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Speedway Motorsports Partners with Stewart-Haas Racing On Ultimate Race Day Experience with Dedicated Fan Suite

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  • Five Speedway Motorsports facilities to debut Stewart-Haas Racing Fan Suites during NASCAR Cup Series weekends in 2022, offering fans exclusive access to race weekend track tours, VIP appearances and hospitality
  • Limited ticket packages are available at stewarthaasracing.com/fan-suite, starting at $525

CONCORD, N.C. (Jan. 27, 2022) – Stewart-Haas Racing fans are revved up for the start of the upcoming NASCAR season, and Speedway Motorsports is giving the team’s most avid supporters yet another reason to fuel up on fun, with all-new Stewart-Haas Racing Fan Suites set to debut at tracks across the country.

New for 2022, five Speedway Motorsports properties – Atlanta Motor Speedway, Bristol Motor Speedway, Charlotte Motor Speedway, Las Vegas Motor Speedway and Texas Motor Speedway – will roll out the red carpet for a limited number of passionate fans looking for the ultimate race day experience. Stewart-Haas Racing Fan Suite ticket holders will receive exclusive access to track tours, VIP appearances, team gift bags and the chance to take in the NASCAR action alongside fellow SHR fans in an enclosed, climate-controlled suite.

Stewart-Haas Racing Fan Suite ticket packages will be available at the following Speedway Motorsports events:

March 6: Las Vegas Motor Speedway
March 20: Atlanta Motor Speedway
April 17: Bristol Motor Speedway
May 22: Texas Motor Speedway
May 29: Charlotte Motor Speedway
July 10: Atlanta Motor Speedway
Sept. 17: Bristol Motor Speedway
Sept. 25: Texas Motor Speedway
Oct. 9: Charlotte Motor Speedway
Oct. 16: Las Vegas Motor Speedway

“Our fans are so integral to the DNA of NASCAR and it is important that we continue to mine unique, world-class experiences for them,” said Brett Frood, President of Stewart-Haas Racing. “We’re proud of the continued collaboration and partnership with Speedway Motorsports and our focus on elevating the fan experience and holistic access to our sport.”

Suite capacity is limited at each facility, so fans are encouraged to lock in this unique opportunity early to ensure a spot. Ticket packages start at just $525, and can be purchased online at www.stewarthaasracing.com/fan-suite.

About Speedway Motorsports:

Speedway Motorsports is a leading marketer, promoter and sponsor of motorsports entertainment in the United States. The company, through its subsidiaries, owns and operates the following premier facilities: Atlanta Motor Speedway, Bristol Motor Speedway, Charlotte Motor Speedway, Dover Motor Speedway, Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Nashville Superspeedway, New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Sonoma Raceway, Texas Motor Speedway and Kentucky Speedway. Speedway Motorsports provides souvenir merchandising services through its SMI Properties subsidiaries; manufactures and distributes smaller-scale, modified racing cars and parts through its U.S. Legend Cars International subsidiary; and produces and broadcasts syndicated motorsports programming to radio stations nationwide through its Performance Racing Network subsidiary.

ABOUT STEWART-HAAS RACING

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

Brayton Laster Joins Mullins Racing For Daytona ARCA Opener

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Brayton Laster will join Mullins Racing for the ARCA Menards Series opener at Daytona International Speedway on Feb. 19. (Image 13 Photography)

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – When Brayton Laster followed Dinah Mullins on TikTok, he had no idea it would eventually lead to the opportunity of a lifetime.

Laster, a 19-year-old racer from Greenwood, Ind., will join Mullins Racing to compete in the ARCA Menards Series Lucas Oil 200 Driven by General Tire on Feb. 19 at Daytona International Speedway.

“I’m a small town dirt track guy. We’re not supposed to make it to Daytona,” said a very excited Laster. “The Mullins Racing team is an awesome group of people. I’m so thankful to be able to work with them and actually be able to race for them at Daytona. It’s so cool to work for a team that I share a lot of my values and ideals with.”

The Liberty University freshman, who is pursuing an Associate of Arts degree in business, joins Mullins Racing after spending the last four seasons racing primarily on dirt.

In 2018 he was the Brownstown (Ind.) Speedway Rookie of the Year in the super late model division. More recently, he finished the 2021 season ranked third in the Ultimate Heart of America Super Late Model Series standings. He was also third in the Richmond (Ky.) Raceway super late model standings last year.

The opportunity for Laster to make his ARCA debut at Daytona stems from a simple follow on the social media platform TikTok. Laster began following Dinah Mullins, the wife of Mullins Racing owner Willie Mullins, on TikTok because he enjoyed the content that the small, family-owned team produced.

Dinah Mullins’ TikTok account (@dinahmmullins) has exploded in the last year. Now boasting more than 25,000 followers, her account features a lot of behind-the-scenes content showcasing what it takes to get the Mullins Racing team to the race track.

Soon after he began following Dinah Mullins on TikTok, Laster’s father brought up the idea of taking part in the ARCA Menards Series pre-race practice at Daytona in January. It was then Laster discovered that Mullins Racing was seeking drivers to take part in the pre-race practice.

A few emails and text messages later and Laster was signed up to take part in the Daytona pre-race practice for Mullins Racing.

“I didn’t really know them before we put this whole deal together,” Laster said. “I knew Dinah from TikTok. That’s how I knew they were looking for some drivers for the practice. So I reached out to them and that’s how we ended up going to the practice.

“You can’t prepare to run at Daytona,” Laster continued. “I went in there completely blind and I came out of there completely speechless. There is nothing like going 190 mph.”

Following the pre-race practice, Laster and his family agreed that Laster was going to race at Daytona, then Mullins Racing was the team they wanted to do it with.

From there, it was only a matter of days before the deal was done for Laster to race at Daytona. It will be the first time in team history that Mullins Racing has fielded two cars at Daytona International Speedway in the ARCA Menards Series. Team owner Willie Mullins will once again drive the No. 3 entry while Laster will pilot the No. 03.

“This is a big deal for us,” said Willie Mullins, who is also on TikTok at @williemullins.3. “To have Mullins Racing represented by Brayton Laster is extremely exciting. We would have never thought TikTok would bring a driver to us, but it was has worked out well. They see how hard we work on our stuff. We’re excited that platform has actually given us the ability to reach so many people in the motor racing industry.”

Laster’s No. 03 Mullins Racing Ford will carry sponsorship from a number of supporters, including IndyAutoRecyclers.com, EDCO, One Way Auto Parts, Image 13 Photography, C.J. Rayburn Race Cars, USA Insulation and Jimmy’s Diner.

He’s hopeful that given the success Mullins Racing has enjoyed at Daytona in the past, which includes one top-five and four top-10 finishes, that he’ll be able to enjoy a strong run when the ARCA Menards Series takes the green flag on Feb. 19 at Daytona International Speedway.

“We have a really good car and we have a really great team,” said Laster. “The car I’m going to drive has a pretty strong reputation of finishing strong at Daytona. I’d be very content with finishing the entire race, but even if we don’t I’ll be happy because I’ll be able to say I ran at Daytona and a lot of people don’t make it to this level.”

For more information on Mullins Racing, please visit mullinsracing.net, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mullinsracing and follow them on Twitter at @mullins_racing.

African American-Led Force Indy Elevates to Indy Lights with Driver Francis

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Rising Star Adds to Diverse Legacy of Growing Team

INDIANAPOLIS (Thursday, Jan. 27, 2022) – Force Indy has announced its entry for the 2022 Indy Lights Presented by Cooper Tires championship with Ernie Francis Jr. driving the team’s No. 99 car.

Haitian American Francis heads to Force Indy after three wins in his lone season in the Formula Regional Americas Championship and a second-place finish in the inaugural season of the Superstar Racing Experience (SRX), with a win at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park.

Florida native Francis, 24, is also a seven-time class champion in the Trans Am Series (2014-2020). His 47 career victories are the most of any driver in Trans Am history. His 24 wins in the premier TA category trail only Paul Gentilozzi (31), Mark Donohue (29) and Tommy Kendall (28).

“This is an incredible opportunity,” Francis said. “After getting a taste last year and beginning to learn what open-wheel racing is all about, I found myself wanting more. Open-wheel cars are incredible to drive. To know that I’ll continue my education with Force Indy and only one step away from the NTT INDYCAR SERIES makes this unbelievably special. I cannot wait to get started.”

In December 2020, African American business leader and former racing team manager Rod Reid announced the formation of Force Indy with the focus on hiring men and women of color, including mechanics, engineers, staffers and drivers. During its inaugural season in the Cooper Tires USF2000 Championship, the team won in thrilling fashion at New Jersey Motorsports Park with driver Myles Rowe.

“Being able to finish our first season with a win showed what this team is capable of doing,” Reid said. “We want to thank Myles, who will always be a member of the Force Indy race team, and will continue to offer assistance and mentorship as he pursues another season in USF2000.

“I could not be more thrilled to promote our group to the Indy Lights Presented by Cooper Tires championship with Ernie Francis Jr. His work ethic and history of success speak for itself.”

Team Principal Reid’s years of karting and auto racing experience have proven invaluable. His NXG Youth Motorsports Inc., has introduced more than 2,300 students from under-represented communities, ages 11 to 15, to the educational benefits of the sport.

Team Penske will continue to offer mentorship for Force Indy, as the initiative also falls under Penske Entertainment Corp.’s “Race for Equality & Change” announced in July 2020. The goals include recruiting and developing a diverse workforce throughout all levels of INDYCAR and Indianapolis Motor Speedway, ultimately creating a community that fundamentally transforms the sport.

“I was pleased to learn that Ernie would be driving for Force Indy in 2022,” Roger Penske said. “As someone who has a history in Trans Am, I know the type of skillset that comes from that series. Ernie will be a wonderful addition to Indy Lights.

“It was inspiring to see the growth of Force Indy during their first season, and we will continue to support their progress and mission as the team continues on a path to compete in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES.”

Force Indy will make its Indy Lights series debut Feb. 25-27 on the Streets of St. Petersburg, Florida. The team will continue to use No. 99 on the car in honor of the late Dewey “Rajo Jack” Gatson, who drove a roadster with that number toward the end of his career in 1951. Gatson, one of the winningest African American drivers and mechanics in racing history, never received an opportunity to race in the Indianapolis 500.

“We remain very fortunate to have Team Penske offer its guidance and mentorship,” Reid said. “I have been in and around the sport for 40 years. Force Indy remains a labor of love, and our goals are unchanged: focusing on diversity with an eye toward competing in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and, in honor of Rajo Jack, the Indianapolis 500.”

For additional information, please visit the team’s website: www.ForceIndy.com.

Patriotic! New DAYTONA 500 Tri-Oval Grass Design Unveiled

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bcpix, bcpix.com, brian cleary Rolex 24 at Daytona, IMSA, Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL, January 2022. (Photo by Brian Cleary/bcpix.com)

Ticket Options Available for 64th Annual Great American Race, Which Will Feature the New, Much-Anticipated NASCAR ‘Next Gen’ Car

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 27, 2022) – The fans have spoken. The DAYTONA 500 Tri-oval Grass Design for the 2022 Great American Race was unveiled today and will showcase a one-of-a-kind, patriotic design.

For the seventh consecutive year, fans had the chance to vote in October on the design for the 64th Annual DAYTONA 500, the NASCAR Cup Series season-opener.

“We are thrilled with the fans’ choice for this year’s DAYTONA 500 Trioval Grass Design,” said Speedway President Frank Kelleher. “Our ballfield in the middle of the trioval separates Daytona International Speedway from other venues, and it will provide a ‘wow’ factor for our fans at the Great American Race. It will give a packed house of fans goosebumps then they see their choice during the DAYTONA 500 and Speedweeks Presented By AdventHealth.”

While tickets to this year’s iconic race has sold out of reserved fronstretch seating and RV camping, there are a host of fan hospitality options, including the Rolex 24 Lounge Suites and the all-new Harley J’s Experience (High Banks Suite with incredible view of the fronstretch). To see a complete list of DAYTONA 500 hospitality options, log onto www.DAYTONA500.com.

While DAYTONA Speedweeks Presented By AdventHealth culminates with the DAYTONA 500, the week will feature six days of incredible on-track action, featuring practices, qualifying and a total of six races among four different series, allowing fans several possibilities to not only see the Next Gen car but a variety of some of the greatest drivers in the world.

For ticket information on the DAYTONA 500, as well as Speedweeks Presented By AdventHealth events, log onto www.DAYTONA500.com or call 1-800-PITSHOP. If fans are looking to buy or sell reserved seats for the DAYTONA 500, please visit SeatGeek, the Preferred Ticket Exchange of the DAYTONA 500 and Speedweeks Presented By AdventHealth.

Fans can stay connected with Daytona International Speedway on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, as well as the all-new NASCAR Tracks App, 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 Daytona International Speedway 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. 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.

Rebel Rock Racing has new driver lineup for Daytona four-hour opener

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Michael Cooper to sub for DePew in Urban Grid Camaro

DAYTONA BEACH, FL (26 Jan. 2022) – Rebel Rock Racing is set to kick off its fourth complete season of IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge competition with Friday’s BMW M Performance Endurance Championship, a four-hour race at Daytona International Speedway.

Robin Liddell will have a new co-driver in the No. 71 Urban Grid Chevrolet Camaro GT4.R for the event. With regular co-driver Frank DePew opting out of the event due to a family medical issue, Michael Cooper was asked to join the team for the event. DePew, who has 4 Michelin Pilot Challenge race wins with Liddell to his credit and led his first IMSA race at VIR last year, will look forward to his return to the cockpit at Sebring.

“Frank is incredibly disappointed that he will not be racing, and it’s very unfortunate for all of us,” said Liddell, who doubles in the role of team manager. “I am thankful that Frank has supported us to be able to race next weekend, and we look forward to having him back in action for the next race, when we defend our 2021 victory at Sebring.”

Cooper is a five-time champion in the SCCA Pirelli World Challenge, with many of his 41 career victories, 15 poles and 79 podiums coming in that series. He has three career starts in the Michelin Pilot Challenge.

Liddell spent the past weekend doing all of the driving at Daytona’s Roar Before the Rolex 24, and was impressed with the continued improvement of the Urban Grid Camaro.

“We had a very good test at the Roar,” Liddell said. “We put a lot of miles on the car, and it has performed very well. We think the car is quite competitive, but obviously, at the Roar you never know how it will shake out when you return for the race weekend. The Porsches are very fast – it’s a new car, and there’s a lot of them. I’m not sure how we will compete with them, but overall, we’re in pretty good shape.”

The team will look to change the narrative for their fortunes at the epic World Center of Racing, as the previous best result at the track was 13th in 2019. Daytona is one of two four-hour races on the schedule, with the remaining events two hours in duration.

“I like the four-hour races, because it gives a slightly different flavor, and it gives us the feel of an endurance race,” Liddell said. “It’s long enough to allow you to do some strategy that we don’t get in the shorter races. It also gives you time to recover if you’ve had a bit of an issue early on. I think it’s ideal to do it with two drivers – we used to do it with three drivers – but then it puts more pressure on the two drivers and the team.”

Practice for the BMW M Performance Challenge begins Wednesday with a one-hour session at 1:45 p.m. (all times ET). The second practice is a one-hour session Thursday at 9:45 a.m., followed by GS qualifying at 2:45 p.m. Friday opens with a final 30-minute practice at 9:25 a.m.

The opening round of the 2022 Michelin Pilot Challenge season takes the green flag on Friday at 1:35 p.m.

W SERIES TO BREAK NEW GROUND AT EIGHT FORMULA 1 WEEKENDS IN 2022

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100 days to go until Season Three begins in Miami, USA

London, January 27, 2022 – W Series, the international single-seater motor racing championship for female drivers, today announces its continued partnership with Formula 1 and the eight Grand Prix weekends it will race at in 2022, including the series’ first-ever round in Asia.

W Series will visit five new venues during its third on-track season, which will include a round at the Suzuka Circuit as part of the Japanese Grand Prix weekend in October. The season will begin in 100 days’ time in support of F1’s inaugural Miami Grand Prix at the brand-new Hard Rock Stadium complex in Miami Gardens, Florida, USA, in May.

As well as staging races in Miami, Spain, France, Japan, and Mexico for the first time, W Series will return to Silverstone, the Hungaroring and the Circuit of the Americas next year having successfully supported the British, Hungarian and United States Grands Prix respectively during season two.

The 2022 W Series race calendar will consist of Formula 1 support races at the following Grand Prix weekends:

Date Location

May 6-8 Miami, USA
May 20-22 Barcelona, Spain
July 1-3 Silverstone, UK
July 22-24 Le Castellet, France
July 29-31 Budapest, Hungary
October 7-9 Suzuka, Japan
October 21-23 Austin, USA*
October 28-30 Mexico City, Mexico

*Subject to contract

The schedule and session timings for each round will be announced in due course.

Catherine Bond Muir (Chief Executive Officer, W Series) said:

“W Series’ expansion continues with the announcement of our 2022 race calendar which will see us visit more circuits and countries in a single season than ever before. Last year, we began a landmark partnership with Formula 1 and our talented grid of female racing drivers proved that they belong on motor racing’s greatest stage. Their skill and determination captivated audiences around the world, culminating in a thrilling season-ending double header in Austin, Texas, USA, where a record crowd of 400,000 people attended the race weekend and saw Jamie Chadwick successfully defend her W Series title.

“I am delighted that we will be returning to the Circuit of the Americas, Silverstone and Hungary in 2022, and excited to take W Series to Miami, Spain, France, Mexico and Japan for the first time – the latter representing another landmark achievement for W Series as we make our debut in Asia. We have always stated our intention to make the series a truly global movement and this calendar is the next step towards achieving that.

“Our season-ending round at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez promises to be a very special weekend indeed and I can’t wait to see the 2022 W Series champion crowned in the iconic Foro Sol Stadium. I know that our drivers will once again rise to the occasion next season, and I would like to thank Formula 1 for their continued support and commitment to creating more opportunities for girls and women in the highest categories of our sport.”

Ross Brawn (Managing Director – Motorsports, Formula 1) said:

“We are proud to announce that W Series will continue to join us at eight Formula 1 races in 2022. It has been incredible to witness the championship progress as we continue to champion diversity across motor sport, and it is exciting to see the series will visit five new venues next year, including its debut in Asia. We believe that it is extremely important to give everyone the opportunity to reach the highest levels of our sport, and our partnership with W Series continues to demonstrate our resolve in building greater diversity across Formula 1.”

NTE/SSR Ready for Lamborghini Debut at IMSA WeatherTech Rolex 24 At Daytona

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DAYTONA, Fla. (January 26, 2022) – The action heats up this weekend at Daytona International Speedway as NTE/SSR prepares for racing debut of the team’s new No. 42 Lamborghini Huracan GT3 Evo in Saturday’s Rolex 24 at Daytona. Returning for another season in the GTD class, the new collaboration between NTE Sport and Star Spangled Racing will see the No. 42 Lamborghini driven by Don Yount, Benjamin Hates, Jaden Conwright, and Markus Paltaala. The Dallas-based team will also welcome the return of sponsors Gas Monkey Garage, Southwest Funding, Lamborghini Dallas, and the DropUp agency.

Last week, the team completed a three-day test at the Roar Before the 24, the first series-wide pre-season test before the main event, this Saturday’s Rolex 24 At Daytona. Though the drivers and crew were able to complete some minimal testing during the off-season, the Roar allowed the drivers additional seat time and valuable on-track experience to gain further knowledge about the car, and data specific to Daytona International Speedway. While other teams ran with seasoned vehicles, the team started from square one with their new car, going through a standard checklist necessary for a shakedown to get the car ready for three days of testing.

All four drivers were able to rotate through the driving duties, each learning the car and getting comfortable with the circuit over varying conditions. As previously announced, all four drivers have previously raced with NTE in 2021 and will return to run the Rolex 24, with the full-season lineup to be announced at a later date. Yount stands as the only driver to complete the team’s four races last year. Benjamin Hites made his IMSA debut last year at Petit Le Mans, qualifying the No. 42 NTE Sport Audi R8 LMS in second place. Both Hites, and Jaden Conwright, the winner of the first IMSA Diversity Scholarship have both been signed this year as Lamborghini GT3 Junior Drivers for the 2022 season. Markus Paltaala rounds out the lineup as the most seasoned veteran on the team, providing a vast array of knowledge and experience to the team.

Fortunately, the weather for the Roar ranged from warm and sunny to wet and cold, giving the teams a sample of what would be in store for this week’s Rolex 24 At Daytona. The current forecast shows rain for each practice day, with sunny but cold conditions on both race days. While the weather leading up to race day will primarily stay in the 50s and 60s, race day will see lows in the 30s, with highs not going above 53 degrees. The cold temperatures will make for a slick track, likely increasing the risk of on-track and pit lane incidents. The field is the largest since 2014, with 61 cars listed on the entry list for the 24-hour race.

The Rolex 24 At Daytona tests drivers like no other event in North America, pushing man and machine to the limits, racing on the Florida road course for 24 hours straight. Each driver will need to achieve four and a half hours of racing in the event, making strategy a crucial key to a team’s success. Not able to rotate out, the crews will eat and sleep in pit lane between pit stops, which will occur about every hour of the event. The race will go green on Saturday at 1:40 pm Eastern on NBC before channel hopping to USA for select blocks. Fans in the United States can stream live on Peacock, the replacement for last year’s TRACKPASS. International fans can watch on imsa.tv or visit IMSA’s site for international coverage. For all event information, visit the official event page. IMSA Radio will offer live coverage of all the sessions from the circuit, streaming live for free online.

DRIVER QUOTES

Don Yount
We had a very productive test, continuing our shakedown of the new car. The team did a great job, methodically working through all the necessary steps, not rushing what we needed to do to get ready for this race week. We feel we have a great car over the long runs, and in a race like this, that’s exactly what you want. We have a few more things to work on this week, and with several practice sessions, we should be able to get it all done.

Benjamin Hites
I’m really looking forward to this weekend, as it will be my first endurance race in the United States and the first time in a Lamborghini Huracan GT3 Evo. We all had a solid start during last weekend’s Roar qualifying race, and we found a lot of places to improve too. The race will be tough, and I’m sure that all the NTE crew and my teammates will give our best to get the best possible result. I’m looking forward to it.

Jaden Conwright
I think we definitely had a productive three days of testing for the Roar Before the 24. The Lamborghini Huracan GT3 Evo is a brand new car, basically. We have a decent baseline on it but we don’t have a lot of information. We’re just learning all the nuances about the car. We had no issues, we got good drive time in for all the sessions, and I think we definitely have a good starting point going into the 24. Overall, I think we have a solid car that’s easy to drive quickly while running fairly conservatively. We’re definitely still searching for a bit more out of the performance, but I think in terms of an endurance car, right now we could easily run the car for the full 24 hours. I’m really looking forward to just hopping in this week and getting back at it on Thursday and seeing what we can do to improve the car a bit. Hopefully, we’ll keep everything running solid for the race.

Markus Paltaala
We just did three days of almost no issues. New car, first time running it, and we just rolled through the program. That’s very good news. I think we have a good car for the race, we could start it right away, but there is still a long list of small improvements we are chasing. It’s still important for us to use the sessions on Thursday and Friday well, but I’m already happy to jump in the car and start the 24 with where we are. I think we have a little bit of a conservative setup, which is good for the race, but we will chase a bit more performance on a lap. It’s been a good weekend of preparation and there is still work to do.

Michelin Pilot Challenge
In Michelin Pilot Challenge, NTE Sport has partnered with mc² autosport, entering Friday’s four-hour endurance race with a No. 12 Aston Martin Vantage GT4, driven by Manny Franco, Josh Hurley, and Romeo Kapudija. Official practice sessions for the BMW M Endurance Challenge at Daytona will get underway on Wednesday, January 26, 2022, and the first race of the season will take the green flag on Friday, January 28, at 1:35 PM Eastern. It will stream in the United States on Peacock, NBC Universal’s streaming service, and on imsa.tv internationally. For full event information, visit imsa.com.

About NTE Sport
NTE Sport is based in Dallas, Texas, and first raced in 2020. Owner Paul Mata has been in the industry for over 20 years before starting his own team and has always focused on bringing together a diverse group of individuals to provide new opportunities and bring new people into the sport. Past female drivers include Sheena Monk and Ashley Freiberg, and drivers from diverse racial backgrounds include Ryan Nash, Jaden Conwright, and Kerong Li. Dedicated to bringing highly skilled individuals from various backgrounds, NTE Sport aims to continue to make North American sports car racing a fun, welcoming, supportive environment while participating in the most competitive series in North America.

About Star Spangled Racing
Based in Jacksonville, Florida, Star Spangled Racing is a newer sports car racing team, established in 2020 by first-generation immigrant Tiger Tari from Turkey. Tari is an accomplished businessman, race car driver, and philanthropist with big motorsport ambitions. Star Spangled Racing provides driving opportunities in the USA and Europe. Follow on Instagram here.

About mc² autosport
The founding principle of mc² autosport is that the simplest solution is most often the correct one. Our highly-professional staff are carefully selected for each of our drivers, and they are proven leaders in their class of vehicle. Our primary objective is to eliminate as many race day variables as possible, control what we can control, and mitigate any concerns that could impact the outcome of the race. We take the most direct approach to success by focusing on what’s important now. We do it right and we do it once.

About Southwest Funding
Southwest Funding began operations in 1993 under the name Dallas Residential Mortgage. We enjoyed great success early on and before long we were serving the entire state of Texas. This growth caused us to change our name to Texas Residential Mortgage.

As we continued to grow and thrive in the industry, Texas Residential Mortgage was changed to Southwest Funding to better accommodate our growing business in other states.
Today we’re still thriving, thanks in part to happy customers who have spread the word about what our company is doing to help borrowers get a home loan that fits their situation in an enjoyable and timely way. www.southwestfunding.com

About Gas Monkey Garage
Richard Rawlings, owner and founder of Gas Monkey Garage, is the star of the international hit series “Fast N’ Loud” & “Garage Rehab”. Since the inception of Gas Monkey Garage in 2004, Richard Rawlings continues to be anything except ordinary. Having built two commissioned custom cars for Hot Wheels, setting numerous world records, and cementing Gas Monkey Garage as a household name, Richard does anything but blend in!

Aside from his garage and television shows, Rawlings is a savvy businessman, turning Gas Monkey Garage into a full-fledged brand, owning multiple restaurants/venues, selling merchandise worldwide, and becoming a social media maverick boasting 20+ million followers. Learn more about Richard Rawlings and Gas Monkey at GasMonkeyGarage.com.

Lamborghini Dallas
Lamborghini Dallas has earned the Highest Rated Lamborghini Dealer in the United States award by DealerRater 10 years in a row. With a state-of-the-art showroom, factory-certified service facility, parts depot, and a team of master technicians, Lamborghini Dallas is dedicated to the legacy of the famed raging bull. As a member of Boardwalk Auto Group, we cultivate a focus on top-flight performance. It’s the driving force behind every nameplate we represent, every car we maintain, and every customer we have the privilege to serve. Performance. It’s what we do.

About the DropUp Agency
The Dropup Agency is a consulting firm that provides innovative technology and marketing solutions. Companies of all sizes trust us to provide modernized results with a scalable infrastructure, helping them to transform digitally. Through innovation, creative design, and passion-driven marketing, Dropup helps brands more uniquely connect with customers.
www.thedropupagency.com

FLOWDYNAMICS RACING TEAM OPENS 2022 SPRINT CAR SEASON THIS WEEK IN ARIZONA

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Matt McCarthy photo courtesy of Doug Allen

(Ontario, CA, January 26, 2022) After a short offseason, the Flowdynamics Incorporated sprint car racing team will kick off 2022 this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, January 27th, 28th, and 29th, at the Cocopah Speedway in southwestern Arizona. The two-car team will once again feature up-and-coming drivers Matt McCarthy and Logan Williams.

This week’s USAC/CRA 18th season opener will mark the first time since 2013 the series has raced at the track that is approximately 10 miles from the Mexican border. Thus, it will be the first-ever race on the high-speed 3/8-mile oval not only for the team but for both of its drivers as well.

McCarthy, who lives in Riverside, California, and Williams, who calls Yorba Linda, California home, head into the 2022 campaign after career-best seasons in the USAC/CRA Series in 2021. Williams, who was Rookie of the Year in 2014, was 10th in the championship standings when the final checkered ended the campaign last November. McCarthy, who captured the rookie title in 2017, was only 15-points behind his teammate in 11th.

In 2021, both drivers had their series-best sixth-place finishes at USAC/CRA’s home track, Perris Auto Speedway. Williams accomplished the feat first on June 19th. Five weeks later on July 24th, it was McCarthy’s turn to place sixth at The PAS.

Both McCarthy and Williams captured open comp main events at the Barona Speedway in 2021. Behind the wheel of his familiar Flowdynamics #28M, McCarthy was the first of the teammates to take home a winner’s trophy and check on the San Diego County track when he bested the competition in early August. Williams finished second on that night. Two months later, Williams piloted the Roberson/Tramel sprint car to victory on the same quarter-mile oval.

This year both drivers will stay active during a much busier USAC/CRA season. The schedule shows 32-dates at the present time. After this week’s Arizona triple header, the Flowdynamics team will be back in action when it journeys to California Central Valley for races March 5th and 6th at the Thunderbowl Raceway in Tulare and Keller Auto Speedway in Hanford.

Fans of McCarthy and Williams can watch the races in person this week at the Cocopah Speedway, which is located at 3450 West County 15th Street, in Somerton, Arizona (85350). Spectator gates will open at 4:00 p.m. each day with USAC/CRA cars on the track for hot laps at 6:00. Racing and qualifying will follow. The track phone number is 602-292-7607 and the website is http://www.racecocopahspeedway.com/.

For fans who cannot make it to Arizona for the race, all three nights will be shown on https://speedsport.tv/.

McCarthy and Williams would like to thank the following sponsors for making the 2022 season possible. Flowdynamics Inc., JFK Design Build, Cal-Therm Mechanical Insulators, CRC Component Repair Co., Encore Gas and Supply, Drink-Pac, and Benic Enterprises. If you or your company would like to climb on board and join up with one of the fastest rising sprint car teams west of the Mississippi, please contact John McCarthy at 909 930-5522 or mailto:john@flodyinc.com.

Matt McCarthy 2021 Results

3-12-21 Kern County Raceway Park USAC/CRA 12th A Main

3-13-21 Kern County Raceway Park USAC/CRA 21st A Main

3-25-21 Thunderbowl Raceway USAC/CRA DNS

4-24-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA 13th A Main

5-8-21 Bakersfield Speedway USAC/CRA 16th A Main

5-22-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA DNS

6-19-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA 8th A Main

7-3-21 Santa Maria Raceway USAC/CRA 9th A Main

7-24-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA 6th A Main

8-7-21 Barona Speedway Open Show 1st A Main

8-21-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA 20th A Main

9-4-21 Silver Dollar Speedway USAC/CRA 18th A Main

9-5-21 Silver Dollar Speedway USAC/CRA 15th B Main

9-6-21 Petaluma Speedway USAC/CRA 9th A Main

9-25-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA 13th A Main

10-23-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA 11th A Main

11-4-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC Ntnl. 21st A Main

11-5-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC Ntnl. 16th B Main

Logan Williams 2021 Results

4-24-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA 7th A Main

5-8-21 Bakersfield Speedway USAC/CRA 19th A Main

5-22-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA 19th A Main

6-19-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA 6th A Main

7-3-21 Santa Maria Raceway USAC/CRA 8th A Main

7-24-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA 17th A Main

8-7-21 Barona Speedway Open Show 2nd A Main

8-21-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA 9th A Main

9-4-21 Silver Dollar Speedway USAC/CRA 17th A Main

9-5-21 Silver Dollar Speedway USAC/CRA 21st A Main

9-6-21 Petaluma Speedway USAC/CRA 13th A Main

9-25-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA 15th A Main

10-2-21 Barona Speedway Open Show 1st A Main

10-23-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA 8th A Main

11-4-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC Ntnl. 17th A Main

11-5-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC Ntnl. 24th A Main

11-6-21 Perris Auto Speedway USAC Ntnl. 23rd A Main

The Main Reasons Why You Need To Get A Driver’s License

By
SM
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We all know that getting a driver’s license is beneficial because we can travel anywhere we want and go places. But did you know there are many other reasons why you should get your driver’s license? Here are a few of them.

1. It’s not that hard

Getting your driver’s license will be one of the best decisions you make in your life. The more you drive, the more freedom and security you will have. Driving is fun but sometimes can be stressful too, so being able to get out of any sticky situation is great! Plus, the more experience you gain with driving, the better off you’ll be behind the wheel. Driving can also save you money because you won’t have to rely on others for transportation. Not only will it help your social life, but it will make you more independent. You can also take the online course for practicing the lessons from driving school, which is a great way to learn and be prepared for the DMV test. The best thing is that you can do the course for free through some sites online.

2. You will have better job opportunities

For those who are looking for a job, it’s important to have the proper documentation. Having your driver’s license is one of them. You can get your first job without your license, but as time goes on, you will find that having a car and driving might open up more opportunities and possibilities than you could’ve imagined. Having a car and getting your driver’s license, it shows potential employers that you’re responsible and dependable. It also shows them that you’re reliable and ready to be an active member of society. Not only this, but if you do not have any friends or family living close by, driving would make it easier for you to meet new people outside of school or work events through socializing with other people on the road. Getting your driver’s license shows that you are ready to take on the world and be a part of it.

3. You will have more time to do other things

When you learn how to drive, your life automatically becomes more organized. You will be able to get everywhere you need to go to a better place. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself going out more often and enjoying the opportunities that come your way. You will also have more time for other activities such as sports, hobbies, hanging with friends, etc. In this day and age, not having a driver’s license can limit you from doing what makes you happy by not being able to go out whenever you want or even go on trips with friends and family members who do have licenses because they won’t want to drive slowly, so it will take longer before reaching your destination. 

4. Be able to drive in other countries

When you get your driver’s license, you will be able to travel for work or pleasure to other countries. You can do this by renting a car, buying one for yourself, and/or taking the bus. But doing, so you won’t be able to take your car with you. If someone needs to go back home but has no way of transportation, then they will not be happy because it takes a long time before getting where they need to go. Getting your driver’s license allows you to take your vehicle with you when traveling abroad. This is a great opportunity to drive in other countries and see the different fun sights. It also shows that you are willing to explore new things and take the risk of driving in different circumstances.

Additionally, obtaining an international drivers license can be beneficial when driving in other countries, ensuring that you meet the necessary requirements and legalities for international travel with your vehicle.

5. You will be more mindful of your surroundings

There are many distractions that people get from their cell phones, music, and more while driving. When you get your driver’s license, it teaches you to be more mindful of what is going on around you instead of being focused on yourself or the things inside your vehicle. Learning to drive also helps with keeping a better eye out for pedestrians, cyclists, and other cars because they all have a right to use the road too. You will understand how important it is every time someone uses the street or crosses in front of you while you’re driving. Getting your driver’s license, not only will it teach you about responsibility, but also how it takes more than just one person on the road to keep everyone safe.

There are many reasons why getting your driver’s license is essential. So, by now, hopefully you’ve thought about getting your driver’s license and helping to create a better future for yourself. Good luck!

“Hidden” Jeep Design Features: Easter Eggs in the Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, and Renegade

By
SM
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Photo by Dana Cetojevic from Pexels

Jeep Easter Eggs

Jeep designers are notorious for hiding Easter eggs throughout their vehicles. These are little design features that often go unnoticed by the average person. However, once you know where to look, you can find them everywhere! Similarly, finding cheap gas prices can feel like uncovering a hidden gem, especially for Jeep owners who value cost efficiency. As per SCA salvage car auction expert, in this article, we will discuss some of the most well-hidden Easter eggs on the Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Jeep Renegade. So if you’re looking for a new challenge, be sure to check out these hidden gems!

Jeep Wrangler Easter Eggs

The first known easter egg on a Jeep is on the 1997 Wrangler TJ. If you look at the cowl on the Jeep you will find the same 7-bar grill that is located on the front. This was the first time that this design feature had been used on a production vehicle.

When you move to the latest model of the Jeep Wrangler, the JL, you can find a pair of flip-flops located on the passenger front hood vent. This is in reference to Rick Pewe who is a writer for off-road magazines and frequently goes on the trails wearing open-toed flip flops.

Jeep Renegade Easter Eggs

On the front of the Jeep Renegade, you will find several Easter eggs. The most prominent is the “Born to Rule” badge which is located in the center of the grille. This slogan was originally used by Fiat and has been adopted by Jeep as their company motto.

Another Easter egg on the Renegade is the Jeep Grilles which you can find located on the sides of the rearview mirror bezel. These are unmistakable as the original willy’s Jeep grill and is a nod to the heritage of the Jeep brand. Also incorporated for the heritage is the saying “Since 1941” on the infotainment center-surround. This is the year that Jeep first started production.

Jeep Cherokee Easter Eggs

The Easter eggs on the Jeep Grand Cherokee are a little more difficult to find. One of them is located on the wheel center caps. If you look closely, you will see that they feature the standard seven-slot design that has been used on all Jeeps since WWII.

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Another Easter egg can be found on the front grille. Looking at the top of the grille, you will see that it is shaped like a traditional headlight. This was done as a tribute to older Jeep models.

Finally, one of the most difficult Easter eggs to find is located in the car’s interior. There is an image hidden in the wood trim on the dashboard that Jeep designers included as a tribute to their founder, Willys-Overland.

As you can see, Jeep designers have put a lot of thought into hiding these Easter eggs throughout their vehicles. So if you’re looking for a new challenge, be sure to look for them! You may be surprised at what you find. If you would like to know more about all the easter eggs jeep designers have hidden in their vehicles head to https://highcountryoffroad.com/jeep-easter-egg/ where they wrote an in-depth article covering this very subject.

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