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Niece Motorsports NCTS Race Advance: Rockingham Speedway

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Official Release
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NIECE MOTORSPORTS
NCTS RACE ADVANCE: ROCKINGHAM SPEEDWAY
Event: Black’s Tire 200 (200 laps / 188 miles)
Round: 7 of 25 (Regular Season)
Track: Rockingham Speedway
Location: Rockingham, North Carolina
Date & Time: Friday, April 18 | 5:00 PM ET
Tune-In: FOX Sports 1 | NASCAR Racing Network (NRN) | SiriusXM Ch. 90

Team Stats & Notes

  • Rockingham ThunderFest: On Thursday, Matt Mills, Bayley Currey, and Kaden Honeycutt will all join in on the fun at the inaugural “Rockingham ThunderFest” event located in downtown Rockingham. The event begins at 4:00 PM local time, with driver autograph sessions running from 5:00-6:30 PM.
  • Acing the Test: Back in January, the Niece Motorsports trucks brought loads of raw speed at the two-day organizational test at Rockingham. Basing off the cumulative speeds, Kaden Honeycutt posted the second-fastest lap time with Matt Mills in seventh-place.

No. 42 J.F. Electric / Utilitra Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Matt Mills | Crew Chief: Mike Shiplett

  • Mills’ Rockingham Stats: Matt Mills will make his first-career start in any series at Rockingham Speedway on Friday evening.
  • Shiplett’s Rockingham Stats: Mike Shiplett is a past race winner at “The Rock”. In his lone Truck Series start at the historic track in 2012, Shiplett guided Kasey Kahne to the victory for Turner Motorsports.
  • On the Truck: Mills’ No. 42 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from longtime partners J.F. Electric and Utilitra, who will serve as his anchor partners for the entire 25-race season.
  • National Lineman Appreciation Day: Mills and team will celebrate National Lineman Appreciation Day in recognition of all lineman who serve their communities. The holiday happens to fall on race day, April 18th, and J.F. Electric encourages fans to share their appreciation using the hashtag, #ThankALineman, on social media.
  • Where Were They Then?: Last time the Truck Series visited Rockingham in 2013, Matt Mills was only 16 years old. During that time, he was just at the start of his driving career in the short track ranks, competing in Outlaw Super Late Models at his local home tracks in Ohio and Michigan.
  • Recapping Bristol: Matt Mills earned his personal-best NCTS finish at Bristol Motor Speedway. With qualifying cancelled due to weather, Mills started highest out of all the Niece Motorsports teammates in 15th. A costly pit road speeding penalty resulted in a loss of track position which put the team to the rear of the field. The Utilitra team made several adjustments to help free the No. 42 Silverado in traffic, and Mills went on to finish 20th.
  • Points Rundown: Following the sixth race of the year at Bristol, Mills dropped four positions in the points standings down to 18th-place. Mills is in a heated battle heading into Rockingham, where he is currently tied with Andres Perez De Lara for 17th and only two points behind Jack Wood in 16th. The driver is 57 points below the Playoffs cutline driver, Jake Garcia.
  • Quoting Mills: Since you had two days of testing and will have another 50 minutes of practice, how much is that extra track time going to help you?

“I think that’s going to be really good for us because we can go into the practice session based off the changes we made at the end of the test. We’ll have a notebook of what Ross (Chastain) also felt in the test, and that is going to be extremely helpful. That should put us in a good place to start because we were pretty good by the time we left. You can’t make a whole lot of changes in practice, so it’s mainly going to be about fine tuning and getting into a good rhythm to get used to the new track.”

About J.F. Electric: J.F. Electric is an electrical contractor that provides engineering expertise, backed by construction and installation know-how in a diverse range of service offerings, from utilities and commercial projects, to industrial and telecommunications customers. When having a long family history in an industry, a company not only builds on its knowledge and experience, it takes pride in cultivating a solid understanding of client needs, all the while nurturing strong relationships with its employees. Evolving through five generations of the Fowler family, J.F. Electric has matured into a well-managed and thoughtfully diversified electrical contractor which is poised to continue its growth and expansion into the future.

About Utilitra: Utilitra is a woman-owned firm specializing in utility and technology solutions with a diverse team of specialized professionals. Utilitra is committed to solving their client’s unique challenges, whether one expert or a team of experts is needed. By adapting to the needs of their respective industries, Utilitra has built a range of services for their utility and technology partners.

No. 44 Masked Owl Technologies Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Bayley Currey | Crew Chief: Wally Rogers

  • Currey’s Rockingham Stats: Bayley Currey will make his first-career start in any series at Rockingham Speedway on Friday evening.
  • Rogers’ Rockingham Stats: Wally Rogers has competed in six NASCAR Xfinity Series races held at Rockingham Speedway. Rogers’ drivers have finished inside the top-five three times, including a pair of third-place runs with Randy LaJoie in 2002.
  • On the Truck: Currey’s No. 44 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from Masked Owl Technologies and DQS Solutions & Staffing.
  • Where Were They Then?: Last time the Truck Series visited Rockingham in 2013, Currey was only 16 years old. As a sophomore in high school at the time, Currey was racing in Modifieds on his way to winning the track championship at Central Texas Speedway.
  • Recapping Bristol: Bayley Currey and the No. 44 team were on top of their game in Bristol. Currey’s Silverado had pace in it throughout the 200-lap event, and a great strategy call helped the driver earn his first-career stage win in stage two. In total, Currey led for 14 laps, and ran inside the top-five for the majority of the race. On a late restart however, the truck suffered a catastrophic driveshaft failure which took him out of the race in 23rd. The results might not show it, but Currey was a sure contender for the victory.
  • Owner Points Rundown: The No. 44 team remains 15th in the owner points standings following a strong run in Bristol. Technically tied for 14th with TRICON Garage’s No. 15 entry, the team is currently 13 points behind Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet in 13th.
  • Quoting Currey: Even though you didn’t make any laps, do you think you learned anything by going to the test?

“Yes and no. I just got to see how much speed those guys were carrying with the new asphalt. I just ran it in the simulator and I think going to the test helped me grasp on where guys are lifting and where they’re getting back to the gas. I felt like I was able to learn a bit more about that in turns one and two since we were pitted down that way, but I think it helped a little bit. We’re going to be carrying so much speed here this week and I think it’ll be fun to go out there and make some laps in practice to get accustomed to it before the race. We’ve been having some good runs to open up our season and I’ve been really anticipating getting to Rockingham with our Masked Owl Technologies Chevy.”

About Masked Owl Technologies: Masked Owl Technologies (MOT) is an industrial solutions integrator specializing in developing customized automation and controls processes. They take a consulting-based approach to identify the root cause of system challenges and incorporate tested, emerging technology into industrial solutions that mitigate risk and solve complex problems, the first time.

About DQS Solutions & Staffing: Guided by a mission to achieve excellence and adaptability, DQS partners with clients to create custom solutions that address unique business challenges. Recognized as Michigan’s fastest-growing company and #22 in the nation on the Inc. 5000 list, DQS drives industry growth while giving back through its nonprofit, Foundation for Pops, and partnerships like the River Rouge School District.

No. 45 DQS Solutions & Staffing Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Kaden Honeycutt | Crew Chief: Phil Gould

  • Honeycutt’s Rockingham Stats: Kaden Honeycutt will make his first-career start in any series at Rockingham Speedway on Friday evening.
  • Gould’s Rockingham Stats: Phil Gould will call his first race at Rockingham Speedway on Friday.
  • Street Stocks at The Rock: Before he was a crew chief, Phil Gould raced twice at Rockingham in the Polar Bear 150 as part of the Frank Kimmel Street Stock Nationals from 2009 to 2010. Here is a great photo of Gould about to hit the track.
  • On the Truck: Honeycutt’s No. 45 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from DQS Solutions & Staffing and Masked Owl Technologies, who will serve as his anchor partners for the majority of the season.
  • Where Were They Then?: Kaden Honeycutt was only nine years old the last time the Truck Series raced at Rockingham Speedway in 2013. As a fourth grader, Honeycutt’s driving career had not even been thought of at the time.
  • Recapping Bristol: Kaden Honeycutt and the No. 45 team secured their third top-10 finish of the season at Bristol. Honeycutt was quick in traffic despite starting 22nd, and shined on long-run speed. The team grabbed eight stage points by finishing third in stage two, and were well on their way to a top-five finish late in the going. Unfortunately, Honeycutt lost track position with Currey’s late-race issues, but rebounded to finish a strong eighth.
  • Points Rundown: After finishing eighth in Bristol, Honeycutt stays within striking distance of the Playoffs cutline. Though he remains in 11th-place, Honeycutt is only five points behind Jake Garcia in 10th. He now has a 19-point buffer to Tanner Gray in 12th.
  • Quoting Honeycutt: Basing off your speed in the test, do you feel confident in the piece your team is bringing this weekend?

“Yeah, I think for us as a company, we were all really fast at the test. We are very optimistic in how we’re going to handle here. We’re not going to change much from where we ended the test at, we’re just going to go through practice similarly and see how we stack up. Hopefully we have a good qualifying lap because starting up front is going to mean a lot. After we see how qualifying goes, we’ll come up with a plan to march to the front or keep our track position.”

About DQS Solutions & Staffing: Guided by a mission to achieve excellence and adaptability, DQS partners with clients to create custom solutions that address unique business challenges. Recognized as Michigan’s fastest-growing company and #22 in the nation on the Inc. 5000 list, DQS drives industry growth while giving back through its nonprofit, Foundation for Pops, and partnerships like the River Rouge School District.

About Masked Owl Technologies: Masked Owl Technologies (MOT) is an industrial solutions integrator specializing in developing customized automation and controls processes. They take a consulting-based approach to identify the root cause of system challenges and incorporate tested, emerging technology into industrial solutions that mitigate risk and solve complex problems, the first time.

About Niece Motorsports: Niece Motorsports is a professional auto racing team founded by United States Marine Corps Veteran Al Niece. In 2025, the team celebrates its 10th consecutive season competing in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) where it fields the Nos. 41, 42, 44 and 45. Since its founding in 2016, Niece Motorsports has garnered nine wins, 50+ top-fives, 100+ top-10s, 190+ top-15 finishes and made five playoff appearances. At its 80,000 sq. ft. headquarters in Salisbury, NC, Niece Motorsports is a trusted build shop for the Chevrolet Silverados of multiple NCTS teams as well as a customizable fabrication shop for any manufacturing needs.

Follow the Team: To keep up to date with the latest team news, visit niecemotorsports.com or connect on Facebook and Instagram (@NieceMotorsports) as well as X (@NieceMotorsport).

Front Row Motorsports: Rockingham Speedway NCTS Race Advance- Layne Riggs / Chandler Smith

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Official Release
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Layne Riggs | Chandler Smith
Rockingham Speedway NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Race Advance
Black’s Tire 200

Date: Friday, April 18, 2025
Event: Race 7 of 25
Series: NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series
Location: Rockingham Speedway (1.00-mile)
#of Laps: 200
Time/TV/Radio: 5:00 PM ET on FS1/SiriusXM channel 90

Layne Riggs Notes

After more than a decade hiatus, NASCAR is bringing its National Series back to the Rockingham Speedway with the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. For Layne Riggs and the No. 34 Ford F-150 team, this Friday’s race won’t be the first time they have laid laps at the one-mile track, having participated in the Truck Series tire test in November. Finishing sixth last Friday night at the Bristol Motor Speedway, Riggs sits sixth in the Truck Series Driver Championship points standings.

A staple race on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule from 1965 to 2004, the Rockingham, North Carolina track has been won by some of the sport’s greatest including Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt, Darrel Waltrip, and Jeff Gordon. The NASCAR Truck Series didn’t compete at the speedway while it was on the Cup and Xfinity Series schedule but hosted a pair of Truck Series events in 2012 and 2013, won by Cup Series race-winners Kasey Kahne and Kyle Larson.

Bare Knuckle Boxing (BKB) will serve as the primary partner of Riggs and the No. 34 Ford F-150 team. Originating in South Florida with combat sports legend Dada 5000 and Mike Vazquez (who in 1999 formed HRT Motorsports, NASCAR’s first Hispanic racing team), BKB is the oldest professional bare knuckle boxing company in the world and its largest in terms of roster, library and distribution. BKB is broadcasted in millions of homes across the globe, including a recent groundbreaking live television deal with VICE TV in North America.

“I’m feeling pretty confident heading into Rockingham,” said Riggs. “Front Row Motorsports has been bringing a lot of speed to the track, and I think it’s a true testament to what we’re building as an organization, it’s awesome. We have the trucks to get the job done, I just need to go out there and execute.”
Road Crew

Driver: Layne Riggs

Crew Chief: Dylan Cappello

Truck Chief: Alex Lacognata

Engineer: Jonathan Coates

Mechanic: Clark Houston

Mechanic: Brandon Selph

Tire / Interior Specialist: Robert Benzenhafer

Spotter: Josh Williams

Transporter Driver: Joe Haresky

Pit Crew

Front Tire Changer: Blake Hickman

Rear Tire Changer: Steven Chereek

Tire Carrier: Alvin Wilson

Jackman: Landon Honeycutt

Fueler: Dan Mrak

Chandler Smith Notes

Chandler Smith and Quicktie reunite this weekend at the revitalized Rockingham Speedway for the seventh race on the schedule for the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series.

With his win last Friday night at the Bristol Motor Speedway, Smith is now locked into the NCTS Playoffs. Through the first six races of the 2025 season, Smith hasn’t finished worse than eighth and sits second in the NCTS Driver Championship points standings.

“I can’t wait for Rockingham,” said Smith. “This 38 team is on a tear right now, and we have a lot of good momentum heading into Rockingham. There’s a lot less pressure heading into the weekend knowing we are locked into the Playoffs, but we want more, I think we have a good shot at the Regular Season Championship.”

Road Crew

Driver: Chandler Smith

Crew Chief: Jon Leonard

Truck Chief: Ron Schutte

Engineer: Caleb Williams

Mechanic: Levy Bixler

Mechanic: Alex Campbell

Tire / Interior Specialist: Kyle Clark

Spotter: Ryan Blanchard

Transport Driver: Mark Hadley

Pit Crew

Front Tire Changer: Garrett Wager

Rear Tire Changer: Jacob Ray

Tire Carrier: Paul Steele

Jackman: Ryan Selig

Fueler: Chris Webb

ABOUT BARE KNUCKLE BOXING

Originating in South Florida with combat sports legend Dada 5000 and Mike Vazquez. BKB is the oldest professional bare knuckle boxing company in the world and its largest in terms of roster, library and distribution. BKB is broadcasted in millions of homes across the globe, including a recent groundbreaking live television deal with VICE TV in North America.

ABOUT QUICKTIE

Quick Tie Products, Inc., (“QuickTie”) manufactures and distributes the QuickTie™ System (a proprietary, patented hold-down system for high wind and seismic construction) and a full line of framing hardware including u-hangers, hurricane clips, straps, structural wood screws, truss connectors and foundation connectors.

ABOUT FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS

Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization in the NASCAR Cup and Craftsman Truck Series. The team is the 2021 Daytona 500 and 2022 Craftsman Truck Series champions. The team was founded in 2004 and is owned by successful entrepreneur, Bob Jenkins. FRM fields the No. 4, No. 34, and the No. 38 NASCAR Cup Series teams along with the No. 34 and No. 38 Craftsman Truck Series teams from its Mooresville, N.C. headquarters. Visit teamfrm.com and follow FRM on social media: Twitter at @Team_FRM, Instagram at @teamfrm and Facebook at facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

Spire Motorsports Black’s Tire 200 Race Advance

By
Official Release
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  • Spire Motorsports will make their first NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series appearance at Rockingham (N.C.) Speedway this weekend. The Mooresville, N.C., organization fields the Nos. 07, 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados full time in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The Nos. 07 and 7 entries will see a rotating roster of all-star caliber drivers throughout the season, while Rajah Caruth and Sunoco Rookie of the Year contender Andres Perez de Lara will pilot the Nos. 71 and 77, respectively, for the full slate of races.
  • The Black’s Tire 200 will be televised live on FS1 Friday, April 18 beginning at 5 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). The seventh of 25 races on the 2025 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series calendar will be broadcast live on the NASCAR Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.
  • Friday’s event marks the third and final of three events in the Triple Truck Challenge program. “The Trip” rewards the highest-finishing driver in an event who’s declared to collect CRAFTSMAN Truck Series points with a $50,000 bonus. Both Rajah Caruth and Andres Perez de Lara are eligible for the bonus.

Sammy Smith – Driver, No. 07 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Sammy Smith will drive Spire Motorsports’ No. 07 Gainbridge Chevrolet Silverado in Friday’s Black’s Tire 200 at Rockingham Speedway.
  • The Johnston, Iowa, native will pull double duty this weekend, also piloting JR Motorsports’ No. 8 Pilot Chevrolet in Saturday’s NASCAR Xfinity Series North Carolina Education Lottery 250 presented by Black’s Tire.
  • Smith was eight-years old when the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series made their last trip to Rockingham Speedway in April 2013. He was not yet born when the NASCAR Cup Series made their final stop at the historic oval in February 2004.
  • Founded in 2018, Gainbridge® is an insurtech subsidiary of Group 1001 that empowers consumers to take control of their financial future with solutions that are accessible to everyone, no matter their budget or financial knowledge. Its platform provides access to financial products that are simple, intuitive, and backed by smart technology with no complexity or hidden fees. Gainbridge® is headquartered in Zionsville, Ind. For more information, visit www.gainbridge.io or follow and connect with us on X and LinkedIn.
  • The 20-year-old made four CRAFTSMAN Truck Series appearances aboard Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Silverado in 2024. He collected one top-five and three top-10 finishes while maintaining a 9.0 average finish. Smith’s four starts were highlighted by a fifth-place result at North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway where he registered the second-most green flag passes (78) and fifth-most quality passes (43) in the field.
  • In 84 NASCAR Xfinity Series starts, Smith has earned 16 top fives and 38 top 10s, claiming victories at Phoenix Raceway (March 2023) and Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway (Oct. 2024).
  • The two-time ARCA Menards Series East champion has racked up eight wins across 15 starts in the regional stock car series. He claimed his second-consecutive East Series title in a dominant 2022 campaign, winning five of the seven races while maintaining an average finish of 1.7.
  • The young phenom doubled-up in 2022, earning the ARCA Menards Series Sioux Chief Showdown crown. Smith emerged victorious four times in the series, did not finish outside of the top five in all 10 events and maintained a 2.2 average finish.
  • The short track ace has earned wins in some of the country’s most notable Late Model races including the Winchester 400, Red Bud 400 and Florida Governor’s Cup. He snagged a CARS Pro Late Model Tour victory in 2021 at Jennerstown (Pa.) Speedway and four pavement super late model wins that same season. In 2022, Smith was victorious in a star-studded combination ARCA CRA Super Series/Southern Super Series race at North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway.
  • The black and yellow Gainbridge colors will wrap Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-073. The truck was last on track at Las Vegas for an 11th-place result with Justin Haley. Chase Purdy earned a chassis’ best runner-up finish at Texas Motor Speedway in 2023 when it was property of Kyle Busch Motorsports.

Sammy Smith Quotes
Talk about returning to Spire after four successful outings with the team in 2024.
“I’m excited to get back with Spire. I really got comfortable in the truck in my few starts last year, so I’m hoping it will come back to me as we get rolling. I’m excited for the opportunity to work with Allen (Hart) and all the guys on the No. 07 team. Hopefully we can get a win for all the people who help make this happen.”

What does it mean to race at a venue as rich in history as Rockingham?
“It’s really cool to race at a track like Rockingham with so much history, and to have the opportunity to go back in a truck and Xfinity car is really neat. With the repave, it will be very different from when the trucks were last there in 2013. At the test, I was able to get a ton of laps in both the truck and Xfinity car. While the two don’t drive anything alike, the track is still super fast and has a lot of grip for both. I’m looking forward to getting out on track Friday.”

Atop the No. 07 Box – Crew Chief Allen Hart

  • Allen Hart calls the shots for the No. 07 team, an entry that will see a rotating roster of drivers throughout the 2025 campaign.
  • Last time out at Bristol Motor Speedway, the No. 07 team rebounded from a pit-road speeding penalty to secure a runner-up finish with Kyle Larson behind the wheel.
  • Hart earned his first career win in a crew chief role during last month’s Baptist Health 200 at Homestead-Miami Speedway. After a spin midway through the Final Stage, Larson made an impressive run through the field over the event’s final 40 circuits, chasing down the leaders with two laps remaining to make the winning move.
  • Through six races, No. 07 team sit fifth in the division’s owner’s championship point standings. They have collected one win, two top-five and two top-10 finishes on the 2025 campaign.

Corey Day – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Corey Day will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet Silverado in Friday’s Black’s Tire 200 at Rockingham Speedway.
  • Friday’s 200-lap event will mark the open-wheel phenom’s ninth CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start and fifth with Spire Motorsports. He made four series appearances in 2024 with McAnally-Hilgemann Racing.
  • The Clovis, Calif., native was seven years old the last time the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series hit the Richmond County circuit in 2013. Day was yet to be born when the Cup Series made their last trip to the historic oval in February 2004.
  • HENDRICKCARS.COM is the online home for everything Hendrick Automotive Group. Visitors can shop more than 30,000 new or pre-owned vehicles, locate centers for service and collision repair, receive a value to sell or trade their car, chat online with customer service, discover career opportunities, learn more about vehicle protection programs, and explore how the company gives back to the community.
  • Last week at Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway, the 19-year-old maintained top-10 track position through Stage One and Stage Two before finishing in the 15th position, tying his career-best finish in the series.
  • In his first CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race for Spire Motorsports at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Day secured his first career Kennametal Pole Award and led the field to the green flag. One week later, he earned a career-best 15th-place finish at Homestead-Miami Speedway.
  • Day will race Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-083 Friday night, the same truck he put on the pole last month at Las Vegas. Connor Mosack scored a chassis-best third-place finish at Homestead last October.
  • Day will round out his eight-race slate with the organization at Nashville (Tenn.) Superspeedway (May 30), Indianapolis Raceway Park (July 25) and Darlington (S.C.) Raceway (Aug. 30).
  • The talented teenager will contest two more ARCA Menards Series events in Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Chevrolet SS later this season at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway (July 11) and Kansas Speedway (Sept. 26).

Corey Day Quote
What are your thoughts heading into Rockingham?
“I feel like I’m finally starting to really understand what I need to do in the trucks. I know I still have a lot to learn but I definitely am starting to feel more comfortable. While most of us haven’t raced at Rockingham Speedway before we all got to test there earlier this year. Those laps are going to be useful to help me get up to speed quicker than tracks I haven’t raced at before. I think it should be a good race.”

Atop the No. 7 Box – Crew Chief Brian Pattie

  • Brian Pattie returns to the top of the No. 7 pit box, an entry that will see a plethora of all-star caliber drivers behind the wheel throughout the 2025 season.
  • The Zephyrhills, Fla., native has called one event at the historic Richmond County oval, a 15th-place finish in November 2002 with David Reutimann in the NACAR Xfinity Series.
  • The 24-year veteran spent 14 seasons in NASCAR’s premier division. As a crew chief, he has earned six wins in Cup Series competition and 11 in the Xfinity Series. He stands as one of 11 crew chiefs to win races across all three of NASCAR’s national touring series.
  • Earlier this season, the No. 7 team defended its 2024 victory in the Fr8 208 at Atlanta Motor Speedway with Kyle Busch behind the wheel. The Las Vegas driver spent all 135 laps in the top 15 while leading a race-high 80 laps and recording a field-leading average running position (3.2) and driver rating (124.6).

Rajah Caruth – Driver, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Rajah Caruth will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet Silverado in Friday afternoon’s Black’s Tire 200 at Rockingham Speedway.
  • The 22-year-old will make his first trip to Rockingham Speedway this Friday. The last time the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series competed at the historic venue in 2013, Caruth was 10 years old and only 20 months old when the Cup Series made their last trip to “The Rock.”
  • HENDRICKCARS.COM is the online home for everything Hendrick Automotive Group. Visitors can shop more than 30,000 new or pre-owned vehicles, locate centers for service and collision repair, receive a value to sell or trade their car, chat online with customer service, discover career opportunities, learn more about vehicle protection programs, and explore how the company gives back to the community.
  • Last week at Bristol Motor Speedway, Caruth rebounded from a mid-race spin to take the lead. He paced the field for a career-high 85 laps before the team was forced to pit during a caution with 22 laps remaining for fuel. He utilized the fresh tires to drive through the field and collect a ninth-place finish.
  • After starting the season with back-to-back finishes outside the top 25 due to incidents, Caruth has rebounded with three top-10 finishes in the last four races.
  • The 2024 season marked a career year for Caruth where he tallied one win, a pair of Cometic Gasket Pole Awards and five top-five finishes, all of which were the first of his young career. The 12 top-10 finishes on the season tripled Caruth’s total of four in 2023, while his average starting position of 10.7 was four positions higher than 2023 and his 11.6 average finish was an impressive seven positions higher.
  • With his first career CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win last season, Caruth became the third African-American driver to win a NASCAR National Touring Series race.
  • Caruth and the No. 71 team qualified for the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series playoffs in 2024, the first such appearance for the former Washington, D.C., resident. Despite reaching the Round of 8, mechanical issues stalled his championship bid in the season’s penultimate event at Martinsville Speedway.
  • Caruth will be behind the wheel of Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-084. He piloted the truck in its most recent of three appearances last month at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

Rajah Caruth Quotes
Rockingham Speedway has a deep history. What does it mean to be able to race on the hollowed grounds in Richmond County?
“I think it will be really cool to race at ‘The Rock.’ Personally, the last time I saw anything there was the Truck and K&N Series events in 2012-13. I have no real recollection of anything else there, aside from what I’ve read in my NASCAR Encyclopedia and watching highlights from the 2004 Cup Series race. While I don’t have a connection to the track, I’m a student of the sport and a fan of its history. It just makes it that much cooler to get the opportunity to race there. Hopefully I can add my name to the list of winners at Rockingham.”

You took part in the organizational test in January. What did you learn to help you heading into the weekend?
“I think the test in January was a valuable tool. I got some time to work with my new group, expose myself to the rule changes and gain some data points and information on what we needed to work on in the simulator. It was significantly colder than it will be this weekend, which will be a factor of some sort. The track will have a lot of grip, and hopefully it has worn out a little bit since the test so we can move around and use some lines.”

Atop the No. 71 Box – Crew Chief Kevin “Bono” Manion

  • Veteran crew chief Kevin “Bono” Manion calls the shots for Rajah Caruth and the No. 71 team in 2025.
  • The 52-year-old has called one race at Rockingham, a runner-up finish with Martin Truex, Jr., in the 2004 Xfinity Series race. The event marked the last for the series at the venue prior to this weekend’s festivities.
  • Manion, a 31-year veteran of the sport, founded Spire Motorsports’ CRAFTSMAN Truck Series program alongside industry veteran Mike Greci in 2022. The team claimed their first victory in their second outing with William Byron behind the wheel at Martinsville Speedway.
  • The veteran crew chief has racked up six Cup Series victories – including the 2010 Daytona 500 – 17 NASCAR Xfinity Series triumphs and 11 CRAFTSMAN Truck series wins. Manion is also one of 11 crew chiefs to have called wins across all three of NASCAR’s national touring series.
  • In 2023, Manion became one of few to call a race in all three of NASCAR’s national series in a single season, all of which came under the Spire Motorsports banner. He led the part-time effort on the No. 7 Silverado in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, helped in limited starts for Carson Hocevar in the Xfinity Series and took the reigns during the second half of the Cup Series season for Ty Dillon and the No. 77 team.

Andres Perez de Lara – Driver, No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Andres Perez de Lara will pilot the No. 77 Telcel Chevrolet Silverado for Spire Motorsports in the Black’s Tire 200 at Rockingham Speedway.
  • Last time out at Bristol Motor Speedway, Perez de Lara spent a majority of the event in the top 15 until contact initiated by another competitor dealt front-end damage to his Silverado. After the team made adequate repairs, the rookie driver crossed the line in the 19th position.
  • Perez de Lara had just turned eight-years old when the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series last raced at “The Rock” in 2013, and was yet to be born when the NASCAR Cup Series made their final visit to the historic North Carolina oval.
  • Like nearly all drivers competing in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race this weekend, the Mexico City native will make his first appearance at Rockingham Speedway. During his time in the ARCA Menards Series, he made starts at venues of a similar speed and shape including Dover (Del.) Motor Speedway another mile-long high-banked oval. The 20-year-old picked up a fifth-place finish with the series at the “Monster Mile” in 2024.
  • Telcel is Mexico’s leading telecommunications company, providing nationwide coverage, cutting-edge mobile connectivity, and high-speed internet services to millions of users. With over 30 years of experience, Telcel continues to innovate in digital communication, offering solutions that keep people connected anytime, anywhere.
  • Beyond technology, Telcel is committed to supporting excellence in sports, particularly in motorsports. As a proud and long-time sponsor of Perez de Lara, Telcel fuels the passion for speed, precision and performance, driving success both on and off the track. Telcel will be a season-long partner with Perez de Lara and the No. 77 team.
  • Perez de Lara has made eight CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts, seven of which were behind the wheel of a Spire Motorsports Silverado. He earned his first-career top 10 in his CRAFTSMAN Truck Series debut last June at World Wide Technology Raceway via a ninth-place result. His career-best seventh-place finish last month at Martinsville Speedway marked his second top 10 in the series.
  • Perez de Lara is in pursuit of Sunoco Rookie of the Year honors in 2025 and sits second in the standings for the award, 31 points behind leader Gio Ruggiero.
  • The 2024 ARCA champion juggled his duties while also competing full time in the NASCAR Mexico Series. In 2023, he earned the Rookie of the Year award while finishing fourth in the division’s championship point standings and reaching the series’ version of the NASCAR playoffs. His lone win in the series came at Ovalo Aguascalientes, a 0.875-mile oval.
  • Perez de Lara will pilot Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-082 on Friday. He drove the truck in its most recent appearance earlier this year at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Rajah Caruth sat in the chassis on three occasions in 2024, collecting a pair of top 10s.

Andres Perez de Lara Quotes
What are your thoughts heading into Rockingham?
“I am feeling confident about this weekend. I enjoyed running the track when we tested there in January. We ran a lot of laps at the test and we got our Silverado where I like it. Having track time at a place as tricky as Rockingham is key for me, and will only help me this weekend. I’m also confident this weekend because we will be on the same playing field as everyone else. Most of the drivers haven’t raced at Rockingham, like me. This is the first time this year that I can say that. I hope the fans show up for the race because Rockingham is a great track.”

You are a quarter of the way through your rookie year. How do you feel the year has gone up to this point?
“Jumping into the truck this has been a great learning experience. I feel like we have had speed but are yet to put a full race together. I know when we put a full race together and get a good result. Hopefully Rockingham will be the race everything will come together and we can start building momentum. I am proud of our No. 77 team and all the work they have put in this year.”

Atop the No. 77 Box – Crew Chief Chad Walter

  • Crew chief Chad Walter will be atop the box for Andres Perez de Lara and the No. 77 team in 2025.
  • While he hasn’t called a race at “The Rock,” Walter was part of the No. 1 Dale Earnhardt, Inc. pit crew that propelled Steve Park to Cup Series Victory Lane at the facility in February 2001. The triumph came one week after the tragic passing of team-owner Dale Earnhardt, Sr.
  • Between NASCAR’s Xfinity Series and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, the Albion, N.Y. native has racked up six wins, 52 top fives and 130 top 10s.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway on July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado to its inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win on April 7, 2022, at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent win came on March 21, 2025, when Kyle Larson took the checkered flag in the Baptist Health 200 at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

In 2025, Spire Motorsports will campaign the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolets in the NASCAR Cup Series. The team will also field the Nos. 07, 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and the No. 77 Chevrolet in the ARCA Menards Series in select events.

TOP FUEL TURNS 1,000: FULL OF HISTORIC MOMENTS, ZMAX DRAGWAY TO HOST ANOTHER AT AMERICAN REBEL LIGHT NHRA 4-WIDE NATIONALS

By
Official Release
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Weekend-long celebration will feature autograph session with milestone winners, Garlits cackle car, special trophy and much more

CONCORD, N.C. (April 15, 2025) – As the originator of four-wide drag racing, zMAX Dragway has been synonymous with historical moments in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, dating back to the first race at the Bellagio of Dragstrips in 2008.

Four-wide racing became reality in 2010 and 15 years later, zMAX Dragway will play host to another significant moment when the 1,000th Top Fuel race in NHRA history takes place at the American Rebel Light NHRA 4-Wide Nationals on April 25-27.

Top Fuel first appeared at the 1963 NHRA Winternationals, with the legendary Don Garlits winning the first race. Six-plus decades and hundreds of races later, a magical moment will take place at zMAX Dragway during one of motorsports’ most unique spectacles.

Here’s a look at some memorable Top Fuel moments over the years at zMAX:

  • Spring 2010: The first official 4-Wide Nationals takes place, with Cory McClenathan picking up the win. McClenathan also won the 400th Top Fuel race 12 years earlier and will be in attendance this month in Charlotte.
  • Fall 2012: Top Fuel star and points leader Shawn Langdon earns his first career Top Fuel win. A championship and 19 more wins have followed.
  • Fall 2015: Antron Brown beats J.R. Todd in the Top Fuel final, the NHRA’s first-ever final round with two Black drivers. It was the 800th race in Top Fuel history.
  • Spring 2016: Brittany Force becomes the first female four-wide winner. Force also won the 900th Top Fuel race six years ago in Las Vegas.
  • Fall 2023: Mike Salinas becomes the first driver to run 300 mph to the 1/8-mile.
  • Fall 2024: Brown wins to take over the points lead for the first time since 2017. Brown went on to win his fourth championship.
  • Spring 2025: The winner of the 1,000th Top Fuel race will be crowned.

Will it be the likes of Brown, Langdon, Force or Doug Kalitta, who won the 500th Top Fuel race in 2002, getting the monumental win? Or will a star like Tony Stewart, Clay Millican, defending event winner Justin Ashley, Josh Hart, Jasmine Salinas or Ida Zetterström capture the landmark 1,000th?

One thing is certain: it will be a special and historic moment and weekend that no fan should miss. The celebrations will take place all weekend, on and off the track. Every 100th winner in Top Fuel history – including Garlits – will all be on hand in Charlotte, as the winners of 1st, 100th, 200th, 300th, 400th, 500th, 600th, 700th, 800th and 900th Top Fuel races will gather together for a special autograph session at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday with an event-exclusive hero card.

Milestone winners like Doug Herbert, Cory McClenathan will be featured guests on the Nitro Alley stage during the weekend. One of Garlits’ Top Fuel cars will do a special cackle before the first nitro qualifying session on both Friday at 3:30 pm. and Saturday at 10:30 a.m. in a must-see moment, while Garlits and the car will also lead the SealMaster Track Walk on Sunday morning at 10:50 a.m.

Lastly, the winner of the 1,000th Top Fuel race in Charlotte will receive a special trophy and the Wally to close out a momentous weekend, with Garlits presenting the special trophy on the top end to the historic winner on Sunday.

The event, featuring the stars in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle, will showcase spectacular action, starting with Friday night Primetime under the lights. After nitro at night, fans will be treated to the Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge on Saturday, as the thrilling bonus race brings competitive racing – as well as a bonus purse and bonus points – to qualifying. That leads into Sunday eliminations, where winners will be crowned, including the 1,000th Top Fuel winner.

With an extreme sensory overload of nearly 50,000-horsepower of four nitro-burning machines blazing down zMAX Dragway, it’s an epic weekend from start to finish.

Ashley (Top Fuel), Matt Hagan (Funny Car), Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) claimed victories in 2024 and this year’s race will again be broadcast on FS1, including eliminations at 6 p.m. ET on Sunday, April 27.

Funny Car’s Hagan picked up his 50th win in Charlotte last year but repeating won’t be easy against a loaded field that includes points leader Jack Beckman, who took over driving duties for John Force last year, reigning world champ Austin Prock, Ron Capps, Phoenix winner Paul Lee, Gainesville winner Chad Green and Bob Tasca III.

Anderson continues to dominate in Pro Stock, winning twice and breaking records. Others to watch include KB Titan Racing teammate Dallas Glenn, who has also been to four straight finals in 2025, Erica Enders, Jeg Coughlin Jr. and Matt Hartford.

Pro Stock Motorcycle’s Herrera ruled 2024 and he won in Gainesville as the class returns for the first time since then with a talented pool of riders like Matt Smith, Richard Gadson, Jianna Evaristo, Angie Smith and Chase Van Sant.

The NHRA 4-Wide Nationals will also feature the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Series, Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage Mountain Motor Pro Stock, Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown and the season-opener in Holley EFI Factory X. The first Summit Racing Equipment Jr. Drag Racing League Shootout of 2025 will also take place in Charlotte.

Fans will be invited to the Nitro Alley Stage, which is the main entertainment hub in the pits. The stage hosts Nitro School, meet and greets, autograph sessions and much more. Race fans in Charlotte can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce each driver and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk. Fans are also invited to congratulate the event winners at the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday.

As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. Fans can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their cars, get autographs and more. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and vendors create an exciting atmosphere.

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 4:30 and 7 p.m. ET on Friday, April 25 and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, April 26 at 12 and 2:15 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 12 p.m. ET on Sunday, April 27. Television coverage includes qualifying on FS1 at 11 a.m. ET on Sunday and then eliminations action at 6 p.m. ET to follow.

To purchase tickets to the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals, please visit www.charlottemotorspeedway.com or call 800-455-3267. For more information about NHRA, visit www.NHRA.com.

The Road to 1,000 Top Fuel races:

1: 1963 NHRA Winternationals – Don Garlits, winner

100: 1979 NHRA Mile-High Nationals – Kelly Brown, winner

200: 1987 Dallas NHRA Nationals – Darrell Gwynn, winner

300: 1993 Columbus NHRA Springnationals – Doug Herbert, winner

400: 1998 NHRA Mile-High Nationals – Cory McClenathan, winner

500: 2002 Dallas NHRA FallNationals – Doug Kalitta, winner

600: 2007 Atlanta NHRA Southern Nationals – Brandon Bernstein, winner

700: 2011 NHRA Mile-High Nationals – Spencer Massey, winner

800: 2015 NHRA Carolina Nationals – Antron Brown, winner

900: 2019 Las Vegas NHRA Nationals – Brittany Force, winner

About Mission Foods

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

About NHRA

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

Fast vs. Slow EV Chargers: Which One Fits Your Lifestyle? 

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SM
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Photo by CHUTTERSNAP on Unsplash

Electric vehicles are changing the way people drive, offering a cleaner, more environmentally friendly way to get from point A to point B. However, how and where you charge it makes all the difference in the ease and feasibility of owning an EV. With two primary options—fast chargers and slow chargers—drivers are left guessing which one would be most ideal for their life. Fast chargers, or Level 3 or DC fast EV chargers in Milpitas, CA, fill a car in minutes. Slow chargers, like Level 1 or Level 2 stations, take hours as they are more widespread and less expensive. It depends on daily mileage, driving patterns, and charging access. 

1. Charging Speed: The Key Difference in Time Investment 

In terms of time efficiency, fast chargers are the undisputed champion. Fast charging can transfer 30 to 45 minutes worth of an up-to-80% battery charge, ideal for road travel or topping off quickly when in a rush and out and about running errands. Slow charging, however, is going to take a lot longer. A Level 1 charge using a typical home outlet might take 12-24 hours to charge completely, while a Level 2 charging station will take 4-8 hours. Those with overnight charging or routine day-to-day habits may most likely manage with slow chargers, but those with unreliable schedules or longer commutes will benefit from the quickness of the fast charger.  

2. Cost Considerations: Upfront and Ongoing Costs 

The fast charging is costlier. Public DC fast chargers tend to be more costly per kilowatt-hour (kWh) than slow chargers and thus less economical for daily use. Home-based slow charging offers a lower-cost option. Home charging points have a one-time installation charge, but the repeated electricity bill is less. For frequent travelers or those who do not have in-home charging systems, quick chargers are convenient despite being more expensive. But slow chargers are budget-friendly for budget-conscious people as they are a long-term investment. 

3. Battery Health and Longevity Impact  

Frequent fast charging can drain an EV’s battery over the long run. The high voltage and rapid transfer of power generate more heat, which accelerates battery degradation. Although occasional fast charging is generally safe, relying on it all the time can reduce battery performance. Slow chargers, by contrast, are kinder to batteries, allowing for better long-term health. Drivers who plan to keep their EVs for decades may prefer slow charging in order to preserve battery performance. But for drivers who constantly change cars, the convenience of quick charging may be more desirable than the long-term effects.  

4. Convenience and Accessibility in Daily Life  

The number of charging stations has a big impact on which one is ideal for you. Fast chargers are placed strategically along highways and business centers, where they are best for long-distance drives and road trips. They are less frequently installed in residential areas, however. Slow chargers, like residential charging units, are more widespread, allowing for overnight charging on a daily basis. For urban commuters or drivers with short distances, slow charging is typically sufficient. Rural or long-distance drivers, however, may make greater use of the convenience of fast chargers.  

5. Environmental and Energy Efficiency  

Slow chargers are more energy-efficient. They consume less power from the grid, hence a cleaner alternative for frequent charging. Fast chargers, although convenient, consume a lot of electricity in brief periods, which can put extra pressure on power grids. Additionally, frequent use of fast chargers by multiple vehicles can contribute to overall energy demand. Slow charging is a greener option for eco-friendly drivers to charge their EVs. However, when time is not a luxury, fast charging provides convenience at the expense of extra energy consumption.  

The choice between fast and slow EV charging is lifestyle-dependent. Fast chargers are fast and convenient, ideal for drivers who commute long distances or need quick top-ups. Slow chargers, while time-wasting, are cost-effective and battery-friendly. For most EV owners, a combination of both methods—slow charging at home and fast charging on the go—strikes the ideal balance. Understand your driving habits, finances, and charging convenience, and you’ll be in a position to make the most sensible practical choice for your EV life. However, before the installation, seek an electrician to know if you need an electrical panel upgrade in Milpitas, CA. 

Whether you prefer the instant gratification of a quick charger or the reliable consistency of a slow charger, optimizing your EV charging plan is the way to a convenient driving experience. Call the expert electricians at ARC Lighting & Electric at 408-722-3688 for assistance.  

FAQs   

1. Will frequent fast charging of my EV weaken its battery?   

Yes, frequent fast charging can cause slight battery degradation over time through more heat generated during faster power delivery. The occasional use is fine, but day-to-day usage of fast charging might shorten battery life.  

2. Is it worth getting a home slow charger if I have public fast chargers available?  

Home slow chargers are generally more economical and convenient for day-to-day charging. Public fast chargers are convenient for trips but might be expensive and less convenient for daily applications.  

CORVETTE RACING AT IMOLA: In Pursuit of Points

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Official Release
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Pair of TF Sport Corvettes set for second round of FIA WEC LMGT3 action

DETROIT (April 15, 2025) – TF Sport aims to give the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R program a second straight victory in the FIA World Endurance Championship this weekend as the LMGT3 field moves to Italy for Sunday’s Six Hours of Imola.

Almost two full months have passed since TF Sport’s opening-round triumph in the 1812Km of Qatar to kickoff the championship. Daniel Juncadella, Jonny Edgar and Ben Keating – teammates in the No. 33 Corvette – won in dramatic fashion and as a result arrive at Imola with the class championship lead.

On the other side of the TF Sport garage, the No. 81 Corvette trio of Charlie Eastwood, Rui Andrade and Tom Van Rompuy hope to turn their fortunes around in another highly competitive race between 18 entries and nine manufacturers.

This is the second straight season at Imola for the Corvette program. At the end of last year, the results were positive: TF Sport was one of two teams in the class to have both entries finish in the top-10, and Chevrolet was one of two manufacturers to have multiple entries finish eighth or better.

Prior to 2024, Corvette Racing and the FIA WEC competed at Autodromo Nazionale Monza for two years. The program scored a landmark GTE Pro victory in 2022 and clinched the 2023 GTE Am championship at the circuit with Keating as one of the drivers.

The Six Hours of Monza is scheduled for 7 a.m. ET / 1 p.m. CET on Sunday. Full live streaming coverage of Free Practice 3, qualifying and the race will be available on the FIA WEC app and the MAX app in the U.S. Radio Le Mans also will stream audio coverage of Saturday’s final practice and qualifying, plus Sunday’s race.

TF SPORT PRE-EVENT QUOTES

DANI JUNCADELLA, NO. 33 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “It should be an exciting weekend after an unexpected win in Qatar. We are hoping to be competitive in Imola. It’s a historic track and I really love the place. After such a good start, we can be confident that we can have a strong opportunity to fight a top result. Let’s see how the weather plays out. It was quite chaotic with some rain through the race. That could play a role in the outcome. Whatever the situation is, we will be ready for it. Hopefully we can have a strong start to the week in practice and work our way forward from there.”

JONNY EDGAR, NO. 33 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I’ve been to Imola quite a lot and it was always a track I like. I’m looking forward to going back. It’s hard to say how we will go there. In Qatar we didn’t expect the result we got, which was a brilliant one. The track is not easy and it’s quite hard to overtake. In Qatar it was similar. We did a good job of making up positions on strategy. Not all of the spots we made up were on-track. We did a good job of avoiding mistakes, didn’t have any penalties, which is one of the biggest reasons we won there. If we can do something similar this weekend, we’ll be in a great position.”

BEN KEATING, NO. 33 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I am looking forward to racing the Corvette at Imola even though I have pretty low expectations. I am excited because I have never driven at Imola, and there is always a special challenge of learning a new track so quickly and trying to be competitive after two practice sessions.

“The good news is that we won the first race for WEC. The tough news is that we will have a double-whammy of ‘success handicap’ from winning that first race and leading the championship. We didn’t have a super-fast car in the first race, just great execution. We have the possibility to do it again, but it will be much more challenging. Having said that, I expect that Imola would be a good track for the Corvette.”

CHARLIE EASTWOOD, NO. 81 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I’m ready for Round 2 of the FIA WEC as we go back to Imola. On our side of the garage, we didn’t get the result we hoped in Qatar. The positive is that we had great pace all week. Hopefully we have the same speed with a little more luck this time around. We definitely will be gunning for a win to make it two-for-two for Corvette and TF Sport in this year’s championship.”

RUI ANDRADE, NO. 81 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I’m pretty excited to get going again in Imola. We for sure need to bounce back from our unfortunate DNF in Qatar. The team has done an exceptional job to give us such a competitive car, and the No. 33 winning in Qatar is proof of that. So I’m looking forward to chasing a big result of our own this weekend with Charlie and Tom.”

TOM VAN ROMPUY, NO. 81 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “This week we go racing again in Imola. I really look forward to achieving a good result, especially after the DNF in Qatar. But for all of us, the win for the No. 33 guys in Qatar really shows that we have a very strong package as a team to chase podiums. So I have high hopes for the next race, I’m ready to fight and can’t wait to drive the Corvette Z06 GT3.R again on this iconic track.”

2025 FIA World Endurance Championship Points

LMGT3 Drivers Standings

  1. Ben Keating/Daniel Juncadella/Jonny Edgar – 38
  2. Gregorie Saucy/James Cottingham/Sebastien Baud – 27
  3. Augusto Farfus/Timur Boguslavskiy/Yasser Shahin – 23
  4. Arnold Robin/Ben Barnicoat/Finn Gehrsitz – 18
  5. Alessio Rovera/Francois Heriau/Simon Mann – 15
  6. Charlie Eastwood/Rui Andrade/Tom Van Rompuy – 0

LMGT3 Teams Standings

  1. No. 33 TF Sport – 38
  2. No. 59 United Autosport – 27
  3. No. 31 The Bend Team WRT – 23
  4. No. 78 Akkodis ASP Team – 18
  5. No. 21 Vista AF Corse – 15
  6. No. 81 TF Sport – 0

CORVETTE RACING BY THE NUMBERS: Six Hours of Imola

  • 2: Number of Corvettes entered in the full FIA WEC championship – the No. 33 and No. 82 Z06 GT3.Rs from TF Sport
  • 3: Number of drivers in each of TF Sport’s Corvettes – Daniel Juncadella, Ben Keating and Jonny Edgar in the No. 33 Z06 GT3.R, and Charlie Eastwood, Rui Andrade and Tom Van Rompuy in the No. 81
  • 3: Number of wins for the Corvette Z06 GT3.R already in 2025 – the Rolex 24 At Daytona in the GTD class for AWA, the FIA WEC’s 1812 Km of Qatar for TF Sport in LM GT3 and one round of GT World Challenge Asia for Johor Motorsports Racing
  • 8: Wins in FIA WEC competition for TF Sport – including the 1812Km of Qatar for the No. 33 Corvette
  • 30: Tracks at which Corvette Racing has won races – Baltimore, Charlotte Motor Speedway, COTA, Canadian Tire Motorsport Park/Mosport, Daytona, Detroit, Houston, Laguna Seca, Le Mans, Lime Rock, Long Beach, Lusail International Circuit (Qatar), Sepang International Circuit (Malaysia), Miami, Mid-Ohio, Monza, Portimão, Portland, Road America, Road Atlanta, Sebring, Sonoma, St. Petersburg, Texas, Trois Rivieres, Utah, VIR, Washington DC and Watkins Glen
  • 68: Number of drivers in Corvette Racing entries since 1999. The latest to join the list are Matisse Lismont, Kiern Jewiss and Lorcan Hanafin of Steller Motorsport in GT World Challenge Europe; and Prince Jefri Ibrahim, Prince Abu Bakar Ibrahim and Jordan Love of Johor Motorsport Racing in GT World Challenge Asia
  • 72: Years since Corvette was introduced to the world on Jan. 17, 1953 in New York City. A total of 300 cars were produced that year
  • 141: Victories worldwide for Corvette Racing – 117 in IMSA, nine at Le Mans, four in the FIA WEC, 10 in GT World Challenge America and one GT World Challenge Asia
  • 317: Event starts by Corvette Racing entries since 1999, starting with that year’s Rolex 24 At Daytona. No. 300 came in early August 2024 at Road America in IMSA
  • 419,609.88: Total number of racing miles completed by Corvette Racing entries since 1999. To put that in perspective, Corvette Racing is more than halfway to the distance traveled by Apollo 13 – the longest manned spaceflight in history: 622,268 miles

Corvette Racing in Italy (wins in bold)

2022 – No. 64 Corvette C8.R: Tommy Milner/Nick Tandy (Monza) – 1st in GTE Pro

2023 – No. 33 Corvette C8.R: Nicky Catsburg/Ben Keating/Nico Varrone (Monza) – 4th in GTE Am (clinched GTE Am championship)

2024 – No. 81 Corvette Z06 GT3.R: Charlie Easwood/Rui Andrade/Tom Van Rompuy (Imola) – 7th in LMGT3

No. 82 Corvette Z06 GT3.R: Daniel Juncadella/Sebastien Baud/Hiroshi Koizumi (Imola) – 8th in LMGT3

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

About General Motors
General Motors (NYSE:GM) is driving the future of transportation, leveraging advanced technology to build safer, smarter, and lower emission cars, trucks, and SUVs. GM’s Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands offer a broad portfolio of innovative gasoline-powered vehicles and the industry’s widest range of EVs, as we move to an all-electric future. Learn more at GM.com.

HFT Advance | Rockingham

By
Official Release
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Rockingham Event Info:
Date: Saturday, April 19
Time: 4 p.m. ET
Series: NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS)
Location: Rockingham, North Carolina
Format: 250 Laps, 235 miles, Stages: 60-120-250
TV: CW
Radio: PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Channel 90)

Weekend Schedule:
Friday: 3:05 p.m. ET, Xfinity Practice (CW App, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Saturday: 11:30 a.m. ET, Xfinity Qualifying (CW App, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
Saturday: 4 p.m. ET, Xfinity Race (CW, PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)

Pace Laps:

  • The NASCAR Xfinity Series returns to Rockingham Speedway for the first time since 2004, an event that Ford has won 14 times.
  • There is no Cup Series race this Sunday, as the teams embark on the only off weekend of the season for the Easter holiday.

Sheldon Creed Team Info:
Crew Chief: Jonathan Toney
Partner: Road Ranger

Sam Mayer Team Info:
Crew Chief: Jason Trinchere
Partner: Audibel

Creed at Rockingham (Xfinity)
Starts: —
Wins: —
Top-10s: —
Poles: —

  • Creed will be making his debut at Rockingham this week, after an incident at Bristol led to his first DNF of the 2025 season.
  • In his career, Creed has 52 starts at intermediate tracks in the Xfinity Series including 13 top-5 and 28 top-10 finishes. He has an average finish of 14.4 and has led 244 laps.

Mayer at Rockingham (Xfinity)
Starts: —
Wins: —
Top-10s: —
Poles: —

  • Mayer is set to make his first career start at Rockingham on Sunday, coming off an 11th-place finish at Bristol. He won the first stage of the season for Haas Factory Team and earned a playoff point.
  • In his Xfinity Series career, Mayer has 58 starts at intermediate tracks including 17 top-5 and 29 top-10 finishes. He has two victories at 1-2 mile tacks, coming at Homestead-Miami (2023) and Texas (2024).
  • Mayer ranks second among all Xfinity Series drivers in top-10 finishes (6) through nine races. His 9.4 average finish this season is also the second highest among full-time Xfinity drivers, behind only Justin Allgaier (7.2).

Where They Stand

Xfinity Points Standings (41: 2nd, 00: 8th): Mayer sits second in the Xfinity points standings with 312 total points on the season, while Creed is in eighth place with 252 points heading into Rockingham this Saturday.

AC Maintenance: The Role of Air Filters for Optimal Performance

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SM
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Photo by Zulki Jrzt on Unsplash

Your air conditioner’s efficiency and lifespan depend heavily on air filters. Underestimated too often, they play a massive role in energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and system efficiency. A clean filter allows your AC system to run efficiently, but a dirty or clogged one means costly repairs as well as poor indoor air quality. By learning why filter replacements on a regular basis are vital, you will be able to avoid breakdowns and maintain your system at its peak performing capacity. Let’s take a more in-depth consideration of the ways air filters are of ultimate worth when it comes to AC maintenance in Plano, TX, and the manner in which they ensure a healthy and cost-efficient cooling system.

Regular maintenance of your air conditioning system is crucial for ensuring its longevity and efficiency. One key aspect of this maintenance is the regular replacement of air filters, which play a vital role in maintaining optimal performance by preventing dust and debris from clogging the system. For those in need of professional assistance, air conditioning repair rowlett offers expert services to ensure your system runs smoothly. By addressing issues promptly and maintaining your air conditioning unit regularly, you can avoid costly repairs and extend its lifespan, ensuring comfort and efficiency year-round.

Regular maintenance of your air conditioning system is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. One key aspect of this maintenance is the regular replacement of air filters, which play a vital role in maintaining air quality and system efficiency. If you’re looking for professional assistance, finding a reliable service provider is essential. For those searching for hvac near me, it’s important to choose a service that understands the intricacies of your system and can provide timely and effective solutions. By doing so, you can ensure that your air conditioning unit operates smoothly, providing comfort and efficiency throughout its lifespan.

1. Improvement in Indoor Air Quality

Air filters trap dust, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne contaminants that circulate around your house. Dusty filters trap pollutants, keeping them out of the air you breathe. It is great for patients with asthma and allergies, as it reduces exposure to irritants. Filthy filters lose efficiency over time, allowing pollutants to move and affecting indoor air quality. Washing or changing your filters daily keeps your AC equipment in first-rate condition, keeps the air breathable, and provides a new, healthy space.

2. Maximizing Energy Efficiency

A new air filter allows your AC unit to run without working as hard, thereby saving energy.

Dirty filters, on the other hand, make the system work harder when pushing air through, which takes more power. This additional energy consumption not only drives up your bills but also shortens your appliance’s lifespan. Regular replacement of your filter, however, can reduce your energy consumption by as much as 15%, the industry estimates. Regular filter cleaning translates to lower bills and a greener home.

3. Cost Savings Due to Preventive Maintenance

Dirty filters make your AC system work extra hard, which can result in overheating and mechanical breakdown. When airflow is constricted, critical components such as the blower motor and evaporator coil become overloaded. Excessive stress can lead to premature wear on components, necessitating AC repairs in Frisco, TX. Failure to replace filters can even cause the entire system to collapse, necessitating emergency repair by an HVAC technician. Regular replacement of filters minimizes the risk of sudden failure and saves repair costs.

4. Extending the Life of Your AC Unit

Routine filter maintenance can help significantly extend the life of your AC system. Clean filters ensure the entire system operates without straining internal parts. It lowers the risk of overheating and lengthens the life of your system. The HVAC technicians would normally ask you to replace the air filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage and environmental conditions. Having such effortless maintenance ensures your AC unit functions for years to come without you having to spend money on premature replacement.

5. Having Symmetrical Cooling Capability

Dirty filters will most definitely cause uneven cooling and cold and hot spots within your house. When airflow is hindered, certain areas become warm or cold relative to the rest of the spaces, which leads to discomfort despite proper AC maintenance. Even airflow through clean filters will make all spaces receive the same level of cooling. It is especially so during summer, and you use your AC the most to keep you at your best comfort. Regular cleaning of your filters will ensure your system delivers consistent, reliable performance year-round.

Maintaining the right filters improves indoor air quality, saves energy, reduces repair costs, and ensures consistent cooling performance. By making filter maintenance the first item on your list, you’re prolonging the life of your AC system and making your home healthier and more comfortable. Develop a routine for checking and replacing filters from time to time to avoid unnecessary issues and maintain optimal cooling performance.

Don’t let dirty filters compromise your AC system’s performance. Schedule routine maintenance with a certified HVAC technician from ClassicABC to keep your air conditioner running smoothly and efficiently. Prioritize filter care today for better air quality and lower energy bills. 

FAQs

1. How often should I change my AC filter?

You need to replace regular AC filters every 1-3 months. Pet homes or homes of allergy victims should be replaced more frequently to ensure the best air quality.

2. Will a dirty filter make my AC inoperable?

Yes, a dirty filter can block airflow, causing the system to overheat and become inoperable. This condition compromises filter efficiency, allowing your AC to operate inefficiently.

Ford Performance NASCAR – Rockingham Advance

By
Official Release
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ROCKINGHAM

Friday, April 18 — NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, 5 p.m. ET (FS1)
Saturday, April 19 — NASCAR Xfinity Series, 4 p.m. ET (CW)

NASCAR returns to its roots as Rockingham Speedway is back on the schedule for the first time since 2012, hosting the NASCAR Craftsman Truck and NASCAR Xfinity Series this weekend. Ford enters with the most wins at the track in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, and is coming off its first NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series win of the year after Chander Smith went to Victory Lane in Bristol.

FORD FIRST AT ROCKINGHAM

Thanks to Mark Martin, Ford has won more NASCAR Xfinity Series races at Rockingham Speedway than any other manufacturer. The NASCAR Hall of Famer is the all-time series leader with 11 victories at the track, including three season sweeps (1993, ‘96, ‘97). Ford has 14 wins overall, which is five more than Chevrolet and seven more than Pontiac. Chad Little, Jeff Burton and Jason Keller are the other Ford drivers to win a series race at Rockingham.

SMITH GOING FOR TWO IN A ROW

Ford got its first NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series victory last weekend when Chandler Smith passed Corey Heim with 14 laps to go and won at Bristol Motor Speedway. Smith, who survived two late-race restarts to win his first race with Ford, gave Front Row Motorsports its 11th all-time series win. Smith is the only driver to finish in the top 10 of all six races and goes into Saturday’s scheduled race second in the point standings.

SHELDON CREED: “I think for someone that’s been a NASCAR fan for a long time, it’s probably really cool to see NASCAR go back there. For me, my first time driving in when we went to go test felt like I was driving into this scene from Days of Thunder. That’s literally what it feels like.”

LAYNE RIGGS: “At Rockingham, I think it’s gonna be a typical repave. I think it’s gonna be the same kind of way that you ran North Wilkesboro – everybody runs the bottom all day long, all practice, all qualifying. One person is gonna find speed on the top and then everybody is gonna migrate to the top and just kind of build a cushion and everybody is gonna run the top. I mean, every place finally has to be repaved. We don’t really like to see it. Drivers like to see characteristics in a track and tire wear, but sometimes it just gets a little too egregious, so it’s gonna struggle a little bit to start, but that’s any repave on a racetrack. I think it will be a little one-grooved, either one-grooved on the bottom or one-grooved on the top and hoping we qualify good and stay in front of everybody. That’s the plan.”

ALL GROWN UP

The last NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Rockingham Speedway was 2004 and most of the Ford drivers who will be competing in the race this weekend were kids. In the case of Sam Mayer, he was just an infant and almost eight months old on the date of that last race. Harrison Burton was only four and Sheldon Creed seven at the time, but all three will be leading Ford on Saturday. Veteran Ryan Sieg, who was 17 the last time the series raced at The Rock, is coming off a Ford-best seventh-place finish last week in Bristol. That marked his fourth top-10 finish of the year and kept him ninth in the overall point standings.

THIRD TIME A CHARM?

This will mark the third time Rockingham Speedway has hosted a NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race with the previous two coming in 2012 and 2013. Ford is still in search of its first win, but two drivers competing this weekend participated in both of those events. ThorSport Racing’s Matt Crafton led 40 laps in the debut race before finishing third and followed that up with a sixth-place run the following year. Another current driver who was in both races was Ryan Sieg, who registered back-to-back 22nd-place efforts.

FORD’S NASCAR Xfinity Series WINNERS

AT ROCKINGHAM

1988 – Mark Martin (1)

1992 – Mark Martin (2)

1993 – Mark Martin (Sweep)

1994 – Mark Martin (2)

1995 – Chad Little (1)

1996 – Mark Martin (Sweep)

1997 – Mark Martin (Sweep)

1999 – Jeff Burton (1) and Mark Martin (2)

2000 – Mark Martin (1)

2002 – Jason Keller (1)

Rinnai America Corporation Partners with Front Row Motorsports and Team Partner

By
Official Release
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Partners with Todd Gilliland On Track and Long John Silver’s Off

 MOORESVILLE, N.C. (April 15, 2025) – Things are getting heated thanks to Rinnai America Corporation. Front Row Motorsports (FRM) and its team partner, Long John Silver’s, announce a new partnership with Rinnai America Corporation that will feature Todd Gilliland racing the No. 34 Rinnai Ford Mustang Dark Horse this summer at the Atlanta (Ga.) Motor Speedway. Rinnai will also be a full season associate partner of Gilliland with Rinnai featured on Gilliland’s car and uniform.

“Rinnai’s brand promise is ‘Creating a healthier way of living’ which means partnering with our PROs to provide customers and businesses with the most efficient and high quality comfort solutions in the market,” said Frank Windsor, President of Rinnai. “Our partnership with Front Row Motorsports and Todd Gilliland is a great opportunity for us to engage our customers and showcase Rinnai branded products.”

In addition, Rinnai becomes the preferred commercial water heater of Long John Silver’s restaurants across the country. Rinnai commercial tankless water tanks will be placed in new restaurants while also replacing aged water heaters.

“This partnership combines our continued growth and success on the track and finding solutions to improve our capabilities within Long John Silver’s,” said Nate Fowler, Brand President, Long John Silver’s. “It is a perfect example of complementing our marketing power of Todd Gilliland and our No. 34 Ford Performance team and keeping our restaurants running as efficiently as possible thanks to Rinnai.”

Rinnai is a leader in commercial tankless water heaters with proven performance and serviceability. They also provide solutions for professionals and residential customers, like Gilliland.

“My house has been equipped with Rinnai since I have been here and I haven’t had any issues with hot water,” said Gilliland. ‘This is a cool partnership because it’s something that I’m using every day and now they are helping us build on our race program.”

FRM and Gilliland will also promote Rinnai through creative social media videos throughout the race season.

ABOUT FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS

Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization in the NASCAR Cup and Craftsman Truck Series. The team is the 2021 Daytona 500 and 2022 Craftsman Truck Series champions. The team was founded in 2004 and is owned by successful entrepreneur, Bob Jenkins. FRM fields the No. 4, No. 34, and the No. 38 NASCAR Cup Series teams along with the No. 34 and No. 38 Craftsman Truck Series teams from its Mooresville, N.C. headquarters. Visit teamfrm.com and follow FRM on social media: Twitter at @Team_FRM, Instagram at @teamfrm and Facebook at facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

ABOUT RINNAI

Rinnai America Corporation, a subsidiary of Rinnai Corporation in Nagoya, Japan, was established in 1974 and is headquartered in Peachtree City, Georgia. Rinnai Corporation manufactures gas appliances, including tankless water heaters, a wide range of kitchen appliances, and heating and air conditioning units. As the technology leader in its industry, Rinnai is the largest gas appliance manufacturer in Japan and is the No. 1 selling brand of tankless gas water heaters in the United States and Canada. Annual corporate revenues, including those of its subsidiaries, are in excess of $3.3 billion. With a global perspective to create 21st-century products for the home and business, Rinnai Corporation commits itself to safety and Creating a healthier way of living®. For more information about Rinnai’s entire product line, visit www.rinnai.us.

ABOUT LONG JOHN SILVER’S

Long John Silver’s was founded in 1969 and is on a mission to create treasured moments through high-quality food and bell-ringing service. With restaurants from sea to mouth-watering sea, Long John Silver’s continues building on a belief that the unique seafood experience from the coasts should be accessible to all. Learn more at ljsilvers.com or join the conversation via social media on X, Facebook, or Instagram.

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