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NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Rescheduled For Oct. 20 at North Wilkesboro Speedway

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Official Release
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  • Brushy Mountain Powersports 150 Whelen Modified Tour race rescheduled for Sunday, Oct. 20 at 2 p.m.
  • North Wilkesboro Speedway will continue to collect donations to support local communities in need due to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene through Sunday, Oct. 6.

NORTH WILKESBORO (Oct. 3, 2024) – The Brushy Mountain Powersports 150 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race at North Wilkesboro Speedway has now been rescheduled for Sunday, Oct. 20 at 2 p.m.

Due to Hurricane Helene’s effects on the surrounding regions, Speedway Motorsports and NASCAR postponed the race earlier this week to dedicate time to immediate recovery efforts in the area.

The rescheduled race event will turn North Wilkesboro Speedway into the ultimate fan destination of grassroots racing as the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour will close out a three-day race weekend following the Oct. 18-19 zMAX CARS Tour event.

Sunday’s race will become the penultimate race on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour schedule and will play a key set-up role for the Oct. 26 championship finale at Martinsville Speedway.

Defending two-time champion Ron Silk and three-time champion Justin Bonsignore look to continue their rivalry, stemming from their down-to-the-wire championship battle from a year ago. Silk leads the standings by only 11 points and holds the advantage over Bonsignore in wins this year. With three races left in the season, the battle continues to heat up between the pair.

Tour veteran Patrick Emerling, the most recent race winner at Monadnock Speedway, has come on strong late in the season with three wins in the last four races and lurks only five points behind Bonsignore.

Gates are set to open on Oct. 20 at 1 p.m. with the green flag dropping at 2 p.m.

All previously purchased tickets and camping packages for the Whelen Modified Tour were refunded following Monday’s postponement. Advance tickets for adults are $30 and $35 on race day. Tickets for kids ages 12 and under are $10.

For updated schedules and ticket information, fans may visit https://www.northwilkesborospeedway.com/.

As the region continues to recover, North Wilkesboro Speedway will remain a designated collection site for hurricane relief donations through this Sunday, Oct. 6. Fans are encouraged to bring the following items:

  • Non-perishable food items
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Disinfecting wipes
  • Paper towels
  • Mops
  • Buckets
  • Gloves
  • Bottled water
  • Batteries
  • Portable chargers
  • Hygiene items
  • Diapers & wipes
  • Baby formula
  • Horse Feed

Donations can be dropped off at North Wilkesboro Speedway (381 Speedway Ln, North Wilkesboro, NC 28659) between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. through Sunday, Oct. 6. All items will be distributed through Wilkes County Emergency Management and Samaritan’s Purse to regional communities in need.

About NASCAR     

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 14 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Series, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Mexico Series, NASCAR Whelen Euro Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in five cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 11 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.  

For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, X and Snapchat.  

About Speedway Motorsports

Speedway Motorsports, LLC is a leading marketer, promoter and sponsor of motorsports entertainment in the United States. The Company, through its subsidiaries, owns and operates the following premier facilities: Atlanta Motor Speedway, Bristol Motor Speedway, Charlotte Motor Speedway, Dover Motor Speedway, Kentucky Speedway, Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Nashville Superspeedway, New Hampshire Motor Speedway, North Wilkesboro Speedway, Sonoma Raceway, and Texas Motor Speedway. The Company provides souvenir merchandising services through its SMI Properties subsidiaries; manufactures and distributes smaller-scale, modified racing cars and parts through its U.S. Legend Cars International subsidiary; and produces and broadcasts syndicated motorsports programming to radio stations nationwide though its Performance Racing Network subsidiary.

JEGS ALLSTARS RETURN TO TEXAS NHRA FALLNATIONALS AT TEXAS MOTORPLEX TO CELEBRATE 40 YEARS OF COMPETITION

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Official Release
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ENNIS, Texas (Oct. 3, 2024) – After a highly-successful first year at the Texas Motorplex, the popular JEGS Allstars competition returns to the famed facility as part of the track’s Stampede of Speed and Texas NHRA FallNationals on Oct. 9-13.

The historic specialty race celebrates its 40th year in 2024 and continues its status as one of most highly-anticipated events of the year for the standout drivers in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series.

Following a memorable Dallas debut last year, this year’s competitors in the JEGS Allstars can look forward to another thrilling weekend as a marquee attraction during the massive Stampede of Speed.

“JEGS is incredibly excited to be a part of the 40th JEGS Allstars at Texas Motorplex,” said David Salin, JEGS Director of Marketing. “This event is particularly meaningful to JEGS as it encompasses the skill and dedication of sportsman racers across the country and reminds us of the great partnership between JEGS and the NHRA.”

The weekend includes several special events, including the driver and team welcome breakfast sponsored by Hoosier Racing Tires on Thursday, Oct. 10 and participating in the Stampede of Speed Pre-Stage Fan Fest later that evening in downtown Waxahachie.

Following the opening ceremonies on Friday, Oct. 11, competitors will take place in a parade before the second qualifying session in Funny Car and Top Fuel as part of the special Friday Night Live at Texas Motorplex. Final rounds in the JEGS Allstars are slated for 2:15 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12 as champions will be crowned to cap off two thrilling days of racing action in the specialty event.

The pit area for sportsman racers will also include six hard-surface roads at Texas Motorplex, creating an even greater racer experience for all Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series competitors at the Texas NHRA FallNationals.

“We’re excited to have the JEGS Allstars back as part of the Stampede of Speed and Texas FallNationals lineup,” Texas Motorplex Co-Owner Christie Meyer Johnson said. “Last year we loved celebrating their accomplishments and hosting so many drivers and teams from across the country. This is another major addition to the event and we’re looking forward to continuing to add some Texas traditions to the JEGS Allstars. Having the JEGS Allstars is a great addition to the Stampede of Speed.”

For 40 years, the JEGS Allstars has brought out the best from across NHRA’s seven divisions for the special race, including competitors from all 50 states and internationally.

The unique event crowns individual champions in 10 separate classes, in addition to the overall team title. Racers qualified for the prestigious event by earning points in their home divisions during year-long battles in the following categories — Top Alcohol Dragster, Top Alcohol Funny Car, Competition, Super Stock, Stock, Super Comp, Super Gas, Super Street, Top Dragster and Top Sportsman.

Like last year, competitors will again enjoy some Texas-sized traditions, including custom t-shirts and decals for drivers and teams, and a custom trophy and custom-made JEGS Allstars belt buckle for the winners, as well as the traditional custom-fit Texas Motorplex cowboy hats for winners as well.

“For decades, JEGS has been honored to be a part of the JEGS Allstars and this year is no different. We are looking forward to seeing the best of the best from each class, division, and region to battle it out for the 2024 Championship,” said Makenna Brown, JEGS Social Media and Partnerships Manager.

The JEGS Allstars event will be shown live on NHRA.tv during the race weekend and also featured on the NHRA on FOX Lucas Oil Sportsman show. A win at the JEGS Allstars remains a huge honor for all racers in the circuit, while it offers race fans at the Texas NHRA FallNationals a unique opportunity to watch the specialty race.

“After a great 2023 JEGS Allstars at Texas Motorplex, it is definitely exciting to see this race get another major spotlight as part of the Stampede of Speed and the Texas NHRA FallNationals,” NHRA Vice President of Racing Administration Josh Peterson said. “We’re thrilled to continue our terrific partnership with JEGS during this event, and we can’t wait to work with them, the Texas Motorplex team and all of the JEGS Allstars competitors to celebrate 40 years of this incredible race.”

To purchase tickets to the NHRA FallNationals and the Stampede of Speed, please visit www.stampedeofspeed.com. For more information on NHRA, please visit www.NHRA.com.

About JEGS

JEGS Automotive, Inc. (“JEGS”) is a leading DTC, e-commerce retailer and distributor of automotive aftermarket parts and accessories to enthusiast customers, primarily through its online platform (JEGS.com) and third-party online marketplaces. The Company offers over two million different SKUs spanning across 800+ brands including its own private-label product offering, providing a wide variety of automotive parts for a diverse selection of vehicle types and vintages. JEGS operates two locations with approximately 400 employees and is headquartered in Delaware, OH.

About NHRA

Headquartered in San Dimas, Calif., NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 21 national events featuring the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series, NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, FuelTech NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Type A Motorsports, Flexjet NHRA Factory Stock Showdown™ and Top Fuel Harley Series. NHRA provides competition opportunities for drivers of all levels in the NHRA Summit Racing Series and NHRA Street Legal™. NHRA also offers the NHRA Jr. Street® program for teens and the Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League® for youth ages 5 to 17. With 120 Member Tracks, NHRA allows racers to compete at a variety of locations nationally and internationally. NHRA’s Youth and Education Services® (YES) Program reaches over 30,000 students annually to ignite their interest in automotive and racing related careers. NHRA’s streaming service, NHRA.tv®, allows fans to view all NHRA national events as well as exclusive features of the sport. In addition, NHRA owns and operates three racing facilities: Gainesville Raceway in Florida; Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park; and In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Southern California. For more information, log on to www.NHRA.com, or visit the official NHRA pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Rick Ware Racing: Corey LaJoie/Cody Ware Talladega Advance

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Official Release
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COREY LAJOIE | CODY WARE
Talladega Advance

Event Overview

● Event: YellaWood 500 (Round 31 of 36)
● Time/Date: 2 p.m. EDT on Sunday, Oct. 6
● Location: Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway
● Layout: 2.66-mile oval
● Laps/Miles: 188 laps/500 miles
● Stage Lengths: Stage 1: 60 laps / Stage 2: 60 laps / Final Stage: 68 laps
● TV/Radio: NBC / MRN / SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Corey LaJoie, Driver of the No. 51 Mighty Fire Breaker Ford Mustang Dark Horse

● Corey LaJoie is set to make his second start for Rick Ware Racing (RWR) in the No. 51 Mighty Fire Breaker Ford Mustang Dark Horse at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway. Sunday’s YellaWood 500 marks LaJoie’s 14th NASCAR Cup Series start at the 2.66-mile superspeedway. He finished 18th in April’s GEICO 500. His best result at the track came in the October 2023 race when he finished fourth. The result also matched LaJoie’s best-career Cup Series result.

● In 13 previous starts at Talladega, LaJoie has one top-five, two top-10s, four top-15s and six top-20s, with an average finish of 20.1 and only one DNF (did not finish).

● LaJoie made his debut with RWR last Sunday in the Hollywood Casino 400 at Kansas Speedway in Kansas City. The 29-year-old racer earned his career-best Kansas finish and set a new team-best finish at the track with a 15th-place effort.

● Mighty Fire Breaker LLC debuted with RWR last month at Atlanta Motor Speedway as the primary partner on the No. 15 Ford Mustang Dark Horse driven by Cody Ware. Mighty Fire Breaker is a leading provider of environmentally safe and sustainable solutions for proactive wildfire defense. The Mighty Fire Breaker portfolio includes EPA Safer Choice Certified Citrotech® Wildfire Inhibitors, mobile and stationary spray application systems, and GPS-tracking, recording and mapping technologies that support intelligent proactive wildfire defense management practices.

Cody Ware, Driver of the No. 15 Arby’s Ford Mustang Dark Horse

● Cody Ware, driver of the No. 15 Arby’s Ford Mustang Dark Horse for RWR, will make his eighth start of the season and his ninth at Talladega. Ware also made one Xfinity Series start at Talladega in 2019, finishing 21st for car owner B.J. McLeod, and one Truck Series start in 2015.

● Ware made his first start of the 2024 season at Talladedga on April 21. He qualified 34th in a field of 38 and finished on the lead lap in 24th. In seven starts this year, Ware has an average finish of 22.3 and has completed 1,363 of 1,391 laps available (98 percent). Twenty-six of the 28 laps Ware has not completed were the result of an early exit at Pocono due to a damaged radiator.

● In the Cup Series’ most recent superspeedway race Aug. 24 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway, Ware drove to a fourth-place finish. It was his best finish in 104 Cup Series starts and matched the organization’s best overall finish. Prior to earning his top-five result at Daytona, Ware’s best finish was sixth, earned at Daytona in August 2022.

● In 15 Cup Series starts on superspeedways to date, Ware has completed 2,603 of 2,762 laps available – 94.2 percent.

Rick Ware Racing Notes

● The Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series spent last weekend competing at World Wide Techonology Raceway in Madison, Illinois, near St. Louis. RWR Top Fuel racer Clay Millican qualified fourth, but a first-round exit from the elimination rounds bumped the Drummond, Tennessee, native to seventh in the playoff standings. The NHRA Drag Racing Series takes a weekend off before returning to action at Texas Motorplex in Ennis Oct. 9-13 for the fourth event in the Countdown to the Championship.

● Rick Ware has been a motorsports mainstay for more than 40 years. It began at age six 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 seat and into fulltime team ownership. In 1995, Rick Ware Racing was formed, and with wife Lisa by his side, Ware has since built his eponymous organization into an entity that fields two fulltime entries in the 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), where RWR won the 2022 SX2 championship with rider Shane McElrath.

Corey LaJoie, Driver Q&A

You matched your career-best finish of fourth in two of the last three superspeedway races. What is your goal for this weekend?

“I’m really looking forward to getting back to Talladega and having a chance at redemption. The April race certainly didn’t end the way I wanted it to. You know it’s a possibility, but you don’t want to be that person upside down at the finish line. I enjoy superspeedway racing and I think we can build on the top-five finish that RWR earned at Daytona. The Fords are always so fast at the bigger tracks and the RWR cars have been up there at the front, so I’m excited to get there and see what we’ve got.”

How has last weekend’s performance impacted the shop environment at RWR?

“When you can join a team and knock off a finish like that in the first race, it brings with it a big boost of excitement. It reinforces the time and energy that everyone puts in to get these cars ready each week. It gives the No. 51 team momentum to build on for these final six races. One good finish can lead to another. I’m going to do everything I can on the track to bring home those results and show these guys that I appreciate the work they put in.”

Cody Ware, Driver Q&A

Superspeedway races have been your strong suit. How has it felt to continue to improve at these bigger tracks?

“I’ve always felt like speedway races were in my wheelhouse. I’ve always focused on doing what is needed to make sure we’re there at the end. When we’re successful at that is when we get the finishes we deserve. If a driver can get to the final five laps with their patience intact, there’s a higher chance of competeing for a win. Rick Ware Racing has shown a lot of progress this year, a lot of speed, and we’ve had some good finishes. It’s been nice to be a part of that and I think we can continue to find that next level of success, whatever that may be.”

Is there an accurate way to describe all of the things you have to think through, and how fast you have to do so, during a superspeedway race?

“You’re thinking through a lot. You’re listening to the spotter, looking for an opening to get in another lane that may be faster, or leapfrog a slower car, all while watching what is happening ahead so you don’t get caught in a wreck. You’re also trying to pay attention to what your car is doing when you’re being pushed versus being the pusher, if it handles any differently up high or down on the bottom. It’s a lot. You go through that every race but everything moves quicker at a superspeedway. At least at Talladega, you’ve got a little more room to work with if something does go wrong. It’s chaotic, but that’s what makes for an entertaining race.”

LEGACY MOTOR CLUB NOMINATES ENGINEER SYDNEY PRINCE FOR 2024 WOMEN IN MOTORSPORTS NORTH AMERICA SHEro AWARD

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Official Release
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STATESVILLE, N.C. (October 3, 2024) – As the traditional landscape of motorsports evolve, women are stepping into roles that challenge the status quo in traditionally male-dominated areas of work. LEGACY MOTOR CLUBTM (LEGACY M.C.) and AdventHealth have teamed together to participate in an opportunity with the Women in Motorsports North America (WIMNA) to nominate an outstanding female in consideration for a 2024 SHEro award.

The WIMNA SHEro Award highlights outstanding women who have demonstrated effort and results contributing to advancing motorsports. The award also provides a means to inspire the next generation of females entering motorsports careers. LEGACY M.C. elected race engineer Sydney Prince as a SHEro.

Prince, 24, is the newly promoted lead engineer on the NASCAR Cup Series No. 84 LEGACY M.C. Toyota Camry XSE entry, driven by seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and co-owner of LEGACY M.C., Jimmie Johnson. A racer growing up, Prince knew early on she wanted a career in the sport. Throughout high school, she raced sprint cars and chose the No. 14 due to her love for NASCAR Hall of Famer Tony Stewart, even earning the nickname “Smoke Jr.”. After taking an engineering class in high school, Prince realized that she could work in motorsports by combining her newfound love of mechanical work with her passion for racing.

“No one is more deserving of this award than Sydney,” said Johnson. “I’m proud we could honor her in this fashion and to join with AdventHealth and WIMNA to make it a reality for Sydney. She is hard-working, and we look forward to watching Sydney grow even more in her role within the CLUB. She is an extremely valuable member of the CLUB both at the track and in the shop as her contribution is integral to our performance.”

“Sydney is very organized and detail oriented,” remarked Gene Wachtel, Crew Chief on the No. 84 for Kansas Speedway. “She ensures that our race engineering group has all the details for simulation each weekend. She is a self-starter and high achiever. She takes on new tasks and learns new skills quickly. Sydney is a great teammate and is always willing to help anyone at any time”.

Prince searched for schools with exceptional mechanical engineering programs and ultimately chose the University of North Carolina Charlotte (UNCC), noting its close location to most NASCAR teams in the greater Charlotte area. She graduated in 2022 and interned with Spire Motorsports before graduating.

After graduation, she started working as a quality control engineer for NASCAR Truck Series team, GMS Racing, and was quickly promoted to an engineer for the No. 24 NASCAR Truck Series team in 2023 with driver Rajah Caruth. At the start of 2024, Prince joined LEGACY M.C. as an engineer on the No. 84, making her Cup Series debut in the DAYTONA 500 with Johnson. When the No. 84 LEGACY MOTOR CLUB Toyota Camry XSE isn’t on the track, Prince is constantly at work, feeding information to benefit the No. 42 and 43 entries, as well as driving the simulator to provide feedback on the set up of the cars.

“Sydney is a tremendous asset to LEGACY MOTOR CLUB”, said Jacob Canter, SVP of Competition at LEGACY MOTOR CLUB. “She grew up racing on dirt, which instilled her drive and passion for motorsports. She is a talented engineer helping the team develop and exploit our simulation tools, recently being promoted to the primary race engineer role for the No. 84. Sydney is also a secret weapon within our simulator program. She helps develop the model, while driving the simulator at the same time. She has extraordinary talent behind the steering wheel and behind the keyboard.”

LEGACY M.C. and AdventHealth took time Sunday morning at Kansas Speedway to dedicate the SHEro award to Prince. The award was a surprise to Prince and many members of LEGACY M.C. joined to commemorate the dedication, work ethic, and trailblazing efforts Prince has made in the world of motorsports.

“Although I am not one for attention, I am appreciative of the recognition,” said Prince after learning she was nominated. “I am super thankful to have the opportunity to be an engineer in racing and to have people around me who believe in me and push me to my fullest potential. I hope that this spotlight is a sign to the current and future generation of women in motorsports that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.”

The SHEro initiative serves as a visual for promoting, enhancing, and encouraging women in the motorsports industry. Prince is now eligible to be nominated for a national SHEro award, which will be presented in Indianapolis later this year at the WOMEN WITH DRIVE SUMMIT IV.

“We are thrilled that LEGACY MOTOR CLUB has nominated Sydney Prince as a SHEro Award honoree,” said Cindy Sisson, Executive Director of WIMNA. “Sydney’s unwavering dedication and significant contributions have elevated her as a race engineer and a role model for others, as she has paved the way for future generations of women engineers in motorsports. The SHEro Award is about celebrating trailblazers who inspire and lead by example, and these recipients truly embody the essence of what this recognition represents.”

To nominate a woman for a SHEro award, visit: https://womeninmotorsportsna.com/shero/

ABOUT

ABOUT WOMEN IN MOTORSPORTS NORTH AMERICA (WIMNA): Women in Motorsports North America is a community of professional women and men devoted to enabling opportunities for women across all motorsport disciplines. Founded as a 501c3 in April 2022, WIMNA is quickly establishing its positive impact on motorsports, supporting, and creating resources that enable women drivers, technicians, engineers, operations staff, business-related, media, and more to thrive in the industry. Best known for its Women with Drive – driven by Mobil 1 Summit held each year, WIMNA also provides resources, mentorship, coaching, career connections, and more. Learn more at womeninmotorsportsna.com

ABOUT ADVENTHEALTH: With a sacred mission of Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ, AdventHealth is a connected system of care for every stage of life and health. More than 95,000 team members across hundreds of care sites including physician practices, hospitals, outpatient clinics, home health agencies and hospice centers provide individualized, wholistic care. A shared vision, common values, focus on whole-person health and commitment to making communities healthier unify the system’s more than 50 hospital campuses in diverse markets throughout nine states. For the latest information about AdventHealth, visit AdventHealth.com/news.

ABOUT LEGACY MOTOR CLUB: LEGACY MOTOR CLUB™ is a professional auto racing club owned by businessman and entrepreneur Maurice “Maury” J. Gallagher and seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson. The CLUB competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series fielding the No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE of John Hunter Nemechek, the No. 43 Toyota Camry XSE of Erik Jones, and the No. 84 limited schedule entry for Jimmie Johnson. Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Petty “The King” serves as CLUB Ambassador. With a unique title signifying a nod to car clubs of past eras, LEGACY M.C. is an inclusive club for all motorsport enthusiasts to celebrate the past and future legacies of its members, while competing for wins and championships at NASCAR’s elite level. To keep up-to-date with the latest news, information and exclusive content, follow LEGACY MOTOR CLUB™ on Facebook, X, Instagram and at www.LEGACYMOTORCLUB.com.

NHRA DRIVERS DOUBLE DOWN FOR FORD PERFORMANCE NHRA NATIONALS AT PENULTIMATE EVENT OF 2024 SEASON

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Official Release
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2023 winners Gaige Herrera, Erica Enders, Mike Salinas and Robert Hight

LAS VEGAS (Oct. 3, 2024) – As the 2024 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series nears the finish line, drivers have their sights set on a NHRA world championships as they approach the penultimate event of the year, the 24th annual Ford Performance NHRA Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on Oct. 31 – Nov. 3.

The Ford Performance NHRA Nationals marks the fifth of six races in the NHRA Countdown to the Championship playoffs and the 19th of 20 races in 2024, as drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will be focused on every captivating round of racing – which could put them a step closer to championship glory.

Loaded with specialty classes and an electric Las Vegas atmosphere where every 330-mph run is critical, the Ford Performance NHRA Nationals is a thrill ride from start to finish. The race, which always draws a massive crowd, opens with a pair of qualifying runs on both Friday and Saturday, leading to a memorable Sunday of eliminations where the intensity will be at a fever pitch in Sin City.

Last season, Mike Salinas (Top Fuel), Robert Hight (Funny Car), Erica Enders (Pro Stock) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock) all won the late-season race in Las Vegas. This year’s race will again be broadcast on FS1, with elimination coverage at 5 p.m. ET on Sunday, Nov. 3.

Top Fuel points leader Antron Brown will look for a Las Vegas victory to strengthen his chances for a fourth world title. It’s his first time leading the points since 2017 thanks to two playoff wins, but he’s facing off against a loaded Top Fuel field, including Justin Ashley, who is just 34 points back in second. Other championship contenders include Shawn Langdon, reigning champion Doug Kalitta, who won the spring race in Vegas, and former champions Steve Torrence and Tony Schumacher, who picked up the playoff victory in St. Louis.

The 2024 Funny Car season has been dominated by John Force Racing’s Austin Prock, who took over driving duties for Hight. Prock has seven wins on the season, including two wins in the Countdown. He currently leads the way in the class and has a 105-point lead over his teammate Jack Beckman, who is racing in place of the 16-time champion John Force. Also in the hunt is Bob Tasca III, who won the Las Vegas Four-Wide event, three-time champion Ron Capps and reigning champion Matt Hagan.

Reigning Pro Stock champion Enders has more wins at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway than any other driver in NHRA history with 10. She picked up a win at the season kickoff in Gainesville but hasn’t returned to the winner’s circle since. If she wants to add another win to her Vegas credit, she’ll need to get past points leader Dallas Glenn, who has five wins on the season, including Charlotte and St. Louis in the Countdown. In second is Aaron Stanfield, who also has five wins this year, while five-time champion Greg Anderson is one spot behind Enders in fourth.

The 2024 season has once again been dominated by Pro Stock Motorcycle’s Herrera. Herrera has eight wins on the season, including most recently in St. Louis, where he took back the points lead. Six-time world champion Matt Smith is hot on his heels, while other standouts in the category include Richard Gadson, Angie Smith, Chase Van Sant, Hector Arana Jr., John Hall and Jianna Evaristo.

The Ford Performance NHRA Nationals also will feature thrilling competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series and the Summit Racing Series E.T. Finals, where national champions will be crowned in several different categories as the culmination of the NHRA Summit Racing Series season. The weekend will also include action in the thrilling Legends Nitro Funny Car class and a spectacular jet dragster exhibition from Team “Muy Caliente” after nitro qualifying on Friday and Saturday.

It’s also the final race of the 2024 season in the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by LearnEV+, Johnson’s Horsepowered Mountain Motor Pro Stock and the new Holley EFI Factory X category.

Fans are invited to the Nitro Alley Stage in the pits, where they can take part in Nitro School, meet and greets, influencer interviews and much more. Vegas race fans can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and includes the SealMaster Track Walk. The final can’t-miss experience of any NHRA event is the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday, where fans are invited to congratulate the Ford Performance NHRA Nationals event winners.

As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. They can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their hot rods between rounds, get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers and more. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and race vendors create an exciting atmosphere that includes displays, merchandise, food, and fun.

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 12:00 and 2:30 p.m. PT on Friday, Nov. 1, and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, Nov. 2 at 12:00 and 2:30 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. PT on Nov. 3. Television coverage includes qualifying action on FS1 at 3:00 p.m. ET on Sunday with eliminations at 5:00 p.m. ET.

To purchase tickets to the Ford Performance NHRA Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, call 800-644-4444 or visit www.lvms.com. Children 12 and under are admitted free in general admissions areas with a paid adult. For more information about NHRA, visit www.NHRA.com.

About Ford Performance

Ford Performance is based in Dearborn, Mich. It is responsible for Ford’s performance vehicle development and major racing operations globally, including NASCAR, IMSA, SRO British GT, FIA World Rally Championship, Supercars Championship, World of Outlaws, Ultra4, SCORE-International, FIA Rally-Raid, Formula Drift, NHRA, Rebelle Rally, Thailand Super Series and our latest commitment in Formula 1 with RedBull Ford Powertrains. Ford Performance also maintains a constantly evolving fleet of electric performance demonstrators to showcase the limits of electrification technology. In addition, the organization also oversees the development of Ford’s racing engines, as well as the outreach programs with all Ford Clubs and Ford enthusiasts. For more information regarding Ford racing’s activities, please visit Performance.Ford.com or follow @FordPerformance on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Twitter, TikTok and YouTube.

About Mission Foods

MISSION®, owned by GRUMA, S.A.B. de C.V., is the world’s leading brand for tortillas and wraps. MISSION® is also globally renowned for flatbreads, dips, salsas and Mexican food products. With presence in over 112 countries, MISSION® products are suited to the lifestyles and the local tastes of each country. With innovation and customer needs in mind, MISSION® focuses on the highest quality, authentic flavors, and providing healthy options that families and friends can enjoy together. For more information, please visit https://www.missionfoods.com/

About NHRA

NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 20 national events featuring the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by LearnEV+, NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™, NHRA Holley EFI Factory X and Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage NHRA Mountain Motor Pro Stock at select national events. NHRA provides competition opportunities for drivers of all levels in the NHRA Summit Racing Series and NHRA Street Legal™. NHRA also offers the NHRA Jr. Street® program for teens and the Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League® for youth ages 5 to 17. With 110 Member Tracks, NHRA allows racers to compete at a variety of locations nationally and internationally. NHRA’s Youth and Education Services® (YES) Program reaches over 30,000 students annually to ignite their interest in automotive and racing related careers. NHRA’s streaming service, NHRA.tv®, allows fans to view all NHRA national events as well as exclusive features of the sport. In addition, NHRA owns and operates three racing facilities: Gainesville Raceway in Florida; Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park; and In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Southern California. For more information, log on to www.NHRA.com, or visit the official NHRA pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Aggreko Returns to the FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX 2024 as the Official Temporary Power Partner

By
Official Release
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For the second year in a row, Aggreko will power the complex street racing course as it winds through the city’s iconic landmarks

HOUSTON, Oct. 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aggreko, a global leader in energy solutions, announces the company’s return as the Official Temporary Power Partner of the FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN SILVER LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX 2024 as part of the multi-year agreement. Following its successful support of the inaugural race in 2023, Aggreko will again power the nighttime race on November 21-23, set in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip.

Aggreko’s return to the Las Vegas Grand Prix comes just as the company announces a multi-year partnership with Formula 1® that will see Aggreko named as an Official Provider of F1®. As part of the agreement, Aggreko will provide low-carbon energy solutions for various Formula 1 races from the 2025 season.

As with last year’s event, the complexity of the nighttime street race will create a challenge in ensuring the event is continuously powered. To meet this challenge, Aggreko will provide energy at various locations. Additionally, Aggreko will provide HVAC solutions in temporary hospitality structures, team hospitality spaces, and offices – all while providing power for the critical track lighting throughout Las Vegas Strip Circuit™. Aggreko will also power the domestic and international broadcasts ensuring fans at home never miss a second of the action.

“We’re honored to be returning to Las Vegas following last year’s successful, first-ever Las Vegas Grand Prix,” said Stephen Saal, Aggreko’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing, North America. “Our expertise in providing energy solutions with the latest technologies helped power last year’s race, and we’re proud to continue working with Formula 1 as we get ready to keep the lights running at this year’s event.”

Last year, Aggreko successfully provided 15 MW of power and 6M BTUs of heat, having a critical role in the successful staging of the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Aggreko installed their latest Tier 4 Final generators at multiple locations around the track, as well as battery energy storage systems that kept the track lit and spectators entertained. The company also provided temperature control for several locations where attendees enjoyed the race. In using their latest innovative technologies, Aggreko was able to keep emissions at a minimum, with the Tier 4F generators helping Formula 1 meet its environmental targets by reducing locally regulated emissions such as particulate matter by 98% and NOx by 96%.

Those interested in learning more about Aggreko’s solutions from last year’s FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN SILVER LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX 2023 can read the full case study on the event at https://www.aggreko.com/en-us/case-studies/events/provided-continuous-power-to-the-formula-1-heineken-silver-las-vegas-grand-prix-2023-as-the-official-temporary-power-partner. Tickets for this year’s race can be purchased at https://www.f1lasvegasgp.com/.

About Aggreko
Aggreko is the global leader in providing energy solutions that help businesses grow and communities thrive.

Operating in a rapidly changing energy market where reliable supplies of energy have never been more critical, we provide customers with power and temperature control solutions when, where and for however long they need it.

Using the latest technologies, we combine our innovative thinking with our sector knowledge to help our customers achieve their goals, however complex, through a range of flexible, modular solutions.

We’re investing in more sustainable products, fuels, and services to make greener solutions accessible for our customers, supporting their move to a more sustainable and efficient future.

Founded in 1962, we are headquartered in the UK and employ over 6,000 people worldwide.

For more information, please visit our website at Home | Aggreko

About FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN SILVER LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX

Established in 2023, the FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN SILVER LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX is co-promoted by Formula 1® and Liberty Media Corporation, in collaboration with Clark County. The 50-lap race takes place on a 3.8-mile circuit in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip and sees drivers reach jaw-dropping speeds of over 215 mph (346 kph) as they drive around some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, hotels, and casinos. Through the Las Vegas Grand Prix Foundation, Las Vegas Grand Prix, Inc. has donated nearly $1 million to local organizations and programs across the state and is committed to providing resources that directly address some of the most pressing challenges facing local families and communities. The 2024 race will take place on November 21-23, 2024. For more information, visit www.f1lasvegasgp.com.

GMG Racing Rolls On to Indianapolis After Closing Porsche Sprint Challenge Season with P2 Podium Finishes Saturday at Sonoma Raceway

By
Official Release
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  • Porsche Junior Driver Ayhancan Güven Joins Washington and Tom Sargent in the No. 32 GMG Racing Porsche 911 GT3 R in this Weekend’s Indianapolis 8 Hour Pro-Am
  • Kyle Washington Second in Porsche Sprint Challenge Masters Class Saturday in Sonoma after Starting Last in the No. 232 GMG Racing Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
  • Patrick Mulcahy Secures a Season-High Second-Place Pro-Am and Overall Finish Saturday in the No. 254 GMG Racing Porsche 911 GT3 Cup at Sonoma

SONOMA, California (October 3, 2024) – GMG Racing and team drivers Kyle Washington and Patrick Mulcahy charged to the finish for a pair of USAC Porsche Sprint Challenge USA West second-place class podium finishes Saturday in the season-ending event weekend for the single-make Porsche racing series at Sonoma Raceway.

Washington charged from the back of the starting grid to the second-place Masters Class finish in the No. 232 GMG Racing Porsche 911 GT3 Cup after flying all night from a family milestone celebration in New York to California just in time to qualify for the weekend’s races.

Mulcahy in turn drove a backup No. 254 GMG Racing Porsche 911 GT3 Cup in Sonoma’s dual Porsche GT3 Cup races after his primary machine was sidelined in a testing incident early in the Sonoma weekend. Despite the late change to the replacement Porsche, the GMG Racing backup 911 GT3 was ready to go and Mulcahy didn’t miss a beat has he battled for the podium throughout the race and straight to the season-best P2 result.

Washington’s eBoost and adrenaline-fueled performance Saturday wasn’t just in Sprint Challenge West. Taking advantage of a dual Porsche Sprint Challenge event for the second straight race weekend, Washington started the weekend’s schedule of four races in his No. 234 GMG Racing Porsche 911 GT3 Cup competing in the Sprint Challenge North America race on Saturday.

Leaving nothing on the table, Washington climbed through the field from the back in that sprint for a top-five Masters Class finish. He started the race 12th in class and 23rd overall but – in addition to the class fifth-place result – he was 14th by the checkered flag. He won the eBoost Hard Charger Award for improving seven class positions, three more spots than any other competitor in the race.

“When you fly into the track for the first time the morning of the race, not many people could even show up on the grid, but Kyle can make that happen,” said GMG Racing Principal and Founder James Sofronas. “He chugged a few eBoost and was off and running. Considering the zero track time he had here, after everybody else had nearly three days, it was amazing he powered through for a P2 finish. He will never shy away from getting as much track time as possible, which is why he made it to Sonoma in time to race after celebrating his parent’s 60th Anniversary and a big 90th Birthday for his father in New York. You can’t miss something like that, but he got here as soon as he could, and the podium result makes that kind of trip all the more worthwhile. It was quite the celebration.”

Mulcahy, completing just his first year of professional level racing, continued improving right up until the final checkered flag of the season.

“I’m super impressed with Patrick’s racecraft,” Sofronas said. “He drove like someone who has been doing this for 10 years. When he had to defend, it was fair, and when he had to push and get a gap, he was able to. He hasn’t raced with that much pressure by top drivers for that long all year. So, to withstand that pressure and excel and get a P2, we were all very excited in the pits watching every lap until the end. But I think no one is happier about the P2 that he is. It is well deserved.”

Mulcahy’s top P2 finish came one race after a third place finish in August at Road America that was his previous season-best finish. He continued the fast fight through Sunday’s final USA West race of the year where he finished fourth in Pro-Am and overall after running as high as second and battling with the other leaders throughout the race.

“The team pulled a miracle and drove a car for me all the way up from Santa Ana,” Mulcahy said. “They arrived just in time for qualifying, which was huge as I would have had to start in the back. To have an incredible race after all of that was amazing. I am glad I was able to hang on there on Saturday. I was a little more cautious for Sunday’s green flag after some Saturday start penalties for other competitors. Then I had some issues with pickup on my tires during the yellow flag near the end. It’s just my inexperience with the track, but I also should have been down a gear. Lessons learned, but all in all happy with my performance and the GMG Racing team. We had some good results this year. I just kept getting better and better with each race, which has given me some momentum going into the off season. Plenty of lessons learned, I will work on a few things, and I have full confidence I will come into next season swinging.”

With the Porsche Sprint Challenge season in the books, GMG Racing now shifts focus to this weekend’s season-ending SRO America Indianapolis 8 Hour weekend, which began with opening practice Wednesday.

The highlight program is GMG Racing’s Pro-Am team in the Indianapolis 8 Hour with Fanatec GT World Challenge America contenders Washington and Tom Sargent in the No. 32 GMG Racing Porsche 911 GT3 R. The winning duo of Washington and Sargent will be joined by Platinum-rated Porsche Junior Driver Ayhancan Güven in the Pro-Am class in the Indianapolis 8 Hour.

GMG Racing also extends its full support to German Porsche team Herberth Motorsport this weekend in the Indianapolis 8 Hour through a full logistics and technical partnership for the team’s Pro-Am No. 4 Herberth Motorsport Porsche 911 GT3 R. The trio of Antares Au, Loek Hartog and Platinum factory Porsche pilot Patric Niederhauser co-drives the Herberth Porsche.

Three GMG entries also compete in the season-ending GT America powered by AWS doubleheader, which features single driver, 40-minute sprints Friday and Sunday. Washington drives a second No. 32 GMG Racing Porsche 911 GT3 R and looks for his first win of the GT America season after recording both second place and third place podium finishes so far. CJ Moses runs in the GT2 class in his No. 58 GMG Racing Audi R8 LMS GT2 while Sofronas is always a contender for a win in his No. 14 GMG Racing Audi R8 LMS GT3 EVO2. Sofronas picked up his first GT America win of the season the last time he ran the Audi last month at Road America.

A majority of the action this weekend from Indianapolis can be viewed live on the GT World YouTube Channel, including Saturday’s featured Indianapolis 8 Hour that starts at 12:15 p.m. EDT.

About GMG Racing: Founded in 2001, GMG Racing quickly established itself as North America’s premier performance tuning facility. What began as a small 1,200 sq. ft. shop, maintaining two race cars, has grown into a state-of-the-art performance tuning, racing and service facility located in Santa Ana, California in Orange County and with a trackside motorsports facility at 28,000 sq. ft. currently being built at The Thermal Club. The staff, attention to detail, and passion are what make GMG the choice of professionals and enthusiasts worldwide. GMG, in its early years, was located directly across the street from Porsche Motorsport North America (PMNA). This close proximity allowed GMG to build a strong relationship with the legendary racing brand which has helped us support our customers to the highest level possible. From club racing to Sebring, Daytona and Spa, GMG can take you as far as you want to go. More information can be found at www.gmgracing.com.

AM Racing | Christian Rose Toledo Speedway Fall ARCA Preview

By
Official Release
-

AM Racing | ARCA Menards Series
Toledo Speedway | Owens Corning 200

Fast Facts
No. 32 AM Racing Team:
Driver: Christian Rose
Primary Partner(s): Department of West Virginia Tourism
Manufacturer: Ford Mustang
Crew Chief: Matt Lucas
Spotter: Trevor Monn
Chassis Intel: AMR Chassis No. A-242
Engine: Ilmor Racing Technologies

Notes of Interest:

White Flag: AM Racing returns to the ARCA Menards Series full-time in 2024 with sophomore Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA) driver Christian Rose behind the wheel of the team’s No. 32 Ford Mustang, continuing this weekend for the ARCA Menards Series season finale.

The 2024 ARCA Menards Series season will mark the first time that AM Racing has competed back-to-back full-time in the NASCAR-owned development series since three-time ARCA Menards Series winner Gus Dean drove for the organization during the 2017 – 2018 seasons, respectively.

Saturday afternoon’s Owens Corning 200 will conclude the 2024 ARCA Menards Series season at the series’ hometown track of Toledo Speedway in Toledo, Ohio. – just a couple miles from the Ohio –

Michigan border off Interstate 75.

Meet Christian Rose: Rose, a former Division 1 baseball player for the University of Maryland Eastern Shore has traded the glove and bat in for a steering wheel and helmet and has set achievable goals for his second full season of stock car competition aboard the team’s flagship No. 32 Ford Mustang.

Rose returns to the Statesville, N.C.-based team on the heels of his inaugural rookie ARCA schedule in 2023, which was highlighted by two top-five, 13 top-10 finishes, and the most laps completed by any ARCA driver last season at 2,550 of 2,624 laps or 97.2% throughout the 20-race season.

His strength of two top-five and five top-10 finishes in the final five races of the season vaulted Rose to third overall in the championship standings behind series champion Jesse Love and Andrés Pérez de Lara.

The 29-year-old also made two starts in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, respectively, with starts at Richmond (Va.) Raceway and the season-finale at Phoenix (Ariz.) Raceway.

Partner Support: The Department of West Virginia Tourism will serve as the primary marketing partner on Rose’s No. 32 Ford Mustang in the final ARCA Menards Series race of the season at Toledo Speedway.

The Department of West Virginia Tourism promotes West Virginia as a leading four-season travel destination and a top state to live, work and retire.

Known as the Mountain State, West Virginia is one of the most scenic states in the United States and home to thousands of acres of parks and public lands, including America’s newest national park and 45 state parks and forests.

In addition to its majestic mountains and rolling hills, West Virginia is full of rich historic sites, enchanting art galleries, charming towns and an immense sense of belonging found only in its heaven-like landscapes.

For the final race of the season, the AM Racing team will throwback to the Department of West Virginia Tourism summer paint scheme from the 2023 ARCA season.

Squeaky Blue Clean: In March, AM Racing and Christian Rose proudly announced the addition of Blue Wolf as a partner to the team’s ARCA Menards Series platform for the remaining race in 2024.

Originally created by a West Virginia coal miner and a chemist to clean and degrease mining equipment, Blue Wolf quickly became trusted as a proven product for getting the job done.

As miners began taking the product home, they soon discovered that Blue Wolf worked great on everything from removing grease and coal dust from carpets and work clothes to pressure washing houses.

Today, Blue Wolf offers a full line of cleaners and degreasers for household, automotive, and industrial use.

Blue Wolf will serve in an associate role for Saturday afternoon’s race.

School In Session: On Friday morning, Rose and the No. 32 Department of West Virginia Tourism Ford Mustang will visit with the University of Toledo Formula SAE engineering students to discuss this weekend’s ARCA Menards Series season finale.

See You At Menards: Before tackling a full day of activity at Toledo Speedway on Saturday, Christian Rose and the No. 32 Department of West Virginia Tourism Ford Mustang will appear at the Oregon Menards on Friday, October 4, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. ET.

The Menards is located at 3100 Brown Road, Oregon, OH 43616-4031

Menards will also sell discounted grandstand tickets to the Owens Corning 200 at the guest services center.

Christian Rose ARCA Toledo Speedway Stats: Saturday afternoon’s Owens Corning 200 will mark Rose’s second ARCA start at the historic half-mile oval nestled in Toledo, Ohio.

In his previous effort, Rose delivered a track-best of fifth during last fall’s Shore Lunch 200 after starting seventh.

Christian Rose Career ARCA National Series Stats: In 47 career ARCA National Series starts, Rose has earned five top-five and 23 top-10 finishes highlighted by a career-best third-place finish achieved at Salem (Ind.) Speedway in September 2023.

Additionally, Rose has showcased 35 top-20 finishes overall since 2022.

Since 2022, he has maintained an average finishing position of 12.6.

To The Point(s): Entering Toledo, Rose is fifth in the ARCA Menards Series championship standings, 40 markers behind ARCA Menards Series driver Kris Wright for third, with one race remaining.

Just three markers separate Rose from the fourth in the championship standings, being currently occupied by Toni Breidinger.

Rose stands 120 points in the arrears to championship leader Andrés Pérez de Lara.

AM Racing stands a respectable eighth in the ARCA Menards Series championship owner standings.

Thanks For Your Support: With 95 percent of the 2024 ARCA Menards Series season complete, AM Racing and Christian Rose would like to thank their associate marketing partners for their support: AirBox Air Purifier, Blue Wolf Cleaners, Flying Circle, Mobil 1 and Whitetail Smokeless.

Kansas Speedway | Reese’s 150 Race Recap: In the 19th ARCA Menards Series race of the season, Rose returned to Kansas Speedway looking to add to an impressive resume at the 1.5-mile speedway.

Returning to the Department of West Virginia Tourism colors, Rose qualified his race car 15th ahead of 100 laps of action in the penultimate race of the 2024 season.

From the drop of the green flag, Rose maintained a good pace, but unfortunately, the team encountered a flat tire during the race, which sent Rose to pit road. The team quickly changed the damaged tire and put their driver back in contention.

The setback proved a lot to overcome in 100 laps, but Rose settled for a respectable 13th-place finish at the checkered flag.

Follow on Social Media: For more on AM Racing, please visit AMRacingteam.com, like their Facebook page (AM Racing), or follow them on Instagram and X | Twitter @AMRacingNASCAR.

For more on Christian Rose, please like him on Facebook (Christian Rose Racing), or follow him on Instagram (@christianroseracing) and X | Twitter (@CRoseRacing).

Christian Rose Quoteboard:

On Toledo Speedway: “Definitely heading to Toledo Speedway to get this monkey off our back that we’ve had for the last couple of races. My AM Racing guys have brought me fast Ford Musangs, but we just haven’t been able to overcome some bad luck and get back into the top-10.

“We’ll try again on Saturday afternoon at Toledo Speedway. I feel like Toledo is a good race track for me. It fits my driving style and we were able to capture a top-five finish to end the season together.

“That’s what we are looking for on Saturday. Another top-five to close out 2024 on a high note.”

Race Information:

The Owens Corning 200 (200 laps | 100 miles) is the 20th of 20 races on the 2024 ARCA Menards Series schedule. Practice begins Saturday, October 5 from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. General Tire pole qualifying follows beginning at 1:00 p.m. The race is set to take the green flag later that afternoon shortly after 4:00 p.m. ET. The event will be televised live on FOX Sports 2 (FS2) and FloRacing. ARCARacing.com will also stream live timing and scoring throughout the entire day’s festivities.

About AM Racing:

AM Racing is a multi-tiered, multi-faceted Motorsports program headquartered in Statesville, N.C.

Established in December 2015, AM Racing is prided on faith, honesty and intelligent performance.

The family-owned team will compete in the ARCA Menards Series, the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series, the NASCAR Xfinity Series and various Dirt Modified events in its eighth year of competition.

How to Choose the Right Valve Spring for Your Engine Type

By
SM
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Choosing the right valve spring for your engine is essential to ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and longevity. Valve springs are often overlooked, but they play a crucial role in maintaining proper valve operation and ensuring the engine’s timing is precise. 

The wrong valve springs can lead to poor engine performance, valve float, or even engine damage. In this article, we’ll walk you through the basics of valve springs, how to choose the right one for your engine, and what tools you need for the job.

Understanding the Role of Valve Springs in Your Engine

Before we dive into how to choose the right valve spring, it’s essential to understand the role they play in the engine. A valve spring in the engine is responsible for keeping the engine’s valves closed until it’s time for them to open as part of the combustion cycle. 

It ensures that the valve closes with enough force to maintain compression within the combustion chamber, preventing leakage and maintaining engine efficiency.

The valve spring in engine setups are typically coiled and designed to operate under extreme pressure. They compress as the camshaft rotates and the valve opens, and they extend as the valve closes. This movement is repeated thousands of times per minute in a running engine, so choosing the right spring valve that can handle this stress is critical.

Types of Valve Springs

When selecting a valve spring for your engine, you’ll need to understand the different types available. Each type of spring has unique characteristics suited to specific engine applications.

1. Single Valve Springs

Single valve springs are the most common type used in standard engines. They consist of a single spring coiled around the valve stem. These springs are suitable for engines with lower performance demands, where the engine operates at moderate RPMs (revolutions per minute). Single valve springs are cost-effective and easy to install but may not provide the level of durability required for high-performance or racing engines.

2. Dual Valve Springs

Dual valve springs feature two concentric springs — a smaller inner spring and a larger outer spring. This setup offers improved control and prevents valve float, making dual valve springs ideal for high-performance engines that operate at higher RPMs. The dual spring design helps distribute the load more evenly and provides extra stability, ensuring that the valve spring in the engine closes quickly and securely.

3. Beehive Valve Springs

Beehive valve springs are designed with a tapered coil that resembles the shape of a beehive. This design allows for reduced weight at the top of the spring, which helps to increase RPM capability while reducing the chance of valve float. Beehive valve springs are a popular choice for high-performance and racing engines because they offer better control over the valve without requiring the use of heavy hardware.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Valve Springs

Choosing the right valve spring for your engine type requires careful consideration of several factors, including the engine’s specifications, intended use, and the type of camshaft being used. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Engine RPM Range

The engine’s operating RPM is one of the most important factors to consider when selecting valve springs. Engines that run at higher RPMs require springs that can handle the increased demand. Valve float, where the valve fails to close fully, is more likely to occur at high RPMs with weaker springs. This can lead to poor engine performance and even damage.

If your engine will be running at high RPMs frequently, such as in racing applications, you may want to opt for dual valve springs or beehive valve springs to ensure better control and stability.

2. Camshaft Specifications

Your choice of valve springs must also align with the camshaft’s specifications. Aggressive camshaft profiles, with higher lift and longer duration, put additional stress on the valve springs. If the spring valve isn’t strong enough to handle the increased lift, it could lead to valve float or premature wear of the camshaft and valve components.

When choosing valve springs, always consult the camshaft manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure compatibility.

3. Valve Spring Pressure

The valve spring pressure is another critical factor to consider. This refers to the force exerted by the spring when the valve is closed and when it’s fully open. Insufficient spring pressure can result in valve float, while too much pressure can cause unnecessary wear on the camshaft and valve components.

For high-performance engines, you may need higher valve spring pressures to maintain valve control at higher RPMs. However, it’s essential to strike the right balance to avoid damaging other engine parts.

4. Spring Material and Durability

Valve springs are typically made from high-strength steel alloys, designed to withstand the intense heat and stress generated by the engine. For racing or high-performance applications, consider valve springs made from premium materials, such as chrome-silicon or titanium, which offer better durability and resistance to wear.

Durability is critical, especially in engines that will see a lot of use or high-stress conditions. Investing in high-quality valve springs can help prevent premature failure and reduce maintenance costs over time.

Checking Valve Springs for Wear

Regular maintenance of your engine includes checking valve springs for wear and tear. Over time, valve springs can weaken, which may lead to valve float and engine performance issues. Here’s how you can check the condition of your valve springs:

  1. Visual Inspection
    Look for any visible signs of wear, such as cracks or deformations in the spring. If the spring appears bent or damaged, it should be replaced immediately.
  2. Checking Spring Pressure
    Use a valve spring tool, such as a spring compressor or pressure tester, to measure the spring’s installed height and seat pressure. Compare these measurements to the manufacturer’s specifications. If the spring pressure has diminished, it’s time for a replacement.
  3. Testing Valve Travel
    Check the valve travel to ensure the spring compresses and expands smoothly without binding. Any signs of sticking or uneven movement may indicate that the spring is worn and needs replacing.

How to Install Valve Springs

Installing new valve springs requires precision and the right tools. Here’s a general guide on how to install valve springs:

  1. Remove the Valve Cover and Rocker Arms
    Start by removing the valve cover and rocker arms to expose the valve springs. Be sure to label or organize the parts for easy reassembly.
  2. Use a Valve Spring Tool
    A valve spring tool, such as a spring compressor, is essential for safely removing and installing valve springs. Compress the spring using the tool, then remove the keepers and carefully release the spring.
  3. Install the New Valve Springs
    Place the new valve spring in position and compress it using the valve spring tool. Install the keepers and ensure they are seated correctly. Once the spring is installed, release the compressor and check for proper alignment.
  4. Reassemble the Engine
    After all the new springs are installed, reassemble the rocker arms and valve cover. Be sure to torque everything to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Choosing the Right Valve Spring Tool

When working with valve springs, having the right tools can make the job easier and safer. A valve spring tool is designed to compress the spring and hold it in place while you install or remove it. There are several types of valve spring tools available, including:

  • Valve Spring Compressors
    These are the most commonly used tools for compressing valve springs during installation or removal. They come in various designs, including handheld and clamp-style compressors.
  • Valve Spring Testers
    These tools measure the spring’s pressure to ensure it meets the manufacturer’s specifications. Regularly checking valve springs with a tester can help identify weak or worn springs before they cause engine issues.
  • Valve Spring Retainer Removal Tools
    These tools make it easy to remove and install valve keepers, which hold the spring in place on the valve stem.

Conclusion

Choosing the right valve spring for your engine type is a critical decision that can significantly impact your vehicle’s performance and longevity. Whether you’re working with standard single valve springs, high-performance dual valve springs, or lightweight beehive valve springs, selecting the right spring is essential for maintaining engine health, preventing valve float, and ensuring reliable operation at any RPM range.

Don’t forget the importance of using the right valve spring tool to make the installation process smooth and efficient. And remember, regularly checking valve springs for wear is key to avoiding engine performance issues down the line.

With a little knowledge and the right equipment, you can ensure that your valve spring in engine runs smoothly and performs at its best for years to come.

NASCAR Weekend Schedule for Talladega – Fall 2024

By
Angie Campbell
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Photo by John Knittel for SpeedwayMedia.com.

NASCAR travels to Talladega Superspeedway this weekend with all the series set to compete on the 2.66-mile asphalt track.
The race will mark the second race in the Round of 12 Playoffs for the Cup Series and Xfinity Series and the first event of the Craftsman Truck Series Round of 8.

Qualifying (impound) for all series: Single Vehicle – 1 Lap – 2 Rounds.

Note: There will be no practice at Talladega.

NASCAR Press Pass will be available post-race for all series.

All times are Eastern.

Friday, Oct. 4
1:00 p.m.: Truck Series Qualifying – FS2
4:30 p.m.: Truck Series Love’s RV Stop 225
Stages end on laps 20/40/85 Laps = 226.1 Miles
FS1/MRN/SiriusXM
Purse: $880,113

Saturday, Oct. 5
Noon: Xfinity Series Qualifying
USA/NBC Sports App
1:30 p.m.: Cup Series Qualifying
USA/MRN/SiriusXM
4:00 p.m.: Xfinity Series United Rentals 250
Stages end on laps 25/50/94 Laps = 250.04 Miles
CW/MRN/SiriusXM
Purse: $1,337,574

Sunday, Oct. 6
2:00 p.m.: Cup Series YellaWood 500
Stages end on Laps 60/120/188 = 500 Miles
NBC/MRN/SiriusXM
Purse: $9,222,964

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