Inside Line Promotions – FRESNO, Calif. (March 1, 2021) – Dominic Scelzi is gearing up for a two-day 360ci winged sprint car event at Kern County Raceway Park this weekend.

The dirt oval in Bakersfield, Calif., had been slated to host the Lucas Oil ASCS National Tour this Friday and Saturday. Series officials recently pulled out from the weekend in concern over the pandemic. Meanwhile track officials said the show will go on.

“I think it’s going to be a good deal,” Scelzi said. “I feel like I made 1,000 calls yesterday talking to who was going to be there.

“I love the race track. It’s the perfect size and shape to create exciting events. We don’t get to race there very much, but it’s been exciting every single time we’ve raced there. I’m excited for them to do their first winged 360 event.”

Scelzi has visited the track four times – all with the King of the West-NARC Fujitsu Series. He placed third during his inaugural race in 2018 before ending seventh later that season. Scelzi swept two trips to the track in 2019.

“The first time we went there we were solid and fought to possibly win the race,” he said. “The second time we went there I wasn’t going to win it, but we were pretty good and a second-place car. I got together with a guy and ended up not finishing. We were super, super good. Then we swept the season there in 2019. I feel like the worst I should have finished was third so I feel really good going back there.

“It’s been different almost every time I’ve been there. Sometimes the track is slick and they rework it. Sometimes it’s wet to start with and gets slick and wide. Hopefully it will be slick, wide and racy. I feel confident no matter what the surface is like.”

SEASON STATS –

4 races, 0 wins, 2 top fives, 4 top 10s, 4 top 15s, 4 top 20s

UP NEXT –

Friday and Saturday at Kern County Raceway Park in Bakersfield, Calif., with the King of the Thunder Series

MEDIA LINKS –

Website: http://www.GaryScelziMotorsports.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DominicScelzi41

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Scelzi41

Fans are invited to the Pennzoil Virtual Proving Grounds to engage in track weekend activities

Houston, TX – March 1, 2021. Pennzoil^® is back at Las Vegas Motor Speedway to host the fourth annual Pennzoil 400 presented by Jiffy Lube as part of the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) race season. Continuing this season’s heart-pounding racing, the Pennzoil 400 will once again headline an action-packed, triple-header motorsports weekend, with a virtual experience for fans and on-track excitement. The green flag will wave at the Pennzoil 400 on Sunday, March 7^th at 12:30 PM PST and will be broadcast live on FOX. 

“We at Shell-Pennzoil are eager to see what the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series race season has in store for both the fans and motorsport’s most entertaining drivers,” said Machteld de Haan, CEO, Pennzoil Quaker State Company and Vice President, Shell Lubricants Americas. “The Pennzoil 400 presented by Jiffy Lube has been held at Las Vegas Motor Speedway since 2018 and is always one of the most anticipated, premiere races to drivers. Our team is proud to be a part of such winning history with Team Penske and its drivers at this event, and we hope to continue to make history at this year’s race as well. In lieu of physical attendance at the track, we are hosting fans from far and wide to join us virtually through the Pennzoil Virtual Proving Grounds and experience the track like never before. While our virtual experience will be unforgettable, we are certain that the on-track action will be another race to remember.”

The Pennzoil Virtual Proving Grounds allows fans to experience the Pennzoil 400 and Las Vegas Motor Speedway in ways not possible before, with more than a dozen virtual ‘hotspots’ available for race fans around the world to experience from the comfort of their homes. Fans can access the Pennzoil Virtual Proving Grounds through the link below, also located on the Las Vegas Motor Speedway website in their Virtual Fan Zone and on Pennzoil.com. It is recommended to access the Pennzoil Virtual Proving Grounds via a desktop computer using Chrome as the web browser. 

Pennzoil Virtual Proving Grounds: pennzoil400.pixelhublive.com

2021 Pennzoil Virtual Proving Grounds Hotspot Highlights:

• Virtual Las Vegas Show: Fans can tune in to watch a previously-recorded live show with many familiar Las Vegas faces! The variety show will include a performance from Shin Lim, a two-time America’s Got Talent champion and star of his own show at The Mirage in Las Vegas! Also headlining is Max Major, named Washington D.C.’s Best Performance Artist four years in a row and much more. Fans can view the show within the Pennzoil Virtual Proving Grounds on Friday, March 5^th.

• NASCAR Cup Series Car Walkaround with Larry McReynolds: America’s Crew Chief takes fans on a virtual walkaround of Joey Logano’s NASCAR Cup Series car, demonstrating the important components of a car and its team.

• Shell Racing App: Fans can race incredible cars including the Shell Motorsports Collection on a variety of custom tracks! Users can race against one another or try and beat Joey’s game time. The app is available for download now in the App Store and Play Store and is free to users.
• Create Your Own Track: Fans can design their own Pennzoil-branded racetrack inside the Shell Racing app. Customization includes the choice to build an extreme ‘Arcade’ track or speedy and smooth ‘Motorsport’ track. After designing, fans can then race around their newly created track!

• Planet Fitness^® Workout: Fans can experience the desert heat and work up a sweat by participating in a Joey Logano-led Planet Fitness workout. Tune in to the live workout on Tuesday, March 2^nd at 7:00 PM EST. The workout will be available to access for fans at its designated hotspot after the workout concludes on Tuesday.

• Hauler Experience: Larry McReynolds will take fans on a virtual tour inside a Team Penske hauler to see how teams can bring their garage with them to every racetrack. Fans can see where the racecars are stored, the various storage for spare parts, the mobile office for the crews, even the kitchen for meals on the road!

• Pennzoil National Promotion: Within the Pennzoil Virtual Proving Grounds, fans can choose to participate in the brand’s national promotion, where purchasers of Pennzoil Platinum^® Full Synthetic motor oil are eligible to receive a $22 Shell Gift Card. The offer is valid through March 14, 2021 at participating locations. For more details on the promotion, please visit www.Pennzoil.com/oilchangeoffer.

Team Penske driver and current back-to-back Pennzoil 400 champion, Joey Logano, will return to Las Vegas Motor Speedway in his No. 22 Pennzoil Ford Mustang sporting a Pennzoil primary paint scheme while attempting to capture his third straight Pennzoil 400 victory. Meanwhile, teammate Ryan Blaney will pilot his No. 12 Ford Mustang Pennzoil/Menards co-primary paint scheme as the two look to punch their ticket to the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs. Team Penske drivers will have the cutting-edge technology of Pennzoil, the first synthetic motor oil made from natural gas, under their hood for unbeatable engine protection^[1] as the green flag waves for a 267-lap sprint to the finish line in the Nevada desert. Pennzoil engineers continuously work on the motor oil that goes into the race cars on the track. The Pennzoil 400 is just one example of how Pennzoil is able to innovate and support winning teams and drivers like Joey Logano and Team Penske. The on track performance and data serve as a laboratory for the motor oil Pennzoil introduces for passenger cars, helping make sure that drivers get the most out of their vehicle.

“Jiffy Lube is proud to continue its presenting sponsorship of the Pennzoil 400,” said Edward Hymes, President, Jiffy Lube International, Inc. “While the race and its surrounding events will look different this year, the virtual nature of the weekend allows us to significantly extend our reach and connect with our audience in a new and interactive way.  We are able to engage with race fans on their own terms, whether they are streaming content on their digital device or watching the action live on FOX. There truly will be something for everyone.”

The relationship with Speedway Motorsports Incorporated (SMI), owner and operator of the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, provides Pennzoil a stage to cultivate relationships with fans, partners and customers and put the spotlight on a shared appreciation for motorsports.

“We are excited for the Pennzoil 400 to be the first race on the west coast in the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series,” said Las Vegas Motor Speedway President, Chris Powell. “Shell and Pennzoil strive to be the standard in motorsports and we are thrilled to help set that standard by helping Pennzoil host one of the most exciting races of the season at our world-class facility.”

For more information about technical relationships between Pennzoil and motorsports teams, visitwww.Pennzoil.com/en_us/performance. To stay up-to-date on the latest activities, be sure to ‘like’ the official Pennzoil Facebook Page (www.facebook.com/Pennzoil) and follow @Pennzoil on Twitter (www.twitter.com/Pennzoil) and Instagram (www.instagram.com/Pennzoil) using #Pennzoil400.

Batavia, OH (March 1, 2021) – Officials of the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series are proud to announce that Brandon Ford, World’s Largest Volume Ford Dealer, is the new sponsor of the TV Race Challenge. The Brandon Ford TV Race Challenge will award points to drivers at the 33 televised events broadcasted on Network TV within the series schedule. The winner of the Brandon Ford TV Race Challenge points category will receive a $10,000 bonus, while second and third will receive $3,000 and $2,000 respectively at the year-end awards banquet. The talent of the nation’s top dirt late model drivers will be put on display along the way, not only at each facility during the live streams, but also during the 33 broadcasted events on the MAVTV Motorsports Network, 15 events on CBS Sports Network, 5 events on CBS, and 13 events on NBC Sports Network. “Having Brandon Ford sponsor this category adds to the excitement of our TV package in 2021. The drivers always want to perform at their best when the TV cameras are on, but also have added cash incentives to compete for during TV races. We want to thank Wayne Hammond and everyone at Brandon Ford for all their support of the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series,” stated Wayne Castleberry, Corporate Motorsports Sales and Marketing for Lucas Oil Products. After nine TV events completed during Speedweeks, Brandon Overton leads Hudson O’Neal, Devin Moran, Brandon Sheppard and Kyle Bronson in the Brandon Ford TV Points category. Brandon Ford, located in Tampa, FL, has won Ford’s prestigious President’s Award 17 years in a row, saluting the top-performing Ford and Lincoln dealerships that pursue excellence in the highest levels of customer satisfaction in both sales and service. Brandon Ford has one of the largest inventories of new and pre-owned vehicles in the nation. Brandon Ford is centrally located just minutes away from the Crosstown, I-75 and I-4. They are located at the corners of State Roads 301 and 60, with entrances at both sides. Their hours are posted on their website for your convenience, as well as contact phone numbers for each of their departments.  To learn more about Brandon Ford or if you are interested in purchasing a vehicle, visit: www.brandonford.com. Brandon Ford TV Race Challenge Points (as of 2/2/21)  PosCar #CompetitorHometownPoints176Brandon OvertonEvans, GA1825271Hudson O’NealMartinsville, IN171539Devin MoranDresden, OH168541sBrandon SheppardNew Berlin, IL1645540BKyle BronsonBrandon, FL1580639Tim McCreadieWatertown, NY1575781ETanner EnglishBenton, KY155081TTyler ErbNew Waverly, TX1540914Josh RichardsShinnston, WV152510157Mike MarlarWinfield, TN1505113sBrian ShirleyChatham, IL14751249Jonathan DavenportBlairsville, GA14301320Jimmy OwensNewport, TN1410141Earl Pearson JrJacksonville, FL13851525Shane ClantonZebulon, GA13251620RTRicky Thornton JrAdel, IA12951721Billy Moyer JrBatesville, AR12951899JRFrank Heckenast JrFrankfort, IL12451916Tyler BrueningDecorah, IA111020385Mark WhitenerMiddleburg, FL1030  2021 Brandon Ford TV Race Challenge Events  DateTrackEventLocationTo WinLaps23-JanAll-Tech RacewayGeneral Tire Winter Nationals Presented By LINE-XLake City, FL$15,0005025-JanEast Bay Raceway Park45th Annual Wrisco Winternationals Presented By Lucas OilTampa, FL$5,0003026-JanEast Bay Raceway Park45th Annual Wrisco Winternationals Presented By Lucas OilTampa, FL$5,0003027-JanEast Bay Raceway Park45th Annual Wrisco Winternationals Presented By Lucas OilTampa, FL$7,0004028-JanEast Bay Raceway Park45th Annual Wrisco Winternationals Presented By Lucas OilTampa, FL$7,0004029-JanEast Bay Raceway Park45th Annual Wrisco Winternationals Presented By Lucas OilTampa, FL$12,0005030-JanEast Bay Raceway Park45th Annual Wrisco Winternationals Presented By Lucas OilTampa, FL$15,000501-FebBubba Raceway ParkK&N Filters Winter Nationals Presented By OPTIMA BatteriesOcala, FL$10,000402-FebBubba Raceway ParkK&N Filters Winter Nationals Presented By OPTIMA BatteriesOcala, FL$10,0004023-AprTri-City SpeedwayBullet Race Engines 50Granite City, IL$12,0005024-AprMacon SpeedwayMacon, IL$15,00010027-MayLucas Oil Speedway8th Annual Cowboy Classic Wheatland, MO$6,0004528-MayLucas Oil SpeedwayThe Tribute to Don and Billie Gibson Wheatland, MO$6,0004029-MayLucas Oil Speedway29th Annual Lucas Oil Show-Me 100 Wheatland, MO$30,00010017-JunMagnolia Motor SpeedwayClash at the Mag presented by Big River SteelColumbus, MS$5,0002518-JunMagnolia Motor SpeedwayClash at the Mag presented by Big River SteelColumbus, MS$5,0002519-JunMagnolia Motor SpeedwayClash at the Mag presented by Big River SteelColumbus, MS$15,0006016-JulTri-City SpeedwayNAPA Know How 50Granite City, IL$12,0005017-JulLucas Oil Speedway15th Annual Diamond NationalsWheatland, MO$15,0005022-JulI-80 SpeedwayDirt Track Bank Go 50Greenwood, NE$12,0005024-JulI-80 SpeedwayImperial Tile Silver Dollar NationalsGreenwood, NE$53,0008012-AugFlorence SpeedwaySunoco North/South ShootoutUnion, KY$10,0005014-AugFlorence Speedway39th Annual Sunoco North/South 100Union, KY$50,00010019-AugBatesville Motor Speedway29th Annual COMP Cams Topless 100 Presented by Nutrien Ag SolutionsBatesville, AR$5,0003020-AugBatesville Motor Speedway29th Annual COMP Cams Topless 100 Presented by Nutrien Ag SolutionsBatesville, AR$5,0003021-AugBatesville Motor Speedway29th Annual COMP Cams Topless 100 Presented by Nutrien Ag SolutionsBatesville, AR$40,00010026-AugPort Royal SpeedwayThe Rumble by the River #1Port Royal, PA$10,0003027-AugPort Royal SpeedwayThe Rumble by the River #2 Port Royal, PA$12,0004028-AugPort Royal SpeedwayThe Rumble by the River #3Port Royal, PA$30,0005016-SepKnoxville RacewayLucas Oil Late Model NationalsKnoxville, IA$7,0002517-SepKnoxville RacewayLucas Oil Late Model NationalsKnoxville, IA$7,0002518-SepKnoxville RacewayLucas Oil Late Model NationalsKnoxville, IA$40,00010016-OctPortsmouth Raceway Park41st Annual Dirt Track World ChampionshipPortsmouth, OH$100,000100 ####

About Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series

Founded in 2005, the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series showcases the talents of the top dirt late model drivers from across the country.  In 2021, the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series will sanction 59 events across 18 states, including some of the biggest marquee events in the industry, providing dirt slinging, sideways, door-to-door racing action lap after lap.  The series receives national exposure through a television package filmed, produced and edited by Lucas Oil Production Studios.  Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series events will broadcast on four networks including CBS, NBC Sports, CBS Sports Network and the MAVTV Motorsports Network.    The in your face excitement of the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series is second to none in motorsports. For more information, including the latest news, tour schedule, driver information, and more, visit the official website at: www.LucasDirt.com.

l eventLEWISBURG, TN – March 1, 2021 – With saturated grounds at Duck River Raceway Park and more rainstorms projected throughout the week, World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Model and track officials have been forced to cancel the Friday, March 5, event at the raceway.The Saturday, March 6, Tennessee Tipoff event at Smoky Mountain Speedway is still on as scheduled with $12,000 to win on the line.For Duck River Raceway Park ticket information contact the track at 931-685-1009.For tickets to more upcoming World of Outlaws Late Model events, CLICK HERE.If you’re unable to make it to the track can watch all of the action live on DIRTVision with the annual Platinum FAST PASS subscription for $299/year or the monthly FAST PASS subscription for $39/month.

The World of Outlaws Morton Buildings® Late Model Series is brought to fans across the country by many important sponsors and partners, including: DIRTVision (Official Live Broadcast Partner), Drydene (Official Motor Oil), Hoosier Racing Tire (Official Tire), iRacing (Official Online Racing Game), Morton Buildings (Official Building), SIS Insurance (Official Insurance Provider) VP Racing Fuels (Official Racing Fuel); in addition to contingency sponsors, including: Arizona Sport Shirts/Gotta Race, ARP (Automotive Racing Products), Cometic Gasket, COMP Cams, MSD, Penske Racing Shocks, Quarter Master, Slick Woody’s (Quick Time Award), and Wrisco (Exclusive Racing Aluminum); along with manufacturer sponsors, including: Capital Race Cars, FireAde, Integra Shocks, Intercomp, K1 Race Gear, Racing Electronics, Reliable Painting, and Rocket Chassis.Founded in 1978, the World of Outlaws®, based in Concord, NC, is the premier national touring series for dirt track racing in North America, featuring the most powerful cars on dirt, the World of Outlaws NOS® Energy Drink Sprint Car Series and the World of Outlaws Morton Buildings® Late Model Series. Annually, the two series race nearly 140 times at tracks across the United States and Canada. CBS Sports Network is the official broadcast partner of the World of Outlaws. DIRTVision® also broadcasts World of Outlaws events over the Internet to fans around the world. Learn more about the World of Outlaws.

February 28, 2021

A frustrating start to the 2021 season for Matt DiBenedetto and the No. 21 Menards/Moen team continued on Sunday with a 28^th-place finish in the Dixie Vodka 400 at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

Poor finishes in the first two races of the season – both at Daytona International Speedway – relegated DiBenedetto to a starting position of 37^th on Sunday, as the field was set based on results of the first two races.

For a time early in the race, it appeared that DiBenedetto and the Menards/Moen team were on their way to putting the disappointments of February behind them. After just five laps, he had driven into the top 20, gaining a few of those spots when drivers scheduled to start ahead of him had to drop to the rear and motoring by the rest.

By Lap 16 of 167 he broke into the top 15 but lost three spots by the time the Competition Caution flew at Lap 25.

DiBenedetto finished the first 80-lap Stage in 14^th place. Stage Two was more of a challenge. Although crew chief Greg Erwin and the Menards/Moen crew made adjustments intended to improve the handling of the car, the changes didn’t produce the intended results, and the No. 21 Mustang was outside the top 20 at the end of the second Stage.

The third and final segment of the race saw DiBenedetto and the team continue their search for speed, and while he was able to gain spots just after restarts, as the runs went on he fell back.

An incident with the No. 42 of Ross Chastain left the Menards/Moen Mustang with what appeared to be minor damage, but when the team made repairs on a subsequent pit stop, DiBenedetto reported the repairs made his car drive better.
 
As the laps wound down, DiBenedetto was poised to finish just outside the top 20 but a tire problem with six laps remaining led to an unscheduled pit stop, a lost lap and a drop to 28^th place at the finish.
 
“We were just off all night,” DiBenedetto said. “Then we got damage in the nose from the 42, and that set us back more.
 
“We have some work to do.”
 
Eddie Wood said his team did its best to make the most of a difficult situation.
 
“The car was too tight for much of the race,” he said. “The crew made adjustments, but the changes made the car worse instead of better, which meant they had to go back the other way on the next stop just to get back to where they were to start with.  
 
“That was frustrating.”
 
Wood said that while the Menards/Moen team is off to a rough start to the season, he’s not overly concerned at this point.
 
“I’ve been through stretches like this many times in my years in racing,” he said. “You just have to keep working hard, and eventually things will turn around.
 
“And your competitors who have had things going good for them will have their fortunes go the other way.
 
“It’s racing.”
 
The No. 21 team will be looking for that change of fortune next Sunday in the Pennzoil 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, where DiBenedetto and the team scored runner-up finishes in both Cup Series races hosted by the track in 2020.
 

Austin Dillon and the No. 3 Bass Pro Shops / TRACKER Off Road Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE Team Show Speed at Homstead-Miami Speedway

12th   22nd 11th

“All-in-all not a bad night for the Bass Pro Shops / TRACKER Off Road Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE. We really had a strong car early. We drove to the front and we were going to finish fifth in Stage 2 but the caution came out. We restarted on the bottom and just made the wrong move going into Turn 1 and lost a bunch of spots. We lost some Stage Points there, so that was disappointing. We were able to get a Stage Point at the end of Stage 1. I thought we were going to be pretty good. We just never got going again like we needed to. We kind of got jumbled on some restarts. Man, Homestead-Miami Speedway is such a fun track. I got a little too tight in and loose off at the end. We just missed it when it got darker outside. We were really good early. We were doing a good job of keeping up with the track, but it changed drastically. It was really cool to see Tyler Reddick drive up to second and show us what we’ve got. It’s on to Las Vegas Motor Speedway for us.” -Austin Dillon

Tyler Reddick and the No. 8 Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Team Impress With Second-Place Finish at Homestead-Miami Speedway

2nd   35th 23rd

“Well, finishing second is a good night considering how the first two weekends of the season have gone, but I hate that I didn’t get this Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Chevy into Victory Lane because if I would have then I would have gotten a lot of people in America free chicken tenders on Monday night. Once I really saw how fast we were in clean air at the end of the race, and I saw how fast we were catching everybody it became beyond frustrating because I know just two or three different decisions on a restart would have put me miles ahead. I knew that we were going to have to have a well-executed restart. We didn’t do that, and it takes time to get around all of those cars who pass you on a restart because they are all really good drivers. That’s the difference. I thought we would be better in the day and everyone would catch up at night, but it was the opposite of that. We tried to work on our Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Chevy throughout the night. We learned a lot. You have to win these races by being very consistent and making the right calls as a driver and as a team. I’m proud of how fast we were at the end of the race.” -Tyler Reddick

NARC NEWSLINE – MARCH 1, 2021, By Jim Allen … Wouldn’t you know it?  The more things change, the more they remain the same.  Everybody opened their 2021 sprint car calendar with promise and hope, desperate to sit in the main grandstands and watch some dirt track racing in California.  Next thing you know, the World of Outlaws drop the Golden State portion of their schedule faster than a prom date with a STD, and the ASCS national events slip away faster than our tax dollars in California.  Not exactly the start we were looking for but it will get better.  Just remember that promise and hope thing you had back in January … because … I promise things will get better, so do not give up on the second thing.

In the meantime, let’s take the opportunity to clear up a few things about the upcoming season.  In some cases, statements are being made, and questions are being asked, that seemingly make no sense.  Let’s take a few minutes and let me verify and clarify a few of them for you:

“What do you mean the main grandstands are the pits?” … Okay race fans, this one has been confusing for some people, so get out your decoder ring and I’ll help you understand the big picture.  Every time we post on social media about an event, the first five responses almost always are … “Are the main grandstands open?” or “are tickets being sold?”

Until you see the 49ers, Kings, Lakers, Rams, Warriors and Clippers sell “tickets” to their events, the California baseline has been set.  But look at this way (in code):  Most dirt track pit areas have less than desirable seating and sight lines for the loyal teams, sponsors, fans, and crew members who drive and power the sport.  To provide a solution, promoters statewide have done us a huge favor.  As a customer service feature, they have graciously opened their main grandstands as an extension of the pit area to enhance the open wheel experience.  Extra seating?  Problem solved!  Improved sightlines?  Mission accomplished!  So, if you want to watch sprint car racing in person – something we highly encourage you to do – buy a pit pass and mosey over to the grandstands to enhance your entertainment pleasure.

“Do I get a hot pass or a cold pass?”  Think of it this way, the hot pass represents the pits working around hot race cars.  The cold pass represents a cold beer in the grandstands.  Enough said.

“Did the world fall off its axis?  Are you telling me that the Vermeil is in Chico?  The next thing you are going to say is the Bradway is in Placerville?”  Yes, that is exactly what we are saying and that is good news.  With Calistoga Speedway overall ownership/lease situation stumbling around like a bad scene from some zombie flick, promoter Tommy Hunt made a smart business decision to move the Louie Vermeil Classic to another venue.  He knew that his great two-day event would lose some serious momentum or collapse entirely if it went dark two years in a row.  Dick Vermeil and several other key event supporters agreed with this fact and now the open wheel battles of the NARC King of the West and USAC/CRA sprint cars will be fought on the quarter-miler at Chico, rather than the half-mile at Calistoga.  Considering that the Dave Bradway Jr race moved after 29-years at Silver Dollar to Placerville Speedway, it was a great way to get the NARC sprint cars back to Chico.  And while we will lose the “flat out HammerDown” aspect of Calistoga, the wheel-to-wheel battles at Silver Dollar are typically epic.

By the way, camping spots at the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds are going fast, so don’t delay in getting yours. This show promises to have an old-school Gold Cup Race of Champions feel to it. There will be six racing events over an eight-day span at the track.   I think we will call that … “Dreamweek.”

And I almost forgot this one, “the Peter Murphy Classis is now at Tulare AND Hanford?”  Yes!  It will be a great weekend.

Are our tracks under attack?  While that question may sound like something reserved for a video game, the answer is YES!  We all know about Calistoga and Petaluma, but now we should probably throw Santa Maria Raceway into the mix.  A housing development and homeowner association is creeping up on the backside of the track and has engaged lawyers in an attempt to shut the place down. They are claiming that SMR must have an EPA study performed in order to grade any dirt on the property; something that has happened every year since 1964.  It reminds me of the people who buy a home next to an airport and then complain about the noise after they move in.  If that isn’t the biggest pile of lawyer spew you’ve ever seen, nothing is!  With that move they passed politicians as the most hated profession.

San Luis Obispo County is also doing little to help the Santa Maria Raceway operate with super restrictive COVID-19 rules, making it more likely they will score a million-dollar lottery ticket than be able to hold a practice day at the facility.  Yes, we are being attacked.

The Outlaws aren’t coming … again?  You got it!  Hopefully in the Fall.  Next question!

How do you defend a 2019 title in 2021 when the series crowns a champion every year?  As you are aware, we only ran 120 feature event laps in 2020 (four events). It has been established that the series stage a minimum of 10-races to legitimately crown a champion.  In reality, even that is not even fair.  Anything less diminishes the accomplishments of hardworking NARC champions of the past, who had to grind their way through extensive racing campaigns to log their spot in the history books.  As it sits, DJ Netto has been able to bask in the glory of being the defending King of the West champ for an extra 12-months or so.  Nothing wrong with that – he earned it.

Will (favorite driver name here) be running for 2021 points and the NARC King of the West championship?  The answer is more than likely.  There are a ton of drivers and teams who have expressed their support to the NARC King of the West series and have their equipment dialed in and ready to go.  However, if California continues to stay in super lock down mode and the Outlaws, All Stars and other states continue to flaunt their full-house racing events on PPV, expect several CA teams to hit the road.  That traveling shortlist would probably include the likes of Justin Sanders, Austin McCarl, DJ Netto, Shane Golobic, Tim Kaeding and Dominic Scelzi.  These boys just want to race!

There you go!  Hopefully, I have managed to clear up a few things for you!

NARC NOTES:  2021 Membership forms can be downloaded at NARC410.com.  There are no changes to the 2020 rulebook. That can also be downloaded off the club website.  … Chase Johnson is looking for a full-time 410-winged ride! … Kyle Offill and Blake Carrick would be the early frontrunners for rookie-of-the-year. …  Something tells me that Iowa driver Austin McCarl will be a tough man to beat with Paul Baines turning the wrenches in the Tarlton Motorsports KPC. … News from Kalib Henry’s camp is that he plans to be a frequent NARC competitor this season. … All of our events will be available on FloRacing.com. … Keep in mind that the 2021 schedule is heavily “backloaded” with 15 of our 20-events taking place after July 1^st.  Some things are worth waiting for! …

… Sunnyvalley Bacon is back to sponsor the only trophy dash in the nation that is “Powered by Bacon.” … It’s been fun to see the transformation of the track and pit area at Peter Murphy’s Keller Auto Speedway in Hanford.  Mr. Murphy is on a mission and has a vision that he is chasing hard. …  Look for the NARC King of the West sprint cars to invade the Pacific Northwest in 2022. … Predictions for 2021 include Blake Carrick, Kyle Offill and Austin McCarl winning their first NARC-KWS race; Sean Watts picking off his second; DJ Netto winning at least three features, including his first since June 2017; and 2005 series champ Sean Becker hitting a dozen for his KWS career.  The Kaeding’s will win a handful. … Can you believe it has already been 11-years since Kyle Larson won the 2010 King of the West title? …

… Our condolences go out to the friends and family of “Mr. Excitement” Anthony Simone and the “Flying Frenchman” Bill Deschamps.  Both were classic old school racers who had no fear behind the wheel of a race car.  Simone seemed invincible with some of his exploits on and off the track, many which earned him “legend” status.  Deschamps had more of a workmanlike effort in his winning approach and was a friend to all.  Deschamps also contributed his time as a NARC Board Member for 13-years, including President for four. More importantly, once both drivers hung up their helmets, they helped future generations cut their teeth in their race cars. They will be missed.

It’s hard not to notice that the racing family is losing way too many people these days.

THE 2021 SEASON OPENER:  The good news is NARC King of the West Fujitsu Sprint Car season is so close you can almost smell the racing fuel in the air.  The bad news is … if you cannot smell it, you might want to get tested for COVID-19.  But seriously, the March 20^th Stockton Dirt Track will take place, barring a hurricane-force rain out or major earthquake centered in the San Joaquin Valley.  This event salutes the one and only Northern Auto Racing Club driving legend LeRoy Van Conett.  We will see you in the pit area around hot race cars or in the grandstands with a cold beer.  Either way, you should be there because promoter Tony Noceti is excited to get the 410’s back on his reconfigured racetrack.

Coming to you live from Auburn, CA.  See ya!

Myatt Snider and the No. 2 TaxSlayer Chevrolet Team Slay It with Thrilling Victory at Homestead-Miami Speedway

1st   10th 2nd

“Wow! What a win! I guess I learned my lesson on that first restart. I spun the wheels, and then I saw Tyler Reddick spin the wheels on the second restart and I knew I might have a chance. One thing I’ve always noticed about myself is that I’m always better when I have a rabbit to chase. I knew that if I could just get as much power as I could and lay out ahead of everyone else I would have a pretty good chance, and with Tyler restarting the race he had a better chance of spinning the tires himself. Tyler is tough to beat because he has a lot of experience as a NASCAR Cup Series driver. But luckily, we did it. We slayed it! I have to thank all of these RCR guys, TaxSlayer and everyone who has helped me my entire career. It’s been a rough journey but we’re leaving here with a win and I can’t complain. The first thing I am going to do is celebrate with my team. These guys have such experience and they have guided me so much. This win puts us in a really good position for the rest of the year.” -Myatt Snider

Hoosier Racing Tire Weekly Championship Keeps Expanded $45,000 PurseTop-20 drivers in all four DIRTcar Northeast divisions paid out for their top sixteen finishes, VP Fuels adds special bonuses WEEDSPORT, NY – DIRTcar Racing and Hoosier Tire will retain the expanded overall $45,000 purse for 2021 and beyond.With the $8,000 overall purse increase last year across the four DIRTcar Northeast divisions — Big Blocks, 358 Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds and Pro Stocks — the top-20 drivers in each division will continue to be recognized and awarded in November during the banquet.“When we knew last year that there weren’t going to be Series events and Series point funds, we shifted our focus to the Hoosier Racing Tire Weekly to help out the tracks that did open up during the pandemic,” said DIRTcar Northeast Director Dean Reynolds. “Then it was decided to expand the number of competitors that will receive a cash payout.The Hoosier Racing Tire Weekly Championship points cover all four DIRTcar Northeast divisions: DIRTcar Big Block Modifieds, 358 Modifieds, Sportsman Modifieds, and Pro Stocks. Each drivers’ top-16 finishes in DIRTcar sanctioned Feature are calculated for points. Stewart Friesen received $5,000 for being on top of the points for Big Blocks while Mat Williamson visited every track he could in Canada to come out on top of the DIRTcar 358 Modified points to take home $3,000. Kevin Root just nipped Andrew Buff to receive his $1,000 while “Cousin” Luke Horning was king in the Pro Stocks to receive his $1,000.VP Fuels also has many special bonuses for the top point-getters in the weekly point championship, last year they handed out more than $7,500 in fuel certificates to more than 30 different drivers to make it more lucrative.  While DIRTcar sanctioned weekly racing is the main focus of the championship, it is notable that all Series races in all divisions also count towards drivers’ top-16 finishes as well. This creates an inviting environment for drivers to race for track championships but also travel to other DIRTcar events when possible. Despite COVID-19 restrictions throughout the Northeast and Canada, there was still an impressive number of sanctioned races in all four divisions. In 2020, there were 69 DIRTcar Big Block, 66 358 Modified, 177 Sportsman Modified, and 83 Pro Stock Features completed in 2020 which raced for the first time under the top-20 pay structure. With a robust weekly championship points fund in place and a common rule set spanning most of the Northeast, DIRTcar Racing is primed for another successful year of premier dirt track racing.  Keep up with the Hoosier Racing Tire Weekly Championship points standings and the latest news on Facebook, Twitter, DIRTcar.com, and via the newsletter which can be signed up for on the website.PHOTO: Brent Smith

DIRTcar Racing is brought to fans by many important sponsors and partners, including: DIRTVision (Official Live Broadcast Partner), Hoosier Racing Tire (Official Tire), SIS Insurance (Official Insurance Provider), VP Racing Fuels (Official Racing Fuel), Chevy Performance Parts, iRacing (Official Online Racing Game), Arizona Sport Shirts/Gotta Race, and NAPA Auto Parts (SDS). Contingency sponsors include: ARP (Automotive Racing Products), ASI Race Wear (SDS), Bassett, Bicknell Racing Products, Billy Whittaker Cars & Trux (SDS), Cometic Gasket (SDS), COMP Cams, Drydene, Fast Shafts, Fox Factory (SDS), Arizona Sport Shirts/Gotta Race, Jerovetz Motorsports Shock Service, KSE Racing Products, MSD, Quarter Master, Schoenfeld Headers, Summit Racing Equipment, and Wrisco (Exclusive Racing Aluminum) (SDS); along with manufacturer sponsors, including: Beyea Headers, FireAde, Intercomp, K1 Race Gear, Racing Electronics and Velocita USA.

Madden leads by 25 points in chase for $15,000 championship MODOC, SC – Feb. 26, 2021 – It’s been a great start to Kyle Strickler’s second full-time season in a Late Model. After signing on to the full-time roster with the World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Model Series, earning his first two Outlaw Feature wins and topping the points standings after the first five races, The Highside Tickler now finds himself in the hunt of his first Drydene Xtreme DIRTcar Series championship with only one race left. The battle will be settled in the season finale this Saturday night, Feb. 27, at Modoc Raceway. Twenty-five points is all that separates the two in the standings, leaving plenty room for Strickler to make up the gap and go for the $15,000 top prize. All he has to do is finish enough spots ahead of current points leader Chris Madden – the South Carolina racing veteran, four-time Xtreme DIRTcar Feature winner and defending Series champion. That task is easier said than done, but Strickler’s up for the challenge. “We’re gonna go for the win. It still pays $8,000 for second in points. So, we’ll go [to Modoc] and try to win the race. The points will take care of themselves,” Strickler said. Strickler beat Madden by one spot last Saturday at Lake View Motor Speedway, bringing him to within 15 points of the points lead. But his third-place run Sunday at Cherokee Speedway brought the deficit back to 25 after Madden scored his second victory of the season by leading every lap of the Feature. “Chris – he’s been doing this and coming to Cherokee for so long, that if you put him on the front row, he’s gonna be really hard to beat,” Strickler said. Strickler will need a Feature win with Madden finishing seventh or worse to overtake him in the standings and clinch his first Xtreme DIRTcar championship. If he doesn’t win, Madden will need to finish even further down the running order for Strickler to make up the difference in points. Strickler’s maintained a solid gap in points over third-place Daulton Wilson throughout the Series, one which widened to 35 after Wilson placed 17th at Cherokee after blowing a tire while running third. Like many other drivers, Strickler prefers to focus on his driving rather than points-watching, but it’s still in the back of his mind. “[At Lake View and Cherokee], I was kinda playing the points game some. Especially with the racing conditions and the track conditions, you had to put yourself in a good position,” he said. A longtime driver of Longhorn Chassis in the DIRTcar UMP Modified ranks, Strickler credits a lot of his success with the Late Model as of late to the switch he and the PCC Motorsports team recently made to a Longhorn. “The car switch was huge for me, confidence-wise and for my team,” he said. “We know what we’re doing when it comes to the Longhorn cars. I just have so much confidence to drive them and I can make moves on the racetrack that I wouldn’t think about making in the Rocket [Chassis], just because I didn’t feel comfortable in it.” To be contending for a championship so early on in the year goes to show just how well Strickler and his new team have meshed in the opening races of the racing season. The big Drydene oil barrel champion’s trophy would just be icing on the cake. “The car’s fast, and that’s the important thing. When we have a fast racecar and the guys are doing their job, nothing’s falling off of it, I’m happy at the end of the day,” Strickler said. Catch the epic season finale for the Drydene Xtreme DIRTcar Series from Modoc Raceway this Saturday night at the track or LIVE on DIRTVision!

The Drydene Xtreme DIRTcar Series is brought to fans by many important sponsors and partners, including: Drydene Performance Products (Official Motor Oil), ARP [Automotive Racing Products], Chevy Performance Parts, COMP Cams, DART, DIRTVision (Official Live Broadcast Partner), FireAde, Hoosier Racing Tire (Official Tire), Intercomp, iRacing (Official Online Racing Game), MSD, Racing Electronics, SIS Insurance (Official Insurance Provider) and VP Racing Fuels (Official Racing Fuel).

Past champions and rookies top the bill as prime contenders for the two-day event in South CarolinaGAFFNEY, SC – Feb. 26, 2021 – The World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Model Series will visit Cherokee Speedway for a doubleheader weekend Friday and Saturday, March 26-27.It’ll be the Series’ fifth straight year of visiting the 3/8-mile track, which will mark the Series’ first visit to South Carolina this year.Brandon Overton, who picked up his 14th career World of Outlaws victory at Volusia Speedway Park, became the first repeat winner with the Series at Cherokee last year. He bested three-time defending champion Brandon Sheppard to claim the victory.A win at Cherokee for Sheppard would be his first at the track and put him on the path to try and secure a couple of historic milestones. He’s currently one win away from 70 career World of Outlaws wins, which would put him only seven victories away from tying Josh Richards’s all-time win record of 77 career wins. He’s also looking to tie Richards for the most championships in Series history this year, too. Richards has four. Sheppard is currently at three.There will be a hoard of competitive drivers for him to try and contend with, though. Two of them may even be a pair of Rookie of the Year contenders. South Carolina-native Ross Bailes earned his first career World of Outlaws victory at Cherokee in 2019. And Kyle Strickler picked up two wins in the first five races of the season. He’s also currently atop the championship points.Chris Madden, the 28-time World of Outlaws winner, of Gray Court, SC, has yet to pick up a Series win at Cherokee but has 26 victories at the track – most recently with the Drydene Xtreme DIRTcar Series – and finished third against the Outlaws there last year.The only other two drivers to have picked up a win with the World of Outlaws at Cherokee are 2018 Series champion Mike Marlar – in 2018 – and 2015 Series champion Shane Clanton – in 2017. Clanton has rejoined the tour full-time in 2021 and will be on the hunt for his first Series win since 2019.With the best Late Model drivers in the world set to gather at Cherokee for the two-day event, The Most Powerful Late Models on the Planet are poised to give fans two more thrilling events in South Carolina.The doubleheader will also give a good preview for the Friday, Oct.1, Mike Duvall Memorial at Cherokee Speedway. For tickets to the Cherokee events, go to WorldofOutlaws.com/tix.If you’re unable to make it to the track can watch all of the action live on DIRTVision with the annual Platinum FAST PASS subscription for $299/year or the monthly FAST PASS subscription for $39/month.

The World of Outlaws Morton Buildings® Late Model Series is brought to fans across the country by many important sponsors and partners, including: DIRTVision (Official Live Broadcast Partner), Drydene (Official Motor Oil), Hoosier Racing Tire (Official Tire), iRacing (Official Online Racing Game), Morton Buildings (Official Building), SIS Insurance (Official Insurance Provider) VP Racing Fuels (Official Racing Fuel); in addition to contingency sponsors, including: Arizona Sport Shirts/Gotta Race, ARP (Automotive Racing Products), Cometic Gasket, COMP Cams, MSD, Penske Racing Shocks, Quarter Master, Slick Woody’s (Quick Time Award), and Wrisco (Exclusive Racing Aluminum); along with manufacturer sponsors, including: Capital Race Cars, FireAde, Integra Shocks, Intercomp, K1 Race Gear, Racing Electronics, Reliable Painting, and Rocket Chassis.Founded in 1978, the World of Outlaws®, based in Concord, NC, is the premier national touring series for dirt track racing in North America, featuring the most powerful cars on dirt, the World of Outlaws NOS® Energy Drink Sprint Car Series and the World of Outlaws Morton Buildings® Late Model Series. Annually, the two series race nearly 140 times at tracks across the United States and Canada. CBS Sports Network is the official broadcast partner of the World of Outlaws. DIRTVision® also broadcasts World of Outlaws events over the Internet to fans around the world. Learn more about the World of Outlaws.

THEN & NOW: Shuman and Schatz Compare East Bay Ahead of Outlaws Return on March 6 TAMPA, FL – Feb. 25, 2021 – It’s been 38 years since the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series last ran on “The Clay By The Bay.”On March 6, the long-awaited and highly-anticipated return finally happens.The conclusion to a Florida doubleheader established by a revised spring schedule, The Greatest Show on Dirt will roll into Tampa’s East Bay Raceway Park on Saturday, March 6 following another go at Barberville’s Volusia Speedway Park on Friday, March 5.BUY EAST BAY TICKETS HEREIn four plus decades of World of Outlaws history, this 38-year period from February 15, 1983 to March 6, 2020 is the single-longest gap between events for any track in Series history. Over that span, the sport has changed drastically. One thing that has stayed the same, though, is East Bay’s uniqueness.We talked to Ron Shuman – a 24-time World of Outlaws winner and East Bay victor in 1979 – and Donny Schatz – a 10-time World of Outlaws champion and East Bay winner in February – to get their perspective on the Tampa, FL 1/3rd-mile.”Everybody has heard about East Bay Raceway Park,” Schatz said. “They’ve seen the videos and they’ve wondered why the Outlaws don’t go there when we come to Florida, and now we don’t have to answer that question because we’re going.”Heard about East Bay they had. Although only three of the current 15 full-time drivers had been born before 1983, almost all of them have raced at the track at some point, be it 360 sprint cars or with the All Stars Circuit of Champions. In fact, East Bay is where Schatz met fellow Outlaw and longtime friend Jason Sides back in the 1990’s.Shuman, of Tempe, AZ, and his gang of original Outlaws were accustomed to East Bay as a mainstay on the calendar each year. From 1979 to 1983, they ran 17 events at the track with multi-day programs each time. While modern day runners get their taste of Florida fun at Volusia, Shuman and his friends Kinser, Swindell, Wolfgang, and others soaked up the sun in Tampa.”The biggest difference for us back then was we ran without wings,” Shuman noted. “Being in ’79, we were still running wings at some tracks and without at others, and East Bay was a non-wing place. We raced at that place a lot back in the day too, I mean four days a time with qualifying and prelims before the main event. Each year, we loaded up and went to Florida in February. I drove for Kalb there, Stanton, the Ofixco Special, Weikert’s Livestock, lots of owners at East Bay. We always drew good car counts there too.”The uniqueness of East Bay’s location in Tampa is what has helped make it so special.”It’s in this tight little area around that industrial park and the bay is basically right there,” Schatz mentioned. “The track has a lot of character, and the surface itself is so unique. You think there’s grip here, but there’s not; then you come around the next lap and you’ve got it. It changes literally lap-by-lap being near the ocean. It’s a unique shape, unique surface and unique facility with a lot of history and heritage.””It was definitely funky at times being that close to the water,” Shuman agreed. “I remember some nights, maybe the night I won, it was freezing ass cold, but the next you’d have perfect weather. That stuff really changed the track up. We didn’t really do as much changing with the cars back then, so it was just about getting in and figuring it out behind the wheel.”A special place specifically for Shuman, his February 9, 1979 victory at East Bay marked the first of his World of Outlaws career. Driving the Mecom Kalb, Firestone #721, The Flyin’ Shu topped Steve Kinser, Johnny Anderson, Lee James and Bob East for the victory. The 2003 National Sprint Car Hall of Fame inductee eventually ended up with 24 Outlaw wins, currently tied with Logan Schuchart for 24th on the all-time wins list.”That was the year I started driving for [Gary] Stanton on the Outlaw tour, but we weren’t ready to leave that early in the year.” Shuman recalled. “Mecom Kalb had a new Stanton car and I remember we actually missed the show the first night at Volusia and then won that next Sunday at East Bay. From hero-to-zero.”For Schatz, who was an 18-month old baby when the Outlaws debuted at East Bay in ’79, his first Tampa triumph came just last month in All Stars action aboard the Tony Stewart Racing #15.”I don’t know that there’s anything specific we can take away,” Schatz noted on learning from last month. “It’s 2021. Everyone has phones, computers, and you can watch the races and see what’s going on. To me, you can have all those things but it doesn’t do you any good until you get on the track and see how your car reacts to the environment. It was a great opportunity to go out and see how the new Ford Performance motor stacked up on the short track. It went well obviously, and now we’ve had some extra time to work on it and hopefully make it that much better for next weekend.”Schatz will have his opportunity on next Saturday, March 6 to join an elite list of East Bay Outlaw winners which includes Doug Wolfgang (7), Sammy Swindell (3), Danny Smith (2), Rick Ferkel (1), Steve Kinser (1), Johnny Anderson (1), Keith Kauffman (1) and Ron Shuman (1).A winless night at Volusia could send the Fargo, ND native into the East Bay return with a chance to nail down his historic 300th career World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series victory at the Tampa, FL facility.Anyone unable to make it to the track can watch all of the action live on DIRTVision with the annual Platinum FAST PASS subscription for $299/year or the monthly FAST PASS subscription for $39/month.

The World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink® Sprint Car Series is brought to fans across the country by many important sponsors and partners, including: DIRTVision (Official Live Broadcast Partner), Drydene (Official Motor Oil), Hoosier Racing Tire (Official Tire), iRacing (Official Online Racing Game), Morton Buildings (Official Building), NOS Energy (Official Energy Product), SIS Insurance (Official Insurance Provider) and VP Racing Fuels (Official Racing Fuel); contingency sponsors include ARP (Automotive Racing Products), Cometic Gasket, COMP Cams, KSE Racing Products (Hard Charger Award), MSD and Slick Woody’s (Quick Time Award); manufacturer sponsors include FireAde, Intercomp, K1 Race Gear, and Racing Electronics.Founded in 1978, the World of Outlaws®, based in Concord, NC, is the premier national touring series for dirt track racing in North America, featuring the most powerful cars on dirt, the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series and the World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Model Series. Annually, the two series race nearly 140 times at tracks across the United States and Canada. CBS Sports Network is the official broadcast partner of the World of Outlaws. DIRTVision® also broadcasts all World of Outlaws events over the Internet to fans around the world. Learn more about the World of Outlaws.

-Toyota Camry Funny Car team will be backed by ROKiT and Bandero Premium Tequila-

AUSTIN, TX (February 23, 2021) — NHRA Funny Car driver Alexis DeJoria is ready to begin her quest for her first NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series world championship as the season gets underway in less than a month. The accomplished driver will once again get behind the wheel of her new-look black and white Toyota Camry Funny Car with familiar sponsor ROKiT as well as a new sponsor Bandero Premium Tequila, as the 70^th NHRA season gets underway officially at the 52^nd annual NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville, Florida, March 12-14.

“I can’t wait to start this season with my ROKiT Toyota Camry and new sponsor Bandero Premium Tequila,” said DeJoria, a five-time Funny Car national event winner. “We finished last season with some strong performances and we are looking forward to picking up where we left on the performance side. (Crew Chiefs) Del (Worsham) and Nicky (Boninfante) will have this Camry Funny Car flying and I am ready to turn on some win lights this season.”

This season DeJoria is proud to represent ROKiT and Bandero Premium Tequila, two companies she has a vested interest in seeing succeed. This will be the second season for ROKiT to utilize NHRA as a marketing platform to promote the company’s phones, electric bikes and WiFi services. New to the team is Bandero, a smooth sipping tequila, handmade in small batches in Jalisco, Mexico, from the finest locally sourced, Blue Weber Agave.

“Being able to use a 330 mph race car to promote ROKiT products across the U.S. and having the best tequila on the market, Bandero, fuel this passion, is a match made in heaven,” said ROKiT co-founder, Jonathan Kendrick. “I know these race cars are incredibly powerful and the experience of seeing them in person or on TV makes incredible memories. We are excited to see Alexis chase her championship dreams.”

 DeJoria added, “Both of these brands represent my passion and dedication to perfection, innovation and being true to yourself. The diversity of the ROKiT brands is massive and we are continuing to find ways to integrate into the NHRA. I am especially excited about introducing Bandero to my NHRA fans because the meticulousness that goes into making this tequila gives it an amazing flavor.”

DeJoria’s success last season picked up after the historic U.S. Nationals Labor Day weekend, a race she won in 2014, and continued over the final five races of the season. She qualified in the top five each of the last five races and advanced to three semifinals in the last four races. Her first-year DC Motorsports team and ROKiT Funny Car earned the fourth-highest point total over the last half of the season. For the admittedly highly-competitive DeJoria those results only fueled her passion.

“We had a new team last year and it took some time to get squared away, but when we came together we were a very tough team,” added DeJoria, who will be looking to add to her 109 round win total in 2021. “This sport is about passion and pushing it to the limit. It is the perfect sport for me as well as my sponsors, ROKiT and Bandero Premium Tequila. When I get behind the wheel of this 330 mph Camry Funny Car I have to be totally committed and ready for anything. I have an amazing team behind me and I can’t imagine doing anything else. I have a feeling this is going to be a great year for us.”

The 2021 NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series season will be DeJoria’s eight season of full-time professional racing. Prior to advancing to the highest level in drag racing DeJoria owned, managed and competed with her own Top Alcohol Funny Car team, winning the 2011 NHRA Northwest Nationals. DeJoria is the first woman to compete in 100 Funny Car national events and was the first female to break the four-second elapsed time barrier, 3.998 seconds, at Brainerd International Raceway in 2014. 

Inside Line Promotions – HANFORD, Calif. (Feb. 25, 2021) – Dominic Scelzi rallied for a top-five finish last Saturday during his first start in his home state this season.

Scelzi was efficient throughout the night at Keller Auto Speedway, where he qualified fourth quickest in his group. He gained a position in a heat race to place second, which was only one spot shy of making the dash.

“We were trying to get a little aggressive in qualifying and it didn’t work,” he said. “That slowed us down a bit from where we hot lapped. We went back to what we normally do and were really good in the heat race.”

Scelzi started the main event on the outside of the fifth row, but lost a few positions early to avoid a crash.

“Someone nearly spun out and everyone checked up going into the first corner,” he said. “I had to move way out of the way and fell to around 14 ^th. My car was really, really good. A lot of the guys at the beginning of the race were running around the bottom. I just sailed it around the top. I got back to 10^th in six or seven laps.”

As the race moved along so did Scelzi’s confidence as his sprint car improved lap by lap. He cracked the top five late in the race and made a last-lap move to secure a fourth-place showing.

“I ran the bottom a little in turns one and two and slid through the middle in turns three and four a bit, but for the most part I was running the top,” he said. “Toward the end, once I got into seventh or so, I was sliding guys. I felt like I had a car just as good as second or third.”

Scelzi will take this weekend off before heading to Kern County Raceway Park in Bakersfield, Calif., on March 5-6 for a Lucas Oil ASCS National Tour doubleheader.

QUICK RESULTS –

Feb. 20 – Keller Auto Speedway in Hanford, Calif. – Qualifying: 4; Heat race: 2 (3); Feature: 4 (10).

SEASON STATS –

4 races, 0 wins, 2 top fives, 4 top 10s, 4 top 15s, 4 top 20s

UP NEXT –

March 5-6 at Kern County Raceway Park in Bakersfield, Calif., with the Lucas Oil ASCS National Tour

Richard Childress Racing at Homestead-Miami Speedway… Homestead-Miami Speedway is one of the few race tracks where team owner Richard Childress has yet to earn a NASCAR Cup Series victory. Richard Childress Racing entries have finished second on four occasions: 2003 (Kevin Harvick), 2008 (Harvick), 2009 (Jeff Burton) and 2014 (Ryan Newman). In 66 Cup Series starts, RCR has earned nine top-five and 25 top-10 finishes at the 1.5-mile, progressively-banked oval. The Welcome, N.C.-based organization has captured three NASCAR Xfinity Series wins, including 2019 when Tyler Reddick was crowned the 2019 Xfinity Series champion.   Catch the Action… The NASCAR Xfinity Series Xfinity 250 will be televised live Saturday, February 27, beginning at 4:30 p.m. ET on FS1 and will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.  The NASCAR Cup Series Dixie Vodka 400 will be televised live Sunday, February 28, beginning at 3:30 p.m. ET on FOX and will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Austin Dillon and the No. 3 Bass Pro Shops / TRACKER Off Road Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE at Homestead-Miami Speedway… Dillon has seven previous NASCAR Cup Series starts at Homestead-Miami Speedway, securing his best finish of seventh in June 2020 and a best starting position of 10th in November 2015. Homestead-Miami Memories… The Welcome, North Carolina driver has plenty of positive memories at the 1.5-mile, intermediate-style track. In 2013, he clinched the NASCAR Xfinity Series championship at Homestead-Miami Speedway by finishing 12th in the Series’ season finale. He also clinched the NASCAR Truck Series title at the track in 2011. About TRACKER Off Road… Dillon’s No. 3 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE prominently features TRACKER ATVs, a game-changing new line of all-terrain vehicles and side-by-sides offering breakthrough performance, service and value in the off-road industry. TRACKER OFF ROAD was born out of a powerhouse partnership formed between Bass Pro Shops and TRACKER founder Johnny Morris and Textron Specialized Vehicles, bringing together the undisputed world leader in boating with a global leader in innovation and technology. About Bass Pro Shops… Bass Pro Shops is North America’s premier outdoor and conservation company. Founded in 1972 when avid young angler Johnny Morris began selling tackle out of his father’s liquor store in Springfield, Missouri, today the company provides customers with unmatched offerings spanning premier destination retail, outdoor equipment manufacturing, world-class resort destinations and more. In 2017 Bass Pro Shops acquired Cabela’s to create a “best-of-the-best” experience with superior products, dynamic locations and outstanding customer service. Bass Pro Shops also operates White River Marine Group, offering an unsurpassed collection of industry-leading boat brands, and Big Cedar Lodge, America’s Premier Wilderness Resort. Under the visionary conservation leadership of Johnny Morris, Bass Pro Shops is a national leader in protecting habitat and introducing families to the outdoors and has been named by Forbes as “one of America’s Best Employers.” Bass Pro Shops has a long relationship with NASCAR, dating back to 1998. For more information, visit http://www.basspro.com/. AUSTIN DILLON QUOTES:With an earlier start time at Homestead-Miami Speedway than what you are used to having in the past, do you expect any real changes to the way the track drives?“That’s a good point. It’s something we’ll be thinking about. We’ve been pretty solid in the nighttime the last couple of races at Homestead-Miami Speedway. During the day, the top groove gets pretty dominate so that fence will be important. Some guys can run it up high by the fence consistently. The darker it gets, I seem to move down the track and find more and more speed. I think the rubber, when it gets laid down too, creates a little more parody in the line that you can run. Finishing during the daylight will be different, but it’s also Florida. We might get a little rain and still finish at night with a weather delay.” What excites you most about Homestead-Miami Speedway?“First of all, it’s an oval. I’m excited about getting back on an oval that’s not a speedway. Everybody’s excited for the first 1.5-mile of the year because it allows you to see what kind of speed you’re going to have in your program and where you stack up. It can be a long year if you don’t have your stuff together. We ran well at Homestead-Miami Speedway last year. I think I got a tire outside the box penalty and we came from the tail-end of the longest line to the top-10. I think we finished seventh. It was fun; we had a really fast car, so I can’t wait to get there. And obviously Tyler Reddick is solid there and I think that’s pushed our program to another level when it comes to running at Homestead-Miami Speedway. People really put an emphasis on that track for him because they know it’s a place where he can show up and run really well. I feel like we’ve learned off of our cars the last couple of years.” Talk us through running the highline at Homestead-Miami Speedway and the challenges involved. “I think as the race starts, the track is pretty green, even though sometimes you have races before it. The higher you get, the cleaner the surface is and it seems to grip the tire better. So, you’re obviously working right there against the fence. And a lot of people believe that air gap between the wall gives you extra side force. I haven’t really done any research in that, as far as aerodynamics go, but I’ve been told to believe it. The grip makes the straightaways longer. The biggest thing you’re trying to accomplish is being in the throttle longer and the guys that are really good at it can carry some speed doing it at the beginning of the run. But when your tires are the freshest is when I feel like the most vulnerable for the people that run the fence because it’s the longest way around the track. That’s why you see guys that will run the whole race up there, lead laps and look like they’re going to be the winner. But if a caution comes out late, they’re in a vulnerable spot because they’ve set their car up to run one line. If somebody has just kind of got their car turning good enough to make a couple laps on the bottom before the tires really start wearing out, that outside line is in a vulnerable spot. The goal is to use it when you need it. For me, I try to use it when the track goes for long runs – I tend to move up there and start using the fence to take care of my tires. I’m also conscious of not driving the right rear off of it so I have something toward the end of the race. It only pays that last lap, obviously, and track position is key. But I think the only way to have a chance is to have the car in one piece and have it be a little more maneuverable. This time around, with it being in the daylight, I do think the top will be the dominate place to run, especially after a couple of laps. You see guys be able to make that ¾ mark work, as well. The seams are as important there as the wall sometimes.”

Tyler Reddick and the No. 8 Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE at Homestead-Miami Speedway… Reddick has one NASCAR Cup Series start at Homestead-Miami Speedway, finishing fourth at the 1.5-mile track last year. Reddick has two wins in the NASCAR Xfinity Series at the Florida speedway, which clinched his back-to-back Xfinity Series championships in 2018 and 2019. He also has a fourth-place finish at the track from his part-time Xfinity Series schedule in 2017, as well as two pole awards (2017 and 2019). In addition, the sophomore driver has three NASCAR Truck Series starts at the track, starting and finishing in the top 10 for all three events. About Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen… Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen is the homestyle casual dining restaurant where guests always Get a lot. For not a lot™. The restaurant offers a variety of scratch-made meals and generous portions served up in a warm, welcoming atmosphere – all at an unbelievable price. After being welcomed with a signature Honey Butter Croissant on the house, guests can enjoy signature entrées like hand-breaded Chicken Tenders, Homemade Chicken Pot Pie and Fall-off-the-Plate Baby Back Ribs. Cheddar’s operates more than 170 restaurants in 28 states and employs more than 15,000 friendly and passionate team members. For more information or to locate the nearest restaurant, visit Cheddars.com. Fans can like or follow Cheddar’s on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. When Tyler Wins, You Win Tenders!… Like Reddick, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen is hungry for his first Cup Series win to come in 2021. So all season long, when Reddick takes the checkered flag in the Cup Series, all NASCAR fans will win a FREE No. 8 Special Chicken Tender Platter at Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen the Monday following the race. Offer is valid both dine-in and To Go. See cheddars.com/offer/race-day for full details. TYLER REDDICK QUOTE: You’ve had a lot of success in your career at Homestead-Miami Speedway. What is it about this track that works for you?“I’ve been very fortunate to have some great vehicles at Homestead-Miami Speedway, whether it be in the trucks, Xfinity or Cup cars, so that helps a lot with just overall confidence and feeling comfortable there. Going there with such strong cars really has allowed me to play into my strengths around that track. Homestead-Miami Speedway is a place where you can move around and change up your line almost every lap to find more speed. So, I think just having a feel for that, the tire fall-off there, and how much you can move around suits my driving style. It’s just something that came rather quickly to me from the start. I had a rookie test there in the NASCAR Truck Series, so I’ve had a lot of on-track time there too. We need to go into the race on Sunday with that confidence and just maintain it during the entire day in order to hopefully get our No. 8 Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Chevrolet into Victory Lane and win all race fans a free No. 8 Special on Monday.”

Myatt Snider and the No. 2 TaxSlayer Chevrolet Camaro at Homestead-Miami Speedway… Snider has two career NASCAR Xfinity Series start at Homestead-Miami Speedway, both of which came in 2020. The 26-year-old earned his best finish of seventh in his second start. Also, Snider has competed in two NASCAR Truck Series races, posting two top-15 efforts.  About TaxSlayer… TaxSlayer makes online tax filing accessible for millions of Americans, with an easy-to-use platform and unlimited support at a fraction of the cost of the competition. Trusted for over 50 years, the Augusta-based tech company successfully completed more than 10 million federal and state e-filed tax returns in 2020 and processed $15 billion in refunds. TaxSlayer achieved a 4.5/5 TrustScore on consumer review site Trustpilot, with 87% of its customers rating the tax filing platform Great or Excellent. For more information, visit www.TaxSlayer.com. MYATT SNIDER QUOTE: What are your thoughts heading into Homestead-Miami Speedway? “Last year, I went to Homestead-Miami Speedway with the mentality of just learning and getting better at the track. It had been a place I’ve struggled at historically. Turns out though, all I needed to do was hop into an Xfinity car. I had a pair of my best finishes in the No. 93 last season at Homestead. Going back this year, with the same Richard Childress Racing race team that won the race in 2019, my expectations are high. Andy Street (crew chief) and I have been working hard on ironing out everything in preparation for this race. I think we are going to be in really good shape to slay it this Saturday with our TaxSlayer Chevrolet Camaro.”

WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Madden prepares to defend title, Strickler looks to make up 25-point gap MODOC, SC – Feb. 24, 2021 – It’s time to settle a points battle and crown a champion. The Drydene Xtreme DIRTcar Series will put a cap on its 2020-21 campaign this Saturday night, Feb. 27, in the second Series visit to Modoc Raceway. A 40-lap, $7,000-to-win Feature event will precede a full championship celebration, broadcasted live on DIRTVision presented by Drydene. Two drivers are still mathematically in contention for the championship title, both battling for the $15,000 champion’s check. Each of the eight drivers with perfect attendance through all six races will get a cash bonus in addition to the points fund check they receive. Friday night’s open practice session will start the on-track activity, running from 7-10pm; gates will open at 5pm and grandstand admission is free. Race day activities get underway on Saturday with gates opening at 3pm, drivers meeting at 5:30 and Hot Laps at 6. Grandstand admission is $20 for adults, kids age 7-12 are $10 and 6-and-under are free. If you can’t make it to the track, be sure to tune into DIRTVision presented by Drydene to catch all the action LIVE from the comfort of your home! Here are the storylines to follow in this Saturday’s event: SHOW ME THE MONEY – Drydene Performance Products is giving back to the drivers who followed the tour in its entirety this season and will be presenting a $500 bonus check to each of the eight drivers with perfect attendance through the first five races when they sign-in on Saturday. Eligible drivers include Chris Madden, Kyle Strickler, Daulton Wilson, Anthony Sanders, Trent Ivey, Adam Yarbrough, Tim Vance and David Yandle. Those same drivers will also receive their points fund checks according to their position in the final points standings. The championship celebration will take place on DIRTVision, directly after the completion of the Feature. The champion will take home $15,000; the runner-up will collect $8,000 and third place will receive $5,000. All three podium finishers in points will also receive Drydene product/merchandise certificates (worth $2,000, $1,000 and $500, respectively) in addition to their Drydene oil barrel trophies. CHAMP EYES REPEAT – Chris Madden, of Gray Court, SC, comes into the weekend as the points leader, looking to defend his Series crown that he clinched in the finale at Modoc last year. Twenty-five points is all that separates him from nearest Kyle Strickler, meaning he will have to stay within five positions should Strickler win the Feature to clinch the title. Should the points standings be tied after the Feature, Madden will still be awarded the title on account of his greater Feature win count over the six-race Series. Madden’s scenario was much different in last year’s finale. He was piloting a Team Zero Race Cars chassis for Scott Bloomquist Racing, and was much farther ahead of runner-up Ross Bailes in the points standings due to the inaugural season’s points structure. Madden placed 12th in the Modoc finale, sealing his first Xtreme championship. TICKLER TIME – Kyle Strickler, of Mooresville, NC, sits just 25 points behind Chris Madden in the chase for the championship. With the standard, non-bonus DIRTcar points structure being implemented for this season, The Highside Tickler will have a challenge ahead of him as he aims to place enough spots higher than Madden come Saturday to dethrone him as champ and take place atop the Xtreme Series. Surprisingly, Strickler has yet to win an Xtreme Feature. He finished 7th after starting 14th at Modoc last year. WILSON’S GREAT RUN – It’s been a great first season following the Xtreme tour in its entirety for Fayetteville, NC’s Daulton Wilson, even with the sour ending to his Feature efforts in last Sunday’s Frostbite 40 at Cherokee Speedway. Wilson hadn’t finished outside of the top-10 through the first four races and was headed for his fifth-straight top-10 when he blew a tire while running third, ultimately settling for a 17th-place result. However, Wilson’s got a lot to be proud of as he continues to make a name for himself on the Southeastern Super Late Model circuit. He’s currently 16 points ahead of fourth-place Anthony Sanders in the standings, and provided he maintains that lead over Sanders, he’ll pick up a solid $5,000 points fund check. HORNS UP – Ross Bailes, of Clover, SC, scored the win last Saturday in the Series debut at Lake View Motor Speedway in a ride different from that of his primary 2021 chariot. Car owner Billy Hicks offered up the driver’s seat of his blue/black Longhorn Chassis #79 to Bailes for the remainder of the Xtreme tour, and he plans to finish it out this Saturday at Modoc. Bailes placed eighth in his Xtreme trip to Modoc last year behind the wheel of his self-owned Rocket Chassis #87, earning him a runner-up finish in the final points standings. This year, having only entered three races thus far, Bailes sits sixth in points, 105 back from Madden. RONDA ROCKET RISES – After a disappointing end to what would have been his first Xtreme Feature win last Saturday at Lake View, Matthew Nance, of Ronda, NC, is expected to saddle up and finish out the Xtreme tour at Modoc. He’ll be piloting the Rum Runner Racing Longhorn Chassis #2 – the same car that won the Xtreme tour finale at Modoc one year ago with Pearson Lee Williams behind the wheel. Nance showed very strong signs of his first Xtreme Feature win being right around the corner at Lake View, setting overall quick time, winning his Heat Race and leading most of the Feature.

The Drydene Xtreme DIRTcar Series is brought to fans by many important sponsors and partners, including: Drydene Performance Products (Official Motor Oil), ARP [Automotive Racing Products], Chevy Performance Parts, COMP Cams, DART, DIRTVision (Official Live Broadcast Partner), FireAde, Hoosier Racing Tire (Official Tire), Intercomp, iRacing (Official Online Racing Game), MSD, Racing Electronics, SIS Insurance (Official Insurance Provider) and VP Racing Fuels (Official Racing Fuel).

The Rookie of the Year contender is aiming to gain as much experience as he can for a top-five run in pointsLEWISBURG, TN – Feb. 24, 2021 – Ross Bailes got a needed boost of confidence before continuing his rookie season with the World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Model Series next weekend.While it came with the Drydene Xtreme DIRTcar Series in a different car versus his regular #58 World of Outlaws ride, he outran several drivers he knows he’s going to have to try and beat on a regular basis with the World of Outlaws, such as current Series points leader, and fellow Rookie of the Year contender, Kyle Strickler and 28-time Series winner Chris Madden.“It’s big,” Bailes said about getting his second Xtreme DIRTcar win at Lake View Motor Speedway. “There were a lot of heavy hitters there. You’ve got Madden and Strickler and other guys that are really good. Any time you can stick a win in there, it is a little bit of a confidence booster.”Bailes, from Slover, SC, already has a World of Outlaws win under his belt at South Carolina’s Cherokee Speedway in 2019. However, with years of experience and several wins at tracks around the Carolinas, he already knows he can be competitive in that region. It’s everywhere else he knows he needs to gain experience to be a competitive full-time World of Outlaws driver.While he currently sits 10th in the championship standings after the first five races of the season with one top-10 finish, Bailes said, overall, he’s disappointed with his performance in the season-opening events at Volusia Speedway Park.In his debut at the half-mile track during the Sunshine Nationals, he finished 26th after having to use a provisional to start the race. The next night, he put himself in contention to win throughout the Feature before hitting the wall while running second in the closing laps and fell to 12th. Then, during the DIRTcar Nationals, he finished seventh, 12th (after coming from 28th) and 15th, respectively.“We raced pretty good,” he said. “But we had to use a provisional two or three nights. I wasn’t satisfied with that. We did make some ground up in the Feature. We went forward. So, that’s always good. I had never been to Volusia before so that was new territory. I mean, I didn’t know what to expect but I was hoping to run a little bit better. I was a little disappointed.”Running with the Xtreme DIRTcar Series was a good way for him to forget Volusia and build momentum for when the World of Outlaws season continues in Tennessee on Friday, March 5, at Duck River Raceway Park and Saturday, March 6, at Smoky Mountain Speedway. With the couple-week gap for the Series between Volusia and Duck River, Bailes said running with the Xtreme DIRTcar Series also helps keep him “tuned” during the off time.He’ll visit Duck River for the first time next month and while he’s made laps around Smoky Mountain before, it will be his first visit to the track with the World of Outlaws.“I’m looking forward to Duck River,” Bailes said. “I’ve heard good things about it, so I’m looking forward to it. I’ve been to Smoky Mountain before. It’s fun. I’ve run good there before and I’ve not run good there. I think the main thing is you’ve got to qualify good there and start up front.”Coming into his rookie season with Big Frog Motorsports, Bailes said his main goal is to gain as much knowledge as he can as quickly as he can at each event. Volusia humbled him and his team, he added, showing them where some of their weaknesses are. It’s a lesson he’ll take to the next weekend as he looks for another win. But this time, in Victory Lane with the World of Outlaws. If he can put together strings of good runs, to him, a top-five finish in points by the end of the year is a realistic goal.“Main thing is just go out there and win races,” Bailes said.For tickets to Duck River Raceway Park and Smoky Mountain Speedway, go to WorldofOutlaws.com/tix.Anyone unable to make it to the track can watch all of the action live on DIRTVision with the annual Platinum FAST PASS subscription for $299/year or the monthly FAST PASS subscription for $39/month.

The World of Outlaws Morton Buildings® Late Model Series is brought to fans across the country by many important sponsors and partners, including: DIRTVision (Official Live Broadcast Partner), Drydene (Official Motor Oil), Hoosier Racing Tire (Official Tire), iRacing (Official Online Racing Game), Morton Buildings (Official Building), SIS Insurance (Official Insurance Provider) VP Racing Fuels (Official Racing Fuel); in addition to contingency sponsors, including: Arizona Sport Shirts/Gotta Race, ARP (Automotive Racing Products), Cometic Gasket, COMP Cams, MSD, Penske Racing Shocks, Quarter Master, Slick Woody’s (Quick Time Award), and Wrisco (Exclusive Racing Aluminum); along with manufacturer sponsors, including: Capital Race Cars, FireAde, Integra Shocks, Intercomp, K1 Race Gear, Racing Electronics, Reliable Painting, and Rocket Chassis.Founded in 1978, the World of Outlaws®, based in Concord, NC, is the premier national touring series for dirt track racing in North America, featuring the most powerful cars on dirt, the World of Outlaws NOS® Energy Drink Sprint Car Series and the World of Outlaws Morton Buildings® Late Model Series. Annually, the two series race nearly 140 times at tracks across the United States and Canada. CBS Sports Network is the official broadcast partner of the World of Outlaws. DIRTVision® also broadcasts World of Outlaws events over the Internet to fans around the world. Learn more about the World of Outlaws.

Richard Childress Racing at the Daytona International Speedway Road Course… With the inaugural event at the Daytona International Speedway Road Course taking place last August, Richard Childress Racing has four NASCAR Cup Series and one NASCAR Xfinity Series start at the 14-turn, 3.61-mile circuit. Kaz Grala, who substituted for Austin Dillon after a positive COVID-19 diagnosis in 2020, earned a top-10 finish in the No. 3 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE. Dillon and Tyler Reddick both competed on the road course last week during the Busch Clash, where the No. 8 team posted a fourth-place result. Richard Childress at the Daytona International Speedway Road Course… Richard Childress competed at the Daytona International Speedway Road Course as a driver in 1969 when he drove his 1968 Camaro to a 13th-place finish in the Citrus 250. Childress went on to compete on the Florida road course a total of five times, racing in the NASCAR Grand Touring Division and NASCAR Grand American Series. He finished in the top-10 in three out of the five races, with a best result of eighth in 1970.  Catch the Action… The NASCAR Xfinity Series Super Start Batteries 188 at Daytona Presented by O’Reilly will be televised live Saturday, February 20, beginning at 5 p.m. ET on FS1 and will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.  The NASCAR Cup Series O’Reilly Auto Parts 253 at Daytona will be televised live Sunday, February 21, beginning at 3 p.m. ET on FOX and will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Austin Dillon and the No. 3 Dow MobilityScience™ Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE at the Daytona International Speedway Road Course… Dillon missed the inaugural NASCAR Cup Series race at the Daytona International Speedway Road Course last year due to a positive COVID-19 diagnosis, but has already been in two races on the course in 2021. In the Busch Clash, Dillon started 11th and battled in the top-five before being punted and shuffled to the back of the field on a late-race restart, ultimately finishing 19th. He also competed in the 24 Hours of Daytona in January, finishing 10th overall and fourth in the LMP2 class. Points Leader… Dillon enters this weekend’s race the Daytona International Speedway Road Course race as the NASCAR Cup Series points leader. Last week at Daytona, Dillon earned 10 points by winning his Duel, followed by 14 Stage Points and 34 points for finishing third in the DAYTONA 500. Dow brings a science and engineering crew who is driven by limitless curiosity to the RCR Team… Dillon and the RCR team are again supported by Dow’s materials science expertise and technologies this season. Backed by the power of data analysis and virtual modeling, Dow develops and manufactures high-performance components and materials custom-made for the No. 3 car. Dow and RCR’s partnership has expedited innovation and shortened testing time in the automotive industry by recreating in the lab one of the most extreme environments – the racetrack. After eight years of collaboration, Dow scientists and RCR engineers are continuing to work together to make the No. 3 car faster, safer and more precise. Stay up to date with Dow’s exciting developments at www.dow.com/sports and follow us on Twitter @DowSports & @DowNewsroom. Welcome, Dow MobilityScience™… Dow’s MobilityScience™ platform is designed to enhance the customer experience by tailoring technologies, products, and services from across Dow businesses to the transportation industry. The platform is pursuing accelerated growth by addressing Mobility mega-trends – where lighter weight, longer range, greater comfort, enhanced safety, and lower carbon footprint are the ultimate objectives. That is where Dow science, innovation, and people step in – working closely with customers to create the materials that bring the possibilities to life. AUSTIN DILLON QUOTES:What are your thoughts heading into the Daytona International Speedway Road Course race this weekend?“I can’t wait to get back down to Daytona Beach to compete at the Daytona International Speedway Road Course this weekend. We had a fun night in the Busch Clash last week. Unfortunately, we didn’t come out where we wanted to. We got thrown through the grass, so I’m going to try to keep all four tires on the track this coming weekend. The goal is to try and gain on our points. We’ve done a good job through the DAYTONA 500. Let’s keep that streak going.” You were able to get some experience on the Daytona International Speedway Road Course by competing in the Rolex 24 this year. Did anything jump out at you about the track?“It’s not so much of a technical track like some of the tracks that we go to that are road courses. It’s pretty self-explanatory. I like the fact that the tires seem to wear quite a bit at the track. I enjoyed it and I think the experience I got in the 24 was great. We’ll see how it all plays out in the end.”

Tyler Reddick and the No. 8 Cat Rental Store Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE at the Daytona International Speedway Road Course… Reddick has two NASCAR Cup Series starts on the Daytona International Speedway Road Course, with his best finish of fourth coming during last week’s Clash event. About Caterpillar… Since 1925, Caterpillar Inc. has been helping our customers build a better world – making sustainable progress possible and driving positive change on every continent. With 2020 sales and revenues of $41.7 billion, Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines, and diesel-electric locomotives. Services offered throughout the product life cycle, cutting-edge technology and decades of product expertise set Caterpillar apart, providing exceptional value to help our customers succeed. The company principally operates through three primary segments – Construction Industries, Resource Industries and Energy & Transportation – and provides financing and related services through its Financial Products segment. About Cat Rental Store… A combined global network of more than 1,300 dealer-owned locations makes The Cat® Rental Store a convenient source for the largest construction equipment rental fleet in the world. From our well-known Cat earthmoving machines, excavators, skid steer loaders, backhoes, pavers and compactors, work tools and power generators to equipment from more than 70 other top-tier brands including aerial work platforms, compressors, concrete equipment, HVAC and dumpers, we have the equipment customers need to get the job done. Since 1997 the team knows how hard customers work, and they are always ready to prove they will work just as hard. At every store, customers have access to an extensive offer of short-term rentals, leasing options, technology, training and a complete team of equipment experts committed to their success. For more information visit: CatRentalStore.com. TYLER REDDICK QUOTE: Your team had speed in the Clash at the Daytona International Speedway Road Course during Speedweek. How does that help you prepare for your return to the road course this weekend?“We put in a lot of work over the off-season at RCR to get better at road courses, so to have a solid run during the Clash does make us feel more confident about this weekend. I truly feel based on our Clash performance that we have a shot at winning this weekend. I made a couple mistakes in the Clash that I was able to learn from, but my team was also able to do a couple things with strategy while staying out on old tires and still make it to where I could drive away from guys on new tires. We had a good car at the Clash, but what is more exciting is the fact that we didn’t even take our best road course car down there. We have another car at the shop that we like even more than our Clash car. When you already have a really fast car at a track but know the No. 8 Cat Rental Store Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE we’re going to bring back is even better, that is a great feeling to go into the weekend with.”

Myatt Snider and the No. 2 TaxSlayer Chevrolet Camaro at the Daytona International Speedway Road Course… Snider has one career NASCAR Xfinity Series start at the Daytona International Speedway Road Course. In his first start at the Florida road course last season, Snider gained 17 positions to post a top-10 finish.  About TaxSlayer… TaxSlayer makes online tax filing accessible for millions of Americans, with an easy-to-use platform and unlimited support at a fraction of the cost of the competition. Trusted for over 50 years, the Augusta-based tech company successfully completed more than 10 million federal and state e-filed tax returns in 2020 and processed $15 billion in refunds. TaxSlayer achieved a 4.5/5 TrustScore on consumer review site Trustpilot, with 87% of its customers rating the tax filing platform Great or Excellent. For more information, visit www.TaxSlayer.com. MYATT SNIDER QUOTES: What is your expectation for the first road course race of 2021? “I think our TaxSlayer Chevrolet Camaro is going to be really fast this weekend on the Daytona International Speedway Road Course. Andy Street (crew chief) and our No. 2 team have been working really hard over the offseason to improve our road course cars and I’ve been working really hard to improve my driving abilities on a road course. I feel like I did well overall on all of the road course events last season, especially the Daytona Road Course, so we should do really well this Saturday. Also, starting up towards the front after our solid start to the season last week, will definitely help our chances at a good showing.”  What have you done to prepare for this Saturday’s race at the Daytona International Speedway Road Course? “Earlier this week, Andy and I sat down to watch some film from the last Daytona race. Being able to watch the race again is a good way to prepare, so you can see what worked last season and what didn’t. Since we didn’t work together during this race last year, I was able to tell him some things from my perspective, he was able to tell me his perspective, and then we were able to compare and brainstorm some ideas together. I also have spent some time on the simulator to prepare and make sure we are running our best.”  What do you like and dislike about the Daytona International Speedway Road Course? “I like the fact that it’s a really high wear race track on the inside. I don’t think the infield has been repaved since the 70s, so to me that is really cool. It makes tire wear a huge factor, so you have to be mindful about where you are pushing, where you are not pushing as a driver, and how you will make sure your car is there for the end of the race. To me, it’s one of the most fun, technical road courses that we go to.”

February 24, 2021

After a couple of disappointing outcomes at Daytona International Speedway, Matt DiBenedetto and the Menards/Moen team are hoping the third race of the 2021 Cup Series season – on Sunday at Homestead-Miami Speedway – will be the charm.

DiBenedetto, who was involved in an early crash in the season-opening Daytona 500 and had a damaging flat tire in the opening laps of last Sunday’s race on the road course at Daytona, said he’s ready to put all that bad luck behind him in Sunday’s Dixie Vodka 400 on the 1.5-mile track at Homestead.

Last year at Homestead, DiBenedetto and the Menards/Moen team rallied from a collision on pit road early in the race to finish 14^th.
 
“We had real good potential there last year and had trouble on pit road,” DiBenedetto said. “I’m looking forward to seeing where we stack up on Homestead and the rest of the intermediate tracks.
 
“I think they’ll be good for us, and we should be able to get in our rhythm.”
 
DiBenedetto, who will start near the rear of the pack on Sunday in a line-up based on the results of the first two races of the season, said he’s looking forward to some better finishes that will allow him and the team to move up in the standings and have better starting positions in races where there is no qualifying or practice.
  
As it is now, his task is daunting.
 
 “There will be a lot of cars to pass,” he said. “It makes the day a lot longer.” 
 
DiBenedetto said that at some tracks, the disadvantage of starting in the rear can be overcome by pit strategy. But he doesn’t foresee too many opportunities for that at Homestead due to the tire wear there.

 “At Homestead, every time the caution comes out you’re going to want four fresh tires,” he said. “There’s not much strategy to it. You just have to be smart and come through the field the hard way.”
  
DiBenedetto pointed out that a strong finish at Homestead can generate some positive momentum for the Menards/Moen team.
 
 “We can start racking up points and contending for wins, which we know we can do,” he said.
 
The Dixie Vodka 400, which will have Stage breaks at Laps 80 and 160, is scheduled to start just after 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday with TV coverage on FOX.  
 

SPARTANBURG, SC (February 23, 2021) — CompetitionPlus.com in conjunction with Drag Racer TV will be hosting a free livestream of the PRO Winter Warmup scheduled for March 5-7 at Palm Beach International Raceway. In addition to the live stream CompetitionPlus.com, one of the first internet magazines devoted exclusively to drag racing, will be posting daily updates in their Event Notebook section presented by GuardLab.com. For over 21 year CompetitionPlus.com has been the go-to independent voice and broadcaster for drag racing and their coverage of the PRO Winter Warmup continues their longstanding tradition of bringing drag racing coverage to race fans across the country and around the world.

“We are excited to provide live streaming for the third year in a row for the event,” said Bobby Bennett, Competitionplus.com founder and publisher. “It’s important for the sport for its fans to watch their favorite NHRA teams prepare for the upcoming NHRA Gatornationals. This is event is part NFL combine, private test session and behind the scenes racing action. We will have our CompetitionPlusTV team also gathering daily recaps and news stories.”

Fans interested in watching full-day coverage can simply subscribe to the CompetitionPlusTV’s YouTube page to be notified and watch all of the action. There are no fees or sign-up steps other than having a YouTube account. Visit https://www.youtube.com/CompetitionPlusTV and click on the subscribe button.

This is the only South Florida appearance for the stars and cars of the NHRA Drag Racing Series. Over a dozen of the top professional NHRA teams, including nine current or former world champions will be on-track March 5-7. Limited tickets will be available for fans and currently Don Schumacher Racing, Kalitta Motorsports, Torrence Racing, John Force Racing will be represented with all their teams. Additionally, Cruz Pedregon Racing (Cruz Pedregon), Alexis DeJoria/Del Worsham (Alexis DeJoria), Justin Ashley Racing (Justin Ashley), Scrappers Racing (Mike Salinas), Tasca Racing (Bob Tasca III), Paul Lee Racing (Paul Lee) and Head Racing/Blake Alexander Racing (Blake Alexander) will also be in attendance.