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Dangerous Times of Day: When Traffic Accidents Peak

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It’s no secret that driving can be very dangerous. Even though the number of fatalities related to automobile accidents has been going down in recent years, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that there were over 39,000 traffic deaths in the United States in 2024. That number is slightly lower than 2023’s numbers, but it still means that American highways aren’t always safe. That being said, are there certain times of the day when driving is more dangerous? Let’s take a look.

Coming Home After Work 

On average, fatal and non-fatal traffic accidents are most likely to occur in the late afternoon and early evening. In fact, a study of car accidents in Oklahoma City found the highest number of accidents occurred between 4:00 and 5:00 pm. This is when “rush hour” traffic is at its highest. It’s when most people are coming home from work, and many of them are tired, stressed out, and eager to get home and relax. They may be less attentive to their surroundings, and that can spell disaster when you consider the amount of traffic on the road.

Spring and Summer Driving

As for fatal car accidents, those seem to be more likely between the hours of 8 PM and 12 PM during the spring and summer months. Part of this is due to the large number of people coming home from work, but the accidents that occur later in the night can be attributed to decreased visibility and driver exhaustion. There are almost always more vehicles on the road during the warmer months, and drivers may be more confident in their driving ability when there’s no ice and snow on the ground. That leads to more reckless driving and more accidents, especially late at night.

The Most Dangerous Day of the Week

Saturday seems to be the most dangerous day of the week to drive. More people are out enjoying the weekend at all hours of the day, many of them may still be tired from working full-time jobs, and some of them may be under the influence of alcohol and other substances. While you shouldn’t be afraid to go out and enjoy a Saturday afternoon off from work, you do need to be more careful if you get behind the wheel, especially if you drive at night.

Driving Defensively and Staying Safe

Evenings and late nights are statistically the most dangerous times to drive, especially during the spring and summer, but traffic accidents can happen at any time. That doesn’t mean that you should be afraid to drive at all. You can keep yourself safe while on the road by driving defensively, keeping a safe distance from vehicles in front of you, and driving at manageable speeds at all times.

Why New Cars Are Safer, but Accidents Are Still Happening

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If you have shopped for a new vehicle lately, you have probably noticed how much safety technology is packed into even the most basic models. Automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and even blind-spot monitoring are no longer luxuries; they are actually standard features. When you look at statistics, these systems save lives. They are designed to reduce the chance of human error, and they work.

In California, there were nearly 4,500 traffic fatalities in 2022. If cars are safer than ever, why are traffic accidents still a leading cause of injury and death in the United States? The answer lies in a four-word problem that technology has not been able to solve: the increase in distracted driving.

Increase in Safer Vehicles on the Roads

Studies by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have consistently shown that features like automatic emergency braking and collision-avoidance systems reduce crash risk. Rear-end collisions, for example, drop significantly when vehicles have automatic emergency braking. Seatbelts and airbags are proven lifesavers, and modern vehicles are designed to have more damage in all the right places during impact. On paper, the data suggests we should be seeing far fewer accidents.

Unfortunately, that is not the case. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, while these systems reduce some kinds of collisions, they can’t do much if the driver is looking down at a phone instead of the road. In short, cars are smarter, but the people driving them are not necessarily driving smarter.

Distracted Driving: The Modern Epidemic

Distracted driving is one of the most dangerous trends out on the streets and highways, and it’s getting worse, not better. 

According to the National Safety Council, 3,275 people died in the U.S. in 2023 because of distracted driving. That comes out to nine people every single day, and that number doesn’t even include the hundreds of thousands of injuries caused by drivers who were texting, scrolling, or fiddling with touchscreens instead of watching traffic.

Though younger drivers are certainly at high risk, this is not just a teen problem. Studies show distracted driving happens throughout all age groups because phones and in-car technology have become as tempting as candy on the dashboard. Checking texts, setting navigation while in motion, or toggling through playlists are all dangerous and, in some cases, deadly.

The Irony of Technology

It is a cruel irony that the same technology that makes vehicles safer is also making them more distracting. Nearly every new car today comes with a touchscreen infotainment system. Interacting with those screens can pull a driver’s eyes off the road for up to five, ten, or even fifteen seconds. At 55 miles per hour, that is the length of a football field being traveled blind. 

The U.S. Department of Transportation has repeatedly warned that hands-free systems and voice commands don’t eliminate distraction; they only shift it from physical to cognitive, according to the NHTSA in 2024.

What it boils down to is the fact that drivers often overestimate their ability to multitask. Every second a driver is not fully focused, the risk of collision increases tremendously.

Safety Isn’t Enough Without Behavior Change

When it comes down to it, carmakers have delivered remarkable safety innovations, but human behavior is neutralizing those gains. Until distracted driving becomes as socially unacceptable as drunk driving, fatalities will keep piling up. The cars can’t save us from ourselves.

The solution will not come from gadgets alone. It will require tougher enforcement of distracted-driving laws, cultural shifts in how we view phone use on the road, and maybe even a push for automakers to rethink whether bigger, brighter infotainment systems are worth the tradeoff.

Vehicles may be safer, but the people behind the wheel still hold the power. The question is whether we will choose to use it responsibly.

Why Vehicle Wrapping is a Cost-Effective Advertising Solution in Las Vegas

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Las Vegas, NV, is one of the most competitive business hubs in the United States, where companies constantly seek innovative ways to reach potential customers. Among the various marketing strategies, vehicle wrapping has emerged as a highly effective, affordable, and visually impactful method of promoting brands. Unlike traditional advertising channels that require recurring payments, vehicle wrapping provides long-lasting exposure at a fraction of the cost. By investing in a professional vehicle wrapping service in Las Vegas, NV, businesses can turn their cars, trucks, or vans into moving billboards that attract thousands of impressions daily. In this blog, we will explore why vehicle wrapping stands out as a cost-effective marketing solution and why it is particularly effective in a vibrant city like Las Vegas.

The Power of High-Impact Visual Marketing

In a city as visually stimulating as Las Vegas, standing out is both challenging and essential. From towering billboards to flashy LED displays, businesses are constantly vying for attention. Vehicle wrapping provides an innovative edge by transforming ordinary vehicles into bold, mobile advertisements that capture eyeballs wherever they go. A full or partial wrap with vibrant designs, company logos, and persuasive calls-to-action creates an unforgettable visual identity that resonates with local consumers.

Unlike static billboards or digital ads, vehicle wraps naturally integrate into the daily flow of traffic, making them less intrusive and more engaging. As people commute, shop, or attend events, they are exposed to your brand repeatedly, strengthening brand recognition over time. A professionally designed vehicle wrapping service in Las Vegas, NV, ensures your vehicle doesn’t just blend in but makes a powerful statement that reflects your business’s quality and professionalism.

This approach also leverages the psychology of mobile advertising: moving objects naturally attract more attention than static ones. In a city with constant tourist traffic and a booming local population, vehicle wraps can generate thousands of organic impressions every single day without additional ad spend.

Cost Efficiency Compared to Traditional Advertising

One of the biggest advantages of investing in a vehicle wrapping service in Las Vegas, NV, is its affordability relative to other advertising methods. Traditional marketing strategies like TV commercials, radio spots, or billboard placements require recurring payments and often come with limited exposure times. For instance, a prime billboard on the Las Vegas Strip can cost thousands of dollars per month, yet your brand is locked to a single location with no guarantee of reaching your desired audience.

In contrast, vehicle wraps are a one-time investment that continues to deliver returns for years. Once installed, there are no recurring fees, no bidding wars for ad placements, and no need to worry about viewership decline. A high-quality wrap can last anywhere from three to seven years, making it an incredibly cost-effective marketing tool for small and medium-sized businesses.

Additionally, vehicle wraps allow businesses to bypass many of the unpredictable costs associated with digital advertising, such as fluctuating pay-per-click rates or constantly changing algorithms. Instead of chasing impressions online, companies can create a guaranteed physical presence that travels with their team across the city, increasing reach and reinforcing brand visibility wherever business takes them.

Localized Targeting for Maximum Exposure

Las Vegas is a city with a unique consumer landscape. It attracts millions of tourists each year while maintaining a thriving local community, making it essential for businesses to connect with diverse audiences. Vehicle wrapping provides a natural solution by placing your brand directly in front of people who are most likely to engage with your products or services.

For example, delivery vans, service vehicles, or company cars traveling through high-traffic areas like the Las Vegas Strip, Summerlin, or Henderson neighborhoods receive maximum exposure in regions where potential customers live, work, and shop. Unlike digital ads that may miss local demographics, vehicle wrapping focuses attention precisely where your audience is.

Furthermore, vehicle wrapping aligns perfectly with businesses that depend on mobility, such as real estate agencies, restaurants offering delivery, home service providers, and event companies. Each time your branded vehicle parks at a client’s location or drives through a busy intersection, it strengthens your presence in the community. A trusted vehicle wrapping service in Las Vegas, NV, can design and position your message strategically to ensure that you gain the highest level of local engagement.

Boosting Brand Authority and Trust

In competitive markets like Las Vegas, branding goes beyond logos and slogans—it’s about establishing authority and trust. A professionally wrapped vehicle sends a powerful message about your business: you are established, reputable, and invested in your image. When potential customers see your well-designed wrap, they are more likely to view your business as credible and reliable.

This visual branding also creates consistency across your marketing channels. When combined with other strategies such as social media campaigns or local sponsorships, vehicle wraps act as a physical extension of your digital brand identity. For service-based companies, a wrapped fleet of vehicles demonstrates professionalism and reliability, often influencing purchase decisions subconsciously.

Moreover, businesses that utilize vehicle wraps often report increased inbound inquiries, as potential customers are more likely to reach out when they see a polished, trustworthy representation of the brand in their community. Investing in a quality vehicle wrapping service in Las Vegas, NV, ensures that your designs are sharp, durable, and aligned with your broader marketing objectives.

Longevity and Return on Investment

For any marketing strategy to be considered cost-effective, it must offer a strong return on investment (ROI), and vehicle wrapping excels in this area. High-quality wraps are designed using durable materials that withstand harsh weather conditions, including the intense Nevada sun. This means businesses can expect their wraps to remain vibrant and intact for years, maximizing visibility without requiring additional investment.

When calculating ROI, it’s important to consider cost per impression. With traditional advertising, every view comes at a price, and once the campaign ends, so does its visibility. Vehicle wrapping, however, continues to work around the clock. Whether your vehicle is parked in a busy shopping center, cruising down the Strip, or driving through residential neighborhoods, it’s constantly generating impressions without adding to your marketing expenses.

Additionally, because vehicle wraps are mobile, they often outperform static billboards in terms of exposure. A single wrapped vehicle can easily reach tens of thousands of people each month, making it one of the most efficient advertising solutions for small and large businesses alike. Partnering with an experienced vehicle wrapping service in Las Vegas, NV, ensures your investment is maximized through expert design, installation, and maintenance, guaranteeing years of reliable brand visibility.

Conclusion

Vehicle wrapping offers an unparalleled advertising solution by combining visual impact, affordability, localized targeting, and long-lasting returns. Unlike traditional advertising, which often drains budgets without guaranteeing results, vehicle wraps deliver continuous exposure and brand recognition at a fraction of the cost.

A professional vehicle wrapping service in Las Vegas, NV, can transform your fleet into powerful marketing tools that work for you 24/7. Whether your goal is to attract local customers, impress tourists, or simply strengthen your brand’s presence, vehicle wrapping provides a proven pathway to success. For businesses looking to maximize their marketing budget while maintaining a high level of visibility, vehicle wrapping stands out as one of the smartest investments available in today’s advertising landscape.

JR Motorsports — NXS Bristol Motor Speedway Preview

JR Motorsports Xfinity Team Preview
TRACK – Bristol Motor Speedway (0.533-mile short track)
NXS RACE – Food City 300 (300 laps / 159.9 miles)
TUNE IN – CW, PRN, SiriusXM Channel 90 at 7:30 p.m. (ET)

Carson Kvapil

No. 1 – Bass Pro Shops / Clarience Technologies Chevrolet

Kvapil 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 26

Wins: 0

Top 5s: 5

Top 10s: 12

Laps Led: 64

Avg. Finish: 14.3

Points: 9th

Kicking off the NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs, Carson Kvapil will make his second start at Bristol Motor Speedway on Friday night.

In his one previous start at “The Last Great Colosseum,” Kvapil maintained position in the top-10 throughout the majority of the race and took the checkered flag in second.

In four career NXS starts on short tracks, the 22-year-old rookie has two top-five and three top-10 finishes, with his best finish of second coming at Bristol this Spring.

Kvapil enters the NXS Playoffs as the ninth seed with three races remaining in the Round of 12.

Carson Kvapil

“Last weekend definitely did not go how we planned, but we are putting that behind us and focusing all of our attention to the playoffs. This No. 1 team brought me a fast piece to Bristol in the spring, so I know we will have that same speed when we unload on Friday. Making it to the playoffs is a huge accomplishment, but we plan to keep up the intensity and hopefully finish one spot better than we did last time. I can’t thank Johnny Morris and everyone at Bass Pro Shops and Clarience Technologies enough for their support this season and I am ready to get them the finish they deserve.”

Justin Allgaier

No. 7 BRANDT Professional Agriculture / Precision Build Chevrolet

Allgaier 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 26

Wins: 3

Top 5s: 12

Top 10s: 15

Laps Led: 723

Avg. Finish: 13.2

Points: 2nd

Justin Allgaier heads into the opening race in the Round of 12 for the NXS Playoffs as the second seed, 30 points above the cutline with three races remaining in the round.

In 25 career starts at Bristol in the NXS, Allgaier has scored two wins including his first career win in 2010, 12 top fives and 16 top 10s.

According to NASCAR’s Loop Data Statistics, Allgaier currently ranks first among all drivers in the NXS in laps led (1,183), quality passes (577) and laps run inside the top 15 (5,974) at Bristol.

Additionally, Allgaier’s 1,183 laps led at the “World’s Fastest Half Mile” rank first among all tracks the JRM driver has competed on in the NXS.

Justin Allgaier

“I love racing at Bristol. It’s a track that has always seemed to suit my driving style. We’ve always had really strong Chevrolets here and I know this BRANDT Professional Agriculture / Precision Build team will bring another one to the track this Friday night. The playoffs are here and we know what sits right in front of us. We just need to go out and do what we know we are capable of to put us in the best place to advance into the next round. We’re ready to go.”

Sammy Smith

No. 8 Pilot Chevrolet

Smith 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 26

Wins: 1

Top 5s: 5

Top 10s: 13

Laps Led: 62

Avg. Finish: 14.7

Points: 6th

Sammy Smith heads to Bristol for the fifth time in his NXS career on Friday evening. Of his four previous starts, he has tallied one top-five and two top-10 finishes with his best of fourth coming this past Spring.

In 14 starts on short tracks in the NXS, Smith has five top-five and nine top-10 finishes, with an average finish of 9.4.

Smith is a previous winner Bristol, taking the checkered flag from the pole in dominating fashion in 2022 in the ARCA Menards Series.

Smith sits as the sixth seed on the NXS Playoffs grid, four points above the cutline heading into the first race of the Round of 12.

Sammy Smith

“I’m looking forward to going back to Bristol this weekend. We’ve had good runs there in the past and hopefully that will help us get the momentum rolling as we kickstart the playoffs. I’m grateful to have the support of Pilot, TMC and Allstate Peterbilt as we work to get this No. 8 Chevrolet in Victory Lane again and move on in the Playoffs.”

Connor Zilisch

No. 88 WeatherTech Chevrolet

Zilisch 2025 NXS Stats

Starts: 25

Wins: 9

Top 5s: 15

Top 10s: 17

Laps Led: 750

Avg. Finish: 8.5

Points: 1st

Connor Zilisch enters the first race of the NXS Playoffs Friday night at Bristol as the top seed. Zilisch has a 29-point edge over second-place Justin Allgaier and is 59 points ahead of the cutline with three races remaining in the Round of 12.

Zilisch will be making his second NXS start at Bristol on Friday night. Earlier this season he started second and scored a 12th-place finish, completing all 300 laps of the race. The driver of the No. 88 WeatherTech Chevrolet competed in both the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and ARCA Menards Series races at Bristol in 2024, winning the pole position in both races at the 0.533-mile track. The pole was his second in both Truck and ARCA series competition.

Zilisch won his fourth consecutive NXS race this past weekend at World Wide Technology Raceway. The 19-year old joins Sam Ard (1983) and Noah Gragson (2022) for most consecutive NXS victories in a single season.

Last weekends win was also the ninth victory of the season for Zilisch. He has won seven of the last eight NXS races dating back to his victory at Sonoma Raceway in July. He also has extended the record for wins by a rookie.

Zilisch used his victory at WWTR to clinch the 2025 NXS Regular Season championship, edging teammate Allgaier by 53 points for the honor. The No. 88 team enters the Playoffs with 34-point lead in the owner standings.

Connor Zilisch

“This No. 88 team has been on a run this year and four wins in a row is a rare feat, but we aren’t going to take any of that for granted going into the playoffs. Mardy (Lindley, crew chief), my whole team and my pit crew continue to execute every week and we don’t plan on turning down the intensity anytime soon. It has been awesome to have the success we have had this season and we plan to unload another fast WeatherTech Chevrolet this Friday.”

JRM Team Updates

JR Motorsports at Bristol Motor Speedway: JR Motorsports has competed at Bristol Motor Speedway a combined 102 times in the NXS since 2006. In those starts at the 0.533-mile short-track oval, the organization has recorded four wins, 28 top-five and 62 top-10s. The average finish is 12.4.

Record-Breaking Season for JRM: With the win last weekend at World Wide Technology Raceway, JR Motorsports has surpassed its single-season record for wins with 16. The previous mark of 15 was set in 2022.

Souvenir Rig: JRM drivers Carson Kvapil, Justin Allgaier, Sammy Smith and Connor Zilisch will be signing autographs at the JR Motorsports / HMS-Byron/Bowman souvenir rig on Friday, Sept. 12 from 12:15 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. ET.

TOP FUEL POINTS LEADER TONY STEWART READY FOR PLAYOFF PUSH STARTING AT NHRA READING NATIONALS PRESENTED BY NITRO FISH

READING, Pa. (Sept. 10, 2025) – Heading into this weekend’s 40th annual NHRA Reading Nationals presented by Nitro Fish at Maple Grove Raceway, racing legend Tony Stewart has already enjoyed several firsts this year.

There was the first career Top Fuel win in Las Vegas (followed by a second win in Chicago), a first No. 1 qualifier, leading the points for the first time and winning the first NHRA regular-season championship.

But there’s still two big firsts Stewart could still accomplish this year – a win in the Countdown to the Championship playoffs and, ultimately, a Top Fuel world title. The first – a playoff victory – could happen this weekend at the historic track, which would put Stewart in a strong position to continue to contend for a championship in his 12,000-horsepower Dodge//Direct Connection dragster.

As the playoffs start this weekend at Maple Grove Raceway, Stewart already knows how important every moment is from this point on.

“Literally, every time you tow that car to the line, it matters,” Stewart said. “We have to treat it like it’s a round of eliminations. Whatever points are available, we just have to go out and get them. The attention to detail matters even more than it normally does. Crew guys double-checking each other’s work, crew chiefs reminding us about spots on the racetrack, all those little fine details absolutely matter the most in these last six weeks. These last six weeks, we’re all just going to fight our guts out trying to get everything we can get, because we know how much it matters.”

Last season, Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Austin Prock (Funny Car), Aaron Stanfield (Pro Stock) and Hector Arana Jr. (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all claimed wins in their respective categories, with Brown and Prock finishing the season as world champions. The race will again be broadcast on FS1, including eliminations at 2 p.m. ET on Sunday.

It is the 15th of 20 races during the 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season and the first of six events in the Countdown to the Championship. Starting at Maple Grove Raceway means everyone must be on their game at what is repeatedly one of the quickest and fastest tracks on the NHRA circuit.

The intensity and excitement at the legendary facility will be noticeable, too, and Stewart is confident he and his team will be ready. Of course, he’ll also have to contend with the likes of past champs Shawn Langdon, Doug Kalitta, Brittany Force and Steve Torrence, and reigning world champion Antron Brown.

But the moment and the opportunity has Stewart excited and he’s prepared to battle with the elite in Top Fuel as the championship race starts in Reading and plays out over the next six races.

“We’ve got guys that are turning the wrenches and twisting the knobs on the cars, and ultimately in more control of the cars than we are at this point,” Stewart said. “So, we’re all doing our jobs, and it’s just a matter of trying to put together six really good weekends in a row and knowing that if you stub your toe, you just have to rebound from it and get the guys focused on the next opportunity.

“Hopefully, by the time we get to Pomona at the end of the season, we’re in a position to be fighting for this thing. You don’t care how you get there, you just care that at the end of the day they’re giving you the big check and the big trophy.”

Funny Car’s Prock has been dominant again in 2025, winning seven races – and the regular-season championship – thus far. He’s back for a repeat win and a repeat championship for John Force Racing, but Prock will be challenged by a host of standouts, including teammate Jack Beckman, four-time champ Matt Hagan, Ron Capps, J.R. Todd, Paul Lee and Daniel Wilkerson.

Stanfield will attempt for back-to-back Pro Stock wins against a loaded group that features reigning world champ Greg Anderson, points leader Dallas Glenn, six-time world champ and Indy winner Erica Enders and Jeg Coughlin Jr., a five-time champ.

In Pro Stock Motorcycle, Gaige Herrera is the current points leader, while other top names include Matt Smith, a three-time Reading winner, Angie Smith, Richard Gadson, Chase Van Sant, Steve Johnson and John Hall.

The event will also feature thrilling competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown, Holley EFI Factory X and Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage Mountain Motor Pro Stock.

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

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

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying features two rounds at 2:30 and 5 p.m. ET on Friday, Sept. 12 and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, Sept. 13 at 12:30 and 3 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11 a.m. ET on Sunday, Sept. 14. Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 12 p.m. ET on Sunday on FS1, and eliminations at 2 p.m. Sunday on FS1.

To purchase tickets to the 40th annual NHRA Reading Nationals presented by Nitro Fish at Maple Grove Raceway, fans can visit www.maplegroveraceway.com. All children 12 and under are admitted free in the general admission area with a paid adult. For more information on the NHRA, please visit www.NHRA.com.


About Mission Foods

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

About NHRA

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

Greg Van Alst Returns to Bristol Motor Speedway with New NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series Team

BRISTOL, Tenn.: Veteran race car driver Greg Van Alst will return to Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway for Thursday night’s NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series showdown, aiming to deliver a thunderous performance in the UNOH 250 presented by Ohio Logistics.

Bristol will mark the second NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series start for the newly established Greg Van Alst Motorsports team, as the group looks to continue laying the foundation following its debut at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in July.

In that debut, Van Alst rolled off deep in the field but steadily worked through the learning curve with his No. 35 Top Choice Fence Toyota Tundra.

By staying out of trouble and picking up the pace as the laps clicked away, the Anderson, Ind. native brought home a respectable 28th-place finish in the TSport 200.

For the former Daytona ARCA Menards Series winner, the night wasn’t about results — it was about taking the first step as an owner-driver.

Now, heading into the high banks of Thunder Valley, Van Alst is focused on progress and building momentum with each lap turned.

“Indianapolis was all about learning for us,” said Van Alst. “We knew going in that there would be a lot of unknowns with a brand-new team, but I was proud of how we kept our heads down and made gains throughout the race.

“Now going to Bristol, the goal is to take what we learned and keep improving every time we hit the track.”

Van Alst is no stranger to the famed “World’s Fastest Half Mile.”

From his Super Late Model days to an impressive top-five performance in the ARCA Menards Series, a Truck Series start with Young’s Motorsports, and most recently, a pair of NASCAR Xfinity Series appearances at the 0.533-mile concrete oval, the 44-year-old veteran has built a wealth of experience at Bristol.

He’ll lean on that diverse background this week as he prepares to tackle 250 laps that will kick off in the late afternoon and roar into the night under the Bristol lights.

“Bristol is just one of those places that grabs your attention the moment you roll through the gates,” said Van Alst.

“I’ve raced here in different cars and different series, and every time it’s intense. Starting in the daylight and finishing under the lights adds to the atmosphere.

“It’s a place where experience really matters and I’m excited to put everything I’ve learned over the years to work in the Truck Series with my own race team.”

Gearing up for a few more selected NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series starts this season, Van Alst is focused on the long game.

For 2025, the priority is building the team’s notebook, learning the ins and outs of the series, and laying the groundwork for a more diverse and ambitious schedule in 2026.

“We definitely want to have a good performance on Thursday night,” added Van Alst.

“With more races under our belt, our equipment will continue to improve, and that will help us reach the goal of becoming a steady and competitive race team.

“We have high hopes for Thursday night, but we’re also focused on handling what we can control.”

For his return to Thunder Valley this week, Van Alst is proud to welcome back the support of Phil’s Heating and Air, which has reunited with him as a partner for the 20th race of the 2025 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series schedule.

Phil’s Heating and Air has been in business since 2017, but Phil has been in the HVAC business for over 30 years.

They serve Johnson City, Jonesborough, Gray, Kingsport, Bristol, Elizabethton, Erwin, Piney Flats and the entire tri-cities area.

“It means a lot to have the support of Phil’s Heating and Air this week at Bristol,” said Van Alst. “They have been a great partner of mine, and I think our No. 35 Phil’s Heating and Air Toyota Tundra looks awesome. I’m ready to race and bring them home a solid finish.”

Van Alst has reunited with his championship-winning crew chief, Kevin Shannon, from his CRA | ARCA days, bringing familiarity and proven chemistry to the No. 35 Toyota team as they prepare for another Truck Series start.

“Having Kevin back on top of the box at Bristol means a lot to me,” said Van Alst. “We’ve had a lot of success together over the years, and that trust and communication is something you just can’t manufacture.

“Taking that experience into a place as challenging as Bristol gives us confidence and a solid foundation to keep building on in the Truck Series.”

Van Alst’s company, Top Choice Fence, will join Phil’s Heating and Air for his seventh career Truck Series start; however, Greg Van Alst Motorsports continues to actively seek additional marketing partners to join forces with his team as he builds toward the future.

The 2023 Daytona ARCA winner began the 2025 season competing part-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with Joey Gase Motorsports with Scott Osteen. After eight starts, Van Alst opted to step back and reset his racing schedule for the remainder of the year.

He plans to return to Xfinity Series competition later this season, with details of his next start to be announced.

For more on Greg Van Alst and Greg Van Alst Motorsports, please visit GregVanAlst.com, like them on Facebook (Van Alst Motorsports) and follow him on X | Twitter (@GregVanAlst35).

The UNOH 250 presented by Ohio Logistics (250 laps | 133.25 miles) serves as the 20th of 25 races on the 2025 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series schedule. The week features a quick one-day show, beginning with two 25-minute group practice sessions on Saturday, September 11, from 3:05 to 4:00 p.m. ET, followed immediately by qualifying at 4:10 p.m. ET to set the 36-truck starting field. The field will take the green flag shortly after 8:30 p.m. with live coverage on FOX Sports 1, the NASCAR Racing Network (Radio) and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90.

AM Racing | Harrison Burton Bristol Motor Speedway September Xfinity Race Preview

AM Racing | NASCAR Xfinity Series
Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway | Food City 300

Fast Facts

No. 25 AM Racing Team:
Driver: Harrison Burton
Primary Partner(s): AirBox
Manufacturer: Ford Mustang
Crew Chief: Danny Efland
Spotter: Kevin Hamlin
Chassis Intel: AMR Chassis No. 077
Engine: Roush-Yates Engines
2025 Driver Points Position: 11th | 2025 Owner Points Position: 13th

Notes of Interest:

● Junior Journey: AM Racing will embark on its junior year journey in the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2025 with driver Harrison Burton for the entire 33-race tour, continuing with Friday night’s running of the Food City 300 at Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway.

● Future Focused: In September 2024, AM Racing announced that NASCAR Cup Series winner Harrison Burton would join the family-owned operation to pilot the team’s No. 25 Ford Mustang, beginning with the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season-opener from Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway on February 15, 2025.

Burton, a native of Huntersville, N.C., has been a staple in the NASCAR Cup Series for the past three seasons but will embrace a return to the NASCAR Xfinity Series and continue his relationship as a driver of the Ford blue oval.

Burton, 24, arrives on the scene at AM Racing after a 108-race stint driving for the historic Wood Brothers Racing team.

● Welcome Back, AirBox!: Long-time AM Racing partner AirBox will increase its partnership with Harrison Burton and AM Racing and serve as the team’s primary partner for the series’ return to Bristol Motor Speedway for the second time during the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season.

Founded in 2017, AirBox, the industry leader in commercial indoor air quality (IAQ) solutions, is delivering healthier indoor environments through advanced air purification.

AirBox specializes in implementing ASHRAE’s performance-based ventilation (IAQP), enabling clients to achieve significant energy savings while meeting high standards for occupant health and wellness.

Their High-Volume Air Purifiers (HVPs), manufactured in North Carolina, combine Certified HEPA and Advanced Molecular Adsorbent technologies with IAQ Verification Testing and expert engineering and analytical science support to provide a turnkey approach.

With a proven track record and unmatched expertise, AirBox continues to lead the way in creating safer, healthier indoor environments for all.

The 27th race of the season marks the fifth time AirBox has held the primary role with the family-owned team this season.

In addition to Bristol Motor Speedway, their livery was showcased at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in June, followed by Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway, Watkins Glen (N.Y.) International last month and most recently the road course race at Portland International Raceway on August 30.

● Welcome to the Xfinity Series Playoffs!: With their finish in last Saturday night’s NASCAR Xfinity Series race at World Wide Technology (Ill.) Raceway, Harrison Burton and AM Racing secured the final berth in the NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs, clinching the 12th and last remaining spot for the seven-race dash to the Championship 4 at Phoenix (Ariz.) Raceway in early November.

Burton held strong under pressure, fending off late challenges from his cousin Jeb Burton as well as Xfinity Series contenders William Sawalich and Christian Eckes — each of whom was eager to shake up the Playoff grid.

Heading to the Round of 12 opener in Thunder Valley, Burton is seeded 11th in the Playoff standings, just three points below the cutline in eighth, currently occupied by Taylor Gray.

The opening round of the Xfinity Series Playoffs consists of The Last Great Colosseum at Bristol, two weeks at Kansas Speedway and the final road course event of the year at the Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway ROVAL on Saturday, October 4.

No matter what unfolds over the seven-race Playoff stretch to the checkered flag in November, Burton is locked into a top-12 finish in the championship standings.

After the completion of all 33 events on the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series schedule, the AM Racing driver will stand no worse than 12th in the final points.

This marks the first time AM Racing has advanced into the NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs. The organization launched its full-time Xfinity Series program in 2023 and, in just its third season of competition, has earned the opportunity to contend for a championship.

● Double Duty: It’s a busy weekend for Harrison Burton. No, he won’t be behind the wheel in Saturday night’s NASCAR Cup Series Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway.

Instead, Burton is heading back to his short-track roots, set to compete in the zMAX CARS Tour Late Model Stock Car event at South Boston (Va.) Speedway on Saturday night.

He’ll pilot the No. 51 Ford for Rick Ware Racing, returning to the series where he’s already left his mark.

Burton is no stranger to success in the CARS Tour, claiming victory in the 2017 season opener at Concord Speedway while driving the No. 12 DEX Imaging Toyota.

Now, with additional experience across NASCAR’s top three national series, Burton is eager to showcase his skills in a high-profile Late Model showdown.

Earlier this season, Burton, 24, reunited with Rick Ware Racing to compete in the 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway.

He earned eligibility for the prestigious event after capturing his first NASCAR Cup Series victory at Daytona International Speedway in August 2024 — a landmark triumph that also delivered Wood Brothers Racing their milestone 100th win.

● Harrison Burton NASCAR Xfinity Series Bristol Motor Speedway Stats: Friday night’s Food City 300 at Bristol Motor Speedway marks Burton’s sixth Xfinity Series start at the “World’s Fastest Half-Mile.”

Burton has delivered two top-five and four top-10 finishes in his previous five starts.

He earned a track-best of fourth twice, most recently in the fall 2020 edition of the Food City 300 after starting sixth for Joe Gibbs Racing.

Additionally, Burton carries an average Xfinity track finish of 10.2.

Earlier this season, Burton qualified his No. 25 DEX Imaging Ford Mustang 10th for the Sci-Apps 300 but experienced a flat tire in the opening laps of the race, forcing the team to make an unscheduled pit stop.

Strategy never worked in the team’s favor to recover, and they left the 0.533-mile oval with a frustrating 26th-place finish.

Also, the Huntersville, N.C. native has four NASCAR Cup Series starts at Bristol, delivering a track-best of 16th after starting 27th in the 2022 edition of the BASS Pro Shops NRA Night Race, driving for Wood Brothers Racing.

Burton, the second-generation racer, also has two NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series starts at Bristol Motor Speedway.

● Harrison Burton NASCAR Xfinity Series Career Stats: Entering Bristol, Burton has 101 career NASCAR Xfinity Series starts to his credit with four wins, 28 top-five and 58 top-10 finishes, and a championship-best result of eighth, twice in 2020 and 2021, respectively.

Burton’s four wins in the NASCAR Xfinity Series occurred during the 2020 season. Burton, the son of former NASCAR driver and current television analyst Jeff Burton, captured the checkered flag at Auto Club (Calif.) Speedway, Homestead-Miami (Fla.) Speedway, Texas Motor Speedway and Martinsville (Va.) Speedway, respectively.

Burton maintains a solid Xfinity Series average finishing position of 12.5 in four years of competition.

In addition to the 100 Xfinity Series starts, he has achieved 109 NASCAR Cup Series starts, 40 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series starts and 52 career starts across the ARCA Menards Series platforms.

● World Wide Technology Raceway at Gateway | Nu Way 200 Sauced by Blues Hog Race Recap: The NASCAR Xfinity Series journeyed to World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Ill., for its regular-season finale — a pivotal night contested within sight of the iconic Gateway Arch.

For Harrison Burton and the AM Racing team, the mission was clear: secure a berth in the NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs.

After struggling with the balance of their No. 25 DEX Imaging | Dead On Tools Ford Mustang during Friday’s practice, the team rebounded in qualifying, posting the sixth-quickest lap overall.

When the green flag waved, Burton worked to maintain a top-10 pace, but handling issues saw him slip back through the field, clinging to a top-20 effort at the conclusion of Stage 1.

Through the middle stages of the race, Burton managed the ill-handling Mustang and kept his cousin, Jeb Burton, within sight — a key benchmark in protecting his margin for the final Playoff spot.

That battle shifted dramatically when Jeb Burton suffered a tire failure and made contact with the wall, ending his Playoff hopes.

Harrison Burton was collected in the ensuing caution after another competitor spun him.

Fortunately, his Ford Mustang avoided serious damage. Despite restarting on scuffed tires, Burton methodically worked his way back through the pack, ultimately bringing home a resilient 22nd-place finish.

Meanwhile, withstanding late-race charges from William Sawalich and Christian Eckes, it was Connor Zilisch who prevailed at the finish line.

His triumph not only denied both drivers a chance to claim their first career Xfinity Series victory but also prevented a shakeup in the Playoff standings that could have altered Harrison Burton’s path to the postseason.

For Burton and AM Racing, however, the finish was enough to lock themselves into the NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs for the first time in team history.

● Thanks For Your Support: With 78 percent of the 2025 Xfinity season complete, AM Racing and Harrison Burton would like to thank their partners for their continued support: AIRBOX Air Purifier, Blue Wolf Cleaner & Degreasers, Dead On Tools, DEX Imaging, Eagle Rentals, Flying Circle, Mechanix Wear, Morton Buildings, Racing Radios, Volt Batteries and WIX Filters.

● From the Pit Box: Veteran race engineer and former NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Danny Efland is Harrison Burton’s crew chief.

He will serve as crew chief for his 31st career NASCAR Xfinity Series race — and his second race at Bristol Motor Speedway in a leadership role on Friday night.

In his previous 30 Xfinity Series starts, he has collected one pole (Daytona International Speedway | February 2016), three top-five and 10 top-10 finishes.

● AM Racing NASCAR Xfinity Series Overview at Bristol Motor Speedway: This weekend’s Food City 300 will mark AM Racing’s fourth-career NASCAR Xfinity Series appearance at Bristol Motor Speedway.

In the team’s three previous outings on the half-mile oval, their best track performance came in 2023 when Brett Moffitt charged from a 36th-place starting position to finish 16th under the lights.

Collectively, AM Racing holds an average finish of 23.0 in its Bristol Xfinity efforts.

On tracks shorter than one mile in length, the Statesville, N.C.-based organization has logged 12 Xfinity Series starts, highlighted by one top-five and two top-10 finishes, with an average result of 20.3.

● Follow on Social Media: For more on AM Racing, please visit AMRacingteam.com, like their Facebook page (AM Racing), or follow them on Instagram and X | Twitter @AMRacingNASCAR.

For more on Harrison Burton, please visit theharrisonburton.com, like his Facebook page (Official Harrison Burton), or follow him on Instagram (@harrisonburton12) and X | Twitter (@hburtonracing).

Harrison Burton Quoteboard:

On Bristol Motor Speedway: “I’m really looking forward to getting back to Bristol this weekend. The spring race there didn’t go the way we wanted, and Gateway was another tough one, even though we were able to lock ourselves into the Playoffs.

“That’s why this race feels like a real shot at redemption for our team. Bristol is such a demanding track, but it’s also one of the most exciting places we go.

“Under the lights, with everything on the line in the Playoffs, I feel like we have a chance to bounce back and really show the strength of this No. 25 AM Racing team.”

On Keys to Success at Bristol Motor Speedway: “Bristol is all about balance, patience and track position. You’ve got to have a car that rotates the center well but still has the drive off the corner to keep pace on long runs.

“At the same time, it’s such a tight track that you have to be smart with traffic and avoid mistakes, because things can happen fast.

“If we can qualify up front, keep ourselves in clean air, and make good adjustments throughout the night, I think we’ll have a chance to be in the mix when it counts.”

On Expectations for Bristol Motor Speedway: “Our expectations for Bristol are simple — go out, execute and put ourselves in a position to compete.

“We know it’s the Playoffs now, and every stage point and every finish matters. We also know Bristol can be unpredictable, so we have to control what we can, stay out of trouble and maximize our night.

“If we do that, I believe we can come away with a result that keeps us moving forward in the Round of 12 and builds momentum for the rest of this Playoff run.”

On Making the NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs with AM Racing: “Making the Playoffs means a lot to me personally, but even more so for everyone at AM Racing and for our marketing partners and everyone at Ford Racing.

“This is the team’s third year in the Xfinity Series, and to already be a Playoff contender shows how much progress has been made in a short amount of time. I’m proud to be the driver who gets to represent them on this stage.

“Ford has been behind me throughout my career, and being able to carry the Blue Oval into the postseason is something I don’t take for granted.

“Now the goal is to keep building on this and show what we’re capable of over these next seven weeks.”

On World Wide Technology Raceway at Gateway Finish: “We knew coming into Gateway that the pressure was on to make the Playoffs, and honestly, it wasn’t the smoothest night for us.

“We fought the balance of our Mustang all weekend and had to grind it out to stay in the game. Getting spun and having to come back through the field wasn’t ideal, but the guys never gave up and we kept fighting for every spot.

“At the end of the day, the result wasn’t pretty, but it was enough to get AM Racing into the Xfinity Series Playoffs for the first time, and that’s something we’re proud of.

“Now the focus is on resetting and seeing what we can do over these next seven weeks.”

On CARS Tour Race at South Boston Speedway: “I’m really looking forward to getting back into the CARS Tour this weekend at South Boston.

“That series was such a big part of my development, and it’s where I learned a lot about racing against some of the toughest Late Model drivers in the country.

“Coming back now with more experience in NASCAR, it’s exciting to measure myself again in this environment. I’m thankful to Rick Ware Racing for giving me this opportunity and can’t wait to get after it on Saturday night and have some fun.”

Race Information:

The Food City 300 (300 laps | 159.9 miles) is the 27th of thirty-three (33) races on the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series schedule. Group practice is set for Friday, September 12, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 2:55 p.m. ET, with qualifying immediately following at 3:05 p.m. ET. The 38-car field will take the green flag shortly after 7:30 p.m. ET, with live coverage on The CW Network, the Performance Racing Network (Radio) and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. All times are Eastern.

About AM Racing:

AM Racing is a multi-tiered, multi-faceted Motorsports program headquartered in Statesville, N.C.

Established in December 2015, AM Racing is prided on faith, honesty and intelligent performance.

In its ninth year of competition, the family-owned team will compete in the ARCA Menards Series, the NASCAR Xfinity Series and various Dirt Modified events.

Young’s Motorsports Bristol Motor Speedway September Team Preview

Young’s Motorsports | NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series
Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway | UNOH 250

Fast Facts

No. 02 Young’s Motorsports Team:
Driver: Treyten Lapcevich
Primary Partner(s): Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship
Manufacturer: Chevrolet Silverado RST
Crew Chief: Jason Miller
2025 Driver Points Position: N/A
2025 Owner Points Position: 29th
Engine: Ilmor Racing Technologies

Notes of Interest:

● Welcome to Young’s Motorsports: Continuing to be a home for grooming talent and offering experience in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series, Young’s Motorsports welcomes Treyten Lapcevich, who will be behind the wheel of its flagship No. 02 Chevrolet Silverado RST for Thursday night’s UNOH 250 presented by Ohio Logistics at Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway.

Lapcevich will be the seventh driver to pilot the team’s No. 02 Chevrolet Silverado this week in Thunder Valley.

He will join Ben Maier as the two drivers to make their NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series debut in 2025 with the Mooresville, N.C.-based team.

● About Treyten: Canadian rising star Treyten Lapcevich is quickly making his mark across North American stock car racing. The Grimsby, Ontario native, born April 6, 2004, grew up in a racing family — his father Jeff and brother Cayden both established racers, with Cayden capturing the 2016 NASCAR Canada Series champion.

Lapcevich, 21, burst onto the scene in the NASCAR Canada Series in 2020, finishing second in his debut at Sunset Speedway. He went on to secure multiple victories and, in 2023, captured the series championship with seven wins —making the Lapcevich brothers the first siblings to both claim the series’ titles.

Expanding his career south of the border in 2025, Lapcevich debuted in the ARCA Menards Series, where he showcased his talent immediately. Driving for Nitro Motorsports at Berlin (Mich.) Raceway in Marne, Michigan, he claimed the pole position and led every lap en route to victory, marking his first ARCA win in only his second start.

Beyond his on-track accomplishments, Lapcevich is also a dedicated sim racer and the 2024 South Carolina 400 winner, continuing to sharpen his craft across Pro and Super Late Model competition.

With momentum and versatility, he stands as one of the next excellent Canadian prospects rising through the NASCAR ranks.

● All Board: For the 20th of 25 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series races this season, Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship will serve as the primary marketing for Thursday night’s 250-lap race.

Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) is the first promotion allowed to hold a legal, sanctioned, and regulated bare knuckle event in the United States since 1889.

Based in Philadelphia, and headed by president and former professional boxer David Feldman, BKFC is dedicated to preserving the historical legacy of bare knuckle fighting, while utilizing a specifically created rule set that emphasizes fighter safety.

BKFC holds all of its bouts in a revolutionary circular four-rope ring, designed to encourage fast-paced and exciting bouts.

The patented BKFC “Squared Circle” contains scratch lines, based on the Broughton Rules, which governed bare knuckle fighting in the 19th century, and which requires fighters to “Toe the Line”: start every round face to face, and just inches apart.

In BKFC, only those fighters who are established professionals in boxing, MMA, kickboxing, or Muay Thai are allowed to compete. The referees and judges are required to have extensive professional combat sports experience.

All fights are held under the auspices and control of an Athletic Commission. Unlike other fighting organizations and combat sports internationally, which claim to be “bare knuckle” but require wraps, tape, and gauze, BKFC is true to its word, as fighters are not allowed to wrap their hands to within one inch of the knuckle. This makes BKFC unquestionably the truest form of bare knuckle fighting.

BKFC is dedicated to not just creating the safest, most exciting, and highest-level bare-knuckle fighting organization in the world, it’s also leading the way for a new fully recognized professional combat sport. BKFC is truly the sport of the future, which fully respects its remarkable past.

Learn more at bkfc.com

● Treyten Lapcevich Truck Series Bristol Motor Speedway Stats: Thursday night’s UNOH 250 at Bristol Motor Speedway will mark Lapcevich’s inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series start at one of the most historic tracks on the series schedule.

After a weekend off, the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series returns to action under the lights at Bristol Motor Speedway, where Playoff contenders chase valuable points and every other team looks to play spoiler and seize the spotlight.

The 0.533-mile high-banked concrete oval — known worldwide as “The Last Great Colosseum” — provides one of the most intense settings on the schedule.

Thursday night’s UNOH 250 presented by Ohio Logistics places championship hopefuls and challengers alike in the ultimate pressure cooker, where every lap is a fight for track position and survival.

With the regular season complete and the Round of 10 underway, Bristol represents a pivotal stop in the championship chase.

The half-mile’s tight confines and unforgiving walls demand precision and patience, yet reward boldness in traffic.

Tire management, rhythm through lapped traffic and even pit strategy can dictate who emerges unscathed from the chaos.

While the Playoff drivers battle for points and advancement, non-Playoff entries like Young’s Motorsports stand ready to disrupt the picture.

A Bristol victory remains one of the most coveted trophies in the Truck Series — a career-defining moment under the lights at NASCAR’s “World’s Fastest Half Mile.”

As the intensity ratchets up and 250 laps unfold before a raucous Tennessee crowd, the 2025 postseason continues with the trademark unpredictability and drama that Bristol can deliver.

● Treyten Lapcevich Truck Series Career Stats: Bristol Motor Speedway hosts Lapcevich’s debut in NASCAR’s national series ranks, marking a new chapter for one of Canada’s brightest young racing prospects.

Calling the Shots: Guiding Lapcevich as crew chief of the No. 02 Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship Chevrolet Silverado RST is veteran crew chief Jason Miller.

On Thursday night, he will be the crew chief in his 153rd NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series race. In his previous 152 races, he has one win, eight top-five and 28 top-10 finishes.

The season’s 20th race will be his seventh tango at Bristol Motor Speedway as crew chief in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series.

● Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series at Bristol Motor Speedway: This weekend will mark Young’s Motorsports’ 26th and 27th NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series starts at Bristol Motor Speedway.

The organization posted a team-best finish at the track of 14th with Tanner Thorson in the 2018 edition of the UNOH 200 on August 16, 2018.

Since 2012, the Mooresville, N.C.-based Young’s Motorsports team has had an average starting position of 24.8 and an average finish of 25.2 in 25 Bristol Motor Speedway starts overall.

● Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series History: Since entering the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series in 2012, the Mooresville, N.C., – based organization has logged 531 starts from 74 drivers, resulting in solid performances that include two victories (Talladega Superspeedway 2019 and 2021), seven top-five finishes and 33 top-10 finishes, with an average starting position of 23.3 and an average finishing position of 22.3.

● Follow on Social Media: For more on Treyten Lapcevich, like him on Facebook (treyten.lapcevich) and follow him on Instagram (@treytenlapcevich) and X | Twitter (@TreytenL).

For more on Young’s Motorsports, please visit YoungsMotorsports.com, like them on Facebook (Young’s Motorsports), and follow them on Instagram (@youngsmotorsports) and X |Twitter (@youngsmtrsports).

Treyten Lapcevich Pre-Race Quotes:

On Making NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Debut at Bristol Motor Speedway: “I’m really excited for the opportunity to make my NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series debut with Young’s Motorsports this weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway.

“This is a huge step in my career, and to do it at such an iconic track makes it even more special. I know the competition is tough, but I’m ready to learn, soak up as much as I can and represent my team, partners and Canadian fans with pride.

“I’m grateful to everyone who’s helped me get here and I can’t wait to hit the track under the lights at Bristol.”

On Preparation for Bristol Motor Speedway: “Preparation has been everything heading into Bristol. I’ve spent a lot of time studying film, turning laps on the rig and leaning on the knowledge of my team to get as comfortable as I can before we unload.

“Bristol has such a fast, challenging rhythm, and I know execution will be critical. I feel ready to take on the challenge and make the most of this debut with Young’s Motorsports.

On Goals for Bristol Motor Speedway: “My goal for Bristol is to be aggressive and show what I can do, but also to be smart about the bigger picture.

“This is my first start in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series, and I don’t want to put myself or any of the Playoff contenders in a bad spot.

“I want to race hard, earn the respect of my peers, and come away knowing we maximized the opportunity with Young’s Motorsports.

“Big thanks to Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, RANDCO and Boat Gadget for making this possible. I couldn’t imagine I’d ever get this opportunity, but I’m ready to make the most of it, gain experience, log laps and bring home a good finish for the Young’s Motorsports team.”

No. 20 Young’s Motorsports Team:

Driver: Stefan Parsons

Primary Partner(s): Trophy Tractor

Manufacturer: Chevrolet Silverado RST

Crew Chief: Rodney Rood

2025 Driver Points Position: 30th

2025 Owner Points Position: 34th

Engine: Ilmor Racing Technologies

Notes of Interest:

● Glad to Have You Back: For the first time in back-to-back NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series races, Young’s Motorsports welcomes back Stefan Parsons to the team’s lineup to steer the team’s No. 20 Chevrolet Silverado RST for Thursday night’s UNOH 250 presented by Ohio Logistics at Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway.

After a much-deserved weekend off, the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series roars back to life to continue their second race of the 2025 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series Playoffs.

The six-race run to the championship 4 at Phoenix (Ariz.) Raceway on October 31, 2025, marks the stretch drive of the season for the 25-race tour.

● About Stefan: Stefan Parsons, 26, is an American professional stock car racing driver. He currently competes part-time in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series and the NASCAR Xfinity Series.

Parsons is one of the most well-known drivers in the NASCAR community. When he isn’t racing, he is always the first driver to volunteer his time working for teams on the side.

Often praised for his mentality of “doing whatever it takes” to earn a spot in NASCAR’s top ranks, his hard work and endless efforts translate to value for the marketing partners he aligns himself with.

Parsons is also the son of television analyst and former NASCAR driver Phil Parsons and the nephew of former NASCAR Cup Series champion and Hall of Famer Benny Parsons.

● All Board: For the 20th of 25 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series races this season, Trophy Tractor will return and serve as the primary marketing for Thursday night’s 250-lap race.

Trophy Tractor offers a cost-effective alternative to the purchase and rental of new equipment with quality, low-hour used equipment.

We specialize in the sale and rental of haul trucks, loaders, dozers, scrapers, excavators, compactors, graders, and water equipment. Trophy Tractor serves mines, quarries and contractors around the world.

We maintain a multi-million dollar inventory of new, low-hour, and reconditioned equipment.

Visit their website at trophytractor.com.

● Your Seat Awaits: With Young’s Motorsports preparing for its fourth NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series start of the season with its second entry, the Mooresville, N.C.-based organization is actively seeking qualified and funded drivers to pilot the No. 20 Chevrolet Silverado RST in any of the remaining five races on the 2025 Truck Series schedule.

Drivers interested in joining the program are encouraged to contact the team directly through their social platforms for more information.

Serious inquiries only, please.

Double Duty: In addition to Thursday night’s UNOH 250 at Bristol Motor Speedway, Parsons will pull double duty and compete in Friday night’s NASCAR Xfinity Series Food City 300, piloting the No. 5 Alpha Prime Racing entry.

Running both the Truck and Xfinity Series races provides Parsons with valuable additional seat time as he prepares for just his second Xfinity start of the 2025 season.

Friday night will also mark the sixth consecutive year he has competed in the fall short track showdown at “The Last Great Colosseum,” dating back to 2020 with B.J. McLeod Motorsports.

At Bristol, Parsons carries an average Xfinity Series finish of 21.0, completing 1,472 of 1,506 possible laps for a 97.7 percent lap completion rate.

Parsons, 27, will likely need to qualify inside the top-32 in Alpha Prime’s fourth entry to secure his 69th career Xfinity start and first since Watkins Glen (N.Y.) International last month, where he posted a solid 19th-place result, also with Alpha Prime Racing.

● Stefan Parsons Truck Series Bristol Motor Speedway Track Stats: Thursday night’s UNOH 250 at Bristol Motor Speedway will mark Stefan Parsons’ fourth NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series start at the historic 0.533-mile concrete oval often referred to as the “World’s Fastest Half Mile.”

Parsons earned a track-best 16th-place finish after starting 13th in the 2024 edition of the UNOH 200, while driving for Henderson Motorsports.

Across his three previous Truck Series appearances at Bristol, Parsons has never finished worse than 18th, completing 647 of 650 laps attempted – an impressive 99.5% lap completion rate.

Since making his Bristol Truck debut in 2018, he carries an average finish of 17.0 at the track.

While Parsons, the son of former NASCAR driver and current television analyst Phil Parsons, has a few Truck Series starts to his credit, he brings additional track experience from competition in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.

Between 2020 and 2024, Parsons made five Xfinity starts at Bristol, highlighted by a career-best finish of eighth, after qualifying 14th in the No. 45 Chevrolet Camaro for Alpha Prime Racing.

After a weekend off, the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series returns to action under the lights at Bristol Motor Speedway, where Playoff contenders chase valuable points and every other team looks to play spoiler and seize the spotlight.

The 0.533-mile high-banked concrete oval — known worldwide as “The Last Great Colosseum” — provides one of the most intense settings on the schedule.

Thursday night’s UNOH 250 presented by Ohio Logistics places championship hopefuls and challengers alike in the ultimate pressure cooker, where every lap is a fight for track position and survival.

With the regular season complete and the Round of 10 underway, Bristol represents a pivotal stop in the championship chase.

The half-mile’s tight confines and unforgiving walls demand precision and patience, yet reward boldness in traffic.

Tire management, rhythm through lapped traffic and even pit strategy can dictate who emerges unscathed from the chaos.

While the Playoff drivers battle for points and advancement, non-Playoff entries like Young’s Motorsports stand ready to disrupt the picture.

A Bristol victory remains one of the most coveted trophies in the Truck Series — a career-defining moment under the lights at NASCAR’s “World’s Fastest Half Mile.”

As the intensity ratchets up and 250 laps unfold before a raucous Tennessee crowd, the 2025 postseason continues with the trademark unpredictability and drama that Bristol can deliver.

● Stefan Parsons Truck Series Stats: From 2018 to 2025, Parsons has 26 starts in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series, highlighted by a career-best sixth-place finish at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway in February 2024, driving the No. 75 Chevrolet Silverado for Henderson Motorsports.

In addition to Henderson Motorsports, Parsons also made Truck Series starts for MAKE Motorsports, CMI Motorsports, Glory 2 God (G2G) Racing, Premium Motorsports and this week for Young’s Motorsports.

In four races this season for Young’s Motorsports, Parsons has delivered three top-20 finishes, highlighted by a season-high 12th-place run at Texas Motor Speedway in May.

In his most recent race at Darlington (S.C.) Raceway on Labor Day weekend, he steered to a respectable 15th-place finish after starting 24th in the No. 20 Trophy Tractor Chevrolet Silverado.

● Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series at Bristol Motor Speedway: This weekend will mark Young’s Motorsports’ 26th and 27th NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series starts at Bristol Motor Speedway.

The organization posted a team-best finish at the track of 14th with Tanner Thorson in the 2018 edition of the UNOH 200 on August 16, 2018.

Since 2012, the Mooresville, N.C.-based Young’s Motorsports team has had an average starting position of 24.8 and an average finish of 25.2 in 25 Bristol Motor Speedway starts overall.

● Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series History: Since entering the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series in 2012, the Mooresville, N.C., – based organization has logged 531 starts from 74 drivers, resulting in solid performances that include two victories (Talladega Superspeedway 2019 and 2021), seven top-five finishes and 33 top-10 finishes, with an average starting position of 23.3 and an average finishing position of 22.3.

● Follow on Social Media: For more on Stefan Parsons, please visit stefanparsons.com, like him on Facebook (Stefan Parsons Racing) and follow him on Instagram (@stefan_parsons) and Twitter (@StefanParsons98).

For more on Young’s Motorsports, please visit YoungsMotorsports.com, like them on Facebook (Young’s Motorsports), and follow them on Instagram (@youngsmotorsports) and X |Twitter (@youngsmtrsports).

Stefan Parsons Pre-Race Quotes:

On Returning to Young’s Motorsports at Bristol Motor Speedway: “I love Bristol. I made my NASCAR debut here back in 2018 and got my first top 10 here.

“It’s one of my favorite tracks on the schedule and I’m looking forward to Thursday night.”

On Bristol Motor Speedway Preparation: “Watching the last few races here has been helpful to be able to compare with my notes from running here previously.”

On Applying Prior Bristol Motor Speedway Experience to the UNOH 250: “Hopefully, it helps a good bit. The trucks drive differently from the Xfinity cars, but thankfully, I ran both truck races here last year, which should help with that adjustment.”

On Partnership with Trophy Tractor: “I’m so thankful for Jeff, LouAnn, Maxx, and everyone at Trophy Tractor for their support.

“We have had some really solid runs as of late, with their company represented on our truck, and we look forward to trying to continue that trend.”

On Goals for Bristol Motor Speedway: “We would love to continue our streak of solid finishes and be in position for a great finish by the end of the race.”

On Darlington Raceway Truck Series Finish: “It was a solid performance for sure, but we know as a team we have some things we can continue to work on to be even better.”

Race Information:

The UNOH 250 presented by Ohio Logistics (250 laps | 133.25 miles) serves as the 20th of 25 races on the 2025 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series schedule. The week features a quick one-day show, beginning with two 25-minute group practice sessions on Saturday, September 11, from 3:05 to 4:00 p.m. ET, followed immediately by qualifying at 4:10 p.m. ET to set the 36-truck starting field. The field will take the green flag shortly after 8:00 p.m. with live coverage on FOX Sports 1, the NASCAR Racing Network (Radio) and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90.

Young’s Motorsports | NASCAR Xfinity Series

Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway | Food City 300

Fast Facts

No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Team:

Driver: Anthony Alfredo

Primary Partner(s): Dude Wipes

Manufacturer: Chevrolet Camaro

Crew Chief: Andrew Abbott

2025 Driver Points Position: 24th

2025 Owner Points Position: 26th

Engine: Earnhardt-Childress Racing

Notes of Interest:

● Year Two, Full Throttle: In January, Young’s Motorsports announced that NASCAR Xfinity Series veteran Anthony Alfredo would compete full-time for the team in its second year of Xfinity Series competition.

Alfredo is driving the No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro for the entire 33-race schedule, which continues with this Saturday night’s Nu Way 200 Sauced by Blues Hog at World Wide (Ill.) Technology Raceway at Gateway.

● About Anthony: A popular driver, Alfredo, a native of Ridgefield, Connecticut, joins Young’s Motorsports with an array of Motorsports experience, including starts in the NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series, respectively.

The 2025 season will mark Alfredo’s fourth full-time Xfinity Series campaign, and he joins the Mooresville, N.C.-based team after spending the 2024 season with Our Motorsports.

The 25-year-old finished 15th in the 2024 Xfinity Series driver standings, highlighted by a Dash 4 Cash victory at Dover (Del.) Motor Speedway. He added two more top-five finishes and seven top-10s to his career totals, further strengthening his résumé across 143 Xfinity Series starts.

● All-Aboard!: For the 27th of 33 Xfinity Series races this season, Young’s Motorsports welcomes back DUDE Wipes as the primary partner on the No. 42 Chevrolet Camaro for the 300-lap race on Friday night.

DUDE Wipes is the flagship product of DUDE Products, a men’s hygiene company that was founded in 2012 by lifelong friends in Chicago.

The U.S.-based company introduced DUDE Wipes as the first flushable wipe for adults, marketed as a better hygiene solution to dry toilet paper.

The brand is available online and in 20,000 stores nationwide, including Walmart, Target and Amazon.

Bristol Motor Speedway marks the 14th race where DUDE Wipes has served as the anchor partner on the No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet this season.

● Anthony Alfredo Xfinity Series Bristol Motor Speedway Stats: Friday night’s Food City 300 will mark Alfredo’s sixth career start at the 0.533-mile speedway, dubbed the “Last Great Colosseum.”

Alfredo earned a track-best of sixth after starting 19th in the fall 2020 edition of the Food City 300 for Richard Childress Racing.

The Xfinity Series veteran driver will look to improve his overall Bristol Motor Speedway average finish of 14.0.

Additionally, Alfredo has one NASCAR Cup Series start on the concrete at Bristol with a best effort of 35th after starting 30th in the 2021 Bass Pro Shops NRA Night Race driving for Front Row Motorsports.

Twenty-six races into the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season — and with the regular season now complete — Anthony Alfredo and the Young’s Motorsports No. 42 team know their Playoff fate is sealed.

While they won’t compete for a championship, they still have the chance to contend for victories and shake up the Playoff grid in the final stretch of the year.

This weekend, the series heads to Bristol Motor Speedway — “The Last Great Colosseum.” The high-banked, half-mile bullring is a fan-favorite known for its relentless intensity, where survival, patience and aggression collide under the lights.

For Alfredo and the No. 42 Chevrolet team, the mission is simple: go all out for the win.

A breakthrough victory at Bristol would serve as the ultimate payoff for the resilience they’ve shown all season, while also rewriting the Playoff storyline by denying a postseason contender an all-important win and momentum boost.

Friday night’s Food City 300 isn’t just another race — it’s the first battle in the NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs, where contenders fight to advance and underdogs have every opportunity to steal the spotlight.

Then on Saturday night, the spotlight shifts to the NASCAR Cup Series, which returns to Bristol for the Bass Pro Shops Night Race.

As the third and final race in the Round of 16, it promises high drama under the lights as drivers fight to keep their championship hopes alive — ensuring a weekend packed with intensity, strategy and season-defining moments.

● Anthony Alfredo Xfinity Series Career Stats: Entering Bristol, Alfredo has 144 NASCAR Xfinity Series races to his credit, earning a career-best third-place finish twice, most recently at Talladega Superspeedway after starting 11th in the 2024 edition of the Ag-Pro 300 for Our Motorsports.

Since 2020, he has earned one pole, five top-five, and 23 top-10 finishes and has an average finish of 20.2.

● World Wide Technology Raceway at Gateway | Nu Way 200 Sauced by Blues Hog Race Recap: The NASCAR Xfinity Series journeyed to World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Ill., for its regular-season finale — a pivotal night contested within sight of the iconic Gateway Arch.

Debuting the Botticelli Foods colors for the first time this season, Anthony Alfredo and the No. 42 Young’s Motorsports team opened the weekend with an extended practice session, as the series returned to the 1.25-mile oval for the first time since 2010.

A solid outing in practice gave the team a boost of confidence heading into qualifying, where Alfredo improved on his practice pace to secure the 21st starting position.

From the drop of the green flag, Alfredo maintained a steady course inside the top-20 while wrestling with the grip level on his No. 42 Botticelli Foods Chevrolet.

Strategic adjustments from crew chief Andrew Abbott at the end of Stage 1 and Stage 2 improved the car’s handling for the closing run, giving Alfredo the ability to maneuver traffic in a race where passing proved notoriously difficult.

A late 12-lap dash to the finish allowed Alfredo to attack. Methodically working his way forward, he cracked the top-15 and crossed the line 13th after 160 laps.

The performance marked the team’s first top-15 finish since Pocono Raceway in June — a confidence-building effort to close out the regular season and carry momentum into the post-season stretch.

With the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs underway starting Friday night, Alfredo and the No. 42 Young’s Motorsports team find themselves on the outside looking in. Though they did not advance to the postseason field, their drive and determination remain unchanged.

Instead of chasing points and advancement, the team enters the Playoff stretch with a clear mission: contend for victories and play spoiler.

Every lap, every adjustment, and every finish still carries weight — not in pursuit of a championship, but in the chance to make a statement, disrupt the Playoff picture and deliver the breakthrough moment they’ve been chasing all year.

● Calling the Shots: Guiding Alfredo as crew chief of the No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro is longtime crew chief Andrew Abbott.

On Saturday afternoon, he will be crew chief in his 156th NASCAR Xfinity Series race. In his previous 155 races, he has four top-five and 14 top-10 finishes.

The season’s 27th race will be his eighth tango at Bristol Motor Speedway as crew chief in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.

● Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR Xfinity Series at Bristol Motor Speedway: This weekend will mark Young’s Motorsports’ third appearance in the NASCAR Xfinity Series at the legendary Bristol Motor Speedway.

Last September, rookie driver Leland Honeyman Jr. started in the 31st position and contended for a strong finish before a brief mechanical issue took them behind the wall. They then returned and finished the Xfinity Series race, earning a 31st-place position.

In the spring, Alfredo navigated from his 29th-place starting position in his No. 42 Dude Wipes Chevrolet and utilized his short track experience to maneuver through the chaotic and slugfest event to capture a 15th-place finish at the checkered flag, earning the team their best result in Western Tennessee.

In addition to their Xfinity effort, the Mooresville, N.C.-based organization has extensive experience at Bristol in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series, with 25 starts to date.

Since 2012, the Mooresville, N.C.-based Young’s Motorsports team has had an average Truck Series starting position of 24.8 and an average finish of 25.2 over a 13-year tenure.

● Young’s Motorsports’ NASCAR Xfinity Series History: Since entering the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2024, the family-owned organization has

● Follow on Social Media: For more on Anthony Alfredo, please visit AnthonyAlfredo.com, like him on Facebook (Anthony Alfredo Racing), follow him on Instagram (@anthonyalfredo) and X | Twitter (@anthonyalfredo).

For more on Young’s Motorsports, please visit YoungsMotorsports.com, like them on Facebook (Young’s Motorsports), and follow them on Instagram (@youngsmotorsports) and X |Twitter (@youngsmtrsports).

Anthony Alfredo Pre-Race Quotes:

On Bristol Motor Speedway: “Bristol Motor Speedway is one of my favorite tracks of all time, and the night race there is one of my favorite events of the year. I can’t wait!”

On Biggest Challenges at Bristol Motor Speedway: “Track position is big, and it’s always key to execute well to maintain that track position through the end.”

On the Keys to Success at Bristol Motor Speedway: “Running a clean race and staying on the lead lap will be what it takes to have a good finish on Friday night.”

On Bristol Motor Speedway Expectations: “We struggled in the spring race, but still got a top 15 finish, so hopefully we can improve the balance, handling and overall speed in our car to bring home another good result.”

On Goals for the Remainder of 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series Season: “We need to continue performing at a high level and finishing well throughout the rest of the season.

“I have faith we can make the top 20 in points, even though it seems like a far reach.

On the NASCAR Xfinity Series Regular Season Finale at World Wide Technology Raceway at Gateway: “We had a solid car at Gateway, but struggled with track position most of the race.

“Thankfully, the race played out in our favor, and we brought home a good finish.”

Race Information:

The Food City 300 (300 laps | 159.9 miles) is the 27th of thirty-three (33) races on the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series schedule. Group practice is set for Friday, September 12, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 2:55 p.m. ET, with qualifying immediately following at 3:05 p.m. ET. The 38-car field will take the green flag shortly after 7:30 p.m. ET, with live coverage on The CW Network, the Performance Racing Network (Radio) and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. All times are Eastern.

How to Properly Transport a Dog in a Car – Tips for Owners

Traveling by car with your dog can be exciting, but it also requires preparation and attention to safety. Unlike people, dogs don’t understand traffic rules, and sudden stops or turns can put them at risk. That’s why planning ahead is essential, from choosing the right restraint system to ensuring your pet is comfortable throughout the journey. For many owners, investing in a dog carrier https://masterzoo.ua/ru/catalog/sobaki/sumki-perenoski-dlya-sobak/konteiner-perenoska-dlya-sobak/ is the most reliable way to keep their pets safe and calm on the road. These crates not only provide physical protection but also create a familiar space that helps reduce stress during travel.

When transporting a dog, the goal is to balance safety with comfort. A dog should not roam freely in the car, as it can distract the driver and cause accidents. With the right approach, your pet can enjoy car rides as much as you do — securely and without stress.

Why Safety Comes First

Dogs are naturally curious and often want to stick their heads out of the window or move around during the ride. While it may look cute, it’s actually dangerous. Sudden braking can throw an unrestrained dog forward, leading to serious injuries. In addition, dogs moving freely inside the car can block visibility or interfere with the driver’s control.

Securing your dog is just as important as wearing your own seatbelt. It prevents harm to both the animal and the passengers. Think of it this way: during a sudden stop, even a small dog can become a heavy projectile, putting everyone in the car at risk. That’s why safety must always be the top priority when transporting pets.

Essentials to Prepare Before the Trip

Before hitting the road, it’s important to prepare your dog and the car for the journey. The goal is to minimize stress and ensure the trip goes smoothly for everyone. By planning ahead, you’ll avoid unnecessary stops and distractions while driving.

Having a travel kit ready makes the process much easier. This way, you don’t have to worry about forgetting something important when you’re already on the road. Think of it as packing for a child — dogs also need their own essentials.

Here’s what you should pack:

  • Fresh water and a portable bowl.
     
  • Your dog’s regular food and some light snacks.
     
  • A favorite toy or blanket with familiar scents.
     
  • Waste bags and cleaning wipes.
     
  • Your dog’s ID tags and vaccination records.

With these items ready, you can be confident that your dog will stay comfortable and that you’ll be prepared for any situation.

Choosing the Right Spot in the Car

Where your dog sits in the car matters a lot. The front passenger seat may seem convenient, but it’s not safe — airbags can cause serious harm to pets during accidents. The back seat or cargo area is usually the best choice, depending on the size of your dog and the type of vehicle.

For smaller dogs, booster seats or secured carriers work well, giving them both comfort and visibility. Larger dogs are best placed in the back seat with a seat belt harness or in the cargo area of an SUV with a divider. The key is to choose a spot where the dog is secure but still has enough space to relax during the ride.

Best Restraint Options for Dogs

Just like humans, dogs need proper restraints during car travel. The right solution depends on your pet’s size, temperament, and the length of the trip. Using no restraint at all is not an option — it’s unsafe for both the dog and the passengers.

To make the decision easier, here are the most common restraint options:

  • Seat belt harnesses — ideal for medium and large dogs, allowing them to sit or lie down comfortably.
     
  • Booster seats — perfect for small dogs who like to look out the window while staying secure.
     
  • Crates and carriers — suitable for all breeds, offering the highest level of safety and comfort.
     
  • Car dividers — practical for SUVs, keeping dogs in the back cargo area safely contained.
     
  • Travel barriers — helpful for preventing dogs from jumping into the front seat.

Each option has its pros and cons, so the choice should reflect your dog’s personality and travel habits.

Making the Ride Comfortable

Safety is the priority, but comfort also matters. A stressed or anxious dog can make the ride unpleasant for both the pet and the driver. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to make car rides more enjoyable.

Start with short trips to help your dog get used to the motion and sounds of the car. Offer praise and treats during the ride so your dog develops positive associations. Bring familiar items like a favorite blanket or toy to make the environment feel safe. And don’t forget to stop for bathroom breaks and a little exercise on longer trips.

When your dog feels comfortable, car rides stop being stressful and become an adventure you can enjoy together.

Transporting a dog in a car is more than just putting them in the back seat — it’s about safety, preparation, and comfort. A well-planned trip reduces stress and ensures your pet stays happy and secure. From dog travel crates to seat belt harnesses, the right equipment makes all the difference.

Remember, your dog relies on you for protection. With proper planning, every ride can be safe, smooth, and enjoyable. When you make car travel positive, your pet learns to love the journey as much as the destination.

Cleaning Tips: How to Maintain Seat Covers After Weekend Trips

This short guide offers practical, friendly advice for vehicle owners across the United States who want simple ways to keep their seat covers fresh after weekend trips. Whether you drive a Toyota RAV4, Ford Explorer, or a Honda CR-V, these cleaning tips help preserve appearance, hygiene, and resale value.

Target readers include SUV owners, families, outdoor enthusiasts, and pet owners who use neoprene, polyester, canvas, leatherette, or genuine leather seat covers. The tips below apply to popular SUV seat covers and common aftermarket brands you’ll find at AutoZone or WeatherTech.

Regular seat cover maintenance prevents staining and odor buildup, extends fabric or leather life, and reduces the need for costly replacements. A few simple habits also make car interior cleaning after a trip faster and more effective.

This article covers pre-trip preparation, immediate post-trip cleaning steps, washing and drying best practices, stain treatment, seasonal care, inspection cues for replacement, and accessory recommendations to protect your seats long-term. Adopt a quick post-trip routine to keep covers looking and smelling fresh without extra effort.

Key Takeaways

  • Perform quick post-trip cleaning to prevent stains and odors.
  • Match cleaning methods to material—neoprene, canvas, leatherette, or genuine leather.
  • Use mild detergents and manufacturer-recommended products for SUV seat covers.
  • Air out covers after trips to reduce moisture and mildew.
  • Inspect regularly for wear to protect vehicle value and avoid costly replacements.

Why Seat Covers Need Regular Maintenance

Seat covers do more than add style. They protect factory upholstery from spills, dirt, UV damage, pet claws, and abrasion from gear. Routine care lowers long-term costs and keeps the cabin comfortable after every trip.

Understanding the Importance of Seat Covers

Different materials perform differently. Fabric soaks up liquids and odors, making it prone to stains and lingering smells. Neoprene resists water but can trap sand and grit. Leatherette may crack if ignored. Genuine leather needs regular conditioning to stay supple.

Health and comfort depend on upkeep. Damp covers can harbor bacteria and mildew. Crumbs and debris attract pests and create odors. Simple cleaning prevents these issues and supports ongoing car seat protection for drivers and passengers.

Common Issues Encountered After Weekend Trips

Post-trip wear shows up fast. Muddy footprints, sand, and tracked-in soil are common. Food and drink spills—coffee or soda—leave stains. Pet hair and dander settle into seams. Sunscreen, insect-repellent stains, sweat, and body oils speed fabric breakdown.

Bulky gear strains zippers and seams. Neglect accelerates UV fading, abrasion, seam failure, and permanent staining. Repair or professional cleaning can cost far more than routine seat cover maintenance importance suggests.

SUV seat covers often face heavier use. SUVs see more camping and beach runs, so owners should expect more frequent attention to avoid severe post-trip wear and to protect upholstery over time.

Cleaning After a Weekend Adventure

After a busy weekend, quick attention keeps seat covers fresh and prevents long-term damage. Start with light actions that remove loose debris and stop stains from setting. These quick moves make deeper cleaning easier and extend the life of your covers.

Immediate Steps to Take Post-Trip

Remove wrappers, cups, and large trash right away. Emptying the vehicle stops odors and reduces the risk of spills turning into stains during post-trip cleaning.

Take removable covers outside and give them a good shake to dislodge sand, dirt, and crumbs. Use a soft-bristled brush to loosen embedded particles before any wet cleaning.

Vacuum seams, under cushions, and between the seatback and seat bottom with a handheld or car vac. Brands like Black+Decker AutoVac or Shop-Vac work well for vacuuming car seats and crevice cleaning.

Blot fresh spills immediately with an absorbent cloth or paper towel. Press gently to lift liquid; do not rub, since rubbing spreads the stain and makes spot removal harder.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Supplies

Select gentle products suited to the material. For fabric, mild liquid detergent such as Dawn handles grease spots without harsh chemicals. Use enzymatic cleaners like Nature’s Miracle for biological stains on upholstery.

Keep microfiber cloths, soft brushes, and a wet/dry vacuum on hand. These cleaning supplies for car seats cut down drying time and reduce the chance of over-wetting foam-backed covers.

For leather or leatherette, choose pH-balanced leather cleaner and a matching conditioner. Lexol and Chemical Guys offer leather-safe formulas that clean and preserve suppleness without removing protective finishes. For SUVs, plan SUV seat covers cleaning as part of your routine. Use minimal water on foam-backed covers to avoid mildew. Regular post-trip cleaning and the right tools keep seats ready for the next drive.

Best Practices for Washing Seat Covers

Start by checking the manufacturer’s tag or manual. Many aftermarket covers are safe for regular washing, while others have foam backing or built-in hardware that need gentler care. Confirming instructions prevents damage and saves time.

Machine Washing vs. Hand Washing

When you can machine wash seat covers, remove fasteners and close zippers. Use a gentle cycle with cold water to limit shrinkage. Place covers inside a pillowcase or mesh wash bag to protect straps and buckles from snagging.

Hand wash seat covers when fabrics are delicate, like leatherette or insulated foam-backed designs. Mix a mild detergent with water, use a microfiber cloth or soft brush, and blot stains instead of scrubbing. Rinse with a damp cloth rather than soaking to protect adhesives.

Choose gentle formulas such as Woolite Gentle Cycle or Tide Free & Gentle for most fabrics. For stubborn spots, use OxiClean according to package directions for pre-soaks. Biodegradable, dye-free detergents reduce residue when you wash frequently.

For neoprene covers, stick to cold water and mild soap. Avoid petroleum-based cleaners and bleach because they can break down waterproof coatings. When treating stains, an enzymatic 

Dealing with Stains on Seat Covers

Weekend trips leave stories on fabric: coffee rings, grass streaks, mud splatters and the occasional pet accident. Quick action and the right products make stain removal seat covers far easier. The following guidance lists common stains and clear remedies you can try at home.

Common Stains and Their Solutions

Coffee, tea and soda respond best to blotting, not rubbing. Start by absorbing excess liquid, then mix 1 tablespoon mild detergent with 2 cups cold water. Apply the solution, blot gently and rinse with clean water to remove residue. For tough spots, repeat the process.

Red wine needs prompt attention. Blot to lift liquid, pour club soda over the area or apply a paste of baking soda and water. Let the paste set, then use an upholstery cleaner made for fabrics to finish the job.

Natural Remedies vs. Chemical Cleaners

Natural cleaners for seat covers include baking soda for odor absorption and a diluted white vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water) for deodorizing. For stubborn organic spots, a cautious test with diluted hydrogen peroxide on a light, inconspicuous area can help remove pigments.

Chemical options include enzyme-based cleaners for biological stains and oxygen bleach for color-safe whitening. Brands such as Chemical Guys, Turtle Wax and Blue Coral offer targeted upholstery products that tackle hard-to-remove marks.

Protecting Seat Covers from Future Damage

A little prevention goes a long way when you want to protect seat covers and keep the interior of your vehicle fresh after busy weekends. Simple routines cut down stains, slow wear, and help seat cover longevity without extra effort.

Tips for Keeping Covers Looking New

Vacuum weekly or right after a trip to remove sand and grit before fibers wear. Spot-clean spills at once with mild detergent or an upholstery cleaner recommended for the cover material. Brush off loose dirt rather than pushing it deeper into fabric.

Rotate removable covers when you can. Alternating sets spreads out wear and gives each set time to air and dry, which can extend seat cover longevity. For leather, use a conditioner like Lexol or Meguiar’s Gold Class every three to six months to prevent cracking.

Utilizing Seat Covers for Extra Protection

Layer inexpensive towel liners or dedicated pet seat liners under your main covers to catch heavy grime. These protective car accessories are easier to launder and replace than full covers. For high-use areas or cargo runs, invest in tailored heavy-duty pet covers or a cargo liner designed for SUVs to maintain SUV seat covers and protect stitching.

Reapply fabric protectors such as Scotchgard or 303 Fabric Guard seasonally or after washing to maintain water and stain resistance. Choose covers that are properly fitted so airbags and seat safety features function as intended; good fit preserves safety and helps protect seat covers from stress and tearing.

Limit sun exposure by using window shades or parking in shade to avoid fading. Keep sharp tools and heavy gear off seats or use hard-case storage for transport to prevent abrasions. These seat cover care tips reduce repair needs and keep interiors usable longer.

Seasonal Maintenance for Seat Covers

Changing weather brings new challenges for car interiors. Plan seasonal seat cover care at each shift in weather to avoid stains, odors, and material damage. A short routine saves time and expense down the road.

Importance of Seasonal Cleanings

Spring demands pollen and mud removal. Vacuum and use a soft brush to lift trapped debris, then shampoo fabric covers if needed. Dry fully to prevent mildew before storing or daily use.

Adapting Care Based on Weather Conditions

For drivers with larger vehicles, schedule SUV seat covers seasonal cleaning when seasons change. Check zippers and hardware for corrosion after winter and treat them to prevent failures.

Choose breathable materials for hot months to limit sweat stains and cling. In cold months, focus on removing road salts that cause staining and hardware wear. Store off-season covers clean and fully dry in breathable bags in a cool, dry place to avoid mildew.

Simple, timely actions help protect upholstery year-round. Clean before storage, use appropriate protectants, and swap routines as temperatures and conditions shift to keep covers performing and looking their best.

Additional Accessories for Seat Cover Care

Small accessories can make a big difference in how long your seat covers last. Add a few targeted items to your SUV and you will cut down on cleaning time and reduce wear. Choose gear that matches your lifestyle and the level of use your vehicle gets.

Using Seat Cushions and Protectors

Invest in washable seat cushions for SUVs from trusted brands like WeatherTech or Kurgo to add comfort and absorb sweat. Memory foam cushions ease pressure points and lower abrasion on primary covers. Heavy-duty cargo liners and pet-specific seat protectors from 4Knines or Husky Liners are ideal when hauling muddy gear or pets.

Hammock-style pet protectors shield seat backs and bottoms from claws and hair. Look for non-slip backing and seat anchors to keep protectors secure during drives. Replace a cushion or protector far less expensively than a full cover when it wears out.

The Role of Throw Blankets in Maintenance

Keep throw blankets for car seats or folded towels within reach as a simple, low-cost first line of defense. Toss a dedicated throw over a seat before loading wet sports gear or after a beach day. Quick removal lets you launder the blanket and avoid soiling the main cover.

Seat protectors paired with throw blankets intercept spills, dirt, and pet messes. Add seat gap fillers to trap crumbs and cargo organizers to prevent loose items from abrading fabric. UV sunshades help protect car upholstery from sun damage on hot days.

These SUV seat covers accessories work together to protect car upholstery and reduce how often primary covers need deep cleaning. Use them strategically and you will extend the lifespan of your seat covers while keeping your vehicle ready for the next trip.

Final Thoughts on Seat Cover Maintenance

Keeping seat covers in good shape after weekend trips is simple when you stick to a few clear steps. Prepare before you go by choosing weather-appropriate covers and applying protectants like Scotchgard or 303 to repel stains. After each trip, remove debris, vacuum, and blot spills right away to prevent set-in stains.

Wash according to the material and label instructions—machine wash or hand wash with mild detergent, treat stains promptly with the right cleaner, and dry thoroughly to avoid mildew. Regular inspection and accessories such as WeatherTech seat protectors and a Lexol-safe cleaner will help reduce wear and extend the life of your upholstery. This seat cover maintenance summary keeps interiors hygienic and preserves resale value.

FAQ

What is the quickest post-trip step to protect SUV seat covers?

Immediately remove trash and large debris, then shake or brush out removable covers to dislodge sand and crumbs. Follow with a quick vacuum using a crevice tool to get seams and gaps—this prevents dirt from embedding and reduces odor buildup.

How often should I clean my SUV seat covers after weekend adventures?

Vacuum or shake out covers after every trip. Do a deeper clean—spot treatment or wash—within a week of heavy use. Perform monthly inspections and seasonal deep cleanings (spring and fall) to remove accumulated grime, salt, or pollen.

Which cleaning method is best: machine wash or hand wash?

Follow the manufacturer tag. Machine washing on a gentle, cold cycle is fine for many polyester and canvas covers if hardware is removed. Hand wash delicate fabrics, leatherette, or foam-backed covers with mild detergent and minimal water to avoid saturating foam and adhesives.