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USMA to Present the First Annual Outside Groove Racing Show this Weekend in Knoxville, Tennesse

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The Outside Groove Racing Show announced that the U.S. Motorsports Association (USMA) has become the presenting sponsor of the first annual edition of the Outside Groove Racing Show. The show will be held February 25-26 in Knoxville, Tennessee inside the Jacob Building at Chilhowee Park.

Racers, fans, and a rapidly growing list of racing industry vendors will gather to network and share in their love for all things motorsports. The show is open to the general public.

The USMA was officially formed in 2015 by a coalition of industry businesses, racetracks, and sanctioning organizations, who recognized racing’s need for greater organization, economic data, and state- and local-level advocacy, primarily for grassroots racing.

The USMA has been instrumental in solving state- and local-level issues for many racetracks across the nation, providing expert advocacy, consulting, and economic research data. A recent win came when drag racing returned to Long Island for the first time in over 17 years, which was in part due to USMA’s economic report titled, “The Importance of a Drag Strip On Long Island.”

Other research has included the first-ever statewide study of motorsports across Pennsylvania and uncovering the tremendous economic impact of the IMCA Super Nationals held annually in Boone, Iowa. (For more on the USMA, read “USMA: An Advocate for Grassroots Racing”.)

“Unlike the stick-and-ball sports, the benefits of racing are not always understood by our elected officials and the general public,” said J.A. Ackley, Outside Groove Racing Show promoter. “People unacquainted with the sport often have negative misconceptions about motorsports. The USMA is making an impact by educating the public and building permanent relationships with lawmakers. At the Outside Groove Racing Show, we share the USMA’s mission to support all forms of racing.”

“Outside Groove has pioneered a new show that will serve the Southeast racing community with an event that is shaping up to be fun and productive. We are excited to have the opportunity to attend and share our message with racers and fans,” said Shawn Stewart, Executive Director of the USMA. “We know from our research that grassroots racing is a massive economic driver and job creator across America. The majority of that impact comes from grassroots racing and a large portion exists in the Southeast, so a trade show in the region makes good sense.”

NTT INDYCAR SERIES Ready To Roll into 2022 Season

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Official Release
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INDIANAPOLIS (Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2022) – Momentum and anticipation continue to grow for the 2022 NTT INDYCAR SERIES opener Sunday, Feb. 27 on the Streets of St. Petersburg for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding. Here’s a look at the year ahead for North America’s premier open-wheel series:

Traditions Return for NBC Showcase

The NTT INDYCAR SERIES season begins in grand fashion with the first six races on NBC network television. Four May weekends also will be featured on broadcast television, including Last Chance Qualifying and the Fast Nine Shootout leading up to the 106th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge, Sunday, May 29.

Among the INDYCAR traditions to return in 2022 will be the Honda Indy Toronto. After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the series returns to the famous Toronto street layout Sunday, July 17. The area is rich with INDYCAR SERIES history as it first hosted the series in 1986. Simon Pagenaud, who drives for Meyer Shank Racing, is the last to win there, in 2019.

The following weekend, INDYCAR returns to the ultra-fast and thrilling D-shaped oval of Iowa Speedway for the new Hy-Vee INDYCAR Race Weekend doubleheader Saturday, July 23 and Sunday, July 24. A festival-like atmosphere of concerts and other attractions will greet the series, including driver Josef Newgarden of Team Penske, who last won on the track known as “The Fastest Short Track on the Planet” in 2020.

In all, NBC will feature a record 14 NTT INDYCAR SERIES races in 2022 with two events set to appear on USA Network. Races, practices and qualifying sessions will be featured on Peacock Premium, with NBC Group’s expanding streaming service also providing exclusive coverage from the Streets of Toronto.

For the first time, Telemundo Deportes will provide Spanish-language coverage of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES season opener, the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge and the season finale. The award-winning INDYCAR Radio Network has coverage of every on-track session throughout 2022.

“Anticipation towards the start of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES season is palpable,” Penske Entertainment Corp. President and CEO Mark Miles said. “It is terrific to know the wait is almost over as we approach a marquee year for our series and its stars.

“Kicking off the season in St. Petersburg, followed by three thrilling spring events, is an ideal lead-in to the Month of May, where demand is outpacing all years since the 100th Running of the Indianapolis 500. The season hits another gear following the ‘500’ with a jam-packed summer punctuated by our return to Iowa and Nashville. Both will prove to be extraordinary events. Combined with our TV partner NBC, we cannot wait to showcase the daring and bold athletes of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES.”

Paddock Pieces

A young, diverse and successful class of six audacious rookies are set to join and compete against no fewer than 20 veteran NTT INDYCAR SERIES drivers, including reigning series champion Alex Palou. With the expansion of A.J. Foyt Racing and Meyer Shank Racing, the 2022 championship totals 26 full-time entries. It is the largest full-time entry list for the INDYCAR SERIES in a decade.

Among the battles to follow will be the PeopleReady Force for Good Challenge, announced last month. The first entry to win on all three types of circuits – road course, street circuit and oval – will split $1 million with the race team and the driver’s chosen charity. PeopleReady is offering an additional $10,000 to the winner of every race this season, also to be split with the driver’s favorite charitable organization.

In 2022, INDYCAR will gradually introduce the EM Motorsport Marshalling System. The new addition will supplement the use of cloth flags with up to 20 EM Motorsport light panels deployed on road and street circuits. The ultra-bright LED displays will use the same flag codes as existing flags and will still be operated by track marshals via a handheld console.

When fully implemented, all race cars and light panels will carry EM Motorsport GPS units, which will create marshalling sectors to help identify cars as they pass through local yellow sectors. New to 2022, any car that passes through a local yellow will lose that timed lap in practice and qualifying, which will help expedite session officiating. As in the past, any driver that causes a local yellow will lose their fastest timed lap.

Other adjustments to the 2022 rulebook include, for safety, the banning of “pushing” or assisting cars out of their pit stall at the completion of a pit stop.

Pit box locations will be selected in order of entrant qualification results from the previous event in 2022. The order will not be affected by penalties for unapproved engine changes. The process of selecting pit positions for the Indianapolis 500 will remain based on “500” qualifying.

The use of barge boards on the Dallara AK-18 chassis are now optional on all ovals with the introduction of the aerodynamic tool at Texas Motor Speedway, Iowa Speedway and World Wide Technology Raceway in 2022. The curved, plate-shaped piece of carbon fiber, located on the leading edge of the underwing, creates front downforce while reducing the reliance of the front wing.

“In race conditions, it should be a benefit to a trailing car,” said Tino Belli, INDYCAR director of aerodynamic development. “Using barge boards combined with less front wing angle will allow cars to follow more closely while still avoiding an aero washout affect through the corners. It also follows the philosophy we have always had with the universal AK-18 to create downforce with the underwing rather than being reliant on the front wing. These optional barge boards will become another crucial tool in the teams’ aerodynamic arsenal.”

Also, where possible, NTT INDYCAR SERIES non-oval practice sessions will be blocked for 60 minutes to allow for a better opportunity to complete the traditional 45-minute session – compensating for unexpected red flag periods.

“We are constantly evaluating ways to improve the NTT INDYCAR SERIES,” INDYCAR President Jay Frye said. “We examine every aspect – from safety and officiating to on-track competition – and believe the changes will add to the series’ level of energy, momentum and deep competitive balance.”

On the Horizon

It is expected to be another season of historic moments for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. Six-time series champion Scott Dixon returns to drive the No. 9 PNC Bank Honda for Chip Ganassi Racing. The 41-year-old continues his pursuit to tie the legendary A.J. Foyt for all-time INDYCAR SERIES championships with seven.

Helio Castroneves returns full-time in 2022 to drive the No. 06 AutoNation/SiriusXM Meyer Shank Racing Honda. The 46-year-old will attempt to become the first five-time winner of the Indianapolis 500. Forty-year-old Will Power once again will pilot the No. 12 Verizon 5G Team Penske Chevrolet and begins the season just four poles away from tying the legendary Mario Andretti’s all-time record of 67.

Meanwhile, the series prepares for the future as work continues with Chevrolet and Honda toward a new engine package. The 2.4-liter, twin-turbocharged V6 with hybrid technology, which is expected to produce a total of 900 horsepower, is expected to debut in 2023.

“Last season was an amazing year with historic storylines throughout 2021,” Frye said. “With the effort by everyone in the offseason and the continued growth of the paddock, we expect 2022 to be even better. We cannot wait to see it play out.”

Frontline Enterprises Continues Support of Todd Gilliland

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Official Release
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Canadian Automotive Dealer Partners with Rookie in West Coast Swing

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (February 22, 2022) – One of the first partners to commit to the NASCAR Cup Series with Todd Gilliland in 2022 was Frontline Enterprises, a longtime partner of Gilliland and the Gilliland racing family. Frontline Enterprises will now be the primary partner of Gilliland for the critical West Coast swing to begin the 2022 season.

The familiar Frontline Enterprises scheme will adorn the No. 38 Ford Mustang this weekend at the Auto Club Speedway and again at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway and the Phoenix Raceway. The company has been a supporter of FRM and Gilliland for the last two seasons in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series.

“We are really excited to move up to the NASCAR Cup Series with Todd and Front Row Motorsports,” said Brett Stevens, Owner, Frontline Enterprises. “We’ve watched Todd grow as a competitor and climb through the NASCAR ranks and cannot wait to see him tackle his rookie season.”

Gilliland is thrilled to carry the Frontline Enterprises brand again this season.

“Having Frontline Enterprises come on board in my first Cup Series season means so much to me,” said Gilliland. “They have been with me for the past few seasons in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, and even before that. It’s really special to have them make the move with me into the NASCAR Cup Series. They are great friends and we want to have a great next three races for them.”

Frontline Enterprises will also be an associate partner of Gilliland and the No. 38 Ford Mustang team all season.

About Front Row Motorsports
Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization in the NASCAR Cup and Camping World Truck Series and the 2021 Daytona 500 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 NASCAR Camping World 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.

JR Motorsports and PUBG MOBILE Announce 2022 Partnership

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Official Release
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Popular Mobile Game Featured on Josh Berry’s No. 8 Chevy in Four NASCAR Xfinity Events

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Feb. 22, 2022) — PUBG MOBILE, one of the world’s most popular mobile games, will partner with JR Motorsports and the No. 8 team for four NASCAR Xfinity Series events with driver Josh Berry, the organization announced today. The No. 8 PUBG MOBILE Chevrolet will race at Auto Club Speedway (Feb. 26), Phoenix Raceway (March 12), Circuit of the Americas (March 26) and Talladega Superspeedway (April 23).

PUBG MOBILE is a battle royale mobile game developed by Lightspeed and Quantum Studios of Tencent Games and KRAFTON, Inc. and is based on PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS. The game focuses on visual quality, maps, fast-paced action, and other aspects, providing an all-rounded surreal battle royale experience to players.

“Mobile gaming has become so popular these days, so it’s great to showcase PUBG MOBILE on our No. 8,” said Berry. “As a big gaming fan, I’m excited to be able to represent PUBG MOBILE as it celebrates its fourth anniversary. Our goal is to get to Victory Lane with this partnership and connect PUBG MOBILE with a whole new and loyal fanbase.”

It’s the second time in four years the JRM and PUBG MOBILE squads have teamed up. During the 2019-20 season, PUBG MOBILE was featured on the team’s No. 9 entry in five events.

“We’re excited to return as a partner with JR Motorsports and support Josh Berry and the No. 8 team,” said Anthony Crouts, senior director of marketing for PUBG MOBILE. “Much like PUBG MOBILE,the NASCAR community features a dedicated fanbase and this partnership gives us an opportunity to connect with our players in a new and exciting way.”

PUBG MOBILE becomes the fourth partner added to the No. 8 team lineup for 2022 alongside previously announced sponsors Tire Pros, Harrison’s USA and Jarrett. For more information, visit pubgmobile.com and download the game for free on the App Store or Google Play Store.

ABOUT PUBG MOBILE:
PUBG MOBILE is based on PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS, the phenomenon that took the world of interactive entertainment by storm in 2017. Up to 100 players parachute onto a remote island to battle in a winner-takes-all showdown. Players must locate and scavenge their own weapons, vehicles, and supplies, and defeat every player in a visually and tactically rich battleground that forces players into a shrinking play zone.

For more information, please visit the official PUBG MOBILE social channels on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

ABOUT JR MOTORSPORTS:
JR Motorsports is the racing operation co-owned by NASCAR Hall of Fame member and 15-time Most Popular Driver Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kelley Earnhardt Miller and NASCAR Hall of Famer Rick Hendrick. Now in its 21st year of overall competition, JR Motorsports competes in multiple divisions, including the NASCAR Xfinity Series where it currently fields four full-time teams and earned championships in 2014, 2017 and 2018. The company also races in Late Model competition and owns four championships in regional Late Model divisions and added a prized national title in 2020. To learn more about the organization, its drivers and its sponsorship opportunities, visit www.jrmracing.com.

Words of Advice When Buying a New Car

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SM
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Photo by Sarah Brown on Unsplash

Buying a car may sound pretty easy, but can also prove to be a tedious task. Today’s market carries a vast range of options when it comes to purchasing a new car. However, a car doesn’t mean that you are done with the whole process. Those who own a car must know that buying it involves a long-term financial commitment that a person has to make. Cars more mostly bought by loans from the bank, thus meaning that you are now into a commitment that has to be fulfilled otherwise there would be consequences. This is why it is always important to take all aspects of buying a new car into consideration before making the decision. Therefore, below are some words of advice when buying a new car. 

Make an Informed Decision 

It was always important to do extensive research when buying a new car. You can gain knowledge by accessing informative car-related articles on the internet. You can also search for the different features. This will make you an active and informed buyer, which also means that you won’t fall for an overzealous salesperson’s tactics. 

Don’t Talk Money

Never ever tell others your exact budget. Let it be clear that salesmen always manage to push the value much higher than your budget because they are trained in this way. Just be sure about the model, engine configuration, and variant that you want, and just stick to it. Make sure to do your research into the price of the car you want, such as by checking invoice prices as you can here. When it’s time to purchase a new car, go to any multi-brand car dealer, and let them about the details and they’ll tell you the market price of that car. In this way, you will not have to pay higher than your budget. If you are thinking to buy a new car, go to 2022 Ford Ranger at HSP Ute Lids. 

Write Down Your Requirements

It is another most important factor when considering to purchase a new car. The first and the foremost important thing you should do is to make a list of all features and quality that you are looking for in the new car. This will make you clear than certain about your choice. For e.g. you think about either getting petrol or diesel. This will help you find the right car much easier and faster as compared to someone who hasn’t listed down their requirements first. 

Budgeting

Budgeting is also another aspect of buying a new car. You first have to do your math based on your monthly earnings and expenditure, which will decide the type of car you can afford. You don’t want to sign up for a car that is overly expensive which might drag you into too much debt. If you are someone who is buying a car on EMIs, you must calculate the monthly premium that you can easily pay without getting into trouble with your monthly finances. 

Latest Trends That Have Revolutionized Casino Gaming

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SM
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Photo by Aperture Pro from Pexels

Casino gaming is entertaining, fun, and easy to learn. Its rising popularity is thanks to the various technologies that have helped redefine the industry. Understanding what these technologies bring to the table helps predict what the future of casino gaming has in store. The following is a breakdown of the multiple trends in the casino gaming industry that you need to keep in mind.

Crypto Is the Future of Payment

There is a surging popularity of crypto in the gambling industry. You could attribute this to the seamlessness, privacy, and security cryptocurrencies offer. Various people have shown their biased preferences for cryptos in transactions, from depositing and withdrawing to gameplay. Due to minimal traceability, cryptocurrencies have become the go-to option for anyone seeking anonymity.

Every gamer looks forward to enhanced security, particularly during transactions. Secure transactions will protect the user against identity theft and loss of money. Fortunately, you get all these elements from cryptocurrency when playing casino games, including when you play FanDuel casino games.

Artificial Intelligence

Over the past few years, artificial intelligence has been at the center of various economic sectors. This element has proven helpful in the casino gaming industry too. Multiple casinos are introducing different AI technologies, from customer support services to comprehensive insights into games.

Artificial intelligence brings a lot to the table. For instance, it cushions users against casino cheating. Thanks to chatbots, their role in improving customer service has also grown over the years. Artificial intelligence will also provide smart data, which ensures that players make more informed decisions in the long run.

Change In Regulations

Various states have proven the desire to regulate the gaming industry. These jurisdictions have legalized gambling, making it easier for players to enjoy their preferred casino games and lots of other games that can be found on websites like pg slot. The legalization of gambling aims at improving revenue across different states. Increased receptiveness also implies that more and more players will come on board. Different licenses are offered to these casinos. Establishing their authenticity is a more straightforward process, guaranteeing the convenience you desire.

At the same time, you expect the popularity of gambling games to grow. Most gaming casinos are going online and digital, making them more accessible to the younger generation. Virtual reality has also become commonplace in this arrangement. It helps offer a more immersive user experience, making gaming more beautiful.

Mobile Gambling

Smartphones are the most popular means of communication today. Users rely on them to access various sites, including gambling and casino websites. Thanks to this trend, moving gaming to mobile platforms seems to be a prudent measure. You can access mobile gaming in two ways: apps and web-based versions. Optimized mobile sites offer an incredible platform for gamers. These sites allow the user to maneuver websites without much struggle. This platform allows the player to open multiple tabs simultaneously, making it easier to compare different options. On the other hand, high-quality mobile apps enable users to access gaming sites in the comfort of their homes.

In addition, digital adoption will take center stage in this industry. Implementing new technologies will allow easier interaction with the site or app. For instance, interactive gaming systems aim at modifying and boosting interaction. You could also consider smartwatches, which provide you with an immersive iGaming experience. That means you can place your bets via a smartwatch. This move provides you with unmatched convenience and accessibility, allowing you to place bets even when on the move.

In conclusion, you can expect various gaming and casino industry changes. New technologies have significantly redefined this space. Notably, embracing them translates to a more immersive gaming experience in the long run.

Rookie Cindric Reaps Traditional Rewards After Memorable DAYTONA 500 Triumph, Starts His New Tradition

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Official Release
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2022 DAYTONA 500 Champion Austin Cindric (left) poses with Daytona International Speedway President Frank Kelleher after Cindric made his barefoot mark in concrete that will soon be a part of the Speedway’s ‘Champion’s Sidewalk’ in front of the Ticket and Tours building & Motorsports Hall of Fame of America.

With No Shoe and Sock he Makes His Stamp on 500 Lure; Customary Rolex, Rings, Leather Jackets, Coveted Trophies Awarded

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Feb. 21, 2022) – A day after placing his name in Daytona International Speedway’s record book with his first career NASCAR Cup Series triumph, rookie Austin Cindric was honored Monday during a “Champion’s Celebration” inside the track’s Ruoff Victory Lane. As is customary, there were plenty of special gifts awarded only to a DAYTONA 500 Champion and his team, but then out of nowhere, Cindric began his own tradition.

One of the tasks at hand was for Cindric to place his handprints and footprint into wet concrete that will soon be a permanent square on the Speedway’s ‘Champion’s Sidewalk’ in front of the Ticket and Tours building and Motorsports Hall of Fame of America. Every footprint of past DAYTONA 500 Champions actually showcases the driver’s imprint, using the bottom his racing shoe. Not Cindric, however, who took off his shoe and sock before planted his bare foot in the mushy cement.

“I guess I just like being me, and sometimes that may be different from others,” said Cindric, who afterwards wiped down his foot. “I can wash my feet because I decided I didn’t want to mess with my racing shoes, or the shoes I have on today. Hopefully the fans will think it is cool with my actual footprint.”

The Champion’s Celebration also includes the Champion Crew chief and car owner. Cindric, driver of the No. 2 Ford for Team Penske, was joined by crew chief Jeremy Bullins and Greg Penske, who was subbing for his legendary father and car owner, Roger Penske.

They received customary 2022 DAYTONA 500 Champion rings and 2022 black leather jackets while a special Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona was presented to Cindric as the Champion driver. Bullins was awarded the Cannonball Baker (long-time NASCAR Commissioner) Trophy as the Champion Crew Chief, while the unique Harley J. Earl Trophy for the Champion car owner, was on display.

Cindric, the 2021 NASCAR Xfinity Series Champion, became the ninth driver in history to post his first career victory in the season-opening DAYTONA. He joined Tiny Lund (1963), Mario Andretti (1967), Pete Hamilton (1970), Derrike Cope (1990), Sterling Marlin (1994), Michael Waltrip (2001), Trevor Bayne (2011), Michael McDowell (2021).

NASCAR returns to Daytona in August with the running of the Wawa 250 (Aug. 26) and the Coke Zero Sugar 400 (Aug. 27), the final race that will determine the driver lineup in the NASCAR Playoffs. For more information, log onto www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or call 1-800-PITSHOP. Fans can stay connected with Daytona International Speedway on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for the latest speedway news.

About Daytona International Speedway
Daytona International Speedway is a state-of-the-art motorsports facility and was awarded the SportsBusiness Journal’s prestigious Sports Business Award for Sports Facility of the Year in 2016. Daytona International Speedway is the home of The Great American Race – the DAYTONA 500. Though the season-opening NASCAR Cup Series event garners most of the attention – as well as the largest audience in motorsports – the approximately 500-acre motorsports complex, also known as the World Center of Racing, boasts the most diverse schedule of racing on the globe. In addition to at least nine major event weekends, the Speedway grounds are also used extensively for events that include concerts, civic and social gatherings, car shows, photo shoots, production vehicle testing and police motorcycle training. The iconic venue will be the site of a host of motorsports events early in 2022, beginning with AHRMA Classic Motofest and the Rolex 24 At DAYTONA in January, and the 64th DAYTONA 500, which will debut the first points race for NASCAR’s ‘Next Gen’ car as part of Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth in February. The tradition-rich 81st Annual Bike Week At DAYTONA returns in March, featuring DAYTONA Supercross and the DAYTONA 200, and in May with the Heroes Honor Festival. Later in the summer during Independence Day weekend, the track, in association with Torneos, will host Soccer Fest before the NASCAR Cup Series returns for the final race of the regular season with the Coke Zero Sugar 400 on Aug. 27.

Love’s Travel Stops Earn Two Top 10 Finishes – Gilliland Impresses in Cup Debut

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Official Release
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Front Row Motorsports (FRM) wraps up six exciting days in Daytona, FL, with the team leaving with a strong showing in both the NASCAR Cup Series, as well as the NASCAR Truck Series.

FRM, coming off a record breaking year, is poised to show that it can contend for top ten finishes on a weekly basis and write more history in 2022. Those efforts showed this past weekend.

ZANE SMITH’s NO. 38 LOVE’S TRAVEL STOPS | CARGILL FORD F-150 WINS NCWTS SEASON OPENER

Zane Smith joined FRM for the 2022 season, bringing with him multiple wins and two consecutive second place points finishes in the NASCAR Truck Series. Combine that with the championship contending No. 38 Love’s Travel Stops | Cargill Ford F-150 team led by Crew Chief Chris Lawson, the team is an instant favorite. That was shown Friday night at Daytona.

Starting in 20th, Zane wasted no time fighting through the pack, passing trucks at every opportunity to put himself in contention to be in the lead fight going into the stage breaks. By the end of Stage One, he had navigated to the sixth position, earning himself five stage/playoff points. Playing the strategy game by pitting for fuel, meant Zane would drop back, but play through to Stage Two, where he would be in the thick of things in the final stage.

Starting the final stage in the top five, the No. 38 Love’s | Cargill Ford F-150 was sitting in third for the remainder of the night, saving fuel and equipment for the final handful of laps.
Smith’s patience, quick reactions, and knowledge of the draft showed, as an avoided wreck, followed by an overtime finish, ultimately ended with Zane in victory lane in his first start with FRM.

ZANE ON DAYTONA:
“This place is something else, I can tell you that. Literally my heart hurt after that red flag, but this is so cool to see all the hard work the team has put into the off-season paying off here with this win. It’s so cool to get Love’s back in victory lane, and I can’t wait to make this a record season.”

MICHAEL MCDOWELL NO. 34 LOVE’S TRAVEL STOPS FORD MUSTANG FINISHED 7th

Defending Daytona 500 Champion Michael McDowell returned to Daytona with an incredible finishing record at the famed race, looking to make it back to back wins at the biggest race of the year. Showing speed in every practice session, and being in contention to win his Thursday Duel, the team had significant momentum leading up to the green flag.

Starting sixth, McDowell quickly showed that he was going to be a factor in the race and wasted no time in advancing, and holding station in the top five for most of the first stage. However, when the racing began to get dicey, the team played it safe, knowing that having the car in one piece at the end meant having a chance at a second Harley J Earl Trophy.

Avoiding multiple wrecks, saving fuel at each stage break and drafting with both teammate Todd Gilliland and Ford manufacturer teammates, meant McDowell would run inside the top ten virtually all race. While stage points did not materialize in order keep the car clean, the No. 34 Love’s Travel Stops Ford Mustang ran inside the top ten, and was in the hunt for the trophy at the end of the final stage.

Avoiding a wreck inside ten to go, and restarting inside the top ten, put everything in place to make a back to back win possible. Unfortunately, as the remaining few laps unfolded, there was no room to advance as the racing became tighter than before, boxing McDowell in where he was. Crossing the line in the seventh position proved to be a great points day, and another top ten in the Daytona 500. However, after the start/finish line, a car clipped McDowell’s right rear, sending him hard into the wall before entering turn 1. Michael climbed out of the car safe and is ready to move on to Auto Club next weekend.

MCDOWELL ON DAYTONA:
“What a day, and what a speedweeks that was. Our Love’s Travel Stops Ford Mustang was fast all week, and that really showed in a big way. Blake and all the crew did an amazing job to put this car together, and calculated a great race to get us in contention to win at the end. We had a shot, but just needed to be a couple sports further up on that last restart to get into the mix. I’m so proud of my team and cant thank them, Ford Performance, and Roush Yates Engines enough.”

TODD GILLILAND NO. 38 FIRST PHASE CARD FORD MUSTANG IMPRESS IN FIRST POINTS RACE

Todd Gilliland showed great speed all weekend, like his teammate McDowell. In his first points start, and first start in the “Great American Race”, he wanted to show the sport that he is set to make a splash in the Cup Series, as he did in the Truck Series.

He followed suit with his teammate, playing strategy and advancing position through speed and grit. Starting 29th, Todd and crew chief Seth Barbour capitalized on timely cautions to advance into the top ten, but after multiple restarts, showed speed and quickly passed his competitors to capture stage a large amount of stage points, finishing third in Stage One, and tenth in Stage Two. It was a hard task to advance as much as he did, but the No. 38 First Phase Card Ford Mustang was in the mix all day, sitting firmly in the top five as well as top ten throughout the entirety of the race.

Running inside the top ten with not many laps in the race, Todd was a factor in the end, and did well avoiding incidents all race. He nearly avoided the last incident of the night, but like his teammate, was clipped in the right rear and sent into the outside wall, ending his chance at a win in his first points paying start. However, showing that the second generation driver has a bright future ahead of him.

GILLILAND ON DAYTONA:
“We had a great car, an amazing strategy, and I can’t thank everyone enough for all the hard work put into our FirstPhaseCard.com Ford Mustang. I think we had a real shot at the end, and our run today really showed the speed we have going into the year. It stinks that our race ended the way it did, but that’s just how it goes at tracks like this. We will focus on the season ahead, and get after it next week out west.”

ABOUT FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS
Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization in the NASCAR Cup and Camping World Truck Series and the 2021 Daytona 500 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 NASCAR Camping World 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.

Pala Casino, Spa and Resort Partners with Live Fast Motorsports

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Official Release
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MOORESVILLE, N.C. (February 21): Live Fast Motorsports (LFM) and Pala Casino, Spa and Resort announced today their partnership for the NASCAR Cup Series’ Fontana, Fall Las Vegas, and Phoenix Finale races. The two companies entered this strategic partnership to provide NASCAR fans and west-coast locals with increased awareness and access to one of the top Casino, Spa and Resorts in southern California.

The agreement combines professional stock car racing and SoCal’s entertainment capital. Pala Casino, Spa and Resort is a Las Vegas-style casino with 2,000+ slot machines, 84 table games, eight poker tables and a 15,000-square-foot smoke-free casino area; a 507-room hotel; five swimming pools with two hot tubs and 14 luxury cabanas; a 10,000-square-foot, full-service spa and salon that features 17 treatment rooms, two cabanas and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Pala also offers 10 restaurants and 40,000 square feet of meeting and convention space.

“Pala Casino, Spa and Resort is excited to enter their second year of partnership with Live Fast Motorsports,” said Pala Casino, Spa & Resorts’ Director of Player Development, Brain Roe. “We are thrilled to continue to work with Live Fast Motorsports showcasing the lively experience our casino offers, similarly lively NASCAR races. We are proud that LFM co-owner, Matt Tifft, co-owner and NASCAR Cup series driver, B.J. McLeod, and their team trust our brand to represent #78 in the sport for these 2022 west coast races.”

Live Fast Motorsport fans will have access to special Pala Casino, Spa and Resort and LFM giveaways, limited time #78 player reward cards, casino updates and more.

“We have had the honor of working with Pala Casino for two years now.” said co-founder of Live Fast Motorsports, Matt Tifft. “Inviting our fans to Pala Casino, Spa and Resort in correlation with our west coast races is an organic segue to provide energetic day & night life. Pala Casino, Spa and Resort offers a luxurious variety of activities for the energetic and competitive fans of ours.”

Live Fast Motorsports and Pala Casino, Spa and Resort are excited to see where this second-year partnership leads and eager to continue to create positive experiences and memories for their fans and customers.

For more information about Pala Casino, Spa and Resort, visit www.palacasino.com, www.facebook.com/palacasino, or www.twitter.com/palacasino.

About Pala Casino, Spa & Resort Inc.…

As SoCal’s Entertainment Capital, Pala Casino Spa Resort includes a Las Vegas-style casino including an expansive gaming floor with over 2,000 slot and video machines, 78 table games, 9 restaurants, two lounges, 2,000-seat Pala Events Center, outdoor Starlight Theater and luxury hotel; five swimming pools with two hot tubs and 14 luxury cabanas. Pala Casino’s wide variety of HD premium sporting events enhance an exciting collection of live bands daily at both indoor and outdoor venues. Pala Casino Spa & Resort is an AAA Four-Diamond Award winner for 15 consecutive years. Pala Casino is conveniently located off 1-5 and Highway 76 and is easily accessible from all counties in Southern California.

About Live Fast Motorsports…

Live Fast Motorsports is a single-car Ford Mustang 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. McLeod also serves as the team’s driver. B.J.’s wife, Jessica McLeod, is named the company’s CEO.

NASCAR Top-10 Power Rankings: Daytona

By
Jeffrey Boswell
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Austin Cindric wins the 2022 Daytona-500. Photo by Patrick-Sue-Chan for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Note: The quotes in this article are fictional

  1. Austin Cindric: Cindric held off Bubba Wallace and teammate Ryan Blaney to win the Daytona 500 in his first Daytona start.

“I’m only 23 years old,” Cindric said. “To achieve the greatest accomplishment of one’s life at that age is simply amazing. If that’s still the case 32 years from now, then I’ll officially change my name to ‘Derrick Cope.’”

“Historically, the Daytona 500 is known as the ‘Great American Race.’ Currently, it’s known as the ‘Greatest Collection of ‘Let’s Go Brandon’ Merchandise In The World.’”

2. Bubba Wallace: Wallace finished second at Daytona, matching his career-best 500 finish.

“‘Second’ is a word that’s rarely used by Michael Jordan,” Wallace said, ‘unless it’s used in the following context: ‘Give me one second, while I place another bet.’

“My crew chief is Bootie Barber. So, any communication between him and I is technically a ‘Bootie call.’ No matter what happens this season, I’ll still never have more ‘bootie calls’ than Tim Richmond.

3. Ryan Blaney: Blaney came home fourth at Daytona as Penske Racing teammate Austin Cindric took the win.

“Congratulations to Austin,” Blaney said. “And congratulations to Roger Penske. Roger’s 85th birthday was Sunday. Roger’s a legend in auto racing across many series and is the greatest car owner in auto racing. No other car owner can hold a candle to Roger, much less 85.”

4. Aric Almirola: Almirola finished fifth at Daytona.

“NASCAR started the season with the Busch Clash in the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum,” Almirola said. “That track was tiny. I’ve seen bigger circles in a pack of Lifesavers or under the eyes of anyone who’s awoken in the Daytona infield after a day and/or night of drinking with Clint Bowyer.”

5. Brad Keselowski: Keselowski led a race-high 67 laps and finished ninth at Daytona in his first points race as driver/owner for Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing.

“I feel great being a part of re-igniting Roush Fenway,” Keselowski said. “It may sound difficult, but it’s really not, because re-igniting something that’s already on fire is easy, and Roush Fenway was a dumpster fire.”

6. Michael McDowell: McDowell started sixth and finished seventh at Daytona in the No. 34 Front Row Motorsports Mustang.

“Fox Corporation CEO Lachlan Murdoch waved the green flag to start the race,” McDowell said. “As you would expect in a race green-flagged by him, there was a lot of ‘spin.’”

7. Chase Briscoe: Briscoe finished fourth in the Daytona 500 in the No. 14 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford Mustang.

“I hope I made Tony Stewart proud,” Briscoe said. “Tony was in the booth with Mike Joy and Clint Bowyer calling the race for Fox. I think Tony’s a natural in front of the camera. They say ‘the camera adds ten pounds.’ Tony absolutely agrees with that. That way, he doesn’t have to blame it on his diet.” 

8. Kyle Busch: Busch finished sixth at Daytona and remained winless in Daytona 500’s.

“I’m now 0-17 in Daytona 500 races,” Busch said. “Personally, I’m looking forward to the ‘Next Generation,’ because I’ve already gone through one without winning the 500.”

9. Chase Elliott: Elliott finished 10th at Daytona and was the only Chevrolet driver in the top 10.

“I’m just happy the No. 9 NAPA Chevy finished the race in one piece,” Elliott said. “Obviously, I was able to steer clear of Brad Keselowski. How many cars did he wreck? Now that Brad is an owner and a driver, it’s clear he’s the ‘total’ package.”

10. David Ragan: Ragan finished eighth at Daytona after avoiding several accidents until being caught up in a final-lap crash after crossing the finish line.

“I,” Ragan said, “like 38 other drivers, was just happy to survive…a race that Brad Keselowski was in.

“Floyd Mayweather Jr. is a new NASCAR owner. Kaz Grala drives the No. 50 car for The Money Team Racing. I don’t know much about Kaz Grala, but I can tell you this – Any car associated with Mayweather will never knock anyone out, and can only win on points. And should also have its financials reviewed by a competent accountant.”

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