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HighPoint.com Racing: Chase Briscoe Darlington Advance

By
Official Release
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CHASE BRISCOE
Darlington Advance
No. 14 HighPoint.com Ford Mustang Dark Horse

Event Overview

● Event: Cook Out Southern 500 (Round 26 of 36)
● Time/Date: 6 p.m. EDT on Sunday, Sept. 1
● Location: Darlington (S.C.) Raceway
● Layout: 1.366-mile oval
● Laps/Miles: 367 laps/501.32 miles
● Stage Lengths: Stage 1: 115 laps / Stage 2: 115 laps / Final Stage: 137 laps
● TV/Radio: USA / MRN / SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Notes of Interest

● The Cook Out Southern 500 will mark Chase Briscoe’s eighth career NASCAR Cup Series start at Darlington (S.C.) Raceway. In his last visit to the 1.366-mile oval in May for the Goodyear 400, the Mitchell, Indiana, native scored his first top-10 at the track via a strong fifth-place finish. Briscoe had seemingly been building up to that result, with five top-20 finishes in his six prior Darlington starts to earn an average result of 18.2. His best Cup Series result at Darlington prior to this year was 11th, earned in the 2021 Goodyear 400. Briscoe finished 15th in last year’s Southern 500.

● Darlington is known as “The Track Too Tough To Tame,” but Briscoe has tamed the venerable, egg-shaped oval in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. He scored a dramatic victory at Darlington on May 21, 2020, beating Kyle Busch in a fender-scraping, tire-rubbing duel where the margin of victory was just .086 of a second. Both Briscoe and Busch led 45 laps that day, but Briscoe led the lap that mattered most as he took the lead from Busch on the final lap. It was the fourth victory in Briscoe’s tally of 11 career Xfinity Series wins. In Briscoe’s two other Xfinity Series starts at Darlington, he finished sixth (August 2019) and 11th (September 2020).

● The 2024 season marks Darlington’s 74th anniversary, with the track having hosted 126 NASCAR Cup Series races. The first came on Sept. 4, 1950 and it was the first 500-mile race in NASCAR history and the first on asphalt. Johnny Mantz drove his Plymouth to the win with an average speed of 75.250 mph and the race took 6 hours, 38 minutes and 40 seconds to complete. Juxtapose that with Kyle Larson’s win in last year’s Southern 500, where he had an average speed of 120.906 mph and the race finished in 4 hours, 8 minutes and 47 seconds.

● In addition to Darlington being known as “The Track Too Tough To Tame,” the venerable facility has another nickname, “Lady in Black.” This moniker was bestowed upon Darlington by the late sportswriter and 2016 Squier-Hall Award recipient Benny Phillips. In homage to the “Lady in Black,” Briscoe is driving a black-and-white HighPoint.com Ford Mustang Dark Horse in the Southern 500 in place of HighPoint.com’s traditional blue-and-white colors.

● HighPoint.com is a leading provider of technology infrastructure solutions that is headquartered in Sparta, New Jersey. HighPoint has been a partner of Briscoe and Stewart-Haas Racing since 2020 when the company supported Briscoe’s NASCAR Xfinity Series campaign, a collaboration that netted a season-best nine victories and earned Briscoe a promotion to the NASCAR Cup Series. HighPoint has climbed the NASCAR ladder with Briscoe and has helped Stewart-Haas maximize its IT investments. Said Briscoe about the partnership: “Even though we race stock cars, there’s nothing stock about what we do. The science of our cars is impressive, but the technology that goes into building our Ford Mustangs and then making them perform is even more advanced. Our IT needs are pretty complex, and we demand a lot from our technology every day, whether it’s at the shop or at the track. HighPoint provides efficiency and security. They’re more than just a sponsor – HighPoint is a partner that helps us perform.” As an IT Solutions Integrator focused on all things that connect, HighPoint helps its customers with the selection and supply of network infrastructure, mobility, collaboration, data center, security solutions and the risk-mitigated implementation and management of their technology. The company, founded in 1996, is a minority-owned business that serves markets in its nearby Tri-State Region (New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware) and the southeastern United States via its presence in Charlotte, North Carolina, as well as globally with offices in Amsterdam and London. To learn more about HighPoint’s solutions, please visit HighPoint.com.

● The story of how HighPoint.com came together with Briscoe and Stewart-Haas is one that could’ve been scripted in Hollywood. In November 2019, while walking to dinner after attending the SEMA show in Las Vegas, Kevin Briscoe was stopped by a stranger who noticed his No. 98 Stewart-Haas hat. The man was Mike Mendiburu, founder and CEO of HighPoint.com, and he said he was a big fan of Chase Briscoe, then a young NASCAR Xfinity Series driver from Mitchell, Indiana, who was driving the No. 98 Ford Mustang for Stewart-Haas. Kevin informed Mendiburu that Chase was his son and the two carried on a conversation like they were old friends. The two walked away with Kevin accepting Mendiburu’s business card, just in case the Briscoes ever needed anything. Months passed and Chase Briscoe was told that he may not have a ride in the No. 98 for the 2020 season if funding couldn’t be found. So, Stewart-Haas was given Mendiburu’s information and an agreement was reached for HighPoint.com to sponsor Briscoe. That chance encounter in Las Vegas led to a nine-win season in 2020. In October of that year, midway through the playoffs, Briscoe arrived at Tony Stewart’s house in Indiana for what he thought was a discussion with his team owner about whether HighPoint.com would be returning as his sponsor for the next season. The group sat down for dinner and Briscoe, joined by his parents, was informed a decision had already been made – he would be leaving the No. 98 Xfinity Series program to become the next driver of the team’s No. 14 Cup Series entry, the car Stewart himself wheeled during his driving tenure at Stewart-Haas. “I wouldn’t have a career if it wasn’t for Mike and everyone at HighPoint.com,” Briscoe said. “Going into 2020, I was going to be done. They literally came in the fourth quarter with 30 seconds left on the clock and kept things going. Without them, I think my career would’ve been over.”

Chase Briscoe, Driver of the No. 14 HighPoint.com Ford Mustang

How do you feel about Darlington serving as the regular-season finale and the last chance for drivers to earn a playoff berth?

“I like it. I love going to Darlington. It’s easily in the top-three of my favorite racetracks. I’m all for it. It’s a cool race to have for the opener of the playoffs because the Southern 500 can have so many things happen and it’s just a real challenge for the drivers, the cars, everything. I liked it as the playoff opener and as the regular-season closer. We finished fifth there earlier this year and I feel like it’s a really good opportunity for us to go there and be in the mix and maybe get a win. The Southern 500 is one of the crown jewels and it’s going to be a cool race, no matter if it’s in the playoffs or not.”

Do you feel like a race at Darlington is more in your hands, as opposed last week at Daytona where you had to rely on others to push you in the draft?

“As a racecar driver, you definitely have more control over your own destiny at Darlington than you do at a place like Daytona. You know at Daytona you can do everything right and just get caught up in someone else’s mistake. Not that that can’t happen at Darlington, but the odds and the chances of it aren’t as great. There still are a lot of variables there, too. At Darlington, your car has to be driving good. At Daytona, your car doesn’t have to be driving as good to be up in the mix. There’s give and take at both of them, but certainly at Darlington, I feel like when we go there I kind of hold the keys a little bit more as far as what happens and how we run. I’m looking forward to going there, but like I said, the car has to be good, too. That’s kind of the fine balance. At Daytona, you can take whatever car and, if you put yourself in the right position and make the right moves, you can be there at the end, where at Darlington, a driver probably makes a little bit more of a difference, but you also have to have a really good car to be up front.”

You finished a strong fifth in your first visit to Darlington earlier this year. How did that race unfold for you and are there any takeaways from it that you can apply to your return trip to Darlington this Labor Day weekend?

“Darlington was a track where we just ran solid all day. We were never the fastest car on the racetrack, and we probably finished about where we should’ve. We were about a fifth-place car and I thought we did a really good job of maximizing our day and doing everything right to put ourselves into that position. If we could’ve qualified better, it would’ve made our job a little bit easier. Coming off a fifth-place finish the last time we were there is obviously encouraging because we knew we had a pretty good car. I think Josh (Berry) ran third there, too. He was up in the mix. We had two really good cars that day and we knew we had a good balance and speed, but we also need to get our cars a little bit better. We have a good foundation, we have a good baseline, and that allows us to kind of fine-tune that and just make our car a little better and not have to reinvent the wheel, which is always nice.”

The Southern 500 is 100 miles longer (74 additional laps) than your first race at Darlington was back in May. Is a race at Darlington akin to the Coca-Cola 600, where it’s a test of stamina as much of a test of skill?

“I would say the Southern 500 is harder than the Coke 600 because at the Coke 600, you run the top, but you don’t run a quarter of an inch off the fence like you do at Darlington. At Darlington, you just can’t take a single break. We’re downshifting, riding the wall, and the car’s slipping and sliding all over the place. It’s just a different style than what you have at Charlotte. I definitely think it’s very similar to the Coke 600 from a stamina standpoint and just how you have to get your car to the end. That’s the thing I would say is a little bit more challenging at a place like Darlington than it is at the Coke 600. At the Coke 600, you don’t put your car in as bad of a spot running the wall, where at Darlington, to make speed, you’re going to have to run the fence, so you’re going to get into it at some point. It’s a challenge, for sure, but honestly it’s one of my favorite races of the year. I love going there and know I’m going to be running 500 miles on the fence and slipping and sliding around. It’s just a ton of fun from the driver side of things.”

How much can you rip the wall at Darlington before you rip your car into pieces?

“You can do it all day if you’re good. It’s definitely easy to get caught up there and get into the wall because it just invites you. The closer and closer you get to the wall, the more and more speed you make. And you hear about it, right? It’s the Lady in Black, she invites you to keep running in there harder, and then you drive harder and flirt with her and dance with her a little bit more, and then she slaps you. It’s always a challenge there because it is 100-percent faster the closer you run to the wall, and then you try to get that little bit extra and then you’re into the wall. It’s different than any other racetrack. At every other racetrack, you kind of lift at the same spot, you use the same amount of brake, whereas at Darlington the tires are falling off so much, literally every single lap you run, nothing is the same, so you’re constantly changing, and that’s what makes it so challenging.”

When you finish a race at Darlington, regardless of where you finish, is there a sense of accomplishment?

“I felt like early in my career when I ran the whole day and I finished and I didn’t crash, that was good, but I feel like now you don’t necessarily have that same level of accomplishment. It’s almost one of those things where if you come in and the right side’s not torn up, you’re like, ‘Man, I probably wasn’t driving hard enough.’ You kind of want the whole right side destroyed by the end of it because if you come in at the end of the day with a clean car, you’re probably not driving hard enough.”

What makes Darlington challenging for you?

“Darlington’s been a place where I’ve had success in the past, and it’s always been a place where I feel like I understand what I need. And I’ve always been good there. I’ve never been necessarily great at Darlington, but I’ve always been kind of OK from a speed standpoint. That first time I went there in the Cup Series was still in the old car and it drove a lot like what I grew up racing there as far as the Xfinity stuff goes. The NextGen car has been a little bit more of a struggle, just because how I drove Darlington didn’t necessarily fit the current generation of car. I’ve had to change my style there over the last year. I feel like every time we’ve gone there we’ve gotten better and better.”

When you won the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Darlington in May 2020, you had to beat Kyle Busch. How big of a deal was that victory, and do you consider it one of your greatest victories?

“I would say that win certainly put me on the map as far as having conversations about going Cup racing. Before that, I don’t think anybody thought I was necessarily Cup-caliber, and I felt like after winning there, beating Kyle Busch and doing it the way we did it, being literally just heads-up and being able to outrun him there changed a lot of people’s perspectives. I know for me it was huge just from a confidence standpoint. I mean, I beat Kyle Busch in an Xfinity car and I did it at, of all places, Darlington. So just from a confidence level, that was big for me, and every time I’ve gone back there, I feel like that’s kind of just carried over, just knowing that you beat one of the best to ever run around this place. I know that I’m capable of doing it, it’s just a matter of putting all of those pieces back together. But certainly I would say that was one of the biggest wins of my career. Still, literally every single weekend, somebody brings that race up to me, like a fan does, and they don’t do that about other races. So, certainly it was one of the biggest wins of my career.”

Do you feel like you go back in time when you go to Darlington?

“Every time you go to Darlington, it’s like you’re stepping into a time machine. Just the racetrack, it doesn’t matter what era of racecar you put on it, whether it’s a NextGen, a Gen 4, 5, 6, it’s like none of them are going to drive that good, they’re all going to be slipping and sliding around, the tires are going to get worn out, you’re going to have more power than you need, and that’s unlike a lot of racetracks we go to. And then even the facility, it’s not the fanciest facility we go to, it doesn’t have the nicest things for fans, realistically. But when you go there, you know you’re not going for that, you’re going for that authentic, early NASCAR experience, and that’s what it feels like when you drive through the tunnel at Darlington. Whether you’re in the garage area or you’re on the racetrack, it doesn’t matter where you’re at on those grounds, it just feels very sacred and just feels like you’re in a time machine.”

You’re in a NextGen car. You wear a full-face, state-of-the-art helmet, combined with a state-of-the-art firesuit and shoes, and a six-way seatbelt system keeps you secure in a custom-molded seat. Do you ever wonder how a guy like Richard Petty ran 500 miles at Darlington in overalls and whatever helmet he could find, in a car not far removed from what was on the dealership floor?

“It is crazy just to think about the roots of NASCAR, and just the roots of racing, in general, like how far we’ve come in not a long period of time. You think about how they were literally taking cars pretty much from the showroom, guys were out there racing in their street clothes and pretty much anything they could get on their head that would work – it could be a bucket and they would run with it. It’s pretty crazy just how far we’ve come. Even talking with my dad about his early days in sprint cars, it literally had four Dzus buttons that you would take out with a flathead screwdriver, it was a quarter turn, that’s all that would lock their seat in, and that was it. You just wouldn’t even think about doing that these days. It’s definitely wild to think about how far we’ve come as just a culture with motorsports, and certainly glad that we’ve come that far, but yeah, those guys were certainly stallions in a world of ponies.”

No. 14 HighPoint.com Team Roster

Primary Team Members

Driver: Chase Briscoe

Hometown: Mitchell, Indiana

Crew Chief: Richard Boswell

Hometown: Friendship, Maryland

Car Chief: J.D. Frey

Hometown: Ferndale, California

Engineer: Mike Cook

Hometown: Annapolis, Maryland

Spotter: Joey Campbell

Hometown: Berlin, Connecticut

Over-The-Wall Members

Front Tire Changer: Shayne Pipala

Hometown: Frankfort Square, Illinois

Rear Tire Changer: Dakota Ratcliff

Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee

Tire Carrier: Jon Bernal

Hometown: Holland, Michigan

Jack Man: Kapil Fletcher

Hometown: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Fuel Man: Corey Coppola

Hometown: Bluefield, West Virginia

Road Crew Members

Underneath Mechanic: Stephen Gonzalez

Hometown: Mooresville, North Carolina

Interior Mechanic: Trevor Adams

Hometown: Plymouth, Wisconsin

Tire Specialist: Keith Eads

Hometown: Arlington, Virginia

Shock Specialist: Brian Holshouser

Hometown: Charlotte, North Carolina

Engine Tuner: Jon Phillips

Hometown: Jefferson City, Missouri

Transporter Co-Driver: Todd Cable

Hometown: Shelby, North Carolina

Transporter Co-Driver: Dale Lackey

Hometown: Taylorsville, North Carolina

Kevin Harvick Enters Pro Late Model Race at Florence Motor Speedway

By
Official Release
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Harvick to Pilot the No. 62 for Rackley W.A.R.

Harrisburg, N.C. (August 26, 2024) – KHI Management (KHIM) announced today Kevin Harvick will enter the CARS Tour Pro Late Model race at Florence (S.C.) Motor Speedway on Friday, August 30, 2024. Harvick will pilot the No. 62 Realtree/Hunt Brothers Pizza car for Rackley W.A.R.

“I’ve had a lot of fun this season running the Late Models, but I know I need to do more races to get better,” said Harvick. “These cars are so different from what I’ve spent most of my career driving, but I’m having fun learning all about them. Adding Florence was an easy decision and I’m glad we were able to work it out with Rackley W.A.R. and have both Realtree and Hunt Brothers Pizza on board. I’m excited to get to Florence and have some fun this weekend.”

Retiring from full-time NASCAR Cup Series competition at the end of the 2023 season, Harvick switched gears this year to go back to his roots and late model racing. Most recently, Harvick competed in the CARS Tour Late Model Stock Car race at North Wilkesboro Speedway where he finished 10th. Earlier this season, Harvick made his first start at Five Flags Speedway in a Super Late Model, starting the race from the fourth position and finishing 13th.

Based in Nashville, Tenn., Rackley W.A.R. competes full time in the NASCAR Truck Series and various Late Model series. The team began competing full time in the NASCAR Truck Series in 2021 and won its first race at Talladega Superspeedway in 2022 with Matt DiBenedetto. With DiBenedetto behind the wheel, the team made its first appearance in the NASCAR Truck Series Playoffs in 2023. Ty Dillon currently drives the team’s No. 25 truck. In addition to the Truck Series, the team competes in Pro and Super Late Model competition, providing valuable seat time for members of their driver development program. Since its inception, Rackley W.A.R. has had a roster full of the biggest names in NASCAR, including Josh Berry, Timothy Peters, William Byron and Ross Chastain.

“We are super-excited to have Kevin Harvick driving one of our Rackley W.A.R. Late Models at Florence Motor Speedway this week,” said Rackley W.A.R. co-owner Willie Allen. “This partnership has more capability than just a one-off appearance. It symbolizes Rackley W.A.R.’s dedication to working with top-tier talent to elevate the entire team and its drivers. With Kevin’s involvement, it aligns with our commitment to developing young talent. We are excited for his feedback and invaluable insight to our program. This collaboration with Kevin has the potential to broaden a strategy to bring in seasoned drivers who can help shape the future of Rackley W.A.R. and its driver development program.”

The CARS Tour race at Florence Motor Speedway on Friday, August 30, will be broadcast live on FloRacingbeginning at 4:30 p.m. EDT with the Pro Late Model race at 7:30 p.m. EDT followed by the Late Model Stock Car race at 8:45 p.m. EDT.

About KHI Management

KHI Management, LLC (KHIM) is a full-service sports and celebrity-marketing agency representing some of the most successful and high-profile professionals in the sports and broadcasting industries, as well as offering a variety of consulting and marketing services to corporate sponsors. In representing many of the biggest names in NASCAR, UFC, PGA, and bullriding, KHIM consistently maximizes their client’s brand awareness and marketplace value.

Founded by NASCAR Cup Series champion Kevin Harvick, KHI Management affords clients the opportunity to expose their brands across multiple sports and entertainment platforms via a singular agency with a vast array of services ranging from career management and media relations to licensing and philanthropy.

In addition to KHIM, Harvick and his wife, DeLana, co-own Kevin Harvick Inc. (KHI). KHI competed full time in the NASCAR Truck Series, Xfinity Series and ARCA Series from 2001 through 2011, earning three championships in the NASCAR Truck Series. The organization took an 11-year hiatus before relaunching in 2023 and returned to full-time competition in 2024 with its late model program.

About Rackley W.A.R.

Rackley W.A.R. offers motorsports competition, development, marketing, management, and a suite of other industry-related services for professional race car drivers, race teams and industry sponsors. Rackley W.A.R. competes nationally in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series as well as operating a driver development program based at Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway in regional Super and Pro Late Model events. Rackley W.A.R. is headed and co-owned by Curtis Sutton (Rackley Roofing, Inc.) and Willie Allen (Willie Allen Racing and W.A.R. Shocks, LLC).

The Benefits of Buying from a Certified Mazda Dealer

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SM
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Photo by everyonensk at https://depositphotos.com/

Purchasing a vehicle is a significant investment, and choosing where to buy it is crucial. Opting to buy from a certified Mazda dealer offers numerous advantages that can enhance your buying experience and ensure you get the best value for your money. Below, we explore the key benefits of choosing a certified Mazda dealer for your next vehicle purchase.

Guaranteed Quality and Assurance

When you buy from a certified Mazda dealer, you’re assured of the quality of the vehicle. Certified dealers adhere to strict standards set by Mazda, ensuring that every car on their lot meets high-performance criteria. This means that whether you’re buying a new or certified pre-owned vehicle, you can trust its reliability and safety.

Comprehensive Vehicle Inspection

Certified Mazda dealers perform thorough inspections on all their vehicles. These inspections cover every aspect of the car, from the engine and transmission to the interior and exterior. This meticulous process ensures that any issues are identified and addressed before the vehicle is made available for sale, giving you peace of mind.

Exclusive Access to Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles

One of the standout benefits of purchasing from a certified Mazda dealer is access to certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles. These cars have undergone rigorous testing and refurbishment, ensuring they are in excellent condition. Additionally, CPO vehicles come with extended warranties, roadside assistance, and other perks that are not available with standard used cars.

Expert Knowledge and Support

Certified Mazda dealers employ knowledgeable staff who are experts in Mazda vehicles. They can provide detailed information about the features, specifications, and maintenance of your chosen car. This expertise ensures that you can make an informed decision and receive the best possible advice tailored to your needs.

Access to Mazda’s Latest Technology

Mazda continuously innovates, introducing new technologies and features in their vehicles. Certified Mazda dealers have the latest models equipped with these advancements. Whether you’re interested in cutting-edge safety features, advanced infotainment systems, or fuel-efficient engines, you’ll find the most recent offerings at a certified dealer.

Flexible Financing Options

Financing a vehicle can be a complex process, but certified Mazda dealers offer flexible and competitive financing options. They work closely with Mazda Financial Services and other lenders to provide tailored solutions that fit your budget. Moreover, they can offer incentives and promotions exclusive to certified dealers, potentially saving you money.

Exceptional Customer Service

Certified Mazda dealers are committed to providing exceptional customer service. From the moment you step into the showroom, you’ll experience a customer-first approach. The sales staff, service technicians, and finance experts work together to ensure that your buying experience is seamless and enjoyable.

Access to Genuine Mazda Parts and Service

Maintenance is a crucial aspect of vehicle ownership, and certified Mazda dealers offer the best in after-sales service. They use only genuine Mazda parts, ensuring that your vehicle performs at its best. Additionally, their service technicians are factory-trained and certified, providing expert care for your car.

Trade-In Opportunities

If you’re looking to trade in your current vehicle, a certified Mazda dealer can offer competitive trade-in values. They assess the condition of your car and provide a fair market price, which can be applied toward the purchase of your new Mazda. This convenience simplifies the buying process and can reduce the overall cost.

Peace of Mind with Extended Warranties

Buying from a certified Mazda dealer often means access to extended warranties. These warranties go beyond the standard coverage, offering protection for various components of your vehicle. Whether it’s the powertrain, electrical systems, or interior features, you can drive confidently knowing you’re covered.

Conclusion

Choosing a certified Mazda dealer for your vehicle purchase is a decision that brings numerous benefits. From guaranteed quality and expert knowledge to access to the latest technology and flexible financing options, certified dealers offer an unparalleled buying experience. Whether you’re in the market for a new or pre-owned Mazda, a certified dealer ensures that you get the best value, support, and peace of mind. Make your next vehicle purchase a confident one by visiting a certified Mazda dealer today.

Cadillac Racing aims to make noise at COTA

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Official Release
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No. 2 Cadillac V-Series.R seeking season-defining result in WEC ‘home’ race

DETROIT (Aug. 26, 2024) – Cadillac Racing returns to Circuit of The Americas this week, aiming to deliver a season-defining result in its FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) homecoming.

The six-hour Lone Star Le Mans – the sixth round of the eight-race season — also marks the WEC’s return to the racecourse in Austin, Texas, after a three-year absence. The race was a fixture on the calendar from 2013-2017. Green flag is scheduled for 1 p.m. CDT Sunday.

GM COTA highlights

  • Cadillac DPi-V.R sweeps podium in 2017 IMSA race.
  • Chevrolet Corvette DP sweeps podium in 2016 IMSA race.
  • Chevrolet Corvette DP wins 2013 Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series race.
  • Johnny O’Connell wins 2016 Pirelli World Challenge race in Cadillac ATS-V.R GT3 and the 2013 race in a Cadillac CTS-V.

Sebring International Raceway hosted the last WEC race in the U.S. in March 2023, which was also the debut of the Cadillac Racing Hypercar program. The No. 2 V-Series.R turned heads with a fourth-place finish.

GM Motorsports has had successful runs at the 3.426-mile road course, including the Cadillac DPi-V.R sweeping the podium in the 2-hour, 40-minute (73 laps) IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship race in 2017.

This year, Earl Bamber and Alex Lynn will pilot the No. 2 Cadillac V-Series.R, which is the only Hypercar entry to qualify in the top four in each of the past three races (second at Spa-Francorchamps and Le Mans, fourth at Brazil). Eighteen Hypercars are entered.

“I love the fact that we have such passionate fans in America, and I think they’ll enjoy seeing the WEC there again,” said Bamber, a New Zealand native who lives in Atlanta. “I think there is going to be a lot of America at the event. It’s some of the best racing in the world right now, especially in Hypercar and I think for fans going to COTA, seeing this field will be a great spectacle.”

Bamber is a two-time winner at COTA, including co-driving to an LMP1 victory in 2017, and both drivers tested at COTA in July prior to completion of full-course resurfacing. Portions of the course that incorporates 113 feet of elevation change were repaved earlier this year.

Cars will run counterclockwise on the 20-turn (11 left, 9 right) track that opened in 2012 and draws inspiration from some renown international circuits.

An uphill run into the hairpin Turn 1 is the venue’s signature corner. Turns 3 through 6 take cues from Silverstone’s high-speed Maggotts-Becketts-Chapel complex and Turns 12 through 15 are a nod to Hockenheim’s stadium section.

“COTA is a very technical track, very difficult to get right,” Lynn said. “It really is amazing behind the wheel, and to watch from grandstands and viewing banks.”

Race day is Pink Cadillac Day, which is celebrated annually on September 1 to honor the iconic 1950s car. Cadillac is embedded in pop culture, being featured in more than 400 movie scenes and referenced in more than 300 songs. A special pink Cadillac prototype racecar will complement the exciting lineup of Cadillac V-Series vehicles on display during the weekend.

What they’re saying

Earl Bamber: “I love the fact that we have such passionate fans in America, and I think they’ll enjoy seeing the WEC there again. The fans make the American races. You go to Sebring you see them camping for a whole week. The same at Road Atlanta and Daytona. I think we’ll get a big turnout at COTA and Austin is a fantastic city to go to as well. I think there is going to be a lot of America at the event. Fans will see titanic battles. There is action all over the place all the time. I think it’s some of the best racing in the world right now, especially in the prototype class, and I think it will be a great spectacle for the fans. The teams are upping the level and it’s feeling more and more like a Formula One paddock when you walk through the paddock. (about the circuit) The track is super challenging and it’s going to be hot, so it will be a real endurance race for the cars and the drivers behind the wheel. After the test there, we’ll be well-prepared, and we’ll be able to lean on our American colleagues as well from what they know. I think it will be one of the highlights of the program. A lot of people talk about the climb leading into the first corner, but actually I like the last sector with a really fast, long right-hand corner and the other fast corner to finish the lap. Overall, I think it is going to be grueling, a challenge for the teams for strategy and I think it’s going to race really well so looking forward to it.”

Alex Lynn: “Being back in the U.S. is really cool and important for us as GM. We want to win one of these races and stand on the podium again and that’s our goal. Because it was so hot (during July 2023 test) the grip was so low that actually it was alright. I hope it is a bit higher grip this time with the resurface, but I think that’s the thing with COTA is that when it’s so hot the grip becomes super low, so that actually wasn’t that difficult. COTA is a very technical track, very difficult to get right. There is a lot of lap time to be found with drivers exploiting the curbs. We don’t drive there a lot, so it’s a tough track to nail. But it’s a challenge we all enjoy. Sector 1 is by far my favorite. You’ve got that huge hill to Turn 1, then the big downhill sweeping into what is really a recreation of Maggots and Becketts from Silverstone. It really is amazing behind the wheel, and to watch from grandstands and viewing banks. Austin in itself is such a cool place too. Racing in the U.S. is cool, but that city just adds to it. The people there are so welcoming and for that reason I don’t know anyone who doesn’t love going there.”

(July test days) “The test in Austin went well. The circuit had not been repaved before we tested, though it has been repaved since with the new F1 tarmac. That won’t be too much of a surprise with how our car will react. I believe our car works well on European tarmac tracks like Qatar and Imola, which recently were repaved FIA-grade tracks.”

Niece Motorsports NCTS Race Recap: Milwaukee Mile Speedway

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Official Release
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NIECE MOTORSPORTS
NCTS RACE RECAP: MILWAUKEE MILE SPEEDWAY
Race: LiUNA! 175 (175 laps / 177.625 miles) | Race 17 of 23
Track: Milwaukee Mile Speedway
Location: West Allis, Wisconsin
Date & Time: Sunday, August 25th | 4:00 PM ET

No. 41 AutoVentive / Precision Vehicle Logistics Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Bayley Currey | Crew Chief: Wally Rogers
Bayley Currey
@BayleyCurrey
@BayleyCurrey05

Start: 13th
Stage 1: 34th
Stage 2: 31st
Finish: 29th
Driver Points: 19th
Owner Points: 23rd

  • Key Takeaway: Bayley Currey’s race in Milwaukee was affected early after he was squeezed into the wall by another competitor in the first stage. Currey was forced to pit under green and lost two laps in the process, finishing 34th in stage one. He managed to pick up a handful of positions to finish 31st in stage two, but was ultimately unable to get back on the lead lap. Currey was credited with a 29th-place finish.
  • Bayley Currey’s Post-Race Thoughts: “Tough day at Milwaukee. I thought we had a really good AutoVentive / Precision Vehicle Logistics Chevrolet, but got shoved into the fence on lap five. That gave us a flat left front tire and had to pit under green. That was the end of our day. Hopefully our luck will change and we can get a better finish in Bristol.”
    About AutoVentive: AutoVentive is an industry-leading Software as a Service (SaaS) applications developer providing customized solutions to the automotive logistics industry. The company is part of Liberty Hill Equity Partners, LLC, a Cincinnati-based private equity firm.

About Precision Vehicle Logistics: Precision Vehicle Logistics is a customer-focused group of professionals committed to service excellence in finished vehicle logistics. Precision offers a unique combination of talented experience, industry-leading software and systems, and a network of partners and resources to deliver customized solutions to the world’s leading automakers.

No. 42 Utilitra / J.F. Electric Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Matt Mills | Crew Chief: Jon Leonard
Matt Mills Racing
@MattMillsRacing
@MattMillsRacing

Start: 17th
Stage 1: 17th
Stage 2: 16th
Finish: 24th
Driver Points: 22nd
Owner Points: 26th

  • Key Takeaway: Matt Mills was on track to have a solid day in Milwaukee, but contact from another competitor resulted in him slamming into the wall with the rear of his No. 42 Chevrolet. Mills qualified 17th and held his track position in stage one. In stage two, he moved up to 16th, and made his way into the top-15 before the incident. A caution was not thrown for his contact and he fought an ill-handling truck for the rest of the race. Mills crossed the line in 24th.
  • Matt Mills’ Post-Race Thoughts: “We had a decent day going for our Utilitra / J.F. Electric Chevy, and as the track began to change, I felt like the setup in our truck was coming to us. Jon (Leonard) and the team made some good adjustments throughout the race, and I thought we could have had a solid finish. That was until we got hit out of nowhere and it basically ended our competitiveness. From that point, I was just trying to hang on with all the damage. Frustrating way to end it, it’s been a tough couple of races for us. Hopefully we can regroup and come back stronger after the next couple of weeks off heading into Bristol.”

About Utilitra: Utilitra is a woman-owned firm specializing in utility and technology solutions with a diverse team of specialized professionals. Utilitra is committed to solving their client’s unique challenges, whether one expert or a team of experts is needed. By adapting to the needs of their respective industries, Utilitra has built a range of services for their utility and technology partners.

About J.F. Electric: J.F. Electric is an electrical contractor that provides engineering expertise, backed by construction and installation know-how in a diverse range of service offerings, from utilities and commercial projects, to industrial and telecommunications customers. When having a long family history in an industry, a company not only builds on its knowledge and experience, it takes pride in cultivating a solid understanding of client needs, all the while nurturing strong relationships with its employees. Evolving through five generations of the Fowler family, J.F. Electric has matured into a well-managed and thoughtfully diversified electrical contractor which is poised to continue its growth and expansion into the future.

No. 44 Niece Equipment Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Matt Gould | Crew Chief: Tom Ackerman
Matt Gould
@ItsMattGould
@MatthewGould_

Start: 31st
Stage 1: 26th
Stage 2: 30th
Finish: 33rd
Driver Points: 64th
Owner Points: 42nd

  • Key Takeaway: Matt Gould didn’t have the Truck Series debut that he was anticipating, but the 18-year-old checked off the box of completing the race. Gould started 31st in Sunday’s LiUNA! 175 and began to maneuver his way into the top-25 before issues plagued his No. 44 Chevrolet. Gould finished 26th in stage one but dropped to 30th in stage two as the crew tried to fix the issues. He lost six laps on pit road and brought his No. 44 Chevrolet home in 33rd.
  • Matt Gould’s Post-Race Thoughts: “I had a really fast truck today; I think we drove up to 23rd or so in the first 20 laps. But in the last 20 laps in the first stage, we just continually lost power out of nowhere. We were able to hang in there and pass a couple of the slower trucks, but without the power, we just had no chance. I’m thankful to have been given this opportunity by Al Niece, Cody Efaw, Niece Equipment, and the whole team at Niece Motorsports. Hopefully, I’ll get another chance to go out there and give these guys the run they deserve.”

About Niece Equipment: For over 30 years, Niece Equipment has provided clients with reliable products at competitive prices. Our reputation is built on service, integrity and dependability. Each of our water and fuel/lube trucks are engineered with quality and durability in mind. Our capability ranges from 2,000 gallon water trucks to 12,000 gallon water towers. The fuel/lube trucks we offer range from 600 to 4,000 gallons.

No. 45 Moore’s Venture Foods Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Kaden Honeycutt | Crew Chief: Phil Gould
Kaden Honeycutt Racing
@KadenWHoneycutt
@KadenHoneycutt10

Start: 7th
Stage 1: 11th
Stage 2: 9th
Finish: 12th
Driver Points: 23rd
Owner Points: 8th

  • Key Takeaway: Kaden Honeycutt put together a solid outing in Milwaukee for his first start at the historic track. Honeycutt qualified the highest out of the team (seventh), and was enroute to a fifth-place run in the first stage when the caution struck. After pitting, he was credited with 11th in stage one. In stage two, Honeycutt climbed to ninth and picked up two stage points. In dirty air, Honeycutt struggled to maintain his balance, and slid back to finish 12th.
  • Kaden Honeycutt’s Post-Race Thoughts: “Had a top-five going in stage one, but then lost spots on pit road and finished 11th. We made our way up in the second stage and had some good handling on our truck, just needed track position. On the next stop, we lost some more spots and fell to 17th. We made it back up to 12th and had a fantastic truck. Just needed track position; that seemed to be the key to the race. Thanks to Phil Gould and everyone at Moore’s Venture Foods, Niece Motorsports, and Chevrolet for everything they do for us. We’ll move onto Bristol.”
    About Moore’s Venture Foods: Moore’s Venture Foods is a family-owned grocery store chain located in Oklahoma. The chain has brick-and-mortar stores in Alva, Fairfax, Shattuck, and Tonkawa, Oklahoma, and has been operated by the Moore family for three generations. To learn more, please visit www.MooresVentureFoods.com.

About Niece Motorsports:
Niece Motorsports is owned by United States Marine Corps Veteran Al Niece. In 2024, Niece Motorsports enters its ninth season in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Niece also owns Niece Equipment, which has for over 40 years provided clients with reliable products at competitive prices. Niece Equipment’s reputation is built on service, integrity and dependability. The company provides water and fuel/lube trucks that are engineered with quality and durability in mind for the construction and mining industry. Follow the team on Facebook and Instagram @NieceMotorsports as well as X @NieceMotorsport.

Toni Bou Wins 18th Consecutive FIM Trial World Championship Title

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Official Release
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FIM Trial World Championship

TOKYO, Aug 26, 2024 – (JCN Newswire) – Repsol Honda Team rider Toni Bou (Spain, 37 years old) has won the 2024 FIM* Trial World Championship. He has clinched his 18th consecutive title, extending his own record, by winning the Round 6 in France, held on August 25.

This year’s Trial World Championship is contested over seven rounds (12 trials). Bou was off to a good start to the season by winning both trials at the TrialGP of Japan, held for the first time as a season-opener, at Mobility Resort Motegi. Although he dominated Round 2 in Andorra, and was victorious in the first trial of the following TrialGP of Italy, Bou’s second place finish in Trial 2 put an end to his winning streak. Undeterred, he dominated Round 4 in Germany for his third perfect GP of the season, and Round 5 in Belgium. Going into Round 6, the TrailGP of France, Bou had already amassed 8 wins out of 9 trials in pursuit of his 18th consecutive TrailGP title. Once again Bou was victorious, and with a sufficient point gap to his closest contender, teammate Gabriel Marcelli (Spain, 24 years old), was crowned champion with one round remaining.

Since clinching his first world championship title in 2007 on HRC’s Montesa COTA 4RT factory bike, Bou has increased his unparalleled consecutive outdoor championship titles to 18, and has also won his 17th consecutive X Trial World Championship, an indoor competition raced on artificially prepared sections. He currently leads the 2024 indoor championship which resumes in October, aiming to claim his 18th consecutive title.

Toni Bou | Repsol Honda Team

“First of all, I would like to thank the team for the incredible work they have done this season. When there is a chance to win the title, there is always more pressure and the possibility of best and we got a great victory. If we can win the title by winning the race, then it’s even better. It has been a very good season in which we have worked very well. It is one of the best seasons of my professional career and I am very happy.”

Takahisa Fujinami | Repsol Honda Team Manager

“It was an incredible day and I want to congratulate Toni for the victory and the title. He has once again shown how great his talent is and the effort he puts in race after race to achieve the best results. I am also happy with Gabri’s race. It will be important to continue at this level in Ripoll to achieve the runner-up position. I want to thank HRC, all the sponsors and the team for supporting us on the way to the title and making it possible once again.”

Koji Watanabe, President of Honda Racing Corporation

“I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Toni Bou on his unprecedented 18th consecutive win in the Trial World Championship. He has dominated this season with a series of victories since the opening round in Japan, and we look forward to him extending his records in the future. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to our team manager Takahisa Fujinami, the entire team staff, and the many sponsors who support our racing activities. Last but not least, I would like to thank once again all the trial fans around the world who have always given us their enthusiastic support!”

About Toni Bou

Birth Date: October 17, 1986 (37 years old)Birthplace: SpainCareer Highlights:

2003 Trial World Championship debut
2007 Joins Repsol Montesa HRC, Wins his first Trial World Championship and X-Trial World Championship
2008 – 2023 Wins every Trial World Championship & X-Trial World Championship (17 each, 34 total)
2024 Wins his 18th Trial World Championship
Montesa COTA 4RT Overview

Engine: Liquid-cooled 4-stroke OHC single-cylinder engine
Frame: Aluminum twin-tube
Tires: 21-inch (front) 18-inch (rear)

*FIM: Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme

News URL: https://www.acnnewswire.com/press-release/english/92403/

URL: https://plus.google.com/110355594819754396833 | Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/HondaJP | Twitter : https://twitter.com/HondaJP | Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/user/HondaJPPR | Linkedin : https://jp.linkedin.com/company/honda

CHEVROLET INDYCAR AT PORTLAND: WILL POWER TAKES CHEVROLET TO VICTORY LANE AT PORTLAND

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Official Release
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CHEVROLET IN NTT INDYCAR SERIES
BITNILE.COM GRAND PRIX OF PORTLAND
PORTLAND INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY
PORTLAND, OREGON
TEAM CHEVY POST RACE RECAP
WITH QUOTES AND TRANSCRIPTS

AUGUST 25, 2024

WILL POWER TAKES CHEVY BACK TO VICTORY LANE AT PORTLAND INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY
JOSEF NEWGARDEN FINISHED THIRD TO GIVE CHEVROLET TWO ON PODIUM FOR BITNILE.COM GRAND PRIX OF PORTLAND

  • Will Power, No. 12 Verizon Business Team Penske Chevrolet, scored his third win of the 2024 NTT INDYCAR Series season with today’s win at Portland International Raceway (PIR)-his second on the 1.964-mile/12-turn road course
  • Power led 101 of the 110 laps; it is his sixth podium of the season and the 104th of his career
  • This victory is the 44th of Power’s career and the first time since 2018 the two-time Series’ champion and Indianapolis 500 winner has scored three-plus victories in a season
  • Two of his 2024 victories have been since INDYCAR introduced hybrid technology to the Series schedule at the Mid-Ohio race (Iowa Race 2 and today)
  • Power leaves Portland second in the point standings, 54 points down to leader Alex Palou
  • Josef Newgarden, No. 2 TireRack.com Team Penske Chevrolet, finished third to give Chevrolet two spots on podium
  • Pole winner Santino Ferrucci, No. 14 Phoenix Investors AJ Foyt Racing Chevrolet, kept his string of top-10 finishes alive with an eighth place finish today
  • Team Chevy drivers scored four of the top-eight finishers today with Scott McLaughlin, No. 3 Freightliner Team Penske Chevrolet, racing his way from the 20th starting position that was the result of six-place grid penalty
  • Today’s win is the third for Chevrolet at PIR, the ninth win of the 14 races run to-date in 2024-four including the Indianapolis 500 with the tried and true 2.2 liter V6 configuration and five since the INDYCAR hybrid technology integration, and 120 victories since the Bowtie Brand returned to INDYCAR competition in 2012
  • With three races remaining in the season, Chevrolet leads the Series’ Manufacturers Championship standings 1,236 to 1,110 points
  • The Hy-Vee Milwaukee Mile Doubleheader weekend August 30,31-September 1 is next on the calendar for Team Chevy in the NTT INDYCAR Series

TEAM CHEVY TOP-8 RACE RESULTS:
Pos. Driver
1st Will Power
3rd Josef Newgarden
7th Scott McLaughlin
8th Santino Ferrucci

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING (QUOTES)

ROBERT BUCKNER, CHEVROLET ENGINEERING PROGRAM MANAGER FOR THE NTT INDYCAR SERIES:

“Congratulations to Will Power and the No. 12 Chevrolet team on their dominate win at Portland International Raceway. With just three races to go in the season, Will made a strong statement today that he is going to fight for this championship. I am very proud of the effort that has been put forth by our Chevrolet engineering group working with our teams to stay in this fight. After facing some unknowns with the mid-season introduction of the hybrid technology scoring our ninth victory today is a perfect example of the effort put forth to finish strong. “

WILL POWER, NO. 12 VERIZON BUSINESS TEAM PENSKE CHEVROLET, WINNER:

On today’s race…“Just working hard. I’m enjoying the craft. Feel very lucky to be in this series and with this team. Days like this are hard to do. So many good drivers, so many good teams. To execute like that feels very good.”

Talk about that dominance and your crew doing such a fantastic job…

“They picked the strategy really well. I just did my job and got them fuel numbers. Kept my eye on (Alex) Palou behind me. I could see the gap opening on Palou’s but I knew we had a better car. It was just a matter of getting through that traffic. That last stint, we were on new tires. We were very strong.”

Heading back to the Milwaukee Mile next week, you’ve won there and did very good in the test as well. This could be a strong finish for you in the remaining three events…

“It could be very strong. I’ve been very strong on all the ovals this year. Won at Iowa, could’ve won last week. It was close but looking forward to it.”

JOSEF NEWGARDEN, NO. 2 TIRERACK.COM TEAM PENSKE CHEVROLET, FINISHED 3RD:

“Good day for us, Team Penske. Obviously, a great team win for Will (Power). We could use that after the last weekend we had. It’s really great. He’s our highest car, so we need to make sure we finish this thing off right. I think the No. 2 car was great today. Finishing third is a great result. You always want more. I want to win every race we’re in. It’s stinks to not win it, but it was a good result for our team. Having TireRack.com on this weekend was great. They’ve been a great partner of ours especially with acquisition from Discount Tire. So, it’s fun to have them on the INDYCAR program. Team Chevy doing a great job today with two on the podium.

“It was pretty good. I think second was probably our potential. I think Will (Power) had everybody covered today. Hard to say that we were going to challenge him. Maybe if we started first and we could make something happen there, but I think top-three, second place, that’s where we were at today, so it was a really good result for the No. 2 car. TireRack.com, it was their first race sponsoring the No. 2 car. You always want a victory when someone new is on board. It was a good day. I’m happy Will got the win. He has been fast all weekend, and obviously, he’s still gunning for this championship. Definitely a car we want to finish up front, so this is a great day for us. I always want more, and I don’t like finishing third, but a good day for Team Penske.”

There’s a lot of question marks and a lot of unknowns on what would be the preferred tire for today. Did it change throughout the race as what you thought may be the preferred tire?

“Not for us. I was kind of waffling on it after the first stint thinking okay, is it going to be the red? Is it going to be the primary? But I wasn’t sure at that point. But going into it, I felt like the red was a little stronger for us and that ended up being the case. So, I think that was probably the preferred tire for our car and we managed with what we could. Lap traffic was hard today. We just couldn’t make much happen in that middle stint and that’s probably what slowed our progress in getting to the No. 10. Good, clean day. It could’ve went about as we expected. Just a touch short.”

Championship aside, we head to two ovals to finish out the year. As the oval king, are you looking forward to getting to go to a couple of ovals?

“I’ll be honest, I was more excited about here. I really was. I wanted us to get a win here on the road course and we had a good showing. I think we had the potential, but I like everywhere. It’s not just ovals that get me excited. It’s places like this. The biggest thing is we’re coming to the final stretch, right? Three races to go for us and I think we need to have a solid finish. We’re still in the championship fight with our team. We’ve got two good things to cheer for coming to the end of the season, and to wrap things up on a good note.”

SCOTT MCLAUGHLIN, NO. 3 FREIGHTLINER TEAM PENSKE CHEVROLET, FINISHED 7TH:

On today’s race-a charge from 20th to 7th

“I’m buggered. I’m tired. It was a hard charge but our Freightliner Chevy was good and the Thirsty Three’s were rapid on the pit stops. Really proud of the crew. I said to my wife who’s watching at home, hello Karly. I said top-seven today would be like a podium. I’m proud of that one and can’t wait to get home and then head to the final three races where on ovals we’ve proven we’ve been pretty good this year. We’ll see how we go.”

You were really confident earlier in the weekend, and when you have a car like that you know you can get to the front. How does that impact how aggressive you are throughout the race?

“You just have to trust once you get clearer, you can hit the lap time. You can’t make mistakes either, so it’s a credit to my crew that they kept me level headed throughout the whole race. There were a couple of times you get heated as you do, but overall, just disappointed with yesterday. That one is on me. Can’t do that on a championship run, but hey, we’re still in it until we’re mathematically out of it. I don’t care, I’m still in it. So, press on.”

SANTINO FERRUCCI, NO. 14 PHOENIX INVESTORS AJ FOYT RACING CHEVROLET, FINISHED 8TH:

“The weekend was incredible, to start on pole with Will (Power). Obviously, he got me on the inside of turn one. I braked a little early. First time for everything, but we’ll learn. The team did a phenomenal job, we just didn’t quite have the pace we that we thought we would today. Obviously, with the heat coming up, we were just all over the track and it was super greasy. It’s unfortunate but I mean, I had fun. It’s a long race to go green for as long as it was. We had great stops. Our pit crew did phenomenal. I can’t thank Sexton Properties, Phoenix investors, Chevrolet, everybody enough. To get the pole this weekend for us is a huge milestone. We get to sit in the front box for the dual at Milwaukee which will be a lot of fun. A big advantage for us. On to the ovals.”

Back to turn one at the start, how did you approach that? Was there a conversation with Will Power about how you guys would handle the start into the first turn?

“I kind of told Will (Power) where I was going to go and I try and if I got the jump, I could get in front of him, I would and I would kind of string him along, pull him down into turn one. He was going to the inside and just block, and give me into two, I just didn’t expect him to brake as early as I did. I definitely didn’t mean to either. It was really cool to talk with him, too, and get some advice on what to do. He’s such a good dude and I’m really happy for him and for the No. 12 team to win. It’s great for them and the championship. He was very helpful. A lot for me to learn there and I can’t wait to race him again a little bit more in the next few.”

Silly Season seems like it’s been going on for two and a half years in INDYCAR. It never stops. How does a weekend like this bode for your future, and talks with AJ Foyt Racing or perhaps other teams?

“Obviously, it’s huge. To qualifying on pole, it’s a drivers’ thing and we obviously got the car right, working with the engineers, it’s a team effort at the end of the day to do that. To put that lap in and everything, and to race as well as we have been all year, I think it’s our eighth top-ten. We’ve just been so consistent. I obviously want to stay here at AJ Foyt (Racing) and we’re going to work on that with Larry (Foyt) over the next couple of weeks to see it’s a possibility. To build what we have, to be coming back to the tracks again next year with the continuity of the same engineers and team, mechanics. It’s getting better all around. We’ll be starting more up front and hopefully, we can get some more poles and can translate those into wins.”

RINUS VEEKAY, NO. 21 ASKROI ED CARPENTER RACING CHEVROLET, FINISHED 11TH:

“I had a good start and pretty good pace. The No. 21 askROI.com Chevrolet felt really good, actually a lot better than in warm up yesterday so we made some really good changes. We maximized what we had with everything we had going on. I am pretty proud of the team and of myself. Almost got another Top 10, but still pretty happy. Great job by everybody and on to the next one!”

ALEXANDER ROSSI, NO. 7 ARROW MCLAREN CHEVROLET, FINISHED 12TH:

“It was a long day, and that was a lot of effort to finish 12th. But at least we finished, as it had been a few races since we did that. The team did a great job in the race with what we had, maximizing strategy and stops, so it is positive to finally get some points on the board before heading to some tracks where we should be pretty strong at next week.”

PATO O’WARD, NO. 5 ARROW MCLAREN CHEVROLET, FINISHED 15TH:

“Obviously, a very hard weekend for the whole team, including ourselves in the No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet. There are a lot of things to look over to see where the issue is. The reality is, this is unacceptable. We’ll see where we can can improve for the coming races to close out the year better than just fighting for 15th.”

STING RAY ROBB, NO. 41 PRAY.COM AJ FOYT RACING CHEVROLET, FINISHED 18TH:

“Long day here in Portland. We went forward quite a bit. A small mistake on the last stop cost us a few spots, but overall, I think it was a fairly maximized day for the pace that we had. For the conditions, I think that we had a fairly decent car. We made a call at the beginning of the race to trim compared to the cars around us. I’m not sure how I ended up. I think we gained a little, lost a little. Overall, pretty happy with the result. Got some good points out of it and we’re moving forward to two tracks that I think we’re going to do well at.”

NOLAN SIEGEL, NO. 6 ARROW MCLAREN CHEVROLET, FINISHED 21ST:

“It was a very, very long race and it felt like we didn’t really have a whole lot to get by anyone. Then, I made a few mistakes where things just compounded for a pretty disappointing race for us. We will look into it and move on, but we are definitely not satisfied with the weekend. We need to do better, and luckily, we have two more coming up.”

CHRISTIAN RASMUSSEN, NO. 20 GUY CARE ED CARPENTER RACING CHEVROLET, FINISHED 26TH”

“A day that could have been. The pace in the No. 20 GuyCare Chevrolet was pretty good and I think we could have had a Top 12 today. Unfortunately, sometimes people don’t look where they are going and I got hit. We had to come in and change the front wing and that put us a lap or two down. It was kind of over from there. Looking beyond that, it was a pretty good weekend. Super close qualifying, we were right there with everybody, then good pace in the race and making moves.”

POST RACE PRESS CONFERENCE TRANSCRIPT

Will Power

Josef Newgarden

Press Conference

THE MODERATOR: Joined now by the 2024 champion here at Portland, Will Power. His third win of the season, second here in Portland. Jumps back into second place in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES points championship. 44th career win. Sixth podium of the season. The 104th of his career.

I know it’s much more than this, but to simplify it, it kind of all began and ended in turn one, the opportunity to pass Santino there. How huge was that?

WILL POWER: Turn one, Santino and I talked about the start, he was not going to block or anything. He braked earlier than expected, because I braked earlier. I was going to let him lead. Yeah, he’s a good teammate. Very fair. I have to thank him for helping me out there.

But yes, from there it was a pretty I guess straightforward race of playing the game with in and out laps against Palou. I think we definitely had a better car on reds. We could pull a good gap. I think black tires at the beginning, that got a bit tough.

Yeah, man, a good day. Went green for a long time. Kind of mentally drained. I don’t have that many words. But yeah, it’s good stuff.

THE MODERATOR: We’ll begin with questions.

Q. Would you be willing to go on the Masked Singer?

WILL POWER: Masked Singer? No, definitely not good enough for that. I’ll do some karaoke.

Q. This win brings you 54 points within Alex. Him finishing second, you trimming 12 points off of your gap to him, how winnable does this still feel going into the final three oval races?

WILL POWER: I would say if he had finished ahead of us, it would almost be over. It just kept it alive. Ultimately, one DNF for him, one win for me, you’re right there. Certainly within 20 points. That makes it very possible it could happen.

Yeah, I said going into this race we simply have to win. We simply have to at least finish ahead of him, but ultimately win to keep this thing alive. That’s what we did.

It’s going to be the same every week. It’s going to be the same every race from here out. Just got no choice but to be ahead of him or it’s over.

Q. Would you envision over these final three races the team putting all of its eggs in your basket to try to get you a championship or will you still be racing your teammates for race wins at Milwaukee and Nashville?

WILL POWER: I think if we have the cars to win, and we want to win the championship, yes, that’s probably what we should do with three to go. We should probably, yeah, be looking at how can we get the 12 car in the best possible position. Really that’s our only chance. We got three really good drivers – four really if you include Santino – that are capable of running at the front.

Yeah, that can take up a lot of positions. I’m the head of that group, we win the race, that starts to make things look possible.

Yeah, we’ll talk about that when we get to Milwaukee, see if that’s a possibility.

Q. A doubleheader at Milwaukee that we haven’t raced on in nearly a decade, a track at Nashville that you may only raced on once in your career, how unknown is what we’re getting into over these final three races?

WILL POWER: Yeah, quite unknown. You don’t even know, like, can you pass at Milwaukee? Will qualifying be a big deal? How will this play out? I don’t even think we’ve run on the tire we’re going to run. Yeah, a very, very interesting three races that you really don’t know where everyone’s going to stack up.

All the ovals we went to this year, we’ve had history on, very good setups and data for. Milwaukee, we tested there a couple times now. But it’s really difficult to tell till you get in the race situation to know how good your car really is.

Q. About the 75th lap or so, it looked like Alex wanted to get racy with you. Were we seeing that correctly?

WILL POWER: Yeah, I had traffic. I was at the mercy of the pace of the car in front. I saw that gap just shrink really quickly. I think he pulled into the pits or I passed. However that played out. As soon as I got clear track, I knew I could put quite a bit of time into him. Especially at the end of the stint, it seemed like his car used the tire more than ours. On reds we were simply better. Our car was really good on red tires.

Yeah, kind of equal I’d say on blacks. He even looked like he dropped off on blacks. It was really a lot to do with traffic management. If it was a clear track for me, I always felt I could pull a gap on him.

Q. Last weekend was not what you wanted. Your blood pressure was considerably higher. How do you deal with those ups and downs?

WILL POWER: I get mad very quickly, but I get over it very quickly. I mean, I’ve grabbed Scott Dixon at Road America, then got into the car and said, Sorry, man. It’s all good. Like, got into the medical car a few seconds later.

I just am like that. When I’m mad, it looks worse. My bark is worse than my bite. I’m like not that (smiling). I forgive very quickly and easily and move on. I know everyone in this series is trying to do the same thing. We’re all lucky to be here.

Last week I saw a lot of points just… A great race really. I would have to say the most fun I’ve had in years on an oval finished in a bad way. I enjoyed the race, I had so much fun, then it finished like that. Kind of disappointed. Late restart. I think if we went earlier, it wouldn’t have happened.

Yeah, one day later I’m wake surfing with Josef, laughing. Talking to Malukas and joking. Yeah, it’s just how I am.

Q. You said at the beginning of the race that Portland had a special place in your heart because it was the first place you ever tested. How does this win and being able to continue that championship fight rate for you?

WILL POWER: Man, anytime I win in this series, I feel so lucky. Like it feels like it’s so impossible and hard to win. I was thinking through the race, No way I’m going to win this. He’s going to get me. But you do your absolute best.

When you get a win, it’s a very good feeling. It’s very, very satisfying. It takes so much, it really does. To get through all those rounds in qualifying, to qualify right at the front, that is so difficult in this series. Then to execute completely on a race day with so many good guys and teams around you, it really is a big deal just to get on a podium in INDYCAR.

Every win I get now, it’s so special. It really means a lot. It’s adding to my win list. It’s not like I’m racing for another decade, put it that way. Yeah, I work really hard at my craft, so it’s very satisfying. I know all the guys on the car really deserve it. Best pit crew in pit lane. They have been the quickest the last couple years. They are again this year. That’s a hard situation to come upon. To be in that situation, to be a good driver in a great team, having the opportunities to win. Bloody winning a race is a big deal.

Q. Anything specific about Portland itself?

WILL POWER: Yeah, I mean, it’s the first track I ever drove at in the U.S. First time I ever drove an INDYCAR. I still remember it driving down the back straight, I had the thought, Man, I could be paid to do this. That was with big horsepower days, too. Yeah, I still remember that thought, driving down that back straight. I remember that day, I do. I remember driving that car. It had understeer. Stalled it a couple times trying to leave the pits. It was good memories. A long time ago. Almost 20 years ago. I think it’s 20 years ago. Crazy, cool.

I do love it. Yeah, I mean, I have that memory for this place. I’m glad we came back here, we started racing here again. It was a cool place when I got to race here in Champ Car.

But I love all the tracks. When I walk in the paddock, it’s like it would be really tough for me to walk away from this sport. It really would. The feeling of being a part of something, trying to accomplish something with a group of people, yeah, I think you’d be pretty lost. If I stopped, I’d be very lost with what to do.

I love racing. I love the paddock. I love the people. Feel lucky to do it.

Q. When you were going down that back straightaway, did you have any thought you’d be doing this for this long?

WILL POWER: No. Yeah, no way that I thought I would have driven for the best team in the U.S., won on ovals, won the Indy 500. All those things. Won a championship. Yeah, not a chance.

I worked very hard always, was very determined. It’s something that unfolds very slowly. It’s not a big shock that it happened now. When you reflect on it when you came here all those years ago, it was a dream. What I’ve done, I’ve lived out my dream, absolutely. I’ve just lived it out.

You need to reflect sometimes and appreciate that when you get mad or disappointed about something that happens. You’re really lucky to be here.

I enjoy doing appearances now. I enjoy media, all that stuff. It’s all great stuff. I give the young guys a hard time if they complain about it. Man, you could be working in an office, you could be working construction, you’re lucky you’re in this very small group of people that get to do this for a living, so enjoy it.

Q. How similar or different does this title fight feel compared to 2022?

WILL POWER: Yeah, it’s very different. Like, it’s a must-win situation almost right now. Can take a little bit more risk. You probably have a little less pressure ’cause you’re not the one sort of defending this points lead.

Believe me, it’s nice to have the points lead. It’s much better to be in his position by a longshot. Yeah, different year. I kind of learnt from his championship last year, the style of ’22 wouldn’t have worked that year. You had to win. That’s what this year is.

This year was a year of a lot of mistakes from a lot of drivers. Last two races. Toronto, think about it, if I didn’t try that move on Scott. If Malukas and I didn’t have that issue, cause that yellow, suddenly you’re looking pretty good. Everyone has let some big points go. Palou at Iowa. It’s been one of those years where a ’22 sort of year would win it, yeah.

Q. If you’ve let yourself think about this at all, what would a third championship mean to you?

WILL POWER: Oh, yeah, tremendous, tremendous in many different ways. To win in this series, at this time, it’s so difficult. You get a third championship from a deficit of 54 points at this point, come back from a deficit like that, yeah, that would be amazing. It would be absolutely amazing. To finish on all ovals, as well, kind of going back to my early days, sort of unfinished business there.

Yeah, it’s a tough climb from here, but not impossible.

Q. Consistency is a thing that wins the championship, but also there’s the consistency from the guys that deliver that car to you. How hard is this run to the final group of races for them?

WILL POWER: Yeah, it is very much about the consistency of pit stops, car preparations, the guys that build the engines. All those things are going to play a part. Yeah, kind of a grueling season in that they have to pack up now, rebuild a car, rebuild three cars before we go to Milwaukee. It’s the same for every team, yeah.

I mean, it’s absolutely a team sport, I can tell you that. Just having been in this for so long, like I said, to get the ingredients of the fastest pit crew, the best team, the best engine, and being one of the best drivers, to get that combination is so difficult. You look through the whole field, all those guys are capable of winning.

So yeah, got to feel fortunate to be a part of a team like Penske where you’re given those ingredients.

Q. Do you feel maybe the Dixon factor, considering he’s won at Nashville before, can that have an effect on the championship if they let him loose to cover for Palou?

WILL POWER: Yes. Having tested there with Dixon, Dixon is very good at Nashville. I said that before. I could see him winning that race, see him being very competitive. He could play a part, absolutely, in a scenario where we must win, you’re probably going to be fighting Dixon.

Q. The key message still is what you’ve been saying, stay ahead of Alex at all times?

WILL POWER: Yeah, that’s our only shot. That is our only shot. We must be continually finishing ahead of him and see where it falls.

Q. This is your first three-win season since 2018. What’s made the difference to regain the winning form?

WILL POWER: It’s never just one thing, to be honest. I think Chevy made a gain last year. Just with that, you’ve got more chance to qualify in the top six. Qualify in the top six, you certainly have more chance of a win.

If I look at 2022, there were a lot of, like, races where I went from 16th to third, got a lot of podiums, a lot of second places. Had I qualified slightly better, those potentially could have been wins. It’s just putting yourself in that position, having the car.

Yeah, you are constantly working on that stuff. One year you’re a little conservative. Next year you see Palou win with a bit more aggression, so you become a bit more aggressive. I never stop digging and looking.

I actually came into this season with the mindset I must win multiple races. It’s been a long time since I have. Yeah, that’s basically a lot of factors go into it.

Q. Is there anything with your specific race craft that you’ve changed or maximized on now better than previously?

WILL POWER: No, not really. No, I race pretty similar. A couple mistakes this year that I really reflect on that is uncharacteristic of sort of the 2022 year.

No, I have the same mentality. I’m very calm in the car always. Rarely do I get flustered or say something on the radio. I’m less calm out of the car if something happens, but…

Yeah, you just change small things. Built this big toolbox of skills over the years, worked on the mental aspect a lot, which just comes with age, to be honest. No particular thing.

You have your goals coming into a season, but you are just walking that tightrope of aggression versus consistency. If you look at Dixon, 99% of the time he will not go for a move that’s sort of in a 50/50. He will weigh on the cautious side. That’s won him championships. Palou is further to the aggressive. But he walks that tightrope really well of aggression versus reward.

Yeah, I’m always playing on that one side or the other. ’22 I was too conservative. ’23 I had a bad year. This year maybe I’m a little bit over-aggressive at times. But that’s the game you play. You got to hit that sweet spot. It’s tough.

Q. You have this interesting ability to have a really bad race, get mad, cool down, but come back and funnel what was bad into something positive. What is it? Is it a thing?

WILL POWER: Ultimately I came here, like, I have to qualify really well because of the first corner. But ultimately I have to win to keep this thing alive. Yeah, that’s what I did.

Yeah, no, it may look like that, but that’s not really get mad and do anything. You just focus in. I try to do that every weekend.

Yeah, those couple of 18th places were just from bad restarts actually. I mean, yeah, both of them were in restarts on a short oval.

Q. Recently we had news confirming David Malukas heading to Foyt. Some believe he could be moving into your car at some point in time in the future. Won more races than any of your teammates this year. Share some thoughts about wanting to continue.

WILL POWER: I want to continue. I’m not retiring. I’m not. I’m just simply not retiring. Yeah, I know people probably like to spread that around, rumors or whatever, in the hope that they can take my seat. Yeah, I’m staying here for a while. I’ll get better every year, man. I get better every year. I feel like that.

Q. We haven’t had a lot of kids from Down Under doing big things on the Road to Indy for a while. Lochie Hughes heading to INDY NXT. Any thoughts about that?

WILL POWER: I really want to help him get to INDYCAR. I think he’s very good. He’s very focused, determined. Yeah, we spoke I think at Iowa. He didn’t have many races after that. He asked me how to approach a championship. The long or short of it is, man, all you can focus is on what you can control, nothing else. Forget about the rest. Focus in. It’s your ticket to ultimately INDYCAR, but definitely Indy Lights.

I want to help him get to the INDYCAR. I want to see another Australian get a good seat and succeed here in America. He’s good. He deserves it.

THE MODERATOR: Busy between Miles and Lochie.

WILL POWER: Yeah, tough one. I want to see them both succeed. I think Miles will be fine. I think ultimately he’s got Penske’s help. He’s pretty good. Lochie needs more help. It’s very tough from where he is.

You’ve seen Indy Lights champions move on. It’s been good, yeah.

THE MODERATOR: Joined now by the third-place finishing driver, Josef Newgarden. His best-ever finish here at Portland, fifth podium of the season, 57th of his career. Now tied with Sebastien Bourdais for 18th on the all-time INDYCAR SERIES list.

Josef, your general thoughts about this afternoon?

JOSEF NEWGARDEN: Yeah, it was a good day for us. I think in a lot of ways close to our potential. Looking at it from, like, a far distance, it looked like we were a second-place car today. I think third is really close to what we could have achieved.

I think we probably had something for Alex, but not for Will. I think Will was probably lights out the best today. A great result for our team. Obviously Will is still going for this championship. It’s a great result for him to be up front.

For us, you always want more. I want to win every race I’m in, so I don’t like finishing third. It’s a good weekend, good, solid weekend. Proud of the team. Proud of having Tire Rack on our car.

True story. Fun story. I’ve been a customer of tirerack.com since I was a kid. It was always my preferred site to go to when I was trying to figure out specifications for tires. It’s funny to come full circle now that I am 33 to and have them on the car. Pleased we can take this to the last few races of the year and finish strong.

THE MODERATOR: We’ll start with questions.

Q. Josef, much calmer post race today than last week. Was it that pedestrian on the track or still a pretty busy race today?

JOSEF NEWGARDEN: Yeah, it wasn’t super action packed today. Not quite like Gateway, right? Gateway was probably a little more intense in a good way. Today was a little bit more calm. It wasn’t enough to mix it up. We didn’t have a yellow get thrown in there to kind of mix things up.

I think the top guys were pretty strong in their own right so they stayed stationary once we settled in after that first stint.

You can’t have the greatest show every weekend. This is probably a little less than what we experienced last week at Gateway. Still a fun fight. I always enjoy trying to get these races right. The fuel saving, the way you choose when you’re pitting, all that sort of stuff, it all matters and still fun to get it right on a day like today.

Q. Was it hard to keep the right pace and hit your numbers?

JOSEF NEWGARDEN: Definitely. It’s always tough. The car is not easy to drive on the edge, do it consistently every lap without making mistakes or a wrong decision. It’s a tough day. It’s not like we were all just cruising around.

Yeah, maybe a little more settled and processional than we would have liked. A little more action probably would have been good for the fans. Still a tough day to get this right.

Q. Josef, you started on red tires today. What do you think about your tire strategy? Do you think it worked very well?

JOSEF NEWGARDEN: Yeah, it was a good day. Like I said, I think it’s about what our potential was. The only way we finish higher is if we start higher. Need to start on pole or second place, lead from the beginning if we want to be higher up.

It’s going to be tough to match Will today. He had a 10th or two on us. I think Alex was really tough to beat, too. If we had track position on them, maybe we make something happen. I think it was going to be hard overall.

From where we started, pleased with the progress we made. I don’t want to finish third, but I think we maximized what we could today.

Q. Josef, you were strong at the test. How much are you looking forward to returning to Milwaukee and Nashville? How do you expect the two tracks to race?

JOSEF NEWGARDEN: I’m excited, for sure. I like Milwaukee. I’ve been there a couple times in the past before we left for a little hiatus. I always thought it was fun. I hope we can produce a good race.

Nashville is completely unknown to me. I’ve never been on the track. Out there to watch some testing. Really don’t know what that one’s like.

I have high hopes we can find a good package for both places. I think Gateway was really pretty phenomenal as far as the combination. It’s not easy. It’s not an exact science. I think if we could bottle a good racing package where there’s usability on multiple lanes, we would take it everywhere.

Sometimes it’s a little bit of guesswork, trial and error. You have to kind of go places a time or two to figure it out in this new package. We’re trying to figure it out, with the extra weight, hybrid, aero, tire configuration.

I have high hopes we can have a good race package for Milwaukee and Nashville. Overall I love oval racing, too, so excited to finish the season strong.

ABOUT CHEVROLET

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands. Chevrolet models include electric and fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heartbeat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com

Make Every Occasion a Joyous and Memorable One by Hiring Limo Services!

By
SM
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Photo by edfoto at https://depositphotos.com/

Limousines can add glamorous and luxurious effects to any special occasion. It is the perfect way to make your day memorable. Moreover, you can easily hire a limo with various rental packages and deals available with reputed limo rental companies. But, if you are wondering on which occasions you can get the help of a limousine service, then we have listed the critical events that require added prestige and bling. 

  • High school prom

High school proms are conducted yearly, and most students highly anticipate the event. They wait the entire year to make this one day memorable and special. So, a prom is the most prominent and popular event where you can rent a Limousine. It is a safe alternative to regular transport, and you can include a group of friends. Also, a limo guarantees safe transport, so the parents won’t have to be worried about their children. 

  • Wedding 

A wedding is another important event in one’s life and should be treated with care and creativity. So, if you want to add a glamorous look to your transport, hire a limo service. It would reflect your romance and importance to your spouse on the wedding day. You can hire a limo for the wedding, a unique marriage photo shoot, or a gateway car for the honeymoon. 

  • Bachelorette party 

Be it a girl or a group of boys, bachelorette parties are always fun and memorable. So, hiring a Skyline Chicago Limo can add to your special occasion in terms of glam and safer transport. Hiring a limo ensures you can enjoy the evening without any stress. Still, with responsibility, you do not have to worry about getting into a cab after a few drinks or asking for a ride home from other companions.

  • Valentine’s day 

You can use the limo as a symbol of romance and plan a night getaway with your spouse or bae. With the right moves, you can make it a day to remember and enjoy the night in the town. With a personalized setting, you can customize the limo’s backside with limo favorite designs or champagne. And, if you want to get a little attention, then a limo will surely grab the eyes of the people in your town. 

  • Proposal

The most exciting aspect of your life is proposing the love of your life, and it should always be unique. You can hire a limo to make the experience even more memorable and enjoyable. Moreover, you can drive with your partner to a specific place and then ask for a hand in marriage. The entire process keeps you relaxed and excited and helps you to enjoy every moment.

  • Corporate Christmas party 

You can hire a limo for a corporate Christmas party, where the staff or employees would be transported to a pleasant and comfortable dining space. Plan a nice Christmas dinner and show appreciation towards your employee for their hard work by making the transportation special. They would love how you treat them, which would reflect positively on your business.

Final words

Be it any occasion or age, every surprise and celebration demands Chicago limo services to create a fun and unique atmosphere. You can always customize the seats based on your requirements and decorate them with balloons, signs, or confetti, which would definitely add a special touch to the occasion along with safe transportation.

Company: Skyline Chicago Limo
Address: 2416 W Bryn Mawr Ave APT 3S
City: Chicago
State: IL
Zip code: 60659
Country: United States
Website: https://www.skylinechicagolimo.com/
Social Media: 
https://www.facebook.com/skylinechicagolimo1
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXA_bdl97eO4pxcD6q_EomQ

Long-Distance Travel? Don’t Hit the Road Without These 6 Car Essentials

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SM
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Embarking on a long-distance road trip is an exhilarating adventure, but it requires careful preparation to ensure a smooth journey. While packing your bags with clothes and snacks is essential, don’t overlook the importance of equipping your car with the right essentials. From safety gear to comfort items, there are several things to consider.

In this article, we will guide you through the must-have items to pack for a hassle-free and enjoyable road trip.

Portable Tire Inflator

A handy tire inflator is an essential tool for any motorist, especially those venturing on long-distance trips. This compact device can swiftly and efficiently inflate your tires to the optimum pressure, confirming the best performance and security. 

The growing demand for portable tire inflators across various sectors is driving significant market expansion, states Valuates. By 2029, it is projected to reach $1,463.8 million, growing at a 7.3% CAGR from 2023 to 2029.

If you encounter a flat tire or need to adjust tire pressure due to weather conditions, a portable tire inflator is a must-have. It’s a reliable companion that can save you time, money, and potentially dangerous situations, especially when you’re far from home.

Jumper Cables or Portable Battery Jump Starter

A lifeless battery can be an annoying and troublesome experience, especially on a road trip. Jumper cables allow you to connect your vehicle’s battery to another running vehicle’s battery, providing the required spark to jump-start your engine. However, a portable battery jump starter offers more convenience as it doesn’t require another vehicle. 

The average life of a car battery is 3-5 years, according to the Consumer Reports. It could last up to 58 months in the Northern areas of the US and up to 41 months in most Southern regions. The car battery works best at 27 degrees C. Before a long trip, especially in extreme weather, checking your battery is crucial.

If you are traveling during extreme climates, the problem can even be worse. As the temperature lowers and becomes 0 degrees, even a fully charged battery loses its power to start. In summer, extreme heat is developed under the hood which leads to battery failure. In such a situation, jumper cables or a portable battery jump starter are essential tools to have on hand. 

It’s an all-inclusive product with a built-in battery that can jump-start your car directly. It can help you get back on track quickly and easily if your battery drains out.

Is it safe to jump-start a hybrid or electric vehicle with regular jumper cables?

No, it is not safe to jump-start a hybrid or electric vehicle with regular jumper cables. The high-voltage batteries in these vehicles can be dangerous if mishandled. It’s best to consult your vehicle’s manual or seek professional assistance to jump-start a hybrid or electric vehicle.

Comprehensive First Aid Kit

A full-fledged first aid kit is an indispensable item for any road trip. It can be a lifeguard in case of small injuries or emergencies. A comprehensive kit should include various stuff, such as bandages, gauze, antiseptic rubs, pain relievers, tweezers, scissors, a thermometer, and first aid instructions. You must ensure that the kit is stored conveniently within your vehicle and that the items are regularly checked and refilled.

According to the National Library of Medicine, motion sickness is prevalent in the US population. Around 30% of the US population suffers from motion sickness. While driving, you must have the medicine for motion sickness in your first-aid kit. 

Moreover, according to the NSC, the number of medically consulted injuries rose to 5.2 million in 2022. If you have a first-aid kit with you, it can be handy in any such unfortunate situation. A first aid kit can provide peace of mind and help you respond promptly to any medical situation during your trip.

How often should I check and update the contents of my first aid kit?

You should check and update the stuff of your medical kit at least once a month. This ensures that all items present are appropriate and not expired. Regularly replenishing used supplies will keep your kit ready for any emergency.

Multipurpose Tool Kit

A multipurpose tool kit is an invaluable asset for any road trip. It contains a variety of tools that can come in handy for various tasks, from tightening loose bolts to changing a flat tire. A basic tool kit must have essential items like screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, a hammer, and a tire gauge. 

A more comprehensive kit may include additional tools such as a socket set, a utility knife, and electrical tape. With a multipurpose tool kit in your vehicle, you’ll be well-equipped to handle minor repairs or adjustments on the road.

Torque Wrench

A torque wrench is essential for road trips, ensuring your vehicle’s lug nuts are properly tightened when changing a tire. This precision tool helps prevent overtightening, which can damage your wheel, and under-tightening, which can leave your tire dangerously loose.

If you find yourself stranded with a flat tire, a torque wrench can be a lifesaver. It securely fastens the spare tire, ensuring your vehicle is safe to drive until you reach a service station. Having one on hand ensures that you can handle unexpected tire issues with ease, keeping you safe on your journey.

According to eTork, you must use a wrench that is comfortable to use and reduce the amount of force required to adjust the torque. Optimum force prevents nuts and bolts from becoming too slack or too constricted, which can lead to component disaster or safety hazards. 

Torque wrenches come in different kinds, such as click, beam, and digital. For those seeking a dependable and affordable option, the 1/4 torque wrench from eTORK is an excellent choice. It offers more precise torque measurement and sturdiness than most competitive products.

Reflective Triangles and Flares

Reflective triangles and flares are essential safety equipment for any vehicle, especially during long-distance trips. In the event of a crash or breakdown, these tools can considerably improve visibility, alerting other drivers to potential hazards. 

Flares can be used to signal your location, especially during the evening or when there is no light. Having these items readily available in your vehicle can help prevent accidents and ensure everyone’s safety.

Emergency Plan Guide suggests to keep the flare at a distance of 100-200 meters from your car. The distance of the flare must be decided depending on the traffic speed in that area. It must not be tossed and should be extinguished as soon as you receive help.

Are there any legal requirements for carrying emergency warning devices in my car?

Yes, there are legal requirements for carrying emergency warning devices in your car. Generally, most jurisdictions mandate having reflective triangles or flares to alert other drivers in case of a breakdown or emergency. It’s essential to check the traffic laws of your location to ensure you comply.

A Safe and Enjoyable Journey

By equipping your vehicle with these essential items, you can significantly enhance your road trip experience and ensure your safety on the road. Remember to pack a portable tire inflator, jumper cables, a comprehensive first-aid kit, a multipurpose tool kit, a torque wrench, reflective triangles, and flares. 

With these tools at your disposal, you’ll be well-prepared to handle unexpected situations, allowing you to focus on your journey.

Exons Group Review: 4 Tips for New Crypto Traders in 2024 [exonsgroup.com]

By
SM
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Trading cryptocurrencies has become very popular, and sites like Exons Group have made it easier for new buyers to get into this exciting but risky market. Trading cryptocurrency calls for thoughtful strategy, preparation, and knowledge of the nuances of the market. These four pointers will help novice traders utilizing Exons Group negotiate the crypto landscape in 2024.

  1. Leverage Exons Group’s Advanced Trading Tools

The platform can provide rookie traders with an advantage in the quickly changing Bitcoin market. To fully optimize these instruments, however, one must know how to apply them effectively.

Key Points to Consider:

Apply automated trading features

Exons Group offers automated trading options, including bots and algorithms, and a trade robot that can execute transactions based on preset parameters. Automated trading can assist novice traders in ensuring consistent plan execution and help eliminate emotional bias from trading decisions.

Work using Demo Accounts

The company’s demo account tool allows new traders to practice trading in a risk-free environment before risking actual money. Without worrying about losing your money, this helps you familiarize yourself with the platform’s interface, test alternative techniques, and grasp how the market responds to different circumstances.

  1. Learn About the Market Dynamics of cryptocurrencies

The market for cryptocurrencies runs differently from conventional financial markets. New traders with Exons Group must grasp these dynamics if they want to make wise trading selections.

Key Points to Consider:

Recognise market sentiment

The market mood significantly affects bitcoin values; news, social media, and even celebrity endorsements can all impact this. The platform provides sentiment analysis tools and news feeds to assist you in evaluating the market mood and guiding your trading decisions.

Get Technical Analysis

Exons Group offers technical indicators and charting tools to let traders engage in technical study. Knowing how to decipher these graphs and indicators will enable you to project future price swings from past performance. Concentrate on learning the foundations—support and resistance levels, moving averages, and volume analysis.

3. Diversify Your Investments Across Multiple Cryptocurrencies

Diversification is one of the most effective strategies for mitigating risk in bitcoin trading. The company offers a wide selection of cryptocurrencies for trading, providing numerous opportunities to create a diversified portfolio.

Key Points to Consider:

Research Emerging Altcoins

The platform also offers access to highly prospective cryptocurrencies with great development potential. Though more dangerous, if selected sensibly, these coins may provide significant rewards. Search for currencies with developing teams, unusual applications, and expanding communities.

Organize Your Portfolio

A well-balanced portfolio combines steadier investments with riskier, higher-reward assets. Stablecoins, which link to the value of conventional currencies, such as USDT (Tether) or USDC (USD Coin), might provide a safe haven amid market instability.

4. Implement Strong Risk Management Practices

For rookie traders, especially, risk control is absolutely vital in bitcoin trading. The market is volatile; hence, without appropriate risk control, you may suffer major losses.

Key Points to Consider

Steer clear of over-leveraging 

Exons Group offers leverage choices that enable traders to utilize borrowed money to increase their market exposure. Still, leverage may increase losses as well as benefits. Until you completely grasp the dangers involved, novice traders should start with minimal or no leverage.

Never expose more risk than you can afford to lose

In the erratic cryptocurrency market, specifically, this basic trading guideline is crucial. Calculate the possible loss on every trade using the risk management tools provided by Exons Group to make sure your total risk tolerance fits it.

Conclusion

Trading cryptocurrencies with Exons Group in 2024 offers an interesting chance to interact with a market changing quickly. Success in this area, however, requires a systematic strategy, ongoing education, and rigorous risk management—not just excitement. As a rookie crypto trader, you may set yourself for success by using the company’s sophisticated trading tools, market dynamics education, diversification of your assets, and strong risk management techniques. Remember, patience, discipline, and a readiness to learn and adapt to the market can help you flourish in the bitcoin space.

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