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Weekend schedule for World Wide Technology Raceway (Gateway) and Portland 2024

By
Angie Campbell
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Photo by Simon Scoggins for SpeedwayMedia.com.

This weekend the NASCAR Cup Series and the Craftsman Truck Series travel to World Wide Technology Raceway (Gateway). Richard Childress Racing’s Kyle Busch is the defending Cup Series race winner of the 1.25-mile oval.

The Toyota 200 is the second race of the Triple Truck Challenge and the winner of the event will receive a $50,000 bonus except Nick Sanchez who won the first race of the bonus program last week at Charlotte. If he wins at Gateway, he will receive an increased bonus of $150,000.

The Xfinity Series and the ARCA Menards Series West head to Portland International Raceway. AJ Allmendinger won the first Xfinity race at the 1.97-mile road course track in 2022 while Cole Custer took home the trophy last year.

NASCAR Press Pass will be available throughout the weekend.
All times are Eastern.

Friday, May 31
2:35 p.m.: ARCA Menards Series West Practice (Portland) Race Center
5:30 p.m.: ARCA Menards Series West Qualifying (Portland) Race Center

6:05 p.m.: Craftsman Truck Series Practice (Gateway) FS1
6:35 p.m.: Craftsman Truck Series Qualifying (Gateway) FS1

7 p.m.: ARCA Menards Series West Portland 112 – FloRacing/MRN

Saturday, June 1
9:30 a.m.: Cup Series Practice (Gateway) FS1/MRN/SiriusXM
10:15: Cup Series Qualifying (Gateway) FS1/MRN/SiriusXM

1:30 p.m.: Truck Series Toyota 200 (Gateway) Fox/MRN/SiriusXM
Distance: 200 miles (160 Laps)
Stages end on Lap 35, Lap 70, Final Stage ends on Lap 160
Purse: $752,252

11:30: Xfinity Series Practice (Portland) No TV
Noon: Xfinity Series Qualifying (Portland) FS1
4:30: Xfinity Series Pacific Office Automation 147 (Portland) FS1/MRN/SiriusXM
Distance: 147.75 miles (75 Laps)
Stages end on: Lap 25, Lap 50, Final Stage ends on Lap 75
Purse: $1,408,568

Sunday, June 2
3:30 p.m.: Cup Series Enjoy Illinois 300 (Gateway) FS1/MRN/SiriusXM
Distance: 300 miles (240 laps)
Stages end on: Lap 45, Lap 140, Final Stage ends on Lap 240
Purse: $7,776,907

AM Racing | Hailie Deegan Portland International Raceway June Xfinity Preview

By
Official Release
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M Racing | NASCAR Xfinity Series
Portland International Raceway | Pacific Office Automation 147

Fast Facts
No. 15 AM Racing Team:
Driver: Hailie Deegan
Primary Partner(s): Airbox
Manufacturer: Ford Mustang
Crew Chief: Matt Lucas
Chassis Intel: AMR Chassis No. X-079
Engine: Roush-Yates Engines

Notes of Interest:

Sophomore Journey: After a successful rookie campaign in the NASCAR Xfinity Series last season with driver Brett Moffitt, AM Racing will embark on its sophomore journey in 2024 with driver Hailie Deegan for the entire 33-race tour, continuing with Saturday afternoon’s Pacific Office Automation 147 at Portland International Raceway.

The Statesville, N.C.-based team hopes to expand its footprint in the NASCAR Xfinity Series by running two cars throughout the season with its partial No. 25 AM Racing entry.

Future Focused: Last October, AM Racing announced that Hailie Deegan joined the family-owned operation to pilot the team’s No. 15 Ford Mustang in a multiyear agreement.

Deegan, a native of Temecula, Calif. has been a staple in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series for the past three seasons but will embrace her rookie season in the NASCAR Xfinity Series as part of the Ford Performance program.

Deegan grew up racing off-road and on dirt but transitioned to competing on asphalt in 2016 to pursue a career in stock car racing. She began that transition in 2018 in the ARCA Menards Series West (previously NASCAR K&N Pro Series West). She became the first female driver to win races in the West Series, doing so in the 2018 and 2019 seasons, respectively.

Deegan, 22, arrives at AM Racing after a stint driving for ThorSport Racing in 2023.

Giving You Peace of Air: For the 11th time in 2024, AirBox will serve as the primary marketing partner of Deegan’s No. 15 Ford Mustang in Saturday afternoon’s Pacific Office Automation 147 at Portland International Raceway.

In 2017, AirBox was established to focus on building the world’s best air purifiers for indoor occupied spaces. This coincided with people starting to wake up to issues with indoor air quality. With new challenges to air cleanliness, such as COVID-19 and wildfire smoke, people are looking for effective and proven solutions to ensure they receive cleaner air, at last.

Their history in delivering clean air systems and services gives them an expertise that is unmatched. AirBox uses some of the most effective air filtration technologies that exist with Certified HEPA and Advanced Molecular Adsorption. Coupled with their Indoor Air Quality Assessment, AirBox is the total solution for all indoor air quality needs, ensuring their customers meet and exceed current and future ventilation standards.

Today, AirBox filtration systems are used across the country, purifying the air and capturing harmful irritants to create healthier, safer spaces. They’ve become the trusted choice for hospitals, educational centers, offices, warehouses, construction zones, public assembly, sports facilities, and more.

They’re proud to build all products to the highest standards in the USA at their North Carolina production facility. Every day, AirBox is working hard to give the American people the safer learning, working, and living environments they deserve—helping people breathe easy and live better.

Hailie Deegan NASCAR Xfinity Series Portland International Raceway Stats: Saturday afternoon’s

Pacific Office Automation 147 will mark Deegan’s inaugural Xfinity Series start at the 1.967-mile road course, nestled just outside Portland, Oregon.

This weekend’s second Xfinity Series road course of the season will also mark Deegan’s second career road course start.

Hailie Deegan NASCAR Xfinity Series Career Stats: In 13 NASCAR Xfinity Series starts, Deegan has a career-best 12th-place finish after starting 31st for AM Racing at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway in April 2024.

In addition to her 12 Xfinity Series starts, she has achieved 70 ARCA Menards Series starts, including three wins and 69 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN® Truck Series starts to her credit.

Thanks For Your Support: With 36 percent of the 2024 Xfinity Series season complete, AM Racing and Hailie Deegan would like to thank their marketing partners for their support: AirBox, Flying Circle, Klutch Vodka, Mechanix Wear, Monster Energy Drink, Mobil 1, Viva Tequila Seltzer and WIX Filters.

Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway | BetMGM 300 Race Recap: The 12th race of the 2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series season kicked off in Concord, N.C. on Saturday, May 25.

Flying the AirBox colors for the seventh consecutive weekend, but in military colors to recognize the Armed Forces on Memorial Day weekend, Deegan qualified her No. 15 AirBox Ford Mustang on speed in the 32nd position.

Despite struggling with the balance of her race car, the team’s adjustments throughout the day allowed her to climb through the field and maintain a heavy presence inside the top 20 during Stage 3. A bold strategy call to keep Deegan on the track during green flag pit stops nearly paid off for the team.

Unfortunately, the caution waved two laps after pitting for the final stage, trapping the team a lap down. Deegan, however, recovered in the waning laps of the race to climb and maintain a spot inside the top 20 to the checkered flag.

In all, Deegan picked up 12 positions from start to finish to earn a 20th-place finish.

From the Pit Box: Industry veteran Matt Lucas is Hailie Deegan’s crew chief.

He will be crew chief for his 105th NASCAR Xfinity Series race on Saturday and his first at Portland International Raceway.

In his previous 104 NASCAR Xfinity Series starts, he has collected two wins, 22 top-five and 39 top-10 finishes.

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

For more on Hailie Deegan, please visit hailiedeegan.com, like her Facebook page (HailieDeegan4), or follow her on Instagram (@hailiedeegan), YouTube and X | Twitter (@hailiedeegan).

Hailie Deegan Quoteboard:

On Portland International Raceway: “I am very optimistic about my NASCAR Xfinity Series debut this weekend at Portland International Raceway.

“It seems to be a road course that presents opportunities, and I hope our AM Racing team can take advantage of those opportunities to deliver another strong finish with our No. 15 AirBox Ford Mustang.”

Race Information:

The Pacific Automation 147 (75 laps | 147.75 miles) is the 13th of thirty-three (33) NASCAR Xfinity Series races on the 2024 schedule. Practice begins on Saturday, June 1, 2024, from 8:30 a.m. – 8:50 a.m. Qualifying immediately follows at 9:05 a.m. The 38-car field will take the green flag later in the day shortly after 1:30 p.m. (4:30 p.m. ET) with live coverage on FOX Sports 1, the Motor Racing Network (Radio) and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. All times are local (Pacific).

About AM Racing:

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

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

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

The team has named Hailie Deegan, Christian Rose, and Austin Wayne Self as their primary drivers for the 2024 Xfinity, ARCA Menards Series, and Dirt Modified seasons, respectively.

Navigating Factoring Agreements: Key Considerations for Trucking Entrepreneurs

By
SM
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Photo by Pixabay

Whenever you need to improve your cash flow and provide working capital for your trucking business, factoring is a viable option. For example, recourse factoring and non-recourse factoring are both efficient ways for a company to sell its invoices to a third party and receive immediate cash. 

However, there are some slight differences and other key considerations to remember when navigating factoring agreements. Here is what all trucking entrepreneurs should consider regarding factoring.

Recourse and Non-Recourse Factoring

All trucking entrepreneurs will need to consider whether they should pursue recourse or non-recourse factoring. The process is quicker and less expensive with recourse factoring. However, the trucking entrepreneur takes a risk; namely, if the truck company’s customers fail to pay their invoices, the trucking entrepreneur can be held liable. 

Non-recourse factoring is a slightly more complex and expensive process, but it absolves the entrepreneur from liability if their customers fail to pay. Although both options have pros and cons, they should be carefully analyzed before making a decision.

Factoring Rates and Fees

Factoring agreements have various rates and fees. Some of the most common fees that trucking entrepreneurs may encounter include:

  • Discount rate (a percentage that will be deducted from the value of the invoice)
  • Application fees
  • Credit check fees
  • Wire transfer fees

These rates and fees can usually be negotiated. Entrepreneurs should compare the available offers and see if they align with their trucking business’s financial goals.

Contractual Terms and Obligations

Each factoring agreement also has individual terms and obligations. Trucking entrepreneurs who want to ensure favorable terms, flexibility for growth, and readiness for changing circumstances should pay particular attention to the following:

  • The length of the contract 
  • Termination clauses
  • Minimum volume requirements

Creditworthiness and Customer Approval

Determining your customer’s creditworthiness is among the most critical roles of a factoring agreement. The factoring company will perform a credit check to determine the risk of purchasing your company’s invoices, which will influence negotiations and fees. Make sure that your customer base aligns with the approval process, as companies have different restrictions or limitations regarding certain types of customers.

Customer Relationships and Notifications

A factoring agreement can impact the relationship with your customers. Learn if the factoring company will notify your customers of the financing arrangement. Maintain open communication with your customers and inform them of the changes to foster strong relationships. 

Customer Service and Support

Each factoring company can provide different customer service and support options, which can impact your business. Analyze their expertise in the trucking industry and see if they understand the unique challenges. Also, gauge their customer service availability and responsiveness.

Contractual Flexibility and Exit Strategies

Each factoring agreement has termination or modifying requirements. Understand your contractual obligations and whether a termination comes with excessive penalties. You don’t want to be stuck with a disadvantageous collaboration, especially if you want to consider other financing options later. 

How To Know When Your Car is Too Old To Drive

By
SM
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Photo by Egor Vikhrev on Unsplash

As cars age, they inevitably start to show signs of wear and tear. While some older vehicles can be maintained to run smoothly for years, others may become unsafe and unreliable. Knowing when your car is too old to drive can help you avoid potential hazards and ensure your safety on the road. Here are key indicators and tips to help you make that decision.

When is a Car Too Old to Drive?

Determining when a car is too old to drive depends on several factors, including its age, mileage, and condition. Generally, a car is considered “old” if it is over 10 years old or has more than 150,000 miles. However, the real test lies in how well the car has been maintained and whether it meets current safety standards.

Risks of Driving An Old Car

Driving an old car comes with several risks:

  • Mechanical Failures: Older cars are more prone to mechanical issues, which can lead to breakdowns at inconvenient or dangerous times. Mechanical failures are also notorious for causing car accidents.
  • Outdated Safety Features: Modern cars come equipped with advanced safety features like airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control, which may not be present in older models.
  • Poor Fuel Efficiency: Older cars often have worse fuel efficiency compared to newer models, leading to higher fuel costs and a larger environmental impact.
  • Higher Maintenance Costs: As cars age, the cost of repairs and maintenance typically increases. Parts may become harder to find and more expensive to replace.

Car Safety Checklist

Before deciding to keep or retire your old car, conduct a thorough safety check. Here are some critical areas to examine:

Check Engine Lights

A persistent check engine light can indicate various issues, from minor sensor malfunctions to major engine problems. Ignoring this light can lead to severe engine damage and costly repairs. Have a mechanic diagnose and fix any issues promptly to ensure your car remains safe to drive.

Suspension System

The suspension system is crucial for maintaining vehicle stability and control. Worn-out shocks and struts can lead to a rough ride, poor handling, and increased stopping distances. If you notice excessive bouncing, swaying, or uneven tire wear, it’s time to have your suspension system inspected and repaired.

Brakes

Your car’s braking system is essential for safety. Listen for unusual noises like squealing or grinding when applying the brakes, which can indicate worn-out brake pads or rotors. Also, pay attention to the brake pedal’s feel; if it becomes soft or spongy, it may signal a brake fluid leak or other issues. Regularly check your brake system to ensure it’s functioning correctly.

Tires

Tires are your car’s only contact with the road, so their condition is critical. Check for tread wear and depth using the penny test: insert a penny into the tire tread with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tread is too worn, and it’s time to replace the tires. Also, look for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear, which can indicate alignment or suspension problems.

Electrical System Failures

As cars age, electrical systems can become less reliable. Issues with the battery, alternator, or wiring can cause various problems, from starting difficulties to malfunctioning lights and accessories. If you experience frequent electrical issues, have a mechanic inspect your car’s electrical system to identify and fix any faults.

Staying Safe on the Road

Maintaining an older car requires diligence and regular inspections to ensure it remains safe to drive. Here are some tips to help you stay safe on the road:

  • Regular Maintenance: Follow your car’s maintenance schedule for oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine services.
  • Professional Inspections: Have a trusted mechanic perform regular inspections to catch potential issues before they become major problems.
  • Upgrade Safety Features: If possible, consider adding aftermarket safety features like a backup camera, parking sensors, or a modern infotainment system.
  • Know When to Let Go: Sometimes, the cost of repairs and maintenance outweighs the benefits of keeping an old car. Be honest about your car’s condition and be prepared to invest in a newer, safer vehicle if necessary.

By staying vigilant and proactive about your car’s maintenance, you can make an informed decision about when it’s time to retire your old car. Prioritizing safety and reliability will help ensure you and your passengers stay safe on the road.

CONGRUITY NHRA PRO MOD DRAG RACING SERIES GEARED UP FOR FIRST FULL RACE WEEKEND IN EPPING

By
Official Release
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EPPING, N.H. (May 30, 2024) – A return trip to New England Dragway for the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by LearnEV+ also marks the first full appearance for the thrilling class at the fan-favorite facility as part of this weekend’s 11th annual NHRA New England Nationals.

The NHRA Pro Mod category was set to make its exciting debut at Epping last year, but inclement weather only allowed for two qualifying sessions. Now, fans at New England Dragway will get their first chance to see three days of action from the standout drivers in Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by LearnEV+, and they’re ready to put on a show.

It’s the fourth of 10 races during the 2024 season and this weekend’s event is powered by PGT Trucking, Inc. Action from the category will also be featured on FS1 on Sunday during the eliminations show and with only two races left in the NHRA Pro Mod regular season, fans can expect nothing but action in Epping.

“PGT Trucking is happy to be back as a sponsor for the NHRA Pro Mod Series in Epping,” said Rick Simpson, Vice President, Asset Management. “Since 1981, PGT has provided quality flatbed transportation services, focusing on personal relationships with our drivers, staff, and customers. Just like in motorsports, our people are always our strongest asset. We are excited to share this opportunity with such a passionate fanbase once again.”

A Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by LearnEV+ winner will be crowned at New England Dragway for the first time and it’s a field loaded with contenders. In all, 23 drivers will attempt to win a Wally in Epping and it’s a group led by current points leader and former world champion Jose Gonzalez, who won the season-opener in Gainesville.

Ken Quartuccio is second, while other top competitors include Billy Banaka, Phoenix winner Kevin Rivenbark, former world champion Kris Thorne, Lyle Barnett, defending world champion Mike Castellana, Justin Bond, Mason Wright and Chicago runner-up Khalid AlBalooshi.

With Eric Dillard winning in Chicago, the class has also seen three different winners at the first three races of the year, showcasing the impressive depth and parity in the category. A host of standouts will look to add to that in Epping, while putting on a show in what could be ideal conditions at New England Dragway.

Featuring the world’s fastest doorslammer race cars, the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by LearnEV+ offers something unique and exciting for every drag racing fan. The class continues to grow in popularity and is highlighted by historic muscle cars and a variety of late-model American muscle cars, as well as several different power adders.

The Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by LearnEV+ will kick off with two qualifying rounds on Friday at 4:30 PM and 7 PM ET, with the final two qualifying rounds set for 11:30 AM and 4 PM on Saturday. The first round of eliminations is slated for 12:25 PM ET on Sunday.

To purchase tickets to the NHRA New England Nationals, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. Children 12 and under are free in general admission with the purchase of an adult ticket. For more information about NHRA, visit www.NHRA.com.

About PGT Trucking, Inc.

PGT Trucking, Inc., founded in 1981, is a multi-service transportation firm offering flatbed, dedicated, international and specialized services. Headquartered in Aliquippa, PA, PGT Trucking, named a 2023 and 2024 Best Fleets to Drive For®, has company, lease purchase, and owner-operator positions available. PGT knows what matters: pay, home time, equipment, respect, and family. Join PGT Trucking. Driven by the best. Fueled by our promise. Visit pgttrucking.com.

About NHRA

Headquartered in San Dimas, Calif., NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 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.

NHRA AT EPPING: Team Chevy Race Advance | Notes & Quotes

By
Official Release
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CHEVROLET IN NHRA
2024 NHRA NEW ENGLAND NATIONALS
NEW ENGLAND DRAGWAY
EPPING, NEW HAMPSHIRE
TEAM CHEVY RACE ADVANCE | NOTES & QUOTES
MAY 31-JUNE 2, 2024

CHEVROLET HEADS NORTHEAST WITH JOHN FORCE RACING FOR THE NHRA NEW ENGLAND NATIONALS AT NEW ENGLAND DRAGWAY

Notes:

  • Team Chevy heads to the 2024 NHRA New England Nationals May 31-June 2 at New England Dragway, the seventh round of the season.
  • Entering the weekend, Austin Prock, driver of the Cornwell Tools Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car sits second behind Matt Hagan, trailing by four points after the Route 66 NHRA Nationals.
  • John Force, driver of the PEAK Antifreeze and Coolant Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car, currently sits third entering this weekend’s event at New England Dragway, trailing teammate Austin Prock (second) by 38 points and competitor Matt Hagan (first) by 42 points.
  • Looking to turn her momentum in a positive direction, Brittany Force eyes Epping this weekend and the NHRA Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series Winners Circle to capture a victory at a track she has both won at previously and holds the national speed record of 334.90 mph (2018).
  • Last competing in 2022 at New England Dragway, Pro Stock returns with Erica Enders looking to repeat her last victory at Epping, defeating Aaron Stanfield with a pass of 6.547 seconds E.T. to his 6.553 seconds E.T.

Quotes:

BRITTANY FORCE, DRIVER OF THE MONSTER ENERGY CHEVROLET TOP FUEL DRAGSTER:

“This weekend will be a pivotal time for our Monster Energy Chevrolet team. We are coming out of one of the toughest, most heartbreaking weekends of my career, the toughest since not qualifying for the Finals in 2014. But, moving forward from Chicago has taught everyone on this David Grubnic-run team to dig even deeper and stay positive. I know we will get back on top. We won Epping in 2017, so we have some good history, and it’s a market with fans that I love. I’m really excited about the prospect of getting back on track, literally and figuratively.”

AUSTIN PROCK, DRIVER OF THE AAA CHEVROLET CAMARO SS FUNNY CAR:

“I’m looking forward to Epping and being back with our AAA family again. It’s an honor to sport the colors of the car that I cheered on for so many years of my life. We slipped back a few points from the lead in Chicago, but we’re all up for the challenge to get it back this weekend.”

JOHN FORCE, DRIVER OF THE PEAK ANTIFREEZE & COOLANT CHEVROLET CAMARO SS FUNNY CAR:

“I’m always excited going back to Epping. I’ve been there a lot of years and have won the race a couple times. It’s got a great market where we draw fans from Boston, Canada, and everywhere, but it’s a tricky racetrack, depending on whether it’s hot or cool. The crew chiefs really have their jobs cut out for them. Right now, my car is running very consistently. (Austin) Prock’s car, with AAA, is doing the same. So, we’re both in the hunt for the championship. We’ve got our work cut out for us and it’s going to be tough, but for this PEAK team, it also feels nice to be coming off of a runner-up finish two weeks ago.”

How to Watch:

The 2024 NHRA New England Nationals from New England Dragway kick off Friday, May 30 with qualifying, airing at 7:30 p.m. ET. Saturday’s qualifying airs at 7 p.m. ET, as well as the Mission Foods NHRA #2Fast2Tasty Challenge airing at 8 p.m. ET. Round 1 of Finals air Sunday at 1 p.m. ET, with the remaining rounds airing at 7 p.m. ET. All sessions from Epping, New Hampshire air with NHRA on FOX on FOX Sports 1 (FS1). Coverage streams live throughout the weekend on NHRA.tv, and is available via AppleTV, Android TV, and Roku devices.

TEAM CHEVY BY THE NUMBERS:

1,453: Round wins for John Force (1st all-time).

626: Round wins for Robert Hight; 13th all-time. Cruz Pedregon (Funny Car), sits 12th, with 629.

167: Number of career No. 1 qualifiers for John Force (1st all-time).

161: Number of Chevrolet Racing Funny Car wins since 1967.

84: Number of career No. 1 qualifiers for Robert Hight (6th all-time). Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel) is fifth with 88.

81: Number of Chevrolet Racing Funny Car wins with the Camaro SS body.

47: Number of career No. 1 qualifiers for Brittany Force.

28: Number of NHRA championships Chevrolet holds as a manufacturer since entering the first in 1966. This is the seventh consecutive award and ninth in 11 seasons. No other manufacturer has won it more than Chevrolet.

25: Wins by John Force in a Chevrolet-bodied Funny Car.

20: Chevrolet career Top Fuel wins in NHRA.

16: Number of Chevrolet career wins by Brittany Force.

7: Number of Funny Car driver championships.

2: Number of Top Fuel driver championships.

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 heart beat, 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.

Spire Motorsports Toyota 200 Race Advance

By
Official Release
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  • The Toyota 200 will mark just the second time Spire Motorsports will field a NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) entry at World Wide Technology Raceway. In June 2022, Rajah Caruth steered the team’s No. 7 Confluence Music Festival Chevrolet Silverado to an 11th-place finish. Spire Motorsports fields the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados full time in the NCTS. An all-star driver lineup will rotate throughout the 2024 season in the No. 7 Chevy. Rajah Caruth drives the No. 71 entry and Chase Purdy rounds out the team’s fleet of Chevrolets in the No. 77.
  • The Toyota 200 from World Wide Technology Raceway will be televised live on FOX Saturday, June 1 beginning at 1:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. The 12th of 23 NCTS races on the 2024 schedule will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90. NASCAR RaceDay’s pre-race coverage on FOX will take the green flag at 1 p.m. EDT.

Andrés Peréz – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Andrés Peréz will make his NCTS debut behind the wheel of Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado in Saturday’s Toyota 200 at World Wide Technology Raceway.
  • Peréz is the full-time driver of Rev Racing’s No. 2 Chevrolet in the ARCA Menards Series and is part of NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity Driver Development Program. He has earned two top-five and four top-10 finishes in the division’s first six races of the 2024 campaign and has a six-point advantage heading into the next stop at Iowa Speedway.
  • The Mexico City, Mexico native started racing karts when he was 11-years-old before transitioning to L-A Formula 4 and NASCAR Mexico Trucks competition. Perez was crowned the 2022 NASCAR Mexico Challenge Series Champion.
  • The 19-year-old is coming off a successful rookie ARCA campaign in 2023 where he posted one pole,10 top-five and 15 top-10 finishes en-route to a runner-up finish in the division’s championship point standings.
  • In last week’s ARCA Menards Series General Tire 150 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Peréz sat on the pole, led eight laps and ultimately finished third.
  • Herdez Salsa, the No. 1 salsa brand in Mexico, will be the primary sponsor in Perez’s initial NCTS effort. Known for simple, quality ingredients, Herdez salsas represent the heart and soul of Mexican cuisine.
  • Telcel, an associate sponsor for this weekend’s race, is Mexico’s leading cellular phone company, committed to effectively meeting the wireless communication needs of its clients through use of the most sophisticated technology. Telcel is a subsidiary of America Movil, one of the largest providers of wireless communications in Latin America with operations in 18 countries in the Americas and serving more than 339 million customers.
  • After 11 races, the No. 7 team sits fifth in the 2024 NCTS owner point standings. The No. 7 team has compiled two wins with an average starting position of 7.5 and an average finish of 11.4 thus far this season. Kyle Busch led a race-high 33 laps en route the team’s first victory of 2024 at Atlanta Motor Speedway in February and a race-high 112 laps in the team’s most recent triumph in Texas. In its most recent outing, the team started seventh and finished eighth with Connor Mosack at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
  • In his first season at Spire Motorsports, crew chief Brian Pattie has led the No. 7 team to two victories across the first 11 events this season, both with Kyle Busch (Atlanta Motor Speedway and Texas Motor Speedway). The duo also won twice across five races last year with Kyle Busch Motorsports.
  • Jack Wood finished 29th in Pattie’s lone race calling the shots in NCTS action at World Wide Technology Raceway last June. He was victorious in Xfinity Series competition at the Illinois track in July 2005 with Reed Sorenson behind the wheel.

How do you prepare for your Truck Series debut with limited practice time?
“I think the quick adaptation to everything that is going to go on will be important, both adapting to the truck and the track. I think we’ve been working hard, both me on my own and all the guys in the shop that are helping me out. I’m trying to cover everything before we get there. They’re just telling me to not make many mistakes, have a smooth practice and qualifying day, and we’ll go from there.”

World Wide Technology Raceway is very unique. Have you run at any tracks you can draw comparisons to in your career?
“I think it is very unique. The simulator has definitely been a help, especially in setting me up for success in the first few laps of practice and my ability to be more on it from the start. The closest I’ve ever ran on is something in Mexico in Puebla (Autódromo Internacional Miguel E. Abed). But at the end of the day, the cars here and the cars in Mexico are so different that I’m just going to have to adapt to something different. But, the simulator has been huge in terms of getting a grip on the track.”

Have you set any goals for your Truck Series debut?
“I think I just want everything to go smooth and have a very good result. I know that if we put everything together then it should be a really good day for us. If we get a top-10, I’d definitely take that for my Truck Series debut.”

Rajah Caruth – Driver, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Rajah Caruth will pilot Spire Motorsports’ No. 71 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet Silverado in Saturday’s Toyota 200 at World Wide Technology Raceway.
  • Caruth started fourth and finished 16th in last week’s North Carolina Education Lottery 200 at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
  • HENDRICKCARS.COM is the online home for everything Hendrick Automotive Group. Visitors can shop thousands of new or pre-owned vehicles, locate centers for service and collision repair, receive a value to sell or trade their car, chat online with customer service, discover career opportunities, learn more about vehicle protections programs, and explore how the company gives back to the community.
  • The Winston-Salem (N.C.) State University senior has two prior NCTS starts at the 1.25-mile Illinois oval with a venue-best 11th-place finish.
  • The Washington, D.C. native made his NCTS debut and first of four starts behind the wheel of the No. 7 Silverado for Spire Motorsports in 2022 at WWTR. His 11th-place finish was the best of his four appearances that year.
  • The 21-year-old is currently sixth in the NCTS championship point standings after 11 races. He has logged one pole, one win, five top-10 and nine top-15 finishes. He’s recorded a 12.2 average start, an 11.5 average finish and completed 96.9 percent of the laps contested this season.
  • With his first career NCTS win and pole position earlier this season at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Caruth became the third African American driver, alongside NASCAR Hall of Famer, Wendell Scott and current NASCAR Cup Series regular Bubba Wallace, to win a NASCAR National Touring Series race.
  • Caruth raced his first full season in NCTS in 2023, earning four top-10 finishes and coming home 16th in the division’s championship point standings.

You are returning to the site of your first Truck Series start. Does that make the venue more special or meaningful to you, especially coming back with Spire Motorsports?
“It’s cool to go back to Gateway because I ran my first truck race there with Spire and Bono (Manion) and (Mike) Greci in the number seven truck. It is cool because it is hard to believe it’s been two years and to see my progression over that time. I think we have a chance to get there and run really well. I believe, in my first race there, we ran in the top 10 most of the race and I think we can be a top-five truck again this week. We honestly have the speed every week to do that. Hopefully, we can have a solid race to end the five-race stretch and get back to our winning ways.”

Last week’s result didn’t show how well you ran all night long. How do you flip the script and look forward to the next event?
“Stuff happens, you know? That’s just racing. You can do everything right, it’ll be great. You can do everything right, it won’t be great. You just have to go back to the drawing board and make little tweaks and go to the racetrack and do your best. That’s it. We don’t need to wholesale things, we are not in that place at all. I think we are one of the best trucks every week. I think if we could just execute a good race this weekend, we can be fighting for 50 grand and go into Nashville with a pep in our step.”

Chase Purdy – Driver, No.77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado

  • Chase Purdy will pilot the Spire Motorsports’ No.77 Bama Buggies Chevrolet Silverado in Saturday afternoons Toyota 200.
  • Purdy heads to WWTR 15th in the NCTS driver point standings. He started in seventh and finished 13th last week at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Over the first 11 races of the 2024 campaign, the Meridian, Miss., native has earned one pole, one top-five and a pair of top-10 finishes.
  • In his three starts at WWTR, Purdy has an average starting position of 16th and an average finish position of seventh. Purdy’s most recent finish at WWTR was a fourth-place finish.
  • The Toyota 200 will mark Purdy’s 87th NCTS start and his 12th behind the wheel of Spire Motorsports’ No.77 Bama Buggies Chevrolet.
  • Purdy’s younger brother, Zach Purdy starts as an engineer for the team this week at WWTR. Zach Purdy will be based out of Mooresville, N.C., for the summer months before he returns to the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) for his senior year.
  • Purdy’s Crew Chief Jason Trinchere will be making his WWTR debut in Saturday’s Toyota 200.

Chase Purdy Quotes
How does the shape of Gateway make it so special?
“WWTR is a unique place, different than most tracks. Both ends are so different and you have to shift in (turns) one and two. Turns three and four is more of a long and sweeping corner but one and two is a sharp tight turn.”

WWTR is one of your best tracks, what makes you so confident at this speedway?
“I think this place races like a big short track in many ways. That definitely falls into my wheelhouse. I’ve had a lot of really good runs and I’m looking for more of the same this weekend.”

From the Top of the Box

Brian Pattie – Crew Chief, No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado

  • In his first season at Spire Motorsports, Brian Pattie has led the No. 7 team to two victories, both with Kyle Busch. The duo also won twice across five races last year at KBM.
  • Pattie also collected a victory with Ron Fellows at Watkins Glen International in 1999 to give him five career NCTS wins.
  • Pattie was atop the pit box for six wins across 14 seasons in the NASCAR Cup Series and has 11 career victories as a crew chief in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.

Chad Walter – Crew Chief, No. 71 Chevrolet Silverado

  • Chad Walter has over two decades of experience and began his career with Hendrick Motorsports in 1996.
  • Walter guided Caruth to his first NCTS win March 1, 2024 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
  • Some of his most notable accomplishments include a pair of Daytona 500 victories (2001 & 2003) with Michael Waltrip, along with Cup Series wins with Steve Park and Terry Labonte.

Jason Trinchere – Crew Chief, No. 77 Chevrolet Silverado

  • Jason Trinchere earned his Bachelor of Science from Penn State University and began his professional career in 2005 as the race engineer for the iconic No. 75 Spears Manufacturing NCTS team, owned by series’ pioneers Wayne and Connie Spears.
  • Notable accomplishments include Daytona 500 and Brickyard 400 wins with both Ganassi Racing and Penske Racing. He was a key member of the 2018 NASCAR Cup Series Championship team with driver Joey Logano.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports is a NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race team co-owned by long-time NASCAR industry executives Jeff Dickerson and Thaddeus “T.J.” Puchyr. In 2024, Spire Motorsports will campaign the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the NASCAR Cup Series with drivers Corey LaJoie, Zane Smith and Carson Hocevar, respectively. The team will also field the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados full time in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. An all-star driver lineup will rotate throughout the 2024 season in the No. 7 Chevy. Rajah Caruth will drive the No. 71 entry and Chase Purdy rounds out the team’s fleet of Chevrolets in the No. 77.

Spire Motorsports earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway on July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado to its inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win on April 7, 2022, at Martinsville Speedway. The team’s most recent win came on April 12, 2024, when Kyle Busch took the took the checkered flag in the SpeedyCash.com 250 at Texas Motor Speedway.

MAVTV to Broadcast Special of the 2024 Motorsports Hall of Fame of America Induction Ceremony Presented by Toyota Racing

By
Official Release
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  • Inductees included Jimmie Johnson, Scott Dixon, John Surtees, Paul Newman and Five Other Legendary Figures Whose Contributions Have Significantly Shaped Motorsports
  • Two-Hour Special is the First Time the Ceremony Will Air on MAVTV

DAYTONA BEACH, Florida (May 30, 2024) – MAVTV – the world’s premier media platform for passion-fueled motorsports, powersports and automotive programming – will bring racing fans a 2-hour special of the 36th Annual Motorsports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony presented by Toyota Racing. This marks the first time the prestigious event will be aired on television, celebrating the outstanding achievements and contributions of iconic figures in motorsports. The ceremony took place on March 11 – 12 in Daytona Beach, Florida.

“Only the best of the best earn a spot in the Motorsports Hall of Fame,” said MAVTV President CJ Olivares. “MAVTV is delighted to offer motorsports fans a front-row seat to celebrate and honor these legends of the racing world. Sharing their stories and contributions is at the heart of our love for motorsports and its culture and we’re excited to connect fans with the rich history of the sport for the very first time on TV.”

The Motorsports Hall of Fame of America is the only hall that honors all facets of American motorsports including cars, motorcycles, airplanes, off road and powerboats. Its mission is to honor the values central to American motorsports: leadership, creativity, originality, teamwork and the spirit of competition. The annual induction ceremony is a special event dedicated to recognizing the achievements and innovations of the people that have propelled the sport forward.

“Each year, our 200 voters, half of them historians and other motorsports experts, the other half inductees themselves, select nine of the most extraordinary figures in the racing world for induction into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America,” said President of the Motorsports Hall of Fame America George Levy. “This year’s inductees included all-time greats like Jimmie Johnson, multi-time IndyCar champion Scott Dixon and Hollywood icon and racing champion Paul Newman. It was an amazing event, and we are grateful to MAVTV for bringing this celebration to fans everywhere.”

2024 MSHFA Class of Inductees:

  • Jimmie Johnson, Seven-Time NASCAR Cup Series Champion
  • Scott Dixon, Six-Time IndyCar Series Champion
  • John Surtees, the only Person to win World Championships on Both Two and Four Wheels
  • Paul Newman, Academy Award-Winning Actor and National Champion Driver and Owner
  • Austin Coil, History’s Winningest Top Fuel Funny Car Crew Chief
  • Downing & Hubbard, Pioneers in Revolutionary Racing Safety Technologies
  • Bud Ekins, Hollywood Stuntman and Multi-Time Motorcycle Racing Gold-Medalist
  • Phil Walters, War Hero and Acclaimed Sports Car Racer of the 1940s and 1950s
  • Earl B. Gilmore, Promoted Racing Excellence from Los Angeles to Bonneville to the Indy 500

Other honorees at this year’s induction were Lynsi Snyder-Ellingson and Edsel B. Ford II, who were the first dual recipients of the Bob Russo Heritage Award, the MSHFA’s highest honor next to induction. The Owner and President of In-N-Out Burger, Snyder-Ellingson was recognized for her vast efforts to preserve the future of drag racing in the United States. Ford, widely known as the “Godfather” of Ford Motor Company’s racing efforts, was honored as a leading and prominent ambassador for the sport of auto racing globally.

The 2024 Motorsports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony special will air on MAVTV Thursday, June 6 at 8 p.m. EDT/PDT. For additional information, visit www.MAVTV.com.

About MAVTV: MAVTV is the only linear television network and media platform dedicated exclusively to the global culture of motorsports and powered by a passion for speed. Offering an unparalleled line-up of exclusive and live racing, and narrative programming, MAVTV explores the people, vehicles, races and places within global motorsports: on pavement, dirt and water, and from Stock Cars to Rally, Drag Racing to Late Model Dirt, Trans Am to Sprint, Superbike to Enduro, and everything in between.

MAVTV goes beyond racing with a curated collection of documentary and “build” series and specials that inspire, inform and grow our community of race fans and auto enthusiasts with compelling storytelling. With a presence in more than 22 million households in North America (DIRECTV, Spectrum, YouTube TV, FuboTV and more), FAST channels across 24 countries and more than 300 million connected devices, the network is on a rapid growth trajectory.

For more information, visit www.MAVTV.com – and follow MAVTV on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter) and LinkedIn.

About the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America: The MSHFA is the only hall that honors all American motorsports: cars, motorcycles, airplanes, off road and powerboats. Its mission is to celebrate and instill the American motorsports values of leadership, creativity, originality, teamwork and spirit of competition. Founded by Larry G. Ciancio and led by first President Ronald A. Watson, it held its first induction in 1989. Watson spent the next 30 years tirelessly building it into the nation’s premier such hall until his passing in 2019. The original museum in Novi, Mich., relocated to Daytona Beach, Fla., in 2016 and greets more than 100,000 guests a year. MSHFA is operated by the nonprofit Motorsports Museum and Hall of Fame of America Foundation, Inc.

The Motorsports Hall of Fame of America is on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MotorsportsHOF/ and Instagram and X (Twitter) at @MotorsportsHOF. More information and admission tickets are available at www.MSHF.com where supporters can also donate to the Motorsports Museum and Hall of Fame of America Foundation.

Star Athletes Share Their Mental Health “Rituals,” Encouraging Fans to Prioritize Their Mental Health

By
Official Release
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11 Professional Sports Leagues and Organizations Join Forces with the “Love, Your Mind” Campaign this Mental Health Awareness Month

NEW YORK (May 30, 2024) – Today, 11 professional sports leagues and organizations teamed up with the national “Love, Your Mind” campaign to announce a comprehensive mental health partnership with the premiere of a series of public service advertisements (PSAs). The series, titled “The Rituals We Share,” features star athletes sharing their “rituals,” or steps they take, to care for their minds on and off the field – encouraging sports fans across the country to prioritize their mental health and explore free resources from LoveYourMindToday.org.

The “Love, Your Mind” campaign from Huntsman Mental Health Institute and the Ad Council is dedicated to encouraging a more open, accepting and proactive society when it comes to mental health. That message is being amplified at the culmination of this Mental Health Awareness Month and beyond through the convening of sports leagues and organizations, including:

  • Major League Baseball (MLB)
  • Major League Soccer (MLS)
  • National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR)
  • National Basketball Association (NBA)
  • National Football League (NFL)
  • National Hockey League (NHL)
  • National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL)
  • Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA)
  • United States Tennis Association (USTA)
  • Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA)
  • World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE)

“Our country is facing a pervasive mental health crisis. We can help one another by talking about the rituals we embrace to support our mental health,” said Dr. William A. Smith, chief executive administrator at Huntsman Mental Health Institute. “So many sports fans look up to their favorite athletes, so we’re honored to partner with many of them today to share their mental health rituals and stories to normalize talking about and taking care of our minds.”

“At NASCAR, we constantly witness the impact the human mind can have on physical performance, and we know this intersection of mental health and overall wellness applies to everyone in our community, not just those behind the wheel,” said NASCAR SVP, Chief Marketing Officer and Ad Council Board Member Pete Jung. “We’re excited to team up with the ‘Love, Your Mind’ campaign to encourage open conversations and proactive steps toward mental wellness, and we look forward to leveraging NASCAR platforms to ensure our fans and the entire racing community feel empowered to prioritize their mental well-being.”

Per the Ad Council’s model, the PSAs will run nationwide in time and space donated by media outlets across TV and digital media platforms. The participating sports leagues and organizations will also extend the partnership throughout 2024 and beyond by providing social media amplification, support on their owned media channels, media partnerships and more. To learn more about their ongoing commitment to this partnership and mental health, visit LoveYourMindToday.org/Sports.

“This partnership with the best of sports is truly extraordinary because it offers a unique opportunity to reach millions of dedicated sports fans across the country,” said Lisa Sherman, president and CEO of the Ad Council. “The sports leagues and organizations we’ve partnered with share our goal of encouraging people everywhere to make their emotional well-being just as much of a priority as their physical health.”

The series of PSAs features beloved athletes sharing the practices and routines that make up their mental health rituals, including:

  • Lexie Brown of the L.A. Sparks
  • Chase Elliott of Hendrick Motorsports
  • Cam Heyward of the Pittsburgh Steelers
  • Zach Hyman of the Edmonton Oilers
  • Madison Keys, professional tennis player
  • Kyle Kuzma of the Washington Wizards
  • Brandon Lowe of the Tampa Bay Rays
  • Liv Morgan and Cody Rhodes of the WWE
  • Tim O’Connell of the PRCA
  • Cari Roccaro of the Chicago Red Stars
  • Zack Steffen of the Colorado Rapids

The series was developed pro bono by creative agency Walton Isaacson and helmed by highly acclaimed director Nina Meredith of the Oscar-winning production company RadicalMedia. It builds on the “Love, Your Mind” platform originally developed by volunteer creative agencies FCB New York and FCB Chicago. The PSAs feature the hit song “Home” from U.K. duo Good Neighbours.

“We wanted to harness the power that sports have on influencing culture and move the dial on how we all perceive mental health,” said Aaron Walton, CEO and founder of Walton Isaacson. “Some routines may seem just for fun, but there’s a deeper lesson here: just as athletes leverage rituals to improve their performance, we can also lean into them to center ourselves and help us love our minds.”

This effort is the latest from Huntsman Mental Health Institute and the Ad Council’s ongoing “Love, Your Mind” campaign, with previous collaborations including Black Players for Change, Stephen A. Smith, Sesame Workshop and the American Farm Bureau. Since launching in October 2023, the “Love, Your Mind” campaign has driven more than 650,000 visits to LoveYourMindToday.org for free mental health resources. Additionally, of those who are aware of at least one of the campaign’s PSAs, 74% agree that taking care of their mental health is a top priority, compared to only 58% of those not aware.

For more information about the “Love, Your Mind” campaign, visit LoveYourMindToday.org or follow the campaign on Instagram, Facebook, X and TikTok.

About Huntsman Mental Health Institute

Huntsman Mental Health Institute brings together 75 years of patient care, research and education into one of the nation’s leading academic medical centers focused on mental health. Nestled in the campus of University of Utah, Huntsman Mental Health Institute serves the community with 1,600 faculty and staff in 20 locations providing inpatient and outpatient services for youth, teens, and adults as well as a comprehensive crisis care model which includes the nationally recognized SafeUT app and the 988 Crisis hotline for Utah. Our mission is to advance mental health knowledge, hope, and healing for all. Learn more at: www.huntsmanmentalhealthfoundation.org/hmhi/ and join the conversation on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X and LinkedIn.

About The Ad Council

The Ad Council convenes creative storytellers to educate, unite and uplift audiences by opening hearts, inspiring action and accelerating change around the most pressing issues in America. Since the non-profit’s founding, the organization and its partners in advertising, media, marketing and tech have been behind some of the country’s most iconic social impact campaigns – Smokey Bear, A Mind Is a Terrible Thing to Waste, Love Has No Labels, Tear the Paper Ceiling and many more. With a current focus on mental health, gun safety, the opioid epidemic, skill-based hiring and other critical issues, the Ad Council’s national campaigns encompass advertising and media content, ground game and community efforts, trusted messenger and influencer engagement, and employer programs, among other innovative strategies to move the needle on the most important issues of the day.

In November 2022, the Ad Council announced a Mental Health Initiative, uniting brands, marketers, media companies and nonprofits to address the mental health crisis throughout the U.S. at scale. With a founding donation from Huntsman Mental Health Institute, the multi-year initiative aims to change social norms and create a society that is more open, accepting and proactive when it comes to mental health.

To learn more or get involved, visit AdCouncil.org, join the Ad Council’s communities on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X, and view campaign creative on YouTube.

About NASCAR

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

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

Billy Scott to call 300th Cup event as crew chief at Gateway

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Ted Seminara for SpeedwayMedia.com.

In his ninth season as a full-time crew chief in the NASCAR Cup Series, Billy Scott, crew chief for Tyler Reddick and the No. 45 23XI Racing Toyota Camry XSE team, is scheduled to achieve a milestone start. By participating in this weekend’s Enjoy Illinois 300 at World Wide Technology Raceway, Scott will call his 300th career event as a crew chief in NASCAR’s premier series.

A native of Land O’Lakes, Florida, and a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering, Scott made his inaugural presence as a Cup Series crew chief at the start of the 2014 season, where he worked atop the pit box of the No. 55 Michael Waltrip Racing Toyota Camry team piloted by former Xfinity Series champion Brian Vickers. By then, he had spent the previous two seasons as a lead engineer for MWR’s No. 55 team and had previously assumed the role of engineer for both MWR and Robert Yates Racing.

In Scott’s first season as a crew chief, he led Vickers and the No. 55 team to a pole at Talladega Superspeedway in October, a season-best runner-up result at Daytona International Speedway in July, three top-five results, nine top-10 results, an average-finishing result of 18.6 and a 22nd-place result in the final driver’s standings.

The following season, Scott retained his role as the crew chief for MWR’s No. 55 team that commenced the season with team owner Michael Waltrip competing in the 57th running of the Daytona 500 and Brett Moffitt earning a strong top-10 result at Atlanta Motor Speedway in March. Meanwhile, Vickers was absent for the start of the season due to health issues. Despite returning for the next two scheduled events at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and at Phoenix Raceway, respectively, in March, Vickers was sidelined again due to blood clots, a health issue that would ultimately sideline him for the remainder of the season and would result with Moffitt and Waltrip filling in for the next six-scheduled events. By May, David Ragan became the full-time competitor of the No. 55 Toyota Camry as he finished no higher than 13th during his first four starts.

Then in June 2015, MWR swapped the crew chiefs of its two-car entry field with Scott replacing Brian Pattie as crew chief of the No. 15 entry piloted by Clint Bowyer. In his first race paired with Bowyer, Scott led the No. 15 team to a 10th-place run at Michigan International Speedway. The duo then earned a strong third-place finish at Sonoma Raceway followed by another 10th-place run at Daytona in July. With a total of eight top-10 results in 12 races paired together, Scott and Bowyer managed to secure a spot for the 2015 Cup Playoffs based on points.

Their run for the title, however, came to an early end at the start of the Playoffs when NASCAR issued a P4-level penalty and docked Bowyer’s team 25 points due to an illegal discovery made during the inspection process at Chicagoland Speedway in September. In addition, Scott was assessed a three-race suspension and a fine of $75,000. While MWR appealed the penalty, their appeal was denied as Scott was suspended, beginning at Dover Motor Speedway through Kansas Speedway in October. By then, Bowyer was one of four competitors to be eliminated from the Playoffs after finishing 19th, 26th and 14th, respectively, during the Round of 16. Once Scott returned atop the pit box at Talladega Superspeedway, he and Bowyer could only achieve just one additional top-10 result during the final seven scheduled events before capping off the season in 16th place in the final standings.

When Michael Waltrip Racing ceased all operations following the 2015 campaign, Scott joined Stewart-Haas Racing for the 2016 Cup season and was paired with Danica Patrick and the No. 10 Chevrolet SS team. Commencing the season with a 35th-place run during the 58th running of the Daytona 500, the duo recorded an average-finishing result of 22.0 throughout the 36-race schedule, with Patrick’s best on-track result being an 11th-place run at Charlotte Motor Speedway in October, before finishing in 24th place in the final standings. Scott and Patrick would record a single top-10 result of 10th place at Dover throughout the 2017 season along with an average-finishing result of 23.8 before settling in 28th place in the final standings. At the conclusion of the 2017 season, Patrick retired from full-time competition.

A month after the 2017 Cup season concluded, Stewart-Haas Racing shuffled its driver-crew chief pairing for the 2018 season, which included Scott transitioning to the No. 41 Ford Fusion team piloted by the 2004 Cup champion Kurt Busch. The new duo commenced the season with a 26th-place result in the 60th running of the Daytona 500 after Busch was involved in a late multi-car wreck while contending for his second consecutive 500 title. They rallied by recording three poles and 14 top-10 results during the next 23 scheduled events. Then at Bristol Motor Speedway in August, Scott achieved his first career victory as a NASCAR crew chief when Busch held off Kyle Larson in a 13-lap shootout to claim his first win of the season, his sixth at Bristol, his 30th Cup career victory and a spot to the 2018 Cup Series Playoffs.

Despite enduring an up-and-down road throughout the Playoffs, the duo managed to transfer from the Round of 16 to 8. Their Playoff run, however, came to a late end during the Round of 8 after Busch recorded respective finishes of sixth, seventh and 32nd. With a 10th-place finish at Homestead-Miami Speedway in November to cap off the 2018 season, Scott and Busch finished in seventh place in the final standings and accumulated a total of 22 top-10 results throughout the 36-race campaign.

For the 2019 Cup season, Scott, who remained as the crew chief of SHR’s No. 41 team, was paired with the 2016 Xfinity Series champion Daniel Suarez, who replaced Busch as Busch joined Chip Ganassi Racing. Throughout the 26-race regular-season stretch, Scott and Suarez endured an up-and-down journey that was highlighted with a pole at Kentucky Speedway in July along with nine top-10 results and a bid for a spot in the 2019 Playoffs. Ultimately, they missed the Playoffs by four points as Suarez proceeded to record two additional top-10 results during the 10-race Playoff stretch before finishing in 17th place in the final standings.

Following the 2019 season, Scott, who was released by Stewart-Haas Racing, joined Richard Childress Racing and worked as the team’s head of engineering for the 2020 Cup season. He also served as a crew chief for a single Cup event for Kaulig Racing’s debut in NASCAR’s premier series with Justin Haley for the 62nd running of the Daytona 500. During the event, Haley, who managed to qualify for the event based on speed, settled in 13th place. Scott’s next pair of events as a crew chief occurred during the 2021 Xfinity Series season for Our Motorsports and Austin Dillon, where Dillon finished 37th at Watkins Glen International and sixth at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course, respectively.

In November 2021, Scott was announced as a Cup Series crew chief for 23XI Racing’s newly formed No. 45 Toyota TRD Camry that was set to be piloted by Kurt Busch for the 2022 season, which marked Scott’s return atop the pit box and his reunion with Busch since 2018. After accumulating four top-10 results during the first 12 scheduled events, the reunited duo achieved their first victory of the season when Busch prevailed over another late battle against Kyle Larson to grab a dominant win at Kansas Speedway in May and record the second career victory for 23XI Racing. The victory also gave Busch and the No. 45 team a guaranteed spot to make the Playoffs.

Seven races and three additional top-10 results later, however, Busch was involved in a hard wreck during a qualifying session at Pocono Raceway in July and was forced to sit out while recovering from concussion-like symptoms, a move that would eventually force him to rule out from full-time competition for the remainder of the 2022 season along with the full 2023 schedule. Busch’s absence allowed newcomer Ty Gibbs to pilot the No. 45 entry for the remainder of the 2022 Cup regular-season stretch with Scott remaining atop the pit box. Then in September and at the start of the 2022 Playoffs, Scott moved over to 23XI Racing’s No. 23 entry along with Gibbs while the team’s primary competitor, Bubba Wallace, took over the No. 45 Toyota that was competing for the owners’ title, which made it as high through the Round of 12.

Since being paired with Gibbs for the last 15 events, which started in mid-July, Scott has led the driver and 23XI Racing’s Nos. 23 and 45 entries to a single top-10 result, which occurred at Michigan International Speedway in August, along with a combined seven top-20 results. During the finale at Phoenix Raceway in November, Scott was paired with the 2021 Xfinity champion Daniel Hemric, who filled in for Gibbs as Gibbs missed the event due to the death of his father, Coy. With Hemric finishing in 17th place on the track, 23XI Racing’s No. 23 entry settled in 24th place in the final owner’s standings, 14 spots below the No. 45 entry.

Returning as the crew chief of 23XI Racing’s No. 45 entry piloted by two-time Xfinity champion Tyler Reddick for the 2023 Cup season, Scott navigated the driver and team to two top-five through the first five-schedule events before they achieved their first victory of the season at Circuit of the Americas in March. Reddick led a race-high 41 laps and muscled away from the field during a two-lap shootout. Scott and Reddick then proceeded to record eight top-10 results in 19 regular-season events, minus Darlington Raceway in May after Scott was ejected due to Reddick’s car failing pre-race inspection twice two days before race day and before entering the Playoffs alongside teammate Bubba Wallace and the No. 23 23XI Racing team.

Coming off a runner-up result in the Playoff opener at Darlington in September, Scott achieved his second Cup victory of the season after Reddick went from fifth to first during an overtime shootout to win and grab an automatic berth into the Round of 12. After transferring into the Round of 8 despite achieving only a single top-10 result in their next four races, the duo was eliminated from title contention after ending up eighth, third and 26th, respectively, throughout the Round of 8. Despite finishing in 22nd place during the finale at Phoenix, Scott and Reddick concluded their first campaign together in sixth place in the final driver’s standings, with the points result being the current best for both the driver and crew chief.

Through the first 14 events of the 2024 Cup Series season, Scott has navigated Reddick and the No. 45 23XI Racing team to a single victory, which occurred at Talladega Superspeedway in April after Reddick dodged a final-lap multi-car wreck to overtake Brad Keselowski through the frontstretch to win for the first time at Talladega. To go along with seven additional top-10 results, including a fourth-place run during last Monday’s rain-shortened Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Scott and Reddick are currently ranked in sixth place in the 2024 regular-season standings and are guaranteed a spot to make the 2024 Cup Series Playoffs.

Through 299 previous Cup events, Scott has achieved five victories, 10 poles, 34 top-five results, 85 top-10 results and 1,864 laps led while working with 12 different competitors.

Billy Scott is scheduled to call his 300th Cup Series event as a crew chief at World Wide Technology Raceway for the Enjoy Illinois 300 on Sunday, June 2. The event’s broadcast time is set to commence at 3:30 p.m. ET on FS1.

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