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How Roof Top Tents Change Your 4WD’s Centre of Gravity

Happy mature female friends enjoy day at mountain forest during camping vacation with mini van

Roof top tents have become a popular upgrade for touring and overlanding setups. They offer convenience, fast setup, and elevated sleeping comfort. However, adding roof top tents to your vehicle significantly changes weight distribution and raises your 4WD’s centre of gravity.

Understanding how this affects handling, stability, and safety is essential before heading off-road.

What Is Centre of Gravity?

A vehicle’s centre of gravity refers to the point where its weight is evenly balanced in all directions.

In a standard 4WD, most weight sits relatively low in the chassis. Engine, drivetrain, and fuel tanks are positioned close to the ground to improve stability.

When weight is added to the roof, the centre of gravity shifts upward. The higher it moves, the more noticeable the impact on vehicle dynamics.

How Roof Top Tents Add Weight Up High

Most roof top tents weigh between 45 kg and 90 kg depending on design and size. Hard-shell models can be heavier, especially when combined with roof racks or mounting platforms.

This weight sits at the highest point of the vehicle. Even if 70 kg does not sound significant, placing it on the roof amplifies its effect compared to storing the same weight in the rear cargo area.

Additional gear often stored in the tent or on roof racks further increases the load.

Impact on Handling and Stability

Raising the centre of gravity affects how your 4WD behaves on both sealed and unsealed roads.

On corners, the vehicle may exhibit more body roll. You might notice increased lean during roundabouts or tight bends.

On uneven terrain, the risk of tipping increases slightly because the vehicle’s balance point is higher. While modern 4WDs are designed to handle roof loads within manufacturer limits, stability margins are reduced compared to stock configuration.

This does not mean roof top tents are unsafe. It means drivers should adjust their driving style accordingly.

Effects on Off-Road Performance

Off-road driving often involves side slopes, ruts, and uneven surfaces.

A higher centre of gravity can:

  • Increase lateral lean on side angles
  • Make the vehicle feel less planted
  • Require slower speeds on technical terrain

Careful line selection and reduced speed become more important when carrying roof loads.

For touring conditions across Australia, where long gravel roads and corrugations are common, stability and load management are key considerations.

Roof Load Ratings Matter

Every vehicle has a maximum dynamic and static roof load rating.

Dynamic load refers to weight the roof can carry while driving. Static load refers to weight supported while stationary, such as when sleeping inside the tent.

For example, a vehicle may have a 100 kg dynamic roof rating but support several hundred kilograms statically when parked.

Exceeding dynamic limits increases stress on roof mounts and affects handling.

Always confirm your vehicle’s roof rating before installing roof top tents.

Suspension and Load Distribution

Adding weight to the roof may warrant suspension upgrades, particularly if the vehicle already carries rear drawers, water tanks, or recovery gear.

Upgraded springs and shock absorbers can help manage additional load and reduce excessive body roll.

Load distribution is equally important. Keeping heavy items low and centrally located inside the vehicle offsets some of the centre of gravity shift caused by the tent.

Avoid stacking additional heavy gear on the roof unnecessarily.

Fuel Consumption and Aerodynamics

Roof top tents also impact aerodynamics. Increased wind resistance can slightly raise fuel consumption, particularly at highway speeds.

While this does not directly affect centre of gravity, it influences overall driving performance and efficiency.

Hard-shell tents typically create less drag than soft-fold designs, though both add height and frontal area.

Practical Driving Adjustments

If you install roof top tents, consider making small adjustments to your driving style:

  • Reduce your speed on corners
  • Take side slopes cautiously
  • Increase the following distance
  • Be mindful of crosswinds

Being aware of the added height also prevents issues in low-clearance car parks or garages.

Is the Trade-Off Worth It?

Despite changes to centre of gravity, many 4WD owners find roof top tents well worth the compromise.

The convenience of rapid setup, elevated sleeping position, and improved campsite flexibility often outweighs the minor handling adjustments required.

When installed correctly and used within manufacturer limits, roof top tents are safe and practical additions.

Final Thoughts on Roof Top Tents and Vehicle Stability

Roof top tents raise your 4WD’s centre of gravity by adding significant weight at the highest point of the vehicle. This affects body roll, stability on uneven terrain, and overall handling.

By respecting roof load ratings, balancing internal weight, and adjusting driving style, you can safely enjoy the benefits of rooftop camping without compromising safety.

From Pit Lane to Payouts – Why Racing Fans Understand Casino Strategy Better Than Most

Anyone who follows motorsport knows that racing is rarely about pure speed. It’s about timing. Strategy. And most of all, risk management. A driver could have the fastest car on the track and they may still lose the race because of one unaligned pit stop made or one overly-aggressive move in the traffic line.

It’s usually the rhythm of calculated risk and split-second anticipation that really draws many racing fans toward casino platforms. That still tension before a green flag and the ridiculously slow pause before a slot reel settles might look different to most passers-by, but emotionally in the eyes of a hardcore racing fan, they share familiar territory. 

Strategy Isn’t Just for the Track

Motorsport has always been a game of margins. Crew chiefs analyze fuel windows, tyre wear and caution trends. Bettors and casino players, in their own way, also assess timing and structure. This isn’t just about pressing a button and hovering around for results. It’s about understanding pacing and making the perfect move as soon as it feels right.

For fans exploring digital gaming environments with a similar structure, the Betway casino platform offers access to slots, table games and live formats all organised within a single regulated space. 

These new casino platforms are showing racing fans around the globe that the tension and excitement isn’t just left on the track. It expands into something so much more, and participation becomes part of the broader entertainment ecosystem rather than just a fringe activity.

The Psychology of Anticipation

Think about the final laps of a NASCAR race. The field tightens and your chest almost closes. Tyres fade into a dull roar in the distance. Every decision becomes amplified. That sense of anticipation is not just you being you out on a Sunny Sunday. That feeling within you is engineered by competition and probability.

Casino gaming uses similar pacing mechanics. Progressive jackpots build gradually, creating long-term anticipation. Table games introduce calculated pauses between decisions. Live dealer formats replicate real-time pressure in much the same way a late-race restart resets the field.

For racing fans, this rhythm feels natural. It is structured uncertainty rather than intense chaos.

Digital Platforms Are Giving Sensations Much Like Race Day Access

Casino platforms are taking on a similar trajectory to motorsport platforms in the sense of how digital access has reshaped how fans follow motorsport, from live timing apps to streaming coverage and data dashboards. Accessibility is now central. Rather than visiting physical locations, users engage through structured online environments that prioritise mobile navigation and streamlined gameplay.

Racing fans are already comfortable operating in digital spaces making the overal feel quite natural. They track lap times on apps, follow live betting markets during races and engage with statistics in real time. If they have a minute to spare, they may find themselves flipping through previous race-day photos and memorabillia. 

Casino platforms simply exist within that same digital landscape.

On Track And Online With Momentum

Racing is often described as a sport of momentum. A well-timed caution can change everything. A strong pit stop can flip track position. Momentum builds, shifts and sometimes disappears in seconds.

Casino gaming reflects that dynamic pacing. A sequence of spins can feel like a charge through the field. A cold stretch can resemble tyre degradation over a long green-flag run. The experience becomes less about individual moments and more about the flow of participation.

This emotional pacing is what’s connecting racing culture with digital casino environments. Both revolve around sequences rather than isolated events.

A Familiar Competitive Energy Rises

Motorsport culture has always valued a little friendly competition. Drivers compete against each other, against the clock and sometimes against track conditions after the weather has had it’s way with the area. Casino platforms introduce a different kind of competitive energy though, seen through leaderboards, tournament formats and progressive prize pools that could make your head spin if you stick around long enough.

The structure is different, but the core principle remains the same. Engagement is sustained by measurable progression and the possibility of breakthrough moments.

Entertainment Within Structure

At its core, racing is basically entertainment that has been built on strict technical rules. Without regulation, the sport would collapse into chaos. The same principle applies to casino environments. Licensed platforms operate within compliance frameworks that define fairness and transparency. 

The Betway casino platform exists within that structured ecosystem. It offers access to varied gaming formats while operating under defined operational standards.

For motorsport fans, that structure feels familiar. There is freedom within the rules. Uncertainty within a controlled environment. And last but never least, excitement without abandoning order.

Why the Overlap Feels Natural

From pit lane strategy to payout timing, the parallels are subtle but clear. The modern entertainment world does not separate sports fandom from digital gaming as sharply as it once did. Instead, both now exist within the same connected ecosystem.

The engines may roar on Sunday afternoon, but the rhythm of anticipation continues long after the checkered flag falls.

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Kirk Wolf and Dubbin Motorsports Target Strong GatorNationals Season Start

Credit: SR Driven Media – Kirk Wolf Racing

After a weather-forced 2025 withdrawal, Dubbin Motorsports returns to Gainesville hungry for an early-season statement win.

LITTLE FALLS, Minn. (March 2, 2026) — Dubbin Motorsports is set to open the 2026 NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series season this weekend at the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA GatorNationals at Gainesville Raceway, with driver Kirk Wolf returning behind the wheel of the team’s A/Fuel Dragster.

The Minnesota-based operation enters 2026 with momentum built over several seasons of development, directed by team owner Dean Dubbin alongside tuners Clay and Chase Copeland and clutch specialist Trevor Jelinski. The Chase Copeland-built machine has demonstrated the capability to easily run in the 5.15–5.25-second range at 270–280 mph—performance the team expects to experience at Gainesville’s near-sea-level conditions this weekend.

“We’ve had a good and businesslike off-season,” said team owner Dean Dubbin. “It’s the little things that have gotten in our way the past few years, and we have worked hard to eliminate those bugs that cause inconsistencies. This car is fast, the crew is one of the most experienced in Alcohol Racing, and Kirk is motivated and focused. We are capable of winning at any track on the schedule, and Gainesville is where we want to make that statement.”

The GatorNationals carries significant weight on the NHRA calendar, ranking behind only the U.S. Nationals in drag racing prestige. For Wolf, a national event winner with the Dubbin program, the race represents an early-season proving ground.

“I’m really excited to start a fresh season,” said Wolf. “We didn’t change a whole lot in the off-season, just the normal maintenance. We ended 2025 running really well, and I think we have the car and setup to win races this year. I have never been so hungry for a win.”

The sting of last season’s Gatornationals is still fresh in the minds of everyone on the Dubbin team. Rain and cold temperatures at Gainesville Raceway derailed their Gatornationals. Kirk Wolf was qualified ninth after an electrical fault in Q1 and clutch-induced tire shake in Q2 ended both qualifying runs early. With Q3 cancelled, Saturday’s eliminations rained out, and no firm completion timeline from race officials on Sunday, the team was forced to withdraw from the race.

“We are professionals at this, but we also have other full-time jobs,” said Dubbin. When the weather in 2025 caused delays, it created an uncertain race schedule that conflicted with our ability to get home to our primary jobs — so we had to withdraw. We all still feel the sting from that and would love to go out and blister this track and get some redemption.”

Wolf agreed, stating, “It’s important for us to get things going early and be successful right out of the box. We’re not here to feel things out—we’re here to compete and win.”

Dean Dubbin and his wife Karen, will not make the trip to Gainesville, with Dean sidelined by a recent medical procedure.

“I’m very lucky to have a team with a lot of depth; each person can step in and take over when someone is gone, so I’m confident that Team DMP / Kentex will do an outstanding job in Gainesville,” said Dubbin. “Karen and I will be attending the 4-wide race at Z-Max if everything keeps moving in the current direction.”

The GatorNationals are scheduled for March 5th-8th at Gainesville Raceway near Gainesville, Florida. Qualifying for Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car begins Thursday and continues through Friday, with eliminations starting Saturday and concluding on Sunday.

ELITE MOTORSPORTS SET FOR 2026 NHRA SEASON

WYNNEWOOD, Okla. (March 02, 2026) – Elite Motorsports, NHRA’s largest professional team in the Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series, will field a seven car professional team heading into the 75th Anniversary season of the NHRA.

For the first time, Elite Motorsports will have a Top Fuel dragster compete in the full 20-race season with motorsports icon Tony Stewart at the wheel and R+L Carriers as the primary sponsor. Veteran crew chiefs Mike Green and Joe Barlom will lead the Top Fuel program.

“It’s been an interesting and busy few months getting ready for NHRA’s 2026 season. I think everyone’s pretty anxious, it’s a new Top Fuel program for Elite which means a new crew trying to get their bearings, new parts, new programs and then the added factor that I’m racing against my own team. It took some getting used to, my trailer and gear being at the Elite shop down the street,” said Stewart who owns Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) and fields Top Fuel driver Leah Pruett and Funny Car driver Matt Hagan. “Mike Green and Joe Barlam really took advantage of testing, not just to figure out the car, but to figure out our routine, get the guys all on the same page and make sure we’re as ready as possible for the season opener. I won’t say we’re going to be perfect but if we can replicate some of what we did at testing we’ll definitely be ready to hold our own.

“It’s going to be an exciting season with all the NHRA 75th Anniversary fanfare,” continued Stewart who finished 2025 with two victories and the regular season championship. “I feel privileged to be part of it. I’m looking forward to competing, going rounds and putting on a good show for R+L, all our partners and the fans. Can’t wait to get started.

Six-time world champion and winningest female in motorsports history Erica Enders returns to the seat of the Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage / Melling Performance / R+L Carriers machine. The future Hall of Famer is coming off her 50th national event victory in 2025. She picked up the milestone win at the prestigious NHRA U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. Enders’ classic red machine will be tuned by Mike Ingersoll and Chase B. Freeman.

“Everyone at Elite Motorsports is excited to get the 2026 NHRA season started. Last year did not go the way any of us wanted but that only motivated us to work harder. There have been a lot of changes, a lot of testing and a lot of progress. Things are coming together and we are looking forward to seeing where we stand, when the scoreboard lights up,” said Enders who ended the 2025 season sixth in points. “The most important thing to me is the health of my boys. I think it’s safe to say, with all hands on deck, we will rise like we always do. We kept busy in the winter, running the Drag Illustrated Winter Series and testing regularly, so I’m ready to chase some trophies. I have full faith in this team, last year was an anomaly, but there’s no challenge too great for us. We are Elite for a reason. We will come back stronger and give the fans something worth watching in the NHRA 75th anniversary season.”

Aaron Stanfield led the Elite Motorsports stable of Pro Stock cars in 2025 coming in fourth in the championship points standings thanks to two runner-up finishes. The multifaceted driver will continue to handle driving duties of the JHG / Melling Performance / Janac Brothers machine with Mark Ingersoll and Chase B. Freeman as crew chiefs.

“I’ve been ready to get back to competing in Pro Stock since Vegas in the fall. The season coming to an abrupt end because of the weather was unfortunate but I’m excited for 2026. Elite has been working hard this off season. After testing, we can see that the hard work is starting to pay off. It was a long week and everyone really just put their heads down and kept grinding. It was great to be back out with everyone,” said Stanfiled who is fresh off a Pro Mod victory in Drag Illustrated’s Winter Series World Series of Pro Mod event at Bradenton Motorsports Park. “I was lucky to get to drive in the Drag Illustrated Winter Series in Pro Mod this off season. Crazy experience, something new, a challenge but it also kept me on my toes. Hoping there’s no rust to brush off and we’re ready to go right from the season opener.”

Jeg Coughlin Jr., a five-time Pro Stock world champion, is back for more in 2026. This will be Jeg Jr.’s 24th full professional season and marks a return to his family roots. He’ll be sporting the yellow and black of JEGS on his hot rod alongside nephew Troy Coughlin Jr. Jeg Jr., who will have Mark Ingersoll and Chase B. Freeman as crew chiefs, ended 2025 with a runner-up finish and three semifinal appearances for an eighth place finish in the points.

“The 2026 season is here and I couldn’t be more excited for the season opener. Team Elite has put in a lot of hours over the winter and our early season testing has shown to be promising. I’ll be back in the yellow and black colors of JEGS and I can’t wait to pull up for that first run of the season in those familiar hues. It would be great to strike right out of the gate for all the efforts that have brought this back together.” Jeg Jr. said. “The entire 2026 year will be a celebration for NHRA and all of us competitors for the 75th season. Special events, purses and activities will be common not only for the racers, but the fans alike. It will also be fun joining fellow teammate Erica Enders and the remaining Top 75 drivers of all-time in special events throughout the year. It’s going to be fun.”

Joining Jeg Jr. representing the yellow and black of JEGS is Troy Coughlin Jr. who will be in the predominantly black Pro Stock hot rod. Troy Jr., a third-generation versatile racer, finished 2025 10th in the points standings after a semi-final appearance at St. Louis in the Countdown to the Championship. Troy Jr. and his midnight edition JEGS hot rod will be crew chiefed by Mark Ingersoll and Chase B. Freeman.

“My guys, Kyle Bates, Kelley Murphy, Steve-O, and Alex Laine and all the Elite Motorsports crew have worked tirelessly on getting this JEGS Camaro fresh this winter, they have every square inch of the car as great as it can be. Testing showed us some great opportunities and progress that we plan to continue,” Troy Jr. said. “Having two JEGS cars and me being a driver in one is a dream I’ve been dreaming of since my dad and Uncle Jeg were teammates in the early 2000s. I’m beyond honored to be next to Uncle Jeg. We get to represent the most wonderful brand in high performance automotive with the best people.”

Veteran racer Greg Stanfiled returns for his second season with Elite Motorsports. The five-time Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series champion will continue to represent Janac Brothers Racing for the full 2026 season. He picked up a memorable victory in 2025 at Sonoma Raceway when he defeated his son, Aaron, in the finals. Stanfield ended the season 12th in points.

“It’s been a busy off season. Not sure calling it an ‘off’ season is even really fair. Elite has been working hard on the Pro Stock program, trying some new things, lots of testing. After we had everyone out at the PRO test last week, I think we’re looking good, or at least headed in the right direction,” Stanfield said. “It’s hard not to be excited about the start of the season. Janac Brothers, a long time supporter, is back stronger than ever with us and I’m hoping we can get them a few more Wallys. But we won’t really know how we stack up until that first race. It should be exciting, it won’t be easy, but I’m optimistic.”

Entering his sophomore season behind the wheel of a Pro Stock car, Stephen Bell will once again run a partial season under the Elite Motorsports banner. The seven-time Factory Stock Showdown winner laid down his career best speed of 211.20 mph and elapsed time, 6.518-seconds, at the Seattle Northwest Nationals in 2025. He’ll look for more success under crew chief Anthony Lum in 2026.

“I got my first taste of Pro Stock last year and I’m hooked. It’s hard not to be, the competition, the crowds, the team. Working with everyone at Elite has been something special,” Bell said. “Last year might have been a little rough, but everyone kept working hard trying to find solutions. That mentality has been maintained through these last few months and after testing a few weeks ago, I’m more excited than ever. You’ll see me at more races this season, that’s for sure.”

Elite Motorsports will also field a Pro Mod program with Mason Wright as the driver of the ProFlow Plumbing Solutions Camaro as well as two Competition Eliminator entries run by Royce Lee Freeman and, the newest addition to the Elite family, Mike Lomas who will feature The Financial Guys on the side of his car. Beyond the professional categories, Elite will continue supporting a broad roster of sportsman racers throughout the Lucas Oil NHRA Racing Series, reinforcing the team’s commitment to developing talent and strengthening the sport from the ground up.

NHRA’s 75th Anniversary season kicks off with race one of the Mission Foods Drag Racing Series-20 event schedule, the NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway March 6-8 in Florida.

Front Row Motorsports: Circuit of the Americas Race Report – Noah Gragson, Todd Gilliland, Zane Smith

Noah Gragson | Todd Gilliland | Zane Smith
Circuit of the Americas Race Report
Circuit of the Americas Grand Prix
Date: Sunday, March 1, 2026
Event: Race 4 of 38
Series: NASCAR Cup Series
Location: Circuit of the Americas (2.4-miles)
Length of Race: 95 laps over two hours, 58 minutes, 53 seconds

FRM Finish:

● Todd Gilliland (Started 17th, Finished 21st / Running, completed 95 of 95 laps)
● Noah Gragson (Started 35th, Finished 22nd / Running, completed 95 of 95 laps)
● Zane Smith (Started 11th, Finished 33rd / Running, completed 95 of 95 laps)

FRM Points Standings:

Zane Smith (14th)
Noah Gragson (18th)
Todd Gilliland (30th)

Todd Gilliland Key Takeaways

Stage One: 35th / Stage Two: 4th / Race Result: 21st

“While it’s not where we want to be, it’s nice to have finished a race,” said Gilliland. “We struggled with overall handling and had a mishap on pit road, but we were still able to finish Stage Two with some points and brought home a top-25. There’s some things we need to clean up before Phoenix, but I’m confident we can continue to chip away at the points gap.”

Noah Gragson Key Takeaways

Stage One: 37th / Stage Two: 35th / Race Result: 22nd

“It was a battle all weekend,” said Gragson. “We didn’t hit on what we needed off the hauler on Saturday and had to take some swings to make it better during the race. Not the finish we hoped for, but I was proud that we kept fighting throughout the day. We will move on and get ready for Phoenix next week.”

Zane Smith Key Takeaways

Stage One: 13th / Stage Two: 36th / Race Result: 33rd

“Tough day overall,” said Smith. “Started off really loose, chattering the tires, just no rear grip. Worked on it all day, got inside the top ten and thought we would manage a decent points day and just got cleaned out in Turn 1 on a restart. Thankfully we got off to a hot start in points, and I believe we can rebound from this weekend at Phoenix where we had some good speed last season.”

ABOUT FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS

Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization competing in the NASCAR Cup Series and the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. Founded in 2004 by entrepreneur Bob Jenkins, FRM has earned top honors including a 2021 Daytona 500 victory and the 2022 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series championship. Based in Mooresville, N.C., FRM fields the No. 4, No. 34, and No. 38 entries in the NASCAR Cup Series, along with the No. 34 and No. 38 teams in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. For more information, visit teamfrm.com and follow Front Row Motorsports on social media — X: @Team_FRM, Instagram: @teamfrm, Tik Tok: @Team_FRM, YouTube: @FrontRowNASCAR, and Facebook: facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

Chandler Smith Brings Race-Winning Acumen to Hettinger Racing

23-Year-Old Racing Veteran To Drive No. 5 Ford Mustang in NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Races at Phoenix and Las Vegas

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (March 2, 2026) – Hettinger Racing has tabbed Chandler Smith to drive its No. 5 Ford Mustang Dark Horse in the next two NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series races March 7 at Phoenix Raceway and March 14 Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

Despite being just 23, Smith brings a wealth of race-winning experience to the first-year Hettinger Racing team. The Ford Racing driver is a three-time winner in the O’Reilly Series and an eight-time winner in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, with his most recent victory coming Feb. 13 in the season-opener at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway. Smith also owns 10 ARCA Menards Series victories.

“It’s been a pretty steep learning curve so far this season and putting Chandler in our racecar will hopefully make the curve a little less steep these next two weeks,” said team owner Chris Hettinger. “Chandler’s young, but he brings a lot of experience to our organization. He knows how to win, and he just proved it a few weeks back at Daytona. His expertise and his feedback will be a major plus for us so we can get better, faster.”

Smith will make his milestone 70th career O’Reilly Series start in the GOVX 200 this Saturday at Phoenix, a race he won in 2024. In fact, Smith has two other victories at Phoenix – March 2020 in ARCA and November 2021 in the Truck Series.

“I love to race, and with the Truck Series off these next two weeks, the opportunity to race in the O’Reilly Series was an easy one,” Smith said. “Plus, anytime you can step into a new program and help it grow is pretty rewarding. It’s impressive to see Chris’ commitment to competing at this level. He wants more and I want more for him. Definitely looking forward to seeing what we can do together.”

Smith has a strong track record at Phoenix and Las Vegas. He has made four career O’Reilly Series starts at each venue, earning an average finish of 4.8 at Phoenix and 3.5 at Las Vegas. His lone result outside of the top-five at Phoenix was an eighth-place drive in November 2023, and his worst finish at Las Vegas is fourth.

“Phoenix and Las Vegas are two tracks where from the moment I got there, I felt comfortable. I understood what I needed out of the car and that allowed me to find speed and find it quickly,” said Smith, who won the pole at Las Vegas in his O’Reilly Series debut at the track in March 2023. “Between my past O’Reilly and Truck Series starts at both tracks, I’ve got a pretty good benchmark of where that No. 5 Ford Mustang should be when it comes time for the race.”

Smith currently competes fulltime in the Truck Series for Front Row Motorsports where the Talking Rock, Georgia, native leads the championship standings by 34 points over second-place Ben Rhodes.

“Right now, I feel like I’m in a really good place as a driver,” said Smith, who has Truck Series wins at Phoenix (2021) and Las Vegas (2022). “Winning at Daytona and leading the points gives you a lot of confidence. Our Truck program at Front Row has a ton of momentum, and when you’re in that rhythm, you want to keep racing. I’m looking forward to these next two weeks with Hettinger Racing.”

Smith’s time in the No. 5 Ford Mustang begins Friday at Phoenix with O’Reilly Series practice at 5 p.m. MST/7 p.m. EST followed by qualifying at 6:05 p.m. MST/8:05 p.m. EST. The GOVX 200 goes green on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. MST/7:30 p.m. EST with live coverage provided by The CW and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

Worsham & Nataas Bring Testing Momentum to the Starting Line of the 2026 Season

Orange, CA — March 2, 2026, After a productive PRO test session in Gainesville last month, Del Worsham and Julie Nataas head into this weekend’s Gatornationals carrying strong momentum into the start of the 2026 season.

During testing, the duo made several successful passes, highlighted by Nataas’s new personal-best 3.94-second run. The milestone marks a significant step forward as she continues gaining experience in Nitro Funny Car competition.

“We made some solid runs in testing,” said Worsham. “I really enjoy having Julie in the car and watching her get more and more comfortable. Every time she straps in, she processes more. She’s always been strong on feedback, but now she’s giving us insight that sometimes goes beyond what the computer is telling us about what the car is doing.”

For Nataas, the progression has been tangible. Still, she knows the learning curve in Funny Car never levels off.

“With every lap, I feel more confident,” Nataas said. “But this class demands that you never get comfortable. I’m constantly trying to stay ahead of the car, anticipate it, feel it, and learn from every run. Testing was encouraging, but I know there’s still more in me and more in the car.”

This weekend marks a single-race opportunity for Nataas as she continues pursuing the funding necessary to compete more consistently this season. While performance progress has been clear, securing the partners required to keep the car on track remains the critical next step.

Primary support for this event comes from Hedinger’s Equipment and J&A Service, two companies with deep ties to performance and perseverance in motorsports.

Hedinger’s previously backed Worsham and supported Nataas during her Top Alcohol Dragster campaign, continuing a relationship built on trust and long-term belief in the team. J&A Service, known throughout the sport for standing behind grassroots racers and emerging talent, brings its namesake work ethic to the Funny Car stage this weekend.

Also continuing its support is Richmond Gear, which has expanded its relationship with Worsham into a broader multirace program in 2026.

“Richmond Gear is proud to sponsor Del Worsham’s Funny Car for the 2026 season. Racing has always been at the core of the Richmond brand, and this partnership reflects our deep roots in the sport,” said Steve Filipiak, Director of Marketing at Richmond Gear. We’re thrilled to be working with Del and his team. Winners Run Richmond!”

DEBUT OF RIGHT TRAILERS OUTLAW STREET SERIES SET FOR NHRA’S STOP AT ZMAX DRAGWAY

INDIANAPOLIS (March 2, 2026) – NHRA announced today that the thrilling new Right Trailers Outlaw Street Series, which features some of the major names from the famous Street Outlaws franchise, will debut on April 24-26 at zMAX Dragway in Charlotte as part of NHRA’s 4-Wide Nationals.

The exciting new showcase for 2026 will feature 10 drivers, with three rounds of qualifying over the course of Friday and Saturday in Charlotte, followed by semifinals and finals on Sunday at zMAX Dragway.

The loaded field for the debut and the four-race series will include the biggest names and the legendary figures from Street Outlaws, including Shawn Ellington, Ryan Martin, Scott Taylor, Jeff Lutz and more. The full field for the first race in Charlotte will be revealed in the coming weeks, but the excitement level is high for the group set to make their NHRA debut during the 75th anniversary season.

“I think this is an incredible opportunity for NHRA and our outlaw group to work together,” Taylor said. “We are excited to come out and light the boards with our steel roof and quarter cars, as I truly believe it will shock the world to see how fast these cars are. We are looking forward to hanging out with new and current fans.”

The collaboration marks a major moment in NHRA’s milestone year, with the biggest names from Street Outlaws helping put on a show for fans during the four-race campaign this season.

The debut takes place at the Bellagio of Dragstrips in Charlotte, giving fans a marquee opportunity to watch the new Right Trailers Outlaw Street Series – along with the high-octane, intense action of four-wide racing in the Mission Foods Drag Racing Series – all at one monumental race.

It also marks the only four-wide race of the season in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle, as fans get to witness one of the wildest spectacles in motorsports. Add in the stars from Street Outlaws in this debut showcase and it has the makings of an epic weekend.

“The Right Trailers’ Outlaw Street series is sure to bring a new fan base to NHRA and bring those fans to the existing NHRA teams,” Right Trailers President Michael Scott said. “I have been a fan of many of the racers that will compete in the Outlaw Street series and am excited to see how big this deal gets.”

Added Taylor: “Outlaw Street is about bringing a new audience to NHRA while giving longtime fans something exciting and different. These are racers that fans already know and follow. Now, they’ll see them compete on one of the biggest stages in drag racing.”

Ellington, who drives the famed “Murder Nova,” is a fan favorite known for his black Chevy Nova and fierce racing style. Ellington has long been a key figure in the Street Outlaws scene, as has Martin, who is the reigning powerhouse and a multiple-time champ on the No Prep Kings circuit with his Fireball Camaro.

Martin is also hugely popular in the series, showcasing a strong blend of speed and consistency to build his impressive standing in the sport.

Taylor is another veteran in the Street Outlaws racing community, bringing a wealth of experience and a reputation as a fearless competitor.

To see the debut of the Right Trailers Outlaw Street Series in action on April 24-26 at zMAX Dragway in Charlotte, fans can purchase tickets at www.zmaxdragway.com. For more information about the NHRA, including the 2026 schedule, please 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.

How Advanced Climate Systems in Racing Garages Improve Vehicle Performance Efficiency and Support Team Operations

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

Professional racing teams operate in environments where precision matters in every detail. While engines, aerodynamics, and tire compounds receive most of the attention, the conditions inside the garage play a significant role in preparation and performance. Temperature swings and uncontrolled humidity can alter tire pressure readings, affect fuel behavior, and interfere with sensitive electronic diagnostics. Maintaining stable indoor conditions ensures that vehicle setup data remains accurate and repeatable.

Humidity control is particularly important in high-performance settings. Excess moisture can affect composite materials, braking components, and electrical connectors. In contrast, air that is too dry may increase static buildup, which is not ideal when working around complex electronic systems. A properly regulated garage environment protects both equipment and data integrity, allowing engineers to make precise decisions based on consistent variables.

When garages maintain controlled airflow and balanced temperatures, teams can simulate track-like conditions more effectively. This level of environmental consistency supports more accurate tuning sessions and reduces uncertainty before race day. In competitive motorsport, minimizing variables can create a measurable advantage.

Optimizing Technical Operations with HVAC Company Expertise

Racing facilities often work closely with an HVAC Company that understands the operational demands of high-performance workshops. Unlike standard commercial buildings, racing garages require tailored airflow systems capable of managing heat from engines, equipment, and continuous mechanical activity. According to an hvac company, an experienced HVAC Company can design systems that balance ventilation, temperature control, and humidity regulation without disrupting workflow.

Installation alone is not enough. Regular service, calibration, and AC repair ensure that systems perform reliably during peak racing seasons. A failure during a test session or race weekend can delay vehicle preparation and compromise schedules. By partnering with professionals who specialize in performance-driven environments, teams maintain dependable systems that support their technical objectives.

In many cases, HVAC Company teams also integrate monitoring technology that provides real-time feedback on environmental conditions. Engineers and facility managers can track temperature shifts, airflow patterns, and system performance metrics from centralized dashboards. This added layer of oversight reduces guesswork and allows rapid adjustments when conditions fluctuate.

Energy Efficiency in High-Demand Motorsport Facilities

Racing operations consume substantial energy, especially when garages operate long hours during race weeks and testing cycles. Advanced climate systems now incorporate energy-efficient components such as variable-speed motors and zoned airflow controls. These features allow facilities to regulate specific areas independently, preventing unnecessary energy use in inactive sections of the garage.

Efficient systems reduce operating costs without compromising performance. By optimizing energy consumption, teams can allocate resources to vehicle development and performance upgrades rather than excessive utility expenses. Modern climate control solutions are built to deliver precision while maintaining responsible energy use.

Energy management also supports broader sustainability initiatives within motorsport. Many racing organizations aim to reduce their environmental footprint, and efficient facility operations contribute to that effort. Climate systems that balance performance with responsible consumption reflect the evolving priorities of competitive racing environments.

Supporting Team Focus and Mechanical Precision

A well-regulated garage does more than protect machinery. It directly impacts the people who prepare and fine-tune race cars. Mechanics working in overheated or poorly ventilated environments experience fatigue more quickly, which can reduce concentration and increase the likelihood of mistakes. Stable conditions promote sharper focus and sustained productivity throughout long work sessions.

Engineers rely on precise measurements when calibrating suspension, adjusting aerodynamics, or fine-tuning engine components. Even small environmental shifts can influence readings and distort data interpretation. A controlled indoor setting ensures that measurements remain consistent from one session to the next, improving reliability in technical decision-making.

Comfortable working conditions also strengthen morale during demanding race schedules. When teams operate in predictable and well-managed environments, they can devote full attention to preparation and strategy. Climate stability becomes part of a broader operational discipline that supports competitive excellence.

Preparing for Extreme Weather and Seasonal Variations

Racing seasons span diverse climates, from intense summer heat to colder transitional months. Garages must remain operational regardless of external weather conditions. Advanced climate systems allow teams to maintain stable interior environments even when outdoor temperatures fluctuate dramatically. This consistency prevents disruptions during vehicle assembly and technical inspections.

Seasonal humidity changes can introduce additional challenges. Moisture accumulation may affect stored tires, spare components, and diagnostic equipment. Climate systems designed for racing environments manage these shifts effectively, preserving materials and ensuring readiness at all times. Regular maintenance reduces the risk of condensation-related damage and protects high-value assets.

Beyond protection, adaptive systems provide flexibility during major events. During busy race weekends, garages often experience increased heat from running engines and concentrated team activity. High-capacity ventilation and responsive temperature control prevent overheating and maintain airflow quality. This adaptability ensures that operations continue smoothly even under peak workload conditions. Teams benefit from reliable environments that match the intensity of race preparation.

Strengthening Operational Reliability and Long-Term Performance

Reliability defines successful racing programs. Climate systems contribute to that reliability by stabilizing the conditions in which vehicles are built, tested, and maintained. When environmental factors remain predictable, workflow becomes more structured and efficient. Teams can adhere to tight timelines with fewer unexpected interruptions caused by equipment strain or facility issues.

Long-term performance also depends on protecting investments. Tools, diagnostic systems, and high-performance components represent significant financial commitments. Controlled environments extend their lifespan by reducing exposure to heat stress, corrosion, and environmental degradation. Over time, this preservation supports cost management and operational continuity.

Modern systems increasingly incorporate data tracking that records temperature trends and system performance over extended periods. Teams can analyze this information to anticipate maintenance needs and refine facility operations. This data-driven approach aligns with the analytical mindset that defines motorsport. By treating garage climate control as part of overall performance strategy, teams strengthen both technical precision and organizational resilience.