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Motorcraft/Quick Lane Team Looking for Solid Phoenix Finale

Harrison Burton and his crew chief Brian Wilson are hoping to end their rookie seasons in the Cup Series with a strong run in this weekend’s season finale at Phoenix Raceway.

Burton, Wilson and the No. 21 Motorcraft/Quick Lane team are coming off their best overall weekend of the season, at Martinsville Speedway, where they qualified 10th and finished 11th. Other recent races also have seen improved performances by the Wood Brothers team.

“Everyone on the No. 21 team is extremely proud of the competitiveness that we’ve seen over the past month,” Wilson said. “As we head into Phoenix to wrap up our rookie season, it’s a little bittersweet since we seem to be turning a corner as a team.”

Wilson said he was especially proud of the team’s most recent performance.

“This past race in Martinsville was what I consider our most complete weekend,” he said. “We had competitive speed in every session and Stage in the schedule.

“Practice was very strong, qualifying in the top 10 was a great result, and we were able to start and finish the race with competitive speed. Finishing 11th shows that our process is starting to pay off.”

Wilson said he expects the challenges at Phoenix will be similar to Martinsville as far as how the team will prepare the Motorcraft/Quick Lane Mustang.

“The first [Phoenix] race was so early in the season that you wouldn’t be able to bring the same setup and be competitive,” he said. “We’ll look at recent trends to put together another complete weekend.”

And the Motorcraft/Quick Lane team will be keeping an eye on the championship battle as Mustang driver Joey Logano is among the final four who will contend for the Cup Series championship.

“Also, through our alliance with Team Penske, we’ll try to gather as much information as we can to help ensure a Ford championship at the end of the weekend,” he said.

Practice at Phoenix is set for Friday at 5:05 p.m. (8:05 Eastern Time), with qualifying on Saturday at 12:30 p.m. (3:30 Eastern).

Sunday’s 312-mile race on the one-mile oval is scheduled to get the green flag just after 1 pm. (3 p.m. Eastern) with TV coverage on NBC.

Stage breaks are planned for Laps 60 and 185.

About Motorcraft
Motorcraft offers a complete line of replacement parts that are recommended by Ford Motor Company. From routine maintenance to underhood repairs, Motorcraft parts offer value with high quality and the right fit at competitive prices. Motorcraft parts are available nationwide at Ford and Lincoln Dealers, independent distributors and automotive-parts retailers, and are backed by the Service Parts Limited Warranty* of Ford Motor Company. For more information, visit www.motorcraft.com.

About Omnicraft
Omnicraft is part of the Ford lineup of parts brands: Ford Parts, Motorcraft and Omnicraft. Omnicraft is the exclusive non-Ford/Lincoln parts brand of premium aftermarket parts. With over a century of parts heritage to build upon, Omnicraft provides excellent quality and fit and is a preferred choice of professional automotive technicians. To find out more about Omnicraft, visit www.omnicraftautoparts.com or contact your local Ford or Lincoln Dealership.

About Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center
Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center offers extraordinary service for routine maintenance, serving all vehicle makes and models. Quick Lane provides a full menu of automotive services, including tires, oil change & maintenance, brakes, batteries, alternator & electrical system, air conditioning system, cooling system, transmission service, suspension & steering, wheel alignment, belts & hoses, lamps & bulbs, wiper blades plus a thorough vehicle checkup report. Service is performed by expert technicians while you wait at any of nearly 800 locations in the U.S., with evening and weekend hours available and no appointment necessary. For more information about Quick Lane, please visit www.quicklane.com.

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, electrified vehicles and Lincoln luxury vehicles, provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification; mobility solutions, including self-driving services; and connected services. Ford employs approximately 187,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit corporate.ford.com.

*See seller for limited-warranty details.

Wood Brothers Racing

Wood Brothers Racing was formed in 1950 in Stuart, Va., by Hall of Famer Glenn Wood. Wood Brothers Racing is the oldest active team and one of the winningest teams in NASCAR history. Since its founding, the team won 99 races (including at least one race in every decade for the last seven decades) and 120 poles in NASCAR’s top-tier series. Fielding only Ford products for its entire history, the Wood Brothers own the longest association of any motorsports team with a single manufacturer. Glenn’s brother, Leonard, is known for inventing the modern pit stop. The team currently runs the Ford Mustang driven by Harrison Burton in the famous No. 21 racer.

Honda Unveils CI-powered Micro-mobility Technologies that Utilize Honda CI (Cooperative Intelligence), Honda’s Original AI that Enables Mutual Understanding between Machines and People

The 4-passenger model of the CiKoMa (right) and WaPOCHI (left) to be used in the technology demonstration testing
  • Technology Demonstration Testing to Begin This Month in Multiple Areas in Joso City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan

TOKYO, Nov 3, 2022 – (JCN Newswire) – Honda R&D Co., Ltd., which takes a lead role in Honda’s technology research and development, today unveiled two “Honda CI Micro-mobility” machines, which utilize Honda CI (Cooperative Intelligence(1)), Honda’s original AI (artificial intelligence) that enables mutual understanding between machines and people.

Honda also introduced core technologies adopted for the Honda CI Micro-mobility machines and announced plans to begin technology demonstration testing using Honda CI Micro-mobility machines in two locations in Joso City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, namely “Mitsukaido Asunaro no Sato” camping and lodging park (testing starts in November 2022) and Agri-science Valley (testing starts in spring 2023).

Honda has been working on the development of CI-powered micro-mobility technologies with the aim to realize a society where each and every person can enjoy the joy and freedom of mobility. To this end, Honda is trying to make the mobility of people and things ubiquitous (whenever, wherever, to any destinations), collision-free and stress-free.

In a society where the birthrate is declining, the population is aging and people have adopted new habits after experiencing the COVID-19 pandemic, an increase has been forecast for the need for unrestricted mobility of people and things using micro-mobility machines. With such an assumption, Honda has established two core technologies:
1) the “map-less cooperative driving technology,” which enables the micro-mobility machine to self-drive while recognizing its surroundings without relying on high-precision maps and
2) the “user intention understanding and communication technology,” which enables the micro-mobility machine to perform human-like communication with dialogues and gestures.

Now, Honda is ready to conduct real-world technology verification through technology demonstration testing of its micro-mobility machines that utilize these core technologies, namely the “CiKoMa” ride-in micro-mobility vehicle and “WaPOCHI” micro-mobility robot, in multiple areas in Joso City, Ibaraki Prefecture in Japan.

Further down the road, Honda will continue advancing its CI-powered micro-mobility technologies while expanding the area where the technology demonstration testing will be conducted in Joso City. Honda’s aim is to put these technologies into practical applications by around 2030 and introduce Honda CI Micro-mobility products which will simultaneously realize both the “advancement of mobility and people’s daily lives” and the “realization of zero traffic collisions.”

(1) A type of artificial intelligence that supports the user while cooperating with the user and people around them by communicating with gestures and words.

For more information, visit https://global.honda/newsroom/news/2022/c221102eng.html.

Logan Schuchart Takes Sprint Car Honors On World Of Outlaws World Finals Opening Night

Logan Schuchart passed Carson Macedo on the penultimate lap of Wednesday's World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars portion of the World of Outlaws World Finals at The Dirt Track at Charlotte, and held on for his fourth win at the track. (HHP/Garry Eller photo)
  • Logan Schuchart claimed an opening-night World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars victory in the World of Outlaws World Finals at The Dirt Track at Charlotte; Mike Marlar kicked off the World of Outlaws CASE Construction Late Models’ weekend at Charlotte with a victory
  • Thursday’s action will feature the World of Outlaws CASE Construction Late Models and the Super DIRTcar Big-Block Modifieds, with the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars hosting a fan fest in front of the grandstands
  • Fans can buy tickets to the next three nights of World Finals action by visiting online at www.charlottemotorspeedway.com

CONCORD, N.C. (Nov. 2, 2022) – Carson Macedo appeared poised to win Wednesday’s World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars feature in the opening night of the World of Outlaws World Finals at The Dirt Track at Charlotte. He posted the quickest time in time trials, won the Dash and gapped his opposition at every turn.

A mechanical issue in the closing laps, however, gave Logan Schuchart the inside line to a thrilling – if unexpected – victory.

Macedo led the field to green and pulled away from Schuchart and series points leader Brad Sweet in the early going, before a Lap 7 caution bunched up the field and gave Schuchart and Sweet another chance. Three additional yellow flags had the same outcome – Macedo pulling away from Schuchart and Sweet, but with two laps to go, Macedo’s car began to lose speed.

Schuchart passed him exiting Turn 2 and left Macedo scrambling to nurse his car to the finish, a goal he achieved en route to a runner-up finish ahead of Sweet, Rico Abreu and Giovanni Scelzi.

“After last year, this place owes us one. We fell out of the race while leading twice last year,” Schuchart said. “No matter what setup we throw at this track, our car seems to run well. We had a different setup and it was still fast. I felt like I was going to pass Carson before that last restart. We had a little bit of luck with him running out of fuel, but that’s part of the game. I’ve been in that situation before, so we’ll take them however we can get them.”

Macedo was gracious in defeat.

“The nozzle line broke off and the line was actually gone,” Macedo said. “I really think we would’ve won the feature if that didn’t happen. That’s the way it goes sometimes. Hats off to my team. They did an incredible job all night, they gave me an incredible car and it felt amazing all night. We’ve got a fast race car, and that’s what really matters. I’m excited for the rest of the weekend.”

David Gravel, Jacob Allen, Macedo and Sam Hafertepe Jr. won sprint car heats. Gravel, who finished sixth, enters Thursday’s action trailing Sweet by 22 points in the race for the title.

Shane Clanton passed polesitter Brandon Overton on the first lap of Wednesday’s World of Outlaws CASE Construction Late Models feature and was in prime position to score the win after comfortably leading the race’s first 33 laps. A late caution, however, bunched up the field and afforded Mike Marlar with a golden opportunity to overtake Clanton.

Marlar worked the inside line to perfection after the restart and powered by Clanton on the race’s penultimate lap, speeding to a win that surprised Marlar as much as anyone.

“I raced Clanton really hard there at the end,” Marlar said. “I know you hate to see somebody lose them that way, but I did what I had to do to win. It’s awesome to get the weekend off to a good start. We’ve got to capitalize tomorrow and make all the right moves.”

Clanton held on for second ahead of Trent Ivey, Overton and Tim McCreadie.

“I knew when we had another caution I was going to be in trouble there,” Clanton said. “This is the best run I’ve ever had at Charlotte, so it still kind of feels like a win.”

Overton, McCreadie, Jimmy Owens, Dale McDowell, Ivey and Clanton won late model heats. Overton was quickest among two groups of qualifiers.

Unofficial World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars Results (30 Laps):

  1. Logan Schuchart; 2. Carson Macedo; 3. Brad Sweet; 4. Rico Abreu; 5. Giovanni Scelzi; 6. David Gravel; 7. Brock Zearfoss; 8. Lance Dewease; 9. Sheldon Haudenschild; 10. Parker Price-Miller; 11. Anthony Macri; 12. Brian Brown; 13. Kyle Reinhardt; 14. Tyler Courtney; 15. Justin Peck; 16. Brent Marks; 17. Spencer Bayston; 18. Cole Macedo; 19. Noah Gass; 20. Kraig Kinser; 21. Sam Hafertepe Jr.; 22. Robbie Price; 23. Jacob Allen; 24. Sye Lynch; 25. Bill Rose; 26. Donny Schatz; 27. Cale Thomas; 28. Michael Kofoid; 29. James McFadden.

Unofficial World of Outlaws CASE Construction Late Models Results (40 Laps):

  1. Mike Marlar; 2. Shane Clanton; 3. Trent Ivey; 4. Brandon Overton; 5. Tim McCreadie; 6. Dennis Erb Jr.; 7. Jimmy Owens; 8. Daulton Wilson; 9. Max Blair; 10. Tanner English; 11. Ricky Weiss; 12. Dale McDowell; 13. Hudson O’Neal; 14. Josh Richards; 15. Gordy Gundaker; 16. Michael Brown; 17. Ryan Gustin; 18. Kyle Strickler; 19. Brent Larson; 20. Dustin Mitchell; 21. Chris Madden; 22. Cla Knight; 23. Tyler Erb; 24. Ross Robinson; 25. Boom Briggs; 26. Carson Ferguson; 27. Dale Hollidge.

MORE INFO:
Fans can connect with Charlotte Motor Speedway and get the latest news by following on Twitter and Instagram, becoming a Facebook fan or downloading the Charlotte Motor Speedway mobile app.

NCS AT PHOENIX: Team Chevy Advance

TEAM CHEVY ADVANCE
NASCAR Cup Series Championship
Phoenix Raceway
Avondale, Arizona
November 6, 2022

CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND: PHOENIX RACEWAY

The Championship 4 is set and a trip out west to Phoenix Raceway will determine the 2022 champions across all three NASCAR national series. Already clinching the manufacturer’s championship in both the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) and NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS), Chevrolet will look to add two drivers’ championships to the record book as five Chevrolet drivers across the NCS and NXS will contend for titles at the 1-mile Arizona tri-oval.

The 2022 season marks the third consecutive year that Phoenix Raceway will host the championship-deciding race for all three NASCAR national series. Since taking championship weekend to the Arizona venue in 2020, a Chevrolet driver has won the race and the title in NASCAR’s premier series both seasons, with Hendrick Motorsports’ Chase Elliott (2020) and Kyle Larson (2021) recording their first career championship titles in the series.

Two Chevrolet drivers will be represented in the NCS Championship 4, with Chase Elliott and Ross Chastain looking to deliver the Bowtie brand its third consecutive – and series-leading 34th – driver’s championship in NASCAR’s premier series. 15 different drivers have earned a NCS driver’s championship with Chevrolet, including Elliott with his title in 2020.

A look at where the Team Chevy NCS Championship 4 drivers Elliott and Chastain stand heading into the season finale, including season numbers and career stats at Phoenix Raceway:

Chase Elliott, No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports Camaro ZL1

2022 NCS Season Stats:

Victories: 5 (series-leading)

Top-Fives: 12

Top-10’s: 20 (tied w/ Chastain for series-leading)

Laps Led: 857 (series-leading)

Average Start: 10.8

Average Finish: 12.1

Stage Wins: 6

At Phoenix Raceway:

Starts: 13

Wins: 1 (2020 – championship title race)

Top-fives: 5

Top-10’s: 8

Average start: 5.6

Average finish: 10.7

Laps led: 546

The 2022 season marks Elliott’s seventh appearance in the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs and his third consecutive trip to the series’ Championship 4. Elliott, the series’ regular-season champion, has led the series in a variety of categories this season, including five victories, 20 top-10 finishes, 857 laps led and an average finish of 12.1. The youngest of the Championship 4 contenders at just 26 years old, a second career NCS championship title would make him just the second active driver in the series to have more than one title to his name, joining Kyle Busch on that elite list.

Ross Chastain, No. 1 Trackhouse Racing Camaro ZL1

2022 NCS Season Stats:

Victories: 2 (COTA, Talladega 1)

Top-Fives: 14 (series-best)

Top-10s: 20 (tied w/ Elliott for series-best)

Laps Led: 692

Average Start: 14.1

Average Finish: 13.6

Stage Wins: 6

At Phoenix Raceway:

Top-Fives: 1

Top-10s: 1

Best Finish: 2nd (Spring 2022 race)

Average Finish: 20.5

Chastain clinched his first career appearance in the NCS Championship 4 in dramatic fashion. Taking the white flag at Martinsville Speedway one-point below the cutline, Chastain pulled the ultimate Hail Mary, powering his No. 1 Camaro ZL1 against the wall in turns three and four to the checkered flag. The move ultimately allowed Chastain to pass five cars, giving Chastain a four-point advantage over Denny Hamlin for the final championship spot.

It’s been a season of ‘firsts’ for the 29-year-old Florida native. In addition to his first NCS playoff appearance, Chastain recorded his first career victory in NASCAR’s premier series (COTA, March 2022), going on to add a second at Talladega Superspeedway just four weeks later. To-date, Chastain has collected a series-leading 14 top-five finishes, while tying fellow Chevrolet driver, Chase Elliott, for the lead in top-10 finishes with 20. Going into the 1-mile Arizona tri-oval, Chastain has a career-best finish of second, recorded in the series’ spring visit to the track.


CHEVROLET TAKES THREE SPOTS IN NXS CHAMPIONSHIP 4

Following the NASCAR Xfinity Series Round of 8 elimination race at Martinsville Speedway, JR Motorsports’ Justin Allgaier was able to point his way into one of the two remaining spots in the Championship 4. Allgaier is the third driver for the Chevrolet team to claim a berth into the championship race, joining teammates Josh Berry and Noah Gragson, who both secured their spots by virtue of a win in the Round of 8. All three Chevrolet drivers will head to Phoenix Raceway looking for their first career championship title in the series. Chevrolet has recorded 21 NXS driver’s championships, delivered by 16 different drivers; and a title by one of the three JR Motorsports drivers would add one more name to that list.

Gragson will enter the championship race weekend as the top seeded driver among the four title contenders. The 2022 season marks his fourth appearance in the series’ playoffs, making it to the Championship 4 for the second consecutive season. The 24-year-old Nevada native has turned in a career season, collecting a series-leading eight victories and 975 laps led thus far. Gragson also tops the other Championship 4 drivers in top-fives (20), top-10s (25) and an average finish of 8.3. The No. 9 JR Motorsports Camaro SS team also has an extra boost of confidence heading into the championship weekend, as Gragson and the team returns to Phoenix Raceway as the series’ most recent winner at the track.

In his first full-time season in the series, Berry will take his first career appearance in the playoffs all the way to the Championship 4. The 31-year-old Tennessee native punched his ticket to the Championship 4 with his third victory of the season at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.. a victory that also delivered Chevrolet its 500th all-time NXS win and clinched the manufacturer’s 24th Bill France Performance Cup. Berry recorded a third-place finish at the spring Phoenix race.

Allgaier has experience on his side heading into the championship race weekend, with this season marking Allgaier’s series-leading fifth appearance in the NXS Championship 4. The 36-year-old Illinois native has recorded three wins in 2022, with an average finish of 10.8 for the season. Allgaier has visited victory lane two times at Phoenix Raceway in his NXS career, including the series’ playoff race at the track in 2019.

CHEVROLET TAKES NCS, NXS MANUFACTURERS’ CHAMPIONSHIPS

Chevrolet enters the championship weekend with two titles already locked-up: the 2022 NASCAR Cup Series Manufacturer’s Championship and the 2022 NASCAR Xfinity Series Manufacturer’s Championship.

The NCS Manufacturer’s Championship is Chevrolet’s series-leading 41st title in NASCAR’s premier series. The title comes in the debut season of the Next Gen Camaro ZL1, with Chevrolet drivers putting the Bowtie brand in victory lane a series-leading 19 times in 35 NCS races. Nine drivers from four different Chevrolet teams have contributed to those wins: Chase Elliott (five wins; series-leading); Tyler Reddick and Kyle Larson (three wins each); Ross Chastain and William Byron (two wins each); and Alex Bowman, Daniel Suarez, Austin Dillon and Erik Jones (one win each). Kaulig Racing’s AJ Allmendinger also contributed to the points total that led to the championship title.

Chevrolet’s 24th NXS Manufacturer’s Championship title comes in a dominant season for the Camaro SS. In 32 races, Chevrolet has collected 24 wins, with those triumphs recorded by eight drivers from five different Chevrolet teams: Noah Gragson (eight wins),, AJ Allmendinger (five wins), Justin Allgaier and Josh Berry (three wins each), Austin Hill (two wins), and Jeremy Clements, Kyle Larson and Tyler Reddick (one win each). Sam Mayer, Landon Cassill and Sheldon Creed have also contributed points toward the manufacturer points total.

CHEVROLET WRAPPED UP 2022 “MAKING STRIDES AGAINST BREAST CANCER” CAMPAIGN AT MARTINSVILLE

Chevrolet’s partnership with the American Cancer Society (ACS) and its “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” initiative marks its 12th consecutive year in 2022. Proudly carrying the ACS logo, for every lap the specialty-themed pink Chevrolet Camaro SS 1LE pace car led NASCAR’s premier series under caution during three select races in October, Chevrolet pledged to donate $350 to the American Cancer Society to honor “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.”

The third and final NASCAR Cup Series event of the initiative took place last weekend during the NCS Playoffs Round of 8 elimination race at Martinsville Speedway. Heading into the Martinsville race weekend, the running total sat at $19,250 following the first two races of the campaign at Talladega Superspeedway and Homestead-Miami Speedway. With 53 laps made under caution during the NCS Xfinity 500 race at Martinsville, Chevrolet will contribute an additional $18,550, bringing Chevrolet’s total contribution to the campaign to $37,800 for 2022.

BOWTIE BULLETS

· Victories by active Chevrolet drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series at Phoenix Raceway:

   Kyle Larson, No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet (2021)

   Chase Elliott, No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet (2020)

· In 52 NASCAR Cup Series races held at Phoenix Raceway, Chevrolet has recorded a series-leading 25 victories.

· Phoenix Raceway has hosted the NASCAR Cup Series championship race two times, with Chevrolet drivers taking the race win and the championship title in both events (Chase Elliott – 2020; and Kyle Larson – 2021).

· With a championship title, Chase Elliott – the youngest of the NASCAR Cup Series Championship 4 drivers – would become the 17th driver in series’ history to win multiple championships. Elliott would also become just the second active driver to have more than one title to his name, joining Kyle Busch.

· With his win at Homestead-Miami Speedway, Kyle Larson and the No. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM Camaro ZL1 team will compete for the 2022 NASCAR Cup Series Owner’s Championship. Team owner, Rick Hendrick, has collected 14 owner’s championship titles in NASCAR’s premier series, all of which have been recorded behind the wheel of a Chevrolet.

· Chevrolet continues to lead its manufacturer competitors in NASCAR Cup Series wins (19), top-fives (82), top-10s (154), laps led (4,206) and stage wins (28) this season.

· Seven Team Chevy drivers have combined 28 NASCAR Cup Series stage wins:

   Tyler Reddick 2 - Fontana x2

   Alex Bowman 1 - Las Vegas, Kansas

   Ross Chastain 6 - Las Vegas, Darlington, Charlotte, Pocono, Richmond, ROVAL

   William Byron 4 – Phoenix, Atlanta, Talladega, Darlington

   Daniel Suarez 2 – COTA, Charlotte

   Chase Elliott 6 – Martinsville x2, Charlotte, Atlanta x2, Talladega

   Kyle Larson 6 – Bristol, Sonoma, Pocono, Texas, Homesteadx2

· Following the Homestead-Miami Speedway race weekend, Chevrolet clinched its series-leading 41st NASCAR Cup Series Manufacturer’s Championship.

· Chevrolet clinched its series-leading 24th NASCAR Xfinity Series Manufacturer’s Championship. This marks the eighth title for the Camaro SS since becoming Chevrolet’s flagship vehicle in the series in 2013, including the past six consecutive years.

· With its 41 NASCAR Cup Series Manufacturer’s Championships, 33 NASCAR Cup Series Driver’s Championships, and 833 all-time NASCAR Cup Series wins, Chevrolet continues to hold the title of winningest brand in NASCAR Cup Series history.


FOR THE FANS

· Fans can visit the Team Chevy Racing Display in the Fan Midway and Campground at Phoenix Raceway.

· Fans can check out an assortment of Chevrolet vehicles the Fan Midway including: Corvette 3LT Convertible, Trailblazer, Colorado ZR2, Silverado ZR2, Equinox EV, Camaro ZL1, Tahoe Z71.

· The Campground Display will feature the Silverado HD and Equinox.

· Fans can also view Kyle Larson’s No. 5 Camaro ZL1 show car at the Chevrolet Display in the Fan Midway.

Team Chevy Driver Appearances at the Display:

Friday, November 4

· Derek Kraus, Colby Howard & Jake Garcia: 11 a.m.

· Grant Enfinger & Jack Wood: 12:45 p.m.

· Matt DiBenedetto: 1 p.m.

· Sheldon Creed: 2 p.m.

· Josh Berry, Sam Mayer & Justin Allgaier: 2:30 p.m.

Saturday, November 5

· Austin Dillon: 11:15 a.m.

· Chase Elliott: 11:30 a.m.

· Rajah Caruth: 12:30 p.m.

· Jeremy Clements: 1 p.m.

· Nick Sanchez: 1:30 p.m.

Sunday, November 6

· Erik Jones: 9:30 a.m.

· Alex Bowman: 10:15 a.m.

· Daniel Suarez: 10:30 a.m.

· Kyle Larson: 10:45 a.m.

Chevrolet Display Hours of Operation:

Thursday, November 3: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Friday, November 4: 10 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, November 5: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Sunday, November 6: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Tune In:

NBC will broadcast the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday, November 6. Live coverage can also be found on the NBCSports Gold App, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

USA Network will broadcast the NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship Race at 6 p.m. ET on Saturday, November 5. Live coverage can also be found on the NBCSports Gold App, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

FS1 will broadcast the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Lucas Oil 150 at 10 p.m. ET on Friday, November 4. Live coverage can also be found on MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

QUOTABLE QUOTES

ROSS CHASTAIN, NO. 1 WORLDWIDE EXPRESS / ADVENTHEALTH CAMARO ZL1

After the thrilling finish, how cool is it to look back on Martinsville?

“I wish I would’ve had five more points throughout the playoffs and I could’ve just cruised in 10th and been out of sight, out of mind, and no one was the wiser that we made it, except us. Those weren’t the cards we were dealt though. This means the world. This is a life achievement, a career achievement, this is what we work for and dream about. Just getting the opportunity is all I could ever ask for. Then to do it, make the decision I did down the backstretch is wild enough. The fact that it worked, is truly unbelievable. I still watch the video and it doesn’t look real.”

Trackhouse took a risk in hiring you, what does it mean to have it pay off so quickly?

“It’s unreal. There were so many unknowns with the car, the teams we assembled. The drivers, crew chiefs and spotters who have never won a Cup race in those same positions. It means the world. It means so much that we were able to win together and be in the playoffs together, and to advance.”

What does this mean to you personally?

“Two years ago, I went to the Southern 500, put sticker tires on the car to fight for 27th, seven laps down. Two years before that in 2018, I’m start and parking a truck at Gateway, and then a win later in 2018 in the Xfinity Series, then to come back and win in the truck in 2019 at Gateway. The progression, and the ups and downs of start and parking, to winning, to the team shutting down, to winning. It’s a lot, and I owe it to the people that build me. I was a 13th-place driver in the Xfinity Series for years. Being in the Cup Series is wild and being in a competitive car in the Cup Series doesn’t seem real. Two years ago, you know what I would’ve given to run 10th, and now this year, I’m losing my mind in the car because we are running 10th at Martinsville.”

KYLE LARSON, NO. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM CAMARO ZL1

Larson on competing for the owner’s championship at Phoenix Raceway:

“We still have a lot riding on the race this weekend – this HENDRICKCARS.COM team really wants to win that 15th championship for Mr. Hendrick. We ran pretty good there earlier this year before the mechanical issue, and I expect we’ll be better this weekend. We have been executing well recently as a team and we have a win and a second-place finish in the last two races. Hopefully, we’re in the battle for the win again on Sunday.”

CLIFF DANIELS, CREW CHIEF, NO. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM CAMARO ZL1

Daniels on the strategy this year with Next Gen car compared to last year:

“I think the biggest thing we saw in the spring, if I’m not mistaken, is that some teams stayed out while some took two tires and some took four tires. I don’t remember who was on what strategy, but I think the winner was on [right-side tires]. Last year in the championship race, everyone was on four (new tires). That could be different for the whole field this year. With a late caution, how do you handle that?”

CHASE ELLIOTT, NO. 9 NAPA AUTO PARTS CAMARO ZL1

Elliott on the biggest strength going into the championship race this weekend:

“The biggest thing for us, our strengths, are just our entire team. I feel like it’s really solid. Our group puts in a lot of work. The amount of effort they’re willing to put in and the late nights and the things that they’ve done throughout this year to be good as a group is really impressive. For me personally, it’s just about them and they have always made me look better than I really am and I really appreciate their efforts and wanting to try to make me better. I just hope I can be half as good as the people I have around me and we’ll be just fine.”

ALAN GUSTAFSON, CREW CHIEF, NO. 9 NAPA AUTO PARTS CAMARO ZL1

Gustafson on the performance of the team and the mindset heading into Phoenix:

“I feel good about it. The one-race championship is a different feel, different setup. I don’t know how to describe it. Once you’re here, anything can happen. Our goal is always to just give ourselves this opportunity. That’s what you want to do. I know Phoenix (Raceway) is a really good track for us and we had a good car there in the spring. I feel really good about going back there, having fun with it and just cutting it loose and letting it rip. I think that suits our team well and all things are good.”

WILLIAM BYRON, NO. 24 AXALTA CAMARO ZL1

Byron on the importance of closing the season strong:

“It’s unfortunate that our playoff run came to an end last weekend, but there’s still more for us to fight for this weekend. We have a shot to finish fifth in both the driver and owner’s points and that’s still something to be proud of. We’ve had a bit of an up-and-down season. We started strong getting wins early on, and then tried a few things during the summer that didn’t work out like we wanted. We really got back to the basics and that showed in our playoff run. We have one more race to put a solid weekend together and head into the offseason on a high note.”

RUDY FUGLE, CREW CHIEF, NO. 24 AXALTA CAMARO ZL1

Fugle on how what he expects at Phoenix:

“I’m curious to see how the race this weekend at Phoenix (Raceway) is going to play out. Typically in the past, you head to the final race and it seems like the Championship 4 drivers are on a different level and you’re racing for fifth. But with the Next Gen car, we’ve seen that the playing field is a bit more even. That could really shake things up, plus with the way the resin was applied differently, there’s more unknowns than normal. It’s going to be nice to have a full 50 minutes of practice to be able to make bigger changes you may not have normally made, but it also gives you time to overthink and go too far. We all want to end the season on a high note, and that’s what we plan to do.”

TY DILLON, NO. 42 BLACK RIFLE COFFEE COMPANY CAMARO ZL1

“Phoenix is one of those places that I have had the pleasure of racing at on many different occasions during my career. I’ve driven about every type of stock car around there, and they all take one thing in common when it comes to making speed – you have to be disciplined and hit your marks every lap. The addition of the resin, along with the track starting to age, has really widened the groove out, so we will be searching for grip throughout the race on Sunday.

I have had fun his season with all of my guys on the No. 42 crew at Petty GMS. Though at times it has been a challenging year, I think what we have been able to accomplish has been pretty well noted for a first-year team. Heading into the final race of the season, I can look back on the highs and lows of the year knowing that everyone gave it their absolute best, and there’s nothing more we can ask for. It will be sad to go our separate ways next year, but I’m proud of everyone and look forward to what’s ahead for both myself personally as well as the team, and am thankful to Maury Gallagher, Richard Petty, and Mike Beam for the opportunity to race for them this year.”

ERIK JONES, NO. 43 FOCUSFACTOR CAMARO ZL1

“Phoenix is a good track for me. It’s always a tough race if you aren’t in the Championship Four. Those guys are a going to be tough to beat. Phoenix was a race we struggled at early in the season, but I think our short track cars are quite a bit better now than what we had. Hopefully some of the things we have learned through the year is going to apply and be better and we can finish off our year strong. We’ve had a really good year and would love to go out on a high note here and jump into the off season, get some rest and come back strong for the 500.”

ALEX BOWMAN, NO. 48 ALLY CAMARO ZL1

Bowman on returning to Phoenix this Sunday:

“I am excited to get back in the car and I am glad I can do one more race with Greg (Ives). We both wanted one more race together and for that to happen at Phoenix (Raceway) is really exciting. To this day, we both feel like we have unfinished business from 2016 and the whole crew is more motivated than ever to get it done this Sunday. We have one race left and I plan to make the most of it and leave it all out there when the green flag waves.”

GREG IVES, CREW CHIEF, NO. 48 ALLY CAMARO ZL1

Ives on getting one more race with Alex Bowman at Phoenix:

“Alex (Bowman) did a great job getting healthy and working hard to be in the car for Phoenix and to be able to go race together one more time is really special. I’ve spent most of my NASCAR Cup Series career with Alex and I am glad he was cleared to race this weekend so we can go to Phoenix and try to get one more win. Our whole team is working hard on the No. 48 Ally Chevy like they have done the whole season and I feel like we are all hungry for a win this weekend. I’ve said it all year and it holds true this weekend, we just have to keep maximizing on our opportunities and take it one stage at a time. If everyone plays their part, we have a really good shot at winning on Sunday.”

DANIEL SUAREZ, NO. 99 FREEWAY INSURANCE / COMMSCOPE CAMARO ZL1

What do you think about your 2022 season?

“We have made a lot of progress. To be a second year team, first as a multicar team, winning races and running as well as we have run is an accomplishment. We also know we have a lot of work to do. Next year we want to win even more races and we want two cars in the championship race. We won’t be happy until that happens.

Justin Marks is building something great here at Trackhouse and I feel extremely fortunate to be part of it. I think the Trackhouse story is only going to get better every year.”

GRANT ENFINGER, NO. 23 CHAMPION POWER EQUIPMENT SILVERADO RST

“Phoenix Raceway is a unique place on the schedule. As a driver, you can begin to notice that the track surface is beginning to age a little bit, which is always good. Both corners are different so you have to compromise and adapt your driving styles for each end of the track. Jeff Hensley and I have a solid baseline to add onto the already stellar notebook that GMS Racing has here, so I’m definitely looking forward to finishing our season off right this weekend.

2022 has been a challenging season for us at GMS Racing, but everyone has rallied and pulled together to make the absolute most of it. Having the support from everyone at Champion Power Equipment, Chevrolet, and GMS Fabrication has been incredible this year. While I wish we were going to be fighting for a championship this weekend, I can hang my head high knowing that we have a lot of exciting things ahead of us over the off season. We aren’t looking past this weekend however, as I think we have a great chance at playing spoiler and chasing our second win of the season. It’s going to be fun!”

JACK WOOD, NO. 24 QUICK QUACK CAR WASH SILVERADO RST

“Out of all of the tracks on the schedule, I have the most experience at Phoenix Raceway. I’ve ran a few West Series races before with my family team, and have also driven an ARCA car as well as a truck with GMS Racing. I’m confident ending our season there, and I think that it’s a place where if we are able to hit the setup right, we can have a good day.

Overall heading into our last race, I would like to say thank you to everyone at GMS Racing for everything they’ve done for me over the past two years. It has been a great experience to become a part of this organization and I’ve learned a lot with them. Everyone has put in a huge amount of effort into this season through the ups and the downs, and they haven’t given up on me, so we’re going to give it everything we’ve got to crack into the top-10 and finish strong.”


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)

2022 STATISTICS:

Wins: 19

Poles: 11

Laps Led: 4,206

Top-five finishes: 82

Top-10 finishes: 154

Stage wins: 28

Tyler Reddick (Fontanax2)
Alex Bowman (Las Vegas), (Kansas)
Ross Chastain (Las Vegas), (Darlington), (Charlotte), (Pocono), (Richmond), (Charlotte ROVAL)
William Byron (Phoenix), (Atlanta), (Talladega), (Darlington)
Daniel Suarez (COTA), (Charlotte)
Chase Elliott (Martinsvillex2), (Charlotte), (Atlantax2), (Talladega)
Kyle Larson (Bristol Dirt), (Sonoma), (Pocono), (Texas), (Homesteadx2)

CHEVROLET IN NASCAR CUMULATIVE STATISTICS:

Total Chevrolet race wins: 833 (1949 to date)

Poles won to date: 734

Laps led to date: 245,542

Top-five finishes to date: 4,220

Top-10 finishes to date: 8,709

Total NASCAR Cup Wins by Corporation, 1949 to Date:

       General Motors: 1,167

       Chevrolet: 833

       Pontiac: 154

       Oldsmobile: 115

       Buick: 65



       Ford: 819                                                           

       Ford: 719

       Mercury: 96

       Lincoln: 4

 Fiat Chrysler Automobiles: 467

       Dodge: 217

       Plymouth: 191

       Chrysler: 59



       Toyota: 170


Team Chevy high-resolution racing photos are available for editorial use.

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.

Petty GMS Race Preview: Phoenix Raceway II

Ty Dillon, No. 42 Black Rifle Coffee Company Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Dillon at Phoenix Raceway: Ty Dillon has competed in 11 previous NASCAR Cup Series races at Phoenix Raceway, including his second-career start back in 2014. The veteran has posted eight top-20 finishes at the track in the Cup Series, with a best result of 11th place in 2017. In the spring, Dillon drove the No. 42 Black Rifle Coffee Company Chevrolet to a 15th-place finish.

Dillon has also competed in nine NASCAR Xfinity Series races in the desert, leading 16 laps and earning two top-fives along with seven top-10 finishes and a best result of fourth in 2014. In three NASCAR Camping World Truck Series starts, Dillon has one top-five finish (fourth in 2013) and has led 21 laps. Finally, Dillon has competed in two ARCA Menards Series West races at the facility, leading 18 laps and earning two top-five finishes with a best of third in 2010.

  • Coffee Tyme: Black Rifle Coffee Company (BRCC) will serve as primary partner on Dillon’s Chevrolet Camaro for Sunday’s 312-mile race. Founded by veterans and operated by principaled men and women who honor those who protect, defend, and support our country, BRCC stands for more than high-quality coffee.
  • About Black Rifle Coffee Company: Black Rifle Coffee Company is a Veteran-founded coffee company serving premium coffee to people who love America. Founded in 2014 by Green Beret Evan Hafer, Black Rifle develops their explosive roast profiles with the same mission focus they learned while serving in the military. BRCC is committed to supporting Veterans, active-duty military, first responders and the American way of life. With every purchase made, they give back.

To learn more about BRCC, visit www.blackriflecoffee.com, follow BRCC on social media, or subscribe to Coffee or Die Magazine’s daily newsletter at https://coffeeordie.com/presscheck-signup.

  • Thank You, Ty: This weekend’s season finale will mark Ty Dillon’s final start with Petty GMS in the NASCAR Cup Series. Originally slated to drive the No. 94 Chevrolet for GMS Racing before the team merged with Richard Petty Motorsports in December, Ty has played an integral role in the development of the team’s inaugural season. Though we may be heading our separate ways after the checkered flag flies in Phoenix, Petty GMS is thankful for everything Ty has done for the organization and wishes him well in his future endeavors.
  • Season Recap: Driving the No. 42 Chevrolet for Petty GMS in the team’s debut season, Ty Dillon earned one top-10 result at the Bristol Motor Speedway dirt race, where he finished 10th. That weekend also marked Ty’s best qualifying effort of the year, where he started in the seventh position after winning his Heat Race. Dillon led one lap a piece at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and Daytona International Speedway, and enters the season finale scored 29th in the drivers’ points standings.
  • Ty Dillon Sightings: Fans attending Sunday’s race at Phoenix Raceway will have two chances to see Ty Dillon before the race:

Trackside Live Stage: Dillon will be hosting a Q&A session at the Trackside Live stage in the fan midway area from 10:50 AM – 11:05 AM local time on Saturday prior to the series’ final qualifying session of the season. Come on by to ask Ty a question!
No. 42 Petty GMS Chevrolet Merchandise Trailer: Dillon will be onsite at the team merchandise trailer in the fan midway area from 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM local time on Sunday prior to the NASCAR Cup Series Championship race. Fans can stop by to purchase new merchandise and get it signed at the same time.

  • From the Drivers Seat: Dillon’s thoughts on his 2022 season with Petty GMS

“Phoenix is one of those places that I have had the pleasure of racing at on many different occasions during my career. I’ve driven about every type of stock car around there, and they all take one thing in common when it comes to making speed – you have to be disciplined and hit your marks every lap. The addition of the resin, along with the track starting to age, has really widened the groove out, so we will be searching for grip throughout the race on Sunday.

I have had fun this season with all of my guys on the No. 42 crew at Petty GMS. Though at times it has been a challenging year, I think what we have been able to accomplish has been pretty well noted for a first-year team. Heading into the final race of the season, I can look back on the highs and lows of the year knowing that everyone gave it their absolute best, and there’s nothing more we can ask for. It will be sad to go our separate ways next year, but I’m proud of everyone and look forward to what’s ahead for both myself personally as well as the team, and am thankful to Maury Gallagher, Richard Petty, and Mike Beam for the opportunity to race for them this year.”

Erik Jones, No. 43 FOCUSfactor Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Jones at Phoenix Raceway: Closing out the 2022 season at Phoenix Raceway, Erik Jones will make his 13th-career Cup Series start at the one-mile track. In his previous 12 starts at the track, Jones has a best finish of fourth in 2017 and four top-10 finishes. Earlier this season, Jones and the No. 43 team started the race at Phoenix Raceway from the 14th position and finished 25th.

With seven Xfinity Series starts at the Phoenix track, Jones has five top-five finishes and all seven finishes in the top 10. Jones best finish in the Xfinity Series is a second-place finish in 2016.

In the Truck Series, Phoenix Raceway holds some special memories for Jones. In 2013, in just his fifth Truck Series start, Jones won his first NASCAR race when he started the Truck race from second and led 84 of 150 laps to earn the win. Jones repeated the feat in 2014 when he started the race from the pole position and led 114 of 126 laps to score his second win at the track. With one additional start, for a total of three Truck Series start at the track, Jones started from the pole and scored a ninth-place finish.

  • Erik Jones Sightings: Fans attending this weekend’s races at Phoenix Raceway will have multiple chances to see Erik Jones:

Infield Fan Zone: On Saturday, November 5, Erik Jones will do a Q & A from 11:15 to 11:30 a.m. MT on the stage in the Infield Fan Zone area.
Chevy Stage: Jones will make his way to the Chevy Stage on Sunday morning, November 6, for a Q&A from 9:30 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. MT.
US Air Force: Following his appearance on the Chevy stage, Jones will make his way to the US Air Force display in the fan midway area from 9:50 a.m. – 10:20 a.m. MT prior to the season finale at Phoenix Raceway.

  • Season Recap: In his second year driving the No. 43 Chevy and first year for Petty GMS, Erik Jones had a strong season in the Cup Series. With first year Cup crew chief Dave Elenz leading the team, Jones and the No. 43 team earned one win in the crown jewel Southern 500 on September 4, 2022. In addition, the team earned three top-five finishes, 13 top-10 finishes, and led 147 laps.
  • Focused on Winning: FOCUSfactor will serve as the primary partner on Jones’s Chevrolet Camaro for Sunday’s race at Phoenix Raceway.
  • About FOCUSfactor: FOCUSfactor is sold at America’s leading retailers such as Costco, Wal-Mart, Walgreens, CVS, The Vitamin Shoppe and Amazon.com. FOCUSfactor, America’s leading brain health supplement, is a nutritional supplement that includes a proprietary blend of brain supporting vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other nutrients. In December 2012, the United States Patent and Trademark Office issued US Patent 8,329,227 covering FOCUSfactor’s proprietary formulation “for enhanced mental function”. The issuance of the patent marked one of the few times a patent has been issued for a nationally branded nutritional supplement. FOCUSfactor is clinically tested with results demonstrating improvements in focus, concentration and memory in healthy adults.
  • From the Driver’s Seat: “Phoenix is a good track for me. It’s always a tough race if you aren’t in the Championship Four. Those guys are a going to be tough to beat. Phoenix was a race we struggled at early in the season, but I think our short track cars are quite a bit better now than what we had. Hopefully some of the things we have learned through the year is going to apply and be better and we can finish off our year strong. We’ve had a really good year and would love to go out on a high note here and jump into the off season, get some rest and come back strong for the 500.”

ABOUT PETTY GMS:

Petty GMS competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series, operating the No. 42 Chevrolet for Ty Dillon and the No. 43 Chevrolet for Erik Jones. Founded in December 2021, Maury Gallagher, championship team owner of GMS Racing, purchased a majority interest of Richard Petty Motorsports. Inaugural NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Petty, known as “The King,” remains a key stakeholder of the organization. For more information, please visit www.pettygms.com.

SOCIAL MEDIA:

To keep up-to-date with the latest news, information and exclusive content, follow Petty GMS on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Richard Childress Racing and Whelen Engineering to Continue Successful Partnership in 2023

Sheldon Creed Returns to RCR For Full NASCAR Xfinity Series Season in the No. 2 Whelen Chevrolet

WELCOME, NC (November 2, 2022) – Whelen Engineering, Inc., a global leader in the emergency warning industry, will continue their partnership with Richard Childress Racing in 2023 for fulltime sponsorship on RCR’s No. 2 Whelen Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. Sheldon Creed will return to the organization as the driver of the No. 2 Whelen Chevrolet.

“Whelen Engineering is proud to continue our partnership with both Richard Childress Racing and Sheldon Creed in 2023,” said Peter Tiezzi, III, general manager of motorsports and project manager for Whelen Engineering Company, Inc. “RCR and Sheldon both share Whelen’s passion for technology and innovation, and we’ve been particularly impressed with Sheldon’s tenacity behind the wheel and relationship-building skills with our employees and key customers. We’re looking forward to continuing to build on our strong partnership.”

Whelen Engineering is known throughout the world for its powerful, reliable warning lights and scene illumination solutions, sirens, and control systems for first responders and emergency services as well as aviation and mass notification industries, all of which are manufactured in America. Whelen has used their partnership with RCR and Creed to raise awareness for a variety of programs important to the core values of the company, such as the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, while also highlighting key segments of the company, such as Whelen Aerospace Technologies.

“We commend Whelen Engineering for their commitment to auto racing and look forward to continuing to build on the customer and community-focused marketing platforms we have built together,” said Torrey Galida, president of Richard Childress Racing. “Whelen Engineering is a world-class brand that continues to innovate both in the factory and at the track, and we know that Sheldon and everyone on the No. 2 team will continue to represent Whelen well.”

Creed, the 2020 NASCAR Truck Series Champion and 2018 ARCA Racing Series Champion, has earned four top-five and 12 top-10 finishes through 32 NASCAR Xfinity Series races so far this season. He’s led 155 laps, and narrowly missed making the NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs in his rookie year of series competition.

“I’m proud to continue my relationship with Richard Childress Racing and Whelen Engineering and look forward to building on the foundation we laid together in 2022,” said Creed. “It’s been a dream come true to drive for a legendary car owner such as Richard Childress, and I truly appreciate my relationship with Peter and everyone at Whelen Engineering. My goal is to go out and win races and championships for RCR and Whelen, and to continue to showcase their American made products to race fans throughout the country.”

For more information, please visit rcrracing.com.

About Richard Childress Racing:

Richard Childress Racing (rcrracing.com) is a renowned, performance-driven racing, marketing and manufacturing organization. Incorporated in 1969, RCR has celebrated over 50 years of racing and earned more than 200 victories and 16 championships, including six in the NASCAR Cup Series with the legendary Dale Earnhardt. RCR was the first organization to win championships in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR Truck Series and is a three-time winner of the Daytona 500 (1998, 2007, 2018). Its 2022 NASCAR Cup Series lineup includes two-time NASCAR champion, 2017 Coca-Cola 600 winner and 2018 Daytona 500 champion Austin Dillon (No. 3 Chevrolet), along with two-time NASCAR Xfinity Series champion Tyler Reddick (No. 8 Chevrolet). RCR fields a full-time NASCAR Xfinity Series program with Sheldon Creed (No. 2 Chevrolet) and Austin Hill (No. 21 Chevrolet).

Kaulig Racing Weekly Advance | Phoenix Raceway

NASCAR Cup Series Championship
Phoenix Raceway
NASCAR Cup Series (NCS)
Sunday, November 6 at 3 p.m. ET on NBC

  • In the 2022 NCS season, Kaulig Racing has earned six top fives, 13 top-10 finishes and has led 73 laps

AJ Allmendinger, No. 16 Celsius Camaro ZL1

  • AJ Allmendinger has made 20 starts at Phoenix Raceway in the NCS
  • He has earned two top-10 finishes and has led 17 laps at Phoenix
  • In the 2022 NCS season, Allmendinger has earned one runner-up finish, three top fives, eight top-10 finishes, and has led 29 laps across 17 starts

“I’m excited to get back to Phoenix. Besides the Clash, that was my first race in the new car, so we are looking forward to working on this new package and make it better. We know that it’s one of the first races next season, so we will be prepared to get a feel of the car and keep building our notebook for next year.” – AJ Allmendinger on Phoenix Raceway

Justin Haley, No. 31 LeafFilter Gutter Protection Camaro ZL1

  • Justin Haley has made three starts at Phoenix Raceway in the NCS
  • Haley has earned three top five, four top 10s, 14 top-15 finishes and has led 44 laps in the 2022 season

“This year has been a fun one with the No. 31 group, and I’m looking forward to finishing off strong in Phoenix. We’ve had a lot of speed lately, and with the extended practice this weekend, I hope we learn valuable knowledge for next year.” – Justin Haley on Phoenix Raceway  

NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship
Phoenix Raceway
NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS)
Saturday, November 5 at 6 p.m. ET on the USA Network

For the second year in-a-row, AJ Allmendinger and Kaulig Racing have won the NXS regular season championship
Kaulig Racing has earned five wins, 23 top five and 49 top-10 finishes in the 2022 NXS season
The team has led 437 laps in the 2022 NXS season so far
Allmendinger: 348 laps
Hemric: 66 laps
Cassill: 23 Laps

Landon Cassill, No. 10 Voyager Chevrolet

  • Landon Cassill has made 12 starts at Phoenix Raceway in the NXS and earned two, top-10 finishes
  • Cassill has earned four top five and 11 top-10 finishes in the 2022 NXS season
  • He has led 23 laps so far in the 2022 NXS season

“We’ve had a great year with a lot of challenges. We were disappointed leaving Martinsville last week after having that race circled on our calendars, but it just makes us more eager to end the year with a really great weekend.” – Landon Cassill on Phoenix Raceway

Daniel Hemric, No. 11 AG1 Chevrolet

  • Daniel Hemric has made nine starts at Phoenix Raceway and has earned one win, three top fives, six top-10 finishes and has led 93 laps
  • Hemric has earned three top fives, 12 top-10 finishes and has led 66 laps in the 2022 NXS season

“Phoenix will always hold a special place in my hear. It’s been a tough season for sure. There have been may ups and downs, but we are looking forward to ending the season on a high note.” – Daniel Hemric on Phoenix Raceway

AJ Allmendinger, No. 16 Nutrien Ag Solutions Chevrolet

  • AJ Allmendinger has made five starts at Phoenix Raceway
  • Allmendinger has earned one top five, two top-10 finishes and has led five laps at Phoenix Raceway
  • Allmendinger has earned the NXS regular season championship for Kaulig Racing for the second year in-a-row
  • He has earned a win for Kaulig Racing in four-straight NXS seasons
  • In 2022, Allmendinger has led 348 laps, recorded five wins, 16 top five and 27 top-10 finishes
  • Allmendinger currently has the most top-10 finishes of any driver in the 2022 NXS season

“It’s disappointing not being a part of the final 4 this year, but that doesn’t take away from the great year this team has had. I’m hoping we can go there and finish out strong and try to go out on a win or a great run.” – AJ Allmendinger on Phoenix Raceway  

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 made the Championship 4 round in both the 2020 and 2021 seasons. They will continue fielding three, full-time NXS entries; the No. 10 Chevrolet driven by Landon Cassill, the No. 11 Chevrolet driven by Daniel Hemric, and the No. 16 Chevrolet driven by AJ Allmendinger. With multiple wins, Kaulig Racing has come to be one of the top competitors on track each weekend. The team made multiple starts in the NCS in 2021 and won in its seventh-ever start with AJ Allmendinger’s victory at “The Brickyard” for the Verizon 200 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The young team has acquired two charters for the 2022 NCS season, with Justin Haley competing as its first, full-time driver in the series. The team’s second entry will be shared by part-time teammates AJ Allmendinger, Daniel Hemric and Noah Gragson. To learn more about the team, visit kauligracing.com.

The 2022 Mazda MX-5 Cup Shootout: Meet the Finalists Part 1

The 15th edition of the Mazda MX-5 Cup Shootout is only a week away and 12 diverse finalists are counting down the days to their shot at a scholarship valued at $110,000 from Mazda to compete in the 2023 MX-5 Cup season. What follows is a brief introduction to six of those candidates.

Thomas Annunziata (Colts Neck, New Jersey)
Thomas Annunziata is one of two drivers who have actually participated in a Mazda MX-5 Cup race. Last August, he took part in Rounds 11 and 12 at VIRginia International Raceway, finishing 11th and ninth. Annunziata comes into the shootout as the latest Spec MX-5 Series and National Champion.

“I started racing cars only a year ago,” Annunziata said. “I started in Spec Miata. I was a finalist for the Spec MX-5 Shootout last year. I did not win that, but the goal was to win both championships in Spec MX-5 this year and the MX-5 Cup Shootout.”

Alex Berg (Buford, Georgia)
The other finalist with MX-5 Cup race experience is Alex Berg, who took part in the 2021 season finale at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, finishing 16th and 13th. Berg won the Spec MX-5 South Region Championship and finished third in the Series Championship. This will be his third-straight shootout appearance, having taken part in the 2021 Spec MX-5 Shootout and last year’s MX-5 Cup Shootout.

“I’m a very emotional driver,” Berg said. “Something the judges told me was to not let my emotions get to me. That’s something that I haven’t perfected, but I really, really worked my hardest on. I’ve been doing a lot of mental training. Other than that, I’ve been told I check all the boxes in terms of pace and off-track abilities.”

Laurin Brallier (Clements, North Carolina)
An at-large nominee, Laurin Brallier has spent the last two years racing Formula Vee in SCCA. Seeing the opportunities offered by Mazda, Brallier started racing in Spec Miata this June. Her experience in karts and Formula Vee gave her an excellent background in the “momentum conservation” style of racing, but she knows she still has a lot to learn.

“The cars are complete opposite of each other,” Brallier said. “I’ve been learning a new driving style, because the Formula Vee has very low grip, the tire contact patch is so small, so you’re kind of babying the car the whole time on entry, mid-corner and exit. The Miatas, you just kind of chuck them and they roll! I’ve been learning that and trying to maximize my speed.”

Nate Cicero (Pound Ridge, NY)
Making the step from the Spec MX-5 Shootout last year to the MX-5 Cup Shootout this year is Nate Cicero. His prior shootout experience combined with his recent run in an MX-5 Cup car in the World Racing League finale at Sebring will make him a formidable opponent.

“It’s nice to see a lot of people chosen from Spec MX-5, especially because it was extremely competitive this year,” Cicero said. “I think it’s a good ladder system. Using the older generation Cup cars is a good platform to learn how to race.”

Wyatt Couch (El Dorado Hills, California)
Back for his second MX-5 Cup Shootout is Wyatt Couch who has a whole new perspective on the sport after starting his own Spec Miata/Spec MX-5 team this year. Couch has been especially busy balancing his racing life with his mechanical engineering studies, but it has not altered his confidence coming into this year’s shootout.

“Last year was my first time in the Cup car and my first time at Sebring,” Couch said. “It was all a learning experience. I think I learned a lot and improved not only as a driver, but as a person as a whole since last year and I think I can use that to my advantage. I met all the judges last year and got along with them really well, so I think I’m in a solid position.”

Heather Hadley (Mooresville, North Carolina)
Heather Hadley’s background is like no other MX-5 Cup Shootout finalist; her racing experience is in Legends cars. Hadley initially thought that NASCAR was her future, but upon further research decided that MX-5 Cup was where she needed to be to break into sports car racing.

“I think something that helps me is that in the Legends cars we run a sequential transmission, which is what the MX-5 Cup cars run,” Hadley said. “I think that the Legends car is one of the most difficult to drive and I’ve been doing it the last five years, so I’ve developed strong areas, but I do have a lot to learn. I’m not nervous, but I know I’ll be disadvantaged in some areas and have an advantage in others.”

Stay tuned for Part 2 of our introduction to this year’s MX-5 Cup Shootout finalists.

The 2022 Mazda MX-5 Cup Shootout will take place at Sebring International Raceway, November 9 – 10.

About: The Idemitsu Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by BFGoodrich® Tires is the signature spec series for Mazda Motorsports. The series has been operated by Andersen Promotions since 2017 and is currently sanctioned by IMSA. Mazda-powered grassroots champions can earn Mazda scholarships for this pro-level series. The Idemitsu Mazda MX-5 Cup champion is awarded $250,000 as the top rookie nets $80,000.

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

Weekend schedule for NASCAR Championship finale at Phoenix

Photo by David Myers for S[peedwayMedia.com.

NASCAR travels to Phoenix Raceway this week for the final race of the year where the driver that achieves the highest finish in their respective series will be crowned the 2022 NASCAR Champion.

Chase Elliott, 2020 Champion, Joey Logano, 2018 Cup Series Champion, Christopher Bell and Ross Chastain will be competing for the NASCAR Cup Series trophy Sunday afternoon.

Justin Allgaier, Josh Berry, Ty Gibbs and Noah Gragson will race Saturday evening for the NASCAR Xfinity Series title, each hoping to claim their first championship.

The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series championship contenders will hit the track Friday night as Ty Majeski, Ben Rhodes, Chandler Smith and Zane Smith battle for the coveted trophy.

All times are Eastern.

Thursday, Nov. 3

8:05 p.m.: Truck Series Practice – All Entries – No TV
9:30 p.m.: ARCA Menards Series West – Practice/Qualifying – No TV

Friday, Nov. 4

2:30 p.m.: ARCA Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100 – FloRacing/MRN
6 p.m.: Truck Series Qualifying (Impound – Single Vehicle/1 Lap/ All Entries) FS1
7:05 p.m.: Xfinity Series Practice – All Entries – USA
8:05 p.m.: Truck Series Practice – All Entries – USA/MRN

10 p.m.: Truck Series Lucas Oil 150
Distance 150 Laps = 150 Miles
Stages: 45/90/150 Laps
FS1/MRN/SiriusXM
Purse: $817,025

Saturday, Nov. 5

2:30 p.m.: Xfinity Series Qualifying – (Impound – Single Vehicle/1 Lap/ All Entries) NBC Sports App
3:30 p.m.: Cup Series Qualifying – (Impound – Group A & B/ Single Vehicle/1 Lap/2 Rounds) USA/MRN/NBC Sports App

6 p.m.: NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship race
Distance: 200 Laps = 200 Miles
Stages 45/90/200 Laps
USA/MRN/SiriusXM/NBC Sports App
The Purse: $1,645,625

Sunday, Nov. 6

3 p.m.: NASCAR Cup Series Championship race
Distance: 312 Laps = 312 Miles
Stages: 60/185/312 Laps
NBC/Peacock/MRN/SiriusXM
The Purse: $10,542,284

Mobil 1 and Hagerty Make Their Partnership Official: The Legendary Motorsports and Automotive Brands are on a Mission to Save Driving and Celebrate Car Culture

Driving is an Essential Activity for 238 Million Licensed Drivers in the United States; Together Mobil 1 and Hagerty will Make Every Mile More Meaningful

November 2, 2022 – In the over-scheduled, over-programmed race of daily life, cars are often viewed as machines used for commuting – the thing that gets us from one place to another. While automobiles keep nearly a quarter of a billion Americans on the road, the world’s leading synthetic motor oil and iconic motorsports brand Mobil 1™ and the automotive lifestyle brand Hagerty™ are committed to cultivating and celebrating a more meaningful car culture that brings joy to driving and builds a community of driving enthusiasts. To fuel that purpose, today, the two brands formalized their alliance in a multi-year collaboration to serve drivers everywhere.

“Hagerty has a purpose to save driving and car culture. Mobil 1 has a mission to spread the love of driving,” said Scott Howard, Director, North America Finished Lubricants at ExxonMobil. “Whether it’s modern European race cars, classic American builds, the Rocket League’s virtual Octane car, or innovative creations like the Hoonipigasus, we’ve seen that the joy of driving, not necessarily what you’re driving, is what unites enthusiasts together and builds communities. Together, Mobil 1 and Hagerty will better serve, grow, and inspire drivers everywhere.”

Combined, Mobil 1 and Hagerty have nearly 90 years of experience protecting automobiles, creating innovative technologies, building industry relationships, and growing communities of driving enthusiasts all over the world. Together, both brands will be able to serve their consumers better by bringing automotive culture to new heights – on and off the road – with a focus on compelling content, cultivating communities, and providing car care with purpose.

“We started as an insurance company to protect the vehicles we all love,” said Larry Webster, Senior Vice President of Media and Editorial, Hagerty. “But we’ve grown into an automotive lifestyle brand because the passion of driving enthusiasts is so much bigger than the car themselves. The builders, the stories, the gatherings and – yes – the cars, are why more than 750,000 drivers are part of Hagerty’s Driver’s Club. Empowering people who love cars of all types is what motivates Mobil 1 and Hagerty to serve driving communities together.”

At the SEMA Show, the premier annual automotive trade show in Las Vegas, Mobil 1 and Hagerty announced their collaboration and formalized how they plan to serve driving enthusiasts.

Creating Compelling Content

Hagerty brings a deep knowledge of car culture and a proven ability to connect with enthusiasts through high-quality content such as its existing YouTube video series “Capturing Car Culture” and “Hagerty DIY.” Meanwhile, Mobil 1 will provide access to the greatest drivers, cars, and events in the industry as a fixture on the F1 circuit, NASCAR tracks, and extreme motorsport races like the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Together, the industry leaders will collaborate on exclusive, behind-the-scenes content to further showcase the best cars, stories, products and, most importantly, the people behind them as a way to entertain and inform the enthusiast community through all channels including print, digital web, video, and social media.

Cultivating Communities

Hagerty takes car culture seriously by attending, sponsoring, and hosting more than 2,500 events every year and is committed to offering experiential on-ramps for car enthusiasts with its world-class vehicle storage and exclusive social club, Hagerty Garage + Social that provides car lovers with a home away from home. Mobil 1 understands the importance of celebrating driving and highlighting its love of the sport in new ways – such as through its esports and gaming collaborations with Rocket League and Gen.G. Together, the two brands will curate incredible experiences for current driving enthusiasts and cultivate new opportunities to usher in a new community of drivers wherever, and however, they drive.

Car Care with Purpose

Mobil 1 protects engines on the road and track and Hagerty serves more than 750,000 Drivers Club members with roadside service among other benefits – highlighting both brands’ deep understanding of the need for regular car maintenance. Consumers can expect to see exclusive product offerings through the partnership. Caring for a car properly is critical, and together, Mobil 1 and Hagerty will continue to create efficiencies for drivers to increase safety, boost performance, and educate vehicle owners and the industry. Ultimately, the expertise, technology, and education from Mobil 1 and Hagerty will help drivers maintain their cars so they can get more out of the drive.

About Mobil 1

Mobil 1, the world’s leading synthetic motor oil brand, is a brand that has been trusted for more vehicle miles than any one of us sees in our lifetime. Designed to empower our love of driving, Mobil 1 advanced synthetic motor oil features anti-wear technology that provides performance beyond our conventional motor oils – that means more time behind the wheel than under the hood. This technology allows Mobil 1 advanced synthetic motor oil to meet or exceed the toughest standards of vehicle manufacturers and tuning shops, all while providing exceptional protection against engine wear, under normal or even some of the most extreme conditions. Not that you’d ever put your car through any extremes. Join us. For the love of driving.

About Hagerty, Inc. (NYSE: HGTY)

Based in Traverse City, Michigan, Hagerty’s purpose is to save driving and car culture for future generations and its mission is to build a global business to fund that purpose. Hagerty is an automotive enthusiast brand offering integrated membership products and programs as well as a specialty insurance provider focused on the global automotive enthusiast market. Hagerty is home to Hagerty Marketplace, Broad Arrow Group, Hagerty Drivers Club, Hagerty Drivers Club magazine, Hagerty Drivers Foundation, Hagerty DriveShare, Hagerty Valuation Tools, Hagerty Media, MotorsportReg, Hagerty Garage + Social, The Amelia, Detroit Concours d’Elegance, the Greenwich Concours d’Elegance, the California Mille, Motorlux, Broad Arrow Group and more. For more information on Hagerty, please visit www.hagerty.com, or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

More information can be found at newsroom.hagerty.com.