Home Blog Page 944

WTRAndretti Acura ARX-06 GTP Teams Set for Final Sprint Race of 2024 at Road America

ELKHART LAKE, Wisconsin (July 30, 2024) – Wayne Taylor Racing with Andretti (WTRAndretti) head north to Road America as the team’s pair of Acura ARX-06 GTPs prepare to complete the final sprint race of 2024. The IMSA SportsCar Weekend at Road America is the last two-hour, 40-minute event on the schedule for the GTP class this season, alluding to be a crucial race in the championship.

Ricky Taylor and Filipe Albuquerque in the No. 10 Konica Minolta Acura ARX-06 will return to Road America hoping to capitalize on their past success at the track. Road America is a place familiar to both Taylor and Albuquerque, both earning pole positions and podiums along with that impressive victory in 2022. With only three events remaining, Taylor and Albuquerque are focused to end the season on a high note and earn as many championship points as possible.

Louis Delétraz and Jordan Taylor head to Road America for the first time as co-drivers of the No. 40 DEX Imaging Acura ARX-06. Delétraz has previous experience at Road America after racing in LMP2 class in 2023 while Taylor won at the 4.048-mile road course in 2020 in the GTLM (now GTD PRO) class. For the No. 40 DEX Imaging Acura ARX-06 team, every championship point counts as they try to close the gap to the leaders in the standings for the final races of the year.

Action for the IMSA SportsCar Weekend at Road America begins on Friday, August 2, at 2:55 p.m. ET with practice. WTRAndretti’s duo of Acura ARX-06s will tackle qualifying on Saturday, August 3, at 6:10 p.m. ET on Peacock. The IMSA SportsCar Weekend sprint is set for 3:05 p.m. ET on Sunday, August 4, live on Peacock and IMSA.TV.

Wayne Taylor, Team Principal, WTRAndretti: “It’s amazing how fast this year has gone by. Road America was a good race for us in 2022, winning for the first time there. We had a good test there recently. I think the Acura ARX-06s are going to be fast. I’m very excited because I think we are going to have two really competitive cars. Our goal is to get both cars on the podium.”

No. 10 Konica Minolta Acura ARX-06 GTP Drivers
Ricky Taylor: “On the 10 car side, we can only worry about race wins. The championship will sort itself out. With the deficit we have we must just try to win as many races as we can. We had a very strong car last year as well as a good test earlier this month. We are very well prepared. Road America will be about using our past knowledge and building on it with what we learned at the test. Then it’s all about execution as usual.”

Filipe Albuquerque: “Road America is such a nice track. We were lucky to be testing there and everything went smooth. The asphalt continues to have nice grip and hopefully now it’s more constant, inside and out. Last year it was pretty tricky whenever you made a mistake offline. Let’s hope that it’s more linear this year. It’s another round and last time we were at Watkins Glen, we were unlucky, but we were fighting for the win in the last half hour. We’ll keep pushing and the WTRAndretti team is good. A flat track with downforce and grip should suit us so let’s see how we do!”

No. 40 DEX Imaging Acura ARX-06 GTP Drivers
Louis Delétraz: “I love Road America and can’t wait to be at the race. We tested a few weeks ago, the car felt great and it’s so fast with the GTP cars. The track is challenging, hopefully it will fit the Acura ARX-06 well. I think the whole WTRAndretti team is ready. We need good results to keep the championship fight on. I’m ready and excited!”

Jordan Taylor: “Road America is always a highlight on the schedule. It’s such a great event as a whole. It brings out true sportscar fans, the whole town embraces the event, and the track is amazing. We only have three races left this year which is hard to believe. With where we stand in the points, we basically need to win all three races to have a chance in the championship. It’s not impossible. Back in 2013 that is exactly what we did, we ended the year with three wins and won the championship. I think we have been knocking on the door for another win, just little things have been holding us back. We had a strong test at Road America a few weeks ago where the car felt very good, so I’m excited to get back and see where we stack up.”

ABOUT WTRANDRETTI
Andretti Global and Wayne Taylor Racing announced a new, long-term partnership in 2023 that combines the resources of the two championship-caliber teams to compete in IMSA’s top classes. In 2024, Wayne Taylor Racing with Andretti (WTRAndretti) has expanded to a two-car GTP program as well as competes in the GTD class. Coming off its 2023 championship winning effort, WTRAndretti continues its Driver Development Program competing in the Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America series with a full stable.

WTRAndretti’s global motorsports enterprise boasts two IMSA driver championships (2013 and 2017), and back-to-back IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup Championships (2020, 2021) which contributed to nine IMSA manufacturer championships for Acura, Pontiac, Corvette and Cadillac. In its brief 17-year history, WTRAndretti has accumulated multiple victories in sportscar racing’s most iconic events: Rolex 24 At Daytona, Twelve Hours of Sebring, Petit Le Mans, Mid-Ohio, Road America and the Six Hours of The Glen. With its back-to-back PRO Class Championship wins (2022, 2023), WTR also has ten North America Lamborghini Super Trofeo Championship titles and a Lamborghini World Finals title.

Andretti Global, a Championship-winning motorsports organization, competes in additional racing categories worldwide, including the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, Extreme E, Australian Supercars and the Mexico SuperCopa Championship. Additionally, the racing enterprise commits to driver development through competition in INDY NXT by Firestone and through support of Sebastian and Oliver Wheldon’s racing careers.

WTRAndretti’s long term partnerships include Acura, Honda Racing Corporation US (HRC), Konica Minolta Business Solutions USA, DEX Imaging, Harrison Contracting Company and Gainbridge.

Cadillac at Road America: Championship push

Cadillac Racing GTP entries look to bag hefty points in effort to repeat titles

DETROIT (July 30, 2024) – The IMSA SportsCar Weekend at Road America would be the perfect time for Renger van der Zande and Sebastien Bourdais to score their second victory of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season in the No. 01 Cadillac V-Series.R.

Van der Zande and Bourdais enter the 2-hour, 40-minute race Aug. 4 having earned podium finishes in four of the past five races, including runner-up at the most recent race at Watkins Glen International. They are second in the Grand Touring Prototype (GTP) standings with three races remaining.

“Now it’s three races to go and the big push for the championship, so hopefully Road America is one more step toward that goal,” said Bourdais, who has teamed with van der Zande to qualify no lower than third in all six IMSA races, including pole at Laguna Seca. “We’ve done a decent job at being consistent and scoring points and will have to stay consistent and focused.”

Van der Zande recorded three consecutive podium finishes (2020-2022) with Cadillac Racing though victory in the prototype class has eluded him at the sweeping 4.048-mile, 14-turn circuit.

“Podiums are nice. Wins are what we need, so that is what we come to Road America for,” said van der Zande, who has recorded at least one victory in each of his 11 IMSA seasons.

Cadillac Racing has earned three pole starts at the track since 2017, including 2023 by Pipo Derani in the No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R. The reigning and two-time prototype champion won from the pole in 2021 at the track with Cadillac Racing. The race will mark Derani’s 75th in IMSA competition.

Ten GTP cars are entered in the field of 47 across four classes.

Peacock will stream the race live at 3 p.m. ET Sunday and qualifications at 5:15 p.m. ET Saturday for U.S. viewers. IMSA.TV and the IMSA YouTube Channel (youtube.com/IMSAOfficial) will stream the race and qualifications live for the global audience. Saturday qualifications and the race will be broadcast on IMSA.com, RadioLeMans.com and SiriusXM (XM 206, Web/App 996).

What they’re saying

No. 01 Cadillac V-Series.R

Sebastien Bourdais: “One of the crown jewels of road racing in America. A place that everybody loves to go to. Super challenging, quick and a little bit of everything – slow-speed, high-speed corners and long straights where the cars can really stretch their legs. The resurfacing last year made it a little tricky off-line. One year later it seems to have evened out some and all of the racing that we’ve seen so far has become less scary to go off-line, so it should definitely open some opportunities. We’ve had some strong runs recently but missing that last little thing to win races. Top speed has been the main factor. We’ve done a decent job at being consistent and scoring points and will have to stay consistent and focused. Overall, we’re in a good place and we understand more of what we need from the car and how to perform. Both Renger and I have really settled into our roles in the organization and it’s helping results. Now it’s three races to go and the big push for the championship, so hopefully Road America is one more step toward that goal.”

Renger van der Zande: “Road America is one of the classics, one of the special ones in America. An old-school racetrack with high-speed corners, low-speed corners, and it’s one of those tracks where you need a lot of power to conquer the long straights. We’ll see what we come up with. Podiums are nice. Wins are what we need, so that is what we come to Road America for.”

No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R

Pipo Derani: “I’m looking forward to Road America as it’s one of the nicest tracks in America. Super fast and enjoyable to drive. Last year we had a strong car and unfortunately an accident on warm-up took us away from pole and changed the course of our weekend. We are looking forward to trying to get another pole and hopefully a race win.”

Jack Aitken: “Road America is a place where I’ve been for just a rollout test, so I’ve not done many laps. It’s a place that is extremely popular and one of the legendary circuits on the calendar, so I’m looking forward to competing there. The circuit looks more spacious than some of the other tracks we’ve been to this year and I’m thinking it might not be quite as hectic but quite easy to make a mistake. The resurfacing definitely looks like it changed the character of the track a little bit. It’s faster, but if it rains it’s pretty slick. We saw last year and in other series that if you lose concentration the circuit can be quite punishing. It should be a nice challenge. We need a win and I hold the same optimism that I’ve had the past few races and don’t see a reason why we can’t get it. Pipo was competitive here last year and I’m a quick learner, so I don’t foresee any issues.”

THE RACE OF CHAMPIONS DIRT 602 SPORTSMAN MODIFIED SERIES HEADS TO  OHSWEKEN SPEEDWAY THIS FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2024

  • Race of Champions & Humberstone Speedway Management Add Sunday, September 8, 2024 to Series Schedule –

Elma, N.Y. – (July 28, 2024) – The Race of Champions Dirt 602 Sportsman Modified Series returns to action this Friday with the running of the Stirling Lubricants Sportsman Shootout at the beautiful Ohsweken Speedway in Central Ontario, Canada.

Cody McPherson of St. Catherines Ontario-Canada, picked up the victory back in June when the Series ran it’s opener at the speedway.

“These are always competitive races for us and Ohsweken is a beautiful facility,” stated McPherson. “We enjoy racing up there and the track has played a big role in Sportsman racing through the years, so it’s always a fun night. We are looking forward to it and hopefully we can repeat our June performance.

This will be the final appearance of the Series at Ohsweken for the 2024 season.

Race of Champions and Humberstone Speedway management have added the Series to the schedule on Sunday, September 8 which will be the Series finale for the 2024 season.

All Race of Champions “Family of Series” events will be streamed on RoCModifiedSeries.TV powered by Racing America. For more information in regard to the Racing America streaming platform visit; offer.racingamerica.com/race-of-champions/. Subscribibg provides fans who “tuned in” to every Race of Champions Modified Series event in 2023 well over a $100 discount to purchase and subscribe for the entire year featuring all Race of Champions Series races, plus access to 200+ live short track races from tracks across North America as well as expanded media coverage including NASCAR and more than 10 years of short track racing archives. (www.racingamerica.tv)

Where: Ohsweken Speedway, Ohsweken, Ontario-Canada (Six Nations Reserve)

When: Friday, August 2, 2024. Pit Gates open at 5:00 pm Grandstands open at 6:00 pm, Racing at 7:30 pm

Directions: The track is located is at 1987 Chiefswood Road, Ohskweken, Ontario – just minutes South of the 403 (London/Toronto) and approximately 60-miles Northwest of Buffalo, N.Y. and Fort Erie, Ontario.

What: The Race of Champions Dirt 602 Sportsman Modified Series

The Race of Champions is a sanctioning body presenting Modified and Stock Car racing on asphalt and dirt surfaces throughout the Northeast, with events in New York, Pennsylvania and New Jersey with primary marketing partners Hoosier Racing Tire, VP Racing Fuels, Racing America, Airport Collision, Rocket Performance, Waddell Communications, Image X Design, Sherwood Racing Wheels, DirtTrackDigest.com and Speed Sport. The 72nd and 74th annual Race of Champions weekend will take place in 2024 at Lake Erie Speedway in North East, Pennsylvania and is the second longest consecutive auto-racing event in North America, second only to the Indianapolis 500.

SUMMER VACATION ENDS THIS SATURDAY FOR THE SOCAL LIGHTNING SPRINT CARS

Kim Arringdale-Unipan Photo

(El Cajon, CA, July 28, 2024) Unlike the days when school bells beckoned students back at the end of summer, the SoCal Lightning Sprint Car Series is pleased to return from its summer vacation this Saturday for round #8 of its 13-race season at the Barona Speedway. Saturday’s race will be the first for the SCLS since David Taft posted a win on the same Barona quarter mile on June 8th.

In addition to the season restarting on Saturday, the SCLS has more exciting news. The club has added the October 18th and 19th Fall Classic at the Imperial Valley Raceway to its 2023 ledger. The SCLS will be joined by the West Coast’s premiere traditional sprint car series, the Avanti Windows and Doors USAC/CRA Sprint Cars, and hobby stocks both nights on the track that is located on the Imperial Valley Fairgrounds.

Five different drivers posted wins in the first five races of the 2024 campaign. Lakewood’s Aiden Lange and Connor Speir of Fillmore won the season-opening races at the Imperial Valley Raceway in March. In the three races thus far in 2024 at Barona, San Diego’s Parker Dumas, David Taft of Ramona, and three-time lightning sprint Car series champion Brent Sexton of Lakeside have posted wins. The only repeat winner this year has been the rain. The wet stuff intervened and caused postponements of the races scheduled for March 30th and April 13th at Barona.

San Diegan Ryan Dumas comes into Saturday’s race with a 53-point lead over his brother Deejay who resides in El Cajon. Alpine veteran Peter Benker is third in the championship standings and only trails Deejay Dumas by 12-points. Chase Wilson of San Diego is fourth heading into Saturday’s race. Fellow San Diego driver Landon Dalton rounds out the top five and is only two-points behind Wilson.

In addition to the SCLS Series sixth round of the season Saturday at Barona, the IMCA Sport Mods, IMCA Stock Cars, IMCA Hobby stocks, Dwarf Cars, Pure Stocks, Mini Dwarfs, and Junior Sprints will also be racing. Gates will open at noon, racing at 6:00. Adult tickets are $20.00. For kids 7 to 17, admission is $10.00. Seniors, Military, and EMTs also get in for $10.00. Children 6 and under are free. Family packs of two adults and two kids are $50.00. Parking is free.

After Saturday’s race, the SCLS will return to Barona on August 17th.

The SoCal Lightning Sprint Car Series would like to thank the following marketing partners for participating in the inaugural season. AG Sandcars, Triple X Race Cars, Cakes By Kim/Betty Crocker’s Pit Stop. If you or your company would like to be a marketing partner with SCLS, contact Dustin Dumas at (619) 992-8308 or info@socallightningsprints.com.

2024 SoCal Lightning Sprint Cars Championship Point Standings

  1. Ryan Dumas, San Diego, CA … 661
  2. Deejay Dumas, El Cajon, CA … 608
  3. Peter Benker, Alpine, CA … 596
  4. Chase Wilson, San Diego, CA … 564
  5. Landon Dalton, San Diego, CA … 562
  6. Brent Sexton, Lakeside, CA … 556
  7. Parker Dumas, San Diego, CA … 487
  8. C.J. Marin, Imperial Beach, CA … 411
  9. Cody Benker, Alpine, CA … 409
  10. Cody Griggs, Lakeside, CA … 405

2024 SoCal Lightning Sprints Schedule

March 1 Imperial Valley Raceway Aiden Lange

March 2 Imperial Valley Raceway Connor Speir

March 30 Barona Speedway Rained Out

April 13 Barona Speedway Rained Out

May 11 Barona Speedway Parker Dumas

May 25 Barona Speedway (Non-Wing) Brent Sexton

June 8 Barona Speedway David Taft

August 3 Barona Speedway

August 17 Barona Speedway

September 28 Barona Speedway (Non-Wing)

October 18 Imperial Valley Raceway

October 19 Imperial Valley Raceway

October 26 Barona Speedway

The Definitive Guide to Filing Car Accident Claims in Coral Springs, Florida

Photo by Julia Kuzenkov

In Coral Springs, Florida, a vibrant city known for its friendly neighborhoods and vibrant community life, car accidents have unfortunately become a frequent occurrence. That’s why the experienced Coral Springs car accident attorneys at schillingsilvers.com offer expert advice on filing a lawsuit if you find yourself in this unfortunate situation.

On busy roads and heavy traffic, accidents can happen out of the blue, from minor fender benders to serious accidents with injury and vehicle damage. Hence, knowing what to do after a car accident in Coral Springs, Florida, is essential for residents and visitors alike.

This comprehensive guide will take you through the steps to effectively file a car accident claim, ensuring you know what to do immediately after an accident and how to deal with insurance companies to get a fair settlement. By following these steps, you can streamline the process and get the compensation you deserve. Whether you’re dealing with minor dents or serious injuries, being prepared and informed is essential to a smooth car accident claim.

1. Immediate Actions After a Car Accident in Coral Springs, Florida

The first thing you need to do after a car accident is to gather all the necessary information. Check if you or someone else requires urgent medical assistance, and contact emergency services if necessary. Exchange contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers with all parties involved. Take photos of the crime scene, showing the location of the vehicle, visible damage, injuries, and road conditions.

2. Report the accident to the Coral Springs Police

Once you are safe, it is important to report the accident to the police. It will create an official report that is essential to your application. This report provides a clear description of the incident, which can be crucial when dealing with insurance companies.

3. Inform your insurance company

After leaving the scene of the accident, notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Many policies require prompt reporting, so don’t delay. Give them all the details and be honest about what happened.

4. Seek medical attention even if you feel alright

Even if you feel alright, it’s vital to consult a doctor as soon as possible. Sometimes, the injuries do not show up immediately but actually worsen over time. Keep all medical records, as they will be important to your application.

5. Document everything

Carefully record everything related to the accident. This includes photographs, medical records, proof of repairs, and all communications with your insurance company. Detailed documentation can have a big impact on the outcome of your claim.

6. Understanding fault and responsibility

In many accidents, the fault may be shared between multiple parties. This will affect how insurance companies process your claim and determine compensation. Understanding who is at fault will help you better navigate the claims process.

7. Check your insurance policy

Before applying, check your auto insurance policy to understand your coverage. Knowing the specifics of your policy can help you manage the claims process and ensure you receive adequate compensation.

8. Filing your claim

After obtaining all the necessary information, get in touch with your insurance provider and begin the process of filing your claim. Give them all the relevant details of the accident, including any injuries or damage.

9. Work with the insurance claim adjuster

Once your claim has been submitted, a claims adjuster will be assigned to your case. They will review all documentation and may consult with medical professionals and mechanics to assess damage and injuries.

10. Settlement Negotiations

A claims adjuster will usually make an initial settlement offer. If you believe the offer does not adequately cover your losses, negotiate by providing additional evidence or seek legal advice. Keep records of all discussions and offers exchanged during this process.

11. Consider hiring a car accident attorney

If negotiating on your own becomes difficult, or if the accident involved severe injuries or significant damages, consult a personal injury attorney. An experienced attorney will guide you through the entire process and help protect your rights.

12. Tracking Deadlines

Track all deadlines during the claim process. Missing the deadline may jeopardize your ability to file a lawsuit or take legal action if necessary.

Navigating Car Accidents in Coral Springs

Filing a car accident claim can be complicated and time-consuming. It is important to gather all relevant information, report the incident immediately, and seek medical attention if necessary. Detailed documentation and a clear understanding of your insurance policy will help you manage the process more efficiently. Negotiating with insurance adjusters requires persistence and sometimes legal advice from an attorney. Staying organized and following deadlines are key to ensuring a smooth claim process. By following these steps, you can walk through the aftermath of a car accident with confidence, knowing that you are taking the right steps to secure the compensation you deserve.

Investigating Liability in Building Collapse Accidents: Legal Considerations

Photo by Hans Isaacson on Unsplash

Building collapse accidents can have catastrophic consequences, leading to loss of life, severe injuries, and significant property damage. Understanding the legal intricacies involved in determining liability in these tragic events is crucial for affected parties seeking justice and compensation. In Pennsylvania, a state with a rich history of architectural development and diverse building landscapes, the importance of adhering to stringent construction codes and safety regulations simply cannot be overstated. This is why it’s always a good idea to speak to a reputable building collapse lawyer to know the ins and outs of the legal landscape in such situations.

Pennsylvania’s cities, such as Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, have experienced their share of building-related incidents, underscoring the need for rigorous oversight and accountability in the construction industry. This article explores the legal considerations in investigating building collapse accidents, focusing on the roles of various construction professionals, the significance of building regulations, and the use of expert testimonies to establish negligence. By examining these elements within the context of Pennsylvania’s legal framework, we aim to provide a comprehensive guide for navigating the complexities of building collapse liability, ensuring that responsible parties are held accountable and victims receive the support they need.

Understanding Building Collapse Incidents

Various factors contribute to building collapses, including flaws, substandard construction practices, a lack of maintenance, natural calamities, and design deficiencies. Pinpointing the cause is vital for assigning liability.

Significance of Building Regulations

Building codes and regulations are pivotal in ensuring that construction adheres to safety standards. These guidelines establish safety criteria for the design materials used, construction methods, fire safety protocols, and more. It is imperative to assess compliance with these codes during construction and identify any breaches that may have led to the collapse.

Roles of Construction Experts

While determining liability for a building collapse, it is essential to scrutinize the responsibilities of all parties involved in the construction process – architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, and site supervisors. Each party bears a duty to ensure that their work aligns with industry standards and regulatory requirements.

Building Design Professionals

Those involved in building design, such as architects, play a vital role in ensuring that the structures are safe and structurally sound. They carefully assess all elements before finalizing any plans.

Engineering Experts

Engineers are tasked with studying the stability of buildings and creating systems capable of withstanding expected loads. Their precise calculations are essential to prevent collapses due to weight or other unforeseen circumstances.

Construction Managers

Responsible for overseeing construction projects on site, contractors must guarantee the use of the recommended materials, adherence to quality standards, and timely completion based on approved blueprints.

Specialized Workers

Subcontractors are often brought in by contractors to handle tasks like electrical or plumbing installations. It’s crucial to verify that subcontractors have performed their duties accurately and in accordance with the guidelines.

On-Site Supervisors

Site supervisors bear the responsibility of ensuring that all construction activities comply with safety protocols. They must actively rectify any deviations from approved plans or subpar workmanship.

Determining Accountability

Establishing liability requires demonstrating negligence by one or more parties involved. Negligence refers to a failure to exercise care, leading to building failures and subsequent repercussions.

Expert Testimonies

Utilizing expert witnesses can greatly enhance a case when looking into liability issues related to building collapses. Professionals like engineers, architectural experts, or construction specialists offer technical perspectives on design flaws, material issues, or substandard workmanship that may have played a role in the collapse.

Enhancing Investigations through Documentation

In the course of investigations, collecting documents plays a key role in substantiating legal arguments. This includes building blueprints and inspection records, agreements with construction experts and subcontractors, communication logs among the involved parties, project status updates, and maintenance logs, if relevant.

Statute of Limitations

In most jurisdictions, there is a timeframe within which injured parties can initiate legal proceedings to seek compensation for building collapse incidents. Failure to meet these deadlines can pose obstacles in pursuing recourse against accountable entities. Therefore, seeking professional advice promptly is crucial to safeguard your rights.

Insurance Solutions

Building collapses often result in financial setbacks for those affected. Understanding insurance policies and available solutions is a critical component of investigating liability issues. Involved parties must delve into insurance claims, such as property damage, bodily harm, or loss of business revenue. It’s also a good idea to consider other types of insurance that could be relevant, like commercial general liability insurance, builder’s risk insurance, or professional liability insurance.

Government and Regulatory Compliance

In the event of a building collapse accident, government agencies often carry out their own investigations to check compliance with construction regulations and building codes. These investigations help identify any violations and determine whether any kind of administrative action is needed against permit issuers or government officials for inspection oversight. As such, it’s also important to know about how government agencies investigate liability in building collapses.

Conclusion

Building collapses can have severe consequences and require investigations to accurately determine liability. By examining adherence to building codes and regulations and evaluating the roles of the construction professionals involved, potential negligent parties can be identified. Bringing in expert witnesses adds credibility while having adequate documentation strengthens claims. Taking measures within time limits ensures a fruitful pursuit of justice for the victims impacted by building collapse accidents.

TALKIN’ FUNNY CARS WITH BUDDY HULL SET TO DEBUT ON NHRA FAST CHANNEL JULY 31

DALLAS (July 29, 2024) — Talkin’ Funny Cars with Buddy Hull, the first television offering produced by Werner G+E LLC, will debut on the NHRA FAST Channel Wednesday, July 31, at 8 p.m. EST and 8 p.m. PST The interview-style program, hosted by NHRA professional Funny Car driver Buddy Hull will be the latest original series added to the NHRA’s 24/7 digital channel which is available on 13 platforms including the Roku Channel (USA & Canada), Tubi, Samsung TV Plus, Sling Freestream, and others. Interested viewers can search NHRA and select the LIVE option on any of these platforms.

“I am excited to share Talkin’ Funny Cars with the NHRA audience as well as motorsports fans who might not know that much about our sport,” said Hull, who is entering his fourth year as a professional driver. “I am new to the Funny Car class this year, but I started racing in Fuel Altereds and Funny Cars have always held a special place in my heart. I want this show to highlight the personalities of Funny Car drivers throughout the years as well as shed some light on new stories and insights from some of the coolest drivers on the planet.”

The first episode will feature a wide-ranging interview with Ron Capps, three-time Funny Car world champion. Capps and Hull talk about their shared passion for the class while Capps tells stories of growing up with a drag racing mom who impressed fans and fellow racers with her skills behind the wheel in Southern California. The conversation also touches on the rise of Capps’ driving career and how impactful a fateful phone call was to launch his career as a Funny Car team owner.

“I am a huge fan of the FAST Channel first of all. Anytime we have company over we have it running all the time,” said Ron Capps, three-time Funny Car champion. “Getting to know Buddy over the first half of the season has been wonderful. He is a great guy, and he fits right in with all of us Funny Car drivers. When I heard the concept of the show, I thought this has been a long time coming for something this cool. To be invited to sit down with another Funny Car driver like Buddy and talk about where we came from and what turns us on about Funny Cars, I think the fans are really, really going to love this show. I can’t wait to watch more episodes down the road.”

Future episodes will include up and coming Funny Car drivers as well as established winners and Hall of Fame legends. Each episode will be a free-for-all of conversation with the one constant being the Funny Car Fast Five segment, a rapid-fire Q&A getting thoughts and opinions from each guest in quick succession.

Talkin’ Funny Cars with Buddy Hull is the brainchild of Werner G+E LLC president Elon Werner, who also owns a successful sports public relations company, Werner Communications, and is the creator of Drag Race Bracket Bonanza. Future shows are in the works all focused on bringing original and dynamic content to the NHRA FAST Channel. The opportunity to produce television shows featuring drivers, crew chiefs and NHRA personalities has intrigued Werner since the opportunity was first presented earlier this season.

“The NHRA is a rich landscape of interesting personalities and stories,” said Werner. “When the opportunity to create an original series was presented earlier this year, the creative wheels in my head just started spinning. I think there are endless storylines available for original content whether it is 30-minute personality driven shows or longer form documentaries and even scripted series. Our goal at Werner G+E will be to develop these shows and bring them to life.”

Following the original broadcast of each episode of Talkin’ Funny Cars with Buddy Hull, the show will go into programming rotation on the NHRA FAST Channel. The goal is to air future new episodes each Wednesday at 8 p.m. EST and 8 p.m. PST prior to NHRA national events for the rest of the 2024 season.


About Werner Games + Entertainment

Werner Games + Entertainment is a turnkey production company operating in the drag racing space. Founded in 2024, Werner G+E is responsible for the development of Drag Race Bracket Bonanza, the first dynamic bracket competition for drag racing fans. It’s first TV show, Talkin’ Funny Cars with Buddy Hull premiered on the NHRA’s streaming channel in July 2024. Werner G+E strives to create content to better engage current drag racing fans and create new ones while also raising the profiles of current and former NHRA drivers, crew chiefs and NHRA personalities. Content plans include additional reality and interview series on NHRA’s 24/7 digital channel, YouTube content, podcasts, books and a scripted TV series.

About NHRA

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

No. 45 DEX Imaging Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO2 Team Continue Summer Sprint Stretch at Road America

ELKHART LAKE, Wisconsin (July 29, 2024) – The Wayne Taylor Racing with Andretti (WTRAndretti) No. 45 DEX Imaging Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO2 team will continue the northern leg of the IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Championship (IWSC) season at Road America for the fourth sprint race of the 2024 season. The No. 45 team has secured a top six finish in each of the sprint races leading up to Road America and will look to continue this momentum at the iconic venue.

For Road America, Danny Formal will be joined by Sandy Mitchell as a substitute for full-season co-driver, Kyle Marcelli. Marcelli will miss the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship event at Road America due a minor arm injury.

Formal has seen plenty of success at Road America in his Lamborghini Super Trofeo career, but this weekend will mark his first start in the IMSA SportsCar Weekend sprint race. Formal has tallied three Lamborghini Super Trofeo victories at the 4.048-mile road course.

Road America will mark the return for Mitchell to the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship paddock after recently competing at the Rolex 24 At Daytona and marks his return to the WTRAndretti team where, together, they won the Lamborghini Super Trofeo Championship in 2019. Mitchell, like his co-driver Formal, has experienced success at Road America in Lamborghini Super Trofeo, winning both events at Road America in 2019.
“Obviously, this weekend will be a little different without Kyle Marcelli in the GTD car,” said Wayne Taylor, Team Principal, WTRAndretti. “We look at every aspect of the GTD program and this was a case of putting Sandy in the car and see how we run while Kyle recovers. The Lamborghini has shown speed at previous events, and I have good feelings about this weekend and what our team can achieve.”

The No. 45 DEX Imaging Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO2 team will begin preparations on Friday, August 2, at 2:55 p.m. ET with practice. Qualifying is set for Saturday, August 3, at 5:20 p.m. ET. The IMSA SportsCar Weekend at Road America will go green at 3:05 p.m. ET on Sunday, August 4, with the broadcast live on Peacock and IMSA.TV.

No. 45 DEX Imaging Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO2 Drivers
Kyle Marcelli: “I’m gutted to be missing Road America. It is a circuit that I love; a town that I love. Unfortunately, this arm injury needs to be dealt with for us to move forward and for me to perform to at the best of my ability in the car. Fortunately, we have a fantastic replacement in Sandy Mitchell. I got a chance to get to know Sandy back in April when he joined us for a test in Monterey. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the car. It will be great for the team to have him step in. I wish the program nothing but the best and a fantastic result at Road America.”

Danny Formal: “My first win ever with a WTRAndretti was at Road America in 2021. I’m super excited to go back there. A big piece of the team isn’t there. My teammate and friend, Kyle Marcelli, is out with an arm injury for this race. I’m super excited to share the car with Sandy Mitchell, factory driver for Lamborghini, and he is a great person, great friend and great driver, and I’m super excited and grateful for this opportunity to represent WTRAndretti in the No. 45 DEX Imaging Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO2 and try to get a top five result. It’s a difficult racetrack. We’re super excited to get going and get started and get higher in the championship standings. I think we’re seventh and the highest Lamborghini in the championship, so ready to get going and get the results. The team have been working extremely hard for us so excited and ready is an understatement.”

Sandy Mitchell: “I’m delighted to be back racing with the WTRAndretti team. I have amazing memories from racing with the team in the 2019 Super Trofeo championship and I look forward to working with everyone in the GTD program. I really enjoyed the test at Laguna Seca earlier this year which gave me a good feel for the Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO2 and I feel will help going into this weekend. Danny is a super-fast teammate, and we will both be pushing for a top result at Road America. I know the track from my time in Super Trofeo and it’s one I really enjoyed so I’m excited to head back there in GTD.”

ABOUT WTRANDRETTI
Andretti Global and Wayne Taylor Racing announced a new, long-term partnership in 2023 that combines the resources of the two championship-caliber teams to compete in IMSA’s top classes. In 2024, Wayne Taylor Racing with Andretti (WTRAndretti) has expanded to a two-car GTP program as well as competes in the GTD class. Coming off its 2023 championship winning effort, WTRAndretti continues its Driver Development Program competing in the Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America series with a full stable.

WTRAndretti’s global motorsports enterprise boasts two IMSA driver championships (2013 and 2017), and back-to-back IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup Championships (2020, 2021) which contributed to nine IMSA manufacturer championships for Acura, Pontiac, Corvette and Cadillac. In its brief 17-year history, WTRAndretti has accumulated multiple victories in sportscar racing’s most iconic events: Rolex 24 At Daytona, Twelve Hours of Sebring, Petit Le Mans, Mid-Ohio, Road America and the Six Hours of The Glen. With its back-to-back PRO Class Championship wins (2022, 2023), WTR also has ten North America Lamborghini Super Trofeo Championship titles and a Lamborghini World Finals title.

Andretti Global, a Championship-winning motorsports organization, competes in additional racing categories worldwide, including the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, Extreme E, Australian Supercars and the Mexico SuperCopa Championship. Additionally, the racing enterprise commits to driver development through competition in INDY NXT by Firestone and through support of Sebastian and Oliver Wheldon’s racing careers.

WTRAndretti’s long term partnerships include Lamborghini Squadra Corse, DEX Imaging, Harrison Contracting Company and Gainbridge.

PT Autosport’s Sedgwick ready for one better at Road America

After scoring two front row starts and a second-place finish in 2023, Sedgwick looks for his second Porsche Carrera Cup North America victory this weekend.

MILLVILLE, NJ (July 29, 2024) – PT Autosport with JDX Racing’s Alex Sedgwick earned his first Porsche Carrera Cup North America series victory last month at Watkins Glen. Now he heads back to Road America, where he had his most successful race weekend of the season last year in the No. 98 PT Autosport Porsche 911 GT3 Cup Car.

For the 25-year-old Warwickshire, UK native, currently second in the series point standings, this weekend has been circled on his calendar since the schedule was announced. Last year’s Road America weekend saw PT Autosport score one of its best results to date, with Sedgwick earning two front row starts and a second-place finish in race one – with the weekend marred only by a hip check from the pole sitter coming to the race two green flag that put Sedgwick into the Turn 14 grass and out of contention. Sedgwick would very much like to erase that memory and add to his victory tally – and secure more valuable championship points.

“The Road America weekend was the moment everything started to click last year, when we started consistently running up front,” said Sedgwick. “It really was the turning point of our season. I’m hoping that this time round will be similar, where we can continue to make inroads in the championship points battle.”

Sedgwick considers himself race ready as he heads to Road America, having finished fifth and 14th in two GR Cup races at VIRginia International Raceway last weekend. He and his JDX Racing team also tested at Road America two weeks ago, where they encountered an interesting new development, likely related to last year’s track repaving and the series switch to Yokohama tires this season.

“It was the opposite of what we would have expected – turns out everything we’ve learned this year so far was thrown out the window,” said Sedgwick. “We had to revert back to what we had last year. We think it has to do with the track surface. It has to be driven in a much more specific way, which is the opposite way that we’d found speed at the other races. I’ve spoken to other drivers who have tested there, and they say the same thing, so it’s down to how the surface has worn in. It took us a bit longer to get up to speed as we focused on how to drive the track as much as we worked on setup. We got there in the end, so I’m intrigued to go back and see how much more pace we can unlock. We’re not ready to show our hand quite yet!”

Like most racers, PT Autosport team principal Jason Myers especially looks forward to the Road America weekend.

“I am so energized to be here again,” said Myers. “I love this track, but also, it’s where Alex had his most dominant showing last season. It will be interesting to see how the cars do around here on the new tires, as this track is especially demanding on the rubber. Alex loves these old school, high-speed, high-risk tracks. In fact he thrives at them – evidenced by his amazing performance and win last weekend at Watkins Glen. We’re laser focused on finishing this championship at the top, but the notes and offers for next year in GT3 machinery have already started to roll in. I feel as though we’ve helped Alex really secure a foothold here in North America and I couldn’t be prouder of him.”

PT Autosport would like to thank partners STEAM Sports Foundation, Classic Car Club Manhattan and New Jersey Motorsports Park, as well as JDX Racing partners Byers/Porsche Columbus, and Renier Construction.

The Porsche Carrera Cup North America series will contest two races at Road America as part of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship race weekend. Race one takes the green flag Saturday at 12:45 p.m. ET, with race two Sunday at 12:35 p.m. ET. The races will be broadcast live in the U.S., on IMSA.tv, the NBC Peacock streaming app and PorscheCarreraCup.us.

About PT Autosport — Discover Unique Talent. Develop Champions.

PT Autosport, based at New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, NJ, campaigns rising star Alex Sedgwick (UK) in the 2024 Porsche Carrera Cup North America series with JDX Racing, 2022 Aspiring Driver Shootout winner Henry Drury (UK) in the Toyota GR Cup North America series with Precision Racing LA, and 2023 Aspiring Driver Shootout winner Brenna Schubert (USA) in select SPEC-MX5 races for the 2024 season.

PT Autosport is dedicated to providing merit-based motorsport industry opportunities for diverse individuals with high integrity, grit, and coach-ability, achieved through a development program for young aspiring drivers, engineers, mechanics, and other professionals. The first step of this process is applying for the annual Aspiring Driver Shootout, in which aspiring drivers aged 18-23 can compete for a team racing partnership with the team.

A rigorous evaluation process of applicants determines the final competitors for the driver shootout. The winner earns financial support of up to $250,000 ($50,000 guaranteed) to pursue their racing career. The review process also provides the team the chance to identify unique talent for other roles in motorsport, including race engineers, mechanics, and professionals.

PT Autosport is building a community that fosters the development of young talent to find a place where they can make an impact in the motorsport community as a career.

PT Autosport social media

Instagram: @pt_autosport
TikTok: @ptautosport
Twitter: @PtAutosport
Facebook: PT Autosport
YouTube: PT Autosport

5 Self-driving car technology

Photo by Timo Wielink on Unsplash

The concept of self-driving cars has transitioned from the realm of science fiction to a burgeoning reality, driven by rapid advancements in technology and increased investment from both established automotive manufacturers and technology companies. At the heart of this revolution are several key technologies that collectively enable vehicles to navigate and operate autonomously. If you’re interested in exploring the latest models and advancements in autonomous vehicle technology, visiting a car dealership in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee can provide you with firsthand insights and options available in the market today. 

These technologies work in tandem to ensure that self-driving cars can perceive their environment, make informed decisions, and safely transport passengers from one location to another. This exploration delves into five pivotal technologies underpinning self-driving cars, shedding light on their functions and significance in the development of autonomous vehicles.

Sensor Fusion and Perception Systems

At the core of self-driving car technology is the ability to perceive and interpret the surrounding environment. This capability is largely dependent on sensor fusion, a process where data from various sensors is combined to create a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle’s surroundings. Self-driving cars are equipped with a range of sensors, including lidar (Light Detection and Ranging), radar (Radio Detection and Ranging), and cameras. 

Lidar provides detailed 3D maps of the environment by measuring distances with laser pulses, while radar offers reliable information on the speed and distance of objects, even in adverse weather conditions. Cameras capture high-resolution images and recognize road signs, traffic signals, and other vehicles. By fusing data from these diverse sensors, self-driving cars can build an accurate, real-time picture of their surroundings, which is crucial for safe navigation and decision-making.

Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence

Machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) are fundamental to the operation of autonomous vehicles, enabling them to process and analyze vast amounts of data. AI algorithms are employed to interpret the sensory information collected by the vehicle, allowing it to identify and respond to various objects and scenarios. For instance, machine learning models can be trained to recognize pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles by analyzing patterns in the data. 

These algorithms improve over time through exposure to new data and driving scenarios, enhancing the vehicle’s ability to make safe and accurate driving decisions. The continuous learning process helps self-driving cars adapt to different driving environments and unexpected situations, ultimately contributing to more reliable and efficient autonomous driving.

Path Planning and Decision-Making Algorithms

Path planning and decision-making are critical aspects of self-driving technology, involving the algorithms that determine how the vehicle should navigate from its current location to its destination. Path planning algorithms analyze the vehicle’s environment, considering factors such as road conditions, traffic rules, and potential obstacles, to generate a safe and efficient route. 

Decision-making algorithms then use this information to execute driving maneuvers, such as lane changes, turns, and stops. These algorithms must account for dynamic elements, such as the behavior of other drivers and pedestrians, making real-time adjustments as necessary. The ability to integrate path planning with decision-making ensures that self-driving cars can operate smoothly and safely in a variety of driving scenarios.

Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) Communication

Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication is an emerging technology that enhances the capabilities of self-driving cars by enabling them to communicate with other vehicles, infrastructure, and even pedestrians. V2X encompasses several communication types, including Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V), Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I), and Vehicle-to-Pedestrian (V2P). 

Through V2X communication, self-driving cars can exchange information about their speed, location, and intended actions with nearby vehicles, reducing the risk of collisions and improving traffic flow. Additionally, V2I communication allows vehicles to interact with traffic signals and road signs, while V2P communication provides alerts to pedestrians. This interconnected ecosystem helps create a safer and more efficient driving environment by facilitating real-time information exchange and coordination.

Redundancy and Safety Systems

Ensuring the safety and reliability of self-driving cars is paramount, and redundancy plays a crucial role in achieving these goals. Redundancy refers to the incorporation of multiple layers of backup systems to maintain functionality in the event of a failure. In autonomous vehicles, this means having duplicate systems for critical components such as sensors, processing units, and control mechanisms. 

For example, a self-driving car might be equipped with multiple lidar sensors and redundant processing units to ensure that if one component fails, others can take over seamlessly. Additionally, safety systems are designed to handle unexpected situations, such as sudden obstacles or system malfunctions, by implementing fail-safes and emergency protocols. The use of redundancy and robust safety systems helps build trust in autonomous technology by ensuring that self-driving cars can operate safely and reliably under various conditions.

Conclusion

The journey towards fully autonomous vehicles is driven by a complex interplay of advanced technologies that collectively enable self-driving cars to navigate the world with increasing sophistication. From sensor fusion and AI-driven perception systems to path planning algorithms and V2X communication, each technology plays a vital role in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and reliability of autonomous driving. 

As these technologies continue to evolve and mature, they pave the way for a future where self-driving cars could revolutionize transportation, offering increased convenience and safety for all road users. Understanding these foundational technologies not only highlights the remarkable progress made in the field but also underscores the ongoing efforts to overcome the challenges and limitations that remain on the road to the widespread adoption of autonomous vehicles.