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Spire Motorsports Window World 450 Race Advanc

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Official Release
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  • For the first time since 1996, North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway will contest a points-paying NASCAR Cup Series race this Sunday. Spire Motorsports owns eight starts at the historic .625-mile track, which hosted the Cup Series All-Star Weekend for the past three years. Carson Hocevar won the 2025 NASCAR All-Star Open to advance to the All-Star Race where he finished 11th. Spire Motorsports fields the No. 7, 71 and 77 for Daniel Suárez, Michael McDowell and Hocevar, respectively.
  • The Window World 450 will be televised live on TNT Sunday, July 19 beginning at 7 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. The 21st of 36 points-paying races on the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series calendar will also be broadcast live on the Performance Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Daniel Suárez – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Daniel Suárez will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation Chevrolet ZL1 in Sunday’s Window World 450 at North Wilkesboro Speedway.
  • The Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation (CRSF) empowers communities with clean, safe places for underserved youth to play, learn, and grow. Since 2018, Group 1001 and the CRSF have combined efforts to build 17 youth development parks and install 20 STEM centers nationwide. Group 1001 employees have joined CRSF to host and volunteer for four Community Enhancement Projects. CRSF and Group 1001 have impacted over 100,000 youth in their joint effort to promote active lifestyles and educational opportunities. For more information, visit https://ripkenfoundation.org/.
  • Suárez has logged three career NASCAR Cup Series starts at North Wilkesboro Speedway in the NASCAR All-Star Race where he qualified for the feature event all three years (2023-2025). He started from the pole for the 2023 edition and went on to finish seventh, 15th and 23rd respectively, each year.
  • Last week at Atlanta, Suárez qualified fifth and was running 17th before the red flag was displayed during Stage 2 for inclement weather. Unfortunately, when the race resumed, the 34-year-old driver tussled with handling issues as the laps wound down and was forced to settle for a 21st-place finish.
  • The 2026 Coca-Cola 600 winner is having a breakout season on the strength of one win, two top-five and five top-10 finishes and currently sits 11th in points with 15 races remaining to determine this year’s champion. Meanwhile, Suárez has averaged a 14.9 finish across 20 races so far and has only finished outside the top 20 four times.
  • Suárez is a veteran of 343 Cup Series starts and has notched three wins (Sonoma, June 2022; Atlanta, Feb. 2024; Charlotte, May 2026), 26 top fives and 80 top-10s in NASCAR’s premier division. He’s led 945 laps and earned three poles since making his series debut in 2017.
  • Daniel Suárez Quote
  • North Wilkesboro has always been a special venue for NASCAR, and now it becomes even more significant as a points race. What are your expectations and goals heading into this weekend?
  • “North Wilkesboro is a special place because you can feel the history the moment you get there. The fans, the atmosphere, and the meaning behind racing at a track like that make it different from anywhere else we go. Last year was a tough night for us at the all-star race after we were caught up in an accident, but that’s part of racing. You learn, you move forward, and you come back stronger. I’m excited for the opportunity to come back, compete, and be part of bringing great memories back to a track that means so much to NASCAR.”

Ryan Sparks – Crew Chief, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Ryan Sparks is the crew chief for Spire Motorsports No. 7 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and driver Daniel Suárez in the NASCAR Cup Series. Sparks has called 222 Cup Series races where he’s earned one win, six top-five and 15 top-10 finishes since keying the mic in 2020 for his first race in NASCAR’s premier division.
  • In Sparks’ last visit to North Wilkesboro, he guided Justin Haley to a 14th-place finish in the 2025 NASCAR All-Star Open. Sparks’ best result at the track came in 2023, when he called Corey LaJoie to a ninth-place finish in the All-Star Open.
  • Sparks joined Spire Motorsports in 2021, where he served as both Crew Chief and Competition Director, leading the organization’s competitive and technical efforts. In 2026, Sparks serves in a singular role as crew chief for Daniel Suárez. He brings more than a decade of experience across all three national series, highlighted by 13 seasons at Richard Childress Racing and contributions to title-winning campaigns in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (2011) and O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (2013).

Michael McDowell – Driver, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Michael McDowell will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 Delaware Life Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in Sunday’s Window World 450 at North Wilkesboro Speedway.
  • Delaware Life is an insurance and annuity company that empowers financial professionals with a wide array of customizable solutions. A subsidiary of Group 1001 Insurance Holdings LLC, Delaware Life focuses on delivering a seamless experience for advisors. The company understands how important it is to find the right fit for every client, every situation and every individual need. Delaware Life is passionate about equipping advisors with annuities that give their customers peace of mind and a successful future, allowing them to plan with confidence for whatever’s next.
  • McDowell has logged three career NASCAR Cup Series starts at North Wilkesboro Speedway in the NASCAR All-Star Race. During the 2023 and 2025 All-Star Open, the 41-year-old collected finishes of 13th and fifth, respectfully. The veteran racer finished ninth in the 2024 feature event.
  • In last year’s All-Star Open at North Wilkesboro Speedway, McDowell qualified and finished fifth.
  • McDowell’s team earned a $100,000 payday and a trip to Victory Lane after winning the Mechanix Wear Pit Crew Challenge during last season’s All-Star Weekend at North Wilkesboro Speedway. The crew’s blazing 12.587-second stop topped all entries for both the NASCAR All-Star Open and NASCAR All-Star Race, earning the title of the fastest team on pit road.
  • The Glendale, Ariz., native has collected two top-10 finishes on short track configurations in 2026, earning results of eighth at Phoenix Raceway and ninth during this year’s All-Star race at Dover Motor Speedway.
  • Last weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway, the 2021 Daytona 500 Champion qualified 18th and finished 15th.
  • Across the last nine races, the two-time Cup Series race winner holds an average finish of 15.2, while pacing the field two times for eight laps (Watkins Glen/Charlotte).
  • After 20 points-paying races on the 2026 calendar, McDowell is 21st in the Cup Series championship point standings. With six races remaining before NASCAR’s playoff format begins in September at Darlington (S.C.) Raceway, the father-of-five sits 47 points below the cutline.

Michael McDowell Quote
Talk about the history of North Wilkesboro and the importance of qualifying well at short tracks.
“North Wilkesboro is a fun weekend and it’s a cool racetrack. Obviously, we have been there for All-Star Weekend. Having a longer race is going to be different, but it is a track that has been a lot of fun. The lines move around and you have to manage tires. It is a cool weekend all together. North Wilkesboro is a great town. The city embraces us. It feels like a little time capsule and we get back to the grassroots of the sport. The scoreboard, the walls, the fans – it’s just fun. Every lap counts and everything matters when it comes to short track racing. It’s an elbows-out kind of grind at North Wilkesboro and I am looking forward to it.”

Travis Peterson – Crew Chief, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Travis Peterson is the crew chief of Spire Motorsports No. 71 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in the NASCAR Cup Series with driver Michael McDowell.
  • Peterson has called three races at the 0.625-mile track, all with McDowell in the driver’s seat. The duo finished ninth in the 2024 All-Star Race and fifth in their 2025 qualifying race.
  • The 35-year-old has called 20 Cup Series races on short track configurations, tallying an average start of 18.2 paired with an average finishing position of 19.4.
  • The West Bend, Wisc., native is a 2012 mechanical engineering graduate of the Williams States Lee College of Engineering at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Carson Hocevar – Driver, No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Carson Hocevar will race Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Spectrum Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in Sunday’s Window World 450 at North Wilkesboro Speedway.
  • Spectrum is a suite of advanced communications services offered by Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR), a leading broadband connectivity company available to 58 million homes and small to large businesses across 41 states. Founded in 1993, Charter has evolved from providing cable TV to streaming, and from high-speed Internet to a converged broadband, WiFi and mobile experience. Over the Spectrum Fiber Broadband Network and supported by our 100 percent U.S.-based employees, the Company offers Seamless Connectivity and Entertainment with Spectrum Internet®, Mobile, TV and Voice products. More information can be found at corporate.charter.com.
  • Through 20 races, the Portage, Mich., native sits eighth in points, just five markers out of seventh. His one win, five top fives, eight top 10s, 563 points scored, average starting position of 11.2 and 14.4 average finish are all career highs through the first 20 points-paying races of the season. The team’s average starting position has improved by over seven spots and their average finishing is a whopping nine positions better compared to this point in 2025.
  • The 23-year-old driver is on pace to improve his average finish by 7.2 positions at the end of the season, the largest improvement among all drivers in the field.
  • Hocevar participated in two of the three NASCAR All-Star Race weekends held at the storied 0.625 short track. After failing to transfer to the main event in 2024, he took the victory in the 2025 All-Star Open to punch his ticket to his first-career All-Star Race. Despite starting shotgun on the field, he drove to an 11th-place finish.
  • Aside from his NASCAR Cup Series duties, Hocevar will also pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Delaware Life Chevrolet Silverado RST in Saturday afternoon’s NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series’ FaithFest 250.
  • The six-time CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race winner competed in the series’ 2023 event at the Wilkes County facility. Hocevar started second, and despite spending the majority of the afternoon in second, was forced to settle for a fourth-place finish.
  • Last Sunday at Atlanta Motor Speedway, Hocevar started 14th but found his place inside the top five by Lap 16. He took the lead for the first time on Lap 83 but fell to eighth prior to a three-hour delay for inclement weather. He drove from 29th to fifth late in the Final Stage to contend for the win before ultimately earning his third top-five finish in six Cup Series starts at Atlanta via a third-place result.
  • The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year registered his first-career victory earlier this season at Talladega Superspeedway. He survived a late-race restart with three laps remaining and brought home the checkered flag to register Spire Motorsports’ first win since the 2019 Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway.
  • The former Super Late Model standout will compete in his fourth Slinger Nationals at Slinger (Wis.) Super Speedway Tuesday evening. Driving a Richie Wauters-prepared No. 77 Chevrolet, Hocevar is seeking his third feature start at the famed 1/4-mile oval in his first attempt at the event since 2022. He earned a career-best 19th-place result in 2021.
  • Hocevar will round out his busy week with an appearance at the TIME Sports Gala in New York City on Thursday. He was named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in Sports earlier this year.

Carson Hocevar quotes
How do you think a points race at North Wilkesboro will race differently than the All-Star Races we have seen in the last couple years?
“I think we are going to be running an inch off the wall or all the way at the bottom when the track rubbers up. If it goes green, there’s going to be a lot of cars either off the lead lap or the whole field will be on top of each other because the leader will be stuck in lap traffic. I think it will look like a sprint car race.”

How does the track’s elevation changes affect how you approach the corner?
“You definitely get free into Turn 1 because you’re going downhill, but then you catch the banking. When you get into Turn 3 you’re uphill so you can drive it in further, but the banking falls away a little. You’re constantly racing the elevation more so than you are grip.”

Luke Lambert – Crew Chief, No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Luke Lambert is the crew chief of Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in the NASCAR Cup Series for driver Carson Hocevar.
  • Lambert is in his third season at Spire Motorsports and fourth with Hocevar. The duo has logged two pole awards, one win, eight top-five and 23 top-10 finishes in 100 races.
  • The 43-year-old is a native of Mount Airy, N.C., located just 50 miles north of North Wilkesboro Speedway.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports fields full-time entries in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing.

The team, co-owned by longtime NASCAR industry executive Jeff Dickerson and TWG Motorsports CEO Dan Towriss, earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado its first NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win April 7, 2022, at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent victory came May 24, 2026, when Daniel Suárez won the NASCAR Cup Series Series’ Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway.

In 2026, Spire Motorsports campaigns the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the NASCAR Cup Series and the Nos. 7 and 77 Chevrolet Silverado RSTs in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The Mooresville, N.C., organization also fields the No. 77 410 sprint car in Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing competition.

NASCAR Stars Look to Shine All Weekend at North Wilkesboro Speedway

By
Official Release
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Fans can catch many of NASCAR's biggest stars in action all weekend at North Wilkesboro Speedway, from Friday's CARS Tour races to Saturday's FaithFest 250 and Sunday's Window World 450. (NWS/Michael Anderson photography)

Chase Elliott headlines quadruple-duty weekend; Cup Series regulars fill Friday and Saturday entry lists ahead of Sunday’s Window World 450.

NORTH WILKESBORO, N.C. (July 14, 2026) — Race fans won’t have to wait until Sunday’s historic Window World 450 race to see the sport’s biggest stars in action.

The big picture: From Friday’s zMAX CARS Tour doubleheader to Saturday’s FaithFest 250 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series showdown, NASCAR Cup Series standouts will be spread across every race this weekend at the 0.625-mile short track, creating one of the most talent-packed support-event lineups of the season.

Why it matters: Fans can watch many of NASCAR’s biggest names compete multiple times Friday and Saturday before Sunday’s Window World 450, the first points-paying Cup race at the iconic facility since 1996.

No driver will be busier than NASCAR Cup Series champion and eight-time Most Popular Driver, Chase Elliott. Elliott is scheduled to pull quadruple duty, competing in:

  • Both zMAX CARS Tour races on Friday, the Spears Manufacturing 75 and the Skyline National Bank 100
  • Saturday’s FaithFest 250 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race
  • Sunday’s Window World 450 NASCAR Cup Series race

Friday: CARS Tour loaded with NASCAR talent

Friday’s zMAX CARS Tour event is scheduled to feature a roster packed with current NASCAR stars and rising prospects.

Late Model Stock Car entries include:

  • Chase Elliott
  • Jesse Love
  • Corey Heim
  • Brendan “Butterbean” McQueen

Pro Late Model entries include:

  • Chase Elliott
  • Gio Ruggiero
  • Keelan Harvick
  • Corey Heim

The combination of established NASCAR Cup Series veterans, NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series contenders and the next generation of racing talent makes Friday one of the strongest CARS Tour fields of the year.

Saturday: Truck Series welcomes more Cup stars

The FaithFest 250 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race continues the star power with several NASCAR Cup Series regulars expected to join the field, including:

  • Chase Elliott
  • Christopher Bell
  • Shane Van Gisbergen
  • Carson Hocevar
  • Corey LaJoie
  • Ryan Newman

The added Cup Series talent joins a competitive Truck Series field battling for one of the season’s most coveted victories at one of NASCAR’s most historic venues.

How to get tickets:

From Friday’s CARS Tour doubleheader, including the Spears Manufacturing 75 and the Skyline National Bank 100, to Saturday’s FaithFest 250 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series action and Sunday’s Window World 450, North Wilkesboro Speedway offers race fans three days of nonstop short-track excitement featuring many of NASCAR’s biggest names.

Tickets for the full NASCAR weekend, including Friday and Saturday’s action-packed schedule, are available now at www.northwilkesborospeedway.com.

Luck eludes PT Autosport’s Stallone at CTMP

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Official Release
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BOWMANVILLE, Ont. Canada (July 14, 2026) – Wheels America Racing’s Max Stallone – racing in the Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup Presented by Michelin with support from PT Autosport – endured another difficult race weekend, caught up several incidents not of his own making.

The 19-year-old Austin, Texas native, who won the 2025 Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup Shootout scholarship, showed plenty of pace but found himself on the receiving end of more than his share of crashes during the pair of 45-minute races.

Stallone and teammate Logan Stretch tried two different setups for Friday’s first practice, with Stallone also on scrubbed tires (most of the leaders were on sticker Michelins). With Stretch setting the sixth quickest time and Stallone four-tenths back, the team put Stretch’s setup on the No. 3 Mazda MX-5 Cup car for the afternoon session – which clearly was the right direction in which to go, with Stallone setting the third quickest time.

“We’re in a really good window,” said Stallone. “We changed a few things to add more rear stability on the high-speed corners at CTMP, and that really helped. Just need to put it all together in qualifying and the race.”

Unfortunately, Stallone couldn’t catch the draft in qualifying and started 18th, next to his teammate just ahead. Stretch was able to get around several cars ahead, but Stallone remained mired in the pack, fighting a three-car battle for 16th position. Stallone took the position with a decisive move, but an issue with the left rear camber negated much of the car’s stability, which shuffled him back to 19th. Stallone worked to press forward but an electrical issue shut the car down with just three minutes left in the race. In a very heads-up move, Stallone pulled across the track at pit out and slid backwards down the hill and off the racetrack – thus preventing a race-ending yellow flag.

Stallone’s race lap was quicker than his qualifying lap, putting him P12 on Sunday morning’s race two starting grid. Battling hard from the outset, Stallone held his position as the field jostled through the early going but with 30 minutes remaining, Stallone was caught up in a multiple car incident, damaging his left rear. His mechanics worked feverishly to get the left rear tire off and the damage mitigated, to get him back out on track, only a lap down. He continued to fight hard and was able to recover a 26th place finish.

It was a struggle, but Stallone was able to find a few positives out of the weekend.

“We know the pace is there – the car was consistently quick during second practice,” said Stallone. “It really all came together in that session, with a good setup and good speed. And in the races, I was in some good fights and learned some good lessons, good race craft. Otherwise, just one of those weekends where things just didn’t go right and we didn’t have any luck. So pack this one up and move on.”

Next up for the Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup Presented by Michelin series will be the doubleheader August 21-23 at VIRginia International Raceway, as part of the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship’s Michelin GT Challenge. Both races will be streamed live on the IMSA and Racer magazine

YouTube channels.

PT Autosport would like to thank our Partners for their continued support:

Mazda Motorsports has been winning races around the world for 50 years. From Le Mans, France to Daytona International Speedway in Florida, Mazdas have been a constant presence at racetracks around the globe, garnering wins and championships in races too numerous to list – and the list keeps growing.

Mazda Motorsports is responsible for all auto racing initiatives within the North American market, from promoting and servicing grassroots racers to developing sports car professionals of the future.

Instagram: MazdaMotorsports
X: Mazda Motorsports
Facebook: MazdaMotorsports

Stallone supports Hope Farm, founded in the Dallas/Fort Worth area in 1997 as a long-term leadership development program that guides at-risk boys, without the benefit of a positive male role model in their homes, from the time they are 5-7 years old until high school graduation and beyond. Staff and volunteers are dedicated to meeting the spiritual, nutritional, academic, emotional, and recreational needs of each young man to break the cycle of fatherlessness.

Instagram: @hope.farm
X: @HopeFarmInc
Facebook: Hope Farm, Inc.

About PT Autosport — Discover Unique Talent. Develop Champions.

PT Autosport provides merit-based motorsport industry opportunities for diverse individuals with high integrity, grit, and coachability, achieved through a development program for young aspiring drivers, engineers, mechanics, and other professionals. The first step of this process is applying for the annual Aspiring Driver Shootout, in which aspiring drivers aged 18-23 can compete for a racing partnership with the team.

A rigorous evaluation process of applicants determines the final competitors for the driver shootout. The winner earns financial support of up to $250,000 ($50,000 guaranteed) to pursue their racing career. The review process also provides the team the chance to identify unique talent for other roles in motorsport, including race engineers, mechanics, and professionals.

PT Autosport is building a community that fosters the development of young talent to find a place where they can make an impact in the motorsport community as a career.

Instagram: @pt_autosport
X: @PtAutosport
Facebook: PT Autosport
YouTube: PT Autosport
TikTok: @PtAutosport

Spire Motorsports FaithFest 250 Race Advance

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Official Release
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  • In eight NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts at North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway, Spire Motorsports has earned one win, two top five and two top 10s. Kyle Larson led 138 of 232 laps en route to victory driving the No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado in the series’ return to North Wilkesboro in 2023.
  • The FaithFest 250 will be televised live on FS1 Saturday, July 18 beginning at 12:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). The 15th of 25 points-paying races on the 2026 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series schedule will be broadcast live on the NASCAR Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Chase Elliott – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado RST

  • Chase Elliott will race Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet Silverado RST in Saturday’s NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series FaithFest 250 at North Wilkesboro Speedway.
  • HENDRICKCARS.COM is the online home for everything Hendrick Automotive Group. Visitors can shop more than 30,000 new or pre-owned vehicles, locate centers for service and collision repair, receive a value to sell or trade their car, chat online with customer service, discover career opportunities, learn more about vehicle protection programs, and explore how the company gives back to the community.
  • Elliott will pull quadruple duty this weekend at North Wilkesboro Speedway. In addition to his full-time obligations in Hendrick Motorsports’ No. 9 Chevrolet Camaro in the NASCAR Cup Series and his duties with Spire Motorsports, he will also compete in Friday night’s zMAX CARS Tour Late Model Stock Car race for JR Motorsports and the Pro Late Model Series Spears Manufacturing 75 with FR8 Racing.
  • Saturday’s 250-lap contest will mark Elliott’s first NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start since the 2023 NextEra Energy 250 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway where he started 14th and finished 10th.
  • In 18 career CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts, the Dawsonville, Ga., native has earned three poles, three wins, 11 top fives, 15 top 10s and an extraordinary 7.7 average finish.
  • In seven CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts on short track configurations, the 30-year-old has recorded one win, four top-five and five top-10 results. He collected the checkered flag at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway in 2017, driving the Maury Gallagher-owned No. 23 Chevrolet.
  • The 2020 NASCAR Cup Series Champion’s short-track success dates back to his early racing career, when at just 14-years-old, he earned a victory at North Wilkesboro in the Pro All Stars Series South Super Late Model Division. Elliott led 69 of 200 laps en route to the win.
  • In three NASCAR All-Star Race appearances at North Wilkesboro Speedway, Elliott has earned two top-five and three top-10 results. In 2025, he locked himself into the main event by finishing third in his heat race before securing a fifth-place finish in NASCAR’s annual all-star extravaganza.
  • Elliott will pilot Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-096 in Saturday’s FaithFest 250, a brand-new Chevrolet Silverado RST.

Chase Elliott Quote
How special is it to have the opportunity to climb behind the wheel of the No. 7 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet this weekend?
“I was honored when the folks at Spire reached out to me about driving the HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevy at North Wilkesboro. I think this was a race that Kyle (Busch) was supposed to run for them, so to be able to fill in for him is really special. I would love to go and get a win to honor him. I’m looking forward to it. It should be a good, fun weekend all around. A busy one for sure.”

Brian Pattie – Crew Chief, No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado RST

  • Brian Pattie is the crew chief of Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado RST, an entry that will see a collection of all-star caliber drivers behind the wheel throughout the 2026 season
  • Pattie has called three CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races at North Wilkesboro, highlighted by a fifth-place finish with Sammy Smith in 2024.
  • The Zephyrhills, Fla., native spent 14 seasons in NASCAR’s premier division. As a crew chief, he has earned six wins in Cup Series competition, 11 in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and nine in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. He stands as one of 11 crew chiefs to win races across all three of NASCAR’s national touring series.
  • Through 14 races, the No. 7 team sits fourth in the division’s owner’s championship point standings on the strength of two wins, five top-five and eight top-10 finishes.

Shane Van Gisbergen – Driver, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado RST

  • Shane Van Gisbergen will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 NationsGuard Chevrolet Silverado RST in Saturday’s NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series FaithFest 250 at North Wilkesboro Speedway.
  • NationsGuard is an innovator in the Automotive F&I space. Its programs are designed to maximize sales, profit, CSI and customer retention. NationsGuard delivers consistent, measurable results through disciplined monitoring and continuous improvement. The process measures every key element of a dealer’s program – from vehicle inspection efficiency to service advisor performance. NationsGuard targets and eliminates waste and inefficiency wherever it’s found, maintaining process improvements, making changes where necessary and relentlessly pursuing perfection.
  • Van Gisbergen will pull double duty this weekend and also race the No. 97 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for Trackhouse Racing in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series’ Window World 450.
  • Saturday’s 156-mile event will mark Van Gisbergen’s fourth CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start and third this season. In addition to his lone start for Spire Motorsports at Charlotte Motor Speedway, “SVG” competed in two CRAFTSMAN Truck Series events (2023, 2026) for Niece Motorsports and secured a career/series best third-place finish at Watkins Glen (N.Y.) International May 8.
  • Van Gisbergen’s lone short track start in CRAFTSMAN Truck Series competition came at in August 2023 at Indianapolis Raceway Park where he started 28th and finished 19th at the controls of Niece Motorsports’ No. 41 Chevy.
  • The 35-year-old earned his eighth career NASCAR Cup Series win earlier this season at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway where he started sixth, led 74 of 110 laps, and collected the checkered flag.
  • Van Gisbergen will pilot Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-085 Saturday afternoon. This is the same truck he raced to a 15th-place finish in May at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway. Rajah Caruth earned the chassis’ best finish when he secured an eighth-place result at Homestead-Miami (Fla.) Speedway in October 2024.

Shane Van Gisbergen Quote
You had a solid showing at North Wilkesboro in the Cup Series last year. How much confidence does that give you heading into this weekend?
“I’m really looking forward to racing the Chevrolet Silverado this weekend at North Wilkesboro and getting more laps on a smaller oval. It’s a track I’ve only been to once and went pretty good at it last year in the Cup car. But just being able to get more laps and a feel for how the track races throughout the weekend will be really helpful. Thanks to Spire Motorsports and NationsGuard for having me. It’s going to be awesome.”

Kevin “Bono” Manion – Crew Chief, No. 71 Chevrolet Silverado RST
Kevin “Bono” Manion is the crew chief of Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 Chevrolet Silverado for driver Shane Van Gisbergen in this weekend’s NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series FaithFest 250 at North Wilkesboro Speedway.
Manion has called two CRAFTSMAN Truck Series events at North Wilkesboro, highlighted by Kyle Larson’s dominant 2022 win.
Manion, a 32-year veteran of the sport, founded Spire Motorsports’ CRAFTSMAN Truck Series program alongside industry veteran Mike Greci in 2022. The team claimed its first victory in just its second outing with driver William Byron April 7, 2022 at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway.
The 54-year-old has earned six NASCAR Cup Series victories, including the 2010 Daytona 500, 17 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series triumphs and 12 CRAFTSMAN Truck series wins. Manion is also one of 11 crew chiefs to have called wins across all three of NASCAR’s national touring series.
In 2023, Manion became one of few to call a race in all three of NASCAR’s national series in a single season, all of which came under the Spire Motorsports banner. He led the part-time effort on the No. 7 Silverado in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, helped in limited starts for Carson Hocevar in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and took the reigns during the second half of the Cup Series season for Ty Dillon and the No. 77 team.

Carson Hocevar – Driver, No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado RST

  • Carson Hocevar will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Delaware Life Chevrolet Silverado RST in Saturday’s FaithFest 250 at North Wilkesboro Speedway
  • Delaware Life is an insurance and annuity company that empowers financial professionals with a wide array of customizable solutions. A subsidiary of Group 1001 Insurance Holdings LLC, Delaware Life focuses on delivering a seamless experience for advisors. The company understands how important it is to find the right fit for every client, every situation and every individual need. Delaware Life is passionate about equipping advisors with annuities that give their customers peace of mind and a successful future, allowing them to plan, with confidence, for whatever’s next.
  • The 23-year-old driver, a veteran of 90 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races, has logged one pole, six wins, 25 top fives and 38 top 10s, while leading 908 laps. He made the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series playoffs in all his three full-time seasons and earned a spot in the 2023 Championship 4.
  • The six-time CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race winner made his first and only series start at the storied Wilkes County venue in 2023. Hocevar started second, and despite spending the majority of the afternoon in second, was forced to settle for a fourth-place finish.
  • Hocevar will pull double duty this weekend at North Wilkesboro, where he’ll also drive Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 Spectrum Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series’ Window World 450.
  • The Portage, Mich., native currently sits eighth in the NASCAR Cup Series championship point standings. His one win, five top fives, eight top 10s, 563 points scored, average starting position of 11.2 and 14.4 average finish are all career highs through the first 20 points-paying races of the 2026 season.
  • Hocevar will be at the controls of Spire Manufacturing chassis SMT-094 Saturday afternoon, a brand new Chevrolet Silverado RST.

Carson Hocevar Quote
What are your thoughts heading into the truck race at North Wilkesboro?
“It has been fun running a bunch of truck races this year. We have had a lot of speed, just seems like something out of our control has happened that’s limited us to one win. I ran up front in the first truck race at North Wilkesboro in 2023, and I expect to do the same Saturday.”

Chad Walter – Crew Chief, No. 77 Chevrolet Silverado RST

  • Chad Walter is the crew chief of Spire Motorsports No. 77 Chevrolet Silverado RST in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, an entry that will see multiple all-star caliber drivers behind the wheel throughout the 2026 season.
  • Walter has called three CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races at North Wilkesboro Speedway, earning a venue-best 14th-place finish with Rajah Caruth in 2024.
  • Between NASCAR’s O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, Walter has racked up seven wins, 59 top fives and 145 top 10s.
  • Walter earned a mechanical engineering degree from the Cornell University College of Engineering. During his studies, he played defensive end for the Big Red football team.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports fields full-time entries in the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing.

The team, co-owned by longtime NASCAR industry executive Jeff Dickerson and TWG Motorsports CEO Dan Towriss earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado its first NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win April 7, 2022, at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway. The team’s most recent victory came May 24, 2026, when Daniel Suárez won the NASCAR Cup Series’ Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway.

In 2026, Spire Motorsports campaigns the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the NASCAR Cup Series and the Nos. 7 and 77 Chevrolet Silverado RSTs in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The Mooresville, N.C., organization also fields the No. 77 410 sprint car in Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing competition.

Wallace Joins Cindric, Team Penske in Paint Scheme Reveal for Sunday’s Window World 450

By
Official Release
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Austin Cindric will drive a Rusty Wallace-inspired, throwback No. 2 Team Penske Ford in Sunday's Window World 450 at North Wilkesboro Speedway. (Joey Chapman/NWS Photo)
  • NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee Rusty Wallace, the grand marshal for Sunday’s Window World 450, joined Team Penske driver Austin Cindric and Penske team members on Monday in unveiling a throwback, 1993-inspired paint scheme that will adorn Cindric’s No. 2 Ford in Sunday’s race
  • Wallace, a three-time Cup Series race winner at North Wilkesboro, will give the command to start engines on Sunday night before Cindric’s car takes to the track in the Cup Series’ first points race at NWS in 30 years
  • Tickets and upsells for the Window World 450 race weekend, July 17-19, can be obtained by visiting www.northwilkesborospeedway.com

NORTH WILKESBORO, N.C. (July 14, 2026) – One of the most iconic paint schemes in NASCAR history will return to competition in Sunday’s Window World 450 at North Wilkesboro Speedway. Team Penske driver Austin Cindric joined NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee Rusty Wallace on Monday in unveiling a striking, 1993-inspired No. 2 Ford that Cindric will race under the lights in the first NASCAR Cup Series points race at North Wilkesboro in 30 years.

Harkening back to Wallace’s historic, 10-win season in 1993 – which included a sweep of both Cup Series races at North Wilkesboro – Cindric’s new version of Wallace’s classic ride features the same timeless No. 2 font as its original, with a twist: the dark gray portion of the car features a collage of Team Penske’s NASCAR Cup Series victories with the No. 2 car, while the gold part includes the names of Team Penske’s employees.

Bringing the unforgettable livery back to life in unique fashion was a thrill for Cindric, who was five years from being born when Wallace led 301 of a possible 800 laps in sweeping NWS’ Cup Series events.

“No matter how much success I have in the No. 2 car, it’s always going to be Rusty Wallace’s car,” Cindric said. “(Driving the throwback scheme) is really cool for a number of reasons. There are 450 employees at Team Penske and it’s very cool to incorporate them on what’s definitely the most iconic paint scheme on the NASCAR side for Team Penske.

“It’s a recognizable scheme for any race fan who was at North Wilkesboro back in the ‘90s, for sure. It’s cool to have the opportunity to pay tribute to the guy and the team who built up Team Penske’s NASCAR program.”

Wallace, who will serve as grand marshal for Sunday’s race, relished the opportunity to see a familiar paint scheme at a familiar track – adoring an entirely different car than the one from the 1990s. A show car version of Cindric’s throwback No. 2 Ford will be on display throughout this weekend at North Wilkesboro.

“When we pulled the cover off the car, I said, ‘Wow!’ That was so cool,” Wallace said. “In ‘93, we won all the races at North Wilkesboro and now I’m the grand marshal at North Wilkesboro this weekend. What a big deal for me and for this team. I hope this car wins.

“I’ve always loved North Wilkesboro. I’m going down (NC Highway 421) and I used to always look at the track going, ‘C’mon, man, somebody’s got to bring this thing back!’ It was such a fun place to run. I’m so glad that (Speedway Motorsports President and CEO) Marcus (Smith) made it happen, and now they’re adding to the track and making it nicer and nicer.”

North Wilkesboro’s showpiece race weekend builds on the excitement of a remarkable reopening in 2022 that preceded three runnings of the NASCAR All-Star Race – won by Kyle Larson, Joey Logano and Chrstopher Bell – from 2023-’25.

Prior to Sunday’s Window World 450, the most recent points-paying Cup Series race at NWS took place in September of 1996.

Window World 450 tickets and race-day upgrades – including Pre-Race Track Passes – can be purchased online at www.northwilkesborospeedway.com.

Race fans can connect with North Wilkesboro Speedway and get the latest news regarding the July 17-19 race weekend by following on X and Instagram or by becoming a Facebook fan.

Four Takeaways From The USAC National Midget Races At Mitchell County Fairgrounds Raceway and Jefferson County Speedway

By
Briar Starr
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Photo Courtesy of Briar Starr - Speedway Media

About a week ago today, the USAC National Midget tour had quite the busy week, running its annual Midwest tour with races in Missouri, Kansas, and Nebraska. Last Tuesday, the tour was in Sweet Springs, Missouri at the Sweet Springs Motorsports Complex, where Gavin Miller won after starting in the sixth position.

They then made the four-and-a-half-hour drive west to north-central Kansas on Wednesday for action in Beloit, Kansas at the Mitchell County Fairgrounds for the 15th annual Chad McDaniel Memorial Race. Following the Wednesday night event, they traveled just a few miles north across the border into Nebraska for a two-night show on Friday and Saturday nights. The series also had an additional night last Thursday, with a practice night at the track.

In this special edition of Four Takeaways, SpeedwayMedia will highlight four interesting points from these races combined as we were on site for all three races in Beloit, Kansas, and Fairbury, Nebraska.

Jacob Denney Has Momentum Leaving Beloit and Fairbury

Jacob Denney had won just one race this season with the USAC NOS Energy Drink National Midget tour, which took place on the second night back in April at Kokomo Speedway. Since then, he went a bit winless from the third race at Circle City Raceway in Indianapolis, Indiana, up until the Beloit, Kansas race.

At Beloit, Kansas, the Toyota Racing Development/Keith Kunz Motorsports driver flipped the switch automatically and seemingly had the best car out of the field. He started third in the feature and quickly made quick work of the top two starters, Cannon McIntosh and Kale Drake. Afterward, Denney again had a fast car at the Jefferson County Raceway on the first night by taking the victory.

However, like with anything in racing, it’s hard to keep a consecutive winning streak going, especially for multiple nights in a competitive series. Denney finished fourth in the first qualifying race, which then saw him start sixth in the feature. He nearly pulled off a hat trick, but fell short by finishing second. Nevertheless, the Galloway, Ohio native should have some great momentum heading forward for the rest of the year.

Kale Drake Pockets $10,000 Saturday Night In Fairbury Finale

Prior to the Saturday night finale, Drake had not yet won on the USAC National Midget tour. Even though he had a win in the POWRI Midget Series at Macon Speedway last month in June and a victory at Port City Raceway. Last Wednesday night, the Collinsville, Oklahoma native finished third at Beloit, Kansas after winning the first heat.

Last Friday night, he finished second in the first heat of night 1 at Fairbury and came home an uncharacteristic fifth after starting in the 19th position. However, on Saturday night, Drake was an entirely new racecar driver, as he started second in the 40-lap feature and quickly took control of the race. Once the feature was finished, Drake was $10,000 richer by winning the Midwest Midget Championship.

Consistent Start and Finish Times

One of the things I really enjoyed about these races for Kansas and Fairbury, Nebraska, is the consistent start and finish times. On Wednesday night, the series started about 7 p.m., and began their feature roughly about 9:30 or 9:45 p.m. They were done about 10:30 p.m. However, on both Friday and Saturday night, the races were done about 10:20 p.m., which is something I really enjoyed since I had a 30-minute drive back to my room. For the two nights, I was able to get back at 11 p.m. So kudos to the series for keeping things going and running on a tight schedule to get things done at a decent hour to allow people to get home as well.

Record Amount of Midget Cars and Great Crowd Turnout

For the Fairbury, Nebraska races this past weekend in Jefferson County Speedway, there was a great car count for the USAC National Midget tour of 40 cars each night, which was a record. I can certainly tell you the pits were packed with numerous cars and teams. I was amazed how many cars showed up for the two-night affair, especially when the weather forecast looked a bit bleak on Friday morning and with overnight rains on Wednesday as well.

cars
Photo Courtesy of Briar Starr – SpeedwayMedia.com

Sure, the pits were muddy, but with the haulers already being there the night before for a practice night, it likely made it an easier decision not to cancel. It would’ve taken an all-day rain or a complete downpour that wasn’t going to let up to cancel the races. However, that wasn’t the case. The track turned out to be really racey on both nights after some track prep was done. After having a great turnout for the midgets, there was also a great crowd as well for the two nights. While the races were going on, there was also the annual fair taking place as well at the track in Fairbury. Friday night was decent, but Saturday night was really packed and very much crowded. It was standing room only.

If you weren’t there at a decent time to find a general admission seat or potentially a reserved seat, you likely had to find somewhere else to sit. USAC National Midget tour racing is alive and well with a fantastic fanbase. It was my first time being at these races, and it was a great time each night.  

As for the updated point standings, Denney leads Kevin Thomas Jr by 68 points.

The next USAC National Midget Tour race is scheduled for August 14-15 at Coles County Speedway in Mattoon, Illinois, and will be live on Flo Racing.

Meanwhile, the USAC Silver Crown Series will be back in action this Sunday, July 19 at Winchester Speedway in Winchester, Indiana live on Flo Racing.

Finally, the USAC National Sprint Tour is going to be in action Thursday, July 23 at The Dirt Track at Indianapolis Motor Speedway to kick off a week long series of races in Indiana called “USAC Indiana Sprint Week”, which is set to conclude Saturday, August 1 at Tri-State Speedway in Haubstadt, Indiana. All can be seen live on Flo Racing.

NHRA SONOMA NATIONALS: ELITE MOTORSPORTS EVENT PREVIEW

By
Official Release
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SONOMA, Calif. (July 14, 2026) — Elite Motorsports kicks off the second half of the Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series season this weekend at the DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals at Sonoma Raceway, an event where Elite Motorsports has dominated in recent years.

The last four seasons Pro Stock was contested in Northern California Elite Motorsports has supplied the winner. Aaron Stanfield rallied to victory in 2021 to start the streak followed by Erica Enders in 2022. In 2024 it was Aaron who again took home the Wally and last season, Greg Stanfield defeated his son Aaron in the final to pick up his first win since joining Elite Motorsports.

The father-son duo of Aaron and Greg Stanfield possesses plenty of history—and momentum—at the picturesque California track. At last year’s Sonoma event, it was a memorable family showdown in the final round. The veteran Greg clocked a 6.552-second pass at 211.49 mph to narrowly defeat Aaron’s 6.568-second effort, capping off an emotional afternoon for the Elite Motorsports team.

This year, Aaron enters the weekend riding a wave of momentum, having secured his second Pro Stock victory of the season at the most recent event in Norwalk, Ohio. He also won the Route 66 Nationals in Chicago. The win pushed Aaron to fifth in the championship points standings.

For the driver of the Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage / Melling Performance / Janac Brothers Racing Pro Stock car, the recent win underscores the relentless work ethic driving the entire Elite Motorsports organization.

“Heading into Sonoma with a win at Norwalk gives this entire Elite Motorsports team a ton of momentum,” Aaron said. “We’ve been working tirelessly to gain performance, and the potential is there for anyone on this team to get the job done. I’ve been fortunate enough to have the right combination of a badass car—thanks to these Elite Motorsports boys and girls—and waking up on the right side of the bed as a driver ready to race.

“Last year’s final round was special, even if I ended up on the wrong side of it. Racing my dad for a trophy is something we both dreamed about, but I’d love nothing more than to flip the script this weekend and get this JHG/Melling/Janac Brothers team into the winner’s circle. Doing it against my dad would just be the icing on the cake.”

While the younger Stanfield eyes redemption, defending event champion Greg Stanfield, pilot of the Janac Brothers Pro Stock machine, remains equally hungry. With six semifinal finishes and a No. 1 qualifying position to his name already in 2026, Greg is just ahead of Aaron in the points standings sitting fourth. Greg is focused on keeping those competitive fires burning.

“Sonoma was an incredible race for us last year. Standing in the winner’s circle after sharing the final round with Aaron is a memory I’ll keep forever,” Greg noted. “As a parent you always want to see your kids succeed, but as a racer, once the helmet goes on, you’re just trying to win.

“Aaron and that crew are rolling right now coming off their win in Norwalk. Hopefully that carries over; his two wins this season have brought a lot of confidence to Elite, and we’re moving in the right direction. I’m just looking forward to getting back out West and seeing if we can repeat history. We’ve been pretty consistent this year so far and I think we’re due—maybe it will be another Stanfield vs. Stanfield final.”

Aaron Stanfield will also compete in the Mission Foods #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge being contested during Saturday’s qualifying. He’ll have a rematch against semifinal opponent Kenny Delco as he tries to win valuable championship bonus points and a cash prize.

Competition at the DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals begins with four rounds so qualifying Friday at 4:55 and 8:10 p.m. and Saturday at 11:45 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Eliminations are slated to begin Sunday at 11 a.m. Television coverage of the event will be on FOX Sports 1 (FS1) Sunday with a qualifying show at 10 a.m. ET and eliminations at 10 p.m. ET.

Late damage spoils strong run for Racing to End Alzheimer’s

By
Official Release
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BOWMANVILLE, Ont. Canada (11 July 2026) – The Racing to End Alzheimer’s with Stephen Cameron Racing team saw a potential top 10 run spoiled by a mechanical problem with eight minutes remaining in Saturday’s IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge two-hour race at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park.

Drivers Sean Quinlan and Greg Liefooghe both found themselves caught up in incidents on their first green-flag lap in the historic Moss Corner, though both managed to get through with minimal damage to their No. 19 Racing to End Alzheimer’s Ford Mustang GT4. But their luck ran out late in the race, when a damaged rear bumper came loose, resulting in a mechanical black flag and a trip to pit lane in the closing laps to address the issue.

Quinlan qualified a solid 13th in the Grand Sport (GS) class with a lap of 1:23.595-seconds, but that advantage was negated in Turn 5 of the opening lap when he was forced to take evasive action after two cars spun in front of him. Quinlan and was tagged from behind, damaging the exhaust and costing the car power. He continued in 22nd and was running 21st when the second caution waved 19 minutes into the event.

The resulting 30-minute run behind the safety car ate up the remainder of his 40-minute drive time, and Quinlan headed to pit lane for four new Michelin tires, fuel and a driver change. Liefooghe returned to the race in 20th and despite being hit on a restart which loosened the rear bumper, raced up to tenth when he took his final fuel stop with 52 minutes remaining.

Involved in tight pack racing for positions eight through 14, Liefooghe fought back into the top 10 with 12 minutes on the clock. But moments later, he was hit hard from behind on the back straight, which sent the rear bodywork flapping. Forced by race control to stop in pit lane to remove the offending piece, Liefooghe returned to the racetrack and finished a disappointed 19th.

But as always, Racing to End Alzheimer’s founder looked to the positive, reflecting on the wonderful Canadian race fans the team met throughout the weekend.

“Once again, our Canadian friends extended a warm welcome to us,” said Frengs. “Over the weekend, several came to see their loved ones’ names on our No. 19 Cameron Racing Mustang GS car and as is often the case, had very emotional responses – and those responses encourage and inspire us. One gentleman spoke about his grandfather, who is currently navigating his final journey. He Facetimed his mom, who immediately said she would put the name of her dad – the gentleman’s grandfather – on the car. Their conversation was in French but we knew it was so encouraging. We’ll look forward to grandpa being with us when we take the green flag at Road America later in July.”

Racing to End Alzheimer’s gives families the chance to honor loved ones who have suffered from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. For a $250 donation, the family member’s name and hometown is placed on both the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge Ford Mustang and the SRO GT4 America BMW M4, and the loved one’s photo can be posted on the Racing to End Alzheimer’s website’s tribute page. All donations are matched by Frengs’ company Legistics, with 100% going to the program’s two beneficiaries: the Nantz National Alzheimer Center at Houston Methodist, and the UCLA Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Program.

To date, Racing to End Alzheimer’s has donated over $1.2 million to those two programs.

Donate now at this link.

Next up for Racing to End Alzheimer’s and the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge will be the two-hour event at America’s National Park of speed, Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisc. The race will be broadcast live in the U.S. on Peacock TV, and internationally on IMSA.tv and on IMSA’s YouTube channel – ad-free courtesy of Michelin.

Donate now at this link.

The Canadian Tire Motorsport Park 120 for the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge series will take the green flag Saturday at 1:25 p.m. ET. The race will be broadcast live in the U.S. on Peacock TV, and internationally on IMSA.TV and on IMSA’s YouTube channel – ad-free courtesy of Michelin.

About Racing to End Alzheimer’s

In 2013, Phil Frengs’ late wife Mimi was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s Disease. Their experience led Frengs to a seminal moment: while his company, Legistics, had long sponsored a team in IMSA sports car racing, he realized there was an opportunity to raise money and awareness for the fight against the disease. In 2017, he formed Racing to End Alzheimer’s to “fund the care and find the cure” with 100% of the donations and matching funds going to the two organizations the team supports:

The Nantz National Alzheimer Center at Houston Methodist is exploring cutting edge strategies in therapy, care and research to find a cure for these dementias. NNAC was founded by longtime CBS Sports broadcaster Jim Nantz and his family in honor of his father, Jim, Jr., who passed away after a 13-year battle with Alzheimer’s.

The UCLA Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Program is a nationally-recognized grant-funded program designed to help patients and their families with the complex medical, behavioral and social needs associated with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia.

Racing to End Alzheimer’s social media

Facebook: Racing to End Alzheimer’s
Instagram: @racing2endalz
About Racing to End Alzheimer’s

In 2013, Phil Frengs’s late wife Mimi was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s Disease. Their experience with the disease led Frengs to a seminal moment: his company, Legistics, had long sponsored a team in IMSA sports car racing and he realized an opportunity to raise money and awareness for the fight against the disease. In 2017, he formed Racing to End Alzheimer’s, giving fans the opportunity to honor loved ones by putting their names on the race car via donation – with Legistics matching each donation. 100% of those donations go to the two organizations the team supports:

The Nantz National Alzheimer Center at Houston Methodist is exploring cutting edge strategies in therapy, care and research to find a cure for these dementias. NNAC was founded by longtime CBS Sports broadcaster Jim Nantz and his family in honor of his father, Jim, Jr., who passed away after a 13-year battle with Alzheimer’s.

The UCLA Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Program is a nationally-recognized grant-funded program designed to help patients and their families with the complex medical, behavioral and social needs associated with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia.

Racing to End Alzheimer’s social media

Facebook: Racing to End Alzheimer’s
Instagram: @racing2endalz

Traffic Fatality Trends and What They Reveal About Road Safety Today

By
SM
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Photo by Adil Edin on Unsplash

Wondering what’s really happening on America’s roads?

Thousands of families every year are grieving a loved one who died in a preventable crash. Traffic fatality statistics highlight where and how drivers are failing. But more importantly, when you see the numbers, you’ll see why holding negligent drivers accountable through a claim is often the only way families can recoup their losses.

Here’s the thing:

Road safety is getting better in some ways. But it’s still bad. Really bad.

Here’s what’s inside:

  • The Latest Traffic Fatality Numbers
  • Top Causes Behind Fatal Crashes
  • Why Texas Roads Tell A Bigger Story
  • When A Negligence Claim Comes Into Play
  • Simple Ways To Stay Safer On The Road

The Latest Traffic Fatality Numbers

US traffic fatalities are finally headed in the right direction. There is still a long way to go.

According to NHTSA, there were an estimated 39,345 vehicle fatalities in 2024, down 3.8% from the previous year. That is the first time deaths have dipped below 40,000 since 2020. Sounds like good news, doesn’t it?

But look at the flip side…

That’s still 108 deaths per day. And despite the drop in deaths, the fatality rate per 100 million miles traveled is still higher than pre-COVID. Driving is still screwed up.

Dealing with the death of a loved one in a crash caused by another driver is difficult, as family members are left trying to figure out what happened. Filing a negligence claim can provide them with a way to seek financial recovery when someone else’s reckless actions resulted in their loss. A Houston personal injury lawyer can help prove negligence contributed to a crash that occurred in Texas, gather evidence from the crash scene, and pursue fair compensation for injuries or wrongful death.

Now let’s look at what’s actually causing these crashes…

Top Causes Behind Fatal Crashes

Most fatal crashes are not accidents. They’re the result of choices.

Here are the biggest killers on the road right now:

  • Speeding — the number one factor in fatal crashes
  • Impaired driving — alcohol, drugs, or both
  • Distracted driving — mostly phones
  • Not wearing a seatbelt — nearly half of those killed weren’t buckled up
  • Reckless driving — running lights, weaving, tailgating

Distracted driving by itself continues to remain a problem. According to NHTSA data approximately 3,208 people lost their lives in distraction-involved crashes in 2024. That breaks down to approximately one victim every 2.5 hours.

Speeding’s another one. It factors into almost one-third of all traffic fatalities nationwide. And when you combine speeding and distracted driving…you’ve got a deadly disaster waiting to happen.

Every single one of these causes has one thing in common: they involve negligence.

When you decide to text, decide to drink, or decide to speed… You are endangering everyone else on the road. And if your decision hurts or kills someone, you can be held legally accountable.

Why Texas Roads Tell A Bigger Story

Texas has some of the deadliest roads in the country. Period.

Although the nation continues to see improvement, thousands of people are dying each year in Texas on its highways and city streets. The state is very large, has high speed limits and a lot of trucks.

Look at these Texas numbers:

  • 4,150 people killed in Texas crashes in 2024
  • 1,467 deaths caused by speeding
  • Over 158,000 speed-related crashes in one year
  • Around 45% of vehicle occupants killed weren’t wearing a seatbelt

Houston is the problem. Houston Public Media reports that 301 traffic deaths occurred within city limits in 2024, setting a new record. This broke the old record set just last year, in 2021.

Major thoroughfares, like I-45, Loop 610, US-59, Highway 290 tend to be the worst. If you commute through Houston daily, you’ve driven down these corridors. You know how these roads can turn from congested to fatal in an instant.

When A Negligence Claim Comes Into Play

So how does a negligence claim actually work after a fatal crash?

For a valid claim, four things need to be true:

  1. The other driver owed a duty of care (every driver does)
  2. They breached that duty (speeding, texting, DUI, etc.)
  3. That breach caused the crash
  4. The victim suffered real damages (injury, death, or medical bills)

After all four boxes are checked, the injured party (or family) is entitled to seek damages. Medical expenses, lost wages, funeral expenses, pain and suffering, and more.

Here’s what a negligence claim can cover:

  • Medical expenses (past and future)
  • Lost wages and lost earning ability
  • Property damage
  • Pain and emotional suffering
  • Wrongful death damages for the family

You need to understand this….. Insurance companies aggressively defend negligence claims. They try to pay you as little money as possible. This is why having the right legal representation is crucial following a major accident.

Simple Ways To Stay Safer On The Road

You can’t control other drivers. However, you can control your actions behind the wheel.

Here are simple things that save lives:

  • Slow down. Speed increases crash force dramatically.
  • Put the phone away. No text is worth a life.
  • Buckle up every time. Even short trips count.
  • Never drive impaired. Get a ride. Every time.
  • Watch for pedestrians. Especially at night.

Deaths of pedestrians have been increasing year after year. GHSA said that in 2024 drivers took the lives of 7,148 people on foot across the country. Most pedestrian deaths occur at night, on streets without sidewalks and are caused by hit-and-runs. This is an epidemic that hardly anyone is talking about.

Driving habits are like nickels and dimes. You can’t prevent every wreck that occurs. But you can prevent yours.

The Bottom Line

Patterns of traffic deaths indicate that the nation is seeing mixed results with roadway safety.

To quickly recap:

  • Fatalities finally dropped below 40,000 in 2024
  • Speeding, distraction, and impairment are still the biggest killers
  • Texas roads remain some of the deadliest in the country
  • Houston set a new fatal crash record in 2024
  • Negligence claims allow families to obtain justice following a wrongful crash

Every single fatal statistic has a number behind it. They’re sons, daughters, moms, dads, friends. Behind every fatal statistic is a family wondering what to do now.

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed by a careless driver, don’t try to fight for justice by yourself. Seek assistance and ensure your rights are preserved.

Because the road may be getting a little safer… But it isn’t safe yet.

How Metal Buildings Help Property Owners Adapt to Changing Needs

By
SM
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Many property owners begin searching for additional space because they have simply run out of room. A garage becomes overcrowded, equipment starts taking up valuable workspace, or seasonal items begin filling areas that were never intended for storage. In many cases, the problem is not a lack of property. The issue is a lack of usable space.

This is one reason metal buildings have become increasingly popular among homeowners, business owners, and agricultural property owners. They provide a practical way to add covered space without the long construction timelines often associated with traditional building methods.

One of the biggest advantages of a metal building is flexibility. A structure that starts as a storage building today may serve a completely different purpose several years from now. Property owners often discover that their needs change over time. A building used to store tools and lawn equipment may eventually become a workshop, hobby space, vehicle storage area, or even a business operations center.

That adaptability creates long-term value. Instead of building a structure designed for only one purpose, owners can invest in a building that can evolve alongside their needs.

For rural properties, flexibility is especially important. Equipment, trailers, utility vehicles, and agricultural supplies all require protection from the elements. Weather exposure can shorten the life of expensive assets and increase maintenance costs. A properly designed building provides protection while keeping equipment organized and accessible.

Business owners often appreciate the same benefits. Inventory, tools, and materials can quickly consume available workspace. Expanding operations may require additional storage before it requires a larger office or retail location. Metal buildings offer a practical solution because they can often be constructed efficiently while providing significant usable square footage.

Another reason these structures remain popular is their durability. Steel components are designed to withstand years of use while resisting many of the issues commonly associated with wood construction. Properly maintained buildings can continue serving property owners for decades.

Maintenance requirements are also relatively straightforward. Regular inspections, cleaning, and minor upkeep help protect the structure and maintain its appearance. Because steel is not vulnerable to many of the problems that affect traditional building materials, owners often spend less time addressing structural concerns.

Energy efficiency has also become a larger consideration for many buyers. Modern insulation options allow metal buildings to maintain more comfortable interior temperatures throughout the year. Whether the building is used as a workshop, storage area, or active workspace, proper insulation can improve comfort and reduce energy consumption.

Site planning remains an important part of any project. Before construction begins, property owners should consider access routes, drainage, future expansion opportunities, and how the building will fit within the overall layout of the property. Taking time to evaluate these factors can help maximize long-term usability.

Ventilation is another important consideration. Airflow helps regulate temperature, reduce moisture buildup, and create a healthier environment inside the structure. Depending on the intended use, ridge vents, wall vents, and mechanical ventilation systems may all play a role in maintaining comfortable conditions.

Many property owners are also surprised by the variety of customization options available today. Door configurations, window placement, insulation packages, interior layouts, and exterior finishes allow buildings to be tailored to specific needs rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.

Budget planning is equally important. While every project has different requirements, owners should evaluate the total cost of ownership rather than focusing only on initial construction expenses. Durability, maintenance, energy efficiency, and future adaptability all contribute to the long-term value of a building.

One of the most overlooked benefits of metal buildings is peace of mind. Having dedicated space for equipment, vehicles, inventory, or hobbies helps reduce clutter and improve organization throughout the property. Instead of constantly moving items from one area to another, owners gain a permanent solution designed to support their daily activities.

As property needs continue to change, flexibility becomes increasingly valuable. A well-designed building can serve multiple purposes throughout its lifespan while providing reliable protection and functionality year after year. For many homeowners, business owners, and rural property owners, that combination of versatility and durability makes metal buildings in Sacramento a practical long-term investment.

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