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Gainbridge, Project Zin Partner to Support Bay Area Down Syndrome Initiatives

Collaborative Effort to be Showcased Aboard Michael McDowell’s No. 71 Chevy at Sonoma Raceway

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (July 4, 2025) – As part of its continuing efforts to support impactful cultural and community initiatives across the nation, Gainbridge will partner with Project Zin to serve as co-primary sponsors aboard Michael McDowell’s No. 71 Chevrolet ZL1 for the NASCAR Cup Series annual visit to Sonoma Raceway for the Toyota/Save Mart 350.

Project Zin, now in its 15th year, takes place August 15-16 in Sonoma (Calif.) County at Bricoleur Vineyards and offers a series of dining events hosted by Chef Charlie Palmer, Clay Mauritson and some of the industry’s most elite winemakers.

The two-day celebration will feature dishes and wine pairings from some of the most illustrious chefs and eclectic vintners in the Bay Area with all proceeds benefiting the Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area and its mission to empower, inspire, and support individuals and families in the Down Syndrome community.

“When our son Brady was diagnosed with Down Syndrome, our world shifted overnight,” said Clay and Carrie Mauritson. “What felt like one of the hardest moments in our lives became one of the greatest blessings. Project Zin is our way of giving back—creating something joyful, purposeful, and rooted in community. It’s a celebration of inclusion and possibility, and we’re so proud to support the incredible work of the Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area through this event.”

McDowell, a two-time NASCAR Cup Series winner and 2021 Daytona 500 Champion, is a 17-year veteran with over 500 starts on NASCAR’s senior circuit. In addition to his Daytona 500 accolades, the Glendale, Ariz., native won the 2023 Verizon 200 at the Brickyard on the Grand Prix Circuit at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The father-of-five and highly accomplished road racer hasn’t finished outside the top-seven in his last three starts at Sonoma Raceway, including a runner-up finish in last year’s visit to the picturesque 12-turn, 1.99-mile road course.

This season, McDowell has recorded one top-five, two top-10 and seven top-15 finishes, including a fifth-place showing at NASCAR’s most recent road race in the Viva Mexico 250 at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City. He is currently 22nd in the Cup Series championship point standings, just 28 markers below the playoff cutline with eight races remaining in the regular season.

“This is a great way to represent an important cause,” said McDowell. “Family is such a substantial part of life — mine especially, right? I’ve got five kids. The impact they’ve had on my life is something I’ll never take for granted, and I always want them to strive for success, no matter what that may be. Teaming up with Gainbridge and Project Zin gives the NASCAR community a chance to reinvest in the programs offered by the Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area and make a real difference in the lives of children and families who need support. It’s going to be a special weekend all the way around, and I hope we can put on a good show for them.”

Individual tickets and weekend packages are available by visiting the Project Zin website.

The Toyota/Save Mart 350 from Sonoma Raceway will be televised live on TNT and streamed live on MAX Sunday, July 13 beginning at 3:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. The 20th of 36 points-paying races on the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series schedule will also be broadcast live on the Performance Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

About Gainbridge…
Founded in 2018, Gainbridge® is an insurtech subsidiary of Group 1001 that empowers consumers to take control of their financial future with solutions that are accessible to everyone, no matter their budget or financial knowledge. Its platform provides access to financial products that are simple, intuitive, and backed by smart technology with no complexity or hidden fees. Gainbridge® is headquartered in Zionsville, Indiana. For more information, visit www.gainbridge.io or follow and connect with us on X and LinkedIn.

About Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area…
DSCBA’s mission is to empower, inspire and support people with Down Syndrome, their families, and the community that serves them while fostering awareness and acceptance in all areas of life.

DSCBA develops services that are in line with members’ needs and strives to continuously break down barriers to success by providing resources, technology, and education through their direct services. Their Down Syndrome Education Alliance, Expression Connection and Communication Readiness Programs, as well as Peer Development Classes, Medical Outreach Alliance, public policy outreach, education advocacy, new parent outreach, support groups, and more, reflect the diverse needs of their members.

Their programs and services include information and programs for new and expecting parents, the THRIVE Program, Connection Groups, Music Therapy, Speech Services as well as Communication Readiness Programs.

About Mauritson Wines…
The Mauritson family has been growing grapes in the Dry Creek Valley since 1868, and their exceptional winemaking tradition is currently led by Clay Mauritson, who founded Mauritson Wines in 1998. By Harnessing the power of six generations of winegrowing wisdom, longstanding grower relationships, and an intimate understanding of the land, Mauritson Wines has established itself as one of Sonoma County’s benchmark producers of small-lot, appellation-specific wines. Learn more at www.mauritsonwines.com

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway on July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado to its inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win on April 7, 2022, at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent win came on May 30, 2025, when Rajah Caruth took the checkered flag in the Rackley Roofing 200 at Nashville Superspeedway.

In 2025, Spire Motorsports campaigns the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolets in the NASCAR Cup Series. The team also fields the Nos. 07, 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and the No. 77 Chevrolet in the ARCA Menards Series in select events.

RCR Race Preview: Chicago Street Race

Richard Childress Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series at the Chicago Street Race… NASCAR returns to Chicago for the sport’s only street race, which weaves through Chicago’s Grant Park area, artfully parading the field through a 2.2-mile, 12-turn track configuration that includes stunning views of Lake Michigan. This weekend marks the sport’s third appearance to the streets of Chicago and in five Cup Series starts at the track, Richard Childress Racing earned its best finish of fifth with Kyle Busch in 2023. Additionally, RCR owns two top-10 finishes at the course in Cup Series competition.

Richard Childress Racing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series at the Chicago Street Race… In four NASCAR Xfinity Series starts at the Chicago Street Race, RCR has earned two top-fives finishes and three top-10 finishes. Last year, Jesse Love led the RCR contingent with a fifth place finish at the track, and Austin Hill finished seventh.

Deep Roots in Chicago… NASCAR has a rich tradition of racing in Chicago and the surrounding areas dating back to 1954. The Cup Series has competed at five different tracks in the Chicago area, including Santa Fe Speedway (1954), Soldier Field (1956-1957), Chicago Motor Speedway (2000-2001), Chicagoland Speedway (2001-2019) and most recently the Chicago Street Course. RCR has a winning tradition in Chicago, with a total of seven wins across NASCAR’s top-three national series and the ARCA Menards Series at Chicagoland Speedway. Kevin Harvick won the inaugural Cup Series race at the 1.5-mile track in 2001, his second career win, and added another Cup victory in 2002. Harvick also won twice in the Xfinity Series (2005 and 2007) for RCR, while Elliott Sadler added an Xfinity Series win to the organization’s win tally in Chicago in 2012. In 2011, both Austin Dillon (NASCAR Truck Series) and Ty Dillon (ARCA Menards Series) were victorious at Chicagoland Speedway.

Three Times the Fun… RCR will field three Cup Series teams this weekend at the Chicago Street Race. Austin Hill returns to the No. 33 United Rentals Chevrolet, led by crew chief Andy Street. Hill and Street have a winning combination with 10 wins together in the Xfinity Series (2022-2024).

Tickets to the 2025 Carolina Cowboys Home Stand Are Available Now… Driven by the same passion for performance that guides his race team, Richard Childress’ latest endeavor brings Professional Bull Riding to the Carolinas. The Carolina Cowboys represent the Carolinas in the PBR Team Series, an elite league featuring the world’s top bull riders competing in games throughout the country. The team is owned by Richard Childress and Jeff Broin with 2018 Daytona 500 Champion Dillon serving as General Manager. Don’t miss the Carolina Cowboys 2025 “Cowboy Days” Home Stand September 12-14 at First Horizon Coliseum in Greensboro, North Carolina. Tickets are on sale at PBR.com and Ticketmaster.

Catch the Action on Saturday… The NASCAR Xfinity Series Loop 110 at the Chicago Street Race will be televised live Saturday, July 5, beginning at 4:30 p.m. ET on The CW. The race will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90. Saturday’s practice and qualifying sessions will be shown for free on The CW App.

Watch Us on TNT Sports… The NASCAR Cup Series Grant Park 165 at the Chicago Street Race will be televised live on Sunday, July 6, beginning at 2 p.m. ET on TNT Sports, the second of five consecutive races this season that will air on TNT. The race will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90. NASCAR Cup Series practice and qualifying will be broadcast on truTV and Max. Ride shotgun all season long with live, in-car camera feeds and scanner audio with a paid subscription to Max as part of their NASCAR driver cam experience during the race.

Austin Dillon and the No. 3 BREZTRI AEROSPHERE® (budesonide, glycopyrrolate, and formoterol fumarate) Chevrolet at the Chicago Street Race… The NASCAR Cup Series is headed to the streets of Chicago for the city’s third annual street race. Dillon had strong Chevrolets in his two previous Cup Series starts at the course but has been plagued by on-track incidents. At the inaugural event in 2023, Dillon was racing in second and contending for the lead when he made contact with the Turn 12 wall and sustained enough damage to retire him from the race 16 laps shy of the finish. Dillon had a strong top-10 race going in last year’s race before a late-race accident relegated the Welcome, North Carolina driver to a 19th-place finish.

Road Course Experience… Now considered a staple on the Cup Series schedule, Dillon has 41 Cup Series starts on road course/street course tracks and notably earned a pair of top-10 finishes at Circuit of The Americas and the Charlotte Motor Speedway ROVAL in 2022. He spent additional time in the simulator preparing for this weekend’s race.

BREZTRI AEROSPHERE® (budesonide, glycopyrrolate, and formoterol fumarate) Teams Up with Dillon… Dillon and the No. 3 Richard Childress Racing team will be supported by BREZTRI AEROSPHERE®, an AstraZeneca product, at the Chicago Street Course. This partnership is about more than just racing. You can learn more about Dillon and his family’s personal connection to the brand at Breztri.com. AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases, and Biopharmaceuticals, including Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism, and Respiratory & Immunology. AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide.

Influenced… Dillon and his RCR team will be hosting Chicago Bulls basketball star Lonzo Ball on Sunday. Ball, who was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers this week, will celebrate his time in Chicago with a full immersion with the RCR team, including the sitting on the team’s pit box for the race.

AUSTIN DILLON QUOTES:

What are your thoughts on racing on the streets of Chicago?

“The Chicago Street Race is an awesome race to check out. There are tight corners that impact how you enter and exit the corners. You’ve got to be so precise. The walls are very tight, and it’s easy to make a mistake on the course. The past couple of years, we’ve had to deal with the rain. Our Richard Childress Racing team will be ready for whatever comes our way.”

What’s it like driving the Chicago Street Race compared to a regular track—does it feel different behind the wheel?

“The Chicago Street Race is very different from the other courses we race on. We’re racing on the streets of downtown Chicago, and seeing the city skyline and the traffic lights definitely gives the race a different feeling. It’s a pretty cool sight to race around Buckingham Fountain and other historic monuments in the city. It’s going to be a great July Fourth holiday weekend. The fan support is huge, and NASCAR puts on a great race.”

Kyle Busch and the No. 8 Slurpee Chevrolet at the Chicago Street Race… Sunday’s third-annual Grant Park 165 will mark Busch’s third career NASCAR Cup Series start at the Chicago Street Race. Busch has one top-five and two top-10 finishes in his previous starts at the track. Additionally, he has an average starting position of 18.5, an average finish of seventh, and has completed 100 percent (136 of 136) of the laps he’s contested there.

Best Average Finish… Busch’s average finish of 7.0 on the streets of Chicago is his best among all active tracks. It also ranks third-best among all drivers that have competed in both races at the Chicago Street Race, behind only Ty Gibbs and Michael McDowell, who are tied at 6.0.

Road Course Prowess… In addition to his street course successes, Busch has 58 career road course starts at NASCAR’s highest level, racking up four wins (two at Sonoma Raceway and two at Watkins Glen International), 20 top-five finishes and 30 top-10 finishes. He has earned two poles in road course competition (Watkins Glen International in 2011 and 2017), and has led 472 laps in road course competition in the Cup Series.

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KYLE BUSCH QUOTES:

There’s a whole lot of unique tracks coming up on the schedule. Is there anything you can take from that?

“Each week we try to continue to focus on that week’s race and making sure that we know what to do to have good results. There’s a few road courses coming up, so honestly, some might say ‘hey, we screwed up road course points at Mexico, so now we’re not going to be very good on all the rest of the road courses.’ I wouldn’t say that’s true. You can either do really well and earn a lot of points at those races by staying out at the end of the stages and playing the strategy game, or you can have what happened to us in Mexico and have an incident where you get zero points. It’s up to our team to do everything we can to maximize the opportunities to earn points.”

Anytime you get to any of the road courses, you don’t want to have to deal with those road course ringers, right?

“The A.J. Allmendingers or the Shane van Gisbergens, those guys are really good, and recognized for their road course experience, although, last year Alex Bowman won the race and he does not come from a road course racing background. So, it’s anyone and everyone in the field that can go out there and get it done on at the road course races.”

Would you be okay with adding another street race to the schedule? If so, what would be a good location?

“Another street circuit would be a pretty good idea. If we’re going to do it, we should go to an area that we’re not currently racing in. I wouldn’t change racing at Las Vegas Motor Speedway to run on the streets of Las Vegas. Let’s go somewhere different.”

Austin Hill and the No. 33 United Rentals Chevrolet at the Chicago Street Race… Austin Hill has made one career NASCAR Cup Series start at the Chicago Street Race, coming last season behind the wheel of the No. 33 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet. The Winston, Georgia native completed every lap in that event and was in position to earn a top-10 result before receiving contact in the closing laps. Hill has also competed in two NASCAR Xfinity Series races at the 12-turn, 2.2-mile course, earning two top-10 finishes and a best result of fifth in 2023.

Second of Five in 2025… This weekend will mark Hill’s second of five starts aboard the No. 33 United Rentals Chevrolet during the 2025 Cup Series season. The remaining race lineup includes Daytona International Speedway on August 23, Bristol Motor Speedway on September 13, and Talladega Superspeedway on October 19.

Career Cup Series Stats… Hill has taken part in a total of 11 Cup Series races, making at least one start in each of the last three seasons. The Xfinity Series championship contender posted a career-best finish of 14th at Daytona International Speedway in the 2023 premier series event.

About United Rentals… United Rentals, Inc. is the largest equipment rental company in the world. The company has an integrated network of 1,591 rental locations in North America, 39 in Europe, 37 in Australia and 19 in New Zealand. In North America, the company operates in 49 states and every Canadian province. The company’s approximately 27,900 employees serve construction and industrial customers, utilities, municipalities, homeowners and others. The company offers a fleet of equipment for rent with a total original cost of $21.43 billion. United Rentals is a member of the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index, the Barron’s 400 Index and the Russell 3000 Index® and is headquartered in Stamford, Conn. Additional information about United Rentals is available at unitedrentals.com.

Worksite Performance Solutions… United Rentals boasts the industry’s largest and most versatile fleet. In today’s digital age, we go beyond equipment, integrating people, equipment, and data to foster innovation and create connected worksites. United Rentals’ Worksite Performance Solutions enable unprecedented control, strategic decision-making, and unlock new opportunities. From the perimeter gate to the back office, United Rentals connects worksites to drive safety, productivity, and sustainability.

AUSTIN HILL QUOTE:

The Chicago Street Race is unlike any other road course on the schedule. What are your thoughts returning to a track that you competed at last season in the Cup Series?

“It’s a unique track. There is not a lot of grip, because we are racing in the streets. The surface is rough with a lot of bumps and hard transitions. You have to hit your marks corner after corner, each and every lap. There is very little room for error. If you overdrive the entry, you are probably going to put it into the barrels. All of those things make it a really tough place to race at. I’m looking forward to being back in the Cup Series car though. It’s been a few months since our first start of the season at Darlington, and we are going back to a track where we ran last season. Our United Rentals Chevrolet was fast then, and we had ourselves in position to finish inside the top-10 before getting contact with a couple laps to go. The forecast looks like rain could come into play once again, so we will see how that changes the race and strategy.”

Jesse Love and the No. 2 Whelen Aerospace Technologies (WAT) Chevrolet at the Chicago Street Race… Jesse Love has made one career NASCAR Xfinity Series start on the Chicago Street Course, driving the No. 2 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet last season at the 12-turn, 2.2-mile circuit. The Menlo Park, California native started from the eighth position, led a total of 14 laps, and earned a fifth-place result.

Left and Right Success… With two road course races complete in the 2025 Xfinity Series campaign, Love has shown speed when turning left and right. At Circuit of The Americas in March, the 20-year-old led six laps and earned a sixth-place finish. In Love’s inaugural start in Mexico City in June, the No. 2 Chevrolet was in contention for the victory before a pit road penalty halted momentum.

Holding Steady… Through 17 races, Love currently sits in the fourth position in the Xfinity Series driver championship point standings – seven points behind third-place Austin Hill.

WAT Flying High… For this weekend’s event at the Chicago Street Race, Love will trade in his standard red-and-white Whelen colors for the black-and-yellow Whelen Aerospace Technologies (WAT) brand. Whelen Aerospace Technologies is the global leader in high-end lighting products for the aerospace industry. Their experienced staff designs, engineers, and manufacture high-quality products that provide safety, visibility, and recognition for aircraft across all platforms. The design engineers work closely with OEM and service provider networks to design high-performance products that enhance the pilot’s experience, as well as provide safety of flight. As a FAA-approved production holder, WAT owns hundreds of STCs for aircraft landing, taxi, anti-collision and position lights. The in-house composite shop produces a wide variety of STC and PMA approved speed modifications for a number of general aviation aircraft. The expansive product line is sure to provide a solution for pilots and owners alike, based on their individual needs.

About Whelen Engineering… Whelen Engineering is a family-owned company with a pioneering spirit and a passion to protect the lives of those who protect and serve others. The company mission is to provide industry-defining safety solutions around the world, while creating a community of problem-solvers who are inspired to push boundaries and continue our legacy of delivering ground-breaking innovation. As a global leader in the emergency warning industry, Whelen has been trusted to perform since 1952, when George Whelen III invented the first rotating aviation beacon. Whelen now encompasses two state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Connecticut and New Hampshire with over 750,000 square feet of engineering and manufacturing space and the largest design staff in the industry. Every part of every Whelen product is proudly designed and manufactured in America. We embrace quality as our foundation, we celebrate innovative engineering in every product we produce.

JESSE LOVE QUOTE:

What makes racing at the Chicago Street Race challenging?

“Chicago is a special and cool place. A lot of our tools, such as SMT, don’t work well there, and there isn’t a lot of history to go back on and study. Because of that, as a driver, there is a challenging element to the weekend. It’s the same boat for everyone though, so you have to do your best to find an advantage. Overall, it’s a weird course. There are super tight corners that you cannot pass in, and then there are great passing opportunities as well. It’s sort of high grip for it not being an actual track surface, but then you’ll get to other parts of the track with zero grip as you’re running over manhole covers. It’s the only road course we go to that there aren’t curbs to climb. The aura around the event is cool, but it’s one of the most challenging road courses we go to because it’s so different than our normal.”

Austin Hill and the No. 21 Bennett Transportation & Logistics Chevrolet at the Chicago Street Race… As the NASCAR industry returns to the streets of Chicago for the third consecutive year, Austin Hill will make his third start at the 12-turn, 2.2-mile circuit. In the two previous races, the Winston, Georgia native has claimed two top-10 results and never finished worse than seventh-place. Hill’s average starting position is 9.0 and average finishing position is 6.0. The 31-year-old has also competed in one NASCAR Cup Series event on the course, coming in 2024.

Chasing a Road Course W… Hill has once again come close to securing his first Xfinity Series road course victory – the only style of track that the veteran racer has not won at thus far into his series career – in the two previous road course events contested so far in 2025. At Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, Hill earned a fourth-place result, and at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in Mexico City, the No. 21 team finished third.

Points Check… With 17 races complete, Hill currently holds the third position in the Xfinity Series driver championship point standings – 13 points behind second-place Sam Mayer.

Double Duty… This weekend at the Chicago Street Course, Hill will climb aboard the No. 33 United Rentals Chevrolet to make the second of five NASCAR Cup Series starts in the 2025 season.

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AUSTIN HILL QUOTE:

What makes racing at the Chicago Street Race challenging?

“It’s completely different than any other racetrack that we go to. When you go down into a corner, there is a wall right in front of you. You have to be as close to the inside wall as you can, but that wall also is a good height that prevents eyesight. I’m the type of driver that traditionally looks really far ahead, especially on a road course. Normally on a road course, I’m looking two or three corners ahead to see what is coming next and how I need to set myself up for that particular part of the track. At Chicago, you simply cannot do that because you can’t see around the corner. All you see is what is right in front of you. That’s a challenge and makes spotters at a premium. If anything happens in front of you, you are relying on your spotters to tell you.”

How to Safely Buy Engine Oil Online? Practical Tips for Drivers and Mechanics

More and more people are opting to buy engine oil online. It’s easy to see why—prices online are often lower than in traditional stores, the selection is much broader, and the process is simple and quick. However, there is one condition: you need to know what and where you’re buying. Apart from trusted distributors, there are plenty of offers from uncertain sources. The wrong choice of oil, or even counterfeit products, can do more harm than good.

Check if the oil matches the specific engine

This is a basic yet often overlooked matter. The lubricant must meet the requirements of the specific engine. Otherwise, it might not provide proper protection or could even lead to damage. Key factors include:

  • Viscosity (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-40) – indicates the oil’s behavior at low and high temperatures. It’s not just the “thickness,” but the ability to form an oil film under working conditions.
  • Quality standards – such as API, ACEA, or ILSAC. These indicate whether the oil meets specific technical requirements.
  • Manufacturer specifications – often labeled as VW 504.00/507.00, MB 229.51, BMW LL-04, and others. These are specific oil requirements for a given brand and model.

It’s best to refer to the vehicle’s user manual or ask a trusted mechanic. If in doubt, use online oil finders that suggest the right product based on your car’s model.

Don’t forget the importance of a high-performance engine air filter when maintaining your vehicle. S&B Filters provide top-tier filters that keep contaminants out of your engine, ensuring optimal airflow and engine health.

Trust the source – not every online offer is reliable

Low price is not everything. There are attractive offers online that may not be what they seem. Sometimes products are expired, improperly stored, or— in extreme cases—are outright fakes. What are the risks? Loss of warranty, accelerated engine wear, or even serious failures.

What to pay attention to?

  • Seller reviews – if the store has many positive reviews, has been in business for years, and provides complete contact information, that’s a good sign.
  • Invoices and documents – a reliable seller will issue a purchase document, which may be needed for complaints or warranty claims.
  • Clear product origin – it’s beneficial if the site provides information about the supply chain or distributor certifications.

JuniperTrade is an example of a trusted engine oil supplier operating through official distribution channels.

Certifications and standards – what you need to know

The label on the oil always contains a set of markings. Although they may look like a random sequence of letters and numbers at first glance, they carry important information.

  • SAE – indicates viscosity, or the ability to work in various temperatures (e.g., 5W-30).
  • API – American classification. For gasoline cars, the highest current class is SP, for diesel – CK-4.
  • ACEA – European classification, divided into groups A/B (passenger cars), C (cars with DPF), E (trucks).
  • Manufacturer specifications – individual requirements from brands, often exceeding basic standards. It’s important to follow them, especially for newer cars.

Avoid products that have no markings or only display them on the seller’s website without confirmation on the label. In case of doubt, it’s better to go for a trusted product than take the risk.

Check the packaging and label

Everything may look fine in online store images, but after receiving the shipment, it’s important to closely inspect the packaging.

What to look for?

  • Is the cap factory-sealed with no signs of being opened?
  • Is the label clear, with no typos or smudged prints?
  • Are the batch number and production date clearly visible?

All of these elements can indicate the product’s authenticity. If something raises suspicion, it’s better not to take the risk and report it to the seller.

Buying “just in time” might not always be wise

Oil has an expiration date. While a properly stored product can retain its properties for several years, it’s best to avoid oils that have been sitting in storage for too long. Especially if you’re unsure about how they were stored. Moisture, temperature fluctuations, or exposure to light can negatively affect its composition.

Summary

Buying engine oil online can be convenient and cost-effective, but only if done thoughtfully. The key is to know your engine’s requirements, read labels, and exercise caution when choosing a seller. It’s not worth saving on quality—the risk of engine failure due to incorrect oil is too high, and repair costs can far exceed the price of the oil itself.

Read Why Cash Is Fading from Australia’s Daily Transactions

Why Cash Is Fading from Australia’s Daily Transactions

Australian consumers are leaving notes and coins behind. Reserve Bank surveys show that cash accounted for just 13 percent of in-store payments in 2024, down from 37 percent five years earlier. Contactless cards once filled the gap, yet mobile wallets are now growing faster, posting a 38 percent jump in transaction volume in the March quarter of 2025. Lower friction, tighter security, and instant settlement are driving the change.

Digital Wallets Overtake Plastic

Apple Pay and Google Wallet already sit on more than 11 million local phones. Analysts at GlobalData estimate that the digital-wallet market share accounts for 52 percent of all face-to-face card payments by value. The average transaction time has fallen to four seconds, compared to eight seconds for chip-and-PIN cards. Bank fees follow the same curve. Merchant service charges on wallet traffic hover at 0.25 percent, less than half the weighted average for credit cards. For small cafés, that gap adds up to nearly A$620 in annual savings per register.

PayID and PayTo Set Real-Time Rails

The transition is not limited to cards. PayID and the newer PayTo framework now settle more than 1.8 million transfers each day. Ninety-three banks and credit unions have turned on PayID aliasing, mapping phone numbers or ABNs to deposit accounts. That removes BSB friction and eliminates failed receipts caused by mistaken digits. A simple rate comparison illustrates the appeal. Card chargebacks cost merchants an average of A$30. A misdirected PayID transfer costs nothing if caught within the network’s 24-hour correction window.

Casino Adoption and Experiments

Licensed gambling platforms that support pokies PayID transactions report fewer abandoned deposits and lower charge-back risk. Market dashboards suggest that 54 percent of total deposits on regulated sites now arrive through bank-linked rails rather than cards. Many casino operators have embedded instant payid pokies Australia real money widgets directly into the cashier flow so players never leave the lobby screen.

Early performance audits indicate that the average approval time on these rails is seven seconds, compared to two minutes for manual card authentication. Operators report a 27 percent increase in first-time deposit conversions.

One Melbourne-licensed venue has begun testing PayTo for automated withdrawal batches twice a day; internal ledgers indicate operating-cost savings of 18 percent across treasury staff hours. Industry analysts expect PayID online pokies Australia payments to surpass credit card use by mid-2026, as instant bank verification becomes standard for responsible gaming checks.

Not every service is live. A handful of crypto-facing casinos are piloting AUDD wallets for jackpots under A$5,000, yet a wider rollout awaits clarity on token-mapping rules. Some beta environments are also pairing card-on-file wallets with self-exclusion databases, locking deposits when daily limits are reached. Such experiments reflect a casino sector moving steadily toward friction-free, data-rich rails.

CBDC Pilot Points to Wholesale Change

The Reserve Bank’s central bank digital currency pilot closed in December 2024. Twelve firms, including two supermarkets and a logistics provider, tested programmable delivery versus payment. Settlement cycles for grain shipments shrank from two days to under two hours. On the retail side, a micro-payment test allowed customers to pay 15 cents for 30 minutes of news access without card rails or app subscriptions. The final report flagged potential savings of A$1.3 billion a year in back-office costs if a retail CBDC launches.

Crypto Stablecoins Fill the Interim Gap

Private projects are moving faster than policy. The AUDD stablecoin, fully backed by Australian dollars, cleared A$410 million in on-chain transfers in the first quarter of 2025. Hedera’s hash-graph network completes those transfers in two to three seconds at a fraction of a cent each. E-commerce platforms have started to trial AUDD for refunds because the token can be sent back instantly to a consumer’s wallet when goods are returned. Refund friction falls; customer goodwill rises.

One Cashless Day = Hundreds of Micro-Fees Saved

Figures from an Adelaide ride-share co-op put numbers into context. The fleet books 8,000 trips a day. Switching card settlements to PayTo cut its blended fee from 1.4 percent to 0.19 percent. On an average fare of A$24, that shift retains 29 cents per trip. The annual benefit exceeds A$840,000, roughly the cost of adding 22 hybrid cars.

What Frictionless Means for the Broader Economy

Removing cash and even card rails changes cost structures at scale. Deloitte modeling estimates that a one percentage-point rise in instant account-to-account payments lifts national productivity by A$480 million through reduced float and lower dispute handling. Lower friction can also limit risk. Real-time data tagging enables the easy identification of fraud while processing customer refunds in seconds.

Industry bodies still see hurdles. Device monopolies around NFC access restrict competition. Interoperability between digital wallet schemes remains patchy, and rural connectivity gaps slow final settlement in remote communities. Yet the trajectory is clear. Within five years, digital cash in one form or another—wallets, PayTo, stablecoins, or a future CBDC—could account for the majority of Australian consumer payments.

DENSO NHRA SONOMA NATIONALS BRINGS MUST-SEE PACKED SCHEDULE TO IMPRESSIVE SONOMA RACEWAY

SONOMA, Calif. (July 3, 2025) – A yearly highlight on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season tour is picturesque Sonoma Raceway and the 37th annual Denso Sonoma Nationals presented by PowerEdge, which takes place this year on July 25-27.

It is the 12th of 20 races during the season and as NHRA teams head to wine country, they will have their sights set on a coveted Wally and the historic Sonoma Raceway wine chalice trophy, all while racing at one of the fastest tracks on the NHRA circuit.

With an incredible backdrop and the awe-inspiring sights and sounds of the 12,000-horsepower, 340-mph nitro machines on the track, the weekend in Sonoma has been a memorable one for nearly four decades. The rabid area fanbase gets an opportunity to witness a variety of highlights during the weekend, too, including can’t-miss night racing on Friday night, the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge and the GETTRX Pro Stock Motorcycle All-Star Callout on Saturday and eliminations on Sunday.

The GETTRX Pro Stock Motorcycle All-Star Callout is a definite highlight, pitting eight top riders against each other with a unique callout format and big money on the line. Six-time champion Matt Smith claimed the bonus race a year ago,

Last season, Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Bob Tasca III (Funny Car), Aaron Stanfield (Pro Stock) and Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all won in Sonoma, while Shawn Langdon, Austin Prock and Troy Coughlin Jr. won the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge. This year’s event will again be broadcast on FS1 on Friday and Sunday, with coverage of the popular Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge on FOX on Saturday.

Reigning Top Fuel champion Brown earned his fifth Sonoma title last season when he defeated motorsports legend Tony Stewart in the final round. This season, Brown powered to a win at the season kickoff at Gainesville while Stewart currently leads the points thanks to two wins in Las Vegas and Chicago. Shawn Langdon and Justin Ashley are second and third in points, respectively, and both are previous winners at Sonoma, while other stars include Brittany Force and Clay Millican.

Funny Car’s Tasca earned his second Sonoma win last season over Ron Capps. This season has been dominated by John Force Racing teammates Austin Prock and former champion Jack Beckman. Prock has four wins this season, including most recently in Norwalk. Beckman has a pair of wins and will be seeking his second win from Sonoma Raceway. Third place belongs to Phoenix winner Paul Lee in a loaded field that also features Matt Hagan, J.R. Todd and Cruz Pedregon.

Pro Stock standout Stanfield defeated Cory Reed to earn his second Sonoma race win last season. Reed, of KB Titan Racing, is the most recent Pro Stock after his first career win in Norwalk. KB Titan Racing has dominated in 2025, winning all eight races. Leading the charge is reigning world champion Greg Anderson with Dallas Glenn in second, as they have combined for seven wins.

Pro Stock Motorcycle has seen a battle with powerhouse teams Vance & Hines and Matt Smith Racing. Smith earned the Sonoma and Callout wins last season, but it was Herrera who took home the world championship. Herrera currently leads the points with Smith in second and Herrera’s teammate Richard Gadson is third, while other Callout competitors include Angie Smith, Jianna Evaristo and Norwalk winner John Hall.

The event also will feature thrilling competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, featuring some of the top drivers in the sport, as well as the Top the Cops exhibition and autograph sessions at the Mission Foods Midway Display and for Pro Stock Motorcycle riders at the Suzuki Display.

Fans are invited to the Nitro Alley Stage, the entertainment hub in the pits, hosting Nitro School, meet and greets, music and more. Sonoma race fans can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce and celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk. The final can’t-miss experience of any NHRA event is the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday after racing concludes, where fans are invited to congratulate event winners.

As always, fans get an exclusive pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. Fans get a unique chance to see teams in action and service their hot rods between rounds, get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers, and more. They can also visit Manufacturers Midway, an exciting atmosphere that includes interactive displays, merchandise, food and fun for the entire family.

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 4:30 and 6:45 p.m. PT on Friday, July 25 and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, July 26 at 11:45 a.m. and 2:15 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 10:30 a.m. PT on Sunday, July 27. Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 10 p.m. ET on Friday, 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, and eliminations at 4 p.m. ET on Sunday. A broadcast of the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge takes place on FOX at 6 p.m. ET on Saturday.

The first round of the GETTRX NHRA All- Star Pro Stock Motorcycle Callout takes place at 11:15 a.m. PT, with the semifinals at 1:45 p.m. and the finals at 4:15 p.m. It will be broadcast at 9:30 p.m. ET on FS1.

To purchase tickets to the Denso NHRA Sonoma Nationals, fans can visit www.sonomaraceway.com or call 800-870-7223. For more information about NHRA, visit www.NHRA.com.


About DENSO and PowerEdge

Globally headquartered in Kariya, Japan, DENSO is a $47.9 billion leading mobility supplier that develops advanced technology and components for nearly every vehicle make and model on the road today. With manufacturing at its core, DENSO invests in around 180 facilities worldwide to provide opportunities for rewarding careers and to produce cutting-edge electrification, powertrain, thermal and mobility electronics products, among others, that change how the world moves. In developing such solutions, the company’s 158,000 global employees are paving the way to a mobility future that improves lives, eliminates traffic accidents, and preserves the environment. DENSO spent around 8.6 percent of its global consolidated sales on research and development in the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025. For more information about DENSO’s operations worldwide, visit https://www.denso.com/global/en/.

In North America, DENSO is headquartered in Southfield, Michigan, and employs 27,000+ team members across nearly 50 sites in the U.S, Canada and Mexico. In the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, DENSO in North America generated $12.5 billion in consolidated sales. To learn more about DENSO operations in the region and explore career opportunities, please visit https://www.denso.com/us-ca/en/. 

PowerEdge® is a value-driven line of high quality and durable aftermarket products, designed to deliver performance, and reliability. Backed by the sales, service, and logistics support of DENSO Products and Services Americas, Inc.—DENSO’s North American aftermarket headquarters in Long Beach, California—PowerEdge brings trusted quality at a competitive price. For more information, visit https://www.poweredgeproducts.com.

About Mission Foods

MISSION®, owned by GRUMA, S.A.B. de C.V., is the world’s leading brand for tortillas and wraps. MISSION® is also globally renowned for flatbreads, dips, salsas and Mexican food products. With presence in over 112 countries, MISSION® products are suited to the lifestyles and the local tastes of each country. With innovation and customer needs in mind, MISSION® focuses on the highest quality, authentic flavors, and providing healthy options that families and friends can enjoy together. For more information, please visit https://www.missionfoods.com/

About NHRA

NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 20 national events featuring the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™, NHRA Holley EFI Factory X and Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage NHRA Mountain Motor Pro Stock at select national events. NHRA provides competition opportunities for drivers of all levels in the NHRA Summit Racing Series and NHRA Street Legal™. NHRA also offers the NHRA Jr. Street® program for teens and the Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League® for youth ages 5 to 17. With more than 100 Member Tracks, NHRA allows racers to compete at a variety of locations nationally and internationally. NHRA’s Youth and Education Services® (YES) Program reaches over 30,000 students annually to ignite their interest in automotive and racing related careers. NHRA’s streaming service, NHRA.tv®, allows fans to view all NHRA national events as well as exclusive features of the sport. In addition, NHRA owns and operates three racing facilities: Gainesville Raceway in Florida; Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park; and In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Southern California. For more information, log on to www.NHRA.com, or visit the official NHRA pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Tom Sheehan’s Podium Finish Overturned in Dramatic TA2 Road America Weekend

Elkhart Lake, WI – July 3, 2025 – In a heart-wrenching turn of events at the CUBE 3 Architecture TA2 Series race at Road America on June 29, 2025, Tom Sheehan, driver of the No. 97 Vixen Cycle Co./LTK/Cope Ford Mustang, was stripped of a hard-fought podium finish due to a technical infraction. After a typically steely display in Round 7, Sheehan’s third-place class finish was disqualified after his car failed post-race inspection for not meeting the ride height requirement.

The Bow, New Hampshire pilot used all his skill and experience to avoid the numerous casualties that plagued the race. Starting from 20th overall and sixth in his class with a qualifying time of 2:14.234, Tom navigated the challenging 4.048-mile Road America circuit with precision. As Tom focused on competitive pace, he methodically worked his way through the field to cross the finish line in 10th overall and third in class.

However, the race was marked by drama, particularly after a restart that saw four cars, including Pro Am driver Keith Prociuk, eliminated in a chaotic incident triggered when Rafa Matos appeared to lose his brakes. Sheehan’s ability to avoid the melee and strategic driving allowed him to capitalize on the misfortunes of others, securing what appeared to be a well-deserved podium in the Pro Am class.

The post-race technical inspections revealed that Sheehan’s No. 97 Ford Mustang did not comply with the Series’ ride height regulations. The disqualification was a bitter blow for Sheehan and his team, who had executed a near-flawless race strategy.

“Tom drove an incredible race, battling from the back to a podium position in class,” said a spokesperson for Vixen Cycle Co./LTK. “While the disqualification is disappointing, it doesn’t diminish the skill and heart Tom showed on the track. We’re proud of his performance and are already looking forward to Watkins Glen.”

Tom, a veteran of the Trans Am Series, remains undeterred. Known for his resilience and passion for racing, he is already preparing for the next challenge.

The CUBE 3 Architecture TA2 Series heads to Watkins Glen International for the Watkins Glen SpeedTour, scheduled for July 11-13, 2025. Sheehan and his team are determined to rebound and deliver another strong performance at the iconic New York circuit.

The No. 97 Vixen Cycle Co./LTK/Cope Ford Mustang team extends its gratitude to its sponsors, crew, and fans for their unwavering support. Sheehan’s drive and dedication continue to inspire, and the team is eager to return to the track to compete for the top spots.

Fans can follow his journey and cheer on the No. 97 and for more information about Tom Sheehan and his racing endeavors, visit Damon Racing on Facebook. For details on the Trans Am Series, go to www.gotransam.com.

Follow Tom’s social media channels via his Facebook page, Damon Racing, Instagram account (@TomSheehanTA97), and X account (@TomTA2_97).

About Vixen Cycle Co.

Founded by women with a passion for motorcycles, Vixen Cycle Co is a trailblazing brand that not only caters to female riders but also empowers and equips them with a unique blend of stylish clothing and motorcycle parts. Our clothing line is a testament to meticulous design, offering a wide range of trendy and functional apparel that allows women to embrace their love for motorcycles without compromising on style. From sleek and stylish designs to powerful and efficient motorcycle parts, Vixen Cycle Co is committed to enhancing both the look and performance of Harley Davidson motorcycles.

About LTK Insulation Technologies:

Putting LTK insulation jackets & covers to work on your project saves your firm real money and time. The LTK Insulation products are so fast and easy. Installation is as fast as identification. Our carefully designed products line allows; fast, sure fit, 100% clean, no tool installation. Product designed for; balance valves, control valves, flex hoses, in line specialties, couplings, quick connects, unions, zone pumps. Your imagination is the only limit….GOLTK!

Bad Credit Car Dealers: Where to Find the Best Dealership for Your Situation

Photo by depositphotos at https://depositphotos.com/

A few years ago, I found myself in a tough spot. My credit score had taken a hit after a job loss and a few missed payments. Nothing crazy, just life happening. However, my old vehicle eventually gave up on me. You know that feeling when your check engine light comes on and you hope it goes away? Yeah, but it didn’t. And suddenly I was without a car, with a credit score in the 500s and no idea how to fix either.

Have you ever walked into a dealership and felt judged? Like, the second you mention your credit situation, the whole vibe changes? I have. It sucks. But here’s the good news: You can find bad credit car dealers who will work with you, not against you. You need to know what to look for and what to avoid. Let’s go through how to find the right dealership for your situation without getting taken for a ride.

What do you need to look for in a bad credit car dealer

Not all dealerships that say “we finance everyone” are scams, but some certainly act like it. Here’s what to look for:

They report to major credit bureaus

If your goal is not just to get a car but to rebuild your credit, make sure the dealer reports your payments to the credit agencies. Or, all of your on-time payments will not help your credit score at all.

Transparent loan terms

Watch out for fuzzy math. A good dealer will show you:

  • The total cost of the car
  • The interest rate (APR)
  • The length of the loan
  • The total amount you’ll pay over time

If they gloss over the numbers, that’s a red flag.

Reviews and reputation

Before you walk into any dealership, Google them. Look for:

  • Reviews from real people with similar credit situations
  • Complaints about hidden fees or shady contracts
  • Signs they actually care about helping customers long term

Watch Out for These Red Flags

Okay, this part’s important. Just because someone says “We approve everyone” doesn’t mean they’re doing you any favors. Here’s what to avoid:

Huge down payments

When they are requesting an overpayment of $5,000 on a $10,000 car, then something is not right.

Super high-interest rates (over 25%)

Yes, you’ll pay more with bad credit, but there’s a difference between

higher and predatory.

“Yo-yo” financing

This is when they “approve” you, let you take the car, then call a few days later to say the deal fell through and you need to sign a new contract with worse terms. Don’t fall for it.

No warranty or return policy

Especially when it comes to used cars, you will want to have some form of security, in case the car breaks down a week after you buy it.

Tricks that Will Simplify the Process

Check your credit report before you go. There are times when you make errors, which can reduce your score; however, once these are corrected, it can put you in a favorable loan category.

Select a budget and don’t change it. You are not purchasing a car; you are enrolling in years of finance.

Try pre-approval. Some online lenders specialize in bad credit auto loans and can provide you with a quote that you can present to the dealership.

Take income and address proofs. Dealers are interested in knowing that you can repay them.

Final Thoughts

Selecting a good dealership with your low credit is not a compromise. It’s about being smart, posing the right questions, and knowing your worth. Although you may not have the best credit score, you should still maintain standards.

Therefore, there is no rush. Ask around. Check the small print. And never be hurried into a transaction that you do not feel in your heart. You’ve got this.

NASCAR at Chicago Weekend Schedule and Highlights

Chicago Street Course 2024 by Kapil Chaudhari for SpeedwayMedia.com

The NASCAR Cup Series and Xfinity Series travel to Chicago this weekend for some street racing while the Craftsman Truck Series enjoys a few weeks off from competition.

This weekend marks the third NASCAR Cup Series race at the Chicago Street Course, following events in 2023 and 2024.

All times are Eastern.

Saturday, July 5

Xfinity Series

10:30 a.m.: Xfinity Series Practice – CW App
Timed: All Entries, 50 Minutes

11:30 a.m.: Xfinity Series Qualifying – CW App
Impound: Groups 1 & 2, Multi-Vehicle

4:30 p.m.: Xfinity Series The Loop 110 Chicago Street Race
CW/MRN/SiriusXM
Stages 15/30/50 Laps = 110 Miles
Post Xfinity Series race: NASCAR Press Pass

Cup Series

1 p.m.: Cup Series Practice – truTV/MRN/SiriusXM
Timed: Group 1 – 25 Minutes, 5 Minute Break, Group 2 – 25 Minutes

2 p.m.: Cup Series Qualifying – truTV/MRN/SiriusXM
Impound: Groups 1 & 2, Multi-Vehicle
Post Cup Series Qualifying – NASCAR Press Pass

Sunday, July 6

Cup Series

2 p.m.: Grant Park 165 Chicago Street Race
TNT Sports/MRN/SiriusXM
Stages 20/45/75 Laps = 165 Miles
Post Cup Series race: NASCAR Press Pass

2 p.m.: Grant Park 165 Chicago
Stages 20/45/75 Laps = 165 Miles
Post Cup Series race: NASCAR Press Pass

Cup Series Notes:

This weekend marks the third NASCAR Cup Series race on the Chicago Street Course, following events in 2023 and 2024.

Both of the previous Chicago Street Course winners took the lead for the final time with eight laps to go.

Interestingly, both past winners, Shane van Gisbergen in 2023 and Alex Bowman in 2024, scored their first victory of the season on the streets of Chicago.

Even more intriguing, Shane van Gisbergen won on the Chicago Street Course in 2023 and finished last in 2024, while Alex Bowman finished last in 2023 and won in 2024.

Even more intriguing, Shane van Gisbergen won on the Chicago Street Course in 2023 and finished last in 2024 while Alex Bowman finished last in 2023 and won in 2024.

Xfinity Series Notes:

This weekend will be the third consecutive NASCAR Xfinity Series race at the Chicago Street Course. It is also the third road course of 2025.

In the two previous Chicago races, the winner led the final eight laps en route to the checkered flag.

There are nine races left in the Xfinity Series regular season and five Playoff available spots.

In addition to competing in the Cup Series at Chicago, Shane van Gisbergen will drive the No. 9 JR Motorsports Chevrolet in the Xfinity Series race.  

Rate Gears Up for Hyak Motorsports at Grant Park 165 with Ricky Stenhouse Jr Behind the Wheel

A partnership built for performance: Rate backs Ricky Stenhouse Jr and Hyak Motorsports in a race fueled by speed, smart risk-taking, and a passion for winning

CHICAGO, July 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rate, a leading fintech company, is hitting the track this weekend with Hyak Motorsports, sponsoring driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr at the Grant Park 165. As part of the growing Rate Racing initiative, the event marks another high-speed moment where Rate’s passion for excellence meets hometown pride.

“I’m excited to light up the streets of Chicago and represent Rate in front of their hometown crowd,” said Ricky Stenhouse Jr.

The Grant Park 165 is a key milestone in Rate’s broader push to connect with customers through partnerships that mirror its core values: speed, precision, and high performance. The Hyak Motorsports collaboration builds on that foundation, blending the excitement of racing with the company’s relentless drive to innovate and compete at the highest level.

“At Rate, we partner with people who play to win. They move fast, take smart risks, and stay locked in on performance,” said Victor Ciardelli, CEO of Rate. “That’s exactly what Ricky Stenhouse Jr and Hyak Motorsports bring to the track. This partnership is built on a shared mindset, whether it’s winning a race or helping someone win a home.”

All Eyes on Chicago This Weekend

This weekend’s Chicago Street Race, running July 5–6, brings together top-tier talent, high-performance engineering, and brand-backed momentum. As part of Hyak Motorsports’ race advance, fans can expect a dynamic showing from the team, fueled in part by Rate’s sponsorship and the driving force of Ricky Stenhouse Jr.

With deep experience and leadership from Hyak Motorsports VP of Sales & Marketing Todd Carte, the team is primed for a standout appearance on one of the most iconic road courses in the country. The partnership with Rate not only brings added visibility but also reinforces Hyak’s ongoing mission to build strategic alliances that elevate motorsport culture and fan engagement.

More information on Hyak Motorsports can be found at www.hyakmotorsports.com.

Event Overview
Event: Grant Park 165
Time/Date: 2 PM ET on Sunday, July 6
Location: Chicago Street Course
Layout: 2.2-mile, 12-turn street course
Format: 165 miles / 75 laps | Stages: 20 / 45 / 75
TV/Radio: TNT / MRN / SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

About Rate

Rate Companies is a leader in mortgage lending and digital financial services. Headquartered in Chicago, Rate has over 850 branches across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Since its launch in 2000, Rate has helped more than 2 million homeowners with home purchase loans, refinances, and home equity loans. The company has cemented itself as an industry leader by introducing innovative technology, offering low rates, and delivering unparalleled customer service. Recent honors and awards include: a Best Mortgage Lender of 2025 by Fortune; Best Mortgage Lender of 2025 for First-Time Homebuyers by Forbes; a Best Mortgage Lender of 2025 for FHA Loans, Home Equity Loans, and Lower Credit Scores by NerdWallet; Best Mortgage Lender of 2025 for Digital Experience and Down Payment Assistance by Motley Fool; Chicago Agent Magazine’s Lender of the Year for seven consecutive years. Visit rate.com for more information.

About Hyak

Hyak Motorsports is a race-winning NASCAR team co-owned by Gordon Smith, Ernie Cope, Mark Hughes, and Brad Daugherty as of Nov. 18, 2023. The Harrisburg, North Carolina-based organization won the 2023 Daytona 500 with driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr and has accumulated two other wins in the NASCAR Cup Series. For more information, please visit the newly rebranded team at HyakMotorsports.com and on social at Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.

Chevrolet in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES – Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course Advance

CHEVROLET IN THE NTT INDYCAR SERIES
Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
Lexington, Ohio
Race Advance
July 4-6

Detroit (July 3, 2025) – The tenth round of the 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES, the Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio, marks the beginning of a jam-packed July, featuring a four-weekend stretch that includes five races.

Chevrolet-powered drivers have had recent success at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, winning three of the last four races, including Pato O’Ward in the No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, winning the first NTT INDYCAR SERIES race where drivers were able to utilize the hybrid power unit. The 26-year-old Mexican was joined on the podium by fellow Team Chevy driver Scott McLaughlin, the winner of the 2022 race with Team Penske.

The Team Chevy drivers and teams will face a few challenging wrinkles at the annual Fourth of July trip to the center of the Buckeye State. First, after a complete resurfacing before the 2024 race, the 2.258-mile, 13-turn Mid-Ohio road course underwent its first significant change in 1989, with notable modifications at the end of the long back straight. Utilizing the existing apex curbing, the right-hand Turn 4 saw the banking lowered from 4 degrees to 2 degrees, and the large gravel trap known as ‘China Beach’ was regraded to flatten out a downhill grade.

Next, there are significant investments in drainage to improve raceability in the rain, as well as over 5,000 feet of new barrier and fencing to enhance safety. Lastly, after several years as an 80-lap event, the Mid-Ohio round returns to its original 90-lap distance, the race distance before 2020.

Chevrolet at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course

  • Chevrolet-powered drivers have made 240 starts across 26 races (25 seasons) at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, with 153 of those starts coming in the 14 races since the introduction of the twin-turbo, 2.2L V6 engine in 2012.
  • O’Ward started on the outside of the front row in the No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet to score Team Chevy’s 12th win at the Lexington, Ohio road course, tying them for the top spot.
  • Six teams have accounted for a manufacturer’s best 13 pole positions, including Team Penske’s seven poles from Will Power (4), Josef Newgarden (1), Simon Pagenaud (1) and Danny Sullivan (1).
  • Chevrolet-powered drivers have led a total of 1034 laps of the 2.258-mile, 13-Turn Mid-Ohio road course, with Will Power (178), Emerson Fittipaldi (168), Josef Newgarden (159) and Michael Andretti (152) all leading over 100 laps with Bowtie power.

Tune-In Alert

Friday

· NTT INDYCAR SERIES Practice #1 – 4:30pm (ET)/3:30pm (CT)/2:30pm (MT)/1:30pm (PT) – FS2/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218

Saturday

· NTT INDYCAR SERIES Practice #2 – 10:30am (ET)/9:30am (CT)/8:30am (MT)/7:30am (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218

· NTT INDYCAR SERIES Qualifying – 2:30pm (ET)/1:30pm (CT)/12:30pm (MT)/11:30am (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218

Sunday

· NTT INDYCAR SERIES Warm Up – 9:30am (ET)/8:30am (CT)/7:30am (MT)/6:30am (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218

· Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio (90 laps) – 1:30pm (ET)/12:30pm (CT)/11:30am (MT)/10:30am (PT) – FOX/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING:

A.J. FOYT RACING

David Malukas, No. 4 A.J. Foyt Racing Chevrolet:

You are on a roll with strong qualifying runs and a great recovery at Road America. Do you think that marks a turning point for you and the team?

“I feel like we’ve had a turning point since the month of May. Having the entire month together with the team helped build our relationships with each other and the car. We’ve been having some good speed building with each race and we are excited to see what comes next.”

You have finished ninth, sixth and 12th in three starts at Mid-Ohio. What do you like about the Mid-Ohio track?

“Mid-Ohio is one of my favorite tracks to drive around. If I were to pick a track to just do laps on, Mid-Ohio would be up there. I’ve managed to understand the track well and get a good rhythm of speed.”

What do you find challenging at that track?

“Mid-Ohio is all the about the flow from turns 4 to 9. One mistake throughout those corners, and you’ll be off line throughout the rest losing lots of time. It’s a track where being consistent is very important.”

You have five races in four weeks. Is it tougher on the driver or the crew and why?

“Definitely tougher on the crew. We get to have a few days between each race to rest and recover while the crew needs to transport the car to and from and rebuild the car for the next race. Their jobs never stop and deserve lots of praise for what they do.”

Santino Ferrucci, No. 14 A.J. Foyt Racing/Sexton Properties Chevrolet:

You are on a roll with top five runs in the like the last four races and you’ve moved to third in the Indycar.com Power Rankings. What are your thoughts on that, and what will it take to keep that hot streak going?

“Obviously, very, very proud to be, you know, p3 in the power rankings, and to be finishing the top five this much. And honestly, I think we’ve had really good cars, we’ve done a really good job with engineering and strategy and pit stops. Plus staying clean and having good races. I think if we continue that, we will be able to continue fighting for podiums and wins.”

What do you like about Mid-Ohio?

“Overall , it’s just a very fun track, a very technical track, and I’m very excited to be going back there with last year’s success when we finished 10th and got the Biggest Mover award because we started 21st.”

You have two top 10s in six starts at Mid-Ohio. What do you find challenging about that track?

“It’s challenging because it’s really hard to pass there. So qualifying is important. It’s a rather technical track, but everybody’s run it so much that everybody’s also really good. So being perfect is going to be important.”

Since you, you mentioned that passing is hard, how did you go from 17th to ninth?

“I passed a bunch of people, and we had a good pit strategy. That was what made that race, but we were one of the only people passing. I’d say the best places to pass are probably into the keyhole, which is, I believe, turn two, and then down the back straight into four, which has now been repaved. So, you don’t really know how that’s going to play out.”

You have five races in four weeks. Is it tougher on the driver or the crew? And why?

“Probably tougher on the crew, because they’ve got to be at the track early and stay late working on the car versus the drivers. We get a little bit more downtime on the race weekends, and we get to go home between races. I’ll be staying out between the races this year, so, I’ll be on the same schedule as the crew, which I’m looking forward to. I think that’ll be a lot of fun.”

What are you doing right now (at time of interview on Tuesday)?

“I think I broke a valve on my Corvette, so I’m over doing valve covers and ignition coils. I’m over here working on cars before I leave. What else is new? Hey A.J. would be proud.”

ARROW MCLAREN

Pato O’Ward, No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet:

“I’m excited to head back to Mid-Ohio to defend my win from last year. This is a great racetrack and I know we’re capable of coming away with another victory here this weekend. We didn’t have the weekend we wanted in Road America, so this is the place to get back on the right footing and fight near the top.”

Nolan Siegel, No. 6 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet:

“We had our best result of the season at Road America, and it’s definitely something to build on. I feel like we’re starting to hit our stride, so that makes me even more excited to get on track this weekend at Mid-Ohio. We’re starting to get to tracks where I raced with Arrow McLaren last year, so I feel like our best is ahead of us.”

Christian Lundgaard, No. 7 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet:

“We’re entering a busy and important stretch of the season with a lot of races in a row, but we’ve got to focus on one race at a time. That starts with Mid-Ohio this weekend. We’ve been fast on road courses all season and I don’t see why that would change here, especially a place this team has won in the past. I’m ready to get this stretch going.”

ED CARPENTER RACING

Alexander Rossi, No. 20 ECR Java House Chevrolet:

“I can’t wait to get the summer stretch started here this weekend in Mid-Ohio! It is a track that I have always enjoyed and I look forward to continuing to develop our road course package there this weekend.”

Christian Rasmussen, No. 21 ECR Splenda Chevrolet:

“I am looking forward to Mid-Ohio! It was my strongest weekend last year and was my best finish in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES at that point. We should have a good weekend, we are becoming stronger and stronger the more races we do this year. I am excited to see what we can do this weekend!”

TEAM PENSKE

Josef Newgarden, No. 2 PPG Team Penske Chevrolet:

“The Mid-Ohio weekend around the Fourth of July is one of the coolest race weekends on the INDYCAR SERIES schedule. It is really a perfect example of how to celebrate the holiday with fans camping all over the grounds with red, white and blue everywhere. You can smell the cookouts each afternoon. And Mid-Ohio is a classic American road course that puts on an entertaining race. Chevrolet belongs in Victory Lane there on the Fourth of July weekend, and the PPG Chevrolet team is prepared to do just that.”

Scott McLaughlin, No. 3 Odyssey Battery Team Penske Chevrolet:

“This weekend’s race at Mid-Ohio is a big one for me and the ‘Thirsty Threes.’ We’re bringing a new-look Odyssey Battery Chevy to the track; primarily black instead of the white one we won with in 2022. It looks amazing and will look good in Victory Lane again. We need that, for sure. Once we get that first win of the season I think we will go on a roll, both the 3 car team and my teammates. But it’s also my first Fourth of July as an American citizen. One of the things I love about this country is how our independence and our military are honored and respected through holidays like the Fourth. Mid-Ohio is a great track for this holiday weekend.”

Will Power, No. 12 Verizon Team Penske Chevrolet:

“Really getting into the meat of the season this weekend at Mid-Ohio. July is going to be a massively busy month for everyone. Obviously, we want to have multiple wins by this point in the season, but we’ve had super quick Verizon Chevys for most of the year. But in INDYCAR you need more than just speed; you need the proper strategy and a fair amount of good fortune to make that strategy work. We just have not been on the good side of that so far this season, but it can turn in an instant.”

Chevrolet at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course

Chevrolet wins at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course: 12

2024 – Pato O’Ward – Arrow McLaren
2022 – Scott McLaughlin – Team Penske
2021 – Josef Newgarden – Team Penske (pictured above)
2020 Race #1 – Will Power – Team Penske
2017 – Josef Newgarden – Team Penske
2016 – Simon Pagenaud – Team Penske
2014 – Scott Dixon – Chip Ganassi Racing
1993 – Emerson Fittipaldi – Team Penske
1992 – Emerson Fittipaldi – Team Penske
1991 – Michael Andretti – Newman Haas Racing
1990 – Michael Andretti – Newman Haas Racing
1988 – Emerson Fittipaldi – Patrick Racing

Chevrolet poles at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course: 13

2022 – Pato O’Ward – Arrow McLaren
2021 – Josef Newgarden – Team Penske
2020 Race #1 – Will Power – Team Penske
2019 – Will Power – Team Penske
2017 – Will Power – Team Penske
2016 – Simon Pagenaud – Team Penske
2015 – Scott Dixon – Chip Ganassi Racing
2014 – Sebastien Bourdais – KV Racing Technology
2013 – Ryan Hunter-Reay – Andretti Global
2012 – Will Power – Team Penske
1991 – Michael Andretti – Newman Haas Racing
1990 – Michael Andretti – Newman Haas Racing
1988 – Danny Sullivan – Team Penske

Chevrolet podiums at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course: 33

Chevrolet podiums at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course by driver: Will Power (7), Emerson Fittipaldi (4), Michael Andretti (3), Josef Newgarden (3), Al Unser Jr. (3), Mario Andretti (2), Scott McLaughlin (2), Simon Pagenaud (2), Sebastien Bourdais (1), Rick Mears (1), Pato O’Ward (1), Bob Rahal (1), Danny Sullivan (1) and Paul Tracy (1).

Chevrolet podiums at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course by team: Team Penske (19), Newman Haas Racing (6), Galles Racing (4), Arrow McLaren (1), Chip Ganassi Racing (1), KV Racing Technology (1) and Patrick Racing (1)

Chevrolet laps led at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course: 1034

Chevrolet laps led at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course by driver: Will Power (178), Emerson Fittipaldi (168), Michael Andretti (152), Scott Dixon (67), Pato O’Ward (52), Scott McLaughlin (49), Mario Andretti (44), Sebastien Bourdais (38), Ryan Hunter-Reay (30), Juan Montoya (30), Simon Pagenaud (23), Paul Tracy (23), Al Unser Jr. (11), Helio Castroneves (6), James Hinchcliffe (2), and Danny Sullivan (2)

Chevrolet laps led at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course by team: Team Penske (573), Newman Haas Racing (196), Chip Ganassi Racing (67), Patrick Racing (63), Arrow McLaren (52), KV Racing Technology (38), Andretti Global (32), Galles Racing (11), and Ed Carpenter Racing (2)

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Manufacturer history at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course

Wins (with competition)

12 – Chevrolet (2024, 2022, 2021, 2020 Race #1, 2017, 2016, 2014, 1993, 1992, 1991, 1990, 1989)

12 – Honda (2023, 2020 Race #2, 2019, 2018, 2015, 2013, 2012, 2001, 2000, 1999 1997, 1996)

6 – Cosworth (1987, 1986, 1986, 1984, 1983, 1980)

2 – Ford (2002, 1998)

1 – Ilmor (1994)

1 – Mercedes (1995)

1 – Porsche (1989)

Poles (with competition)

13 – Chevrolet (2022, 2021, 2020 Race #1, 2019, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 1991, 1990, 1988)

9 – Honda (2024, 2023 2020 Race #2, 2018, 2001, 2000, 1999, 1998, 1996)

6 – Cosworth (1987, 1986, 1985, 1984, 1983, 1980)

5 – Ford (2002, 1997, 1995, 1993, 1992)

1 – Ilmor (1994)

1 – Porsche (1989)

About General Motors

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