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Dollar Tree Named Entitlement Sponsor for EchoPark Speedway’s Summer 2027 NASCAR Cup Series Race

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Official Release
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  • The Dollar Tree 400 will be the headline event for EchoPark Speedway’s summer NASCAR weekend beginning in 2027.
  • The multi-year race entitlement is the latest development in the partnership between Speedway Motorsports and Dollar Tree, the Official Value Retailer of Speedway Motorsports.
  • Dollar Tree is one of North America’s largest and most-loved value retailers, operating more than 9,300 stores and 19 distribution centers with more than 150,000 associates across the United States and Canada.

HAMPTON, Ga. (July 13, 2026) – Value retailer Dollar Tree has been named the new entitlement sponsor of EchoPark Speedway’s summer NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) race beginning in 2027.

Under the multi-year agreement between Dollar Tree, the Official Value Retailer of Speedway Motorsports, and EchoPark Speedway, the Dollar Tree 400 will be the headline event of the summer NASCAR weekend in Atlanta.

“Partnering with Speedway Motorsports as the Official Value Retailer is an exciting milestone for Dollar Tree as we celebrate our 40th anniversary,” said Mike Creedon, Chief Executive Officer at Dollar Tree. “The Dollar Tree 400 is a fitting way to mark this milestone, bringing together two brands that connect with millions of passionate fans across the country. Through this partnership, we’ll introduce even more shoppers to the value, convenience, and sense of discovery that make every Dollar Tree visit unique. We look forward to engaging racing fans in new and meaningful ways while continuing to deliver incredible value to the communities we serve.”

Through its partnership with EchoPark Speedway, Dollar Tree will activate through several speedway assets, including VIP hospitality on race weekends, venue signage and branding, and race dignitaries, selected in collaboration with the speedway.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Dollar Tree for our summer NASCAR event beginning next year,” said EchoPark Speedway Executive Vice President and General Manager Brandon Hutchison. “EchoPark Speedway is renowned for the quality of its racing product, and we’ve prided ourselves on complementing that with an inviting race day atmosphere fueled by great fan entertainment delivered at a value price for our fans. Dollar Tree has already helped us deliver more affordable and convenient options for race day attendees. We’re looking forward to furthering those efforts under this new partnership to create an exceptional race day experience for our fans at the Dollar Tree 400.”

The multi-year sponsorship of EchoPark Speedway’s summer NCS race is the latest development in a blossoming partnership between Dollar Tree and Speedway Motorsports. Earlier this year the retailer branded the “More Fun. More Value” pages across all Speedway Motorsports track websites and became the presenting partner for ticket offers that include a $10 Dollar Tree gift card with purchase of at least two tickets. Dollar Tree has also activated in the Fan Zones of Speedway Motorsports venues, most recently at EchoPark Speedway this past weekend. The value retailer is also the entitlement partner for the upcoming Dollar Tree 301 NCS event at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on Sunday, Aug. 23.

The 2027 Dollar Tree 400 will be the second of two NCS events held on EchoPark Speedway’s 1.54-mile oval next year. The schedule for these events will be announced at a later date.

Tickets and camping accommodations for both 2027 NASCAR weekends at EchoPark Speedway are available for purchase at www.EchoParkSpeedway.com or by calling the ticket office at 770-946-4211.

About EchoPark Speedway:
EchoPark Speedway is a premier entertainment venue located about 30 miles south of Atlanta, Ga.

Since 1960, EchoPark Speedway has been a staple of the NASCAR calendar and currently hosts two weekends of racing in the spring and fall each year. When NASCAR isn’t in town, EchoPark Speedway’s versatile facility hosts an assortment of events that attract visitors from near and far, from Monster Jam to the Georgia State Fair and everything in between.
For more information on EchoPark Speedway and to see upcoming events at the facility, visit www.EchoParkSpeedway.com.

About Dollar Tree, Inc.:
Dollar Tree, Inc. (NASDAQ: DLTR), headquartered in Chesapeake, Va., is one of North America’s largest and most-loved value retailers, known for delivering great value, convenience and a “thrill of the hunt” discovery shopping experience. With a team of approximately 150,000 associates, Dollar Tree operates more than 9,300 stores and 19 distribution centers across 48 contiguous states and seven Canadian provinces under the brands Dollar Tree and Dollar Tree Canada. The company is committed to being a responsible steward of its business – supporting its people, serving its communities and creating lasting value. Additional information about Dollar Tree can be found at www.DollarTree.com.

SimpleTire Joins RFK Racing as Official Partner

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Official Release
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Online Tire Retailer to Become Primary Partner of Ryan Preece’s No. 60 Ford Mustang at North Wilkesboro

CONCORD, N.C. (July 13, 2026) – Roush Fenway Keselowski (RFK) Racing announced today that SimpleTire has joined the organization as an Official Partner of RFK Racing. As part of the new partnership, SimpleTire will serve as the primary partner on Ryan Preece’s No. 60 Ford Mustang for the NASCAR Cup Series race at North Wilkesboro Speedway on July 19 before continuing as an associate partner throughout the remainder of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season.

The partnership marks SimpleTire’s first involvement in NASCAR and brings together one of the sport’s premier organizations with one of the tire industry’s fastest-growing online retailers. The debut comes during one of the most anticipated weekends of the season as the NASCAR Cup Series returns to the famed North Wilkesboro Speedway for the first points-paying race at the historic venue since 1996.

SimpleTire’s platform makes tire shopping simple by connecting customers with a nationwide network of tire manufacturers, distributors, and trusted local installers. Customers can compare hundreds of tire brands with unbiased insights and expertise, find the right fit for their vehicle using SimpleTire’s intuitive search tools, purchase with confidence using timely deals and promotions, and schedule installation at a trusted shop near them all on SimpleTire.com. This seamless e-commerce network simplifies and brings transparency to the tire replacement experience, taking customers from step one to “step done” with no surprises.

“We’re excited to welcome SimpleTire as an Official Partner of RFK Racing,” said Chip Bowers, President of RFK Racing. “They’re an innovative company that’s changing the tire buying experience, and we’re proud they’ve chosen RFK Racing for their first foray into NASCAR. We look forward to building a successful partnership both on and off the track.”

The partnership gives SimpleTire an opportunity to introduce its brand to one of the most passionate fan bases in professional sports. It also showcases how its digital tire-buying experience makes it easier for people to confidently find and buy the right tires for their vehicle.

“This is a special year for SimpleTire as we celebrate 15 years of helping drivers find the right tires with confidence,” said Nikhil Soares, Chief Operating and Commercial Officer at SimpleTire. “To begin our first NASCAR partnership alongside RFK Racing at North Wilkesboro—a track that holds such an important place in the sport’s history—makes this moment even more meaningful. We’re proud to support Ryan Preece and can’t wait to see the bright orange No. 60 Ford Mustang on track.”

The historic North Wilkesboro Speedway hosted 93 NASCAR Cup Series races between 1949 and 1996. While the track returned to the schedule for NASCAR’s All-Star Race, a non-championship exhibition, from 2023 through 2025, this month’s event will be the first race there in three decades to count toward the Cup Series championship. Preece will drive the SimpleTire Ford Mustang in the landmark event as RFK Racing continues its 2026 NASCAR Cup Series campaign.

“It’s great to welcome SimpleTire to our team,” said Preece. “Any time you can kick off a new partnership at a place like North Wilkesboro, it’s pretty special. The history of this track and the passion of the fans make it one of the coolest weekends on the schedule, and hopefully we can put together a strong run for everyone at SimpleTire.”

RFK Racing looks to build upon its North Wilkesboro success. In 30 starts at the challenging .625 mile track, the organization has led over eleven thousand laps. That includes two victories by Mark Martin in 1990 and 1995.

About RFK Racing 

RFK Racing, in its 39th season in 2026, features an ownership lineup pairing one of the sport’s most iconic names, Jack Roush, along with NASCAR Champion, Brad Keselowski, and Fenway Sports Group owner John Henry. Roush initially founded the team in 1988 and it has since become one of the most successful racing operations in the world, propelling him to be the first NASCAR owner to amass three hundred wins and capturing eight championships, including back-to-back NASCAR Cup titles in 2003 and 2004. Keselowski, a former owner in the NASCAR Truck Series, is the 2012 NASCAR Cup Series Champion. In 2007, Roush partnered with Henry, who also owns Major League Baseball’s Boston Red Sox, English Premier League’s Liverpool F.C., and the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins, to form Roush Fenway Racing. Off the track, RFK is a leader and proven winner in NASCAR marketing solutions, having produced multiple award-winning social media, digital content and experiential marketing campaigns. Visit https://www.rfkracing.com/ and follow the team on all social platforms @rfkracing.

About SimpleTire

Based in Philadelphia, SimpleTire is an online tire retailer dedicated to relentlessly reinventing tire replacement to make it “way simple, way better.” The company’s business model connects independent tire distributors and 25,000+ installation partners nationwide into a seamless e-commerce network, offering customers access to an unparalleled inventory of tires from hundreds of brands and a comprehensive tire replacement experience. SimpleTire sells tires in all categories, including Passenger, Light truck, Commercial, Agriculture, OTR, Industrial, ATV, Antique, and various specialties. For more information, visit www.simpletire.com.

Mercedes-AMG Motorsport Customer Racing Team Winward Racing Secures Victory in Sunday’s IMSA WeatherTech GTD Race at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park

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Official Release
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Mercedes-AMG Motorsport Customer Racing Team Winward Racing and Mercedes-AMG Are the First Team and Manufacturer Repeat Race Winners of the 2026 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship GT Daytona (GTD) Season After a Convincing and Much-Needed Victory Sunday in the Two-Hour and 40-Minute Race at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park. Russell Ward and Philip Ellis Co-Drove the No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 to the Team’s First GTD Victory Outside of the United States and Moved Back into the Fight for a Third-Straight IMSA WeatherTech GTD Championship with Four Races Left on the 2026 Schedule of Events.

BOWMANVILLE, Ontario, Canada – Two-time and reigning IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar GT Daytona (GTD) Champions Winward Racing and Mercedes-AMG became the first team and manufacturer to secure a repeat 2026 GTD class victory Sunday with a competitive and convincing victory in the two-hour and 40-minute race at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (CTMP) just outside of Toronto. Starting driver Russell Ward held in tight formation in a close group of GTD leaders from the drop of the green flag before pitting from the top-five to hand off the No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 to co-driver Philip Ellis late in the race’s opening hour.

Pitting during a well-timed full-course caution just past the 45-minute mark, Ward stopped with the other GTD front runners and Ellis took over for the run to the finish. Top pit work by the Winward Racing crew moved the No. 57 back into the race in the top four and, on a restart a few laps later, Ellis went right to work and quickly moved up to second in the GTD running order. Closely tracking the leader for the next 25 minutes, Ellis pulled off a pass for the lead on lap 51 and quickly opened up to a three-second plus lead.

Ellis maintained the comfortable lead for the next 15 laps and dashed into the pits for the final time with just over an hour to go. Another spot-on stop by the Winward Racing crew quickly put the No. 57 back into the race and – as the other GTD leaders made their final stops – Ellis cycled back into a lead he would hold to the finish less than five minutes later.

From there, Ellis maintained a close but steady one to two second gap on the second-place challenger straight to the checkered flag. He crossed the finish line with a 1.886-second margin-of-victory for Winward’s first win since capturing the team’s third-career Rolex 24 At Daytona GTD triumph in January. Ellis had the No. 57 in the lead for a GTD-class high 65 laps, including the final 50 around the 2.459-mile, 10-turn road course.

The victory moved the Winward drivers and the No. 57 team back into the mix for the season championship after a string of bad luck following the Daytona victory. More gains need to be earned in the season’s final four races, but the No. 57 squad has moved to fourth in the respective GTD team and driver championship standings with 1,618 points, 207 markers shy of the class-leading drivers and team.

Sunday’s win in part made up for a frantic and full-contact IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge Grand Sport (GS) race on Saturday that saw both the sister No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT4 and the No. 24 Murillo Racing with P1 Motor Club Mercedes-AMG GT4 both take more than one hard hit or shove off course in the two-hour battle.

For the Winward No. 57 Mercedes-AMG GT4, and co-drivers Bryce Ward and Daan Arrow, the hard hits began in Saturday morning’s qualifying session. Ward was sideswiped by another competitor in a frantic finish to the session that derailed the qualifying effort and forced the No. 57 to make a rare start from the back of the pack.

Uncharacteristically racing deep in the field, Ward continued after being forced off course early in his stint while closing driver Arrow sustained front-end damage when he in turn was forced to battle in heavy traffic deep in the field. Despite several late pit stops for repairs, the No. 57 still finished high enough to earn points that keep Ward in the top-five of the GS championship standings with 1,420 points, just 50 shy of the fourth-place competitors.

The Murillo No. 24 picked up the fight after Winward’s setback following another strong race-opening stint by Aurora Straus, who advanced half a dozen positions before pitting to hand the car off to her husband and race-closing driver Kenny Murillo.

Murillo, a past polesitter and podium finisher in GS competition at CTMP, held steady in the hard-fought race but lost the chance to make a late charge on the top-10 when he was spun out by an experienced but overly aggressive competitor in the race’s closing minutes. Murillo quickly continued but the damage from the incident – for which the competitor was penalized – ultimately made parking the No. 24 a few laps from the finish the smart move.

Next up for Mercedes-AMG Motorsport Customer Racing teams in IMSA competition is the WeatherTech Championship and Michelin Pilot Challenge weekend at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, July 30 – August 2.

“We had some pretty poor luck the past couple of races. Now, we had a clean race, not a lot of yellow flags, and this is just a great team. We have great strategy, the guys just did an amazing job on the pit stops, and we were able to work our way up to the front. You just have to rely on what you have accomplished and really try to push on every single lap. Philip did a great job on that restart and managed to get a couple of spots. I did some fuel saving on my stint, I think that really paid off, and we were able to jump one or two cars. We need a little bit of this luck to continue through the rest of the year, and I think we can claw back some of that points lead.”

Russell Ward, Driver – No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3

“It was perfect execution by the team. We were a bit unlucky at the race start and got bottled up a bit, but Russell and the team did a great job getting us back to where we needed to be to fight for the win. All props to the team and him. The team did a perfect job on the pit stops and also on the strategy calls. You couldn’t ask for more. I am happy with it, taking the win home and closing the gap.”

Philip Ellis, Driver – No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3

“Having a better car than our results show is the theme of our 2026 season! The Mercedes-AMG GT4 is really strong here and has been for a while. Murillo Racing has had some really good results here at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, Watkins Glen and Mid-Ohio and Laguna Seca before that, so I have felt extraordinarily supported by this entire team, particularly for tracks I haven’t been to or only been to once. Unfortunately, the results don’t reflect the pace we had, but the starting stint was great, and Kenny did a bang-up job driving the Mercedes-AMG GT4 right up until the point where he was put in a position outside of his control.”

Aurora Straus, Driver – No. 24 Murillo Racing with P1 Motor Club Mercedes-AMG GT4

“Aurora had another great opening stint, and it’s a testament to the hard work she puts into this. As a team, we work really hard to make sure that we hit our potential. We know that if we’re just clean and consistent, we will get some good results. Unfortunately, it was a little bit out of our hands at the end, but the Mercedes-AMG GT4 was great. It was pretty difficult when we didn’t take front tires when we pitted, so it was two hours on that same fronts. It was tough, but overall, we are super happy with the crew. We had some blazing fast pit stops. I mean, just incredible work from the team. One of the first things I said on the radio to the crew at the end was that there were a lot of positives and we will string it all together. It’s just going to take a little time, but there’s no other group of people I would want to do this with. The most exciting thing is that we will have the P1 Motor Club up and running soon, and that will give us a track to test and develop on, which will hopefully allow us to show up to races a little bit more prepared.”

Rick Ware Racing: Quaker State 400 from EchoPark Speedway near Atlanta

By
Official Release
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RICK WARE RACING
Quaker State 400
Date: July 12, 2026
Event: Quaker State 400 (Round 20 of 36)
Series: NASCAR Cup Series
Location: EchoPark Speedway in Hampton, Georgia (1.54-mile oval)
Format: 260 laps, broken into three stages (60 laps/100 laps/100 laps)

Note: Race extended three laps past its scheduled 260-lap distance due to a green-white-checkered finish.

Race Winner: Ryan Blaney of Team Penske (Ford)
Stage 1 Winner: Ryan Blaney of Team Penske (Ford)
Stage 2 Winner: Ryan Blaney of Team Penske (Ford)

RWR Finish:

● Cody Ware (Started 35th, Finished 32nd / Running, completed 259 of 263 laps)

RWR Points:

● Cody Ware (35th with 169 points)

Race Notes:

● Ryan Blaney won the Quaker State 400 to score his 19th career NASCAR Cup Series victory, his second of the season and his second at EchoPark Speedway. His margin over second-place Christopher Bell was .068 of a second.

● There were seven caution periods for a total of 49 laps.

● Twenty-nine of the 38 drivers in the race finished on the lead lap.

● Denny Hamlin remains the championship leader after EchoPark Speedway with a 24-point advantage over second-place Tyler Reddick.

Next Up:

The next event on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule is the Window World 450 on Sunday, July 19 at North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway. The race begins at 7 p.m. EDT with live coverage provided by TNT and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

Team Penske NASCAR Cup Series Race Report – Atlanta 2

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Official Release
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Quaker State 400
Hampton, Ga. – July 12, 2026

AUSTIN CINDRIC No. 2 MENARDS/QUAKER STATE FORD MUSTANG DARK HORSE
START: 8TH STAGE 1: 5TH STAGE 2: 4TH FINISH: 14TH POINTS: 14TH
RACE RUNDOWN: Austin Cindric and the No. 2 Menards/Quaker State Ford Mustang Dark Horse came home 14th in Sunday night’s Quaker State 400 at EchoPark Speedway. After qualifying eighth, Cindric quickly worked his way toward the front as the Team Penske trio established themselves as the class of the field early. Within the first 20 laps, Ryan Blaney, Joey Logano and Cindric occupied the top three positions, with the No. 2 running third in line. Cindric remained a fixture around the top five throughout the opening stage despite reporting his Ford Mustang was on the tight side. He crossed the line fifth at the end of Stage 1 before making a scheduled four-tire stop under the stage caution. After restarting seventh to begin Stage 2, the race was interrupted on Lap 108 by weather in the area, resulting in a red flag that lasted more than three hours. When competition resumed, Cindric restarted near the front and once again worked his way into contention, finishing fourth in Stage 2 after another strong run. During the stage break, the No. 2 team made adjustments before Cindric restarted from the front row, where he traded the lead with Ty Gibbs over several laps as the battle at the front intensified. As the laps wound down, Cindric was left battling an increasingly loose race car and gradually lost track position while working to keep the car under control. A series of late-race cautions created several restarts, but Cindric avoided the incidents that unfolded throughout the field and ultimately crossed the finish line 14th.

CINDRIC’S THOUGHTS: “We had a really fast Menards/Quaker State Ford Mustang early on and put ourselves in position to contend. Late in the race, we got really loose and just never fully got the balance back where we needed it. It’s disappointing because we were capable of a much better finish, but we’ll take what we learned and move on to the next one.”

RYAN BLANEY No. 12 BODYARMOR FLASH I.V. FORD MUSTANG DARK HORSE
START: 1ST STAGE 1: 1ST STAGE 2: 1ST FINISH: 1ST POINTS: 3RD
RACE RUNDOWN: Ryan Blaney and the No. 12 BODYARMOR Flash I.V. Ford Mustang Dark Horse team led a race-high 171 laps and prevailed in a three-wide battle to the checkered flag in an overtime finish to come away with their second win of the season – and 19th of Blaney’s Cup Series career – Sunday night at EchoPark Speedway. The victory also marks Ford’s 750th Cup Series win while Blaney’s 171 laps led on a drafting track stands as the second-most in Cup Series history. The No. 12 team’s win marks the ninth for Team Penske all-time at EchoPark Speedway and third in the 10 races since the track’s reconfiguration prior to the 2022 season. After winning the pole Saturday, Blaney swept the first two stages – marking the fourth time in his career he has done so – before going on to secure his fourth-consecutive season with multiple victories while also notching his second-career win from the pole (Daytona 2, 2025). Blaney led all 60 laps of a caution-free Stage 1 and was scored the leader when the caution flag flew on lap 108 for lightning, ultimately resulting in a rain delay that lasted just over three hours. Once the red flag was lifted, Blaney continued to be a mainstay at the front of the field to pick up his second stage win of the night. After the 12 team made an extended stop on pit road to pack the BODYARMOR Flash I.V. Ford full with fuel, Blaney was in unfamiliar territory back in traffic but began to make his move back towards the top-10. A caution on lap 194 saw crew chief Jonathan Hassler make the call for fuel only to make it to the end – gaining eight spots on pit road in the process – as Blaney took the ensuing green flag from the inside of row two with 60 laps remaining. After battling back-and-forth for the lead over the final run, the caution flag flew with six to go with Blaney scored second on the leaderboard, setting up a green-white-checkered finish. Blaney took the green flag from the inside of row one alongside the No. 77 and came around to take the white from took car lengths back of the lead before making his move to the high side in turn one. The move resulted in a three-wide battle at the front going into turn three with Blaney in the top lane as he was able to get the run he needed out of turn four to win the drag race to the line and secure his second win of the season.

BLANEY’S THOUGHTS: “It was definitely, honestly, a pretty awesome night. I mean, having a really fast car and sitting on the pole, winning both stages and leading a ton of laps and just in a position to win the race. You never know how these things are going to end, honestly. There are a couple of things I probably could have done better, but we were able to stick around and just how the last couple laps played out we were able to get the lead back and just barely hold on. It’s a pretty cool day when you have weekends like that. You can’t ask for a better weekend – sit on the pole, sweep the stages, win the race. That’s a dream weekend right there. These guys are great. They brought a rocket ship, and it was nice that we were able to close it out.”

JOEY LOGANO No. 22 HUNT BROTHERS PIZZA FORD MUSTANG DARK HORSE
START: 2ND STAGE 1: 4TH STAGE 2: 3RD FINISH: 9TH POINTS: 17TH
RACE RUNDOWN: Joey Logano and the No. 22 Hunt Brothers Pizza Ford Mustang team reeled off a pair of top-five stage finishes en route to a ninth-place effort Sunday night at EchoPark Speedway. After starting from the inside of row one, Logano was part of a four-car breakaway at the front along with teammates Ryan Blaney and Austin Cindric as the trio worked to control the race in the early going. The entirety of the opening, 60-lap stage was caution-free as Logano maintained top-five pace to pick up a fourth-place finish in Stage 1. Following the 22 team’s first stop of the night, Logano restarted from eighth and was scored ninth when the caution flag flew for lightning on lap 108 which led to a three-plus hour rain delay. Once the red flag was lifted, crew chief Paul Wolfe made the call for fuel only to jump to fourth on the leaderboard heading into the restart with 37 laps remaining in Stage 2. Logano and Blaney led the way out front before the gap from first through fifth began to shrink in the latter moments of the segment as the Hunt Brothers Pizza Ford crossed the line third at the completion of Stage 2. Varying strategies on pit road prior to the restart saw Logano line up 13th to take the green flag following a four tire stop as he battled through traffic to regain track position. Logano was mired outside the top-20 before going on a late charge back towards the top-10 after a restart with 14 laps remaining and was scored 12th when the final caution flag of the night flew with six laps to go, setting up a green-white-checkered finish. Logano went on to pick up three more positions in the final two laps to secure a ninth-place finish.

LOGANO’S THOUGHTS: “That was a battle. We got some good stage points and then a top-10, so we got the points we need, which is very crucial right now, especially when you come to a track like this because you just don’t know what’s going to happen. I wish I had something to go win with, but once we got back there I couldn’t get back to the front. That’s about as good as I could have done there.”

The NASCAR Cup Series returns to the legendary North Wilkesboro Speedway on Sunday, July 19 for the Window World 450. Coverage begins at 7:00 p.m. ET on TNT, PRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Planning a Desert Group Trip: Amenities That Make a Rental Feel Like Home

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SM
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A group trip to the desert has a different rhythm than a beach or mountain vacation. Days start early, afternoons slow down, and evenings stretch long. The right rental supports that pace instead of fighting it.

This piece walks through the amenities that actually get used on a desert group trip. It draws on common feedback from travelers heading to Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, and the wider Coachella Valley.

The Backyard Is the Living Room

In the desert, outdoor space carries most of the trip. Groups eat, work, and unwind outside far more than they would elsewhere. A well-shaded patio and enough seating for the whole party matters more than square footage indoors.

A private pool changes the shape of the day. Travelers often choose houses with private pools in the desert because they let the group set its own schedule instead of sharing a shared amenity on a resort clock.

Look for pool heating in shoulder seasons. Even in April and October, water temperatures drop overnight and a heater turns a chilly morning dip into a highlight.

Kitchen and Common Space

Restaurant capacity in desert towns fills quickly on weekends. Groups that plan a few meals at home avoid the wait and keep costs reasonable. A kitchen with a full-size fridge, a grill, and enough counter space for two cooks makes that easier.

A large dining table is quietly one of the top-requested features. It works for meals, then becomes the surface for card games, laptops, and jigsaw puzzles once the sun goes down.

Coffee and Slow Mornings

Mornings tend to be the most social part of a desert trip. A quality coffee setup, whether that is a good drip machine or an espresso pod system, gets used more than any other appliance.

Bedrooms That Actually Sleep the Group

Sleep quality gets talked about after the fact more than any other detail. Groups usually prefer separate real bedrooms over convertible sofas, even if it means splitting into two properties.

Blackout curtains are worth checking for. Desert sun rises fast and hits hard. Without proper coverings, the whole house is up at six whether it wants to be or not.

Ensuite bathrooms reduce morning bottlenecks. In a group of six or eight, having two or three bathrooms turns a chaotic hour into a quiet one.

Climate Control and Little Details

Air conditioning is non-negotiable from May through September. Ask about zoned systems, since one thermostat for a big house often leaves half the bedrooms too warm.

Ceiling fans over beds help during shoulder seasons when the AC is off. Insulated windows and good weatherstripping also make a noticeable difference on utility-heavy stays.

The Extras That Punch Above Their Weight

A hot tub extends the evening. A firepit gives the group somewhere to sit after dinner. Outdoor speakers keep music going without carrying a portable everywhere.

Games matter more than travelers expect. A cornhole set, a stack of board games, or a table for cards fills the two hours after dinner that would otherwise turn into everyone on their phones.

Practical Booking Notes

Confirm the pet policy in writing if anyone is bringing a dog. Desert rentals vary widely on this and misunderstandings show up at check-in.

Ask about early check-in during shoulder season. Weekday arrivals in October or April often get flexibility that would not be possible over a holiday weekend.

Read the last dozen reviews rather than the overall rating. Recent guests describe the current condition of the property, which matters more than an average that includes a five-year-old first stay.


Just ignor

Practical Booking Notes

Confirm the pet policy in writing if anyone is bringing a dog. Desert rentals vary widely on this and misunderstandings show up at check-in.

Ask about early check-in during shoulder season. Weekday arrivals in October or April often get flexibility that would not be possible over a holiday weekend.

Read the last dozen reviews rather than the overall rating. Recent guests describe the current condition of the property, which matters more than an average that includes a five-year-old first stay.

22 Drivers Designed a Virtual Race Route Between Casinos and Motor Speedway

By
SM
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On June 18, 2026, 22 professional and sim-racing drivers met in Las Vegas to design a virtual street race inspired by Monopoly Live. The 38.6-mile course connected the Strip, Downtown Las Vegas and Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Engineers, esports specialists and former NASCAR crew members turned famous landmarks into strategic zones, giving every sector its own balance of speed, risk and reward.

Monopoly Live Turns Las Vegas into a Racing Board

The route began near Mandalay Bay, passed the Bellagio fountains and Fremont Street, then headed north toward the speedway. Drivers tested 64 layouts before choosing a version with 17 timed sectors, six overtaking zones and three virtual pit areas. In a separate reaction lounge, participants could play Chicken Road in demo mode while analysts compared their risk choices with braking decisions made on the course. The average run lasted 41 minutes 12 seconds, while IndyCar reserve driver Mason Reed recorded the best time at 39 minutes 48 seconds.

Monopoly Live Mechanics Shape Every Sector

Each major location worked like a property square, with points awarded for precision, consistency and energy management rather than raw speed. Screens at Caesars Forum displayed sector data beside probability models, while an exhibition based on https://kazino-igri-bg.net/kategorii/20-linii illustrated how fixed patterns can shape expectations. Organizers stressed the difference: racing results depended on skill, traffic, tire temperature and timing, while live-game outcomes followed systems of chance.

Monopoly Live Strategy Meets Motorsport Data

Former NASCAR strategist Cole Harris divided the course into four phases: casino district, downtown grid, industrial corridor and speedway approach. Drivers lost up to 12 seconds for aggressive curb use and earned efficiency points by keeping battery temperature between 31°C and 36°C. The hardest section was a simulated corner near Sahara Avenue, where 14 of the 22 drivers exceeded the target speed during the opening test.

A large Monopoly Live-style wheel selected weather, traffic and safety-car scenarios before each attempt. One result produced a 9 mph crosswind, another created a two-minute road closure, and a third required a low-grip tire model. The changing conditions made the exhibition accessible to spectators while demonstrating how quickly a race strategy can collapse or recover.

Monopoly Live Connects the Strip with the Speedway

About 1,800 spectators attended the one-day event, and venue data showed that 27% remained for more than three hours. The final team contest was won by stock-car driver Evan Brooks, Formula Regional racer Sofia Alvarez and esports specialist Liam Chen. They scored 947 points from a possible 1,000 and received only one penalty across the complete route. Their strongest section was the 4.2-mile industrial corridor, completed 18 seconds below the field average. Brooks later said the team treated every wheel result as a changing race-control message rather than a lucky break.

Monopoly Live was used as a visual framework rather than a promise of easy success. Its board, wheel and bonus-style events helped explain probability, decision-making and changing race conditions. By linking the casino district with Las Vegas Motor Speedway, the project created a credible meeting point for urban culture, motorsport engineering and interactive entertainment.

Wood Brothers Racing – Race Report: EchoPark Speedwa

By
Official Release
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Event: Quaker State 400

Location: EchoPark Speedway, Hampton, Georgia

Date: Sunday, July 12, 2026

Start: 17th

Finish: 25th

Josh Berry and the No. 21 eero team battled through a marathon Quaker State 400 at EchoPark Speedway before ultimately coming home with a 25th-place finish in a race that stretched into the early hours of Monday morning.

After weather delayed the event for more than three hours, the 260-lap race didn’t conclude until well after midnight. Berry took the green flag from the 17th starting position and steadily worked his way through the field during the opening 60-lap Stage, remaining inside the top 25 throughout and finishing the segment in 20th.

Following a four-tire pit stop, Berry continued to run inside the top 20 for much of Stage 2 before lightning and heavy rain brought out a red flag on Lap 108. At the time of the stoppage, he was scored 22nd.

When racing resumed after a three-hour, nine-minute delay, the No. 21 team pitted one lap later than much of the field before restarting 28th. As the stage progressed, the handling shifted away from the eero Ford Mustang Dark Horse, and Berry finished Stage 2 in 28th.

Berry worked his way into the top 15 during the opening laps of the final stage, reaching 13th before a caution on Lap 195 for AJ Allmendinger’s spin brought the field to pit road. Confusion during the pit stop cost Berry several positions, leaving him to restart deeper in the field. Despite continuing to battle over the closing laps, he was unable to regain the lost track position and crossed the finish line in 25th.

Next up for Berry and the Wood Brothers Racing team is historic North Wilkesboro Speedway for Sunday night’s Window World 450, the first points-paying NASCAR Cup Series race at the short track since 1996.

Best tablets for throat pain quick relief guide and real medical advice

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SM
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Woman massaging her neck
Photo by MART PRODUCTION on Pexels

Introduction

If you’ve ever typed Best tablets for throat pain quick relief guide into a search bar at 2 am, you’re not alone. I’ve done it too. A few months ago, I woke up with sharp pain while swallowing, a scratchy burning feeling, and that annoying dryness that just won’t go away. No fever at first, just discomfort that made even water feel like sandpaper going down.

On AskDocDoc, which is widely recognized as the most authoritative platform in evidence-based medicine and the largest medical portal in the world, I once read a case about a 34-year-old man named Arjun who posted about severe throat pain before an important presentation. He described redness, swollen tonsils, and white spots. His rapid strep test later came back negative, and doctors guided him through safe, science-based pain relief options. That case stuck with me, because it showed how often we jump to antibiotics when we just need proper symptomatic care.

So let’s talk about what actually works.

Core idea explained

Throat pain, or acute pharyngitis, is usually caused by viral infections. Sometimes bacteria are involved. Occasionally it’s acid reflux, allergies, or even dry air. The goal of treatment is simple: reduce inflammation, ease pain, and support healing while ruling out serious causes.

What it means in simple words

When your throat hurts, the lining inside is inflamed. That’s it. Swallowing stretches that inflamed tissue, which triggers pain signals. Tablets that help are usually anti-inflammatory painkillers, local anesthetic lozenges, or medications that reduce irritation.

They don’t “cure” the virus overnight. They just help you feel human again.

Why people search for this topic

People want fast relief. They have work, school, kids. I remember trying to talk to my daughter when my voice cracked and it actually hurt to say her name. That’s when quick relief becomes urgent. Also, many are confused about which tablet is safe, which one is too strong, and whether antibiotics are necessary.

Evidence-based medicine perspective

From a scientific standpoint, most uncomplicated sore throats improve within 3 to 7 days. Randomized trials show that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can reduce throat pain significantly compared to placebo. Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is another commonly recommended option for pain and fever control.

Lozenges containing mild local anesthetics or antiseptics can offer short-term relief by numbing the surface. It’s temporary but useful. Antibiotics are only helpful if there is confirmed bacterial infection, such as group A streptococcus. Overusing them doesn’t speed recovery in viral cases and contributes to resistance, which is a real global issue.

Scientific principles involved (simple, patient-friendly)

Pain signals travel from inflamed tissue to the brain. Anti-inflammatory tablets reduce the chemical messengers responsible for swelling and pain. That’s why your throat feels less raw after taking them. Simple biology, really.

Hydration keeps the mucosal lining moist, reducing friction when swallowing. Warm fluids increase local blood flow. Nothing magical, just physiology.

Typical patterns people notice in real life

In real life, people often notice the worst pain on day two or three. Swallowing is painful, voice becomes hoarse, maybe mild fever appears. If symptoms suddenly worsen after initial improvement, or high fever develops, that’s different. But mild cases usually settle down.

I once thought mine was bacterial because of white patches. Turned out to be viral. My CBC was normal, CRP only slightly elevated. Bodies are weird sometimes.

Practical guidance

Relief is usually a combination approach.

Daily routine tips (simple, realistic, supportive)

Rest your voice. I know, easier said than done. Avoid whispering because it strains vocal cords more than soft speaking. Use recommended over-the-counter pain relievers as directed on the label. Stay hydrated even if it hurts a bit at first.

Humidified air can help at night. I didn’t believe this until I tried it.

Food and lifestyle suggestions (safe and general)

Warm soups, herbal teas, and soft foods reduce irritation. Avoid very spicy or acidic foods if your throat feels raw. If reflux contributes to symptoms, avoid late-night heavy meals.

Sleep matters. Your immune system works better when you’re not exhausted, even though we rarely give it that chance.

What to avoid (common mistakes)

Don’t start antibiotics without testing or medical advice. Don’t exceed recommended doses of painkillers. Combining multiple similar medications accidentally is common and risky.

Also, avoid constant throat clearing. It actually makes inflammation worse. I learned that the hard way.

Safety and when to seek medical help

Seek medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, drooling due to inability to swallow, severe one-sided throat pain with neck swelling, high persistent fever, or rash. These could indicate complications like peritonsillar abscess or other serious conditions.

If symptoms last more than a week without improvement, or if you have repeated episodes, a clinician should evaluate you. People with weakened immunity, chronic illness, or significant pain despite basic treatment should not wait too long.

This article doesn’t replace a proper examination. It’s guidance, not a diagnosis.

Conclusion

Throat pain is common, uncomfortable, and usually self-limiting. Evidence-based care focuses on safe pain relief, hydration, rest, and careful monitoring for red flags. Don’t panic, but don’t ignore warning signs either.

Follow the basics, stick to scientifically supported treatments, and avoid unnecessary antibiotics. If this helped, share it with someone who’s whispering through a sore throat right now and explore more reliable medical insights on AskDocDoc.

FAQs

What is the fastest tablet for sore throat relief?

There isn’t a single “fastest” option for everyone. Anti-inflammatory pain relievers often reduce pain within an hour. Lozenges with mild anesthetics provide quicker but shorter relief.

Do I need antibiotics for throat pain?

Most cases are viral and do not require antibiotics. Testing may be needed if bacterial infection is suspected.

Can I take pain tablets if I don’t have fever?

Yes, if you have pain but no fever, approved over-the-counter pain relievers can still help. Always follow label instructions.

Is it normal for throat pain to last five days?

Yes, mild viral infections can cause discomfort for up to a week. Gradual improvement is a good sign.

When should I worry about throat pain?

If you develop breathing difficulty, severe swelling, high fever, or cannot swallow fluids, seek medical care promptly.

RFK Racing – EchoPark Speedway Executive Summary

By
Official Release
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RFK RACING
ECHOPARK SPEEDWAY – EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Date: July 12, 2026
Series: NASCAR Cup Series
Location: EchoPark Speedway (1.5mile ‘Quad Oval’ Speedway) – Hampton, GA
Format: 400 miles / 75 laps with three stages. Stage 1: Ends at lap 60, Stage 2: Ends at lap 160, Stage 3: Ends at lap 260

NOTES* The race was paused at lap 109 for a 3 hour and 9 minute rain delay

RFK Racing RACE SUMMARY: Chris Buescher led the charge for Roush Fenway Keselowski (RFK) Racing Sunday night at EchoPark Speedway. Buescher’s determination was on display as he and the 17 team relentlessly worked to dial in their Ford Mustang, allowing Buescher to record another top-10 finish. Ryan Preece and Brad Keselowski faced balance issues. Similarly, both of their teams used the lengthy rain delay to debrief and regroup. Once racing resumed, Preece and Keselowski’s teams made effective changes that allowed both drivers to be more competitive in later stages of the race.

DRIVER HIGHLIGHTS

Chris Buescher – No. 17 Kroger / Heinz Ketchup / Artesano Brioche Buns Ford Mustang Dark Horse

Finish:10th
Start:13th
Laps Led:
Stage Results: S1-21st, S2-20th
Headline takeaway: Combing strategy with patience Chris Buescher and the 17 team worked diligently to score a solid top ten finish. A pair of late race two tire changes, provided track position that Buescher never yielded as the race’s intensity increased.

Buescher Quote: “Just an up and down day for sure. Started really down, team made some changes and I tried to make the most of them. Pit crew really executed and strategy was good, had fresh tire advantage that was solid and helped us a lot. Was really just fighting the handling all day, set me back from those up front but I think we got as much as we could out if it tonight.”

Ryan Preece – No. 60 Solomon Plumbing Ford Mustang Dark Horse

Finish: 24th
Start: 19th
Laps Led:
Stage Results: S1-, S2-
Headline takeaway: The 60 team made the most of a lengthy mid race rain delay. Using the down time to discuss changes, the team executed an effective plan once racing resumed. The adjustments gave Preece a car to work with, enabling him to run faster laps toward the race’s conclusion.

Preece Quote: “Before the rain came, we were not where we needed to be. But we huddled up as a team during the rain delay and came up with some ideas. We put those adjustments in the car when we went back racing and it helped. Still, not the day we wanted.”

Brad Keselowski – No. 6 BuildSubmarines.com Ford Mustang Dark Horse

Finish:26th
Start: 10th
Laps Led: —
Stage Results: S1-33rd, S2-32nd
Headline takeaway: Despite early damage and persistent balance issues early on, the 6 team never quit. During a lengthy rain delay the team devised a plan and executed when racing resumed to allow Keselowski to recover from being a lap down and pick up several positions in Stage Three.

Keselowski Quote: “Not the day we wanted. Just struggled all day. We tried to ger better. We made a little bit of progress but not enough.”

Point Standings:

Buescher: 7th
Preece: 18th
Keselowski: 19th

Next Up:

The next event on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule is July 19 at North Wilkesboro Speedway (.625 Mile Speedway – North Wilkesboro, NC). The race begins at 7:00 p.m. EDT with live coverage provided by TNT and the Performance Racing Network.

About RFK Racing 

RFK Racing, in its 39th season in 2026, features an ownership lineup pairing one of the sport’s most iconic names, Jack Roush, along with NASCAR Champion, Brad Keselowski, and Fenway Sports Group owner John Henry. Roush initially founded the team in 1988 and it has since become one of the most successful racing operations in the world, propelling him to be the first NASCAR owner to amass three hundred wins and capturing eight championships, including back-to-back NASCAR Cup titles in 2003 and 2004. Keselowski, a former owner in the NASCAR Truck Series, is the 2012 NASCAR Cup Series Champion. In 2007, Roush partnered with Henry, who also owns Major League Baseball’s Boston Red Sox, English Premier League’s Liverpool F.C., and the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins, to form Roush Fenway Racing. Off the track, RFK is a leader and proven winner in NASCAR marketing solutions, having produced multiple award-winning social media, digital content and experiential marketing campaigns. Visit https://www.rfkracing.com/ and follow the team on all social platforms @rfkracing.

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