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RCR Race Preview: Las Vegas Motor Speedway

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Official Release
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Richard Childress Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series at Las Vegas Motor Speedway… In 92 NASCAR Cup Series starts at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Richard Childress Racing boasts 12 top-five and 28 top-10 finishes. Clint Bowyer (spring 2009) and Kevin Harvick (spring 2010) hold the organization’s best result of second. Tyler Reddick earned a pole for RCR at the Sin City racetrack in 2022.

Richard Childress Racing in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series at Las Vegas Motor Speedway… RCR has five wins at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, most recently by Austin Hill in March 2023. Other drivers to win in O’Reilly Auto Parts Series competition for the Welcome, N.C.-based organization include Kevin Harvick (2004), Jeff Burton (2007), Austin Dillon (2015) and Tyler Reddick (2019). RCR has racked up four poles in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series at Las Vegas Motor Speedway with drivers Harvick (2007), Ty Dillon (2014), A. Dillon (2015) and Myatt Snider (2020). In their most recent appearance at the track in October 2025, Jesse Love finished fourth and Austin Hill tenth, helping to contribute to RCR’s 18 top-five and 42 top-10 finishes in O’Reilly Auto Parts Series competition at the track.

Honoring a Champion for Veterans… The Veterans Life Center of North Carolina (VLC) will celebrate Richard Childress as the Honoree for the 2026 Annual Salute on Tuesday, March 17 in Raleigh, North Carolina. A lifelong supporter of military service members and veterans, Childress has dedicated significant time and resources to organizations that support wounded warriors, military families and veteran transition programs. His leadership and philanthropy reflect a steadfast belief that veterans deserve dignity, opportunity, and unwavering support when they return home. To learn more about the Veterans Life Center, a North-Carolina-based nonprofit dedicated to helping at-risk and homeless veterans successfully reintegrate into civilian life, visit www.vlcnc.org.

Catch the Action on Saturday… The NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series The LiUNA! at Las Vegas Motor Speedway will be televised live Saturday, March 14, beginning at 5:30 p.m. ET on The CW. The race will be broadcast live on the Performance Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90. Saturday’s practice and qualifying sessions will be shown for free on The CW App beginning at 12 p.m. ET.

Watch Us on FS1… The NASCAR Cup Series race from Las Vegas Motor Speedway will be televised on Sunday, March 15 at 4 p.m. ET on FS1. The live radio broadcast can be heard on the Performance Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90. Saturday morning’s practice and qualifying sessions will be shown live on Prime Video beginning at 2:30 p.m. ET. Ride shotgun all season long with live, in-car camera feeds and scanner audio with a paid subscription to Max as part of their NASCAR driver cam experience during the race.

Austin Dillon and the No. 3 BREZTRI AEROSPHERE® (budesonide, glycopyrrolate, and formoterol fumarate) at Las Vegas Motor Speedway… In 21 NASCAR Cup Series starts at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Austin Dillon has two top-five and three top-10 finishes. The North Carolina native has completed 95.6 percent of all the laps run at the 1.5-mile oval.

Previous Winner… Dillon is a two-time winner at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The 2013 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Champion went to Victory Lane in O’Reilly Auto Parts Series competition at the track in March 2015, leading 183 of the scheduled 200 laps. Dillon also earned a NASCAR Truck Series win at the track in September 2010.

Last Week… Dillon and the No. 3 team showcased strong speed, consistently running inside the top-15 during last Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Phoenix Raceway. The North Carolina native was on pace for his first top-10 finish of the season, before cutting a tire with less than 25 laps to go. Dillon was running eighth prior to the cut tire, ultimately finishing the race 16th, the team’s best finish this season.

BREZTRI AEROSPHERE® (budesonide, glycopyrrolate, and formoterol fumarate) Teams Up with Dillon… Dillon and the No. 3 Richard Childress Racing team will be supported by BREZTRI AEROSPHERE®, an AstraZeneca product, at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. This partnership is about more than just racing. You can learn more about Dillon and his family’s personal connection to the brand at Breztri.com. AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases, and Biopharmaceuticals, including Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism, and Respiratory & Immunology. AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide.

Meet Dillon… Dillon is scheduled to sign autographs at the RCR Merchandise Trailer at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway Fan Midway on Sunday at 9:30 a.m. Local Time. Stop by to meet the driver of the No. 3 Chevrolet and purchase new RCR gear for the race.

AUSTIN DILLON QUOTES:

What are your thoughts on Las Vegas Motor Speedway?

“Las Vegas Motor Speedway is a great mile-and-a-half. The track is rough through Turns 1 and 2, and you have to be able to cut through the bumps. Restarts are wild, too. Vegas is an awesome place to go.”

What makes Las Vegas Motor Speedway a race every fan should experience in person?

“Obviously, the atmosphere at Las Vegas Motor Speedway is pretty cool. You get the nightlife and the fun that goes on in the city, and it just naturally translates over to the track. I feel like the racing is really good. The groove has spread out over the years. The track has a lot of character. It’s a cool track.”

What’s the biggest win you’ve had on or off the track at Las Vegas Motor Speedway?

“It’s hard to choose between my NASCAR Truck Series win and my NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series win there. I loved my NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series win in the No. 33 racing Ryan Blaney in the Penske car at the end of the race in 2015. Nick Harrison was the crew chief, and he decided to keep me out. We dominated the entire race, and when the caution came out we stayed out but Blaney came to pit road to get tires. Nick lied to me and told me that no one got tires. All of the sudden, I’m having to race Blaney with what I’ve got. I blocked him all the way to the grass in that race and was able to win it on older tires. After the race, Nick just said ‘I told you we’d be all right,’ and I was like, ‘what do you mean?’, and he told me Blaney had tires behind me. I was glad he didn’t say anything during the race. I knew as dominant as we had been all day, that when Blaney caught me as fast as he did, that I was in a situation and there was no way we were on even tires. It was just a ‘it is what it is’ situation, and I hoped that his stuff fell off.”

Any Carolina Cowboys success in Las Vegas or big wins from your PBR team in Sin City?

“Oh yeah, The Carolina Cowboys won the championship in Las Vegas this past year, so that was cool. The year before last, the PBR Teams Series Championship and the NASCAR Cup Series race were in Las Vegas on the same weekend. I got wrecked out of the Cup race early so I went over to T-Mobile and I got to watch the Carolina Cowboys lose the championship. And then, this year, we made it to the championship again and were able to win it. It was an awesome feeling.”

Kyle Busch and the No. 8 Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Chevrolet at Las Vegas Motor Speedway… Kyle Busch made his first NASCAR Cup Series start at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on March 7, 2004, and since then the Las Vegas native has gone on to achieve much success at his home track. Sunday’s 400-mile race will mark Busch’s 30th start in the premier series at the 1.5-mile oval. Busch has one win (2009), 12 top-five, 16 top-10 finishes, an average starting position of 11.5, and an average finishing position of 11.9. Busch has completed 94.2 percent (7,328 of 7,781) of laps competed at the Nevada speedway.

Back Where it Started… Busch grew up approximately 20 miles from Las Vegas Motor Speedway, where the now 40-year-old graduated with honors from Durango High School in 2002. Busch began his career racing legend cars at the age of 13, winning two Legend Car championships at The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and 65 Legend Car events.

Battle of the Buschs… The second installment of the Battle of the Buschs was held last fall in Las Vegas at The Bull Ring with both Kyle and Brexton Busch racing in the same legends car race. In both installments of the showdown held to date, Kyle has raced supreme. Last November in Las Vegas, Kyle earned his second Battle of the Buschs victory, finishing fifth, while Brexton ended the race ninth.

Pole Position… Busch is the only driver to win consecutive Cup Series poles at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, accomplishing the feat in 2008 and 2009. Additionally, Busch is one of only two drivers (Denny Hamlin) in series history to win from the pole at the west coast track, earning the first starting position in 2009 en route to securing the race victory that same weekend.

An Impressive Track Record… Busch owns numerous Cup Series records at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. In 2009, Busch became the youngest race winner (23 years, 9 months, and 27 days) in track history. Among active drivers, Busch owns the most top-five finishes (12) and starts (29).

Success Not Limited to the Cup Series… In addition to his Cup Series success in Sin City, Busch has also won two NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, and four NASCAR Truck Series races at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

Last Time in Las Vegas… At last year’s October race in Las Vegas, Busch and the No. 8 team rolled off deep in the pack from the 32nd position. Undeterred, the Nevada native drove his way to the front and on the race’s penultimate restart, sat just outside the top-10. In the final laps, Busch narrowly avoided a wreck in the front of the field which helped propelled him to an eighth-place finish.

Last Week… Busch and the No. 8 team fell two laps down early after the Las Vegas native cut a tire in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Phoenix Raceway. As the race progressed the team received the free pass twice to get back on the lead lap and finish the day in 17th place.

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Meet Busch… Busch is scheduled to sign autographs at the RCR Merchandise Trailer at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway Fan Midway on Saturday, March 14 at 3 p.m. Local Time. Stop by to meet the hometown Las Vegas native and purchase new No. 8 gear for the race.

KYLE BUSCH QUOTES:

What makes this track unique to its other 1.5-mile brethren?

“I would say what’s cool about Vegas and makes it a little bit different from the other mile and a half racetracks out there is the banking. It’s probably banked more than some of the others and it lends itself to some really good racing. A lot of the other mile and a half racetracks have sort of been repaved over the years with progressive banking, but this one still has standard banking, but it races really well. You can run bottom, middle, top, it kind of depends where your car works well.”

How does having multiple grooves play into the driver’s hands having a choice at a track like this to find clean air and keep momentum?

“Anytime you go to any of these racetracks you’re always fighting clean air. The leader always has the advantage, but if you’re in traffic you want to be able to find a groove that works for you outside of their wake. So being able to run bottom or being able to run top and having that maneuverability within your racecar, but also you to kind of change your lines is really important to put on a good race.”

What is the vibe of the Las Vegas racetrack and how do you experience that as a driver there?

“I think it’s a really cool vibe at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Not only do you get some of the nightlife there, but you get the racetrack as well, the neon garage with all of its access, the fan area as well with everything going on out there, driver appearances, stage appearances, cool celebrities coming out to that race sometimes. So it’s a really neat race to be apart of, and you should come check it out.”

Jesse Love and the No. 2 Whelen Chevrolet at Las Vegas Motor Speedway… Jesse Love has made four career NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starts at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Last October, the now 21-year-old showed speed and finished fourth. Growing up in Menlo Park, California, Love attended races at the 1.5-mile oval in person throughout his childhood.

Intermediate Success… Across six 1.5-mile races last season, Love and the No. 2 team were consistent, registering one top-five and 5 top-10 finishes, while leading 26 laps and posting an average finish of 6.8. His best finish at a 1.5-mil oval was third at last year’s Las Vegas spring race.

Last Week… The California native started on the front row in Saturday night’s O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race at Phoenix Raceway. Love and the No. 2 led a race-high 114 laps and won Stage 2, his second stage win of the season. Love lost the race lead with 13 laps to go to eventual race winner Justin Allgaier and finished runner-up. The 21-year old finished with 55 points, the second highest total amongst all drivers that night. Love continues his streak finishing in the top-10 in each of his five starts at the Avondale oval in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.

Did You Know? Love is the only driver who has finished inside the top-10 in all four O’Reilly Auto Parts Series races this season. Love earned a ninth-place result in the season-opening race at Daytona International Speedway, a fifth-place effort at EchoPark Speedway, a fourth-place finish at Circuit of The Americas and a runner-up finish last weekend at Phoenix Raceway. He has a fifth-place average finish thus far in 2026, the best amongst full-time drivers.

Still Streaking… Love currently holds the longest active streak of running at the finish of races, as the Menlo Park, California native has 18 straight events without a DNF. The young gun also has the longest active top-10 streak with five, dating back to his winning performance in the final race of the 2025 campaign.

Get to the Points… Following his runner-up finish in last week’s race at Phoenix Raceway, Love continues to gain ground in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Championship driver standings, currently second with 181 points, three points behind current leader Justin Allgaier and two points ahead of his RCR teammate Austin Hill.

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Meet Love… On Saturday, fans will have two opportunities to Meet Love prior to the green flag. At 11:40 a.m. Local Time, Love is scheduled to make an appearance at the South Point Hotel and Casino Display in the Fan Zone at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Immediately following at 11:55 a.m. Local Time, the California native is scheduled to sign autographs at the RCR Merchandise Hauler with RCR teammate Austin Hill located in the Fan Zone. Stop by to meet Love and purchase new No. 2 gear.

JESSE LOVE QUOTE:

Thoughts on Las Vegas?

“Looking forward to Las Vegas. We’ve been pretty good. It’s a track that I circle on my calendar every year. We want to redeem ourselves for last week’s race. I got all the motivation needed this weekend. I grew up racing in Vegas, practically lived there for a while. It kind of feels like going home when I go race there. I want to win in front of all the people I grew up with.”

Austin Hill and the No. 21 1-800-PACK-RAT Chevrolet at Las Vegas Motor Speedway… Austin Hill has made nine career NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starts at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, earning one win (spring 2023), three top-five, and seven top-10 finishes. In eight NASCAR Truck Series starts at the Nevada speedway, the Winston, Georgia native has led a total of 80 laps and captured two victories (fall 2019, fall 2020), four top-five, and six top-10 results.

Top-10 Stretch… Dating back to the fall 2022 event, Hill has finished inside the top-10 in the last seven O’Reilly Auto Parts Series races at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

Did You Know? Hill is the only active driver in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series field who has won at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in both the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and Truck Series.

Intermediate Success… In six races at mile-and-a-half ovals last season, Hill was a consistent contender, securing four top-five and six top-10 results. The No. 21 Chevrolet had an average finishing position of 5.1, highlighted by a pair of third-place results and a pair of fourth-place efforts. The 31-year-old is a multi-time winner on intermediate tracks, claiming the checkered flag previously at Las Vegas Motor Speedway (2023) and Homestead-Miami Speedway (2024).

150 Starts Complete… Last weekend’s race at Phoenix Raceway marked Hill’s 150th O’Reilly Auto Parts Series start. In those events, Hill has claimed 15 wins – an impressive 10 percent of his starts, 54 top-five (36 percent) and 89 top-10 finishes (59 percent). The racer has also led a total of 1,391 laps.

Last Week… One week ago at Phoenix Raceway, the No. 21 team started in the 13th position, made significant adjustments throughout the race in an effort to improve the car’s handling, and rallied to a 12th-place result.

Get to the Points… With four races complete in the 2026 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series campaign, Hill currently holds the third position in the driver championship point standings. The veteran racer is only five points behind leader Justin Allgaier.

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Meet Hill… On Saturday, March 14 at 11:40 a.m. Local Time, Hill is scheduled to sign autographs at the South Point Hotel and Casino Display in the Fan Zone at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Immediately following at 11:55 a.m. Local Time, the 15-time series winner is scheduled to appear at the RCR Merchandise Hauler with RCR teammate Jesse Love. Stop by to meet Hill and purchase new No. 21 gear before the green flag waves.

AUSTIN HILL QUOTE:

With past success at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, what is the outlook for this weekend?

“Las Vegas has always been a good place for me to go, even dating back to the Truck Series days. I’ve won races there on the Truck side, and we’ve also been able to get a win on the O’Reilly side. We always seem to be in contention when it matters. Even if we don’t win the race, we find ways to run inside the top-five. On a bad day, we run seventh or eighth. The track itself just fits my driving style. Over the years, the track has been bottom dominant, where you want to paint your left side tires on the white line, and I’ve been known to be a bottom feeder or someone who likes to catfish through the corner. Hopefully that trend co

Race Week Briefing: Las Vegas Motor Speedway

By
Official Release
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Event: Pennzoil 400
Date/Time: Sunday, March 15, 2026, 4 p.m. ET
Location: Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Las Vegas, Nevada
Layout: 1.5-Mile Oval
TV/Radio: FS1, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Josh Berry returns to Las Vegas Motor Speedway this weekend with some recent history on his side.

Berry and the No. 21 Motorcraft/Quick Lane team head back to the 1.5-mile Nevada oval as the defending winners of Sunday’s Pennzoil 400, the race where Berry earned his first career NASCAR Cup Series victory last spring.

In last year’s race, Berry started seventh and emerged from a door-to-door battle with Daniel Suarez in the closing laps to secure the win, crossing the finish line 1.358 seconds ahead of Suarez. Ryan Preece, William Byron and Ross Chastain completed the top five as Wood Brothers Racing earned the 101st victory in the team’s storied history.

Berry led twice for a total of 18 laps, including the final 16 circuits of the race. The Motorcraft/Quick Lane Ford Mustang Dark Horse showed strong speed throughout the event, and the team was able to overcome a loose wheel during a pit stop to stay in contention and ultimately capitalize late in the race.

“The weekend went really well from start to finish,” Berry said this week. “I felt like we had a good car. We had some issues on pit road that set us back and got us off strategy, but we were able to catch the cautions at the right time and get ourselves back in the mix and capitalize there at the end.”

The victory marked Berry’s third career win at Las Vegas Motor Speedway across NASCAR’s national series, including two in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.

“Vegas has provided a lot of cool wins for me over the years,” he said. “Hopefully we can go back and have a solid run like we did last spring and put ourselves in contention again.”

Berry said the Las Vegas track surface and conditions can change significantly between the spring and fall events, presenting a challenge for teams trying to find the right setup.

“Working with my team this week and going through the races from last year, it’s such a challenging place,” he said. “The biggest thing is how much it changes. In the spring it usually has a lot of grip and the weather is cooler. Then you go back in the fall after the track has sat all summer and it’s usually really hot, and it feels completely different.

“The hard part for the teams and us drivers is figuring all that out and what you need for the different conditions. It’s constantly evolving, and that’s why you tend to see different players up front. It really comes down to who hits it right that weekend.”

Practice for the Pennzoil 400 is scheduled for Saturday at 2:30 p.m. ET, followed by qualifying at 3:40 p.m. ET with coverage on Prime Video.

Sunday’s 267-lap, 400-mile race is scheduled to begin just after 4 p.m. ET with television coverage on FS1. Stage breaks are planned for Lap 80 and Lap 165.

Saturday, March 14

Josh Berry will sign autographs at the Team Penske/Wood Brothers merchandise hauler beginning at 9:50 a.m. local time in the Las Vegas Motor Speedway fan zone. 100 wristbands will be distributed on a first come, first-served basis.

Josh Berry

Age: 35 (Oct. 22, 1990)

Hometown: Hendersonville, Tennessee

Crew Chief: Miles Stanley

IG: @joshberry88

X: @joshberry

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

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Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center offers extraordinary service for routine maintenance, serving all vehicle makes and models. Quick Lane provides a full menu of automotive services, including tires, oil change and maintenance, brakes, batteries, alternator and electrical system, air conditioning system, cooling system, transmission service, suspension and steering, wheel alignment, belts and hoses, lamps and bulbs and wiper blades plus a thorough vehicle checkup report. Service is performed by expert technicians while you wait at any of nearly 800 locations in the U.S., with evening and weekend hours available and no appointment necessary. For more information about Quick Lane, please visit www.quicklane.com. *See your dealer for limited-warranty details.

Gus Dean Launches 2026 Mud Truck Campaign at Rednecks with Paychecks

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Official Release
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ST. JO, TEXAS — After enjoying his most successful season in Mud Truck competition in 2025, veteran race car driver Gus Dean is ready to get back to work — and back in the mud — kicking off his 2026 campaign this weekend at the Rednecks with Paychecks event deep in the heart of the Lone Star State.

The Bluffton, S.C. native returns to the helm of his Vengeance beast looking to carry momentum into the new season and deliver back-to-back victories, dating back to his dramatic 2025 season finale win at Twitty’s Mud Bog, where Dean edged fellow competitor Tristen Adams by just 97-thousandths of a second (0.097) faster than a single blink of an eye.

Rednecks with Paychecks is a massive, twice-yearly off-road amusement event held in Saint Jo, Texas, roughly 90 minutes north of Fort Worth.

Spanning more than 1,200 acres, the four-day festival blends intense mud racing, megatruck competitions, truck pulls, ATV and UTV riding, live music, vendors and camping into one adrenaline-fueled experience.

Known for its larger-than-life atmosphere and celebration of off-road culture, the event draws thousands of competitors and fans to what is often described as a muddy, high-energy weekend of racing and entertainment.

Among the fan favorites expected to take on the mud pits this weekend is the three-time ARCA Menards Series winner, Dean.

Known for his fierce competitiveness behind the wheel and his bubbly personality around the pits, Dean has quickly become a popular figure at Rednecks with Paychecks — and throughout the mud truck community.

Whether he’s charging through the mud in his Vengeance beast or sharing laughs and stories with fans across the sprawling off-road playground, the South Carolinian continues to bring both speed and personality to one of the sport’s most electrifying events.

“Rednecks with Paychecks is one of those events I always look forward to,” said Dean. “The fans are incredible, the atmosphere is wild, and everyone comes out to have a good time.

At the same time, once you strap in and roll into the pit, the competition is tough and you want to win just as bad as anywhere else. We finished last season with a win, so hopefully, we can carry that momentum into this weekend and put on a good show for everyone.”

Beyond the competition and fan interaction, Dean remains a vocal advocate for safety in the Mud Truck community — a role he plays at major gatherings like Rednecks with Paychecks.

Drawing on his background in professional stock car racing, the versatile competitor has worked to raise safety standards across the sport, encouraging the use of updated driver uniforms and recommending head-and-neck restraint systems.

As Mud Truck racing continues to grow in popularity, Dean has embraced the opportunity to bring additional structure and awareness to a rapidly evolving segment of motorsports while helping protect the drivers who share his passion for the mud.

“I’ve been fortunate to race in a lot of different forms of motorsports, and safety is something that has always been a big part of that,” said Dean, who scored the ARCA Menards Series pole at Daytona International Speedway last month.

“Mud truck racing has grown so much over the last few years, and with that growth comes the opportunity to make things safer for everyone.

“If we can bring some of the things I’ve learned from stock car racing — better gear, better protection, better awareness — and help keep drivers safer while they’re out having fun, that’s a win for the entire sport.”

As engines roar to life and the mud begins to fly this weekend in Saint Jo, Dean will once again climb behind the wheel of his Vengeance beast, ready to compete in front of thousands of industry fans.

Armed with momentum from his 2025 season-ending victory and fueled by the electric atmosphere that Rednecks with Paychecks delivers, he hopes to kick off his new season the same way he ended the last one — standing in victory lane.

Following Rednecks with Paychecks, Dean will continue chasing wins in Mud Truck competition while also preparing for his return to the ARCA Menards Series next month at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway — the famed Alabama superspeedway, where he captured his first career series victory.

For more on Gus Dean, please visit GusDean.com, like him on Facebook (Gus Dean Racing) and follow him on Instagram (@GusDean) and X | Twitter (@GusDean).

RFK Racing Las Vegas Advance

By
Official Release
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Las Vegas Event Info:
Date: Sunday, March 15
Time: 4 p.m. ET
Series: NASCAR Cup Series (NCS)
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Format: 267 Laps, 400.5 miles, Stages: 80-85-102
TV: FS1
Radio: PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Channel 90)

Weekend Schedule:
Saturday: 2:30 p.m. ET, Cup Practice (Prime, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Saturday: 3:40 p.m. ET, Cup Qualifying (Prime, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Sunday: 4 p.m. ET, Cup Race (FS1, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)

Pace Laps:

  • Las Vegas hosts its annual spring race this weekend as the NASCAR Cup Series embarks on the fifth points race of the 2026 campaign.
  • Las Vegas is a track where Jack Roush has had a bevy of success, including seven wins in the Cup Series alone, and 16 overall.
  • Brad Keselowski is one of five drivers all-time with three-or-more wins at LVMS, joining Jimmie Johnson, Joey Logano, Matt Kenseth and Kyle Larson.

6 Team Info:
Driver: Brad Keselowski
Crew Chief: Jeremy Bullins
Partner: Trimble

17 Team Info:
Driver: Chris Buescher
Crew Chief: Scott Graves
Partner: Smith’s / Farm Rich

60 Team Info:
Driver: Ryan Preece
Crew Chief: Derrick Finley Partner: Body Guard

Keselowski at Las Vegas Motor Speedway
Starts: 25
Wins: 3 (2014, 2016, 2018)
Top-10s: 14
Poles: 2 (2013, 2017)

  • Keselowski returns to Las Vegas Motor Speedway where he has led a total of 261 laps of his 25 starts at the track, most recently Keselowski brought home another top-10 finish for the No. 6 Ford Mustang Dark Horse at the fall LVMS race in 2025.
  • Keselowski is a three-time winner at LVMS, one of 12 tracks he has multiple wins at on the circuit. Overall, he has a 12.5 average finish with 14 top-10s and nine finishes inside the top five in 25 starts.
  • Keselowski first won in Las Vegas in 2014 after starting from the second position and leading 53 laps. He followed that with wins two years apart in 2016 and 2018.
  • The Michigan native has an average starting position of 14.2 with two poles (2013, 2017), and overall, he has nine top-10 qualifying efforts.
  • Keselowski also has a win at Vegas in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (2014) with four overall top-10s in 10 NOAPS starts. He also made one truck start back in 2005.

Buescher at Las Vegas Motor Speedway
Starts: 18
Wins: —
Top-10s: 2
Poles: —

  • After a strong race in Phoenix almost finishing in the top-5 before a late race penalty, Buescher is hunting to carry the same speed into Vegas, “It’s become a good racetrack with a lot of options as a driver, I am excited to see what can shake out for me next week” said Buescher during his media availability in Phoenix.
  • Buescher makes his 19th Cup start at Las Vegas this weekend, where he carries an average finish of 17.4 with two top-10s (9th – 2020 & 10th – 2024).
  • His best qualifying effort stands as the P5 starting spot in the 2023 fall race. Overall, he has a 19.9 average starting position.
  • Buescher made two O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starts at Las Vegas and recorded a best finish of ninth (2014) in the No. 60 entry for Jack Roush.

Preece at Las Vegas Motor Speedway
Starts: 12
Wins: —
Top-10s: 2
Poles: —

  • “Honestly, Las Vegas has just been really good to me here, as of late, and kind of our group, with everything that we have going on. So, I feel really excited about going there,” said Preece during his media availability in Phoenix. “We’ve been firing on all 8 cylinders when it comes to a mile and a half program and I’m excited about it.”
  • Preece makes his 13th Cup start at Las Vegas this weekend, where he holds an average finish of 21.4. He finished inside the top 10 in both races a year ago, finishing 3rd in the Spring and 9th in the Fall.
  • The Connecticut native’s best qualifying effort is a P12 starting spot in the spring race last season. Overall, he has a 23.6 average starting position.

RFK Historically at Las Vegas
Cup Wins: 7 (Mark Martin, 1998; Jeff Burton, 1999, 2000; Matt Kenseth, 2003, 2004; Carl Edwards, 2008, 2011)

  • Early JACKpot: RFK hit the Vegas jackpot right off the bat, winning the inaugural Cup event at Las Vegas in 1998. Mark Martin led 82 laps in the victory that served as a banner day for RFK.
  • Inaugural Sweep: RFK placed all five of its Cup entries inside the top 10 of that inaugural Las Vegas Cup race in 1998, including three inside the top five, four inside the top six, one in the winners circle and the runner up (6 – 1st, 99 – 2nd, 26 – 4th, 16 – 6th and 97 – 10th).
  • Continued Success: RFK won the first three Cup races at LVMS from ‘98-’00, with Jeff Burton winning back-to-back events in ’99 and ’00. RFK also took three of the first nine Xfinity Series events at LVMS.
  • Victory Lane at Vegas: In addition to the first three Cup races at LVMS, RFK again found the winners’ circle in 2003 and 2004 at the 1.5-mile track with Matt Kenseth. Carl Edwards took the checkered flag at the 2008 and 2011 events to give RFK seven Cup wins at Las Vegas with four different drivers.
  • Back to Back at Vegas: RFK has won back-to-back Cup races at LVMS on two separate occasions in ’99-’00 and ’03-04’ and once in the Xfinity Series in ‘99 and ‘00.

RFK Las Vegas Wins

1998 Martin Cup

1999 Burton Cup

2000 Burton Cup

2003 Kenseth Cup

2004 Kenseth Cup

2008 Edwards Cup

2011 Edwards Cup

1999 Martin NOAPS

2000 Burton NOAPS

2002 Burton NOAPS

2005 Martin NOAPS

2009 Biffle NOAPS

2012 Stenhouse NXS

1997 Ruttman NCTS

1999 Biffle NCTS

2007 Kvapil NCTS

Last Time Out & Where They Stand
Phoenix: Phoenix was a thrilling showcase of RFK Racing resilience as Ryan Preece, Chris Buescher and Brad Keselowski each mounted inspiring, hard‑charging performances in the desert. Preece led the RFK trio with a well fought for 13th‑place finish, overcoming a mid‑race spin and capitalizing on smart tire strategy to claw back through the field. Buescher showed top‑five speed all afternoon, storming to a fourth-place Stage Two result, before rallying from a late pit‑road penalty to secure 14th. Meanwhile, Keselowski embodied determination once again, driving a backup car from 37th to an impressive 15th place finish despite sustaining damage in a chaotic restart.

Points Standings: Buescher: 9th, Keselowski: 16th, Preece: 18th

How Hiring a Plumber in Phoenix Transforms Your Home’s Plumbing?

By
SM
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Photo by depositphotos at https://depositphotos.com/

In Phoenix, where the heat can strain your home’s plumbing, issues like leaks and inefficient water flow demand attention. A staggering 10 percent of households have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day, indicating a need for regular plumbing maintenance. Addressing these problems not only prevents damage to your home but also promotes an eco-friendly environment.

Hiring a professional plumber transforms the functionality and reliability of your system while ensuring compliance with local building codes. Below, we explore the benefits that skilled plumbers bring to your doorstep, from enhanced water quality to cost savings over time.

How Hiring a Plumber in Phoenix Can Revamp Your Home’s Plumbing System

Hiring a seasoned plumber in Phoenix is a strategic move that introduces state-of-the-art solutions to your home’s plumbing system. Professional plumbers can identify current and potential issues—many invisible to the untrained eye—and they’ll have the expertise to resolve them efficiently.

This expertise extends to the installation of advanced plumbing fixtures designed to optimize water usage and reduce waste. In a region where water conservation is key, these updates can make a notable difference in your utility bills. Moreover, the plumber’s knowledge of local water properties and plumbing code requirements ensures that your plumbing system is tailored to Phoenix’s unique environment.

For those considering upgrades or repairs, plumber Phoenix is a pivotal first step. It’s wise to seek out professionals with strong reputations, who offer comprehensive services spanning from leak repairs to system overhauls. This will not only address immediate needs but also set up your home for long-term plumbing health.

Streamlining Water Flow and Reducing Leaks with Professional Plumbing Services

Professional plumbing services bring precision to the task of streamlining water flow throughout your home. A properly balanced system delivers water where it’s needed, minimizing the strain on pipes and considerably reducing the chance of leaks or burst pipes.

Phoenix plumbers employ updated techniques and tools, such as video inspections and hydraulic tests, to pinpoint and seal leaks. These technologies enhance the plumber’s ability to diagnose issues without invasive procedures, thus preserving the integrity of your walls and flooring. Hiring a plumber leads to accurate, long-lasting fixes rather than makeshift repairs that fail under pressure.

Homeowners can maintain efficiency by scheduling regular maintenance with a trusted plumber. Look for services that specialize in water-conserving fixtures and practices, which can further safeguard your home against water waste and high utility expenses.

Enhancing Water Quality and Safety in Your Phoenix Home

Water quality is paramount, not just for drinking, but for all household uses, and plumbers play a vital role in ensuring that Phoenix homes enjoy the purest water possible. They expertly handle water filtration installations and maintenance, which are crucial in areas with hard or mineral-rich water.

Advanced plumbing services go beyond fixing taps and pipes; they can include evaluating and improving the overall safety of your home’s water supply. This might involve testing for contaminants or installing anti-scald devices to protect against temperature fluctuations—a common concern in homes with young children or elderly residents.

Enlisting a plumbing professional ensures that your water quality checks adhere to health guidelines and that any concerns are promptly addressed. Furthermore, you can explore testing your well water if you rely on a private well, securing peace of mind for you and your family.

Long-Term Savings and Efficiency through Expert Plumbing Upgrades

Engaging an expert plumber in Phoenix for upgrades not only enhances performance immediately but also leads to substantial long-term savings. High-efficiency plumbing fixtures can reduce water usage by up to 60 percent, representing a significant cut in both your environmental footprint and water bills.

Plumbers can also recommend eco-friendly solutions such as tankless water heaters, which provide hot water on demand without the energy losses associated with traditional tank heaters. These upgrades, while costly upfront, pay dividends over time through reduced utility payments and potential tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements.

To maximize return on investment, it’s recommended to prioritize upgrades that align with your household’s specific needs and usage patterns. A professional plumber can guide this decision-making process, ensuring that each investment enhances your home’s plumbing efficacy and sustainability.

Ultimately, enlisting the services of a proficient plumber in Phoenix has the power to revolutionize your home’s plumbing system. From boosting water quality and safety to streamlining efficiency and reducing long-term costs, the right professional can have a profound impact on both your comfort and your wallet. Making informed decisions about maintenance and upgrades ensures that your plumbing infrastructure remains robust for years to come.

Cody Ware Welcomes the Character of Las Vegas Motor Speedway

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Official Release
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MOORESVILLE, N.C. (March 12, 2026) – The Las Vegas Strip is full of characters. Elvis impersonators, Pokémon creatures, superheroes and seemingly everyone in between. It’s no surprise that Las Vegas Motor Speedway, just 15 miles north of the Strip up Interstate 15, has plenty of character, too.

The 1.5-mile oval, site of Sunday’s Pennzoil 400 NASCAR Cup Series race, is a fast, sweeping racetrack. Drivers lap its D-shaped layout in under 30 seconds at average speeds approaching 185 mph. With its corners banked at 20 degrees, two- and three-wide racing is common, and its aged asphalt provides enough grip for drivers to search different lines in an effort to find more speed.

For Cody Ware, driver of the No. 51 Yeego Chevrolet for Rick Ware Racing (RWR), the track is like the city – a destination venue.

“Vegas is one of my favorite tracks to go to on the schedule. It’s got a lot of character,” Ware said. “Being out in the desert, it can be a little bit dusty, and you have some pretty significant bumps, especially over in the corners. You have to be very cognizant of your corner entry and the line you’re taking, because if you hit those bumps in turns one and two just the wrong way, it could end your day pretty quickly.

“And with the different lines you can run, you can find ways to make the car work for you even if your car isn’t exactly where you want it. If you don’t have a good handle on your car, there’s about a lane-and-a-half you can use in turns one and two. But if your car is handling well, you can take those bumps aggressively. That opens up a lot of racing opportunities from the bottom of the racetrack all the way to the wall.”

Getting a good handling racecar means finding an equilibrium between mechanical balance and aero balance.

“You have to have a lot of aero grip and a lot of downforce built into the car to make sure you can run aggressively, especially as tire degradation goes on during the run. That, and just compliance and platform control over the bumps in (turns) one and two,” Ware said.

“Those bumps get worse every year, so to be able to have a car that can drive through those bumps and charge into the corner is a big key to not only qualifying well, but maintaining really good long-run speed.”

Finding that long-run speed serves both an immediate need and a long-term need.

Las Vegas is considered an intermediate-style oval, which is the bread-and-butter of the Cup Series calendar. Ovals from 1.3 miles to 2 miles comprise 30 percent of the races. With Las Vegas being the first intermediate oval of the season, it serves as a litmus test for teams to measure themselves and prepare for the next 1.5-mile oval on the schedule – April 19 at Kansas Speedway in Kansas City.

“We start the year with three straight wild-card races, where seemingly anything can happen,” Ware said. “Last week at Phoenix was probably the first race where you go in feeling like you control your destiny a little more. Vegas will give us a gauge of where our performance is relative to the rest of the field, and once we get this Vegas race underneath us, we’re going to have a better idea, directionally, of the places where we can work to make our cars better.”

A switch to Chevrolet and a technical alliance with Richard Childress Racing (RCR) ahead of the 2026 season has given Ware added confidence heading into this bellwether track.

“Our new alliance with Chevrolet and RCR, and all the effort and hard work that’s been put in over the offseason, are going to pay dividends,” Ware said.

“I did a little bit of work in the static rig at RCR for Vegas, and with the new Camaro body, I feel like we’ve got a lot of downforce and not a whole lot of drag in the car. So, it’s a pretty downforce-heavy trim for Vegas, and that might hurt a little bit of our qualifying speed, but from what I’ve felt and seen so far, I think we’ve got a pretty good baseline going into Vegas.”

That baseline meets the racing line on Saturday at 11:30 a.m. PDT/2:30 p.m. EDT for a one-hour practice before qualifying at 12:40 p.m. PDT/3:40 p.m. EDT. Prime Video and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio will provide live coverage of both. Sunday’s Pennzoil 400 goes green at 1 p.m. PDT/4 p.m. EDT with live, flag-to-flag coverage delivered by FS1 and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

About Rick Ware Racing:

Rick Ware has been a motorsports mainstay for more than 40 years. It began at age 6 when the third-generation racer began his driving career and has since spanned four wheels and two wheels on both asphalt and dirt. Competing in the SCCA Trans Am Series and other road-racing divisions led Ware to NASCAR in the early 1980s, where he finished third in his NASCAR debut – the 1983 Warner W. Hodgdon 300 NASCAR Grand American race at Riverside (Calif.) International Raceway. In 1995, Rick Ware Racing was formed, and with wife Lisa by his side, Ware transitioned out of the driver’s seat and into fulltime team ownership. He has since built his eponymous organization into an entity that competes full-time in the elite NASCAR Cup Series while simultaneously campaigning winning teams in the Top Fuel class of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, Progressive American Flat Track (AFT), FIM World Supercross Championship (WSX) and zMAX CARS Tour.

RP Motorsports by Forte Racing Returns for 2026 Season in McLaren Trophy America

By
Official Release
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Team’s 2026 McLaren Trophy America Season Aims to Continue Driving Awareness and Support for Relapsing Polychondritis and Related Autoimmune Disease Research

Monrovia, California (Thursday, March 12, 2026) – Back for their second season in the McLaren Trophy America series, co-drivers Neil Langberg and Kevin Madsen are preparing to return to the cockpit of the No. 53 RP Motorsports by Forte Racing McLaren Artura Trophy Evo. The duo, along with team manager Jon Miller, Relapsing Polychondritis Foundation President David Bammert, and Forte Racing team owner Shane Seneviratne, are eager to continue their partnership with McLaren while growing awareness and accelerating research for relapsing polychondritis and other autoimmune diseases.

The 2026 McLaren Trophy America season kicks off later this month at Sonoma Raceway in Northern California, marking the start of another campaign for the Race for RP initiative and its growing collaboration with McLaren.

The inaugural North American season in 2025 proved to be a strong debut for both the championship and the Race for RP partnership. The collaboration delivered innovative fundraising initiatives alongside traditional auctions held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, United Kingdom. As the partnership continues to grow, additional opportunities to raise funds and expand awareness for autoimmune disease research are expected throughout the season.

The team has tested at both Miami and the Thermal Club in preparation for the upcoming season.

Driver Neil Langberg, co-founder of the Race for RP, looks forward to continuing the mission on track while building on the momentum from last season.

“The boys are back in town” in the #53 Race for Relapsing Polychondritis McLaren Artura Evo car,” Langberg said. “We are happy to once again partner with McLaren in the MTA series and maintain our fundraising campaign to drive awareness and accelerate research for RP and other autoimmune diseases. Unlike race car drivers and teams, patients enduring a chronic disease do not get an off season. It’s a 24/7 proposition, and 1/5 Americans suffer from an autoimmune disease. This is why we race. Please join us back on track for 2026.”

Langberg will once again share driving duties with Kevin Madsen, who returns to the program with confidence following productive offseason preparation and testing with the team.

“I’m excited to kick off another McLaren Trophy America season with all the RP Motorsports by Forte team members,” Madsen said. “The team has grown. There have been good tests at Miami and Thermal. Neil has been cranking in strong, deliberate practice on the sim. Now it’s time to get out there and race for a cause – relapsing polychondritis.”

Behind the scenes, Forte Racing team manager Jon Miller will again oversee the team’s McLaren Trophy America effort, guided by the experience gained during the championship’s inaugural season.

“We’re thrilled to be back with RP Motorsports by Forte Racing, continuing another season of Race for RP’s partnership with McLaren for the McLaren Trophy America season,” Miller said. “Neil and Kevin are back behind the wheel of the iconic #53 entry looking for success in the Pro/Am and Papaya Cup ranks as we work to raise awareness and funding for relapsing polychondritis and other autoimmune disease research.”

The Relapsing Polychondritis Foundation continues to play a central role in the initiative, using the global platform of motorsports to help expand awareness and support groundbreaking research. David Bammert, President of the Relapsing Polychondritis Foundation is excited for the continued partnership with McLaren for the upcoming season.

“We’re excited to once again partner with McLaren as we head into the 2026 McLaren Trophy America Series,” Bammert said. “McLaren’s dedication to mission-aligned initiatives strengthens the RP Foundation’s efforts to expand global awareness and advance groundbreaking research in RP and related autoimmune diseases. Every lap moves us closer to answers and ultimately, a cure.”

For Forte Racing team owner Shane Seneviratne, the Race for RP program represents the type of mission-driven partnership that embodies the spirit of motorsports while creating meaningful impact beyond the racetrack.

“We are proud to continue our partnership with Race for RP and McLaren as we enter the 2026 McLaren Trophy America season. Programs like this demonstrate the true power of motorsports to bring people together around a meaningful cause. Neil, Kevin, and the entire team are passionate about using this platform to raise awareness and support critical research for relapsing polychondritis and other autoimmune diseases. We are excited to see what we can accomplish together both on and off the track this season.”

The No. 53 RP Motorsports by Forte Racing McLaren Artura Trophy Evo will compete throughout the 2026 McLaren Trophy America season with the goal of delivering strong results on track while continuing to grow the impact of the Race for RP initiative.

The 2026 McLaren Trophy America season kicks off with Rounds 1 & 2 at Sonoma Raceway March 27-29.

RP Motorsports by Forte Racing remains committed to using motorsports as a platform for change, combining elite competition with a mission to advance research and awareness for autoimmune diseases. Fans can follow the team’s progress and support the cause by visiting www.raceforrp.org and www.forteracing.com.

ABOUT RACE FOR RP

Race for RP is a motorsports initiative aimed at driving awareness and accelerating research for RP and other autoimmune diseases. Through collaboration with drivers, teams, and sponsors, Race for RP fuels education, accelerates research, and raises awareness of Relapsing Polychondritis and other related autoimmune diseases. For more information, visit raceforrp.org or follow @raceforrp on social media.

ABOUT FORTE RACING

Founded in 2023, Forte Racing is a motorsports team based in Los Angeles and Charlotte, supported by Lamborghini Squadra Corse. Under the watchful eye of Shane Seneviratne, the team competed in various racing series, including the IMSA WeatherTech GTD Championship, the IMSA VP Racing Sportscar Challenge, and Lamborghini Super Trofeo and, in 2025, expanded by adding a single-car entry in

the inaugural McLaren Trophy America Championship. Building on the foundation of US RaceTronics, the team has quickly built a strong reputation with multiple podium finishes, race wins, and several North American and World Championships. The team will expand to a four-car McLaren Trophy America program for 2026 in addition to continuing their presence in the IMSA VP Racing Sportscar Challenge. For more information about the team, its drivers, and race operations, visit www.forteracing.com.

ABOUT THE SERIES

McLaren Trophy America Championship series’ second season will launch in March of 2026. The season will feature 10 rounds at five iconic U.S. tracks including participating the the Formula 1 Miami GP in May.

2026 McLaren Trophy America Schedule:

  • Rounds 1 & 2: Sonoma Raceway, CA | March 27-29
  • Rounds 3 & 4: Miami Grand Prix. Miami, FL | May 1-3
  • Rounds 5 & 6: Road Atlanta, GA | June 12-14
  • Rounds 7 & 8: Road America, WI | August 27-30
  • Rounds 9 & 10: Indianapolis Motor Speedway, IN | October 8-10

ABOUT RELAPSING POLYCHONDRITIS

RP is a rare and degenerative autoimmune disease that primarily affects cartilage in the body, causing inflammation that can lead to severe complications. RP affects multiple organs, including the ears, nose, airways, joints, and even the heart and brain. Research is essential to improve care and treatment options for those living with RP.

Casey Roderick and Rette Jones Racing Look to Bounce Back at Five Flags Speedway

By
Official Release
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PENSACOLA, Fla: Looking to turn the page after a less-than-desirable finish in their ASA STARS National Tour debut together last month at New Smyrna (Fla.) Speedway, Rette Jones Racing, and driver Casey Roderick set their sights on redemption in Saturday’s Sunshine State 200.

With the ASA STARS National Tour heading to Five Flags (Fla.) Speedway in Pensacola — a track well known to both the veteran driver and team — the No. 30 Rette Jones Racing team aims to showcase the speed they displayed during Speedweeks in February while turning the tide and reminding the competition they will be a force to be reckoned with this season.

After proving capable of running up front and contending for the win, Roderick, 33, and the team arrive at Five Flags poised to turn that potential into a defining early-season statement.

Roderick believes the speed the team displayed during Speedweeks, combined with their familiarity with Five Flags Speedway, gives the No. 30 Rette Jones Racing team a strong opportunity to contend on Saturday.

“We showed a lot of speed during Speedweeks and proved we can run up front with the best teams in this series, it just didn’t end the way we wanted,” said Roderick.

“That gives everyone on this No. 30 Rette Jones Racing team a lot of confidence heading into the rest of the season. Five Flags is a track I’ve always enjoyed racing at and one our team knows really well.

“If we can take what we learned at New Smyrna, execute the little things and put together a complete race, I feel like we’ll have a great shot at putting ourselves in position and contending for the win on Saturday.”

A veteran competitor at Five Flags Speedway, Roderick hopes to turn his experience into success at one of Florida’s most coveted short tracks. To do so, the former NASCAR competitor knows exactly what he is looking for behind the wheel of his No. 30 Rette Jones Racing Ford Mustang.

“Five Flags is all about having a balanced race car,” Roderick explained. “You’ve got to be able to roll the center of the corner and still have the drive off so you can make passes. If we can keep the car underneath us on the long runs, I think we’ll be in a good position.”

While Roderick continues to get acclimated driving for one of the most respected teams in the industry, his communication and feedback with crew chief and co-car owner Mark Rette continue to strengthen as the duo builds chemistry together.

On Saturday, Roderick hopes to showcase that growing partnership by contending for the team’s second ASA STARS National Tour victory.

“Working with Mark and everyone at Rette Jones Racing has been great so far,” said Roderick. “The communication has been really strong, and every race weekend we’re learning more about each other and how I like to describe what the car is doing and what I need behind the wheel.

“That kind of chemistry takes a little time to build, but I feel like we’re heading in the right direction. Hopefully, this weekend at Five Flags, we can show what this No. 30 team is really capable of.”

Rette echoed Roderick’s sentiment.

“Casey has done a great job settling into the team, and the communication between him and our guys has been really strong,” said Rette.

“Every time we hit the track we’re learning a little more about what he needs in the car, and that’s helping us get better as a team. We had good speed during Speedweeks, and hopefully we can build on that and have a strong run at Five Flags.”

With one race down and 11 to go, Roderick and the team find themselves buried in the championship standings following their frustrating finish at New Smyrna. Rather than dwelling on the disappointing start, the team is using the setback as motivation to rebound and work their way back into the championship picture.

“It’s obviously not how we wanted to start the season, but it’s a long year and there’s a lot of racing left,” said Roderick. “We showed at New Smyrna that we have the speed to run up front, so that gives us a lot of confidence moving forward.

“Now it’s about putting together complete races and maximizing every opportunity so we can work our way back into the championship fight.”

Port City Racecars, a premier manufacturer of championship-winning chassis and race parts, specializing in asphalt short-track racing will support Roderick’s championship effort in 2026.

Race weekend for the Sunshine State 200 at Five Flags (Fla.) Speedway begins Friday, March 13, with ASA STARS National Tour practice, followed by a full night of local racing featuring the Outlaws, Crown Stocks, and the Legacy Series.

Saturday’s action shifts to an afternoon program highlighted by Hamke Pole Qualifying at 11:00 a.m., which will set the starting lineup for the 200-lap feature.

The green flag for the Sunshine State 200 is scheduled for 1:05 p.m. (2:05 p.m. ET). Fans unable to attend in person can watch both days of racing live on Track TV.

For more on Casey Roderick, like him on Facebook (Casey Roderick Motorsports), follow him on Instagram (@casey__roderick) and X | Twitter (@CaseyRoderick26).

For more on Rette Jones Racing, please visit RetteJonesRacing.com, like them on Facebook (Rette Jones Racing), or follow them on Instagram (@RetteJones30) and X | Twitter (@RetteJones30).

About Rette Jones Racing:

Headquartered in Mooresville, North Carolina, Rette Jones Racing (RJR) was founded in 2015 with the vision of building a competitive racing organization grounded in hard work, preparation and a relentless, never-give-up attitude.

Owned by veteran racers Terry Jones and Mark Rette, RJR continues to expand its footprint across multiple platforms.

In 2026, the team plans to field a full-time entry in the ASA STARS National Tour, while also competing in the ARCA Menards Series and other motorsports disciplines as part of its continued growth and competitive expansion.

Beyond its on-track efforts, Rette Jones Racing provides technical and setup expertise through its technical alliance partnership program, supplying teams with engineering support, chassis consultation, and race-day insight designed to elevate performance and foster long-term success.

Maximum 6.7L Powerstroke Performance: The Best Modifications to Lower EGTs and Stop Intake Sludge

By
SM
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The contemporary diesel trucks are mighty machines. The powerstroke 6.7L is an engine that is characterized by high towing power, durability, and a high torque. But similar to most modern diesel engines, it is susceptible to excessive exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs), and accumulation of intake sludge with age.

The presence of high EGTs may put stress on the engine parts. Airflow may be clogged by intake sludge and diminish performance. The two issues are able to make the truck less efficient.

The bad news is that these problems can be repaired with a few easy changes. The engine will be able to perform at its full potential and can run cooler and breathe better with the right upgrades.

The following are the most optimal 6.7L Powerstroke modifications that assist in reducing the EGTs and avoiding intake sludge.

The importance of Reducing EGTs and the Prevention of Intake Sludge

It is good to know the problem before glancing at the upgrades.

Excessively High EGTs

So EGTs may get too high and cause:

  • Turbocharger damage
  • Reduced engine efficiency
  • More wear and tear on internal components.
  • Potential overheating of its engine.

Intake Sludge Buildup

Intake sludge is created as a result of the combination of the oil vapours and the soot within the intake system.

This buildup can:

  • Restrict airflow
  • Reduce fuel efficiency
  • Result in poor throttle response.
  • Cause permanent damage to the engines.

Fortunately, these issues can be resolved by several specific changes.

Install 6.7 powerstroke delete tuned kit

Installation of a 6.7 powerstroke delete kit with tuner is one of the best methods of reducing EGTs.

This upgrade eliminates restrictive emissions parts which retain heat in the engine.

Significant Benefits :

  • Lower exhaust gases.
  • Improved engine airflow
  • Stronger throttle response
  • Better towing performance
  • Less engine strain when heavy loads occur.

How It Helps the Engine

When the exhaust gases flow freely in the system, the engine does not have to strain to propel them out. This assists in keeping temperatures down and increases efficiency in general.

A tuner also enhances efficiency in the fuel delivery and timing which enables the engine to run smoothly and cooler.

Perform a CCV Delete Upgrade

The other significant change is the ccv delete 6.7 powerstroke.

The CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system forces the oily vapors to re-enter the intake. These vapors are eventually combined with soot and form thick sludge.

Advantages of a CCV Delete

  • Eliminates the accumulation of vapor in the intake due to oil.
  • Maintains the intercooler pipes clean.
  • Reduces carbon deposits
  • Improves long-term airflow

Why It Matters

A diesel engine is sensitive to clean airflow. The turbocharger and combustion system is able to work much more efficiently when the intake remains clean.

There are numerous alternatives to the Intercooler System

The intercooler assists in cooling the compressed air of the turbo and then it is introduced into the engine.

With a smaller temperature of airflow, the process of combustion is more effective.

Advantages of a Bigger Intercooler

  • Reduce the intake air temperatures.
  • Reduced EGT levels
  • Better power at heavy load.
  • Better towing performance

When It Helps Most

Improved intercoolers particularly assist in the trucks that are utilized in:

  • Heavy towing
  • Long highway driving
  • Performance builds

The colder the air, the colder the engine.

Enhance the throughput with a Performance Exhaust System

An exhaust system that is restrictive is able to trap heat and increase EGTs.

A high-flow exhaust system can be installed to enable gases to be released quicker.

The advantages of a Performance Exhaust.

  • Reduced backpressure
  • Reduced EGTs on acceleration.
  • Improved turbo efficiency
  • Better fuel economy

Why It Works

Much amounts of exhaust gas are produced by diesel engines. With a clear exhaust path, the heat exits the engine at a quicker rate, which helps it to be cooler when performing a strenuous task.

Modify the Air Intake System.

Combustion heavily depends on airflow.

The volume of clean air entering the engine can be increased by a performance cold air intake.

The benefits of Better Airflow.

  • More efficient combustion
  • Reduced soot production
  • Lower engine temperatures
  • Improved throttle response

Extra Performance Gains

Enhancement of air flow accelerates the turbocharger and stabilizes boost pressure.

This also lessens strain on the engine and maintains the temperatures.

Measure Quality EGTs using a Quality Gauge.

Monitoring engine temperatures is significant even with upgrades.

EGT gauge assists the drivers to monitor the exhaust temperatures.

Why Monitoring Matters

  • Stops overheating during towing.
  • Assists in the early detection of airflow issues.
  • Protects the turbocharger
  • Extends engine lifespan

Most seasoned diesel users believe that an EGT gauge is one of the most significant engine protection devices.

Indications that Your 6.7L Powerstroke Requires the following Upgrades

There are some signs of warning concerning airflow or temperature issues.

Common Symptoms

  • Rising EGTs when towing
  • Reduced fuel economy
  • Sluggish throttle response
  • Hyperacceleration black smoke.
  • Intake pipes have oil residue.

In case they emerge, modifications in airflow and ventilation can be used to reinstate performance.

Final Words

The 6.7L Powerstroke is an effective and strong diesel engine. Nevertheless, fuel emissions elements and oil vapor systems may lead to the accumulation of heat and ingestion of sludge in the long run.

These issues can be resolved with smart upgrades and the actual performance of the engine.

Some of the major alterations that can be made will include a 6.7 powerstroke delete kit with tuner, CCV delete systems, improved intercoolers, and better flow of exhausts which will greatly reduce EGTs and leave intake clean.

The engine also does not run as hot and breathes better and gives the robust performance that diesel truck owners are used to when it is properly set up.

FAQs

1. Why are EGTs high in 6.7 Powerstroke?

High EGTs normally occur as a result of low exhaust flow, heavy towing, or inefficient combustion. Inadequate ventilation may cause heat to be confined in the engine.

2. What does a CCV delete do to a powerstroke engine?

CCV delete eliminates the oil vapors into the intake system. This avoids the sludge build up and maintains the intake pipes and intercooler cleaner.

3. Do the high EGTs harm the engine?

Yes. Long EGTs may cause damage to turbocharger, exhaust valves, and other internal engine parts.

4. Why does the improved airflow lower engine temperature?

In a situation where air travels freely into the intake system and out through the exhaust, the combustion is more effective. This minimizes the amount of heat in the engine.

5. Do airflow upgrades assist in towing?

Yes. Enhanced airflow, lower intake temperatures, as well as lower exhaust restrictions all aid in keeping safe levels of EGT during heavy towing.

The Budget-Friendly Guide to Upgrading Your 1988-2000 Honda D16 Exhaust

By
SM
-

The Honda Civic cars that were used in 1988 to 2000 are still well enjoyable by car enthusiasts. Their lightweight structure, straight forward engines and low cost components ensure they are ideal in upgrading them as beginners. The other most efficient upgrade is the enhancement of the exhaust system.

Most drivers would desire improved sound and more powerful engines, yet they would not wish to spend more money. An efficient exhaust upgrade can assist in making the engine breathe easily and at the same time keep the cost low.

Other upgrades that have been most popular include the Honda D16 headers that are used to replace the original exhaust manifold and enhance airflow. Together with other exhaust modifications, they are able to enhance efficiency as well as provide the car with a sportier sound.

The following guide will discuss the easy and inexpensive options to enhance the exhaust system of the D16 coupled with enhancing the power, sound, and general driving pleasure.

Comprehending Honda D16 Engine

Many Honda Civic models that were launched in the late 1980s and 1990s were powered by the Honda D16 engine. It gained a reputation of being reliable, fuel efficient and easy to maintain.

Widely used Vehicles powered by the D16 Engines

  • Honda Civic (1988–2000)
  • Honda CRX
  • Honda Del Sol

Why Enthusiasts Like the D16

  • Lightweight engine design
  • Easy to modify
  • Vast third-party components market.
  • Reliable daily performance

Due to these benefits, one of the initial changes that many owners do is to upgrade the exhaust system.

Reasons why Stock Exhaust System is a limiting performance

The exhaust systems in the factories are engineered to be quiet and meet the required emission levels. Although they are good in normal driving, they may limit the airflow.

Common Limitations

  • Narrow exhaust piping
  • Constraining factory manifold.
  • Low exhaust flow efficiency.
  • These include reduced engine breathing at higher RPM.

Better air flow enables the engine to expel the exhaust gases in a more rapid way. This results in a smoother engine performance and in some cases slight gains of power.

Low-cost Exhaust conversions on D16 Engines

The exhaust system also does not need costly racing components to be upgraded. A number of cost-effective adjustments can be made to enhance performance without increasing the expenses.

1. Fit a Customized Exhaust Head.

The exhaust header substitutes the factory manifold, and it enhances the outflow of the exhaust gases.

A quality header can:

  • Enhance breathing by each cylinder.
  • Reduce back pressure
  • Increase throttle response
  • Enhance engine sound

That is why a great number of enthusiasts select Honda D16 headers as they offer great performance gains and are not expensive.

Benefits of a Header Upgrade

  • Better exhaust gas flow
  • Slight horsepower increase
  • Improved engine efficiency
  • Sportier exhaust tone

2. Upgrade the Mid-Pipe

The header is pipped to the muffler via the mid-pipe. This pipe may be constrictive and small on older Civics.

To ensure that there is no blockage in the system, changing it to a larger diameter pipe can be useful.

Key benefits include:

  • Less restriction of exhaust.
  • Improved sound quality
  • Handling of upgraded headers better.

3. Fit a High-Flow Catalytic Converter

Emissions need a catalytic converter, although a few of the factory units limit airflow.

A balanced solution is to have a high flow catalytic converter.

Advantages include:

  • Helps to keep the emissions in order.
  • Improves exhaust flow
  • Helps to improve engine efficiency.

This upgrade is particularly suitable when it is combined with aftermarket headers.

4. Select a Performance Muffler

The muffler has a significant function of sound and airflow.

A performance muffler can:

  • Improve exhaust sound
  • Reduce restriction
  • Assist system total performance.

A great number of fans choose the mufflers that are created to fit into the performance automotive exhaust headers as they are engineered to interface with the upgraded exhausts.

Indications of an Exhaust upgrade Requirement

Outdated Civic exhaust systems tend to wear out when a person drives too long.

Common signs include:

  • Loud rattling noises
  • Rusted exhaust pipes
  • Reduced engine efficiency
  • Weak acceleration
  • Unusual exhaust smell

Making replacements of the worn parts with upgraded parts can revive the performance besides enhancing the driving experience.

Installation Procedures For the novice

A large number of Honda users like working on their own cars.

Basic Installation Tips

  • Wear the appropriate tools and safety equipment.
  • Jack stands Lift the car using jack stands.
  • Put penetrating oil on old bolts.
  • Installation -replace deteriorated gaskets.
  • Recheck exhaust positioning.

Most exhaust upgrades can be installed by anyone, even a novice, and only needs time and a rudimentary understanding of mechanical skills.

Improvements in performance to be expected

Exhaust modifications that are made to the engine do not turn the engine into a different engine, however; they can offer recognizable enhancements.

Common Results

  • Slight horsepower increase
  • Better throttle response
  • Improved exhaust tone
  • Rather, more smooth high-RPM.

The greatest advantage is usually the increased driving sensation and sound.

Post-Exhaust Upgrade Maintenance Advice

Routine maintenance is required to ensure the upgraded system performs well.

Uncomplicated Maintenance Practices

  • Periodically inspect clamps and check bolts.
  • Inspect for rust or leaks
  • Wash visibility emission parts.
  • Check engine performance variations.

It is also through proper care that exhaust upgrades do last longer and work better.

Final Words

The Honda D16 is also one of the most commonly favored engines by the novice car lovers. It is simple to design and has affordable components that can be upgraded easily in case of limited budgets.

One of the simplest methods to improve performance and enjoy driving is the improvement of the exhaust system. Such minor modifications as headers, mid-pipes, and mufflers can enable the engine to breathe easier and sound louder.

It requires a little planning and proper parts to give even an older Civic as 19882000 a new life without having to spend a lot of money. An exhaust upgrade is not only a well-selected performance enhancement but also makes these old Hondas enjoyable to drive even many years later.

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