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Eight of Nine Motorsports Hall of Fame of America Class of 2022 Inductees Unveiled at Indianapolis Motor Speedway

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Official Release
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  • Pete Brock (Sports Cars), Helio Castroneves (Open Wheel), Dick LaHaie (Drag Racing), Banjo Matthews (At Large/Business), Denise McCluggage (At Large/Media), Raymond Parks (Historic), Jack Roush (Stock Cars) and Vance & Hines (Motorcycles) in 2022 Induction Class
  • 34th Induction Ceremony Returns to the Hall of Fame’s Daytona International Speedway Home March 7 – 8, 2022
  • Second Historic Inductee Featuring a Truly Iconic American Motorsports Brand to be Announced in a Few Weeks

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (August 13, 2021) — Eight legends from the world of motorsports, including four-time Indianapolis 500 winner Helio Castroneves, were named to the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America (MSHFA) as the 34th class was unveiled on Friday at Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS). A ninth inductee, in the Historic Category, will be unveiled later this month in a separate announcement.

The Class of 2022 includes the designer of the 1965 World Champion Cobra Daytona Coupes, Pete Brock (Sports Cars), the first foreign-born four-time Indianapolis 500 winner, Helio Castroneves (Open Wheel), the only person in history to win NHRA Top Fuel championships as a driver and crew chief, Dick LaHaie (Drag Racing), “The Henry Ford of race cars,” NASCAR builder Banjo Matthews (Business), the only woman to receive the Ken W. Purdy Award for Excellence in Automotive Journalism, Denise McCluggage (Media), NASCAR cofounder and championship-winning team owner Raymond Parks (Historic), “The Cat in the Hat” who has masterminded more than 300 NASCAR wins, Jack Roush (Stock Cars) and motorcycle racing innovators who have won NHRA drag racing titles, AMA Supersport and Superbike titles, two Daytona 200s and more, Terry Vance & Byron Hines (Motorcycles).

“Many of the members of the Motorsports Hall of Fame are people that I grew up idolizing and to now be invited to join this group, I just can’t believe it,” Castroneves said. “I’m so honored to have the opportunity to be inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame and I feel so lucky to be included with these legends.” n the Hall one day. It is going to be a great night for motorsports, and I am grateful for this opportunity.”

The MSHFA Class of 2022 was unveiled in a press conference at IMS featuring Castroneves, IMS President Doug Boles and MSHFA President George Levy.

“Like so many legends before them,” said MSHFA President Levy, “the Class of 2022 has left an indelible impression on the sport. We can’t wait to welcome them into the Hall of Fame next March at our home on the grounds of Daytona International Speedway.”

The Motorsports Hall of Fame of America is the only hall that honors the entire sport and as such is the most exclusive. Each of the MSHFA’s inductees is elected by a straight vote of 200 experts — half of them historians and other experts, half of them inductees themselves. Regular voters have included Hall of Famers Mario Andretti, Richard Petty, Tom D’Eath, Shirley Muldowney, Chip Ganassi, Don Garlits, Parnelli Jones, Scott Parker, Chip Hanauer, Don Prudhomme and other titans of the sport.

Each year, MSHFA classes are formally inducted in a celebration featuring motorsports legends and fellow Hall of Fame members at a black-tie gala. The Class of 2022 induction will be in Daytona Beach on March 7 – 8, 2022.

Including the Class of 2022, 278 “Heroes of Horsepower” are in the MSHFA.

The Motorsports Hall of Fame of America Class of 2022:

Pete Brock (Sports Cars) — Brock is best known for designing the 1965 World Champion Cobra Daytona Coupes and for his multi-time national champion Brock Racing Enterprises (BRE) Datsun 240Zs and 510s. At GM in the 1950s, Brock helped conceive the shape of the groundbreaking 1959 Corvette Stingray race car and 1963 production model. As Shelby American’s first employee, he ran the Carroll Shelby driving school, penned the Daytona and worked on the Mustang GT-350 street and race cars. After the Datsun years, Brock became a photojournalist and wrote award-winning books on his Daytonas and the Corvette Sting Ray.

Helio Castroneves (Open Wheel) — The Brazilian has one of the greatest records in Indianapolis 500 history, winning four times (2001, 2002, 2009 and 2021) (joining fellow inductees A.J. Foyt, Al Unser Sr. and Rick Mears), taking pole four times and finishing second three times. Castroneves is a four-time runner-up for the IndyCar championship and 12th all time in IndyCar wins with 30. He was dubbed “Spider-Man” for his victory fence-climbs and gained broad attention after winning the 2007 edition of Dancing with the Stars. Castroneves also won the 2020 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and the 2021 Rolex 24 at Daytona.

Dick LaHaie (Drag Racing) — The only person in NHRA history to win Top Fuel championships as a driver and crew chief, LaHaie captured the 1987 Top Fuel championship in the cockpit and four more as crew chief for Scott Kalitta (1994, 1995) and Larry Dixon (2002, 2003). LaHaie’s first major victory came at the 1980 Summernationals. In the early days, he’d sometimes dig through trashcans for parts the top teams had thrown away, then beat them with their discards. His 1987 Top Fuel title was won with daughter Kim as crew chief. LaHaie was No. 31 on NHRA’s 2001 list of its 50 Greatest Drivers.

Banjo Matthews (Business) — Smokey Yunick called him “the Henry Ford of race cars.” The cars Edwin Keith Matthews built dominated NASCAR for more than a decade. From 1974 to 1985, he produced about 400 chassis and rebuilt about 200. Of the 362 races in this period, his cars won 262 — over 70% — including all 30 1978 contests. For years, the Akron, Ohio native was more proud that no driver was killed in a Matthews-built car. As an owner, he entered 160 Cup races, capturing 14 poles and nine victories, including three Firecracker 400s at Daytona with fellow inductees Fireball Roberts, A.J. Foyt and Donnie Allison.

Denise McCluggage (Media) — Few fueled the rise of sports car racing in the U.S. more than McCluggage. Without her, there would’ve been no Autoweek, the sport’s bible in the ‘60s and ’70s. She also was a trailblazing female driver, winning her class at Sebring in 1961 and at the 1964 Monte Carlo Rally. (She was famously denied entry at Le Mans because of her gender.) Joining the New York Herald Tribune in the ‘50s, she became the first female sports reporter for a major daily. In 1985, she became the only woman to receive the Ken W. Purdy Award for Excellence in Automotive Journalism for her piece on F1 legend Juan Manuel Fangio.

Raymond Parks (Historic) — Without Parks, there might not have been a NASCAR. He was a key member of the group that met with Bill France at the Streamline Hotel in Daytona Beach in 1947 to create NASCAR and helped keep the sanctioning organization afloat during its early years. Considered its first team owner, his entries set a standard for excellence. The former moonshine runner’s cars won the first NASCAR (Modified) championship in 1948 and the inaugural NASCAR Strictly Stock (now Cup Series) title in 1949. When he died in 2010, he was the last surviving member of the sport’s founders.

Jack Roush (Stock Cars) — Roush has succeeded in more forms of motorsports than almost anyone. In NASCAR, his teams have captured more than 300 races and eight championships across all three major series, including back-to-back NASCAR Cup Series titles (2003-4). “The Cat in the Hat” left an engineering job at Ford in 1970 to team with Wayne Gapp. Over the next five years they won NHRA, IHRA and AHRA Pro Stock titles. In the ‘80s, Roush’s incredible domination of SCCA and IMSA included 24 national championships. His two Daytona 500 trophies came with Matt Kenseth (2009, 2012).

Vance & Hines (Motorcycles) — Few rider/tuner pairings have dominated like Terry Vance and Byron Hines. From the early ‘70s until Vance retired from riding in 1988, they captured 14 Pro Stock and Top Fuel titles. Their popularity prompted NHRA to add motorcycle racing to its national series. Since 1980 they’ve made Vance & Hines a world-leading aftermarket parts supplier. Their road racing teams have won AMA Supersport and Superbike titles and two Daytona 200s. More recently, they’ve run the successful Harley-Davidson® Screamin’ Eagle®/Vance & Hines Pro Stock drag team. Vance was No. 35 on NHRA’s 2001 list of its 50 Greatest Drivers.

The MSHFA is housed in Daytona International Speedway’s Ticket and Tours Building located in front of the famed 2.5-mile DIS tri-oval. Access to the MSFHA is included with every Daytona International Speedway tour, which run throughout each day, or as a museum-only ticket. The museum is open daily nearly year-round except major holidays.

For more information, visit the MSHFA at www.mshf.com or contact George Levy at (248) 895-1704 or glevy@mshf.com. For tickets call 1-800-PIT-SHOP.
The Motorsports Hall of Fame of America is on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MotorsportsHOF/ and Instagram and Twitter at @MotorsportsHOF.

About the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America: The MSHFA is the only hall that honors all American motorsports: cars, motorcycles, airplanes, off road and powerboats. Its mission is to celebrate and instill the American motorsports values of leadership, creativity, originality, teamwork and spirit of competition. Founded by Larry G. Ciancio and Ronald A. Watson, it held its first induction in 1989. Watson spent the next 30 years tirelessly building it into the nation’s premier such hall until his passing in 2019. The original museum in Novi, Mich., relocated to Daytona Beach, Fla., in 2016 and greets more than 100,000 guests a year. MSHFA is operated by the nonprofit Motorsports Museum and Hall of Fame of America Foundation, Inc.

RCR Event Preview – Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course

By
Official Release
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Richard Childress Racing at Indianapolis Motor Speedway… In 73 NASCAR Cup Series starts at the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval, Richard Childress Racing has earned three wins with drivers Dale Earnhardt (1995), Kevin Harvick (2003), and Paul Menard (2011). The Welcome, North Carolina-based organization also has one NASCAR Xfinity Series win at the famed Brickyard with Ty Dillon earning the checkered flag in 2014.

This weekend marks the Cup Series debut on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course. During the 2020 season, the Xfinity Series competed on the 14-turn asphalt circuit.

Catch the Action… The NASCAR Xfinity Series’ Indianapolis 150 at the Brickyard at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course will be televised live Saturday, August 14, beginning at 4 p.m. ET on NBCSN and will be broadcast live on the IMS Radio Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

The NASCAR Cup Series’ Verizon 200 at the Brickyard at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course will be televised live Sunday, August 15, beginning at 1 p.m. ET on NBC and will be broadcast live on the IMS Radio Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Austin Dillon and the No. 3 Dow MobilityScience Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course… Although this weekend marks the first time that NASCAR will compete on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course configuration, Austin Dillon has competed at the Brickyard’s traditional oval configuration eight previous times in the NASCAR Cup Series, earning a best finish of ninth in 2016. He also has four NASCAR Xfinity Series starts at IMS, with a best finish of fifth in 2012. Dillon grew up attending races at the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway track with his grandfather, car owner Richard Childress. Dillon recalls riding in the pace car as a young child and participated in Victory Lane festivities with Paul Menard in 2011 and Kevin Harvick in 2003 when they won the prestigious race under the RCR banner.

Double Duty… Dillon, the 2013 NASCAR Xfinity Series Champion, is scheduled to compete in Saturday’s NASCAR Xfinity Series race on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course. The race is live on NBCSN at 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, August 14.

Dow brings a science and engineering crew who is driven by limitless curiosity to the RCR Team… Dillon and the RCR team are again supported by Dow’s materials science expertise and technologies this season. Backed by the power of data analysis and virtual modeling, Dow develops and manufactures high-performance components and materials custom-made for the No. 3 car. Dow and RCR’s partnership has expedited innovation and shortened testing time in the automotive industry by recreating in the lab one of the most extreme environments – the racetrack. After eight years of collaboration, Dow scientists and RCR engineers are continuing to work together to make the No. 3 car faster, safer and more precise. Stay up to date with Dow’s exciting developments at www.dow.com/sports and follow us on Twitter @DowSports & @DowNewsroom.

Welcome, Dow MobilityScienceTM… Dow’s MobilityScience™ platform is designed to enhance the customer experience by tailoring technologies, products, and services from across Dow businesses to the transportation industry. The platform is pursuing accelerated growth by addressing Mobility mega-trends – where lighter weight, longer range, greater comfort, enhanced safety, and lower carbon footprint are the ultimate objectives. That is where Dow science, innovation, and people step in – working closely with customers to create the materials that bring the possibilities to life.

AUSTIN DILLON QUOTES:
Does your mindset change going into this race given the points situation you are in?
“You just have to be aggressive. Points-wise, we’re just racing Tyler, really. But the problem is that it seems like anybody can win right now, so we’ve got to really focus on the rest of the field from that aspect so that the RCR Chevys aren’t put in a worse situation. When it comes down to it, we’ll race each other hard, but we would like to get a win. That’s the big opportunity for us. And I do think we can win. We’ve had moments throughout the season where we’ve been really fast. Things have to line up and we have to have a perfect day in order to get to Victory Lane. That means I have to do my job, the pit crew has to do their job and the strategy has to play out. In the SIM, I’ve been pretty good at the Indianapolis Road Course. It was a little surprising, actually, how the track came to me right away. I’d like to surprise some people at a road course.”

This year has been one of your most consistent to-date. What do you attribute that to?
“It’s a combination of well-built race cars, power from ECR, and our team returning from last year. Everyone is pretty much the same with the exception of a couple of different guys on the pit crew. We’ve been able to get better each week. We’re having a solid year with Chevrolet doing a really good job of building a good racecar.”

How nervous are you about making the NASCAR Playoffs? Does the fact that this is another road course make it even more nerve wracking?
“No, I’ve been pretty calm, really, about it. I know the situation I’m in. It’s unfortunate the amount of winners that we’ve had this year. I feel like we’d be well in a safe place right now, but we’re not. It’s just the situation we’re in and we’re racing our teammate. But I’m pretty confident after being on the SIM a couple of weeks at Indy. I usually don’t pick-up the road courses on the simulator very fast, but for some reason, Indy came to me pretty quick, which is good, I think, for what we’re going into. I think qualifying is the biggest thing on my mind right now for this coming weekend and getting a good qualifying position, because I know how important it is. It’s so hard to pass on all these road courses that get strung out, so starting position matters.”

“So, I’m putting a lot of focus into qualifying and trying to make sure that we start up front and give ourselves the best way to get points. We have a 15-point gap right now and if we can maintain or gain a little this weekend, I feel like the next two weeks are good tracks for us and we’ll be in a pretty decent situation going into Daytona, if it is a points game. Obviously, I’d like to lock ourselves in with a win and just don’t want any new winners. That would really put us out. So yeah, I’m in a pretty good, calm situation as far as my mental state. I’ve been working out and am ready to go race and see what it brings us. I think we have been very consistent this year. We just haven’t had the speed that we want at some of these tracks, but the road course stuff has been fun. It’s such an improvement for me that I’d love to go back to some of these road courses a second time with what I’ve learned this year.”

Of all of the road courses you’ve run this year, which one is most comparable to Indy?
“Wow, it’s so flat. We’ve got elevation change at every track that we’ve gone to. I’d say Daytona has a little less elevation change. So for me, I really don’t know because the asphalt at Indy is so different the way the grooves are cut in it and it’s using a lot of lateral grip there. Sonoma, I think braking force-wise, is probably going to be similar; the amount of brake force and stuff like that because it seems like the track falls off a little bit. So, I’m thinking maybe Sonoma and Daytona, in between there.”

Tyler Reddick and the No. 8 BetMGM Camaro ZL1 1LE at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course… This weekend marks the first weekend the NASCAR Cup Series will compete on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course. Reddick has performed well on the road courses so far this season, capturing three top-10 finishes and one pole award in the five races.

About BetMGM… BetMGM is a market leading sports betting and gaming entertainment company, pioneering the online gaming industry. Born out of a partnership between MGM Resorts International and Entain (formerly GVC), BetMGM has exclusive access to all of MGM Resorts’ U.S. land-based and online sports betting, major tournament poker, and online gaming businesses. Utilizing Entain’s U.S.-licensed, state of the art technology, BetMGM offers sports betting and online gaming via market leading brands including BetMGM, Borgata Casino, Party Casino and Party Poker. Founded in 2018, BetMGM is headquartered in New Jersey.

BetMGM Summer Sweeps… Opt in for a chance to win a VIP racing summer sweepstakes, courtesy of BetMGM. Prize package includes a Racing experience in Las Vegas, Nevada; the opportunity to meet drivers, Austin Dillon and Tyler Reddick; travel accommodations; and much more! Visit betmgm.com/Racing to opt in.

TYLER REDDICK QUOTE:
How important will qualifying and having track position to start Sunday’s race?
“I think track position will be everything for Sunday’s race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course. I found that out at Watkins Glen. I’ve always seen it but really didn’t understand the magnitude of it until this past weekend. For example, stack-ups on a restart when you’re farther back, if someone runs into the back of your car and damages it, the next thing you know you’re flying around trying not to crash other people as well. When you get back there in that mix of guys who stayed out and you’re on tires, it’s chaotic. Having the right track position and having the strategy to not only maintain it, but also advance it, will be a challenge but it’s going to be so important to having a great race.”

Myatt Snider and the No. 2 Louisiana Hot Sauce Chevrolet Camaro at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course… Snider has one career start at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course, which came during the 2020 season while driving for RSS Racing. The 26-year-old completed 100% of the laps competed to bring home a 16th-place finish.

About Summit Hill Foods… Summit Hill Foods is a fourth-generation, family-owned food company headquartered in Rome, Georgia. Founded in 1941, the company’s core strength is the development and manufacture of ingredient systems used to deliver texture and superior flavor. Summit Hill Foods is an ingredient supplier to food service manufacturers and restaurants. The company also markets nationally distributed brands including Better Than Bouillon®, Louisiana Brand Hot Sauce™, Southeastern Mills®, Shore Lunch® and Better Than Gravy®. Southeastern Mills operates six manufacturing facilities located in Rome, Georgia; New Iberia, Louisiana; and Salt Lake City, Utah. To learn more, visit www.SHFoods.com.

MYATT SNIDER QUOTE:
What does it take to succeed on a road course?
“When I raced in the NASCAR Euro Series in 2019, the team I drove for would break down every corner – this corner is setup this way, which leads into this part of the track, so you need to do this. Seeing that breakdown was very interesting and it applies to all road course racing no matter the series. You have to look at how the track is setup and what leads into what can tell you a lot of how to approach a corner. Chase Elliott is one of the best currently at it. He methodically hits the same spot every single lap and when you execute, it puts you in position to win races.”

Helio Castroneves Named Inductee to the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America Class of 2022

By
Official Release
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#06: Helio Castroneves, Meyer Shank Racing Honda

Indianapolis, Ind. (13 August 2021) – Upon his return to Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) following his fourth Indianapolis 500 victory for the INDYCAR Big Machine Spiked Coolers Grand Prix, Helio Castroneves was named an inductee into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America (MSHFA).

Castroneves is one of eight other inductees into the class of 2022 announced on Friday with appearances from MSHFA President George Levy and IMS president Doug Boles.

“Many of the members of the Motorsports Hall of Fame are people that I grew up idolizing and to now be invited to join this group, I just can’t believe it,” Castroneves said. “I’m so honored to have the opportunity to be inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame and I feel so lucky to be included with these legends.”

The Motorsports Hall of Fame of America is the only hall that honors the entire sport and as such is the most exclusive. Each of the MSHFA’s inductees is elected by a straight vote of 200 experts — half of them historians and other experts, half of them inductees themselves. Regular voters have included Hall of Famers Mario Andretti, Richard Petty, Tom D’Eath, Shirley Muldowney, Chip Ganassi, Don Garlits, Parnelli Jones, Scott Parker, Chip Hanauer, Don Prudhomme and other titans of the sport.

“This was Helio’s first year on the ballot, which means he’s one of very few first-year inductees,” said MSHFA President, Levy. “The voting was completed well before the Indianapolis 500, so the voters clearly felt he belonged even before his record-tying fourth win. When someone like Helio is inducted — the first time they appear on a ballot — it’s because people like Parnelli Jones, Chip Ganassi, Mario Andretti, Don Garlits, Richard Petty and more decide he belongs on motorsports’ firmament.”

The official black tie induction ceremony will take place in Daytona Beach on March, 2022. The Motorsports Hall of Fame of America and Museum is located on the grounds of Daytona International Speedway, just outside of NASCAR Turn 4 leading into the 2.5-mile circuit’s Tri-Oval.

DAVID BEZIO PICKS UP FIRST POWRi SOUTHWEST LIGHTNING SERIES WIN AT BARONA

By
Official Release
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(Lakeside, CA, August 12, 2021) After five top five finishes in the 2021 season, David Bezio finally notched his first win of the year when he outdistanced the competition in the Lucas Oil POWRi Southwest Lightning Series race at the Barona Speedway last Saturday night.  The win was the fifth in a row for an SGR driver in the series.

Bezio was joined by SGR teammates Grant and Brent Sexton for the night of racing on the San Diego County clay oval.  Grant started the night off right for the team when he captured his heat race from the pole.  San Diego based Bezio started fourth in the same heat and came home second.  Brent started and finished seventh in the other heat.

For the main event, Grant, the current SWLS point leader, had the best starting spot for the SGR trio coming from the inside of row two.  Bezio was coming from the outside of the third row and Brent was on the inside of the seventh row.  A near disaster jumble negated the original start.  When the race got started on the second try, Grant found himself in third with Bezio immediately advancing to fourth. 

It was evident early on that Bezio was the fastest car on the track.  He moved into third on the second lap and relegated teammate Grant back to third soon thereafter.

The race only saw the yellow flag rear its ugly head one time.  That was on lap six and it was a good signal for one SGR driver and a bad sign for another.  Bezio was able to pull to the rear end of the leader for the upcoming restart.  Simultaneously, Brent’s night came to an end when he dropped out of the race with a frustrating 12th-place finish.  

Once the race restarted, it was only a matter of time before Bezio would take the lead.  He immediately went on the attack and secured the top spot before another lap was in the books.  Once in front, the final 14-laps were all Bezio and he happily claimed his first winner’s trophy of the year.  Grant ended up third. 

Soon after the race concluded at Barona, SGR headed to the Midwest for the first ever “Lucas Oil POWRi Min-Kota Lightning Summer Shoot-Out.”  SGR’s effort there will include Brent, Grant and Dalton Sexton, cousin Shane Sexton, defending NASCAR Camping World Truck Series champion Sheldon Creed, and impressive SWLS rookie Braden Chiaramonte.  The action will begin on Thursday, August 12th at Minnesota’s Norman County Speedway.  The action will switch to South Dakota on Friday at River Cities Speedway.  Saturday and Sunday it will be back to Minnesota at the Greenbush Race Park and Buffalo River Speedway.

Fans who would like to watch the “Min-Kota” events can do so at the following PPV sites.  For Thursday and Saturday, the races will be on youtube/powri.com.  Friday’s event will be available at rivercitiesspeedway.tv and Sunday’s race can be viewed at fyetv.com

To keep up with all the exploits of the Sexton/Gatlin Racing Team, be sure to visit the team Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Sexton-Gatlin-Racing-1173560279445564/

Sexton/Gatlin Racing would like to thank the following companies for making the 2021 season possible.  Sexton Fire Protection, BK Wings, Troy Dirt, Victory Graphix, Swift Powdercoat, Maxima Oil, Infiniti Shocks and an extra special thanks to Scotty and Jimmy Keys.  

Sexton Gatlin Racing 2021 Results

March 26      Mojave Valley Raceway    David Bezio 2nd – Grant Sexton 3rd – Brent Sexton 8th

March 27      Mojave Valley Raceway    Brent Sexton 1st – David Bezio 3rd – Rudy Padilla 4th – Grant Sexton 6th

April 3          Barona Speedway             Grant Sexton 2nd – David Bezio 3rd – Dalton Sexton 10th

April 10        Bakersfield Speedway       Brent Sexton 4th – Grant Sexton 5th

April 17        Barona Speedway             Dalton Sexton 1st – David Bezio 7th – Grant Sexton 9th

May 1           Barona Speedway             Grant Sexton 1st – Dalton Sexton 2nd – David Bezio 3rd

May 15         Barona Speedway             Grant Sexton 1st – David Bezio DNS

May 29         Central Missouri Speedway         Grant Sexton 19th – Shane Sexton 8th in B Main – Brent Sexton 9th in B Main – Dalton Sexton 13th in B Main

May 30         Central Missouri Speedway         Grant Sexton 3rd – Brent Sexton 16th – Shane Sexton 17th – Dalton Sexton 19th

June 12        Barona Speedway             Grant Sexton 1st – David Bezio 2nd

July 24         Santa Maria Raceway       Grant Sexton 4th – Brent Sexton 5th

August 7       Barona Speedway             David Bezio 1st – Grant Sexton 3rd – Brent Sexton 12th

How To Choose The Right Anti-Theft Devices For Sports Cars

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SM
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If you have a valuable property like a sports car, its security is one of the essential things that you need to consider. Parking it in a safe place like your garage may be one of the safety measures you take to ensure that it won’t be stolen. However, that’s not enough. After all, a sports car has a higher theft rate than a regular car, so even though you park it in a safe place, you can’t be completely at ease that it will be stolen. It also helps you’re parking somewhere that has excellent car park management.

For you to have peace of mind, there are a wide variety of security options that you can use for your car. For instance, you can use anti-theft devices to guarantee that your beloved car is always protected. However, the challenge is knowing which ones are the best for your situation.

To help you out choose the right anti-theft prevention device for your sports car, here’s a guide that you can follow. 

1. Choose The Best Type Of Anti-Theft System 

There are different types of car theft prevention devices that you can use. You have the passive, active, audible, and silent types. Your choice would depend on what you think is most convenient and effective for you and what suits your car best.

To help you figure that out, below are short descriptions of those types.

  • Passive: the passive anti-theft systems automatically guard the car itself as soon as you remove your car’s ignition key or when you close your door shut. 
  • Active: unlike the passive type, you need to activate this type of anti-theft system before it does its job. This is the type of anti-theft device that you can operate through a remote or a separate accessory to function. Examples of active anti-theft systems include steering wheel locking devices, generic car alarm systems, and door locks.
  • Audible: as the name implies, this type uses audible alarms to alert the people around the car when something triggers its sensors. Aside from the noise that it will generate, it will also make the car’s lights flash. This type can effectively deter thieves, but it can be annoying to people around because of its loud noise. In some cases, it may start an alarm because of false positives (e.g., sensors getting triggered by vibrations from nearby cars).
  • Silent: the silent type doesn’t make any scene at the parking area, but when someone breaks into your car, you’ll be receiving an alert of notification. This is the perfect way to catch the thief because they won’t have an idea that the car has a security device. 

2. Know The Different Types Of Car Anti-Theft Devices 

Anti-theft devices come in different types and functionalities. Each type aims to provide the highest security feature that will keep your car on the safe side always. 

Steering Wheel Lock 

This is the most common type of anti-theft device that’s created to fit in most steering wheels. Using and installing it is simple. You place this lock on your steering wheel to prevent anyone from steering your car, and you can only remove it using the key that comes with it.

Of course, be careful not to lose the wheel lock’s key because there’s no other way to remove it. However, if you lost it by accident, and it so happens that you’re in Seattle, Washington, there are local locksmiths around like the Clarks Locksmith Solutions Seattle WA that can help you out.

Brake Lock 

This car theft prevention device is attached to the clutch pedal or brake. It can effectively prevent anyone to step on the pedals and it can only be removed by a key. Take note that some brake locks prevent people from pressing on the pedals while some lock the pedals depressed.

As a bonus, those locks that keep the pedal in a pressed position can also function as an excellent safety measure if the place where you’re parking is on slippery uneven ground. Since the lock itself keeps the brake pedal stepped on, your vehicle won’t skid. It’s like having a secondary hand brake in place.

When getting one, make sure that you pick the right size that will snuggly fit in your pedals. Thankfully, some models can be adjusted. Remember that if the lock you pick doesn’t fit, it’ll be useless.

Tire Lock 

These heavy-duty steel clamps onto the tires are suitable for long periods of parking if you’re in an unfamiliar place. Tire locks are a favorite accessory of law enforcement authorities when they’re doing their rounds to check illegally parked cars. To remove this kind of lock, a specialized wrench is needed. 

The only downside of this anti-theft system is its bulkiness. Carrying one requires that you need to have enough trunk space.

Fortunately, tire locks nowadays have quality designs that can add up to the aesthetic value of your wheel rims. If you bought older models of tire locks, placing them in your car will make it look as if the police got you. 

Kill Switch 

A kill switch is a simple anti-theft device wherein it can cut the flow of electricity from its battery to critical components of the car like the ignition system. When it’s off, it prevents getting the car started since basically, the engine can’t ignite and electrical components can’t run.

What’s good about this device is that it can be installed discreetly almost anywhere inside the car. It’s another layer of security, which can make it harder for car thieves to get your car unless they know the exact location of the switch.

Some modern kill switches can come without a physical switch. Instead, you can use your smart device to remotely cut your battery off from your car. Aside from security, it’s also a handy way to turn off your engine.

Electronic Tracking System 

Know that carjackers are very crafty nowadays. The experienced ones make use of flatbeds, towing, and trailers to bypass all your security devices. Instead of driving your car and running away with it, they would rather tow it and deal with its security devices in a much safer place. Some will even go as far as changing your tires just to get through tire locks. 

To have another layer of protection, you should install an electronic tracking system and other new car theft prevention tech. With one, even if a thief is successful in stealing your car, you can still be able to track where it is. No matter where the thief hides your car, you can find it.

3. Consider Your Situation

Choosing the best anti-theft device for your sports car is quite confusing because there are a lot of types and brands to choose from. Most of them may be fit for other car owners, but there are still some of them that won’t work well with you. To narrow down your choices, here are the factors to look at before purchasing: 

Budget 

Not all expensive car theft prevention device that’s expensive gives maximum car protection. There are also inexpensive ones that you can trust. To ensure that what you’re getting is worth your money, find time to research so you can compare each other’s features to see if the price suits what it can offer. 

Location 

If there are a lot of cases of car theft in your area, consider installing multiple types of security devices in your car. For example, you can install a wheel lock and GPS on it, so if the thief can remove the wheel lock, you can still be able to trace where your car is.

Car Model 

Criminals are good at balancing risks and rewards. They’re likely to steal those high-value cars that they are familiar with. And it’s a guarantee that whoever will try to get your car will be very knowledgeable with its make model and the common security features installed in it.

Because of that, don’t just go with what other people use on their cars. You can opt to use one or two uncommon anti-theft devices that carjacking experts have no idea about. 

Servicing Requirements 

Choose a car security device that’s easy to maintain. If you use systems that require software support, make sure that you know how to troubleshoot them when something goes wrong. 

Features 

By determining the level of security and protection that you’ll need, you can easily filter out the brands and types of security devices that can suit your demands. The more features your car theft prevention device has, you can expect that it’ll also be more expensive. 

There are already devices that can ensure the safety of your car through the use of software and advanced sensors. However, if you’re not a techie, you may have a hard time using them. So, be sure to familiarize yourself with what you buy and call the manufacturer’s support department anytime you need help.

Final Thoughts 

Ways to secure a car have evolved over the years, but the strategies used by thieves in stealing it have also leveled up. To avoid going through the complications of retrieving a stolen car, it’s important to have safety precautionary measures to protect your property always. Auto security devices may not exactly capture carjackers, but having them in your car is enough to deter most of them.

Brickyard Weekend Fans Encouraged To ‘Plan Ahead’ with IMS.com

By
Official Release
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INDIANAPOLIS (Thursday, Aug. 12, 2021) – Fans attending Brickyard Weekend at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, which features the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series and NTT INDYCAR SERIES, are encouraged to “Plan Ahead” through IMS.com/PlanAhead, an interactive web page that serves as a home base for fans heading to the track this weekend.

The “Plan Ahead” page features detailed information about the entire fan experience at IMS, including directions, parking, schedule, gate regulations, digital ticket and parking guides, ADA accessibility and much more.

Additionally, IMS.com/PlanAhead highlights how race fans can stay safe and healthy at the racetrack this weekend. Hand sanitizer and masks will be available at Gates 1 and 9, and race fans can get their COVID-19 vaccination on-site at IU Health vaccination stations located at Gates 1, 6 and 9.

More Fan Information

All Speedway patrons should be aware of the following to ensure a successful day at the track:

Tickets:

Tickets for Brickyard Weekend are available for purchase at IMS.com or by walking up at the gates Friday, Aug. 13-Sunday, Aug. 15.

  • Friday, Aug. 13 – $20 for General Admission seating to see Pennzoil 150 at the Brickyard practice and Big Machine Spiked Coolers Grand Prix practice and qualifying. Children 15 and under are admitted free with paying adult.
  • Saturday, Aug. 14 – $40 for General Admission seating for Pennzoil 150 at the Brickyard and Big Machine Spiked Coolers Grand Prix in North Vista Wheelchair, Turn 2 Mounds, Hulman South Mounds, Hulman North Mounds, Turn 4 Mounds, South Terrace, South Terrace – East, Tower Terrace (75-79) and Paddock (9-12). Flex seating locations are available in Southwest Vista (1-10), H Stand (1-6) and Northwest Vista (16-20) for $55 per adult. Children 15 and under are admitted free with paying adult in General Admission and Flex seating locations. Reserved seats start at $60.
  • Sunday, Aug. 15 – $40 for General Admission seating for the Verizon 200 at the Brickyard in North Vista Wheelchair, Turn 2 Mounds, Hulman South Mounds, Hulman North Mounds and Turn 4 Mounds. Flex seating locations are available in Tower Terrace (75-79), Southwest Vista (1-10), H Stand (1-6) and Northwest Vista (16-20) for $55 per adult. Children 15 and under are admitted free with paying adult in General Admission and Flex seating locations. Reserved seats start at $50.

Public Parking:

Parking for Brickyard Weekend is available in a variety of locations inside and around the track. Parking can be purchased on-site or in advance. Race fans can visit IMS.com to purchase available parking passes.

Friday Parking

  • Free parking is available in Lot 7 (North 40) and Turn 3 Infield. Race fans must enter through Gate 10 from 30th Street.
  • Paid parking is available in Lot 1B, Lot 2, Lot 3G and Main Gate for $10.

Saturday Parking

  • Free parking is available in Lot 7 (North 40). Race fans must enter through Gate 10 from 30th Street.
  • Paid parking is available in Lot 1B, Lot 2, Lot 3G and Main Gate for $20, Turn 3 Infield (pre-paid) for $25, Lot 6A for $40 and Gate 1 for $75.

Sunday Parking

  • Free parking is available in Lot 7 (North 40). Race fans must enter through Gate 10 from 30th Street.
  • Paid parking is available in Lot 1B, Lot 2, Lot 3G and Main Gate for $20, Turn 3 Infield (pre-paid) for $25, Lot 6A for $40 and Gate 1 for $75.

Cashless Operations:

IMS concession stands and merchandise locations are cashless. Tap-to-pay phone payments will be accepted, as will credit and debit transactions. However, for gate admission and parking, both cash and credit will be accepted.

Pedestrian Gate Entry:

Friday

  • Public pedestrian gates open: Gate 1, Gate 2, Gate 6S, Gate 7 South, Gate 7 Vehicle, Gate 9, Gate 10, Gate 10A

Saturday

  • Public pedestrian gates open: Gate 1, Gate 2, Gate 3, Gate 6S, Gate 6N, Gate 7S, Gate 7 Vehicle, Gate 9, Gate 10, Gate 10A, Gate 11A

Sunday

  • Public pedestrian gates open: Gate 1, Gate 2, Gate 3, Gate 6S, Gate 6N, Gate 7S, Gate 7 Vehicle, Gate 9, Gate 10, Gate 10A, Gate 11A

IMS Museum:

The IMS Museum, located inside Gate 2 of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, will be open Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday 7 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults, $14 for guests over the age of 62 and $8 for guests ages 6-15. Children 5 and under and Museum members are free. Race fans can walk to the IMS Museum from within the Speedway’s infield.

After 1 p.m. on Friday, all IMS Museum visitors must possess an event ticket or credential to enter the Museum. Gate 2 will not be open for parking at the Museum.

Digital Tickets:

Digital tickets can be accessed on the IMS App or on a smartphone’s web browser. Fans are encouraged to ensure the brightness on their phone is turned up before approaching the gate for a seamless scanning of their digital ticket. Race fans are also encouraged to visit the IMS Digital Ticket guide to manage their digital tickets and enhance their at-track experience.

Weekend Street Parking:

Parking restrictions in the Town of Speedway will be enforced during Brickyard Weekend. No parking will be allowed on the south and east sides of any street bound by 25th Street on the north, Georgetown Road on the east, Lynhurst Drive on the west and Crawfordsville Road on the south from 6 p.m. Thursday through 8 p.m. Sunday.

Other streets requiring restricted parking are Main Street between 10th and 16th Streets and 16th Street from Main Street to Lynhurst Drive. During race weekend, three hour parking will be monitored and enforced on both sides of Main Street between 10th Street and 16th Street.

Road Closures:

Race fans should be aware of multiple road closures before making their way to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway during Brickyard Weekend. Those include:

  • Speedway Police Department will close Georgetown Road to vehicular traffic south of 25th Street one hour before the start of the Big Machine Spiked Coolers Grand Prix on Saturday, Aug. 14 and one hour before the start of the Verizon 200 at the Brickyard on Sunday, Aug. 15.
  • Speedway Police Department will also close 16th Street between Olin Avenue and the roundabout one hour before the start of the Big Machine Spiked Coolers Grand Prix and the Verizon 200 at the Brickyard. Additionally, 16th Street will not be accessible from Polco Street, as it will be blocked at 10th Street.
  • The Indiana Department of Transportation is reconstructing the I-65/I-70 interchange between the north split and Washington Street in downtown Indianapolis. I-70 eastbound and westbound traffic will be routed around I-465. I-65 northbound and southbound traffic will be routed through the south split, I-70 and I-465. Drivers southbound on I-65 will not be able to enter westbound I-70, and drivers northbound on I-65 will not be able to enter eastbound I-70.

Additional Resources and Information

Drivers can learn the locations of work zones and highway restrictions by calling INDOT’s TrafficWise at 1-800-261-ROAD (7623) or viewing an online map at pws.trafficwise.org or visiting @TrafficWise on Twitter.

No coolers larger than 18 inches by 14 inches by 14 inches can be brought into the facility, which will be strictly enforced. Fans will be allowed to bring one cooler and one standard backpack or book bag per person.

For more information regarding access to IMS, visit IMS.com. For additional information, follow on Twitter the Indiana State Police @IndStatePolice, the Speedway Police Department @SpeedwayPD or listen to radio stations WFNI-FM 107.5/WFNI-AM 1070 or WIBC-FM 93.1.

The Speedway Police Department can be reached for non-emergency services by dialing 311 on a cell phone. The goal of 311 is to provide an easy-to-remember number for non-emergency services while freeing up 911 lines for timely emergency response.

Coke Zero Sugar 400 Takes Center Stage for NASCAR Playoffs; Continues Tradition of Bill France, Sr.’s Vision of Racing at Daytona Beach, FL

By
Official Release
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - MARCH 1940: (L-R) Drivers Smokey Purser, Bill France, Sr., Roy Hall and Sammy Packard pose before an early stock car race on the Daytona Beach-Road Course. Hall won the race held on March 10th with France finishing fourth, Purser 5th and Packard 19th. (Photo by ISC Images & Archives via Getty Images)

He was the Driving Force to Bring NASCAR & Bigtime Stock Car Racing to Daytona

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Aug. 12, 2021) – As the NASCAR Cup Series gets ready for its regular-season finale in the summertime classic Coke Zero Sugar 400 at iconic Daytona International Speedway on Saturday, Aug. 28 (7:00 p.m. ET), thoughts go back to the 1930s when racing really began in Daytona Beach, “The Birthplace of Speed.”

For the second consecutive year, the historic Coke Zero Sugar 400 will serve as the last-chance race to make the 16-driver, 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs. The first summer Cup Series event (250 miles until extended to 400 miles in 1963) at the high-banked Daytona International Speedway saw Fireball Roberts win on the 2.5-mile layout in 1959, just months after the grand opening of the World Center of Racing and the inaugural DAYTONA 500.

Prior to hitting the 31 degrees of banking, however, the concept of racing modified stock cars on a circuit that utilized both the Daytona’s Atlantic beach shoreline and the pavement of State Road A1A became a reality in 1936. The original 3.2-mile beach course had the north turn located near the center of town. It ran approximately 1.5 miles north on the beach and then 1.5 miles south on a paved, public roadway with two portions connected by banked, sand turns.

Entered in the event was a larger-than-life man named “Big” Bill France. He witnessed the final year of speed runs on the beach in 1935 and was fired up about what Daytona meant to auto racing on a global scale. His enthusiasm was largely born out of being a competitor, even though the idea of promoting races was lurking in the back of his mind. He finished a solid fifth in the 250-mile event, and knew that he could win stock car races on a regular basis, but also if pressed into service, he could be a successful promoter.

The first couple of years the road course lost money, and the local chamber of commerce approached Big Bill, asking if he could help find a promoter for the road course. The idea of promoting a race excited him, and he told city officials he was the perfect man for the job. While driving a race car at various tracks across the Southeast owned by Daytona Beach restaurant owner Charlie Reese, Big Bill asked Reece if he would give support financially to help him promote the beach course. A partnership was formed, and Big Bill began to wear two hats.

In 1939, Bill Sr. accelerated his driving and promoting ambitions, and the Daytona beach-road course was becoming successful. Behind the wheel in races on the beach-road course, he finished fourth and second, and a year later, he had a break-through victory, along with other track wins to win an “unofficial championship” crown. He would promote races on the beach and at various tracks in North Carolina before the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941, which halted racing. Post war in late 1945, the Daytona beach-road course needed a tune-up and renovations after several years of inactivity, and in the spring of 1946, stock car racing was reborn.

The realities of a growing Daytona Beach populace on the beachside forced Big Bill to abandon the original 3.2-mile layout at the end of 1947. He was running out of room to both race and provide space for spectators. A new 4.1-mile course near Ponce Inlet was created in 1948 where the stock cars would compete.

On Feb. 21, 1948, NASCAR would become officially incorporated. Big Bill would be in charge of the new sanctioning body, promoting not only races at the beach-road course but a full championship schedule as well. NASCAR was founded on the simple idea that many people loved revved-up engines and fast cars as much as Big Bill did.

The modified stock cars that had been competing were not the only direction Big Bill wanted to go in moving forward. In 1949, he demonstrated his determination for a vision he had years earlier, but had been delayed by the war. From 1942-46, a small amount of consumer cars had been built, reducing the availability of the machines from showroom floors by the car manufacturers. It was now time for his “Strictly Stock” concept (what would become known as the Grand National Series, and years later, the NASCAR Cup Series), a series for new sedan cars, that would produce a national championship series.

The first Strictly Stock race was held in Charlotte on June 19 on a ¾-mile dirt track. Then, less than a month later, on July 10, 1949, the first Daytona beach-road course for the Strictly Stock division was held. It was the beginning of bigtime beach-road course racing in Daytona Beach and the phrase “win on Sunday, sell on Monday” for the car manufacturers. It would become a mainstay in the foundation of the sport for the next decade, and many of its winners would read like a “Who’s Who” of NASCAR legends.

During this time period, Big Bill saw that the days of racing on the beach-road course were numbered due to the spreading land usage of a rapidly growing population and huge race crowds. He put a plan for the future of Daytona Beach in motion with a proposal to construct a permanent speedway facility that would become Daytona International Speedway. As they say, the rest is history.

Fans can catch this exciting conclusion to the regular season – the Coke Zero Sugar 400 – by purchasing tickets starting at $49 for adults and $10 for kids 12 and under. Fans who purchase tickets to the race can also purchase access to the UNOH Fanzone for $60. Here, fans can participate in events before the race. This includes, but is not limited to, the return of the traditional Coke Zero Sugar 400 Pre-Race Concert featuring Chris Lane, pre-race ceremonies, driver introductions, access to the large grass ballfield, signing the start/finish line through the middle of the 18-degree, banked trioval. Also scheduled is LIVE entertainment on the main UNOH Fanzone Stage, including NASCAR Personalities Fan Q&A. Fans can also get photos with the winning trophies of the weekend in Ruoff Mortgage Victory Lane.

Tickets to the Xfinity Series Wawa 250 Powered by Coca-Cola are also available, starting at $35 for adults and FREE for kids 12 and under. The Wawa 250 takes place the day before the Coke Zero Sugar 400 on Friday, Aug. 27, and access to the UNOH Fanzone will be available before this race as well! A Two-Day Pass is available which includes access to the Coke Zero Sugar 400 on Saturday, and the Wawa 250 on Friday. These passes start at $69 for adults.

Tickets for the Coke Zero Sugar 400 and the Wawa 250 Powered by Coca-Cola can be purchased online at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.

Fans can stay connected with Daytona International Speedway and see the latest speedway news on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

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.

DEWALT® Named Sponsor of DEWALT NHRA Carolina Nationals, Sept. 17-19 at zMAX Dragway

By
Official Release
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  • The NHRA’s return to the Bellagio of drag strips Sept. 19-21 will be the second of seven Countdown to the Championship events in the NHRA’s action-packed postseason
  • Tickets, camping and upgrades to the DEWALT NHRA Carolina Nationals are available by visiting zMAXDragway.com or by calling 1-800-455-FANS (3267); Every ticket is a pit pass

CONCORD, N.C. (Aug. 12, 2021) – As fans get geared up for the return of the NHRA’s best to zMAX Dragway this fall, officials announced today that DEWALT® has signed on as the sponsor for the Sept. 17-19 DEWALT NHRA Carolina Nationals at the Bellagio of drag strips.

“We are elated to add DEWALT® to the Charlotte Motor Speedway family of blue-chip sponsors who help bring our world-class events to life,” said Greg Walter, executive vice president and general manager at Charlotte Motor Speedway. “As leaders in the field of high-quality tools, our friends at DEWALT know a thing or two about power, toughness and innovation – characteristics that are equally vital to success in drag racing – so it’s only fitting that we have them on board as title sponsors for one of the biggest drag races of the season.”

DEWALT has a history of sponsorship in NASCAR dating back more than two decades and has recently announced a partnership to serve as the Official Tool and Storage Partner for the McLaren F1 team.

“As the world’s largest tool company, we are thrilled to be the sponsor of the DEWALT NHRA Carolina Nationals, and look forward to celebrating the makers, our hardworking customers, who help build the world and bring our admired DEWALT brand to the racetrack,” said Tony Merritt, Vice President of Sponsorship Stanley Black & Decker. “Like DEWALT, NHRA drag racing is built on power, toughness and innovation, and what better place to showcase our companies’ shared attributes than at the sport’s premier facility, zMAX Dragway, which is also located nearby our Fort Mill manufacturing facility, home to high-quality, guaranteed tough DEWALT tools built for our customers.”

In addition to naming rights, the sponsorship includes:

  • Suite hospitality at-track during the DEWALT NHRA Carolina Nationals
  • Sponsorship activation space in the event’s Nitro Alley Fan Zone
  • At-track signage throughout the venue
  • Inclusion in pre-event publicity and marketing efforts

The second race in the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series’ seven-event Countdown to the Championship promises to offer drivers cool September temperatures – providing the potential for track-record speeds when nitro-powered Top Fuel and Funny Car machines, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycles scorch zMAX Dragway’s pavement in search of a coveted Countdown triumph.

The DEWALT NHRA Carolina Nationals roars to life with back-to-back days of white-knuckled qualifying on Friday, Sept. 17 and Saturday, Sept. 18, setting up a pivotal elimination day on Sunday, Sept. 19. Every ticket is a pit pass, giving fans unmatched access to the drivers and crews who tame the 11,000-horsepower machines and up-close views as teams tear down and rebuild the dragsters between each run.

TICKETS:

Tickets, camping and upgrades to the DEWALT NHRA Carolina Nationals can be purchased online at www.charlottemotorspeedway.com/tickets. or by calling 800-455-FANS (3267). Fans can catch all the action with a three-day pass starting at just $99. Kids 13 and under get in free all weekend.

KEEP TRACK:

Connect with zMAX Dragway on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram or get all the latest news and information with the Charlotte Motor Speedway mobile app.

ABOUT DEWALT®

DEWALT is obsessed with how users work in the real world and is relentlessly pursuing total jobsite solutions. By incorporating its latest technology and industry innovations, DEWALT is leading the charge for the jobsite of the future. DEWALT products. GUARANTEED TOUGH®. For more information, visit www.dewalt.com or follow DEWALT on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

ABOUT CHARLOTTE MOTOR SPEEDWAY:

For 60 years, Charlotte Motor Speedway has set the standard in motorsports entertainment for fans of all ages. Known as America’s Home for Racing, Charlotte Motor Speedway is the only race vacation destination where fans can immerse themselves in the heart of NASCAR country. Visitors can attend one-of-a-kind race spectacles including the Coca-Cola 600 and Bank of America ROVAL™ 400; take behind-the-scenes speedway and race shop tours; explore the NASCAR Hall of Fame and drive an 800-horsepower stock car. Through every event and every decade, Charlotte Motor Speedway puts FANS FIRST with a never-ending commitment to enhance the fan experience. That tradition continues with unmatched value through affordable tickets, unparalleled pre-race entertainment and more opportunities for fans to see their favorite drivers.

News from INDYCAR: Race Preview: Big Machine Spiked Coolers Grand Prix

By
Official Release
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Chris Owens - IMS PHOTO,2021

INDIANAPOLIS (Thursday, Aug. 12, 2021) – The largest NTT INDYCAR SERIES field in a decade – for a race other than the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge – will assemble this weekend, appropriately at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The Big Machine Spiked Coolers Grand Prix, the 12th race of the INDYCAR season and the first paired with NASCAR’s top two divisions exclusively on the Speedway’s road course, will feature 28 car-and-driver combinations, the most outside of the Indy 500 since 2011. Heading the list of competitors is Helio Castroneves, who became the fourth driver in history to win the “500” for a fourth time during the most recent race at IMS.

The large field reflects the growing interest in the series, which last week staged its inaugural race on the streets of Nashville, Tennessee. NBCSN had the largest television audience for an INDYCAR race on cable in 23 years, with more than 1.2 M viewers.

The race here on the 14-turn, 2.439-mile circuit features six former INDYCAR champions, seven Indianapolis 500 winners, 17 drivers who have won INDYCAR races, and a season-high six rookie drivers.

One of those rookies is RC Enerson, who will hope to give Top Gun Racing its first series start with the No. 75 Chevrolet. Formula 2 race winner Christian Lundgaard will make his series debut in the No. 45 Hy-Vee Honda of Rahal Letterman Lanigan. Cody Ware is back for his third INDYCAR race in the No. 52 Nurtec ODT Honda of Dale Coyne Racing with RWR.

And, of course, there’s Jimmie Johnson, the seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion in his first season with Chip Ganassi Racing. With stock car racing in town for the IMS tripleheader, more eyes than ever will be fixed on the No. 48 Carvana Honda.

Unlike the inaugural Big Machine Music City Grand Prix, won by Chip Ganassi Racing’s Marcus Ericsson, most of the INDYCAR drivers are familiar with this circuit as it will be the 11th race held on it since 2014. Saturday’s 85-lap race will be the fifth held on the IMS road course in the past 14 months. Rinus VeeKay of Ed Carpenter Racing earned his first career NTT INDYCAR SERIES victory in the most recent race, the GMR Grand Prix on May 15.

INDYCAR practice begins at 3 p.m. (ET) Friday, with live coverage of the hour-long session on Peacock Premium, NBC Sports’ streaming service. Qualifying is set for 7 p.m. Friday, live on NBCSN.

The Big Machine Spiked Coolers Grand Prix will air on NBCSN at 12:30 p.m. (ET) Saturday.

Here is a look at things to come this weekend:

A Circuit of Champions

Nine of the previous 10 races held on this circuit have been won by drivers who had either won an INDYCAR championship or soon would. Those include four wins by Will Power (No. 12 Verizon 5G Team Penske Chevrolet), three by Simon Pagenaud (No. 22 Menards Team Penske Chevrolet) and one each by Scott Dixon (No. 9 PNC Bank Grow Up Great Honda of Chip Ganassi Racing) and Josef Newgarden (No. 2 XPEL Team Penske Chevrolet). VeeKay, who will drive the No. 21 Sonax/Autogeek Chevrolet, is the lone non-champion to have won one of the non-oval events.

Power has easily been the circuit’s most dominant driver, capturing five poles and leading 285 laps. In all, 28 drivers have led laps in these INDYCAR races, with Pagenaud and Dixon tied for the second-most laps led with 68 each. Newgarden has led 59 laps, VeeKay 48, Castroneves 46, rookie Romain Grosjean (No. 51 Nurtec ODT Honda of Dale Coyne Racing with RWR) 44 and Graham Rahal (No. 15 One Cure Honda of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing) 41.

The Most Recent Race

To preview a sporting event, it’s helpful to review the most recent outing at the same venue, which leads to examining the GMR Grand Prix in May.

Grosjean won the NTT P1 Award and led the first 24 laps. The INDYCAR rookie might have won for the first time in the series – he led a race-high 44 laps – if not for the second-half surge of VeeKay.

VeeKay grabbed his first lead on Lap 48 and led 33 of the final 38 laps to score a 4.951-second victory. Grosjean was second, followed by Alex Palou (No. 10 NTT DATA Honda of Chip Ganassi Racing).

Newgarden finished fourth, with Rahal fifth. Like the Team Penske drivers and Dixon, Rahal has been historically good on this road course, posting top-10 finishes in each of the past nine races, with a pair of second-place finishes and six races led. His average finish is 7.2, and that includes an incident in the 2014 race that forced him to finish 21st.

The Championship Pursuit

The 1-2 finish in Nashville by teammates Ericsson (No. 8 Huski Chocolate Honda) and Dixon increased the chances of one of Chip Ganassi’s drivers securing the organization’s 14th INDYCAR championship. With five races to go, Palou leads the standings with Dixon second and Ericsson fifth.

Palou finished seventh last weekend, but he only lost ground to his teammates. Palou still has the equivalent of nearly a full-race lead on Dixon – the advantage is 42 points – with Pato O’Ward’s 13th-place finish dropping him to third, 48 points out of the lead. Newgarden is fourth, but his 10th-place finish pushed him to 75 points in arrears of Palou. Ericsson is likely the only other driver who can overtake Palou; their separation is 79 points.

Dixon is the only driver among the top three to have won at any of the remaining five venues. In addition to the IMS road course, six-time series champion Dixon won last year at World Wide Technology Raceway, and he won the 2015 street race in Long Beach, California. Newgarden has won twice at Gateway (2017, 2020) and once on the IMS road course (2020).

None of the leading title contenders has won at Portland International Raceway or WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Palou hasn’t even raced at any of the final three venues (Portland, Laguna Seca or Long Beach).

Indy Road Course up Next for DiBenedetto, Motorcraft/Quick Lane Team

By
Official Release
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After finishes of 10th and 11th in their two most recent road course races, Matt DiBenedetto and the No. 21 Motorcraft/Quick Lane team are hoping for another strong finish in Sunday’s inaugural Verizon 200 on the road course at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Although it will be the first appearance for the Cup Series on the 2.439-mile, 14-turn track inside the historic Speedway, it won’t be DiBenedetto’s first go at the layout.

“I got to be the first one to drive a stock car on the Indy road course when I tested the Xfinity Series car there [in January, 2020] which was cool,” he said. “So I have some experience there.”

As has been the case this year when the Cup Series visits a new venue, there will be a practice session prior to the race and a qualifying round to set the starting field.

DiBenedetto said the practice is important, as changes to the car are limited once the green flag flies. Last week at Watkins Glen, where there was no practice, he said he believed the team could have improved on its 11th-place finish had they had a chance to run some laps beforehand.

Even so, the team was close to backing up its 10th place finish at Road America, where there was a practice session prior to the race.

That finish at Road America was the start of a four-race stretch of finishes of 11th or better that the team will carry into this weekend’s race at Indianapolis, where the Cup Series raced on the 2.5-mile oval track from 1994 to 2020 but now will run the road course.

“We have been making gains on the road courses, and we as a team have a lot of consistency on our side,” DiBenedetto said.

Practice for the Verizon 200 is set for Saturday at 11:05 a.m., with qualifying on Sunday at 9:05 a.m.

The 82-lap race is scheduled to get the green flag just after 1 p.m., with TV coverage on NBC.

There will be Stage breaks at Laps 15 and 35.

About Motorcraft:

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

About Omnicraft:

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

About Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center

Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center offers extraordinary service for routine vehicle maintenance including tire repair and replacement with a Low Tire Price Guarantee and a full menu of automotive services including oil and filter, brakes, alignments, batteries, and shocks and struts on all vehicle makes and models. Service is performed by certified technicians at more than 1,000 locations worldwide while you wait, and no appointment is necessary. For more information about Quick Lane, please visit www.quicklane.com.

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, electrified vehicles and Lincoln luxury vehicles, provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, autonomous vehicles and mobility solutions. Ford employs approximately 200,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit www.corporate.ford.com.

Wood Brothers Racing

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

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