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Depth Perception: Rick Ware Racing Brings Deep Driver Roster to Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray

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Official Release
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MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Jan. 28, 2025) – In theory, the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray provides a level playing field for NASCAR Cup Series drivers and teams. NASCAR’s premier series hasn’t competed at the quarter-mile, asphalt oval in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, since the Nixon administration, so there is no past data to benchmark. Instead, it’s an educated guess thanks to the brave new world of simulation.

But it’s not computers that will be driving these 3,400-pound racecars with 670 horsepower this weekend at Bowman Gray. It’s people, and at Rick Ware Racing (RWR), its driver lineup of Tim Brown and Cody Ware is the most experienced at the country’s longest-running weekly racetrack.

Brown is the all-time winningest driver at Bowman Gray with 101 victories. The 53-year-old from Yadkinville, North Carolina, competes in the track’s Tour Type Modified division, where he has set just about every record imaginable. Beyond having the most wins, he has the most poles (146), the most championships (12), and he owns the fastest lap ever recorded at Bowman Gray (12.965 seconds on April 30, 2016).

Ware also brings past experience to Bowman Gray. The 29-year-old from nearby Greensboro, North Carolina, spent 2013-2014 running Modifieds prepared by Brown and his brother, Ben.

Tying this on-track experience together with the current-generation Cup car is Brown, who works fulltime at RWR as the team’s suspension and drivetrain specialist. He is the rare driver who will help build the car he will race in the Clash.

“I’ve been involved in Cup racing for almost 35 years now, and I don’t know that you’ll find a Cup driver who actually gets to build his own Cup car from the ground up, chassis dyno it, and then go race it,” said Brown, whose first career Cup Series start will come via the Clash. “These guys that work here at RWR, they’re my buddies and they’re all racers, and we get to do this as a group effort.”

For Ware, Brown’s presence in the shop and as a teammate at Bowman Gray is an incredible asset.

“Tim has been a longtime family friend, not just to me, but my father, as well. Tim actually made his NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series debut for my dad at Martinsville way back in 2009. And then about 12 years ago, I got the chance to race with Tim and Ben Brown, his brother, at Bowman Gray,” Ware said.

“So to be able to work and race with Tim over the last 10 years, where he’s also an employee at Rick Ware Racing and is in the shop every day building our racecars, I really couldn’t ask for a better teammate going into the first Cup race at Bowman Gray in 50-something years. To be able to lean on a 12-time champion and learn from his success, a guy familiar with the intensity of the place and what it takes to not only run up front, but to stay up front and not let other people’s aggression put you at the back of the pack, is crucial.”

Brown will build on his unparalleled level of experience at Bowman Gray when he drives his Modified in the undercard Cook Out Madhouse Classic on Saturday before the headlining Clash on Sunday.

“That time in the Modified will be very helpful,” Brown said. “NASCAR has done some updates to the stadium with soft walls and things like that. It’s changed the line of the racetrack. It’s made it smaller. The line we’ve typically run, you’re not able to run anymore. Just getting some track time before we climb in the Cup car will be very helpful.”

That being said, the Modified and the Cup car are two very different racecars.

“It’s one thing to make laps there in a Modified, but I think the Cup car is going to be a whole other animal because we’ve seen how difficult it has been over the last few years to get that car to turn through such a tight racetrack, like last year’s Clash at the L.A. Coliseum,” Ware said.

Ware and Brown will benefit from there being no single-lap qualifying. Instead, each driver’s fastest lap from their final practice session will determine their starting spot in their heat race. This way, they have multiple opportunities to set a fast lap. With the top-five from each of the four heat races advancing to the Clash, starting up front is crucial.

“Having all of final practice to set a fast time gives us a better chance to start up front in our heat race and, hopefully, not have to go through the Last Chance Qualifier, where only the top two transfer,” Ware said. “The first year we ran the Clash, I was top 10 or 11 in final practice and then had a really rough qualifying session where I struggled to get heat in the tires, and I think that will again be an issue at Bowman Gray because we expect it to be cold. So that, alongside the fact that I missed the first Clash by just one spot in the LCQ, I feel like having a better starting position in the heat race will give me a much better shot to get that last little push I need to comfortably lock into the Clash. Not only would that be great for myself as I head back into another season of fulltime competition, but also for Tim. He has just as much of a shot to make it into the main event as I do.”

Ware and Brown progressing to the Clash would be another example of the overall progress RWR has made these last few seasons.

“Here at RWR, we’ve turned a corner from being just a race team that shows up every week to being a team that wants to contend and race in the top-15 weekly. That’s huge for Rick and Lisa Ware and the whole Ware family. It’s also huge for all the people who work here,” Brown said.

“We had some really solid runs last year with Justin Haley, and we showed speed with Kaz Grala and Corey LaJoie, too. That shows you Rick’s doing the right thing, and all the people at RWR are doing the right thing. We’re all pulling the rope in the same direction, and it’s showing on the racetrack. It’s a really, really cool place to work and I couldn’t be more blessed to be here.”

The Clash weekend begins at 1:30 p.m. EST on Saturday with the Cook Out Madhouse Classic, the 125-lap Modified race where Brown will race his signature orange and blue No. 83 machine. After the checkered flag drops on the Madhouse Classic, on-track activity for the Cup Series begins with practice at 6 p.m. before the heat races start at 8:30 p.m. FloRacing will stream the Madhouse Classic while FS1 will broadcast Cup action. Sunday’s 75-lap Last Chance Qualifying (LCQ) race goes green at 6 p.m. to set the final lineup for the 200-lap Cook Out Clash. FOX will broadcast the LCQ, transition to its NASCAR RaceDay studio show at 7:30 p.m., and then cover the Clash, which goes green at 8 p.m. SiriusXM NASCAR Radio will also provide live coverage throughout the event.

About Rick Ware Racing:

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

Spire Motorsports Truck Series crew chief lineup and expansion for 2025 season

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Simon Scoggins for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Spire Motorsports took to social media to reveal its crew chief lineup for the 2025 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season which features an expansion of the organization’s program.

As part of the expansion, Spire Motorsports will be fielding a fourth Chevrolet Silverado RST numbered 07 and that will serve as an “all-star” entry. The entry will be led by Allen Hart, the latter of whom was an Xfinity Series crew chief at Sam Hunt Racing during the 2022 and 2023 seasons. Hart also worked as a technical director for Sam Hunt Racing and had previously been a lead race engineer at JR Motorsports, an engineer for both Turner Scott Motorsports and Team Penske, and recently a chief engineer for Rev Racing’s Truck Series program.

Spire’s newly formed No. 07 Chevrolet entry will serve as the organization’s first of two “all-star” entries as the No. 7 entry will be fielded on a full-time basis for a second consecutive Truck season. Veteran crew chief Brian Pattie will remain atop the pit box of the No. 7 entry that was piloted by a total of seven competitors throughout the 23-race schedule in 2024. Throughout the 2024 season, the entry went to Victory Lane twice with Kyle Busch (Atlanta Motor Speedway in February and at Texas Motor Speedway in April). In addition, the No. 7 entry notched a combined 12 top-10 results and settled in eighth place in the 2024 owner’s standings.

Currently, Spire’s rotation of “all-star” drivers for the No. 07 and 7 entries remains to be determined. The only competitor who has been confirmed as an “all-star” competitor for Spire is Corey Day, a Hendrick Motorsports development competitor from Clovis, California, who will pilot the No. 7 entry sponsored by HendrickCars.com in eight Truck events in 2025, beginning at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in March.

Meanwhile, Spire’s No. 71 and 77 Chevrolet entries will be led by crew chiefs Kevin “Bono” Manion and Chad Walter, respectively. Manion, who achieved the 2010 Daytona 500 and two consecutive Xfinity Series championships between 2004 and 2005 as a crew chief, will be paired with Rajah Caruth and the No. 71 team after he spent this past season as a crew chief at Rev Racing, which was formerly aligned with Spire. Walter, who recorded his first Truck career victory as a crew chief with Caruth at Las Vegas in 2024, will shift to the No. 77 team as he will be paired with Andres Perez de Lara, the latter of whom is the reigning ARCA Menards Series champion and will embark in his first campaign in the Truck Series.

The 2025 season is scheduled to mark Spire Motorsports’ fourth consecutive campaign in the Truck Series. The organization debuted with the No. 7 entry on a part-time basis in 2022, where William Byron notched the organization’s first victory at Martinsville Speedway. The following season, Kyle Larson piloted the No. 7 entry to a victory at North Wilkesboro Speedway.

After purchasing Kyle Busch Motorsports following the 2023 season, Spire expanded by fielding three full-time Truck Series entries in 2024, among which included the No. 7 “all-star” entry. During this past season, Rajah Caruth drove the No. 71 Chevrolet entry to his first career victory at Las Vegas, where he became the third African-American competitor overall to win across NASCAR’s top three national touring series. Caruth also made the 2024 Playoffs, where he became the first competitor to represent Spire in the series’ postseason battle for the driver’s championship, and finished seventh in the final standings. Meanwhile, Chase Purdy piloted the No. 77 Chevrolet entry to a total of six top-10 results and an 18th-place result in the final standings.

Through a combined 92 starts in the Truck Series, Spire Motorsports has notched five victories, five poles, 16 top-five results, 36 top-10 results and 638 laps led.

The 2025 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season for Spire Motorsports is scheduled to commence at Daytona International Speedway on February 14 and with a starting broadcast time of 7:30 p.m. ET on FS1.

Ryan Truex rejoins Sam Hunt Racing for 2025 Xfinity opener at Daytona

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Chad Wells for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Ryan Truex will be returning to Sam Hunt Racing (SHR) to pilot the organization’s No. 24 Toyota Supra entry sponsored by BB Printing Co. for the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series’ season-opening event at Daytona International Speedway.

The news comes as the 32-year-old Truex from Mayetta, New Jersey, is coming off a strong part-time campaign in the Xfinity division, where he competed in 10 events with Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) and one with SHR. Throughout his 11-race span in 2024, he recorded victories at Dover Motor Speedway in April and at Daytona in August with JGR. Truex also recorded a total of three top-five results and six top-10 results throughout his part-time campaign.

The 2025 Xfinity season-opening event at Daytona is scheduled to mark Truex’s third series start driving for SHR as he attempts to notch two consecutive victories at the World Center of Racing.

“[Team owner] Sam [Hunt] and I have known each other for a long time. We’ve become great friends outside of the garage area, and I’m thankful to have the opportunity to work together on the track too,” Truex said. “I’m thankful that our friendship has grown into a business relationship and for the opportunity to race under the SHR banner with BB Printing at Daytona.”

Truex, a two-time champion in the ARCA Menards Series East division, made his Xfinity debut at World Wide Technology Raceway in 2010. Since then, the New Jersey native has made at least one Xfinity start in 10 over the following 15 years (2010-13, 2015, 2018-19, 2022-24). His only campaign in the series on a full-time basis was in 2018, where he piloted Kaulig Racing’s No. 11 Chevrolet entry to his first Playoffs and a 12th-place finish in the final driver’s standings. After finishing no higher than the runner-up spot three times between 2012 and the early portions of the 2023 season, Truex achieved his first elusive victory in the series at Dover in 2023 while driving for JGR.

Through 101 previous starts in the Xfinity Series, Truex has notched three victories, one pole, 11 top-five results, 36 top-10 results, 222 laps led and an average-finishing result of 15.6.

“It’s always great to have Ryan in our GR Supra, an experienced proven winner in the series and someone that genuinely cares about the success and growth of our team,” Sam Hunt said. “As the defending Daytona winner, he will serve to be a valuable resource and teammate for Dean in 2025 as well. We’re grateful to have BB Printing supporting the effort and look forward to hitting the track and getting the season started.”

SHR’s No. 24 Toyota entry will be led by crew chief Brian Gainey as the entry will compete alongside the No. 26 Toyota entry that will be fielded on a full-time basis for former Craftsman Truck Series competitor Dean Thompson. Additional competitors for the No. 24 entry for the remainder of the 2025 season remain to be determined.

The 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season for Sam Hunt Racing is scheduled to commence at Daytona International Speedway on February 15 and with a starting broadcast time of 5 p.m. ET on the CW Network.

Nathan Byrd to Anchor Young’s Motorsports No. 02 Truck for 2025 Truck Series Season

By
Official Release
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Series Veteran Stefan Parsons Also Slated To Drive for Team in 2025

MOORESVILLE, N.C.: Young’s Motorsports confirmed that rookie Nathan Byrd will return to the organization and is slated to compete in a minimum of 15 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races beginning with the season-opener at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway on Friday, February 14, 2025.

Byrd returns to the controls of the No. 02 Chevrolet Silverado RST after competing in three Truck Series races last season for the Mooresville, N.C.-based team at Kansas Speedway, Homestead-Miami (Fla.) Speedway and the season-finale at Phoenix (Ariz.) Raceway respectively.

Byrd, 25, is touted as a promising talent in the world of Motorsports for his fierce competitive spirit and remarkable skill behind the wheel. Honing his craft through various racing series, Byrd’s experience and talent were evident, even at a young age.

The decision to reunite forces with Young’s Motorsports perfectly aligns with his career ambitions. The team is recognized for its commitment to developing emerging talent in the sport. Together, they aim to build a strong competitive presence throughout the 2025 season.

Byrd is scheduled to drive the team’s flagship truck in the first nine Truck Series races of the season through Kansas Speedway in May before returning at Nashville (Tenn.) Superspeedway in late May.

“Getting the opportunity to run a much bigger NASCAR Truck schedule in 2025 with Young’s Motorsports is a true blessing,” said Byrd.

“They’re a great team of hard-working men and women, and I’m confident that as I get more comfortable and experienced in the truck, we can make significant progress together. None of this is possible without the hard work and dedication of many. I’m looking forward to Daytona in a couple of weeks.”

A fixture in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series garage since 20212, Young’s Motorsports, led by team principal and former Truck Series driver Tyler Young, has carved a niche in the motorsports world for nurturing up-and-coming drivers.

With two career wins and a proven track record of success in various NASCAR platforms, Byrd’s extensive schedule is a testament to their dedication to promoting fresh talent.

Additionally, the team announced Monday that Stefan Parsons will join Young’s Motorsports’ second-truck program for the 2025 Truck Series season. The Cornelius, N.C. native schedule will be announced at a later date.

Parsons, 26, returns to the organization on the heels of capturing three top-10s during the 2024 Truck Series season driving for Henderson Motorsports. Parsons made four starts across the Young’s Motorsports team Truck Series platform during the 2022 and 2023 seasons.

“We’ve been working hard throughout the offseason on our Truck Series program,” said Young. “The NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series has been a staple of our story since our inception, and we’d like nothing more to continue to make positive memories and put Nathan (Byrd) and Stefan (Parsons) in a position to contend for wins and strong performances throughout the season.”

Both drivers will participate in the open NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series test at Rockingham (N.C.) Speedway on Tuesday, February 28, 2025.

For more on Nathan Byrd, please visit byrdracing.com, like him on Facebook (Nathan Byrd), and follow him on Instagram (@nathanjbyrd) and X |Twitter (@nathanjbyrd).

For more on Stefan Parsons, please visit stefanparsons.com, like him on Facebook (Stefan Parsons Racing) and follow him on Instagram (@stefan_parsons) and X | Twitter (@StefanParsons98).

For more on Young’s Motorsports, please visit YoungsMotorsports.com, like them on Facebook (Young’s Motorsports), and follow them on Instagram (@youngsmotorsports) and X |Twitter (@youngsmtrsports).

North Carolina Education Lottery Named Entitlement Partner for NASCAR Xfinity Series Return to Rockingham Speedway

By
Official Release
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ROCKINGHAM, N.C. (Jan. 27, 2025) – Today, officials from Track Enterprises and the North Carolina Education Lottery (NCEL) announced an entitlement partnership for NASCAR’s celebrated return to Rockingham (N.C.) Speedway.

The North Carolina Education Lottery 250 presented by Black’s Tire NASCAR Xfinity Series race will headline the marquee when the Xfinity Series hits the legendary pavement for the first time in two decades at the famed Richmond County oval April 18-19.

“We’re proud to be part of NASCAR’s return to the Rock in April with our sponsorship of the NCEL 250 NASCAR Xfinity Series race,” said Mark Michalko, chief executive officer of the N.C. Education Lottery. “Being part of this exciting racing tradition in North Carolina helps support the lottery’s mission to raise money for education. We’re racing to raise, for the third year in a row, more than $1 billion for this good cause. With the support of racing fans in our state, we can make it to the Winner’s Circle again this year.”

The N.C. Education Lottery raises more than $1 billion a year to support public education programs in the state.

Most recently, the NCEL sponsored the North Carolina Education Lottery 200 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Race at the Rock in April 2013 where 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Champion Kyle Larson took the checkered flag.

Rockingham Speedway, formerly named North Carolina Motor Speedway, was a staple on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule for nearly 40 years and included a veritable who’s who of stock-car racing royalty on its list of previous winners.

The Xfinity Series was a regular player at the historic venue from 1982-2004 and features a cast of winners who went on to be some of the sport’s most respected names including David Pearson, Sam Ard, Dale Earnhardt Sr., Harry Gant, Mark Martin, Terry Labonte and Jamie McMurray.

Martin was an indomitable force at Rockingham in Xfinity Series competition throughout his career having collected 11 wins in 25 starts, including four straight during the 1996 and 1997 seasons. McMurray matched Martin’s four-peat by recording four wins in a row from 2002-2004.

Last August, Track Enterprises announced it reached an agreement with Rockingham Speedway ownership to bring the NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series back to the venerable Richmond County speedway Easter Weekend.

“The North Carolina Education Lottery is such an incredible tradition and supports so many schools, students and families across the state,” said Bob Sargent, President, Track Enterprises. “The NCEL supported the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race at Rockingham Speedway back in 2013 and we’re thrilled to welcome them back in a big way in 2025. We’re eager to welcome race fans back to one of the most iconic and historic ovals not only in North Carolina but anywhere in America. Having the support of the NCEL and being able to advance its mission with our fans is incredibly gratifying for our team and the entire region. We’re also very thankful to Black’s Tire for their partnership. You can truly feel the excitement building around this event.”

Fans can log on to racetherock.com for continuing details, schedule updates or to purchase tickets for NASCAR’s highly anticipated return to Rockingham Speedway April 18-19.

The North Carolina Education Lottery 250 presented by Black’s Tire from Rockingham Speedway will be televised live on the CW Saturday, April 19, beginning at 4 p.m. Eastern Daylight time. The race will broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

About North Education Lottery …

The N.C. Education Lottery ranks as one of the most successful and responsible lotteries in the U.S. with more than $5 billion in sales annually and earnings of more than $1 billion for education in North Carolina. The funds help counties build and repair schools, help local school systems with salaries of support staff and student transportation, provide for a free, academic pre-school for at-risk four-year-olds, and support the Next NC Scholarship that awards college scholarships based on financial need. To learn more about the state lottery, visit www.nclottery.com, www.NCPlaySmart.com and follow on social media on Facebook @nclottery: https://www.facebook.com/nclottery, Instagram @nclottery: https://www.instagram.com/nclottery, and X @nclottery: https://x.com/nclottery.

About Rockingham Speedway …

Located in Richmond County, N.C., Rockingham Speedway opened as a flat, one-mile oval on Oct. 31, 1965. It was reconfigured to a one-mile (1.017 miles) high-banked, D-shaped oval in 1969.

In 2018, a new ownership group took over the facility and renamed it Rockingham Speedway & Entertainment Complex. On Nov. 18, 2021, N.C., Governor Roy Cooper signed the 2021-2022 North Carolina state budget allocating $9 million to support reinvestment in the facility. The state funds, along with ownership investment, allowed for redevelopment of the racetrack including the racing surface and extensive repairs. Today, the facility hosts a wide variety of events including karting, road racing, endurance racing, concerts and more. In 2025, Rockingham Speedway will welcome the return of NASCAR for the first time since 2013.

About Track Enterprises …

Track Enterprises has been promoting motorsports events since 1985. Based in Macon, Ill., a dedicated staff, led by longtime promoter Bob Sargent, organize and promote upwards of 80 races a year across the eastern half of the United States. Track Enterprises was responsible for the highly-acclaimed return of the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series to the Milwaukee Mile in 2023.

Comeback Fourth-Place Finish for Mercedes-AMG Customer Racing Team Winward Racing at the Rolex 24 At Daytona

By
Official Release
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DAYTONA BEACH, Florida – A comeback GT Daytona (GTD) fourth-place finish for Winward Racing and a debut fifth-place GTD Pro showing for Bartone Bros. Racing with Team GetSpeed were the highlight results for Mercedes-AMG Customer Racing teams in this weekend’s 63rd Rolex 24 At Daytona at Daytona International Speedway. The hard-earned results capped a dramatic and emotional stretch of racing and testing at the “World Center of Racing” that began with the Roar Before the Rolex 24 test two Thursdays ago. Perhaps the biggest achievement of the nearly two-week long IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Racing season-opening event was the competitive showings in the Rolex 24 At Daytona race weekend by all five competing Mercedes-AMG customer teams in the debut of the newly mandated torque sensors to equalize the competition balance in IMSA’s pair of GTD racing classes.

Mercedes-AMG was the only manufacturer in the large GTD and GTD Pro field that never had the opportunity to previously compete with the sensors, but progress was made at the Roar in what was Mercedes-AMG’s first experience in official international competition with the driveshaft-mounted torque-detecting componentry.

Mercedes-AMG and its partner worked non-stop back home in Germany and in Daytona with the five competing teams throughout the Roar and straight through the Rolex 24 race. Successfully overcoming a software data transfer issue on the first day of the Roar that had essentially made the team’s competing Mercedes-AMG GT3 cars undriveable, the teams were able to maximize their performance for the remainder of the Roar and straight through opening practice and qualifying a few days later on Rolex 24 weekend.

All involved stayed focused and positive as daily “fine-tuning” of the system delivered a raceable solution that remarkably saw all five Mercedes-AMG teams complete the entire Rolex 24 At Daytona without a single torque-sensor related issue.

With the torque sensor hurdle cleared and ultimately not an issue, all five competing Mercedes-AMG GT3 teams took the green flag to start the Rolex 24 Saturday at 1:40 p.m. EST with their focus firmly on race strategy and anticipating the myriad of typical endurance race issues that inevitably emerge in top-tier sports car racing competition.

Reigning Rolex 24 race winners and 2024 IMSA WeatherTech GTD Champions Winward Racing made the first competitive move when full-season Winward driver Russell Ward took the GTD lead for the first time in the No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 in the race’s second hour.

A few minutes later, Maro Engel stepped up to take the GTD Pro class lead in the No. 75 Team 75 Express Mercedes-AMG GT3, but he and the No. 75 team soon joined Winward in realizing leading early at this year’s Rolex 24 may not have been the positive move it appeared.

Engel handed the No. 75 off to team owner and driver Kenny Habul only to see the car have an engine belt failure early in the team owner’s driving stint. The 75 Express team crew quickly returned the car to the race after a trip to the garage only to have it retire shortly thereafter due to engine component technical issues apparently resulting from the thrown belt.

Meanwhile, Ward pitted from the lead later on Saturday afternoon but was back in the pits just a lap later after the No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 slowed with a throttle assembly issue. The Winward crew was quick to make repairs and the team and drivers spent the majority of the Rolex 24’s remaining opening 12 hours earning some of the seven laps lost in the garage. In the early morning Sunday hours in the race’s second half, Ward, full-season co-driver Philip Ellis and their teammates Lucas “Luggi” Auer and Indy Dontje successfully worked their way back to the lead lap after nearly 12 hours of hard-charging driving.

With 75 Express sidelined and Winward spending the remainder of the race’s first half climbing through the field, debuting GTD Pro competitors Bartone Bros. with Team GetSpeed joined the renamed Korthoff Competition Motors team in stepping up to lead the Mercedes-AMG contingent overnight Saturday.

The Bartone Bros. GetSpeed team ran its first North American race with debuting Rolex 24 driver Anthony Bartone co-driving in GTD Pro alongside his AMG Performance Driver teammates Maxime Martin, Fabian Schiller and Luca Stolz. All ran competitively in a climb through the field from the drop of the green flag to secure the eventual fifth place GTD Pro finish.

The No. 32 team has run under several different names the last few seasons, but the debuting Korthoff Competition Motors era began at the Rolex 24. Rookie debuting team driver Seth Lucas led his first IMSA race laps on Saturday while his teammates Kenton Koch, Daniel Morad and Maximilian Götz were also on pace throughtout the race.

Götz was at the wheel of the No.32 for the final run to the finish early Sunday afternoon and battled for the GTD lead and top three for the majority of the race’s second half. Unfortunately, in the frantic fight to the finish, Götz was charged with an incident responsibility penalty with another competitor, and the ensuing delay dropped the No. 32 to an eventual ninth-place finish.

The fifth competing Mercedes-AMG team, Lone Star Racing, joined Winward in mounting its own comeback through the field after shaking off some early race penalties to get back on the lead lap overnight Saturday. The No. 80 Lone Star Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 was co-driven by Dan Knox, Scott Andrews, Eric Filgueiras and AMG Performance Driver Ralf Aron.

Andrews was at the wheel Sunday in the 8 a.m. hour when the team’s collective hard charge through the field was interrupted by a incident in the DIS infield. The damaged No. 80 was repaired back in the DIS garages, returned to the race after falling more than two dozen laps down and was later retired with only a few hours left and no chance to gain any significatnt points or positions.

By the time Lone Star’s race was over, the three remaining Mercedes-AMG entries were already locked in lead pack fights in their respective classes.

Winward Racing appeared to have the best chance to win at Daytona for a third time but a late caution that closed the pits gave the team no choice but to take emergency service for an overdue scheduled fuel stop. The ensuing penalty for entering a closed pit knocked the No. 57 out of winning contention late in the race, but closing driver Auer kept a charge on to the finish to score the Mercedes-AMG race-high fourth-place finish.

Winward Racing also led the Mercedes-AMG GT3 contingent in laps led in the race, pacing the GTD field for 102 circuits, but all five entries across the GTD Pro and GTD field led the race at some point for a combined 120 laps led.

Christoph Sagemüller, Head of Mercedes-AMG Motorsport: “We had some pretty tough days here at Daytona, facing lots of technical challenges, but all of the teams worked together very well. Long nights and lots of hard hours, and still we created a competitive package here for the 24 hours. This shows the team spirit we have. We share when we work together. Ending up on the podium or even winning the race, I wouldn’t have expected this, so we are very happy for the results as we had the pace and have been very close to this. Very thankful to all the teams that are involved and that worked so hard the last couple of days.”

Philip Ellis, Driver – No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3: “I’m super proud of everyone. I just have to thank not only our team here at Winward Racing, but also to the guys at AMG for putting us out there and being relatively competitive. A week ago it was a big unknown of where we would be. Then we had our own mishaps anyway with the throttle early in the race, and then being seven laps down and then coming back. The emergency fuel at the end basically took us out of the race, and then we were spun out. It’s like everything that could have went wrong did go wrong at the end. So, in the end I think fourth is a good result if you look at all the circumstances, but it’s a bitter taste after leading so much again. We were looking like it was going to be our third Rolex this year, but it’s all about good points too, with qualifying especially, so nothing’s lost. This race itself, it stings a little, but we have a good start to the season. We’ll just continue from here.”

Indy Dontje, Driver – No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3: “It was a short preparation with the new torque sensors, but I think Winward played a great part in this. They prepared it really well, especially with this new system, and together with Mercedes-AMG we found a solution to be really competitive in this race. I don’t think ever in my career that I’ve had this many setbacks, but also have never had those great comebacks, from seven laps down to going to the lead and then having a drive-through penalty. Then coming back again. From all the drivers to all the pit stops, a mega job by all. I just want to say thank you to Winward, to my teammates, to the partners of Winward and also to AMG for their hard work during these weeks. It was not an easy one, but in the end we made it work.”

Kenton Koch, Driver – No. 32 Korthoff Competition Motors Mercedes-AMG GT3: “Three years in a row, we’ve been in the top-five fighting for a win, but in the end just unfortunately we came up short on this one. It’s not for a lack of trying and effort from everyone. Unfortunately, there was an incident that occurred in which we have no idea what happened. They gave us a penalty, I didn’t see it on TV, but that took us out of the race. We kind of had some hope there at the end with our track position and that last yellow. It kind of brought us into the fight, but then with the penalty we got taken out of it again. It was mayhem out there. You saw the GTD Pro and GTD guys just getting after it. No one had any penalties regarding the new torque sensors. It’s a testimony to Mercedes-AMG to be able to get this entire program going so quickly.”

Luca Stolz, Driver – No. 69 Bartone Bros. Racing with Team GetSpeed Mercedes-AMG GT3: “Definitely, I am really, really proud of the team. It’s a joint venture between the Bartone Bros. and GetSpeed, and we raced IMSA for the first time. We were always in the game, always around the top five and even in the lead sometimes. The guys made a really nice strategy call with one hour to go. They basically rolled the dice and it was the right decision. We were still in it at the end, it wasn’t quite enough, but I’m still proud to finish the fight. Fabi managed it all really well.”

Fabian Schiller, Driver – No. 69 Bartone Bros. Racing with Team GetSpeed Mercedes-AMG GT3: “When we came here, we knew it would be a hard couple of weeks as it is our debut with the new torque sensors. Since the Roar and the practice days, we made some good steps forward with GetSpeed and Mercedes-AMG engineers. Going into the race, we knew we were on the backfoot. At night we had great pace and the usual great handling from the Mercedes-AMG GT3. We thought we might have a shot at it, but when the sun came out and warmed things up it was a little tougher for us. We didn’t have enough to fight for the podium, but fifth place is what we had today.”

Ralf Aron, Driver – No. 80 Lone Star Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3: “I think it’s very, very bittersweet! I know everybody’s happy that we got to prove what we could do, but to be honest, the first time I sat in the car in December I came out smiling because I knew what we could do. Lone Star has done a great job, the car is mega. Also, a big thanks to AMG as well because, at the beginning of the week, there was all this talk about torque sensors. Definitely, we were the manufacturer that needed to catch up, and the guys basically pulled a miracle because we were super competitive in the race and had cars fighting for wins at the end. I’m just really happy to be here, I’m super happy I got the opportunity. I mean, we were flying on track. We were in the lead pack in the fight for the win, which is all I wanted. Sometimes things go like this and unfortunate events happen. I guess we just have to move on and hopefully I get invited back here.”

ARCA Menards Series West at Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway

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Official Release
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West Coast Stock Car Motorsports Hall of Fame 150 Post-race Notes

  • Trevor Huddleston (No. 50 High Point Racing/Racecar Factory Ford) scored his third win in his last five ARCA Menards Series West starts in the season-opening West Coast Stock Car Motorsports Hall of Fame 150 at Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway. Huddleston has been dominant in each of those victories, leading 145 out of 150 laps at Madera Speedway and all 150 laps at All American Speedway at the end of the 2024 season, and 144 of the race’s 150 laps on Saturday.
  • Kyle Keller (No. 71 Jan’s Towing/Jan’s Racing Ford) earned his best career ARCA Menards Series finish on Saturday, bettering a trio of fourth-place runs including in his series debut at The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in 2020. Keller, who turned 20 on Saturday, nosed ahead of Huddleston down the backstretch but got loose off turn four while on the inside battling for the lead and finished 0.243 seconds behind.
  • Tanner Reif (No. 13 Central Coast Cabinets Toyota) finished third in his return to ARCA Menards Series West competition. Reif started second and jumped in front of General Tire Pole Award winner Daniel Hemric (No. 19 NAPA Auto Care Chevrolet) to lead the first six laps. Once he lost the lead, Reif stayed among the top five the rest of the way and gained a couple of positions on the race’s only restart to finish third. Reif is the older brother of 2024 West series runner-up Tyler Reif and is a two-time West race winner, winning at Irwindale Speedway and Evergreen Speedway in 2022.
  • Robbie Kennealy (No. 9 Jan’s Towing/Jan’s Racing Ford) finished fourth, his best career series finish and his first top-five finish since he finished fifth at Irwindale Speedway in his series debut in 2023, 12 starts ago.
  • Reigning Bounty Rookie of the Year Eric Johnson, Jr. (No. 5 Sherwin-Williams Toyota) finished fifth, his second career top-five finish; he finished a career-best fourth at Madera Speedway last fall.
  • Gavin Ray (No. 7 Jerry Pitts Racing Toyota) and Adrian Ferrer (No. 13 Central Coast Racing Toyota) finished sixth and seventh, respectively, in their ARCA Menards Series West debuts.
  • ARCA Menards Series regular Cody Dennison (No. 72 Timcast Chevrolet) finished eighth in his West debut.
  • Hemric faded to the last car on the lead lap while he was conserving tires in the first half of the race but came to life after the race’s first and only caution at lap 99. Hemric charged through the field and had closed to within three-quarters of a second of the leader, but a scrape with a lapped car within the final laps resulted in a flat right front tire and dropped to ninth at the finish, three laps down.
  • The next race for the ARCA Menards Series West is at Phoenix Raceway on Friday, March 7, a combination race with the ARCA Menards Series. The race will be televised live on FS1 at 8 pm ET/5 pm PT. The race will also be broadcast live on select affiliates of the MRN Radio network nationwide. Live timing and scoring data for all on-track activity is available at ARCARacing.com and up-to-the-minute updates are available by follow @ARCA_Racing on X (formerly known as Twitter).

About ARCA 
The Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA), founded in 1953 by John and Mildred Marcum in Toledo, Ohio, and acquired by NASCAR in April 2018, is the leading grassroots stock car sanctioning body in the United States. Bridging the gap between NASCAR’s top three national touring series and weekly and regional tour racing all across the country, the organization sanctions over 100 races per year in the ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East, ARCA Menards Series West, ASA STARS National Tour, ASA CRA Super Series, ASA Midwest Tour, ASA Southern Super Series plus weekly racing at Toledo and Flat Rock Speedways. For more information about ARCA visit www.arcaracing.com, or follow ARCA on Facebook (@ARCARacing) and Twitter (@ARCA_Racing). 

About Menards
A family-owned and run company started in 1958, Menards is recognized as the retail home center leader of the Midwest with 236 stores in 15 states.  Menards is truly a one-stop shop for all of your home improvement needs featuring a full-service lumberyard and everything you need to plan a renovation or build a home, garage, cabin, shed, deck, fence or post frame building.  You’ll find a large selection of lumber, roofing, siding, construction blocks, trusses, doors and windows, plus cabinets, appliances, countertops, flooring, lighting, paint, plumbing supplies and more.  To complete the job, Menards has quality hand tools, power tools, fasteners, electrical tools plus storage options and supplies for everyone from the weekend warrior to the pro!
 
Menards has what you need to complete your outdoor projects and keep your yard in tip-top shape including mowers, trimmers, blowers, pressure washers and more, plus a beautiful garden center stocked with plants, shrubs, trees, landscaping tools, grass seed, fertilizer options, outdoor décor and patio furniture.  Menards also has everyday essentials like health & beauty products, housewares, pet and wildlife supplies, automotive items and even groceries.  And at Christmas, an Enchanted Forest display area with impressive trees, lighting, decorations, ornaments, inflatables and more. 

Menards is known for friendly Customer Service and as the place to “Save Big Money” with low prices every day, and sales too!  For more information, please visit Menards.com to learn about our store locations, offerings and services.

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect UTV Windshield for Your Polaris Ranger

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Official Release
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Photo by dropthepress at https://depositphotos.com/

If you’re sick of dust in your eyes and wind whipping across your face every time you rev up your Polaris Ranger, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re hauling supplies on the farm or hitting off-road trails for a weekend adventure, a good UTV windshields can make a world of difference. It’s not just about keeping the bugs out of your teeth (though that’s a plus!); it’s about maximizing comfort, visibility, and safety every time you take your Polaris Ranger for a spin.

Today, we’re diving into everything you need to know about picking the perfect UTV windshield. From the different materials on the market to the mounting options that won’t drive you crazy, this guide will help you confidently choose a windshield that checks every box on your wish list. Ready? Let’s do this.

Why Your Polaris Ranger Deserves a Quality Windshield

Investing in a quality windshield for your Polaris Ranger isn’t just about looks. Sure, a sleek windshield can make your Ranger look more polished. But the real benefits go much deeper:

  1. Protection from the Elements
    Whether it’s chilly wind, flying debris, or those sneaky branches that come at you out of nowhere, a solid windshield keeps your face in one piece.
  2. Improved Visibility
    A crystal-clear UTV windshield ensures you see the trail ahead without squinting through dust and dirt. Better visibility means safer rides—simple as that.
  3. Comfortable Ride
    It’s hard to relax and enjoy the trail when the wind is whipping your hair in every direction. A windshield creates a cozy cabin, so you and your passengers can actually talk to each other without shouting.
  4. Resale Value
    If you decide to sell or trade in your Polaris Ranger, having a well-maintained, durable windshield could sweeten the deal and bump up your vehicle’s overall value.

Types of UTV Windshields: Which One Fits Your Style?

Windshields for UTVs, including Polaris Ranger accessories, generally fall into a few main categories: full windshields, half windshields, flip windshields, and tip-out windshields. Each type has its perks, depending on your riding style and the environment you tackle most often.

Full Windshields

  • Best For: All-weather riders who deal with mud, dust, and rain on the regular.
  • Key Benefit: Maximum protection against the elements, so you stay clean, dry, and comfortable.
  • Potential Downside: Reduced airflow. If you ride in hot climates, a full windshield can trap heat—unless it’s well-ventilated.

Half Windshields

  • Best For: Enthusiasts who want some wind in their face but still need a little protection from flying debris.
  • Key Benefit: Strikes a balance between visibility and airflow. Great for moderate conditions.
  • Potential Downside: You’ll still get a decent amount of dust and wind, so it’s not ideal for extreme weather rides.

Flip Windshields

  • Best For: Riders who want options. These windshields flip up or down, letting you decide just how much coverage you need.
  • Key Benefit: Versatility. You can go from a half to a full windshield in seconds.
  • Potential Downside: More moving parts mean you’ll want to check for secure latches to prevent rattling or damage.

Tip-Out Windshields

  • Best For: Drivers who crave airflow on demand but want a secure barrier when the weather turns sour.
  • Key Benefit: You can literally tip the top of the windshield out to vent the cabin or lock it in place when you need full coverage.
  • Potential Downside: Similar to flip windshields, the extra mechanical components can lead to more upkeep.

Materials Matter: Polycarbonate vs. Glass vs. Acrylic

Once you’ve got a sense of which type of windshield suits your riding style, it’s time to talk materials. UTV windshields typically come in polycarbonate, glass, or acrylic.

  1. Polycarbonate (Lexan)
    • Strength: Incredibly tough and impact-resistant, making it a top choice if you tackle rugged trails.
    • Clarity: Can scratch more easily than glass if not treated with a hard coating, but modern polycarbonate often comes with scratch-resistant layers.
    • Weight: Lightweight, so it won’t slow you down or overwork your engine.
  2. Glass
    • Durability: Usually quite durable, especially if you opt for laminated or tempered glass.
    • Visibility: Crystal clear and more resistant to scratches, which helps maintain visibility long-term.
    • Weight: Heavier than polycarbonate, potentially affecting fuel efficiency and handling slightly.
  3. Acrylic
    • Affordability: Often the least expensive option.
    • Clarity: Great clarity initially but can scratch easily without special coatings.
    • Maintenance: More prone to cracks and chips when exposed to debris or rough conditions.

Pro Tip: Many Polaris Ranger owners gravitate toward polycarbonate for its blend of toughness and decent clarity—especially if it’s hard-coated to resist scratches. That said, if you’re focused on long-term clarity and minimal scratches, you might consider glass.

Critical Considerations Before You Purchase

Proper Fit

A windshield that doesn’t fit snugly can be more than an inconvenience—it can lead to rattling sounds, water leakage, and an increased risk of damage over time. To avoid those problems, choose a windshield made specifically for your Polaris Ranger model. A precise fit ensures a secure seal, which helps keep the elements out and your comfort level high.

Mounting and Hardware

Most windshields for Polaris Rangers are sold with brackets or clamps designed for straightforward, bolt-on installation. However, not all hardware is created equal. Look for sturdy mounting components that resist vibrations and won’t loosen up when you hit higher speeds. Bonus points if your windshield comes with rubber edging or protective seals, which minimize scratching and dampen noise.

Adequate Airflow

Riding in a hot climate—or simply prefer some fresh air during your adventures? Select a windshield equipped with vents or a flip-up section. This lets you adjust airflow on the fly, so you’re not stuck with stale air in the cab or forced to endure dust and debris flying at your face.

If your local laws allow UTVs on public roads, you might need a windshield that meets specific safety standards to comply with street-legal regulations. In many places, this means opting for a windshield that is DOT-approved. Double-check the requirements in your area to ensure you’re choosing the right model for legal, worry-free travel.

Cost Considerations

When it comes to price, windshields for Polaris Rangers can range from under $200 to well over $1,000. If you have a tighter budget, a half windshield or a basic acrylic panel can be a workable solution. On the other hand, if you ride often or need protection against harsh conditions, investing in a premium polycarbonate or glass windshield can save you from costly replacements later.

How to Maintain Your UTV Windshield (and Keep It Crystal Clear)

You’ve spent time picking out the perfect windshield—so don’t let dirt and scratches ruin it. Here’s how to maintain it for the long haul:

  1. Gentle Cleaning: Use a soft cloth or microfiber towel to avoid scratching the surface. If you’re dealing with caked-on mud, rinse thoroughly with water before wiping.
  2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Ammonia-based cleaners can damage certain coatings and discolor your windshield over time. Instead, use a cleaner specifically designed for UTV or motorcycle windshields.
  3. Perform Regular Inspections: Check for cracks, chips, or loose hardware after every few rides, especially if you frequent rocky trails. Catching small issues early prevents them from becoming major (and pricey) headaches later on.
  4. Protect with Covers: If you store your Polaris Ranger outdoors, consider a UTV cover that fits over your windshield. This extra layer shields it from dust, UV rays, and inclement weather.

Making the Final Decision: Questions to Ask Yourself

  1. Where Do I Ride Most Often?
    Rocky trails and muddy terrains might call for polycarbonate. Smooth surfaces and mild weather? Maybe an acrylic or glass windshield will do.
  2. How Important Is Airflow?
    If you hate feeling cooped up, you may want a half or flip windshield. If you prefer an enclosed feel, a full windshield—possibly with vents—is your best friend.
  3. What’s My Budget?
    Be honest about how much you’re willing to invest. You don’t want to blow your budget only to discover you needed a more versatile, slightly pricier option.
  4. Am I Going Street Legal?
    If you plan to take your Ranger on public roads, look for a DOT-approved windshield to avoid any legal hassles.

Installation Tips for a Hassle-Free Experience

  • Lay Out All the Parts First: Double-check you have every bolt, clamp, and bracket before you start. Missing hardware can halt the entire process.
  • Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions: This sounds obvious, but every windshield is different. A quick glance at the manual can save you hours of frustration.
  • Use a Buddy System: Windshields can be bulky or awkward to position. A second pair of hands makes aligning the clamps much easier.
  • Don’t Overtighten: Cranking bolts too tight can crack acrylic or polycarbonate windshields. Tighten just enough so the windshield is secure without warping the material.

Ready to Roll? Here’s Your Next Step

You’ve got all the info you need to choose the best UTV windshield for your Polaris Ranger—so the next move is up to you. Whether you go for a rugged polycarbonate full windshield or a slick glass tip-out, make your decision based on your riding style and your comfort needs. After all, the perfect windshield should feel like it was made just for you (and your Ranger, of course).

  • Action Step: Check out reputable UTV accessory retailers or your local powersports dealer for a hands-on look at different windshield types.
  • Pro Tip: Read reviews from fellow Polaris Ranger owners. They’ve been where you are, so their insights can confirm whether a windshield stands up to daily demands—or falls short.

Final Thoughts

A well-chosen windshield might seem like a small detail, but it can transform your Polaris Ranger experience. Imagine cutting through the wind without swallowing dust, or exploring muddy trails without turning into a dirt magnet. With the right windshield, your Ranger becomes more than a utility vehicle—it becomes your ticket to freedom, comfort, and all-around adventure.

So go ahead, pick the windshield that best matches your style and needs. Install it correctly, maintain it regularly, and prepare for a smoother, safer ride every time you hit the throttle. Because when you’re out exploring trails or getting the job done on the ranch, the last thing you need is to fuss over a poorly chosen windshield. You deserve the best, and now you know exactly how to find it.

Black Widow to Sponsor Daniel Dye at Talladega Superspeedway

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Official Release
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Daytona Beach, FL – Black Widow Trucks is proud to announce its role as the primary sponsor for Daniel Dye and the No. 10 Kaulig Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Talladega Superspeedway. Renowned for their bold custom pickup truck upfits, Black Widow Trucks brings its high-performance spirit to one of motorsports’ most iconic venues.

Aligning with Daniel Dye Racing, Black Widow Trucks embraces the team’s competitive drive and commitment to excellence. Daniel Dye is set to demonstrate the speed and skill that make Talladega a favorite among fans, all while proudly showcasing the Black Widow Trucks brand.

“I couldn’t be more excited to have Black Widow Trucks onboard our No. 10 Chevy at Talladega,” stated driver Daniel Dye. “To be able to represent such a cool company like Black Widow at such a cool racetrack is great. Last year, we finished seventh at Indy with Black Widow onboard, so hopefully, we can finish six spots better this year at Talladega.”

Daniel Dye Racing welcomes back Black Widow Trucks to its family of dedicated partners and anticipates a successful collaboration at Talladega. This partnership promises an action-packed weekend.

About Black Widow Trucks
Black Widow Trucks designs and engineers premium truck packages that enhance style, performance, and capability. With meticulous craftsmanship, Black Widow Trucks creates head-turning vehicles that stand out on the road. For more information, visit www.blackwidowtrucks.com.

EVENT RECAP: Wright Motorsports Earns Bittersweet Second Place at Rolex 24 at Daytona

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Official Release
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NEXT UP: TWELVE HOURS OF SEBRING
SEBRING INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY | MARCH 12-15

DAYTONA, Fla. (January 27, 2025) – Under sunny Florida skies on Sunday afternoon, Wright Motorsports secured an impressive podium finish at the 63rd Rolex 24 at Daytona. Racing the No. 120 Porsche 911 GT3 R, the team delivered a remarkable second-place result in the grueling 24-hour endurance event. However, the achievement came with a bittersweet note, as a late-race caution dashed their hopes of victory in the final hour.

The season began on a high note for the seasoned Porsche team, as they captured pole position for the longest race of the year, setting the tone for a competitive weekend. With drivers Adam Adelson, Elliott Skeer, Ayhancan Güven, and Tom Sargent, the team showed strong form from the start at Daytona International Speedway. Skeer claimed his first career pole position at the prestigious event, leading the field to the green flag on Saturday morning. His flawless opening stint saw the No. 120 Porsche dominate at the front of the field, establishing a consistent pace that would keep the car in contention throughout the race. Despite the ebb and flow of pit stop cycles and cautions, the team maintained their composure, consistently running in the top five and preserving the car for a strong finish.

Wright Motorsports demonstrated their hallmark efficiency and precision on pit lane, with flawless strategy calls and expertly executed pit stops playing a crucial role in their performance. As always, drama was inevitable at the Rolex 24. The No. 120 Porsche avoided several incidents, although it endured minor contact during the action-packed race.

The team led for a total of 140 laps, but heartbreak struck in the final hours. A poorly timed full-course caution forced the team to make an emergency pit stop for fuel while the pits were closed. Per IMSA regulations, this resulted in a drive-through penalty, dropping the team from the lead to ninth place. Undeterred, the drivers mounted an extraordinary comeback, climbing back to second position in the closing laps. With just ten more minutes, a victory fight might have been within reach, but time ran out, leaving the team to settle for second place.

Despite the disappointment of a narrowly missed win, Wright Motorsports begins the season in a strong position, earning valuable points in both the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and the Michelin Endurance Cup. Exiting the Rolex 24, the team sits just ten points behind the championship leaders, poised for a competitive season ahead.

Next, Wright Motorsports heads to Sebring International Raceway for the Twelve Hours of Sebring, March 12-15. The second longest race of the year also marks the next round of the Michelin Endurance Cup. With drivers Adam Adelson, Elliott Skeer, and new addition Tom Sargent, the team will aim to improve on last year’s third-place finish. For more event details, visit IMSA.com.

DRIVER QUOTES

Adam Adelson

This Rolex 24 is very bittersweet. This is our second time racing at Daytona. We had such a strong car, such a strong driver lineup with an incredible team who knows how to call the strategy perfectly. We were leading and got super unlucky with that yellow flag. We thought our changes with the podium were done. Ayhancan had an insane drive to put us back on the podium after the final stop. Anytime you have a result like this—second on the second biggest endurance race in the world—and you feel this bad about not having won, it means you’re doing something right and it means you can expect more results like this in the future. We know what we can do. We performed well and did everything we needed to. Lady luck didn’t go our way today and that’s okay. That’s just the way this sport is. The team did an absolute incredible job from making difficult strategy jobs. Risky ones put us in the best position to win the race but also maximize our endurance points. They executed every pit stop flawlessly, and I can’t thank them enough. They did an incredible job.

Elliott Skeer

What an unbelievable, bittersweet, wild, emotional day this was. To be up front all day! We had an incredible car and team, and the drivers keep the car up front. We all had our little moments, as any driver does in an endurance race. Ultimately, to get in the car and be at the front of the grid felt amazing. It’s a wild feeling and when you’re in the lead with an hour to go, and a couple minutes later due to unforeseen things happening on track that are out of your control, you feel like you’re on the other end of the scale. To climb back to second in 40 minutes at the end of a 24-hour race, I don’t know how to put that into words. I’m so proud of this whole team and going through this adventure the way we did.

Tom Sargent

This feeling hurts, but is sweet at the same time. It’s bittersweet. If I was to think at the start of last week that we were going to get second place at the Rolex 24 At Daytona, I would have been over the moon, but when you know you came so close and something that was out of your control meant we didn’t end up there with a watch hurts a lot. I’m proud of everyone on this team. Everyone did a great job. It was my first 24 hour and I’m happy with how I did. The longest I had done was an eight-hour, so I didn’t have previous firsthand experience on how it was going to work. The team did amazing. The team was really on top of all their pit stops, their decisions, and our pit stops. The car was great every time we got in. This one will hurt for a little while, but it’ll sink in and make us hungrier when we come back next time.

Ayhancan Güven

This is the end of my first Daytona with Wright Motorsports and my teammates. We scored second place and I think everyone on the team did an amazing job. I’m really proud of us as a group. It was my first race with Wright and in IMSA. I really enjoyed working with them. As a group, they are really professional. The race was all about surviving in the first hours, which we managed. We had a great race car. We were careful in the last part in the race and brought the car back in one piece. We were leading until the last pit stop, and then there was a super unlucky full course caution where I was coming to pit, but they closed the pit. Unfortunately, I was out of fuel and it was my in-lap. This cost us an emergency stop and then a penalty. We went from first to ninth, and we were the last car the lead lap. In the last 40 minutes they told me to go all in. I tried my best and it was only second place. If we had ten more minutes, we could have made it. I’m so proud of the performance we showed.

Wright Motorsports

Wright Motorsports is the premier Porsche race engineering facility in Ohio and a multi-series and international racing team known for superb car preparation, expert race strategy, and driver development. Located in Batavia, Ohio. Known for consistency and top performance, Wright Motorsports has won numerous driver and team championships in World Challenge, IMSA Weather Tech, the American Le Mans Series, Michelin Pilot Challenge, Porsche Carrera Cup North America, and the Grand-Am Rolex Series.

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