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Lochie Hughes Crowned USF Pro 2000 Champion, Secures First Title for Turn 3 Motorsport

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Official Release
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2024 USF Pro 2000 Championship Winners Lochie Hughes and Turn 3 Motorsport / Gavin Baker

Portland, Ore. (August 30, 2024) – Australian driver Lochie Hughes successfully clinched the 2024 USF Pro 2000 Championship presented by Continental Tire with a stellar performance at the Continental Tire Grand Prix of Portland season finale, also securing the first championship win for Turn 3 Motorsport. Hughes’ triumph marks a significant milestone for the 22-year-old and the team, as he now advances with a scholarship prize valued at $681,500 to compete in the INDY NXT series, the final stepping stone to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and the iconic Indianapolis 500.

Hughes’ remarkable rookie season was capped off with multiple accolades, including four pole positions, five wins, six additional podiums, and the Rookie of the Year award, which comes with a $7,500 prize. Turn 3 Motorsport also shined off the track, with Neil O’Donovan and Matthew McComish earning the Makita Tools Mechanics of the Year award, and Peter Dempsey receiving the inaugural Marelli Engineer of the Year honor, a distinction given to one standout engineer across the entire USF Pro Championships ladder.

RACE 1 RECAP:

Race 1 at the 1.964-mile, 12-turn road course of Portland International Raceway kicked off under challenging rainy conditions, with a wet track causing multiple cars to spin and slide off at the start in Turn 1. Hughes managed to navigate the #44 car through the treacherous opening laps and settled into third place, displaying caution and long-term strategy as the race continued to unfold.

Danny Dyszelski also made it through the opening lap disarray, moving up to fifth, while Tyke Durst followed suit and climbed up to tenth.

Following a restart on Lap 4, Hughes carefully maintained his position amid the chaos, ultimately dropping to sixth over the following laps but keeping his eye on the bigger prize. With his main championship competitor Jace Denmark spinning out and falling a lap down after the restart, Hughes knew he just needed to finish the race at that point to lock in the championship title. And that he did; a sixth place finish in Race 1 secured the championship title for Hughes with one race still to go, a testament to his consistency and skill throughout the season.

Meanwhile, Dyszelski fought hard to hold his ground in the remaining laps and brought the #3 car home in a well-earned seventh position, crossing the finish line just behind Hughes.

Durst had worked his way forward to a season-high eighth position on track, but unfortunately faced setbacks after missing the corner in Turn 1, forcing him to relinquish his gains temporarily and ultimately placing him 12th for Race 1.

44 Lochie Hughes // USF Pro 2000

Private Wealth Planning / The McGinley Group / Grip Auto Timepieces
“2024 Champions!” said Hughes. “We did exactly what we needed to do in Portland to seal the deal. I can’t thank my Turn 3 Motorsport family enough for everything they have done for me this year. I say family because it really is one. To see the whole team crying after we won was something I’ve never seen before, and it shows how much it means to everyone involved. I’m incredibly proud to have driven for this team, and I’m sad it’s over but so grateful to everyone at Turn 3 for this incredible season.”

3 Danny Dyszelski // USF Pro 2000

Vera Guitars / Formula Imports / Charlotte Mechanical
“It was a decent end to a very strong rookie season,” said Dyszelski. “I made a mistake in qualifying which ended up hurting our overall results for this weekend, but we were still able to bring home a pair of top-ten finishes to end the year. I’m super proud of the incredible car Turn 3 Motorsport gave me all year and happy with the results we were able to achieve in our rookie season.”

33 Tyke Durst // USF Pro 2000

FHI / Relay Payments / Drive Toward a Cure
“Portland was a tough one,” said Durst. “We had decent pace and made up positions in the starts of both races, but unfortunately, mistakes I made took us out of easy top-ten finishes. This year has been incredibly challenging as a driver. There were many races that were looking good until something happened. I’ll take those lessons to heart this off season and get after it going into 2025. A huge thank you to Turn 3 Motorsport for always giving me a great car and for all the support in my rookie season.”

Team Owner, Peter Dempsey
“First off, I’m very proud of the effort that Lochie (Hughes) and all of our drivers put into this year,” said Team Owner Peter Dempsey. “We were very fortunate to have such a great group of drivers this year from start to finish. I’m super thankful that Lochie was able to win the championship—the first one for our team. It’s a moment that will never be forgotten. He truly deserves his prize, and I want to wish him the best moving forward into 2025 and beyond. It was a pleasure to work with him through the year, and we truly enjoyed every moment.”

“A huge thank you also to all the effort our whole crew put in all year long to be able to pull this off,” continued Dempsey. “I’m thankful for every person who was a part of our team from the start of the season until the end. None of this would be possible without the people we had in our program this year. I’m grateful to have such a strong group of people to allow us to perform at the highest level as a team.”

“Thank you also to my wife and team co-owner Mandy (Dempsey) who is the glue to this whole program. Her efforts have never gone unnoticed throughout the season. Now we turn our attention to 2025, and I know how determined we are as a team to keep this momentum going. It was an amazing year, and now we are aiming to come back even stronger in 2025.”

With the conclusion of the 2024 USF Pro 2000 Championship season, all focus shifts forward into post-season testing and the series-wide Fall Combine event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway October 19-20.
To stay up to date on Turn 3 Motorsport, follow the team on social media using the handle @turn3motorsport.

For more information or images, please contact Mandy Dempsey at turn3motorsport@gmail.com.
About Turn 3 Motorsport: Turn 3 Motorsport is a full-service operation specializing in racecar preparation, engineering, and driver development. Founded and managed by racecar driver and coach Peter Dempsey, T3M is focused on professional service, team member growth, and high-level performance across multiple racing series.

In 2019, the team secured the Blue Marble Cocktails Radical Cup North America championship titles in the 1340cc, 1500cc, and overall classes. Later that year, Peter and Turn 3 Motorsport achieved a record-breaking win at the NASA 25 Hours of Thunderhill endurance race, piloting the #10 Eastern Racing / Turn 3 Motorsport Radical SR3 RSX 1340 to a dominating win, leading 638 out of 672 laps, and becoming the first car under two liters to achieve the overall win.

In the team’s rookie season, Turn 3 Motorsport attracted attention out of the gate by winning the season opener of the 2020 Indy Pro 2000 Championship Presented by Cooper Tires in a sweeping performance with Singaporean driver Danial Frost. Frost and the team went on to achieve a pole position, six podium finishes, and third overall in the championship in 2020.

In 2021, T3M expanded its presence in the Road to Indy by introducing a two-car program into the Cooper Tires USF2000 Championship alongside its Indy Pro 2000 Championship campaign. In its debut USF2000 season, the team found victory at the season finale with American driver Josh Green as well as earning an additional podium and fifth overall in the championship. The team earned further accolades in the Indy Pro 2000 series with a race win at the season finale by Irish driver James Roe as well as a pole position at World Wide Technology Raceway and seventh overall in the championship.

In 2022, T3M showed its strength and teamwork by achieving a podium, win, and/or pole at 7 of the 9 events on the Road to Indy calendar with rookie drivers Josh Green, Jonathan Browne, and Christian Weir each earning the aforementioned results across two different series (USF2000 and Indy Pro 2000).

In 2023, T3M tied for the most amount of wins in the USF Pro 2000 season with drivers Michael d’Orlando and Christian Brooks earning a total of five wins for the team. The team also earned seven pole positions, the most of any other team, and finished second overall in the Team Championship.

Preview: NASCAR Xfinity Series at Darlington

By
Angie Campbell
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SEPTEMBER 02: John Hunter Nemechek, driver of the #20 Pye Barker Fire & Safety Toyota, leads the field to the green flag to start the NASCAR Xfinity Series Sport Clips Haircuts VFW Help A Hero 200 at Darlington Raceway on September 02, 2023 in Darlington, South Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

The NASCAR Xfinity Series will compete at Darlington Raceway on Saturday afternoon in the Sport Clips Haircuts VFW Help a Hero 200. There are only four races remaining in the regular season. In 68 previous races at the track “Too Tough to Tame, there have been 36 different race winners and 32 different pole winners.

JR Motorsports’ Justin Allgaier is the most recent race winner at the 1.366-mile track with his victory in May earlier this season and has already clinched a spot in the 12-driver playoff field, along with Austin Hill, Sam Mayer, Chandler Smith and Shane van Gisbergen. That leaves seven spots up for grabs.

Notable Cup Series drivers who will be competing in the Xfinity Series race include Joey Logano in the No. 15 AM Racing Ford, Chase Elliott in the No. 17 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet and Noah Gragson in the No. 30 Rette Jones Racing Ford.

Clinch Scenarios:
The following drivers could clinch on previous wins with a win by any driver that already has a win:

  • Cole Custer: Would clinch regardless of finish
  • Riley Herbst: Would clinch regardless of finish
  • Jesse Love: Would clinch regardless of finish

The following drivers could clinch on previous wins with a win by AJ Allmendinger, Sheldon Creed, Parker Kligerman, Ryan Sieg or Sammy Smith:

  • Cole Custer: Would clinch with 14 points

The following drivers could clinch on previous wins with a win by Brandon Jones or a driver lower in the standings:

  • Cole Custer: Would clinch regardless of finish

Cole Custer, Riley Herbst and Jesse Love could clinch with a win at Darlington.

The following drivers could clinch with a win:

  • AJ Allmendinger: Could only clinch with help

The Sport Clips Haircuts VFW Help A Hero 200 will air on the USA Network at 3:30 p.m. Saturday with radio coverage provided by MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

PSM’S MATT SMITH LOOKS TO CONTINUE MOMENTUM THROUGH THE TOYOTA NHRA U.S. NATIONALS

By
Official Release
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INDIANAPOLIS (Aug. 30, 2024) – When six-time NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle champion Matt Smith returns this weekend’s 70th annual Toyota NHRA U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, he brings with him not only his success from last season, but also his last race.

Smith, rider of the DENSO Auto Parts Buell, made a statement in Sonoma when he swept the weekend by winning the GETTRX Pro Stock Motorcycle NHRA All-Star Callout specialty event and earning the No. 1 qualifier position before going on to win the event on Sunday.

“We finally broke through for the win in Sonoma and that was the first time since Reading of last year,” said Smith. “Our DENSO Auto Parts Buell team has been working hard over the last year and I want to think we’re peaking at the right time and Indy is the perfect place to keep the momentum going.”

Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car), Matt Hartford (Pro Stock) and Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all claimed Toyota NHRA U.S. Nationals victories in 2023 and this year’s race will again be broadcast on FOX and FS1, including a special Pep Boys Funny Car All-Star Callout broadcast on FOX at 5 p.m. ET on Sunday and eliminations coverage on FOX beginning at 2 p.m. on Monday.

It is the 14th of 20 races during the 2024 campaign and the final race in the regular season, and plenty is on the line at the prestigious race.

Last year in Indy, Smith advanced to the final round where he faced Hector Arana Jr. Arana went red, giving Smith his two consecutive Toyota NHRA U.S. Nationals title.

In 2024, the class has seen the same dominance from reigning class champion Gaige Herrera, with only Smith and Chase Van Sant as other winners in the field. With sights set on the NHRA Countdown to the Championship, Smith is second in points and knows a seventh championship is still within reach.

“I’m getting older and there’s a lot of young guns shooting for us, but I can still do this. I can still win a championship, and I would love to get seven and that’s my goal right now,” Smith said.

In the Top Fuel ranks, Brown is aiming for his third straight Indianapolis win. With three wins so far this season, he is aiming for his fourth NHRA world title. Leading the points is reigning champion Doug Kalitta following by his Kalitta Motorsports teammate Shawn Langdon. Also in the hunt is Brainerd winner Justin Ashley and four-time champ Steve Torrence.

The stars of the Funny Car class will have an added layer of competition in Indy with the addition of the Pep Boys Funny Car All-Star Callout on Sunday. Bob Tasca III will have his pick of the star-studded field of Ron Capps, Matt Hagan, Chad Green, J.R. Todd, Cruz Pedregon, Alexis DeJoria and Paul Lee.

Hartford earned his 2023 Toyota NHRA U.S. Nationals win when he defeated Fernando Cuadra Jr. in the final round. After a tough season in 2024, Hartford will be looking for a strong finish in Indy to make up for his early season struggles. Dallas Glenn leads the points and is the most recent winner on the circuit. Multi-time champs Greg Anderson and Erica Enders are in second and third with Aaron Stanfield and Jeg Coughlin Jr. round out the top five.

The 70th annual Toyota NHRA U.S. Nationals promises to be one of the biggest in the illustrious history of The Big Go. It features the final Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge of the year and the Pep Boys Funny Car All-Star Callout, as well as the special Sox & Martin Hemi Challenge presented by the McCandless Collection and the Rooftec Comp Cash Clash, along with racing in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by LearnEV+, NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™ and NHRA Holley EFI Factory X, plus:

  • A special 70th anniversary NHRA U.S. Nationals pennant for the first 8,000 fans in attendance for eliminations on Monday, Sept. 2.
  • Free parking for all fans and children 12-under admitted free.
  • An unforgettable Top Eliminator Club experience, including NHRA driver appearances, food and drink, TEC gift bag, starting line seats and much more.
  • The biggest field in drag racing featuring more than 900 cars.

Fans will be invited all weekend long to the Nitro Alley Stage, which is the main entertainment hub in the pits, hosting Nitro School, meet and greets, music and much more. Race fans at Indy can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce and celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Monday 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 Monday after racing concludes, where fans are invited to congratulate the event winners.

As always, fans get an exclusive pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet in Indy. 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 NHRA’s popular Nitro Alley and Manufacturers Midway, an exciting atmosphere that includes interactive displays, merchandise, food and fun for the entire family.

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature one round at 6:45 p.m. ET on Friday, Aug. 30, two rounds at 12 and 2:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, Aug. 31 and the final two rounds of qualifying on Sunday, Sept. 1 at 12 and 3:00 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. ET on Monday, Sept 2.

The first round of the Pep Boys Funny Car All-Star Callout takes place at 1:05 p.m. ET on Sunday, Sept. 1, with the semifinals at 2:40 p.m. and the final round at 4:30 p.m. A special broadcast of the Callout takes place on FOX at 5 p.m. ET on Sunday.

Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 1 p.m. ET on Friday and 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, and eliminations beginning at 12 p.m. on FS1 on Monday, shifting to FOX at 2 p.m.

To purchase tickets to the 70th annual Toyota NHRA U.S. Nationals, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. All children 12 and under will be admitted free in the general admission area with a paid adult. For more information about NHRA, visit www.NHRA.com.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM), creator of the Prius hybrid and the Mirai fuel cell vehicle, is committed to building vehicles for the way people live through our Toyota and Lexus brands, and directly employs more than 63,000 people in North America (more than 49,000 in the U.S.).

Over the past 65 years, Toyota has assembled nearly 47 million cars and trucks in North America at the company’s 12 manufacturing plants. By 2025, the company’s 13th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles.

Through our more than 1,800 North American dealerships (nearly 1,500 in the U.S.), Toyota sold more than 2.6 million cars and trucks (more than 2.2 million in the U.S.) in 2023, of which more than one quarter were electrified vehicles (full battery, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fuel cell).

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 presented by LearnEV+, 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 110 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.

NASCAR Awards to Take Place in the Queen City

By
Official Release
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Version 1.0.0

The CW to broadcast the postseason celebration on Sunday, November 24

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – (August 30, 2024) – The annual NASCAR Awards – the year-end celebration honoring the sport’s top talents and brightest stars – will have a new home in 2024 … Charlotte, N.C. Home to many of the sport’s drivers, race teams and the NASCAR Hall of Fame, this will be the first time the NASCAR Cup Series Awards will be hosted in the Queen City.

The 2024 NASCAR Awards will be held on Friday, Nov. 22 to formally honor all three national series champions (NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series, NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series) at the Charlotte Convention Center and will air on Sunday, Nov. 24 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. ET/PT on The CW. Tune in to watch the celebration of the 2024 national series champions. For the second-consecutive year in conjunction with the national series awards, NASCAR will host a celebration for the NASCAR Regional Series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East, ARCA Menards Series West, NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series) and the NASCAR International Series (NASCAR Brasil Series, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Mexico Series and NASCAR Whelen Euro Series), on Thursday, Nov. 21.

“We are pleased to announce our move to the Queen City for our postseason celebrations.” said Michelle Byron, EVP, Chief Partnership and Licensing Officer at NASCAR. “Being able to trace many of our sport’s racing roots back to the North Carolina area, you can feel the energy and passion for NASCAR from the fans in Charlotte. We’re excited to officially crown our champions in the Queen City.”

Last year, 2023 Cup Series champion Ryan Blaney, Xfinity Series champion Cole Custer, and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champion Ben Rhodes were honored in Music City. The formal postseason Awards is a tradition that stretches back to 1981, when the event was held in New York City. It has since relocated to Las Vegas from 2009 to 2019 and Nashville from 2019 to 2023.

About NASCAR

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 14 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Series, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Mexico Series, NASCAR Whelen Euro Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in five cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 11 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.

For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, X and Snapchat.

Preview: Cup Series season finale at Darlington

By
Angie Campbell
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With one race to go in the regular season, everything is on the line for the NASCAR Cup Series drivers at Darlington Raceway’s Southern 500 on Sunday evening.

Who will tame the Lady in Black and advance to the Playoffs in the regular season finale and who will be crowned as the regular season champion? With only three spots remaining in the Playoffs, one thing is certain; the on-track action will be intense.

23XI Racing’s Tyler Reddick is poised to earn the regular season championship, leading the standings over Hendrick Motorsports drivers, Kyle Larson (-17) and Chase Elliott (-18). Larson, the defending race winner, is hoping to give Reddick a

“I love racing at Darlington, and it was cool to get that first (Cup) win there last year in the Southern 500,” he said. “We’re 17 points down, but we’re going to race hard for stage points and hopefully be able to battle for the Regular Season Championship at the end of the race.” 

Thirteen drivers have already earned the opportunity to compete in the 16-driver Cup Series Playoff field by virtue of wins – Christopher Bell, Ryan Blaney, Alex Bowman, William Byron, Harrison Burton, Austin Cindric, Chase Elliott, Denny Hamlin, Brad Keselowski, Kyle Larson, Joey Logano, Tyler Reddick and Daniel Suarez.

Of the winless drivers, and currently ranked in 14th place, Martin Truex Jr. (+58) is in the best position to advance to the Playoffs. But he acknowledged the demanding nature of the track and the obstacles he will face.

“The challenge is that it’s a long race, a lot of pit stops and a lot of chances for things to go wrong,” he said. “Track position is obviously really important. To go through 13 sets of tires or whatever it is, and track position and what it means there, and to keep track position, it’s tough to stay up front and be consistently really strong. It’s tough to do there, and we hope we can do that on Sunday night.”

He’s followed by Ty Gibbs (+39) in 15th, and Chris Buescher (+21) in 16th place. But that can quickly change if there is a new winner.

The following drivers can clinch with a win at Darlington – Martin Truex Jr., Ty Gibbs, Chris Buescher, Bubba Wallace, Ross Chastain, Kyle Busch, Chase Briscoe, Todd Gilliland, Carson Hocevar, Michael McDowell, Josh Berry, Noah Gragson, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Ryan Preece, Daniel Hemric, Austin Dillon, Justin Haley, John Hunter Nemechek, Corey LaJoie and Zane Smith.

Although Austin Dillon won at Richmond Raceway, he was denied an automatic berth in the Playoffs after a ruling by NASCAR that his actions at the end of the race when he made contact with Joey Logano and Denny Hamlin, were deliberate and unacceptable.

Wallace improved his chance of making the Playoffs after winning the pole for Sunday’s Southern 600.

“Anything can happen so we have to run our own race,” he said. “It makes it a lot easier for us. Having that first pit stall and as long as long as we execute and make the right calls, be great on pit road then — all I want is every single person a part of this team, including myself, is to go to bed tomorrow night saying, ‘We did whatever we could. We did all we could.’ And maybe it was good enough, maybe it wasn’t so that’s the lottery ticket we’ll find out tomorrow after the race.”

The Cup Series Cook Out Southern 500 is set for 6 p.m. ET Sunday and will be broadcast on USA with radio coverage provided by MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

RCR Race Preview: Darlington Raceway

By
Official Release
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Richard Childress Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series at Darlington Raceway… In 145 NASCAR Cup Series starts at Darlington Raceway, Richard Childress Racing has eight wins, all by Dale Earnhardt. Earnhardt claimed the checkered flag in 1986 (spring), both races in 1987, 1989 (fall), another sweep in 1990 plus spring events in 1993 and 1994. RCR drivers have 26 top-five and 48 top-10 finishes at the historic South Carolina speedway.

Richard Childress Racing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series at The Lady in Black… Richard Childress Racing is looking to find Victory Lane for the first time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Darlington Raceway. Austin Hill owns back-to-back second-place finishes in his two most recent starts at the track. The Welcome, N.C. based team has 14 top-five and 32 top-10 finishes.

Catch Saturday’s Action… The Sport Clips Haircuts VFW Help A Hero 200 will be televised live on Saturday, August 31, beginning at 3:30 p.m. ET on USA. The race will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Watch Sunday’s Show… The Southern 500 will be televised live on Sunday, September 1 beginning at 6 p.m. ET on USA. The race will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Austin Dillon and the No. 3 Toys for Tots Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 at Darlington Raceway… Austin Dillon has made 16 career starts in the NASCAR Cup Series at Darlington Raceway, posting a career-best second-place finish in September 2020 when he missed Victory Lane by a narrow margin over Kevin Harvick. Dillon has completed 98 percent of the laps competed in the NASCAR Cup Series at the historic venue. Dillon also had a fourth-place finish in 2017. Dillon has made four appearances at The Lady in Black in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, securing his best finish of fifth in 2012. The 2011 NASCAR Truck Series champion has two starts at the track in the Truck Series, earning his best finish of fifth in August 2010.

Welcome Toys for Tots… Toys for Tots, a 77-year National charitable Program run by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, provides year-round joy, comfort, and hope to economically disadvantaged children across the Nation through the gift of a new toy or book. Providing toys, books, and other gifts to disadvantaged children offers recognition, confidence, and a positive memory for a lifetime. Such experiences help children become responsible citizens and caring members of their community. Since 1947, the Program has evolved and grown exponentially, delivering hope and Christmas magic to over 301 million children in need. The Marine Toys for Tots Program also provides support year-round to families experiencing challenges and exceptional circumstances, thus fulfilling the hopes and dreams of millions of disadvantaged children beyond the holidays. The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is a not-for-profit organization authorized by the U.S. Marine Corps and the Department of Defense to provide fundraising and other necessary support for the annual Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. For more information, visit www.toysfortots.org.

Toys for Tots 97:3 Program… The 97:3 Program to Support Ratio means that 97 cents of every donated dollar goes directly to support the Toys for Tots mission of providing gifts for economically disadvantaged children, with not a single donated dollar going toward salaries or labor costs. Donate online to the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation at www.toysfortots.org/donate/.

Meet Dillon… On Saturday, August 31 at 4 p.m. ET, the Coca-Cola Racing driver is scheduled to make an appearance on behalf of Coca-Cola at Walmart (251 Andover Place, Darlington, SC 29532).

AUSTIN DILLON QUOTE:

What are your thoughts on Darlington Raceway?

“Darlington Raceway is one of my favorite tracks and I love racing there. It’s a racer’s track, and the history there is so special. It’s one of the hardest races to win. I have finished second there in the past, so we want to improve on that. We need to qualify well on Saturday because track position is extremely important, and a good pit stall can make a difference in the race. The track gets slick and wears tires quite a bit. The key to Darlington Raceway is trying to race the track and not the competition. It would be nice to knock another Crown Jewel off. I’ve got two of them and another one would be pretty special to take the No. 3 Toys for Tots Chevrolet to Victory Lane Sunday night.”

Kyle Busch and the No. 8 Morgan & Morgan Chevrolet Camaro at Darlington Raceway… Kyle Busch will make his 26th NASCAR Cup Series start at Darlington Raceway. The Las Vegas native scored his first victory at the historic track in 2008, which came in just his fourth start at the egg-shaped speedway. During that win, Busch led a race-high 169 of 367 laps and crossed the finish line over three seconds ahead of second-place Carl Edwards. Entering this weekend’s event, Busch has recorded six top-five and 14 top-10 finishes at Darlington Raceway. He ranks third overall among current drivers in laps led at Darlington (899).

Did You Know? Busch is the youngest NASCAR Cup Series race winner in the 74-year history of Darlington Raceway. Busch was 23 years, 0 months, and 8 days old when he captured the checkered flag at the South Carolina speedway in 2008.

Points Update… Busch currently holds the 16th position in the Cup Series regular season driver point standings, 106 points below the Playoff cutline. Entering the final race of NASCAR’s regular season, Busch must win on Sunday to qualify for the Playoffs.

About Morgan & Morgan… As America’s largest injury law firm, Morgan & Morgan has recovered more than $15 billion for over 300,000 clients. Throughout the United States, our attorneys fulfill our “For The People” commitment in over 50 practice areas, including national mass torts and class actions, labor and employment, civil rights, and product liability, among many others. We co-counsel with hundreds of other law firms, who refer thousands of cases to us. Our firm has taken on some of the biggest corporations across the globe, including BP, Facebook, Google, Monsanto, and Lockheed Martin, and recovered billions in complex national litigation, including $1.8 billion in the Porter Ranch Gas Leak case in 2021. Learn more at www.forthepeople.com.

KYLE BUSCH QUOTES:

Do you think you can win at Darlington Raceway this weekend?

“We certainly want to. We ran good there the first time I ran with these RCR guys early last year, but we struggled mightily earlier this year. We’ll just have to go with hopefully a really good package that works and get our job done.”

What were your first impressions about racing at Darlington Raceway as an Xfinity Series rookie in 2003?

“I would say my first impressions of Darlington in 2003 were just how narrow the track was for how fast you were going around there and the lack of grip. It was pretty intimidating for an 18-year old to go into a place like that and run right up next to the wall but make sure you take care of your right side and not hit the wall hard enough to have damage.”

Is Darlington Raceway a track where you benefit from running either a Truck or Xfinity Series car before the Cup race?

“I do think that Darlington is a track that you can benefit from running the Trucks or the Xfinity race because you can get that extra seat time. You can feel out to where the wall is, the grip level, and just being able to anticipate how things will change throughout a run or the race and how to stay on top of it.”

Jesse Love and the No. 2 Whelen Chevrolet Camaro SS at Darlington Raceway… Jesse Love has made one career NASCAR Xfinity Series start at Darlington Raceway, driving the No. 2 Whelen Chevrolet to an eighth-place result earlier this season. The Sunoco Rookie of the Year points leader posted the respectable finish after practice and qualifying were rained out, forcing his first laps at the track “Too Tough to Tame” to be during the race.

Whelen Everyday Champion… The Whelen Everyday Champion program celebrates community heroes and allows Whelen the opportunity to show their respect and deep gratitude for the acts of those who work tirelessly to make their communities better and safer places to live. Each year, Whelen honors one individual or team who exemplifies bravery, selflessness, and dedication by inducting them into the Whelen Hall of Champions at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, N.C. Nominate your Everyday Champion before September 6 at www.whelen.com/evc/.

About Whelen Engineering… Whelen Engineering is a family-owned company with a pioneering spirit and a passion to protect the lives of those who protect and serve others. The company mission is to provide industry-defining safety solutions around the world, while creating a community of problem-solvers who are inspired to push boundaries and continue our legacy of delivering ground-breaking innovation. As a global leader in the emergency warning industry, Whelen has been trusted to perform since 1952, when George Whelen III invented the first rotating aviation beacon. Whelen now encompasses two state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Connecticut and New Hampshire with over 750,000 square feet of engineering and manufacturing space and the largest design staff in the industry. Every part of every Whelen product is proudly designed and manufactured in America. We embrace quality as our foundation, we celebrate innovative engineering in every product we produce.

JESSE LOVE QUOTES:

Returning to Darlington Raceway for the second and final time in 2024, what is the outlook?

“Our No. 2 Whelen team should be good going back to Darlington Raceway for a second time. I thought we were pretty good earlier this season, but we’ve gotten our car even better since then. Our sim work has been solid leading into this weekend. Overall, Darlington is a place I enjoy going to though. Running the top fits my driving style and Danny (Stockman, crew chief) has had success there throughout his career as well. It’s a place that we can compete for a win.”

With practice and qualifying being rained out in the spring, do you think that extra time this weekend will help?

“I don’t see why not. Our car is going to be pretty close when we unload, but it will still be good for me to have reps behind the wheel and see which way our car is going to trend. We are going to Darlington with a little different package than we had earlier this season, so I think that should help us tune in for the long run. Qualifying will be important for track position, and I think I can get a good starting spot for our team.”

Austin Hill and the No. 21 Bennett Transportation and Logistics Chevrolet Camaro SS at Darlington Raceway… Austin Hill has made six career NASCAR Xfinity Series starts at Darlington Raceway, earning a top-10 result in each event. In the last two races at the historic South Carolina track (fall 2023, spring 2024), the Winston, Georgia native has driven the No. 21 Bennett Transportation & Logistics Chevrolet to consecutive second-place results. Hill has also competed in three NASCAR Truck Series races at Darlington, posting a best finish of third in 2020.

About Bennett Family of Companies… McDonough-Ga. based Bennett Family of Companies is a woman-owned, Women’s Enterprise Business Council (WBENC) certified, diversified transportation and logistics company. Through its 14 affiliated operating companies, the Bennett Family of Companies delivers integrated transportation and supply chain management solutions worldwide. Bennett has 4,625 drivers/owner-operators, over 1,000 employees and 600 agents located across the United States. For more information, visit www.bennettig.com.

Meet Hill… On Saturday, August 31 at 12:35 p.m. ET, Hill is scheduled to sign autographs at the RCR Merchandise Hauler located in the Fan Zone at Darlington Raceway. Stop by to get your No. 21 gear and have Hill sign the items purchased.

AUSTIN HILL QUOTES:

What makes Darlington Raceway so difficult?

“Darlington Raceway is a tough place to get around. Tire wear is a big issue there and we always see a good amount of tire fall off. You have to make the decision of how hard you are going to push at the beginning of a run or how much you are willing to fall off at the end of a run. It’s always a game of chess to position yourself around other guys who may have made the same decision as you. How hard are they pushing right now compared to me. You want to stay under the limit of the tire and not overstep the right front or right rear to burn it off too early. I personally love to race on any tracks that have an old, worn-out surface where you see a lot of tire fall off. You see a lot of strategies play out differently. It’s a very unique racetrack that no other racetrack can mimic.”

Would you rather be better in Turns 1 and 2 or Turns 3 and 4?

“In racing, your car is never going to be 100% perfect. Drivers will always complain about something, whether the car is too tight, too loose, or doing something that we don’t like. For me, when I go into Darlington weekend, I focus on how my car is driving in Turns 3 and 4. I hope I can just get through Turns 1 and 2 but be really strong on the other end. Everyone gets through Turns 1 and 2 fairly decent. You can move your line around to make up speed. But in Turns 3 and 4, you have to turn really well and have drive on exit with how tight the overall corner is. When you see guys who win races at Darlington, I feel like they are really strong in Turns 3 and 4.”

Rette Jones Racing and Noah Gragson Readily Prepared for Final Xfinity Series Race of 2024

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Official Release
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DARLINGTON, S.C.: The fourth installment of a part-time NASCAR Xfinity Series program for Rette Jones Racing and Noah Gragson will take the checkered flag in Saturday afternoon’s Sport Clips Haircuts Help a Hero 200 at Darlington (S.C.) Raceway.

Rette Jones Racing graduated from the ARCA Menards Series and invaded the NASCAR Xfinity Series with arms wide open, guiding Gragson, a native of Las Vegas, Nev., to three straight top-10 finishes at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway, Nashville (Tenn.) Superspeedway and Michigan International Speedway respectively.

The team finished sixth in its last outing in the Irish Hills of Michigan. With the caution waving on the final lap in NASCAR Xfinity Series overtime, the Mooresville, N.C.-based team felt assured of a top-five finish, but upon further review, the team was forced to settle for sixth.

Feeling robbed of their second straight top-five finish, the team returns to action at the track dubbed “Too Tough To Tame” looking to not only capture their second top-five finish of the season but contend for the team’s first Xfinity Series victory in the 147-lap race.

“I’m blessed to have another opportunity to race for Rette Jones Racing this weekend at Darlington,” said Gragson. “This team has done amazing in such a short amount of time and I have the confidence we will continue to pick up right where we left off from Michigan a couple of weeks ago.”

Gragson explains that he had a fast No. 30 Rette Jones Racing | Ford Performance Ford Mustang but being forced to battle a wicked tight race car hindered the team’s opportunity for a checkered flag.

Continuing to learn from each Xfinity Series race, Gragson believes that his Mark Rette-led team knows where they need to have their No. 30 Ford Mustang when they tackle the 1.33-mile track on Saturday morning.

“Darlington can be such a weather-sensitive track,” Gragson explained. “The track will change a bunch between practice, qualifying, and the race. “The most important thing for us is to make sure we keep up with the track conditions so I can get the momentum that I need off the corners, especially Turns 2 and 4, so I can carry the speed that will allow us to pick up positions on the track and guide this team to another strong finish.”

The bonus for Rette Jones Racing? The most recent Xfinity Series race for Gragson at the “Lady in Black” delivered a victory for the popular driver. After starting second, Gragson led 82 laps en route to his second Xfinity Series win at Darlington Raceway.

In seven starts overall, he has delivered two wins, most recently in 2022, five top-five and seven top-10 finishes. Gragson boasts an average finish of 4.0 over four years of Xfinity Series competition.

“Darlington has always been that track where I just have a good vibe,” added Gragson. “I’ve been fortunate to have fast race cars on the Xfinity side every time I raced. I know what bringing a win to Rette Jones Racing will do for this team on Saturday afternoon and I believe if everything lined up, we would be able to.

“We must not beat ourselves and just do what we came to do.”

Unlike his prior three races this season, with only 38 cars entered for Saturday afternoon’s contest, Gragson and his No. 30 Rette Jones Racing team are locked into the field.

Rette Jones Racing crew chief and co-owner Mark Rette eagerly looks forward to another productive weekend.

“I’m so proud of this Rette Jones Racing team,” explained Rette. “This was a big undertaking for our small organization. However, with a lot of determination, a great technical alliance, and a talented driver like Noah Gragson behind the wheel, we have been able to exceed our expectations.

“We are going to Darlington this weekend focused on continuing to do what we’ve done at Charlotte, Nashville, and Michigan – race near the front. We felt like we should have finished inside the top-five at Michigan, but landed sixth, so we have unfinished business.

“I’d love nothing more than to put an exclamation point on our limited Xfinity Series program with our best finish of the year on Saturday afternoon!”

The team will welcome a new partner, Drop Zone TV, for their second and final race in South Carolina this season.

Team Drop Zone TV is the brainchild of veteran Outdoor Channel personality Hal Shaffer and two-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion crew chief Greg Zipadelli.

Team Drop Zone TV, also known as Drop Zone, is a reality hunting show on the Outdoor Channel that combines big game hunting with entertainment and education for hunters of all skill levels.

The show is hosted by Hal Shaffer and Greg “Zippy” Zipadelli, two friends who met on a whitetail hunt in Kentucky seven years ago and share a passion for the outdoors.

“We are proud of our partnership with Team Drop Zone TV,” added Rette. “Greg has been instrumental in helping launch our NASCAR Xfinity Series program, and we could not have done without his support and guidance. It means a lot to help bring further attention to his program to the NASCAR fans and community.”

RJR will continue to field a full-time ASA STARS National Tour effort for Canadian Kyle Steckly and compete in select ARCA Menards Series races through October 2024.

Steckly recently scored his first career ASA STARS National Tour victory at Winchester (Ind.) Speedway in the Redbud 400.

Since 2018, Gragson, 26, has made 138 Xfinity starts, earned two poles, won 13 races, delivered 63 top-five and 99 top-10 finishes, and finished a career-best second in the Xfinity Series championship standings driving for JR Motorsports during the 2022 season.

For more on Noah Gragson, like him on Facebook (Noah Gragson Racing) and follow him on Instagram (@noahgragson), TikTok and X | Twitter (@NoahGragson).

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).

The Sport Clips Haircuts Help a Hero 200 (147 laps | 200.8 miles) is the 23rd of thirty-three (33) NASCAR Xfinity Series races on the 2024 schedule. Practice will occur on Sat., August 31st, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:05 a.m. Qualifying will immediately follow, beginning at 11:10 a.m. The field will take the green flag shortly after 3:30 p.m., with live coverage on the USA Network, the Motor Racing Network (Radio) and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. All times are local (Eastern).

About Rette Jones Racing:

Headquartered in Mooresville, North Carolina, Rette Jones Racing (RJR) was founded in 2015 with the intent of building a successful racing operation built around the fundamentals of hard work and a never-give-up attitude.

Owned by racers Terry Jones and Mark Rette, RJR plans to field a full-time entry in 2024 in the ASA STARS National Tour Series while also planning to field vehicles in the ARCA Menards Series platform and NASCAR respectively.

Rette Jones Racing also offers technical and setup intel as part of its technical alliance partnership program.

SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY FOR PEP BOYS FUNNY CAR ALL-STAR CALLOUT DRIVERS AT TOYOTA NHRA U.S. NATIONALS

By
Official Release
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Bob Tasca III is the top seed in loaded eight-car specialty race, which provides a memorable chance for big money and bragging rights at The Big Go

INDIANAPOLIS (Aug. 29, 2024) – For eight Funny Car drivers competing at the prestigious 70th annual Toyota NHRA U.S. Nationals, the world’s biggest drag race provides a chance to do something incredibly special.

Eight standouts – Bob Tasca III, Ron Capps, Matt Hagan, Chad Green, J.R. Todd, Cruz Pedregon, Alexis DeJoria and Paul Lee – are all part of the Pep Boys NHRA Funny Car All-Star Callout specialty race, which takes place on Sunday and offers a big purse and major bragging rights as part of the world’s biggest drag race.

It’s also a chance for drivers to double-up on drag racing’s biggest stage, something Ron Capps did two years ago when he won the Callout and then The Big Go for the first time. Capps has a chance to replicate that this weekend, while a trio of drivers – Hagan, Green and Todd – have the unique opportunity to win a remarkable three times in a single weekend.

All three are part of the Mission Foods #2Fast2Tasty Challenge on Saturday, with the bonus race serving as another opportunity for Indy glory at the Toyota NHRA U.S. Nationals.

The first round of the Pep Boys Funny Car All-Star Callout takes place at 1:05 p.m. ET on Sunday, Sept. 1, with the semifinals at 2:40 p.m. and the final round at 4:30 p.m. A special broadcast of the Callout takes place on FOX at 5 p.m. ET on Sunday.

The winning driver who makes the quickest run in the opening round will select their semifinal opponent, with a big purse and major bragging rights on the line in the finals.

Tasca, driver of the 11,000-horsepower Ford Performance Mustang Dark Horse, will get the first chance to select his opponent, with the first-round picks taking place at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday in the Top Eliminator club.

“If I was trying to win one round, winner-take-all, I would put an awful lot of thought into it. But the whole spirit of the Callout, you want to win the Callout, not just one round,” Tasca said. “To win it, you’ve got to win three rounds and you’ve got to win against the best of the best.

“We’ll have some fun with it, but the whole point is to win the entire Callout, not just that first round. Indy is one of the most epic races of your whole career and I get chills just thinking about it. I’ve been coming here since I was 12 years old and I have so many memories there. I haven’t gotten that Indy trophy yet, but we’ll be laser-focused. But it’s going to be tough going against a field this close.”

Here’s what the other seven drivers competing in the Pep Boys All-Star Funny Car Callout had to say approaching the specialty race and the huge weekend in Indy:

Ron Capps, driver of the NAPA Auto Care Toyota GR Supra: “It’s going to come down to having your act together, but it’s going to be fun. You’ve got to wait and see what happens – the last two years proved that. Right now, there’s so many cars running well, so if you call someone out, it could come back to haunt you. You’ve got to approach it like a race, but the Callout has brought in a whole new aspect. We (make the selection) as a team and I guess we’ll wait and see what Tasca does.”

Matt Hagan, driver of the Dodge Direct Connection//SRT Hellcat: “You’ve got to put yourself up against the wall and press. We seem to do well with that and it’s just one of those things where we’re supposed to do well here and we need to do well. Sometimes, you’ve just got to let it come to you. We’ve got the car and you’ve just got to try and make it happen. To think about trying to win all of it is overwhelming. You would be blessed to just win one time, so I think you just have to be realistic and let it happen.”

Chad Green, driver of the Bond-Coat Ford Mustang: “We feel a little behind the eight-ball, but hopefully we’ll come out at Indy and the car will be back where it’s been and we’ll make a good run at this. I think it just adds a lot of excitement to the weekend and what is already the biggest weekend of the year even more exciting. It’s awesome and I’m just so honored to be involved. It’s going to make the weekend that much more fun.”

J.R. Todd, driver of the DHL Toyota GR Supra: “The guys have been working hard the past week and it’s nice to have the group of guys I do. Hopefully, we can come out swinging and do well in qualifying so we can really be focused on racing in the Callout on Sunday. I’m just glad to be in it. You’ve just got to go out there and do your job, and I hope I’m the one racing for big money on Sunday and Monday.”

Cruz Pedregon, driver of the Snap-On Tools Dodge SRT Hellcat: “I feel like we’re ready, but we’re going to have to be. The car is starting to come around. I feel like we need to qualify in the top half and our car will be one to watch. I’m a competitor and also a fan, and I think the Callout is really cool when someone picks an opponent that’s right up there. I hope it continues this year and all the cars are really good.”

Alexis DeJoria, driver of the Bandero Cafe Toyota GR Supra: “We definitely need to make up some ground. It’s not for a lack of effort, but we’ve just been having some struggles. I hope now is the time we’re going to shine. I know I’m ready to go and my team is as well. The team that makes the less mistakes is going to come out on top.”

Paul Lee, driver of the McLeod Racing/FTI Performance Dodge Charger: “Since last year, we’ve been qualifying really well, so it’s well-deserved by the team. We wanted to be in this and being in this gave us a little more incentive to try and do well. It is exciting because we’ve never been involved in one. I remember watching those specialty races in Indy growing up, so it’s going to be cool to be a part of it this weekend.”

The specialty event promises to be a huge attraction at the 70th annual Toyota NHRA U.S. Nationals, which will be one of the biggest in the illustrious history of The Big Go. It features the final Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge of the year, as well as the special Sox & Martin Hemi Challenge presented by the McCandless Collection and the Rooftec Comp Cash Clash, along with racing in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by LearnEV+, NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™ and NHRA Holley EFI Factory X, plus:

  • A special 70th anniversary NHRA U.S. Nationals pennant for the first 8,000 fans in attendance for eliminations on Monday, Sept. 2.
  • Free parking for all fans and children 12-under admitted free.
  • An unforgettable Top Eliminator Club experience, including NHRA driver appearances, food and drink, TEC gift bag, starting line seats and much more.
  • The biggest field in drag racing, with more than 900 cars competing at the event.

Last year, Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Capps (Funny Car), Matt Hartford (Pro Stock) and Matt Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all won, with Brown, Capps and Smith winning at Indy for the second straight year. This year’s race will again be broadcast on FOX and FS1, including eliminations on FOX at 2 p.m. ET on Monday, Sept. 2.

Kalitta currently leads the Top Fuel ranks, while Austin Prock’s debut season in Funny Car has been a huge success as he leads the way. Dallas Glenn is the Pro Stock points leader, while Gaige Herrera has six wins to his credit in Pro Stock Motorcycle. Other stars to watch include Top Fuel’s Ashley, Brittany Force, Shawn Langdon and racing legend Tony Stewart, who will make his Indy Top Fuel debut, Funny Car’s Jack Beckman, Pro Stock’s Erica Enders, Greg Anderson and Aaron Stanfield, and Pro Stock Motorcycle’s Chase Van Sant and Jianna Evaristo.

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature one round at 6:45 p.m. ET on Friday, Aug. 30, two rounds at 12 and 2:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, Aug. 31 and the final two rounds of qualifying on Sunday, Sept. 1 at 12 and 3:00 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. ET on Monday, Sept 2.

Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, and eliminations at 12 p.m. on FS1 on Monday, shifting to FOX at 2 p.m.

To purchase tickets to the 70th annual Toyota NHRA U.S. Nationals, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. All children 12 and under will be admitted free in the general admission area with a paid adult. For more information about NHRA, visit www.NHRA.com.

2024 Pep Boys NHRA Funny Car All-Star Callout Final Standings

  1. Bob Tasca III
  2. Ron Capps
  3. Matt Hagan
  4. Chad Green
  5. J.R. Todd
  6. Cruz Pedregon
  7. Alexis DeJoria
  8. Paul Lee

(Note: Tasca will get the first selection for the opening round, followed by the next-highest seeded driver until matchups are set.)

PEP BOYS NHRA FUNNY CAR ALL-STAR CALLOUT SCHEDULE (ET):

Saturday, Aug. 31:

11:30 AM – Pep Boys NHRA Funny Car All-Star Callout first-round selections in Top Eliminator Club (Get your TEC Tickets Today!)

Sunday, Sept. 1

10:00 AM – Pep Boys NHRA Funny Car All-Star Callout autograph session at Pep Boys display

1:00 PM – Pep Boys NHRA Funny Car All-Star Callout opening ceremonies

1:05 PM – First round for Pep Boys NHRA Funny Car All-Star Callout

2:40 PM – Pep Boys NHRA Funny Car All-Star Callout for round two. This will be conducted at the top end. The winning driver who makes the quickest run in the first round earns the right to select their semifinal opponent.

4:30 PM – Pep Boys NHRA Funny Car All-Star Callout final round

5:00 PM – Pep Boys NHRA Funny Car All-Star Callout show airs on FOX

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 presented by LearnEV+, 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 110 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.

Top 10 Motorcycle Accessories for Your Next Off-Road Adventure

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SM
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Off-road motorcycle adventures can be thrilling, but they demand premium quality off-trail motorcycle gear and accessories so you do not have to compromise with safety and comfort. Whether tackling severe terrain, experiencing harsh weather, or simply trying to improve your riding experience, premium off-trail motorcycle gear can make all the difference. 

In this blog, we’ll look at the top 10 must-have motorbike accessories and essentials for your next off-road journey.

Dual-Sport Helmet

If you are off-road riding, a dual-support helmet is a must-have as these helmets deliver full-face protection without compromising superior ventilation and visibility during long-duration rides and even adverse conditions you might face.

It acts as a protective shield to prevent head injuries. In this case, a lightweight helmet would be the best option to choose for a long time use.

A good dual-support helmet should offer clear vision, reducing harsh sunlight that feels uncomfortable to the eyes and may block the clear vision which can be dangerous while riding. 

Armored Riding Jacket and Pants

Off-pavement riding requires the utmost protection of your body against extreme cold or hot temperatures and heavy rains that might occur during the ride and might lead to a slip or fall and can cause an injury. Avail yourself of armored riding jackets and pants in tough premium-quality leather or reinforced textile materials to keep yourself protected. 

These are made with armor inserts in the elbows, shoulders, and knees and come with CE-rated, which signifies that they meet the required safety standards. 

You can choose designs with mesh panels or something that allows for proper ventilation so that you do not feel stuffed while riding.

Impact Protectors

Complement the armor included in your riding apparel with independent impact protectors. They are usually flexible, soft inserts that can be installed in the back, elbow, and shoulder pockets of your jacket or shirt for that extra layer of protection during high-impact crashes. 

There are various kinds of armor for specific areas, that would help provide targeted protection in those parts. Look for waterproof and breathable textile materials, that are suitable for all kinds of riding situations, and are designed with an adjustable fit.

Motorcycle Specific Gloves

A strong hand grip is very crucial, especially on off-road landscapes, and gloves are a great help for this reason as they assist us hold control over our ride and ensuring safety. Look for the best combination of skill, protection, and comfort that you find in high-quality gloves.

Leather gloves are quite popular, highly durable as well, and an affordable option that is easily found. 

Motorcycle-Specific Boots

When it comes to rough and off-the-beaten paths, such boots can handle some rugged ankle boots with support. What we require is hard-shell ankle armor, double leather patches for gear shift protection, and a comfortable build during a ride for our feet. 

The boots that are specifically designed for riders become their best buddy that stands up to both on and off-road journeys. These motorcycle-specific boots are specially designed for such adventures to maintain proper foot grip and ensure stability, during any off-road journey.

Handlebar Risers

Adjustable handlebar risers help riders modify the height and angle of their handlebars while they are on a ride, keeping them safe and comfortable, and managing the hand grip, while transitioning between sitting and standing stances, if required during the ride. 

These risers also ensure that they maintain a balance while riding which eventually reduces the chances of skidding and prevents them from falling.

Neck Braces

A supportive neck brace can help protect your neck in a crash, preventing serious internal injuries. Specifically, lightweight braces are a smart investment for off-road riding, which one could enjoy while keeping the neck in a comfortable position. 

It helps to reduce the risk factors that might cause cervical spine injuries, by providing a sense of support and safety shield to riders’ necks.

Necessity Tool Kit

To be on a smooth drive, it is extremely imperative to carry a well-equipped basic tool kit that includes minor repair tools, that we would need to fix punctured tires, including types of equipment like screwdrivers, materials to secure loose parts, tapes, cables, and others required materials, to deal with any kind of problems that may arise, on an off-road motorbike journey. 

Being prepared with an effective tool kit, on the go would help make the journey so much easier.

An “All-Essentials” Backpack

While being on an off-road journey, it is crucial to carry a backpack that serves as a companion and includes all the necessary supplies, in times of need.

Food and water are the most essential parts, while you are on any long journey, especially the one that includes physical activity. A phone charger is also an extremely essential requirement, that we cannot do without while we are out on a journey. 

This backpack would also include a first aid kit with all the necessary medicines, ointments, and bandages to protect ourselves from any kind of accident and injury, during such a risky adventure. 

Navigation

A durable GPS unit or smartphone mount equipped with an off-road navigation app can be quite beneficial for navigating through inaccessible areas. Such units come to use, where physical maps get difficult to understand. 

Riding off-road trails and in remote areas, a motorcycle-specific GPS becomes an essential asset to carry on. Designed to survive the rigors of off-road riding, these GPSes will include rugged construction, big touch screens that can be easily accessed with gloves on, and preloaded maps. 

They even allow route tracking, elevation, and speed, sometimes integrating with the systems on our bikes.

Conclusion

Off-road motorcycle riding requires careful consideration in preparing the right gear and accessories to ensure an enjoyable journey with the right tools and equipment to keep the riders safe, secure, and protected, without compromising comfort. 

Thus, this is how you can be prepared to handle anything off-road, be safe, and enjoy your ride more. Remember, as with any off-road adventure, we prepare for the fall, not for the ride, and it must be in our best interest in safety and comfort.

Top BMW M4 Tuning Upgrades for Enhanced Driving Experience

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

The BMW M4 is already a high-performance machine that is straight from the factory, but for many enthusiasts, there’s always room for improvement. BMW M4 tuning can take this impressive vehicle to new heights, enhancing its performance, aesthetics, and overall driving experience. 

This article will explore the top tuning upgrades available for your BMW M4, helping you make informed decisions about how to customize your ride.

Understanding BMW M4 Tuning

Before we get into specific upgrades, it’s important to understand what BMW M4 tuning entails. Tuning refers to the process of modifying various components of your vehicle to improve its performance, handling, or appearance. 

When done correctly, tuning can significantly enhance your M4’s capabilities without compromising its reliability or longevity.

Engine Performance Upgrades

ECU Remapping

One of the most popular BMW M4 tuning options is ECU (Engine Control Unit) remapping. This involves modifying the software that controls your engine’s performance parameters.

Benefits of ECU remapping include:

  • Increased horsepower and torque
  • Improved throttle response
  • Better fuel efficiency in some cases

When considering ECU remapping, always choose a reputable tuner with experience in BMW M4 tuning to ensure the best results and minimize risks.

Cold Air Intake

Installing a cold air intake is another effective way to boost your M4’s performance. This upgrade allows the engine to breathe more easily, resulting in:

  • Increased horsepower
  • Improved engine sound
  • Better fuel efficiency

Look for high-quality intakes specifically designed for the BMW M4 to ensure proper fitment and optimal performance gains.

High-Flow Exhaust System

Upgrading your M4’s exhaust system can yield significant performance benefits while also enhancing the car’s sound. A high-flow exhaust system can provide:

  • Increased horsepower and torque
  • Reduced back pressure
  • Enhanced exhaust note

When choosing an exhaust system, consider factors like material quality, sound level, and compatibility with other BMW M4 tuning modifications you may have planned.

Intercooler Upgrade

For those looking to push their M4’s performance even further, an upgraded intercooler can be a wise investment. Benefits include:

  • Improved cooling efficiency
  • Consistent power output, even in high-temperature conditions
  • Reduced risk of heat soak during aggressive driving

Suspension and Handling Upgrades

Coilover Suspension Kit

A coilover suspension kit is a popular BMW M4 tuning upgrade that can dramatically improve your car’s handling characteristics. Benefits include:

  • Adjustable ride height
  • Improved cornering ability
  • Reduced body roll

When selecting a coilover kit, consider factors like spring rates, damping adjustability, and build quality to ensure the best performance for your driving style.

Sway Bars

Upgrading your M4’s sway bars (also known as anti-roll bars) can further enhance its handling capabilities. Benefits of aftermarket sway bars include:

  • Reduced body roll during cornering
  • Improved turn-in response
  • Better overall stability

Look for adjustable sway bars that allow you to fine-tune the car’s handling characteristics to your preferences.

Performance Bushings

Replacing your M4’s stock rubber bushings with performance-oriented alternatives (like polyurethane) can tighten up the car’s handling. Benefits include:

  • Reduced suspension flex
  • Improved steering response
  • More precise handling

Keep in mind that stiffer bushings may result in a slightly harsher ride, so consider your priorities when making this upgrade.

Brake System Upgrades

High-Performance Brake Pads

Upgrading your brake pads is a relatively simple yet effective BMW M4 tuning modification. Benefits of high-performance brake pads include:

  • Improved stopping power
  • Better brake feel and modulation
  • Reduced brake fade during high-performance driving

Choose brake pads that match your driving style, whether it’s primarily street use or frequent track days.

Stainless Steel Brake Lines

Replacing your M4’s rubber brake lines with stainless steel alternatives can improve brake pedal feel and consistency. Benefits include:

  • Firmer brake pedal
  • More consistent brake performance
  • Improved durability

This upgrade is particularly beneficial for those who participate in track days or high-performance driving events.

Big Brake Kit

For the ultimate in braking performance, consider installing a big brake kit. While more expensive than other brake upgrades, a big brake kit offers:

  • Significantly improved stopping power
  • Better heat dissipation
  • Reduced brake fade during extended high-performance driving

When choosing a big brake kit, ensure it’s compatible with your wheel size and other BMW M4 tuning modifications.

Wheel and Tire Upgrades

Lightweight Wheels

Upgrading to lightweight wheels can have a noticeable impact on your M4’s performance and handling. Benefits include:

  • Reduced unsprung weight
  • Improved acceleration and braking
  • Enhanced cornering ability

When selecting new wheels, consider factors like weight, strength, and compatibility with your desired tire size and brake setup.

High-Performance Tires

The right set of tires can dramatically improve your M4’s grip and overall performance. When choosing high-performance tires, consider:

  • Your primary driving conditions (street, track, or a mix)
  • Tire compound and tread design
  • Tire size compatibility with your wheels and fenders

Remember that stickier, more performance-oriented tires may wear faster than standard tires, so factor this into your decision-making process.

Aerodynamic Upgrades

Front Lip Spoiler

Adding a front lip spoiler to your M4 can improve both aesthetics and performance. Benefits include:

  • Reduced front-end lift at high speeds
  • Improved stability
  • Enhanced aggressive appearance

Look for front lip spoilers made from durable materials like carbon fiber or high-quality plastics to ensure longevity.

Rear Spoiler or Wing

A rear spoiler or wing can further enhance your M4’s aerodynamic properties. Benefits include:

  • Increased downforce at high speeds
  • Improved stability
  • Sportier appearance

When choosing a rear spoiler or wing, consider both its functional benefits and how it complements your M4’s overall look.

Side Skirts

While primarily aesthetic, side skirts can also provide some aerodynamic benefits. They can:

  • Improve airflow along the sides of the car
  • Reduce turbulence around the wheels
  • Enhance the M4’s aggressive stance

Ensure that any side skirts you choose are compatible with your M4’s body style and other aerodynamic modifications.

Interior Upgrades

Sport Steering Wheel

Upgrading your M4’s steering wheel can improve both comfort and control. Look for options that offer:

  • Enhanced grip
  • Ergonomic design
  • Integration with existing controls

Some aftermarket steering wheels also offer features like shift paddles or performance data displays.

Sport Seats

Upgrading to high-performance sports seats can significantly improve your driving experience. Benefits include:

  • Better support during high-performance driving
  • Improved comfort on long drives
  • Enhanced interior aesthetics

When choosing sport seats, ensure they’re compatible with your M4’s existing safety features, like airbags and seatbelt systems.

Short Shift Kit

For M4s with manual transmissions, a short shift kit can improve shift feel and reduce shift times. Benefits include:

  • Quicker, more precise shifts
  • Reduced shifter travel
  • Enhanced driver engagement

Performance Monitoring Upgrades

Gauges and Displays

Adding performance gauges or displays can help you monitor critical engine parameters. Consider options like:

  • Boost gauge
  • Oil temperature gauge
  • Multi-function performance display

These tools can be invaluable for tracking your M4’s performance and ensuring everything is running smoothly, especially after implementing other BMW M4 tuning upgrades.

Data Logging System

For the ultimate in performance monitoring, consider installing a data logging system. This can provide:

  • Detailed performance data for analysis
  • Real-time feedback during driving
  • Valuable information for further tuning and optimization

Conclusion

BMW M4 tuning offers a world of possibilities for enhancing your driving experience. From boosting engine performance to improving handling, braking, and aesthetics, there are countless ways to customize your M4 to suit your preferences and driving style.

Remember that tuning is a personal journey. What works for one M4 owner may not be ideal for another. Take the time to research your options, consider your goals, and plan your modifications carefully. 

With the right approach, BMW M4 tuning can transform your already impressive vehicle into a truly exceptional driving machine.

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