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CrowdStrike Racing by APR Takes Aim at Rolex 24

  • George Kurtz to drive CrowdStrike Racing by APR ORECA 07 LMP2 at Daytona
  • Toby Sowery, Malthe Jakobsen, Colton Herta to join Kurtz in No. 04 prototype
  • CrowdStrike Racing by APR seeks first win after consecutive runner-up finishes

AUSTIN, Texas (December 5, 2024) – CrowdStrike Racing by APR (Algarve Pro Racing) is returning to the high banks of Daytona International Speedway for the biggest prize in North American sports car racing – the Rolex 24 At Daytona.

For the third consecutive year, George Kurtz will be part of the LMP2 grid for the opening round of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. He is teaming with Colton Herta, Toby Sowery and Malthe Jakobsen as the CrowdStrike by APR team aims for its first Rolex 24 victory.

CrowdStrike Racing by APR have finished as class runners-up by a combined 6.816 seconds the last two years at Daytona. Notably, in 2023, CrowdStrike by APR was part of the closest finish in the 61-year history of the Rolex 24, missing the win by a razor-thin 0.016 seconds.

This year’s race marks Kurtz’s fifth Rolex 24 appearance, with prior starts in the LMP2 and LMP3 prototype classes. Both Sowery and Jakobsen made their Rolex 24 debuts last year, delivering standout performances. Jakobsen was the second-fastest LMP2 driver in the race, trailing only then-teammate Colin Braun. Jakobsen carried that momentum into last month’s IMSA-sanctioned test at Daytona, where he topped the LMP2 field over two days.

CrowdStrike Racing by APR is continuing its preparations for the 2025 Rolex 24 At Daytona, scheduled for January 25-26. The team will participate in the three-day Roar Before the 24 on January 17-19.

For more information, visit CrowdStrikeRacing.com. Follow #CrowdStrikeRacing

on Facebook, X and Instagram for updates.

CrowdStrike by APR Team Quotes

George Kurtz, CrowdStrike by APR Driver: “Daytona is a benchmark for endurance racing, and I’m excited to return with CrowdStrike Racing by APR for another shot at the Rolex 24. Over the past two years, we’ve been incredibly close to victory, and that fuels our determination. The November test showed the power of our team, with Malthe and Toby delivering exceptional speed and consistency. I’m confident we’re ready to rise to the challenge and aim for the top.”

Stewart Cox, Team Principal, Algarve Pro Racing: “Nobody goes into a series like the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship or an individual race like the Rolex 24 At Daytona to finish second, and it’s demoralising when you miss out on the victory after 24 hours. Having finished runner-up the last two years, CrowdStrike Racing by APR has done even more preparation in readiness for the 2025 edition of the Rolex 24 and, from a team perspective, we feel we’re a little further down the road. We will once again be among some really strong team-driver combinations, but we have the car and line-up to win it and just have to join the dots. We’ve got a job to do!”

About CrowdStrike

CrowdStrike (Nasdaq: CRWD), a global cybersecurity leader, has redefined modern security with the world’s most advanced cloud-native platform for protecting critical areas of enterprise risk — endpoints and cloud workloads, identity and data.

Powered by the CrowdStrike Security Cloud and world-class AI, the CrowdStrike Falcon® platform leverages real-time indicators of attack, threat intelligence, evolving adversary tradecraft and enriched telemetry from across the enterprise to deliver hyper-accurate detections, automated protection and remediation, elite threat hunting and prioritized observability of vulnerabilities. Purpose-built in the cloud with a single lightweight-agent architecture, the Falcon platform delivers rapid and scalable deployment, superior protection and performance, reduced complexity and immediate time-to-value.

CrowdStrike: We stop breaches.

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2023 CrowdStrike, Inc. All rights reserved. CrowdStrike, the falcon logo, CrowdStrike Falcon and CrowdStrike Threat Graph are marks owned by CrowdStrike, Inc. and registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, and in other countries. CrowdStrike owns other trademarks and service marks, and may use the brands of third parties to identify their products and services.

BRENT SEXTON WRAPPED UP HIS 2024 SEASON AT THE TURKEY NIGHT GRAND PRIX

Brent Sexton at Perris Auto Speedway in August. Kenny Lonngren photo.

(Lakeside, CA, December 4, 2023) A little over 10 months after it all began, Sexton Gatlin Racing’s Brent Sexton wrapped up the 2024 campaign on Thanksgiving weekend in the 83rd running of the Turkey Night Grand Prix at the Ventura Raceway. The veteran racer competed in the Inland Rigging Ultimate Sprint Car Series portion of the program.

The two-night show matched Lakeside, California-based Sexton against a stellar field of drivers from around the nation. Friday’s preliminary night saw 50 cars show up at the tiny 1/5 of a mile track on the beach at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. Sexton, a 52-year-old Tennessee native, qualified fifth fastest in his group with a lap of 12.789. Powered by a former Rico Abreu Shaver 360 engine, the three-time lightning sprint car champion had a good starting position in his heat race on the inside of row three. Unfortunately, a tap with another car saw his right rear go flat. The deflation saw him finish 10th.

That flat tire meant that Brent had to go to one of the B mains. The race was only 12 laps long and would go by in the blink of an eye on the little track. Starting ninth in the 10-car field, the wily veteran had to finish third to transfer to the A main. The laps wound down quickly and Sexton drove his way to sixth. However, time ran out before he could get past three more cars, and he was done for the night.

The following evening, Brent had one shot at making the A-main. That came in one of the three B mains. It was a 12-lapper like Friday night, and he was starting ninth. However, this time he only had to get to fourth. Once again, he began passing cars and raced his way up to sixth. But like the night before, the laps ticked off quickly. Brent ended up two spots shy of the transfer. That ended his racing weekend and put wraps on his 2024 season.

SGR is already making plans for the 2025 campaign, with the first race of the year coming in February. If you would like to join the team for a fun, exciting ride on the sprint car trail, call Brent Sexton or email him at the contact information at the top of this release.

Sexton Gatlin Racing would like to thank the following companies for making the 2024 season possible. East County Electric Works, Keys Brothers, BR Motorsports, Maxima Oil, Automated Interiors, Valley Lubricant Services, Sexton Fire Protection, BK Wings, Troy Dirt.

Brent Sexton 2024 Results

2/24/24 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 15th A Main

3/1/24 Imperial Valley Raceway SoCal Lightning Sprints 4th A Main

3/2/24 Imperial Valley Raceway SoCal Lightning Sprints 2nd A Main

3/8/24 Imperial Valley Raceway Imperial Valley 360/410 Sprint Cars 12th A Main

3/9/24 Imperial Valley Raceway Imperial Valley 360/410 Sprint Cars 16th A Main

3/16/24 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 13th A Main

3/23/24 Cocopah Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 14th A Main

4/6/24 Mohave Valley Raceway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 17th A Main

4/20/24 Bakersfield Speedway USCS Sprint Cars 25th A Main

4/20/24 Bakersfield Speedway California Lightning Sprints 6th A Main

4/27/24 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 16th A Main

5/18/24 Bakersfield Speedway California Lightning Sprints 6th A Main

5/25/24 Barona Speedway SoCal Lightning Sprints 1st A Main

6/1/24 Ventura Raceway USCS Sprint Cars 10th A Main

6/8/24 Barona Speedway SoCal Lightning Sprints 5th A Main

6/22/24 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 13th A Main

7/6/24 Santa Maria Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 15th A Main

7/13/24 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 9th A Main

7/20/24 Ventura Raceway USCS Sprint Cars 7th B Main

8/10/24 Santa Maria Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 14th A Main

8/31/24 Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 13th A Main

9/1/24 Santa Maria Raceway USCS Sprint Cars 9th A Main

9/13/24 Bakersfield Speedway California Lightning Sprints 7th A Main

9/14/24 Ventura Raceway USCS Sprint Cars 14th A Main

9/21/24 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 11th A Main

10/18/24 Imperial Valley Raceway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 13th A Main

10/19/24 Imperial Valley Raceway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 13th A Main

11/1/24 Mohave Valley Raceway Western World Championships 18th B Main

11/2/24 Mohave Valley Raceway Western World Championships 10th B Main

11/29/24 Ventura Raceway USCS Turkey Night Grant Prix 6th B Main

11/30/24 Ventura Raceway USCS Turkey Night Grant Prix 6th B Main

Grant Sexton 2024 Results

2/24/24 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 18th A Main

3/8/24 Imperial Valley Raceway Imperial Valley 360/410 Sprint Cars 9th A Main

3/9/24 Imperial Valley Raceway Imperial Valley 360/410 Sprint Cars 5th A Main

3/16/24 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 21st A Main

3/23/24 Cocopah Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 16th A Main

4/6/24 Mohave Valley Raceway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 11th A Main

4/20/24 Bakersfield Speedway USCS Sprint Cars 16th A Main

4/27/24 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 19th A Main

5/11/24 Barona Speedway So Cal Lightning Sprints 3rd A Main

5/18/24 Bakersfield Speedway USCS Sprint Car Series 5th A Main

6/1/24 Ventura Raceway USCS Sprint Cars 3rd A Main

6/22/24 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 6th A Main

7/6/24 Santa Maria Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 20th A Main

7/20/24 Ventura Raceway USCS Sprint Cars 7th A Main

8/10/24 Santa Maria Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 23rd A Main

8/31/24 Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 20th A Main

9/1/24 Santa Maria Raceway USCS Sprint Cars 24th A Main

9/14/24 Ventura Raceway USCS Sprint Cars 9th A Main

9/21/24 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 21st A Main

10/18/24 Imperial Valley Raceway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 21st A Main

10/19/24 Imperial Valley Raceway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 11th A Main

11/1/24 Mohave Valley Raceway Western World Championships 26th A Main

11/2/24 Mohave Valley Raceway Western World Championships 23rd A Main

Braydin Collie 2024 Results

7/6/24 Santa Maria Speedway California Lightning Sprints 6th A Main

8/3/24 Barona Speedway SoCal Lightning Sprints 5th A Main

8/17/24 Barona Speedway SoCal Lightning Sprints 9th A Main

9/28/24 Barona Speedway SoCal Lightning Sprints 6th A Main

10/18/24 Imperial Valley Raceway SoCal Lightning Sprints 7th A Main

10/19/24 Imperial Valley Raceway SoCal Lightning Sprints 2nd A Main

10/26/24 Barona Speedway So Cal Lightning Sprints 7th A Main

AJ Bender 2024 Results

9/14/24 Ventura Raceway California Lightning Sprints 5th A Main

Back-to-Back Indy 500 Winner Newgarden Unveils Second Image on Borg-Warner Trophy

INDIANAPOLIS (Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024) – 2024 Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge winner Josef Newgarden unveiled his likeness on the Borg-Warner Trophy on Dec. 4 in Indianapolis, one of the most significant honors since he won his second Indy 500 on May 26 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Newgarden, a native of Nashville, Tennessee, earned his second victory in “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” in the No. 2 Shell Powering Progress Team Penske Chevrolet. This was the 20th Indy 500 victory for Team Penske, and Newgarden is the first back-to-back winner since Helio Castroneves won his second Indy 500 while driving for Team Penske in 2002.

The unveiling ceremony took place at COhatch Polk Stables, a coworking space for entrepreneurs and startups located in downtown Indianapolis.

The bas-relief, sterling silver image of Newgarden is the 111th face to be affixed to the iconic trophy, awarded annually to the winner of the Indianapolis 500 since 1936.

“Having my face added to the Borg-Warner Trophy is one of the coolest parts about winning the race,” Newgarden said. “Seeing the finished product, with two side-by-side images of my face, is an unbelievable honor, and I look forward to hopefully adding a third likeness to the row after this year’s Indy 500.”

Renowned sculptor Will Behrends created Newgarden’s image, as he has for every winner since 1990.

Each face on the trophy is unique, even for a back-to-back winner like Newgarden. Behrends starts from scratch each year and begins his creative process by studying a series of 360-degree photos of the winner to get a baseline for sculpting before constructing a full-scale model of the driver’s face. Normally a driver would visit Behrends’ studio in Tryon, North Carolina, for an in-person session. This year’s visit was impacted by Hurricane Helene, so Newgarden and Behrends met virtually to make the final adjustments to the full-scale model.

This life-size clay version is used as reference for Behrends to construct the smaller model, a piece created out of a mixture of oil-based clay. The smaller clay model is turned into a mold and cast in wax before being sent to a jeweler to be transformed into sterling silver. Behrends completes his process by polishing and buffing the sculpture before attaching it to the trophy.

“Today is a special day for Josef and BorgWarner,” said Michelle Collins, global director marketing and public relations for BorgWarner. “Josef is one of only six drivers to win back-to-back Indianapolis 500 victories in the race’s 113-year history, and unveiling his face on this spectacular trophy cements his mark not only in INDYCAR, but all of motorsports. BorgWarner is honored to uphold the tradition of the Borg-Warner Trophy and celebrate Josef’s historic 2024 Indianapolis 500 win.”

Originally designed in 1935, the sterling silver trophy measures over 5 feet, 4-3/4 inches tall and weighs more than 110 pounds as it carries the sculpted face of every victor since 1911.

Early next year, Newgarden will receive his BorgWarner Championships Driver’s Trophy, also known as a “Baby Borg,” a miniature replica of the large-scale Borg-Warner Trophy.

Tickets for the 109th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge and all Month of May events at Indianapolis Motor Speedway are on sale at IMS.com.

TOYOTA TO CONCLUDE NHRA INVOVLEMENT FOLLOWING 2025 SEASON

PLANO, Texas (December 4, 2024) – After over two decades of on-track success, Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) will conclude its participation in NHRA Drag Racing competition following the upcoming 2025 season.

“Our NHRA Drag Racing involvement has brought much success and pride across our entire organization,” said Paul Doleshal, group manager, motorsports, TMNA. “Our NHRA drivers and teams have truly become part of our Toyota family. We look forward to competing for more wins and championships with our supported teams in the upcoming season, and we will work diligently along the way to make sure each team and driver have the tools necessary to compete at the highest level for the years to come.”

Toyota currently provides its NHRA teams with tow vehicles, along with engineering, technology and trackside support through TRD U.S.A., which will continue through the balance of the 2025 season. Toyota partners with AB Motorsports, DC Motorsports, Kalitta Motorsports, Ron Capps Motorsports, SCAG Racing’s Top Fuel program and Torrence Racing.

TMNA first entered NHRA Drag Racing competition in 2002 and won for the first time at the Winternationals in March of 2004. Since then, Toyota has captured over 200 race wins, 12 world championships, including back-to-back titles in Top Fuel with Doug Kalitta and Antron Brown, and enters 2025 with a 43-race final round consecutive streak. Toyota has also held the official car of the NHRA title since 2014 and won its first manufacturers cup championship this year.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs more than 63,000 people in North America who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 47 million cars and trucks at our 12 manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 13th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 29 electrified options.

For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

Delaney Gray secures 2024 INEX North Carolina Bandolero Bandit championship

Delaney Gray has been officially named the 2024 INEX North Carolina Bandolero Bandit champion.

LA GRANGE, N.C. (Dec. 4, 2024) – For the first time in INEX history, a female competitor has captured the North Carolina Bandolero Bandit state championship.

That competitor is 12-year-old Delaney Gray, who secured the state championship thanks to an incredible season that included 21 victories and 31 top five finishes. Her wins came at a variety of tracks, including Southern National Motorsports Park and New River All American Speedway.

“Seeing Delaney’s hard work and determination pay off is extremely gratifying,” said Brandon Gray, Delaney’s father. “She has to work extremely hard to race at a competitive level and it’s simply amazing to see what God is doing in her life and the lessons she is learning. She has a big heart and a ton of drive to be successful and she has a great mentor in her crew chief, Blaise Brinkley.

“Blaise has helped her development to a point she could contend for a state title. This is just as much his as it is hers. I’m so proud of what they have accomplished together.”

The INEX North Carolina Bandolero Bandit state championship is a monumental achievement for Gray, who began her racing career just a few short years ago.

Last year she ranked fourth in the North Carolina Bandolero Bandit standings after scoring 11 wins, which gave her all the motivation she needed to pursue the championship again during the 2024 season.

“Being crowned the North Carolina Bandit champion is an honor and my largest accomplishment so far,” said Delaney Gray. “Being the first female to accomplish this in my age bracket is so amazing. I’m so thankful God has blessed me the ability and platform to perform at a high level. I hope that I can encourage other your females to follow their dreams and show them that hard work pays off.

“I owe a big thank you to my Mom and Dad, crew chief Blaise Brinkley, Matt and Zach for always believing in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself. I want to Thank my sisters Emalyn and Olivia for traveling all over and giving up valuable family time for me to race. Mr. Mike Gordon, I do not know what else to say. Words cannot express how grateful I am that you took me in, treated me like family and gave us bad fast cars. And finally, Miss Tonya from MPM Marketing, you are much more than my agent, you are a life coach, mentor and a dear friend to me.”

Delaney is already looking forward to the upcoming 2025 season. Her plans will be announced soon.

Delaney would like to thank her family and all of her sponsors, including Carolina Family Pool & Patio, MPM Marketing, Bob’s Muffler Shop of Goldsboro, W.G. Speeks Inc., Carolina Mobile Refrigeration, K1 RaceGear and Swift Springs.

About McCallister Precision Marketing

McCallister Precision Marketing (MPM) focuses on assisting up-and-coming race car drivers with career advancement and promotion. McCallister Precision Marketing helps drivers build confidence in front of and behind the camera, giving them the tools they need to advance to the next level. The company also provides companies with a strategic plan for their sales, marketing and promotional needs. We believe in building positive relationships with our clients so that we may provide them with the most professional, yet personal guidance they need, in order to achieve their racing goals. Our clients include race car drivers, race team owners, companies and racing series’. We also work closely with charities and charity events. For more information on McCallister Precision Marketing, visit www.MarketWithMPM.com, email TonyaMac44@MarketWithMPM.com or call 803-361-6199.

Cardaddy.co.za: Revolutionizing Car Buying in South Africa

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

If you’re a petrolhead with a need for speed, you know that the thrill of racing isn’t confined to the track. It’s in the roar of the engine, the grip of the tires on asphalt, and yes, even in the pursuit of the perfect car deal. For our fellow enthusiasts in South Africa, navigating the bustling car market can feel like maneuvering through a high-stakes race. That’s where Cardaddy.co.za enters the scene—a game-changing platform that’s shifting gears in how South Africans buy cars.

The South African Automotive Landscape

South Africa’s car market is as diverse and dynamic as a NASCAR starting grid. From rugged 4x4s ready to conquer the wild savannah to sleek sedans built for city cruising, there’s a ride for every kind of driver. However, with diversity comes complexity. Prices fluctuate wildly, and it’s not always clear if you’re getting value for your hard-earned Rand.

Enter Cardaddy.co.za: Your Digital Co-Pilot

Imagine having a seasoned pit crew analyzing every car listing you consider, ensuring you get the best deal possible. Cardaddy.co.za does just that. This innovative website allows users to input car listing URLs and instantly assess whether the selling price is a good value. It’s like having your own team of experts working tirelessly behind the scenes, so you can focus on the joy of the drive.

How It Works

Using Cardaddy.co.za is as straightforward as a victory lap. Found a car that catches your eye on any South African car listing platform? Simply copy the URL and paste it into Cardaddy.co.za’s search bar. The platform then crunches the numbers, comparing the listed price against a comprehensive database of similar vehicles. Factors like make, model, year, mileage, and condition are all taken into account.

Within moments, you’ll receive a detailed report indicating whether the car is priced fairly, overpriced, or is an absolute steal. It’s real-time, data-driven insight that puts you firmly in the driver’s seat of your purchasing journey.

Why It Matters to Motorsport Enthusiasts

At SpeedwayMedia.com, we live and breathe racing. We understand that true enthusiasts don’t just watch races—they live them. That passion extends to the cars we drive every day. Whether you’re hunting for a high-performance machine that echoes the power of a NASCAR stock car or a reliable vehicle to get you to the next big race, knowing you’re getting a good deal enhances the entire experience.

Cardaddy.co.za empowers buyers with knowledge. In a market where overpaying can leave you trailing behind, having access to accurate pricing data is invaluable. It’s the difference between taking the checkered flag and being left in the dust.

Bridging the Gap Between Buyers and Sellers

The platform isn’t just a win for buyers; it’s a boon for sellers too. Transparency in pricing helps sellers set competitive prices, ensuring their listings attract genuine interest and lead to quicker sales. It’s a symbiotic relationship that enhances the overall health of the automotive marketplace in South Africa.

A Tool for All Drivers

While our hearts race for motorsports, we recognize that not every driver is looking for high-octane thrills. Cardaddy.co.za caters to everyone—from first-time car buyers to seasoned collectors. The platform demystifies the buying process, making it accessible regardless of your automotive knowledge.

Safety and Trust in the Digital Age

Buying a car can be as risky as navigating a tight corner at high speed. There are pitfalls like hidden mechanical issues, fraudulent listings, and overpriced deals that can spin you out of control. Cardaddy.co.za adds a layer of safety, helping users identify and avoid these hazards. By promoting transparency, it fosters trust in online car transactions—a victory for all parties involved.

Embracing Innovation in the Automotive World

The automotive industry thrives on innovation. Just as advancements in technology have propelled motorsports to new heights, platforms like Cardaddy.co.za are revolutionizing how we buy cars. They harness the power of data analytics and user-friendly design to enhance the purchasing experience.

For tech-savvy consumers, this integration of technology and automotive passion is a natural progression. It streamlines the process, saves time, and reduces the stress often associated with car buying.

The Impact on South Africa’s Car Market

South Africa’s car market is ripe for such innovation. With a growing online presence, consumers are seeking tools that can help them make smarter decisions. Cardaddy.co.za meets this need head-on, potentially reshaping buying behaviors and setting new standards for fairness and transparency.

Final Thoughts

We’re excited about what Cardaddy.co.za brings to the table—or rather, the garage. It’s a tool that aligns with our commitment to supporting the automotive community, from the racetracks to the city streets.

For our readers in South Africa, or anyone interested in the global car market, Cardaddy.co.za is worth checking out. It’s not just about finding a good deal; it’s about embracing the future of car buying—a future where technology and trust go hand in hand.

So the next time you’re scrolling through car listings, remember you’ve got a new ally in your corner. Let Cardaddy.co.za be your co-driver on the road to finding the perfect ride. After all, every great driver knows the value of a strong team.

The world of car buying is changing gears, and with platforms like Cardaddy.co.za, the finish line has never looked better. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of the race or the practicality of a daily driver, make sure you’re equipped with the best tools for the journey ahead.

Visit Cardaddy.co.za today and take control of your car buying experience. Because in the race of life, it’s not just about speed—it’s about making every move count.

Are Track Owners Liable for Spectator or Driver Injuries?

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

Motorsports bring in huge crowds and plenty of adrenaline, especially races at the legendary tracks. But with the excitement comes risk—for both drivers and fans. Injuries at racetracks aren’t uncommon, and when they happen, figuring out who’s responsible can get complicated. Questions about liability often come down to what the track owner did to keep people safe, how the accident happened, and whether the injured person played any role in what went wrong.

The Duty of Care Owed by Track Owners

Track owners have a responsibility to keep their property safe for everyone—drivers, pit crews, spectators, and staff. This is called their “duty of care,” and it means they need to take reasonable precautions to prevent accidents. What counts as “reasonable” can vary, especially in a sport as unpredictable as racing, but it generally comes down to addressing obvious risks and doing what’s necessary to keep people safe.

Responsibilities to Spectators

Spectators are considered “invitees” under premises liability law, meaning the track owner owes them a high standard of care. This includes:

  1. Maintaining Structural Safety: Ensuring grandstands, fences, and other infrastructure are properly constructed and maintained to prevent collapses or failures.
  2. Providing Barriers: Installing and maintaining protective barriers, such as catch fences, to minimize the risk of debris or vehicles entering spectator areas.
  3. Enforcing Safety Protocols: Implementing clear safety measures, such as restricting access to high-risk zones and posting warning signs in hazardous areas.

Responsibilities to Drivers and Participants

The duty owed to drivers is more nuanced. Unlike spectators, drivers willingly participate in a high-risk activity, but track owners must still ensure the facility is reasonably safe for its intended use, including the following:

  1. Maintaining the Racing Surface: Addressing hazards like loose debris, poor drainage, or uneven pavement that could lead to accidents.
  2. Inspecting Safety Features: Regularly testing and repairing barriers, tire walls, and runoff areas designed to minimize the impact of crashes.
  3. Enforcing Rules and Regulations: Requiring participants to follow safety protocols, such as wearing protective gear and ensuring vehicles meet safety standards.

Assumption of Risk in Motorsports

Participants and spectators generally accept some level of risk when attending or competing in motorsports events. This legal principle, known as “assumption of risk,” can limit a track owner’s liability.

Spectator Waivers

Many tracks include disclaimers on tickets or require spectators to sign waivers acknowledging the risks involved in motorsports events. Waivers may protect track owners from liability for injuries caused by normal risks, such as noise or flying debris, but would not shield them from negligence or unsafe conditions they could have prevented.

Example:

If a piece of debris strikes a spectator despite properly maintained fences, the track owner may avoid liability due to the assumption of risk. However, the owner could be held responsible if the injury occurs because the fence was poorly maintained or inadequately designed.

Driver Waivers

Drivers sign waivers before entering races to acknowledge the risks involved in motorsports, which limit a track owner’s liability for injuries caused by typical racing-related dangers. However, waivers do not protect track owners from claims involving gross negligence, such as failing to fix known safety issues like damaged barriers or hazardous track conditions.

Factors That Can Impact Liability

Determining liability for injuries at a racetrack involves examining several factors.

Negligence by the Track Owner

Negligence occurs when a track owner fails to take reasonable steps to ensure safety. For example:

  • Failing to repair damaged barriers.
  • Ignoring drainage issues that create unsafe track conditions.
  • Overlooking structural problems with seating areas.

If negligence can be proven, the track owner may be held liable for resulting injuries.

Contributory Negligence

In some cases, the injured party’s actions may contribute to their injuries. For example, a spectator who disregards warnings and enters a restricted area assumes higher responsibility. Courts may reduce compensation based on the degree of fault attributed to the injured party.

State Laws

State laws also influence liability. Some states, like Florida, apply comparative negligence rules, which allow injured parties to recover damages even if they are partially at fault. The amount awarded is reduced based on the percentage of fault.

Steps Injured Parties Can Take

Individuals injured at a racetrack should take the following steps to protect their rights:

  1. Document the Incident: Take photos of the injury, the scene, and any contributing factors, such as broken fences or poorly maintained areas.
  2. Seek Medical Attention: Obtain prompt treatment for injuries and keep detailed records of medical expenses.
  3. Consult an Attorney: Personal injury attorneys can evaluate the circumstances of the incident and determine whether the track owner’s negligence played a role.

Final Thoughts on Liability and Safety in Motorsports

When accidents happen, who’s responsible depends on whether the track owner did enough to prevent them. Safety upgrades, like stronger fences and reinforced seating, don’t just protect fans—they help tracks avoid lawsuits and keep the focus on the race.

Connor Mosack inks full-time Truck ride with McAnally-Hilgemann Racing for 2025 season

Photo by Ron Olds for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Connor Mosack has been named a full-time NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series competitor for McAnally-Hilgemann Racing (MHR) for the 2025 season.

Mosack, a 25-year-old native from Charlotte, North Carolina, will be driving the No. 81 MHR Chevrolet Silverado RST and will be paired with crew chief Blake Bainbridge for his first full-time campaign in the series, where he will contend for the Rookie-of-the-Year title. In addition, Old World Industries and NAPA Nightvision will be sponsoring him for five Truck races, beginning at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in March.

The news comes as Mosack is coming off an 11-race stint between the NASCAR Xfinity and Truck Series divisions, where he competed for JR Motorsports in the Xfinity circuit and between Niece Motorsports and Spire Motorsports in the Truck division. He also made five starts in the ARCA Menards Series between Pinnacle Racing Group and Sigma Performance Services, where he notched a victory at Kansas Speedway in May while driving for the former organization.

“I’m ecstatic to start 2025 with everybody at MHR and want to continue this team’s success in the playoffs,” Mosack said. “All four MHR teams had great performances this past year, so this is a big opportunity to race with a winning organization. It’s great to continue being part of Team Chevy and appreciate NAPA Nightvison and everyone at MHR for making this a reality. I’m looking forward to working with Blake and we want to become one of the weekly contenders, compete for wins, and lock ourselves in the playoffs.”

Mosack, who commenced his racing career competing in Legends cars and worked his way up to compete in CARS Tour and Late Models, made his Truck Series debut at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in July 2022, where he finished 34th while driving for Bret Holmes Racing. He made an additional Truck start at Bristol Motor Speedway two months later before he returned this past season for nine events. During the nine-race stint, he logged in his first four top-10 career results and notched a career-best third-place finish at Homestead-Miami Speedway in October.

To go along with 11 Truck starts to date, Mosack has also made a total of 28 starts in the Xfinity Series, where he notched three top-eight results and a career-best fifth-place run at Watkins Glen International in August 2023. The Charlotte native has also made 22 career starts in the ARCA Menards Series, four in the ARCA East division and two in the ARCA West division. Within the ARCA division, he claimed his first career victory at Kansas Speedway in September 2023 while driving for Joe Gibbs Racing and would double down both at Kansas and in the series this past May. He also recorded two ARCA poles, including the 2023 season opener at Daytona International Speedway.

Mosack’s addition to MHR adds another missing element to the organization’s 2025 Truck Series lineup as the driver will compete alongside teammates Tyler Ankrum and Daniel Hemric.

“I was impressed with the job Connor did last season and wanted him to be part of our lineup in 2025,” Bill McAnally, team owner of McAnally-Hilgemann Racing, added. “He showed he has the talent and commitment to compete and win at this level and we’re excited about the potential that he has joining our group. He and Blake will make a great pair and create opportunities for us to win races.”

With his plans for the 2025 season set, Connor Mosack’s first full-time campaign in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series division is set to commence at Daytona International Speedway on February 14 at 7:30 p.m. ET on FS1.

Austin Beers, Burt Myers announced as first participants for 2025 Road to Daytona program

Austin Beers (left) and Burt Myers (right) will both take part in the ARCA Menards Series Road to Daytona program in 2025.

TEMPERANCE, Mich. (December 3, 2024) – The first two participants to the 2025 ARCA Menards Series Road to Daytona program have been named, representing both the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and the NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series.

Three-time winner Austin Beers will represent the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour in the two-day pre-race practice session at Daytona International Speedway on January 9 and 10, the prelude to the season-opening Daytona ARCA 200. Beers, 21, from Northampton, Pennsylvania, scored his first Whelen Modified Tour win at Richmond Raceway in 2023 and backed it up with his second win later in the season at Lancaster Speedway in New York, which he would go on to repeat in 2024.

Eleven-time Bowman-Gray Stadium Modified champion Burt Myers will represent the NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series. In 1999, at age 23, Myers became the youngest-ever Modified champion at Bowman-Gray, and he’s added another ten titles in the years since including in 2024. He is also a 19-time winner and two-time champion in the NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour. Myers is the grandson of two-time NASCAR Cup Series winner Billy Myers, and the son of Gary Myers, himself a 38-time Modified winner at Bowman-Gray and the 1996 NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour champion.

A total of seven drivers representing the ARCA Menards Series East, ARCA Menards Series West, NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series, ASA CRA Super Series, ASA Midwest Tour, and ASA Southern Super Series will share cars prepared by 1995 ARCA Menards Series champion Andy Hillenburg throughout the two-day session. Each driver will have an opportunity to run approximately 100 miles at speeds approaching 190 miles per hour.

The ARCA Menards Series Road to Daytona has seen several participants matriculate from the pre-race practice runs to competing at Daytona and battling for and winning NASCAR national series championships. Former participants include 2023 ARCA Menards Series winner at Daytona Greg Van Alst, 2024 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champion Ty Majeski, 2024 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour champion Justin Bonsignore, ARCA Menards Series race winner Travis Braden, and 2024 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series rookie of the year Layne Riggs.

Live timing and scoring data will be available throughout the two days of track activity, scheduled to run from 10 am through 5 pm, at ARCARacing.com. Saturday, February 11, has been established

The 2025 ARCA Menards Series season will kick off with the 62nd Annual Daytona ARCA 200 at Daytona International Speedway on Saturday, February 15. The race will be televised live on FOX starting at 12 noon ET; the race will also be broadcast nationwide on select affiliates of the MRN Radio network.

Porsche Motorsport and Iron Dames launch far-reaching partnership

New project seeks to promote women in motorsport

Atlanta, Dec. 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — “Porsche X Iron Dames – because every dream matters” is a slogan that represents the close collaboration between Porsche Motorsport and the renowned initiative to promote women in motorsport. The project kicks off with the start of the Asian Le Mans Series next weekend in Sepang, Malaysia. Four fast female drivers will compete in four top series behind the wheel of a Porsche 911 GT3 R. Michelle Gatting from Denmark, Rahel Frey from Switzerland, Sarah Bovy from Belgium and Célia Martin from France will race for the Iron Dames squad in the U.S., Asia, and Europe. The schedule also includes the 24 Hours of Le Mans as part of the FIA World Endurance Championship.

  • Coordinated young driver support under the banner “Porsche X Iron Dames”
  • Michelle Gatting from Denmark confirmed as official Porsche driver
  • Gatting, Frey and Martin contest FIA WEC in Manthey 911 GT3 R
  • First outing for Porsche at the 24 Hours of Daytona with Proton Competition

Atlanta. Gatting, Frey and Martin will share driving duties in the pink 911 in the LMGT3 class of the FIA WEC. The Manthey team is responsible for the operational side of campaigning the ca. 565 PS (416 kW) racecar powered by a flat-six engine. The seasoned customer squad lifted every title in the GT3 category’s debut season in the WEC. Proton Competition runs operations in the Asian Le Mans Series, the European Le Mans Series and the North American IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. As part of this, Michelle Gatting from Denmark will be promoted to the Porsche contracted driver squad. The alliance between Porsche Motorsport and Iron Dames is set to continue for several years. Plans are already in the pipeline for the project to be closely linked to the German sports car manufacturer’s successful junior development pyramid. The aim is to link the national support programs in the Porsche one-make cups, the central Junior Program of Porsche Motorsport and the recently introduced “Iron Dames Young Talents” initiative. Ideally, this creates a path for young talent from karting to top tier racing.

“Porsche stands for a culture of equal opportunities and diversity. Encouraging women to get involved in motorsport and then supporting them in open competition is something we value highly. In this context, we’ve seen that the Iron Dames project is well-structured and was very successful in recent years,” explains Thomas Laudenbach, Vice President Porsche Motorsport. “Since our customer teams have already celebrated victories with the Iron Dames, we’re now taking the next logical step. We’re very confident that the collaboration in all series will reap excellent results and we can highlight our contribution to supporting female racing drivers with victories and podium finishes.”

Deborah Mayer, Founder of the Iron Dames Project, says: “It’s an honor to join forces with such a renowned brand as Porsche Motorsport, who share the same goal of leaving a lasting legacy in motorsport while driving forward progress. The Iron Dames Project has always been rooted in the power of dreams to overcome barriers. Our journey is not just about competing at the highest level, but also about proving that the door to the racing world is open to everyone with passion and determination. From 2025, we aim to set new benchmarks together, to empower women in endurance racing, support upcoming female drivers, change perceptions and inspire the next generation. ‘Porsche X Iron Dames’ provides more than a fresh impetus for women in motorsport, it sends a powerful message that every dream is worth pursuing, no matter how ambitious. I look forward to seeing Célia, Michelle, Rahel and Sarah racing Porsche cars all over the world again and to seeing the ‘Every Dream Matters’ movement flourish with them.”

In recent years, Porsche customer teams have already enjoyed successful outings with the Iron Dames. In 2023, Gatting, Frey and Bovy celebrated a milestone behind the wheel of the Porsche 911 RSR at the WEC season finale in Bahrain, where they were the first female trio to clinch a class win in the World Endurance Championship. Last season, the three racing drivers jointly won the LMGT3 class of the 4-hour race of the European Le Mans Series in Imola (Italy). Last month, Spaniard Marta García completed a successful test in the Porsche 99X Electric of the TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team. The 24-year-old is part of the Iron Dames’ sponsorship program.

An overview of the Iron Dames’ 2025 schedule in the Porsche 911 GT3 R

FIA World Endurance Championship WEC (LMGT3 class):
Michelle Gatting (Denmark), Rahel Frey (Switzerland), Célia Martin (France) – Team: Manthey

IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship (GTD class):
Michelle Gatting (Denmark), Rahel Frey (Switzerland), Sarah Bovy (Belgium), Karen Gaillard (Switzerland, 24 Hours of Daytona) – Team: Proton Competition

European Le Mans Series (LMGT3 class):
Michelle Gatting (Denmark), Sarah Bovy (Belgium), Célia Martin (France) – Team: Proton Competition

Asian Le Mans Series (GT class):
Michelle Gatting (Denmark), Sarah Bovy (Belgium), Célia Martin (France) – Team: Proton Competition