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Honeycutt Wins The Reverend Sour Mash Whiskey 75 zMAX CARS Tour Pro Late Model Race

May 15, 2025at North Wilkesboro Speedway in North Wilkesboro NC.(HHP/Harold Hinson)

Landen Lewis On Pole for Friday’s Window World 100 Late Model Stock Event

NORTH WILKESBORO, N.C. (May 15, 2025) – Kaden Honeycutt dominated The Reverend Sour Mash Whiskey 75 zMAX CARS Tour Pro Late Model race Thursday night at North Wilkesboro Speedway after starting from the pole. The Bridge City, Texas, native claimed the checkered flag, holding off a hard-charging Dawson Sutton and Keelan Harvick, who finished second and third respectively.

It was Honeycutt’s second time riding the elevator to North Wilkesboro victory lane; he claimed both the zMAX CARS Tour Pro Late Model Car race win and the season championship in the finale weekend at North Wilkesboro Speedway in 2024. This weekend, Honeycutt plans to compete in the Late Model Stock Car race as well as the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Window World 250 on Saturday, in addition to tonight’s Pro Late Model event.

“Now we’re one for three, we’ve got two more to go,” said Honeycutt in Victory Lane. “Big picture, this weekend, we’re just trying to get confidence back and know that I can still do it. The last couple of weeks have been kind of rough, so we’re just looking to bounce back for Niece Motorsports this weekend.

Three cautions slowed the race, with a multi-car wreck as the field came to the green flag at the initial start. The caution flag flew for a second time on Lap 9 and once more to trigger the final restart of the night with 26 laps to go.

In zMAX CARS Tour Late Model Stock Car qualifying this afternoon, Landen Lewis captured the pole for Friday night’s Window World 100 with a lap of 17.769 seconds. He’ll start alongside Lanie Buice, who will also roll off from the front row. Honeycutt will grid third in his effort to sweep this week’s CARS Tour action.

TICKETS:

Tickets are still available for Friday’s Window World 100 Late Model Stock Car race and NASCAR Pit Crew Challenge presented by MechanixWear, as well as Saturday’s NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Window World 250, All-Star Heat Races and the NASCAR All-Star Race on Sunday. Individual event day tickets can be purchased online at www.NorthWilkesboroSpeedway.com or on-site at the ticket office.

MORE INFO:

Fans can connect with North Wilkesboro Speedway and get the latest news regarding the 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race and all North Wilkesboro Speedway events by following on X and Instagram, or by becoming a Facebook fan.

Choosing the Best Car Warranty: Why Premier Auto Protect Stands Out in 2025

Photo by welcomia at https://depositphotos.com/

Owning a car in 2025 is like having a front-row seat to a tech revolution—your ride’s got screens that rival a sci-fi flick, headlights that dance around corners, and maybe even a battery that hums instead of roars. However, when the factory warranty expires, those fancy features can become expensive repairs. That’s when a killer car warranty becomes your MVP. At Premier Auto Protect, we’re all about keeping your wheels spinning with plans like our auto extended car warranty that shine in 2025. Let’s chat about why a great warranty is a game-changer and why Premier Auto Protect is stealing the spotlight.

The Pricey Side of Cool Cars

Today’s cars are equipped with numerous gadgets—think adaptive headlights that track the road or apps that lock your doors remotely from a continent away. It’s fantastic until a repair bill lands. A new control module might run $900, and a fancy headlight system could cost $1,500 to fix. Without coverage, you’re stuck digging deep. Premier Auto Protect’s vehicle service contracts swoop in to handle these costs, tossing in extras like roadside help or a loaner car when your ride’s getting patched up. Their plans are like a trusty toolbox, ready for whatever your car throws at you.

Why a Warranty Feels Like Freedom

A top-notch warranty is like a good road trip playlist—it keeps the vibe right no matter what. It covers fixes for your engine, electronics, or even those snazzy new lights, so you’re not sweating a surprise expense. Premier Auto Protect crafts plans that fit 2025’s high-tech cars, with coverage for stuff like digital dashboards and support for breakdowns, like towing or a rental ride. They’re all about making driving fun, not a financial tightrope, letting you cruise with a grin instead of a grimace.

Shopping for a Warranty That Delivers

Finding the right warranty is like picking the perfect coffee order—it’s gotta match your taste. Premier Auto Protect gets it, offering plans that hum along with modern drivers. Their warranties can boost your car’s safety ratings, as covered repairs signal to inspectors that your vehicle’s well-maintained, which is handy for certifications or resale. They also cover adaptive lighting systems, those clever headlights that swivel with your steering, a feature that’s hot in 2025 but pricey to mend. And for folks using digital car wallets—apps that store your car’s payment or access info—Premier Auto Protect ensures those systems stay secure and functional, a rare perk that keeps your tech in check.

Premier Auto Protect’s Winning Edge

Premier Auto Protect is like that mechanic who always knows the fix—reliable, sharp, and easy to trust. Their claims process is smoother than a fresh-paved road, with a mobile app that lets you file requests and get answers fast, often before lunch. They keep things crystal-clear, with contracts that read like a friendly note, not a lawyer’s riddle. If your car has digital wallet features or subscription-based technology, their plans keep those running like clockwork. They even offer coverage for rural drivers, partnering with shops in out-of-the-way spots, so you’re never stranded. That’s the kind of care that makes them a standout in 2025.

Skipping the Shady Warranty Deals

Some warranty outfits are like pop-up car washes—flashy but flaky. You might get a call claiming your coverage is “about to vanish,” trying to rush you into a bad deal. Premier Auto Protect plays it straight, with terms you can trust and a support crew that’s there. Grab a sample contract and read it like a car manual, watching for vague language like “excessive wear” exclusions or unusual delays before coverage starts. If a company’s website feels like a scam or their support is a ghost town, keep moving. Premier Auto Protect’s open-book style makes them a safe bet.

Making Coverage Work for Your Wallet

Warranty costs depend on your car’s make, mileage, and the level of protection you want. A plan for a zippy compact might cost $400 to $600 per year, while a tech-loaded SUV or an older rig could reach $800. Premier Auto Protect keeps things affordable, offering payment plans that allow you to spread the costs monthly, much like a Netflix subscription. Don’t fall for super-cheap plans—they often skimp on coverage or leave you with big deductibles. Consider a plan with a low deductible and access to repair shops nationwide. Ask about deals, such as savings for digital wallet users or multi-car plans, to make your coverage a great value.

What Drivers Are Cheering About

Head over to driver review sites, and you’ll see why Premier Auto Protect’s got fans. Folks love their quick claims—one driver had a $2,200 AC repair covered in hours, with a rental car to keep them rolling. Others rave about the app’s simplicity and the team’s warm, helpful vibe. While some companies catch grief for slow service or dodgy claim rejections, Premier Auto Protect’s reviews glow with praise for speed and fairness. These driver tales are like a test drive, showing you why Premier Auto Protect is the real deal.

Tailoring Your Warranty to Your Drive

Your warranty should fit your car like a custom rim. If you’re eyeing a resale, Premier Auto Protect’s plans can bump up your safety ratings, making your car more appealing. Do you have adaptive lights or digital wallet technology? They’ve got those covered, keeping your car’s flair intact. If you’re on a subscription maintenance plan, their coverage dovetails to save you cash. For small-town drivers or cross-country roamers, their shop network’s got your back. Think about what makes your car tick, and Premier Auto Protect will whip up a plan that feels like it’s yours alone.

Hit the Gas with Premier Auto Protect

In 2025, a great car warranty is your key to driving like you mean it, and Premier Auto Protect is writing the playbook. Their plans tackle today’s tech, with claims that zip and perks that spark joy. At Premier Auto Protect, we’re pumped to help drivers stay protected with style. Check out their plans, read the contract like a car mag, and see what drivers are buzzing about. With Premier Auto Protect, you’re ready to roll, knowing your car’s got a wingman for the road ahead.

Why Renting a Car Can Be a Smarter Financial Choice Than Owning One

Owning a car has long been considered a necessary attribute of a successful life. But times are changing. Increasingly, people, especially in dynamic cities like Dubai, prefer to rent a car rather than buy one. Why? 

The answer is simple: renting today is not just about getting a vehicle and driving it straight away, but about convenience, freedom from unnecessary expenses, and even an element of luxury. One example is Trinity Car Rental Boutique. They have an interesting feature: rent without a deposit. This immediately eliminates a lot of headaches, especially if you are in the city for a short time or do not want to tie up a large amount of money. And if you consider that we are not talking about modest hatchbacks, but about premium cars, then this offer looks especially attractive.

Instead of spending money on car maintenance, insurance, and depreciation over the years, many simply rent what they need here and now — be it for a weekend trip, an important meeting, or just a desire to drive around Dubai in something special. So perhaps the question is no longer «why rent», but rather «why buy at all?».

The High Cost of Car Ownership

If you have ever thought about buying a premium car like a Lamborghini Urus or Rolls-Royce Cullinan, you have probably imagined not only the roar of the engine but also the financial pain that comes with the keys. The price of such a car is just the beginning of the story.

Urus will cost around 200000 USD, Cullinan — 350000 USD easily. This is already impressive, but it gets worse. In the first few years, such cars lose value catastrophically quickly. A new car loses up to 30% of its value in the first year, and in three years, all 50%. That is, from your 200 thousand, you can have 100 left. And all this – without accidents, without surprises.

Add to this the regular expenses. An oil change on a Lamborghini is not like one on your Toyota, and not even like one on a BMW. Just for servicing at an official service center, they can charge a thousand dollars at a time. And if you need to replace the brakes or suspension, get ready to say goodbye to another couple of thousand. Insurance? It will cost from 3000 to 10000 per year. Plus additional:

  • taxes;
  • registration;
  • gasoline;
  • tire service.

All this turns owning a car into a permanent expense item. That is why an increasing number of people today choose to rent. Especially in cities like Dubai. For example, at Trinity luxury car rental, you can rent the same Urus for 3800 dirhams per day, and if you rent it for a long time, the price drops to 2280 dirhams per day. Already with VAT, insurance, and fuel.

For those who want to create a great first impression, drive on the highway, or just feel what 600 horsepower under the hood is like, this is a more reasonable option. Without obligations and without wearing out your budget.

If you want it, the luxury rental car is yours to choose. If you are tired of it, you return the keys. And sleep peacefully.

A Freedom Without Contracts and Pressure

With a luxury car rental in Dubai, no one is surprised if you go to a business meeting in a Ferrari in the morning and to a picnic outside the city in a spacious Escalade in the evening. Lifestyle dictates the rhythm, and a car is not just a means of transportation, but an extension of your mood and plans.

Buying a car is always a compromise. One VIP car for all occasions. Renting is a choice every day. Today, a convertible for a walk along Jumeirah Beach. Tomorrow, an executive sedan for a client from London. On weekends, an electric car, simply because you want silence and new sensations. 

People often rent a car from Trinity Prestige Car Rental. They have a large selection — from Rolls-Royce to Tesla, and everything is in excellent condition. They come and are delivered to you with gas already filled. If you prefer, you can pay with cryptocurrency, cash, or a card. You can even rent a driver. You can meet with other people at the airport, knowing you won’t need to drive the vehicle yourself. Among other pros:

  • 300 km per day included — more than enough.
  • All taxes are already included in the price — no surprises.
  • If you need anything, a personal manager is in touch.
  • No need to worry about maintenance, parking, or fines.
  • In short, when the trip is over, just hand over the keys. That is it. No headaches.

If you are in Dubai, prestige renting gives you a sense of freedom. You control not only the car, but also your time.

The Side of Car Dealerships Most People Don’t See

Photo by welcomia at https://depositphotos.com/

When most people think of car dealerships, they picture shiny cars lined up in neat rows, big price tags, and maybe someone in a button-up shirt trying to sell you something. That’s the part everyone sees. But running a dealership is way more complicated than just selling cars. There’s a whole side to it that most people don’t know about—things like financial risk, legal stuff, and making sure everything is protected if something bad happens.

This other side might not seem that exciting, but it’s what keeps a dealership from falling apart when something goes wrong. And a lot of things can go wrong.

Why Selling Cars Isn’t as Simple as It Looks

It might seem like dealers just buy cars, mark up the prices, and make money. But there’s a lot more to it. First, they have to get those cars in the first place, and that costs a lot. If they don’t sell them fast enough, they lose money. Sometimes they even borrow money to get the cars, which means they’re in debt before they make their first sale.

Dealers also have to deal with paperwork, government regulations, and keeping track of every single car on their lot. It’s not just handing over keys—it’s making sure every part of the sale follows the law, so they don’t get fined or sued.

In the ever-evolving landscape of car dealerships, transparency and customer satisfaction have become paramount. Many dealerships are now focusing on providing a seamless experience, both online and offline, to build trust with their clientele. For those in the market for a reliable vehicle, exploring a reputable used car dealership near Fulton can offer a wide selection of quality pre-owned cars. These dealerships prioritize customer service and ensure that every vehicle meets high standards of quality and reliability, making the car-buying process smoother and more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Mistakes Can Cost a Lot

One wrong move can lead to big problems. Let’s say a dealer sells a car that has a problem they didn’t know about. If the customer gets hurt or the car breaks down, the dealer could be held responsible. Even small mistakes, like messing up the paperwork, can turn into huge problems later on.

That’s why smart dealers don’t just think about selling. They think about protecting themselves from those risks. And one of the most important ways they do that is with insurance

Why Insurance Matters More Than You Think

Most people think insurance is just for cars on the road. But for a dealership, it’s a safety net for the whole business. If there’s a fire, a theft, or even a customer who trips and gets hurt on the lot, insurance helps cover the costs. Without it, the dealer might have to pay out of their own pocket, and that could ruin the business.

There are different types of insurance for dealerships. Some protect the cars. Others protect the building, the workers, or the customers. The smart thing is making sure everything is covered—not just the obvious stuff.

If you’re looking to learn more about what this kind of protection looks like, it’s worth checking out south carolina dealers insurance. It’s a good example of how coverage can be built for different risks that dealers face every day.

It’s Not Just About the Cars

Running a dealership also means managing people. There are salespeople, mechanics, finance managers, and office staff. The owner has to make sure everyone is doing their job right, following rules, and staying safe. If someone gets hurt at work, or if a customer says an employee treated them unfairly, the owner is the one who has to deal with it.

So it’s not just selling cars—it’s leading a team, solving problems, and making smart decisions every day. It takes patience, planning, and a lot of responsibility.

One Bad Day Can Change Everything

Imagine a huge storm comes through and floods the lot. Or a car gets stolen during the night. Or someone sues the business because they say a sale was unfair. All of these things actually happen. And when they do, the dealer either has to have protection in place, or they’re stuck.

That’s why this “unseen” side of dealerships is so important. It’s the part that keeps everything running when something goes wrong. It’s not flashy or fun, but it’s necessary.

What You See Isn’t the Whole Story

When you drive past a car lot or go shopping for a new ride, you’re only seeing the part that’s meant to be seen. You see the clean cars, the friendly staff, and the fancy showroom. But behind all of that is a lot of stress, planning, and protection. Without those things, even the best dealership wouldn’t last very long.

It’s easy to think selling cars is a simple job, but it’s actually one of those businesses where everything has to work just right. One mistake, and the whole thing could fall apart. That’s why smart dealers focus on more than just selling—they make sure they’re covered from every angle.

What to Remember

Running a car dealership is about more than cars. It’s about staying smart, staying safe, and preparing for anything. Most people don’t see that part, but it’s what keeps the business alive. Whether it’s dealing with laws, handling money, or protecting the business from damage or lawsuits, good dealers plan for the things that could go wrong, not just the things they hope go right.

It’s not always fun or exciting. But it’s the reason you see those shiny cars still sitting out on the lot, even after something bad happens.

Chris Buescher, RFK Racing assessed L1 Penalty for front bumper cover violation at Kansas

Photo by Chad Wells for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Chris Buescher’s No. 17 Roush Fenway Keselowski (RFK) Racing Ford Mustang Dark Horse team received an L1-level penalty from NASCAR following this past weekend’s Cup Series action at Kansas Speedway.

Buescher’s team was found to have violated Sections 14.1.C and 14.5.4.G of the NASCAR Rule Book. The rule pertains to the Overall Assembled Vehicle Rules and the Front Bumper Cover, respectively. The team was found to have exceeded the maximum reinforcement that was allowed for its front bumper covers. The discovery was made at the R&D Center in Concord, North Carolina.

Buescher and his No. 17 RFK Racing Ford team were docked 60 championship points and five Playoff points. The team was also fined $75,000. Additionally, Scott Graves, Buescher’s crew chief, has been suspended for two races. He will miss the upcoming Cup races at North Wilkesboro Speedway and Charlotte Motor Speedway.

Buescher was initially ranked in 12th place in the 2025 driver’s standings. Due to the penalty, he has dropped to 24th place. He currently trails the top-16 Playoff cutline by 27 points with 14 regular-season events remaining on the 2025 schedule.

Following the penalty report, RFK Racing released a statement.

“We remain committed to full compliance with NASCAR’s rules. We are carefully reviewing the details of the situation to determine if we will file an appeal within the timeframe allotted.”

RFK Racing’s decision to file an appeal remains to be determined. Doug Randolph is currently listed as Buescher’s crew chief for the upcoming All-Star Race festivities, where Buescher is eligible to compete in the All-Star Race.

The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season continues with the All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway on Sunday, May 18. The event’s coverage will commence at 8 p.m. ET on FS1.

Two-Time Reigning Winner Newgarden Stays Speedy as Fast Friday Looms

Jacob Abel - Dale Coyne Racing

INDIANAPOLIS (Thursday, May 15, 2025) – The usual – and speedy – suspects occupied the top of the charts Thursday in practice for the 109th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge, but the first true measure of ultimate pace will be revealed Friday at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Two-time reigning “500” winner Josef Newgarden led the six-hour session at 226.632 mph in the No. 2 Shell V-Power NiTRO+ Team Penske Chevrolet. Newgarden, who has been in the top three all three days of practice, is trying to become the first driver to win “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” three consecutive years.

Speeds will jump during the next practice, from noon-6 p.m. ET on Fast Friday presented by Turtle Wax (noon-4 p.m., FS2; 4-6 p.m., FS1; FOX Sports app, INDYCAR Radio Network). The Honda and Chevrolet engines that power the field will feature approximately 100 more horsepower due to increased boost levels that also will be available during PPG Presents Armed Forces Qualifying on Saturday and Sunday.

“Pretty solid week so far,” Newgarden said. “The team’s been doing a lot of great work. We’ve showed up really prepared. We’re still going through the motions – can’t get ahead of ourselves. We’re excited for Fast Friday.

“It’s going to be quite hot tomorrow, so we’re going to try to work around that and forecast the change going into Saturday and Sunday as the temperature is going fluctuate quite a bit from what we’re going to see on Fast Friday.”

Conditions today on the 2.5-mile oval changed from the first two days of practice, as air temperatures climbed to nearly 90 degrees with no rain after showers interrupted practice in cooler weather Tuesday and Wednesday.

Six-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion Scott Dixon was second at 225.457 in the No. 9 PNC Bank Chip Ganassi Racing Honda. Dixon has ended up in the top four all three days this week as he seeks his second “500” victory and first since 2008.

Conor Daly continued his strong week in the No. 76 Juncos Hollinger Racing Chevrolet by posting the third-fastest speed of the day, 224.893. After ranking 21st Tuesday, Daly has been in the top five the last two days.

Pato O’Ward, passed by Newgarden on the final lap of the race last year, was fourth at 224.467 in the No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet. 2014 Indy 500 winner Ryan Hunter-Reay rounded out the top five at 223.983 in the No. 23 DRR CUSICK WEDBUSH SECURITIES Chevrolet.

Drivers spent much of the day continuing to hone Race Day setups in traffic. But a few drivers began qualifying simulations later in the day, running without the benefit of an aerodynamic tow.

Two-time series champion Newgarden was the fastest driver on the no-tow list at 222.555. But Kyle Kirkwood cemented himself as a driver to watch on Fast Friday presented by Turtle Wax and in PPG Presents Armed Forces Qualifying this weekend, as he was the second fastest without a tow at 222.372 in the No. 27 Siemens Honda of Andretti Global after leading the no-tow chart the first two days of practice.

Christian Rasmussen was the first driver to make contact with the SAFER Barrier this week. At 4:13 p.m. ET, Rasmussen spun in Turn 2 and made light contact with the rear of the No. 21 ECR Splenda Chevrolet. Rasmussen was unhurt and returned to the track later in the day after repairs to slight damage.

All 34 drivers attempting to earn one of the 33 spots in the starting field turned a total of 2,213 laps (5,532.5 miles) today.

Before the six-hour practice started today, Arrow McLaren Team Principal Tony Kanaan completed his refresher test in the No. 17 HendrickCars.com Arrow McLaren Chevrolet driven by 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Larson. 2013 Indy 500 winner Kanaan will be on standby to substitute for Larson in the car on Race Day, May 25 if a weather delay forces Larson to leave for his full-time NASCAR drive at Charlotte Motor Speedway before the Indy 500 starts.

Larson is attempting the “double” of racing in the Indy 500 and the NASCAR Cup Series Coca-Cola 600 on Sunday, May 25.

The 109th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge is scheduled for Sunday, May 25 (10 a.m. ET, FOX, FOX Deportes, FOX Sports app, INDYCAR Radio Network).

Hendrick Motorsports Media Advance: North Wilkesboro

North Wilkesboro Speedway
Sunday, May 18, 2025
0.625-Mile Short Track
8 PM ET
Location: North Wilkesboro, North Carolina
TV: Fox
Event: NASCAR All-Star Race
RADIO: SiriusXM

5 KYLE LARSON
Age: 32 (July 31, 1992)
Hometown: Elk Grove, California
Last Week: 1st (Kansas)
Crew Chief: Cliff Daniels
Standings: 1st

No. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet

2025Cup CareerAll-Star Race
Races123788
Wins3323
Poles1222
Top 581275
Top 1091916
Laps Led81710,073239
Stage Wins670N/A
Average Finish9.814.07.0
  • Kyle Larson registered his third win of the season last Sunday at Kansas Speedway, leading 221 laps, sweeping both stages and registering the race’s fastest lap in piling up a 61-point day. It marked the first 61-point sweep since NASCAR began awarding a point for the fastest lap this season. With the effort, Larson seized the lead in the NASCAR Cup Series points standings.
  • During his dominant performance at Kansas, Larson eclipsed the 10,000-laps-led mark for his career, joining Denny Hamlin and Kyle Busch among active drivers to achieve the milestone.
  • Sunday marked the fourth consecutive race in which Larson scored the most points.
  • Due to Indianapolis 500 commitments in pursuit of the #H1100, Larson will miss Friday’s NASCAR All-Star Race practice and qualifying sessions at North Wilkesboro. Justin Allgaier will drive the No. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet in his place, and the team will skip Saturday’s heat races. Larson will return for Sunday’s All-Star Race. Allgaier will also serve as the reserve driver for next weekend’s Coca-Cola 600.
  • Larson has won three of the last six NASCAR Cup Series All-Star Races including the first at North Wilkesboro Speedway in 2023. His three wins in the event are tied for second-most all-time with Jeff Gordon and Dale Earnhardt, one back of leader Jimmie Johnson (four).
  • In eight starts in the All-Star Race, Larson has led a combined 239 laps, third-most among all active drivers. His lifetime average finish of 7.0 in the event is second best.
  • Entering the 0.625-mile oval, Larson is one of just two drivers to finish in the top five in both short-track races this season (Martinsville Speedway and Bristol Motor Speedway), winning at Bristol.

9 CHASE ELLIOTT
Age: 29 (Nov. 28, 1995)
Hometown: Dawsonville, Georgia
Last week: 15th (Kansas)
Crew Chief: Alan Gustafson
Standings: 4th

No. 9 Prime Video Chevrolet

2025Cup CareerAll-Star Race
Races123349
Wins0191
Poles0120
Top 531074
Top 1061777
Laps Led745,60074
Stage Wins038N/A
Average Finish11.712.98.0
  • In 2020, Chase Elliott earned a NASCAR All-Star Race victory, claiming the checkered flag at Bristol Motor Speedway. Elliott led 60 laps en route to capturing the $1 million prize. Elliott remains the third-youngest All-Star winner at 24 years, seven months, 17 days.
  • This weekend, the All-Star Race returns to North Wilkesboro Speedway for the third consecutive season. In his first two appearances Elliott finished fifth and eighth, respectively.
  • When the Dawsonville, Georgia, native was just 14 years old, he visited victory lane at the short track in the PASS (Pro All Stars Series) late model race held on September 4, 2010. It was the first event the track hosted since the mid-1990s.
  • Elliott will make his 10th consecutive appearance in the All-Star Race this weekend. His 2020 NASCAR Cup Series championship and All-Star Race win locked him into the event for the remainder of his full-time Cup Series career under current rules.
  • The 29-year-old driver finished in the top eight in seven of his nine All-Star Race appearances.
  • His average finish of 8.0 across his nine All-Star Race starts ranks fourth-best among active drivers with at least four starts.

24 WILLIAM BYRON
Age: 27 (Nov. 29, 1997)
Hometown: Charlotte, North Carolina
Last Week: 24th (Kansas)
Crew Chief: Rudy Fugle
Standings: 2nd

No. 24 Valvoline Chevrolet

2025Cup CareerAll-Star Race
Races122646
Wins1140
Poles2150
Top 55590
Top 1071112
Laps Led3863,36432
Stage Wins326N/A
Average Finish10.215.013.0
  • William Byron enters this weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series All-Star Race second in points and locked into the playoffs via win in the season-opening DAYTONA 500. He is 35 points behind teammate and points leader, Kyle Larson.
  • Thus far in 2025, Byron leads all Cup Series drivers in average starting position (9.3), and is third in both top-five finishes (five) and top 10s (seven). His average finish of 10.2 ranks second behind only Larson.
  • This is the fifth consecutive season that William Byron is locked into the All-Star main event. He has a career-best showing of seventh, coming at Texas Motor Speedway in 2021.
  • This will be Byron’s third year racing at North Wilkesboro Speedway for the All-Star race. He has two career wins at short tracks, both coming at Martinsville Speedway and both in the Gen 7 era (spring 2022 and spring 2024).

48 ALEX BOWMAN
Age: 31 (April 25, 1993)
Hometown: Tucson, Arizona
Last Week: 5th (Kansas)
Crew Chief: Blake Harris
Standings: 8th

No. 48 Ally Chevrolet

2025Cup CareerAll-Star Race
Races123375
Wins080
Poles270
Top 52420
Top 1071034
Laps Led1101,47811
Stage Wins07N/A
Average Finish16.919.39.8
  • Alex Bowman earned a fifth-place finish in last Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series Race at Kansas Speedway, securing his second top-five result of the 2025 season in the No. 48 Ally Chevrolet.
  • Bowman currently ranks eighth in the points standings, 144 points behind Hendrick Motorsports teammate and leader, Kyle Larson.
  • This will be Bowman’s first NASCAR All-Star Race appearance since 2022. He won the fan vote in 2019 and has finished in the top 10 in his last four All-Star Races (2019 – 2022). His best results came in sixth place finishes in 2021 and 2022 at Texas Motor Speedway.
  • For the Best Friends Animal Society programming, Ally and Bowman will partner with Asheville Humane Society in Asheville, North Carolina, as their selected shelter for this weekend at North Wilkesboro Speedway.
  • Ally and HENDRICKCARS.COM are teaming up again to give fans the chance to win prizes with this year’s “Open Road Sweepstakes.” Fans can win VIP experiences at various races throughout the season and one lucky winner will hit the open road in a Chevy Silverado LT Trail Boss with an Airstream camper. Fans can stop by the Ally Fan Zone to enter the sweepstakes in-person and check out the camper. Fans can also enter at ally.com/sweepstakes/nascar.

Hendrick Motorsports

2025All-TimeAll-Star Race
Races121,39340**
Wins4316*11*
Poles5*258*N/A
Top 518*1,297*44*
Top 1029*2,216*73*
Laps Led1,387*83,699*990*
Stage Wins10*126N/A



*Most all time
**Tied for most all time

  • Hendrick Motorsports is the all-time leader in the NASCAR All-Star Race in starts (130), drivers to make a start (23), wins (11), winners (five), top fives (44), top 10s (73) and laps led (990).
  • Including the All-Star Race, the Clash, the DAYTONA 500 Duel races and the All-Star Open, Hendrick Motorsports has piled up 40 victories in NASCAR Cup Series special events, 12 more than any other organization.
  • Sunday at North Wilkesboro Speedway will mark the 22nd time all four Hendrick Motorsports cars will start the All-Star Race, 13 more than the second-most.
  • Hendrick Motorsports has won the All-Star Race in three of the last five years.
  • So far in 2025, Hendrick Motorsports drivers have combined to lead 55% of laps at short tracks.

QUOTABLE /

Kyle Larson, driver of the No. 5 Chevrolet, on entering Indy 500 prep as the NASCAR Cup Series points leader: “I just think it’s really cool. I think it’s good for our team. I think it’s good for our sport. I think it’s good for racing that the Cup Series point leader is competing in the Indy 500 for the second year in a row. I would say last year was a goal of mine. This year I didn’t really think about it. But I do think it puts even more of a spotlight on us and our sport.”

Chase Elliott, driver of the No. 9 Chevrolet, on North Wilkesboro Speedway: “This place has been around for a long time. It’s kind of in the heart of NASCAR, with Charlotte being right down road and all that stuff. So yeah, I think it’s a good thing. Personally, I was excited to see that NASCAR or whoever spent a bunch of money to repave the place because that just told me that it was going to be around for a while, and they made that commitment pretty quickly. Yeah, I think it’s all positive.”

William Byron, driver of the No. 24 Chevrolet, on North Wilkesboro Speedway: “To be honest, we haven’t had great runs at North Wilkesboro the last two years. Last year we never really got a chance after suffering a mechanical issue early on. Hopefully this time around we can actually run the race and be in contention. Our short track program is something we’re trying to work on, so all laps help.”

Alex Bowman, driver of the No. 48 Chevrolet, on North Wilkesboro Speedway: “I’m pumped that we get to actually focus on the All-Star Race and not have to worry about getting locked in this weekend at North Wilkesboro. It’s honestly a relief. I actually ran my first stock car race there in 2010, on the older surface, obviously. It’s a cool racetrack with a lot of history. I’m looking forward to getting on track and trying to bring home the $1 million.”

J.R. GRAY LOOKS TO STAY HOT AS CONGRUITY NHRA PRO MOD HEADS TO CHICAGO AT RACE POWERED BY FLYING H DRAG STRIP

CHICAGO (May 15, 2025) – After impressive showings at the first three races of the 2025 Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series season, the standout duo of J.R. Gray and Mike Stavrinos have no plans of slowing down as the category heads to Route 66 Raceway this weekend.

The Congruity NHRA Pro Mod class is part of the 25th annual Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals, with this event marking the fourth of 10 races during the 2025 campaign. This weekend’s event is powered by Flying H Drag Strip in Odessa, Mo., and for Gray, he simply wants to keep rolling.

He impressed in Charlotte, winning the four-wide race and qualifying No. 1 as well. After Stavrinos swept the double-race weekend in Phoenix, Gray took care of business at zMAX Dragway in his Al-Anabi Performance Camaro, and the Pro Mod standout is eager to keep the momentum – and the perfect season for AAP – going in Chicago.

“I take great pride in our accomplishments this season and I am honored to represent KH, Al-Anabi Performance and the country of Qatar,” Gray said. “Mike Stavrinos and I will continue to dominate our competition and ensure that our championship dreams remain a reality.”

It will be another stacked field for the category in Chicago, as Pro Mod returns to Route 66 Raceway following a successful 2024 event at the standout facility. Eric Dillard is the defending race winner, while a host of talented drivers will look to win in Chicago.

Stavrinos leads the points, with Gray in second and Rickie Smith right behind, while other top names include Billy Banaka, defending world champion Jordan Lazic, Mike Castellana, Jason Scruggs, Stan Shelton, Justin Bond and Mike Janis. The event sponsor, Flying H Drag Strip, is a new NHRA Member Track, opening last year with strong roots in the Pro Mod world.

“We are exceptionally excited to sponsor the 2025 NHRA Pro Mod category at the Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK at the famous track in Chicago. Quarter-mile Pro Mod racing is our passion at our new quarter-mile facility in Odessa and this is the first time a track has sponsored a race class,” said Scott Higgs, owner of Flying H Drag Strip. “We are looking forward to hosting the Quarter-Mile Mania event on Aug. 15-16. With $45,000 on the table and a grudge-style format, it will be epic.”

Along with the race, the FTI Pro Mod Showdown takes place during qualifying, with the driver putting together the best E.T. average during the four qualifying rounds taking home the prize, while drivers will also be aiming for the Killin’ Time Racing (KTR) No. 1 qualifier award.

The Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series will kick off with two qualifying rounds on Friday at 12:15 and 3:20 p.m. CT, with the final two qualifying rounds set for 10:55 a.m. and 1:40 p.m. on Saturday. The first round of eliminations is slated for 11:50 a.m. CT on Sunday.

To purchase tickets to the Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals presented by PEAK on May 15-18 at Route 66 Raceway, 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.


About Flying H Drag Strip

Flying H Drag Strip is a new Quarter Mile Drag Strip built in Odessa, MO, the track opened April 2024. As a new NHRA Sanctioned track, safety is our top priority. We are excited to bring racing and entertainment for the whole family back to Kansas City. For more information on Flying H Drag Strip, including a season schedule, please visit www.flyinghdragstrip.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.

Front Row Motorsports: North Wilkesboro Speedway Competition Notes – Noah Gragson

Noah Gragson and the No. 4 Rural King Ford Team
North Wilkesboro Speedway Competition Notes
NASCAR All-Star Race
Date: Sunday, May 18, 2025
Event: Race 14 of 38
Series: NASCAR Cup Series
Location: North Wilkesboro Speedway (0.625-miles)
#of Laps: 250
Time/TV/Radio: 8:00 PM ET on FS1/MRN/SiriusXM channel 90

Noah Gragson Notes

Noah Gragson and the No. 4 Ford team head to the North Wilkesboro Speedway for the NASCAR Cup Series annual All-Star Race. For Gragson, he looks to continue his All-Star Fan Vote domination, winning the vote in 2023 & 2024 where he finished 23rd and 11th, respectfully. The weekend will kick off with the Pit Crew challenge on Friday, May 16th at 6:00 pm ET. The All-Star Open race will be held on Sunday, May 18th at 5:30 pm ET. The All-Star race is scheduled for Sunday evening at 8:00 pm ET.

Rural King, America’s Farm and Home Store, will return to Gragson’s No. 4 Ford Mustang Dark Horse. This marks the Mattoon, Illinois-based retailer’s third race with Front Row Motorsports, bringing its well-known commitment to rural values, hardworking communities, and American heritage to race fans across the country. Gragson will make an appearance at the Rural King in Conover, North Carolina on Sunday, May 18th from 11:30 am – 12:30 pm ET.

“I’ve always loved going to the North Wilkesboro Speedway,” said Gragson. “The energy there is incredible, and the track delivers that classic short-track, beating-and-banging style of racing. I’ve been fortunate to win the Fan Vote the past two years, so hopefully I can make it three in a row and get this No. 4 team into the main event.”

Road Crew

Driver: Noah Gragson

Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada

Crew Chief: Drew Blickensderfer

Hometown: Decatur, Illinois

Car Chief: Joey Forgette

Hometown: Iron Mountain, Michigan

Engineer: Dillon Silverman

Hometown: Chico, California

Engineer: Scott Bingham

Hometown: Lawrenceville, Georgia

Mechanic: Chris Trickett

Hometown: Grafton, West Virginia

Mechanic: Tony Infinger

Hometown: Fort Valley, Georgia

Tire Specialist: Chris Aunspaw

Hometown: Zelienople, Pennsylvania

Engine Tuner: Matt Moeller

Hometown: Monroe, New York

Spotter: Nick Del Campo

Hometown: Blauvelt, New York

Transporter Co-Driver: Nate “Cookie” Eller

Hometown: Granite Falls, North Carolina

Transporter Co-Driver: Matt Murphy

Hometown: Augusta, Georgia

Pit Crew

Front Tire Changer: Thomas Hatcher

Hometown: Middleburg, Florida

Rear Tire Changer: Adam Riley

Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia

Tire Carrier: Jarren Davis

Hometown: Jacksonville, Florida

Jackman: Nate McBride

Hometown: Vidalia, Georgia

Fueler: Ray Hernandez

Hometown: Orlando, Florida

ABOUT RURAL KING

Rural King, also known as RK Holdings, LLP, planted its roots as America’s Farm and Home Store in Mattoon, Illinois in 1960. Since that time, Rural King has grown to more than 140 stores in fourteen states. Specifically, we provide a broad range of essential goods, food, feed, seed and other farm and home necessities to the communities we serve throughout Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. We welcome and encourage everyone to enjoy our long-standing tradition of offering free popcorn and coffee every time you visit our stores.

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.

OMOLOGATO AND NASCAR LEGEND JIMMIE JOHNSON LAUNCH LIMITED EDITION JJ700 CHRONOGRAPH FEATURING RACE-USED CARBON FIBER

LONDON, UK / STATESVILLE, N.C (May 15, 2025) — Omologato, the British motorsport-inspired watch brand, proudly announces a groundbreaking partnership with seven-time NASCAR Champion Jimmie Johnson and LEGACY MOTOR CLUB to launch the JJ700 Chronograph — a striking timepiece that celebrates Johnson’s 700th NASCAR Cup Series start at the Coca-Cola 600 this May.

Crafted for collectors and racing enthusiasts alike, the JJ700 Chronograph is encased in a matte bronze finish, exuding bold sophistication, and features an extraordinary detail: carbon fiber directly sourced from Johnson’s race car, driven during his historic 700th race. This integration of authentic racing DNA sets the JJ700 apart as a true piece of motorsport history.

With a production limited to just 700 individually numbered pieces worldwide, each JJ700 watch is hand-assembled using a hybrid movement, combining mechanical precision with quartz reliability. The watch is completed with a premium alligator-finish leather strap, with Jimmie’s autograph engraved onto a bespoke deployant clasp.

“This watch isn’t just a timepiece — it’s a celebration of LEGACY, speed, and a career milestone I’m proud to share with fans,” said Jimmie Johnson. “I love this design and I’m grateful to Omologato for this opportunity.”

“I’ve always been fascinated by the close racing of NASCAR and how passionate fans are about it. To be involved with one of the biggest names in the Series is an absolute honour,” said Omologato Founder Shami Kalra.

The JJ700 Chronograph will be available exclusively at http://omologatowatches.com/jj700 starting May 26, 2025, with global shipping and limited availability.

ABOUT OMOLOGATO: Omologato designs timepieces inspired by the world of motorsport. Every watch tells a story of racing history and is built for those who live life in the fast lane. To learn more, visit www.omologatowatches.com.

ABOUT LEGACY MOTOR CLUB: (LEGACY MC) is a premier auto racing organization co-owned by seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and 2024 NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee, Jimmie Johnson and Knighthead Capital Management, LLC. Drawing from a rich tradition of success, LEGACY MC is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of motorsport and setting new standards of excellence. The CLUB competes under the Toyota Gazoo Racing banner in the NASCAR Cup Series with the No. 43 Toyota Camry XSE piloted by Erik Jones and the No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE driven by John Hunter Nemechek. Johnson also races on a limited basis in the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE. With NASCAR legend and Hall of Famer Richard Petty, “The King”, serving as CLUB Ambassador, LEGACY MC blends timeless racing traditions with a new forward-thinking vision. As an inclusive community for motorsport enthusiasts, LEGACY MC honors both its storied past and the promising future of its members, always striving for victory and championship glory at the pinnacle of NASCAR competition.