Jul 7, 2021 | Featured, Julie Nataas, Race Results

Julie Nataas scored her second win of the 2021 season at the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Cavalcade of Stars event presented by Budweiser held in Norwalk, Ohio just one week after the NHRA Norwalk Nationals.

Julie qualified in the second position with a 5.19 ET at 271 mph, while teammate Matt Sackman, who was making his first appearance in Top Alcohol Dragster for this season, drove to a 5.21 ET at 279 mph for the number four spot. Julie was paired up against Duane Shields who smoked the tires as Julie ran a 5.28 ET at 275 mph for the round win. Matt did not have the same luck as the car slowed to a 5.34 ET at 266 mph to lose to Jasmine Salinas.

Julie went on to take down Robin Samsuel in the second round with an outstanding .005 reaction time for a holeshot victory, running a 5.35 ET at 269 mph. The team was able to improve to a 5.32 ET at 273 mph for the win in the final round against Jasmine Salinas. https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZoiosN4huWk

“We were looking to get the OTG dragster back to being consistent this weekend after some small bugs the last couple races,” said Julie. “Randy tuned the car to a 5.22 ET Friday night and two 5.19 ET runs on Saturday, but then the weather conditions changed for Sunday. The car slowed down a little, but we had our consistent car back.

“The 8-car field was stout, and I knew I had to be on top of my game to be able to go rounds and get the win. I was lucky in the second round of eliminations when I went a .005 on the tree. I knew right away I left early and was waiting for the red light to show up, but without the .005 reaction time we wouldn’t have gotten the win.

“It was awesome racing at America’s racetrack for 4th of July! Summit Motorsport Park put on a great show for all of us and fans were loving it.”

Julie and the Randy Meyer Racing Team will return to Columbus, Ohio for the JEGS SportsNationals for their next event on July 15-16th held at National Trail Raceway. Julie previously won this race in 2019, followed by Megan Meyer in 2020. The team is looking forward to putting the OTG Dragster back in the winner’s circle and extending their North Central Region points lead.

CANANDAIGUA, NY – The anticipation has built and built. On Tuesday, July 20, the stars of the Super DIRTcar Series will return to action at Land of Legends Raceway for the $7,500-to-win Liberty 100. Seven-time champion Matt Sheppard, Erick Rudolph and Justin Haers are charging into the Series’ return in their home territory on a hot streak. Tim Sears Jr. is riding a wave of momentum after piling up checkered flags in Hoosier Racing Weekly Championship competition at Fulton and Brewerton Speedway. These storylines and more are on the card for Tuesday’s tour stop in Canandaigua, NY.LOCAL LADSThe ultimate hometown hero, Justin Haers, from Phelps, NY, has two DIRTcar Big Block Feature wins at Land of Legends Raceway already in 2021. He has one top-five and three top-10s in five Series races this year as well.Meanwhile, Erick Rudolph is clawing his way back into the Series points picture. A top-five finish at the Series’ last event and his home track, Ransomville Speedway, moved him to 10th overall in points.Last Saturday, Rudolph visited Victory Lane at Land of Legends for the first time this year in weekly racing and now leads the track’s points standings. That’s exactly what the Ransomville, NY native needed going into a busy time of the schedule. In the past, Rudolph has proven to be a consistent driver capable of piling up the points. He finished a close second to Matt Sheppard in 2018 in a duel that went down to the wire at NGK  NTK World of Outlaws World Finals. If the #25R can get on a roll starting now, race fans will likely see him climb the standings. While Sheppard, of Waterloo, NY, isn’t a constant presence at Land of Legends anymore, he’s still managed to pick up three Feature wins there so far in 2021. Few would doubt his ability to win another Liberty 100 at Canandaigua. The #9S parked it at the last Series race at the historic half-mile at DIRTcar OktoberFAST in 2020 – his third Series victory at the half-mile track.ROOKIE WATCHTim Sears Jr. is on fire in weekly racing. History has shown that drivers can take that success on the road once they adapt fully to 100-lap Feature races. The flashy yellow #83X came out swinging in 2021 but has slowed in Series competition recently. Sears Jr. only has three career starts at Canandaigua including one top-10. DIRTcar Sportsman Modified Series star Kevin Root has yet to hit his stride with the Big Block Modified. However, Root has one top-10 this year at Land of Legends Raceway to build on going into the Series race.DID YOU KNOW?-There have been 110 Super DIRTcar Series Big Block Modified entries over seven Series races so far in 2021. -Just 15 points separate positions third through seventh in the points battle.-Three out of the top-five in points have won Super DIRTcar Series championships. LAST TEN LAND OF LEGENDS SUPER DIRTcar WINNERS2020 – Matt Sheppard 2019 – Matt Sheppard 2018 – Danny Johnson 2016 – Tim Fuller 2015 – Matt Sheppard 2012 – Danny Johnson 2011 – Billy Decker 2009 – Tim Fuller 2008 – Alan Johnson/Billy Decker/Billy Decker 2007 – Brett Hearn/Brett HearnOn the InternetSuper DIRTcar SeriesTwitter – @SuperDIRTcarInstagram – @SuperDIRTcarFacebook – Facebook.com/SuperDIRTcarSeriesYouTube – Youtube.com/DIRTCarRacingDIRTVision – DIRTVision.com – Platinum annual FAST PASS for $299 or monthly FAST PASS for $39/monthWhere to Watch If you can’t make it to the track, you can watch all the action live on DIRTVision with the annual Platinum FAST PASS subscription or the monthly FAST PASS subscription.PHOTO: Joe Grabianowski

The Super DIRTcar Series 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) and NAPA Auto Parts. Contingency sponsors include: ARP (Automotive Racing Products), ASI Race Wear, Bicknell Racing Products, Billy Whittaker Cars & Trux, Cometic Gasket, COMP Cams, Drydene, Fox Factory, MSD, and Wrisco (Exclusive Racing Aluminum); along with manufacturer sponsors, including: FireAde, Intercomp, and Racing Electronics.

The New Berlin, IL driver won by 0.180-seconds

SUPERIOR, WI – July 13, 2021 – Brandon Sheppard rose from his car in Victory Lane, waving to the crowd with confidence after winning Tuesday at Gondik Law Speedway. But the New Berlin, IL driver needed everything to go his way to collect $10,000.

A caution with two laps to go put Chris Madden on Sheppard’s heels, setting the stage for an epic duel. “Smokey” dove to the inside when the green flag dropped, pulling even with Sheppard down the back straightaway on the final lap. But Sheppard carried his momentum on the top of the racetrack, finding enough bite to beat Madden to the finish by 0.180 seconds.

It’s the “Rocket Shepp’s” 72nd career World of Outlaws triumph, one that needed some luck.

“[Madden] was in the good stuff on the backstretch so I let him stay with me there and I had to really charge into Turn 3 a lot harder than I wanted to,” Sheppard said. “I slid from the bottom and luckily there was a little bit up there on top in order for us to get ahold of to get back going again.

“Our car was really good, we were able to get the lead and control most of the race, but we didn’t need those last few cautions, that’s for sure.”

Sheppard extended his points lead for the third straight event— now 68 points ahead of Madden.

Even though Madden settled for second, he enjoyed racing Sheppard for the win. The Gray Court, SC driver stated how well his car hooked up to the track.

“We were pretty good in the middle and bottom, and [Sheppard] had found him a little strip I believe up top off the corner and he just got a big run,” Madden said.  “It was an awesome race, a fun race, and we had a really good car. If we would’ve been out front, we would’ve won.”

Sheppard wrestled the lead away from Dennis Erb Jr. on Lap 24, using that same outside lane that led him to victory. Erb crossed the line third—his fifth top five in the last nine races.

The Carpentersville, IL driver is thrilled with the finish but knew what kept him from reaching Victory Lane for the second straight race.

“[Tuesday] we were running really good, the car fired off real good but we just needed to be a little bit tighter late in the race,” Erb said. “All in all, we had a good night and kept it upfront all night. We’re happy with that and we’ll go on to the next one.”

Tyler Bruening, the top Rookie of The Race finished fourth. He extended his lead in the chase for Rookie of the Year to 120 points over Ryan Gustin, who finished sixth.

James Giossi, from New Richmond, WI rounded out the top-five.

Sometimes it takes a little luck to find your way to Victory Lane, but it’s something Brandon Sheppard won’t complain about. He’s inching closer to World of Outlaws history—six wins away from tying Josh Richards for most wins all-time (78).

UP NEXT: The Most Powerful Late Models on The Planet travel west to River Cities Speedway in Grand Forks, ND on Friday, July 16.

Morton Buildings Feature (40 Laps)-1. 1-Brandon Sheppard [4][$10,000]; 2. 44-Chris Madden [6][$6,000]; 3. 28-Dennis Erb [2][$3,500]; 4. 16-Tyler Bruening [3][$2,800]; 5. 11G-James Giossi [8][$2,500]; 6. 19R-Ryan Gustin [16][$2,300]; 7. 97-Jimmy Mars [13][$2,200]; 8. 22E-Kevin Eder [14][$2,100]; 9. 7-Ricky Weiss [9][$2,050]; 10. 519-Steve Laursen [1][$2,000]; 11. 11-Pat Doar [11][$1,600]; 12. 55C-Chad Mahder [19][$1,400]; 13. B1-Brent Larson [7][$1,200]; 14. 85-John Kaanta [5][$1,100]; 15. 28M-Sam Mars [22][$1,050]; 16. 44N-Darrell Nelson [21][$1,000]; 17. 99JR-Frank Heckenast [10][$1,000]; 18. 99B-Boom Briggs [23][$1,000]; 19. 31-Travis Budisalovich [12][$1,000]; 20. 16V-Derek Vesel [15][$1,000]; 21. 7H-Harry Hanson [17][$1,000]; 22. 21-Mike Bellefeuille [24][$1,000]; 23. 24L-Aaron Lillo [18][$1,000]; 24. 11D-Tim McMann [20][$1,000] Hard Charger: 19R-Ryan Gustin[+10]

Qualifying –1. B1-Brent Larson, 15.847; 2. 16-Tyler Bruening, 15.902; 3. 28-Dennis Erb, 16.002; 4. 1-Brandon Sheppard, 16.048; 5. 11G-James Giossi, 16.133; 6. 7-Ricky Weiss, 16.181; 7. 97-Jimmy Mars, 16.185; 8. 44-Chris Madden, 16.209; 9. 31-Travis Budisalovich, 16.227; 10. 99JR-Frank Heckenast, 16.24; 11. 22E-Kevin Eder, 16.393; 12. 21-Mike Bellefeuille, 16.393; 13. 85-John Kaanta, 16.399; 14. 7H-Harry Hanson, 16.434; 15. 16V-Derek Vesel, 16.435; 16. 55C-Chad Mahder, 16.445; 17. 99B-Boom Briggs, 16.472; 18. 11D-Tim McMann, 16.493; 19. 19R-Ryan Gustin, 16.559; 20. 11-Pat Doar, 16.561; 21. 519-Steve Laursen, 16.584; 22. 28M-Sam Mars, 16.617; 23. 6M-Jeff Massingill, 16.659; 24. 24L-Aaron Lillo, 16.659; 25. 44N-Darrell Nelson, 16.664; 26. 11B-Jody Bellefeuille, 16.925; 27. 54-Keith Niemi, 16.954

22-Year-Old Bayston Beats Brad Sweet Heads Up for Brad Doty Classic Title

ATTICA, OH – July 13, 2021 – Winning your first is always special. Winning your first against the best in the world? That’s “unbelievable” as Spencer Bayston said.

On Tuesday night, though, the 22-year-old Lebanon, IN native did just that at Attica Raceway Park. Leading the final 33 laps, Bayston kept himself calm, cool and collected with Brad Sweet breathing down his neck, and survived several restarts to score his first-career World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car win in his 44th Series start.

The $10,000 payday was extra special being at the 33rd annual Brad Doty Classic with the legend in attendance to present Bayston with his hardware. He also delivered the first World of Outlaws win for young car owner Sam McGhee of Indianapolis, IN.

Bayston’s breakthrough came with the ultimate task: beating Brad Sweet heads up. The two-time and defending champion has made a habit of stealing wins late in the running, and the pressure was on when the #49 restarted alongside, and then behind Bayston’s #11.

Sweet threw several challenges at the up-and-coming star, but Bayston never wavered in clutch time. Following the final restart with 10 to go, Bayston cruised away to a 2.174-second margin of victory.

He climbed out to the roars of a packed crowd, stood atop the wing, and let his jubilant screams echo throughout the fairgrounds.

“This is something every kid dreams of when they grow up watching the World of Outlaws,” Bayston admitted. “You know I when I was a kid I thought these guys were like the NFL, the NBA, the best in the dirt world. I wanted to go out and compete against them, let alone actually beat them. It’s hard to describe. Wow.”

[Becoming the third and final leader in Tuesday’s 40-lap affair, Bayston executed a pitch-perfect restart on Lap 8 and successfully came out ahead of Logan Schuchart and Cory Eliason in a three-wide move out of turn two.

Capitalizing on every turning point of the race, Bayston’s bid for the lead came following contact between Schuchart and Tyler Courtney. The duo had gone back and forth while exchanging the lead in the first five laps, but they hit on Lap 5 and the result sent Courtney’s NOS Energy Drink TURBO #7BC spinning to a stop.

Ironically enough, Courtney falling wayside in pursuit of his first-career win is what helped open the door for Bayston to get his.

Once into command, Bayston initially checked out and built a sizable gap as he raced into lap traffic while Sweet dueled with Schuchart for second. The first of two restarts came on Lap 27 when fourth-running  Eliason spun to a stop and erased Bayston’s advantage.

He survived Sweet’s first attempt at the top spot, but the caution would fly again on Lap 30. However, being with 10 to go, the rules called for a single-file restart with Sweet stuck to the tail of Bayston. He gave it another shot entering turn one, but fell short and Bayston rode off into a sunset filled with glory.

“I was thinking about how many times I’ve watched DIRTVision and Brad stole the win on a late-race restart,” Bayston joked. “I tried to get in the zone as much as possible and just hit my marks. I knew that if I could get to the exit of turn two clean then I would be good. I knew that would win me the race. I was looking at the board every lap just counting down the laps and trying to remember to breath.”

The magnitude of the win wasn’t lost on the young man throughout post-race celebrations. He’s now the 146th driver in history to win a World of Outlaws race.

More importantly, its proof that his brand new relationship with Sam McGhee Motorsports is firing on all cylinders.

“I don’t know where to start with these guys,” Bayston said. “To come here with a team that I think we’ve ran 13 races together and do this is unbelievable. We’ve got a badass crew chief that’s younger me (Sam McGhee, 21) and we are all so fresh as a unit. We almost won an All-Star race our second night, then we won Sharon last week, and now we’ve got an Outlaw win.”

On a personally significant level, it’s fitting that Bayston’s first-career World of Outlaws victory comes at the same place where he won his first-ever 410 Sprint Car race in 2017 – Attica Raceway Park.

Following Bayston to the stripe and finishing on the podium at the Brad Doty Classic was Brad Sweet aboard the Kasey Kahne Racing #49 in second and Carson Macedo aboard the Jason Johnson Racing #41 in third,

Advancing a whopping 18 positions, Donny Schatz unanimously secured the KSE Racing Hard Charger Award by driving the Tony Stewart/Curb-Agajanian Racing #15 from 22nd-to-fourth. Rounding out the top-five was early leader Logan Schuchart in the Shark Racing, Drydene Performance Products #1S.

Closing out the top-10 on Tuesday was the Kasey Kahne Racing #9 of James McFadden, the Clauson-Marshall Racing #7BC of Tyler Courtney, the Stenhouse Jr. Marshall Racing #17 of Sheldon Haudenschild, the Lane Racing #4 of Cap Henry, and the Big Game Motorsports #2 of David Gravel.

UP NEXT: The World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series will convey to Eldora Speedway for a historic double Kings Royal. The Greatest Show on Dirt races Wednesday-Saturday at The Big E with $175,000 paydays available on Thursday and Saturday night. All of the action can be seen LIVE on DIRTVision.

NOS Energy Drink Feature (40 Laps): 1. 11-Spencer Bayston [3][$10,000]; 2. 49-Brad Sweet [4][$6,000]; 3. 41-Carson Macedo [7][$3,500]; 4. 15-Donny Schatz [22][$2,800]; 5. 1S-Logan Schuchart [1][$2,500]; 6. 9-James McFadden [6][$2,300]; 7. 7BC-Tyler Courtney [2][$2,200]; 8. 17-Sheldon Haudenschild [8][$2,100]; 9. 4-Cap Henry [14][$2,050]; 10. 2-David Gravel [10][$2,000]; 11. 3J-Trey Jacobs [19][$1,600]; 12. 10-Zeb Wise [13][$1,400]; 13. 48-Danny Dietrich [11][$1,200]; 14. 55-Hunter Schuerenberg [24][$1,100]; 15. 39-Christopher Bell [17][$1,050]; 16. 26-Cory Eliason [5][$1,000]; 17. 3Z-Brock Zearfoss [12][$1,000]; 18. 22-Brandon Spithaler [16][$1,000]; 19. 83-Aaron Reutzel [21][$1,000]; 20. O9-Craig Mintz [20][$1,000]; 21. 18-Cole Macedo [15][$1,000]; 22. 47N-Marcus Dumesny [18][$1,000]; 23. 70M-Henry Malcuit [23][$1,000]; 24. 57-Kyle Larson [9][$1,000]. Lap Leaders: Logan Schuchart 1-3, 6-7; Tyler Courtney 4-5; Spencer Bayston 8-40. KSE Hard Charger Award: 15-Donny Schatz[+18]

NEW Championship Standings (42/81 Races): 1. Brad Sweet (5,918); 2. Carson Macedo (-142); 3. David Gravel (-148); 4. Sheldon Haudenschild (-222); 5. Logan Schuchart (-234); 6. Donny Schatz (-240); 7. Aaron Reutzel (-390); 8. James McFadden (-654); 9. Kraig Kinser (-766); 10. Brock Zearfoss (-1,000).

Three Days, Three States, Three Big Events this Weekend

Batavia, OH (July 13, 2021) – The Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series heads to the Midwest with a trio of races in three different states this weekend; Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri. The series returns to West Burlington, Iowa after a challenging 2020 forced several cancellations and a previously scheduled 2021 event was postponed due to weather. The $15,000-to-win CRST, The Transportation Solution 50 at 34 Raceway will feature a complete program of: Allstar Performance Time Trials, Heat Races, B-Mains, and a 50-lap, $15,000-to-win main event.  The Stock Cars and Sport Mods will serve as support divisions at 34 Raceway. The pit gate will open at 3:00 PM, with general admission gates opening at 5:00 PM. A drivers meeting will take place at 6:00 PM followed by hot laps at 6:30 PM. For more information about 34 Raceway, visit: www.34Raceway.com The second stop in the triple header weekend takes teams to Granite City, IL for the NAPA Know How 50 at Tri-City Speedway. The Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series will have a complete program of: Allstar Performance Time Trials, Heats, B-Mains, and 50 lap A-Main paying $12,000-to-win. The Modified and B-Mod classes will be joining the program which kicks off with Hot Laps at 6:30 PM. The Pit Gates will open at 12:00 PM (noon) and General Admission Gates open at 5:00 PM. For more information visit www.tricityspeedway.net As the final event of the weekend, the 15th Annual CMH Diamond Nationals at Lucas Oil Speedway in Wheatland, MO will have teams gunning for a $15,000 top prize along with the esteemed Diamond Ring. Along with a full program for the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series/Lucas Oil MLRA, the USRA Mods and USRA Stock Cars are also on hand.  Hot Laps begin at 6:30 PM followed by Allstar Performance Time Trials, Heats, B-Mains, and a 50 lap A-Main. The Pit Gates will remain open all day, closed and cleared at 3:30 PM, re-opened at 4:00 PM. The General Admission Gate will also open at 4:00 PM. For more information or advance ticket purchases, visit www.lucasoilspeedway.com Tim McCreadie leads the Lucas Oil championship standings heading into the weekend. Jonathan Davenport sits in second, with Hudson O’Neal in third, and Kyle Bronson fourth. The points battle is tremendously close in positions five through ten, with only 95 points separating Josh Richards, Tyler Erb, Ricky Thornton Jr, Shane Clanton, Mike Marlar, and Jimmy Owens. Track Information:34 RacewayPhone Number: 319-752-3434Location: 10463 S Prairie Grove Rd. West Burlington, IA 52655Directions: Located about 6 miles west of Burlington, just North of Hwy. 34Website: www.34raceway.com Tri-City SpeedwayPhone Number: 618-931-7836Location: 5100 Nameoki Road, Granite City, IL 62040Directions: I-270 to exit 4, then 0.5 mile south on SR 203Website: www.tricityspeedway.net Lucas Oil SpeedwayPhone Number: 417-282-5984Location: 700 E Hwy 54, Wheatland, MO 65779Directions: 0.2 mile south of US 54 on SR 83, then eastWebsite: www.lucasoilspeedway.com Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series July 15-17 Tire Rule:Left Rear/Fronts – Hoosier (90) LM20Right Rear – Hoosier (92) LM40*Must use the same set of 4 tires for Time Trials, Heat Races, and B-Mains.*For the A-Main, competitors may use 2 new rear tires.*Flat tire must be replaced with a used tire of the same compound and construction to retain starting position. Event Purses:34 Raceway: 1. $15,000, 2. $6,500, 3. $3,500, 4. $3,000, 5. $2,500, 6. $2,400, 7. $2,300, 8. $2,200, 9. $2,100, 10. $2,000, 11. $1,600, 12. $1,400, 13. $1,300, 14. $1,200, 15. $1,050, 16. $1,000, 17. $1,000, 18. $1,000, 19. $1,000, 20. $1,000, 21. $1,000, 22. $1,000, 23. $1,000, 24. $1,000. = $57,050 Tri-City Speedway: 1. $12,000, 2. $6,000, 3. $3,500, 4. $2,800, 5. $2,500, 6. $2,300, 7. $2,200, 8. $2,100, 9. $2,050, 10. $2,000, 11. $1,600, 12. $1,400, 13. $1,200, 14. $1,100, 15. $1,050, 16. $1,000, 17. $1,000, 18. $1,000, 19. $1,000, 20. $1,000, 21. $1,000, 22. $1,000, 23. $1,000, 24. $1,000. = $52,800 Lucas Oil Speedway: 1. $15,000, 2. $6,500, 3. $3,500, 4. $3,000, 5. $2,500, 6. $2,400, 7. $2,300, 8. $2,200, 9. $2,100, 10. $2,000, 11. $1,600, 12. $1,400, 13. $1,300, 14. $1,200, 15. $1,050, 16. $1,000, 17. $1,000, 18. $1,000, 19. $1,000, 20. $1,000, 21. $1,000, 22. $1,000, 23. $1,000, 24. $1,000. = $57,050

Two-race weekend to feature Sportsman debuts of Jack & Clay Coughlin

HEBRON, Ohio (July 13) — As if this weekend wasn’t big enough for three-time champion Mike Coughlin with two major events taking place as part of JEGS Speedweek — the JEGS SPORTSnationals on Thursday and Friday and a Division 3 regional race on Saturday and Sunday — it will also mark the Sportsman debut for both of his sons, Jack and Clay. “My excitement level is off the charts,” Mike said. “I’m definitely ready to maintain our great start in Top Dragster but that really takes a back seat to the boy’s first races at this level. “Jack licensed last year in Super Comp and got in a bunch of passes at a bracket race but this is his first NHRA race. Clay completed his Super Stock licensing runs a week ago and did a great job. They have both taken to their respective classes very well and seem ready to go. If there are any nerves involved they certainly aren’t showing them.” The second annual JEGS Speedweek is sure to be as big or bigger than last year’s inaugural event, which was a great success despite the lingering restrictions of the COVID pandemic. Cars will hit the track as soon as Wednesday for an extended test-and-tune session, along with a Stock vs. Super Stock Shootout.

Aside from watching his sons go through their paces, Mike could have a huge weekend of his own in the JEGS.com Top Dragster. He currently leads the Division 3 points after just two events and is second in the JEGS Allstars ranking. Going deep into the eliminations rounds in both races this weekend would be a nice boost. “It would be great to get around Al Peavler II and pick up that spot on the JEGS Allstars team but he’s a great racer and will definitely be as fired up as we are this weekend,” Mike said. “It’ll be a challenge, but that’s what we love the most.  “Greg Cody, Tony Collier, Justin Beaver and Ryan Micke of ComSync have all three of these racecars ready to go so it’s just a matter of executing. I know a lot of friends, family and JEGS associates and their families will be on hand so we need to make them proud.”

On summer break from his studies at Ohio State University, 20-year-old Jack Coughlin says making his NHRA debut at National Trail Raceway is the best-case scenario. “It’s really neat to start my career at Trails because that’s where we all grew up,” Jack said of the facility that has been brought back to its former glory by new owner Jay Livingston. “Plus it’s a JEGS-sponsored weekend, which is big for the company. “I’m definitely feeling some nerves but I’m feeling a lot more excitement than anything else. I’d love to find some success but as much as I would like to win, I know I’m going up against racers who have been doing this since before I was born. There are so many top-level drivers and I’m sure they’ll all be there for a double-race weekend like this one. “I know I’ve got a great group around me. My dad, my uncle Jeg, T.J. (Troy Jr.), Paige, Greg Cody, Tony Collier and Justin Beaver have all been so encouraging and helpful and I hope that continues. It’s going to be intense, much more so than that bracket race, but I’ve been practicing as much as possible and I feel ready for what’s ahead.”

Being mechanically inclined, 16-year-old Clay Coughlin has spent as much time under the hood of his Chevy Cobalt Super Stocker as he has behind the wheel. So he has a unique perspective for a new driver as his debut looms. “I’m pretty good with my hands and I love the mechanical side of racing so I’m at the shop a lot helping out wherever I can,” Clay said. “When I finally started making passes on through to doing my licensing runs, I really started to understand all the things we’d been doing to the car. “I began with a rev-limiter on the engine, doing things like starting the car, executing burnouts, driving around through the pits, and then they progressively gave me more power as I got more comfortable. The car wasn’t super happy being restricted so as more power was added it was actually easier to drive.” With an emphasis on seat time, Clay says a successful weekend in his mind would include a few key things.

“If I could win a round or two, that would be big,” Clay said. “I need to get comfortable with someone being in the other lane and I need to get more acclimated to the car. As long as everyone is safe and we have fun, that would be great. “I’m feeling a little anxious because it’s a home race and all our friends and family, plus people from work, will be out there watching my every move but having their support is also a great deal. Without my family, my co-workers and Jeff Taylor, who is tremendous at what he does, I wouldn’t be racing, so definitely lots of thanks to everyone.” Multi-time world champion Jeff Taylor also will be competing for Team JEGS in the group’s Stock Eliminator Dodge Challenger Drag Pak.

Dodge//SRT and Mopar brands return to Bandimere Speedway July 16-18 as title sponsors of the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) Camping World Drag Racing Series event, Dodge//SRT Mile-High Nationals Presented by Pennzoil, held near Denver, ColoradoSpanning four decades, the brands’ partnership with Bandimere Speedway is the longest active and continuous title sponsorship in all of motorsports and the second of five NHRA national events with Dodge//SRT and Mopar headline support in 2021Reigning Funny Car World Champion Matt Hagan will work to earn a coveted first Wally trophy from the Dodge//SRT Mile-High NHRA Nationals aboard his Don Schumacher Racing (DSR) Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye Funny CarLeah Pruett seeks to wheel her DSR Mopar Dodge//SRT Redeye Top Fuel dragster to a repeat performance of her 2018 successful run from No. 1 qualifier to winner and attempt to better her 2017 record elapsed-time pass of 3.733 seconds at Thunder MountainThe two Dodge Challenger Mopar Drag Pak vehicles of Pruett and Mark Pawuk will compete in the fourth of the eight-race NHRA Constant Aviation Factory Stock Showdown specialty series

July 13, 2021 , Auburn Hills, Mich. – The familiar rumble of HEMI® power will once again reverberate through the Rocky Mountains July 16-18 as Dodge//SRT and Mopar brands return for a 32nd season as title sponsors of the Dodge//SRT Mile-High Nationals Presented by Pennzoil, the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) Camping World Drag Racing Series event held at Thunder Mountain, otherwise known as Bandimere Speedway, near Denver, Colorado.

“Dodge//SRT is ready to get back to racing,” said Tim Kuniskis, Dodge Brand Chief Executive Officer – Stellantis. “Bandimere Speedway has been a part of our Brotherhood of Muscle for more than 32 years. In fact, it’s the longest standing event sponsorship in motorsports history. Our Rocky Mountain racing fans are going to get a great show. The Dodge//SRT Mile-High NHRA Nationals Presented by Pennzoil is always one of the premier racing events in the West.”

While this will be the 41st edition of the NHRA event at the picturesque drag strip set 5,800 feet above sea-level, the brands’ partnership with Bandimere Speedway began in 1989 after a major track renovation and, following an extension announcement earlier this year, continues to be the longest active event title sponsorship in all of motorsports. This 2021 installment is the second of five national events with Mopar and Dodge//SRT headline support for the NHRA’s 70th anniversary season.
Following May’s Mopar Express Lane SpringNationals Presented by Pennzoil in Houston and this weekend’s activities, three more national events remain on the schedule this year:

• September 1-5 – Dodge//SRT U.S. Nationals (Indianapolis)
• September 10-12 – Mopar Express Lane NHRA Nationals Presented by Pennzoil (Reading, Pennsylvania)
• October 29-November 1 – Dodge//SRT NHRA Nationals Presented by Pennzoil (Las Vegas)

A 4,800-square-foot exhibit at Dodge//SRT Mile-High Nationals in the NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway will be open to NHRA fans with a number of interactive displays, including a pair of Dodge Challenger SRT Demon simulators for those with a competitive spirit wanting to test their skills in a virtual race. Visitors will also have the opportunity to see and feel the experience of drag racing from the driver’s seat aboard an actual Mopar Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye Funny Car simulator. The display will also feature a number of Dodge//SRT high-performance vehicles and an instructor from the Radford Racing School (formerly The Bondurant School) on site to provide driving tips and information about the SRT experience. Customers who buy a new SRT model receive one full-day session at Radford Racing School as part of the Dodge//SRT Package and have the opportunity to learn how to get the optimum performance from their new vehicles in a controlled environment. 

On-track action begins Friday at Bandimere Speedway with Dodge//SRT and Mopar backed entries working to take home Wally trophies and “home-event” bragging rights in Funny Car and Top Fuel categories, as well as Sportsman class Constant Aviation Factory Stock Showdown (FSS).

Reigning Funny Car world champion Matt Hagan will be working to secure not only his first victory of the 2021 season aboard the signature red, silver and black DSR Mopar Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye, but also an elusive first win at the long-time Denver event.

“Some of my best memories of coming to Denver for the Dodge//SRT Mile-High Nationals always involve the amazing crowd of people that are really passionate about the Dodge and Mopar brands coming together to celebrate pure muscle and horsepower,” said Hagan. It’s been a Dodge- and Mopar-sponsored race for a really long time and it’s always great to see fans coming out and support it and us. 

“I’ve obviously raced here a lot and haven’t won one yet, but I feel like I’ve been chasing down that win,” added the three-time Funny Car World Champion. “Bandimere Speedway is always tricky, but it’s time to win one for our sponsor and celebrate big. I think that we got a pretty good handle on the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat right now. I’m excited about getting there, getting qualified well, going rounds and running like a Hellcat and turning the win lights on in Denver.”

DSR teammate Ron Capps has qualified in the top-five at every event so far this year, but is looking to string together four solid elimination round runs aboard his HEMI-powered Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat on the all-concrete Bandimere dragstrip in order to take home another Wally to go with the one earned there in 2009. 

Fellow Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Funny Car driver Cruz Pedregon has two trips to the winner’s circle at Denver (1993 and 2013) and is coming off the high of a win at the previous NHRA event in Norwalk, Ohio, and looking to repeat quickly after seeing his Snap-on Tools Pedregon Racing team make consistent gains through the first seven national events of the season.

DSR Top Fuel pilot Leah Pruett seeks to power her sleek red, silver and black DSR Mopar Dodge//SRT Redeye Top Fuel dragster to a repeat performance of her 2018 successful run from No. 1 qualifier to winner, or perhaps even improve on her 2017 track-record elapsed time pass of 3.733 seconds.

“Hollywood is known for making movie magic, and this team has been known for making some of the greatest horsepower out of the thinnest Bandimere air, aka magic,” said Pruett. “We’ve had a challenging start to the season gaining the proper momentum but believe our undeniable capabilities paired with our nose to the grindstone in the shop and training work ethic will produce not only the results we expect but our Mopar fans do as well.

“The Dodge//SRT Mile-High Nationals has always been my most enjoyable event to compete at for a variety of reasons,” added Pruett. “Starting with being surrounded by dedicated like-minded Dodge//SRT and Mopar enthusiasts really brings the ultimate vibe. I am personally looking forward to our season taking a major turn for the competitive best, and believe the Dodge//SRT Mile-High Nationals is the perfect place to do it.” 

Pruett will also take the wheel of her 2021 Dodge Challenger Mopar Drag Pak in FSS this weekend along with DSR teammate Mark Pawuk aboard the Empaco Equipment Dodge Challenger for the fourth contest of the eight-race Sportsman class specialty series. After setting the quickest and fastest speed record (7.806-second pass at 177.44 mph) aboard the most powerful drag pak ever built in the FSS season opener at the Gatornationals, the duo’s goal at this event and through the remainder of the season is to get the most out of each run and battle in the top 10 against a large competitive field.

While on-track action at Bandimere Speedway will be livestreamed via NHRA.TV throughout the weekend, FS1 will provide television highlights of qualifying on Saturday from 2-3 p.m. ET and Sunday, July 18 from 3-4 p.m. ET. Coverage of Sunday’s Dodge//SRT Mile-High Nationals Presented by Pennzoil elimination rounds will air on FS1 from 4-7 p.m. ET. The Denver-area stop kicks off the NHRA’s three-race western swing, which includes Sonoma Raceway in Sonoma, California, and Pacific Raceways in Seattle, Washington, over consecutive weeks.

· First race for mid-engine Corvette at scenic but tough 1.5-mile layout· Garcia, Taylor enter on two-race win streak· Milner revisits site of 100th Corvette Racing win

DETROIT (July 13, 2021) – With the wide-open spaces of Road America and Le Mans on the horizon, Corvette Racing will get a taste of short-track racing – sports car style – when it returns to Lime Rock Park this weekend. Saturday’s Northeast Grand Prix at Lime Rock is a GT-only event for Corvette Racing’s pair of mid-engine Mobil 1/SiriusXM Chevrolet Corvette C8.Rs and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship’s GT competitors. The seven-turn, 1.474-mile circuit in the northwestern corner of Connecticut gives Corvette Racing, a five-time winner at Lime Rock, a shot at an overall race victory during one of the busiest races on the calendar. Race laps for GT Le Mans (GTLM) cars will be around 50 seconds during the two-hour, 40-minute race. If all goes according to plan, that means the pair of racing Corvettes will start to overtake slower GT Daytona (GTD) cars within 20 minutes of the green flag. Like Watkins Glen within the last month, Lime Rock Park was a venue at which the Corvette C8.R didn’t compete during its debut season. That didn’t impact the team during the back-to-back weekends at Watkins Glen, however, when Corvette Racing took the race win, pole position and fastest race lap in both the six-hour enduro and two-hour, 40-minute sprint race. Antonio Garcia and Jordan Taylor, co-drivers in the No. 3 Mobil 1/SiriusXM Corvette C8.R, swept the Watkins Glen weekends to extend their lead in the GTLM Drivers Championship as well as Chevrolet’s in the Manufacturers standings. They are ahead of No. 4 Corvette drivers Tommy Milner and Nick Tandy, who narrowly missing out on victories at The Glen. Taylor (2013 GRAND-AM DP) and Milner (2016 GTLM) each have previous victories at Lime Rock. Garcia (2018 GTLM) and Taylor (2010 GRAND-AM GT) have won pole positions at the track in the past. Garcia also set the fastest race lap in 2017, followed by Tandy doing the same in 2018 and 2019.  Corvette Racing will contest the Northeast Grand Prix from Lime Rock Park on July 16-17. The race will air at 5:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, July 17 with live streaming coverage on TrackPass and NBC Sports Gold at 3:05 p.m. ET. Live audio coverage from IMSA Radio will be available on IMSA.com, Sirius 216, XM 202 and SiriusXM Online 992.

ANTONIO GARCIA, NO. 3 MOBIL 1/SiriusXM CHEVROLET CORVETTE C8.R: “Lime Rock should be good for us. I don’t see any track where the C8.R shouldn’t be good. I’m looking forward to going back there. In a lot of ways it feels like the longest race of the year. You’re running three hours with 50-second laps so it’s very challenging. The 10 laps before you get into traffic are pretty calm. After that, it’s very tough. There is no rest there. In a good qualifying run if you run all session, could be a 20-lap attempt. That’s half-a-stint at most tracks we go to. Mentally it’s demanding because of that.”

JORDAN TAYLOR, NO. 3 MOBIL 1/SiriusXM CHEVROLET CORVETTE C8.R: “It’s been awhile since I’ve been to Lime Rock. The last time I raced there was 2013 in GRAND-AM when we won the race and the championship that weekend, so there are good memories. It’s a tough place and usually an intense race. I think every year I’ve watched the GT race, there have always been crazy battles with the different classes and how tough it is to pass. It’s one that’s been on the list that looks difficult so it will be a good experience. Pit stop execution will be huge. It’s a short lap and Lime Rock will be a track position race. Driver changes, tire changes and fueling will have to be the best of the year.”

TOMMY MILNER, NO. 4 MOBIL 1/SiriusXM CHEVROLET CORVETTE C8.R: “I have really great memories from Lime Rock in 2016 and getting the 100th win for Corvette Racing with Oliver Gavin. It obviously was a special day for me and the team. Lime Rock will be a good challenge to go there with the C8.R for the first time. It’s a pretty unique racetrack all things considered. In a lot of ways, it’s an oval so you set the car up to pretty much only turn right. We’ll have our work cut out to figure that out with a new car. Based on all the work we’ve done so far and all the results we’ve had, I don’t see there any real major hurdles to getting to a good spot.”

NICK TANDY, NO. 4 MOBIL 1/SiriusXM CHEVROLET CORVETTE C8.R: “I really like Lime Rock. The track is quick but it’s so intense. It reminds me a little bit of my short-oval background in that you’re always in the corners, you’re always in traffic. The car, the tire and the driver never get a break. You’re in traffic pretty much all the time. A stint at Le Mans is around 14 laps, and you get time to relax. A stint at Lime Rock is like 60 laps and there is constantly something going on. You feel it physically as a driver because it’s usually super-hot. It’s intense on the physical and mental sides. The GTLM cars being as fast as they are, it’s a good workout and good fun.”

Brad Doty Classic on Tuesday, Double Kings Royal on Wednesday-SaturdayROSSBURG, OH – July 12, 2021 – The time has finally arrived. It’s the richest Month of Money in the history of the World of Outlaws NOS Energy DrinkSprint Car Series.It’s so big that not even one Kings Royal will suffice, that’s why we’re offering up TWO different $175,000 paydays at Eldora Speedway this week. Fans can BUY TICKETS HERE.In all, fans of The Greatest Show on Dirt will witness five-straight nights of high-horsepower action throughout the state of Ohio. Before the Kings Royal ceremonies commence, we honor a living legend with the Brad Doty Classic on Tuesday night at Attica Raceway Park. Tickets for the mid-week special are sold HERE.A two-hour trip down the road will lead racers and fans to Rossburg, OH, where “The Big E” crowns two Kings on Thursday and Saturday.Tues – Brad Doty Classic at Attica Raceway Park Wed – Jokers Wild at Eldora Speedway Thur – 38th Kings Royal at Eldora Speedway Fri – The Knight Before at Eldora Speedway Sat – 37th Kings Royal at Eldora SpeedwayHere’s a quick list of some of the biggest storylines this week:A LIVING LEGEND: Tuesday’s race at Attica Raceway Park is all about honoring Brad Doty. The Apple Creek, OH native is a 2001 National Sprint Car Hall of Fame Inductee, and his resume would be miles longer had it not been for a devastating back injury that removed him from the seat at the 1988 Kings Royal.Doty collected 73 checkered flags throughout his career, 18 of them in a shortened World of Outlaws career, which is still good enough for 30th All-Time. Since his accident 33 years ago, Doty has remained a passionate Sprint Car enthusiast and gives back to the sport in every fashion imaginable. From his duties as television color commentator to a magazine columnist to a co-promoter of his own race, Brad still finds a way to make a lasting impact on the sport he loves. On Tuesday, we salute him.DEFENDING THE THRONE: Leading the charge into Eldora is reigning King Brad XXXVII. Sweet enters the week on a three-race winning streak aboard the Kasey Kahne Racing, NAPA Auto Parts #49. On the year, they’ve collected 13 Feature wins and currently own their biggest margin yet in the pursuit of a third-straight World of Outlaws championship.On Saturday night when the 37th edition is held, Sweet will have the chance to join Donny Schatz as the only back-to-back winners in event history. Another win would also make him a three-time King (2013 & 2019) alongside the likes of Steve Kinser (7 crowns), Donny Schatz (5 crowns), Sammy Swindell (3 crowns), and Jac Haudenschild (3 crowns).To successfully defend the throne, The Big Cat will have to step up his game considering his struggles at Eldora in May. With finishes of 11th and 14th, two of his seven results outside of the top-10 came at this track.CHASING ANOTHER CROWN: Along with Sweet, an additional six former Kings Royal champions have confirmed their attendance with another inauguration in mind:King Donny XXXV could potentially match Steve Kinser (7) for the most Kings Royal wins in event history if he were to sweep Thursday and Saturday’s shows. The 10-time champ and 300-time winner has five crowns to his name, topping the race in 2007, 2009, 2016, 2017, and 2018. Schatz pilots the Tony Stewart Racing, Ford Performance, Carquest #15.King Kerry XXXI will serve as Schatz’s teammate aboard the Tony Stewart Racing, Advance Auto Parts, Rush Truck Centers #14. Madsen claimed the crown in 2014 and has rejuvenated his career since joining TSR in May. His first start in the #14 came at Eldora, and since then he has an average finish of 4.6 in 14 World of Outlaws starts.King Daryn XXV is chasing his 16th and 17th consecutive Kings Royal A-Main starts this week. The 2008 winner and 2013 World of Outlaws champion will climb aboard the Swindell SpeedLab #39.King Jason XXI is on a roll of late, just in time for the Month of Money. In the last three events, Sides has earned his first top-five in four years and nearly claimed his first QuickTime in two years. The #7S looks to “Double Down” with double Kings Royals.King Jac XV will contest the final Kings Royal of his career this week. “The Wild Child’s” rise to fame came with the rise of Eldora, winning the event thrice in 1987, 1994 and 1998. His finale is all that much more special coming aboard the Pennzoil #22, the iconic design he drove for Jack Elden in the 90’s.King Dave XII is racing like its 1995 again. Two months ago at Sharon, Blaney drove his personally-built #10 to his first World of Outlaws win in 24 years. Now, he’s eyeing his first crown since 1995 when he won aboard the Casey Luna #10.REDEMPTION RUN: At the last running of the 36th Kings Royal in 2019, Logan Schuchart offered an unforgettable, yet heartbreaking ride. In only 10 laps, the Hanover, PA native romped from 12th-to-1st, flying by the likes of Sweet, Schatz, Swindell, Gravel, Haudenschild, Madsen, Reutzel, and more. He ensued to lead the next 15 laps until the caution flew on Lap 25, which was ultimately his downfall. A stumble on the restart allowed Sweet to ride by and run off, forcing Schuchart to settle for second at $20,000 instead of the $175,000 grand prize.With two chances this week at the title, Schuchart is hungry for some vengeance. The Shark Racing, Drydene Performance Products #1S has already racked up three World of Outlaws wins this year, including the $50,000 Jackson Nationals title. Combined with grandfather Bobby Allen (8), great-uncle Joey Allen (4), and uncle Jacob Allen (1), Schuchart’s (3) gives their royal family a combined 13 starts at this event. However, a breakthrough win would be the first crowning at Eldora for the Hanover Gang.NEXT GENERATION: The Kinser cousins (Steve & Mark) and Blaney brothers (Dave & Dale) have each reached the grand stage of Kings Royal, however, no father-son duo has ever topped the event. This week, World of Outlaws regulars Sheldon Haudenschild and Kraig Kinser will have a chance to change that record.Haudenschild (son of King Jac XV) will race alongside his father for the final time at the famed event, as “The Wild Child” continues his farewell tour. Sheldon enters as the most recent winner at Eldora, scoring his first win at the track in May. In 2018, he qualified for his third Kings Royal A-Main and piloted the Stenhouse Jr. Marshall Racing, NOS Energy Drink #17 to a career-best of fourth.Kinser (son of King Steve XXVII) chases his 10th Kings Royal A-Main appearance aboard the #11K owned by his National Sprint Car Hall of Fame father. In nine previous starts, Kraig has racked up six top-1o finishes and a career-best of fifth, which he matched at the 35th running in 2018.RING THE BELL: Joe Gibbs Racing star Christopher Bell will make his first appearance of the year in Tuesday’s Brad Doty Classic at Attica Raceway Park. It’s the first of back-to-back Tuesday nights with the World of Outlaws Sprint Cars for CBell, as he’ll also race at Lernerville’s Don Martin Memorial Silver Cup on next Tuesday, July 20.The five-time World of Outlaws winner will drive the Swindell SpeedLab #39 at both races. He’s trying to join Kyle Larson and Tony Stewart as the only racers in history to win a NASCAR Cup Series race and World of Outlaws Feature in the same season.ELDORA INVERT: The Kings Royal format is unlike anything else Sprint Car drivers encounter all year long. Wednesday’s Jokers Wild and Friday’s The Knight Before will run as standard World of Outlaws programs, however, Thursday’s 38th Kings Royal and Saturday’s 37th Kings Royal are a whole different show.Qualifying is still a mainstay, but everyone goes under one group. More importantly, a huge 36-car inversion flips the Heat Race lineups and puts the fastest cars to mid-pack. Only the top-three finishers transfer to the Kings Royal A-Main, lining up spots 1-18 in a special fashion with Heat Six winner taking the pole. The fastest two qualifiers that do not transfers are guaranteed starting spots 19-20. The Last Chance Showdown will throw four more names into the ring for the 40-lap Feature.ALL STAR INVASION: With big money, an actual crown, and all of the prestige on the line, Kings Royal week has the tendency to bring in some of the best invaders in the country to face the full-time Outlaws.The All Star Circuit of Champions continent is represented by guys like Tyler Courtney in the Clauson-Marshall #7BC, Justin Peck in the Tom Buch #13, Cory Eliason in the Rudeen #26, Hunter Schuerenberg in the Vermeer #55, Zeb Wise in the Wise-Priddy #10, Spencer Bayston in the McGhee #11, Paul McMahan in the CJB #5, and several other worthy contenders.There’s also the likes of Pennsylvania natives Danny Dietrich in his potent #48 and Anthony Macri aligning with the Indy Race Parts #71. Another foursome including Brent Marks, Giovanni Scelzi, Brian Brown and Sam Hafertepe Jr. will be there and have all ran podium against the Outlaws this year.ON THE CUSP: Over the last 10 years, seven different drivers have led laps at the Kings Royal, but have yet to experience their own inauguration. That list includes Logan Schuchart as mentioned, as well as Brian Brown, Cole Duncan, Trey Starks, Tim Shaffer, Paul McMahan, but most notably David Gravel.The Watertown, CT native led 10 laps in 2014 before slipping back to finish a career-best third. His seven consecutive Kings Royal A-Main appearances are highlighted by a 9.5 average finish with four top-10s to his credit. Gravel and the Big Game Motorsports #2 have the advantage of being one of the fastest cars on 1/2-miles this year, proven by their sweep of the Bristol Throwdown.Much like Schatz in 2007, Gravel has won almost every Crown Jewel imaginable, except this one. This could be the year he is finally crowned King David.FIRST TIME EVER: Two full-time World of Outlaws competitors are chasing their first-career A-Main appearance at the Kings Royal – Carson Macedo and Wayne Johnson. For Macedo, he sits third in World of Outlaws points in his first season driving the Jason Johnson Racing #41. Crew Chief Philip Dietz has reliable experience at the event, guiding Jason Johnson to second in 2015 and David Gravel to fifth in 2019.ATTICA ACES: Only two full-time World of Outlaws drivers own Series Feature wins at the Attica 1/3-mile – them being Donny Schatz and David Gravel. Schatz is a four-time winner at the track and a four-time Brad Doty Classic champion. Gravel is the most recent victor, beating Schatz for his second Attica win after capitalizing on Haudenschild’s misfortune in May’s Kistler Engines Classic.Kyle Larson enters as the defending Brad Doty Classic champion.MONTH OF MONEY: Kings Royal week is the official kickoff to the 2021 Month of Money. This 30-day span features 15 World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series races with the three highest paydays of the season (all over $150K) and another three in excess of $20K.38th KINGS ROYAL: Wed-Thur, July 14-15 at Eldora ($175,000)37th KINGS ROYAL: Fri-Sat, July 16-17 at Eldora ($175,000)SILVER CUP: Tues, July 20 at Lernerville ($25,000)SUMMER NATIONALS: Fri-Sat, July 23-24 at Williams Grove ($20,000)BIG “R” SHOOTOUT: Fri, July 30 at Ransomville ($1o,000)EMPIRE STATE CHALLENGE: Sat, July 31 at Weedsport ($10,000)IRONMAN 55: Fri-Sat, August 6-7 at I-55 ($20,000)KNOXVILLE NATIONALS: Wed-Sat, August 11-14 at Knoxville (potential $200,000)This Week at a Glance – When and WhereTuesday, July 13 at Attica Raceway Park in Attica, OH Wednesday-Saturday, July 14-17 at Eldora Speedway in Rossburg, OHOn the Internet World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series Twitter – @WorldofOutlaws Instagram – @WoOSprint Facebook – Facebook.com/WorldofOutlawsSprintCarSeries YouTube – Youtube.com/WorldofOutlaws DIRTVision – DIRTVision.com – Platinum annual FAST PASS for $299 or monthly FAST PASS for $39/monthAround the Turn: After this week in Ohio, the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series travels back to the state of Pennsylvania for mid-season match with the PA Posse. The Don Martin Memorial Silver Cup awards $25,000/Win on Tuesday, July 20 at Lernerville Speedway, followed by a doubleheader at Williams Grove Speedway capped by the $20,000/Win Summer Nationals on Friday-Saturday, July 23-24.NOS ENERGY DRINK FEATURE WINNERS (12 Drivers): 13 wins – Brad Sweet, Kasey Kahne Racing w/ Mike Curb #49 6 wins – David Gravel, Big Game Motorsports #2 5 wins – Carson Macedo, Jason Johnson Racing #41 4 wins – Sheldon Haudenschild, Stenhouse Jr. Marshall Racing #17 3 wins – Aaron Reutzel, Roth Motorsports #83 3 wins – Logan Schuchart, Shark Racing #1S 2 wins – Kerry Madsen, Tony Stewart/Curb-Agajanian Racing #14 1 win – James McFadden, Kasey Kahne Racing w/ Mike Curb #9 1 win – Brent Marks, Brent Marks Racing #19M 1 win – Dave Blaney, Dave Blaney #10 1 win – Kyle Larson, Paul Silva #57 1 win – Donny Schatz, Tony Stewart/Curb-Agajanian Racing #15FEATURE LAPS LED (21 Drivers): 259 laps – Brad Sweet 173 laps – Sheldon Haudenschild 158 laps – Aaron Reutzel 150 laps – David Gravel 143 laps – Logan Schuchart 130 laps – Carson Macedo 117 laps – Donny Schatz 63 laps – Kerry Madsen 31 laps – James McFadden 27 laps – Sam Hafertepe Jr. 25 laps – Kyle Larson 19 laps – Tyler Courtney 19 laps – Giovanni Scelzi 17 laps – Brent Marks 10 laps – Jacob Allen & Brock Zearfoss 3 laps – Ian Madsen 1 lap – Kasey Kahne, Kraig Kinser, Brandon Spithaler, Dave BlaneySLICK WOODY’S QUICKTIME AWARDS (14 Drivers): 10 QuickTimes – David Gravel 4 QuickTimes – Brad Sweet 4 QuickTimes – Sheldon Haudenschild, Logan Schuchart 3 QuickTimes – Aaron Reutzel, Kerry Madsen 2 QuickTimes – James McFadden, Cory Eliason, Giovanni Scelzi, Sam Hafertepe Jr. 1 QuickTime – Carson Macedo, Danny Dietrich, Anthony Macri, Kasey KahneDRYDENE HEAT RACE WINNERS (31 Drivers) 19 Heat Wins ��� David Gravel 14 Heat Wins – Carson Macedo, Aaron Reutzel 10 Heat Wins – Donny Schatz, Logan Schuchart 8 Heat Wins – Sheldon Haudenschild 7 Heat Wins – James McFadden 6 Heat Wins – Brad Sweet 4 Heat Wins – Giovanni Scelzi, Brian Brown, Kerry Madsen 3 Heat Wins – Brock Zearfoss, Jason Sides, Kraig Kinser, Ian Madsen, Sam Hafertepe Jr. 2 Heat Wins – Jacob Allen, Kasey Kahne, Kyle Larson, DJ Netto 1 Heat Win –  Wayne Johnson, Danny Dietrich, Hunter Schuerenberg, Tyler Courtney, Lance Dewease, Anthony Macri, Brandon Spithaler, Parker Price-Miller, Tim Kaeding, Jack Dover, Scotty ThielPODIUM FINISHES (22 Drivers): 20 Podiums – Brad Sweet 14 Podiums – Carson Macedo 12 Podiums – David Gravel, Logan Schuchart, Donny Schatz 11 Podiums – Sheldon Haudenschild 8 Podiums – Aaron Reutzel 6 Podiums – Kerry Madsen 5 Podiums – Brent Marks, Giovanni Scelzi 4 Podiums – James McFadden 2 Podiums – Cory Eliason, Lance Dewease, Anthony Macri 1 Podium – Kraig Kinser, Danny Dietrich, Tyler Courtney, Justin Peck, Brian Brown, Anthony Macri, Dave Blaney, Kyle Larson, Sam Hafertepe Jr.2021 World of Outlaws Sprint Car Schedule & WinnersNo. / Day, Date / Track / Location / Winner (Total Wins) 1. Fri, Feb. 5 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / Brad Sweet (1) 2. Sun, Feb. 7 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / Logan Schuchart (1) 3. Fri, March 5 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / Carson Macedo (1) 4. Sat, March 6 / East Bay Raceway Park / Tampa, FL / Aaron Reutzel (1) 5. Fri, March 12 / Magnolia Motor Speedway / Columbus, MS / Sheldon Haudenschild (1) 6. Sat, March 13 / The Rev / Monroe, LA / David Gravel (1) 7. Fri, March 19 / Cotton Bowl Speedway / Paige, TX / Sheldon Haudenschild (2) 8. Sat, March 20 / Cotton Bowl Speedway / Paige, TX / Brad Sweet (2) 9. Sat, March 27 / Lake Ozark Speedway / Eldon, MO / Brad Sweet (3) 10. Fri, April 2 / I-55 Raceway / Pevely, MO / Brad Sweet (4) 11. Sat, April 3 / I-55 Raceway / Pevely, MO / Brad Sweet (5) 12. Fri, April 9 / Kokomo Speedway / Kokomo, IN / James McFadden (1) 13. Sat, April 10 / Tri-State Speedway / Haubstadt, IN / Carson Macedo (2) 14. Fri, April 22 / Bristol Motor Speedway / Bristol, TN / David Gravel (2) 15. Sun, April 24 / Bristol Motor Speedway / Bristol, TN / David Gravel (3) 16. Thur, April 29 / Jacksonville Speedway / Jacksonville, IL / Brad Sweet (6) 17. Fri, April 30 / I-70 Motorsports Park / Odessa, MO / Brad Sweet (7) 18. Sat, May 1 / I-70 Motorsports Park / Odessa, MO / Brad Sweet (8) 19. Sat, May 8 / Eldora Speedway / Rossburg, OH / Brent Marks (1) 20. Sat, May 8 / Eldora Speedway / Rossburg, OH / Sheldon Haudenschild (3) 21. Wed, May 12 / Lincoln Speedway / Abbottstown, PA / Brad Sweet (9) 22. Fri, May 14 / Williams Grove Speedway / Mechanicsburg, PA / Carson Macedo (3) 23. Sat, May 15 / Williams Grove Speedway / Mechanicsburg, PA / Aaron Reutzel (2) 24. Tues, May 18 / Bridgeport Speedway / Swedesboro, NJ / Logan Schuchart (2) 25. Fri, May 21 / Attica Raceway Park / Attica, OH / David Gravel (4) 26. Sat, May 22 / Sharon Speedway / Hartford, OH / Dave Blaney (1) 27. Mon, May 31 / Lawrenceburg Speedway / Lawrenceburg, IN / Kyle Larson (1) 28. Sat, June 5 / Granite City Speedway /Sauk Rapids, MN / David Gravel (5) 29. Fri, June 11 / Knoxville Raceway / Knoxville, IA / Carson Macedo (4) 30. Sat, June 12 / Knoxville Raceway / Knoxville, IA / Carson Macedo (5) 31. Thur, June 17 / 34 Raceway / West Burlington, IA / Brad Sweet (10) 32. Fri, June 18 / Dubuque Fairgrounds Speedway / Dubuque, IA / Donny Schatz (1) 33. Sat, June 19 / Beaver Dam Raceway / Beaver Dam, WI / Sheldon Haudenschild (4) 34. Mon, June 21 / Huset’s Speedway / Brandon, SD / David Gravel (6) 35. Tues, June 22 / Huset’s Speedway / Brandon, SD / Aaron Reutzel (3) 36. Thur, June 24 / Jackson Motorplex / Jackson, MN / Kerry Madsen (1) 37. Fri, June 25 / Jackson Motorplex / Jackson, MN / Kerry Madsen (2) 38. Sat, June 27 / Jackson Motorplex / Jackson, MN / Logan Schuchart (3) 39. Fri, July 2 / Cedar Lake Speedway / New Richmond, WI / Brad Sweet (11) 40. Sat, July 3 / Cedar Lake Speedway / New Richmond, WI / Brad Sweet (12) 41. Sat, July 10 / Wilmot Raceway / Wilmot, WI / Brad Sweet (13)

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.

Sheppard, Larson, Erb, and more prepare for four races in six days SUPERIOR, WI – JULY 12, 2021 – The World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Models are gearing up for one of its toughest weeks of the season. The Series will race four times over six days in three different states.The Most Powerful Late Models on the Planet will run four 40-lap, $10,000-to-win Morton Buildings Features, putting $40,000 on the line if one driver can win them all.The grueling stretch starts with the first mid-week race of the season on Tuesday, July 13, at Gondik Law Speedway in Superior, WI. Then, the Series moves west on Friday, July 16, with a visit to River Cities Speedway in Grand Forks, ND. It’s the only trip to the Peace Garden state in 2021.On Saturday, July 17, the World of Outlaws makes its final trip of the season to Minnesota with the Series’ first visit to I-94 Sure Step Speedway in Fergus Falls, MN.Tickets: https://bit.ly/3vvcMtdThe Northern swing finishes on Sunday, July 18 with the Rumble at the Red Cedar at Red Cedar Speedway in Menomonie, WI.Tickets: https://bit.ly/3guUIexIf you can’t make it to the track, watch all the action live on DIRTVision with the annual Platinum FAST PASS subscription for $299/year or the monthly FAST PASS subscription for $39/month.Here are the top stories to follow this weekend:Rocket Consistency: One of the keys to winning a championship is consistency, and that’s how Brandon Sheppard finds himself at the top of the standings—64 points ahead of Chris Madden.The New Berlin, IL driver only has two wins this season, but has more podium finishes than any other driver (12). That includes a second and third place finish last weekend at Jackson Motorplex.The “Rocket Shepp” also has more top fives than any other driver (16) and is tied with Madden for the most top-10s (21).Sheppard found past success on the Northern swing last year, reaching Victory Lane the last time the Series visited Gondik Law Speedway and River Cities Speedway.Championship Experience: When the Series moves North, it means Brent Larson gets to race close to his Lake Elmo, MN home.But he also has more experience than any other World of Outlaws driver heading into Tuesday’s race at Gondik Law Speedway. Larson is the 2007 track champion at the Superior, WI facility.He has some momentum after a top-five finish on Friday night at Jackson Motorplex. If he can use that along with the number of laps he has at the track, it could put him in position to get his elusive first World of Outlaws victory.Madden Momentum: Another driver with momentum heading into this four-race week is Chris Madden. The Gray Court, SC driver scored two top-fives at Jackson Motorplex, keeping his trend of consistency going in 2021.“Smokey” has more wins than any other driver this season and is second behind Sheppard for the most top-fives (15).While Madden has been consistent, he still trails Sheppard by 68 points in the chase for the championship. He’s finished behind Sheppard in five of the last six races and will need to turn that around to keep his title hopes alive with 24 races to go.Erb is Rolling: While Sheppard and Madden have been consistent all season, Dennis Erb Jr. has made impressive strides over the last eight races.Since the start of June, Erb is tied for the most Series wins (2) in that time span with Brandon Overton. The Carpentersville, IL driver has also collected four top fives in the span, and finished in the top-10 in seven of the last eight races.Erb’s consistency vaulted him into the top-five in the Series standings—24 points behind fourth-place Ricky Weiss.If the “One Man Band” can keep his hot streak going, he could find himself moving up another spot by the end of the week.When and WhereJuly 13: Gondik Law Speedway in Superior, WI July 16: River Cities Speedway in Grand Forks, ND July 17: I-94 Sure Step Speedway in Fergus Falls, MN July 18: Red Cedar Speedway in Menomonie, WIAbout The TracksGondik Law Speedway is a 3/8-mile banked oval River Cities Speedway is a 1/4-mile high-banked oval I-94 Sure Step Speedway is a 3/8-mile oval Red Cedar Speedway is a 3/8-mile semi-banked ovalPREVIOUS GONDIK LAW SPEEDWAY WINNERS 2020- Brandon Sheppard 2013- Tim McCreadie 2010- Jimmy Mars 1989- Scott BloomquistPREVIOUS RIVER CITIES SPEEDWAY WINNERS 2019 – Brandon Sheppard on July 12 2018 – Mike Marlar on July 13 2017 – Shane Clanton on July 14 2015 – Tim McCreadie on July 10 2014 – Tim Fuller on July 18 2012 – Darrell Lanigan on July 13 2011 – Tim McCreadie on July 15 2010 – Austin Hubbard on July 9 2009 – Josh Richards on July 10 2008 – Brady Smith on July 11 2007 – Tim Fuller on June 12 2006 – Darrell Lanigan on May 30PREVIOUS RED CEDAR SPEEDWAY WINNERS 2019- Chase JunghansOnlineGondik Law Speedway: http://gondiklawspeedway.com River Cities Speedway: http://www.rivercitiesspeedway.com I-94 Sure Step Speedway: http://www.i94speedways.com Red Cedar Speedway: https://redcedarspeedway.comTrack RecordsGondik Law Speedway: 16.543 set by Rick Eckert on July 5, 2013 River Cities Speedway: 11.321 set by Mike Marlar I-94 Sure Step Speedway: Not Registered Red Cedar Speedway: 16.168 set by Brandon Sheppard on July 14, 2019On the Internet World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Models Series Twitter – Twitter.com/WoOLateModels – @WoOLateModels Instagram – Instagram.com/WoOLateModels – @woolatemodels Facebook – Facebook.com/WorldofOutlawsLateModelSeries YouTube – Youtube.com/WorldofOutlaws DIRTVision – DIRTVision.com – Platinum annual FAST PASS for $299 or monthly FAST PASS for $39/monthAround the turn: The Most Powerful Late Models on the Planet travel to Fairbury Speedway in Fairbury, IL for the $50,000-to-win Prairie Dirt Classic July 30-31.Feature Winners: (16 Drivers) Rank- Driver- Hometown-WinsChris Madden, Gray Court, SC-4Brandon Overton, Evans, GA-3Kyle Strickler, Mooresville, NC-2 Devin Moran, Dresden, OH-2 Bobby Pierce, Oakwood, IL-2 Brandon Sheppard, New Berlin, IL-2 Dennis Erb Jr., Carpentersville, IL-2Kyle Bronson, Brandon, FL-1 Mike Spatola, Manhattan, IL-1 Josh Richards, Shinnston, WV-1 Tim McCreadie, Watertown, NY-1 Cade Dillard, Robeline, LA-1 Shannon Babb, Moweaqua, IL-1 Rick Eckert, York, PA-1 Dave Hess, Waterford, PA-1 Frank Heckenast Jr., Franfort, KY-1DRYDENE HEAT RACE WINNERS (46 Drivers) Rank- Driver- Hometown-WinsChris Madden, Gray Court, SC-10Brandon Sheppard, New Berlin, IL-9Cade Dillard, Robeline, LA-6Rick Eckert, York, PA-5 Tyler Bruening, Decorah, IA-5 Brandon Overton, Evans, GA-5Tim McCreadie, Watertown, NY-4 Tyler Bruening, Decorah, IA-4 Bobby Pierce, Oakwood, IL-4 Kyle Strickler, Mooresville, NC-4Kyle Bronson, Brandon, FL-3Devin Moran, Dresden, OH- 2 Ross Bailes, Clover, SC- 2 Ricky Weiss, Headingly, MB-2 Shannon Babb, Moweaqua, IL- 2 Boom Briggs, Bear Lake, PA-2 Scott Bloomquist, Mooresburg, TN-2 Dennis Erb Jr., Carpentersville, IL-2 Mason Zeigler, Chalk Hill, PA-2Dale Mcdowell, Chickamauga, GA- 1 Darell Lanigan, Union, KY-1 Parker Martin, Milledgeville, GA-1 Brent Larson, Lake Elmo, MN-1 Mike Marlar, Winfield, TN-1 Hudson O’Neal, Martinsville, IN-1 Ricky Thornton Jr., Chandler, AZ-1 Jonathan Davenport, Blairsville, GA-1 Brian Shirley, Chatham, IL-1 Ryan Unzicker, El Paso, IL-1 Taylor Scheffler, Waukesha, WI- 1 Mike Spatola, Manhattan, IL-1 Kevin Weaver, Gibson City, IL-1 Josh Richards, Shinnston, WV-1 Jimmy Owens, Newport, TN-1 Ryan Gustin, Marshalltown, IA-1 Dan Stone, Thompson, PA-1 Billy Moyer, Batesville, AR-1 Frank Heckenast Jr., Frankfort, IL-1 Dave Hess, Waterford, PA-1 Chris Hackett, Erie, PA-1 Spencer Hughes, Meridian, MS-1 Mike Norris, Sarver, PA-1 Mark Whitener, Middleburg, FL-1 Chub Frank, Bear Lake, PA-1 Max Blair, Titusville, PA-1 Chad Simpson, Mt. Vernon, IA-1Last Chance Showdown Winners (29 drivers) Rank- Driver- Hometown-WinsRicky Weiss, Headingly, MB-4Brent Larson, Lake Elmo, MN-3 Dale McDowell, Chickamauga, GA-3Brandon Sheppard, New Berlin, IL-2 Boom Briggs, Bear Lake, PA-2 Rick Eckert, York, PA-2 Tyler Bruening, Decorah, IA-2Ross Robinson, Georgetown, DE- 1 Scott Bloomquist, Mooresburg, TN-1 Chase Junghans, Manhattan, KS-1 Brandon Overton, Evans, GA- 1 Dennis Erb, Jr., Carpentersville, IL-1 Mike Norris, Sarver, PA- 1 Stacy Boles, Clinton, TN-1 Kyle Strickler, Mooresville, NC-1 Kyle Bronson, Brandon, FL-1 Jonathan Davenport, Blairsville, GA-1 Chris Simpson, Oxford, IA-1 Jake Timm, Winona, MN-1 Taylor Scheffler, Waukesha, WI- 1 Gordy Gundaker, St. Charles, MO-1 Cade Dillard, Robeline, LA-1 Tyler Bare, Rockbridge Baths, VA-1 Trevor Gundaker, St. Charles, MO-1 Greg Oakes, Franklinville, NY-1 Mark Whitener, Middleburg, FL-1 Jared Miley, Pittsburgh, PA-1 Mike Benedum, Salem, WV-1 Darrell Lanigan, Union, KY-1 Gregg Satterlee, Indiana, PA-1PODIUM FINISHES (36 drivers) Rank – Driver, Hometown – PodiumsBrandon Sheppard, New Berlin, IL-12Chris Madden, Gray Court, SC-8Bobby Pierce, Oakwood, IL-4 Brandon Overton, Evans, GA – 4 Frank Heckenast, Franfort, IL- 4Kyle Strickler, Mooresville, NC – 3 Devin Moran, Dresden, OH-3 Cade Dillard, Robeline, LA – 3 Ryan Gustin, Marshalltown, IA-3 Dennis Erb Jr., Carpentersville, IL-3Kyle Bronson, Brandon, FL – 2 Shannon Babb, Moweaqua, IL-2 Rick Eckert, York, PA-2 Tyler Bruening, Decorah, IA-2 Scott Bloomquist, Mooresburg, TN – 2Darrell Lanigan, Union, KY – 1 Hudson O’Neal, Martinsville, IN – 1 Ricky Thornton, Jr., Chandler, AZ – 1 Dale McDowell, Chickamauga, GA – 1 Mike Marlar, Winfield, TN-1 Jonathan Davenport, Blairsville, GA-1 Ryan Unzicker, El Paso, IL-1 Mike Spatola, Manhattan, IL-1 Josh Richards, Shinnston, WV-1 Tim McCreadie, Watertown, NY-1 Ross Bailes, Clover, SC-1 Ricky Weiss, Headingly, MB-1 Scott James, Bright, IN-1 Billy Moyer, Batesville, AR-1 Brent Larson, Lake Elmo, MN-1 Jimmy Mars, Menomonie, WI-1 Dan Stone, Thompson, PA-1 Dave Hess, Waterford, PA-1 Max Blair, Titusville, PA-1 Mike Norris, Sarver, PA-1 Mark Whitener, Middleburg, FL-1HARD CHARGER (14 drivers) Rank – Driver, Hometown – H.C.Ricky Weiss, Headingly, MB – 4Brandon Sheppard, New Berlin, IL – 3Chase Junghans, Manhattan, KS – 2 Brent Larson, Lake Elmo, MN-2 Cade Dillard, Robeline, LA-2 Darrell Lanigan, Union, KY-2 Chris Madden, Gray Court, SC-2 Boom Briggs, Bear Lake, PA – 2Brandon Overton, Evans, GA-1 Ricky Thornton Jr., Chandler, AZ-1 Jason Jameson, Lawrenceburg, IN-1 Logan Martin, West Plains, MO-1 Dan Stone, Thompson, PA-1 Ross Robinson, Georgetown, DE-1 Gregg Satterlee, Rochester Mills, PA-1SLICK WOODY’S QUICK TIME Award (16 drivers) Rank – Driver, Hometown – QTsChris Madden, Gray Court, SC-3 Brandon Sheppard, New Berlin, IL-3Kyle Strickler, Mooresville, NC – 2 Brandon Overton, Evans, GA-2 Bobby Pierce, Oakwood, IL – 2Kyle Bronson, Brandon, FL – 1 Devin Moran, Dresden, OH – 1 Donald McIntosh, Dawsonville, GA- 1 Taylor Scheffler, Waukesha, WI- 1 Dennis Erb Jr., Carpentersville, IL-1 Billy Moyer, Batesville, AR-1 Boom Briggs, Bear Lake, PA-1 Rick Eckert, York, PA-1 Dave Hess, Waterford, PA-1 Ryan Gustin, Marshalltown, IA-1 Mike Norris, Sarver, PA-12021 World of Outlaws Late Model Schedule & WinnersNo./ Day, Date / Track / Location / Winner (Total Wins) 1. Thursday, Jan. 14 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / Kyle Bronson (1) 2. Saturday, Jan. 16 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / Kyle Strickler (1) 3. Wednesday, Feb. 10 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / Kyle Strickler (2) 4. Thursday, Feb. 11 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / Devin Moran (1) 5. Friday, Feb. 12 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / Brandon Overton (1) 6. Saturday, March 6/ Smoky Mountain Speedway/ Maryville, TN/ Chris Madden (1). 7. Friday, March 26 / Cherokee Speedway / Gaffney, SC / Jimmy Owens/Brandon Sheppard 8.Friday, April 2/Farmer City Raceway/Farmer City, IL/ Mike Spatola(1) 9. Saturday, April 3/ Farmer City Raceway/Farmer City, IL/Bobby Pierce(1) 10. Friday, April 9/Bristol Motor Speedway, Bristol, TN/Josh Richards(1) 11. Sunday, April 11/Bristol Motor Speedway, Bristol, TN/Devin Moran(2) 12. Friday, April 23/Richmond Raceway, Richmond, KY/Tim McCreadie(1) 13. Friday, April 30/Boone Speedway, Boone IA/Cade Dillard(1)/Shannon Babb(1) 14. Saturday, May 1/Boone Speedway, Boone IA/Bobby Pierce(2) 15.Friday, May 7/Mississippi Thunder Speedway, Fountain City, WI/Brandon Sheppard(1) 16.Saturday May 8/Mississippi Thunder Speedway, Fountain City, WI/Chris Madden(2) 17. Friday May 21/ Port Royal Speedway, Port Royal, PA/Chris Madden(3) 18. Saturday May 22/Port Royal Speedway, Port Royal, PA/Chris Madden (4) 19. Friday June 4/Circle City Raceway, Indianapolis, IN/Dennis Erb Jr. (1) 20. Saturday June 5/Plymouth Raceway, Plymouth, IN/Rick Eckert (1) 21. Thursday June 17/Stateline Speedway, Busti, NY/Dave Hess(1) 22. Thursday June 24/Lernerville Speedway, Sarver, PA/Brandon Sheppard(2) 23. Friday June 25/Lernerville Speedway, Sarver, PA/Brandon Overton(2) 24. Saturday June 26/Lernerville Speedway, Sarver, PA/Brandon Overton(3) 25. Friday July 9/Jackson Motorplex, Jackson, MN/Frank Heckenast Jr. (1) 25. Saturday July 10/Jackson Motorplex, Jackson, MN/Dennis Erb Jr.(2)

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.

Batavia, OH (July 12, 2021) – The Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series and Smoky Mountain Speedway officials have found a suitable makeup date for the $20,000-to-win Mountain Moonshine Classic that was postponed after heavy rains continued throughout the evening on Saturday, July 10th. The Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series will make a return visit to Smoky Mountain Speedway on Friday, October 8th, before visits to The Red Clay at Woodstock – Historic Dixie Speedway and Rome Speedway. A complete show of hot laps, qualifying, heats, and B-Mains will be topped off by a 60 lap A-Main paying $20,000 to win. General admission tickets and pit passes purchased for the July 10th event will be honored on the make-up date or at any other event remaining on the 2021 schedule at Smoky Mountain Speedway. New racing entries will be accepted on the day of the event. General admission, pit admission, and tier parking ticket sales will be available online for advance purchase or on site the day of the event. For more information visit: www.smokymountainspeedway.com  Track and Event Information:Smoky Mountain SpeedwayPhone Number: 865-856-8989Location: 809 Brickmill Road, Maryville, TN 37801Directions: 4.5 miles southwest of US 129 on US411, then 1.6 miles south on Brick Mill Road.Website: www.smokymountainspeedway.com Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Tire Rule for Smoky Mountain:Left Rear/Fronts – Hoosier Rib (28.5) 1350Right Rear – Hoosier (29.0) 1350 NRM, (29.0) 1350 NRMW, (29.0) White Dot 1600 NRM, (29.0) 1600NRMW*Must use the same set of 4 tires for Time Trials, Heat Races, and B-Mains.*For the A-Main, competitors may use 3 new tires.*Flat tire must be replaced with a used tire of the same compound and construction to retain starting position. Event Purse:Mountain Moonshine Classic (60 laps) – 1. $20,000, 2. $9,000, 3. $5,000, 4. $4,000, 5. $3,500, 6. $2,700, 7. $2,500, 8. $2,300, 9. $2,200, 10. $2,100, 11. $2,000, 12. $1,900, 13. $1,800, 14. $1,700, 15. $1,600, 16. $1,400, 17. $1,300, 18. $1,200, 19. $1,200, 20. $1,200, 21. $1,200, 22. $1,200, 23. $1,200, 24. $1,200. = $73,400

About Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt SeriesFounded 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.

July 12, 2021 Jim Allen

(7/12/21) Sacramento, CA … Another prestigious event is on tap for the NARC King of the West Fujitsu Sprint Cars as this Saturday, July 17^th brings the 11^th annual Howard Kaeding Classic at Watsonville’s Ocean Speedway.  The event is presented by Al’s Roofing Supply and “The Hogs”, one of the most successful pit crews in NARC’s history.

The event celebrates the patriarch of the familiar Kaeding family, Howard. Along with earning a vast collection of trophies himself, his lineage is responsible for claiming countless checkered flags across California courtesy of his son, Brent, and grandchildren, Tim and Bud.

The Howard Kaeding Classic also serves as a fundraiser for the NARC Benevolent Fund, the non-profit that provides help to injured competitors and their families.

The two-night show kicks off Friday, July 16^th headlined by the Taco Bravo 360 Sprint Cars. On Saturday the NARC-KWS 410 Sprint Cars will be joined by IMCA Modifieds, Hobby Stocks and the Police-n-Pursuit. The lucrative Fujitsu Feature on Saturday will award $5,000 to the winner and pay a stout $800 to start.

After Friday’s race, there will be a pizza and beer party hosted by the Kaeding’s at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds. Before the action on Saturday night, the Howard Kaeding BBQ Luncheon will take place at 1:00 P.M. also on the fairgrounds. Both will serve great food and an even better atmosphere. A $20 donation to the NARC Benevolent Fund is required for entry to each.

Ocean Speedway should provide some close-quarters racing action Saturday night. The NARC-KWS visit to the bullring last month produced one of the most intense races of the year so far with three different leaders, top competitors making contact and battles all over the track.

The Kaeding brothers shouldn’t be doubted as they aim to win the event honoring their grandfather. Bud will be looking to join Kyle Hirst as the only three time winner of the NARC portion of the Howard Kaeding Classic while Tim eyes his first. The duo claimed the top two positions in the most recent series appearance in Watsonville when Tim scored his third Pombo-Sargent Classic after a duel with Bud. Tim carries the momentum of wins in two of the last three series races in 2021 while Bud leads the points and has a streak of five consecutive top-5s heading into the weekend. The event holds a little extra significance for Bud as he spearheads much of the promotional effort.

As always, Justin Sanders will be a favorite at Ocean Speedway this weekend. The Aromas native has already tallied seven feature wins at his home track this year, and two of his seven career NARC victories have taken place at the quarter-mile. He’ll be looking to redeem his misfortune from June’s Pombo-Sargent Classic when a mid-race incident ended a potential podium run.

Shane Golobic is another who is a near lock to be up front. Since 2015, the Fremont native owns a whopping ten series podium results at Watsonville. Despite the success, Golobic is yet to add a Howard Kaeding Classic to his lengthy resumé, and he hopes to change that this weekend.

Fresno’s Dominic Scelzi will look to continue his trend of not only winning in 2021 but collecting victories in high paying events. Out of Scelzi’s thirteen sprint car wins this year, three were the $11,000 Peter Murphy Classic, $7,600 Dave Bradway Jr. Memorial and most recently the $15,000 Dirt Cup. If Scelzi can pull of the win, he’ll join Kyle Hirst as the only driver to win the Peter Murphy Classic, Bradway Memorial and Howard Kaeding Classic in the same year.

Many more talented competitors will be vying for the $5,000 prize this weekend including defending series champ DJ Netto, Sean Becker, Billy Aton, Sean Watts, Kyle Offill and plenty more. The last three Howard Kaeding Classics have had an average car count of 33.

The NARC King of the West Hoosier Tire format for the Howard Kaeding Classic will feature ARP Fast Time Qualifying, Brown and Miller Racing Solutions 10-lap heat races, a 6-lap Sunnyvalley Bacon trophy dash, a 12-lap Kaeding Performance Semi and the Fujitsu 30-lap feature.

The pit gates will open at noon, and the front gates will open at 3:30 P.M. Qualifying will kickoff at 4:45 P.M. with racing to follow. Adult GA tickets are priced at $30. Juniors ages 11-16 GA tickets are $25, and kids ages 6-10 will be admitted for only $15. Kids 5 and under are free! Tickets can be purchased in advance via the following link: https://www.eventsprout.com/event/kaeding-classic-night-2

Ocean Speedway is located on the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds at 2601 E Lake Ave Watsonville, CA 95076. For more information call (831) 688-7223.

The Howard Kaeding Classic can be viewed live on floracing.com along with the entire NARC King of the West Fujitsu Sprint Car schedule.

Previous Winners of the Howard Kaeding Classic
2011
Night One:  Tommy Tarlton – King of the West
Night Two:  Evan Suggs – King of the West
2012
Night One:  Brent Kaeding – USAC
Night Two:  Jonathan Allard – King of the West
2013
Night One:  Bud Kaeding – USAC
Night Two:  Jonathan Allard – King of the West
2014
Night One:  Brad Furr – Civil War
Night Two:  Bud Kaeding – King of the West
2015
Night One: Justin Sanders – Civil War
Night Two:  Kyle Hirst – King of the West
2016
Night One:  Kyle Hirst – Civil War
Night Two:  Kyle Hirst – King of the West
2017
Night One:  Kyle Hirst – Civil War
Night Two:  Buddy Kofoid – King of the West-NARC
2018
Night One: Tanner Thorson – Civil War
Night Two: Colby Copeland – King of the West-NARC
2019
Night One: Shane Golobic – Civil War
Night Two: Bud Kaeding – King of the West-NARC
2020
Night One: DJ Netto
Night Two: Kyle Hirst – King of the West-NARC

The King of the West-NARC Fujitsu General Racing Series is also sponsored by Hoosier Racing Tires.  Associate and product award sponsors include Automotive Racing Products (ARP), Autometer, Brown & Miller Racing Solutions, Bullet Impressions, FK Rod Ends, FloRacing.com, Johnstone Supply, Kaeding Performance Center, KSE Racing Products, Maxim, PAC Racing Springs, Pyrotect, Racing Optics, Saldana Racing Products, Schoenfeld Headers, SCI Racing Products, Swift Metal Finishing, Sunnyvalley Bacon, System 1 Ignition, Ultra Light Brakes, Wilwood Disc Brakes, and Winters Performance Products.

NARC King of the West Fujitsu 410 Sprint Car Series
Championship Points Standings (After six events in 21-race series 7/12/21)

1. Bud Kaeding, Campbell – 673
2. Dominic Scelzi, Fresno – 665
3. DJ Netto, Hanford – 664
4.  Tim Kaeding, San Jose – 653
5. Justin Sanders, Aromas – 634
6. Billy Aton, Benicia (R) – 628
7. Sean Becker, Roseville – 624
8. Sean Watts, Clovis – 618
9. Austin McCarl, Altoona, IA – 524
10. Joel Myers Jr, Sebastopol (R) – 518
11. Kenny Allen, Chico – 483
12. Kyle Offill, Tracy (R) – 481
13. Shane Golobic, Elk Grove – 453
14. Mitchell Faccinto, Hanford – 412
15. Mitchel Moles, Raisin City – 397
16. Geoffrey Strole, Hanford (R) – 384
17. Willie Croft, Colfax – 328
18. Ryan Robinson, Foresthill (R) – 322
19. Kyle Hirst, Paradise – 319
20. Andy Forsberg, Auburn – 307

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NHRA^® Team Report

NHRA – Denver Dodge^® SRT^® Mile High Nationals

Pre-Race Report

Heading back to his “favorite track,” Cruz Pedregon and team are looking to parlay the emotion of last week’s win at Norwalk into another success at Bandimere Speedway where he’s set numerous ET records and had multiple wins.

“I’ve said all season it would take five or six races for the rebuilding we’ve done to pay off, and here we are heading into the eighth race of the season as winners,” Cruz says. “That seventh race win represents so many things coming together. I can’t wait to get to Denver for the Dodge^® SRT^® Mile High Nationals with this great team and ‘bring it’ for our supportive fans and sponsors.”

The team spent the time off between races replacing the front end of the chassis on the Snap-on Funny Car and are preparing for a “tuners race” as the cars need more oxygen in the higher elevation outside Denver.

Cruz says Crew Chief John Collins (JC) and the team are ready to compete, noting in a recent radio interview, “We have one of the cars people are going to have to deal with in the Snap-on^®Dodge^® Charger^® SRT^® Hellcat. We like what we have and we’re riding it to the finish line.” He says even as a seasoned driver he’s been flexible in working with the team on some important changes and updates that have refocused his “winning mindset.”

July 11, 2021

For the second week in a row, Matt DiBenedetto and the No. 21 Menards/Quaker State team experienced a Sunday of smooth sailing and came away with a ninth-place finish in Sunday’s Quaker State 400 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. 

DiBenedetto started 12^th, ran in the top 10 for most of the first Stage then closed the race with a surge to score his fifth top-10 of the 2021 season and second in a row, the first being a 10^th-place at Road America the week before.

“It was another solid day,” DiBenedetto said. “We had a solid Menards/Quaker State Mustang for the start.

“It got a little tight, but [crew chief Jonathan] Hassler made some really good adjustments, going the right way every time, and at the end of the race we were right there.”

DiBenedetto said Sunday’s performance shows the potential of the No. 21 team in the weeks going forward.

“This is another good example of where we’re really clicking as a team and executing,” he said, adding that the over-the-wall crew had another great afternoon. “I think everybody just did a good job. 

“You like those days when you don’t have anything too crazy to talk about other than our team just doing a good job. Our pit stops were good. We were solid all day there.”

DiBenedetto said he was glad to have a strong showing for his sponsors, from wearing a pair of green Quaker State socks pre-race to being among the top 10 at the checkered flag.

“It was important for us to have a really good run in the Menards/Quaker State Mustang, especially when it’s one of our sponsor’s name on the race,” he said. “I think we represented them well.”

Sunday’s race is the final one on the current surface at AMS, which is being reconfigured and repaved before the Cup Series returns next season.

DiBendetto said he’s going to miss the worn 24-year-old pavement, even if it did cause a red flag on Sunday while track officials patched up a spot where chunks of asphalt came loose. 

“I made sure to appreciate it the whole time I was out there racing,” he said. “I have good memories, and I hate to see this place get paved.  

“It’s a really cool track.”

Now DiBenedetto and the No. 21 team head to another of his favorites – New Hampshire Motor Speedway – for next Sunday’s Foxwoods Resort Casino 301.

NASCAR CUP SERIES ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY QUAKER STATE 400 PRESENTED BY WALMART TEAM CHEVY PRESS CONF TRANSCRIPT JULY 11, 2021
BUSCH, CHEVROLET TAKE CUP SERIES VICTORY AT ATLANTA
HAMPTON, Ga. – Kurt Busch put Chevrolet back into Victory Lane at Atlanta Motor Speedway with a win Sunday in the Quaker State 400 presented by Walmart. Busch drove the No. 1 Gearwrench Camaro ZL1 1LE to Team Chevy’s 41st victory at Atlanta in the final NASCAR Cup Series race on the track’s existing surface.
Sunday’s results gave Chevrolet its 11th victory of the season – already more than all of 2020 – and 806th in NASCAR’S premier series. Chevrolet also extended its lead in the Cup Series’ Manufacturer standings. 
Busch led three times for 144 of the race’s 260 laps and made the winning pass with 24 laps to go for his fourth career victory at AMS and 33rd in NASCAR’s top division. He claimed a stage victory and – more importantly – secured a spot in this year’s NASCAR Cup Series playoffs with five races remaining in the regular season.
Four Chevrolet drivers finished in the top-seven to continue the brand’s strong season. Alex Bowman contended for the race lead early before finishing fourth in the No. 48 Ally Camaro ZL1 1LE. He was two spots better than Tyler Reddick and his No. 8 Okuma Camaro ZL1 1LE. Pole-sitter and defending Cup Series Champion Chase Elliott placed seventh in the No. 9 A Shoc Camaro ZL1 1LE; he led 13 laps Sunday.
Following Sunday’s race, Chevrolet has eight of its drivers in the top-20 in points: Kyle Larson (second), William Byron (fourth), Elliott (fifth), Bowman (11th), Austin Dillon (12th), Reddick (13th), Busch (14th) and Ross Chastain (19th). The top 16 drivers following August 28th’s race at Daytona International Raceway will advance to the playoffs.
Kyle Busch (Toyota) was second, Martin Truex Jr. (Toyota) placed third and Ryan Blaney (Ford) rounded out Sunday’s top-five.
POST-RACE TRANSCRIPTSKURT BUSCH, NO. 1 GEARWRENCH CAMARO ZL1 1LE, TONY LUNDERS, TEAM MANAGER, CHIP GANASSI RACING, AND MATT MCCALL, CREW CHIEF.
THE MODERATOR: We are now joined by our race winner of today’s Quaker State 400 presented by Wal-Mart. We have Kurt Busch, driver of the No. 1 GearWrench Chevrolet. I guess we could say you were the better Busch brother in that race. And then we also have the team manager from Chip Ganassi Racing, Tony Lunders.
Q.What does it feel like to win the last race on this configuration, one, that’s served you to well from one of your first career wins all the way to this time in your career where it seems like you’re having the most fun?KURT BUSCH: Yeah, I came into this weekend respecting the racetrack more than I ever have. Atlanta Motor Speedway is one of the top tracks for all the drivers based off of how we’re able to slide the car through the corners and choose which lane we want to race in.Like a raceability factor, Atlanta Motor Speedway was always at the top of the list. I came to respect her surface and to ask her for the right amount of grip today, and I could feel it. I could feel she was helping me pull through and come out on top. I really wanted to win this last race on the old surface. I was pushing hard, and really happy for our GearWrench team to win this last race here.It’s going to go through a facelift, going to have a lot of new feel and a lot of new action next year, but this was the last little bit of the old school, and I’m glad an older guy won the race today.
Q.I think in Kentucky the last time you all went one-two you lost your ride home. Was there any kind of arrangement like this here, and are you okay getting home?KURT BUSCH: Oh, I already knew to find another ride, especially with Ross Chastain coming in off the top ropes and throwing down a good block. That helped us get back by Kyle.And yes, me and my little brother were supposed to share a ride home. It’s only about four hours back to Charlotte, so it’s not too big of a deal tonight. But I’m pretty sure Kyle has already taken off.But we’ve got the trophy; I ain’t worried about it.
Q.Ross Chastain, I don’t know if you want to call that a block there of Kyle, would you have won the race without that?KURT BUSCH: So Kyle beat us on the sequence of the green flag in and out, and that’s what gave him the track position. Our car was really good on the bottom, and we radioed to our spotter to tell the 42, Hey, give us the bottom, give us the bottom quicker than you think.When we asked for that, as fast as we did, Kyle’s car was good up top, so it worked in our favor both ways.
Q.Amid contract negotiations, does that help your leverage at all?KURT BUSCH: I’ll tell you, it seems to be an owners’ market right now, but for me I’m doing all I can with the Next-Gen car on the horizon. I’m a racer, and I’ll be a racer through and through.I’ve been around for quite a few different styles of cars, a few different racing divisions with INDYCAR and NHRA, but to drive this Next-Gen car, it’s important to me, and I’m going to try to make it work.This shows that I can win at any age at any time, and it takes a team, though, and this team with the way our back was against the wall probably about 10 weeks ago, we were 100 points below the cut line, and I rallied everybody the best that I could.I even pulled in a two-star general to come in and speak to my 1 car guys. We put together this spirited effort of, we have to be as smart as we can with points. We have to race for points each week. We might be scraping to try to get 11th at the end, but as long as we bank the Stage 1 and Stage 2 points, we’re going to claw our way back into this.That’s the same mentality that we need to take to finish this regular season, and it’s what we need to do in the playoffs. So I couldn’t be more proud of Matt McCall and all these guys at Ganassi, especially with the news of things changing, and this is where you just put the blinders on and you try to — I try to coach them through this the best that I can to be my best leader that I can be.These are those moments in your career where you look back on and you go, I gave it everything I had, and it started right after Memorial Day, June 1st, is the way that we’ve been running.
Q.What’s it feel like to let little brother eat your dust?KURT BUSCH: I’ll tell you, the adrenaline gets going, the childhood memories come back. The best of the best in this business is in my mirror, and yet I can giggle to myself sometimes and go, Yeah, I taught him everything he knows.It’s an awesome genuine battle between the two of us. We’ve had some friction over the years, but as we get older we’ve gotten slightly bit wiser and we’ve raced each other with a ton of respect on track to almost be teammates, even though we race for different organizations.With COVID and the process last year and sharing a lot of flights and a lot of time together with Brexton, the two of us have gotten really close. Chastain helped today from the teammate side, but that’s my brother. He can take one, sit on the side. It’s all right, buddy, you can finish second, and now we’re tied on Busch Brother one-twos with two wins apiece.
Q.It seems like you’ve gotten more comfortable like tweaking him a little bit when stuff like this happens, where he seems to dislike losing to you more than he dislikes losing to anybody perhaps, but you seem to have this joy about beating him and ribbing him a little bit even though it doesn’t seem to take it very well. Why is that?KURT BUSCH: It’s little brother syndrome. I’m an older brother. I don’t know what it is to be the younger one. It’s a genuine feel of I’m not trying to push his buttons, but I know that as we’ve gotten older, the stats have stacked in his favor, and I’ve come to agreement with that in my own mind.The fun factor is up there for me, and yet he’s having fun with it, but he’s definitely on the gas harder and more serious. But if you ask Tony Lunders and the effort that I give with my team, it’s about getting the best out of every situation. With Kyle, just let it ride. We’ll see. This shouldn’t carry over but a week or two, but we’ll see what happens when I ask for another plane ride.
Q.You sat in that same chair earlier today and said you were going to go out and win today. What was it about today and the confidence that you had entering today?KURT BUSCH: I’ve got to say that every week. You know, you’ve got to feel like you’ve got all the right ingredients, got the team prepped. A day like today, I really enjoyed the overcast conditions. Our Ganassi cars just seem to do better when we are given cooler track conditions, whether it’s the balance of our setups, some of the ride heights, the engine today — I didn’t mention it just yet, but wow, the last few weeks our Hendrick engine has been second to none.We were able to add tape today to the front grille to gain downforce. That’s less drag. Pit crew held serve every time in, and all the adjustments worked from everything we researched on what we needed to do today.I was elbows out from when I got wrecked here in the spring by Denny. I came back to get this win today, and it all worked out in our favor.
Q.I noticed you guys obviously as a team, a lot of excitement after this win. What does it mean for you to win in Atlanta, a city kind of known for its civil rights? I met one of your young tire changers and he’s actually from Decatur, so how exciting was it to pull off that win for him in Atlanta?KURT BUSCH: You know, this is what it’s all about is the team aspect. I get the recognition. I’m the one that’s in Victory Lane with the photos and in the news, but it’s behind the scenes. It’s the people that make it happen day in and day out with pit crew practice, the engineering staff, the engines, the body, everything.So it doesn’t matter where you’ve from, what your background is, this is where the spirit of a team comes together. I’m very proud of our guys with the news that we have had as far as our team ownership changing and people are knocking at our door or people are looking at other places to go, and we’ve just got to stay focused and stay on the task at hand.
Q.He talked about the kind of history of the Atlanta track. It seems like a lot of drivers are having some input or want input about track changes. Are you in that same position? You think drivers should have more input as far as upgrades and changes over time?KURT BUSCH: I think drivers can add a little bit of a sprinkle or an ingredient to add to the overall product, to take charge and take it in one direction. It wouldn’t match up with everybody else’s ideas, and so it’s just taking something that’s great, like Atlanta Motor Speedway is, and perfecting it. And it’s to adjust to the future. It’s to adjust to the Next-Gen car.I believe that’s what’s happening, and it’s the right timing. I believe all the drivers, the teams, the track, SMI, everybody deserves a lot of credit for preserving this track for the last half decade to get us to this point. But today it’s a message out there when there’s a red flag and there’s a pothole that we have to repair. She’s tired, and it’s time for a facelift.
Q.Matt McCall was in here and was talking about how the information was relayed to the 42 that Kurt might need some help. Can you talk about from a Ganassi perspective how that works as a team, teams help each other during the course of a race and how it works in that situation?TONY LUNDERS: Yeah, a lot of times you just use the spotters. The spotters are close up top and they can relay that info back and forth between them. That’s the main one.
Q.Kurt, I think I heard most of Kyle’s interviews and I don’t think there were many congratulations toward you yet. Has he come over or texted or said anything to you yet?KURT BUSCH: He did stop by Victory Lane and do the Kyle Busch grumpy. That’s what I expected.Yeah, again, what happened on track was the perfect scenario for a teammate to do the work that he needed to do. If I’m running third, Ross isn’t part of the equation. That was exactly what a teammate needs to do, and Ross did that in a way that gave me a sense of pride on the education and the mentorship that I have helped Ross with this year. It was a perfect give-back.
Can we do that in the playoffs? No. Can you do that in a regular season where one guy has won and one guy is trying to run hard? Today was a perfect scenario for that to unfold, and Kyle will get over it pretty quick.
Q.Even though Kyle is upset, do you think most of the drivers in that garage understand that’s how teammate ethics work?KURT BUSCH: Yeah, I believe that no line was crossed, and it was that right finesse to make it happen.
Q.How long until you get the good congratulations from non-grumpy Kyle? Like after Kentucky, did that take months or –KURT BUSCH: It was pretty quick. Maybe on Tuesday at Millbridge. Little Brexton is racing, so I might surprise Kyle over there and stop by and say hi.
Q.Why can’t that be done in the playoffs?KURT BUSCH: To me Ross needs to be playoff eligible and to be one of the guys in the mix. So as the playoffs unfold and there’s 16 guys that start and then there’s 12 after that first cutoff and then there’s eight, then there’s four. Different things happen through the sequences of the cutoff races.So if I’m out of it, it’s the respect of not being involved as — and you want to let those guys race it out. And so Ross is doing everything he can right now to race his way into the playoffs, but there it is. There’s a perfect opportunity to help a teammate, and he didn’t shy away from it. Some other guys might have shied away.
Q.What has Chip Ganassi personally meant to you at this point in your career?KURT BUSCH: The combination of meeting up with Chip at this point in my career has been fantastic. His attitude, his demeanor, his warm heart, which he’ll never tell you that he has, he greeted me with open arms and saw that I still wanted to push hard to win.I saw that he wanted to do it, and he’s a guy that just gives you that old-school feel of we’re not leaving anything on the table. We’re going to go after it each and every week.Chip loves winners and he makes you push harder each day. Even if you have a bad finish, that next Monday it seems like he’s already back at the shop directing traffic. And he’s engaged. He’s a very engaged owner, and it’s been fun to race with him.
Q.This being the last season for Chip Ganassi’s NASCAR outfit, how important was it to get at least one win in this, the final season for Ganassi’s NASCAR team?KURT BUSCH: Yeah, we didn’t know that for a couple weeks, until a couple weeks ago, and yeah, it’s awesome to push and to go and to keep driving. That’s what we would have done, but there’s more spirit — there’s a more spirited effort now.Our win last year at Vegas was a long time ago, and so to update that and to make ourselves playoff eligible, it’s a huge feather in the cap for everybody that’s part of that organization to keep pushing and to give our best all the way to Phoenix.
Q.This victory, how does this win compare to your Vegas win last year or the Daytona 500 in ’17?KURT BUSCH: I mean, it’s a huge win to lock yourself in the playoffs, to overcome the adversity of our team and its ownership sale, to have GearWrench, a sponsor that’s been with Chip Ganassi Racing for easily five, six years before I got here.It’s that rewarding victory of, this is why we do it. This is why we push hard. They had a suite today filled up with 30 people from all over the southeast. That’s how a sponsor gets return on their investment, and I’m happy to do my job to win for them.It’s a special win. To win four times now in Atlanta, it’s neat to have four wins at a place. The only track I’ve won more at is Bristol. Again, just keep going. I feel like the older I get, the younger I get, and I just keep plugging away and using all the Mark Martin skills that I have in the back of my mind.
Q.And your thoughts on passing Dale Jarrett on the all-time wins list and tying Fireball Roberts?KURT BUSCH: I didn’t know that. Different records, different wins, different accolades all are part of it. Dale Jarrett is a legend that I looked up to when I first started racing, and his dad, Ned Jarrett, a champion that taught Dale everything.It’s amazing to see. It’s amazing that the Busch brothers are settling in to those walks of life with names and legends. I’m just going to keep plugging away and do my part.One stat I did look ahead to find, and it needs to get done here in the next year or two while I’m still driving, is to catch Bobby and Donnie Allison as the winningest brothers. They still have that record, but Kyle and I are out here finishing one-two. We can chip away at it and try to get that done.But to me, I’m humbled. I’m honored. Jarrett is a multiple Daytona 500 winner, a champion, and it’s neat to be mentioned side by side with him.
Q.Ross said a while ago that you’re not the pat on the back type of teammate, but if he does something you don’t think is the right thing to do you’ll pull him aside and you’ll correct him, and he appreciates that from you, that sort of mentorship. Why do you do that, take such an interest that you are actively involved like that?KURT BUSCH: With Ross it’s a little different than some other teammates. Not saying anything different against other teammates. Kenseth and I were just always duking it out back in the Roush days on who was going to be the top dog once Mark Martin and Jeff Burton were done or gone.At Penske, Ryan Newman and I felt like were equals; did all we could to push the program.At Stewart-Haas, Kevin Harvick and I had a good relationship, but it was a firm one on the racetrack. Guys like Almirola were smart enough; Bowyer, he was a fun guy to race with; Tony Stewart, legend, car owner, champion driver, three-time champion. I learned the most from him.And it was that background of that hard-headedness and that blue-collar work ethic, and that’s where I see Ross. Ross has a lot of similarities to how I grew up, and he is able to digest what I give him at a much easier style than some others.When I visited his family farm in the off-season in south Florida I could see how hard he’s worked to get to this point, and I couldn’t be more proud of him. For me I’ve got these 21 years of racing experience, and I’m happy to offload a little bit of experience to a kid like him and help him make it as far as he can make it.He can digest it, take it, and apply it. Even last week he’s door banging us for seventh at Road America in Canada Corner. I’m on the radio like, Hey, check the fender. Our Yahoo teammate just hit us. And then a day like today he’s helping us navigate in the low lane with clean air to win the race.It’s how you move forward quickly from those tougher situations.
Q.You guys have been living around the playoff cut line for several weeks now. What’s it like to now go to New Hampshire these next couple races before the playoffs, not having to worry about points, you can think about winning and getting more playoff points as you head into the playoffs?KURT BUSCH: Yeah, that’s a great feeling. It usually doesn’t settle in until later in the week. We’ve been digging hard since June 1st, and this team has to find the right mindset and the right vibe and the right focus to finish off the regular season strong.When you look around and you see Dillon running good and you see Tyler Reddick running good, DiBenedetto doesn’t slip up, if these guys all make the playoffs we’re going to be running with them in the first round.I’m glad we got a stage win today. We now have win bonus points that bump us up, but you’ve got to still do the same job of being smart and being clean once the playoffs start. It’ll be relaxing through New Hampshire and a few of the other road courses coming up.We’ve got two off weeks; that’ll be fabulous to break away, but it’s still got to get back to work and focus on our task at hand in the playoffs.
Q.A lot of talk about Ross in here. What is your relationship with Ross? Is it strictly within the team or do you guys hang out at all?KURT BUSCH: It’s primarily with the team. I went and found him in south Florida at his family’s farm and learned way more about watermelons than I thought I’d learn. It was just great hanging out and learning Ross’s background and then applying different strategies to how we race.I think he’s a great kid. He’s working hard. He made his 100th start today, and I’m hopeful he gets established in this series and can be a contender for the Playoffs year in and year out.I’m a big fan of his. I think he worked his tail off to get to this point, and I want to try to help him continue to move forward.
Q.I hear you talking a lot about helping Ross and that kind of thing, and earlier today you told me that wherever you do end up next year, you hope to be for a little while. Could you see yourself in a driver-coach role after hanging up the helmet at wherever you do end up?KURT BUSCH: Yeah, I think that’s part of the equation of finding that right fit, whether it’s driver-coach, mentor, working with management, still driving, driving part-time. I don’t know, it’s all right there in front of me.I just feel like just keeping it fluid and keeping it fun right now is what has led us to this point. We now have a win with GearWrench, with Monster, and we’ve got things to decide in the next few weeks where we end up. But yeah, I’d love to just throw my old experience on some of these new guys and see who digests it and go from there.
Q.What’s the process like when you do move organizations? You’ve been through a few different ones. And then you still have old teammates out there on the racetrack. Are there guys you give a little bit more space to or things like that because of your past?KURT BUSCH: When I left SHR now I had to race way harder against the 4 and the 41, the 10, the 14. It changes. Then there’s the manufacturers’ side of it, as well. But all in all, I’m a racer; I love racing. There’s a checklist of things that every driver needs to feel comfortable, and I’ll have to adjust to that if I do switch and go from there.It’s little things that you can’t get bothered by, and once they drop the green, that’s my favorite spot. That’s my Zen spot.
THE MODERATOR: We are joined by our race-winning crew chief, Matt McCall, with the No. 1 GearWrench Chevrolet from Chip Ganassi Racing. Why don’t you take us through those couple laps from your point of view.
MATT McCALL: Yeah, obviously we lost the lead there on the green flag cycle. We’d been pretty good on the long run, but we had been building a little bit tight, so we tried to get it free enough, and he said tight like lap 4 or 5, and I’m like, Oh, man, we didn’t go far enough.Then we got lucky there. The 42 ran a line that helped us to get us caught up to the 18 get in front of him. And at the end the biggest thing you’re worried about is tires. Most of the tires we took off looked pretty good, but they were still on the verge of coming apart.That’s the biggest thing. Once you get to the lead you don’t want anything to happen, and that was the biggest thing that crossed my mind for sure.
Q.Going back to losing the lead on the green flag cycle, are you sort of a sitting duck in that situation to some degree? Just take us through, did you have a lap number that you wanted to pit on and he just got one ahead?MATT McCALL: Yeah, you know, we just didn’t want to end up with too many green flag laps. That was the biggest thing, is trying to not end up with 50 laps on your tires. We saw the 18 pitted, and that’s when you had to pit. Me and Kurt talked about it. He got on pit road a little bit slower than what he did the previous time, and that was probably enough time to lose the lead. He had an okay gap, so it happens quick, and then that little bit of time was enough to lose the lead.
Q.Where did this come from today? It’s not just winning on a mile-and-a-half track, but dominant win where he led over 100 laps. It’s not something we’ve necessarily seen from you guys. What do you attribute this to?MATT McCALL: Well, a lot of work. Know what I mean. We’re working every single week. We feel like there’s times during the race this type of speed we have, and we’ve just not been able to put it together. We believe in everything we’re doing, and we just keep pushing all the details that we think are going to make us faster.When you’ve got Kurt Busch in Atlanta, we wanted to make sure we had all we could bring for sure.
Q.Your team is known for one kind of flukey maybe random win every season. With the amazing setup you had today, will that transfer to any other races in the playoffs?MATT McCALL: Well, I guess they all can tie together. It’s momentum. We’ve had some decent runs here recently. We felt good coming here, and obviously Kurt is good here. He’s good everywhere, obviously.But yeah, it all carries over. Every time you work on something, even if it’s a short track to a mile-and-a-half, most of the stuff can carry on.
Q.You guys, Ganassi as a whole, was really all over the place to start the season, but starting at Sonoma last month, both you and the 42 have been consistent with finishing in the top 10. What have you hit on as a team that’s contributed to this success?MATT McCALL: Yeah, honestly we started the year really good. We should have had a chance to win Homestead, and after that we got in a wreck here and it was a dismal next eight or ten weeks.To your point at Sonoma, just working together. Us and the 42 work really good together and try to make sure we’re working on what’s going to make our cars faster. So that’s what we’re doing each week.
Q.Following up on the teamwork about the 42, Kurt obviously gave Ross a ton of credit. How much were you guys in contact with the 42 letting Ross know that that battle was approaching?MATT McCALL: Yeah, obviously no contact with Ross. Obviously for us, just sort of mentioned to the 42 guys, Hey, if you can run the line where we think 18 needs to run, we’ll take it if you can.I don’t know any information that was relayed from there, but it definitely was to our advantage, though.
Q.Just some question for your guys on what’s going to happen next year. What does making the playoffs mean for this group amid the uncertainty?MATT McCALL: Yeah, we’ve talked about this last week. I think that unfortunately I have a group that’s crazy veterans. They’ve been around for a long time. Yeah, we took the news by shock, nothing that you’d want to hear, but it hasn’t changed our approach each week to come and push each week harder.It doesn’t hurt for sure. Obviously when you start the year you plan on making the playoffs, so now we’re there and we’ve got to keep on going. This is just the beginning for us hopefully.
Q.Let’s say Ross is not in that position; do you still feel like you catch Kyle and pass him in traffic?MATT McCALL: Based off how bad it appeared 18 was behind cars at times, I think there’s a chance, but that’s hard to know for sure.It looked like the 18 got really, really tight there the last five or six laps, which paid off for us to get away from him a little bit.So I don’t have the answer to that completely. I would say that Kurt would have gave it all he had for sure.

Austin Dillon and the No. 3 BREZTRI AEROSPHERE® (budesonide, glycopyrrolate, and formoterol fumarate) Inhalation Aerosol Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE Team Leave Atlanta Motor Speedway with a 12th-place Finish

12th

13th

12th

“The No. 3 BREZTRI AEROSPHERE® (budesonide, glycopyrrolate, and formoterol fumarate) Inhalation Aerosol Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE was a handful today at Atlanta Motor Speedway, but this Richard Childress Racing team never gave up and stuck with it. We started the race way too tight and struggled with the handling for most of the race. Despite the challenges, we earned stage points in Stage 2 before losing most of our track position pitting for lengthy adjustments to help the tight-handling condition on our No. 3 Chevy. That adjustment really helped, but we had to climb our way forward from 20th. We kept digging and ultimately finished 12th. I know we learned a lot today, and I am proud of this team for never giving up. I wish we could have made it to Victory Lane for AstraZeneca, but I’m excited to go to New Hampshire Motor Speedway next week and try it again.”-Austin Dillon

Tyler Reddick and the No. 8 Okuma Team Showcase Speed During Solid Top-10 Run at Atlanta Motor Speedway

6th

7th

13th

“Our No. 8 Okuma Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE handled really well today and had a ton of speed right from the start. I was able to get up into the top-five early and stayed there for most of the race. Our car was a bit tight almost all day long, but the team was able to help counter that with air pressure adjustments throughout our pit stops. It felt like handling faded a little bit towards the end of the day, but I was able to switch up my lines and keep our speed for the most part, which was good. Racing in the Cup Series is just so tough. Everyone in this series is so smart and immediately picks up on anything someone does differently, so you’re constantly having to find new grooves and lanes during the race to stay up front. While I wish we could have finished top-five, races like today are a testament to all the hard work the men and women of RCR and ECR put in at the shop every day, and this result is just another step in the right direction for our team. I know we can make the Playoffs, we just have to continue to push.” -Tyler Reddick

NASCAR CUP SERIES ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY QUAKER STATE 400 PRESENTED BY WALMART TEAM CHEVY POST-RACE NOTES AND QUOTES JULY 11, 2021 TOP TEAM CHEVY UNOFFICIAL RACE RESULTS:POS.   DRIVER1st       KURT BUSCH, NO. 1 GEARWRENCH CAMARO ZL1 1LE4th       ALEX BOWMAN, NO. 48 ALLY CAMARO ZL1 1LE 6th       TYLER REDDICK, NO. 8 OKUMA CAMARO ZL1 1LE 7th      CHASE ELLIOTT, NO. 9 A SHOC CAMARO ZL1 1LE12th     AUSTIN DILLON, NO. 3 BREZTRI CAMARO ZL1 1LE  TOP FIVE UNOFFICIAL RACE RESULTS: POS.  DRIVER1st       Kurt Busch (Chevrolet)2nd      Kyle Busch (Toyota)3rd       Martin Truex Jr. (Toyota)4th      Alex Bowman (Chevrolet)5th       Ryan Blaney (Toyota) The NASCAR Cup Series season continues next weekend at New Hampshire Motor Speedway with the Foxwoods Resort Casino at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday, July 18. Live coverage can be found on NBCSN, PRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90. TEAM CHEVY POST-RACE QUOTESKURT BUSCH, NO. 1 GEARWRENCH CAMARO ZL1 1LE – Race WinnerHOW ABOUT THAT, KURT? MORE SIGNIFICANT, OBVIOUSLY IT’S THE BIG PLAYOFF WIN AND PUTS YOU GUYS IN THE PLAYOFFS, BUT THAT YOU WERE ABLE TO BEAT YOUR BROTHER HEADS UP ON A GREEN FLAG RUN FOR THAT LONG.“Hell yeah, we beat Kyle! I taught that kid everything he knows; he should be grateful. What a battle. What a genuine, awesome, old-school racetrack, and I just asked the track today, last time here on your old asphalt, can I have an old guy win, and she answered. Thank you, Atlanta Motor Speedway!“This has been one of those years where I knew we were going to have our back up against the wall with trying to get above the cutoff line and race hard and race smart, and to have GEARWRENCH in Victory Lane, this is their last race of the year, they’re with us all year, and with Monster Energy, I couldn’t have two great primary sponsors. What a Chevrolet today, hell yeah! YOU SAID ONE FOR THE OLD GUYS, BUT IT WAS YOUR YOUNG TEAMMATE THAT YOU GAVE SO MUCH CREDIT TO. WHAT WAS THE KEY MOMENT WHERE HE WAS ABLE TO PUSH YOU BY THE 18?“Shake and bake! Shake and bake! Yeah, and the 42, he did his job as a teammate. Ross is going to get a little flak for it, but that’s what it takes to be a good teammate at the right moment, so I couldn’t be more proud of Ross Chastain. I’ll pay him back eventually, but right now this is our No. 1 car in Victory Lane. YOU PULL OFF THESE CLUTCH WINS ALL THE TIME, KURT, TO PUT YOU IN THE PLAYOFFS, BUT WITH THE UNKNOWN OF NEXT YEAR, HOW BIG IS THIS MOMENT FOR YOU PERSONALLY?“It’s wonderful. You know, for all of Ganassi, Trackhouse bought our team, I don’t know where I’m going, but I just love racing cars and I want to race that Next-Gen car. That’s why I’m trying to stick around. Will you guys have me next year if I stick around? ALEX BOWMAN, NO. 48 ALLY CAMARO ZL1 1LE – Finished 4th“We were OK. We had a really good racecar, just not good enough to contend for the win. I feel like we were really fast on the short runs and I could run with those guys. I felt like I was just hanging out and trying not to burn my tires off. It never really paid off for me in the long run. I struggled at the end of runs and was really lane-limited at the end of the race. I needed the bottom to make the car turn. It was a good solid day for our Ally Camaro but not quite good enough.” HAS THE GAP NARROWED BETWEEN YOU GUYS (HENDRICK) AND JOE GIBBS RACING? “It’s been one week. We won the last one. As a company, it doesn’t look like were quite as strong as we have been here today but next week is a new week.” YOU HAVE SAID YOU HOPE THE TRACK NEVER IS REPAVED. IS IT A LITTLE APRIPOS THAT PART OF IT CAME UP IN THE RACE? “I’m still sad about it but I do understand why they’re doing it and the need to repave it. If it would have rained then it would have taken forever to dry, and obviously it was coming up a little bit. But as a driver, this place is so much fun. You can move around, you can slide the race car and do all kinds of things that for years and years we aren’t going to be able to do here. So you don’t want to see it go, but I do understand it.” ATLANTA IS SO UNIQUE. IS THERE ANYTHING YOU CAN TAKE FROM TODAY AND APPLY TO OTHER TRACKS THIS SEASON? “Not really. We’ve already been to Homestead. We’re not going to Fontana. Some of the mile-and-a-half stuff doesn’t really apply here when the grip falls off so quickly here. You never really run wide-open here. Maybe a little bit but not a ton.” TYLER REDDICK, NO. 8 OKUMA CAMARO ZL1 1LE – Finished 6th“Our No. 8 Okuma Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE handled really well today and had a ton of speed right from the start. I was able to get up into the top-five early and stayed there for most of the race. Our car was a bit tight almost all day long, but the team was able to help counter that with air pressure adjustments throughout our pit stops. It felt like handling faded a little bit towards the end of the day, but I was able to switch up my lines and keep our speed for the most part, which was good. Racing in the Cup Series is just so tough. Everyone in this series is so smart and immediately picks up on anything someone does differently, so you’re constantly having to find new grooves and lanes during the race to stay up front. While I wish we could have finished top-five, races like today are a testament to all the hard work the men and women of RCR and ECR put in at the shop every day, and this result is just another step in the right direction for our team. I know we can make the Playoffs, we just have to continue to push.” CHASE ELLIOTT, NO. 9 A SHOC CAMARO ZL1 1LE – Finished 7thYOU FINISHED 7TH, BUT FOR A WHILE THERE, I WASN’T SURE YOU WERE GOING TO COME BACK TO THAT. HOW DIFFICULT WAS TODAY?“We had a long day, for sure. The Adrenaline Shoc Camaro was not so hot there to start, and really just worked a lot. We changed a bunch of stuff throughout the day and just kind of kept grinding. I feel like we got to a decent spot there at the end. We weren’t anything special. But it was a heck of a lot better than where we started today. So, I’m happy with that. We just need to find a little pace and need to find a little bit myself and I think we can get back to where we need to be. We just need a tick more.” ROSS CHASTAIN, NO. 42 CLOVER CAMARO ZL1 1LE – Finished 21st“Kurt asked for the bottom so I gave him that lane. I was racing to stay on the lead lap. I’m very aware of what’s going on on the track around me. Kurt asked me for the bottom and I gave it to him.” KURT WAS VERY JOYFUL IN VICTORY LANE, CALLING IT “SHAKE AND BAKE”. DID YOU FEEL LIKE YOU HELPED YOUR TEAMMATE OUT TODAY?“To see a Chip Ganassi car in Victory Lane with all that’s happened the last couple of weeks and all this year, there is nothing I want more. One team, one goal and that’s to win. I hate that Chip wasn’t here to enjoy this. But for our Clover Chevrolet to be so far off as we were and have a teammate go win, that’s a best-case scenario for us. We’ll learn from what they did and look through their notebook. We were off all day. I hate it for everyone at Clover, McDonald’s and Moose. It really goes to show that we have to keep fighting because we can go to Victory Lane. We could have been to Victory Lane last weekend at Road America so we’ll keep fighting.”

July 11, 2021 Jim Allen

(7/10/21 – Jim Allen) Petaluma, CA …  Tim Kaeding captured his second NARC King of the West Fujitsu Sprint Car Series 30-lap feature victory of the season Saturday night, scoring the popular Salute to Baylands Raceway Park at Petaluma Speedway.

Kaeding started fifth in the grid aboard the Bates-Hamilton ABC Companies-sponsored Maxim and passed Bud Kaeding on a lap 19 restart to take a lead that he would never surrender.  It was the 70th series victory of his career, second on the all-time list.

Bud Kaeding set the standard for the first 11 laps until the caution flag came out for a Sean Becker.  On the restart, 15-year old Joel Myers Jr. and defending champion and ARP fast qualifier DJ Netto both powered past the leader in the first corner to pace the field.  The two appeared to be in a class of their own and began to distance themselves from the field when disaster struck on lap 18 in lap traffic.  Myers got tangled with a slower car in the fourth turn and Netto, with no place to go, got reeled into the fracas also.  Myers was done for the night and Netto had to restart at the back of the pack.

On the ensuing restart, it was the battle of the Kaeding’s as they drag raced into the first turn.  Tim Kaeding rode the highline on the Petaluma gumbo and catapulted into the lead motoring out of the second turn.  At that point, he was off to the races posting some of the fastest lap times of the night.

Sixth starter Andy Forsberg was on the move in his A&A Stepping Stone sprinter during the final laps and passed Bud Kaeding for the second spot with only two laps remaining.  He finished five car lengths behind the winner.  B. Kaeding held on for third in the Al’s Roofing Supply Maxim.  Dominic Scelzi and Justin Sanders rounded out the top five.

“It’s always great racing against my brother,” said TK in victory lane.  “It usually a 50-50 deal on who is going to come out on top, but tonight, we had the best race car and he was a little tight.”

The balance of the top ten featured Jessie Attard, rookie-of-the-year point leader Billy Aton, DJ Netto, Michael Ing and Swift Metal Finishing hardcharger Sean Watts.

Erb holds on for Victory at JacksonIt’s the Carpentersville, IL driver’s eighth career World of Outlaws winJACKSON, MN – JULY 10, 2021 – Dennis Erb Jr. isn’t someone who’s known for showing emotion. But you wouldn’t know it Saturday at Jackson Motorplex after he won his second Morton Buildings Feature of the season. The Carpentersville, IL driver climbed to the roof of his car, throwing two fist pumps into the sky to celebrate his triumph.  But those joyful emotions quickly turned to tears in Victory Lane, as Erb was racing with a heavy heart. “I lost my uncle a week ago there, and I lost my dog here this week that’s been going up and down the road going to all of these races with us,” Erb said. “It’s definitely a good win for us tonight.”  “The One-Man Band” dominated the first 40-laps of the race, but several late-race cautions kept the field close together.  Erb held off challenges from Frank Heckenast Jr. and Brandon Sheppard on a restart with three laps to go. Sheppard threw a slide job to take the lead away but couldn’t hold on as Erb dove to the bottom to wrestle the position away for good. “I went into the corner on that last restart and hit a hole and it turned me a little bit,” Erb said. “I slid up the track but knew I had to keep my speed up because they were going to be up top too and it all worked out for us.” Erb’s victory is his eighth World of Outlaws win tying Mike Marlar and Jimmy Mars for 18th all-time.  Frank Heckenast Jr. backed up his win on Friday with a second on Saturday. The Frankfort, IL driver changed lanes after watching Brandon Sheppard pass a few cars in front of him. It gave Heckenast confidence to move to the top, and a chance to sweep the weekend.   “I told myself [Friday] before the Feature if you put yourself in contention, you’ll win some of them,” Heckenast said. “If we keep doing this, more wins will come.” Sheppard was also in contention for the win but settled for third. The New Berlin, IL driver used the top side in the final 10 laps, picking off three cars on the outside before losing second to Heckenast.  “The Rocket Shepp” had to play a waiting game early in the race to make sure he would be a factor at the end.  “I just kind of bided my time as long as I could and took care of my tires as long and as good as I could,” Sheppard said. “I tried the top a few times earlier in the race and it just wasn’t ever any good. Finally, off of one of them restarts I just started hammering it up there and it came to life.” Sheppard extended his points lead for the second straight night. He’s 64 points ahead of Chris Madden who finished fourth.  Cade Dillard crossed the line fifth, rebounding from Friday’s heartbreaking finish.  Even though this weekend was a wave of emotions for Dennis Erb Jr., more consistent runs may have him riding the top of that wave for the rest of the season.  UP NEXT: The Most Powerful Late Models on the Planet return to Wisconsin for its first mid-week race of the season Tuesday, July 13 at Gondik Law Speedway in Superior, WI.  Morton Buildings Feature (50 Laps)-1. 28-Dennis Erb [2][$20,000]; 2. 99JR-Frank Heckenast [3][$10,000]; 3. 1-Brandon Sheppard [4][$5,000]; 4. 44-Chris Madden [7][$4,000]; 5. 97-Cade Dillard [1][$3,500]; 6. 7-Ricky Weiss [6][$3,000]; 7. 25-Chad Simpson [10][$2,800]; 8. 22-Daniel Hilsabeck [9][$2,700]; 9. 99B-Boom Briggs [16][$2,600]; 10. 77-Jordan Yaggy [13][$2,500]; 11. B1-Brent Larson [12][$2,000]; 12. 16-Tyler Bruening [8][$1,800]; 13. 10-Paul Parker [14][$1,600]; 14. 76-Blair Nothdurft [11][$1,500]; 15. 10C-A.J. Diemel [15][$1,400]; 16. 19R-Ryan Gustin [5][$1,300] Hard Charger: 99B-Boom Briggs[+7] Qualifying –1. 1-Brandon Sheppard, 16.346; 2. 28-Dennis Erb, 16.353; 3. 19R-Ryan Gustin, 16.438; 4. 97-Cade Dillard, 16.468; 5. 99JR-Frank Heckenast, 16.49; 6. 16-Tyler Bruening, 16.51; 7. 22-Daniel Hilsabeck, 16.57; 8. 25-Chad Simpson, 16.739; 9. 44-Chris Madden, 16.749; 10. 7-Ricky Weiss, 16.806; 11. 10C-A.J. Diemel, 16.893; 12. 99B-Boom Briggs, 16.901; 13. 76-Blair Nothdurft, 16.95; 14. 10-Paul Parker, 16.989; 15. 77-Jordan Yaggy, 17.127; 16. B1-Brent Larson, 17.352

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.

Sweet Continues Wisconsin Dominance with Wilmot WinThree Straight Wins for Kasey Kahne Racing #49 Entering Month of MoneyWILMOT, WI – July 10, 2021 – At this point, Brad Sweet is an adopted cheesehead.The Grass Valley, CA native extended his remarkable reign on the state of Wisconsin by scoring his first win in Wilmot Raceway’s Badger 40 on Saturday night – which follows his sweep at Cedar Lake Speedway last weekend.It wasn’t an easy win for the two-time and defending World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series champion, as he and pole sitter Logan Schuchart had to wade through thick lap traffic whilst battling for the top spot.The Big Cat finally assumed the point on Lap 22 and never looked back, although Schuchart made it extremely close (0.160-seconds) thanks to traffic on the final lap.For the Kasey Kahne Racing, NAPA Auto Parts #49 team, its their 13th victory of 2021 as they build their biggest advantage yet in the championship chase. More important than that, they’re riding a hot streak entering the illustrious “Month of Money.””I thought Logan and I were really even tonight,” Sweet mentioned. “I didn’t know where to go on that restart when he got back to my outside. I tried to slide across before he got to me, but we kind of met on the cushion. This is a tight track with some really tight spots, but we were able to hang on. Another great confidence booster heading into this big month we’ve got coming.”Fighting off a relentless cell of afternoon drizzles, Saturday’s Badger 40 was a huge triumph for the Wisconsin fans who packed the Wilmot, WI 1/3-mile and beat Mother Nature to see The Greatest Show on Dirt.Once underway following the rain delay around 7pm, Sweet was instantly the man to beat. He set Slick Woody’s QuickTime, won his Drydene Heat Race, and placed second in the DIRTVision Fast Pass Dash to Schuchart.The 40-lap NOS Energy Drink Feature was tough to get going early on as a trio of stoppages created a quick #OpenRed for teams to re-fuel cars. Included in those stoppages was championship runner-up David Gravel catching the cushion and flipping in turn four on the first lap. He returned and charged from 24th-to-9th, but flipped again and ended his night on Lap 30.Up front, it was a cat and mouse game as the leaders chased each other through lap traffic. Schuchart’s ultimate downfall came just beyond halfway when the traffic bottled him on the bottom and allowed Sweet to rip the top around the #1S.A shocking caution for third-running Sheldon Haudenschild offered one final chance to snooker Sweet for Schuchart, but the #49 was too strong and survived just fine in clean air.The win was the 71st of Sweet’s World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series, and it also marked the 50th career victory for his Kasey Kahne Racing Crew Chief, Eric Prutzman.At 11 total wins (6 at Cedar Lake, 4 at Beaver Dam, 1 at Wilmot), Wisconsin is the winningest state of Sweet’s World of Outlaws career.”We love coming to Wisconsin,” Sweet spoke on the atmosphere. “The fans here are incredible. They come out and support us at every track, and they come drink beer with us afterwards too. It’s like a second home.”A disappointing, but strong second-place finish was the end result for Logan Schuchart after pacing the opening 22 laps aboard the Shark Racing, Drydene Performance Products #1S.”I was just hoping we’d get back in lap traffic,” Schuchart thought. “You try to be a respectful driver and want to race everyone the right way, but I just need to do what Brad did. You get to some of these lap cars and they race you like they’re the ones battling for the lead. I need to be more aggressive and not so much mr. nice guy. We had an awesome race there, though, glad the fans came out and packed the place.”Taking the final podium position in third was 2019 Badger 40 winner Donny Schatz aboard the Tony Stewart/Curb-Agajanian Racing, Ford Performance, Carquest #15.”We were decent, you know we could stick with them,” Schatz said. “We just needed some more traffic. That one restart we went from sixth-to-third, but the caution killed us. We’re starting to get things going the right way, though. This is a good time to find some of that momentum.”James McFadden finished fourth aboard the Kasey Kahne Racing, Karavan Trailers #9 with an impressive recovery after visiting the work area and going tail-back on the opening lap. Aaron Reutzel in the Roth Motorsports #83 rounded out the top-five on Saturday night.Closing out the top-10 at Wilmot was Carson Macedo of Lemoore, CA in the Jason Johnson Racing #41, Sheldon Haudenschild of Wooster, OH in the Stenhouse Jr. / Marshall Racing #17, Scotty Thiel of Sheboygan, WI in his family-owned #73, Brock Zearfoss of Jonestown, PA in the Zearfoss Racing #3Z, and Jason Sides of Bartlett, TN in the Sides Motorsports #7S.UP NEXT: The “Month of Money” begins next week for the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series. It starts on Tuesday, July 13 with the 33rd annual Ohio Logistics Brad Doty Classic at Attica Raceway Park. On Wedesdnay-Saturday, Eldora Speedway hosts double Kings Royals with $175,000-to-win on Thursday and Saturday night.NOS Energy Drink Feature (40 Laps): 1. 49-Brad Sweet [2][$10,000]; 2. 1S-Logan Schuchart [1][$6,000]; 3. 15-Donny Schatz [7][$3,500]; 4. 9-James McFadden [9][$2,800]; 5. 83-Aaron Reutzel [4][$2,500]; 6. 41-Carson Macedo [8][$2,300]; 7. 17-Sheldon Haudenschild [3][$2,200]; 8. 73-Scotty Thiel [5][$2,100]; 9. 3Z-Brock Zearfoss [10][$2,050]; 10. 7S-Jason Sides [6][$2,000]; 11. 79-Blake Nimee [17][$1,600]; 12. 2C-Wayne Johnson [14][$1,400]; 13. 39-Jake Blackhurst [19][$1,200]; 14. 21-Carson Short [13][$1,100]; 15. 11K-Kraig Kinser [12][$1,050]; 16. 49J-Josh Schneiderman [21][$1,000]; 17. 4K-Kris Spitz [22][$1,000]; 18. 70-Chris Klemko [23][$1,000]; 19. 2-David Gravel [11][$1,000]; 20. 1A-Jacob Allen [18][$1,000]; 21. 5J-Jeremy Schultz [15][$1,000]; 22. 47N-Marcus Dumesny [16][$1,000]; 23. 23-Russel Borland [20][$1,000]; 24. 25-Danny Schlafer [24][$1,000]. Lap Leaders: Logan Schuchart 1-22, Brad Sweet 23-40. KSE Hard Charger Award: 79-Blake Nimee[+6]NEW Championship Standings (41/81 Races): 1. Brad Sweet (5,772); 2. David Gravel (-132); 3. Carson Macedo (-140); 4. Sheldon Haudenschild (-210); 5. Logan Schuchart (-228); 6. Donny Schatz (-236); 7. Aaron Reutzel (-356); 8. James McFadden (-646); 9. Kraig Kinser (-710); 10. Brock Zearfoss (-970); 11. Jacob Allen (-1084); 12. Wayne Johnson (-1254); 13. Giovanni Scelzi (-1384); 14. Jason Sides (-1488); 15. Mason Daniel (-1902).