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Toyota Racing Weekly Preview 09.04.24

By
Official Release
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This Week in Motorsports: September 3 – 8, 2024
NCS/NXS: Atlanta Motor Speedway – Sept. 7-8

PLANO, Texas (Sept. 4, 2024) – The NASCAR Cup Series begins its 10-race Playoffs at Atlanta Motor Speedway on Sunday. The Xfinity Series also takes on the Georgia 1.5-mile oval with just three races remaining in their regular season.

NASCAR National Series – NCS | NXS

Five Camry XSE drivers ready for Playoff push … The push for the championship begins Sunday in Atlanta for five of Toyota’s Cup Series drivers. Christopher Bell begins the 2024 Playoffs as the highest Camry XSE, starting in second position 27 points above the cutline. He’s joined above the cutline by the regular season champion, Tyler Reddick (third), and Denny Hamlin (sixth). Ty Gibbs and Martin Truex Jr. begin the Playoffs in 15th and 16th position, respectively, both one point below the cutline.

Bell riding momentum into Playoffs … Seeking his third consecutive Championship 4 appearance, Bell enters the 2024 Playoffs off a handful of strong results. The driver of the No. 20 Camry XSE has four top-10 finishes in the last five races, including back-to-back third-place results. Another top-10 for Bell this weekend in Atlanta would be the third of his career, with his career-best being a third-place finish in the spring of 2023.

Regular season champion also seeking another top-10 … The close of the 2024 regular season by Reddick was impressive, propelling him to the regular season championship by the night’s end in Darlington on Sunday. He heads into this weekend with top-10s in 11 of the last 13 races, and 18 in total, the most in the Cup Series this season.

Points battle with three races left … Heading into Atlanta this weekend, Chandler Smith remains third in the Xfinity Series points after his top-10 result at Darlington. The Georgia native currently sits second in the Playoff standings courtesy of his two wins this season and accrued stage points. After nearly missing out on his maiden win last weekend, and finishing third, Sheldon Creed has jumped to fifth in the series points standings, thanks to five consecutive top-10 finishes. Creed also finished inside the top-10 in Atlanta back in February, in the fourth position.

Heim takes on home race … Corey Heim will pilot the No. 26 GR Supra for Sam Hunt Racing for the 11th time this season and 15th time in his career Saturday at his home race track of Atlanta Motor Speedway. The 22-year-old makes his Xfinity Series debut at Atlanta, the same track where he captured his first career Truck Series win in 2022.

Truex eager to continue Atlanta success … Following his epic win in Daytona two weeks ago, Ryan Truex is back at Atlanta Motor Speedway, where he’s found success in his Xfinity Series career. The 32-year-old has finished inside the top 11 in each of his Xfinity Series starts at the track, including four consecutive top-10s. He also hopes to extend the win streak for the No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing team who have been triumphant the last two races with Truex in Daytona and Bell at Darlington.

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.

JR Motorsports — NXS Atlanta II Preview

By
Official Release
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JR Motorsports Team Preview
TRACK – Atlanta Motor Speedway (1.54 mile quad-oval)
NXS RACE – Focused Health 250 (163 laps / 251.02 miles)
TUNE IN – USA, PRN, SiriusXM Channel 90 at 3:00 p.m. (ET)

Sam Mayer

No. 1 High Rock Vodka Chevrolet

Mayer 2024 NXS Stats

Starts: 23

Wins: 2

Top 5s: 7

Top 10s: 10

Laps Led: 136

Avg. Finish: 18

Points: 13th

  • Sam Mayer heads to Atlanta Motor Speedway this weekend for his seventh NASCAR Xfinity Series start at the 1.540-mile quad-oval.
  • In six previous NXS starts at Atlanta, the Franklin, Wis. native has tallied one top five and three top 10s with a best of fifth coming in this event last season in 2023.
  • The young driver is a previous winner on the 1.5-mile speedways in the NXS, having gone to Victory Lane at Homestead-Miami Speedway in 2023 and Texas Motor Speedway earlier this year.
  • High Rock Vodka, a premium handcrafted vodka co-created by JR Motorsports owner and NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his wife Amy in collaboration with Sugarland’s Distilling Company, will ride along side the No. 1 Chevrolet this weekend with Mayer.

Sam Mayer

“Atlanta is a pretty interesting track to run at, especially after the repave and increase of the banking. It runs more like a superspeedway so anything can happen here but I know this No. 1 High Rock Vodka Camaro will be up front when it counts. Super cool to have High Rock on board this week and I am hopeful this team will get the finish they deserve this week.”

Justin Allgaier

No. 7 Hellmann’s Chevrolet

Allgaier 2024 NXS Stats

Starts: 23

Wins: 2

Top 5s: 7

Top 10s: 15

Laps Led: 570

Avg. Finish: 12.3

Points: 1st

  • Justin Allgaier is a previous winner at Atlanta in the NXS, having gone to Victory Lane on the previous configuration in the spring of 2021.
  • In five starts on the new configuration at Atlanta, Allgaier has earned a best finish of seventh, coming in the spring of 2022.
  • Overall, in 17 total NXS starts at the 1.54-mile quad-oval, the JRM driver has amassed three top fives and nine top 10s to accompany the 2021 victory.
  • With three races remaining in the NXS regular season, Allgaier currently sits atop the point standings, 28 points ahead of second.

Justin Allgaier

“As we’ve seen over the last couple of years on this new configuration, anything can happen in Atlanta. Hopefully we can keep our nose clean all race long and be in contention for the win when it counts with our Hellmann’s Chevrolet. I know that Jim (Pohlman, crew chief) will give me a great car, and JRM always has a strong superspeedway program. So I feel really confident that we will be where we want to be with our JRM teammates on Saturday.”

Sammy Smith

No. 8 Pilot Flying J Chevrolet

Smith 2024 NXS Stats

Starts: 23

Wins: 0

Top 5s: 5

Top 10s: 12

Laps Led: 55

Avg. Finish: 15.5

Points: 10th

  • Sammy Smith will head to Atlanta this weekend for his fourth NXS start on the 1.54 mile quad-oval where he has not qualified worse than 14th.
  • Smith has finished inside the top-10 in his last two starts at the Georgia track.
  • According to NASCAR’s Loop Data statistics, Smith is ranked fifth for quality passes with 917 thus far this season.
  • The No. 8 Pilot Flying J Chevrolet will display a “Thank You Pro Drivers” message on the TV Panel as a kick off to “National Truck Driver Appreciation Week” which is Sept. 15-21.

Sammy Smith

“We had a strong car last week in Darlington where we were competitive in the top-10 all day. I was happy that we could bring home a strong finish for Pilot Flying J and JR Motorsports. I’m looking forward to getting back in the car in Atlanta to continue the momentum and fight for a better position in the playoff points”

Brandon Jones

No. 9 Menards / Jeld-Wen Chevrolet

Jones 2024 NXS Stats

Starts: 23

Wins: 0

Top 5s: 1

Top 10s: 5

Laps Led: 30

Avg. Finish: 20.3

Points: 14th

  • Returning to his home track for the 13th time, the 27-year-old Georgia native currently has one top five and 3 top 10s at the 1.54-mile quad oval.
  • Brandon Jones has made 142 starts on tracks measuring one-two miles in length in the NXS and has recorded four wins, 20 top fives and 63 top 10s.
  • Jones currently ranks fourth in quality passes at Atlanta, according to NASCAR Loop Data Statistics, with 370.
  • Jeld-Wen, an industry-leading, global building products organization will make its second appearance on the hood of Jones’ Camaro this weekend. This will be the company’s fourth time appearing on Jones’ car at AMS.

Brandon Jones

“I always love coming back to my home track, especially with the new configuration. This No. 9 team has been giving me fast racecars and I know that we will unload another one this Saturday. Hopefully we can keep our nose clean and be battling for the win at the end.”

JRM Team Updates

JR Motorsports at Atlanta Motor Speedway: JR Motorsports has competed at Atlanta Motor Speedway a combined 67 times with the NXS since its first trip there in 2006. In those starts at the 1.54 mile quad-oval, the organization has recorded four wins, 18 top fives, and 39 top 10s, with an average finish of 11.9.

Souvenir Rig: JRM driver Justin Allgaier will be signing autographs at the JR Motorsports / Legacy MC souvenir rig on Saturday, September 7 from 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. ET.

Ford Performance NASCAR – NASCAR Cup Series Opens Playoffs in Atlanta

By
Official Release
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ATLANTA 2

Saturday, September 7 — NASCAR Xfinity Series, 3 p.m. ET (USA)
Sunday, September 8 — NASCAR Cup Series, 3 p.m. ET (USA)

The NASCAR Cup Series will open its playoff season for the first time at Atlanta Motor Speedway this weekend as part of a doubleheader that will also see the NASCAR Xfinity Series in action. Six Ford drivers have qualified to compete for the championship, most among manufacturers, including each of the last two titleholders in Ryan Blaney (2023) and Joey Logano (2022).

FORD DRIVERS IN THE CUP SERIES PLAYOFFS

DRIVER – SEED (CUT LINE)

Ryan Blaney – 5th (+13)
Brad Keselowski – 8th (+3)
Joey Logano – 9th (+2)
Austin Cindric – 10th (+2)
Chase Briscoe – 13th (+0)
Harrison Burton – 14th (+0)

SECOND HALF SURGE

Ford enters the NASCAR Cup Series postseason having won back-to-back races at Daytona and Darlington and has been surging in the second half of the year with the new Mustang Dark Horse. The Blue Oval ended the regular season winning seven of the last 14 points races with the six Playoff drivers all delivering at least one victory and defending champion Ryan Blaney two (Iowa and Pocono). Not included in that streak is Joey Logano’s win in the All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway.

PLAYOFF APPEARANCES SINCE 2014

NASCAR began the current 16-driver playoff elimination format in 2014 and this season Ford will have a manufacturer-best six drivers battling for the championship. This will mark the 10th time Brad Keselowski and Joey Logano have qualified in this latest iteration of the postseason while defending series champion Ryan Blaney will be making his eighth appearance. Chase Briscoe’s dramatic win at Darlington Raceway puts him in the postseason for the second time, which is the same scenario for Austin Cindric after his victory at World Wide Technology Raceway. Meanwhile, Harrison Burton will be making his first playoff appearance after winning in Daytona two weeks ago.

PLAYOFF APPEARANCES IN CURRENT FORMAT

Brad Keselowski – 10
Joey Logano – 10
Ryan Blaney – 8
Chase Briscoe – 2
Austin Cindric – 2
Harrison Burton – 1

FORD’S ALL-TIME PLAYOFF RECORD

Ford has 52 all-time NASCAR Cup Series playoff victories since the postseason era started in 2004. Kurt Busch won the inaugural race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway that year and rode that momentum to the series championship. Since then, a total of 13 drivers have captured at least one playoff event with Joey Logano leading the way with 12. Brad Keselowski is next with six Ford playoff victories (8 overall) while Ryan Blaney won twice in the playoffs a year ago at Talladega and Martinsville.

KESELOWSKI GETS FIRST CUP WIN FOR MUSTANG

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

THREE TO GO

Even though the NASCAR Cup Series opens its Playoffs this weekend, the NASCAR Xfinity Series still has three races left in its regular season. Ford drivers Riley Herbst and defending champion Cole Custer have already secured their spots in the 12-driver field while Ryan Sieg is squarely on the bubble. The Georgia native heads to his hometown track on Saturday looking to carve into a 10-point deficit that currently has him on the outside looking in. Sieg finished 22nd in the first race at AMS earlier this year and has two top-10 finishes in 14 career starts.

FORD’S ATLANTA CUP SERIES WINNERS

1961 – Fred Lorenzen

1962 – Fred Lorenzen

1963 – Fred Lorenzen

1964 – Fred Lorenzen and Ned Jarrett

1965 – Marvin Panch (Sweep)

1967 – Cale Yarborough and Dick Hutcherson

1968 – LeeRoy Yarbrough

1969 – LeeRoy Yarbrough

1975 – Buddy Baker

1978 – Bobby Allison

1981 – Neil Bonnett

1985 – Bill Elliott (Sweep)

1987 – Ricky Rudd and Bill Elliott

1990 – Morgan Shepherd

1991 – Mark Martin

1992 – Bill Elliott (Sweep)

1993 – Morgan Shepherd

1994 – Ernie Irvan and Mark Martin

1997 – Dale Jarrett

2002 – Kurt Busch

2005 – Carl Edwards (Sweep)

2008 – Carl Edwards

2017 – Brad Keselowski

2018 – Kevin Harvick

2019 – Brad Keselowski

2020 – Kevin Harvick

2021 – Ryan Blaney (1)

2023 – Joey Logano (1)

Harrison Burton to make 100th Cup start at Atlanta

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by John Knittel for SpeedwayMedia.com.

As Harrison Burton prepares to campaign in his first NASCAR Cup Series race weekend as a Playoff competitor ahead of this weekend’s Playoff opener at Atlanta Motor Speedway, he does so with a milestone start up for grabs. By competing at Atlanta, the driver of the No. 21 Wood Brothers Racing Ford Mustang Dark Horse will make his 100th career start in NASCAR’s premier series.

A second-generation racer from Huntersville, North Carolina, Burton made his inaugural presence in the Cup circuit at Talladega Superspeedway in April 2021. By then, he was campaigning in his second full-time season in the Xfinity Series for Joe Gibbs Racing and was coming off a four-race victory season as he also achieved the 2020 Xfinity Rookie-of-the-Year title. Driving the No. 96 Toyota Camry for Gaunt Brothers Racing, Burton rallied from starting at the rear of the field to finish 20th.

In July 2021, Burton was named as the driver of the iconic No. 21 Ford Mustang for Wood Brothers Racing for the 2022 Cup season, where he replaced Matt DiBenedetto and contended for the Rookie-of-the-Year title. Burton’s rookie Cup campaign commenced on a rough note after he was involved in a multi-car wreck during the 64th running of the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway. It resulted in the North Carolina native flipping on the roof before rolling back on all four wheels while battling towards the front on Lap 62 of 200 and ending up in 39th place in the final running order.

During his next 18 scheduled events, Burton would finish no higher than 11th and notch a total of six top-20 results before securing his first career top-10 result at Atlanta Motor Speedway in July, where he led nine laps. Three laps later, he achieved his first career top-five result at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course by finishing in third place amid a wild overtime finish. While not in contention of making the 2022 Cup Series Playoffs, Burton would proceed to finish in the top 20 seven additional times during the final 14 events on the schedule, which included an 11th-place run at Martinsville Speedway in October, before settling in 27th place in the final standings and in the runner-up spot behind Austin Cindric for the rookie title.  

Remaining at Wood Brothers Racing for the 2023 Cup season, Burton commenced the season by finishing 26th during the 65th running of the Daytona 500 after being involved in a late multi-car wreck. He then finished no higher than 15th twice during his next 11 starts before posting his first top-10 finish with a sixth-place result at Darlington Raceway in May. Burton would then manage an eighth-place finish at Pocono Raceway in July during his next 13 starts as he would not make the Cup Series Playoffs for a second consecutive season. Managing a 15th-place result at Martinsville in November and three top-20s throughout the Playoffs, Burton ended up in 31st place in the final standings and an average-finishing result of 24.7 with only two top-10 recorded results.

Through the first 24 regular-season events of the 2024 Cup Series season, Burton had recorded a single top-10 result, where he finished 10th at Talladega in April, but was strapped with an average-finishing result of 26.9. By then, he was informed in early July that he would be replaced by Josh Berry in 2025.

Then in August, Burton outdueled Kyle Busch during an overtime shootout to score his first elusive Cup Series career victory at Daytona with his father and former NASCAR veteran Jeff Burton calling the event’s broadcast. The Daytona victory made Harrison Burton the 205th competitor overall to win in NASCAR’s premier series as he both secured a spot into the 2024 Cup Series Playoffs and delivered the milestone 100th career win for Wood Brothers Racing.

Through 99 previous Cup starts, Burton has achieved one victory, two top-five results, six top-10 results, 73 laps led and an average finishing result of 24.2. Despite finishing in 21st place during this past weekend’s regular-season finale at Darlington, Burton will commence the 2024 Cup Series Playoffs and his first pursuit for a first Cup title in 14th place in the Playoff standings with 2,005 points.

Harrison Burton is scheduled to make his 100th Cup Series career start at Atlanta Motor Speedway for the Quaker State 400 on Sunday, September 8, with the event’s broadcast time to occur at 3 p.m. ET on USA Network.

HaasTooling.com Racing: Ryan Preece Atlanta Advance

By
Official Release
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RYAN PREECE
Atlanta Advance
No. 41 HaasTooling.com Ford Mustang Dark Horse

Event Overview

● Event: Atlanta 400 (Round 27 of 36)
● Time/Date: 3 p.m. EDT on Sunday, Sept. 8
● Location: Atlanta Motor Speedway in Hampton, Georgia
● Layout: 1.54-mile oval
● Laps/Miles: 260 laps/400 miles
● Stage Lengths: Stage 1: 60 laps / Stage 2: 100 laps / Final Stage: 100 laps
● TV/Radio: USA / PRN / SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Notes of Interest

● Sunday’s Atlanta 400 will mark Ryan Preece’s eighth NASCAR Cup Series start at Atlanta Motor Speedway. The best of his previous outings on the 1.54-mile oval was the most recent, a 16th-place result from the 20th starting position in March that also was best that day of the four Stewart-Haas Racing entries. Preece’s first four Atlanta starts came prior to the track’s old configuration, on which his best finish was 25th, earned twice – March 2021 and July 2021. Preece logged finishes of 28th and 24th in the March and July 2023 races, respectively, his first two outings on Atlanta’s current configuration.

● Outside of the NASCAR Cup Series, Preece has three other Atlanta starts. He ran two NASCAR Xfinity Series races at the track, each on the old layout, with his best result being seventh in February 2019. In March 2023, Preece competed in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at Atlanta, where he also finished seventh.

● Atlanta Motor Speedway has been in existence since 1960, but the Atlanta track Preece and his NASCAR Cup Series brethren will compete on this Sunday is less than years old. The 1.54-mile oval was reconfigured after the final race of the 2021 season. The banking was increased from 24 degrees to 28 degrees and the track was narrowed from 55 feet wide to 40 feet wide, and it was all covered in fresh asphalt. The goal of the reconstruction was to recreate the kind of pack-style racing seen at the behemoth, 2.5-mile Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway and the even bigger 2.66-mile Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway. Drivers competed on the new layout for the first time in March 2022 and the Atlanta 400 will be the sixth Cup Series race on the revamped track.

● Joining Preece and the No. 41 Ford Mustang Dark Horse at Atlanta is HaasTooling.com, the cutting tool division of Haas Automation. HaasTooling.com allows CNC machinists to purchase high-quality cutting tools at great prices. Haas cutting tools are sold exclusively online at HaasTooling.com and shipped directly to end users. Haas Automation, founded in 1983, is America’s leading builder of CNC machine tools. The company manufactures a complete line of vertical and horizontal machining centers, turning centers, rotaries and indexers, and automation solutions.

Ryan Preece, Driver of the No. 41 HaasTooling.com Ford Mustang Dark Horse

Your first race at Atlanta was back in February. So, seven months have passed and the weather is now a lot hotter and a lot more humid. How much does Atlanta change from late February to early September?

“With it being in the South and as hot as it is this time of year, I think it’s going to change a lot. It would help if it was a night race, which would make things a lot cooler and would give us a little more grip. But it is what it is, and it’s the same for everybody. We’ve been racing in these conditions pretty much every week since the beginning of summer, so it’s just another week of keeping focused and mindful of our hydration all week and through the race weekend.”

When you get to Atlanta, it’s just 10 more races until the season is over. What do you want to accomplish in these last 10 races at Stewart-Haas?

“Being competitive and staying competitive is the main thing. We want to run top-15, top-10, top-five, maybe even sneak in a win before all is said and done. But bottom line, no matter how it happens, it would be great to send it out on a good note.”

Now that you’ve run three Cup Series race on the current track configuration at Atlanta, how much does the racing at Atlanta emulate the racing you experience at Daytona and Talladega?

“I would say Atlanta versus Daytona and Talladega, they’re the same but they’re different. They’re different because Atlanta is still a mile-and-a-half, so we’re restricted on horsepower, we’re wide open like a superspeedway, but the runs happen twice as fast. Handling is, by far, way more important than it would be at Daytona and Talladega. Not only that, it’s a lot tighter of a corner at Atlanta, so when you’re going into turn three and you’re three-wide and four-wide, it gets tight really quick.”

Once again, single-car qualifying is all the track time you’ll have at Atlanta prior to Sunday’s race. How do you prepare for the race when you know so little about how your car will perform?

“You go into it completely blind. There’s nothing like showing up at a racetrack and going green and not really having an understanding of where you’re going to be. I guess that really just emphasizes how close the tools you’re using are as far as making sure your car drives well. But, yeah, we’re going to be completely blind.”

Is competing at Atlanta mentally taxing?

“Well, it’s different than it used to be, for sure. It’s not like the old Atlanta where you had balance shifts and you were trying to take care of your tires. Now, it’s about positioning yourself in the right lane, and potentially you can see handling becoming an issue and people trying to hang onto the draft. It’s going to be very mentally taxing, so hopefully our cars are really fast. That fixes everything.”

What do you need in your racecar to be fast at Atlanta?

“You need downforce, you need horsepower, really you need everything. Ultimately, if someone asks me that question, I’d say you need the total package. If you don’t have a lot of horsepower, or a really good-handling racecar because it has plenty of horsepower but a lot of drag, you could potentially struggle.”

Daytona and Talladega races are known to be a crapshoot, where there are so many things out of your control. Is that also the case at Atlanta, or are you still able to make a little bit of your own luck at Atlanta?

“I feel like at Atlanta you can control your destiny a little more. Yeah, you’re going to have to have track position, but if you have a really good-handling racecar at Atlanta, you’re going to have a good day. At Daytona and Talladega, sometimes it’s just luck of the draw.”

No. 41 HaasTooling.com Team Roster

Primary Team Members

Driver: Ryan Preece

Hometown: Berlin, Connecticut

Crew Chief: Chad Johnston

Hometown: Cayuga, Indiana

Car Chief: Jeremy West

Hometown: Gardena, California

Engineer: Marc Hendricksen

Hometown: Clinton, New Jersey

Spotter: Tony Raines

Hometown: LaPorte, Indiana

Over-The-Wall Members

Front Tire Changer: Devin Lester

Hometown: Bluefield, West Virginia

Rear Tire Changer: Austin Chrismon

Hometown: China Grove, North Carolina

Tire Carrier: Chad Emmons

Hometown: Tyler, Texas

Jack Man: Sherman Timbs

Hometown: Indianola, Mississippi

Fuel Man: Dwayne Moore

Hometown: Griffin, Georgia

Road Crew Members

Front End Mechanic: Joe Zanolini

Hometown: Sybertsville, Pennsylvania

Interior Mechanic: Robert Dalby

Hometown: Anaheim, California

Tire Specialist: Matt Ridgeway

Hometown: Carrollton, Georgia

Engine Tuner: Jimmy Fife

Hometown: Orange County, California

Transporter Co-Driver: David Rodrigues

Hometown: Santa Clarita, California

Transporter Co-Driver: Charlie Schleyer

Hometown: Youngsville, Pennsylvania

Canadian Tire Motorsport Park Trans Am Weekend Challenges Momentum for Damon Racing

By
Official Release
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Bowmanville, ONTARIO – September 3, 2024 – The Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli displayed an all-class race of excitement this weekend as the CUBE 3 Architecture TA2 Series competed among all TA classes for the 100-mile feature race. Damon Racing driver Tom Sheehan experienced challenges from the start – getting caught in mayhem on the early laps with contact from competitors.

Currently sitting in second place in the Pro Am Championship standings, Sheehan and the No. 97 Vixen Cycle LTK Mustang were poised with momentum coming off a strong run at Watkins Glen last weekend. The positive mindset and focus are strengths of the Ironman and proves fruitful in adapting to challenges in this highly competitive series.

“It was a great weekend, and the track is fantastic,” stated Tom Sheehan. “I would lobby the top levels of Trans Am to get back to Canada. It was a tough day for us. I was gathered up in some racing incidents by my peers early in the opening laps.”

“From there we stayed out on track when we probably could have come in and taken a look. The car wasn’t good on the restart. So, we came in under green and went down a lap. We were wounded. I just stayed out of the way and watched some great racing. It was a good show. I am looking up as the team is headed to Virginia next. We are hungry, it’s just the days between now!”

The televised broadcast from Canadian Tire Motorsport Park will air on MAVTV September 5 at 8pm ET.

Next up for Tom Sheehan and the Mike Cope corral will be Virginia International Raceway October 3 – 6 as the series has just two events remaining on the 2024 calendar.

Follow Tom’s social media channels via his Facebook page, Damon Racing, Instagram account (@TomSheehanTA97), and X account (@TomTA2_97). For more information on LTK Insulation Technologies and the line of high-quality products go to: https://ltkinsulationtechnologies.com.

About Vixen Cycle Co.

Founded by women with a passion for motorcycles, Vixen Cycle Co is a trailblazing brand that not only caters to female riders but also empowers and equips them with a unique blend of stylish clothing and motorcycle parts. Our clothing line is a testament to meticulous design, offering a wide range of trendy and functional apparel that allows women to embrace their love for motorcycles without compromising on style. From sleek and stylish designs to powerful and efficient motorcycle parts, Vixen Cycle Co is committed to enhancing both the look and performance of Harley Davidson motorcycles.

About LTK Insulation Technologies

Putting LTK insulation jackets and covers to work on your project saves real money and time for your firm.

No matter the application, take charge of protecting your hydronic and process controls and valves with a quality insulation cover. With LTK Insulation Technologies, you can be proactive and save money and headaches with high quality material. Insulating in-line controls in your process facility or central hydronic HVAC system from heat loss and condensation. Cover the range of your challenging conditions with an LTK Pro-Fit or LTK Fast Fit Insulation Jacket.

With LTK Insulation Technologies, your imagination is the only limit. Go LTK today!

Why You Should Hire a Car Accident Lawyer

By
SM
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If you have been in a car accident, you may be wondering if you need a lawyer. With over 120,000 miles of roads and highways in Pennsylvania alone, car accidents are an unfortunate reality. In 2023, there were over 110,000 reportable crashes in the state, which tragically claimed the lives of over 1,200 people and injured nearly 67,000 more. Based on Pennsylvania’s population, 1 out of every 53 people was involved in a reportable traffic crash that year. While hiring a lawyer may seem unnecessary or too costly, there are compelling reasons why having legal representation can benefit you after an auto accident. 

The Aftermath of a Car Accident  is Stressful

In the aftermath of a collision, you are likely dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, insurance claims, lost wages, and medical bills. This can be extremely stressful and difficult to manage on your own. A car accident lawyer can help you with a car accident because they have dealt with hundreds of similar cases and can guide you through the complex legal and insurance processes. They understand the steps that need to be taken to build your claim and maximize your financial recovery. With a Car Accident Lawyer on your side, you can focus on healing while they handle the legal details.

Navigating Insurance is Confusing

Dealing with insurance adjusters can be frustrating, as their goal is to minimize payouts. Without legal representation, you may struggle to get full and fair compensation. Car accident lawyers are very knowledgeable in negotiating with insurance companies. They know what can be recovered and will fight to get you the maximum settlement possible. Rather than accepting an insurer’s lowball offer, a lawyer will demand full compensation for your injuries, vehicle repairs, lost income, and other damages.

The Law is Complicated

There are many complicated legal rules that apply to car accident cases. Areas like determining fault, proving negligence, evaluating damages, filing claims properly, and meeting deadlines can trip up an individual without legal expertise. An experienced car accident attorney understands these complex issues. They can use all of their knowledge to build a strong case on your behalf. Without proper legal advice, you risk having your claim denied or losing out on money you deserve.

You May Need to Go to Court

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your case may end up in court. The litigation process is full of procedural rules and intricacies. An attorney who specializes in auto accident law knows how to effectively file motions, collect evidence, conduct discovery, retain experts, present arguments in court, and give you the best chance of a favorable outcome. If your case does go to trial, having a knowledgeable lawyer in your corner could make all the difference.

Navigating all of the the aftermath of a car accident can be very difficult. By hiring an experienced auto accident attorney, you gain an advocate who can handle the stresses and complex legal processes involved. With their knowledge and resources, they can build a strong claim and maximize your financial recovery. Given the high number of accidents and injuries in Pennsylvania each year, along with what’s at stake, legal expertise is invaluable. Protect yourself, your rights, and your future by hiring a car accident lawyer you can trust.

Puckipuppy’s Electric Mountain Bike Reviews 2024

By
SM
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In recent years, the popularity of off-road electric bikes (ebikes) has soared among outdoor enthusiasts and hunters alike. These robust machines offer a thrilling blend of adrenaline-fueled adventure and practical transportation through varied terrain. Among the leading brands in this burgeoning market is Puckipuppy, renowned for its diverse range of off-road ebike models: Labrador, Boxer & Boxer ST, and Corgi & Corgi 2.0, tailored to meet the specific demands of riders. By delving into their features, performance metrics, design elements, and overall value, this article aims to provide prospective buyers with an in-depth analysis of Puckipuppy’s off-road ebikes, and they will gain crucial insights to make informed purchasing decisions aligned with their individual needs and preferences.

Benefits of Fat Tire Full-Suspension Electric Bikes

By combining the advantages of fat tire and full-suspension designs, Puckipuppy’s electric mountain bikes excel in providing a stable, comfortable, and versatile riding experience. 

Fat Tire Benefits

Stability and Traction: Larger tires offer better stability and traction, ideal for various terrains and weather conditions.

Enhanced Comfort: Compared to traditional electric bikes, these fat tire variants provide enhanced comfort and handle off-road conditions with ease.

Full-Suspension Benefits

Superior Comfort: Absorbs bumps and vibrations, providing a smoother ride.

Improved Traction and Stability: Better control on rugged surfaces.

Superior Handling: Facilitates navigating obstacles with ease.

Reduced Fatigue: Allows for longer, less physically taxing rides.

Versatility: Suitable for diverse riding styles and environments.

Enhanced Performance: Maintains consistent speed and trajectory on rough terrain.

Efficient Shock Absorption: Ensures a smooth, reliable, and enjoyable ride.

Puckipuppy’s fat tire full-suspension electric bikes are gaining popularity for their versatility and adaptability. Ideal for both recreational and serious cyclists, these bikes offer the perfect blend of performance and reliability for tackling various terrains and riding conditions.

Puckipuppy’s Electric Mountain Bike Lineup

Puckipuppy’s lineup includes the Labrador, Boxer, Boxer St, Corgi, and Corgi 2.0. Each model comes with distinct features tailored to different riding styles and preferences. Common features across all models include a powerful 48V 20Ah battery, a 750W hub motor, and a robust 6061 aluminum alloy frame.

  • Labrador: The Labrador stands out for its off-road capabilities and long-range performance. With its sturdy build and powerful motor, it is perfect for adventure enthusiasts.
  • Boxer: The Boxer is similar to the Labrador, designed for those who need a durable and reliable bike for long-range and off-road rides.
  • Boxer St: The Boxer St offers the same robust performance as the Boxer but with a step-through frame, making it accessible and convenient for commuters and casual riders.
Puckipuppy’s Electric Mountain Bike
  • Corgi: The Corgi is lighter and more compact, with 20″ tires that make it a great choice for urban commuting and light off-road adventures.
  • Corgi 2.0: The Corgi 2.0 builds on the original Corgi’s strengths, offering the same great features with some improvements in design and functionality.

Tech Specs of Puckipuppy’s Electric Mountain Bikes

E-Bike SpecsLabradorBoxerBoxer StCorgiCorgi 2.0
Price$1,399$1,399$1,399$1,399$1,399
StylesOff-road/Off-roadCommuter/ Off-roadCommuter/ Off-roadCommuter/ Off-road
Battery48V 20Ah48V 20Ah48V 20Ah48V 20Ah48V 20Ah
Speed Class28mph28mph28mph28mph28mph
Range40-80miles40-80miles40-80miles40-80miles40-80miles
Weight75lbs77lbs75lbs70lbs70lbs
Hub Motor750W750W750W750W750W
Payload Capacity400lbs400lbs400lbs400lbs400lbs
Tires26″ x 4″26″ x 4″26″ x 4″20″ x 4″20″ x 4″
ThrottleThumb ThrottleThumb ThrottleThumb ThrottleThumb ThrottleThumb Throttle
DisplayLED IntegratedLED IntegratedLED IntegratedLED IntegratedLED Integrated
Derailleur7-speed Shimano7-speed Shimano7-speed Shimano7-speed Shimano7-speed Shimano
Bike Frame6061 Aluminum Alloy6061 Aluminum Alloy6061 Aluminum Alloy6061 Aluminum Alloy6061 Aluminum Alloy
BrakeHydraulic Disc BrakesHydraulic Disc BrakesHydraulic Disc BrakesHydraulic Disc BrakesHydraulic Disc Brakes
Front LightDual LED bright headlightsDual LED bright headlightsDual LED bright headlightsDual LED bright headlightsDual LED bright headlights
Crank Set210mm Forged Alloy210mm Forged Alloy210mm Forged Alloy210mm Forged Alloy210mm Forged Alloy
ChainAnti-Embroidery ChainAnti-Embroidery ChainAnti-Embroidery ChainAnti-Embroidery ChainAnti-Embroidery Chain
WheelsAluminum AlloyAluminum AlloyAluminum AlloyAluminum AlloyAluminum Alloy

Performance Analysis from Riding Experience

Ride Comfort

Tires and Suspension: The 26″ x 4″ and 20″ x 4″ fat tires provide exceptional shock absorption, ensuring a smooth ride over rough terrains. The full suspension on all models further enhances comfort by reducing the impact of bumps and uneven surfaces.

Frame and Seat: The 6061 aluminum alloy frame is lightweight yet sturdy, contributing to a comfortable riding posture. The seats are ergonomically designed to reduce strain on long rides.

Handling and Stability

Tire Traction: The wide tires offer excellent grip, preventing slippage on loose or wet surfaces. This enhances stability, especially when riding off-road.

Weight Distribution: The balanced weight distribution between the front and rear of the bike 

improves control and maneuverability, making it easier to navigate through tight spots and sharp turns.

Motor and Speed Performance

750W Hub Motor: The powerful 750W hub motor provides ample torque, allowing for quick acceleration and sustained high speeds of up to 28mph. This is particularly beneficial for climbing hills and tackling challenging trails.

Speed Control: The 7-speed Shimano derailleur offers a range of gear options, enabling riders to adjust their speed and effort according to the terrain and riding conditions.

Puckipuppy’s Electric Mountain Bike

Battery Life and Range

48V 20Ah Battery: The large battery capacity ensures a long range of 40-80 miles on a single charge, making these bikes suitable for extended trips and commutes.

Battery Efficiency: The efficient battery management system maximizes energy usage, providing consistent power output even on longer rides.

Braking and Safety

Hydraulic Disc Brakes: The hydraulic disc brakes offer reliable stopping power, ensuring safety even at high speeds or on steep descents.

Lighting: Dual LED bright headlights provide excellent visibility in low-light conditions, enhancing safety during night rides.

Versatility and Usability

Throttle and Display: The thumb throttle allows for easy acceleration without pedaling, and the integrated LED display provides real-time information on speed, battery level, and mileage.

Payload Capacity: With a payload capacity of 400 lbs, these bikes can easily carry additional gear, making them ideal for both commuting and recreational use.

Price and Value Proposition

Priced at $1,399, all-mountain e-bike models in Puckipuppy’s 2024 lineup offer great value for money. They are competitively priced compared to similar models from other brands, providing a balance of performance, durability, and affordability.

Puckipuppy’s Electric Mountain Bike

Learn more: Best Value Full Suspension Electric Mountain Bike 2024

Which One to Get?

​​Puckipuppy Labrador: Ideal for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize speed, endurance, and reliability on rugged mountain trails. The Labrador’s powerful motor, long-range battery, and robust suspension make it perfect for riders looking to explore challenging terrains with confidence.

Puckipuppy Boxer and Boxer ST: Meticulously engineered for trail enthusiasts and mountain bikers who demand power and durability. With their high-speed capability, extended range, and robust build including hydraulic disc brakes, the Boxer and Boxer ST are suited for riders who enjoy conquering diverse off-road conditions.

Puckipuppy Corgi and Corgi 2.0: Crafted for riders seeking comfort, accessibility, and versatility in off-road settings. The step-thru frame design and advanced suspension system make the Corgi and Corgi 2.0 ideal for adventurers and casual riders alike, offering a smooth and enjoyable riding experience over varied terrains.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right mountain ebike involves careful consideration of specific needs and preferences. With its diverse range of models, Puckipuppy stands out as a leading provider in this competitive market. Whether you’re a seasoned trailblazer or a newcomer to off-road adventures, exploring Puckipuppy’s latest offerings promises to deliver an exhilarating ride tailored to your individual requirements. Discover more about Puckipuppy’s range and the latest deals today to embark on your next outdoor escapade with confidence and excitement.

Brandon Jones rejoins Joe Gibbs Racing’s Xfinity Series program, beginning in 2025

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by John Knittel for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Brandon Jones will be rejoining Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) and piloting a Toyota Supra entry on a multiyear basis, beginning in the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season.

The news comes as the 27-year-old Jones from Atlanta, Georgia, is campaigning in his ninth consecutive full-time season in the Xfinity Series and second in recent seasons driving the No. 9 Chevrolet for JR Motorsports. Through 23 of 33-scheduled events, Jones has racked up two poles, a runner-up result at Charlotte Motor Speedway in May, five top-10 results, 30 laps led and an average-finishing result of 20.3. With Jones currently ranked in 14th place in the drivers’ standings and trailing the top-12 cutline to make the 2024 Xfinity Series Playoffs by 132 points, the Atlanta native expressed his excitement over returning to an organization where he achieved an abundant of his success in the Xfinity circuit.

“I’m beyond excited to be returning to Joe Gibbs Racing and rejoining the Toyota Racing family,” Jones said. “My time with JGR was some of the most rewarding of my career, and I’m eager to build on that success as we chase more wins and a championship together. I’m ready to hit the ground running and make the most of this incredible opportunity. For now, my focus remains on finishing this year strong for my team, crew, manufacturer and Menards. We will push hard to win our way into the Playoffs and finish the year on a high note.”

Jones first joined Joe Gibbs Racing in 2018 following a three-year campaign at Richard Childress Racing. Over his next five-year campaign at JGR (165 starts), he notched his first five career victories, made the Playoffs in all seasons and accumulated a combined 35 top-fives and 84 top-10 results. He also finished in the top 10 in the final standings during all five seasons and achieved a career-best sixth-place result in 2020.

During the 2020 Xfinity season, Jones recorded a career-high three victories, 19 top-10 results and a personal-best average-finishing result of 12.8. The following season, he notched a career-high 11 top-five results before he led a career-high 240 laps in 2022.

“We’re thrilled to have Brandon return to Joe Gibbs Racing next season,” Joe Gibbs, owner of Joe Gibbs Racing, said. “He has a proven history of success with us and is someone that we know will be in the championship hunt each year. His veteran leadership will also be a tremendous asset to our program.”

“It is great to have Brandon back in our Xfinity Series program,” Steve de Souza, Executive Vice President of Xfinity Series and Development for JGR, added. “He showed great progress across each season he was with us previously showing the ability to run up front and lead laps consistently each week. We look forward to getting him back to that level of consistency and winning races for us next year.”

Jones’ car number, crew chief and sponsorships, along with the rest of Joe Gibbs Racing’s Xfinity Series driver lineup in 2025, remains to be determined.

With his plans for the 2025 season set, Brandon Jones’ 2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series season continues with a trip to Jones’ home track at Atlanta Motor Speedway for the Focused Health 250. The event will occur this upcoming Saturday, September 7, at 3 p.m. ET on USA Network.

Auto-Owners Insurance Racing: Martin Truex Jr. Atlanta Advance

By
Official Release
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Martin Truex Jr.
Atlanta Advance
No. 19 Auto-Owners Insurance Toyota Camry XSE for Joe Gibbs Racing

Event Overview

● Event: Quaker State 400 (Round 26 of 36)
● Time/Date: 3 p.m. EDT on Sunday, Sept. 8
● Location: Atlanta Motor Speedway
● Layout: 1.54-mile oval
● Laps/Miles: 260 laps/400 miles
● Stage Lengths: Stage 1: 60 laps / Stage 2: 100 laps / Final Stage: 100 laps
● TV/Radio: USA Network / PRN / SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Notes of Interest

● Playoff Reset: Despite a disappointing result in the final race of the NASCAR Cup Series regular season last weekend at Darlington (S.C.) Raceway, where he saw his day end after an accident on lap two, Truex was able to lock himself into the 2024 edition of the 10-race, 16-driver playoffs. Truex will start the playoffs this weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway sitting 16th on the playoff grid with 2,004 points, 36 points behind No. 1 seed Kyle Larson.

● The Final Countdown: Truex announced earlier this summer that this will be his last year of fulltime racing in the NASCAR’s top series. In his final year, Truex made the playoffs for the 11th and final time when he clinched a spot in the regular-season finale last weekend at Darlington. He’ll hope to go on a magical run and add one more piece of championship hardware to his trophy case, where he already has a Cup Series championship from 2017, when he ran for Furniture Row Racing. Truex made his first playoff appearance in 2007 while driving for Dale Earnhardt Inc. He then returned to the playoffs in 2012 driving for Michael Waltrip Racing. After moving to Furniture Row Racing in 2014, Truex returned to the playoffs in 2015, when he made his first Championship 4 appearance in just the second year of the elimination format. In all, Truex has made five Championship 4 appearances, which ties him with two-time champions Joey Logano and Kyle Busch and 2014 champion Kevin Harvick.

● Atlanta Motor Speedway is a much different track today than what Truex had grown accustomed to racing on earlier in his career. The 1.54-mile oval was reconfigured after the final race of the 2021 season, and this weekend’s race will be just the sixth on the latest configuration. The banking was increased from 24 degrees to 28 degrees and the track was narrowed from 55 feet wide to 40 feet wide, and it was covered with fresh asphalt. The goal of the reconstruction was to recreate the kind of pack-style racing seen at the behemoth, 2.5-mile Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway and the even bigger 2.66-mile Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway. The New Jersey native’s best finish on the current configuration is a eighth-place run in the first race on it in the spring of 2022. Truex has two other top-12 finishes on the current configuration – an 11th-place finish in the second race there in 2022 and a 12th-place finish there earlier this year.

● Truex has three NASCAR Xfinity Series starts at Atlanta, all of which came prior to the reconfiguration. Truex finished no worse than 11th in those three starts, and his most recent outing there in the spring of 2021 netted him a second-place finish.

● Looking for 35: Truex’s win at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon in July 2023 was his most recent Cup Series win, the 34th of his career, tying him with 2004 champion Kurt Busch for 25th on the all-time Cup Series win list.

● Ahead at this Stage: Truex has accumulated 63 stage wins since the beginning of the stage era in 2017. He is the only driver with 10 or more stage sweeps, with his latest sweep coming at Michigan last August. Truex scored his third stage win of the season in July at Pocono (Pa.) Raceway, leading the field across the line at the end of Stage 1.

Martin Truex Jr., Driver of the No. 19 Auto-Owners Insurance Toyota Camry XSE

What are your expectations as you kick off the playoffs this weekend at Atlanta?

“In general, we’ve been consistently fast, which is good. If we can just put everything else together, we’re going to be in much better shape. It’s been frustrating the last couple of months and it’s not just been one thing. I made mistakes at both Michigan and Darlington that cost us a lot, we’ve had some issues on pit road at times, and there have been times where we just flat out had some bad luck, like cautions coming out at Richmond in the spring and then Kansas, where we looked like we had a shot at the win and those cautions hurt us. We know that this team is capable of getting the job done and we hope that we can get our Auto-Owners Insurance Camry up front this weekend and give us a chance and we can start the playoffs out on the right foot.”

What is the potential for your team as you head into the playoffs?

“I think we have the potential to finish off the year on a high note. We’ve got tons of speed, which we show a lot of weeks. We’re right there, we’ve been knocking on the door and it would be nice to win a couple before it’s all over.”

How difficult is it to win in the Cup Series with how competitive things are, especially when you are trying to get one in your final year?

“I try to always enjoy them all like they were the last because you never know. I think when we won our last race of the year last year, we probably thought we were going to win a couple more, at least, before I decided on retirement, it’s just been tough. We certainly have performed at the level we need to get it done, but just haven’t been able to finish the deal. It’s a tough sport and it’s tough to win these things because it takes a lot more than just a fast car, so we’ll just keep giving it all we’ve got.”

What has been the challenge at Atlanta since the repave and the superspeedway-style racing it now produces?

“Certainly, the challenge is being in the right position at the end and not getting caught up in a wreck, which takes some good fortune sometimes. We’ve had some fast cars there the last couple of years but seem to find our way into a wreck almost every time. Sort of what happens at those types of places – you can be in the best spot possible, but you have to count on other guys to help you and sometimes it just doesn’t work out. All I can do is hope we are in the same position this weekend with our Auto-Owners Insurance Camry XSE and maybe things will work out a little bit better in our favor and we can bring home the win.”

Has superspeedway racing changed in recent years?

“I think superspeedways probably haven’t changed much as opposed to some of the other types of tracks. Just the way you can bump draft with this car is totally different than the previous-generation cars. I think right now there are a lot more options as far as what lanes work. It used to be that you never wanted anyone on the outside, and now you can pass guys on the bottom a bit easier and that sets up some other opportunities. I feel like the racing has been fun on superspeedways, but you have to be really aggressive, as well.”

No. 19 Auto-Owners Insurance Team Roster

Primary Team Members

Driver: Martin Truex Jr.

Hometown: Mayetta, New Jersey

Crew Chief: James Small

Hometown: Melbourne, Australia

Car Chief: Chris Jones

Hometown: Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia

Race Engineer: Jaik Halpainy

Hometown: Blockville, New York

Spotter: Drew Herring

Hometown: Benson, North Carolina

Road Crew Members

Underneath Mechanic: Ryan Martin

Hometown: Mechanicsburg, Virgina

Mechanic: Todd Carmichael

Hometown: Redding, California

Interior/Tire Specialist: Tommy DiBlasi

Hometown: Annapolis, Maryland

Engine Tuner: Beau Morton

Hometown: Lake Havasu City, Arizona

Transporter Driver: Kyle Bazzell

Hometown: Fairbury, Illinois

Transporter Driver: Eddie DeGroot

Hometown: Baldwinsville, New York

Over-The-Wall Crew Members

Gas Man: Matt Tyrrell

Hometown: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Jackman: Caleb Dirks

Hometown: Riverside, California

Tire Carrier: CJ Bailey

Hometown: Outer Banks, North Carolina

Front Tire Changer: Thomas Hatcher

Hometown: Middleburg, Florida

Rear Tire Changer: Lee Cunningham

Hometown: Leaf River, Illinois

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