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GMC HUMMER EV Teams Up for Off-Road Extreme E Racing Series

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Chip Ganassi Racing showcases GMC’s first all-electric supertruck in 2021 international series

DETROIT – GMC announced today a new multiyear sponsorship with Chip Ganassi Racing for the team’s first electric racing venture in the inaugural Extreme E season in 2021. CGR’s 550-horsepower electric SUV, which features a unique grille, graphics and bodywork, was inspired by the GMC HUMMER EV, the world’s first all-electric supertruck.

“I can’t think of a better fit than showcasing the look of GMC’s HUMMER EV in Extreme E with Chip Ganassi Racing,” said Jim Campbell, General Motors U.S. vice president, Performance and Motorsports. “Both GMC HUMMER EV and the Extreme E series are designed to be revolutionary – to challenge perceptions of electric vehicles and to showcase their true capability.”

Noted GMC Trucks off-road racers Kyle LeDuc and Sara Price will serve as drivers for CGR in the series.

“It’s truly an honor to represent GMC, especially during such an exciting time in auto racing,” said Chip Ganassi, CGR team owner. “The new GMC HUMMER EV is going to be a game changer in terms of how the world views off-road EV capability, and we couldn’t be more proud to represent GMC in such an innovative new series.”

The Extreme E five-race global championship will take place in some of the world’s most remote locations and promotes the adoption of electric vehicles. Fans can follow along on GMC’s social channels.

Season 1 Calendar
Desert X Prix: AlUla, Saudi Arabia: April 3-4, 2021
Ocean X Prix: Lac Rose, Senegal: May 29-30, 2021
Arctic X Prix: Kangerlussuaq, Greenland: Aug. 28-29, 2021
Amazon X Prix: Para, Brazil: Oct. 23-24, 2021
Glacier X Prix: Patagonia, Argentina: Dec. 11-12, 2021

“We feel very proud to welcome GMC and its iconic GMC HUMMER EV to the Extreme E family, as it joins forces with our Chip Ganassi Racing team,” said Alejandro Agag, founder and CEO of Extreme E. “Not only will Extreme E be a thrilling motorsport, it will also showcase the performance and benefits of electric vehicles.”

Reservations are being accepted for select trims of GMC’s new supertruck, the 2022 GMC HUMMER EV, which will launch with initial production this fall. The HUMMER EV will be a fully electric addition to GMC’s portfolio powered by General Motors’ new Ultium battery system. The HUMMER EV Edition One will offer a three-motor e4WD propulsion system with GM-estimated best-in-class 1,000 horsepower and a GM-estimated 11,500 lb-ft of torque. With 800-volt DC fast charging capability, the GMC HUMMER EV is expected to have industry-best charging capability at any of the new 350-kilowatt high-output public DC fast charging stations — the fastest method supported by current charging standards.

CGR Making History
While celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2020, Chip Ganassi Racing has compiled historic victories in some of the most iconic races around the globe. CGR has claimed eight wins in the Rolex 24 At Daytona, four Indianapolis 500s, the Daytona 500, the Brickyard 400, the 12 Hours of Sebring and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, making Chip Ganassi the only owner in history to score wins in those iconic races. In total, CGR has now tallied 20 series championships and more than 225 race victories.

About GMC
With a strong foundation of manufacturing trucks since 1902 and now selling in a dozen countries across the world, GMC offers purpose-built vehicles designed and engineered to the highest standard. From the all-new compact SUV Terrain to the Sierra HD, our trucks and crossovers deliver GMC’s signature combination of intuitive technologies and premium execution, with the popular Denali representing the pinnacle of GMC design, performance and amenities. Details on all GMC models are available at www.gmc.com, on Twitter at @GMC or at www.facebook.com/gmc.

About Chip Ganassi Racing
Chip Ganassi has been a fixture in the auto racing industry for over 30 years and is considered one of the most successful, as well as innovative, owners the sport has anywhere in the world. Today, his teams include four cars in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, two cars in the NASCAR Cup Series and one car in both the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and Extreme E. Overall, his teams have 20 championships and more than 225 victories, including four Indianapolis 500s, a Daytona 500, a Brickyard 400, eight Rolex 24 At Daytonas, the 12 Hours of Sebring and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Ganassi boasts state-of-the-art race shop facilities in Indianapolis, and Concord, N.C., with a corporate office in Pittsburgh. For more information, visit, www.chipganassiracing.com.

About Extreme E
Extreme E is a groundbreaking new motorsport series which aims to highlight the impact of climate change and human interference in some of the world’s most remote locations and promotes the adoption of electric vehicles in the quest for a lower carbon future for the planet.
The Championship takes a climate positive approach and will pioneer many sustainable technologies and techniques. For more information, visit www.extreme-e.com.

Youtheory Partners With LaJoie, Spire Motorsports for Daytona 500

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Official Release
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CONCORD, N.C. (January 26, 2021) – Spire Motorsports announced today Youtheory® will be the primary sponsor aboard the No. 7 Chevrolet Camaro with driver Corey LaJoie in the 63rd running of the Daytona 500.

The southern-California based manufacturer and lifestyle brand will promote its acclaimed Ashwagandha dietary supplement which, when used over time, combats stress and provides numerous benefits for the body and brain. Ashwagandha (commonly called Indian Ginseng) is one of the most highly prized botanicals in the ancient Ayurvedic system of India. It is often described as an “adaptogen” because it helps the body successfully adapt to stressful conditions.

The Ashwagandha livery will be displayed across the hood, upper-rear quarter panels, deck lid, roof and TV panel of LaJoie’s No. 7 entry. Youtheory Ashwagandha has been clinically proven to reduce stress and anxiety naturally, while also providing mental clarity and focus.

“Corey LaJoie shares the same values as Youtheory and we’re proud to support him once again as he competes at the highest level of the sport,” said Darren Rude, CEO of Youtheory. “As innovators in the health and wellness industry, Youtheory is excited to unveil the new Youtheory Ashwagandha No. 7 Chevrolet which will help educate NASCAR fans everywhere on this breakthrough product which is designed to ease stress, anxiety and provide clarity and mental focus.”

LaJoie finished eighth in last year’s Great American Race and earned a career-best sixth-place finish at The World Center of Racing in the 2019 Coke Zero Sugar 400. The Concord, N.C., native has logged nine total starts at Daytona International Speedway (DIS) on NASCAR’s senior circuit, including eight on the traditional 2.5-mile superspeedway and one on the daunting 3.61-mile road course.

“Youtheory played a key role in helping me continue my driving career as far back as 2016,” explained LaJoie. “It’s a privilege having them back on board for the best Cup opportunity I’ve ever had. I’m eternally grateful to Darren and Patty Rude for their continued support of my career. We’re going to give the Youtheory Ashwagandha No. 7 Camaro a heck of a run in the Daytona 500.”

The Concord, N.C., team co-owned by longtime NASCAR industry executives Jeff Dickerson and Thaddeus “T.J.” Puchyr announced in November that it inked the 29-year-old driver to a multi-year agreement to pilot the No. 7 machine. LaJoie will be flanked by teammate and 2010 Daytona 500 winner Jamie McMurray in the No. 77 Advent Health Chevy in the 2021 edition of the Great American Race.

The team earned its first win in NASCAR’s premier series in an upset of practically unprecedented proportions, when Justin Haley took the checkered flag at DIS on July 7, 2019.

“We’re thrilled that Youtheory has come aboard the No. 7 for the Daytona 500,” said Spire Motorsports co-owner T.J. Puchyr. “Corey has a long-standing relationship with Darren and Patty Rude and we’re grateful they’ve chosen to continue that relationship when he signed with Spire Motorsports. The car looks incredible and Corey does a great job on Superspeedways. We can’t wait to get to Daytona and see the Youtheory Ashwagandha Chevy in the Great American Race.”

The 63rd running of the Daytona 500 will be televised live on FOX, Sunday, February 14 beginning at 2:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. The first of 36 races on the 2021 NCS schedule will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports was established in 2018 and is co-owned by longtime NASCAR industry executives Jeff Dickerson and Thaddeus “T.J.” Puchyr. Spire Motorsports earned an upset victory for the ages in its first full season when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway on July 7, 2019. The team will field the Nos. 7 and 77 Chevrolet Camaros in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2021. Over the 2019-2020 seasons, Spire Motorsports logged 72 starts on NASCAR’s senior circuit and provided an entry for multiple drivers.

About Youtheory® …
Youtheory® is a Southern California based lifestyle brand on a mission to inspire wellness in all. Our goal is to develop pure, safe, and innovative supplements that improve one’s health, beauty and overall well-being. We believe that our products are only as good as our ingredients, so we travel the world to source the highest quality raw materials from the places where they are cultivated best. From farm to retail shelf, we’re committed to best-in-class manufacturing processes, guarantee purity, potency and traceability of every product that is made and put on the shelf. Learn more at www.youtheory.com. Follow on social at https://www.facebook.com/youtheorybeauty and https://www.instagram.com/youtheory/.

About Ashwagandha …
Youtheory® Ashwagandha, also called Indian Ginseng, has been used in Ayurvedic practices for thousands of years to improve both physical and mental well-being. This stress remedy contains 1,000 mg of a full spectrum ashwagandha blend and 20 mg of ginger root, helping to promote a healthy response to everyday stressors. The apoptogenic botanical is revered as nature’s antidote to modern stress because it counteracts stress by responding to and balancing out your body’s cortisol levels. The time-tested plant not only helps boost overall well-being and quality of life, but also helps to boost mental and physical performance. Youtheory Ashwagandha is now available to purchase online at www.youtheory.com.

BRODY ROA’S CHILI BOWL WRAP UP AND 30TH BIRTHDAY

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Official Release
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(Cypress, CA, January 25, 2021) Veteran Southern California racer Brody Roa opened his 2021 racing schedule with an appearance at the prestigious 35th Annual Chili Bowl Midget Nationals in Tulsa, Oklahoma.  The “Pride of Garden Grove” contested his preliminary night on Thursday, January 14th, and the finale two nights later on the 16th.

Roa’s Chili Bowl effort did not get off to an awesome start when he drew pill #98 for his Thursday heat race.  That meant he would have to start last (eighth) in the heat.  Compounding the issue was the fact that early on, the tiny track was proving extremely hard to pass on.  When the checkered flew on the eight lapper, he advanced one spot to finish seventh.  That meant he had to go to one of the C mains where he started and finished third.  That was good enough to transfer to a B main.

Going into the B, Roa had only passed one car on the night.  That may not sound so great, but on the bright side, no cars had passed him!  Things looked harsh in the B as it was providing the toughest field he had yet to face on the night.  And he was starting inside the last row in 13th!  The friendly driver needed to get all the way to fourth the transfer to the night’s A main.  Simply put, once the green flag flew, he was the show!  He sliced and diced his way past nine cars to finish fourth to earn his ticket into the main event.  For the A, he once again had to start in the back row in 24th and ended up finishing 20th. 

Roa’s name showed up in one of Saturday’s D mains and you guessed it, he was coming from near the back once again.  He started inside the eighth row in 16th and made some quick moves early on to advance all the way to 11th.  He got shuffled back a couple of spots and then had to take evasive action to avoid someone else’s mess.  That meant he would have to go to the back for the restart.  With everyone scrambling to get to the front in a short amount of time, somebody else’s mess cost Roa again and before he knew it, the checkers ended the race and his Chili Bowl effort with a 13th-place finish. 

Today, January 25th, Roa celebrated an incredibly special 30th birthday as it was his first-ever birthday as a father.  If you would like to send him birthday wishes, please do so on his Facebook page at the following link https://www.facebook.com/br91r.

In addition to his season-long personal sponsors, HD Industries, Burris Racing, Biker Bruce Fisher, Norma Leonard, Molecule and K1 RaceGear, Roa would also like to thank Iron Dome Motorsports, Moonshine Motorsports, Jambo’s BBQ Pits, Race Jugs, Burkham Concrete, Precise Racing Products, Deaton’s Water Front Services, Industrial Instrument, Graham’s Wrecker Service, 380 Pawn, 777 Graphics, D&S Motorsports, Approach Marketing, Bell County Electrical Supply, Pro Tech Services, Express Car Wash of Texas, Mow Time, Texas Star Concrete, Abilene Powder Coating, Lil Mo’s Pizza, Sun Electric, Elliot’s Trailers, GPA Paper and Top Level Ink for being part of the Chili Bowl effort.   

For anyone who is looking for a championship and main event winning driver for their car during the 2021 season, contact Roa at the phone number and E-mail in this release.  He will be available to race on nights that do not conflict with the USAC/CRA schedule.

To view Roa’s online portfolio and learn more about the team, please click on the following link https://www.teamwithbrody.com/

Fans wishing to stay completely up to date with Brody Roa and the BR Performance squad can do so on the team’s website http://www.brodyroa.com/ and Facebook page at the following link: https://www.facebook.com/br91r/

Car Maintenance Tips To Keep Your Vehicle In Running Order

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SM
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The most important factors in a motor vehicle’s life are engine health and fuel economy. While there are many car care tips available, not all of them can help car owners spot potential problems and prevent irreparable damage. Below are some tips and things to keep an eye out for to make sure your car is always in working order and safe from breakdowns.

  1. Don’t Go Over The Octane Rating

High-octane fuel packs more power. However, this mainly caters to engines that run on extremely high compression ratios, such as sports cars. These cars require high-octane fuel to prevent combustion in their specially-built engines. Unless specified by the automaker, don’t load premium gasoline to your car because the engine doesn’t need it and may cause unnecessary issues.

  1. Blow Your Tires Up

Proper tire maintenance not only ensures your safety on the road but also helps your car’s fuel economy. Under-inflated tires waste more fuel because they have higher rolling resistance that overtax the engine. Ideally, you should rotate your tires every 5,000 miles to prevent them from wearing out. You can always check the automaker’s manual for the recommended pressure for front and rear tires. It will also tell you when to rotate, balance, and align your tires according to the mileage.

  1. Don’t Wear Out Your Drive Belts

Drive belts transfer mechanical power from the engine to other parts and accessories for your car to run. These belts are typically made of materials that easily degrade such as polymer or rubber. Thus, it’s crucial to always check for hairline cracks or signs of wear on your timing belt, serpentine belt, and V-belt every 50,000 miles at the very least. 

When these belts lose integrity, your car will be at risk of an engine breakdown which will require intensive rebuilding or even replacement. If you need to replace belts, hoses, or other auto-parts, you may check Parts Avatar for great deals and industry-leading coverage for all car brands in North America.

  1. Replenish Fluids

If you hear loud noises coming from your car, it’s your engine telling you that you need to replenish the oil. Your engine has many mechanical parts that brush against each other when your car runs. This creates friction and builds up heat that cause loud noises. Oil is very important in your car’s life because it lubricates the motor and disperses heat. When the oil level drops, there is greater strain on the moving parts and the engine runs hotter, which could lead to bigger problems.

Other fluids that you should always keep at recommended levels include the radiator coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid.

  1. Watch Out For Sludge

Apart from checking the oil levels, you should also check the color. Engine oil should always be amber-colored. If you see some dark-colored greasy deposits, it’s an indication of sludge. Sludge is a petroleum byproduct that forms when engine oil thickens or oxidizes. It’s one of the worst enemies a motor vehicle could have as it blocks oil lubrication, clogs the engine, and causes it to breakdown. Changing the engine oil at intervals recommended by your automaker can reduce sludge build-up.

StemGen Announces Ian Dawson to Lead Energy Division

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Official Release
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HOUSTON, TX, Jan. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

via NewMediaWire— StemGen (OTC: SGNI), a leading broad automotive engineering and esports technology company, today announced longtime motorsports innovator and engineer Ian Dawson will lead the energy division of the company. 

“I am obviously excited and proud to announce that Ian will spearhead the Energy Division of StemGen,” said Simon Dawson, president and chief executive officer of StemGen. “He will focus on the innovation and technology subsidiary. Needless to say, his strong background as a disruptor in motorsport engineering is a huge asset to the company. Not only has he been building and developing a new hypercar for race competition for over a year, but he has been a visionary for decades, such as the development of the first diesel-powered race car that entered the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in France, back in the 2004. Soon after Ian entered a test and development program with Rousch Yates on the Ford Eco Boost V6 Twin Turbo. His knowledge, innovation and network of contacts will be immeasurable to the growth of StemGen’s Energy Division and future strategic partnerships.”

“Innovation and technology are certainly topics that interest me greatly,” said Ian Dawson, of Houston, Texas. “Working with Simon and StemGen, Inc., towards the growth of one of the pillars of the business, energy, was a natural fit. When your son asks you to be involved with a company as exciting as StemGen, and the ability to further work on the development of projects in sustainability energies and fibre products around hydrogen fuel technologies, I couldn’t say no. It’s truly one of the most thrilling concepts I’ve worked on in my long career. I also look forward to collaborating with companies looking at the future of hypercars as one of the main goals.”

Ian Dawson, a native of the South Shields in England, started an engineering apprenticeship at age 17, which steered him into racing and motorsports. His career eventually took him to Formula One, where he worked with standout drivers like Emerson Fittipaldi and Mario Andretti. He crossed the globe working on various programs with Ferrari and Porsche factory teams to name a few before settling in Houston a decade ago. He and son, Simon, have been business partners in past motorsport ventures, including the Radical Texas dealership. Ian commenced in early 2019 on development work with an energy partner evaluating a hydrogen-powered Hypercar program as a proof of concept to be ready for regulations under the Le Mans Prototype class in 2023.

For more information about StemGen, Inc., please visit https://stemgeninc.com/

ABOUT STEMGEN, INC.

StemGen, Inc. (OTC: SGNI) is a broad automotive engineering and esports technology company focused on the digital transformation of motorsports, gaming, and education. The Company generates revenues through the licensing of in-house developed hydrogen-fueled automotive technologies, audience and education monetization programs delivered through virtual motor sports events platform, and Direct to Consumer (DTC) sale of purpose-built racing simulators and esports retail products. StemGen manages racing and gaming operations on a global basis from the corporate headquarters located in Houston, Texas. Visit www.stemgeninc.com for more information. 

Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements – Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements that include the words “believes,” “expects,” “anticipate” or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In addition, description of anyone’s past success, either financial or strategic, is no guarantee of success. This news release speaks as of the date first set forth above and the Company assumes no responsibility to update the information included herein for events occurring after the date hereof.

SCOTT MCLAUGHLIN TO RACE IN PPG COLORS DURING ROOKIE INDYCAR SEASON

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Official Release
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New Zealand Driver Will Compete in the No. 3 PPG Chevrolet for 10 Races in 2021

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (January 25, 2021) – Team Penske announced today that PPG (NYSE: PPG) – a global manufacturer of paints, coatings, and specialty materials – will be featured as the primary sponsor on the No. 3 Team Penske Dallara/Chevrolet driven by Scott McLaughlin for 10 races during the 2021 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season.

McLaughlin, the reigning and three-time Australian Supercars champion, made his NTT INDYCAR SERIES debut when he raced for Team Penske in the 2020 season finale on the streets of St. Petersburg. The 27-year-old native of Christchurch, New Zealand, will embark on a new challenge this season as he transitions to open-wheel racing with a full-season INDYCAR program. For his rookie season in 2021, McLaughlin will represent one of Team Penske’s longest-active partners as the team celebrates its 37th season with PPG, a Fortune 200 company with headquarters in Pittsburgh, Penn., and operations in nearly 70 countries around the world.

“PPG is a global, industry-leading brand that has been a terrific partner with Team Penske for more than three decades,” said Roger Penske. “Our relationship with PPG has continued to grow and reach across all areas of our business. We are excited about the newest racing opportunity in our partnership as PPG teams up with the No. 3 team and Scott for his first full season competing in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES.”

McLaughlin enjoyed an incredibly successful four-year run with the DJR Team Penske Supercars program, helping secure three team championships and winning the driver’s title in each of the last three seasons. Over the course of his nine-year Supercars career, McLaughlin won 56 races and 76 poles. He and co-driver Alex Premat also earned Team Penske’s first win in the legendary Bathurst 1000 race in 2019. As he begins his fifth season with Team Penske in 2021, McLaughlin already ranks among the team’s all-time leaders in career victories (third) and poles (second). He is excited for the opportunity to add to those totals in 2021.

“It is surreal to think my first full season in the INDYCAR SERIES is almost here,” said McLaughlin. “I am truly living out my dreams and to have PPG on board as our primary partner is amazing. I watched the beautiful blue and white PPG cars compete over the last few years, and they look amazing on track. It is going to be an honor to represent PPG in the No. 3 Team Penske Dallara/Chevrolet this season.”

The relationship between Team Penske and PPG officially began in 1984 when the company first provided paint for the Team Penske racecars that competed in the former CART Series. The iconic blue and white PPG cars have become some of the most popular designs in both INDYCAR and NASCAR competition in recent years. Team Penske drivers have produced eight wins in the distinctive PPG livery with the most recent INDYCAR SERIES victory coming in 2017 at World Wide Technologies Raceway with driver Josef Newgarden.

In addition to the partnership with McLaughlin and the No. 3 team in 2021, PPG will also continue to serve as a sponsor for Team Penske’s NASCAR Xfinity Series program with 2020 series champion Austin Cindric. Cindric will pilot the No. 22 PPG Ford Mustang in races this season at the Daytona Road Course, Homestead-Miami Speedway, Mid-Ohio and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course.

“The relationship with Team Penske has been extremely successful for PPG, both on and off the track,” said Bill Shaw, PPG director, strategic accounts, automotive refinish. “We are excited to add another chapter to our history with Scott McLaughlin and the No. 3 PPG Dallara/Chevrolet team. Scott has proven himself to be one of the most talented racecar drivers in the world, and we know success in his new opportunity with the team is just around the corner. PPG is excited to be a part of that.”

The 2021 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season will begin for McLaughlin and the No. 3 PPG Dallara/Chevrolet team on April 18 at Barber Motorsports Park, located just outside Birmingham, Alabama. The race will be seen live on NBC. McLaughlin will also drive the PPG Chevy during the doubleheader race weekends at Texas and Detroit, as well as races this season at Mid-Ohio, Toronto, Portland, Laguna Seca and Long Beach.

PPG: WE PROTECT AND BEAUTIFY THE WORLD™

At PPG (NYSE:PPG), we work every day to develop and deliver the paints, coatings and materials that our customers have trusted for more than 135 years. Through dedication and creativity, we solve our customers’ biggest challenges, collaborating closely to find the right path forward. With headquarters in Pittsburgh, we operate and innovate in more than 70 countries and reported net sales of $13.8 billion in 2020. We serve customers in construction, consumer products, industrial and transportation markets and aftermarkets. To learn more, visit www.ppg.com.

We protect and beautify the world is a trademark and the PPG Logo is a registered trademark of PPG Industries Ohio, Inc.

About Team Penske
Team Penske is one of the most successful teams in the history of professional sports. Cars owned and prepared by Team Penske have produced more than 550 major race wins, over 650 pole positions and 40 Championships across open-wheel, stock car and sports car racing competition. Over the course of its 55-year history, the team has also earned 18 Indianapolis 500 victories, two Daytona 500 Championships, a Formula 1 win, overall victories in the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring along with a win in Australia’s legendary Bathurst 1000 race. In 2021, Team Penske will compete in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, the NASCAR Cup Series and the NASCAR Xfinity Series. For more information about Team Penske, please visit www.teampenske.com.

CHASE, CARLY BRASHEARS JOIN SOUTH BOSTON SPEEDWAY STAFF, WILL TAKE LEADERSHIP ROLES AT ‘AMERICA’S HOMETOWN TRACK’ IN 2022

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Official Release
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Chase Brashears (left) and his wife, Carly Brashears (right), are pictured with South Boston Speedway General Manager Cathy Rice (center). The Brashears have joined the South Boston Speedway staff, with Chase Brashears serving as assistant general manager and Carly Brashears serving as assistant office manager through the 2021 season. In 2022 Chase Brashears will become the speedway’s general manager and Carly Brashears will become the speedway’s office manager. Photo Courtesy Joe Chandler/South Boston Speedway

By Joe Chandler

South Boston Speedway Public Relations

South Boston, VA…..A talented young husband-wife team with wide-ranging experience in NASCAR racing has joined the South Boston Speedway staff to help lead the historic speedway into the future.

Chase and Carly Brashears will serve as assistant general manager and assistant office manager respectively through the 2021 season. Chase Brashears will become the speedway’s general manager in 2022, with his wife, Carly, becoming the track’s office manager, which will include involvement in marketing, sales and digital platforms.

The Brashears will be working alongside South Boston Speedway General Manager Cathy Rice and Office Manager Helen Barksdale throughout the 2021 season learning the speedway’s operations.

“I’m very excited about this opportunity to come to South Boston Speedway,” said Chase Brashears.

“South Boston Speedway is a nationwide, if not internationally known name in short track racing. It’s a huge honor to have the opportunity to lead the speedway. I’m very thankful to the Mattioli and Igdalsky families, everybody at Pocono Raceway and everybody here at South Boston Speedway to have this unusual and awesome opportunity, and I thank God for placing me here to be able to work alongside my wife, who will be my right hand as we go along through this.

“Cathy Rice, Nick Igdalsky and the entire Pocono Raceway family have done a tremendous job here,” he added.

“It’s something that we’re going to continue to build on in the future. We want to take this place and continue to grow it, grow with the community and continue to have a successful program and events.”

“This opportunity came knocking at a perfect time,” remarked Carly Brashears.

“We are really excited to be here. Chase and I have always said we want to get back to our short track roots. We’ve been involved in racing for a number of years. It’s in our blood, and we’ve always wanted to get back where it all began, so an opportunity at South Boston Speedway is amazing.

“We felt very fortunate to be thought of,” she added.

“We really thought we could come to the table, bring a lot of ideas and hopefully watch this track continue to grow and live its legacy.”

South Boston Speedway CEO Nick Igdalsky said the Brashears are a good fit for the speedway.

“It is rare to find just one person with the experience, reputation and passion needed to oversee a historic racing venue like South Boston Speedway,” Igdalsky pointed out.

“We believe we have found not only one, but two, in the husband-and-wife team of Chase and Carly Brashears! Both Chase and Carly bring with them a tremendous level of racing knowledge and experience from their previous positions with NASCAR and with several nationally known short tracks. The future of South Boston Speedway looks as bright as ever, and I am excited to see how Chase and Carly’s vision takes shape over the next few years.”

Rice says she welcomes the couple into the South Boston Speedway family.

“We are very fortunate to have Chase to fill this position and his wife, Carly, that will be filling the assistant office manager position,” Rice remarked.

“I am glad we have somebody that will be stepping in that is younger that can be here many years.”

A native of Kentucky, Chase Brashears comes to South Boston Speedway from NASCAR’s competition division where he has served as one of NASCAR’s three national race directors. After graduating from East Tennessee State University in 2017, he was immediately hired by NASCAR to work in touring and weekly series racing operations, planning marketing events and traveling to grassroots racetracks across North America.

He was moved to NASCAR’s competition division in 2019 and became one of NASCAR’s three national series race directors. In June 2019 he directed his first race at Michigan International Speedway, becoming the youngest person to direct a national series race at age 23.

Chase Brashears has worked in various capacities at Lonesome Pine Raceway in Coeburn, Virginia, Kingsport (Tennessee) Speedway and Bristol Motor Speedway including competition, marketing, public relations and working with website and social/digital platforms.

Tennessee native Carly Brashears comes to South Boston Speedway with a strong background in marketing, sales and digital platforms. She served as a member of NASCAR’s Event Marketing Team for the past two years. In that role she was a liaison for NASCAR-sanctioned national series tracks, assisting all tracks in promoting their event weekends, driver appearances and industry meetings such as driver/crew chief meetings, pre-race festivities and victory lane celebrations.

In 2018-2019 she joined The NASCAR Foundation as Coordinator, directing the Foundation’s relaunch of their grassroots racing initiatives and assisting in Foundation marketing initiatives and events. That work included working in a variety of aspects connected with annual Humanitarian Award processes. Among them were outreach initiatives, website design, social media takeovers and brand management across all mediums.

Prior to that, Carly Brashears created and managed social and digital platforms at Kingsport Speedway and managed marketing and public relations for both Kingsport Speedway and Lonesome Pine Raceway. In 2018 she served as Director of Marketing and Sales at New Smyrna Speedway in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.

The couple point out that 2021 will be a learning year, and they are grateful to have Rice to help them learn and transition into leadership roles in 2022.

“We’ve got the privilege of Cathy sticking around with us for the full season before she slows down,” Chase Brashears pointed out.

“It’s quite a big advantage, and it’s an unusual advantage for somebody in this situation when you’ve got an outgoing individual and an incoming individual in a general manager role. Having Cathy here to walk hand-in-hand with us is going to be quite the advantage because we can use that to learn the community, grow with the community and take Cathy’s contacts hand-in-hand day-by-day and run with that and use all of that. We’re not having to write our own playbook, so to speak.

“Another good thing is Cathy is still going to be around in 2022, as she is going to do some consulting work for us,” he added.

Carly Brashears agreed.

“This year is a good year for myself and Chase to step in and see how South Boston Speedway has been run for the past 30-plus years, see where we can fit in and help this year and learn as much as we can,” she said.

“This year I will be seeing and learning all of the things Helen Barksdale has seen throughout the years. That is a very heavy load, and I am happy to help lighten her load this year and help where I can.”

The Brashears have experience in tackling the various tasks involved in operating a speedway but need to learn the system of operations at South Boston Speedway.

“It’s all stuff that we have done before,” Carly Brashears pointed out, “but each track has its own unique aspects as to how they do things. We are happy to learn the South Boston way and see if we can enhance it.”

The Brashears feel South Boston Speedway has a bright future ahead and they look forward to helping move the speedway forward.

“We have a lot of neat ideas and a few things we want to try as we go through and grow the racetrack,” Chase Brashears pointed out.

“We want to get out into the community, meet people and get them involved in the speedway,” added Carly Brashears.

“We want to be listening to the community, hearing what people want to see. We love the weekly shows. We love the big tours that come in, but we want to know what else does the community want to see. We want to see how we can get the fans involved. We want fans to have fun when they come to the track.”

Increasing family involvement is among the future goals.

“We have some ideas swirling around in our heads to make it fun for all of the families, maybe getting kids involved in extra things,” remarked Carly Brashears.

“I come from a place where I like to do as much youth activation as possible. They are our next generation of race fans, and we want to get them involved in racing. It’s all about the fans and the community.”

Mercedes-AMG Motorsport Customer Racing Teams Complete Productive Roar Before the Rolex 24 At Daytona Test

By
Official Release
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Roar Before the 24, IMSA, Daytona, January 2021(Photo by Brian Cleary/bcpix.com)

along with Inaugural Motul Race for The Pole 100 at Daytona International Speedway

Winward Racing No. 57 Mercedes-AMG GT3 Co-Drivers Russell Ward and Philip Ellis Secure Top-Five Rolex 24 Starting Position with Fifth-Place Qualifying Finish Sunday

DAYTONA BEACH, Florida – This weekend, seven Mercedes-AMG Motorsports Customer Racing teams successfully completed three days of testing and qualifying at the annual 2021 Roar Before the Rolex 24 at Daytona International Speedway (DIS). The teams will compete in two different IMSA sports car racing series at the season opening IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship Rolex 24 at Daytona this week.

An annual tune-up for IMSA racing teams prior to each year’s season-opening Rolex 24 At Daytona, this year’s Roar featured the traditional schedule of day and night practice sessions, along with the first modern-era qualifying race for this weekend’s 59th running of the twice around the clock race.

Sunday’s Motul Race for The Pole 100 saw three Mercedes-AMG GT3 teams lock in starting positions for this weekend’s Rolex 24 At Daytona, scheduled to start at 3:40 p.m. EST. Live Rolex 24 coverage on NBC begins this Saturday, January 30th at 3:30 p.m. EST.

The highest finishing Mercedes-AMG Motorsport Customer Racing team in Sunday’s 100-minute qualifying race was the No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3, co-driven by Russell Ward and Philip Ellis.

A single pitstop strategy, combined with top driving by Ward and Ellis, secured a top-five qualifying race finish that will see the No. 57 start from fifth on the grid in the GT Daytona (GTD) class at the Rolex 24 next Saturday.

Starting driver Ward didn’t let a steady rain in the opening stages of the qualifying race stop him from turning in one of the best drives of his career. He moved from third to second in GTD during the opening minutes of his rain-soaked run, then took the race lead with one hour remaining.

Ward led three laps but soon gave way to other front-running competitors as he and the Winward team began to conserve fuel as part of the one-stop strategy.

Eventually pitting from fourth place, Ward handed the No. 57 off to Ellis for the final 50-minute run to the finish.

Ellis returned to the race in eighth and steadily began to reel in the competitors ahead. On the final lap, Ellis made a pass for fifth to secure the top-five result and fifth place starting position in what will be Winward’s first Rolex 24 start this weekend.

Ward and Ellis co-drive the No. 57 in the Rolex 24 with Indy Dontje and Maro Engel.

Mercedes-AMG GT3 competitors Alegra Motorsports and SunEnergy1 Racing also completed the qualifying race to secure Rolex 24 starting positions, but both teams were among eight competitors assessed penalties early in the race for improper yellow flag pass-arounds.

Despite losing several laps to the leaders after serving the penalties, both teams picked up positions while persevering to the finish.

Kenny Habul and Raffaele Marciello recovered for an 11th place finish in the No. 75 SunEnergy1 Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3, while Daniel Morad and Michael de Quesada rebounded for 15th in the No. 28 Alegra Motorsports Mercedes-AMG GT3.

Habul and Marciello co-drive the No. 75 in the Rolex 24 with Luca Stolz and Mikael Grenier. Alegra’s full Rolex 24 driver line-up includes Maxi Buhk and Billy Johnson joining de Quesada and Morad in the No. 28.

Four Mercedes-AMG GT4 competitors at the Roar made the most of their three days of testing, preparing thoroughly for Friday’s season-opening IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge series four-hour race.

The Roar pacesetter was the No. 56 Murillo Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4 of co-drivers Jeff Mosing and Eric Foss, which was fastest in one session and top three in two others, including Sunday morning’s fifth and final test run of the weekend.

Mosing and Foss return for the 2021 season competing alongside Murillo Racing’s sister car, the No. 65 Mercedes-AMG GT4 entry of Brent Mosing and Tim Probert. Kenny Murillo co-drives with the full-season teammates in the four-hour Daytona opener.

In addition to their Rolex 24 debut, Ward and Dontje pull double duty at Daytona, also competing in the No. 4 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4. Ward and Dontje finished third in the entry in last year’s four-hour race at Daytona.

Another three driver Mercedes-AMG GT4 entry testing at the Roar in preparation for next Friday’s race was the No. 10 LAP Motorsports/Bluff City Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4. The No. 10 is co-driven by Anton Dias Perera, Scott Andrews and Colin Braun.

Russell Ward, Driver – No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 and No. 4 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4: “It’s amazing to be here in the big show. Everyone here is pushing hard to win, and this is where the most professional guys in GT racing in America come to race. I felt quite at home out there. I think the importance of the Roar is just to keep the car in one piece, particularly because it’s such a tight turnaround this year. That was the number one goal. It was good that it rained a little bit and we got to see that. That was the first time in the rain for me at Daytona. It’s quite a fun track in the rain, you’ve got to watch out in a couple of places, but we managed to get a lot done without damaging the car, so it’s really, really good. It’s rest and relaxation for Monday and Tuesday and then we’re right back at it. We’ll come back for the big event and see what we can do.”

Raffaele Marciello, Driver – No. 75 SunEnergy1 Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3: “It was a good three-day test for us. Our Mercedes-AMG GT3 is handling well. I think we’re ready for the big one next weekend, all of the team is settling well, and I am looking forward to my first Rolex 24. We took a penalty in the qualifying race and it was unfortunate, but we don’t care so much about it past today. We’re in a good position and we can do well in the 24-hour race either way. There are not so many corners at Daytona, so that’s not really challenging, but with all the traffic it’s quite challenging! With all the traffic, strategy-wise it’s quite interesting. You need to always be focused and not make any silly mistakes.”

Daniel Morad, Driver – No. 28 Alegra Motorsports Mercedes-AMG GT3: “The way we were treating this qualifying race was just to iron out the kinks. We’re just documenting everything, taking the data and putting it toward next week. There are a few new members of the team we’re just trying to learn how to work with, and communication is how you win 24-hour races. Not making mistakes, like today’s, was just a communication error with an improper pass around. It’s a good that it happened now and not in the 24 hours because that’s something that will kill your race. Unfortunately, that penalty just ruined Sunday’s qualifier, otherwise we would have had a good race. It was a hectic race for being a qualifier! A lot of guys were being overly aggressive, and I just didn’t want any part of it and risk damaging the car.”

Eric Foss, Driver – No. 56 Murillo Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4: “The Murillo Racing guys worked extremely hard in the off season. They went through the car with a fine-toothed comb and refreshed a lot of the components. We’re at the Roar so it is a test session, but I think we have the best Mercedes-AMG GT4 we can have right now for the race weekend. There are a lot of positives from the weekend. Jeff did a phenomenal job driving, as did my teammates in the 65 car. They were all up to speed and really strong, the crew was just flawless in all of their practice stops and we’re ready for the four-hour.”

Kenny Murillo, Driver – No. 65 Murillo Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4: “It was a really good Roar. I know the Murillo Racing guys really worked hard all off-season long with some solid goals, and they definitely accomplished them. When they’re working that hard, it inspires us as drivers to work just as hard. As a whole, the test went really well for us as a team and drivers. For me, I took huge strides in my driving ability. The Roar offers a good opportunity for us to do that. Brent and Tim did an awesome job showing improvement. Their coachability is amazing. They just got quicker throughout the weekend and Brent set his personal best in the last session, so we’re walking away from this really happy. Eric is a really good mentor, he’s one of the fastest Mercedes-AMG GT4 guys out there right now and a really good benchmark for us to look at. We’re really confident that we’re maximizing the car and maximizing ourselves as a team, and that’s all we can ask for.”

Anton Dias Perera, Driver – No. 10 LAP Motorsports/Bluff City Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4: “We started the weekend with some problems, but we sorted through that and yesterday afternoon we got caught up with the rest of the pack in terms of pace. We’re still working on making the car faster and some strategy, and Mercedes-AMG has been super supportive. We’re happy with it. We are back at Daytona for the first time with LAP Motorsports, and they have a good pedigree and real legacy in high-level motorsports. They are a motorsports team that is in the high echelon of performance, and it’s been a nice transition with them. The level of engineering and the level of crew is in keeping with a professional motorsports program. Our whole campaign has moved on along with them and with the addition of the two pro drivers we have with Colin and Scott.”

RISI COMPETIZIONE BACK IN EARNEST FOR 2021 ROLEX 24 AT DAYTONA

By
Official Release
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Risi Competizione Ferrari 488 GTLM No. 62:
James Calado (GBR)
Alessandro Pier Guidi (ITA)
Davide Rigon (ITA)
Jules Gounon (FRA)

(Houston, Texas, January 25, 2021)…The No. 62 Risi Competizione Ferrari team from Houston, Texas participated with all four drivers in this past weekend’s Roar Before the 24 activities at Daytona International Speedway. The event was the start of the 2021 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season and the official test days for the upcoming Rolex 24 At Daytona, January 28-31.

The Risi Competizione team cycled through all their Ferrari drivers, Brit James Calado, Italians Alessandro Pier Guidi and Davide Rigon, and Frenchman Jules Gounon, with Calado and Pier Guidi taking on the 100-minute qualifying race duties on Sunday. In the new IMSA format, the finishing spot in the qualifying race set the grid for the race and add points to top qualifiers. The No. 62 Ferrari is now slated to start from the fourth position in the GTLM class and 21st on the grid at the 3.56-mile (5.73 km), 12-turn Daytona speedway road course.

The Risi Ferrari is the only Ferrari 488 GTE in the GTLM class and one of six class entries in the 2021 Rolex 24 At Daytona running. There are two GTD-class Ferrari 488 GT3s and currently a total of 48 cars entered for this 59th annual twice-around-the-clock endurance race.

Team owner Giuseppe Risi has long sought a GTLM class victory at the Daytona 24-hour race as he makes his 20th Risi Competizione entry at the Florida circuit for the endurance classic this year. With three second-place finishes (1999, 2003, 2019) and a third-place finish in 2017, his drivers and team are earnestly determined to bring that elusive win to him.

Calado will be starting his sixth Rolex 24 race, five of those with Risi and three finishes in the Top 5. Pier Guidi will be making his eighth Daytona 24-hour appearance and captured the victory in 2014. Rigon will also be making his eighth Rolex appearance and sixth time with the Risi team. This year marks Gounon’s third Rolex 24 run, both previous in the GTD class including a second-place finish in 2017, and 2021 is his first with Risi. He has two 24 Hours of le Mans appearances with Risi Competizione in 2019 and 2020.

Rick Mayer, Risi Competizione Race Engineer:
How did the Roar weekend go and what will the team be working on to prep for the race next weekend?
“All the drivers got up to speed and the weather cooperated. The car seems to be well-balanced. We went through our test plan and checked every box. We just hope we can get a little more power for the race so we can be competitive.”

Jules Gounon joined the trio of Ferrari Competizioni GT drivers. How did that go?
“Jules did fantastic. The factory drivers accepted him and helped him learn. He’s been quick every session. I think everyone is on pace. There’s no weak links here and we’re happy to have him.”

You’ve had Gounon on the Le Mans 24 driver line-up the past couple of years. What made him a selection to join Risi at Daytona this year?
“He did such a good job for us at Le Mans and he’s such a good team player, and so easy to work with that we thought he’d be perfect for Daytona.”

How important is winning and competing at the 24 Hours of Daytona to Giuseppe Risi and the Risi team?
“Giuseppe is undoubtedly very interested in winning at Daytona. We’ve been second here a few times but never won it in GT. It’s an important milestone that Giuseppe would like to have.”

Team Principal Giuseppe Risi (left) and Risi Competizione Race engineer Rick Mayer (right)
during the Roar Before the 24 test days
James Calado, driver No. 62 Risi Competizione Ferrari 488 GTLM:
You just completed the Roar Before the 24. Share how you think things look and are shaping up for next weekend’s 24-hour race?
“We participated in the Roar and all managed to get a few laps in so everything seems good. The car is behaving quite well and we’re happy with the balance. The new format was quite enjoyable. We pushed to the absolute limit, so the car was at its maximum, and I think the others have a lot more in hand, so I’m not sure about the race. It’s good to be back here in Daytona. Obviously, without the fans it’s a shame. We’re looking forward to the race. It’s obviously a long one, first race of the year.”

You’re returning to the Risi team for the fifth year for the Rolex 24 and are part of a stellar line-up. Tell us about your teammates and working with the Risi team again.
“Like every year, it’s always a pleasure to come back to Daytona with Risi. It’s always our first race of the season so it’s nice to be in America, especially with guys I’ve driven with for many years now and we’ve got a nice bit of experience under our belts. Let’s hope we can get a good result.”

Alessandro Pier Guidi, driver No. 62 Risi Competizione Ferrari 488 GTLM:
You’re back with Risi at Daytona for the 4th time. Share your thoughts on returning and how things look after this past weekend’s Roar activities.
“It’s always nice to be here at Daytona and the start of a new season. Risi is a historic team and very strong. We have a good line-up so it’s always good to be here. We look forward to having a good result next week.”

You’ve got a new co-driver this year with Jules Gounon. How has he done working with you and the other Ferrari Competizioni GT drivers this week?
“It’s gone well so far. I knew him before but I never drove with him on a team. He’s doing very well. I know he’s quick, he’s available, and I expect good results from him. I obviously know the other guys very well so let’s see how we do.”

How does the GTLM competition look this year?
“Even if there are a few less cars, it doesn’t mean the level is lower. Sometimes the level of the competition is not made by the number of the cars, but by the level of the cars, and all the cars are strong and the competition level is very high again this year.”

Davide Rigon in the cockpit of the No. 62 Risi Competizione Ferrari 488 GTE
Davide Rigon, driver No. 62 Risi Competizione Ferrari 488 GTLM:
You are back for your sixth time at the Rolex 24 with Risi. What is special about working with Mr. Risi and the team?
“It’s amazing to be back with this team that is like a family. The passion you feel when you are working with everyone is amazing and very special. I really hope we put together a very good result. Personally, I have prepared very well for this race and after some laps at the Roar we were pretty happy. We want to keep working like this and we hope to end up in the top position, so let’s push!

Talk about the line-up with your fellow Competizioni GT drivers and the additional of Gounon.
“I know James and Ale very well, so no problem working with them. I had an opportunity to do some laps and driver change with Jules and actually he’s a very clever guy and I like him. Hopefully, we have a very good line up and I’m happy to be part of it. I think we just need to stay out of trouble but as a driver line-up I think we are in good shape.

How does the GTLM field look this year and what should you be mindful of at the wheel and what should fans watch for?
“GTLM is a very strong class like every year. Even with six cars this time it will be very tight, like always. We just want to look forward and do our best with the team and the car. We will fully concentrate on that. I think GTLM is the best GT class at the moment so to win with this car would always be amazing. Hopefully the fans support us.”

Jules Gounon, driver No. 62 Risi Competizione Ferrari 488 GTLM:
Welcome back to the Risi team and for your first time with them for the Daytona 24. Tell us about getting the call to be asked to drive the Rolex 24 with Risi for this year and how that felt?
“I feel very proud and privileged to be able to drive for the Risi team again. To be honest, every time I have seen the name Giuseppe Risi calling my phone, it has always been good news. This one was another good one because he called me when I was at Paul Ricard in the last race of the GT World Challenge. He said, ’Hi Jules, I hope you’re doing good. Would you like to drive for me and my team with three Ferrari factory drivers?’ and I was like, ‘Oh, hell yes!’, so that was one of the best calls from 2020 and I’m feeling really good to be part of the Roar and the race with Risi.”

This is your first time working with the three Ferrari Competizioni GT drivers (Calado, Pier Guidi, Rigon). How has that been and what have you been learning?
“We have been fighting a lot, especially with Alessandro, Davide and James in GT World Challenge Europe the last few years so we know each other, but this is the first time we are actually working together toward a singular target, which is winning the Daytona 24-hour race together. It’s been really great and I’m learning every single trick they can tell me to go quicker in the Ferrari to try to help them as much as possible. I think we are forming a great team and a great line-up and hopefully we will have a good result at the end.”

This is just your third time to Daytona. What do you think is the most challenging part of the circuit and what do you like best?
“I finished second in 2017, missing the victory by two-tenths in the Audi in the GTD class so I really want to have a revenge on that. I love this track, I love the atmosphere, even if it’s a bit different this year as we have no fans. But Daytona is a very powerful word and meaning in world racing and I would really love to be able to win with this team and with Giuseppe Risi, who gave me my first chance at Le Mans. I will always be grateful about that to Giuseppe. I’m really looking forward to the race. The Roar has been great and I feel like home every time I’m driving with the team. The guys are so passionate, the mechanics are doing a fantastic job, Rick Mayer, our engineer, is also doing a great job, and everyone on the team is amazing.”

The Risi Competizione crew making a pit stop at Daytona International Speedway during the Roar
Three practice sessions take place Thursday, January 28, 11:05-12:05 AM, 3:35-4:35 PM for DPi and GTLM class only and night practice from 7:15-9:00 PM. Friday will feature a practice session for one hour, starting at 11:20 AM. The race starts at 1:35 p.m. ET on Saturday, January 25 and runs for 24 hours.

Tune-In Information:
NBC carries live network coverage of the Rolex 24 At Daytona beginning at 3:40 PM on Saturday, Jan. 30, in America and is broadcast across several NBC channels, including NBC, NBCSN, the NBC Sports App and TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold.

Rolex 24 At Daytona Broadcast Schedule:
Saturday, January 30:
3:30 PM ET on NBC; then 5:00 PM ET on NBCSN
Sunday, January 31st:
1:00 – 3:00 AM ET on NBCSN and 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM ET on NBCSN; Final 2:00-4:00 PM on NBC.

IMSA Radio will have live coverage throughout the weekend on
RadioLeMans.com and SiriusXM Radio. Also see imsa.com for live timing and scoring.

For more information, please go to www.risicompetizione.com and follow us on Facebook/RisiCompetizione and Twitter @RisiComp and on Instagram/RisiComp.

TIMOTHY PETERS TO DRIVE FOR RACKLEY W.A.R.

By
Official Release
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Rackley W.A.R. to Field the No. 25 Chevrolet Silverado in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series

Centerville, Tenn. (January 25, 2021)—Rackley W.A.R., co-owned by Willie Allen and Curtis Sutton, announced today
that their newly-formed team will field the No. 25 Chevrolet Silverado in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS)
with driver Timothy Peters. The team will begin full-time series competition at the Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway.

“It has always been a dream to be a NASCAR owner,” Allen said. “We are excited about the all-star team we have assembled. I am thankful to have partnered with Curtis Sutton, as we both are driven to succeed. Our team is assembled with very humble and hungry individuals, and we are a close family who want to achieve greatness.”

In December, the duo announced a partnership to form Rackley W.A.R., a new team in Tennessee with an unparalleled portfolio of experience in motorsports and marketing.

“I am excited and looking forward to this opportunity as an owner to help lead the No. 25 Rackley Roofing Chevrolet Silverado team to be competitive every single week,” Sutton said. “After being a sponsor (Rackley Roofing) for the last two NASCAR Camping World Truck Series seasons, I felt an obligation to my family, my co-workers and my friends to help build a competitive team.

“The pieces have been put together for our first season. Our focus was to find humble individuals that are proven winners
at the highest level to join our team. There is a lot of excitement around bringing experienced crew chief Chad Kendrick and
driver Timothy Peters to the team. I am confident Rackley W.A.R. has been assembled as leaders in each of our fields of
expertise. Our goal is to be competitive in 2021, and the years to come with the goal towards bringing a championship to
Tennessee.”

Peters has signed a deal to drive for the single-entry NASCAR Camping World Truck Series team. He enters his 17th season
in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series season. In 248 series starts, Peters has amassed 11 wins, 59 top-five finishes,
and 129 top-10 finishes. In addition, the accomplished driver has one start in the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) and eight
starts in the NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS).

“The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series has always been special, and to have the opportunity to return to full time
competition is a blessing,” Peters said. “I am very grateful to Willie Allen and Curtis Sutton for the opportunity to represent
Rackley Roofing and W.A.R. Shocks. Both gentlemen are top-notch people with a singular determination to win on and off
the track.”

The 40-year-old Virginia native has been humble throughout his career. Now, he has secured a ride and will be a full-time
competitor in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series for the first time since 2016.

Rackley W.A.R. will enter its inaugural NASCAR Camping World Truck Series season with an integrated technical and
operational partnership with the reigning championship-winning team GMS Racing. The agreement with GMS Racing will
allow Rackley W.A.R. to purchase chassis and other services developed over their years of championship-caliber
competition. As is the case with many other alliances within NASCAR, technical information and communication amongst
the teams will be encouraged to help improve performance.

“Mike Beam (president of GMS Racing) and I have been friends for a long time,” Allen said. “I could not imagine a better
team and program to be aligned with.”

The Centerville, Tenn.,-based team will be powered by Ilmor.

Kendrick will join the organization as crew chief of the No. 25 Rackley Roofing Chevrolet Silverado for Peters. In 2009,
Kendrick and Peters shared a career-first series NASCAR Camping World Truck Series victory at the Martinsville (Va.)
Speedway. That season, the pair earned five top-five finishes and 13 top-ten finishes, while leading 143 laps. Together for
three seasons (2008, 2009, and 2017), they have collected one win, six top-five finishes, and 18 top-ten finishes and one
pole award (Nashville).

“This season is going to be a dream come true,” Kendrick said. “Being paired with a winning driver and two of the most
successful, humble owners, the expectations are high, but also realistic. Rackley W.A.R. is building from the ground up,
and while we may hit some tough times ahead, I am sure we will be able to make it through anything.”

Kendrick has previously manned the helm for drivers Ryan Blaney, Austin Cindric, Austin Dillon, Daniel Hemric, Brad
Keselowski, and Joey Logano. As a NASCAR Camping World Truck Series 13-year veteran crew chief, Kendrick is credited
with six victories.

With Peters behind the wheel, Rackley W.A.R. makes its official NASCAR Camping World Truck Series start in the NextEra
Energy 250 at the Daytona International Speedway on February 12.

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