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Devon Morgan Signs Extension With MPM Marketing After Strong Season

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Official Release
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Devon Morgan earned six victories this year during his rookie season racing a 602 late model across the Southeast. (Richard Barnes Photo)

COLUMBIA, S.C. – (Dec. 4, 2020) – Devon Morgan enjoyed a strong rookie season racing a 602 late model throughout the Southeast, earning six victories across three states.

Morgan, based in Greenville, S.C., celebrated victories at Cherokee Speedway in Gaffney, S.C., Harris (N.C.) Speedway the Tri-County Race Track in Brasstown, N.C., and Georgia’s Lavonia Speedway during a busy season of racing and learning for the 18-year-old racer.

In addition to his successful rookie season racing a 602 late model, Morgan also welcomed Jiffy Lube Multicare as the primary sponsor of his racing program.

All that adds up to an incredible season that Morgan won’t soon forget.

“It’s been a wild year for sure,” said Morgan when summing up 2020. “Between the COVID-19 pandemic shutting everything down for awhile and me making the switch to 602 late models, it’s been really crazy.

“I couldn’t have imagine I’d win six races in my rookie season, not to mention winning a big race like the Mike Duvall Memorial in Gaffney. On top of all that, we welcomed Jiffy Lube Multicare as our primary sponsor. We can’t thank them and Joel LaMothe Jr. enough for helping us get to the race track.”

In preparation for the 2021 season, Morgan is proud to announce that he has extended his contract with McCallister Precision Marketing for another season. McCallister Precision Marketing will continue to support Morgan as he continues his climb up the racing ladder.

“It’s been a pleasure working with Tonya McCallister and her team this year,” said Morgan. “Without them we would not have been able to go 602 late model racing. They assisted us with so much this year. Tonya has worked really hard to help me prepare as I work my way towards the next step in my racing career. I’m excited to work with Tonya and her team at MPM again in 2021.”

McCallister Precision Marketing Founder Tonya McCallister is excited to welcome Morgan to the MPM Marketing team for another season.

“We’ve really seen Devon grow as a racer and as a person this year in a lot of ways,” McCallister said. “He’s worked really hard to not only improve his racecraft, but also to improve his marketing skills. He’s a super talented young man no matter what he races and that, coupled with his humbleness, will help him succeed no matter what he races. We’re proud of the work he’s done up to this point and we’re excited to help him continue to grow.”

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About McCallister Precision Marketing

McCallister Precision Marketing (MPM) focuses on assisting up-and-coming race car drivers with career advancement and promotion. McCallister Precision Marketing helps drivers build confidence in front of and behind the camera, giving them the tools they need to advance to the next level. The company also provides companies with a strategic plan for their sales, marketing and promotional needs. We believe in building positive relationships with our clients so that we may provide them with the most professional, yet personal guidance they need, in order to achieve their racing goals. Our clients include race car drivers, race team owners, companies and racing series’. We also work closely with charities and charity events. For more information on McCallister Precision Marketing, visit www.MarketWithMPM.com, email TonyaMac44@MarketWithMPM.com or call 803-361-6199.

EDDIE TAFOYA FINISHES IMPRESSIVE SOPHOMORE SEASON IN 410 SPRINT CARS

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Official Release
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(Chino, CA, December 2, 2020) When the 2020 racing season began, nobody could have predicted what a bizarre year it would be due the Covid crisis.  Likewise, nobody could have foreseen the impressive sophomore season Eddie Tafoya Jr. would rack up.  The Chino Hills, California racer finished the 2020 campaign in mid-November at the 53rd Western World Championships at the Arizona Speedway.

Plans for 2020 envisioned Tafoya competing for most of the time in his native California.  However, Covid changed that!  He ended up doing most of his racing 2,000 miles away in Indiana.  Competing on a variety of tracks in the “Hoosier State” against the nation’s top traditional sprint car drivers proved to be a great learning experience for the second-generation driver.  The 2019 USAC/CRA and USAC Southwest season Rookie of the Year competed favorably with the big stars and made main events when it seemed like the experience level was stacked against him.  That brought him to the Western World with high expectations.

In qualifying on the first night of the Western, Tafoya ended up 21st out of the 34 cars on hand with a lap of 15.652.  He followed that up with a disappointing seventh-place finish in his heat race.  That meant the handsome driver would have to race the B main in order to get into the night’s 25-lap A main event.

The B main was going to be tough as only six cars would transfer to the A.  Tafoya was starting sixth and had his work cut out for him.  As soon as the green light flashed on, he went to work and by the end of the first lap, he had sliced and diced his way into fourth.  That gave him a two-spot cushion.  As per usual, he was not going to rest on his laurels, and on lap four he became embroiled in a crowd-pleasing slide job war for third.   The 23-year old masterfully won that battle and finished third to earn his ticket into the first-night main event. 

Getting into the A main was one thing.  But starting outside of the next to last row in 20th, some who have not seen Tafoya race this year may have had doubts about what he could do.   Those who had been watching his exploits in Indiana this summer, salivated at the probability of what they were going to see.  He did not disappoint them.  He aimed the beautiful #51T towards the front of the pack and advanced forward.  Just past the halfway point, he had moved all the way up to eighth.  He momentarily slipped to 11th but clawed his way back up to 10th at the finish.  In the end, he passed more cars than any other driver in the race and received the well-earned Hard Charger Award.

Saturday’s finale saw Tafoya qualify 20th fast of the 31 cars on hand when he stopped the clocks with a lap of 16.098.  For the second night in a row, he was on the front row for the heat race.  This time, things turned out quite different.  He dove to the bottom on the start and proceeded to lead every inch of the way for a very impressive win. 

Things looked a lot better for the Saturday main.  On Friday Tafoya started 20th, but he was starting 12 spots better on Saturday in eighth.  The driver and the crew of the #51T were pumped for the main event.  However, those hopes were doused after only three laps when a broken bleeder valve knocked him out of the race with a frustrating 22nd place finish.

December is a time off the track for Tafoya, but it will not be for long.  As soon as the holidays are over, he will be headed  to Tulsa, Oklahoma to race in the 35th Annual Chili Bowl Midget Nationals beginning on January 11th.  He will be a teammate of 2019 USAC Western States Midget Champion and former So Cal resident Robert Dalby in the prestigious event.  It will be the second straight year that Tafoya has contested the biggest Midget race in the world.

Eddie, his family, and crew want to wish all race fans a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Tafoya and his team would like to thank the following sponsors for being a part of the 2020 racing effort.  Specialty Fasteners, Circle Track Performance, Sprint Car Driving Experience, DRC Chassis, Ryder Racing Engines, and Benic Enterprises.

Eddie Tafoya Jr. 2020 Racing Results

1-15-20                Chili Bowl Preliminary Night                       Tulsa, Oklahoma                             6th C Main

1-18-20                Chili Bowl Finals Night                                  Tulsa, Oklahoma                             9th I Main

3-6-20                  USAC/CRA &  Southwest Sprint Cars        Speedway Park Peoria, AZ            10th A Main

3-7-20                  USAC/CRA &  Southwest Sprint Cars        Speedway Park Peoria, AZ            12th A Main

7-24-20                USAC National Sprint Cars                           Gas City I-69 Speedway                 5th B Main

7-25-20                USAC National Sprint Cars                           Kokomo Speedway                         5th C Main

7-26-20                USAC National Sprint Cars                           Lawrenceburg Speedway              19th A Main

7-29-20                USAC National Sprint Cars                           Terre Haute Action Track              7th B Main

8-2-20                  USAC National Sprint Cars                           Tri-State Speedway                         8th B Main

8-27-20                USAC National Sprint Cars                           Kokomo Speedway                         14th C Main

8-28-20                USAC National Sprint Cars                           Kokomo Speedway                         12th B Main

8-29-20                USAC National Sprint Cars                           Kokomo Speedway                         19th A Main

9-18-20                USAC National Sprint Cars                           Terre Haute Action Track              19th A Main

9-19-20                USAC National Sprint Cars                           Tri-State Speedway                         17th A Main

9-25-20                USAC National Sprint Cars                           Gas City I-69 Speedway                 8th C Main

9-26-20                USAC National Sprint Cars                           Kokomo Speedway                         11th B Main

11-13-20              USAC/CRA &  Southwest Sprint Cars        Arizona Speedway                          10th A Main

11-14-20              USAC/CRA &  Southwest Sprint Cars        Arizona Speedway                          22nd A Main

NCS: William Byron Teleconference Transcript

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Official Release
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NASCAR CUP SERIES
TEAM CHEVY PRESS CONF. TRANSCRIPT
DECEMBER 3, 2020

WILLIAM BYRON, DRIVER OF THE NO. 24 CHEVROLET CAMARO ZL1 1LE FOR HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS, MET WITH MEDIA VIA TELECONFERENCE TO DISCUSS HIS EXCITEMENT GOING INTO THE 2021 SEASON WITH RUDY FUGLE AS THE NEW CREW CHIEF OF THE NO. 24 TEAM, WHAT HE’S DOING TO PREPARE FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON, AND MORE. Transcript:

WILLIAM, HOW ARE YOU?
“I’m good, thank you.”

FIRST OFF, ONE, HOW’S YOUR OFF SEASON GOING?
“It’s going good. Just been spending some time with my family. My sister is in town from New York, so I’m trying to spend a little time with them and enjoy a little bit of downtime. And also, get ready for next year. I’ve had a couple meetings with Rudy (Fugle, Crew Chief), so far. Just talking about some of the racing for the start of next year and trying to get prepared.”

HOW DID THOSE CONVERSATIONS START? DID YOU FIRST REACH OUT TO RUDY (FUGLE)? DID YOU GO TO MR. H WHEN CHAD (KNAUS) WAS ANNOUNCING THAT HE WAS RETIRING, DID YOU GO TO HIM AND SAY ‘I WANT RUDY FUGLE AS MY CREW CHIEF’ OR HOW DID THAT COME ABOUT?
“Yeah, so actually, the way it started was Jeff Gordon reached out to me, I think sometime in August, and was just like ‘Hey, we’re looking at Rudy (Fugle) as a possibility for your crew chief next year. Chad (Knaus) is moving onto a different role and they think Rudy would be a good option’. So, it honestly came from them. I know I kind of planted a seed a couple years ago with Chad about the possibility of Rudy being an engineer at HMS, but it never really materialized then. So, I was kind of surprised when they came to me and said that, but I was really excited. I still had to meet with Rudy and kind of figure out where his goals were, his aspirations, and also figure out if we really still mesh together, given a few years away from each other and kind of doing different things. Honestly, we clicked really well. We met at a restaurant in Concord and just really hit it off right where we left off.”

WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU LEARNED FROM CHAD THAT YOU WILL TAKE WITH YOU TO PREPARE YOU FOR RUDY AND WHAT YOU THINK RUDY WILL LEND TO ADD TO WHAT YOU LEARNED FROM CHAD?
“I think it’s two very different styles. I’ve worked with a variety of crew chiefs and, for better or worse, I’ve kind of been put with a lot of different crew chiefs because I’ve moved to different teams and I’ve grown up relatively fast in the sport. So, I’ve learned a lot of different styles. I think I’ve learned quite a few things with Chad that were different than maybe what I did with Rudy at KBM. So, it’s kind of meshing the two styles together. Definitely I feel, like Rudy said, that I’ve matured since I worked with him. I was really young and really kind of naive in the Truck Series at 17 or 18 years old. So, I think a lot has changed since then. But, at the same time, we can definitely apply a lot of the things that we did back then in our communication and our style together. So, I don’t think it’s going to take us too long to really kind of hit where we were back then and kind of apply some of the new things, too.”

DO YOU THINK YOU GAINED CONFIDENCE SINCE YOU STARTED IN THE CUP SERIES? THAT LENDS ITSELF TO HAVING RUDY WITH YOU NOW – YOU’RE MORE CONFIDENT NOW AS A LEADER FOR THE TEAM.
“For sure. When I was with Rudy in the Truck Series, a lot of the time, it was him telling me ‘here’s how we used to do it’ or ‘here’s how Kyle did it’. Now, it’s more – OK, here’s my experience, here’s the things I focus on. He’s not having to tell me as much about certain things or certain ideas. We’re kind of on the same playing field when it comes to the things that we’re contributing. It was definitely a lot more of him contributing to my learning curve in the past versus, now, I think we’re closer to equal. I think that’s going to be a head start in itself.”

WHAT HAS BEEN THE FOCUS ON YOUR PREPARATION FOR 2021? HAVE YOU SAID GET ME ON EVERY ROAD COURSE SIMULATOR I CAN GET ON? ARE YOU LOOKING FOR ANY DIRT RACES TO DO? WHAT’S YOUR FOCUS?
“Yeah, I think the dirt is probably the least important aspect, in terms of preparation, because it’s only one race. We do have to give some thought to it and kind of what I want to do there. But definitely thinking about some road course ideas – how to get a little bit more time in some form or fashion on some road courses in a similar style car. I think the biggest caveat to everything is trying to find a car that’s similar to a stock car on a road course is very hard. So, figuring out that. But yeah, Rudy and I have kind of gone through the first handful of tracks and tried to figure out some of the stuff we want to attack at those tracks. We’ve already talked today about Homestead, the Clash, the Daytona 500, obviously. Just trying to figure out some of the little details and nuances that we want to try to apply to those tracks. So, that’s been the main focus of it and Rudy has done a great job of kind of getting going. I think he’s been in here for two and a half weeks now. He’s done a good job getting going.”

I WANTED TO RE-WIND JUST A LITTLE BIT TO 2016 – THAT FIRST YEAR THAT YOU GUYS WERE PAIRED TOGETHER. YOU WERE JUST 18 YEARS OLD AND ENTERING YOUR FIRST FULL TRUCK SEASON. WHAT SORT OF INFLUENCE WAS RUDY ON THE START OF YOUR CAREER? WAS IT A RE-ASSURING VOICE IN YOUR EAR AS YOU WERE JUST GETTING STARTED?
“Yeah, it was. I think, for me, I really have to think back a lot to how that year unfolded. But we had speed at the beginning of the year, which obviously cures a lot of issues and a lot of lack in experience, stuff like that. So, we had that. But I think as the year went on, I really started to develop as a communicator, as a driver and my level of aggression got higher, things of that nature. And then I kind of went out and went a completely different direction – went to Hendrick, JRM, and kind of learning some of the things there and tried to really grow myself. Yeah, I think there’s a lot of experience along the way at each race and each year that you learn and I’m definitely a lot different than I was then. And I’m sure Rudy is, too.”

DO YOU FEEL LIKE A VETERAN AT THE RIPE OF 23 YEARS OLD, GETTING STARTED FOR A FOURTH CUP SEASON?
“Yeah, I definitely don’t feel like a rookie or inexperienced. I think there’s a lot less questions than there used to be about certain racetracks and certain things that I want to focus on those tracks. I feel like now is the time to get it together and perform really at a high level every week. That’s the goal this year – just to take a step from winning one race and try to take a step towards winning multiple. And even if not maybe the wins, just being in contention for multiple, which is definitely the next step.”

FOLLOWING UP TO WHAT YOU JUST SAID ABOUT NOW IS THE TIME TO STEP IT UP AND GET IT TOGETHER EVERY WEEK, WHEN YOU LOOK AT YOUR FIRST THREE YEARS AND GOING INTO YEAR FOUR, WHAT ARE SOME OF THE POSITIVES AND NEGATIVES? WHAT’S YOUR SELF-CRITISIM THAT YOU HAVE TO PUT ON YOUR SHOULDERS GOING INTO YEAR FOUR?
“I think the positives are easy to kind of identify. I think making the Playoffs the last two years has been great. The pole positions that we had in 2019 when we were qualifying was great. The race win, the Duel win – all those things are good things, which kind of establishes us as a contender. Somebody who can potentially win. But I think now, it’s just being a consistent threat and being somebody that each week and each track we go to is not really a weakness, and we can identify some of those small details that are going to take us to that top five or six group of teams that get to the Final Eight and, hopefully, the Final Four. So, yeah I think just figuring out how to make that next step to not just be kind of a one-time winner each year.”

SECONDLY, YOU SAID YOU AND RUDY SHOULD BE ABLE TO APPLY SOME OF THE THINGS YOU HAD BACK A COUPLE YEARS AGO. WHAT KIND OF AN INFLUENCE ARE YOU EXPECTING HIM TO HAVE ON YOU NOW COMING ON A CUP SERIES PARTNERSHIP AND INFUENCE YOU EXPECT HIM TO HAVE AS THE LEADER OF THIS TEAM?
“Yeah, I think the influence has already been noticeable. We’ve met two or three times over the last couple of weeks and the influence has already been there, and we’ve kind of picked up where we left off with communication. We do have to be out on the racetrack to really see kind of the fruits of that, but you can plan accordingly and have a really good plan and that’s a good start. It doesn’t always go that well, but you can kind of plan those things out. I feel good about it. I feel like we’re going to pick up where we left off.”

IT FEELS LIKE OVER THE LAST FIVE YEARS, HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS HAS TRANSITIONED ITSELF TOWARDS ITS FUTURE AND NOW IT FEELS LIKE THAT TRANSITION IS COMPLETE WITH JIMMIE JOHNSON OFF TO NEW ADVENTURES. I’M CURIOUS, HAS IT HIT YOU AND YOUR TEAMMATES THAT THE FUTURE HAS ARRIVED. IT’S DOWN TO YOU GUYS, THE YOUNG BUCKS, TO CARRY ON THE HENDRICK LEGACY. HOW DOES IT FEEL TO HAVE THAT CHAMPIONSHIP LEGACY ON YOUR SHOULDERS NOW?
“It’s definitely hit us. I think seeing Chase (Elliott) go out there and win the championship like that was definitely a sign that obviously we’re capable. Yeah, the bar has been set, for sure. Things have really evolved – I think the first year when I was here in 2018, how many growing pains there were for me, but also the race team to kind of find out footing with really three new drivers and one veteran guy. So now, it’s four new guys. I feel like three of us have been here for awhile now and really established kind of our trends, our feelings inside the team and what we want in our race cars. I think the bar has definitely been set now and it’s about just going out there and trying to achieve that.”

WHERE DOES ONE GO WHEN THEY’RE GOING TO HAVE AN INTERVIEW WITH A POTENTIAL CREW CHIEF WHEN THEY’RE LOOKING FOR A RESTAURANT IN CONCORD?
“Yeah, we went to TGI Friday’s (laughs). Rudy knows I’m a pretty picky eater, so he chose that one because they have chicken tenders and fries. So, it was perfect.”

BECAUSE THAT WAS AN UNIQUE AND NEW SITUATION FOR YOU AND YOUR CAREER, IN SITTING DOWN WITH A CREW CHIEF, WHAT WERE THE QUESTIONS? WHAT WERE THE THINGS YOU NEEDED TO COME OUT OF THAT MEETING TO KIND OF HAVE THAT COMFORT OR WHAT WERE THE THINGS YOU WERE SEEKING?
“Yeah, I think when I was first working with him at KBM, it was more just surface-level questions about just the basics – things I needed to execute well, like getting on pit road. Really, some of the driving stuff was kind of left up to me or I would ask questions to Kyle. But a lot of the setup stuff and kind of the ideas behind it, I never really asked those questions. I wasn’t far enough along to really understand it. So, I feel like this time around, the conversations when we met back at the end of August, were much more detailed and more specific. So, I could ask more pointed questions about what I wanted to understand. We hit it off right away in terms of those things and he kind of opened up to me more about the details. I just wasn’t experienced enough to know that stuff when I was 18 years old. I kind of had to go out on my own, in a sense, and go through Xfinity and a few years of Cup to understand that stuff.”

YOU MENTIONED THE DRIVER STABLE THERE, WHERE YOU HAVE THREE GUYS THAT ARE PRETTY ESTABLISHED AT HMS, AND NOW YOU’RE WELCOMING ANOTHER GUY. THAT OTHER GUY IS OBIVOUSLY KYLE (LARSON) AND KYLE IS A GUY OBVIOUSLY THAT’S HAD A LOT OF SUCCESS, BUT HE ALSO COMES WITH WHAT HAPPENED THIS YEAR. HOW DO YOU GUYS AS A GROUP OF DRIVERS KIND OF WELCOME HIM IN? IT’S A DIFFERENT SITUATION FOR A TEAM IN NASCAR AS OPPOSED TO LIKE A BASKETBALL PLAYER BECAUSE BASKETBALL PLAYERS ARE TOGETHER ALL THE TIME. YOU GUYS AS DRIVERS AREN’T NECESSARILY TOGETHER ALL THE TIME – HOW DO YOU WELCOME HIM IN AND HOW DO YOU GUYS KIND OF DRAW FROM HIS EXPERIENCES AND HIS TALENTS?
“I think Kyle (Larson) obviously has a lot of talent, but I feel like he’s going to be easy to work with because he’s pretty much all business, all racing. So, it’s not really going to be hard to pick apart his honest feelings about things. I think he’s going to be pretty honest and pretty upfront about a lot of stuff, so I think that’s going to help us in competition meetings, thinking about ideas for the next race, and stuff like that. Obviously, you’re going to have tracks that you can draw from that he’s always been good at. So, you think about Homestead or Chicago, places that are really good for him. It’s going to be cool to kind of pick his brain on that stuff. Anytime you can bring in somebody new that’s going to continue to push the bar I think is really good. You’re going from Jimmie Johnson to another guy that’s going to have a ton of talent, so it’s going to be a pretty easy transition I think.”

DO DRIVERS IN A MULTI-CAR TEAM NECESSARILY NEED TO BE BUDDIES OR IS IT STRICTLY PROFESSIONAL AND YOU GUYS GO THROUGH THE MEETINGS? IS IT MORE HELFUL MAYBE FOR THE FOUR OF YOU GUYS TO HANGOUT WHEN YOU’RE ALLOWED TO HANG OUT, ONCE WE GET THROUGH ALL THE COVID ISSUES?
“Yeah, I might be closer to one or another at certain times, but I feel like we all kind of work pretty well together. Especially the way the meetings are structured, like where we all kind of sit together, you build some similarities between drivers that you might draw from for certain tracks. So, I feel like it’s more professional, for sure. I don’t know if we’d all just go out and have fun together all the time, but we learn from each other, for sure.”

YOU MENTIONED PRACTICE PLANS FOR NEXT YEAR, BUT DID YOU CONSIDER GOING DOWN TO COTA THIS WEEKEND FOR THE ENDURANCE EVENT AS SOME OF THE OTHER DRIVERS ARE DOING TO GET FAMILIAR WITH THE TRACK FOR NEXT YEAR?
“I haven’t, but I’ve got some separate plans that are going to be road course related over the next month or so. I think definitely COTA is high on the list to try to get some laps on, but it’s more going to be kind of a one-on-one thing for me, instead of just watching. More kind of hands-on and getting in some kind of car.

Team Chevy high-resolution racing photos are available for editorial use.

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NCS: Rudy Fugle Teleconference Transcript

By
Official Release
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NASCAR CUP SERIES
TEAM CHEVY PRESS CONF. TRANSCRIPT
DECEMBER 3, 2020

RUDY FUGLE, HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS CREW CHIEF FOR WILLIAM BYRON AND THE NO. 24 CAMARO ZL1 1LE TEAM met with media via teleconference and discussed his new role beginning in the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series. Full Transcript:

TALK ABOUT WHAT YOU KNOW ABOUT WILLIAM BYRON AND WHAT YOU THINK YOU LEARNED EARLY-ON FROM HIM THAT YOU CAN APPLY NOW TO A MORE CONFIDENT WILLIAM BYRON?
“Our year of working together, I think one of the biggest things was just that you always learn how to push somebody and how to push their button the right way and how to motivate, encourage, and read their emotions. And that’s one thing about him. We can be pretty real with each other. I’m a pretty straightforward guy and William takes that really well. So, we have a really good communication style and it’s easy to be friends with him. “

WILLIAM BYRON HAS SO MANY ATTRIBUTES THAT YOU WERE LIKELY ONE OF THE FIRST TO DISCOVER. WE’RE SEEING HIS TALENTS NOW. WHAT DO YOU WANT TO TELL PEOPLE ABOUT THE WILLIAM BYRON YOU KNOW AND WHAT YOU THINK YOU CAN DO TOGETHER IN THE CUP SERIES?
“I think there’s a whole bunch more talent to be seen. He’s done a really good job for the past three years gaining experience and having good runs; but I think there’s so much more. If you get to year two or three, you’ve kind of done everything at least one time; even though I’m new, the team is the same. And, I’m not really new because we know how to communicate with each other. The spotter is the same. It’s going to be a really good year. I think we’re going to start off being able to communicate and make the car better as we go and make good decisions. It’s so much about building this relationship and the cars at the shop now that we’re not having practice very often that we can sit and have meetings like we used to have and talk about all the things that didn’t go right last year and how we can make it better. I think I can apply those things of the race car with all the smart people here at Hendrick Motorsports and then make it go.”

YOU MENTIONED BACK IN 2016 AND YOU WORKING WITH WILLIAM BYRON (NASCAR CAMPING WORLD TRUCK SERIES), WHAT WERE YOUR FIRST IMPRESSIONS OF HIM IN GETTING TO KNOW HIM AND WHAT HE WAS ALL ABOUT?
“Our first meeting in the office-season, where we were basically trying to decide who was going to work with William and who was going to work with whom, we were having some dinner meetings and going over things and just seeing what fit. Instantly he knew a lot more about the races that we were running and the season that we had the past year and all the races, and he was very knowledgeable about everything that a lot of young guys don’t have that depth of knowledge. And then as we started some races, he just realized the drive and the hunger that he’s got and that he’s self-driven, and whatnot. He’s just always kept getting better. It’s really fun to work with him because everybody on the team wants him to succeed. They want to do everything they can for him to make sure he succeeds. He’s a very likable person and it makes everybody on the team do whatever they can to make sure we’re all successful.”

WILLIAM BYRON TALKED ABOUT KIND OF MAKING A JUMP THIS YEAR FROM BEING A GUY WHO JUST WINS RACE AND CHASE ELLIOTT HAS KIND OF RAISED THE BAR FOR SOME OF THAT. WHAT’S IT GOING TO TAKE TO GET TO THAT NEXT LEVEL WHERE HE’S A CONTENDER WEEK IN AND WEEK OUT AND CAN SCRATCH THE WIN COLUMN MORE THAN ONCE A YEAR?
“It’s applying all the knowledge from last year and applying some of the things that the No. 9 (Elliott) did well and just making good decisions on those things. It’s really hard to do. But, it’s not that many steps. It’s really only a couple of small, simple things that I think will get us there. So, discovering what those things are and doing them consistently; it’s just communication, which we’re doing really well on the No. 24 team right now. William was in here all morning long just going over stuff. It’s December 3rd so all that stuff is starting well. Things are going well. I think that, just in ourselves, and how good of cars we have here, we execute better than some of those things with his experience and my knowledge of William and how we can apply it to the team. Just three, four, or five spots weekly and that’s going to lead to more wins and easier to make it into the Playoffs and all those things that make the things easier to be aggressive and get those wins, three or four wins a year, or more, you know?”

HOW MANY PEOPLE WORK ON THE NO. 24 CAR? DO YOU KNOW? WERE YOU ABLE TO BRING ANYBODY? ARE YOU TRYING TO LEARN WILLIAM ON THE CUP-SIDE, BUT ALL THE PEOPLE THAT YOU’RE WORKING WITH?
“I didn’t bring anybody with me. So, I was the new transplant, right? As Chad (Knaus) was showing me around the entire campus on day one, I ended-up knowing more than half the people. I either went to college with them or worked with them previously, or knew them from some race track somewhere. That’s one thing good about Kyle (Busch) is we were racing something somewhere all the time and you get to meet a lot of people. So, it ended-up being not as bad as I originally thought it might be in meeting new people. So, everybody on the No. 24, the majority of them were there last year. And I’m the new guy. And that’s okay. They’re showing me the ropes and everything they’re doing and I’m picking holes or what could be holes in the thing because I’m seeing it a different way than they’ve looked at it and trying to come up with a new way to solve a problem.”

HOW DO YOU APPROACH THE CLASH AND DO YOU LOOK AT IT LIKE OKAY, BECAUSE THERE ARE SO MANY ROAD COURSES ON THE SCHEDULE THIS IS A THING TO LEARN FOR LATER IN THE YEAR? OR, DO YOU LOOK AT IT LIKE YOU COULD RACE THERE OR RACE MORE ROAD COURSES AS THINGS GET SWITCHED AROUND?
“Definitely. I think we all see that potential of what’s going to happen now and how good the country gets; and we know two of our road courses are in places where we couldn’t race last year. So there’s always that potential for something to get postponed or cancelled or moved to Daytona because that’s an easy fit. So, there’s definitely trying to build a notebook there; you’re also building notebooks for the Roval and a lot of these other road course races. So, the Clash is going to be fun. We have a plan of how Hendrick Motorsports has been doing things really well at the road course races. And then okay, there’s our Plan B and Plan C to how we beat Chase (Elliott) and how we beat the next people. So, Chase, the No. 9 team, was clearly the best road course team this year. But that doesn’t mean that everybody else isn’t working hard as well. So, just trying to not just sit there, but to go and just see if we can think of something better and then prove that it’s better before we go to the track, and say, are we going to try something new or try the same old stuff? So, there’s a lot to the Clash. And then there’s also just element of the fact that we’ve got a non-points event that I can have a Cup race at as a crew chief and the team can work together. William and I can work together and communicate and really, it is what it is. We all want to win. It’s a non-points even to it’s almost a dry run, or practice run if you take it.”

WHAT HAVE BEEN THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES GOING TO HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS? COULD IT BE DIFFERENT THAN WHAT YOU’RE USED TO?
“Yeah, there’s a lot of change here. It is a big place. There’s lots of buildings and lots of people. The biggest thing is to not let yourself get overwhelmed since there are moments when I feel like there’s a lot to do and a lot to learn. But then, if you take a step back, you realize how many smart people are at each one of these departments and leading them and the experience they have; and all the experience to lean on (like) these other crew chiefs and Chad Knaus and Jeff Gordon. Let’s just take a step back and take one thing at a time and just not make it too complicated. So, that’s the biggest thing. It can get big. It can get complicated. But all the pieces are here. It’s just my job to manage it. When you move too fast or think about it too much, it gets overwhelming. But if you just tackle one thing at a time, it’s been great.”

ARE YOU GOING TO TRY TO USE THAT SAME PHILOSOPHY WITH WILLIAM? THAT COULD BE OVERWHELMING FOR A YOUNG MAN AS WELL
“Yeah, I think that’s part of it. William does a great job of just focusing on what he can do to be his best and to maximize his potential. He’s always done that. And he didn’t care who he was racing against. It didn’t feel like oh, I’ve got to drive harder because I’m racing Kyle in the Trucks this week or I’m racing Brad Keselowski in Xfinity this week. He always did a good job of just making sure he was performing his best. But yeah, there’s always a perspective that we need to put ourselves into and be reminded of. All we can do is just focus on what we can today leading up to this week’s race, and then we start over. There’s definitely a little process, a schedule, and how we attack each day. That kind of is how I like to approach things and I’m going to try to bring him with me on that and how we do it week in and week out.”

AS YOU EMBARK ON THIS NEW GIG, MY FIRST THOUGHT IS WHAT KIND OF RESOURCES WILL YOU HAVE AT HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS WITH CHAD KNAUS OVERSEEING THE COMPETITION-SIDE OF THINGS?
“It’s great. Anytime you’re stepping up to a new role or a different level, it’s great to have somebody with that much success and experience, that’s got that much invested in Hendrick Motorsports to help make sure you’re successful. So, he’s got as much invested in this, and way more years than I do for the No. 24 to go fast and win races and compete for a championship. So, I’ve found that I’ve been lucky as I’ve moved up the ranks along the way that I’ve kind of had a mentor-type person at different levels where it’s helped me. So, I’ve had that experience before. I’m going to use him to help me as much as possible.”

IS THERE A SENSE OF INTIMIDATION, AS WELL? ARE YOU MORE IN SPONGE-MODE IN LISTENING TO EVERYTHING HE HAS TO SAY AND IN EXCHANGE OF IDEAS? HOW IS THAT GOING TO WORK?’
“Naturally, I think I’m an inquisitive person and I’m confident in what I know. I’m definitely going to listen more than I speak when I speak to somebody like that, but I think that’s just respect, right? So, you have a huge amount of respect for people and for somebody that’s done what Chad has done. He’s a legend; just to even say it like that, he just is. You figure out how to talk to him and be respectful and I don’t mean that in the wrong way. What’s the best way to be prepared to get somebody’s time and then ask the inquisitive questions the right way I guess, is the right way to say that.”

THERE ARE MANY THINGS TO DO BETWEEN NOW AND THE BEGINNING OF THE SEASON. WHAT WILL IT BE LIKE TO CALL A RACE? IS IT LIKE A RACE IS A RACE? OR, IS IT SOMETHING YOU’LL HAVE TO ADJUST TO? DO YOU HAVE TO ANALYZE WHAT SOME OF THE OTHER CREW CHIEFS DO TO KNOW THE COMPETITION EVEN BETTER?
“Yeah, I’ve always done that. I think even at the Truck Series level, I’m watching the best people; and they might not even run the best but sometimes they make the best calls, or they make some good things. You’re watching every series almost every weekend just to learn how to be really good, you know? If you’re not doing that, you’re not doing better. I’m always studying and paying attention to what everybody is doing. But races are races. They’re longer. There’s going to be more strategy calls in every stage. They’re all different. More sets of tires. More chances for adjustments; and actually, different adjustments in some ways, too, and stuff like that. We’ll be prepared. But that’s the most exciting part. The most fun part of my job is that Adrenalin of calling races and sitting on the box. There’s a lot of fun things about being a crew chief. But that’s why we put in the hours is to be able to compete in the actual race. It makes it fun. And that rush and that moment of what you’re going to do when the caution comes out when you didn’t expect it to and that’s what drives us to do what we do. So that’s the most exciting thing.”

WHAT IS ON YOUR AGENDA? WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING ON DURING THE LAST COUPLE OF WEEKS?
“I am trying to soak up as much information as fast as I can so that I can have intelligent conversations about this specific race car that we’re racing weekly. That’s the biggest thing. I feel like the racing-side of things is similar even from a Truck to a car. The William and myself relationship doesn’t need a ton of work. It will come along. It’s just the cars are different aero and suspension and different things than the Trucks I’ve worked on. When you work with a team long enough, all that stuff is embedded in your brain and you know everything like the back of your hand. So, I’m trying to make it where I know all that stuff as much as possible so I can help make those decisions and know as much as possible to make things better when I’m asked upon. So, that’s where I’ve been spending more of my hours. And getting to know everybody is a big part of it during the normal hours and then before normal work hours and after normal work hours I’m learning as much as I can.”

FOR MOST OF THE RACES NEXT YEAR, THERE WON’T BE MUCH PRACTICE OR QUALIFYING TO WORK ON THINGS. DO YOU GIVE YOURSELF A GRACE PERIOD GOING INTO NEXT YEAR OR DO YOU FEEL LIKE WITH ALL THE TIME YOU’VE WORKED TOGETHER YOU’LL BE READY TO GO?
“Yeah, I think we’re planning on starting the year strong and going. There might be some things that come up that it’s like man, I didn’t think I needed to know that, or I messed that up or whatnot. But for the most part, I feel like we’re going to be ready to go. Our in-race communication is going to be good. Our in-race adjustments, there are lots of smart people here to help me make those decisions. We’ve got a good pit crew. Hendrick Motorsports is putting out a good Camaro. So, I think we should be ready to go.”

Team Chevy high-resolution racing photos are available for editorial use.

About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, available in 75 countries with nearly 4 million cars and trucks sold in 2019. Chevrolet models include electric and fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found www.chevrolet.com.

African American-Led Ownership Group To Compete in Road To Indy

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Official Release
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Team Penske to mentor new team as it launches competition in 2021 USF2000 Series

INDIANAPOLIS (Thursday, Dec. 3, 2020) – African American business leader and former team manager Rod Reid has announced the formation of Force Indy, a race team set to compete in the 2021 Cooper Tires USF2000 Championship.

For 30 years, USF2000 has been the formative step of the popular Road to Indy Presented by Cooper Tires ladder system, which culminates in scholarship opportunities in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. This program has grown into a proven pipeline for open-wheel racing’s future stars.

Force Indy Team Principal Reid brings years of karting and auto racing experience and a recently expanded relationship with NXG Youth Motorsports Inc., which has introduced more than 2,300 students from under-represented communities, ages 11 to 15, to the educational benefits of the sport. Force Indy’s race team will focus on hiring and developing Black American men and women mechanics, engineers, staffers and drivers.

“I started a race team in 1984, and I have always had a desire to have a team of talented individuals who look like me in the professional ranks of the sport,” Reid said. “I have been in and around the sport for 40 years, and this is just the culmination of years of hard work. I simply cannot wait to see this race team on the track this spring.”

The Force Indy announcement includes a mentorship from the legendary Team Penske, winners of a record 18 Indianapolis 500’s and 16 NTT INDYCAR SERIES championships. During its first season, Force Indy will be based in Concord, North Carolina, as it receives guidance from Team Penske’s key personnel.

“When the IMS and INDYCAR acquisition happened a year ago, I was pleased to learn of the work Rod Reid was doing,” Indianapolis Motor Speedway Chairman Roger Penske said. “To lend our support to an effort like this is a natural. Together, we’ll work to not only get this new team off the ground but continue to support it and its mission as it continues down a path to compete at the top level.”

Force Indy will make its debut at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, March 5-7, 2021. The team will use No. 99 on the car in honor of the late Dewey “Rajo Jack” Gatson, who drove a roadster with that number toward the end of his career in 1951. Gatson, one of the winningest African American drivers and mechanics in racing history, never received an opportunity to race in the Indianapolis 500.

Overall, the initiative is part of a broader picture in the INDYCAR and Indianapolis Motor Speedway “Race for Equality & Change,” announced in July. The goals include recruiting and developing a diverse workforce throughout all levels of INDYCAR and IMS, ultimately creating a community that fundamentally transforms the sport.

“Rod is a passionate leader and talented team builder who has demonstrated a fundamental commitment to equality and opportunity in our sport,” IMS President J. Douglas Boles said. “IMS has been privileged to be a partner with Rod and NXG for more than a decade, and we know he’ll bring the same commitment and drive for excellence to Force Indy.”

Sponsorship and driver for Force Indy’s inaugural season will be announced at a later date.

“We are fortunate to have Team Penske offer guidance and race-winning experience,” Reid said. “Roger’s experience will be an invaluable resource in creating a successful organization. There’s no better time than now to start a team.”

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

New Customer Spotlight | Tuned 2015 EcoBoost F150

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Official Release
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Ideas and Inspiration Courtesy of AmericanTrucks’ Latest Interview

PAOLI, Pa. (December 2, 2020) – Aftermarket parts retailer, AmericanTrucks (AT) releases a new video as part of their ongoing “Customer Builds” series.  The video features a tuned 2015 EcoBoost F150 with a 6-inch lift and 35” tires. AT host Justin Dugan sits down for a virtual chat with Pennsylvania resident, Trey Beaver for the inside scoop on all his upgrades. Viewers can head to Trey’s build page at AmericanTrucks.com for a complete breakdown of all his mods, along with additional images and information.

AT host, Justin Dugan begins the virtual meet-up by commenting on the “absolute perfect stance” of this 2.7 EcoBoost F150. In Trey’s opinion, his rig was transformed with the addition of 35” tires and –44 offset Fuels. This was done shortly after he leveled up his stock F150 lift to a 6-inch Superlift.  Other key upgrades include a roll up bed cover, a grill with 2-inch LED light bars, front and rear bumpers, and LED license plate bulbs. Trey’s enthusiasm comes through whether he’s talking about color-matching his bumpers, his tuner, his steps, or his plans for future upgrades. All-in-all, this customer spotlight provides a wealth of motivation for F150 owners looking for their next project.

Viewers can check out the build pages at AmericanTrucks.com to see more of Trey’s lifted 2.7. This includes additional images and a full breakdown of all his mods. AT’s spotlight video series features real projects from around the country. Customers get a chance to show off their rigs while providing ideas and inspiration to fellow truck owners.  AT plans to continue the series with more videos in the works.

View it here:

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About AmericanTrucks

AmericanTrucks is regarded as one of the best, most reliable online aftermarket retailers providing parts and accessories for F150, F250, Ranger, Silverado, Sierra, and RAM. Catering to the needs and demands of late-model truck owners and enthusiasts, AmericanTrucks provides the best parts with support from genuine truck experts. Located just outside of Philadelphia, AmericanTrucks is dedicated to offering the truck community with the highest quality of parts and customer service. Please visit https://www.americantrucks.com for more information.

CORVETTE RACING IN 2021: Tandy Set to Join Corvette Racing in No. 4 C8.R for Full-Season Run

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Official Release
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Tandy Set to Join Corvette Racing in No. 4 C8.R for Full-Season Run

· Sims to round out new additions as endurance driver alongside Milner, Tandy
· Defending GTLM Drivers champions Garcia, Taylor back again in 2021 with Catsburg
· Program focused on continuing development for second year with mid-engine Chevrolet Corvette C8.R

DETROIT (Dec. 3, 2020) – Corvette Racing’s lineup in its No. 4 Chevrolet Corvette C8.R will have a significantly different look for the 2021 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship with the additions of sports car stars Nick Tandy and Alexander Sims alongside long-time Corvette driver Tommy Milner.

It’s a big change on one side of the Corvette Racing garage while the other stays intact from a driving perspective. Antonio Garcia and Jordan Taylor, the reigning GT Le Mans (GTLM) Drivers champions, will team again in the No. 3 Mobil 1/SiriusXM Corvette C8.R with Nicky Catsburg back for another season with the pair for the team’s long-distance events in IMSA. Catsburg and Sims will be part of the program’s events for the Rolex 24 At Daytona, Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring and Petit Le Mans.

Tandy – from Bedford, England – steps into the role held by Oliver Gavin, who stepped away from full-time driving after 19 years with the program. A winner at practically every major sports car race around the world, Tandy joins a full-season lineup that already includes nine IMSA Drivers Championships and 42 race wins with Corvette Racing.

Tandy owns 15 career IMSA victories – all in GT racing – and has won the Rolex 24 At Daytona, the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring and Petit Le Mans. In addition, he is a past overall winner at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the 24 Hours of the Nürburgring and the 24 Hours of Spa.

In Sims, Corvette Racing gets another proven race-winner for some of its most important events of the year. From Alcester in England, Sims is a five-time winner in IMSA competition in a brief but successful two-year, full-season stint in 2017 and 2018. He has a victory at Petit Le Mans to his credit along with 24-hour wins at Spa and the Nürburgring, along with two career starts at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The British pair join Milner, now Corvette Racing’s most experienced full-season driver. The two-time IMSA Drivers Champion boasts 15 victories with the program including wins at Le Mans, Daytona and Sebring, among others. Milner has been a key component in testing and development of the Corvette C8.R and will begin his 10th year as part of Corvette Racing.

In the No. 3 Corvette, Garcia and Taylor are together again after taking five victories and combining for six pole positions in the 2020 GTLM season. The pairing won for the first time at Daytona in July for Corvette Racing’s 100th IMSA victory, and both are previous winners at such events like Le Mans, the Rolex 24 and Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring.

Garcia won his fourth Drivers Championship in 2020 while Taylor captured his third Drivers title. Both are past winners at Daytona, Sebring and Le Mans. Catsburg also will return to the cockpit following a season in which he won the Nurburgring 24 Hours, among other high-profile events.

All six drivers will focus on bringing improvements to the mid-engine Chevrolet Corvette C8.R, which won six races and swept the full-season GTLM championships in the hands of Corvette Racing. In addition, the C8.R claimed seven pole positions and posted fastest GTLM race lap at six events.

The mid-engine C8.R and 2020 Corvette Stingray street car were developed simultaneously, and the race car and production vehicle share more technology and parts than any previous-generation Corvette. When initial Corvette C8.R design and development work began more than five years ago, Corvette Racing engineers worked closely alongside Corvette production personnel with a heavy emphasis on wind tunnel and simulation testing.

Corvette Racing will open its 2021 season with the Roar Before the 24 from Jan. 22-24 and the Rolex 24 At Daytona on Jan. 30-31.
ANTONIO GARCIA, NO. 3 MOBIL 1/SiriusXM CHEVROLET CORVETTE C8.R: “It is nice to have some continuity that we can carry over into 2021. The season Jordan and I had was incredible with the championship and winning a lot of races. Things definitely won’t be easier in 2021 for us, but we do have a year of experience together and with the C8.R. Looking back at 2020, the only thing we missed out on was a good result in the long-distance races. We had the pace to win at Petit Le Mans, but we weren’t expected to get a win at Daytona to start the year and we had our suspension issue at the Sebring 12 Hours. Getting a real endurance win would be key as a next target for the C8.R.”

JORDAN TAYLOR, NO. 3 MOBIL 1/SiriusXM CHEVROLET CORVETTE C8.R: “It’s definitely going to be difficult to top what we accomplished in 2020, but rolling into 2021 and learning everything we did with the C8.R, we’ll roll off stronger than we did this season. It will be great to be back with Antonio and Nicky. With having such a strong lineup, it’s good to keep things consistent. We know how each other works and how our driving styles are like. The chemistry there is very strong. It’ll be great to have Nick and Alexander coming in on the No. 4 Corvette. They can bring a fresh perspective as guys who have driven different cars and give us some insight on the strengths and weaknesses of the C8.R that maybe we are used by now, having driven for a year now. I think we’re setting up for a very strong 2021.”

NICKY CATSBURG, NO. 3 MOBIL 1/SiriusXM CHEVROLET CORVETTE C8.R: “I’m super pleased that I’m able to come back again with Corvette Racing. My first year was very, very nice. I really enjoyed it… working with the team and with the C8.R. It seems to suit me and I’ve enjoyed it so far. Other than winning the championship, we didn’t score a victory in one of the endurance races so that’s a big goal for next year, along with winning the championship again for Chevy, Antonio and Jordan. Having Nick and Alexander is very, very cool. I know Alexander very well from races we’ve done and won together. He’s one of the best guys I know, and I think he will fit in right away. He’s a super funny guy as well, so I can’t wait to have him around. Nick is one of the fiercest competitors I’ve ever raced against. He needs no further introduction and he’s an awesome addition for Corvette Racing. This is a super strong lineup, and I’m proud to be part of it.”

TOMMY MILNER, NO. 4 MOBIL 1/SiriusXM CHEVROLET CORVETTE C8.R: “Going into next year, expectations are very high. We know the C8.R is fast and competitive. We had a couple of small issues through the 2020 season, but they were things that were easily addressed by the engineers and mechanics. It’s a tall order to match what happened this year. We obviously want to win the championships again, but now we have the opportunity to get big wins at Daytona, Sebring and Petit Le Mans. I’d love to get some of those big races under our belt.
“I’m excited about my two new teammates. I’ve been racing against Nick for many years now. I know how strong a competitor he is. Obviously I’d much rather him be in my car and not have to fight against him! I’ve raced against he and Alexander quite a bit. They’re both true professionals, super fast on the track and their results speak for themselves. I’m excited to go race with them and work toward the goals we’ve set for 2021.”

NICK TANDY, NO. 4 MOBIL 1/SiriusXM CHEVROLET CORVETTE C8.R: “Since I’ve been racing in IMSA and at Le Mans, Corvette Racing has been the team that everyone looks up to. Many operations aspire to get to the level that Corvette Racing operates at. It’s something I’ve always looked at, and it’s impressed me. The fact that the opportunity arose where I could join the team and stay racing within IMSA is a dream opportunity. You look at the history of Corvette Racing, and it’s been a team that has consistently been in top-level motorsport. And not just competing but winning races and championships wherever they go. It’s an appealing aspect. I hope I can add something to the party and continue that successful legacy that Corvette Racing has. I’d very much like to be part of the next chapter.”

ALEXANDER SIMS, NO. 4 MOBIL 1/SiriusXM CHEVROLET CORVETTE C8.R: “During my two previous years in IMSA, it was clear the level that Corvette Racing is on. I have such fantastic memories of battling with some of the Corvette guys, and some of those battles went against me! My appreciation and respect for Corvette Racing certainly increased. It’s a team that always seemed to be able to achieve a result, even if the track wasn’t one that suited its cars perfectly. If someone was going to make something out of a difficult situation, it usually was Corvette Racing. Now, to have a chance to be in that fold and be part of the program with the absolute pros on this team is really quite special.”

Team Chevy high-resolution racing photos are available for editorial use.

About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, available in 75 countries with nearly 4 million cars and trucks sold in 2019. Chevrolet models include electric and fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found www.chevrolet.com.

Kenyan Washington Heads To Portugal For Major Karting Race

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Official Release
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Kenyan Washington will compete in the Rotax MAX Challenge International Trophy competition next week in Portugal.

PORTIMAO, Portugal – (Dec. 3, 2020) – McCallister Precision Marketing’s newest client, Kenyan Washington, is preparing for one of the most competitive events of his young career.

Washington will take part in the Rotax MAX Challenge International Trophy competition, which will take place Dec. 8-13 at Kartódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portimao, Portugal. Washington will compete in the Mini MAX class against 35 other young competitors from across the world.

For more information, visit www.rmc-internationaltrophy.com.

“I’m really excited to go racing next week in Portugal,” said the 12-year-old Washington, who is based in Germany with his parents. “This race is one of the most competitive events you can race in as a kart racer in Europe. I think it’s going to be tough, but it’ll be a good experience for me and I’m looking forward to it.”

Prior to the Rotax MAX Challenge International Trophy event, Washington got the chance to take part in an official NASCAR Whelen Euro Series test at Circuit de Vendée in Fontenay le Comte, France, as part of the NASCAR Whelen Euro Series Driver Recruitment Program.

The test provided Washington with his first opportunity to drive a stock car as he prepares for the eventual next step in his racing career.

“The test was a lot of fun,” Washington said. “I got the chance to learn how to shift and be smooth in a car. It’s definitely different than my kart, but it was a lot of fun to learn about what a stock car is like. It was a great experience and I can’t wait to do it again soon.”

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About McCallister Precision Marketing

McCallister Precision Marketing (MPM) focuses on assisting up-and-coming race car drivers with career advancement and promotion. McCallister Precision Marketing helps drivers build confidence in front of and behind the camera, giving them the tools they need to advance to the next level. The company also provides companies with a strategic plan for their sales, marketing and promotional needs. We believe in building positive relationships with our clients so that we may provide them with the most professional, yet personal guidance they need, in order to achieve their racing goals. Our clients include race car drivers, race team owners, companies and racing series’. We also work closely with charities and charity events. For more information on McCallister Precision Marketing, visit www.MarketWithMPM.com, email TonyaMac44@MarketWithMPM.com or call 803-361-6199.

Brett Moffitt to Compete Full Time for Niece Motorsports in 2021

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Official Release
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MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Dec. 2, 2020) – Brett Moffitt will make the move to Niece Motorsports in 2021, competing full time for NASCAR Camping World Truck Series championship points in the No. 45 Chevrolet Silverado.  Moffitt previously announced that he will compete full time in the XFINITY Series in 2021 for Our Motorsports, giving him double duties for 2021.

“I am so thankful to Al Niece, Cody Efaw and everyone at Niece Motorsports for this opportunity,” said Moffitt.  “To be able to compete full time in both the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and the XFINITY Series is a challenge I look forward to. Chris Our, Our Motorsports and Chevrolet were a big part of helping this all come together, so a big thank you to them as well.”

Moffitt, the 2018 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Champion and 2015 NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year, has 12 wins, three poles and 39 top-five finishes in 82 career NCWTS starts.

In addition, the Iowa-native has 46 top-10 finishes and has led a total of 1,190 laps in his three seasons of full time NCWTS competition.

“Brett is a proven winner,” said Niece Motorsports General Manager Cody Efaw.  “We are thrilled to have him join Niece Motorsports.  The experience he will bring to our team is invaluable.  We are working hard this offseason – our goal in 2021 is to run up front and contend for wins.  Brett, Carson [Hocevar] and Ryan [Truex] are great talents and we look forward to giving them competitive equipment.”

Moffitt not only brings a wealth of Truck Series experience to the team, but he also has 45 NASCAR Cup Series starts and 32 NASCAR XFINITY Series starts to his credit.

“I’m excited about our driver lineup next year,” said Niece Motorsports Owner Al Niece.  “Brett is a tremendous talent and will be a huge asset to our team.  We know that our drivers have the talent it takes to contend for wins in the Truck Series and l know our crew is working as hard as possible this offseason to build them equipment capable of doing so.”

NASCAR recently announced the 2021 NCWTS schedule, with highlights including the addition of Circuit of the Americas, Nashville Superspeedway, Watkins Glen International, and a race at Knoxville Raceway in Moffitt’s home state of Iowa.

The 2021 NCWTS season will kick off at Daytona International Speedway on Friday, February 12.

About Niece Motorsports: 

Niece Motorsports is owned by United States Marine Corps Veteran Al Niece.  In 2021, Niece Motorsports enters its sixth season in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series.  Niece also owns Niece Equipment, which has for over 40 years provided clients with reliable products at competitive prices.  Niece Equipment’s reputation is built on service, integrity and dependability. The company provides water and fuel/lube trucks that are engineered with quality and durability in mind for the construction and mining industry.  Follow the team on Facebook and Instagram @NieceMotorsports as well as Twitter @NieceMotorsport.

What To Look For When Trying To Find An Auto Repair Shop

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SM
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Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash

Are your car’s brakes making a grinding or squeaking noise? Or maybe the check engine light is on? It sounds like you need to visit a mechanic or an auto repair shop. But how do you find someone reliable who can fix your car right the first time?

Many people looking for a mechanic worry about not having good work done or getting ripped off. Also, do a VIN check before purchasing your vehicle.

We have created a comprehensive checklist to help you find a dependable auto repair shop that offers fair pricing. Ensure the auto repair shop you choose has seasoned mechanics working for them. One good example of the best auto repair shop that you trust is Elite Campbell. 

They Should Have ASE Certification

Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification is something the automotive technician working on your car should have. ASE accreditation proves the individual has undergone thorough training – including written tests – and has at least 2 years of industry experience.

But remember, there are several types of certification. For example, if you have gone to a mechanic to have your transmission rebuilt, but the mechanic is only certified to repair brakes. This could be a problem.

Hiring an ASE-certified automotive repair shop protects your interests as well. If the mechanic has ASE Master Certification, they are trained and certified to work on all eight core areas of your car: brakes, engines, drive axles, transmissions, engine performance, air conditioning/heating, electrical, and suspension/steering.  

In other words, an ASE-certified master European auto mechanic knows every car like the back of their hand. If you’re having any issues with your car, or you’re tired of having your car break down continuously, these experts have the skills to diagnose the issue and fix it the first time accurately.

They Should Have A Good Reputation

We live in the age of the Internet and Google Reviews, which means it’s easy to search a particular business and see what people are saying about it. When looking for an auto repair shop, do your homework and look them up online.

You can do some background research to find out:

  • How long have they been in business
  • What kind of certifications and accreditations do they have
  • What kind of reviews and testimonials are left by their previous customers

The longer an auto repair shop has been around, the more experienced and established it will be. A business can’t survive for long unless they charge fair prices and offer quality service. Ask for their recommendations if you know someone who has had an incredible repair experience.

They Should Offer Additional Services

Not all car repair shops are created equal. Some shops specialize in certain areas, while others offer a wider range of services. Here are a few additional services a good repair shop might offer:

  • Truck bed liners: If you own a truck, you might consider getting a spray-in liner like Bullet Liner to protect the bed from scratches, dents, and corrosion. These liners are extremely durable and can last for the lifetime of your truck.
  • Loaner cars: This can be a lifesaver if your car needs repairs that will take a few days to complete.
  • Shuttle service: Some shops offer a shuttle service to take you home or to work while your car is being repaired.
  • Extended warranties: An extended warranty can provide you with peace of mind in case your car breaks down after the manufacturer’s warranty expires.

They Should Have Extensive Experience

Nothing can replace experience, period. Make sure the auto repair shop you choose has seasoned mechanics working for them.

Many quick-lube shops employ workers who have little to no knowledge of automobiles. You may think that a simple oil change doesn’t need an experienced mechanic, but trust us, it does. Something as straightforward as a lube job can leave you with hundreds of dollars of repair bills if it is not performed correctly.

This is especially prevalent when having your vehicle fixed if it needs a particular mechanic, such as a Land Rover Specialist. Their extensive knowledge of 4×4 vehicles ensures that they have experience in diagnostics and repairs and can provide the best service when it comes to this.

If you don’t want to risk the health of your car – or your wallet – hire someone who knows what they are doing.

They Should Be Willing To Explain Things

If you were a skilled automotive expert, you probably wouldn’t take your car in for repair. An honest auto repair shop understands that. This is why they take the time to explain patiently any work or tune-up your vehicle might need. And they do it without being condescending or irritable.

Also, cars today are way more complex than they used to be 10-20 years ago. An inexperienced mechanic usually keeps throwing new components at a problem until it is fixed. If you suspect your mechanic doesn’t know the problem, don’t be afraid to ask them how they came to the conclusion that a certain part needs to be replaced.

A trustworthy auto repair shop will be more than happy to give you a detailed explanation. They may even show you the problem and provide a comprehensive analysis.

They Should Not Sell You Unnecessary Upsells

A shop that takes pride in its work and commitment to customers will never try to upsell pointless services or upgrades.

We know routine maintenance is essential to ensure your vehicle stays in great shape for as long as possible. However, if, for example, you just had your car battery replaced at one shop, and a different shop is trying to get you to buy the same service again, this is not right.

To ensure you don’t fall into this trap, find your car’s owner manual (it’s most likely inside your glove box) and look for the “recommended maintenance schedule” section or something along those lines. This will give you an idea of when you need to take your car for a tune-up.

You may not think it, but if they recommend the best DIY bedliner to you, you might want to consider it. You’ll be able to transform the bed of your truck into what you see in movies. It can turn out incredible.

They Should Be Friendly

Even though this goes without saying, we think it’s important enough to mention here.

Some mechanics can be downright condescending and pushy, especially to women and old people as they are seemingly easy to persuade into unnecessary repair or service. If you have the same experience while talking to a mechanic, steer clear of them and go to some other shop. To help you avoid places like this, check out items like this Clipped Assist review before you take your car anywhere to make sure the staff at the place you’re going are friendly and knowledgeable.

Also, beware of shops that try to pad repair bills with unnecessary labor or auto parts. If some item in your bill doesn’t make sense to you, don’t hesitate to ask the shop owner to explain it to you.

They Should Not Present You With A Bloated Bill

Sometimes, it makes sense to replace another part while you are already replacing one part. For example, if you are getting your car’s brake pads serviced, you may consider servicing the brake rotors. Or, if you are replacing the timing belt, it’s a prudent idea to replace the engine’s water pump.

However, in some cases, repair shops try to pad the repair bill with completely unnecessary services and parts. These shops not only want to sell you extra (or useless) stuff, but they probably won’t even take the time to diagnose your car correctly. All they need to do is tell you they did what you asked them to do (even when they didn’t), and charge you for “extra fix” that wasn’t necessary.

If your repair bill seems significantly higher than you expected, ask the shop owner to break it down for you. Call another shop for a second opinion if they can’t explain it to your satisfaction.

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