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Young’s Motorsports Circuit of the Americas Truck Series Team Preview

By
Official Release
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Young’s Motorsports | NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series
Circuit of the Americas (COTA) | XPEL 225

Fast Facts
No. 02 Young’s Motorsports Team:
Driver: Kris Wright
Primary Partner(s): First National Bank (FNB)
Manufacturer: Chevrolet Silverado RST
Crew Chief: Andrew Abbott
2023 Driver Points Position: 18th
2023 Owner Points Position: 23rd
Engine: Ilmor Racing Technologies

Notes of Interest:

Welcome Back To The Team: Road racing standout Kris Wright returns to Young’s Motorsports for the full 2023 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series season continuing with Saturday afternoon’s XPEL 225 at Circuit of the Americas (COTA).

The former IMSA and Formula 3 driver returns to Young’s Motorsports after spending the 2022 season competing in both Trucks and the Xfinity Series.

Wright competed in 16 Truck Series races during the 2021 season for Young’s Motorsports earning four top-20 finishes and a season-high 12th-place finish at Daytona.

Glad You Are Here: For the fourth time in 2023, F.N.B. Corporation will serve as the primary partner on Wright’s No. 02 Chevrolet Silverado RST.

F.N.B. Corporation (NYSE: FNB), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pa., is one of the 50 largest bank-holding companies in the United States, and continues their partnership with Kris Wright for the second consecutive NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series weekend at the epicenter for everything speedy in Sin City, the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, on the No. 02 F.N.B. Corporation Chevrolet Silverado RST for Young’s Motorsports.

Crossroads of North America Details: This weekend marks Kris Wright’s second NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) start at the Circuit of the Americas. The NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series is heading to the Austin, Texas facility for the third time in its history.

Wright made his series track debut at the Circuit of the Americas, the only current FIA-certified Grade 1 track in the United States, on March 26, 2022, where he posted a season-best finish of 15th place.

Wright has one start in the NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) at the Circuit of the Americas. In 2021 with Sam Hunt Racing, he qualified in 36th place and finished in 32nd place due to a mechanical failure.

Road Course Stats: In four NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts on a road course, the Pittsburgh, Pa., – native recorded an average finish of 22.8. At the DAYTONA (Fla.) Road Course on August 16, 2020, Wright saw his debut in NASCAR national series competition in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, which was his single series start of the 2020 season.

This week at the Circuit of the Americas marks is the first of two road courses on the 2023 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Schedule, with the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course being the other.

Wright has competed on 22 different road courses and street circuits throughout his career.

Calling the Shots: Guiding Wright as crew chief of the No. 02 F.N.B. Corporation Chevrolet Silverado is longtime crew chief Andrew Abbott.

He will crew chief his 107th NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series race on Saturday afternoon. In his previous 106 races, he has two top-five and seven top-10 finishes to his resume.

He has one prior Truck Series race as crew chief at COTA. Last March, he set up the truck that allowed Sheldon Creed to win the pole aboard the No. 20 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado RST.

Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series at the Circuit of the Americas: This weekend will mark Young’s Motorsports’ sixth, seventh and eighth NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts at one of the country’s premiere tracks, the Circuit of The Americas. The organization posted a team-best finish of second place with driver Kaz Grala on May 22, 2021.

The five previous starts at the 20-turn, 3.41-mile, multi-elevational counterclockwise circuit, have earned Young’s Motorsports an average starting position of 16.2, including a pole position (2022, Sheldon Creed) and an average finish of 20.0.

Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series History: Since entering the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series in 2012, the Mooresville, N.C., -based organization has logged 415 starts from 48 drivers, resulting in solid performances that include two victories (Talladega Superspeedway 2019, 2021), seven top-five finishes and 31 top-10 finishes, with an average starting position of 22 and an average finishing position of 21.3.

Follow on Social Media: For more on Kris Wright, please visit, kriswrightmotorsports.com, like him on Facebook (Kris Wright Racing) and follow him on Twitter (@kriswrightraces).

For more on Young’s Motorsports, please visit YoungsMotorsports.com, like them on Facebook (Young’s Motorsports), and follow them on Instagram (@youngsmotorsports) and Twitter (@youngsmtrsports).

Kris Wright Pre-Race Quotes:

On Circuit of the Americas: “The Young’s Motorsports No. 02 team is really confident going to the first road course of the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series season. They have been top-15 contenders for the past two years.

“Studying data and past notes for this upcoming event has been key for our preparation, although the forecasted rain during qualifying could throw a few question marks into the itinerary. Nonetheless, we are all excited to be going to such a great motorsports venue in the Texas capital.”

No. 12 Young’s Motorsports Team:

Driver: Spencer Boyd

Primary Partner(s): Record Rack

Manufacturer: Chevrolet Silverado RST

Crew Chief: Brad Means

2023 Driver Points Position: 26th

2023 Owner Points Position: 32nd

Engine: Ilmor Racing Technologies

Notes of Interest:

Back To Familiar Territory: Fan favorite Spencer Boyd returns to Circuit of the Americas (COTA), the fourth race of the 2023 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series season eyeing his first top-10 of the year but more importantly hunting his second win of his Truck Series career.

No. 144: This weekend at COTA, Boyd will make his 144th career NASCAR start. Boyd has three starts in the NASCAR Cup Series, 50 starts in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, and will make his 91st start in Trucks when the green flag waves Saturday afternoon.

The highlight of his NASCAR career is a NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series win at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway in October 2019 driving for Young’s Motorsports.

Welcome Aboard: This weekend at COTA, Young’s Motorsports and Boyd welcome Record Rack® as the primary partner on the No. 12 Chevrolet Silverado RST for the first time in 2023.

Sportsman’s Choice®’s Record Rack® wildlife products are engineered to attract and nourish deer for overall health and antler development.

Record Rack® like “Golden Deer Nuggets™” and “Sportsman” products help attract and grow a bigger class of bucks. Whether you’re a wildlife watcher looking to see more deer on your land, or an avid sportsman looking to bring in a trophy, they’ve got the right feed to meet your goals.

National Medal of Honor Day: In recognition of National Medal of Honor Day on Saturday, March 25, 2023, Sportman’s Choice® and Record Rack (brand owned by Cargill Inc.) designed a special paint scheme to honor all Medal of Honor Recipients and Vietnam War Veterans while inviting a special family to the race.

Gary Michael Rose, Vietnam War veteran, U.S. Army Medal of Honor Recipient will be the team’s guest of honor along with his grandson, Christian Bowen, who is also a Gold Star son.

Gary Michael Rose “Mike” was presented with the Congressional Medal of Honor on October 23, 2017, by President Donald Trump at the White House for his actions that went above and beyond the call of duty while serving as Special Forces Medic.

Come Say Hi: Following Saturday afternoon’s Truck Series race, Spencer Boyd will be signing autographs at the Tractor Supply store in Buda, Texas on Sunday, March 26 from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. CT.

The Tractor Supply in Buda is located at 15555 S I-35 Frontage Road, Buda, TX 78610.

Spencer Boyd Truck Series Circuit of the Americas Stats: Saturday afternoon’s XPEL 225 will mark Boyd’s second NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series race at the 3.42-mile road course.

In his track debut in 2022, Boyd steered his No. 12 Derm Dude Chevrolet Silverado RST to a track best of 23rd after starting 30th in the 2022 XPEL 225 driving for Young’s Motorsports.

Spencer Boyd Truck Series Road Course Stats: At NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series tracks classified as a road course, Boyd has made six starts throughout his career. He also holds an average finishing position of 25.2.

Truck Series Rundown: In seven years of Truck Series competition, Boyd has 90 career Truck Series starts with one win, two top-five and three top-10 finishes, and a championship best of 17th in 2019 and carries an average finish of 23.8.

Calling the Shots: Guiding Boyd as crew chief of the No. 12 Record Rack® Chevrolet Silverado RST is new crew chief Brad Means.

He will make his Truck Series crew chief debut at COTA on Saturday afternoon.

Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series at the Circuit of the Americas: This weekend will mark Young’s Motorsports’ sixth, seventh and eighth NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts at one of the country’s premiere tracks, the Circuit of The Americas. The organization posted a team-best finish of second place with driver Kaz Grala on May 22, 2021.

The five previous starts at the 20-turn, 3.41-mile, multi-elevational counterclockwise circuit, have earned Young’s Motorsports an average starting position of 16.2, including a pole position (2022, Sheldon Creed) and an average finish of 20.0.

Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series History: Since entering the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series in 2012, the Mooresville, N.C., -based organization has logged 415 starts from 48 drivers, resulting in solid performances that include two victories (Talladega Superspeedway 2019, 2021), seven top-five finishes and 31 top-10 finishes, with an average starting position of 22 and an average finishing position of 21.3.

Follow on Social Media: For more on Spencer Boyd, please like him on Facebook (Spencer Boyd Racing) and follow him on Instagram (SpencerBoydpr) and Twitter (@SpencerBoyd).

For more on Young’s Motorsports, please visit YoungsMotorsports.com, like them on Facebook (Young’s Motorsports), and follow them on Instagram (youngsmotorsports) and Twitter (@youngsmtrsports).

Spencer Boyd Pre-Race Quote:

On Circuit of the Americas: “After a solid outing at Atlanta Motor Speedway last weekend, I am looking forward to getting back to a road course and having an opportunity not only to improve my road course craft but showcase our awesome looking No. 12 Record Rack® Chevrolet Silverado on National Medal of Honor Day.”

No. 20 Young’s Motorsports Team:

Driver: Ed Jones

Primary Partner(s): Little Caesars

Manufacturer: Chevrolet Silverado RST

Crew Chief: Joe Lax

2023 Driver Points Position: N/A |

2023 Owner Points Position: 30th

Engine: Ilmor Racing Technologies

Notes of Interest:

Welcome!: Ed Jones, a native of Dubai, United Arab Emirates joins Young’s Motorsports for the fourth NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series race of the 2023 season for Saturday afternoon’s XPEL 225 at Circuit of the Americas (COTA).

About Ed: Touted as arguably one of the most successful racing drivers from the United Arab Emirates, Jones joins the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series scene with a monstrous racing resume including experience in the Formula Renault Eurocup, Formula 3, Indy Lights, IndyCar, FIA World Endurance Championship and most recently the IMSA SportsCar Championship Series.

Jones, 28 is a four-time competitor in the prestigious Indianapolis 500 and finished third in his inaugural showing in 2017 driving for Dale Coyne Racing after qualifying 11th.

Sponsor Intel: Jones will pilot the No. 20 Chevrolet Silverado with support from Little Caesars.

Headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, Little Caesars was founded by Mike and Marian Ilitch in 1959 as a single, family-owned restaurant. Today, Little Caesars is the third largest pizza chain in the world, with stores in each of the 50 U.S. states and 27 countries and territories.

Known for its HOT-N-READY® pizza and famed Crazy Bread®, Little Caesars has been named “Best Value in America” for more than the past twelve years.

Little Caesars products are made with quality ingredients, like fresh, never frozen, mozzarella and Muenster cheese and sauce made from fresh-packed, vine-ripened California crushed tomatoes.

Additional Support: In addition to Little Caesars, Jones will also carry partnership support from Spectra Resources Corporation, a specialized trading company designed for buyers and sellers to purchase and sell steel in any part of the world efficiently and economically for the 42-lap race on March 25.

Spectra Resources Corporation is involved in importing, exporting, domestic and off-shore trading, warehousing, logistics coordination and the processing of multiple steel products.

Spectra Resources Corporation boasts nearly 20 years of experience in physical steel trading and is positioned to bring a strong value proposition to your enterprise.

Ed Jones Truck Series History: 2016 Indy Light champion Ed Jones will make his inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series debut at Circuit of the Americas (COTA) nestled in Austin, Texas.

Ed Jones Truck Series Circuit of the America Stats: Saturday afternoon’s XPEL 225 will mark Jones’s first NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series race at the 3.42-mile road course.

Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series at the Circuit of the Americas: This weekend will mark Young’s Motorsports’ sixth, seventh and eighth NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts at one of the country’s premiere tracks, the Circuit of The Americas. The organization posted a team-best finish of second place with driver Kaz Grala on May 22, 2021.

The five previous starts at the 20-turn, 3.41-mile, multi-elevational counterclockwise circuit, have earned Young’s Motorsports an average starting position of 16.2, including a pole position (2022, Sheldon Creed) and an average finish of 20.0.

Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series History: Since entering the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series in 2012, the Mooresville, N.C., -based organization has logged 415 starts from 48 drivers, resulting in solid performances that include two victories (Talladega Superspeedway 2019, 2021), seven top-five finishes and 31 top-10 finishes, with an average starting position of 22 and an average finishing position of 21.3.

Calling the Shots: Guiding Jones as crew chief of the No. 20 Little Caesars Chevrolet Silverado is veteran crew chief Joe Lax.

He will crew chief his 99th NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series race on Saturday afternoon. In his previous 98 races, he has one pole and eight top-10 finishes to his resume.

This weekend marks his fifth race as crew chief at COTA.

Follow on Social Media: For more on Ed Jones, like him on Facebook (Ed Jones Racing), follow him on Instagram (@_edwardjones) and Twitter (@Edjonesracing).

For more on Young’s Motorsports, please visit YoungsMotorsports.com, like them on Facebook (Young’s Motorsports), and follow them on Instagram (youngsmotorsports) and Twitter (@youngsmtrsports).

Ed Jones Pre-Race Quote:

On Circuit of the Americas: “I am excited to be racing in my first NASCAR Truck Series race at Circuit of the Americas with Young’s Motorsports. This will be a new experience but I am ready for the challenge and I believe we can have a strong and productive day with our No. 20 Little Caesars Chevrolet Silverado RST.”

Race Information:

The XPEL 225 (42 laps | 143.22 miles) is the fourth of 23 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series races on the 2023 schedule. Practice begins on Fri., March 24, 2023, from 3:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Qualifying begins immediately following practice at 4:00 p.m. The field will take the green flag on Sat., March 25, 2023, shortly after 12:30 p.m. (1:30 p.m. ET) with live coverage on FOX Sports 1 (FS1), the Motor Racing Network (Radio) and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. All times are local (CT).

NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series News and Notes: Circuit of the Americas

By
Official Release
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KRIS WRIGHT
No. 02 F.N.B. Corporation Chevrolet Silverado RST
NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series News and Notes
Event: XPEL 225
Date: Saturday, March 25
Venue: Circuit of the Americas (COTA)
Location: Austin, Texas
Track Description: 3.41 mile(s), Road Course
Race: 143.22 miles / 42 Laps

Crossroads of North America Details … This weekend marks Kris Wright’s second NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) start at the Circuit of the Americas. The NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series is heading to the Austin, Texas-facility for the third time in its history. Wright made his series track debut at the Circuit of the Americas, the only current FIA-certified Grade 1 track in the United States, on March 26, 2022, where he posted a season-best finish of 15th-place.

Wright has one start in the NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) at the Circuit of the Americas. In 2021 with Sam Hunt Racing, he qualified in the 36thplace and finished in the 32nd-place due to a mechanical failure.

Road Course Stats: In four NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts on a road course, the Pittsburgh, Pa., – native recorded an average finish of 22.8. At the DAYTONA (Fla.) Road Course on August 16, 2020, Wright saw his debut in NASCAR national series competition in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, which was his single series start of the 2020 season.

This week at the Circuit of the Americas marks the first of two road courses on the 2023 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series schedule, with the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course being the other.

Wright has competed on 22 different road courses and street circuits throughout his career.

QUOTE WORTHY

Kris Wright, driver of the No. 02 F.N.B. Corporation Chevrolet Silverado RST for Young’s Motorsports

On the Circuit of the Americas: “The Young’s Motorsports No. 02 team is really confident going to the first road course of the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series season. They have been top-15 contenders for the past two years. Studying data and past notes for this upcoming event has been key for our preparation, although the forecasted rain during qualifying could throw a few question marks into the itinerary. Nonetheless, we are all excited to be going to such a great motorsports venue in the Texas capital.”

Kris Wright on Social Media … To keep up-to-date with the latest news, information and exclusive content, visit KrisWrightMotorsports.com, or connect with Kris Wright on Facebook (/KrisWrightRacing), Twitter (@KrisOnNASCAR) or Instagram (@krisonnascar).

Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series History at the Circuit of the Americas … This weekend will mark Young’s Motorsports’ sixth, seventh and eighth NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts at one of the country’s premiere tracks, the Circuit of The Americas. The organization posted a team best finish of second-place with driver Kaz Grala on May 22, 2021. The five previous starts at the 20-turn, 3.41-mile, multi-elevational counterclockwise circuit, have earned Young’s Motorsports an average starting position of 16.2, including a pole position (2022, Sheldon Creed) and an average finish of 20.0.

Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series History … Since entering the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series in 2012, the Mooresville, N.C.,-based organization has logged 415 starts from 48 drivers, resulting in solid performances that include two victories (Talladega Superspeedway 2019, 2021), seven top-five finishes and 31 top-10 finishes, with an average starting position of 22 and an average finishing position of 21.3.

Catch the Action … The XPEL 225 at the Circuit of the Americas will be broadcast on FS1 on Saturday, March 25 at 1:30p.m. (ET). It will also broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network (MRN) and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio at 12:30 p.m. (ET). In addition, NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series qualifying at the Circuit of the Americas will air on FS1 at 9:00 p.m. (ET) on Friday, March 24, tape-delayed.

About F.N.B. Corporation
F.N.B. Corporation (NYSE: FNB), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a diversified financial services company operating in seven states and the District of Columbia. FNB’s market coverage spans several major metropolitan areas including: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Baltimore, Maryland; Cleveland, Ohio; Washington, D.C.; and Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham and the Piedmont Triad (Winston-Salem, Greensboro and High Point) in North Carolina. The Company has total assets of approximately $42 billion and nearly 340 banking offices throughout Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Washington, D.C. and Virginia.

FNB provides a full range of commercial banking, consumer banking and wealth management solutions through its subsidiary network which is led by its largest affiliate, First National Bank of Pennsylvania, founded in 1864. Commercial banking solutions include corporate banking, small business banking, investment real estate financing, government banking, business credit, capital markets and lease financing. The consumer banking segment provides a full line of consumer banking products and services, including deposit products, mortgage lending, consumer lending and a complete suite of mobile and online banking services. FNB’s wealth management services include asset management, private banking and insurance.

The common stock of F.N.B. Corporation trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “FNB” and is included in Standard & Poor’s MidCap 400 Index with the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) Regional Banks SubIndustry Index. Customers, shareholders and investors can learn more about this regional financial institution by visiting the F.N.B. Corporation website at www.fnbcorporation.com.

Joe Graf Jr. | RSS Racing Circuit of the Americas NASCAR Xfinity Series Race Preview

By
Official Release
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RSS Racing | NASCAR Xfinity Series
Circuit of the Americas (COTA) | Pit Boss 250

Fast Facts
No. 38 RSS Racing Team:
Driver: Joe Graf Jr.
Primary Partner(s): G-Coin
Manufacturer: Ford Mustang
Crew Chief: Steve Addington
Spotter: Joe Campbell
Engine: Roush-Yates Engines
Driver Championship Point Standings: 19th
Team Championship Point Standings: 21st

Notes of Interest:

New Home: After spending the last three seasons with SS GreenLight Racing with Jeff Lefcourt (2020 – 2022), Joe Graf Jr. moved to RSS Racing during the offseason where he’ll spend the majority of the 2023 NASCAR Xfinity Series season competing for the Sugar Hill, Ga.-based team.

In addition to RSS Racing, Graf will also compete in a limited NASCAR Xfinity Series schedule driving the No. 19 Toyota Supra for Joe Gibbs Racing.

Fast Start: With a career-best seventh-place finish earned at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway with RSS Racing and two respectable top-15 finishes with Joe Gibbs Racing at Auto Club (Calif.) Speedway and Las Vegas (Nev.) Motor Speedway respectively, Graf enters Saturday afternoon’s Pit Boss 250 at Circuit of the Americas 19th in the championship point standings.

RSS Racing’s No. 38 team has also had a solid start to 2023 – which has the team a respectable 21st in the owner championship standings likely guaranteeing Graf into Saturday afternoon’s starting field.

Welcome Aboard: Joe Graf Jr. and RSS Racing welcome G-Coin® as the primary partner of the team’s No. 38 Ford Mustang for Saturday afternoon’s Pit Boss 250.

COTA marks the sixth race of the 2023 Xfinity Series season and 15th race overall from 2021 to 2023 where G-Coin, a product that brings gold into the digital age, making it accessible and giving it true utility will be the primary partner.

The first road course of the season will mark the company’s first event as a primary partner in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with Joe Graf Jr. at RSS Racing respectively.

Sponsor Intel: G-Coin® (gcoin.com) is a digital title to real physical gold, where 1 G-Coin® equals 1 gram of a 99.99% pure, ethically sourced Responsible Gold™ kilobar. G-Coin® allows for easy savings and sending of real gold with zero transaction fees and near instantaneous settlement times.

With G-Coin®, users can now effortlessly buy, sell, and monitor the value of their gold from the convenience of their smartphone.

Download the app from Google Play or the Apple App Store and Go for Gold!

Thanks For Your Support: With just 15 percent of the 2023 Xfinity Series season complete, Joe Graf Jr. and RSS Racing would like to thank their associate marketing partners: AVOID, Bass Reaper Bait Company, Bucked Up Energy Drink, CoverSeal, EAT SLEEP RACE Apparel, fgrACCEL, GTECHNIQ, JACOB Companies, Lefcourt Brothers Racing, Love Motorsports, Model Electronics and ShopRite for their continued support.

Catch Him On The Dial: Before Joe Graf Jr. straps into his No. 38 G-Coin® Ford Mustang on Saturday afternoon, the RSS Racing driver will be featured on “The Frontstretch” on SiriusXM Satellite Radio Channel 90 with host Pat Patterson on Saturday morning, March 25, 2023, at approximately 10:00 a.m. ET.

Graf will also spotlight a new commercial featuring G-Coin® in several spots throughout the weekend, including the full four-hour program on Sunday, March 26, 2023.

Joe Graf Jr. Xfinity Series Circuit of the America Stats: Saturday afternoon’s Pit Boss 250 will mark Graf’s second start at the 3.42-mile road course

In his COTA debut last March, he delivered a 34th-place finish after experiencing mechanical gremlins throughout the 46-lap event after qualifying on speed in the 31st position.

Joe Graf Jr. Xfinity Series Career Road Course Stats: At tracks classified as a road course, Graf has competed in 11 NASCAR Xfinity Series races. He holds an average starting position of 28.5 and an average result of 26.5.

Atlanta (Ga.) Motor Speedway | RAPTOR King of Tough 250 Race Recap: In his most recent NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Atlanta (Ga.) Motor Speedway, Graf and the RSS Racing team showcased the No. 38 JACOB Companies Ford Mustang in the fifth Xfinity Series race of the season.

Without the benefit of practice or qualifying due to inclement weather, Graf continued to showcase speed in his new tenure at RSS Racing but late-race contact with another car caused significant front-end damage to his automobile hindering him in the green-white-checkered finish.

Still, Graf clung to the lead lap and recorded a 25th-place effort. His finish was second best of the RSS Racing trio.

Sneaker Mania: Along with the adrenaline of the Motorsports competition, Joe Graf Jr. also has a vogue for hype sneakers. In his current collection, he owns and wears at least 90 limited edition sneakers – and his collection continues to grow every month.

The current estimated value of his collection tops $100,000.

From the Pit Box: Industry veteran Steve Addington is Joe Graf Jr.’s crew chief.

He will crew chief his 269th NASCAR Xfinity Series race as crew chief on Saturday afternoon and his second race at the prestigious road racing facility in the Lone Star State

In his previous 268 NASCAR Xfinity Series starts, he has collected 11 wins, 10 poles, 68 top-five and 118 top-10 finishes.

Hello From The Other Side: Graf Jr. has two teammates at RSS Racing.

Veteran Ryan Sieg will drive the No. 39 CMRroofing.com Ford Mustang, while younger brother Kyle Sieg will drive the No. 28 RSS Racing Ford Mustang.

Ryan Sieg is set to make his 307th career Xfinity Series start overall and third at COTA. His best Xfinity COTA track finish occurred in the 2022 Pit Boss 250, where he finished 11th after starting 35th for his family-owned RSS Racing team.

Kyle Sieg is set to make his 24th career Xfinity Series start overall and first at Circuit of the Americas.

Follow on Social Media: For more on Joe Graf Jr. visit JoeGrafRacing.com, like him on Facebook (Joe Graf Jr.), follow him on TikTok (@JoeGrafJr), Twitter (@JoeGrafJr), Instagram (@joegrafjr) and YouTube.

For more on RSS Racing, please like them on Facebook (RSS283839) and follow them on Instagram (@rss283839) and Twitter (@RSS283839).

Joe Graf Jr. Quoteboard:

On Circuit of the Americas: “I am incredibly thankful to welcome G-Coin® to the RSS Racing and have them onboard for their first race of the 2023 NASCAR Xfinity Series season Saturday at Circuit of the Americas.

“Even though our finish did not reflect it, we had a very good race car at Circuit of the Americas last year. We were able to qualify on speed and progress forward before a mechanical failure ultimately hindered our day and kept us at bay from contending for a stronger finish.

“You could say that Saturday is an opportunity for us to rebound and I’d like nothing more than to do that and give my guys at RSS Racing something to be excited about.”

On 2023 Season Outlook: “This is a year of opportunity for me. I’ll be competing for two different teams which brings some pressure for me but only because I want to go out there and do my very best in every race run for both Joe Gibbs Racing and RSS Racing.

“I just need to stay focused, communicate with my team and utilize the knowledge that I’ve gained over the past three years to have my best Xfinity Series season yet.”

Race Information:

The Pit Boss 250 (46 laps | 156.86 miles) is the sixth of 33 NASCAR Xfinity Series races on the 2023 schedule. Practice begins on Fri., Mar. 24 from 5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Qualifying immediately follows at 6:00 p.m. The 38-car field will take the green flag shortly after 4:00 p.m. (5:00 p.m. ET) on Sat., Mar. 25 with live coverage on FOX Sports 1, the Performance Racing Network (Radio) and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. All times are local (Central).

About RSS Racing:

RSS Racing fields multiple entries in the NASCAR Xfinity Series led by mainstay driver Ryan Sieg.

RSS Racing has competed in NASCAR events since 2009 from its headquarters in Sugar Hill, Ga.

Valkyrie Velocity Announces Three-Car Driver Line-Up, Partners for Pirelli GT4 America Season

By
Official Release
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OGH/Valkyrie Velocity Line-Up Includes Pro-Am, Silver, and Am Class Lineups and New Partners Including wear blue: run to remember With a Personal Connection

DANVILLE, Virginia (March 24, 2023) – Valkyrie Velocity, the racing platform based in the Team Hardpoint facility at VIR, and OGH Motorsports will race under the OGH/Valkyrie Velocity banner with a three-car effort in SRO’s Pirelli GT4 America throughout the 2023 season.

The effort is the first announced under the Valkyrie Velocity banner and bolsters the strengths of the race platform with OGH Motorsports’ hospitality and partner programs to compete in three different classes of the Pirelli GT4 America championship in Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsports, holding true to the Porsche legacy established under team owner and driver Rob Ferriol.

OGH/Valkyrie Velocity will make a championship run with the No. 96 wear blue/Beacon Building Products Porsche Cayman with Chris Walsh and Dominic Starkweather behind the wheel in the Silver class, Sean Gibbons and Sam Owen will pilot the No. 97 OGH/Valkyrie Porsche Cayman in Am, and Ferriol and Will Owen in the No. 95 GridRival/Valkyrie Porsche Cayman.

“From day one, our focus has been on becoming a leader both on and off the track,” Ferriol said. “Showcasing how the sport we love can be more than just cars racing on pavement. It is a sport where young careers are born, old childhood dreams are realized, and behind it all, a preeminent opportunity for corporate and nonprofit partners to tell their stories to an ever-growing community of fans, partners, and competitors. This Pirelli GT4 America program in collaboration with OGH Motorsports gives us a perfect opportunity to demonstrate that philosophy.”

The 14-race championship begins at Sonoma Raceway, March 30 through April 1, with a doubleheader weekend. All Pirelli GT4 America races stream live on the series website at GT4-America.com or on the SRO Motorsports Group official YouTube channel, GTWorld.

No. 96 wear blue/Beacon Building Products Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport

The No. 96 driven by Chris Walsh and Dominic Starkweather carries the livery of wear blue: run to remember and Beacon Building Products in the Silver class of Pirelli GT4 America during the 2023 season.

Walsh, an active-duty Air Force officer, brings the support of wear blue: run to remember in several capacities. The non-profit wear blue: run to remember is a running community that honors the service and sacrifice of the American military. The organization brings together military and civilian communities to actively remember service members who sacrificed their lives for this great nation. Through various training, running and community events, wear blue: run to remember provides opportunities to support and empower veterans, active duty military and their families. The organization is committed to creating living memorials for the fallen and opportunities to heal for those who have served.

Prior to his driving career, Walsh served as a mentor for the organization’s Gold Star Youth Mentorship program. He mentored founder Lisa Hallett’s son, Bryce, after her husband, Captain John Hallett, was killed in action along with others in his unit during a tour in Afghanistan. As part of the program, Walsh helped the young Hallett train for a 5k run in remembrance of his father and other fallen soldiers, as well as offering support and friendship in a difficult time for the youngster.

As a driver, Walsh was previously a part of Hardpoint’s eSports program, and has limited experience in the Touring car category of SRO races as well as amateur and pro-am endurance racing experience.

Starkweather drove to two podium finishes in 2022 in the same Silver class as he’ll compete in this year, finishing fifth in the drivers’ point championship. In addition to Beacon Building Products, OGH, and Valkyrie, Starkweather will receive additional assistance this season from Blenders Eyewear, Bell Beef, and Starkweather Roofing.

No. 97 OGH/Valkyrie Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport

Sean Gibbons and Sam Owen return to Pirelli GT4 America competition as a duo for the third consecutive season, running in the competitive AM category for bronze-rated drivers. Gibbons and Owen made their debut under the Valkyrie Velocity tent utilizing the Hardpoint banner in a single race a year ago and return for the full season in an extended partnership with the No. 97 OGH/Valkyrie Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport.

Owen earned his first win, paired with Gibbons, during his rookie season of 2021. Made even more impressive is that the victory came at Circuit of the Americas in just the second race weekend, only two years after Owen had begun driving in any competitive capacity.

Gibbons has parlayed his success off the track into success on the track. Gibbons was the runner-up in the 2019 SprintX East Am category with a win, and followed that up with an eight-win championship season in 2020 in the SprintX Am category. Gibbons has 10 career wins in SRO competition.

No. 95 GridRival/Valkyrie Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport

Valkyrie Velocity team owner Rob Ferriol and co-driver Will Owen (no relation to Sam) each make their SRO championship debuts this season as teammates in the Pro-Am class and will co-drive the No. 95 GridRival/Valkyrie Porsche Cayman.

Ferriol jumps behind the wheel of the Cayman after three seasons in the IMSA WeatherTech Championship GT Daytona (GTD) class, the last two in a Porsche 911 GT3 R under the team’s Hardpoint branding. Ferriol earned the 2021 Bob Akin award as top Bronze-rated driver and has championship aspirations in the Pro-Am class of Pirelli GT4 America. Ferriol’s racing history is strong with the German marque, as he began as a member of the Porsche Club of America before elevating to Porsche GT3 Cup North America on his way to the top of sports car racing’s ladder as a gentleman driver and as a team owner.

Owen began his professional racing career at 19 years old in open wheel racing’s Road To Indy before migrating to sports car racing, most often in the prototype ranks. Since then, Owen has raced around the world and domestically and earning a podium finish at the 24 Hours of Le Mans among his honors. This season’s challenge will be his first full effort in a GT car. The gold-rated driver is also a data scientist on Valkyrie’s artificial intelligence program in Austin.

Owen is unable to participate in the season opener at Sonoma Raceway due to a scheduling conflict. Instead, Mac Clark, the 19-year-old Canadian fresh off the 2022 USF Juniors open-wheel championship title and entered in the full-season USF 2000 championship this season, will team with Ferriol. Like Owen, Clark is a piece of the Valkyrie driver program and a seamless fit.

OGH/Valkyrie Velocity Quote Board

Chris Walsh, Driver, No. 96 Porsche Cayman: “To say I’m excited about this would be the understatement of the century. I’ve been involved with Rob and the Valkyrie Velocity team for a few years now, and with Lisa and the team at Wear Blue Run To Remember even longer. That entire time, I’ve been chasing my motorsports dream and exploring every opportunity. For this to come together in one package is a dream come true, and I can’t wait to represent on the race track and raise attention and funds for Wear Blue.”

Dominic Starkweather, Driver, No. 96 Porsche Cayman: “I couldn’t be more excited about this upcoming season. I believe I’m driving for one of the best teams in the paddock in one of the best cars which is just exciting in itself. Being in the Silver class is tough, as I learned last year, but I won’t accept anything but success from myself. I need to extend a huge thank you to my parents for always believing in me and supporting me, and my amazing partners Beacon Building Products and Starkweather Roofing Inc., and to Bell Beef and Blenders Eyewear, who were are willing to take on this project with us. It’s an honor to work with Wear Blue Run to Remember. My goals are to win a championship. A lot of people say that, but I truly believe Chris and I have all the tools for a very successful season and I’m just so excited to show off what we can accomplish.”

Sean Gibbons, Driver, No. 97 Porsche Cayman: “This season will be the third season that Sam and I are driving together in Pirelli GT4 America and chasing the championship. New this season is our partnership with Valkyrie Velocity and I couldn’t be more excited to start this year. This comes after a great deal of work by Rob, Sam and I to put together a partnership between OGH Motorsports and Valkyrie Velocity after working together at Road America last year. The goal is to deliver top notch program on the track for our drivers and a platform to do business in our paddock with. As a driver, my goals this year are to turn the improvements in my pace into results. The last couple years I’ve improved my pace but hadn’t converted that to race results, but this is the year to do that.”

Sam Owen, Driver, No. 97 Porsche Cayman: “Sean and I are extremely excited for the OGH Motorsports/Valkyrie Velocity partnership for the 2023 season. Valkyrie Velocity has repeatedly proven themselves to be at the top of the elite list in the paddock. The combined skill and experience between both of our groups gives me a lot of confidence going into this season. Sean and I are ready to make this year, with Valkyrie Velocity, our best year yet.”

Rob Ferriol, Team Owner and Driver, No. 96 Porsche Cayman: “I couldn’t be more thrilled with this chapter in our team’s history. The OGH/Valkyrie Velocity Pirelli GT4 America program will give us an opportunity to lean into elements of the sport we care deeply about: showcasing young drivers, ethically supporting gentleman drivers, and activating our corporate and non-profit partners across the SRO calendar. Given my own background, I’m especially proud to welcome Wear Blue: Run to Remember to our team as they make their first foray into motorsports. The work they’re doing for Gold Star families around the country is nothing short of heroic. On the track, I’m excited to be back in a Porsche for the 2023 season alongside Mac and Will. I had the opportunity to spend some time in the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport last year and can’t wait to climb back in and send it up the hills of Sonoma.”

Will Owen, Driver, No. 96 Porsche Cayman: “I am ecstatic and grateful for this opportunity to race in Pirelli GT4 America with OGH/Valkyrie Velocity. Since I have not raced in GT before, it’s fantastic to be pairing up with Rob Ferriol who has a significant amount of experience in GT, and an extremely precise approach to racing in general. My past five years of endurance racing have taught me to adapt quickly to new cars, and pushed me to get up to speed with a small amount of laps. I will be challenged to apply those skills to the Cayman GT4, but I absolutely believe we will be one of the top contenders in the Pro-Am class. My goals for the season are to master the car as quickly as possible, and to build great relationships with all of the drivers in the OGH/Valkyrie Velocity team. It is great to be able to continue driving alongside having a professional career at Valkyrie; I can’t wait to get on track.”

Brett Moffitt | AM Racing NASCAR Xfinity Series Pit Boss 250 Race Preview

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Official Release
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AM Racing | NASCAR Xfinity Series
Circuit of the Americas | Pit Boss 250

Fast Facts
No. 25 AM Racing Team:
Driver: Brett Moffitt
Primary Partner(s): AM Technical Solutions
Manufacturer: Ford Mustang
Crew Chief: Joe Williams Jr.
Spotter: Tony Raines
Chassis Intel: AMR Chassis No. 005
Engine: Roush-Yates Engines
Driver Championship Point Standings: 13th
Team Championship Point Standings: 15th

Notes of Interest:

Inaugural Journey: After spending the past several seasons as a full-time team in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, AM Racing will embark on its inaugural journey in the NASCAR Xfinity Series this season with driver Brett Moffitt for the entire 33-race tour continuing with Saturday afternoon’s Pit Boss 250 at Circuit of the Americas (COTA).

Future Focused: With AM’s inaugural Xfinity journey set to continue at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, the team has chosen veteran driver Brett Moffitt to lead the team’s campaign from the driver’s seat aboard the No. 25 Ford Mustang.

Moffitt, a native of Grimes, Iowa hails numerous starts across all three of NASCAR’s National Series, including the 2018 Truck Series championship with Hattori Racing Enterprises.

Moffitt, 30, arrives on the scene at AM Racing after a stint at Our Motorsports.

Back For More: The Statesville, N.C.-based team will sport the signage of AM Technical Solutions on the No. 25 Ford Mustang for the fourth of 33 NASCAR Xfinity Series races this season.

Headquartered in Austin, TX, AM Technical Solutions (AMTS) was founded in 1994.

AM Technical Solutions is a Global Architecture, Engineering & Construction firm specializing in the high-tech markets. AMTS has managed over $20B of global capital projects for over 170 different customers in 24 countries and across five continents.

AM Minute: In addition to Brett Moffitt, AM Racing will field an entry in Saturday afternoon’s XPEL 225 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race at Circuit of the Americas.

Austin, Texas native Logan Bearden will drive the team’s No. 22 Bearden Automotive | Parker Electric Ford F-150 in his second career Truck Series start as the opening act for the Xfinity Series on March 25.

Mainstay AM Racing driver Austin Wayne Self went to Victory Lane this past Saturday night with AM Racing’s Dirt Division. Self-netted his first win of the season in the American Racer Modified Tour at Harris Speedway in Rutherfordton, N.C.

Thanks For Your Support: With the start of the 2023 season underway, AM Racing and Brett Moffitt would like to thank their associate marketing partners for their support: AIRBOX Air Purifier, CForce Bottling Company, Concrete Supply, Destiny Homes, Flying Circle, Kreuz Market, Lane Frost Brand, Mechanix Wear and Mobil 1.

Brett Moffitt Xfinity Series Circuit of the America Stats: Saturday afternoon’s Pit Boss 250 will mark Moffitt’s third start at the 3.42-mile road course

In his previous two efforts, he has delivered one top-10 and two top-12 finishes. His track-best result occurred during the 2022 spring edition of the Pit Boss 250 when Moffitt steered to a track best of seventh after starting 13th for Our Motorsports.

Brett Moffitt Xfinity Series Road Course Stats: At NASCAR Xfinity Series tracks classified as a road course, Moffitt has made 13 starts throughout his career earning one top-10 finishes. He also holds an average finishing position of 25.5.

Brett Moffitt NASCAR Xfinity Series Career Stats: In 89 career Xfinity Series starts, Moffitt has earned two top-five and 25 top-10 finishes, including a second-place outing at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway in February 2021.

In addition to 84 Xfinity Series starts, he has achieved 45 NASCAR Cup Series and 92 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series starts to his credit.

Atlanta (Ga.) Motor Speedway | RAPTOR King of Tough 250 Race Recap: In the most recent NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Atlanta Motor Speedway, Brett Moffitt and the AM Racing team continued to showcase their speed in their race cars in the fifth race of the 2023 season.

Without the benefit of practice or qualifying, Moffitt quickly advanced from his 12th place starting position aboard the No. 25 AM Technical Solutions Ford Mustang – last weekend dubbed in a retro black paint scheme.

The Statesville, N.C.-based team remained a factor throughout the race, including finding themselves in contention for the win on a green-white-checkered restart in Stage 3. Ultimately, Moffitt finished sixth – recording the best Xfinity Series finish for AM Racing in just their fifth race.

In five races this season, Moffit has delivered two top-10s, three top-15s and an average finish of 15.8.

From the Pit Box: Industry veteran Joe Williams is Brett Moffit’s crew chief.

He will crew chief his 104th NASCAR Xfinity Series race on Saturday afternoon and his third race at the prestigious road course in Austin, Texas.

In his previous 103 NASCAR Xfinity Series starts, he has collected one win (Auto Club Speedway | February 2022), seven top-five and 23 top-10 finishes.

Follow on Social Media: For more on AM Racing, please visit AMRacingteam.com, like their Facebook page (AM Racing) or follow them on Instagram and Twitter @AMRacingNASCAR.

For more on Brett Moffitt, please visit BrettMoffitt.com, like his Facebook page (Brett Moffitt Racing) or follow him on Instagram (@brett_moffitt_racing) and Twitter (@brett_moffitt).

Brett Moffitt Quoteboard:

On Circuit of the Americas: “I am very optimistic about returning to the Circuit of the Americas this weekend. We have some good momentum with our AM Racing team right now. We had a strong performance last Saturday night at Atlanta Motor Speedway and the vibe is really strong.

“Circuit of the Americas is the first of several road course races on the 2023 Xfinity Series schedule. It is important to make sure we showcase our potential on the road courses because I feel it will provide the opportunity for our No. 25 AM Technical Solutions Ford Mustang to sneak in a win and propel us into the Playoffs.”

On 2023 Season Outlook: “There has been so much effort put into the 2023 NASCAR Xfinity Series season and honestly, I am so excited about it. I cannot thank everyone on the AM Racing team enough for the opportunity and for taking a chance on me to lead them in the inaugural year.

“I believe we will exceed everyone’s expectations and not only will we challenge for race wins, but we will achieve them and contend for the 2023 Xfinity Series championship.”

Race Information:

The Pit Boss 250 (46 laps | 156.86 miles) is the sixth of 33 NASCAR Xfinity Series races on the 2023 schedule. Practice begins on Fri., Mar. 24 from 5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Qualifying immediately follows at 6:00 p.m. The 38-car field will take the green flag shortly after 4:00 p.m. (5:00 p.m. ET) on Sat., Mar. 25 with live coverage on FOX Sports 1, the Performance Racing Network (Radio) and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. All times are local (Central).

ABOUT AM RACING:

AM Racing is a multi-tiered, multi-faceted Motorsports program headquartered in Statesville, N.C.

Established in December 2015, AM Racing is prided on faith, honesty and intelligent performance.

The family-owned team will compete in the ARCA Menards Series, the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series and the NASCAR Xfinity Series in its seventh year of competition.

The team has named Brett Moffitt and Christian Rose as their primary drivers for the 2023 Xfinity and ARCA Menards Series seasons.

RTA gigFAST INTERNET® Event Brings NASCAR Champion Zane Smith to Smithville, Texas.

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Official Release
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Smith Awarded Key to City

HOUSTON, Texas and SMITHVILLE, Texas (March 24, 2023) – Rural Telecommunications of America, Inc. (RTA) finalized the acquisition of local Internet Provider SCT Broadband. RTA will begin upgrading its services with RTA’s gigFAST® INTERNET, VOICE, and streaming TV services in Smithville, Flatonia, LaGrange, Schulenburg, Bastrop, and the surrounding areas offering internet speeds up to 10 gigabits per second.

As part of the launch event, RTA is hosted and RTA Appreciation Day in downtown Smithville on Wednesday. Sharon Foerster, Mayor of the City of Smithville and the Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce will be presented Zane Smith, the 2022 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Champion and last years COTA winner, with the “Key to the City.”

RTA’s mission is to bring gigFAST INTERNET® to underserved rural communities across America. Co-founded by Texas native Jim Edwards and U.S. Air Force veteran Don Workman both with deep roots in rural America and the telecom industry, began RTA with a mission to connect rural areas with affordable and reliable internet service options.

RTA now operates more than 13,000 Fiber route miles and customers in 22 states across America with its gigFAST NETWORK®.

ABOUT RURAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS OF AMERICA,INC.

RTA’s gigFAST NETWORK™ provides affordable gigFAST® INTERNET, VOICE, and TV to rural America; enabling businesses and residents gigFAST INTERNET® for their entertainment, e- learning, telemedicine, and telework. Visit us at https://www.rtatel.com

ABOUT FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS

Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization in the NASCAR Cup and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The team is the 2021 Daytona 500 and 2022 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champions. The team was founded in 2004 and is owned by successful entrepreneur, Bob Jenkins. FRM fields the No. 34 and the No. 38 NASCAR Cup Series teams along with the No. 38 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series team from its Mooresville, N.C. headquarters. Visit teamfrm.com and follow FRM on social media: Twitter at @Team_FRM, Instagram at @team_frm and Facebook at facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

Things Every First-Time Car Buyer Should Know

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SM
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You are excited about buying a new car, but you are a first-time buyer, unaware of what must be considered before you rush out and sign the paperwork? This blog is for you.

To give you an overall idea about buying a car, you must do proper research and create a budget estimate for the car you want, as it will be your long-time investment. So, it is necessary to have proper knowledge and preparation before buying a car. Today in this blog, we have brought up 8 tips you should follow before purchasing a car. As a bonus, we have also mentioned the top 5 trending cars of 2023.

8 tips for first-time car buyers should follow

Buying a car may seem complex, but following these tips might simplify the process.

  1. Doing proper research

It is important to research about the cars as you will find different models available in the market. It’s never too soon to start researching and getting an idea of what car is right for you. We suggest reading reviews from experts and consumers; this will give you an unbiased perspective of the pros and cons of each vehicle model. Additionally, you should visit a showroom, take a test drive and speak with an executive or mechanic to get a clear idea about the car you wish to buy. Also, consider buying a car made of alloy wheels, as it gives you many customization options, and alloy wheels are not that hard to take care of.

  1. Planning a Budget

You should always plan a budget before you go to buy a car. Planning a budget gives you a clear idea of how much EMI you need to pay if you plan to buy a car on loan. Establishing a budget also gives you an idea of the purchase price, financing details, fuel costs, insurance premiums, or any extra costs for paperwork, taxes, or registration you must spend on your car. Most importantly, the budget ensures you stay within your limits and are not spending much.

  1. Selecting the best deal

Not only should you shop around for the best car, but also you should look for the best deal. There are multiple vehicle dealers and auto finance lenders in the market who can give you the best deals. Try to negotiate with sellers, try and look out for any extra fees or charges required, and try to find available warranties or third-party finance plans, as these can be cheaper than taking out a loan from the dealer or financing directly from the warranty providers. Also, ensure any contract is clear and transparent by carefully reading the terms and conditions before signing anything. 

  1. Investigating financial options

Investigating financing options is a must if you are looking to buy a car, especially if you plan to take a loan. First, you should consider interest rates from different lenders to get the best deal. Second, you should get an idea about the down payments. If the down payment is larger, your monthly payments will be smaller, and you will pay less overall interest over time. Third, consider repayment terms that fit your budget and lifestyle. Looking for loans with flexible repayment terms and low fees can help you to keep more of your money in your pocket.

  1. Understanding insurance requirements

Before buying a car, you should understand insurance requirements like different types of insurance and the coverage they give. It may depend on your state’s laws. There are different types of insurance: Liability, collision, and comprehensive. The liability insurance covers damage and injuries of other people and property you may cause while driving. Collision insurance covers damage of your car due to something other than a crash, fire, theft, flood, vandalism, or hail damage, regardless of who caused it. Comprehensive insurance helps to cover car damages that can save you money in certain circumstances. This insurance is dependent on your budget and the value of your car. 

  1. Knowing the Costs for Maintenance and Repairs

It would be best if you considered the cost of maintaining and repairing your car. Plan how often you will need oil changes and manufacturer-recommended service checks. Consider adding a servicing package, as some dealers will offer this with their cars to help you spread the cost of such repairs over time. Another way to save on potential repair costs is to consider buying an extended auto warranty. This extra layer of protection might cost a bit extra initially, but if something goes wrong, it might save you a lot more in the long run.

  1. Ask question

An important part of being a first-time car buyer is asking questions. This is something that the salesperson and dealership should welcome because it shows that you are taking the process seriously. Before making a purchase, start by getting to know the different models, features, and options that could come with the car. Additionally, you can ask what financial options you need to choose that will give you an overall idea of how much you can afford to put toward a down payment or monthly payments. Get an idea of what kind of warranty comes with your new car. Understanding what each kind of warranty covers will help you know what kind of protection you have if issues arise with your vehicle later.

  1. Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection

A pre-purchase inspection is an important aspect for first-time buyers. It’s an important step of the buying process, where a certified mechanic checks out the vehicle from top to bottom, inside and out. Getting a pre-purchase inspection will save you time and money in the future by ensuring that you are getting a car that’s in good condition and not going to break down on you. They will look for signs of wear and tear, major issues like fluid leaks, worn brakes, tires, or hidden rust.

Also, before buying any car, you must look at reviews, features, and prices for the top trending models. Here, we have brought the top 5 trending cars of 2023 that you should know about.

Top 5 trending cars of 2023

  1. Porsche 911 Dakar

Porsche 911 Dakar is one of the electric hybrid sports cars that will cost you around $222K. It has the top most feature that will blow your mind. It is suitable for off-road driving with strong performance. Its engine is 3.0L Twin-Turbo Flat 6 Gas with 8-Speed Automatic.

  1. Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato

Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato is an incredible model that will cost around $270K. It is a leading-age innovation of super sports cars occupied with a dedicated repetition of the LDVI (Lamborghini Integrated Vehicle Dynamics) system.

  1. Range Rover Sport SV

Range Rover Sport SV is the sports car’s hottest models an assertive evolution defining luxury. It has a powerful performance with the best headlights, grille, and sculpted lower bumper with distinctive design touches. It will cost you around $83K.

  1. Alpine A110R

Alpine A110R is the sexiest car ever with perfect aerodynamics built; that has a rear swan-neck spoiler, flat undercarriage, diffuser, and full-carbon fibre wheels with great stability corners and runs at high speed. This supercar price is around $153K.

  1. Mercedes-AMG C63

Mercedes-AMG C63 has the spiciest electric boost and Four-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain engine. This stylish model of Mercedes has a high-quality interior with a 9-Speed Automatic transmission and ranges around $81K.

Conclusion

Researching and shopping around for a car can be an overwhelming and confusing experience. From researching the right car for your budget to understanding all the financing options, there’s much to consider. But educating yourself on the process up front can make finding the right car much easier. Researching the automobile market can save you effort, time, and money in the long run. First-time car buyers need to consider the above-mentioned 8 tips, which include researching the vehicles by planning a proper budget, comparing financing options, understanding the insurance requirements, and getting a pre-purchase inspection.

Road America Partners With Plymouth Dirt Track for Winged Sprint Car Event Before the NASCAR XFINITY Series Race

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Official Release
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ELKHART LAKE, Wis., March 23, 2023 – A special Friday night winged sprint car doubleheader returns on July 28 as the Road America Challenge returns to the Plymouth Dirt Track featuring the Bumper to Bumper IRA Outlaw Sprint Series to kick off the NASCAR XFINITY Series weekend July 27-29. Located just five miles from Road America at Sheboygan County Fair Park, the 1/3-mile Plymouth Dirt Track will have shuttles to transport fans to-and-from Road America. Adult ticket prices are only $30, and kids 7-11 get in for $11. Fans are encouraged to buy tickets in advance. The pit gates open at 2 p.m., and the spectator gates open at 4:30 p.m. Qualifying begins at 6:30 p.m., and racing begins at 7 p.m. Advance ticket buyers will not need to stop at the Will Call window to pick up their tickets. They will be able to present a barcode for each ticket they purchase via email or the tickets section of the MyRacePass app. The gate will open to advance ticket buyers before race day ticket buyers, so not only will advance ticket buyers have a seat but the opportunity to pick their seat. Additional event details, including ticket purchase information, is available at this link:

The regional Bumper to Bumper IRA Outlaw Sprint Series will feature some of the best sprint car teams in the Midwest and along with a few NASCAR series stars, and more drivers are expected to round out the list as the event draws closer. The Bumper to Bumper IRA Outlaw Sprint Series is widely known as one of the most respected regional series in the country, and in recent years NASCAR Cup stars Tony Stewart, Kasey Kahne, and Kyle Larson have all revisited their sprint car roots and raced to IRA Sprint Car Victory Lane, with Stewart and Larson both notching wins at Plymouth. Chase Briscoe even joined the entrant roster for the last two years. An entire field of 900 horsepower Bumper to Bumper IRA winged outlaws is also expected. Plus, a significant entry list of PDTR/MSA 360 winged sprints will make up an incredible sprint car doubleheader evening.

The NASCAR XFINITY Series weekend will be jammed with on-track, and off-track action as the Porsche Carrera Cup, OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Challenge, and GRIDLIFE will also be on the schedule. There will also be open karting and Super Moto at the Briggs & Stratton Motorplex.

Bring the entire family to Road America to celebrate the weekend! Kids 16 and under get free general admission to all Road America season racing events with a paying adult at the gate. Ticket prices vary by day, starting at just $30! Make it a weekend of affordable fun by camping on-site on one of Road America’s 1,000+ campsites. Event details, ticket pricing, and camping information can be found at www.roadamerica.com or by calling 800-365-7223. Racing runs rain or shine.

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 NTT 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

Powerball® Debuts New NASCAR® Playoff Promotion

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Official Release
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“Official Lottery Game of NASCAR” to Award $1 Million at Cup Series Championship Race

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (March 23, 2023) – NASCAR and Powerball announced today they are shifting their partnership into high gear with Powerball’s launch of a new national promotion. The “NASCAR Powerball Playoff” promotion will culminate with four lottery players winning a VIP trip for two to NASCAR Championship Weekend in Phoenix, Nov. 3-5, and the chance to win $1 million during a special drawing televised live from the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race on Sunday, Nov. 5.

“This promotion captures the thrill of racing and winning that could only come from a NASCAR-Powerball partnership,” said Drew Svitko, Powerball Product Group Chair and Pennsylvania Lottery Executive Director. “We’re excited to engage with players as the ‘Official Lottery Game of NASCAR’ and amplify Powerball’s mission of supporting state programs and services everywhere tickets are sold.”

“As we said when we announced our partnership with Powerball in February, this relationship is going to allow us to bring winning opportunities to our loyal fans,” said Daryl Wolfe, NASCAR Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer. “This promotion is a perfect example of that, and as the excitement builds towards Championship Weekend at Phoenix Raceway, so will the excitement to award $1 million to one lucky lottery player.”

First teased during the partnership announcement during DAYTONA 500 festivities, the “NASCAR Powerball Playoff” promotion will begin at the state level with participating lotteries selecting entrants, by a method of their choosing, to form a national pool of semi-finalists. Sixteen semi-finalists will be drawn from the national pool, with no more than one semi-finalist per lottery advancing. The 16 semi-finalists will be announced during the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway on August 26. The semi-finalists will then go head-to-head in a series of drawings that coincide with the elimination rounds of the NASCAR Playoffs.

DrawingDateRacePlayoffs
1.Aug. 12Aug. 26 at Coke Zero Sugar 400,Daytona International Speedway16 semi-finalists advance
2.Sept. 9Sept. 16 at Bass Pro Shops Night Race,Bristol Motor Speedway12 semi-finalists advance4 eliminated win $2,500
3.Oct. 1Oct. 8 at Bank of America ROVAL™ 400,Charlotte Motor Speedway8 semi-finalists advance4 eliminated win $5,000
4.Oct. 11Oct. 29 at Xfinity 500,Martinsville Speedway4 finalists advance & win VIP trip4 eliminated win $7,500
5.Nov. 5NASCAR Cup Series Championship,Phoenix Raceway(1) $1 million winner(3) $10,000 winners

The four semi-finalists still in the playoffs after the fourth drawing will win a VIP trip for two to NASCAR Championship Weekend in Phoenix, Nov. 3-5, and advance as finalists to the $1 million drawing. Cash prizes will be awarded to all 16 national semi-finalists based on their elimination position.

The VIP trip experience will include roundtrip airfare for two to Phoenix, three nights hotel accommodations – double occupancy, two Ally Curve Hospitality Club passes for both the NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship Race on Nov. 4 and the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race on Nov. 5, two passes for VIP experiences at Phoenix Raceway during the NASCAR Championship Weekend including NASCAR Cup Series™ VIP access, NASCAR team hauler tour, MRN radio booth tour, pace car rides, and Victory Lane access, welcome dinner and all meals, and ground transportation to scheduled events and activities.

Participating lotteries will kick off in-state contests and second-chance drawings throughout the 2023 NASCAR season. Participating lottery jurisdictions include Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, and West Virginia.

Powerball tickets are $2 per play. Tickets are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. More than half of all proceeds from the sale of a Powerball ticket remain in the jurisdiction where the ticket was sold. Drawings are broadcast live every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET from the Florida Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee. Drawings are also live streamed on Powerball.com.

The 2023 NASCAR Cup Series season continues this Sunday, March 26 with live action from the first road course of the year, Circuit of the Americas, at 3:30 p.m. ET. The race will air live on FOX, PRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

About NASCAR

Celebrating its 75th Anniversary in 2023, the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, LLC (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 16 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR consists of three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series™, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour™), one local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series™) and three international series (NASCAR Pinty’s Series™, NASCAR Mexico Series™, NASCAR Whelen Euro Series™). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in eight cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races in more than 30 U.S. states, Canada, Mexico and Europe. For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat (‘NASCAR’).

About Powerball

Powerball® holds the current world record for largest national lottery jackpot at $2.04 billion. Powerball celebrated its 30th anniversary last year, and since its first drawing in 1992, the game has helped generate more than $28 billion for good causes supported by U.S. lotteries. More than half of all proceeds from the sale of a Powerball ticket remain in the jurisdiction where the ticket was sold. Powerball tickets are $2 per play. Tickets are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Powerball drawings are broadcast live every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET from the Florida Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee. Powerball drawings are also live streamed on Powerball.com.

DXDT Racing Charges into 2023 GT World Challenge America Championship

By
Official Release
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STATESVILLE, N.C., (March 23, 2023) – A new season for the Fanatec GT World Challenge America Powered by AWS begins at Sonoma Raceway on March 30 and DXDT Racing will return for an eighth year competing in the North American sports car racing series. The Mercedes customer racing team will contest two Mercedes AMG GT3 entries, driven by team veterans Scott Smithson and Bryan Sellers, and newcomers Jeff Burton and Corey Lewis.

The GT World Challenge America series is a thrilling and highly competitive championship that showcases some of the best sports car racing action in North America. Featuring the best auto manufacturers around the world, the series hosts 13 races in seven events across the country. With the exception of the Indianapolis 8 Hour season finale, each race weekend will consist of a pair of 90-minute races, in which a pair of co-drivers split the drive-time during each race. Both the No. 08 and No. 91 DXDT Racing Mercedes AMG GT3 entries will compete in the Pro/Am class, reflecting the combination of professional and amateur ranking of each driver in the car.

In the No. 08 Mercedes AMG GT3, Smithson and Sellers have partnered together for a second year as co-drivers. In his rookie season the GT World Challenge series last year, TC America alumni Smithson earned two podium finishes and six-top five results. He and Sellers together celebrated a second-place finish at the iconic Road America road course. Sellers, a Rolex 24 At Daytona race winner and IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship champion brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the effort, making a strong co-driver for Smithson as he begins his sophomore years in the series.

Though new to DXDT Racing, Burton is no stranger to GT World Challenge or series sanctioned by SRO America. He achieved champion status in 2019, racing in the Pirelli GT4 America SprintX West’s Am category, then advanced to Pirelli GT4 America’s Sprint series, closing out the season in third place in the Am class. In 2021 he finished second in the Masters class of GT America Powered by AWS, earning eight wins and two podiums. Burton is joined in the No. 91 by Corey Lewis, a four-time champion in the Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America Series. The pro-ranked driver competes worldwide in various sports car racing series, having recently won the Rolex 24 At Daytona in January 2020.

The season will begin with Rounds One and Two, March 30 to April 1 at Sonoma Raceway, nestled in the rolling hills of Wine Country. The event will host all three series under the SRO America umbrella, creating an exciting race weekend for fans and competitors. For more information, visit sro-america.com.

DRIVER QUOTES

Scott Smithson | No. 08 Qelo Mercedes AMG GT3

I’m excited for another season with DXDT! It’s nice to have a year in the GT3 under my belt. I’m surrounded by a great team and great drivers. Bryan has taken me under his wing and has gone above and beyond to help me improve as a driver. It’s great to have Corey Lewis and Jeff Burton in the sister car. I look forward to learning from them and being pushed by some really fast drivers.

Bryan Sellers | No. 08 Qelo Mercedes AMG GT3

To say I’m looking forward to this season would be an understatement. After last year and all of us being teamed together for the first time we showed some great potential and a lot of growth. Hopefully, all the work we have done in the off-season will help to produce some results for the year. Scott has done nothing but continue to grow with speed, and with his ability to understand a race. He’s a great teammate. I’m also looking forward to the addition of Jeff and Corey. They are a great pairing and will help to push the team forward to where we ultimately would like to see ourselves be.

Jeff Burton | No. 91 Burton Lumber Mercedes AMG GT3

It looks like DXDT as a group has tremendous potential in the GTWC (Pro-Am) class. Scott and Bryan have already shown their skill levels with the success they had last year. The comfort level they have in the AMG platform is fun to see already. Corey and I have a little less time in the car since we have moved from the Lamborghini to AMG. I know that with the small amount of time we have spent in the car, our confidence is developing quickly. The competitive nature that exits already between the 08 and the 91 car looks to be a challenge that we all look forward to having. As Sonoma quickly approaches a track that I know I have had success in the past, with a new car and team our hopes that a successful start to a winning season.

Corey Lewis | No. 91 Burton Lumber Mercedes AMG GT3

Another SRO season is finally upon us! I am looking forward to starting fresh and am very excited heading into my second season with Jeff. He and I closed 2022 off on a high note, and we both look forward to continue growing our skill sets on and off the race track with DXDT Racing.

Our pre-season testing has been phenomenal. Being apart of a top notch organization like DXDT Racing, I know Jeff and I will continue our success. It’s great having Scott and Bryan apart of the team as well, as I know we will be pushing each other throughout the year to maximize the teams results!!

ABOUT DXDT Racing
DXDT Racing is a high-performance sports car racing team founded in 2014 by team principal David Askew and located in Statesville, N.C. The Team’s primary focus is GT3 and Touring Car racing in North America. DXDT is a provider of turnkey racing support and delivers customized racing solutions for its clients and sponsors. DXDT is a performance-driven team comprised of highly experienced racing professionals capable of delivering wins and championships, including ten wins in GT World Challenge and a Rookie of the Year in 2020 alone. Follow the team on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook for race season updates.

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