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Clopay and Meyer Shank Racing Extend Partnership with Multi-Year Deal

By
Official Release
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Both partners look ahead to future successes and shared innovation

Pataskala, Ohio (18 February 2025) – Meyer Shank Racing (MSR) is pleased to announce the renewal of its partnership with Clopay through a multi-year agreement. Clopay, the largest manufacturer and marketer of garage doors and rolling steel doors in North America will continue to be an important part of MSR as the team continues its dual competition programs in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and NTT DATA INDYCAR SERIES.

First joining the team in 2022, Clopay and MSR have built a solid foundation based on shared values, including a commitment to performance, quality, and innovation. Clopay’s high-quality products remain a visible element in the team’s operations, including at MSR’s state-of-the-art 50,000 square foot facility in Pataskala, Ohio.

“Renewing our partnership with Clopay is something as a team that we are really proud of,” said Mike Shank, MSR Co-owner. “I’m very passionate about supporting local and with Clopay located just outside of Cincinnati, we have a really close relationship not only professionally but personally as well. We’re excited to have them continue to have a presence on our Indy cars and we’re hoping we can produce some more results for them this year.”

This multi-year deal reinforces the mutual commitment of Clopay and Meyer Shank Racing to pushing the boundaries of performance both on and off the track. As the team continues to evolve, this partnership will remain a key component of MSR’s identity and success.

“Watching the Meyer Shank team become a powerhouse in racing and knowing that Clopay has been a partner in that fills me with immense pride,” said Clopay Corporation President Victor Weldon. “Our partnership is built on the core values of collaboration and commitment to excellence. By leveraging our brands, we are able to deliver a similar superior experience to our customers.”

Clopay will once again be featured on both the No. 60 Honda driven by Felix Rosenqvist and the No. 66 Honda driven by Marcus Armstrong as the NTT INDYCAR season kicks off on March 2nd with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.

About Clopay

Founded in 1964, Clopay Corporation (“Clopay”) is the largest manufacturer and marketer of garage doors and rolling steel doors in North America. The company sells residential and commercial overhead sectional doors through leading home center retail chains and a network of over 3,000 independent professional dealers under the brands Clopay®, Ideal Door®, and Holmes Garage Door Company®. Rolling steel doors and grilles for commercial, industrial, institutional, and retail use are sold under the Cornell® and Cookson® brands.

Clopay is headquartered in Mason, Ohio, and operates 4 manufacturing facilities and 56 distribution centers. For more information, visit www.clopaydoor.com

Ford Looking to Continue Atlanta Qualifying Dominance

By
Official Release
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ATLANTA 1

Saturday, February 22 — NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, 1:30 p.m. ET (FS1)
Saturday, February 22 — NASCAR Xfinity Series, 5 p.m. ET (CW)
Sunday, February 23 — NASCAR Cup Series, 3 p.m. ET (NBC)

After kicking off the season last week at Daytona International Speedway, all three NASCAR touring series will descend on Atlanta Motor Speedway for three races in two days. A doubleheader featuring the NASCAR Craftsman Truck and NASCAR Xfinity Series headlines Saturday’s action while the NASCAR Cup Series drivers take to the track on Sunday.

QUALIFYING DOMINANCE

When it comes to qualifying in recent years, no manufacturer has been more dominant than Ford, which has captured the NASCAR Cup Series pole four straight times. The Blue Oval hasn’t only won the pole, but it has swept the front row in each of those qualifying sessions. Team Penske has led the way during this two-year stretch as all three drivers – Joey Logano, Ryan Blaney and Austin Cindric – have qualified in the top 10 for each race. The organization has also had at least one driver start on the front row three of the last four times. Here’s a list of Ford’s qualifying success since 2023.

FORD POLE STREAK AT AMS

  • Ford has won the last four NASCAR Cup Series poles at AMS (Joey Logano, Aric Almirola and Michael McDowell twice).
  • Ford has swept the front row in four straight AMS qualifying sessions (McDowell/Blaney (2024-2), McDowell/Logano (2024-1), Almirola-Blaney (2023-2), Logano/Cindric (2023-1).
  • Team Penske has had at least one driver start on the front row in each of the last four races (Blaney, 2024-2; Logano, 2024-1; Blaney, 2023-2; Logano and Cindric, 2023-1)
  • Ford swept the top eight spots in the 2023 spring race.
  • Ford swept the top six spots in the 2023 summer race.
  • Ford swept the top five spots in the 2024 summer race.

LOGANO GOING FOR TWO STRAIGHT

Defending NASCAR Cup Series champion Joey Logano will be going for his second straight Atlanta win after capturing last year’s playoff opener. Logano used a restart shove from his Team Penske teammate, Ryan Blaney, to score the overtime win and automatically advance to the Round of 12. That marked Logano’s second victory in the last four Atlanta races after he won the Ambetter Health 400 in 2023. The last driver to win back-to-back Cup events at the mile-and-a-half track is Jimmie Johnson (2015-2 and 2016-1).

BLANEY ON TOP

It’s only been one week, but 2023 NASCAR Cup Series champion Ryan Blaney finds himself on top of the point standings after Daytona. The Team Penske driver had a solid week, scoring three points after an eighth-place result in his Duel qualifying race last Thursday, and then registering third and first place finishes in the first two stages on Sunday (18 points). Blaney ended up being the top Ford as he came across the line seventh, giving him a total of 51 points. That capped a strong overall week for Team Penske that saw Blaney and teammates Joey Logano and Austin Cindric combine to lead 125-of-201 laps. Cindric, who started on the outside front row, led the most circuits with 59 while Logano, who captured the first stage, was second with 43.

AUSTIN CINDRIC: “I think every Atlanta race we’ve done since the repave has looked different each time, so I can’t sit here and confidently tell you that I know exactly what the race is gonna look like. From a generalization, yeah, it’s gonna be a drafting style race, no doubt, and handling is gonna be somewhat important, but to the levels of which and how it changes the racing, I think it’s been an unknown each time, which has been fun to kind of react and adapt on the fly and understand what your car is gonna need as the race goes on, and hopefully you have enough time to work on it and do those things and have that opportunity, but it’s been an exciting race, no doubt. I think the only one I didn’t leave either with a smile on my face or wanting to go back and do it again was the first one. Past that, they’ve been pretty exciting events for me.”

KESELOWSKI GETS FIRST CUP WIN FOR MUSTANG

Brad Keselowski gave Mustang its first NASCAR Cup Series victory as he held off Martin Truex Jr. at the finish line to win the Folds of Honor 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway in 2019. Keselowski, who was battling an illness all weekend and had Austin Cindric standing by in case he needed relief, led the final 33 laps to post his 28th career victory. In all, Ford led 177 of the 325 laps and won for the third straight year at the 1.5-mile track.

TOP FIVE DEBUT FOR HAAS FACTORY TEAM

The new Haas Factory Team duo of Sam Mayer and Sheldon Creed got off to a good start last week as they finished second and third, respectively, in the season opener at Daytona International Speedway. Creed, who led three times for seven laps, leads the point standings after one week thanks in large part to finishing second and third in the first two stages while Mayer is fifth overall.

MUNIZ POSTS FIRST CAREER TOP 10 FINISH

Frankie Muniz made his full-time NASCAR debut last week at Daytona International Speedway with Reaume Brothers Racing and promptly registered a 10th-place finish. That marked his first career top-10 run in a limited career that, to this point, has seen him compete in only two NASCAR Xfinity races and five NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series events. The only other full-time season Muniz has completed in his racing career came in 2023 when he finished fourth in the ARCA Menards Series final standings.

FORD’S ATLANTA CUP SERIES WINNERS

1961 – Fred Lorenzen

1962 – Fred Lorenzen

1963 – Fred Lorenzen

1964 – Fred Lorenzen and Ned Jarrett

1965 – Marvin Panch (Sweep)

1967 – Cale Yarborough and Dick Hutcherson

1968 – LeeRoy Yarbrough

1969 – LeeRoy Yarbrough

1975 – Buddy Baker

1978 – Bobby Allison

1981 – Neil Bonnett

1985 – Bill Elliott (Sweep)

1987 – Ricky Rudd and Bill Elliott

1990 – Morgan Shepherd

1991 – Mark Martin

1992 – Bill Elliott (Sweep)

1993 – Morgan Shepherd

1994 – Ernie Irvan and Mark Martin

1997 – Dale Jarrett

2002 – Kurt Busch

2005 – Carl Edwards (Sweep)

2008 – Carl Edwards

2017 – Brad Keselowski

2018 – Kevin Harvick

2019 – Brad Keselowski

2020 – Kevin Harvick

2021 – Ryan Blaney (1)

2023 – Joey Logano (1)

2024 – Joey Logano (2)

FORD’S ATLANTA XFINITY SERIES WINNERS

1992 – Jeff Gordon

1997 – Mark Martin

1998 – Mark Martin

2000 – Mark Martin

2004 – Matt Kenseth

2005 – Carl Edwards

2008 – Matt Kenseth

2011 – Carl Edwards

2012 – Ricky Stenhouse Jr.

2018 – Kevin Harvick

FORD’S ATLANTA CRAFTSMAN TRUCK SERIES WINNERS

2020 – Grant Enfinger

New FOX Sports Era To Showcase Another History-Making INDYCAR Season

By
Official Release
-

Competition Updates Begin on Streets of St. Petersburg for NTT INDYCAR SERIES, INDY NXT by Firestone

INDIANAPOLIS (Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025) – A late-winter thaw is well underway for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES as anticipation heats up for next week’s start to the 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT by Firestone seasons. Championship campaigns begin in the Florida sunshine with a two-day group test Feb. 17-18 at Sebring International Raceway ahead of the Sunday, March 2 season opener on the Streets of St. Petersburg.

The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding is expected to set the stage for what will be another thrilling season on track and on television.

FOX Sports launches its inaugural season of INDYCAR coverage with the season’s first practice in St. Pete on Friday, Feb. 28 on FS1. All 17 races for the 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season will air on FOX, with two additional days during PPG Presents Armed Forces Qualifying May 17-18 ahead of the 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge creating a series-record 19 network windows. The NTT INDYCAR SERIES is the only premier motorsport series in North America with all races broadcasting on network television.

All INDYCAR programming also streams live on the FOX Sports app.

“This will be a season of unrivaled exposure for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES,” said INDYCAR President J. Douglas Boles. “With phenomenal support of our sport across multiple massive platforms – including Super Bowl LIX – FOX Sports has proven to be a superb partner and promoter. With the season approaching, we know their unique style of engaging and innovative broadcasts will continue to raise the bar and drive an unparallelled growth opportunity for INDYCAR.”

With an eye on the fierce and intense competition of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, several updates will be featured in 2025:

More Time, More Action

To maximize the thrilling, wheel-to-wheel racing action for fans during the record number of FOX race broadcast windows, lap counts at several NTT INDYCAR SERIES races have been extended in 2025, creating added dynamics for race teams. Race distances have been updated for:

  • Streets of Long Beach – 90 laps (+5 laps)
  • Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course – 90 laps (+10)
  • Iowa Speedway doubleheader – 275 laps (+25)
  • Streets of Toronto – 90 laps (+5)
  • Nashville Superspeedway – 225 laps (+19)

Hybrid Highlighted

2025 will feature the first full-season integration of the hybrid power unit, including the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge for the first time. Hybrid assist – developed specifically for INDYCAR through a first-of-its-kind collaborative effort by Chevrolet and Honda – provides an added boost of 120 horsepower when used with traditional Push to Pass on road and street circuits. Used in tandem, a total of 800 horsepower is available to drivers for the first time in two decades.

New this season, use of the hybrid power unit will be allowed to start or restart the 2.2-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engines on pit lane. As in 2024, hybrid assist will be allowed to restart a stalled race car on the racetrack on non-ovals.

After meticulous development, the INDYCAR hybrid power unit made its successful race debut July 7, 2024, at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. From its full-field integration at the Milwaukee Mile Open Test on June 11 through the end of the 2024 season, 94,244 miles were completed with the system. Overall use and influence of hybrid assist increased race-over-race on road and street circuits and ovals. Twelve of the 14 on-track passing records broken during the 2024 season came after the introduction of the hybrid power unit.

Practice Makes Perfect

Some NTT INDYCAR SERIES practice sessions will have an updated look in 2025.

At select road and street circuits (Streets of St. Petersburg, Long Beach, Detroit and Toronto and Barber Motorsports Park, Road America, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca and Portland International Raceway), weekend tire allotments this season will include:

One additional set of Firestone Firehawk alternates (five total)
One less set of Firestone Firehawk primaries (five total)
Race teams will be allowed the freedom to use their weekend allotments as they see fit, reserving one set of new alternates, per the rulebook, for use during the race. Tire allotments for event weekends at The Thermal Club and Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course remain unchanged from last year.

Also on road and street circuits, split group practice sessions in Practice 1 will expand to all tracks except for Road America and its lengthy 4.014-mile layout. All cars will receive an initial 45-minute practice session before the start of two 10-minute segments, with groups split by odd and even numbered pit boxes. As in qualifying, the clock in Segments One and Two will stop for the first red flag condition of each practice segment.

Popular high-line practice sessions will continue on all short ovals in 2025. The additional track time allows for drivers and teams to work in the upper groove of the racetrack, providing more grip ahead of the race.

Race Ready

An annual INDYCAR review also has led to adjustments to procedures and rules for the upcoming NTT INDYCAR SERIES season:

  • Ahead of a race start on ovals, there will be a mandatory “pair up” location with “one to go” to reduce the chance of incident and the need for waved-off starts.
  • Where feasible for oval restarts, INDYCAR will extend the beginning of the restart zone to give the leader wider discretion on the choice to accelerate. The ending location of oval restart zones will remain the same as in previous seasons.
  • A multistage pit lane speed limiter, as utilized at pit in at Road America and at pit out at World Wide Technology Raceway and Nashville Superspeedway, will be expanded to pit lane entry at WWT Raceway, Iowa Speedway and Nashville. The update prevents cars from overextending from the apron onto the racetrack after the pit-in commitment point.
  • The 2024 road and street circuit restart line, where drivers must remain in single file and are prohibited from passing until reaching the designated line in the last corner, remains intact for 2025.
  • Additional EM Motorsport light panels, first used in 2022, will be used at all circuits. The additional lights will enhance the forewarning of conditions, particularly around blind corners.
  • Also for safety, drivers will be alerted of local yellow conditions by a notification on driver cockpit dashes in addition to the light panels and traditional cloth flag notifications at marshal posts around each circuit.

Also noteworthy, alternate tires at Nashville Superspeedway again will be available for the 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season finale at the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix. Last season, the breathtaking championship race featured 653 on-track passes – the most on record for the series at the track.

“From the mid-year integration of the hybrid power unit to the on-track passing records and another championship decided at the final race, 2024 was truly a phenomenal year for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES,” INDYCAR Senior Vice President, Competition and Operations Mark Sibla said. “This is a testament to the hard work by the teams, drivers and naturally our partners Chevrolet, Honda, Firestone and Shell. As our attention turns toward 2025, we will continue the series’ energy, momentum and incredibly close competition on the track. We are excited to get the new season started.”

Talented, Packed Field, Live Television Highlight INDY NXT by Firestone

For the first time, an entire INDY NXT by Firestone season will be featured on live television. Announced in December, 12 INDY NXT races will appear live on FOX Sports’ FS1, with two airing on FS2. Additionally, all practice and qualifying sessions for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES’ development series will air on a combination of FS1 and FS2.

Which driver will receive the most attention from FOX’s cameras is anyone’s guess. After last season averaged the most starters (19.5) since 2009, the 2025 season is expected to match or exceed that number – in a field featuring drivers from 10 countries.

Chip Ganassi Racing will add even more intrigue to the championship as it fields cars in INDY NXT for the first time since 2007.

Building on the series’ continued momentum, 2024 featured on-track passing records at four circuits, with qualifying records broken at six. Sixteen of the 33 starters in last year’s Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge were graduates of INDY NXT.

After the launch of a reimagined look in 2023, this is the fourth season that INDYCAR’s development series will feature continued integration with INDYCAR as the sanctioning body. In 2025, INDY NXT chassis will showcase updated and stylized rear wing end plates featuring LED rain lights, matching the safety component available in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES.

The pathway to North America’s premier open-wheel series once again features a total purse of $1.4 million. The series champion will receive $850,000 to be applied to a rookie oval test, the Indy 500 Open Test and Rookie Orientation Program, an entry for the 2026 Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge and an entry for an additional 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES event. The 2025 championship team will receive a prize of $35,000.

“This will be a season of incredible and unprecedented exposure for INDY NXT by Firestone,” series director Richard Buck said. “The continued integration of this series with INDYCAR has clearly raised the quantity and quality of INDY NXT. The championship has never been more fierce and difficult to win, but it will prove to be all the more gratifying for the driver advancing to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES.”

Coverage of the 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season debut Sunday, March 2 begins at noon ET on FOX. A Spanish-language version will be available on FOX Deportes.

INDY NXT by Firestone’s season opener begins earlier that day at 10 a.m. on FS1.

The award-winning INDYCAR Radio Network will provide coverage of both races with audio available on SiriusXM channel 218 and the INDYCAR App powered by NTT DATA.

NASCAR Top-10 Power Rankings: Daytona

By
Jeffrey Boswell
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Photo by Mike Biskupski for SpeedwayMedia.com

Note: The quotes in this article are fictional.

1. William Byron: Byron was running ninth on the final lap before a crash up front cleared the way for the Hendrick driver to win his second straight Daytona 500.

“It’s called ‘Being in the right place at the right time,'” Byron said. “Or, more specifically, ‘Being in the ninth place at the right time.”

2. Tyler Reddick: Reddick finished second after a chaotic finish at the Daytona 500.

“What a race,” Reddick said. “Daytona is easily the most exciting part of the NASCAR season. You could take one lap of the Daytona 500, and that single lap would feature more excitement than the entirety of the NASCAR playoffs. And I’m talking about a caution lap.”

3. Jimmie Johnson: Johnson avoided the chaos at Daytona and finished third in the Daytona 500.

“When you talk about Daytona,” Johnson said, “you have to talk about getting help from other cars. That’s called ‘pushing’ in this business. And nobody knows more about ‘pushing’ that me, because I’m pushing 50.”

4. Chase Briscoe: Briscoe finished fourth in the Daytona 500.

“Four-time Indianapolis 500 winner Helio Castroneves competed in the Daytona 500,” Briscoe said, “driving for Trackhouse Racing. He was knocked out of the race when he was collected by Ross Chastain in a pile-up during a lap 131 restart. Helio can officially call himself a NASCAR driver now, because he was wrecked by Chastain.”

5. John Hunter Nemechek: Nemechek finished fifth in the Daytona 500.

“It appears Kyle Busch is cursed to never win the Daytona 500,” Nemechek said. “And it appeared that wasn’t the extent of the cursing: Kyle had some choice words for Joey Logano. I think that’s great. The Cup series could certainly use a Busch-Logano feud. Heck, the Cup series could use any feud.”

6. Denny Hamlin: Hamlin led on the final lap before a scrap for the lead left Hamlin, Chase Briscoe, Austin Cindric, and Cole Custer spinning, allowing William Byron to steal the win. Hamlin finished 24th.

“My No. 11 Toyota has a new sponsor in National Debt Relief,” Hamlin said. “I think it’s a smart move for us, and for National Debt Relief, because it’s safe to say that 95% of NASCAR fans are in debt. And incidentally, 95% is the interest rate you’ll pay with National Debt Relief.”

7. Alex Bowman: Bowman finished sixth in the Daytona 500.

“Joey Logano experienced some engine trouble when a piece of debris found its way into the car’s throttle body. But his crew was able to remove it and Joey was able to continue. It may be the most notable piece of trash removal from a car since Jeremy Mayfield lost his ride for doing meth.”

8. Austin Cindric: Cindric led 59 laps and was battling for the lead on the final lap before a crash up front dashed his victory chances. Cindric finished eighth.

“It’s really important at Daytona to save fuel,” Cindric said. “So, for a lot of the race, we’re not running at full throttle. So, you could say I made a ‘half-gassed’ attempt to win the 500.”

9. Ryan Blaney: Blaney bounced back from involvement in a lap 185 crash triggered by Joey Logano and Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. to finish seventh in the Daytona 500.

“Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. really screwed the race for a lot of drivers,” Blaney said. “I’m not sure what he was thinking trying to block Joey Logano. It was a dumb decision on Ricky’s part, but not nearly his dumbest—–he voluntarily dated Danica Patrick.”

10. Joey Logano: Logano was strong early at Daytona, and later overcame an engine issue, but saw his victory hopes dashed after contact with Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. knocked him out of the race. Logano finished 35th.

“When it was operating at full strength,” Logano said, “my No. 22 Shell/Hunt Brothers Pizza Ford Mustang was incredibly fast. How fast? Faster than the time between eating Hunt Brothers Pizza and the need to run to the bathroom.”

‘The Big One’ takes out multiple contenders in closing laps of Daytona 500

By
Tucker White
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Photo: Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – FEBRUARY 16: Kyle Busch, driver of the No. 8 zone Chevrolet, Ryan Blaney, driver of the No. 12 Menards/Peak Ford, Joey Logano, driver of the No. 22 Shell Pennzoil Ford, and Chase Elliott, driver of the No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet spin after an on-track incident during the NASCAR Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on Feb. 16, 2025, in Daytona Beach, Florida.

The dicey racing and ticking of laps made it inevitable.

With 15 laps to go in the Daytona 500, Joey Logano got a run on Ricky Stenhouse Jr. He saw an opportunity to get below him and have another Ford push him. So he dropped to the middle line, but Stenhouse blocked him in Turn 2.

“From my perspective, I felt like to win the race, I had to get to the second row in my line there,” Logano said. “I was in third and needed to get to second.”

Logano tried to thread the needle down the backstretch between Stenhouse on the outside and Ryan Blaney on the inside. Again, Stenhouse blocked. Logano checked up, but bounced off Kyle Busch to his inside, turned Stenhouse, and triggered the Big One.

Busch, who rallied from a penalty at the end of Stage 1, got hit by Stenhouse and spun down the track. He avoided the inside wall but cut all his tires and needed a tow back to the garage. Thus, costing him a chance to win the Daytona 500 on his 20th attempt. Like the late Dale Earnhardt did in 1998.

“It sucks to have our race end the way it did,” he said. “When we got collected in the wreck at the end, all four tires were flat. We were towed back to the work area in the garage, where the guys looked over the car and didn’t see anything massively wrong. All the wheels were pointed in the right direction, so we changed tires and went back out to see what the next step would be. Unfortunately, when we came back into the work area in the garage, we got parked and told that our race was done.”

This multi-car incident was one of three in the closing 15 laps, plus overtime, of the 2025 Daytona 500. Ryan Preece suffered his second rollover in two years on the backstretch at Daytona International Speedway. William Byron snuck through the crash on the final lap to go back-to-back in the Daytona 500.

Niece Motorsports Race Advance: Atlanta Motor Speedway

By
Official Release
-

NIECE MOTORSPORTS
NCTS RACE ADVANCE: ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY
Event: Fr8 208 (135 laps / 208 miles)
Round: 2 of 25 (Regular Season)
Track: Atlanta Motor Speedway
Location: Hampton, Georgia
Date & Time: Saturday, February 22nd | 1:30 PM ET
Tune-In: FOX Sports 1 | Motor Racing Network (MRN) | Sirius XM Ch. 90

Team Stats & Notes

  • Niece Motorsports Atlanta Stats: Niece drivers have accounted for 24 combined NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) starts at Atlanta Motor Speedway since 2017. The team has earned one top-five and seven top-10 finishes, with a best overall result of fourth set by Bayley Currey in 2023. Last year, Kaden Honeycutt led the organization with a sixth-place finish.
  • Close, But No Cigar: Last week’s outing in Daytona saw two Niece Motorsports drivers lead the field at various points of the race, but after getting collected in separate incidents, the crews were left to wonder, ‘what if?’.

No. 42 J.F. Electric / Utilitra Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Matt Mills | Crew Chief: Mike Shiplett

  • Mills’ Atlanta Stats: Matt Mills has made two prior NCTS starts at Atlanta Motor Speedway, with both coming on the new track layout. Mills finished 27th here in last year’s race, which is currently his best series finish at the track. Out of seven NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) races, Mills best run is 26th-place finish from the July, 2021 event.
  • Shiplett’s Atlanta Stats: Mike Shiplett has called one NCTS race at this track, finishing 11th last year with Bret Holmes. Shiplett’s NXS stats are highlighted by a pole with Cole Custer in 2019, a pair of runner-up finishes (Kyle Larson, ’16, and Custer, ’19), four top-fives, and six top-10 results in seven races. He’s earned two Cup Series top-10s in 11 starts, posting a personal best of sixth-place with AJ Allmendinger in the spring of 2010.
  • On the Truck: Mills’ No. 42 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from longtime partners J.F. Electric and Utilitra, who will serve as his anchor partners for the entire 25-race season.
  • Look Good, Race Good: This week sees the debut of the “day” paint scheme on Mills’ J.F. Electric Chevrolet. The No. 42 will feature different versions in corresponding day and night time races.
  • Recapping Daytona: Matt Mills and the No. 42 J.F. Electric team were hindered by a tire rub on the right rear of the truck. After starting 24th, Mills’ bided his time early, hoping to avoid any on-track incidents. Midway through stage two, the tire came apart, forcing a green flag pit stop which placed him two laps behind the leaders. The crew continued to work on the truck throughout the race, but were shown in 29th-place at the checkered.
  • Points Rundown: Mills heads to Atlanta sitting 26th in driver points, one point behind Rajah Caruth in 25th. He has a two-point buffer over Nathan Byrd, who currently holds down the 27th position.
  • Quoting Mills: Do you view this race as another super speedway track, or has it started to age past that point?

“Year-to-year, the grip has gotten progressively worse here in Atlanta. It’s gotten more aggressive, the bumps are starting to come out, and track position matters. In last year’s race, it started to get one lane dominant on the top side, so having good pit stops and keeping that track position is going to be important all race long I think it’s a fun hybrid for us in the Truck Series, and think our No. 42 J.F. Electric team can be really strong this week.”

About J.F. Electric: J.F. Electric is an electrical contractor that provides engineering expertise, backed by construction and installation know-how in a diverse range of service offerings, from utilities and commercial projects, to industrial and telecommunications customers. When having a long family history in an industry, a company not only builds on its knowledge and experience, it takes pride in cultivating a solid understanding of client needs, all the while nurturing strong relationships with its employees. Evolving through five generations of the Fowler family, J.F. Electric has matured into a well-managed and thoughtfully diversified electrical contractor which is poised to continue its growth and expansion into the future.

About Utilitra: Utilitra is a woman-owned firm specializing in utility and technology solutions with a diverse team of specialized professionals. Utilitra is committed to solving their client’s unique challenges, whether one expert or a team of experts is needed. By adapting to the needs of their respective industries, Utilitra has built a range of services for their utility and technology partners.

No. 44 Masked Owl Technologies / DQS Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Bayley Currey | Crew Chief: Wally Rogers

  • Currey’s Atlanta Stats: Bayley Currey has made three previous NCTS starts at Atlanta Motor Speedway. In 2023, Currey scored his first top-five finish at this track when he crossed the line in fourth-place. Last year, Currey was relegated to a 30th-place result after mechanical woes forced him out of the event. Currey has made a total of six NXS starts along with one Cup Series appearance here.
  • Rogers’ Atlanta Stats: Wally Rogers is a two-time Atlanta race-winning crew chief. Rogers won the NXS race here with Greg Biffle from the pole in 2003. Two years later in 2005, Rogers’ truck driven by Ron Hornaday won the closest NCTS race in the history of the speedway by a margin of just 0.008 seconds. He’s made two top-fives in nine NCTS starts and another two in eight NXS starts. He’s also called seven Cup Series races at the 1.54-mile intermediate.
  • On the Truck: Currey’s No. 44 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from Masked Owl Technologies and DQS Solutions & Staffing.
  • Recapping Daytona: Bayley Currey and the No. 44 team had a shot at winning Daytona, but ultimately would have their hopes dashed late in the race. Currey played it smart early on, hovering around the middle of the pack and staying out of trouble. When the laps wound down, however, the truck came to life. Currey appeared to make a race-winning move as he took the lead with three laps to go, but was shuffled out of line and collected in a last lap crash.
  • Points Rundown: Entering the second race of the season, Currey is scored 22nd in the championship standings. He is two points behind Spencer Boyd in 21st, and four points ahead of Dawson Sutton in 23rd.
  • Quoting Currey: Your team put together a strong race last year in Atlanta, so how optimistic are you to return here this year?

“Yeah, we’ve had speed every time we’ve shown up to Atlanta when driving at Niece Motorsports, so I don’t see this weekend being anything different. We finished fourth in 2023 and were running fourth when we had a catastrophic failure last year, and I really think we had a truck that could win that race. Being able to take that experience back will help a lot. We had a really good truck and were leading late in Daytona, but just didn’t really have any drafting partners to help keep us there. I think we’re bringing another fast Masked Owl Chevrolet Silverado RST, and we’ll see what happens when we get down there. It is great to have that confidence especially after what we were able to do last weekend, but I don’t try to over-hype myself based off what happened last year.”

About Masked Owl Technologies: Masked Owl Technologies (MOT) is an industrial solutions integrator specializing in developing customized automation and controls processes. They take a consulting-based approach to identify the root cause of system challenges and incorporate tested, emerging technology into industrial solutions that mitigate risk and solve complex problems, the first time.

About DQS Solutions & Staffing: Guided by a mission to achieve excellence and adaptability, DQS partners with clients to create custom solutions that address unique business challenges. Recognized as Michigan’s fastest-growing company and #22 in the nation on the Inc. 5000 list, DQS drives industry growth while giving back through its nonprofit, Foundation for Pops, and partnerships like the River Rouge School District.

No. 45 DQS Solutions & Staffing / DealBadger Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Kaden Honeycutt | Crew Chief: Phil Gould

  • Honeycutt’s Atlanta Stats: Kaden Honeycutt has made two NCTS starts at Atlanta Motor Speedway, including his track debut in 2023. Last year, in his first start driving the No. 45 Silverado, Honeycutt walked away with his first top-10 at the track when he scored an impressive sixth-place result.
  • Gould’s Atlanta Stats: Phil Gould has called six NCTS races at this track and has had his trucks finish inside the top-10 in half of the starts. His best finishes are a pair of sixth-place runs, first in 2019 with Ross Chastain and last year with Honeycutt. Gould has also made six NXS starts here on the old surface, adding up to three top-10s (best result of seventh-place with Brian Scott in 2014).
  • On the Truck: Honeycutt’s No. 45 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from DQS Solutions & Staffing along with DealBadger, a local auction house based in Georgia.
  • Recapping Daytona: What appeared to be a strong first outing in Daytona proved to be a disappointing end to Kaden Honeycutt’s night. After qualifying eighth, Honeycutt powered his No. 45 Silverado to the front of the pack at the start of the race. On lap three, Honeycutt took the lead of the race, but spun in turn four, resulting in hard contact with the inside wall. Honeycutt was credited with a 35th-place finish.
  • Points Rundown: Following his early crash in Daytona, Honeycutt is searching to make up ground this weekend. The driver of the No. 45 currently sits 31st, one point behind Tyler Ankrum in 30th and one point ahead of Parker Kligerman in 32nd.
  • Quoting Honeycutt: What clicked with you here last year to get a top-10 finish?

“I think it was a combination of things. One was considering the fact that we were on the conservative side since we started towards the back in 25th. We didn’t have to go after stage points or anything like that, so we really only set ourselves up in a position to try and win the race. In the midst of that, we were able to miss a lot of the chaos. We made a bunch of good calls on pit road to put ourselves in that spot, but just didn’t have things line up correctly. This year, we have worked on a lot of those things to come back better. The approach should be the same, but we might see how qualifying is and ride early. If we can get points, we’ll take them, but we have to get ourselves a good finish to have some momentum heading into Las Vegas.”

About DQS Solutions & Staffing: Guided by a mission to achieve excellence and adaptability, DQS partners with clients to create custom solutions that address unique business challenges. Recognized as Michigan’s fastest-growing company and #22 in the nation on the Inc. 5000 list, DQS drives industry growth while giving back through its nonprofit, Foundation for Pops, and partnerships like the River Rouge School District.

About DealBadger: DealBadger is a secondary marketplace for customer returns and other liquidation items. With two locations based in Decatur and Smyrna, Georgia, DealBadger allows you to bid on amazing deals that most individuals or independent resellers can’t get on their own. All auctions start at $0.50 with no reserve. Visit DealBadger.com to learn more.

About Niece Motorsports: Niece Motorsports is a professional auto racing team founded by United States Marine Corps Veteran Al Niece. In 2025, the team celebrates its 10th consecutive season competing in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) where it fields the Nos. 41, 42, 44 and 45. Since its founding in 2016, Niece Motorsports has garnered nine wins, 50+ top-fives, 100+ top-10s, 190+ top-15 finishes and made five playoff appearances. At its 80,000 sq. ft. headquarters in Salisbury, NC, Niece Motorsports is a trusted build shop for the Chevrolet Silverados of multiple NCTS teams as well as a customizable fabrication shop for any manufacturing needs.

Follow the Team: To keep up to date with the latest team news, visit niecemotorsports.com or connect on Facebook and Instagram (@NieceMotorsports) as well as X (@NieceMotorsport).

CORVETTE RACING AT QATAR: Cranking Up for FIA WEC Season

By
Official Release
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TF Sport Corvette Z06 GT3.Rs ready for Prologue, start of 2025 LM GT3 title challenge

DETROIT (Feb. 18, 2025) – Some of the same and some of the new… that’s the theme for TF Sport and the Corvette Racing program in the 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship.

For the second year, TF Sport will field two Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.Rs in the series’ LM GT3 class. This season’s campaign begins this weekend with the FIA WEC’s official two-day Prologue test, followed by next week’s Qatar 1812 Km – in reference to Qatar Day, observed on December 18 and commemorating the country’s unification.

The driving lineup for both Corvettes includes a returning roster in the No. 81 Corvette – factory driver Charlie Eastwood, Rui Andrade and Tom Van Rompuy – and a new trio of factory driver Daniel Juncadella, Ben Keating and Jonny Edgar in the No. 33 Z06 GT3.R.

Both Corvettes and all six drivers will contest the full eight-race WEC calendar, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June – a race that the Corvette brand won nine times with the Corvette Racing factory team from 2001-2023.

Although the Qatar action will be the first for the Corvette GT3 in the WEC this year, the Z06 GT3.R already has accrued significant mileage and achievements in 2025. A Corvette won the GTD class of the Rolex 24 At Daytona in the hands of AWA – which will make its 24 Hours of Le Mans debut later this year – and another placed second in GTD PRO with Juncadella as part of the Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller Motorsports lineup.

The 3.37-mile, 16-turn Losail International Circuit was the site of the Corvette Z06 GT3.R’s WEC debut a year ago with mixed results. Van Rompuy stunned the LM GT3 field with a pole position run in the No. 81 Corvette, but only the sister car finished the race with a 10th-place showing for the car that featured Juncadella as one of the drivers.

Armed with the lessons learned from the venue at year ago plus the results from Daytona, TF Sport is hoping to continue the momentum from last year’s double-podium finish at the season finale in Bahrain and spring ahead to championship contention in a stacked 18-car LM GT3 field.

The FIA WEC Prologue is set for Friday and Saturday with the Qatar 1812 Km is scheduled for 2 p.m. Arabian Standard Time / 6 a.m. Eastern Time on Friday, February 28.

JESSICA DANE, CORVETTE RACING PROGRAM MANAGER: “Daytona was a very successful and positive kickoff for the Corvette Z06 GT3.R in IMSA. It validated the work of our engineers during the offseason to give our customers a Corvette that is now both quick and reliable. All this makes us extremely excited for Qatar and the start of the FIA World Endurance Championship season.TF Sport has assembled another stellar lineup for its two Corvettes, and there is a lot of familiarity within the team and our program. Both groups are bringing tremendous momentum and learnings from both the Rolex 24 and last year’s double-podium finish at Bahrain. The goal is to continue carrying that forward to bigger and better things in 2025.”

DANI JUNCADELLA, NO. 33 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “It’s a very exciting season ahead for TF Sport in the second year of the Corvette Z06 GT3.R. Early last season we had nurse some issues and worked on the reliability, which was our weakness from the beginning. Things improved tremendously in the second of the championship, which was great. This should be a very exciting season because we have now a very raceable and strong car. We’ve already proven that in Daytona with four out of the five Corvettes finishing the race, one car winning in GTD and our Pratt Miller car finishing second in GTD PRO. It’s my second season in WEC, which obviously I’m excited about. I have new teammates and both are capable of achieving amazing results. Those are the best ingredients I could think of coming into the new season. Qatar is already around the corner, so let’s see how we get the season going but I have very big hopes ahead of 2025.”

JONNY EDGAR, NO. 33 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I am looking forward to starting my first season in WEC. It’s also very exciting to drive for TF Sport for another season, and it is amazing to be racing in the Corvette GT3 alongside Ben and Dani this season. I cannot wait to get on track in Qatar.”

BEN KEATING, NO. 33 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I am excited to be back in the WEC. I missed the friends and family I developed over the years and am filled with anticipation for the 2025 season. To have my name on the side of the car while racing a brand that I sell is pretty special for me. I am nervous and excited, which are all the feelings you’d expect to have before an important season begins.”

CHARLIE EASTWOOD, NO. 81 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I’m looking forward to being back with Rui and Tom in the 81 Corvette Z06 GT3.R. We finished 2024 really strong so hopefully we can hit the ground running from where we finished off in Bahrain with podium & win opportunities from Round 1!”

RUI ANDRADE, NO. 81 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I’m really excited to once again share the No. 81 Corvette with my teammates Tom and Charlie. Corvette Racing, Pratt Miller and TF Sport made great progress last year on our car and gave us a possibility to fight for wins and podiums. Going into 2025, we know it’s going to be a long and difficult year, but together we have all the necessary tools to achieve the results we aim for.”

TOM VAN ROMPUY, NO. 81 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “The 2025 WEC season is about to start, and I feel very excited to get going again in Qatar. I’m feeling blessed to drive the No. 81 Corvette again with the same strong driver lineup as last season. Last year the whole team of TF Sport together with Corvette Racing and Pratt Miller made very big steps in terms of performance and reliability. So I am really looking forward to get going again and chase good results. Let’s try to bring Corvette Z06 GT3.R where it belongs: on the podium! Also a shout-out to all our fans around the world for their amazing support and see you soon on track!”

CORVETTE RACING BY THE NUMBERS: Qatar 1812 Kilometers

  • 1: Number of wins for the Corvette Z06 GT3.R already in 2025 – the Rolex 24 At Daytona in the GTD class for AWA
  • 2: Number of Corvettes entered in the full FIA WEC championship – the No. 33 and No. 82 Z06 GT3.Rs from TF Sport
  • 3: Number of drivers in each of TF Sport’s Corvettes – Daniel Juncadella, Ben Keating and Jonny Edgar in the No. 33 Z06 GT3.R, and Charlie Eastwood, Rui Andrade and Tom Van Rompuy in the No. 81
  • 5: Number of Corvette Z06 GT3.R entries for the 2024 Rolex 24; TF Sport operated the Trackhouse by TF Sport Corvette in GTD PRO
  • 7: Wins in FIA WEC competition for TF Sport – including the 2020 24 Hours of Le Mans; current TF and Corvette factory driver Charlie Eastwood was part of that triumph
  • 20: Drivers who have driven in entries affiliated with Corvette Racing for at least one FIA WEC race – Rui Andrade, Sebastien Baud, Nicky Catsburg, Charlie Eastwood, Marcel Fässler, Antonio Garcia, Oliver Gavin, Daniel Juncadella, Ben Keating, Hiroshi Koizumi, Jan Magnussen, Tommy Milner, Mike Rockenfeller, Alexander Sims, Nick Tandy, Jordan Taylor, Ricky Taylor, Tom Van Rompuy, Nico Varrone and Richard Westbrook. That number will go up by one in Qatar with the addition of Jonny Edgar
  • 27: Tracks at which Corvette Racing has won races – Baltimore, Charlotte Motor Speedway, COTA, Canadian Tire Motorsport Park/Mosport, Daytona, Detroit, Houston, Laguna Seca, Le Mans, Lime Rock, Long Beach, Miami, Mid-Ohio, Monza, Portimão, Portland, Road America, Road Atlanta, Sebring, Sonoma, St. Petersburg, Texas, Trois Rivieres, Utah, VIR, Washington DC and Watkins Glen
  • 59: Number of drivers in Corvette Racing entries since 1999. There were six first-timers at the Rolex 24 – Scott McLaughlin, Shane van Gisbergen, Connor Zilisch, Martin Kirchöffer, Pipo Derani and Salih Yoluc.
  • 72: Years since Corvette was introduced to the world on Jan. 17, 1953 in New York City. A total of 300 cars were produced that year
  • 139: Victories worldwide for Corvette Racing – 117 in IMSA, nine at Le Mans, three in the FIA WEC and 10 in GT World Challenge America
  • 310: Event starts by Corvette Racing entries since 1999, starting with that year’s Rolex 24 At Daytona. No. 300 came in early August 2004 at Road America in IMSA
  • 410,323.38: Total number of racing miles completed by Corvette Racing since its inception. The program surpassed the 400,000-mile mark at the 2025 Rolex 24 At Daytona

Corvette Racing at Losail International Circuit

2024 – No. 81 Corvette Z06 GT3.R: Charlie Eastwood/Rui Andrade/Tom Van Rompuy – 18th/DNF in LM GT3 (Van Rompuy pole)

No. 82 Corvette Z06 GT3.R: Daniel Juncadella/Sebastien Baud/Hiroshi Koizumi – 10th in LM GT3

About General Motors
General Motors (NYSE:GM) is driving the future of transportation, leveraging advanced technology to build safer, smarter, and lower emission cars, trucks, and SUVs. GM’s Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands offer a broad portfolio of innovative gasoline-powered vehicles and the industry’s widest range of EVs, as we move to an all-electric future. Learn more at GM.com.

Research Paper Format Made Easy: APA, MLA, and Chicago Styles

By
SM
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The research paper format can be as important as the content. When writing a dissertation, academic essay, or report, using the correct format style is essential in presenting one’s work to appear professional and authoritative. Of the most common formats used in academic writing, APA, MLA, and Chicago are the three most used. They each possess laws and regulations, which can intimidate one at first sight. But catching a glimpse of the contrast in general and applying them wisely, writing your research paper will be child’s play.

This book will make APA, MLA, and Chicago styles understandable to you, and this book will instruct you on tips, rules, and formatting tricks that will enable you to make your writing beautiful. If you are a student seeking assignment help or an individual seeking to improve his or her academic writing, this book will guide you through the fundamentals of each style and how to utilize them to your benefit.

What is the Organization of Research Papers?

Research paper organization is a unique process for preparing and organizing university work. It refers to how the paper should be reorganized, font usage, line space, quotes, and title location. Universities and research zones are specific about organization type, and one has to select which to use to legalize one’s work at the university level.

The Three Academic Writing Modes: APA, MLA, and Chicago

  • The three most popular modes of academic writing are APA (American Psychological Association), MLA (Modern Language Association), and Chicago. They are applied specifically and broadly to particular topics.
  • APA is traditionally applied in social sciences, i.e., psychology, sociology, and education.
  • MLA is traditionally applied in humanities, i.e., arts, literature, and philosophy.
  • Chicago style is prevalent in business, history, and social sciences but is also prevalent in publishing and nonfiction.

If you stick to the common features of the majority of applied styles, then you are well-placed to select the most suitable one for your area of study and prepare your research paper professionally and classily.

APA Format: A Guide That Covers It All

What Is APA Style?

APA style is utilized in the majority of research papers, particularly social science papers. APA employs the simplest and most standardized referencing and citation methods that benefit studies. APA demands a strict format in the organization of the papers, from the title page to the references.

Essential Features of APA Style

  • Title Page: APA demands that your paper include a title page with the paper’s title, your name, and the institution.
  • Abstract: Your abstract is placed on the second page. The abstract summarizes your study, usually 150 to 250 words.
  • Headings: APA uses a five-level system of headings. Headings can help organize your paper and make it more readable.
  • References: The APA component most widely utilized is the referencing system. In APA, the author-date referencing system is used, where the author’s surname and publication year are cited in parentheses as early as possible after the needed information. References are supplied generously at the end of the paper.

MLA Format: An Overview

What is MLA Style?

The MLA style is used mainly for languages and literature in general and the humanities. Compared to APA, greater emphasis is placed on the author’s name and source title than the publication date in MLA style. The MLA style is format—and reference-prescriptive but flexible in the form of the paper.

Significant Features of MLA Style

  • Title Page: No title page exists in MLA. The date, author, course title, and instructor’s name are in the center at the top of page one.
  • Headings: MLA uses shorter headings than APA, which uses a single-level heading in most research studies.
  • References and Works Cited: The Author’s last name and page number are in-text references. A “Works Cited” page is placed after the essay that numbers cited works in the paper.

Chicago Format: A Step-by-Step Guide

What is Chicago Style

Chicago style is one of the citation and bibliographic forms widely employed in book publishing, the social sciences, and even history. There are two Chicago style formats: the Author-Date and the Notes and Bibliography styles. The social sciences use the Author-Date format, whereas the humanities use the Notes and Bibliography format.

Key Features of Chicago Style

Title Page: In Chicago style, a title page, on which your paper title, institution, and name must be emphasized, is obligatory.

  • Headings: The Chicago style also follows a free-floating headings system where authors are free to place headings with varying levels anywhere they desire. Chicago style is not elaborate with many rules but once the headings are already provided; however, authors also enjoy the freedom to change the headings according to convenience.
  • Citations and Bibliography: Chicago citations are lenient. The Notes and Bibliography system employs footnotes or endnotes, while the Author-Date system employs parenthetical citations, such as APA.

Mistakes to Avoid When Formatting a Research Paper

Career students are no exception to mistakes since they structure their papers. Some of the things that one should avoid include:

  • Incorrect Citation Style: Mixing citation styles (e.g., using MLA in-text citations and an APA reference list) can confuse your readers. Always double-check that your citations match the style you’ve chosen.
  • Failure to Follow Margins and Spacing: Always ensure that your paper is double-spaced with 1-inch margins on all sides. These details can be easily overlooked, but they make a big difference in the overall presentation of your work.
  • Incorrectly Formatted References: Reference errors are the most frequent mistakes to commit in a research paper. When writing an APA, MLA, or Chicago paper, ensure that your references are well-formatted and consistently applied.

Conclusion

Assignment help is significant in terms of making your paper scholarly, readable, and acceptable. A slightly stricter adherence to APA, MLA, or Chicago will make your research paper scholarly, legible, and sufficient. You’re a new writer or a prospective writer scholar, but making structure distinctions and putting them according to requirements will significantly differ in the context of good work.

If you’re amazed at the complexity of writing your research paper, do not worry. There are several sites and companies that you may approach to help you, enabling you to write a paper in competition with the best minds within your class of academic capability.

By mastering the rules of APA, MLA, and Chicago formats, you’ll be well on your way to crafting research papers that are both informative and visually appealing.

Protect & Preserve: The Key to Maintaining Your Car’s Original Appeal

By
SM
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Photo by Erik Mclean at pexels.com

Keeping a vehicle looking new requires consistent care and attention. Exposure to the sun, dust, and road debris can take a toll on its appearance over time. Without proper maintenance, the paint may fade, the interior can wear out, and minor damages may become more noticeable. Regular upkeep is essential to preserving both aesthetics and resale value.

Owners can prevent long-term damage by following simple protective measures and maintaining a fresh look. This guide provides essential tips to help keep a vehicle in top condition. From cleaning routines to protective treatments, these steps ensure lasting appeal and protection from everyday wear.

Wash Regularly with the Right Products

Dirt, grime, and pollutants can accumulate quickly, leading to a dull finish. Frequent washing helps remove harmful substances before they cause stains or damage. However, using the right cleaning materials is just as important as washing. Harsh soaps or rough sponges can create scratches, making the surface look worn. It’s best to use a mild automotive shampoo, a microfiber mitt, and a soft drying towel. Rinsing thoroughly before washing prevents dirt particles from causing swirl marks. Regular cleaning, at least once a week, helps maintain a polished look and prevents buildup that could be harder to remove later.

Invest in Professional Window Tinting for UV Protection

Direct sunlight can cause fading, not just on the exterior but also inside the car. The heat and UV rays accelerate wear on upholstery, dashboards, and other surfaces. Over time, this exposure leads to a tired and outdated appearance, reducing overall value. Blocking out harmful rays is a smart way to protect against sun damage. High end tinting reduces glare, minimizes heat, and protects the interior from fading. Professionally installed tints, like those offered by New Image, ensure a perfect fit and long-lasting durability. Their high-quality films comply with legal requirements while enhancing both style and comfort.

Apply a High-Quality Paint Protection Film (PPF)

Even with careful driving, scratches and chips are hard to avoid. Road debris, minor impacts, and harsh weather conditions can leave permanent marks. A protective layer helps safeguard against these elements, reducing the risk of visible damage. Paint protection film (PPF) is a clear, self-healing shield applied to vulnerable areas. It absorbs small impacts and prevents dirt from embedding into the paint. This film is especially useful for frequently used cars or those driven on highways, where debris exposure is higher.

Wax and Seal for Long-Term Shine

Waxing is a simple but effective way to maintain a glossy surface. It provides a protective layer that repels dirt and water, reducing the chances of staining. Without this barrier, contaminants settle easily, making the finish appear dull. Using a quality wax or paint sealant every few months helps maintain a fresh look. Sealants offer longer-lasting protection than traditional waxes, making them ideal for those who prefer less frequent applications. When applied correctly, these products enhance shine and keep surfaces protected.

Park Smart: Avoid Environmental Damage

Where a vehicle is parked plays a big role in its long-term appearance. Direct exposure to the sun, tree sap, bird droppings, and harsh weather can all contribute to wear. Leaving it in an open area without protection speeds up aging, leading to faded paint and other visible damage. Whenever possible, park in shaded spots or a garage. If shade isn’t available, using a high-quality cover can help reduce exposure to harmful elements. Taking small precautions like these can make a significant difference in preserving the original look.

Keep the Interior Clean and Conditioned

The exterior isn’t the only part that needs regular upkeep. Interior surfaces also suffer from dirt buildup, spills, and sun exposure. Dust can accumulate in vents and crevices, while stains on seats and carpets can become difficult to remove if left untreated. Over time, neglecting the inside of a vehicle makes it look older than it is. Vacuuming regularly and wiping down surfaces with appropriate cleaners helps maintain a fresh look. Leather seats should be conditioned to prevent cracking, while fabric upholstery benefits from stain-resistant treatments. Using sunshades or window tints can also help reduce interior wear caused by UV rays.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Improper Cleaning Techniques

Not all cleaning products are safe for use on a vehicle’s surfaces. Some household detergents contain chemicals that strip away protective coatings, leaving paint vulnerable to damage. Similarly, rough sponges or dirty cloths can create fine scratches that dull the finish. To avoid these issues, always use automotive-specific cleaning products. A microfiber towel is ideal for drying, as it prevents streaks and swirl marks. Pressure washers should be used with caution—too much force can remove protective layers or push water into areas that are not meant to be exposed.

Maintain Wheels and Tires for a Polished Look

Wheels and tires play a big role in a vehicle’s overall appearance. Even a clean exterior won’t look as impressive if they are covered in dirt and brake dust. Over time, neglecting them can also lead to corrosion or cracking, reducing their lifespan. Using a dedicated wheel cleaner helps break down dirt without damaging the finish. Tires should be conditioned to prevent drying out, which can cause cracks. Regular maintenance enhances appearance and improves safety by ensuring tires remain in good condition.

Repair Scratches and Chips Before They Worsen

Minor scratches and rock chips may not seem like a big problem at first, but they can quickly lead to rust if left untreated. Moisture and dirt settle into these small imperfections, causing further deterioration. If ignored, what starts as a small blemish can turn into costly repairs. Touch-up paint can help cover minor scratches, while more serious damage may require professional polishing or paint correction. Regularly inspecting for imperfections and addressing them early prevents long-term issues. Keeping a vehicle in top shape is easier when problems are fixed as soon as they appear.

Schedule Regular Professional Detailing Services

Even with routine maintenance, professional detailing provides deeper cleaning and protection. Over time, everyday washing may not be enough to remove embedded contaminants or restore fading areas. Detailing services include thorough cleaning, paint correction, and protective coatings that extend the life of the exterior and interior. Professionals use advanced techniques to achieve a flawless finish. Treatments like ceramic coating offer long-term protection, making future cleaning easier. Regular detailing ensures a well-maintained vehicle that looks newer for longer.

Preserving a vehicle’s original appeal takes effort, but the results are worth it. Regular cleaning, protective treatments, and smart parking choices all contribute to long-term maintenance. By following these steps, owners can prevent premature wear and keep their investment looking fresh. Taking preventive measures provides extra security against damage. Whether it’s shielding against UV rays, preventing scratches, or maintaining interior quality, small actions make a big difference. Staying consistent with these care tips ensures a polished and well-maintained vehicle for years to come.

O’Ward Out Front in First Day of Sebring Test

By
Official Release
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SEBRING, Fla. (Monday, Feb. 17, 2025) – Pato O’Ward was quickest overall as the countdown to the 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season accelerated Feb. 17 during the first of two days of a Group Test at Sebring International Raceway.

O’Ward led the overall time charts with a top lap of 52.3470 seconds during the morning session in the No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet on the 1.67-mile “short course” at the historic circuit in Central Florida. The 26 participating drivers were separated into morning and afternoon groups, with each receiving four hours of track time.

“Oh, man, it’s the best feeling in the world; it’s the best job in the world,” O’Ward said. “I was so excited to come back to Sebring and get into an INDYCAR SERIES car, getting to work with the engineers again. It definitely feels like home, and it’s a second family to me. So always excited to get rolling.”

Marcus Armstrong was second overall with the quickest time in the afternoon session, 52.3675, in the No. 60 SiriusXM Honda of his Meyer Shank Racing teammate Felix Rosenqvist. The Swede was ill with a fever and didn’t participate in testing today.

“In the end, we limited the running on the 60 car to save tires for Felix, but I feel really fresh,” Armstrong said. “Feel like I haven’t done anything. Feel like I could do it all again. So happy that I’m not tired after doing so many laps.”

The time sheets showed there was no clear advantage in track and weather conditions during either of the two sessions. Three of the five quickest times came in the morning, two in the afternoon. The top 10 times overall were split evenly between the two groups.

Two-time defending and three-time series champion Alex Palou was third overall at 52.4948 from the morning session in the No. 10 DHL Chip Ganassi Honda. Conor Daly produced a strong afternoon session in the No. 78 Juncos Hollinger Racing Chevrolet, ending up fourth overall at 52.5931.

“We were fast all day in our group,” Daly said. “So, that’s really encouraging. We made a lot of progress with a lot of changes that we wanted to get through. And that’s what this testing is for. It’s so important. To be fast and at the front, that’s our goal every day.”

Christian Lundgaard rounded out the top five at 52.6626 in the No. 7 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, as he helped the team put two cars in the top five. Lundgaard joined Arrow McLaren after driving for the last three seasons for Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing.

Arrow McLaren wasn’t the only team flexing its muscle in the Florida sunshine. Juncos Hollinger Racing, one of the smaller teams in the series, put two cars in the top six when Sting Ray Robb ended up sixth overall at 52.7761 while running in the morning session in the team’s No. 77 Chevrolet. Robb joined Juncos Hollinger after driving last season for AJ Foyt Racing.

There was one incident with contact. Nolan Siegel was unhurt in the afternoon session after hitting a barrier at the exit of Turn 7 in his No. 6 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, which suffered moderate damage to the right side and rear of the car.

Drivers combined to turn 1,311 laps between the two sessions. But one driver whose track time was limited was six-time series champion Scott Dixon, who turned only two laps in the afternoon in his No. 9 PNC Bank Chip Ganassi Racing Honda due to a mechanical problem.

The 2025 season opens Sunday, March 2 with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding on the streets of St. Petersburg, Florida (noon ET, FOX, FOX Deportes, INDYCAR Radio Network).

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