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Chicago Pneumatic to Support McDowell at Premier NASCAR Events in 2023

By
Official Release
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Program Also Includes Partnership of Gilliland and No. 38 Team

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (January 13, 2023) – Chicago Pneumatic (CP) and its Compressors and Air Treatment division has increased its support of Front Row Motorsports (FRM) for the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series race season. The bold black and red brand colors of CP Compressors will be on the No. 34 Ford Mustang during the Coca-Cola 600 at the Charlotte Motor Speedway in May and when the NASCAR Cup Series makes its debut on the streets of Chicago during the July 4 weekend. CP Compressors will be a major associate of the 2021 Daytona 500 champion Michael McDowell and the team all season.

As it did in 2022, CP Compressors will also support Todd Gilliland and the No. 38 Ford Mustang team. Gilliland and the No. 38 team will carry the brand colors at the Michigan International Speedway in August. This is the fourth year that CP Compressors will partner with FRM.

“We can’t wait for the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series season with Front Row Motorsports,” said Maggie Rogers, Communications and Branding Marketing Manager, Chicago Pneumatic Compressors. “Our partnership continues to grow just as the team is seeing it’s most success on the track. We’re proud that FRM is winning a championship with CP Compressors in their race shop, and we want to continue to help build their program while letting NASCAR fans learn more about us.”

The CP Compressors and Air Treatment division is a market-leading manufacturer and distributor of compressed air products. They offer both fixed and variable speed compressors that range in sizes from 3 – 350 HP and come with the option to be either tank-mounted or base-mounted, as well as the availability for integrated dryers. No matter what the application, CP Compressors have a model to fit all needs for those at home or in business.

“We are really thankful for Chicago Pneumatic,” said McDowell. “They have come on board to our organization and have really helped us move forward. They are giving us that winning edge at the race shop with their products and more fans are recognizing what a great company they are. I’m proud to have them support our team at some of our biggest races this season.”

Fans can go to www.cpcompressors.com to learn more.

ABOUT CHICAGO PNEUMATIC COMPRESSORS

Chicago Pneumatic Compressors is a market leading manufacturer and distributor of industrial compressed air products such as screw compressors, piston compressors and air treatment. When you are in need of a professional air compressor, CP Compressors is sure to have the right solution. We have used our years of experience to design compressors that are professional and reliable, and to tailor our products to your needs. Visit www.cpcompressors.com for more information.

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.

Rinnai Partners With Tony Stewart in NASCAR and NHRA

By
Official Release
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Stewart-Haas Racing’s Chase Briscoe Along With Tony Stewart Racing’s Leah Pruett and Matt Hagan To Carry Rinnai Branding in 2023

KANNAPOLIS, N.C. (Jan. 13, 2023) – Rinnai America Corporation, a manufacturer of the No. 1 selling brand of tankless gas water heaters in North America, has partnered with Tony Stewart and his racing entities in NASCAR and the NHRA to promote its line of products using his diverse motorsports portfolio.

In NASCAR, fans will see the red Rinnai logo in an associate position on Stewart-Haas Racing’s No. 14 Ford Mustang driven by Chase Briscoe in the NASCAR Cup Series. In the NHRA, Tony Stewart Racing drivers Leah Pruett and Matt Hagan will carry the Rinnai logo in the Camping World Drag Racing Series, with Pruett running a full Rinnai primary sponsorship on her Top Fuel dragster in two events – the NHRA Winternationals March 30-April 2 in Pomona, California, and the NHRA Carolina Nationals Sept. 22-24 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Hagan will sport a full Rinnai livery on his Funny Car in the NHRA New England Nationals June 2-4 in Epping, New Hampshire, an event the three-time champion has won four times, including in 2022.

“Our expertise in tankless water heating is unmatched, and this partnership with Tony Stewart and his NASCAR and NHRA teams allows us to tell that story in a thrilling, team-oriented environment that emulates the quality and dedication we put into our products and service,” said Frank Windsor, president, Rinnai America Corporation.

“The similarities of our business to racing are numerous, especially when speed, efficiency and superior quality are keys to success. Performance is paramount, and that’s something Rinnai has always understood. It’s part of our overall commitment to our customers, and racing embodies that commitment.”

The NASCAR Cup Series encompasses a total of 39 events in its milestone 75th season, beginning with the non-points Busch Light Clash at the Coliseum Feb. 5 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and ending with the season finale Nov. 5 at Phoenix Raceway. The NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series includes 21 events in 2023. Its 72nd season starts with the NHRA Gatornationals March 9-12 in Gainesville, Florida, and concludes with the NHRA Finals Nov. 9-12 in Pomona.

“We’re incredibly proud to have this partnership with Rinnai because it shows the strength of our motorsports program,” Stewart said. “NASCAR and NHRA offer two very different fan experiences, and combined they touch every corner of the country. Rinnai and its customers get the best of both worlds because our program allows a number of choices to promote its products and services.”

In addition to branding on racecars, Rinnai becomes the official tankless water heater of Stewart-Haas Racing and Tony Stewart Racing. This designation highlights Rinnai’s brand promise of “Creating a healthier way of living®”, a mantra that is at the forefront of all the company’s efforts. By continuing to offer quality products and services to homeowners and organizations, Rinnai is aiding in providing businesses and homes with energy-efficient hot water options for cleaner and healthier living.

The announcement of the partnership comes after a series of milestone events for Rinnai America.

“We opened a new manufacturing facility last year in Griffin, Georgia, that has allowed us to combat shipping delays and supply-chain challenges,” Windsor said. “In this facility we manufacture our new RE Series Tankless Water Heater, the first and only non-condensing unit with a built-in pump. That product, along with our ability to manufacture in the United States, is another reason why we’ve partnered with Tony Stewart and have become the official tankless water heater of Stewart-Haas Racing and Tony Stewart Racing.”

About Rinnai:

Rinnai America Corporation, a subsidiary of Rinnai Corporation in Nagoya, Japan, was established in 1974 and is headquartered in Peachtree City, Georgia. Rinnai Corporation manufactures gas appliances, including tankless water heaters, a wide range of kitchen appliances, and heating and air conditioning units. As the technology leader in its industry, Rinnai is the largest gas appliance manufacturer in Japan and is the No. 1 selling brand of tankless gas water heaters in the United States and Canada. Annual corporate revenues, including those of its subsidiaries, are in excess of $3.3 billion. With a global perspective to create 21st-century products for the home and business, Rinnai Corporation commits itself to safety and Creating a healthier way of living®. For more information about Rinnai’s entire product line, visit www.rinnai.us.

NASCAR and Rev Racing Reveal 2023 Drive for Diversity Driver Development Class

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Official Release
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Eight Drivers will Participate in the Program

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 13, 2023) – NASCAR and Rev Racing announced today the next generation of drivers participating in the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Driver Development Program. Following a national and international search, eight talented drivers were selected to the newest class after participating in the Advance Auto Parts Drive for Diversity Combine.

Lavar Scott, Andrés Pérez de Lara, Jaiden Reyna and Justin Campbell are returning to Rev Racing for the 2023 season. Paige Rogers, Eloy Sebastián López Falcón, Caleb Johnson and Nathan Lyons will make their debut in 2023.

Nick Sanchez, who participated in the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Driver Development Program in 2022 and won the ARCA Menards Series Championship with Rev Racing last year, is advancing to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Sanchez will pilot the No. 2 Gainbridge Chevrolet for Rev Racing with its technical alliance partner, Kyle Busch Motorsports (KBM).

Rajah Caruth also graduated from the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Driver Development Program and will be competing full time in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series driving the No. 24 for GMS Racing. Caruth is a prominent iRacer who made his transition to the racetrack in 2019.

“We’re excited to welcome our newest class of drivers and be a part of their growth and development,” said Jordan Leatherman, NASCAR’s Director, Diversity and Inclusion. “We’re proud to see Nick Sanchez and Rajah Caruth graduate from the program and start a new chapter in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Their success reflects their talent and hard work.”

Drivers were selected after participating in the Advance Auto Parts Drive for Diversity Combine held in November of 2022 in Charlotte and South Boston, Va. Participants from the United States and Mexico were evaluated by judges from across the NASCAR industry. Each driver was assessed in different areas from physical fitness and on-track performance to media and marketing skills.

“We are extremely energized by the talent we saw this past November at the Combine,” said Max Siegel, Rev Racing Owner. “We look forward to the season ahead and developing this amazing class of incoming drivers. This year’s class represents a talented pipeline of NASCAR’s future stars. Our entire Rev Racing organization is committed to being a championship contending team and one of the premier development programs in NASCAR. We couldn’t be more proud of our accomplishments last season and of Nick and Rajah’s growth. We remain especially thankful to Chevrolet and Gainbridge for investing in Rev’s growth into the truck series with Nick Sanchez. This will be a pivotal year for our organization and this next class of drivers.”

The NASCAR Drive for Diversity Driver Development Program was created in 2004 to develop and train ethnically diverse and female drivers both on and off the track. NASCAR Cup Series drivers Bubba Wallace, Daniel Suárez and Kyle Larson are alumni of this program, which is operated by Rev Racing in Concord, N.C.

Suárez made history in 2022 becoming the first Mexican-born driver to win a race in the NASCAR Cup Series. A trailblazer in NASCAR, Suárez also made his mark in the sport when he won the NASCAR Xfinity Series championship in 2016. In 2023, Suárez enters his third season driving for Trackhouse Racing, a team owned by Justin Marks and Pitbull.

Wallace is the first Black driver to win multiple Cup Series races. In 2021 he became the first Black driver to win a NASCAR Cup Series race in almost 60 years. In 2023, Wallace enters his third season with the 23XI Racing team owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin.

Larson is the first graduate of the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Program to win a NASCAR Cup Series championship. The Northern California native of Japanese descent won the 2012 K&N Pro Series (now ARCA Menards Series) Championship with Rev Racing. Currently, he’s the only Asian-American driver competing regularly in NASCAR Cup Series.

The 2023 class features the following drivers:

Andrés Pérez de Lara – ARCA Menards Series: The Mexico City, Mexico, native, 17, returns to Rev Racing after competing in the NASCAR México Series and NASCAR México Challenge categories. He is 2022’s NASCAR México Challenge champion.

Lavar Scott – ARCA Menards Series East: The 19-year-old from Carney’s Pointe, N.J., returns to Rev Racing after securing 1st place at Hickory Motor Speedway and his first career win in the NASCAR Truck México Series at Autódromo de Querétaro in Mexico in 2021.

Justin Campbell – NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series Late Model: The 17-year-old Griffin, Ga., native returns to Rev Racing for his third season after earning two top 5s and two top 10s in the 2022 Cook Out Summer Shootout in the semi-pro division.

Jaiden Reyna – NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series Late Model: The Cornelius, N.C., native, 16, returns to Rev Racing after securing two 1st place finishes at Lincoln Speedway in the young lion division. Reyna also finished a career high 2nd place at Florence Motor Speedway in the late model division.

Paige Rogers – NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series Late Model: The 19-year-old from Fort Wayne, Ind., will make her debut with Rev Racing in 2023. Rogers is the 2021 runner-up in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Late Model Sportsman division at Corrigan Oil Speedway.

Caleb Johnson – INEX Legend Car Series: The Denver, Co., native finished 5th in the Carolina Pro Late Model Series point standings. The 14-year-old also has an iRacing background.

Nathan Lyons – INEX Legend Car Series: The 13–year-old originally from Texas, moved to Concord, N.C., to pursue his dream to race in NASCAR. Lyons had five top 10 finishes in the 2022 Cook Out Summer Shootout Outlaw Series at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

Eloy Sebastián López Falcón – INEX Legend Car Series: The Oaxaca, Mexico, native will make his debut with Rev Racing in 2023. The 17-year-old is 2022’s NASCAR Truck México Series champion.

About NASCAR

Celebrating its 75th Anniversary in 2023, the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (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 sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Sprint Race, NASCAR Mexico Series, NASCAR Pinty’s Series (Canada), NASCAR Whelen Euro Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly 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 annually in 12 countries and more than 30 U.S. states. For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat (‘NASCAR’).

About Rev Racing

Headquartered in Concord, N.C., Rev Racing, owned by Max Siegel, operates the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Program, which is the industry’s leading developmental program for ethnic minorities and women drivers and pit crew members. For more information about Rev Racing visit http://revracing.net or follow on Twitter @RevRacin.

Lexus to Exhibit Customized Models Showcasing Diverse Lifestyles at Tokyo Auto Salon and Tokyo Outdoor Show 2023

By
Official Release
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  • The “RZ SPORT CONCEPT”, a concept model exploring the joy of performance and customization unique to battery EVs
  • The “RX OUTDOOR CONCEPT”, “ROV CONCEPT 2” and “GX OUTDOOR CONCEPT”, concept models based on the “Overtrail Project”, which offers a variety of outdoor lifestyle experiences coexisting with nature
  • “LX 600 ‘OFFROAD’ TEAM JAOS 2022 ver.”, a vehicle competing in the BAJA1000, one of the world’s most grueling off-road races

TOKYO, Jan 13, 2023 – (JCN Newswire) – Lexus will exhibit the “RZ SPORT CONCEPT” and “LX 600 ‘OFFROAD’ TEAM JAOS 2022 ver.” at Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, to be held at Makuhari Messe, Chiba City, for three days from Friday 13 to Sunday 15 January 2023. The brand will also debut the “RX OUTDOOR CONCEPT”, “ROV CONCEPT 2” and “GX OUTDOOR CONCEPT” for the first time at the concurrently held Tokyo Outdoor Show 2023.

Tokyo Auto Salon

The two concept cars to be exhibited at the Auto Salon embody the Lexus vision to achieve a carbon neutral society and offer a range of diverse lifestyles, adhering to the corporate concept of “Diverse lifestyles to enjoy with beloved cars” and “Making ever-better motorsports-bred cars”.

RZ SPORT CONCEPT (Produced by Masahiro Sasaki)

The “RZ SPORT CONCEPT” will be on display offering the unique driving experience of a battery EV combined with the joy of customization, while still contributing to the realization of a carbon neutral society. Based on the first dedicated Lexus battery-electric model “RZ”, this model is equipped with high output 150 kw motors in the front and rear to achieve even more powerful driving performance. The vehicle has been lowered by 35 mm and features custom aero parts, larger diameter tires and full bucket seats in both the front and rear.

Under the supervision of racing driver Masahiro Sasaki, who was involved in the development of the RZ, this model offers improved driving performance and the added joy of customization. The exterior color “HAKUGIN” is based on a pure, clear white base that produces a delicate shining texture when illuminated by light, while the blue accent color evokes the clean and dynamic performance of battery EVs, accentuating the sporty image.

LX 600 “OFFROAD” TEAM JAOS 2022 ver

The LX 600 “OFFROAD” TEAM JAOS 2022 ver. from TEAM JAOS, operated by JAOS Co., Ltd., that participated in the 2022 BAJA1000, will also be exhibited. The BAJA1000 is one of the world’s toughest off-road races, with less than half of the competitors finishing each year – all those who do finish are said to be winners because of the grueling, non-stop race over approximately 1,000 miles (1,600 km) off-road from start-to-finish. The vehicle entered in the competition was modified according to the “Stock Full Class (unmodified production vehicle class)” regulations with a primary focus on safety enhancements. The BAJA1000 project with TEAM JAOS is still ongoing as part of a three-year project. The competition vehicle continues to evolve as it accumulates racing experience. The vehicle will be on display at the TGR booth in the East Hall during the event.

For more information on the LX 600 “OFFROAD” TEAM JAOS 2022 ver., please visit the JAOS Corporation website below.
URL: www.jaos.co.jp/teamjaos/2022/

For more information, visit: https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/lexus/38566175.html.

Early Favorites to Take Home the 2023 F1 Drivers’ Title

By
SM
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Last year, Max Verstappen and Red Bull won the F1 2022 by an absolute landslide. Now, a new season is afoot, meaning that all those drivers and teams who were racing without hope of winning at the back end of 2022, now have fresh hope that they can be title contenders this year. We look at three of the drivers who are likely to be in the running in the 2023 F1 season.

Max Verstappen 

It’s no surprise that Max Verstappen is again a favorite to win the F1 in 2023. Last year, the second-ranked driver in the F1, Charles Leclerc, won three races, while the third-ranked driver, Sergio Perez, won two.

Max Verstappen won a total of 15 races in 2022. That’s how dominant the Dutchman was—he won five times as many races as the next-best driver, and triple the amount that the rest of the podium won combined. Backing Verstappen to carry on this momentum and win his third F1 championship in a row in 2023 is the obvious decision, and the bookies’ odds represent this. It will take some convincing for many punters to put their money anywhere else.

Lewis Hamilton

Seven times over the past two decades Lewis Hamilton has been crowned champion of an F1 season.

Indeed, 2022 was not his year, with the Brit finishing sixth, having not won a race and only podiumed nine times. However, form is temporary, but class is permanent. Hamilton has every chance of rekindling his strong form from years gone by and putting in a big title run in 2023. After the way that Hamilton was harshly robbed of an eighth title in 2021, it’s not surprising that the 38-year-old had a dip in 2022. 

However, this year is a new season and an excellent opportunity for Hamilton.

For those brave enough to place a bet on the seven-time champion winning his eighth title this season, head to these Formula 1 betting sites to back Hamilton. Chances are, Lewis Hamilton will be back better than ever, and as the second favorite at the bookies, will give Max Verstappen a run for his money. 

Charles Leclerc

After the first three races last year, betting odds were blowing up with bets in favor of Charles Leclerc. The 25-year-old had won two of the first three races of the season and was sitting in the box seat to claim the title in 2022. This was before anyone knew that Max Verstappen would hit the kind of form that he did, meaning Leclerc would only win one more race in the entire season.

Despite this, Leclerc was still able to finish second overall in the F1 rankings last year. With a fresh start this year, there’s every chance that the Monacan will be able to take the lessons he learned last season and transform them into victory this year. With a new boss at Ferrari as well in the form of Frederic Vasseur, expect Leclerc to be a genuine title contender in 2023.

Larson sets Indy 500-Coke 600 double bid in 2024

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Kirk Schroll for SpeedwayMedia.com.

The 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Larson will be vying for the Memorial Day ‘Double Duty’ challenge by competing in both the Indianapolis 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway in 2024.

In an announcement made on Thursday, January 12, Larson, who pilots the No. 5 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for Hendrick Motorsports in the Cup circuit, will also be piloting a Chevrolet entry for Arrow McLaren in the NTT IndyCar Series for the 108th running of the Indy 500. Larson’s McLaren entry will be back by his Cup Series owner Rick Hendrick, who will co-own the entry, and sponsored by HendrickCars.com.

The announcement comes as Larson, who will attempt to make his IndyCar debut next season, is coming off his eighth full-time season in NASCAR’s premier series and second driving for Hendrick Motorsports. Having won the 2021 Cup title on a strength of 10 victories and during his first season at HMS, Larson achieved three victories before finishing in seventh place in the 2022 final standings. He also achieved a total of four poles, 13 top-five results, 19 top-10 results, 635 laps led and an average-finishing result of 14.1 throughout the previous Cup season.

“I’m super excited,” Larson, a 19-time Cup winner, said. “Competing at the Indianapolis 500 is a dream of mine and something I’ve wanted to do for a very long time – since I was a child before I ever began competing in sprint cars. To do it with McLaren and Mr. Hendrick especially is a dream come true. I’m grateful for the opportunity and am really looking forward to it even though it’s still about a year-and-a-half away. I’m really looking forward to competing in both the Indianapolis 500 and the Charlotte 600 and maybe even get a win or two that day.”

In announcing his plans for the ‘Double Duty’ challenge, Larson will attempt to become the fifth competitor to accomplish the feat that was first started by the late John Andretti in 1994 and was soon followed by Robby Gordon, Tony Stewart and Kurt Busch.

Busch is the latest competitor to pull the ‘Doubly Duty’ feat in 2014, where he competed between Andretti Autosport and Stewart-Haas Racing. Stewart, who competed in the double twice (1999 and 2001), is the lone competitor to successfully complete the double’s 1,100 miles of racing between the two events in the same day after finishing sixth at Indy with Chip Ganassi Racing before finishing third at Charlotte with Joe Gibbs Racing.

Like Larson, the 2024 ‘Double Duty’ bid will also mark a new first for team owner Rick Hendrick, who will own an IndyCar entry for the first time in his career. The 2023 season is also set to mark Hendrick’s 40th season as an owner in NASCAR’s premier series, where he has accumulated an all-time record 14 championships and 291 victories. He has also accumulated 239 poles, 1,190 top-five results, 2,045 top-10 results and 77,317 laps led.

“Having the opportunity to support Kyle, partner with an elite team like Arrow McLaren and promote HendrickCars.com in one of the world’s great auto racing events is truly unique,” Hendrick said. “All of us are competitors. Putting Kyle in top-level equipment and allowing ample time for him to prepare for such a difficult challenge was important. It’s going to be very, very special to field a Chevrolet in the Indy 500 as a car owner. A collaboration like this was what we needed to make it happen, and fortunately the stars aligned. We’re 100% committed to doing it right and look forward to working with Zak [Brown, CEO, McLaren Racing] and his organization.”

Like Larson and Hendrick Motorsports, the 2024 season will also mark McLaren’s first participation in the ‘Double Duty’ challenge in a storied career highlighted with 12 drivers’ championships, eighth constructors’ titles and 183 victories in Formula One competition. The McLaren manufacturer has also made a total of three trips to Victory Lane in the Indy 500 three times, with the first occurring in 1972 with Mark Donohue. After achieving a second Indy 500 victory with Johnny Rutherford in 1974, McLaren’s latest Indy 500 victory occurred in 1976 with Rutherford.

The Arrow McLaren team, which has been rebranded from Arrow McLaren SP, is set to field three full-time entries in this year’s IndyCar season for drivers Pato O’Ward, Felix Rosenqvist and Alexander Rossi. The 2013 Indy 500 champion Tony Kanaan is also set to pilot a fourth Arrow McLaren entry for this year’s 107th running of the Indy 500.

“Adding Kyle Larson with a HendrickCars.com partnership to the Indy 500 lineup in 2024 is exciting for our Arrow McLaren team as well as for race fans,” Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing, added. “He’s a complete driver, known for racing anything on wheels, so I’m looking forward to seeing what Kyle can do in an NTT INDYCAR SERIES car. It’s been great working with Rick Hendrick and [Hendrick Motorsports vice chairman] Jeff Gordon to pull this together, so a big thank you to them for what’s to come in May 2024.”

Additional details regarding Larson’s number and car livery for the Indy 500 remains to be determined.

With his plans for the 2024 Memorial Day weekend set, Larson’s 2023 Cup Series season is set to commence at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum for the second annual Busch Light Clash at The Coliseum, which will occur on February 5 at 8 p.m. ET on FOX. This event will be followed by the 65th running of the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway, which will occur on February 19 at 2:30 p.m. ET on FOX.

NITRO RALLYCROSS ANNOUNCES SEASON FINALE DETAILS

By
Official Release
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GLEN HELEN RACEWAY TO HOST CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND MARCH 17-19 AS TRAVIS PASTRANA, ROBIN LARSSON, ANDREAS BAKKERUD, AND MORE VIE FOR 2022/23 TITLE

Advance Pre-Sale Now; Public On-Sale Starts Tomorrow – Friday January 13th – at 10 AM

(Los Angeles / Thursday – January 12, 2023) Today Nitro Rallycross, the disruptive new motorsport created by moto icon Travis Pastrana (USA) and action sports authority Nitro Circus, revealed the location and dates for its 2022/23 season finale. With Pastrana battling heavy hitters Robin Larsson (SWE), Andreas Bakkerud (NOR) and more for the Group E title, Nitro RX will return to LA’s legendary Glen Helen Raceway on March 17-19 for a doubleheader weekend to crown its series champion.

Glen Helen has hosted Nitro RX before, as its steep hills and banked turns are ideally suited for Nitro RX’s brand of fast and furious racing. Most recently, Glen Helen put on a thriller last October that went down to the wire, with the top six cars crossing the finish line just three seconds apart.

Now for the 2022/23 finale, Nitro RX is running it back on the best dirt track of the season. The Group E championship will come down to this event, which as a full doubleheader has even higher stakes. It will also feature evening racing under the lights, as well as incorporate track upgrades, additional festival elements and new entertainment to be announced. Fans can also enjoy Nitro Circus shows, where premier action sports athletes will show off their daredevil skills.

Pastrana said, “Holding the season finale at Glen Helen Raceway is awesome for the series because the track is wide and flowing which provides great passing opportunities. And last October was the closest racing of the series. Also, on a personal level, I raced my first outdoor national motocross event there when I was 16 years old and the facility is iconic in motorsport.”

Pastrana added, “We aren’t just coming back – we’re doubling down on the action sports entertainment, including Nitro Circus shows along with more fun for everyone in the family. And, racing under the lights in Phoenix was such a hit, we are adding that element to the championship to create even more excitement for fans.”

In addition to the electrifying action of Group E, rough-and-ready Side-By-Sides will return, featuring a number of big names in UTV racing. Prior U.S. rounds have included the likes of moto legends Brian Deegan and Robbie Maddison, off-road champion BJ Baldwin, three-time Pikes Peak International Hill Climb winner Robin Shute, the dirt track debut of action sports star Leticia Bufoni, and more.

The next generation of drivers will also be on display in NRX NEXT as the world’s best up-and-coming talent face off to determine the winner of Nitro RX’s North American leg.

After a holiday break, Nitro RX resumes next weekend in Canada for a pair of races on treacherous snow and ice, first at Quebec’s Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières on January 20-21, followed by Calgary’s Stampede Park on February 4-5. These intense battles – both for the checkered flag and against the elements – will set the stage for the 2022/23 series finale at Glen Helen.

Wide-Open Field:

Entering the new year, Larsson – with two Nitro RX wins and five podiums so far – holds the lead in Nitro RX’s top Group E class. But the fight for the championship trophy is still very much up grabs: Bakkerud along with rising star Fraser McConnell (JAM) are right on Larsson’s heels in second and third place respectively, while just behind them Oliver Eriksson (SWE) remains in the hunt.

Defending his 2021 title, Pastrana also cannot be counted out (after missing the podium at Nitro RX’s first two European rounds, Pastrana scored an empathic victory in Nitro RX’s American kickoff).

Pastrana said, “During the first six rounds, four different drivers have raised the trophy and nine have made the podium. That’s amazing – it shows just how skilled this roster is across the board. At each race, every driver has an opportunity to win. In terms of our chance to repeat as champion, we’ve got some work to do. But a doubleheader final offers an even bigger opportunity to move up the table. This is still anyone’s ballgame.”

Experience It Live:

Tickets to Nitro RX’s 2022/23 championship are available now via an Early Bird pre-sale at nitrorallycross.com (passcode: NRXFAM). The public on sale begins tomorrow – Friday, January 13 – at 10am.

General admission tickets will be available in both single-day ($20 for Friday; $25 for Saturday and Sunday) as well as weekend ($50) options. VIP Club Nitro RX passes will also be available ($100 for Friday; $125 single-day on Saturday and Sunday; $300 for weekend). RV camping passes can also be purchased. All prices plus additional taxes and fees. More information on Club Nitro RX’s premium amenities is detailed below.

Nitro Circus DNA:

Combining the intense competition of rallycross with the big air excitement of Nitro Circus, Nitro RX is truly where cars fly and tracks thrill. Claiming the coveted series championship not only requires beating the stacked driver field, but also tackling Nitro RX’s massive purpose-built courses. Inspired by motocross, these feature huge jumps, steep sand berms and high banked corners.

Electrifying Performance:

In its revolutionary all-electric FC1-X, Nitro RX has a car that is up to these challenges. The most powerful vehicle in rallycross, the FC1-X is capable of producing the electric equivalent of 1,070 peak horsepower (800 kW), and can accelerate from 0-60 in just 1.4 seconds as it launches off the line faster than an F1 car.

Immersive Fan Experience, Off-Track Fun:

With its unique open paddock layout, Nitro Rallycross offers fans an immersive atmosphere where they can get a behind-the-scenes look at the teams, drivers and cars. It includes the all-new Nitro RX fan experience, which features an entertainment stage featuring live music, as well as a gaming zone, a concession area with local food trucks and an electric RC activation.

The event will also feature a fan autograph session, open to all attendees, that allows fans to meet the world’s leading drivers in person.

Southern California fans can enjoy special amenities with the Club Nitro RX VIP Experience. Highlighted by a private trackside viewing location and exclusive Club Nitro RX area, this premium package gets fans closer to Nitro RX than ever before.

Event partners for the Nitro RX 2022/23 season finale include A SHOC Energy, Yokohama Tire, Smirnoff Smash, Insta360 and myenergi.

ABOUT NITRO RALLYCROSS

Launched in 2018 by motorsports icon Travis Pastrana and the innovators of Nitro Circus, Nitro Rallycross has revolutionized motorsport. With innovative purpose-built courses, banked turns inspired by the wide-open action of Supercross and short-form, head-to-head competition, Nitro RX creates high-impact, thrill-packed racing. Nitro RX’s custom-built tracks – featuring the biggest jumps seen in motorsports – create unrivalled racing excitement. The full-throttle competition is now set to go global with Nitro Rallycross’ expansion into a full standalone championship series. Nitro RX is also adding Group E, an electric circuit featuring the all-new FC1-X, the most powerful Rallycross vehicle ever built. For more information, visit NitroRallycross.com.

Ryan Preece & His No. 41 Stewart Haas Car To Greet Fans At Motorsports 2023

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Official Release
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NASCAR Cup Driver, Modified Standout Ryan Preece Coming To Pioneer Pole Buildings Motorsports 2023 Show Sat., Jan. 21; New Ride, Stewart Haas No. 41 Show Car To Be Part Part Of Expansive ‘Showcase Cars’ Display

Oaks, PA – NASCAR Cup series driver Ryan Preece will be making a special appearance at the Pioneer Pole Building Motorsports 2023 Show to meet and greet his legions of fans at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center. The event runs on Friday January 20th from 2 to 9 PM and Saturday, January 21 from 11 AM to 8 PM.

Preece, who will drive full-time on the NASCAR Cup Series this year for Stewart-Haas Racing, will go on stage on Saturday of the show from 3 to 3:30 for an interview to outline his busy racing season plans. Following the discussion, Preece will personally meet and greet fans at his United Rentals No. 41 Next Gen Ford Mustang near the front entrance of A-Hall from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM signing autographs.

Preece, 32, of Berlin, CT., has 115 previous NASCAR Cup starts, 62 Xfinity attempts, and 12 Truck races. The former NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour champion, made the move to the Cup series after winning two NASCAR Xfinity races. This past year he won two NASCAR Truck races.

While he now lives in North Carolina, Preece has not forgotten his roots. He will continue his 16-year NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour career when he can this year which consisted of 171 starts, 25 victories, a 2013 Series title and four title runnerup finishes, in 2009, 2012, 2014, and 2015.

Former NHRA champion Bruce Larson will have his championship winning Funny Car in the Showcase area as well. Larson will be available for autographs, photos and talk with fans during the majority of the show.

A Tribute to Billy Pauch Sr. will be conducted during the entire show with a showing of cars he drove and a special 50 foot wall of pictures. Two stage show tributes are also planned. Pauch will be available during the show on Friday and Saturday to sign copies of “THE LAST COWBOY: The Life and Times of Billy Pauch” which will be available for sale at the show.

Several of the Pioneer Pole Building sponsored race cars will be part of nearly 200 race cars of all kinds on display. Race cars will range from a small in size Quarter Midget driven by children to a Monster Truck. Circle track cars will be featured, but drag cars and land speed record vehicles will also be on display.

The Super DIRTcar Series booth will be graced with the No. 8H Modified driven on the circuit by Max McLaughlin. Northeast regional director Dean Reynolds will be on hand to answer questions. Two comprehensive Super DIRT Week tickets for the October Classic at N.Y.’s Owego Speedway will be chosen from a free drawing.

Other speedways and organizations will use the show to announce their plans for the new season. A continuous offering of informative racer seminars will make Motorsports Saturday a very important day for racers.

On Friday at 8 PM the Aqua-Duck Water Transport sponsored Ms. Motorsports pageant will be held. Thanks to Aqua-Duck, this year’s winner will receive $2,500 and the sw­im suit winner $500. Contestants are urged to enter in advance.

The RAACE Foundation sonsored Big Wheel races will be held on Saturday at 2 PM in three ages groups from 3 to 9. No pre-entry is needed, children with their parents must check in at the stage area prior to 1 PM. Big Wheels are supplied.

Show hours will run 2-9 p.m. on Friday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday. Tickets are available at the door beginning one hour before the show opens. Free parking surrounding the Expo Center.

Motorsportstradeshow.com is your location for up to date event, autograph, show and seminar schedules.

David Ingram Jr. to Serve as Crew Chief for Live Fast Motorsports in 2023

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Official Release
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The #78 Team Live Fast Ford Mustang driven by BJ McLeod during the Bristol Night Race.

Veteran Crew Chief David Ingram Jr. Named NASCAR Cup Series Crew Chief for Live Fast Motorsports’ No. 78. Chevrolet Camaro

Mooresville, N.C. (January 12, 2023) – Live Fast Motorsports welcomes David Ingram Jr. as Crew Chief for B.J. McLeod and the No. 78 Chevrolet Camaro ahead of the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series season.

“I couldn’t be more excited to start this new venture with B.J. (McLeod) as both of us have been in the racing industry for as long as I can remember, and we’ve known each other for over 25 years! In 2016 when B.J. and Jessica (McLeod) started B.J. McLeod Motorsports, we talked about how we would one day be where we are today. I am confident that our strong bond and past driver, and driver-crew chief experience will help us create a solid environment for Live Fast Motorsports,” said Ingram Jr. “I am grateful to work with such an amazing group of guys and drivers who want to bring Live Fast Motorsports to the next level for our owners, sponsors, fans, and of course, for ourselves.” Ingram Jr. continued by saying, “I’m also thankful to have Matt’s racing and day-to-day operational knowledge in our corner and cannot wait to start this new racing season!”

Ingram Jr. previously held a dual role, serving as both the Crew Chief for B.J. McLeod Motorsports’ No. 5 car entry in the NASCAR Xfinity Series as well as the Competition Director for Live Fast Motorsports.

“David brings a tremendous amount of knowledge to our team,” said Matt Tifft, co-owner of Live Fast Motorsports. “Seeing how focused and determined he is at the race track made this decision a no brainer. As our program continues to elevate, we are very proud to bring in David’s expertise and showcase his leadership qualities and skills.”

David Ingram Jr. will kick off his 2023 NCS season atop the pit box for B.J. McLeod and the No. 78 Live Fast Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro during the February 5 Clash at The LA Coliseum – airing live on FOX at 8 p.m. ET.

About Live Fast Motorsports
Live Fast Motorsports is a single-car Chevy Camaro team based in Mooresville, NC., competing in the NASCAR Cup Series under the No. 78. The team is co-owned by B.J. McLeod and Matt Tifft. B.J. McLeod also serves as the team’s driver. Jessica McLeod, CEO of Live Fast Motorsports, gives a progressive outlook in breaking down barriers in the sport of NASCAR and inspiring opportunities for women in the sport for generations to come.

Nor-Cal Equipment Rentals to Bring More Neon to Las Vegas with Boyd

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Official Release
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Mooresville, NC (January 12, 2023) – The red neon sign that blazes as bright as Rudolf’s nose at the Nor-Cal Equipment Rentals shop in Sacramento, CA shines just a bit brighter today as NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series driver, Spencer Boyd announced an extended partnership with the company. Nor-Cal Equipment Rentals will be the primary sponsor of the Young’s Motorsports No. 12 Chevy Silverado at Las Vegas Motor Speedway as Boyd makes his 11th start at the track that boasts the Neon Garage.

“NASCAR goes west beware,” warned Spencer Boyd. “I’ve got some unfinished business at Las Vegas and I’m bringing a crew that is going to help me get the job done. When I met Tom Butts and the Nor-Cal team last year at Sonoma, I knew we had to do more work together. What they are doing in the equipment rental business is second to no-one so when the trucks hit that desert asphalt, you’ll know which one is ours.”

Boyd suffered a dislocated shoulder in the closing laps of the 2022 race in Las Vegas that eventually led to surgery in the offseason.

Nor-Cal Equipment Rentals was established in 2004 and has been responsible for providing outstanding service and equipment ever since. Their specialty is in contractor and homeowner equipment rentals and sales. Customers value their commitment to providing the absolute best in customer service and reliable equipment, using brands you know and trust.

Tom Butts, owner of Nor-Cal Equipment and super-fan of Dale Earnhardt Sr., remarked on seeing a Nor-Cal Equipment Rentals branded truck race in NASCAR. “It’s a bit surreal actually. I’ve been a NASCAR fan for as long as I can remember. Three for Dale! When Spencer said we could design the truck together I knew I was going to pay homage to Sr. The truck looks amazing. It represents our brand well and all the hard work our team puts in day in and day out. It’s a proud moment for everyone that has contributed to the success of Nor-Cal Equipment Rentals over the years.”

Nor-Cal Equipment services all of Northern California and also parts of Nevada and Oregon.

The partnership between Boyd and Nor-Cal that began in 2022 extends through 2023 with Nor-Cal Equipment Rentals being named as an associate sponsor for the season opening race at Daytona.

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