holdings Oreca FLM09 “PC” car while Wayne West and Stanton Barrett completed the run of GT cars on all three Classic 6 podiums with a third-place finish in the Brumos-themed 2012 No. 59 Porsche 997 GT3 Cup prepared by Vintage Racing.

The Classic 6 Hours race weekend also featured the HSR Watkins Glen Historics that were points-paying races for HSR’s various season-long championships. Sunday’s final day of competition began with a pair of Watkins Glen Historics one-hour B.R.M. Chronographes Endurance Challenge races that set the stage for the afternoon Classic 6 finales.

Todd Treffert wrapped up a feature race three-win weekend with an overall and GT Classic (GTC) victory in the first B.R.M. race in his 1974 No. 14 Speedconcepts Porsche 911 IROC prepared by the 901 Shop. The Vintage class win in the same race went to the DAS Sport Classic 1988 No. 77 Porsche Turbo Cup of Colin Dougherty, who finally reached the top step of the podium after finishing second and third in Glen Historics feature races earlier in the weekend.

In a sign of things to come, Tornello and Hudson Historics took the overall and Prototype victory in the second B.R.M. race. The GT Modern (GTM) class win went to the 2018 No. 117 Ferrari 488 Challenge Evo of Alexandre Lima and Pierre Kleinubing while Benjamin Myers earned Historic-class honors in his Wolf Motorsports 2001 No. 129 Carbir CS2 Sports 2000.

Next up for HSR on the 2023 calendar is a return to Watkins Glen for the Inaugural HSR Stock Cars at The Glen on NASCAR weekend, August 19 – 20. Prior to that, HSR returns to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for its third year as the sanctioning body for the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, August 16 – 19, and Monterey Pre-Reunion the week before, August 12 – 13.

About HSR: Now an IMSA property, Historic Sportscar Racing (HSR) was formed in the mid-1970s with an event at Road Atlanta. There was one goal then and it remains true today: to celebrate the race cars from the past. As a “time machine” of sights and sounds, HSR provides a venue for competitors and spectators alike to share in the wonderful history and excitement created by the cars that competed at race tracks around the world. HSR currently sanctions eight vintage and historic racing events at some of the world’s most renowned race tracks, including Road Atlanta, Sebring International Raceway, Daytona International Speedway and more. The complete schedule and full event information can be found on HSR’s website at www.HSRRace.com. Look for the HSR Channel on YouTube and follow HSR on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/HSRrace/ and on Twitter and Instagram at @HSR_race. A dedicated website for the Classic 24 Hour at Daytona presented by IMSA is available at www.Classic24hour.com.

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