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Cadillac V-Series.R qualifies fifth in WEC debut

By
Official Release
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No. 2 Cadillac V-Series.R impresses on Sebring circuit; IMSA GTP cars show speed

SEBRING, Fla. (March 16, 2023) — The No. 2 Cadillac V-Series.R will start on the inside of the third row in the 1000 Miles of Sebring on Friday in Cadillac’s debut in the FIA World Endurance Championship’s Hypercar class.

Alex Lynn covered the 3.741-mile, 17-turn Sebring International Raceway course in 1 minute, 46.082 seconds on his fourth of five laps in the 15-minute qualifying session. The No. 50 Ferrari AF Corse earned the first pole of the WEC season with a best lap of 1:45.067.

Lynn will co-drive the hybrid Cadillac V-Series.R with Earl Bamber and Richard Westbrook.

Its sister racecars – the No. 01 Cadillac V-Series.R and the No. 31 Whelen Engineering Cadillac V-Series.R – will compete for the pole Friday morning in qualifying for the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring on Saturday in the second race of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season.

Both cars were near the top of the time sheet in three free practice sessions.

Cadillac will aim for its third consecutive victory in the endurance race and fifth in the past seven years. Last March, Sebastien Bourdais set the qualifying lap record of 1:45.060 in the No. 01 Cadillac DPi-V.R. Lynn and Earl Bamber teamed with Neel Jani to lead a Cadillac sweep of the podium in the 2022 race.

Lynn is a two-time overall winner (2017, 2022) of the 12-hour race at Sebring in a Cadillac DPi-V.R and Bamber has an overall and class win. Teammate Richard Westbrook co-drove a Cadillac DPI-V.R to the runner-up finish last March.

The 1000 Miles of Sebring is scheduled for noon ET/5 p.m. CET. The race will air live on MotorTrend in the U.S. with streaming coverage on the MotorTrend app. Radio Le Mans will broadcast the race.

No. 2 Cadillac V-Series.R

Earl Bamber, Alex Lynn, Richard Westbrook

Alex Lynn drove in the qualifying session (qualified fifth; 1 minute, 46.082 seconds on five laps): “It felt really good and that’s why I was a little bit disappointed to be only P5, but I think all credit has to go to Cadillac Racing and Chip Ganassi Racing because I think we’ve come into WEC and made a strong impression so I’m really proud of this team. I think we’re in a good spot. (about the race) It’s only just begun really. We’re in a strong place, we have a fast racecar and I think we just need to run the eight hours really clean and really hard. But I think we’re in a stronger place in the race potentially with how we are with our tires because I think we know that the Hypercars can boost up their power quite a lot, so we need to work out where we can improve and go again tomorrow.”

What the IMSA GTP drivers are saying

Jack Aitken, No. 31 Whelen Engineering Cadillac V-Series.R: “The car feels good and I think we’ve made good steps forward even from the test we had here last month. Rather than trying to dial in the car exactly for the conditions we have at the time, we’re trying to get an idea of how the track is evolving and target the end of the race to have the car on point for those conditions. That’s going to be the crunch time. If we can manage that evolution of the track through the race, then that’s even better.”

Scott Dixon, No.01 Cadillac V-Series.R: “It’s been good. As always here at Sebring, tracing the track in the morning to the high temperature in the day and kind of cool in the night it definitely makes it fun because it’s never the same. Traffic seems to be a little more demanding than normal, which is interesting as well. I think everybody on the team has done a great job making improvements and making progress.”

CORVETTE RACING AT SEBRING: Keating Puts Corvette on Front Row

By
Official Release
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No. 33 Corvette C8.R to start second in GTE Am debut at Sebring 1,000 Miles

SEBRING, Fla. (March 16, 2023) – In his first qualifying session as part of Corvette Racing, Ben Keating qualified second in a stacked GTE Am category Thursday ahead of the FIA World Endurance Championship’s 1,000 Miles of Sebring.

Piloting the No. 33 Mobil 1/SiriusXM Chevrolet Corvette C8.R, Keating posted a best lap of 1:59.345 (112.841 mph). He will team in Friday’s season-opening race with Corvette Racing veteran Nicky Catsburg and fellow newcomer Nico Varrone.

Only 0.784 seconds separated the four fastest cars in qualifying. Keating was never lower than second and swapped provisional pole position multiple times in the 15-minute session.

The Corvette program is easily the most experienced team in the WEC paddock at the 3.74-mile, 17-turn Sebring International Raceway circuit. It has 25 years of racing experience at the historic track, which sits on the site of an Army airbase from World War II.

In addition to two previous starts in GTE Pro at the Sebring WEC round – including a runner-up finish last year for Tommy Milner and Nick Tandy – Corvette Racing has 13 victories at the track with 12 coming in the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring.

On the driver front, both Catsburg and Keating have previous starts in the Sebring WEC round. Catsburg finished second in GTE Pro in 2019 while Keating placed third a year ago in GTE Am on his way to the class championship. Meanwhile, Varrone will make his first full-season start as a WEC competitor in the 1,000 Miles.

The 1,000 Miles of Sebring for the FIA World Endurance Championship is scheduled for noon ET on Friday, March 17. MotorTrend and MotorTrend Plus will provide both level television and streaming coverage. Radio Le Mans also will stream audio coverage the race.

BEN KEATING, NO. 33 MOBIL 1/SiriusXM CHEVROLET CORVETTE C8.R – QUALIFIED SECOND IN GTE AM: “It was really interesting. We did mock qualifying this morning, but I had much more grip in the car. I don’t know if our tires don’t like the Carrera Cup tires or what, but I had a lot more grip this afternoon. It was much of a handful than I expected in qualifying. I was really wheeling the car around there. With less grip, it was more work. I thought I may be able to compete with the time that Sarah did to be on the pole. I did three laps that were almost exactly the same. I think she got ahead of me by four-thousandths and then I got ahead of her. It was fun to go back and forth. We’re starting on the front row for our home race. I know that the Porsche is really different when it gets full of fuel. So qualifying is one thing and racing is another. I’m excited to go out there and race with her. We’ve been on the front row most of last season together, so it’s not unfamiliar territory. We’ll be OK.”

About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, available in nearly 80 countries with nearly 2.7 million cars and trucks sold in 2021. Chevrolet models include electric and fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

Rev Up Your Maintenance Game: 7 Tips for Boosting Your Vehicle’s Lifespan

By
SM
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Ensuring routine maintenance is an essential aspect of preserving your vehicle’s longevity and performance. Ignoring regular upkeep may result in costly repairs, decreased efficiency, and, in some cases, hazardous situations. With the multitude of components and systems to manage, determining where to commence can be daunting.

Simple tasks like checking your tire pressure to more involved maintenance like changing your oil will help you stay on top of your car’s needs and maximize its lifespan.

According to IHS Markit, the average age of light vehicles in the US is 12.1 years as of 2021. This age has increased by two months more than it was in 2020. If you are a seasoned driver or a new car owner, you need to know and follow a few simple tips for increasing the lifespan of your vehicle.

Seven essential tips are shared here to help you rev up your maintenance game and keep your vehicle running smoothly for years.

Regular Maintenance Tasks

1. Check and Change the Oil Regularly

The engine oil plays a critical role in lubricating the various moving parts of the engine while aiding in the dissipation of heat to maintain smooth engine operation. Regrettably, as time passes, the oil gradually deteriorates and loses its efficacy. It results in increased engine wear and reduced performance. Therefore, checking your oil level regularly and changing it at the recommended intervals is important.

According to ConsumerReports, the rule of changing oil every month or every 3,000 miles is now obsolete. This is because the engines and oils coming into the market have advanced from what they were a few years back. Thus, the oil changing time has increased to 7500-1000 miles or 12 months. The best rule for oil changing for your vehicle is to follow the instructions given in the manual and listen to what the manufacturers say about it.

It will keep your vehicle’s engine well-lubricated and well-performed. Regular oil changes will not only help extend the life of your engine but also improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

2. Inspect and Replace the Air Filter When Necessary

The air filter plays a crucial role in safeguarding your car’s engine by preventing unwanted dirt, dust, and other pollutants from infiltrating the combustion chamber. Over time, however, the filter becomes obstructed by debris, resulting in restricted airflow and diminished engine performance. 

A clogged air filter can also have a negative impact on fuel efficiency, leading to increased emissions. Therefore, it is crucial to replace the air filter when necessary to ensure optimal engine function and reduce emissions.

To avoid this, inspecting and replacing the air filter regularly is important. Most automakers recommend replacing the air filter every 15,000-30,000 miles, which can vary depending on driving conditions.

Regular air filter maintenance will not only help extend the life of your engine but also improve overall performance and reduce environmental impact.

3. Keep the Tires Properly Inflated and Rotated Regularly

Keeping your car’s tires properly inflated and rotated regularly is important for both safety and performance. Underinflated tires can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, uneven tire wear, and poor handling, while overinflated tires can cause a harsher ride and an increased risk of a blowout.

Rotating your tires helps to distribute the wear more evenly, extending their lifespan and improving overall performance. Most automakers recommend checking tire pressure monthly and rotating the tires every 5,000-7,500 miles.

In addition, periodic tire balancing and alignment are crucial for achieving optimal handling and reducing uneven tire wear. By keeping your tires in proper condition, you not only enhance safety on the road but also lower fuel consumption and minimize replacement expenses, making it a worthwhile investment.

A schedule from the manufacturer typically includes a list of tasks, such as oil changes, tire rotations, fluid checks, etc. It should be performed at specific intervals based on mileage and time, as it is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s health and maximizing its lifespan.

Sticking to the schedule ensures that your car receives the necessary maintenance to keep it running smoothly and safely. Neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs, reduced performance, and safety hazards. It’s also important to keep records of all maintenance performed, which can help with resale value and warranty claims.

Additional Maintenance Tasks

5. Install a Bed Liner to Protect the Vehicle Bed from Damage and Rust

Installing a bed liner for trucks is a simple and effective way to protect your vehicle bed from damage and rust. Bed liners come in various materials, such as plastic, rubber, and spray-on coatings, and can be customized to fit your truck model.

They help prevent scratches, dents, and other damage caused by hauling cargo and water and moisture from causing rust and corrosion. Bed liners also make it easier to clean your vehicle bed, as they can be hosed down and wiped clean. By installing a bed liner, you can extend the life of your vehicle and maintain its resale value.

Scorpion has established itself as a dependable brand for bed liners. Their bed liners are known for their exceptional durability, longevity, and ability to provide superior protection to your vehicle bed. In addition to this, Scorpion’s bed liners are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and resist damage caused by chemicals and abrasives, making them ideal for heavy-duty usage.

With a wide range of bed liner options, the brand ensures a perfect fit for every vehicle, and its products are customizable to meet individual needs.

6. Protect Your Vehicle’s Exterior with a Quality Wax or Sealant

Regularly waxing or applying a sealant to your vehicle is a vital upkeep task that can help retain its aesthetic appeal and market value. Wax or sealant acts as a barrier, shielding your car’s paint from external elements like UV rays, rain, and dirt.

This barrier helps to prevent fading, chipping, and corrosion, which can damage your car’s paint job and decrease its resale value. Applying wax or sealant twice a year is recommended, or more frequently if your car is frequently exposed to harsh conditions.

A quality wax or sealant will not only protect your car’s exterior but also give it a glossy and polished finish.

7. Keep the Interior Clean and Protected from the Elements

Keeping your car’s interior clean and protected from the elements is important for maintaining its value and overall appearance. Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate inside your car and cause damage to the upholstery, carpets, and dashboard.

It’s recommended to vacuum and wipe down the interior surfaces regularly and use a protective spray to prevent fading and cracking. Getting your car washed on time is also recommended to keep it clean and maintained.

According to Grand View Research, with increasingly strict environmental regulations, home car washing is being prohibited. It has led to an increase in the demand for professional car wash services. 

As of 2021, the market value for these services was estimated to be USD 29.3 billion, and it is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 3.1% from 2022 to 2030. It is highly recommended to leverage these services to prolong the lifespan of your vehicle.

Keeping your car’s interior clean and protected can improve your driving experience and maintain its value for years.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently. Following these seven tips can boost your vehicle’s lifespan and save money in the long run.

Performing routine maintenance, such as checking fluid levels, changing oil, and inspecting brakes, can help identify and fix small issues before they become bigger problems. Moreover, choosing quality parts and products, adhering to manufacturer recommendations, and keeping your vehicle clean can also significantly affect your car’s performance and longevity.

Remember, your car is a significant investment, and investing time and resources in maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs and extend its lifespan.

6 Reasons to Wrap Your Car Instead of Opting for a Simple Paint Job

By
SM
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When it comes to giving your car an appealing new look, you usually have two options. You can either opt for a paint job or go for a car wrap. Today, we’ll tell you why the latter is a far superior option to the former. 

#1 Superior Quality

Both paint jobs and vehicle wraps can provide the superior quality in question here. However, compared to paint, car wraps tend to provide a better finish and durability. 

Poor paint jobs, in particular, tend to fade, crack, and develop scratches over time. Such is often the case for high-quality paint jobs, too. Paint jobs are more likely to suffer damage than vehicle wraps. 

This is because paint doesn’t provide the same level of protection you would get from wrapping a car. Thus, they are susceptible to damage from sun exposure, harsh weather conditions, and various road hazards. 

With a high-quality vehicle wrap, you can expect your car to look far better. Paint Protection Film For Cars won’t fade away as fast as paint would. As a result, your car will keep looking appealing long after you’ve applied the wrap. 

#2 More Cost-Effective

Apart from guaranteeing superior quality, car wraps are also cost-effective. That’s because you don’t have to spend a ton of money on high-quality wraps as you would in the case of a decent paint job. 

A car paint job costs between $3,000 and $10,000. Compared to that, you can find a high-quality wrap for around $2,500 to $5,000. Even if you hire a professional team or individual for the wrapping project, you’ll still have to spend less money than you would have on a paint job. 

A stylish paint job with a custom design or a chrome look will cost more than double the cost of a professional car wrap. Opting for the same stylistic features and looks but with a car wrap will prove to be more cost-effective. 

#3 More Custom Design Options

A paint job can’t give your car a complicated custom design or look. However, the same can be easily achieved with car wraps. 

Custom car wraps work wonders when you want your car to adorn a complex or unique design. How far you can go with these designs is entirely up to you and your imagination. 

To get an idea regarding these custom wraps, you can browse the gallery of Atlantic Custom Wraps. The custom wraps they have done over the years will help you understand how easy it is to achieve a tailor-made design or look for your car, no matter how complicated it might be.

#4 Lasts Longer

High-quality paint jobs, such as those done with colour change car paint, will last a long time. Low-quality ones will hardly last a couple of years. Cheap paint jobs tend to wear out, and within two years, your car will get a faded and unappealing look because of it. 

Besides, even high-quality paint jobs can get damaged from scratches and extreme weather conditions. 

Wraps last far longer than the best paint job you could possibly get for your car. Vehicle wraps can last up to ten years if properly maintained. Additionally, you can opt for UV-resistant wraps that ensure more longevity and durability, preventing your car from looking faded for the longest possible time.

#5 Faster Completion Time

When you’re sending your car for a paint job, know that it will take weeks for the project to be completed and the car to be back in your garage. Paint Protection Film For Cars is inconvenient for those who need their cars on the road at all times or who don’t have the luxury of waiting for their vehicles to return.

Wrapping takes only a few days. The professionals handling this project only have to print out the wrap and install it. Some professionals can even finish the whole project in one day. Rest assured, if you opt for a car wrap from a professional service provider like Wrap Garage or similar, you can have your car back in less than a week, no matter how complicated the job might be.

#6 Easier to Maintain Compared to Paint

Paint requires more maintenance than wraps. You must wax and wash your vehicle regularly to prevent contaminants from harming your paint. 

Unlike paint, wraps don’t require such frequent maintenance. That’s because, unlike paint, these wraps don’t have pores through which the contaminants can embed themselves in the wraps. Because of the wrapping, therefore, frequent maintenance is not needed.

Based on the above discussion, it’s evident why wrapping is a far better option than a simple paint job. Thus, if you’re looking to give your car a new look, you know which one to go for. 

One More Time in the 29 for Harvick

By
Official Release
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Stewart-Haas Racing To Honor Kevin Harvick’s NASCAR Legacy by

Changing his Car Number to 29 for NASCAR All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro

KANNAPOLIS, N.C. (March 16, 2023) – In a race designed to stir the senses at a track where decades-old memories are becoming new realities, Kevin Harvick will add another dose of nostalgia to NASCAR’s return to North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway on May 21 for the 39th running of the NASCAR All-Star Race.

For just the All-Star Race, Harvick will eschew his traditional No. 4 and bring back the No. 29. His Busch Light Ford Mustang from Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) will sport a throwback paint scheme to the design Harvick used when he won in just his third career NASCAR Cup Series start on March 11, 2001 at Atlanta Motor Speedway when he drove for Richard Childress Racing (RCR).

Harvick wasn’t just driving any racecar when he won at Atlanta. He was driving the racecar that less than a month earlier had been piloted by the sport’s titan, Dale Earnhardt. The seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion died on the final lap of the 2001 Daytona 500. Team owner Richard Childress tabbed Harvick, who was racing for him in the NASCAR Busch Series (known today as the Xfinity Series) to pull double-duty and take over Earnhardt’s Cup ride. The No. 3, made iconic by Earnhardt, was changed to the No. 29 and Harvick made his Cup Series debut Feb. 25 at North Carolina Speedway in Rockingham. Harvick started 36th that Sunday at Rockingham, but rain washed over the track just 51 laps into the 393-lap race. The race resumed at 11 a.m. ET on Monday, whereupon Harvick drove to a solid 14th-place finish. He then traveled to Las Vegas on Tuesday, married his wife, DeLana, on Wednesday, and was back in a racecar on Friday, competing in both the Xfinity Series and Cup Series races at Las Vegas. After finishing eighth on Sunday to score his first career top-10 in the Cup Series, Harvick headed to Atlanta where the first of his 60 career Cup Series wins was secured.

“When I sat in the 29 for the first time, it really wasn’t by choice, but I definitely wouldn’t have done it any differently,” Harvick said. “Dale’s passing changed our sport forever, and it changed my life forever and the direction it took.

“Looking back on it now, I realize the importance of getting in the Cup car, and then I wound up winning my first race at Atlanta in the 29 car after Dale’s death. The significance and the importance of keeping that car on the racetrack and winning that race early at Atlanta – knowing now what it meant to the sport, and just that moment in general of being able to carry on – was so important.

“I had a great 13 years at RCR and really learned a lot through the process because of being thrown into Dale’s car, where my first press conference as a Cup Series driver was the biggest press conference I would ever have in my career, where my first moments were my biggest moments.

“With this being my last year as a Cup Series driver, we wanted to highlight a lot of these moments, and many were made at RCR in that 29 car. So, with the All-Star Race going to North Wilkesboro – a place with a ton of history – we thought it made sense in a year full of milestones and moments to highlight where it all started.”

Harvick’s Ford Mustang for the All-Star Race will be white and feature the red stylized No. 29 that he drove throughout 2001 when he finished ninth in the championship standings, thanks to his win at Atlanta and a second victory July 15 at Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, Illinois. Busch Light, the primary partner for Harvick in the All-Star Race, will bring back its logos from that era, completing the early aughts look of Harvick’s ride in the All-Star Race.

“As a proud sponsor, Busch Light has been along for the ride throughout Kevin Harvick’s celebrated career in NASCAR,” said Krystyn Stowe, Head of Marketing for Busch Family Brands at Anheuser-Busch. “Kevin’s final All-Star Race is the perfect time for us to revisit a bit of history and bring back the iconic No. 29 paint scheme with our 2001 logo as the ultimate ‘cheers’ to one of Kevin’s most memorable wins. We’re looking forward to seeing some nostalgia on the track come raceday.”

Harvick has competed in every All-Star Race since joining the Cup Series in 2001. In the 38 previous editions of the event, Harvick has been on the starting grid for 22 of them, winning twice (2007 and 2018). This year’s All-Star Race returns to North Wilkesboro – a track that first appeared on the Cup Series schedule in 1949 but has been largely dormant since Cup Series cars last thundered around the .625-mile oval on Sept. 29, 1996 when Jeff Gordon took the victory over Dale Earnhardt. It was the track’s 93rd Cup Series race.

“I don’t know the last time the All-Star Race was the most anticipated event of the season,” Harvick said. “Fans are going to show up in droves. North Wilkesboro is a great short track, the asphalt’s worn out, and I think it’s going to be a fantastic event.”

Fans wanting to get their throwback No. 29 gear in advance of the All-Star Race can visit SHR’s online store at store.stewarthaasracing.com for a full offering of merchandise, including diecast replicas of the No. 29 Busch Light Ford Mustang, along with T-shirts, hats and variety of hard goods such as flags, coozies and decals.

About Stewart-Haas Racing:

Stewart-Haas Racing is the title-winning NASCAR team co-owned by three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Tony Stewart and Gene Haas, founder of Haas Automation – the largest CNC machine tool builder in North America. The Kannapolis, North Carolina-based organization has won two NASCAR Cup Series titles, one NASCAR Xfinity Series championship and more than 90 NASCAR races, including such crown-jewel events as the Daytona 500, Brickyard 400 and Southern 500. For more information, please visit us online at StewartHaasRacing.com and on social at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Statement from Kaulig Racing

By
Official Release
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LEXINGTON, N.C. (March 16, 2023) – Kaulig Racing will appeal the L2 penalty issued by NASCAR following the confiscation of a louver found on the No. 31 Chevrolet this past weekend at Phoenix Raceway.

Prior to qualifying on Saturday, only one of the two louvers on the No. 31 car was confiscated, showing inconsistencies in the parts provided to teams from NASCAR’s single source supplier, providing no competitive advantage.

We will be requesting deferral of crew chief suspension until after the appeal hearing.

 
About Kaulig Racing:

Kaulig Racing™ is a full-time multi-car NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) and NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) team, owned by award winning entrepreneur, Matt Kaulig. Established in 2016, Kaulig Racing™ has made the NXS Playoffs consecutively each season since the playoff system started and has won back-to-back regular-season championships. Before becoming a full-time NCS team, Kaulig Racing made multiple starts in the 2021 NCS season and won in its seventh-ever start with AJ Allmendinger’s victory at “The Brickyard” for the Verizon 200 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The team expanded to a two-car, full-time NCS team in 2022 with Justin Haley piloting the No. 31 Camaro ZL1, and an all-star lineup featured in the No. 16 Camaro ZL1. Haley will continue to drive the No. 31 full-time in 2023, alongside AJ Allmendinger, who will drive the No. 16 Camaro ZL1. The team will continue to field three, full-time NXS entries; the No. 10 Chevrolet driven by an all-star lineup that will be announced at a later date, the No. 11 Chevrolet driven by Daniel Hemric, and the No. 16 Chevrolet driven by Chandler Smith.

To learn more about the team, visit kauligracing.com.

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Races No. 47 Kroger® / Nature Valley™ Camaro at Atlanta Before Going Back to His Roots

By
Official Release
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On Monday, the 2023 DAYTONA 500 CHAMPION returns to Olive Branch, Mississippi for a hometown celebration, hometown Kroger visit, and to play in a Memphis Grizzlies celebrity game for Hoops for St. Jude Day.

ATLANTA (March 16, 2023) – This Sunday, the No. 47 Kroger® Camaro will carry the Nature Valley™ brand that will fuel Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and his team’s adventures leading up to and after the 260-lap race at Atlanta Motor Speedway on Sunday.

“Nature Valley is the perfect snack for every setting and keeps our team fueled for competition,” said JTG Daugherty Racing co-owner Tad Geschickter. “They know the nature of our business and ‘believe’ what you put in is what you get out. They are a long-term partner of ours, and we rely on them for real energy. We’re happy they are a part of the Kroger Racing family and look forward to big things with Ricky, Nature Valley and Kroger at Atlanta.”

The 2023 DAYTONA 500 CHAMPION is comfortable being at the front of the field at Atlanta Motor Speedway and crew chief Mike Kelley and the JTG Daugherty Racing team are working hard to recreate a strong showing this weekend.

“Any time you take the No. 47 Kroger / Nature Valley Camaro to a speedway race with Ricky Stenhouse Jr., it gives you an opportunity to flex,” said Kelley. “Last year during the first Atlanta race, we had a fast car and lost a tire leading the race and our day ended early. During the Fall race, we didn’t seem to be as strong (balance-wise) and we lost an engine. We learned a lot from that, and we are working toward a strong finish on Sunday.”

Following the race, Stenhouse Jr. travels to his hometown of Olive Branch, Mississippi with his wife Madyson. The City of Olive Branch and Mayor Ken Adams has a celebration planned at City Hall and will be handing Stenhouse Jr. a key to the city.

“It’s nice to go back home to Olive Branch, Mississippi to see everyone,” said Stenhouse Jr. “We’re looking forward to it and really would like to thank the Mayor Ken Adams and the city for planning this special day for us.”

From City Hall, Stenhouse Jr. will be escorted by the Olive Branch Police Department along with a Kroger semi-truck to the Kroger store (#452) in Olive Branch where he will be greeted by the Olive Branch High School Cheer and Band and The Kroger Co. Delta Division President Micheal Cristal.

“It’s our local Kroger and I remember shopping with my mom at Kroger growing up,” said Stenhouse Jr. “It’s special that Kroger’s Delta Division President is going to be there to greet us. Going there on Monday, it’s kind of full circle for me after winning the Daytona 500 with our Kroger / Cottonelle® Camaro.”

The day does not end there. Stenhouse Jr. is playing in a celebrity basketball game for Hoops for St. Jude during halftime at the Memphis Grizzlies and Dallas Mavericks game in the FedExForum in Memphis. Former Grizzlies players and current Grizzlies broadcasters, Elliot Perry and Brevin Knight, will coach the teams. Stenhouse Jr. will be on Team Brevin along with Ashley Shields/WNBA Champion, Drumma Boy/Producer and Artist, Kia Shine/Artist and Actor and Zach Myers/Shinedown Musician.

“This is a great opportunity to remind everyone of the lifesaving work at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and how they can support their efforts,” said Stenhouse Jr. “Thanks in advance to the Grizzlies for letting me play in the celebrity match Monday night.”

Fans can visit grizzlies.com/StJude to donate to St. Jude while also having a chance to win.

About General Mills:

General Mills makes food the world loves. The company is guided by its Accelerate strategy to drive shareholder value by boldly building its brands, relentlessly innovating, unleashing its scale and standing for good. Its portfolio of beloved brands includes household names such as Cheerios, Nature Valley, Blue Buffalo, Häagen-Dazs, Old El Paso, Pillsbury, Betty Crocker, Yoplait, Annie’s, Wanchai Ferry, Yoki and more. Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, General Mills generated fiscal 2022 net sales of U.S. $19.0 billion. In addition, the company’s share of non-consolidated joint venture net sales totaled U.S. $1.1 billion.

About St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Its purpose is clear: Finding cures. Saving children. ® It is the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. Treatments invented at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20% to more than 80% since the hospital opened in 1962. St. Jude won’t stop until no child dies from cancer. St. Jude shares the breakthroughs it makes, and every child saved at St. Jude means doctors and scientists worldwide can use that knowledge to save thousands more children. Because of generous donors, families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food, so they can focus on helping their child live. Visit St. Jude Inspire to discover powerful St. Jude stories of hope, strength, love and kindness. Join the St. Jude mission by visiting stjude.org, liking St. Jude on Facebook, following St. Jude on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok, and subscribing to its YouTube channel.

Fans arrive at AMS for Ambetter Health 400 weekend

By
Official Release
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HAMPTON, Ga. (March 16, 2023) – The stage is set.

Atlanta Motor Speedway has opened its infield and campgrounds to fans converging on the speedway for the weekend’s slate of NASCAR action. Hundreds of campers and their RVs have moved into their home for weekend and eagerly await the high-octane thrills that await.

While they await the first competitive laps on track, campers will enjoy amenities around the track like the Park Pavilion and The Gathering Place, which features cornhole and bocce ball courts as well as a dog park. Later this evening hundreds of fans will take advantage of an opportunity to drive their own vehicles on Atlanta Motor Speedway’s high banks during Laps For Charity Presented by Ambetter Health and the Centene Charitable Foundation.

Haulers carrying vehicles and equipment for teams across all three of NASCAR’s national touring series will make their way into the garage areas Friday morning; the first on-track activity is scheduled for 3 p.m. when the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series hits the track for Fr8 208 qualifying.

Atlanta’s spring NASCAR weekend is packed full of racing and entertainment, with 858 miles of racing between Saturday’s Fr8 208 and RAPTOR King of Tough 250 doubleheader and Sunday’s Ambetter Health 400. Off the track, fans will enjoy attractions in the AMS Fan Zone and parties on Friday and Saturday night.

Tickets and camping for the Ambetter Health 400 weekend March 17-19 are available now at www.AtlantaMotorSpeedway.com or by calling 877-9-AMS-TIX.

About the Ambetter Health 400 weekend:

Atlanta’s spring NASCAR weekend is headlined by the Ambetter Health 400 on Sunday, March 19, with intense, door-to-door racing around the historic high banks of Atlanta Motor Speedway.

The race weekend also features Atlanta’s same-day NASCAR doubleheader on Saturday, March 18, 2022. The thrills of the Fr8 208 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race and the RAPTOR King of Tough 250 NASCAR Xfinity Series race all happen in one action-packed day that race fans look forward to every year.

More information on the March 17-19, 2023, Ambetter Health 400 weekend and ticket availability can be found online at AtlantaMotorSpeedway.com.

Follow Atlanta Motor Speedway:

Keep track of all of Atlanta Motor Speedway’s events by following on Twitter, Instagram, and become a Facebook fan. Keep up with all the latest news and information with the Atlanta Motor Speedway mobile app.

NCS AT ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY: Team Chevy Advance

By
Official Release
-

TEAM CHEVY ADVANCE
Ambetter Health 400
Atlanta Motor Speedway
Hampton, Georgia
March 19, 2023

 RACING FOR FOUR IN A ROW AT ATLANTA

All three NASCAR national touring series will make the trek south to Hampton, Georgia, where the 1.54-mile Atlanta Motor Speedway will be the site of the series’ next tripleheader race weekend.

While Chevrolet has been unbeatable in the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) thus far this season, the manufacturer will also look to keep its winning streak at Atlanta Motor Speedway alive in Sunday’s Ambetter Health 400. The Bowtie brand has collected a series-leading 43 NCS wins at Atlanta, including triumphs in the series’ past three consecutive races. The streak dates back to July 2021 when Kurt Busch drove the No. 1 Chip Ganassi Racing Chevrolet to the victory in the track’s final race before undergoing a complete repave and reprofiling. An intermediate-sized track now producing superspeedway-styling racing, the variety of unknowns proved no challenge for Hendrick Motorsports’ William Byron and Chase Elliott, who drove their Camaro ZL1’s to a sweep of the series’ race wins at the Georgia venue in 2022.

Atlanta Motor Speedway – July 11, 2021

Kurt Busch, No. 1 Chip Ganassi Racing Chevrolet

Atlanta Motor Speedway – Mar. 20, 2022

William Byron, No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet

Atlanta Motor Speedway – July 10, 2022

Chase Elliott, No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet

 
UNSTOPPABLE START TO 2023

With William Byron’s back-to-back trips to victory lane, Chevrolet has now gone four-for-four in NASCAR Cup Series wins this season, marking the first time since 2001 that a manufacturer has swept the first four races in a single season in NASCAR’s premier series. In NASCAR’s Modern Era, a manufacturer has swept the first four races of a NCS season on four separate occasions, with Chevrolet recording three of those (1995, 2001, 2023). Chevrolet’s record for the most consecutive wins to start a NCS season came in 1995, with four different drivers collecting a combined seven-straight victories.

BY THE NUMBERS

While Chevrolet is the only manufacturer that has made its way to victory lane in NASCAR’s premier series in 2023, the Bowtie brand’s dominant start to the season is demonstrated by more than just its win count. A highlight of key statistical measures heading into the Atlanta Motor Speedway race weekend:

· Chevrolet drivers have taken seven of the eight NASCAR Cup Series stage wins this season. Trackhouse Racing’s Ross Chastain and Hendrick Motorsports’ William Byron have each recorded three stage wins, with Byron’s teammate Kyle Larson also having one stage win to his name.

· Of the 1,000 laps run this season in NASCAR’s premier series, 12 different Chevrolet drivers have led a combined 705 laps.

· Chevrolet drivers have taken at least 50 percent of the top-10 finishing positions in each of the NASCAR Cup Series points-paying races this season, including a sweep of the top-four at Auto Club Speedway and a podium sweep at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

LARSON ON HORIZON OF MILESTONE START

Sunday’s Ambetter Health 400 at Atlanta Motor Speedway will mark Kyle Larson’s milestone 300th career start in NASCAR’s premier series, all of which have been behind the wheel of a Chevrolet.

The 30-year-old California native first stepped into the NASCAR Cup Series scene in 2013, making four starts that season with the No. 51 HScott Motorsports Chevrolet team. Larson competed his first full-time season in the series with Chip Ganassi Racing in 2014, ending the season with the Rookie of the Year honors. The driver went on to notch his first career NCS win at Michigan International Speedway in August 2016.

Larson’s career season came in 2021 when he joined Hendrick Motorsports to pilot the No. 5 Camaro ZL1. In his debut season with the organization, Larson collected a series-leading 10 wins en route to his first career NCS championship title.

To-date, Larson has collected 19 wins, 91 top-fives and 148 top-10s in NASCAR’s premier series.

SILVERADO RST BACK ON-TRACK AFTER LAS VEGAS WIN

The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) will return to the track after a one-week break to join the NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) at Atlanta Motor Speedway for the third tripleheader race weekend of the season. Saturday’s NCTS Fr8 208 will mark the series’ 22nd appearance at the Georgia track. Chevrolet has recorded nine NCTS wins at Atlanta, with the manufacturer’s first win coming in only the series’ second race held at the track (Ron Hornaday, Jr. – March 2005).

Chevrolet is the series’ most recent winner this season after Kyle Busch drove his No. 51 KBM Silverado RST to the win at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, also marking the organization’s first win under the Chevrolet banner. Momentum is on the side of the young NCTS Bowtie brigade, with drivers from four different Chevrolet teams taking six of the top-10 finishing positions at Las Vegas.

HILL LOOKS TO DEFEND HOMESTATE WIN

The NASCAR Xfinity Series will take over in part two of Saturday’s doubleheader with the RAPTOR King of Tough 250 marking the series’ fifth race of the season. The Bowtie brand has collected a manufacturer-leading 18 NXS wins at Atlanta Motor Speedway. The most recent of those wins comes from Georgia native Austin Hill (No. 21 Richard Childress Racing Camaro SS) in the series’ last appearance at the track in July 2022.

Hill will head to his home track looking to not only defend his race winning title, but also maintain his position as the series’ points leader. The 28-year-old Chevrolet driver already has two NXS wins to his name in 2023, and is one of only three drivers in the series to have top-10 finishes in every race this season. Joining Hill in the top-five includes series’ veteran Justin Allgaier (No. 7 JR Motorsports Camaro SS) in third and series’ rookie Chandler Smith (No. 16 Kaulig Racing Camaro SS). Both drivers have had a strong start to the season, leading the series with three top-fives each.

 
BOWTIE BULLETS:

· NASCAR Cup Series victories by active Chevrolet drivers at Atlanta Motor Speedway:

Kyle Busch – 2 (2013, 2008)

William Byron – 1 (2022)

Chase Elliott – 1 (2022)

· In 117 NASCAR Cup Series races held at Atlanta Motor Speedway, Chevrolet has recorded a series-leading 43 victories, including the past three consecutive races at the track (Kurt Busch – July 2021; William Byron – March 2022; Chase Elliott – July 2022).

· Kyle Larson will make his milestone 300th career NASCAR Cup Series start at Atlanta Motor Speedway this weekend, all of which have been behind the wheel of a Chevrolet.

· William Byron delivered Chevrolet its fourth consecutive NASCAR Cup Series win of 2023 at Phoenix Raceway, making it the first time since 2001 that the same manufacturer has won the first four points-paying races of a NCS season.

· Chevrolet’s four consecutive NASCAR Cup Series wins this season have been recorded by drivers from three different Chevrolet teams: Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (JTG Daugherty Racing), Kyle Busch (Richard Childress Racing) and William Byron (Hendrick Motorsports).

· Chevrolet drivers have taken at least 50 percent of the top-10 finishing positions in each of the NASCAR Cup Series races this season, including a top-four sweep at Auto Club Speedway and a podium sweep at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

· Chevrolet drivers have recorded seven of the eight NASCAR Cup Series stage wins this season: Ross Chastain (three), William Byron (three) and Kyle Larson (one).

· Of the 1,000 laps run thus far in the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series season, 12 different Chevrolet drivers have recorded a combined 705 laps led.

· Alex Bowman is the only driver in the NASCAR Cup Series to finish in the top-10 in each race this season.

· With four races in the books for the NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series, Chevrolet leads the manufacturer standings in both series. The reigning Manufacturer Champion leads the NCS manufacturer points standings by 27 points, while also leading the NXS manufacturer points standings by three points.

· With its 41 NASCAR Cup Series Manufacturer’s Championships, 33 NASCAR Cup Series Driver’s Championships, and 837 all-time NASCAR Cup Series wins, Chevrolet continues to hold the title of winningest brand in NASCAR Cup Series history.

· Chevrolet will pace the field in the tripleheader race weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway. The Silverado RST will lead the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in Saturday’s Fr8 208; the Camaro SS 1LE will lead the NASCAR Xfinity Series’ in Saturday’s RAPTOR King of Tough 250; and the Camaro ZL1 will lead the NASCAR Cup Series in Sunday’s Ambetter Health 400.

FOR THE FANS

· Fans can visit the Team Chevy Racing Display in the Fan Midway at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

· Fans can check out an assortment of Chevrolet vehicles in the Fan Midway including: Tahoe Premier, Blazer RS, Traverse Premier, Silverado 1500 Crew ZR2, Silverado 2500HD Crew Carhartt Diesel, Corvette Coupe 3LT Z51, Camaro ZL1.

· Fans can also view Chase Elliott’s No. 9 Camaro ZL1 show car at the Chevrolet Display in the Fan Midway.

Team Chevy Driver Appearances at the Display:

Saturday, March 18

· Grant Enfinger, Rajah Caruth & Daniel Dye: 10:15 a.m.

· Christian Eckes & Jake Garcia: 11:20 a.m.

· Nick Sanchez: 12 p.m.

· Blaine Perkins: 12:30 p.m.

· BJ McLeod: 2 p.m.

· Jeremy Clements: 2:15 p.m.

· Chandler Smith: 2:30 p.m.

Sunday, March 19

· Josh Berry: 11:40 a.m.

· Ross Chastain: 11:55 a.m.

· William Byron: 12:15 p.m.

· Justin Haley: 12:30 p.m.

Chevrolet Display Hours of Operation:

Saturday, March 18: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sunday, March 19: 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Tune In:

· NASCAR Cup Series – Ambetter Health 400; 3 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 19

(FOX, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90).

· NASCAR Xfinity Series – RAPTOR King of Tough 250; 5 p.m. ET on Saturday, March 18

(FS1, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90).

· NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series – Fr8 208; 2 p.m. ET on Saturday, March 18

(FS1, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90).

 
QUOTABLE QUOTES:
Ross Chastain, No. 1 AdventHealth Camaro ZL1

Two runner-up finishes at Atlanta last year, what is your goal this year?

“My goal is to finish one spot better and win the race. Finishing second is great, but I want to win for my team and all of our partners. Racing at Atlanta now is more superspeedway-like and we had two strong finishes last year. Of course, it’ll be a little bit different this time since we’ve had more time with this car, but if you’re anywhere close to the front and there’s a late race restart, I’d say you have a good chance at winning.”

We’re seeing more drivers joining broadcasts from the television and radio booths, why is that?

“Calling a race from the radio or the television booth always gives you a different perspective. It’s fun to do something different. It’ll be good distraction for me while my brother (Chad Chastain) is out there on the track for his first Xfinity race.”

Kyle Larson, No. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM Camaro ZL1

Larson on the season so far:

“We had a shot to win in Daytona and I crashed. In Fontana, we had the mechanical issue early in the race, but fixed it and the last two runs of the race we were by far the fastest car. In Vegas, we were the second-best car to William (Byron) and finished second. In Phoenix, again, we had a great car there and had a shot to win late. No win in the column, but I’m super pleased with our performance and look forward to every upcoming race. I feel like no matter where we go right now, we will have a shot at a good finish and hopefully some wins along the way.”

Kyle Busch, No. 8 Lenovo Camaro ZL1

“Driving at the new Atlanta configuration is definitely challenging just due to the fact that it’s really, really fast and it’s a mile-and-a-half so it seems like the superspeedway speeds that you get at a mile-and-a-half make everything go by really quick and things happen quick, faster than a superspeedway. That’s definitely the challenging part. Understanding the grip level of what the cars have and the draft and the moves you can make is also pretty challenging. It’s easier for everybody to go faster with it being restrictor plate style racing and everybody being able to hold it wide-open to the most part makes it for a plate race. Drivers would rather drive and have it as the old Atlanta.”

Does running well at Daytona give you confidence entering this weekend in Atlanta?

“Yes and no. I would say that we’ve had speed at Daytona with the superspeedway cars. We had a pretty good handling primary car and then, unfortunately, we just weren’t quite able to get the handle the way we wanted it to with the second one, although I thought it was good after the practices we had. Going into Atlanta, it’s just kind of an unknown. We just have to go in there and see what it all feels like and see how the Lenovo Chevy drives compared to what I remember driving there last year.”

Josh Berry, No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Camaro ZL1

Berry on his first top-10 finish in the NASCAR Cup Series and looking ahead to Atlanta Motor Speedway:

“The top-10 finish at Phoenix (Raceway) was really cool for us to accomplish. And for Atlanta (Motor Speedway), we just want to keep building on what we’ve been doing and just continue to improve. Atlanta is going to be a tough race without a doubt, but Hendrick Motorsports has been really strong there. I think if we can just stay out of trouble and hopefully stay up front, we’ll have a chance of getting a good finish.”

Berry on what has helped get him more comfortable with the car and acclimated with the team:

“It was amazing what a week of preparation did for us at Phoenix (Raceway). Just being around each other and spending some time in the sim and just getting a little bit more comfortable with each other has definitely helped a lot. This week, I’ve also spent some time with Eddie (D’Hondt, spotter) and getting our communication better as well, which is going to be really important in Atlanta. I think we just keep pushing in that same direction. We’re trending better and better each time we go on the racetrack, so Atlanta should be fun.”

William Byron, No. 24 Liberty University Camaro ZL1

Byron on his confidence heading to Atlanta:

“This past offseason we really took the time to evaluate where we were and what we needed to get better as a team. I think this year has shown that so far, especially to have two strong runs and wins so soon. Everyone is putting in the time and effort to make sure we are improving. Now we’re heading back to Atlanta (Motor Speedway) as the defending winner of this race last year, and two wins under our belts. It gives us an extra boost of confidence but we’re not going to let up.”

Justin Haley, No. 31 LeafFilter Gutter Protection Camaro ZL1

“Atlanta was a really great track for us last year. Obviously with it being a speedway track now, it has worked in our favor, but I think as it wears, it’s going to start getting a little bit more like a mile-and-a-half. It’s probably my favorite racetrack right now on the schedule. It’s just something so different than any other track we go to with the high speeds and it being an in-between track. I’ll also have the opportunity to get some laps in during the Xfinity race as well, so I’m really looking forward to this weekend as a whole.”

Noah Gragson, No. 42 Sunseeker Resorts Camaro ZL1

“I’ve really enjoyed racing at Atlanta over the years. It’s going to be tough without practice on Saturday as I think we can use all the laps we can get being rookies, but we have some great notes to go on from the No. 43 team are focused forward.”

Erik Jones, No. 43 Allegiant Camaro ZL1

Last year, your team was really strong in both Atlanta races. What is it about the superspeedway style of racing on the reconfiguration that fits in your wheel house?

“I liked racing in Atlanta last year. It was a lot different obviously with the new layout and new format style of racing. It’s kind of like having an extra superspeedway track for us, but you have a little more handling involved, especially more than what we have at say, Talladega. I feel like our speedway program has been strong; I feel like at the Daytona 500, we had a good car. So hopefully, we can be just as strong there and be able to just lead some laps, be up front, and have a shot to win. Last year, we were pretty close in a couple of them in Atlanta. You know, I really felt like in the second race there we had a great shot to win, and hopefully we can go back down there and close this one out with our Allegiant Chevy.”

Alex Bowman, No. 48 Ally Camaro ZL1

Bowman on his consistency to start 2023:

“It’s been a goal of mine for so long to get more consistent. Having finished in the top 10 in all four races so far gives me a lot of confidence in what the No. 48 Ally Racing team is doing this season. It helps that I have liked a lot of the tracks we start at this season, but we keep bringing fast race cars and maximizing every opportunity that comes our way. Atlanta (Motor Speedway) races more like a superspeedway with the repave so it’s a little bit of a tossup, but I am ready to continue the streak we are on.”

Daniel Suarez, No. 99 Tootsies Orchid Lounge Camaro ZL1

Are you looking forward to Atlanta on Sunday?

“Of course. Atlanta is an interesting race track. It’s almost like it can’t decide what it wants to be. It’s a 1.5-mile track that races like a Talladega and Daytona. We have had some good results there since the reconfiguration. I think the key is survival and hopefully we can do that and get another good finish.”

How is your season so far?

“We have run well. The cars are fast, the pit stops are fast, we are learning. We have things we have to get better at and clean up but we are making progress. I think we are going to have a lot of fun this season if we keep doing what we are doing.”

Grant Enfinger, No. 23 Champion Power Equipment Silverado RST

What are your thoughts on returning to Atlanta’s newly-renovated reconfiguration for the second time around this weekend?

“Atlanta is a lot different since the reconfiguration. It races more like a superspeedway rather than a conventional mile and a half track. With the banking and newer asphalt we will all have a lot of grip which provides for tight racing. We will have to be aggressive on the track and pit road to position ourselves to be upfront for the end. I’m looking forward to this stretch of 5 races in a row. Our Champion Power Equipment team is preparing well, and I feel like GMS Racing has built us some trucks that we can win with.”

Rajah Caruth, No. 24 Wendell Scott Foundation Silverado RST

Though it hasn’t been quite the start of the year that you had hoped for results wise, you’ve shown some stout speed in both races. What are some of your goals in place for this weekend in Atlanta?

“Definitely, to your point, the results that we’ve had this year haven’t been indicative of our pace. Especially at Las Vegas two weeks ago; where we were running right around the top-10 and earning points in both stages and being right in the mix before green flag stops before we got wrecked. So really, the goals don’t change from week-to-week, at least for me personally, and I would say that the guys on my team agree with me. We work just as hard and treat every race as if it was a playoffs race. The expectations are that we give our best efforts; and that’s what my guys are doing at the shop. I give my best efforts at the shop, and away from the shop, and that’s what I am for sure doing. So hopefully that will set us up for a great race on Saturday in Atlanta, and from there get a good rhythm going, because we have five races in a row. It’s going to be important to have a good tone here and start off this stretch with a bang, so I’m confident in my team and think we can really show out in Atlanta this weekend.”

Daniel Dye, No. 43 Heise LED Lighting Systems / Orlando Longwood Auto Auction Silverado RST

You haven’t ever competed at Atlanta Motor Speedway before, but since Daytona is still relatively fresh on your mind, do you think you can take what you learned in that race and apply it to this weekend?

“I think what I learned at Daytona is certainly going to help me to some extent at Atlanta. Obviously, with the track in Atlanta being close to half the size of Daytona, the racing is going to be a little bit different, but it should feel similar since they reconfigured that track to more of a superspeedway feel. You’re definitely going to have to take that into account, but I’m looking forward to it with our Heise LED Chevrolet Silverado RST. We’ve had a little bit of a rough start to our season, but I know everyone on the No. 43 team is going to do their best to get us rolling in the right direction starting with this weekend.”

Chase Purdy, No. 4 Bama Buggies Silverado RST

Talk about racing as a kid on the quarter-mile track at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

“I have a lot of history at Atlanta – actually for a few years I spent probably every winter running the Winter Flurry deal and the Thursday Thunder on Thursday nights. Every Wednesday we would get there and practice all night and Thursday come back and race on the little quarter mile. So, lots of history there. I love Atlanta – I think it’s cool that it’s a totally different race track now. It used to be old, worn out and slick, and now it’s wide open and races like Talladega and Daytona. I’m really excited to get back there and see what happens.”

Does the speed your team had at Daytona increase your optimism for Atlanta?

“I’m really excited about how much speed we had at Daytona and Atlanta races like that now. I think if we can go there and have the same speed that we had at Daytona, then we definitely have a shot to win.”

Coming off a top-10 finish at Las Vega, does that help your confidence?

“We’ve shown a lot of speed at both the race tracks we’ve been to this year. I’ve got a really good group of guys here at KBM. There is no quit in them and they believe in me. I have a lot of confidence going into Atlanta and these next few races as well. Hopefully, we can keep up the momentum we have rolling right now.”

Jack Wood, No. 51 Logitech Silverado RST

Will having a strong qualifying run and good speed in the ARCA race at Phoenix give you a confidence boost getting into the truck at Atlanta?

“Yeah, for sure. I think that was one of the biggest reasons for us for to go and run ARCA this year was to just kind of build confidence back up. I think that it will translate over to the truck for sure.”

Do you like the new style of racing at Atlanta?

“It’s fun. Looking at the race from last year, all the KBM trucks were really, really fast, so if we do get a chance to qualify I think we’ll be at the front of the field will help us out. I think it will be a fun race, but you just have to be smart and stay out of the stuff the same way Corey (Heim) did last year and just kind of be there at the end.”

Do you think that the style of racing will change at all going back for a second year on the new surface?

“I don’t know. It’ll be curious going back to the track for a second time and how much the asphalt has changed over a year with all the weather in Atlanta these past 12 months. I think it will race pretty similar – probably have a little less grip If I had to guess, but I think it will be pretty much the same race that we saw last year.”

Christian Eckes, No. 19 NAPA Autocare Silverado RST

On continuing the No. 19 team’s momentum at Atlanta:

“It’s hard to know exactly what to expect at Atlanta with having only one race under our belt there on the new repave and no practice this weekend. I know Charles (Denike) and everybody at MHR put a lot of effort into our NAPA Auto Care Chevrolet for this weekend, so we’ll have to feel it out when they drop the green on Saturday. We’ve had really good driving Chevrolets in both races this year, and we’ll need to continue that on Saturday to be able to maneuver in the draft this weekend. We’ve been doing a good job at getting stage points in both races, so we’ll try to keep that up and put ourselves in position for our first win at the end of the day.”

Jake Garcia, No. 35 Quanta Silverado RST

On making his first start at his home track:

“Our Quanta Services team had a great start to the year at Las Vegas and it’d be great to follow that up with another good run at home this weekend. I’ve never raced at Atlanta before, so it’s exciting for my family and friends to be able to race right in our backyard. I think we can build on run at Las Vegas and take another step forward this weekend. Atlanta has turned into a lot more of a drafting game than a typical mile-and-a-half race, but we’ll definitely still need our Quanta Service Chevrolet to handle well and be balanced in the pack on Saturday to run towards the front.”

 
Chevrolet NASCAR Cup Series Statistics

Manufacturers Championships:

Total (1949-2022): 41

First title for Chevrolet: 1958

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

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

Drivers Championships:

Total (1949-2021): 33

First Chevrolet champion: Buck Baker (1957)

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

Most Recent: Kyle Larson (2021)

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

Event Victories:

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

2023 STATISTICS:

Wins: 4

Poles: 2

Laps Led: 705

Top-five finishes: 11

Top-10 finishes: 21

Stage wins: 7

· Ross Chastain – 3 (Daytona), (Auto Club x2)

· William Byron – 3 (Las Vegas x2), (Phoenix)

· Kyle Larson – 1 (Phoenix)

CHEVROLET IN NASCAR CUMULATIVE STATISTICS:

Total Chevrolet race wins: 837 (1949 to date)

Poles won to date: 736

Laps led to date: 246,249

Top-five finishes to date: 4,232

Top-10 finishes to date: 8,733

Total NASCAR Cup Wins by Corporation, 1949 to Date:

       General Motors: 1,171

       Chevrolet: 837

       Pontiac: 154

       Oldsmobile: 115

       Buick: 65



       Ford: 820                                                           

       Ford: 720

       Mercury: 96

       Lincoln: 4



       Fiat Chrysler Automobiles: 467

       Dodge: 217

       Plymouth: 191

       Chrysler: 59



       Toyota: 170

 

About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, available in 79 countries with more than 3.2 million cars and trucks sold in 2020. Chevrolet models include electric and fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

Indianapolis 500 Pole Winner Carpenter Unveils 2023 Bronze Badge

By
Official Release
-

INDIANAPOLIS (Thursday, March 16, 2023) – NTT INDYCAR SERIES owner-driver and three-time Indianapolis 500 pole winner Ed Carpenter unveiled the design of the 2023 Bronze Badge on March 16 at Stout Field in Indianapolis, the Joint Forces Headquarters of the Indiana National Guard.

The Indianapolis 500 is steeped in military traditions, from the playing of “Taps” and singing of the national anthem to the signature flyover as part of the pre-race ceremonies. The 107th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge is scheduled for Sunday, May 28 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

This year’s Bronze Badge design features the historic Pagoda during the flyover, which has been performed by the United States Air Force Thunderbirds in recent years. In addition to celebrating an epic Race Day tradition, the badge honors the 110th anniversary of the Pagoda.

SEE: Bronze Badge Video

“The Bronze Badge, which has represented pit and garage access at Indianapolis Motor Speedway for decades, is one of the most treasured keepsakes for our fans,” IMS President J. Douglas Boles said. “The ‘500’ doesn’t happen without the men and women who serve our country and keep us free, and we honor their service by featuring the flyover on this year’s design.”

Cardboard or laminate badges were used from the inaugural Indianapolis 500 in 1911 through 1937, assigned only to event participants. Beginning in 1938, more durable metal badges were used before IMS Bronze Badges made their debut in 1947 and were initially sold to the general public in the early 1990s, immediately becoming a coveted motorsports collectible.

Fans can purchase a Bronze Badge, which allows them access to Gasoline Alley on selected dates during the Month of May. Bronze Badges will be honored for gate admission and garage access May 12, May 16-22 and May 26-27 during public gate hours and as directed by IMS personnel (Race Day tickets are required on May 13 for the GMR Grand Prix and May 28 for the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge).

Bronze Badges can be purchased at IMS.com/BronzeBadge for $150 each through March 31. The price increases to $160 on April 1, so order today while supplies last. Each Bronze Badge holder must be 18 or older and is required to sign a release.

A limited number of Silver Badges also are available for $500 each. Silver Badges add pit lane access to the same perks as the Bronze Badge. Pre-race (cold) pit passes for GMR Grand Prix and Indianapolis 500 Race Day can be added to Silver Badges for an additional $1,000.

For more information on Bronze Badges and Silver Badges, call the IMS Credential Office at 317-492-6500.

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