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Lone Star Racing and Marc Austin Sweep Bronze Cup and Secure Overall IMSA VP SportsCar Racing Challenge Podiums in Texas

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Official Release
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  • Well Timed Winning Pass Saturday Morning Paves the Way for Smooth Run to Afternoon Victory for Austin in the No. 22 Lone Star Racing/Mad Joker Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4
  • Lone Star Racing and Austin Now Three for Four in Podium Showings in Two Years of VP Racing SportsCar Challenge Competition at COTA

AUSTIN, Texas (March 3, 2026) – Lone Star Racing and hometown driver Marc Austin delivered a convincing performance at Circuit of The Americas (COTA) on Saturday, sweeping the Bronze Cup victories and securing third-place overall finishes in both rounds of the IMSA VP SportsCar Challenge in the No. 22 Lone Star Racing/Mad Joker Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4. The same-day IMSA doubleheader event, held in support of the featured NASCAR Cup weekend, saw Austin shake off a mild illness for the winning results and the Texas-based Lone Star Racing team continue its strong form at COTA.

Austin capped the day with a steady run from third on the grid to third overall and the repeat Bronze win in Race 2 under the Texas sunset, but he turned in the performance of the day earlier that morning in the opening 45-minute race.

Although the outside front row starter briefly led for the first few corners on Lap 1 before the pole and eventual race winner driver retook the lead, Austin’s winning move was the only official GSX class pass for position in Saturday’s opener. He pulled off what turned out to be the overall third place and Bronze-class winning move in COTA’s iconic Turn 1 on lap 10 with 17 minutes remaining in the 45-minute sprint race. Less than two laps later, the first of two back-to-back yellow flag periods that ultimately ended the race under caution basically froze the running order to the finish.

“It was good despite being sick,” Austin said. “We just tried to get a good, clean start and just control the pace and really manage it in the first race. I knew we had really good pace and that we would be able to get around the guy in front of me, but to just do it at the right time. There’s no reason to tear anything up. We had two races in one day Saturday. Still, I was feeling like I needed to get it done. A few times I had a good move, and then he was moving under braking, and I just thought, ‘you know, you’ve got to eventually get this done. Stop being so patient.’ So, I just figured it was time to get it done and look for their best opening, and that was the right call. A couple of laps later it turned into a caution parade to the end, and I wouldn’t have had another chance. I felt a little better by the second race and just managed to keep the gap and position after starting and finishing third and P1 in Bronze. I didn’t really have to push.”

The weekend marked another recent chapter of success at COTA for Lone Star Racing and Austin. The results build on Austin’s strong VP Racing debut with Lone Star at COTA in 2025, where he secured a second-place Bronze Cup finish in his very first IMSA start.

Lone Star Racing is also off to a strong albeit early start to the 2026 season. The twin COTA victories followed Lone Star Racing’s career best IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup finish in January’s season-opening Rolex 24 At Daytona with a sixth-place result in the No. 80 Lone Star Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 in the highly competitive GTD class.

“I am proud of the team for two more races with excellent execution and Marc for driving as great as he ever has despite being sick,” said AJ Petersen, Lone Star Racing Team Manager and Technical Director. “Marc drove very well when he was definitely far from it! We are looking forward to some more upcoming races again with Marc and carrying our early-season momentum to Sebring in less than three weeks. We have a winning level of focus at Lone Star Racing this year that we are going to keep laser sharp for the entire season.”

Next up for Lone Star Racing is Round 2 of the 2026 IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup at the 12 Hours of Sebring, March 18 – 21, at Sebring International Raceway.

About Lone Star Racing: Based at Motorsport Ranch within the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area in Cresson, Texas, Lone Star Racing is competing in the No. 80 Lone Star Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 in the 2026 IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup in the GTD class, in addition to other top sports car racing series. Lone Star Racing and its team members have won races across North America spanning sprint and endurance racing formats. The crew has worked together on many different teams and various types of cars, developing a strong bond and proven capability that gives them a competitive and winning advantage. Lone Star Racing competes with the support of primary partner ACS Manufacturing, Inc. (www.ACSManufacturing.com). Look for Lone Star Racing and team owner/driver Dan Knox on Facebook and follow the team on YouTube at Lone Star Racing, on Twitter and Instagram @LSRTeam and on the official team web site at www.LoneStarRacingTeam.com.

Rick Ware Racing’s NHRA Program All Under One ‘Canopy’

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Official Release
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Two Top Fuel Dragsters, One Team Going Into Season-Opening Gatornationals

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (March 4, 2026) – In a sport decided in split seconds, where winning can be measured in a thousandth of an inch, consistency is key. In the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, that consistency goes beyond what a driver does before rocketing down a 1,000-foot long straight in less than four seconds at 340 mph.

At Rick Ware Racing (RWR), consistency extends to the pair of Top Fuel dragsters driven by Clay Millican and Tony Schumacher, where each chassis is the same. There are no nuances between Millican’s No. 51 Parts Plus dragster and Schumacher’s No. 15 American Communications Construction dragster.

Getting to this point ahead of the season-opening Gatornationals this weekend at Gainesville (Fla.) Raceway meant each driver had to try something new. For Schumacher, it meant getting accustomed to the kind of chassis Millican uses, and for Millican, it meant jettisoning an open cockpit for a closed-top canopy – a design pioneered by Schumacher and debuted by him in 2012.

“RWR is one team that operates two cars,” Millican said. “Our cars are exactly alike. The only difference is in what Tony weighs and what I weigh. That makes it easier for our crew chiefs to take the information they get and transfer it to both cars.”

For Millican, embracing the canopy was practical from a safety standpoint and from a team perspective.

“Tony is obviously committed to the canopy. There’s no way he’s going to run in an open-cockpit car,” Millican said. “But I also know it’s quieter and it’s safer, so from that standpoint alone, adopting it made sense. It also made sense from a competition standpoint because it’s another element that makes our cars the same.”

The canopy on RWR’s Top Fuel dragsters mimics the canopy of an F-16 fighter jet. It is constructed form Kevlar and carbon fiber, weighs 25 pounds, and features a 3/8-inch thick ballistic polycarbonate windshield.

“When I first ran the canopy, it was pretty intense,” said Schumacher, who developed the canopy with Aerodine Composites. “You were closed in, obviously, and it was quieter, and the vision was substantially better. When Clay got in it, he said he could hear better and see better. Most everything about the canopy is a positive, other than its weight. Twenty-five pounds is a lot of weight in the middle of the car.”

RWR is able to offset the weight of the canopy via the fitness of its drivers. Millican weighs 142 pounds and Schumacher is 175 pounds. “Pure muscle,” said a grinning Schumacher.

The drivers’ respective weight is the only difference between RWR’s two Top Fuel dragsters. This makes the job of the Oberhofer brothers, crew chiefs for Millican and Schumacher – Jon Oberhofer with Millican and Jim Oberhofer with Schumacher – more straightforward when it comes to tuning both cars for a series of runs through a race weekend.

“The Oberhofers wanted an exact replica of the car Clay was used to running. I was all for it, and I made the switch immediately,” Schumacher said. “Our cars are really close – not exact, because of our weights – but as close as they can be. So when we both go out and Jim and Jon run the numbers, it was kind of insane to see how close we are.”

Schumacher and Millican tested at Gainesville Feb. 17-20 ahead of the Gatornationals, making 11 runs apiece.

“For me, testing was all about getting used to the closed cockpit,” Millican said. “It had been 27 years driving an open-cockpit car. It was a really big change for a guy who’s made thousands of runs in one particular type of car. So it was good for me to make that many runs with the closed cockpit. After a few runs, I kind of forgot about them shutting the lid and sending me down the racetrack. Now, I’m ready to go for Gainesville.”

The Gatornationals kicks off NHRA’s milestone 75th season. It’s a big race, with drivers considering it one of the sports’ majors alongside the Winternationals in Pomona, California, and the U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis.

“Gainesville has a super stadium feel,” said Schumacher, a five-time Gatornationals winner. “You get in there and you look around and there’s so many fans. They really show up.”

Millican won last year’s Winternationals and the 2024 U.S. Nationals. He wants a Gatornationals title to complete the Grand Slam and join his teammate.

“If you put it in golf terms, there are three majors in drag racing – the U.S. Nationals, the Winternationals and the Gatornationals. I’ve checked two of those boxes, and the Gatornationals is still out there for me to get,” Millican said. “It’s one of the biggest races on the calendar, and the amount of people that come to it, I mean, it’s massive. The race is an absolute must-attend event. It’s a must-win event, as well.”

RWR’s path to a Gatornationals victory begins Friday with two Top Fuel qualifying sessions at 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. ET, respectively. Saturday delivers two more qualifying sessions, along with the Right Trailers NHRA Top Fuel All-Star Callout. The two qualifying sessions are at 12:35 p.m. and 3 p.m., respectively, while the All-Star Callout begins with the first round at 12:15 p.m., the semifinal round at 2:15 p.m. and the final round at 3:30 p.m. Eliminations on Sunday begin at 11 a.m. All of the action can been seen live on NHRA.tv. FS1 will broadcast the All-Star Callout on Saturday from 4-6 p.m. On Sunday, FS1 begins its coverage with a two-hour qualifying show at 10 a.m. with eliminations following at 12 p.m.

About Rick Ware Racing:

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

FICO and Richard Childress Racing Continue Financial Literacy Partnership for 2026 NASCAR Cup Series Season

By
Official Release
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RCR and two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch are teaming up with FICO to help NASCAR fans deepen their understanding of credit education through multi-race partnership

RIDGEWAY, Va. – March 4, 2026 – Global analytics software leader, FICO (NYSE: FICO) partners with Richard Childress Racing (RCR) for the second time to advance its mission of promoting financial literacy awareness and credit education resources. The 2026 partnership kicks off with two-time NASCAR champion Kyle Busch racing RCR’s No. 8 FICO Chevrolet in the Cook Out 400 NASCAR Cup Series race at Martinsville Speedway on Sunday, March 29 (live on FOX Sports 1 at 3:30 p.m. ET).

“We welcome FICO back to RCR and look forward to utilizing the star power of Kyle Busch and the brand recognition of RCR to help highlight the importance of financial literacy to race fans,” said Mike Verlander, president of Richard Childress Racing.

For millions of NASCAR fans nationwide, understanding money management, financial planning, and credit fundamentals are vital life skills. FICO, RCR, and Kyle Busch are committed to providing credit educational resources to help the entire NASCAR community achieve financial independence—whether that’s funding education, purchasing a home or car, or starting a business.

“A well-rounded understanding of financial literacy is important and I look forward to working with FICO to help our fans across the country deepen their knowledge and achieve financial independence,” said Kyle Busch, two-time NASCAR Champion. “Through their credit educational resources, I look forward to helping give NASCAR fans from all walks of like access to financial tools to help them across every phase of life.”

Through this multi-race partnership, FICO will work with RCR and Kyle Busch to empower people with the knowledge needed to help create a strong financial future. The collaboration creates multiple touchpoints throughout the race season to share practical guidance, highlight the importance of credit knowledge, and empower fans to make more confident financial decisions. Following the Cook Out 400 at Martinsville Speedway, Busch will drive the No. 8 FICO Chevrolet again in two key NASCAR Cup Series races: the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Sunday, July 26, and the Cup Series’ Chase race at Phoenix Raceway on Sunday, October 18.

In conjunction with the Phoenix race, FICO will host a free Score A Better Future® (SABF) workshop, where FICO credit experts will explain how FICO® Scores influence lending decisions, outline the main factors that calculate the FICO Score, and help participants strengthen their financial education. Additional SABF details will be announced soon at https://www.fico.com/sabf.

“We look forward to working with RCR and Kyle Busch again to inspire NASCAR fans nationwide to take advantage of our free financial and credit education resources and put themselves in the driver’s seat of their financial future,” said Nikhil Behl, president of software at FICO. “It is essential for people to understand their FICO Score and the factors that influence it.”

The FICO® Score is used by 90% of top U.S. lenders. It is used for lending decisions like personal loans, mortgages, auto loans, credit cards, and other financial products. Beyond SABF, FICO provides additional resources to jumpstart financial literacy and credit education. The myFICO® platform allows consumers to check and monitor their FICO Score for free. The website and mobile app also offer credit score materials and education tools designed to help anyone better understand their credit standing.

To check your FICO® Score for free, go to: http://myfico.com/champions

About Richard Childress Racing

Richard Childress Racing is a renowned, performance-driven racing, marketing and manufacturing organization. Incorporated in 1969, RCR has celebrated over 50 years of racing and earned more than 200 victories and 17 championships, including six in the NASCAR Cup Series with the legendary Dale Earnhardt. RCR was the first organization to win championships in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and NASCAR Truck Series and is a three-time winner of the Daytona 500 (1998, 2007, 2018). Its 2026 NASCAR Cup Series lineup includes two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch (No. 8 Chevrolet) and 2017 Coca-Cola 600 winner and 2018 Daytona 500 champion Austin Dillon (No. 3 Chevrolet). RCR fields a full-time NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series program with defending series champion Jesse Love (No. 2 Chevrolet) and 2023 regular season champion Austin Hill (No. 21 Chevrolet).

About FICO

FICO (NYSE: FICO) powers decisions that help people and businesses around the world prosper. Founded in 1956, the company is a pioneer in the use of predictive analytics and data science to improve operational decisions. FICO holds more than 200 US and foreign patents on technologies that increase profitability, customer satisfaction and growth for businesses in financial services, insurance, telecommunications, health care, retail and many other industries. Using FICO solutions, businesses in more than 80 countries do everything from protecting 4 billion payment cards from fraud, to improving financial inclusion, to increasing supply chain resiliency. The FICO® Score, used by 90% of top US lenders, is the standard measure of consumer credit risk in the US and has been made available in over 40 other countries, improving risk management, credit access and transparency.

Learn more at https://www.fico.com

Join the conversation at https://x.com/FICO_corp & https://www.fico.com/blogs/

For FICO news and media resources, visit https://www.fico.com/newsroom

FICO, Score A Better Future, and myFICO are registered trademarks of Fair Isaac Corporation in the U.S. and other countries.

Using Transportation Services? Here’s How to Stay Safe During The Trip

By
SM
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Photo by Atmajit Gohil on Unsplash

Getting around today is easier than ever with many apps and transit options. You can reach any part of the city with just a few taps on your screen.

Safety should remain your top priority every time you step into a car or bus. Taking small steps helps you avoid risks and reach your destination without any trouble. Proper planning turns a stressful trip into a smooth experience.

Stay Alert Throughout Your Ride

Keeping your eyes open is the best way to prevent issues during transit. Many passengers get distracted by their phones or books during a long commute.

A guide from the Department of Homeland Security suggests you never fall asleep on public transportation, as doing so leaves you open to potential crimes.

Staying awake allows you to see who enters and exits the vehicle at every stop. You should pay attention to the behavior of people around you at all times. If someone seems to be watching you, move to a different seat.

Road accidents happen even when you take every precaution possible. A West Palm Beach uber lawyer or a local legal professional can help victims navigate the complex rules of insurance claims. These professionals gather evidence to prove who was at fault for the crash.

Legal rules vary depending on whether you are in a taxi or a private car. You should keep records of your trip and any messages with the driver. These details become very useful if you need to file a report later. Staying organized is a key part of protecting your future.

Choose Strategic Seating Locations

Where you sit can change how safe you feel during the trip. If you are on a bus, a university safety page recommends sitting near the driver and keeping your bags close.

Avoid the very back of the bus or train where the driver cannot see you. These isolated spots are often where trouble starts since there are fewer witnesses.

Staying in the middle or front of the car puts you near other passengers. People are less likely to cause a scene when others are watching.

Examine Public Safety Programs

Public systems work hard to keep passengers safe from harm. The National Public Transportation Safety Plan from 2024 explains how agencies use data to lower the number of injuries on transit systems.

Agencies look at crash reports to find ways to improve road designs. They might add better lighting at bus stops or change how drivers are trained. Following these national guidelines helps every city follow the same safety rules.

Prepare Before Entering The Vehicle

Wait in well-lit areas when you are expecting a ride. Check the license plate and driver photo to make sure they match what you see on your phone.

This simple check prevents you from getting into the wrong car by mistake. Ask the driver to confirm your name before you pull the door handle.

Safety tips from a California university suggest you stay indoors until the app shows your driver has arrived. Taking 10 seconds to verify these details saves you from a lot of stress.

  • The make and model of the car.
  • The photo of the driver in the app.
  • The door handles and window locks.
  • The cleanliness of the backseat area.

Never hop into a car just because it has a rideshare sticker on the window. Many people use these stickers to trick riders into entering their personal vehicles. Wait until you are 100% sure the ride is yours.

Share Your Trip Details With Friends

Letting someone know your plans is a smart safety move. A health blog from a wellness university suggests you share your geolocation with friends using the app’s safety features.

Technology makes this process very simple for most riders. Most apps have a button that shares your live map with anyone in your contact list. Your friend can watch your little icon move across the city in real time.

van

Verify Driver Background Information

Trusting your driver is easier when you know the rules they follow. A recent report by the Government Accountability Office mentions that many states require criminal background checks for drivers. These checks might include fingerprints and searches through FBI records.

You can check the safety features of your specific app to see what checks they perform. Most major companies provide a detailed profile of the driver, including their rating and history.

If a driver has a low score, you can request a different ride. Knowing that a system is in place provides extra comfort during your travels.

Staying safe while using transportation services requires just a bit of effort and awareness. You can enjoy the convenience of modern travel without putting yourself at risk. Remember to check your surroundings and verify your driver before every trip.

Keeping these tips in mind helps you navigate the city with peace of mind. Safe travels allow you to focus on the fun parts of your day instead of worrying about your commute. Proper awareness is the best tool for any traveler.

Building A Valuable Collection Of Historic High-Performance Machines

By
SM
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Photo by Jose Mueses at pexels.com

Starting a collection of high-performance machines is a thrilling journey for any car lover. It requires a mix of passion and smart planning to find the right models.

You want cars that offer a great drive and lasting value. Finding these gems involves looking at history and engineering.

Finding The Right Starting Point

Every great collection begins with a single, meaningful purchase. The first car often sets the tone for the rest of your garage. It should be something you love to look at and drive.

Many collectors spend months researching different models before making a move. Looking through a current selection of classic vehicles helps narrow down the specific era you prefer. This step is key to making sure your investment matches your personal style.

Take your time to inspect the body and engine of potential buys. A solid foundation prevents costly repairs later on. You should check for rust or signs of past accidents.

Embracing The Modern Classic Era

The market for older cars is changing as new generations enter the hobby. Newer buyers are looking for cars they grew up seeing on posters. These vehicles often feature early electronic systems and bold styling.

One major automotive publication pointed out that vehicles from the 1990s and early 2000s now make up 40% of online searches for classics. This shift shows a huge interest in what people call “Youngtimer” machines. Collectors are starting to see them as the next big thing.

These cars often offer better reliability and performance than older models. They are becoming the new standard for many high-performance collections. You can still find parts for them fairly easily as well.

Understanding Shifts In Buyer Demographics

Knowing who is buying cars can help you predict future values. Different age groups have different tastes in speed and design. Keeping an eye on who is entering the auction room is useful.

A specialized magazine reported a 4% drop in older collectors while the number of Millennial buyers rose by 5%. The change suggests that tastes are moving toward more modern performance icons. The market is adapting to younger preferences.

Watching trends allows you to stay ahead of the curve. It helps you pick machines that will remain popular for decades. Knowledge makes your collection more stable.

Key Features Of Performance Machines

High-performance cars are defined by more than just top speed. The way a car handles and sounds matters just as much to an enthusiast. Some details separate a basic car from a true masterpiece.

There are specific features that make these machines stand out:

  • Aerodynamic body styles that reduce drag at high speeds.
  • High-revving engines that provide a unique exhaust note.
  • Manual transmissions for a more connected driving experience.
  • Limited production numbers that drive up rarity.

Finding a car with all these traits is a win for any collector. The details define the character of a truly historic machine. They offer a raw feeling that modern cars often lack.

Investing In Blue Chip Legends

Some cars are so rare and famous that they are considered blue-chip investments. These machines often lead the way at major global events. They represent the gold standard of the automotive world.

A report on public sales showed that a 1954 Mercedes-Benz racing car became the most expensive vehicle sold at auction in 2025. This proves that top-tier racing history still commands the highest prices. It sold for nearly $30,000,000 at a high-profile event.

While these cars are out of reach for most, they set the pace for the entire market. They represent the peak of automotive engineering and history. Studying them helps you understand what makes a car valuable.

Maintaining Your Automotive Investment

Buying the car is only the beginning of the journey. Proper storage and regular care are necessary to keep the value high. A clean garage is just as important as the car itself.

Use climate-controlled spaces to protect the paint and interior from damage. Keeping detailed records of all work done helps when it comes time to sell, too. Buyers like to see a complete history of the machine.

Driving the car occasionally is good for the mechanical parts. It prevents seals from drying out and keeps the engine healthy. Taking it out for a spin on a clear day is the best way to enjoy your investment.

classic car
Photo by ALEXGTACAR atpexels.com

Collecting historic machines is a rewarding way to preserve history while enjoying the open road. Each car tells a story of innovation and speed. These machines are pieces of art.

Keep learning about the market and refining your tastes as you go. Your collection will grow into an impressive display of mechanical art. Enjoy the process of finding your next great machine.

How to Start Following NASCAR if You Only Watch the Big Races

By
SM
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If you tune in for the events like the Daytona 500 and a couple of other marquee events, NASCAR can feel like a one-day spectacle instead of a season. You do not have to watch every lap to follow it. A few simple habits will give you context and make the next big race more fun.

Start with the right scope

NASCAR has three national series. The Cup Series is the top level and the easiest place to begin. The Xfinity Series and the Craftsman Truck Series usually race on the same weekend. When you have extra time, those races help you learn faster because the events are shorter and the stories move quickly.

Know the weekend rhythm

Most weekends have practice, qualifying, and the race. Sometimes the order changes, so checking a weekly schedule before the weekend helps.

During the race, remember stages, cautions, and pit stops. Many races are split into stages, and points are awarded at the end of the early stages. A caution usually follows, which bunches the field back up and creates a restart. That is why the race can feel steady for a while and then suddenly turn intense.

Get the season story 

A NASCAR season is long, so treat it like chapters. Early races show who has speed. Midseason shows who can stay consistent. The final stretch is about handling pressure.

The championship format is not always the same. For 2026, NASCAR returned to a Chase style postseason that puts more emphasis on full-season performance. You do not need to master the points system. Check standings once a week and note two things. Who is winning races, and who keeps stacking solid finishes.

Pick a small group of drivers on purpose

If you only watch the biggest races, the field can look like a blur of paint schemes. Pick three to five drivers and follow them for a month.

Choose one driver who usually runs near the front, one underdog team to root for, and one younger driver who is still building their reputation. If you like car brands, pick someone in the manufacturer you already drive.

Learn the car numbers too. Broadcasts say the numbers constantly, and they are easier to spot than names at speed. Once you connect a number to a driver, the race becomes much easier to track.

Understand strategy in plain terms

NASCAR strategy is mostly a trade between track position and fresh tires. Tires wear out. Fuel runs out. Cautions change the math.

On a caution, teams choose between taking four tires, taking two, or staying out. Four tires can give more grip. Staying out can keep you in front. It depends on how many laps are left and how the car feels.

When people learn something new, starting with the practical basics helps. Think of how someone might compare casino payment methods online to see what is simplest for deposits and withdrawals before worrying about anything else. NASCAR works the same way. Focus on the few choices that happen every week, and the bigger picture starts to make sense.

Use a watching routine that fits your life

Before the race, spend two minutes on the schedule and qualifying results. During the race, watch the start and the end of the first stage so you can see who is quick. If you cannot watch the whole thing, come back for the final stage. That is where the pressure and strategy collide.

While you watch, pick a few things to track instead of trying to track everything. Follow your chosen drivers, plus one car that is clearly fast, even if you do not like them. Watch pit road on cautions and listen for whether teams take two tires or four. Pay attention to restarts, because a great restart can gain five spots in one lap and a bad one can lose them. If the broadcast mentions clean air or tire wear, that is your clue that the next pit stop might matter.

After the race, read one recap and one takeaways style piece. A recap tells you what happened. A takeaways piece explains why it mattered and what it suggests about next week.

Learn how track types change the game

Superspeedways like Daytona and Talladega are pack racing, where drafting matters because cars can go faster when they line up. Short tracks are tighter and more physical, with traffic and contact. Intermediate ovals often reward balance and long run speed, and clean air can be a big advantage. Road courses add heavy braking and more driver mistakes, which can flip the running order.

Give it a month

After four weekends, you will recognize more names, understand why restarts matter, and notice how different tracks create different kinds of drama. Then, when the next big race shows up, you will be watching the next chapter.

The Ultimate WoW Speed Leveling Strategy for New and Returning Players

By
SM
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An effective WoW speed leveling strategy helps players reach the endgame content much faster than usual. You want to gain the highest level as quickly as possible. Efficiency is the most important factor here. Let us provide you with a few simple steps for quick results. New players have difficulty with the immense world. Returning players may be confused by the new systems. We will make things easier for you, regardless of what army you refer to.

Let’s Start With the Basics

Preparation is the key to success. For new players, the gold can slow down progression since you earn it early on. That is why some choose to buy WoW gold, so that they can avoid boring farming and focus entirely on speed leveling strategies. Having sufficient resources makes a huge difference. You can buy up bigger bags and get better gear. Mounts are also quite expensive in terms of currency. Do not overlook these early advantages.

Essential Gear and Items

Heirlooms are special things that grow with you. They deliver a steady power throughout the entire process. You can purchase them in big cities. They offset the requirement for constant gear updates. Upgrade them so that they can work at higher levels. This will save time in your leveling questing. Heirlooms are a good investment for any character.

Bags are another essential item in your setup. You need a lot of room for loot. Frequent visits to vendors eat up precious time. Buy the biggest bags that you can afford. Thirty-slot bags are often fairly inexpensive at the moment. Every slot should be filled before you travel away from the city. This keeps you in the wild for longer.

Consumables also have a large role to play in speed. Stock up on movement speed potions. Use food with stat bonuses. These little buffs add up really fast. They make the killing mobs much easier. Always carry large amounts of water as well. Mana classes require plenty of breaks without it. Speed is the only priority here.

Questing Efficiency

Efficiency involves movement and planning. You should have certain habits to keep things running fast. The following points are the details of the best ways to be efficient:

  • Enable the auto-loot feature in the menu.
  • Avoid fighting mobs that are not objectives.
  • Accept all quests in a single hub.
  • Turn them all in at the same time.
  • Use a hearthstone to return to hubs.

Following these simple habits will reduce your time a lot. Consistency brings about the quickest results in this world.

Reading the quest text is a common mistake. It slows down your progress. Use a quest helper to view objectives. Follow the arrows on your mini-map. Kill only what you need to kill for the quest. Ignore the rest of the enemies. Keep working towards the next goal. Any second spent standing still is wasted.

Grouping up can also help with difficult tasks. Some elite mobs take too much time to kill on their own. Ask for help in the local chat. Most players are glad to help out in a hurry. Divide the work to complete it more quickly. Then move on to the next objective straight away. Cooperation is a powerful tool in leveling.

Dungeons and Group Content

Dungeons have huge rewards for your time. They are great for quick bursts of points. However, often solo questing is more reliable. You do not wait for others. You are in charge of the pace of your progress. Mix both for the best results. Balance is important to a steady flow. Here are some tips for effective dungeon running:

  • Queue for random dungeons while questing solo.
  • Only run each dungeon once for quests.
  • Focus on the bonus objectives inside them.
  • Stay with your group until the very end.

Grouping up is perfect for breaking the monotony. Just be sure not to wait too long. Tanks and healers have a huge advantage. They rarely wait in queues. If you can play these roles, then do it. It will make your progress immensely faster. Damage dealers should remain in the questing zones. Only go into a dungeon when the queue pops. This will ensure that you are always earning points. Never sit idle in a city.

Professional Skills and Perks

Being a member of a guild gives you useful passive bonuses. Members receive discounted cooldowns on hearthstones. They are also faster on their mounts. Find a large guild that is open to everyone. They hardly demand anything from new members. The benefits are too good to pass up. Look for guilds in the recruitment tool.

Professions can wait till you hit max level. Gathering skills such as mining are an exception. They give a little bit of points. Pick them up as you pass nodes. Do not go out of your way, the focus must stay on quests. You can learn crafting later on down the line. Concentrate on getting the cap first.

Mounts are your most important tool. Upgrade your riding skills as soon as possible. Flying helps to make the process much faster. It gives you the ability to jump over terrain obstacles. This is crucial in vertical zones. Always save gold for these improvements. They are worth every copper of them. On the ground, speed is never sufficient.

Staying Motivated

Leveling can be a lengthy process. Break it down into smaller goals. Focus on ten levels at a time. Take a few breaks to keep yourself fresh. A tired player makes more mistakes. Efficiency is impaired when you are bored.

Resting at an inn is very helpful. It provides a bonus to your gains. Always log out in a sanctuary. This builds up rested points while you sleep. It doubles the points from killing monsters. This is a free boost for everyone. Make it a habit every night.

The world of Azeroth is quite big. Do not get lost in side activities. Stick to the main path always. For now, avoid vanity items and pets. You can collect those later. Your objective is the endgame content. Keep your eyes on the prize ahead. You will get there soon enough.

Final Technical Tips

Check your user interface for clutter. A clean screen helps to focus. Use some simple add-ons for improved navigation. Do not complicate your setup too much. Too many tools can be a distraction. Keep it simple and functional. This enables you to have better reaction times.

Update your gear every few levels. Even with heirlooms, there are still some empty slots. Use the items that you receive from quests. Check the auction house if you are weak. A strong character kills things more quickly. This has a direct effect on your leveling speed. Do not settle for bad gear. Always try to look for small improvements.

NASCAR suspends two Trackhouse Racing crew members for wheel detachment at COTA

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Jake Daugherty for SpeedwayMedia.com.

NASCAR revealed the penalty report following this past weekend’s events between Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas, and the Streets of St. Petersburg in St. Petersburg, Florida. The only penalty that was issued was to Ross Chastain’s No. 1 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 team.

During the Cup Series’ event at COTA, Chastain drew a late-race caution with 21 laps remaining when he went off the course in between Turns 19 and 20. Amid Chastain’s incident, his right-rear wheel detached from the entry. Chastain, who started on the front row and led four laps, settled in 35th place of the 37-car field following his loose wheel incident.

As a result of the loose wheel, Kenneth Pozega, Chastain’s rear-tire changer, and Josh Appleby, Chastain’s jackman, have been suspended from participating in the next two scheduled Cup events. Their infractions fall under Sections 8.8.10.4.A&D from the NASCAR rule book, which highlights the loss and separation of an improperly installed tire/wheel from a vehicle during an event.

No other penalties were levied towards the remaining Cup Series teams, nor from Saturday’s O’Reilly Auto Parts Series’ event at COTA and Saturday’s Craftsman Truck Series’ inaugural event at St. Petersburg. 

The Craftsman Truck Series enters a two-week break period before returning to action at Darlington Raceway in Darlington, South Carolina, for the Buckle Up South Carolina 200 that will occur on March 20 at 7:30 p.m. ET on FS1, NASCAR Racing Network and SiriusXM.

The NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series returns to action Saturday, March 7, at Phoenix Raceway in Avondale, Arizona, for the GOVX 200 that will air at 7:30 p.m. ET on the CW Network, MRN and SiriusXM. The NASCAR Cup Series will also compete at Phoenix for the Straight Talk Wireless 500 on Sunday, March 8, at 3:30 p.m. ET on FS1, MRN, SiriusXM and HBO MAX.

Isabella Robusto Aims to Rebound at Phoenix Raceway Following Strong Daytona Showing

By
Official Release
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Mooresville, NC – March 3, 2026 — Isabella Robusto returns to the track this Thursday (March 5th) at Phoenix Raceway for the next round of the ARCA Menards Series season, looking to build on the speed she and the team displayed at the season opener at Daytona International Speedway in the General Tire 150. This will mark the second stop on the 2026 schedule.

Driving the No. 55 Mobil 1 Toyota for Nitro Motorsports, Robusto delivered an impressive performance during the General Tire 200, qualifying second and leading 11 laps—the most laps led by a female driver in the ARCA Menards Series since 1989. Unfortunately, mechanical challenges forced the team to retire from the race before the finish, preventing them from capitalizing on what had been a strong start to the 2026 season.

Despite the setback, the Daytona performance demonstrated the speed and competitiveness of the No. 55 team as they prepare for Phoenix Raceway.

“Daytona was a great example of what our team is capable of,” said Robusto. “We had a really fast Mobil 1 Toyota and were able to run up front and lead laps early in the race. It was disappointing not to finish after the mechanical issue, but everyone at Nitro Motorsports worked incredibly hard and the speed we showed gives us a lot of confidence heading into Phoenix. Our focus now is executing a clean race and continuing to build momentum.”

In addition to her racing career, Robusto is also pursuing her education through the online aeronautical engineering program at Arizona State University, balancing the demands of collegiate coursework with her national racing schedule. Her studies create a natural connection to Arizona as she continues working toward her degree while competing in the ARCA Menards Series.

“Being able to race at Phoenix while pursuing my aeronautical engineering degree through Arizona State is really special,” Robusto added. “I’ve always been fascinated by the engineering side of racing, and studying aeronautical engineering alongside my racing career gives me a deeper understanding of the sport I love.”

Phoenix Raceway’s unique one-mile layout presents a different challenge than Daytona’s high-speed superspeedway, rewarding drivers who can manage long green-flag runs, tire wear, and strategic positioning.

Robusto and the Nitro Motorsports team will look to translate the pace they showed at Daytona into a strong performance as the ARCA Menards Series season continues.

Fans can catch Nitro Motorsports and Isabella Robusto in action during the ARCA Menards Series race at Phoenix International Raceway. A timed practice session will begin at 1:30 PM MST, with qualifying following at 2:30 PM. The green flag will fly at 4:00 PM on Thursday and can be viewed on FS1 and ARCARacing.com.

About Isabella Robusto

Isabella Robusto is redefining what’s possible in global motorsports. A record-setting trailblazer and one of NASCAR’s brightest rising stars, Isabella combines elite driving talent with professionalism and marketability rare for her age. Signed at just 16 years old to the prestigious Toyota Driver Development (TD2) program, she has quickly advanced through the ranks, earning the ARCA Menards Series Rookie of the Year Championship in 2025 and establishing herself as one of the sport’s top emerging drivers.

Off the track, Isabella’s story of resilience, precision, and performance resonates with audiences and brands alike. She is currently pursuing a degree at Arizona State University in their online Aeronautical Engineering Program. Her growing influence extends far beyond racing, representing innovation, diversity, and determination for the next generation of motorsport. Learn more at www.isabellarobusto.com.

TOP FUEL’S DOUG KALITTA LOOKS TO STAY AT THE TOP STARTING AT AMALIE MOTOR OIL NHRA GATORNATIONALS

By
Official Release
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GAINESVILLE, Fla. (March 3, 2026) – For the second time in three years, Top Fuel veteran Doug Kalitta will start the season as the reigning world champion heading into this weekend’s Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway, an impressive feat considering Kalitta’s longtime quest to win a world title in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series.

Kalitta will open NHRA’s special 75th anniversary season as the driver everyone is chasing after a brilliant run in the second half of the 2025 campaign. He remained poised and consistent in the Countdown to the Championship, winning twice in the playoffs to capture a second world championship in his 12,000-horsepower Mac Tools dragster.

It’s a moment Kalitta continues to treasure as he heads to Gainesville to open NHRA’s milestone year. He’ll have a chance to defend his title in the Right Trailers Top Fuel All-Star Callout specialty race as well. The bonus race takes place on Saturday and Kalitta enters as the No. 1 seed with the opportunity to have a magical weekend in Gainesville.

“It’s really nice to go to the first race and have the No. 1 on your car, for sure,” Kalitta said. “The first race kind of resets everything and it’s off we go again. I’m really proud of what our Mac Tools team accomplished last year. It’s nice to have that number one back on the car for the year and seeing it there on the car never gets old. It’s taken a while – we had a long time of trying to accomplish this goal, and it looks good on there, I think.”

Last year, Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Chad Green (Funny Car), Dallas Glenn (Pro Stock) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all won on the hallowed grounds of Gainesville Raceway to open the year. This year’s race will again be broadcast on FS1, including eliminations at 12 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 8.

It’s the first of 20 races during the 2026 season and along with a full slate of racing, fans can expect a multitude of events to celebrate the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals and NHRA’s 75th anniversary, including:

  • Appearances from a host of NHRA legends during the event, including Kenny Bernstein, Don Garlits, Joe Amato, Don Prudhomme, Shirley Muldowney, Darrell Gwynn and Bob Frey.
  • A celebration of Bernstein’s historic 300-mph run from 1992.
  • A free, limited-edition NHRA 2026 season poster to the first 6,500 fans in attendance on Sunday.
  • A new-look Nitro Mall, special displays and 75th anniversary stage in Nitro Alley.
  • Race winners will get the special NHRA 75th anniversary Diamond Wally, along with the Gatornationals traditional Golden Gator trophy.

Kalitta would love to be the first to win the 75th anniversary Diamond Wally and he’ll certainly be among the favorites in the loaded Top Fuel ranks. After riding high thanks to a season that included four victories and seven trips to the final round – along with eight No. 1 qualifiers – Kalitta enjoyed strong results at the test session in Gainesville two weeks ago.

That added to his confidence level and Kalitta has high hopes for what should be one of the biggest Gatornationals in recent memory.

“Testing went very well,” Kalitta said. “The car performed well. All the things you hope to find at a test session – we were able to work through a lot of issues, and I think we’re hopefully in good shape. The car ran really well, but we always win testing. It’s good to get everybody working again and doing our thing. We’ll be ready to hit the ground running.”

Joining Kalitta in the eight-car Callout will be teammate Shawn Langdon, Brown, racing legend Tony Stewart, Justin Ashley, Clay Millican, Shawn Reed and 2023 Callout winner Josh Hart.

Chad Green won his second career Funny Car race last season, beating three-time world champ Ron Capps. Austin Prock earned his second straight title and after a move to Tasca Racing, he’ll look to keep rolling against four-time champ Matt Hagan, class newcomer Jordan Vandergriff, Jack Beckman and Daniel Wilkerson.

The 2025 Pro Stock season was dominated by KB Titan Racing, with standout star Dallas Glenn earning his first world title. Glenn will take on teammate Greg Anderson, six-time world champ Erica Enders, Jeg Coughlin Jr. and Aaron Stanfield.

Pro Stock Motorcycle’s Gaige Herrera has never lost in Gainesville. Last year, he won his third straight, defeating rival Matt Smith. He’ll look for four in a row against reigning world champ Richard Gadson, Angie Smith, Steve Johnson and Jianna Evaristo.

The weekend will also feature thrilling competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, Flexjet Factory Showdown and the NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series.

Before the race, fans are invited to the “Gatornationals Kickoff Party and Fanfest” at Josh Hart’s Burnyzz Speedshop in Ocala. In what’s become an exciting pre-event tradition, the event will take place from 6-9 p.m. on Wednesday. The fun-filled kickoff event will include driver appearances and autographs at the facility and more.

Fans will also be invited all weekend long to the Nitro Alley Stage, which hosts Nitro School, meet and greets, music and more. Race fans in Gainesville can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce and celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and includes the fan-favorite SealMaster Track Walk.

As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction. Fans have a chance to see teams in action and service their cars between rounds, get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers and more. Fans can visit NHRA’s Nitro Alley, where sponsors and vendors create an exciting atmosphere that includes interactive displays, merchandise, and food and fun for the entire family.

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying features two rounds at 1:30 and 4 p.m. ET on Friday, March 6, and the final two qualifying rounds on Saturday, March 7 at 12:30 and 3 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 10 a.m. ET on Sunday, March 8.

The first round of the Right Trailers Top Fuel All-Star Callout takes place at 12:15 p.m. on Saturday, with the semifinals slated for 2:15 p.m. and the final round at 3:30 p.m. A special Callout broadcast will also air at 4 p.m. ET on Saturday on FS1.

To purchase tickets to the 2026 NHRA Gatornationals, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. Children 12 and under are free in general admission areas with the purchase of an adult ticket. For more information about the NHRA, visit www.NHRA.com.

About Mission Foods

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

About NHRA

NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 20 national events featuring the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series and NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™ 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.

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