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Kaulig Racing Announces Progressive Roster Moves

Team Names Multiple-Race Winner Mike Cook as Technical Director; Lands Aussie Andrew Dickeson as Crew Chief for Ty Dillon and Reunites Veteran AJ Allmendinger with Crew Chief Trent Owens

WELCOME, N.C. (December 5, 2024) – The winds of change continue to sweep through Kaulig Racing, as it announced major competition leadership moves for the upcoming 2025 NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) season.

Mike Cook joins the burgeoning team as Technical Director following more than a decade as a winning, lead engineer at Stewart-Haas Racing with drivers Kurt Busch, Aric Almirola and Chase Briscoe.

Australian native Andrew Dickeson has been named Crew Chief for Kaulig Racing’s No. 10 Chevrolet with driver Ty Dillon. Dickeson joins the team after years as engineer at Richard Childress Racing.

Long-time crew chief Trent Owens will reunite with three-time NCS winner AJ Allmendinger in support of the Californian’s return to full-time Cup series competition. Allmendinger won the NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) race at Las Vegas in October, launching him into the championship race for the second time in his career.

“I think this is the most impressive competition leadership group we have ever had,” said Kaulig Racing President Chris Rice. “We have such a great core team with all the men and women of Kaulig Racing, and bringing in smart people with fresh eyes will really help us compete on the track.”

“After a decade of learning and honing my craft, I am really excited to contribute to the continuing growth of Kaulig Racing,” said Cook, winner of the 2017 Daytona 500. “Nothing in racing happens overnight, but I know I have the tools and the support I need to bring immediate impact.”

“Andrew has the demeanor and stability that I think will give Ty the best opportunity he has ever had at the Cup level,” continued Cook. “AJ and Trent are just in sync and have a great working relationship. Both drivers are hungry and dedicated, so I know that team is going to be strong and impress some people in 2025.”

Owens has more than 20 years of experience in the industry, accumulating a win in each of NASCAR’s top series, one NCS win, five NXS wins, and one NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) win.

Dickeson brings a wealth of engineer experience, developed while racing in Australia in the V8 Supercars Super2 Series and the United States. Dickeson most recently worked for Kaulig Racing’s technical alliance partner Richard Childress Racing.

About Kaulig Racing

Kaulig Racing™ is a full-time, multi-car NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) and NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) team, owned by award winning entrepreneur, Matt Kaulig. Established in 2016, Kaulig Racing™ has earned 27 NXS wins, made the NXS Playoffs consecutively each season since the playoff system started, and won two regular-season championships. In 2021, the team competed in select NCS events, before expanding to a two-car, full-time NCS team in 2022 and adding a third, part-time entry during the 2023 season. Since its first NCS start in 2021, the team has earned two wins. Kaulig Racing is currently fielding two full-time entries in the NCS and continues to field three full-time NXS entries. To learn more about the team, visit kauligracing.com.

Kaulig Racing reveals crew chief lineup, technical director hiring for 2025 Cup season

Photo by Adam Lovelace for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Kaulig Racing revealed its crew chief lineup and the hiring of a technical director for the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season.

Veteran crew chief Trent Owens will be paired with veteran driver AJ Allmendinger and the No. 16 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 entry while Andrew Dickeson will be working atop the pit box of the No. 10 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 entry that will be piloted by Ty Dillon. For the technical director position, Mike Cook will assume the position after recently being a lead engineer for Stewart-Haas Racing.

The news comes as Kaulig Racing, which strives to be competitive in NASCAR’s premier series in 2025, is coming off its third consecutive season in fielding two full-time cars in the Cup Series division. Throughout the 36-race schedule in 2024, Kaulig’s two entries (Nos. 16 and 31 Chevrolets) recorded a combined 11 top-10 results and 108 laps led. In addition, Daniel Hemric, who drove Kaulig’s No. 31 entry that is renumbered to 10 in 2025, finished in 29th place in the 2024 driver’s standings while Kaulig’s No. 16 entry that was split between Allmendinger, Dillon, Derek Kraus, Shane van Gisbergen and Josh Williams ended up in 28th place in the owner’s standings.

“I think this is the most impressive competition leadership group we have ever had,” Chris Rice, president of Kaulig Racing, said in a released statement. “We have such a great core team with all the men and women of Kaulig Racing, and bringing in smart people with fresh eyes will really help us compete on the track.”

Owens’ move to Kaulig’s No. 16 team reunites him with Allmendinger, both of whom worked together for nine Cup races in 2018 at JTG-Daugherty Racing. This past season, Owens was the crew chief for Hemric and the No. 31 Chevrolet team. In addition, Allmendinger scaled back down to a full-time Xfinity Series competition after competing on a full-time Cup basis in 2023, where he won at the Charlotte Motor Speedway Road Course. During the 2024 season, Allmendinger notched a victory at Las Vegas Motor Speedway during the Playoff’s Round of 8 opener, transferred to the Championship 4 round and settled in third place in the final driver’s standings.

Dickeson’s move as a crew chief for Kaulig’s No. 10 team and Ty Dillon marks a new beginning for the Australian native, who recently spent a bulk of his career as an engineer for Richard Childress Racing. In addition, the 2025 season marks Dillon’s return to full-time Cup racing since 2023 after he spent this past season competing in all but the remaining five Craftsman Truck Series events for Rackley W.A.R., where he notched two top-10 results.

The new position with a new organization generates a new and exciting adventure for Cook, who first joined Stewart-Haas Racing in 2014 to work as an engineer and had remained at the organization until it ceased operations at the 2024 season’s conclusion. During Cook’s role at Stewart-Haas Racing, he went to Victory Lane in the 2017 Daytona 500 with former Cup Series champion Kurt Busch.

“After a decade of learning and honing my craft, I am really excited to contribute to the continuing growth of Kaulig Racing,” Cook said. “Nothing in racing happens overnight, but I know I have the tools and the support I need to bring immediate impact. Andrew [Dickeson] has the demeanor and stability that I think will give Ty [Dillon] the best opportunity he has ever had at the Cup level. AJ [Allmendinger] and Trent [Owens] are just in sync and have a great working relationship. Both drivers are hungry and dedicated, so I know that team is going to be strong and impress some people in 2025.”

Kaulig Racing’s 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season is set to commence with the Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium on February 2 that will commence at 8 p.m. ET on FOX. This event will be followed by the 67th running of the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway that will air at 2:30 p.m. ET on FOX.

AO Racing Eyes Back-to-Back Titles with Fierce Lineup for 2025 IMSA Season

ST. CHARLES, Ill., (December 5, 2024) — AO Racing has officially confirmed its return to the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship for the 2025 season, bringing Rexy, the beloved Porsche 911 GT3 “Rawr,” back to the GTD PRO class. With an all-star lineup in place, the team is ready to defend its championship title. Laurin Heinrich, the 2024 Drivers’ Champion returns to continue building on the success of last season. Joining him for the full campaign is Klaus Bachler, with two-time European Le Mans Series champion Alessio Picariello rounding out the trio for endurance rounds.

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Porsche in the GTD Pro category for 2025,” said Team Principal Gunnar Jeannette. “Winning the championship in our first year in such a highly competitive class still feels surreal, and we’re eager to carry that momentum into the new season. Laurin showcased his speed and competitiveness in Rexy throughout 2024, and with Klaus and Alessio joining him, we’re confident we have a strong lineup. The introduction of torque sensors is a new development for IMSA teams in GTD, but we’re optimistic that Porsche’s experience in 2024 will give us a strong foundation to stay competitive from the outset.”

AO Racing has become an immediate standout for Porsche success in a short time, proud to represent the German manufacturer in the highly competitive North American series. Their achievements included three victories (and three golden teeth for Rexy), along with the prestigious Michelin All Hands Award, recognizing the crew with the least time spent in pit lane.

The 2025 calendar will see the team’s GTD PRO squad return to the same 10 tracks as 2025, beginning with Daytona International Speedway for the Roar Before the 24 January 17-19. The Roar stands as the first official test of the new year before competitors dive into the Rolex 24 At Daytona January 13-16.

Laurin Heinrich

After clinching the 2024 title, I’m very happy to be back with AO Racing and Rexy. I enjoyed working with Klaus for one race last season, so I’m pleased to have him back, and with Alessio, we have another quick driver from the Porsche family. Personally, I’d love to accomplish my goal of winning one of “the big ones” such as Daytona, Sebring, and Petit. Thanks to AO Racing and Porsche for giving us such a strong package to come back and try to defend our title!

Klaus Bachler

I’m really excited to be back in IMSA, competing in the GTD Pro class. Partnering with AO is something I’m truly looking forward to. With Laurin and Alessio, I have two incredibly fast and smart teammates whom I respect and enjoy working with. A big thank you to Porsche Motorsport and AO for this amazing opportunity. I can’t wait for the new season to start!

Alessio Picariello

I am very happy to join AO Racing, Laurin, and Klaus as the third Driver for the long races in IMSA. I respect them both a lot and I’m sure we will form a strong trio together with the whole crew in order to fight for those big trophies. I am also looking forward to jumping into the now-iconic Rexy!

About AO Racing

Founded in 2022 by PJ Hyett and Gunnar Jeannette, AO Racing has swiftly risen to prominence in the world of professional sports car racing. With an unwavering commitment to on-track excellence and fan engagement, AO Racing commands attention with its fun liveries and fan-friendly presence, becoming a dynamic force in the sport. Central to AO Racing’s success is its unique blend of performance and personality. The iconic liveries of “Rexy” and “Roxy,” the T-Rex Porsche 911 GT3 Rawrs and “Spike” the LMP2 Dragon have captivated fans worldwide, earning AO Racing a dedicated following. With a focus on making racing accessible and enjoyable for enthusiasts of all ages, AO Racing has become a beloved favorite among motorsport lovers. The team has a global footprint, with strong efforts in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, Asian Le Mans Series, European Le Mans Series, and the FIA World Endurance Championship. With passion, precision, and a touch of flair, AO Racing is writing the next chapter in the annals of motorsport history.

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.

Learn more: https://www.crowdstrike.com/

Follow us: Blog | X | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

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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.