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Matos Masters Mid-Ohio Qualifying

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Takes fourth-consecutive Mid-Ohio TA2® pole

LEXINGTON, Ohio (25 June 2021) – Getting a late start in qualifying due to a time penalty – and then further inconvenienced by a black flag midway through the 15-minute session, Rafa Matos quickly got up to speed and captured his fourth-consecutive pole position at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course for Saturday’s TA2® Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli event.

It was the 11th career pole for Matos, but his first Motul Pole Award since last year’s race at Mid-Ohio. He turned in a best lap of 1:30.788 seconds in the No. 88 3-Dimensional Services Ford Mustang, which saw his three-year-old track record stay intact due to rain prior to the qualifying session.

Matos was second in afternoon practice – only 0.147 seconds behind leader Skeen, but was penalized five minutes in qualifying due to speeding exiting pit lane during the session. Matos entered the weekend with a one-point advantage over defending champion Skeen, 112-111.

“I was very anxious waiting in the car watching the clock tick down after my five-minute penalty and during the black flag stoppage,” said Matos. “I was worried we weren’t going to get a chance at a lap, but luckily we were right in front after the track went back to green. The car was really quick. I was able to pass Tyler (Kicera) and Adam’s (Andretti) time. I followed Mike (Skeen) and the car just hooked up. Today was a good day.”

Running on slick tires, Matos managed only two fast qualifying laps, going off and spinning in the grass on his final lap. His car escaped damage in the incident.

While the rain stopped before qualifying, the track was still very wet. Several teams began the session on Pirelli rain tires, but most of the 27-car field had switched to slick tires by the midway point.

Kicera came in second, missing the pole by 0.286 seconds in the No. 5 Silver Hare Racing Ford Mustang. He started on rain tires and switched to slicks during the session.

“Qualifying like this is a huge confidence boost for us, we haven’t been anywhere close like this anytime during the season,” said Kicera, a 2020 race winner at VIR. “I feel like we are not going to be starting behind the eight ball for the first time this year. I am really excited to see what we can do. We have a good car, it’s been handling well all weekend. Even though we are running up front, it’s going to take consistency to win. Today was just a huge confidence boost for the whole team.”

Andretti was third, 1:31.271-seconds in the No. 86 3-Dimensional Services Mustang. He will give live in-car commentary from behind the wheel during the live stream of the race. Like his teammate, Andretti ran the entire session on slick tires.

“I knew that I had the best team out there with Peterson Racing and 3-Dimensional Services, and that gave me confidence to go out there and perform,” said Andretti, who coached for four years at the circuit. “I’ve logged a lot of laps here at Mid-Ohio and knowing those tricks in mixed conditions really helped me today. If I had a clean lap without traffic on the last couple laps, I know we would have been a serious threat to Rafa (Matos) and Tyler (Kicera). I am not upset with P3, it’s a great place to start here at Mid-Ohio heading into Turn 1. I’ll be right behind Rafa to help protect him and get him some more championship points tomorrow.”

Points leader Skeen led practice and was first at the black flag in No. 1 Liqui-Moly/Turn 14 Distribution Chevrolet Camaro. He missed a bid for a third-consecutive TA2® pole, coming in fourth with a lap of 1:31.528 seconds.

“I’m disappointed with the fourth-place result,” said Skeen, who ran the entire session on slick tires. “We had the fastest car out there before the black flag. I started 15 seconds behind the field and passed five cars when setting our fastest lap. After the session went back to green, I couldn’t get a clean lap because there was so much traffic. The team worked really hard preparing the Liqui-Moly/Turn 14 Distribution Chevrolet Camaro, and to end up fourth because more time was added to the clock guts me.”

Also hurt by the stoppage was TA2® newcomer Adrian Wlostowski. Second at the time of the black flag, he wound up fifth with a time of1:34.510 in the No. 3 Hawk Performance/F.A.S.T. Auto Chevrolet Camaro.

The session was black-flagged near the midway point due to a stopped car in the Turn 4 gravel trap. The session resumed with six minutes of green-flag activity remaining.

Drivers from the TA, SGT, SGT and GT classes had the opportunity to test for 40 minutes earlier Friday afternoon, but the afternoon rain limited participation. Simon Gregg was fastest with a lap of 1:40.053 seconds on his final lap in the No. 59 Peter Gregg Foundation Camaro, followed by Tomy Drissi at1:43.197in the No. 8 Lucas Oil Chevrolet Camaro. Billy Griffin led SGT, 1:50.414-seconds in the No. 14 Griffin AutoCare/Sheehans Towing Ford Mustang GT4.

The 45-lap TA2® race is set to start at 1:05 p.m. ET on Saturday, followed by TA and remaining classes at 3:05 p.m. The TA/XGT/SGT/GT race will begin at 2:15 p.m. on Sunday.

The full weekend will be live streamed for subscribers on the Trans Am by Pirelli Racing App

Mercedes-AMG Motorsport Customer Racing Teams in Two IMSA Racing Series Reach Mid-Season Mark in Back-to-Back Schedule at Watkins Glen International

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Official Release
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WATKINS GLEN, New York – Mercedes-AMG Motorsport Customer Racing teams competing in both the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge series will reach the halfway point of the 2021 racing season this week, thanks to a quick span of back-to-back races this weekend and next Friday at Watkins Glen International. The tight schedule for both IMSA series begins with the traditional Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen this weekend, June 25 – 27, which is followed less than a week later by an IMSA WeatherTech Championship and IMSA Pilot Challenge sprint-race doubleheader at The Glen, Friday, July 2.

First run more than 50 years ago on the legendary 3.4-mile Grand Prix course in upstate New York, the Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen race weekend is an endurance race showcase for both the WeatherTech Championship and the Pilot Challenge series.

A pair of Mercedes-AMG GT3 teams compete in this Sunday’s featured six-hour WeatherTech Championship race while six Mercedes-AMG GT4 entries will do battle in Saturday’s four-hour Pilot Challenge race.

By contrast, next Friday’s doubleheader features a two-hour and 40-minute WeatherTech Championship sprint and the series-standard two-hour race for Pilot Challenge competitors. The sprint-race event was added to the 2021 schedule earlier this year as a replacement for an event at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park outside of Toronto, which was cancelled for the second-straight year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The WeatherTech Championship races at The Glen are the fifth and six rounds, respectively, in this year’s 12 race championship. The Pilot Challenge races in turn are the fourth and fifth rounds on this year’s 10-race schedule.

This Sunday’s Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen IMSA WeatherTech Championship race is scheduled to start at 10:40 a.m. EDT. Live streaming on TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold begins at 10:35 a.m. EDT with the NBC Sports Network (NBCSN) telecast airing at 7 p.m. EDT Sunday night.

Full-season competitors Michael de Quesada and Daniel Morad are set for both WeatherTech Championship races at The Glen in the No. 28 Alegra Motorsports Mercedes-AMG GT3. They will be joined in Sunday’s Sahlen’s Six Hour by Alegra’s endurance race driver Billy Johnson.

Alegra will be joined on the WeatherTech Championship GT Daytona (GTD) grid in the six-hour race by the No. 75 SunEnergy1 Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 of Kenny Habul, Mikael Grenier and Maro Engel.

Engel returns to the No. 75 after competing with SunEnergy1 Racing in the 12 Hours of Sebring. He also co-drove the race-winning No. 75 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 in January’s Rolex 24 at Daytona, and has been in contention for the Michelin Endurance Cup GTD Driver Championship ever since.

The Sahlen’s Six Hour is round three of 2021 Michelin Endurance Cup, which awards the top performers in the year’s four endurance races at Daytona, Sebring, The Glen and November’s season-ending Petit Le Mans at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta.

Coming into The Glen, Engel is just one point shy of the Endurance Cup driver championship leaders, 23 – 22, while Mercedes-AMG is second in the Endurance Cup manufacturer championship, 27 – 22.

The six-strong Mercedes-AMG GT4 Grand Sport (GS) class entry in Saturday’s four-hour Michelin Pilot Challenge race includes a Mercedes-AMG customer team making its IMSA debut for the second-consecutive race.

Co-drivers John Allen, Kris Wilson and Gary Ferrera will give the first-year Capstone Motorsports team its first IMSA GS start following the team’s initial victory in SRO America GT4 competition earlier this month. Allen, Wilson and Ferrera co-drive the No. 60 Capstone Motorsports Mercedes-AMG GT4 in tomorrow’s four-hour race.

Capstone’s inaugural IMSA start follows the IMSA debut of Mercedes-AMG Motorsport customer racing team FCP Euro one race ago at Mid-Ohio. Team drivers Nate Vincent and Michael Hurczyn scored a top-10 finish in the No. 11 FCP Euro Mercedes-AMG GT4 in Ohio and look to improve on that result at The Glen.

Winward Racing brings a two-car Mercedes-AMG GT4 entry to The Glen after securing a podium finish with the team’s No. 57 entry of Bryce Ward and Alec Udell at Mid-Ohio. The third-place showing was the first podium finish of the year for the Mercedes-AMG GT4 in IMSA competition and came in the season-debut of Ward, Udell and the No. 57 team.

Winward’s second entry is the No. 4 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4 of Ward’s son, Russell Ward, and his co-driver Indy Dontje.

Another successful two car Mercedes-AMG GT4 team competing at The Glen comes from Murillo Racing. Jeff Mosing and Eric Foss are frequent contenders in the No. 56 Murillo Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4 that competes alongside the No. 65 Mercedes-AMG GT4 of Brent Mosing, Tim Probert and endurance-race addition Kenny Murillo.

Saturday’s featured four-hour IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge race is scheduled to start at 2:35 p.m. EDT with live coverage on TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold. International viewers can watch live at www.IMSA.tv.

On-track action in both the IMSA WeatherTech Championship and IMSA Pilot Challenge began Friday at Watkins Glen. Practice sessions for both series was followed by Pilot Challenge GS qualifying Friday afternoon.

Daniel Morad, Driver – No. 28 Alegra Motorsports Mercedes-AMG GT3: “The first four rounds of the championship haven’t gone to plan, with some things outside of our control and few things we could have done better together. We are really looking to regroup and bounce back, and I know that the Alegra Motorsports guys have worked hard on our Mercedes-AMG GT3 to get ready for this weekend. Everything has been checked, we are 100% ready for a six-hour endurance race. Having Billy back will be great with our three-driver lineup again. We are really looking forward to exploiting the full potential of the Mercedes-AMG GT3 around the fast circuit at Watkins Glen. This is one of my favorite circuits in the world now based on the surface since the repaving a few years ago. It just has the most grip of any race track I have been on around the world. After four races with the Mercedes-AMG GT3 package, Alegra Motorsports really understands the car and its sweet spots. I think the pace will be there. It is just going to be down to the drivers and the pit stop execution going perfectly.”

Bryce Ward, Driver – No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4: “I think Watkins Glen is another track that I really enjoy. It’s unfortunate that we couldn’t go to The Glen last year, but it is so nice to be back now. Two races in a row at the same track is going to be a lot of fun. For me, it’s particularly important. The real pros can step into the car and knock it out of the park straight away, but it takes me a little bit of time to settle in. The first race we’ll get a bit of practice, but the second we don’t get much practice at all. We’ll have a decent amount of drive time between the two and I’m really excited to be there for both races. I’ll be traveling back home between races, but the rest of the team will prepare the cars and hopefully spend a little bit of time in New York City and have a good time and get some good food and be ready for the second race.”

Alec Udell, Driver – No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4: “We had a great car, the team executed perfectly, we had a great pit stop and Bryce drove a great first stint there, so we’re really happy with the result at Mid-Ohio. We can carry that momentum into a circuit that for all intents and purposes is going to suit the Mercedes-AMG GT4 really well. I think most circuits do, and that’s a testament to the Mercedes-AMG brand and to the car. For us as a team, it’s focusing on making the fewest mistakes, staying clean and keep working forward. I think we’ve got a really good package with myself and Bryce and the Mercedes-AMG GT4, and we’ve proven that a few times over the past season. The four-hour race this weekend is going to add an entirely new element. It’s always more challenging, but when you add more time to the race, there’s more opportunities for things to happen, more opportunity to show well. Our focus is on maximizing the amount of time we have on the track and taking the Winward machine to the front.”

Kenny Murillo, Driver – No. 72 Murillo Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4: “Ultimately, I am just grateful for the opportunity to not only drive a Mercedes-AMG GT4 again but to do it with Brent and Tim. We had a really good time at Daytona, and it was really my first time competing on the lead lap and battling in some restarts here and there. I am looking forward to putting what I learned at the beginning of the year to good use here at this Watkins Glen race.”

Atlanta Speedwerks Pair of Honda Civic TCRs Scores Front Row Lock Out For Saturday’s IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge Race

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Official Release
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Photo credit Daylon Barr Photography

Robert Noaker Earned The Third Motul Pole Award For the No. 84 Honda Civic TCR, With Todd Lamb Qualifying Second in the No. 94 Honda Civic TCR

WATKINS GLEN, New York (June 25, 2021) – Atlanta Speedwerks locked down the front row for the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge TCR class race on Saturday at Watkins Glen International, with Robert Noaker earning his second Motul Pole award in the opening four races and Todd Lamb qualifying second during Friday’s session.

The 17-year-old Noaker’s best lap of 1:56.046 (105.475 mph) in the No. 84 Sabelt/Pagid Honda Civic TCR was quick enough to set a new track record in the class and earn the team’s third top starting position in four races in the 2021 season. Noaker’s co-driver, Brian Henderson, scored the top spot at Daytona International Speedway in the season opener.

“I love this track,” Noaker said. “I’ve only been here one other time before this but on sims I’ve always loved it. It’s very different than any other track with the banking and there’s not much runoff. The car was handling and it’s good to get pole. It’s a four-hour race, so it’s just going to be staying out of trouble and try to stay out front. Hopefully I’ll hand the car off the Brian clean and see what he can do with it.”

Noaker was 0.825 ahead of Lamb in the No. 94 Dinner With Racers/Lemons of Love Honda Civic TCR during the session. Qualifying for the first time and racing for just the second time this season, Lamb turned a best lap of 1:56.871 (104.730 mph) just before the checkered flag flew on the 15-minute session. Lamb will co-drive with Ryan Eversley during Saturday’s four-hour race sitting second in the team championship and with Eversley second in the driver’s championship point standings.

“It was a great qualifying,” Lamb, also the team owner, said. “I’m really glad we can have both cars on the front row. We’re really coming together as a team, and to me that’s the biggest thing of all. It’s awesome to be able to drive this weekend, but as a team owner I just want to be able to have success and see both cars on the podium.”

The Tioga Downs Casino Resort 240 at The Glen gets underway at 2:35 p.m. EDT on Saturday from Watkins Glen International. The race can be seen live on the NBC Sports app via TrackPass.

About Atlanta Speedwerks
Atlanta Speedwerks is a professional road racing team and prep shop, providing road racing services, car builds, roll cages, arrive and drive programs, and performance parts. Headquartered near Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, the company runs winning arrive & drive programs in IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge, Mazda MX-5 Cup, Porsche Club of America and SCCA Spec Miata, among others. Professional coaching and driver development round out the company’s offerings.

Hall of Fame driver Jack Ingram dies at age 84

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Jack Ingram, a member of the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the National Motorsports Press Association Hall of Fame, has died at age 84, NASCAR announced on Friday morning.

Ingram won the inaugural 1982 championship in what is now the NASCAR Xfinity Series and claimed the title again in 1985, after finishing second in the standings to Sam Ard the previous two years. His 31 victories in the series rank sixth all-time.

A native of Avery’s Creek, N.C., Ingram also won championships in NASCAR’s Late Model Sportsman Division in 1972, 1973 and 1974. Nicknamed “Iron Man,” Ingram is credited with more than 300 career victories.

He was inducted into the NMPA Hall of Fame in 1997 and the NASCAR hall of Fame in 2014.

“There is no better way to describe Jack Ingram than ‘Iron Man,’” NASCAR Chairman and CEO Jim France said in a statement. “Jack was a fixture at short tracks across the Southeast most days of the week, racing anywhere and everywhere. He dominated the Late Model Sportsman division like few others.

“He set the bar for excellence in the Xfinity Series as its Most Popular Driver in 1982 and champion in 1985. Jack was an ‘old school racer’ and his work on his own car helped propel him to Victory Lane hundreds of times.

“Of our current 58 NASCAR Hall of Fame members, he is one of only six that was elected based on his career and contributions in the grassroots level of our sport. On behalf of the France family and NASCAR, I offer my condolences to the friends and family of NASCAR Hall of Famer Jack Ingram.”

Ingram competed in 19 NASCAR Cup Series races over a 20-year period, with a best finish of second to fellow NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Petty at Hickory Motor Speedway in 1967. That event was the fifth victory for Petty during his record streak of 10 straight wins.

Ingram also got the first and last of his 31 Xfinity Series victories at Hickory.

SS GreenLight Racing | Joe Graf Jr. Nashville Superspeedway Event Preview

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Official Release
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SS GreenLight Racing | NASCAR Xfinity Series
Pocono (Pa.) Raceway | Pocono Green 225

Fast Facts
No. 07 SS GreenLight Racing Team:
Driver: Joe Graf Jr. (@JoeGrafJr)
Primary Partner(s): G-Coin
Manufacturer: Chevrolet Camaro
Crew Chief: Mike Tyska
Pocono Green 225 Starting Position: 35th (Event Formula)
Driver Points Position: 30th | Owner Points Position: 34th
Engine: Earnhardt-Childress Racing Engines (ECR)

Notes of Interest:

Welcome Aboard: This weekend at Pocono Raceway, SS GreenLight Racing and Joe Graf Jr. welcome back G-Coin as the primary partner of the team’s No. 07 Chevrolet Camaro for Sunday afternoon’s Pocono Green 225.

Pocono marks the fourth race of a multi-race deal where G-Coin, a product that brings gold into the digital age, making it accessible and giving it true utility will be the primary partner.

About G-Coin: Unlike cryptocurrencies, G-Coin is a digital title to a real asset: 1 G-Coin token equals 1 gram of Responsible GoldTM.

G-Coin combines the best qualities of traditional gold – stability, security, value, confidence, and social status – with the benefits of digital innovation, allowing users to easily save, send, and spend gold.

Tech-savvy investors keen to avoid cryptocurrency volatility, or physical storage burden and costs, are now able to purchase G-Coin digital gold tokens. G-Coin tokens can be purchased in increments of 0.01gram, giving individual investors better access to the gold market and the ability to use gold for day-to-day purchases.

G-Coin Wallets give users the freedom to send and receive value instantly, securely, and at no cost from the convenience of your mobile phone.

G-Coin Tip of the Week: Because gold prices often do not trade in the same direction as the stock market, some compare buying gold to buying insurance. You may not need it, but it may be beneficial in some circumstances.

You Can Win $1,000 In Gold! To celebrate their new partnership with Joe Graf Jr., in the NASCAR Xfinity Series G-Coin will give away $1,000 in FREE gold to a lucky individual next week!

To enter, download the G-Coin app on your smartphone to submit your entry.

Saving You Some Money: As summer kicks off, Joe Graf Jr.’s other marketing partner Z Grills wants to help the NASCAR community save money – but also enjoy the perfect barbecue.

In preparation of their upcoming partner at Atlanta (Ga.) Motor Speedway next month, Z Grills Racing (ZGrillsRacing.com) is offering a 10 percent discount off your TOTAL purchase, using the code NASCAR at checkout.

Welding Another Partnership: On Wednesday, SS GreenLight Racing and Joe Graf Jr. announced that PowerWeld will serve as the primary marketing partner of the No. 07 Chevrolet Camaro for the upcoming New Holland 250 at Michigan International Speedway in August.

PowerWeld is a leading brand in the industrial welding products market across North America. Its core areas of focus include welding filler metals, arc, MIG and TIG welding accessories and equipment, gas welding and cutting accessories and equipment, and welding safety.

PowerWeld products are designed to withstand the daily rigors of industrial applications, including manufacturing, metalworking, oil and gas, construction, fabrication, shipyards, automotive repair and more.

PowerWeld products are available at quality distributors and retailers in the United States and Canada.

Joe Graf Jr. Xfinity Series Pocono Raceway Stats: Sunday afternoon’s Pocono Green 225 Recycled by J.P. Mascaro will mark Graf’s second NASCAR Xfinity Series race at the 2.5-mile triangle.

Last June, Graf started the race 25th but was an innocent victim in an early race accident relegating the team to a disappointing 35th place finish.

Joe Graf Jr. ARCA Pocono Raceway Stats: In addition to one NASCAR Xfinity Series start at the “Tricky Triangle”, Graf Jr. has four ARCA Menards Series starts from 2018 to 2019, scoring three top-10 finishes and a track-best seven in his ARCA Pocono debut in the 2018 General Tire #AnyWhereIsPossible 200 edition for Chad Bryant Racing.

Joe Graf Jr. Xfinity Series Career Speedway Nuggets: At tracks greater than 2.0-mile in size, Graf has competed in nine NASCAR Xfinity Series races. He holds an average starting position of 20.1 and looks to improve an average result of 30.1.

Nashville Superspeedway | Tennessee Lottery 250 Race Recap: In the most recent NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Nashville (Tenn.) Superspeedway, Graf Jr. piloted the No. 17 G-Coin Chevrolet in his 49th career Xfinity Series start.

Starting 33rd – Graf inched towards a top-20 finish but was eliminated from competition by an aggressive driver 37 laps from the finish.

The result left Graf with a disappointing and frustrating 34th place result.

Put Me In Coach: In an effort to strengthen his physique, Joe Graf Jr. began working with new trainer and former NASCAR Cup Series Josh Wise during the offseason.

In addition to Wise, Graf has also been working with former NASCAR driver and open-wheel driver Scott Speed on being more discipline behind the wheel of his No. 07 G-Coin Chevrolet Camaro.

Sneaker Mania: Along with the adrenaline of the Motorsports competition, Joe Graf Jr. also has a vogue for hype sneakers. In his current collection, he owns and wears at least 80 limited edition sneakers – and his collection continues to grow every month.

The current estimated value of his collection tops $90,000.

From the Pit Box: Industry veteran Mike Tyska is Joe Graf Jr.’s crew chief.

He will crew chief his 15th NASCAR Xfinity Series race as crew chief on Sunday afternoon.

Tyska joined SS GreenLight Racing in January after honing his skills in all three of NASCAR’s national divisions and working for teams like Germain Racing, GMS Racing and Rick Ware Racing.

Tyska was a part of Todd Bodine’s 2006 championship season in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series at Germain Racing.

Hello From The Other Side: Graf Jr. has a teammate at SS GreenLight Racing. Rookie Carson Ware will drive the No. 17 JACOB Construction Chevrolet Camaro on Saturday afternoon.

Ware is poised to make his fourth career Xfinity Series start and first of the 2021 season. In one of his three Xfinity starts last year, he finished 20th after starting 16th.

Follow on Social Media: For more on Joe Graf Jr. visit JoeGrafJr.com, like him on Facebook (Joe Graf Jr.), follow him on Twitter (@JoeGrafJr) and Instagram (@joegrafjr).

For more on SS GreenLight Racing, please like them on Facebook (SS GreenLight Racing) and follow them on Twitter (@SSGLR0708) and visit their website at SSGreenLight.com.

Joe Graf Jr. Pre-Race Quotes:

On Pocono Raceway: “Never really had the opportunity to showcase what we were capable of last year at Pocono as our race ended early. Thankfully, I’ll have another shot on Sunday afternoon and I’m hoping we can have a clean race and carry out our performance from Nashville to the checkered flag this weekend.

“We need a good race and I hope Pocono will deliver.”

On G-Coin Partnership: “This is a unique partnership, and I am excited to continue to have the support of G-Coin this weekend at Pocono.

“The more that G-Coin is in our Chevrolet – the more we can continue to educate others about the amazing ecosystem G-Coin is building.

“Together, we believe the NASCAR community will assist in putting G-Coin on the global map.”

On Recent Performances: “The last several races have been tough; especially last weekend at Nashville when I really thought we were turning the corner. However, it is during times like this that all your mental discipline and training really come to the forefront.

“I can’t stress enough the importance of mental toughness in overcoming obstacles you don’t control.

“When I look at the speed and balance of our cars this year they are much better than last year. That isn’t from luck. That is from the hard work and grind it out mental toughness of this team.

“It’s such a shame that we have had such a rough stretch, but this is no different from life. We all experience highs and lows in life. Like anyone at a low point, we are going to remain mentally tough and keep moving forward. We embrace the suck. We know it can’t last.

“Going forward we are going to focus on what we can control and continue to execute at our highest level. There are a ton of races left in the season and hopefully, we have shaken the bad luck. I would be worried if our cars lacked competitiveness, but they don’t. We have a lot of racing left and we are due for some good luck.”
Race Information:

The Pocono Green 225 Recycled by J.P. Mascaro (90 laps | 225 miles) is the 16th of 33 NASCAR Xfinity Series races on the 2021 schedule. The race will take the green flag on Sun., Jun. 27, 2021, shortly after 12:00 p.m. ET with live coverage on NBC Sports Network (NBCSN), the Motor Racing Network (Radio) and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. All times are local (ET).
About SS Green Light Racing:

As one of the most tenured teams in all of NASCAR, SS GreenLight Racing led by team owner and former driver Bobby Dotter has been a mainstay in the sport fielding entries in either the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series or the Xfinity Series competition since 2001.

SS GreenLight Racing will continue with a two-car program in the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2021.

Fr8Auctions Offers Fans Chance to Put Name on McDowell’s Car at Atlanta

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Official Release
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Donation to Brave Like Wyatt Will Send 34 Kids to Camp Braveheart

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (June 25, 2021) – Your name can ride with Michael McDowell on the No. 34 Fr8Auctions Ford Mustang during the NASCAR Cup Series race at the Atlanta (Ga.) Motor Speedway on Sunday, July 11. And, it’s all for a great cause and to enrich the lives of children.

Fr8Auctions, McDowell, and Front Row Motorsports (FRM) have partnered with Brave Like Wyatt to achieve the goal of sending 34 kids to Camp Braveheart. A donation of $500 sends one child to a unique, residential summer camp providing essential medical care, treatment and fun for kids with heart defects and heart transplants.

The first 34 fans who are gracious enough to make the donation will have their name on the No. 34 Fr8 Auctions Ford Mustang during the NASCAR Cup Series race. Fans can make the donation here: bravelikewyatt.com/camp-braveheart.

“Fr8Auctions has always found different ways to give back to the community through Brave Like Wyatt,” said 2021 Daytona 500 Champion, McDowell. “This is another special cause to help send 34 kids to a summer camp at no cost to them. I’m ready to make my $500 donation and I hope we can find 34 fans who want to make this summer special for the children at Camp Braveheart.”

Donations will be accepted through Friday, July 2.

To learn more about Camp Braveheart, visit www.choa.org/campbraveheart.

For more information about Fr8Auctions, visit Fr8Auctions.com and follow Fr8Auctions on social media: Twitter at @fr8auctions and Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Fr8Auctions-165690083576986/

For more information about the Be Your Own Hero Foundation #BraveLikeWyatt, visit www.bravelikewyatt.com.

ABOUT FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS
Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization in the NASCAR Cup and Camping World Truck Series and the 2021 Daytona 500 champions. The team was founded in 2004 and is owned by successful entrepreneur, Bob Jenkins. FRM fields the No. 34 and the No. 38 NASCAR Cup Series teams along with the No. 38 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series team– from its Mooresville, N.C. headquarters. Visit teamfrm.com and follow FRM on social media: Twitter at @Team_FRM, Instagram at @team_frm and Facebook at facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

Dawson Racing’s D3+Transformers Driver Trio Introductions

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Theodor Olsen, driver of the No. 84 D3+Transformers LMP3

HOUSTON, Texas, June 25 – As the Dawson Racing team prepares for the upcoming races at Watkins Glen, all three drivers are ready to step back into the cockpit at a track with deep racing history. Theodor Olsen, Dominic Cicero and Ben Devlin will co-drive the No. 84 D3+Transformers LMP3 for this weekend’s Sahlen’s Six Hours of the Glen, June 25-27.

“We are very happy to have these three drivers come together and add some history to the iconic Watkins Glen circuit associated with the Dawson name,” said Ian Dawson, CEO of Dawson Racing and long-time sports car entrant. “Being here for an IMSA race again with all these impressive machines is what sports car racing is all about. Introducing Hasbro with their TRANSFORMERS brand and Chevron Technology Ventures to sports car racing is a great honor. All three of these drivers bring a great deal to the table for this effort and the choice of drivers from the U.S., UK and Norway represent our work and vision on sustainable energy development. Although they have not raced together before, they are all keen to jump right in and I’m certain will work together like the pros they all are and produce some good results.”

Theodor Olsen may be a new name to many in the IMSA paddock as the 21-year-old Norwegian will be making his IMSA debut. Coming through the karting ranks in his native country since the age of 12, he soon graduated to car racing in the 2015 Citroen DS3 Cup Norway and then started making a name for himself in the Radical Cup Masters and Radical Cup Scandinavia, where he won the championship in 2016. The young man was awarded the 2018 Norway Athlete of the Year for his outstanding racing abilities and caught the eyes of Ian and Simon Dawson, who owned the Radical America outlet. They started working with the young talent in both Radicals and LMP2 and LMP3 cars for testing projects and with an eye on future drives. Additionally, as the Dawsons started their D3eSports business as the pandemic hit, Olsen was part of the esports family.”

Theodor Olsen, driver of the No. 84 D3+Transformers LMP3
“I’m super excited to finally be in the U.S. and racing again after being stuck home for the past year and a half,” said Olsen, of Moelv, Norway. “The Dawson have been planning this awesome D3+Transformers race program for a while and it’s a real honor to be here with them launching it to the world at Watkins Glen. Being part of bringing the sustainability focus on innovative technologies in Norway as part of my association makes me proud. Ben and Dominic and I are already getting on well and will be great teammates behind the wheel.”

Ben Devlin knows his way around a race track, Watkins Glen included. His most recent race at Watkins Glen was a fifth-place finish in the No. 70 Mazda Prototype factory team in 2016. His 20+ year team history competing in IMSA and the former American Le Mans Series reads like a who’s who of sports car racing in the U.S., as he’s driven for the likes of Dyson Racing, Intersport, Dempsey and SpeedSource before joining Mazda. After returning to his home country of England, his most recent race outing was the British GT Championship GT4 with Multimatic Motorsports Europe in a Ford Mustang GT4.

Devlin’s association with the Dawson family goes back to grade school in England at the age of 12. The Norwich, England-born Devlin first met Simon at school in Quidenham, Norfolk, which is nearly in the backyard of the historical Snetterton Race circuit. With the Dawson family history in racing, soon the young boys were inseparable at the race track.

Ben Devlin, driver of the No. 84 D3+Transformers LMP3
“Simon and I have talked about racing together for so long I can’t remember,” said a jubilant Devlin. “We’ve spent so much of our lives planning to race together but timing had just not worked out previously, so it truly is a dream come true to be launching the D3+Transformers race team with them at The Glen. When Simon asked me to come drive with he and Ian, I thought I was dreaming. I’m very proud to be part of a family friend program with such diversity, especially as a father now. And being back racing in IMSA, which I just love, is fantastic. We can’t wait to get on track and kick off this amazing TRANSFORMERS program. It is going to be incredible!”

Dominic Cicero, who was introduced to the team by Ligier North America, is ready to step back into the cockpit at a track with which he has a fond connection. Having competed in both the Daytona Prototype and GTD classes at The Glen in years past, he feels that knowledge will play well driving the LMP3 entry with Olsen and Devlin.

Dominic Cicero, driver of the No. 84 D3+Transformers LMP3
“I’ve had some great memories of this beautiful place and absolutely love the track,” said Cicero of La Quinta, Calif. “My experience in multiple classes will fit well with the five classes racing together at the Six Hours at the Glen race. Having driven in both the fastest and slowest cars on track provides a unique perspective that not everyone will share as we navigate the circuit together.

“The rhythmic flow, both mental and physical, of this circuit reminds me of the tracks I’ve competed on in Europe. Some tracks you simply connect with and feel more comfortable behind the wheel and this is one of those tracks for me and my past results here show it. I hope to carry that on with this exciting racing program with the Dawsons.”

Dawson Racing partners for the No. 84 entry include Hasbro and Chevron Technology Ventures.

For more information, please visit www.dawsonracing.com.

About Dawson Racing:
Dawson Racing is a highly competent manager, owner and operator of an international sports car racing team. Its principals, Ian and Simon Dawson, have over 60 years of experience with factory and private global racing teams including engineering, technology, infrastructure and marketing resources.

TeamSLR Eyes Opportunity in Buckeye State

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Official Release
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Mid-May Test at Mid-Ohio has Connor Mosack Ready to Race This Weekend

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (June 25, 2021) – Only once this season has Connor Mosack buckled into his No. 28 Nic Tailor Custom Fit Underwear/Interstate Foam & Supply Chevrolet Camaro and ventured onto a racetrack where he had prior experience in the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli.

That lone race was back on March 28 at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta in Braselton, Georgia, where Mosack finished a solid fourth. At every other Trans Am venue this season, Mosack has arrived with a clean slate, seeing tracks in the flesh for the very first time.

Simulations, in-car camera footage and race replays have helped bridge the gap, but real-world experience is best. That’s why Mosack is so keen to go racing this weekend at the Mid-Ohio Sportscar Course in Lexington, Ohio.

The Mid-Ohio SpeedTour will mark Mosack’s seventh TA2 race of the 2021 season. In preparation for it, Mosack and TeamSLR tested at the 2.258-mile, 13-turn road course in mid-May.

It will be Mosack’s 11th career Trans Am start, and the 22-year-old racer from Charlotte, North Carolina, aims to make the most of it. Nothing beats seat time, and Mosack has augmented his Mid-Ohio test with races outside of Trans Am.

In the month-long break since the last Trans Am race at Lime Rock Park in Lakeville, Connecticut, Mosack has kept his skills sharp. The aspiring NASCAR driver wheeled a Super Late Model at Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola, Florida, the weekend after Lime Rock. Prior to Lime Rock, Mosack competed in the ARCA Menards East Series race at Dover (Del.) International Speedway, finishing seventh and completing all 125 laps at the aptly named Monster Mile.

Mosack is also a recent college graduate. On May 8, he walked across the stage and accepted his diploma from High Point (N.C.) University. With his degree in business entrepreneurship in one hand and his helmet in the other, Mosack is juggling two careers. He began fulltime work earlier this month at Interstate Foam & Supply, focusing on the company’s business development.

While a business suit is now a part of Mosack’s regular wardrobe, it’s a firesuit that he likes best. With his briefcase back at home, a helmet on his head and experience in his pocket, Mosack is ready for Mid-Ohio.

Connor Mosack, driver No. 28 Nic Tailor Custom Fit Underwear/Interstate Foam & Supply Chevrolet Camaro:

“Since we last raced at Lime Rock, I competed in a Super Late Model race the following weekend at Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola, Florida. Unfortunately, we had some bad luck and ended up not running very well. I also started working full time for Interstate Foam & Supply during the week helping with business development.

“I’m definitely looking forward to Mid-Ohio. We’ve had the speed to run up front all year. I feel like I’m the most familiar and comfortable going into the Mid-Ohio weekend than any other track we’ve gone to so far. We were able to go test there a couple weeks back. We felt like we had really good speed and we will carry that into this weekend.

“Mid-Ohio is a tough place because every corner on the track it’s easy to give up speed. Every corner has a tradeoff between entry, center and exit speed to get the best total of the three, and it really can be tough to know which way is best and to do it every time. Knowing where to place the car is also key because of the blind corners and bumps that are scattered around the track. Of course, you know the best places to pass are at the end of the straightaways, into the keyhole and turn four but, as a racer, you also know you might have to be able to make a pass in the closing laps wherever you can make it happen. Some corners are definitely tougher than others, but it’s always possible and you can even catch some guys by surprise in some spots.”

Scott Lagasse, Jr., owner of TeamSLR and driver coach:

“Mid-Ohio is a very technical track that is a lot of fun and enjoyable from the driver’s seat. The elevation and the uniqueness of some of the corners makes you always feel like you just need one more lap to accomplish the perfect lap.

“We marked the Mid-Ohio race on our calendar way in advance for Connor. This should be a good track for him. We tested here a few weeks ago to be properly prepared for this weekend. Turn two, turn five and turn nine are all corners that Connor will excel in because of his consistency and attention to detail.”

About TeamSLR:

TeamSLR competes fulltime in the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli in a multifaceted effort that includes dedicated entries in the TA2 division, customer programs, driver coaching and car construction. Its history dates back to 1985 and covers a wide spectrum of motorsports, including NASCAR, IMSA, SCCA, ARCA and ASA. TeamSLR is a family-owned organization run by Scott Lagasse Sr., and Scott Lagasse Jr., The father-and-son duo have combined to win more than 100 races and seven championships across a variety of series and styles of racecars, from paved ovals to road courses to dirt tracks. For more information, please visit us online at www.TeamSLR.com, on Facebook, on Twitter, on Instagram and on LinkedIn.

What To Do When A Fatal Car Accident Occurs

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SM
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Car accidents are traumatic incidents and if you have been in one, knowing what to do is the need of the hour. Injuries are common and property damage is expected. If someone has died, it means that the incident has gotten very serious. With severe accidents, medical care should be given to the injured passengers as soon as possible.

Death due to car accidents can devastate families and communities. The grief is palpable when such a thing happens. If you have been at the receiving end and someone close to you has died, getting legal assistance is important.

The Right Lawyer Can Do A Lot

The right fatal car accident lawyer can do a lot for you in your journey to get justice in your severe accident case. You should understand that each car accident is different and occurs under different circumstances. Some may involve irresponsible and negligent behavior.

  • Collect Evidence: As part of his job, the lawyer is going to collect all evidence that will hold in court. A ‘’Wrong Death’’ claim is common in such cases and to prove it, evidence needs to be collected.
  • Build A Case: The lawyer then works hard to build a case for you.
  • Financial compensation: Compensation does not lessen the grief, but it can lessen the stress the car accident has caused for the family of the deceased. It also serves as a reminder that a certain justice has been served. A great fatal car accident lawyer will be able to work at giving the next of kin fair financial compensation.

Finding The Right Fatal Car Accident Lawyer

The right lawyer can make a lot of difference to what life looks like after a loved one has been killed in a car accident. He will not just provide legal help, but will also find the ‘’at fault’ driver to be charged. Here are some pointers to keep in mind to find the right lawyer.

  • Enough Experience

A good number of years of experience will be necessary. The lawyer must have worked in several car accident cases before and must have won most of them. He should have adequate experience in collecting evidence and representing his client in court. If it’s already your 2nd DUI, it will be highly advisable to seek lawyers with relevant experience in DUI cases.

  • Personal Attention

The lawyer you choose must provide personal attention to the case. There are so many aspects of a fatal car accident and all of them need to be studied. This helps ensure that the wronged party gets a chance at winning fair compensation.

  • Fast Action

Your lawyer must also take fast action. Fatal car accidents are to be acted upon quickly. If evidence gets lost, it can be cause for concern. A good amount of evidence is needed to build a solid case. The lawyer thus must act quickly.

  • Trustworthy And Responsible

You are dealing with the death of a loved one. That is why a trustworthy and responsible lawyer is your best bet.

When you know your rights in a fatal car accident, it is the first step to claim them.

RCR Event Preview – Pocono Raceway

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Official Release
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Richard Childress Racing at Pocono Raceway… In 169 NASCAR Cup Series starts at Pocono Raceway, Richard Childress Racing has earned two wins, 16 top-five, and 56 top-ten finishes at the ‘Tricky Triangle.’ The Welcome, N.C.-based organization also has 14 NASCAR Xfinity Series starts with a best finish of second with Tyler Reddick in 2019.

Catch the Action… The NASCAR Cup Series’ Pocono Organics 325 at Pocono Raceway will be televised live Saturday, June 26, beginning at 3 p.m. ET on NBCSN and will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

The NASCAR Xfinity Series’ Pocono Green 225 at Nashville Superspeedway will be televised live Sunday, June 27, beginning at 12 p.m. ET on NBCSN and will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

The NASCAR Cup Series’ Explore the Pocono Mountains 350 at Pocono Raceway will be televised live Sunday, June 27, beginning at 3:30 p.m. ET on NBCSN and will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Austin Dillon and the No. 3 Workrise Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE at Pocono Raceway… Austin Dillon has 12 NASCAR Cup Series starts at Pocono Raceway, one start in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, and is a former winner at the track in the NASCAR Truck Series (2014).

About Workrise… Workrise is the leading workforce management solution for the skilled trades. Workrise makes it easier for skilled laborers to find work and for companies to find in-demand, trained workers. Workrise operates across the solar, wind, construction, defense and oil & gas industries. Through people and technology, they provide the staffing, training, and professional services to empower the people who get hard work done. For more information visit workrise.com.

AUSTIN DILLON QUOTES:
Talk about Pocono Raceway. It’s an interestingly-shaped track…
“Pocono is a fun, fast track and I feel like we’ve been able to build a good notebook there so I’m excited to get there this weekend for a double-header. Good finishes will be important for us and the points battle. At Pocono Raceway, speed is definitely carried through turn two and through three to the start-finish line. I think those are the most important corners. Of course, every corner is important, but turns two and three are a little bit more important because it’s the flat end of the track.”

Seeing the power that Hendrick Motorsports has picked up, has it been a mutual situation where you’ve both been benefiting from the advances that they’re making right now?
“Yeah, I think Chevrolet, as a whole, is working better together than they ever have in the past. Obviously, it’s good to see Hendrick Motorsports running well. As far as from an engine standpoint, I know it’s good to see the ECR power running well each and every weekend. Chevrolet and Rick Hendrick, himself, have been adamant in helping us with whatever we need. So, it’s been nice working with all the teams, especially Rick and all the guys at Hendrick. I think it’s only going to make us better in the future working together and especially with the Next Gen car. We’re just doing everything we can to keep Chevrolet out front.”

Tyler Reddick and the No. 8 Kalahari Resorts Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE at Pocono Raceway… Tyler Reddick has two NASCAR Cup Series, two NASCAR Xfinity Series and three NASCAR Truck Series starts at Pocono Raceway. He has a total of two top-five and three top-10 finishes in all of his NASCAR national touring series starts at the “Tricky Triangle,” with his best finish of second coming in the 2019 Xfinity Series race.

About Kalahari Resorts & Conventions… Plan a getaway they’ll never forget at America’s Largest Indoor Waterparks. The Poconos Mountains location has a 220,000 sq. ft. indoor waterpark with thrilling rides and slides, a wave pool and lazy river, new virtual reality experiences, specially designed kids areas and adult-only swim up bars. Beyond the waterpark, the resort offers nearly 1,000 guest rooms and suites and a world-class spa, as well as dry-play activities like Gorilla Grove Treetop Adventures. Experience an aerial treetop ropes course, quad zip lines and a 36-hole mini golf course. Inside the resort, the Big Game Room features the latest and greatest in arcade games, escape rooms, laser tag, mini-bowling and more. After the fun, take a break for a meal at one of the delicious on-site restaurant experiences. Visit kalahariresorts.com to plan your adventure.

The NEW Epic Pass… Local visitors can now score big savings with our Waterpark Epic Pass – a monthly subscription offering unlimited entry into the waterpark or day spa. Come for the day, every day, for one low rate.

Get Special Offers & insider Exclusives… Follow Kalahari Resorts and Conventions on social media @KalahariResorts for special offers. #LoveKalahari #BestSummerYet

TYLER REDDICK QUOTES:
This is the second consecutive year we’ll have a doubleheader weekend at Pocono Raceway. What are the keys to success for a doubleheader weekend?
“It’s important to take each race one at a time on a doubleheader weekend and not look too far ahead. We did not have a great doubleheader weekend last year at Pocono Raceway, so I’m looking for some redemption this time around. It’s going to be important to keep the front of the car rotating through all three corners for both races since Pocono is so flat. That can be a challenge since you get tighter the longer you run. Dirty air makes it really tough to get around here too, so being able to manage that well will be vital to having a good two races this weekend.”

This week you’ll be carrying the Kalahari Resorts and Convention Center colors on your No. 8 Chevrolet. Are you looking forward to some more time at their resort?
“I’m very excited for this weekend’s stay at Kalahari’s Resorts and Convention Center at Pocono, and I know my team is too. We got to stay at their new Round Rock facility in Texas during the COTA race weekend, and it’s just incredible what they do with these resorts. My teammate, Austin Dillon, and myself had a lot of fun at Tom Foolery’s in Texas and had a friendly competition going with the arcade games in there. My girlfriend, Alexa, and son Beau had a great time in the water park that weekend too. So, I’m excited to be headed back to their Pocono location this weekend with a little more time on my hands to join them in the water park and enjoy all the resort has to offer. It’s such a great family atmosphere. Todd Nelson, the owner of Kalahari, does a fantastic job, and I’m excited to catch up with him again and have him out to the track as well.”

Myatt Snider and the No. 2 Crosley Furniture Chevrolet Camaro at Pocono Raceway… Myatt Snider has one career NASCAR Xfinity Series start at Pocono Raceway. One season ago in June 2020, the Charlotte, N.C. native, piloting his No. 21 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet Camaro, started on the front row, led eight laps and finished in the fourth position. Snider also has one NASCAR Truck Series race (12th-place in 2018) and two ARCA Racing Series events under his belt (two top-10 finishes in 2016).

About Crosley Brands… For over 30 years, Crosley Brands has been a leader in the nostalgic electronics category. From their beginning in the premium incentive industry, Crosley Brands developed their own exclusive product lines and built solid relationships with some of the most well-known catalogers and retailers in the business. Today, Crosley Brands is known for two brands – Crosley Radio and Crosley Furniture. At the front lines of the Vinyl Revolution, Crosley Radio seeks to bring new life to a classic medium, with its revolutionary line of turntables to its new series of high-fidelity units. Building on a legacy of entrepreneurship, Crosley Furniture delivers quality products at competitive prices, without sacrificing style. From the patio to the kitchen, bath, entryway and beyond, Crosley Furniture offers over 1,800 indoor and outdoor furniture items in a variety of categories and designs. For more information, please visit www.crosleybrands.com.

MYATT SNIDER QUOTE:
You’ve had solid results at Pocono Raceway in the past. What is your outlook for this weekend?
“Pocono Raceway is one of my strongest tracks personally. I’ve had good speed and success there in the past. In my ARCA debut at Pocono back in 2016, which was also my first race at the Tricky Triangle, I led a lot of laps and finished inside the top-10. Last season when our Richard Childress Racing team went to Pocono, we led laps in the No. 21 car and finished fourth. This weekend, we are going back with almost the same setup in our No. 2 Chevrolet Camaro, so I feel good overall about our chances on Sunday. It always helps to have another great looking Crosley Furniture Camaro to drive, and we will look to rock and roll once again in the Pocono mountains. We are even staying at the Kalahari Resorts, which makes the time away from home enjoyable and kicks off the summer fun.”

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