BATAVIA, Ohio (April 22, 2021) – The Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Illinois doubleheader originally scheduled Friday, April 23rd at Tri-City Speedway in Granite City, and Macon Speedway on Saturday, April 24th has been canceled due to weather. With heavy rain overnight and the forecast for rain and cold temperatures throughout the weekend, track and series officials have mutually agreed to cancel this weekend’s events. The events will not be made up.  “We’ve been in constant communication with both venues all week continuously evaluating the situation. Unfortunately, the forecast just isn’t in our favor this weekend,” said Series Director Rick Schwallie. “These decisions are never easy, and we hate to cancel any event, but we all feel this is in the best interest of all parties. We look forward to returning to Tri-City Speedway in July and Macon Speedway in 2022.” Next up, the series will visit Ponderosa Speedway in Junction City, KY on April 30th for the 17th Annual John Bradshaw Memorial and Florence Speedway in Union, KY on May 1st for the 35th Annual Ralph Latham Memorial. The events will pay $12,000 and $15,000 to win, respectively. Tim McCreadie currently leads the series point standings, carrying the Midwest Sheet Metal orange spoiler. Previous point leader, Hudson O’Neal remains just 40 points out of the lead, followed by Brandon Sheppard, Devin Moran, and Kyle Bronson rounding out the top five.

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.

CORVETTE RACING AT SPA: First Step Toward Le Mans · Garcia, Gavin set to team together for first time in No. 63 Corvette C8.R· FIA World Endurance Championship return for Corvette Racing· First race outside U.S. for mid-engine Chevrolet Corvette race car· Six Hours outing ahead of two-car effort at 24 Hours of Le Mans in August

DETROIT (April 22, 2021) – Corvette Racing takes its first steps toward a return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans next week with the opening round of the FIA World Endurance Championship at historic Spa-Francorchamps. Antonio Garcia and Oliver Gavin are set to team in a unique opportunity for sports car racing’s dominant GT program at the Six Hours of Spa on Saturday, May 1. For the first time, Garcia and Gavin will team together for Corvette Racing with the pair sharing the No. 63 Mobil 1/SiriusXM Chevrolet Corvette C8.R. This will mark the first appearance for the mid-engine racing Corvette outside the United States and the team’s first appearance at Spa. The Garcia/Gavin pairing and the rest of the Corvette Racing contingent will take part in two days of FIA WEC preseason testing Monday and Tuesday before official practices get under way Thursday at the 20-turn, 4.35-mile circuit in the heart of the eastern Belgium.

Between them, Gavin and Garcia have 318 starts, 73 wins and nine championships with Corvette Racing, but they’ve never shared the same racecar within the program. Each, however, has previous experience in GT programs at Spa.  Garcia was part of a class-winning effort at the 2001 Spa 24 Hours and won there in European Touring Car competition as well. Gavin has raced both open-wheel and sports cars including a podium finish in the 2016 Spa 24 Hours. The run by the No. 63 Corvette in the GTE Pro category will help lay the groundwork as the program makes its comeback to Le Mans in August after missing last year’s event due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program has won eight times at the event since 2001 and will enter two Corvette C8.Rs in this year’s race. Competing at Spa will provide the Corvette Racing team a bit of a refresher on specific rules and strategy methods that are unique to FIA WEC races. Pit stop operations and safety car procedures are among the biggest differences in IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and FIA WEC competitions. Live race television and online coverage will be available via MotorTrend Network and MotorTrend On-Demand. Radio coverage for all practice sessions plus Friday qualifying and the race will air on Radio Le Mans. Live timing and scoring will be available on the FIA WEC website.

ANTONIO GARCIA, NO. 63 MOBIL 1/SiriusXM CHEVROLET CORVETTE C8.R: “It’s a nice idea to run this race at Spa to prepare for Le Mans. It’s not just as drivers but the engineers and the crew… everyone will be up to speed on the WEC philosophy of racing. With all the rules and differences from IMSA, it’s a good warmup for Le Mans. It helps everyone clear their minds and be focused on being prepared. That’s the main thing.“I’ve been in the Spa 24 Hours twice, and I just missed the podium my last time. I’m really looking forward to racing the Corvette at Spa. A proper racetrack deserves a proper car like the C8.R! I’m looking forward to going around there in a GTE car. I really enjoyed my time racing in a GT1 car several years ago, and I’m sure the Corvette will be even more pleasant this time around.”

OLIVER GAVIN, NO. 63 MOBIL 1/SiriusXM CHEVROLET CORVETTE C8.R: “When I was first spoken to about this opportunity to race at Spa, I had gone back to Antonio and he had asked if there was any chance that we could drive together. I’m really thrilled. We’ve become really great friends over the years. I’d been teammates with nearly everyone else but had never been teammates with Antonio! It’s just a really great thing to share the C8.R with him. It’s going to be special. We’ll want to push as hard as we can for as strong a result as possible.“Spa is one of the greatest tracks where anyone could go race. It has a very good cadence to it. It certainly has some of the most challenging corners anywhere in the world – whether you’re talking about Eau Rouge, Blanchimont or any of the stuff coming back down the hill. It’s all challenging and a great track to race on. It’s a track that I think will suit the C8.R. You also think about the weather at Spa and what could happen. Late April into the beginning of May can throw up any sort of condition at you. It’ll be phenomenal to go there with the team and with such a great racecar. It’ll certainly make all the hair stand up on the back of my neck as I’m driving down the pitlane for the first time and taking it all in. It’s going to be a very special weekend. I’ve had some great success there over the years but also some frustrating and disappointing moments. But you always go away feeling exhilarated. You never ever leave Spa thinking it was just OK or that you didn’t get much of an experience. It’s a thrill to drive around, and the challenge is immense.”

Cardwell Nets First Season 3 Tour Victory in First StartTucker bags third runner-up finish and points lead, Matjoulis back-to-back podiums April 21, 2021 – Until Wednesday night, he hadn’t made a start with the DIRTcar eSports Tour since the final race of Season 2 in January. Turns out, Hayden Cardwell didn’t even need it to take down an entire field of iRacing’s best with the Big Block Modifieds. Coming from eighth on the starting grid, Cardwell advanced his #07 seven positions in the first 15 laps around Lernerville Speedway to get his first taste at the lead, using the very bottom lane and sneaking underneath his opponents to get the spots. “There was a lot of grip on the bottom early on,” Cardwell told Chase Raudman in the DIRTVision post-race interview. “If you could get down there and shoot off [Turns] 1 and 2, it was so much better than the top.” Cardwell, the defending World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Model iRacing World Champion from Knoxville, TN, made the pass for the lead on the Tour’s own defending champion Kendal Tucker with his left-side tires touching the grass as he slid through the corners. “I got to second and then the bottom started to go away in [Turns] 3 and 4,” Cardwell said. “Kendal moved up, so I just tried to stay down there. By the time I got to the lead, the bottom was about gone, but all it took was him to get off the bottom in 3 and 4.” Once Cardwell got to the lead, it was game over. He was followed in hot pursuit by Tucker, of Mt. Airy, NC, and Blake Matjoulis for the last several laps, which included a green-white-checkered restart. But in the end, they were unable to get close enough to try and make a pass, leaving Cardwell with the win and the $250 top prize after 50 laps with the Big Blocks presented by Hoosier Racing Tire. “I kinda surprised myself because I haven’t really been in competition on here, probably since the [iRacing] Pro Series in Sprint Cars. It feels good to come out here after not being on here in a while and come out on top,” he said. Tucker brought home yet another runner-up spot in only his fourth week of action on the Tour. With three second-place finishes and one win, he now has the points lead heading into one of the most unique car-track combos of the season next Tuesday: Dirt Midgets at Lanier National Speedway. Matjoulis, the 127 Industries captain from Ashville, NY, followed-up his third-place run last week with another in Week 5. A solid climb from sixth on the starting grid saw him use the top side to his advantage as he finally reached the podium with less than 10 laps left on the board. The finish will bode well for him in the points standings as he chases his first Tour trophy. The DIRTcar eSports Tour action continues next Tuesday night, April 27, with a featured presentation of NOS Energy Drink Dirt Midgets and their Tour debut at Lanier National Speedway. Check out the entire race broadcast livestream for FREE on DIRTVision presented by Drydene or on the DIRTcar Facebook page at 7:50pm ET. LOVE RESTORED: Kilgore Reunites with Teammate Hackney, Bags 1-2 Street Stock Finish at Cedar LakeFormer Extreme Savage duo jumps to Team No Love after Week 4 incident After their unfortunate falling out in last week’s showing at Fairbury Speedway, Carl Kilgore and Keith Hackney have reunited as teammates on a new team and worked their magic Wednesday night at Cedar Lake Speedway to get Kilgore his second Chevy Performance Street Stock League Feature win of the season. “We’re feeling good, especially after what happened last week,” Kilgore told Chase Raudman in the DIRTVision post-race interview. “Glad to be back on teams with Hackney – he’s a good dude. We had some trouble last week, but without all of our teammates and us being together, I can’t do this right here.” Hackney, of Calhoun, GA, was penalized to the tail of the lead lap after the checkered in last week’s Feature due to contact with Kilgore wile racing for the lead on the final lap. Kilgore spun and was left with a 16th-place result, Hackney in 21st, while Tyler Jackson ran off with the win and a nice lead in the point standings. But that’s all behind them now. The two put their differences aside over the week and straight-up dominated Wednesday night, starting on the front row after back-to-back Heat Race wins. At the drop of the green, Kilgore, of Greenville, MS, immediately took off and never looked back, leading all 25 laps en route to his $100 victory. “We’ve got a little bit of a gap to make up, but I feel like as long as we keep doing what we’re doing, we’ll be there,” Kilgore said. Hackey did a solid job for his teammate in fending off the pressure from the rest of the field behind him, crossing the stripe in second for another good points race. While he was able to nurse the hurt car home to a third-place finish, Jackson, of Rockford, IL, almost found himself in deep trouble about halfway through the race. A slower car had gone over the outside wall in Turns 1-2 and proceeded to re-enter the track right in front of the leaders under green, causing a multi-car crash down the backstretch that tagged Jackson. He was able to drive out of the situation with control, but the damage had already been done to his right-front wheel well. With the right-front pushed in, Jackson switched to the high line for the remainder of the race and fought back to a third-place result, likely saving his points lead. The Chevy Performance Street Stock League is back in action next Tuesday night, April 27, with race #6 and a visit to Lernerville Speedway. Check out the entire race broadcast livestream for FREE on DIRTVision presented by Drydene or on the DIRTcar Facebook page at 6:50pm ET.

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

CHEVROLET RACING IN NTT INDYCAR SERIES NTT INDYCAR SERIES FIRESTONE GRAND PRIX OF ST. PETERSBURG ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA TEAM CHEVY ADVANCE APRIL 24-25 RACE 2 OF 2021 NTT INDYCAR SERIES:DETROIT (April 21, 2021) – Chevrolet drivers this weekend turn their attention from a flowing and fast road course to a tight and technical temporary street course for the 17th annual Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. Competing on the divergent venues a week apart poses challenges for Chevrolet teams and distinct tests for the 2.2-liter, twin-turbocharged, direct-injected V6 engine. “The start of the 2021 NTT IndyCar Season is very unique mix of a permanent road course, a technical street course and a very fast mile-and-a-half banked oval,” Chevrolet INDYCAR program manager Rob Buckner said. “This diversity challenges Chevy engineers with our technical partners working with each of our Chevy powered teams to find the best combination to maximize handling and power. This weekend our Chevrolet teams and drivers head to the challenging Streets of St. Petersburg for the second race of the season.  “While Chevrolet didn’t leave Barber with the W, we had four different Chevy-powered organizations bring home a top-six finish. That result speaks highly to the level of hard-work that occurred during the off season. We take all the learnings from each race and continue to build toward accomplishing the goals we have set for the season.” Eleven cars powered by Chevrolet’s efficient powerplant will seek to take the checkered flag in the 100-lap/180-mile race April 25. Since returning to NTT INDYCAR SERIES engine manufacturer competition in 2012, Team Chevy drivers have won seven of the nine races on the 1.8-mile, 14-turn temporary circuit that includes downtown streets and a runway of Albert Whitted Airport. Chevrolet drivers have also corralled 17 of the 27 podium finishes. In that time covering 150 races, Chevrolet has amassed 89 victories and earned 100 poles. Josef Newgarden, No. 2 Hitachi Team Penske Chevrolet, has won the past two races at St. Petersburg. Teammate Will Power, runner-up in the season opener last week at Barber Motorsports Park in the No. 12 Verizon 5G Team Penske Chevrolet, has scored two wins and earned nine pole starts including the past two years.  “I said to the guys, if we do this week in and week out – just solid races with no mistakes – I promise you we will absolutely have a great chance at winning the championship this year,” said Power, whose 62 career poles are second Mario Andretti’s 67 on the all-time list. “I’m determined to have a good day at St. Petersburg.” Sebastien Bourdais, who gained 11 positions relative to his starting spot to finish fifth at Barber in the No. 14 ROKiT AJ Foyt Racing Chevrolet, is also a two-time winner of the event. Last October, in the event that was rescheduled because of COVID-19 to be the season finale, the St. Petersburg resident scored a fourth-place finish in the AJ Foyt Racing Chevy. “I’m really excited for Round 2 of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES at St. Petersburg at home. It’s a great track and I have some really good memories, so hopefully we can make some more,” Bourdais said.  NBC will telecast the race live at noon ET April 25. The race will also be broadcast live on INDYCAR Radio Network affiliates, Sirius 211, XM 205, Indycar.com, and on the INDYCAR Mobile app powered by NTT DATA. Practice, live qualifications and the race day warm-up will stream on Peacock Premium.
Team Chevy will be represented by:A.J. Foyt EnterprisesDalton Kellett, No. 4 K-Line Insulators/AJ Foyt RacingSebastien Bourdais, No. 14 ROKiT/AJ Foyt RacingArrow McLaren SPPato O’Ward, No. 5 Arrow McLaren SPFelix Rosenqvist, No. 7 Vuse Arrow McLaren SPCarlinMax Chilton, No. 59 Gallagher CarlinEd Carpenter RacingConor Daly, No. 20 U.S. Air ForceRinus VeeKay, No. 21 Sonax/AutogeekTeam PenskeJosef Newgarden, No. 2 Hitachi Team PenskeScott McLaughlin, No. 3 DEX Imaging Team PenskeWill Power, No. 12 Verizon 5G Team PenskeSimon Pagenaud, No. 22 Menards/Australian Gold Team PenskeChevrolet V6 Year-By-Year Results since 2012 2021 ­– 1 pole in 1 racePole – Pato O’Ward (Barber Motorsports Park)2020 – 7 wins, 11 poles in 14 racesWins – Simon Pagenaud (Iowa1); Josef Newgarden (Iowa2, St. Louis2, Indy RC2, St. Petersburg); Will Power (Mid-Ohio1, Indy RC3, St. Petersburg). Poles – Josef Newgarden (Texas, Road America1, Iowa2), Will Power (Indianapolis road course, St. Louis1, Mid-Ohio1, Indy RC3; St. Petersburg), Pato O’Ward (Road America2), Conor Daly (Iowa1), Rinus VeeKay (Indy road course October)2019 – 9 wins, 9 poles in 17 racesDriver/owner championship (Josef Newgarden/Roger Penske); Indianapolis 500 win (Simon Pagenaud)2018 – 6 wins, 9 poles in 17 racesIndianapolis 500 win (Will Power)2017 – 10 wins, 11 poles in 17 racesEngine Manufacturer Championship; driver/owner titles (Josef Newgarden/Roger Penske)2016 – 14 wins, 13 poles in 16 racesEngine Manufacturer Championship; driver/owner titles (Simon Pagenaud/Roger Penske)2015 – 10 wins, 16 poles in 16 racesEngine Manufacturer Championship; driver/owner titles (Scott Dixon/Chip Ganassi);Indianapolis 500 win (Juan Pablo Montoya). First manufacturer to capture all titles since Chevrolet returned to INDYCAR in 20122014 – 12 wins, 14 poles in 18 racesEngine Manufacturer Championship; driver/owner titles (Will Power/Roger Penske)2013 – 10 wins, 11 poles in 19 racesEngine Manufacturer Championship; Indianapolis 500 win (Tony Kanaan)2012 – 11 wins, 10 poles in 15 racesEngine Manufacturer Championship; driver/owner titles (Ryan Hunter-Reay/Michael Andretti)Total – 89 wins, 100 earned poles (104 poles total – earned and based on entrant points) in 150 races

$25,000 in winnings on the line between the two Features

PORT ROYAL, PA – April 21, 2021 – The World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Models will make its first trip to Pennsylvania this season, when they visit Port Royal Speedway May 21-22. 

The doubleheader features two memorial races, and will be the first of six stops in the Keystone State in 2021. They’ll also give one driver the opportunity to walk away with $25,000 in winnings.

Friday, May 21, the Series will run the Huey Wilcoxon Memorial, a 40-lap Feature paying $10,000-to-win. Joining the racing program that night are the Limited Late Models, and Wingless Sportsman. 

The Most Powerful Late Models on The Planet return Saturday, May 22, for the 50-lap Billy Vacek Memorial paying $15,000-to-win. Port Royal Speedway’s 410 Sprint Cars will also be in action. 

Shawn Martin and Viper Motorsports are gathering sponsors to add to the event, as well.

The Series has raced five times at Port Royal Speedway, including its last trip in 2019 where Mason Ziegler found Victory Lane.  

Three-time and defending champion Brandon Sheppard also won a Feature at the Speedway in 2017. The New Berlin, IL driver currently leads the points standings, in search of his fourth Series Championship. 

Sheppard is also chasing history, sitting only nine wins away from tying Josh Richards for most Series wins all-time. (78) 

However, it won’t be easy for the “Rocket Shepp,” as he’ll compete against two-time Feature winner Kyle Strickler, Chris Madden, Pennsylvania-driver Boom Briggs, and several stout regional competitors. 

PREVIOUS PORT ROYAL SPEEDWAY WINNERS

2019- Mason Ziegler on August 17

2018- Mike Marlar on August 18

2017- Brandon Sheppard on August 19

2008- Clint Smith on June 17

2007- Darrell Lanigan on June 20

Tickets for both Friday and Saturday will be sold at the gate.

If you’re unable to make it to the track can watch all of the action live on DIRTVision with the annual Platinum FAST PASS subscription for $299/year or the monthly FAST PASS subscription for $39/month.

Batavia, OH (April 21, 2021) – The remainder of the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series event from Saturday, March 20th at Brownstown Speedway in Brownstown, Indiana was originally rescheduled until May 2nd.  However, due to demolition of the turn four grandstands scheduled to begin this week, the postponement has been extended to Thursday, September 23rd. The 24th Annual Indiana Icebreaker paying $15,000-to-win, will resume with two laps complete in Line-X B-Main 1. The amendment sets up a blockbuster weekend at Brownstown Speedway. Following the completion of the Indiana Icebreaker on Thursday, the annual Jackson 100 weekend will kick off on Friday, September 24th. The Night Before the Jackson will be a complete program for the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series – highlighted by a $10,000 top prize. Another complete show is on tap for Saturday night, when the 42nd Annual Jackson 100 takes center stage with a $20,000-to-win main event. Thursday, September 23rd Purse: 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   Friday, September 24th Purse: 1. $10,000, 2. $5,500, 3. $3,500, 4. $2,700, 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. $1,000, 15. $950, 16. $925, 17. $900, 18. $875, 19. $850, 20. $825, 21. $800, 22. $800, 23. $800, 24. $800. = $48,575 Saturday, September 25th Purse: 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.

April 21, 2021

The general thinking in the NASCAR garage is that the goal going into a race at Talladega Superspeedway is to position yourself to have a shot at the win in the closing laps.

Matt DiBenedetto and the Motorcraft/Quick Lane team proved last year that they could do that. DiBenedetto led laps 193-199 and most of the 200^th and final lap only to be nipped at the finish line by Denny Hamlin. More disappointment was to come as he was penalized for forcing another driver below the yellow line and dropped to 21st place.

But the disappointment of last fall was tempered by the fact that driver and team had put themselves in position to win. And it takes more than good fortune to do that, as DiBenedetto explained in a media session with reporters on Tuesday.

“There is a lot of luck involved and a lot of skill involved in your decision making and studying for making the right moves when it comes down to the line and you have a shot to win,” DiBenedetto said, adding that he and his spotter Doug Campbell put in a lot of time away from the track preparing for the possibilities that arise during the race.
 
“We spend a lot of extra time on the superspeedways as far as the craft,” DiBenedetto said.

“We got lucky [last fall] to survive, and then when we were there at the end we were making the right moves to have a good shot at it…

“It is hard. There is so much out of your control, and you have to figure out the right strategy.”
 
Also on DiBenedetto’s mind heading into Sunday’s GEICO 500 is trying to earn as many points as possible, and compete for the win, without taking undue risks that might jeopardize his recent climb in the points standings.
 
“My style is patiently aggressive,” he said. “That is a good way to describe me and how I approach every race. 
 
“No matter what, no matter what is on the line, I never change that. 
 
“Knowing the speed we have and that we can continue to climb in the points standings, all we need to do is continue to race like I always do and do our jobs and put our races together smart and smooth.”

Part of racing smart on superspeedways is working with his fellow drivers in the Ford camp, especially the drivers from Team Penske, which shares an alliance with DiBenedetto’s Wood Brothers team.
 
“I think our group does an incredible job – the whole Ford group in general and then the Penske folks and our alliance with them,” DiBenedetto said. “I feel like we do an excellent job working together when it is appropriate in races. Our group study is pretty hardcore at the race track for these things. 

“We have a very dedicated group of people, and the Ford camp is awesome to be a part of when we go to Talladega. 
 
“It gives you confidence, you just need a little luck on your side as well.”
 
And DiBenedetto insisted he’s put the disappointment of last fall behind him.
 
“Although last year stung a lot, every race is pretty much a reset at these superspeedways,” he said. “They are so wild and so crazy, and so many things have to work out your way. Some things are within and some are out of your control. 
 
“I look at it like a new day and starting completely fresh to do all we can to go out there and get that 100th win for the Wood Brothers.”
 
There will be no practice or qualifying prior to the start of Sunday’s GEICO 500, which will have Stage breaks at Laps 60 and 120.

The green flag is set to fly just after 1 p.m. (2 p.m. Eastern Time) with TV coverage on FOX.
 

Young gun racer riding momentum from strong Can-Am start to The Last Colosseum, Bristol Motor Speedway, April 22-24SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – Super DIRTcar Series driver Jack Lehner is the answer to some race fans questions about the future of Big Block Modified racing. Where is the young talent? Where are the hard-working drivers putting their own Big Blocks on the track? If that’s what you are looking for in a racer, The Ginja Ninja fits the bill. Lehner, the 22-year-old pilot of the cool blue #2L Super DIRTcar Series Big Block Modified, is now in his second full-time effort in the Super DIRTcar Series. While making 47 Series starts, including four top-10s and one top-five against the premier dirt modified drivers in the Northeast, he worked and went to school. And during downtime in 2020, he taught himself to build modified bodies. “I got all the stuff I need to build body panels now,” Lehner said. “It helps cut down on my own racing costs plus I can sell to racers. I spent a winter working at DKM and they taught me the process of fabricating for race cars, that’s how I got the idea to do it. When COVID hit, racing slowed down quite a bit so I started building bodies. It really kind of took off from there.”Hard work has paid off on the business side and now results are coming in on the box scores. In 2019, Lehner had a heartbreaker at Brockville Ontario Speedway. He put in a fast Time Trial lap, finished second in his Heat Race, and drew the pole for the 100-lap Feature. The #2L then led past the halfway point but seven-time Series champion Matt Sheppard jumped him on a restart to grab the lead. Lehner crossed the finish line fifth which was his best Series finish.It’s close shaves with glory in Victory Lane that drives Lehner to keep building his program. “The business is growing,” Lehner said. “It’s out of hand right now. I can’t keep up. I had to stop advertising. I am three or four weeks out right now. Once I am out of school it will give me more time to focus on that. Maybe It’s something I’ll take to the next level. I’m not really sure yet. I’m also a senior in marketing major about to graduate this semester plus I still work at the family-owned NAPA Auto Parts store whenever I can.”Lehner carries his NAPA Auto Parts sponsorship along with him for the Hoosier Racing Tire Weekly Championship Weekly at Albany-Saratoga Speedway every Friday night in addition to the Series tour. He finished sixth in the 2020 points standings behind the likes of Anthony Perrego, Stewart Friesen, Danny Johnson, and track championship Mike Mahaney. Lehner was too young to take on the New York State Fairgrounds mile track. His test comes at Bristol Motor Speedway Thursday to Saturday, April 22-24.“I am looking forward to hitting the track at Bristol,” Lehner said. “I can’t wait to see how it races. It could be a once-in-a-lifetime deal but we’ll see what the future holds. It’s definitely cool to be racing there but I don’t race because it’s cool, we race for good results.”The World of Outlaws Bristol Throwdown is the grand finale for Bristol Motor Speedway’s 2021 dirt surface. The World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Model Series and the UMP Modifieds put on memorable shows on the Tennessee high-banks two weeks ago. Now, the Big Blocks and Sprint Cars will take their turn.“From watching videos and talking to some of the late model and UMP Modified guys that ran down there, we know it’s going to be a little bit a tire game,” Lehner noted. “Obviously, their tires and cars are very different, but we can get a little bit of an idea of what it’s going to be like.”Lehner is excited to test his fabrication skills against the high speeds of Bristol.“Air is going to be a big thing,” he said. “It’s going to make a difference. That’s good for me building bodies because maybe I can do a few things that I think will be better for a track like that. I think we will see some stuff that you might have seen at Syracuse. We’ll be doing things a little differently because it’s a different animal.”Lehner and all the Series starts are in action at Bristol Motor Speedway this weekend. If you can’t make it to the track be sure to pick up your FAST PASS on DIRTVision for all the action.Follow Jack Lehner on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to keep up with The Ginja Ninja. Likewise hit follow on the Super DIRTcar Series on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram as well.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 three-time World of Outlaws Sprint Car champion won twice at Bristol Motor SpeedwayBRISTOL, TN – April 21, 2021 – Sammy Swindell has never shied away from a stage with thousands of eyes watching. Especially when it’s one of the biggest stages in motorsports: Bristol Motor Speedway.He put the thunder in “Thunder Valley” multiple times as a driver, but this weekend “Slammin’ Sammy” will be entertaining fans as the Grand Marshal of the World of Outlaws Bristol Throwdown (April 22-24).“I’m looking forward to it,” Swindell said. “It gives me a chance to come and be a part of it.”He’ll make appearances – including an autograph session on Friday – throughout the historic event, which sees the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars return to the iconic half-mile track for the first time in 20 years and the Super DIRTcar Series makes its Bristol debut.The three-time World of Outlaws champion and 394-time Series, of Germantown, TN, became a Titan of the Tennessee track. In the World of Outlaws’ four previous visits to “The Last Great Colosseum,” he won the 30-lap events in 2000 and 2001, and set the overall track record of 13.860 sec. at an average speed of 138mph. In comparison, NASCAR’s track record on the asphalt track is 14.528 sec. at an average speed of 132mph – set in 2019.“I hope they don’t beat my record,” the 65-year-old chuckled. “Trying to hang on to some of this stuff as long as I can.”The high speeds never bothered him. He enjoyed it.While leaving Bristol one day, a Tennessee trooper stopped Swindell and told him, ‘You were the fastest one out there today.’ Swindell said, ‘Oh, yeah?’ The trooper responded, ‘185.’“I’ve had people clock me at [the Syracuse Mile] and other places at 180,” Swindell said. “It’s a lot different running a car that fast but you just have to make sure your stuff is tight. It’s what I’ve always tried to do, make sure everything is tight so the input I put in the steering goes to the wheel and there’s no slop in the steering or spindles or whatever.“I always enjoyed running the faster places. The speed didn’t really bother me, I guess. It was just a matter of getting there and doing the same thing you do all the time. Try to go as fast as you can.”At those speeds, the race becomes a chess match. Every move has to be calculated. Taking lessons learned from racing on mile-long tracks, like Syracuse, Swindell said while closing on another into the corner, instead of following them at their speed, it was better to roll back and then carry the speed through the turn. Then, he’d drive by.Drafting comes into effect, as well. You can feel it, he said. As you’d close on the car in front of you, you could feel your speed pick up and the RPMs of the motor increase.“There’s a lot of things that come into play,” Swindell said. “You have to time everything right because everything is going at a faster rate than normal.”While he’d prefer to be on track with the stout field of drivers entered for the World of Outlaws Bristol Throwdown, he’s another eager fan excited to see how the racing will be 20 years after his last win. The motors have about 100 more horsepower now, he said, but the reduced banking and different tire compound will slow the cars down… He hopes for the sake of his track record.No matter his duties as Grand Marshal, “Slammin’ Sammy” Swindell is sure to put the thunder in “Thunder Valley” once again.”Sometimes you have to wind up the crowd a little bit,” he said.To see Swindell and the rest of the stars of the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series return to Bristol Motor Speedway, get your tickets at BristolMotorSpeedway.com.You can also watch Swindell further talk about his Bristol win in the Bristol Watch Party video in the Exclusive section on DIRTVision.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 for $299/year or the monthly FAST PASS subscription for $39/month.

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

Apr 20, 2021 | Featured, Julie Nataas, Race Results

Julie Nataas drove her OTG / NGK Spark Plugs / Right Trailers Top Alcohol Dragster to the final round quad at the 21st annual NHRA Four-Wide Nationals this weekend for the Randy Meyer Racing Team. On her way to the finals, she defeated heavy hitters such as Kim Parker, Mitch Myers, Mike Austin, and James Stevens.

Julie qualified in the number 2 spot with a first round matchup against James Stevens, Kim Parker, and Mitch Myers. In the history-making first Top Alcohol Dragster four-wide national event, Julie had an impressive .035-second reaction time and with her quickest pass of the weekend, she drove all the way to the first round victory with a 5.225, 269.51 mph. James Stevens’ 5.303, 269.03 mph advanced to the second round quads with Nataas.

Heading into the second round, Julie staged up against Jackie Fricke and James Stevens; competitor Mike Austin was a no-show in this round of eliminations. Comparable to the first round, Julie had a sizable reaction advantage over all competitors in her quad and used a 5.242, 269.62 to cross the finish line first. Jackie Fricke’s 5.242, 275.73 mph followed close behind and advanced to the final round quad with her.

In the final quad at the Las Vegas, Nevada-based track, the Randy Meyer-tuned dragster remained consistent with a 5.263, 273.22 mph. At the top end, Nataas crossed the finish line third behind winner Shawn Cowie and runner-up Jackie Fricke.

“We debuted the new OTG, Right Trailers, NGK Spark Plugs wrap on my car this weekend, and I’m so happy with how it turned out and I was blown away by the feedback,” said Julie. “I couldn’t be happier with my first 4-wide experience. We had a consistent car all weekend long and I didn’t have any mishaps on the starting line. In fact, I don’t think anyone had for our first 4-wide race. I’m glad I had NGK Spark Plugs by my side this weekend powering us to another final round. I look forward to another 4-wide race in a few weeks with the Randy Meyer Racing Team at the NGK NTK 4-wide Nationals in Charlotte.”

The Randy Meyer Racing Team’s next event, originally planned for this weekend in St. Louis was just announced to be postponed to the Fall. The team will regroup at their headquarters in Kansas City, and will compete next at the NHRA Lucas Oil Southern Nationals in Atlanta, Georgia on April 30 – May 2.

Super DIRTcar Series Poised to Write New Chapter in Big Block Modified Racing HistorySeries stars looking forward to clashing for $88,000 in two 40-lap Features on dirt-covered Bristol Motor Speedway, April 22-24BRISTOL, TN — The history-making Bristol Throwdown featuring the Super DIRTcar Series and the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars is ready to launch this week. The Big Blocks are set to shake down The Last Colosseum on Thursday night before 40-lap, $10,000-to-win NAPA Super DIRT Week qualifiers on Friday and Saturday. Over $88,000 are up for grabs for two nights of racing and Saturday’s Feature is $1,000-to-start. “It’s Bristol, baby” is the tagline everyone knows. But what makes it so special?  Bristol Motor Speedway, the pride of The Volunteer State, is a NASCAR legacy track with a reputation for massive speed in close spaces and memorable, career-making finishes. The Last Colosseum it may be, but as one of the United States’ largest sports facilities, Bristol has stood the test of time. Size and capacity do not alone make the track great. Names like Earnhardt, Gordon, Labonte, and Waltrip have all left their marks on the colossal half-mile in their own ways — and sometimes by any means necessary. Hair-raising speed is one of the time-honored elements of racing that appeals all to drivers and fans of racing. Race fans are encouraged to bring earplugs because the roar of 28 Super DIRTcar Series Big Block Modifieds coming to life has never been heard in the hallowed halls of Bristol. The sound of the engines at the end of the straightaways echoing off The Last Colosseum may bring race fans back to the epic sound of the engines at the New York State Fairgrounds. Drivers are gearing up for their time in the Bristol spotlight. Nearly 30 of the confirmed drivers were on hand at the April 10 Series points-opener at Can-Am Speedway. Stewart Friesen took the win with Tim Fuller in tow. Lightning Larry Wight in the Gypsum Express #99L was third, which made him the highest-finishing championship contender.Seven-time Series champion Matt Sheppard had a solid run in the first Series points at Can-Am and finished seventh. The Bristol doubleheader is a huge opportunity for Super Matt to make up some vital points in the early season. The #9S is ready for the challenge. “Any time you can go to a place like Bristol and race it’s exciting,” Sheppard said. “I personally have never been there. I’ve heard so many stories about the place. To think that we’ll be down there actually racing on it is pretty awesome. It’s definitely an intimidating-looking place. I don’t know how our modifieds will take to it, but I am looking forward to the challenge.”The only driver Sheppard is chasing on the all-time championship win list is Brett The Jet Hearn, the legend from Sussex, NJ. While his NASCAR career never took him to Bristol, Hearn has been a fan of the race track for decades. “I’ve never seen the place in person, but I’ve watched it plenty of times on TV,” Hearn said. “I know there are a lot of people excited about it. It’s great for dirt modified racing.”Younger drivers like Jack Lehner are looking forward to testing their mettle at Bristol like the veterans and legends of the past tested theirs at the New York State Fairgrounds one-mile race track. The Saratoga Springs, NY driver is a burgeoning fabricator and is excited about the potential for improvements on the high-speed track. “Air is going to be a big thing,” said Lehner. “It’s going to make a difference. That’s good for me building bodies because maybe I can do a few things that I think will be better for a track like that. I think we will see some stuff that you might have seen at Syracuse. We’ll be doing things a little differently because it’s a different animal.”An eastern New York neighbor to Lehner, Demetrios Drellos, weighed in on what it means to race Bristol. The driver from Queensbury, NY operates the #111 machine and has one Series win to his credit. “I feel very fortunate that I get to go to Bristol Motor Speedway,” Drellos said. “It feels great to be able to go to a NASCAR facility with my own race car. That right there is pretty cool. From what I have seen in the videos is that it’s going to be awesome. There are no cons. It’s only good for us.”Forty-two Super DIRTcar Series Big Block Modifieds are set to join the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series at Bristol for three days of speed. Buy tickets here, and if you can’t make it to the track pick up your FAST PASS at DIRTVision.com.Plus, an additional sponsor bonus has been added to the event, specific to the Super DIRTcar Series. SRI Performance is awarding $500 to the driver that redraws position number one for Friday’s and Saturday’s Features, adding more incentive to race into a redraw position.Super DIRTcar Series World of Outlaws Bristol Throwdown 2021 rosterX – Chad Phelps, Mexico, NY1 – Tyler Dippel, Wallkill, NY1 – Jackson Gill, Plessis, NY2L – Jack Lehner, Saratoga Springs, NY2A –  Mike Gular, Green Lake, PAR2 – Rusty Smith, Bethlehem, PA3 – Justin Haers, Phelps, NY3 – Chad Brachmann, North Tonawanda, NY3J –  Marc Johnson, Guilderland, NY4* – Kevin Root, Geneva, NY5H – Chris Hile, Oswego, NY8 – Rich Scagliotta, Hillsborough, NJ9S – Matt Sheppard, Savannah, NY14W – Ryan Watt, Boyertown, PA17 – Marcus Dinkins, Watkins Glen, NY19 – Jessey Mueller, Olmstedville, NY 20 – Brett Hearn, Sussex, NJ21A – Peter Britten, Brisbane, Queensland, AU22 – Brandon Walters, Sidney, NY23 – Kyle Coffey, Caledonia, NY25 – Erick Rudolph, Ransomville, NY27J – Danny Johnson, Rochester, NY28 – Jordan McCreadie, Watertown, NY32C – Max McLaughlin, Mooresville, NC35 – Mike Mahaney, King Ferry, NY42P – Pat Ward, Genoa, NY43 – Jimmy Horton, Neshanic Station, NJ43 – Keith Flach, Ravena, NY44 – Stewart Friesen, Niagara-by-the-Lake, Ontario, CAN48Too – Dave Rauscher, Waterloo, NY66X – Carey Terrance, Hogansburg, NY83 – Brian Swartzlander, Leechburg, PA83Jr. –  Tim Sears Jr., Clay, NY84 – Gary Tomkins, Clifton Springs, NY88 – Olden Dwyer, Shaftsburg, VT88 –  Mat Williamson, St. Catharines, Ontario, CAN91 –  Billy Decker, Unadilla, NY93 – Craig Mitchell, Poughkeepsie, NY 98H – Jimmy Phelps, Baldwinsville, NY99L – Larry Wight, Phoenix, NY111 – Demetrios Drellos, Queensbury, NY118 – Jimmy Britt, Newtown Square, PAStay up to date with the Super DIRTcar Series at SuperDIRTcarSeries.com with features, highlight videos, race reports, results, and more. For even more Big Block coverage, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where for links to our stories, great photos, and behind-the-scenes videos. PHOTO: Josh James

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.

NASCAR Star Making First World of Outlaws Start Since Historic 2020 SeasonBRISTOL, TN – April 20, 2021 – In the depths of personal struggle, Kyle Larson rose from what he called the lowest point of his life and soared to the mountaintop of dirt racing in 2020; and became a better man through it all.It was only 53 weeks ago during the COVID-19 pandemic when the Elk Grove, CA native lost his ride at Chip Ganassi Racing and made headlines everywhere amid controversy. He went to work on himself, but he still needed to provide for his family, so it was back to his roots, which are firmly planted in the dirt.What followed was an astonishing stretch. He ran 97 features and won 46 times. He won in Sprint Cars, Midgets, Silver Crown, and even shocked the world with a Late Model win. He took owners like Paul Silva, Kevin Rumley, Sean Michael, Chad Boat, Harley Taylor & himself to victory lane. He won from coast-to-coast whether it was scoring Driller’s in Tulsa, pounding the Posse in Pennsylvania, or shunning the Outlaws in Knoxville. His overwhelming and historically-significant success on the soil catapulted him into discussions with Doug Wolfgang and Steve Kinser for the greatest season in history.That season, which will forever be remembered by those who witnessed it, helped launch Larson back to the NASCAR Cup Series. He’s now at Hendrick Motorsports and successfully making a career on the pavement, but at the end of the day, Sprint Cars still have his heart.This weekend, Larson brings his rollercoaster ride of a year full circle as he makes his 2021 season-debut with the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series at Bristol Motor Speedway.Sprint Cars are where Kyle found his love for the sport. Sprint Cars are where he honed his craft. Sprint Cars are where he found his way back. Sprint Cars are where he’ll always have a home.”Dirt racing is super important to me,” Larson led with. “It’s what I grew up doing. I’ve known it all my life.”Focusing on this weekend, the Bristol Throwdown marks Larson’s season-debut with the Series and also his first-ever Sprint Car race at the Bristol, TN 1/2-mile. In total, Larson has 26 starts at Bristol between the NASCAR Cup Series, Xfinity Series, Truck Series, K&N Series, and Dirt Late Models. He won a 2018 Xfinity race, but believes Sprint Cars will be a different animal.”I don’t think there is much at all I can take from laps in the Late Model or Cup Car that would benefit me here with the Sprint Car,” Larson elaborated. “The cars are so much faster. You just have to pay attention to how the track is changing. I hope it gets and wide so we can put on a good race.””It’s gonna be ultra-fast racing for sure,” Larson continued. “I mean you’ve got Sprint Cars at over 900 horsepower weighing 1400 lbs vs. a Cup Car at 3,500 lbs and around 750 horsepower. I think lap times will be crazy fast like 12-seconds. I still think it’ll be fairly similar to other half-miles, though. I just don’t think the pace will slow off as much as it does at other places because you have the banking and the load to carry speed throughout the night.”Entering this weekend’s event, which pays $25,000-to-win Saturday’s finale, Larson only has one Sprint Car start in 2021 compared to countless races last year. He won his season-debut last weekend with the All Stars Circuit of Champions at Williams Grove (PA) Speedway, but still believes their is rust to knock off on practice night.”I think it’s way different because last year I was racing almost every day of the week and we built a huge notebook and I was fresh as a driver,” he explained on his mindset. “Now, this is only my second race back in Sprint Car since November so there’s some rust there. The Outlaws are just so much more aggressive than the All Stars with double-file restarts and such. It’s the little things you have to perfect to be good with the World of Outlaws.”One advantage for Larson? Paul Silva: the mechanical mastermind who owns and wrenches on the Finley Farms #57. Another advantage? Kevin Rumley: Larson’s Late Model crew chief and iconic engineer who has been talking shop with Silva lately.”We’ve talked about gearing and stuff compared to Port Royal when I ran the Late Model and Kevin gave Paul some notes on springs and such to give us a gauge with the setup,” Larson said on their relationship. “Paul is ridiculously smart, so I trust him completely. “For the most part we ran a similar package almost everywhere we went last year, so I’m sure Bristol will be slightly different, but he’s got it under control. If anything, our biggest focus should be me qualifying better on half-miles.”Having already competed on Dirt Bristol with multiple other organizations and disciplines, the Californian is now excited to see how the World of Outlaws can build momentum from racing on the stage that Bristol provides.”I think it’s a great opportunity to showcase our sport even more,” Larson said. “It sounds like there are a lot of tickets ordered and they’re expecting a great crowd. I hope it’s a great event that runs smoothly with tight racing and good finishes so the fans enjoy it. The World of Outlaws do a great job promoting their events and putting on a show for the fans. The opportunity is there to have a great weekend all around. The buildup has been great already.”Instead of Denny Hamlin, Joey Logano, Chase Elliott, Kyle Busch, and Martin Truex Jr. this week, Larson flips from racing the best in NASCAR to the best in the World of Outlaws like Donny Schatz, David Gravel, Sheldon Haudenschild, Logan Schuchart, Carson Macedo, and his brother-in-law Brad Sweet.”I’m really competitive with Brad,” Larson acknowledged on that family bond. “I want to beat him more so than anybody else and I’m sure the same goes for him with me. Brad is by far the best driver out there right now with the best team too. He’ll be the guy to beat, but the Outlaws as a whole are extremely competitive. You can look down the field and pick apart guys that are good on half-miles. They’re the best Sprint Car drivers in the world and they do this every single weekend. They’re hard to beat for a reason. It’s always fun competing against them.”Larson and the rest of the World of Outlaws will take center stage at the 1/2-mile stadium this weekend with three intense, electrifying nights of The Greatest Show on Dirt. It all begins with a practice night (6-9pm) on Thursday which is run in conjunction with a special pre-race show LIVE on DIRTVision, where you can watch this weekend’s action and all of the World of Outlaws events with a FAST PASS. A full program of racing follows on Friday and Saturday with the potential of a Sunday rain date. Fans can BUY TICKETS HERE.Fans who can’t make it to the track can catch all of the action on DIRTVision with the annual Platinum FAST PASS subscription for $299/year or the monthly FAST PASS subscription for $39/month.Photo – Trent Gower

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.

The Greatest Show on Dirt Meets The Last Great Colosseum Once AgainBRISTOL, TN – April 19, 2021 – One of the most anticipated events of the year is finally here.This weekend, after a 20-year absence, the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series is making its grand return to the iconic Bristol Motor Speedway.Transformed to a clay-filled colosseum, the 1/2-mile stadium offers up three intense, electrifying nights of The Greatest Show on Dirt. The weekend begins with a practice night (6-9pm) on Thursday which is run in conjunction with a special pre-race show LIVE on DIRTVision, where you can watch this weekend’s action and all of the World of Outlaws events with a FAST PASS.On Friday, racing officially begins with a full program of Qualifying, Heat Races, Dash, Last Chance Showdown, and a 25-lap, $10,000-to-win Feature. On Saturday, we’re back at it again, but this time with a $25,000 payday on the line; the highest of any Sprint Car race to date in 2021.BUY TICKETS HEREWith such a monumental weekend lined up, the storylines are plentiful. Here’s a few of the countless times to watch:20 YEARS IN THE MAKING: It’s been almost two decades since the World of Outlaws last visited Bristol Motor Speedway. The Series debuted at the iconic NASCAR venue in 2000 when the dirt was first laid down and Mark Kinser & Sammy Swindell split wins. The Greatest Show on Dirt came back again in 2001 with Donny Schatz and Sammy Swindell sharing victories.In 2002, the dirt was absent and as were the Outlaws. That dry spell lasted year-after-year and Bristol soon became a historical token of yesteryear. It seemed to be a distant memory until the breaking news came in late December 2020 that dirt was returning in a big way. World of Outlaws Sprint Cars, World of Outlaws Late Models, NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Trucks Series, and more.GUESS WHO’S BACK: Kyle Larson, the man who set dirt racing ablaze with his 46-win campaign in 2020, will make his 2021 season-debut with the World of Outlaws Sprint Cars this weekend at Bristol. The Elk Grove, CA native comes into the weekend fresh off an All Stars Circuit of Champions victory at Williams Grove (PA) Speedway aboard the Paul Silva owned #57.A 12-time winner with the World of Outlaws last year, Larson has the advantage of being the only of 38 drivers this weekend with experience on the current edition of dirt on Bristol. In March, he finished second in two Dirt Late Model events and was looking strong in both the NASCAR Trucks and Cup Series races before being collected in crashes. So far in 2021, Larson has finished on the podium in all eight Late Model/Midget/Sprint Car features.VIEW THE FULL ENTRY LIST HEREHALF-MILE HEROES: This weekend, the World of Outlaws Sprint Cars are back at a big track (Bristol is .533 miles) for the first time since opening the season at Florida’s Volusia Speedway Park. Since the beginning of the 2019 season, the Series has contested 45 events at half-mile race tracks. Over that span, 13 different winners have found victory lane with eight of those racers striking at least twice.Leading the way with the most half-mile wins over that span is Donny Schatz (9), David Gravel (8), Logan Schuchart (6), Kyle Larson (6), and Brad Sweet (5).TENNESSEE TWANG: A pair of drivers, both former World of Outlaws winners, will be competing in their home state of Tennessee this weekend. Jason Sides of Bartlett, TN and Paul McMahan of Nashville, TN are also two of only five drivers (Schatz, Shaffer, J. Haudenschild) racing this weekend that previously competed at Bristol in 2000-01. Sides is a 17-time Series winner aboard the Rico Abreu Racing #7S, while McMahan has 27 Series victories to his credit and drives the CJB Motorsports #23 this weekend.It’s not just drivers, but also tracks in The Volunteer State that have a storied history with the World of Outlaws. Including Bristol, the Series has visited seven Tennessee venues dating back to Milan Speedway in 1982. Most recently, Shane Stewart and Donny Schatz split wins when the Series raced at a make-shift quarter-mile at Fairgrounds Speedway in Nashville.NASCAR CONNECTIONS: Three of the top teams in the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series are owned by NASCAR Cup Series winners, who each have success on the concrete at Bristol Motor Speedway.Tony Stewart/Curb-Agajanian Racing fields the Carquest, Ford Performance #15 for Donny Schatz, a 10-time Series champion gunning for his second-career win at Bristol. Kasey Kahne Racing w/ Mike Curb is a lethal two-car operation with two-time Series champion Brad Sweet in the NAPA Auto Parts #49 and Australian James McFadden in the Karavan Trailers #9. Stenhouse Jr. / Marshall Racing is co-owned by Ricky Stenhouse Jr. with Sheldon Haudenschild piloting the NOS Energy Drink #17.WHAT OFF WEEKEND?: Although both events at Lawton (OK) Speedway and Devil’s Bowl (TX) Speedway were rained out, that doesn’t mean all of the Outlaws took the weekend off. Five teams booked it to Knoxville (IA) Raceway, where the World of Outlaws will race on June 11-12 and August 11-14 for the Knoxville Nationals; while another two teams hauled to Port Royal (PA) Speedway, where the Series will visit on October 8-9.Sheldon Haudenschild’s decision to bolt to Knoxville made him one of the most talked about subjects of the whole weekend. The Wooster, OH native, who currently sits second in World of Outlaws championship standings, rallied from 14th to win his first-career feature at the Knoxville half-mile thanks to a stunning last-lap pass on Gio Scelzi. Sheldon and the NOS Energy Drink #17 will carry that momentum into this weekend at Bristol and later trips this year to Knoxville.THE NEED FOR SPEED: In 2001, a Tennessee state trooper whipped out his radar gun and clocked Sammy Swindell at a top speed of 185 MPH down the straightaway at Bristol Motor Speedway. His still-existing track record of 13.860 seconds averaged out at a whopping 138.441 MPH. The real question is: how fast will they go this weekend?Fans who can’t make it to the track can catch all of the action on DIRTVision with the annual Platinum FAST PASS subscription for $299/year or the monthly FAST PASS subscription for $39/month.This Week at a Glance – When and WhereThursday-Saturday, April 22-24 at Bristol Motor Speedway in Bristol, TNOn the Internet World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Models 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: The World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series transitions to a Midwest tripleheader following Bristol. A Thurdsay, April 29 appearance at Jacksonville (IL) Speedway leads into the two-day FVP Platinum Battery Showdown at I-70 (MO) Motorsports Park on April 30, May 1.NOS ENERGY DRINK FEATURE WINNERS (7 Drivers): 5 wins – Brad Sweet, Kasey Kahne Racing w/ Mike Curb #49 2 wins – Sheldon Haudenschild, Stenhouse Jr. Marshall Racing #17 2 wins – Carson Macedo, Jason Johnson Racing #41 1 win – Logan Schuchart, Shark Racing #1S 1 win – Aaron Reutzel, Roth Motorsports #83 1 win – David Gravel, Big Game Motorsports #2 1 win – James McFadden, Kasey Kahne Racing w/ Mike Curb #9FEATURE LAPS LED (13 Drivers): 156 laps – Brad Sweet 51 laps – Aaron Reutzel 45 laps – Donny Schatz 37 laps – David Gravel 31 laps – James McFadden 27 laps – Sheldon Haudenschild 26 laps – Logan Schuchart 25 laps – Sam Hafertepe Jr. 19 laps – Tyler Courtney 11 laps – Carson Macedo 10 laps – Jacob Allen 1 lap – Kasey Kahne & Kraig KinserSLICK WOODY’S QUICKTIME AWARDS (9 Drivers): 2 QuickTimes – David Gravel, Brad Sweet, James McFadden, Cory Eliason. 1 QuickTimes – Aaron Reutzel, Logan Schuchart, Sheldon Haudenschild, Danny Dietrich, Sam Hafertepe Jr.DRYDENE HEAT RACE WINNERS (18 Drivers) 5 Heat Wins – Aaron Reutzel 4 Heat Wins – Logan Schuchart, David Gravel, Carson Macedo 3 Heat Wins – Sheldon Haudenschild, James McFadden 2 Heat Wins – Donny Schatz, Jacob Allen, Brock Zearfoss, Kasey Kahne, Kraig Kinser, Jason Sides, Ian Madsen, Sam Hafertepe Jr. 1 Heat Win –  Brad Sweet, Gio Scelzi, Danny Dietrich, Hunter SchuerenbergPODIUM FINISHES (16 Drivers): 10 Podiums – Brad Sweet 4 Podiums – Logan Schuchart & Sheldon Haudenschild 3 Podiums – Carson Macedo & James McFadden 2 Podiums – Donny Schatz, Aaron Reutzel, Cory Eliason, Gio Scelzi 1 Podium – Kraig Kinser, Brent Marks, David Gravel, Danny Dietrich, Tyler Courtney, Justin Peck, 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)Photo – Jacy Norgaard

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.

$30,000 on the Line In the Hawkeye 100 All divisions racing for a high-dollar purse at Boone SpeedwayBOONE, IA – APRIL 19, 2021 – In less than two weeks, the World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Models will travel to Iowa for the Hawkeye 100. The inaugural event is the richest in Boone Speedway’s history, and one racer could drive away with $32,500.On Friday, April 30, The Most Powerful Late Models on The Planet will run two preliminary Features, known as the “Twin Hawks.” The winner of each race will collect $2,500.  Each of those Features will set the starting lineup for the 100-lap finale on Saturday, May 1. The Feature will have an unprecedented three-wide start for the first time in World of Outlaws history. The Hawkeye 100 winner will collect $30,000, and any driver who starts the race gets $1,500.  “This unique event brings the World of Outlaws to Boone for the first time, and we’re excited to add to the history there,” World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Model Series Director Casey Shuman said. “The three-wide start has everyone talking, but a $30,000-to-win and $1,500-to-start event early in the season is tremendous for the teams, too. We can’t wait to get there and put on a show for the fans.” The World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Models aren’t the only ones racing for a big purse at the event. On Friday and Saturday, IMCA Modifieds, IMCA Sport Modifieds, and IMCA Stock cars will join the Series. The IMCA Modifieds will race for $1,000 on Friday, followed by $3,000 in Saturday’s Hawkeye 30. The total purse of Saturday’s race is more than $10,000. The IMCA Sport Modifieds will race for $500 on Friday and $750 Saturday, while the IMCA Stock Cars will compete for $500 on Friday and $1,000 on Saturday. Among those three divisions alone, the drivers will be chasing more than $31,000.  For Hawkeye 100 Tickets: CLICK HERE. Fans who can’t make it to the track can 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.

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.

Honda Ridgeline Off-Road Race Truck captures another SCORE Class 7 win
Sixth off-road racing victory on the Baja peninsula for the Ridgeline

SAN FELIPE, Mexico (April 19, 2021) – The Honda Off-Road Racing Team returned to Baja California last weekend, and continued its string of Class 7 [unlimited, V6-powered race trucks] victories in Saturday’s SCORE International San Felipe 250.

Driver Jeff Proctor and navigator Evan Weller built an early lead along the rough, 280-mile loop course that started and ended along the Gulf of California town of San Felipe. Despite a pair of mid-race stops to replace cut tires, Proctor and Weller survived sand washes and multiple “square edge” ruts and jumps to build a 35-mile lead with 20 miles remaining, then cruised to the team’s first SCORE win of 2021, and sixth victory in Baja for the Ridgeline.

Making approximately 550 horsepower, HPD’s 3.5-liter HR35TT engine uses the same block and cylinder heads as the production V6 that powers the production Ridgeline. Additional, custom elements of the powertrain include an HPD-designed intake plenum and custom Engine Control Unit programming.

SCORE International San Felipe 250 Results
1st Class 7 [unlimited V6 trucks] Jeff Proctor/Evan Weller – Honda Ridgeline

Quote
JEFF PROCTOR (owner/driver Ridgeline Off-Road Race Truck) won Class 7 for unlimited V6 Trucks: “My co-driver Even (Weller) navigated a flawless race. We had some pretty good lines in the sand washes, and it was one of those days that everything just clicked. We didn’t really have any issues.  We did have a couple earned flats, but for the most part it was a pretty good day for us. We are taking home the class win and couldn’t be more excited to kick this 2021 SCORE Season with a ‘W’. To get through all those nasty, sharp-edged rocks, all the square-edged whoops that San Felipe is known for, we are just stoked to be here at the finish line.”

Fast Facts
This is the first San Felipe 250 win for the Honda Off-Road Racing Team, in its first appearance in the event for the Honda Ridgeline.
It is the sixth class win for the Ridgeline in the last 12 SCORE events on the Baja Peninsula for the Ridgeline since the debut of the program in 2015.
In addition to this weekend’s win in San Felipe, the Honda Off-Road Racing team has won its class four times in the Baja 500, and once in the Baja 1000.

Next
The Honda Off-Road Racing Team returns to action on the Baja peninsula June 12 for the 53rd annual SCORE Baja 500. Photos and information from the Ridgeline Off-Road Race Truck’s efforts can be viewed on Instagram at @hondaoffroadracing and @proctor_race.

Honda Racing social media content and video links can be found on Instagram (www.instagram.com/hondaracing_hpd), Twitter (twitter.com/HondaRacing_HPD) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/HondaRacingHPD). Additional features and long-form videos can be found on the Honda Racing/HPD YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/HondaRacingHPDTV).

CONCORD, NC – APRIL 19, 2021 – For the first time in 2021, the World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Models will race at two tracks in the same weekend. It starts Friday, April 23, when the Series makes its first trip to Richmond Raceway in Richmond, KY for a 40-lap $10,000-to-win Feature. “The Beast of the East” will be the 191st track the World of Outlaws have visited, and it’s the only trip to Kentucky for the Series in 2021. Friday will also mark the ninth time in Series history the Bluegrass State has held a World of Outlaws Feature. Rick Eckert has the most World of Outlaws wins in Kentucky (2), while tour regulars Darrell Lanigan and Shane Clanton each have one victory. On Saturday, April 24, the Series moves to Brushcreek Motorsports Complex in Peebles, OH for “The 4B4EVER 40,” celebrating the life of legendary Late Model driver Jackie Boggs.Saturday’s Feature will also be 40-laps, paying $10,000-to-win. It’ll be the first time a National touring Series has raced on the new 3/10-mile track configuration. However, it’s the third time the World of Outlaws Late Models have visited the complex. Dale Mcdowell won in 2005, and Steve Francis won the last event in 2006. If you can’t make it either night, 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:Rocketing To The Top: Even though he hasn’t found Victory Lane in an official World of Outlaws event in 2021, Brandon Sheppard still leads the standings heading into this weekend – 20 points ahead of Kyle Strickler.It’s the longest the New Berlin, IL driver has gone without a win to start the season in his career.  His longest streak previous was four races during his rookie season in 2017.In his last four races, Sheppard has three top-five finishes, including a pair of thirds at Farmer City Raceway and Bristol Motor Speedway. If the “Rocket Shepp” can find Victory Lane this weekend, it’ll be his 70th World of Outlaws win of his career. It’ll put him eight wins behind Josh Richards for the most all-time. Defending Home Turf: It hasn’t been the start to the season three-time Series champion Darrell Lanigan has hoped for. He’s sitting eighth in the standings, 106 points behind Brandon Sheppard. The good news for the “Bluegrass Bandit,” is he can take advantage of some home cooking this weekend. Both racetracks the Series visits this weekend aren’t far from his Union, KY home. Lanigan already has a World of Outlaws win in the state of Kentucky, finding Victory Lane at Bluegrass Speedway in 2011. The Kentucky driver also has a third place finish at Brushcreek Motorsports Complex when the Series last visited the Peebles, OH track in 2006. Turning the Tide: It’s been the tale of two seasons for Kyle Strickler in 2021. He won twice at Volusia Speedway Park, catapulting him to the top of the point standings. Since then, the Mooresville, NC driver has had a string of bad luck.The “High Side Tickler” hasn’t had a top-10 finish since February at DIRTcar Nationals. Despite those finishes, he’s still only 20 points behind Brandon Sheppard in the chase for the World of Outlaws Late Models title. A couple of good finishes this weekend could put him back on top.Smokin’ Hot: While it’s been nothing but bad luck for Kyle Strickler since DIRTcar Nationals, it’s the opposite side of the coin for South Carolina’s Chris Madden. He’s been on a hot streak since finding Victory Lane at Smoky Mountain Speedway in March. In just nine starts this season, Madden has four top-five’s and six top-10’s. The Gray Court, SC driver is third in the standings, 60 points behind Sheppard. “Smokey” has put himself in position for good finishes by having good runs in Drydene Heat Races. Madden has won more Heat Races(4) than any other driver in 2021.  When and WhereApril 23: Richmond Raceway in Richmond, KY April 24: Brushcreek Motorsports Complex in Peebles, OH About the TracksRichmond Raceway is a 3/1o mile oval  Online: www.richmond-raceway.net   Track Record: 13.897 set by Scott James on July 19th, 2019Brushcreek Motorsports Complex is a 3/10 mile oval Online: brushcreekmotorsports.com  PREVIOUS BRUSHCREEK MOTORSPORTS COMPLEX WINNERS 2006- Steve Francis on May 5 2005- Dale Mcdowell on May 20On 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 World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Model Series returns Friday and Saturday at Boone Speedway in Boone, IA for the Hawkeye 100. CLICK HERE for Tickets.  Feature Winners: (8 Drivers) Rank- Driver- Hometown-WinsKyle Strickler, Mooresville, NC-2 Devin Moran, Dresden, OH-2Kyle Bronson, Brandon, FL-1 Brandon Overton, Evans, GA-1 Chris Madden, Grey Court, SC-1 Mike Spatola, Manhattan, IL-1 Bobby Pierce, Oakwood, IL-1 Josh Richards, Shinnston, WV-1DRYDENE HEAT RACE WINNERS (30 Drivers) Rank- Driver- Hometown-WinsChris Madden, Gray Court, SC-4Kyle Bronson, Brandon, FL-3 Tim McCreadie, Watertown, NY-3 Bobby Pierce, Oakwood, IL-3Kyle Strickler, Mooresville, NC-2 Devin Moran, Dresden, OH- 2 Tyler Bruening, Decorah, IA-2 Ross Bailes, Clover, SC- 2 Rick Eckert, York, PA-2Dale Mcdowell, Chickamauga, GA- 1 Cade Dillard, Robeline, LA-1 Darell Lanigan, Union, KY-1 Parker Martin, Milledgeville, GA-1 Brandon Overton, Evans, 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 Scott Bloomquist, Mooresburg, TN-1 Brian Shirley, Chatham, IL-1 Ryan Unzicker, El Paso, IL-1 Taylor Scheffler, Waukesha, WI- 1 Mike Spatola, Manhattan, IL-1 Shannon Babb, Moweaqua, IL- 1 Kevin Weaver, Gibson City, IL-1 Josh Richards, Shinnston, WV-1 Jimmy Owens, Newport, TN-1 Ricky Weiss, Headingly, MB-1 Devin Moran, Dresden, OH-1Last Chance Showdown Winners (17 drivers) Rank- Driver- Hometown-WinsRicky Weiss, Headingly, MB -2 Dale Mcdowell, Chickamauga, GA-2 Brandon Sheppard, New Berlin, IL-2Ross Robinson, Georgetown, DE- 1 Boom Briggs, Bear Lake, PA-1 Brent Larson, Lake Elmo, MN-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, Silver Springs, PA-1 Rick Eckert, York, PA-1 Kyle Bronson, Brandon, FL-1 Tyler Bruening, Decorah, IA-1 Jonathan Davenport, Blairsville, GA-1PODIUM FINISHES (20 drivers) Rank – Driver, Hometown – PodiumsKyle Strickler, Mooresville, NC – 3 Bobby Pierce, Oakwood, IL-3 Devin Moran, Dresden, OH-3Kyle Bronson, Brandon, FL – 2 Cade Dillard, Robeline, LA – 2 Brandon Sheppard, New Berlin, IL-2 Chris Madden, Gray Court, SC-2Scott Bloomquist, Mooresburg, TN – 1 Darrell Lanigan, Union, KY – 1 Hudson O’Neal, Martinsville, IN – 1 Ricky Thornton, Jr., Chandler, AZ – 1 Dale McDowell, Chickamauga, GA – 1 Brandon Overton, Evans, 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 Ross Bailes, Clover, SC-1 Ricky Weiss, Headingly, MB-1HARD CHARGER (5 drivers) Rank – Driver, Hometown – H.C.Brandon Sheppard, New Berlin, IL – 3Ricky Weiss, Headingly, MB – 2 Chase Junghans, Manhattan, KS – 2Boom Briggs, Bear Lake, PA – 1 Brandon Overton, Evans, GA-1 Ricky Thornton Jr., Chandler, AZ-1SLICK WOODY’S QUICK TIME Award (8 drivers) Rank – Driver, Hometown – QTsKyle Strickler, Mooresville, NC – 2 Brandon Overton, Evans, GA-2Kyle Bronson, Brandon, FL – 1 Devin Moran, Dresden, OH – 1 Bobby Pierce, Oakwood, IL – 1 Donald McIntosh, Dawsonville, GA- 1 Taylor Scheffler, Waukesha, WI- 1 Dennis Erb Jr., Carpentersville, IL-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)

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.

LAS VEGAS, NV (April 18, 2021) — Tim Wilkerson once again showed that his independent Levi, Ray & Shoup Summit Racing Shelby Mustang  team has the power and performance to make an impact during the 2021 NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series season. As the 21^st NHRA Las Vegas Four-Wide Nationals unfolded today Wilkerson knew he had a race car that could contend for the title. On Friday Wilkerson rolled off the trailer and posted a 3.998 second pass at 314.24 mph to solidly place his Mustang Funny Car in the show. On Saturday he and co-crew chief Richard Hartman continued to focus on a race day tune-up that could lead the team back to the winner’s circle. They entered race day as the No. 11 qualifier but he knew there were improved performance numbers on the horizon.

In the first quad Wilkerson took the win light getting the stripe first in front of No. 3 qualifier Alexis DeJoria and No. 11 qualifier Terry Haddock. Chad Green, the No. 6 qualifier, had an issue on the starting line and did not make a run. His winning time of 3.919 second was a huge improvement from his best qualifying effort and was the second quickest run of the session. 

“I was really excited after that first round win,” said Wilkerson. “We looked at the data from Friday and Saturday and just tuned it up. That was the second quickest run of the session and it went right down the middle of the groove. We knew we could do that again which gave the whole team a lot of confidence.”

Heading into the second quad Wilkerson was joined once again by DeJoria along with Funny Car champions Matt Hagan and John Force. Wilkerson returned with a strong tune-up and he advanced with a 3.947 second pass getting to the finish line stripe right behind Hagan’s 3.927 second run. The pair of round winners advanced the final quad along with Ron Capps and Bob Tasca III.

The final quad was an amazing race as Tasca, Capps and Wilkerson were welded together for the entire race. At the finish line Tasca and Capps were able to get the noses of their race cars around Wilkerson for the top two spots handing him a semifinal finish. Wilkerson’s last pass of the event, 3.922 seconds, was a near mirror image of his first round elapsed time. That is the kind of performance he was looking for as the season begins to pick up the pace heading to Atlanta in two weeks.

“We have a strong race car for sure. Richard and I have a good handle on our tune-up,” said Wilkerson. “We are going down the track on race day and you will win a lot of rounds doing that. I am really pleased with that final pass. I was trying to run a low 3.92 and we did exactly that. The conditions here will give us some great data as we head into the summer months. This whole Levi, Ray & Shoup Summit Racing team did a great job all weekend.” 

The Levi Ray & Shoup Shelby Mustang will leave Las Vegas tied with Matt Hagan in fifth place in the Camping World Funny Car standings.

Qualifying Results

Q1: 3.998 sec, 314.24 mph; Qual. 7

Q2: 4.346 sec, 206.64 mph; Qual. 9

Q3: 4.075 sec, 308.99 mph; Qual. 11

Bonus Points:  0

Race Results

First Quad
Driver                                    Qual       R/T         ET           MPH 
Tim Wilkerson                  11           .131        3.919     327.19 (W)

Alexis DeJoria                    3              .142        3.950     321.73

Terry Haddock                   14           .152        4.069     309.42   

Chad Green                        6              Broke Before Staging

Second Quad
Driver                              Qual       R/T         ET           MPH 
Matt Hagan                 7          .064     3.927   325.06 (W)

Tim Wilkerson           11        .097     3.947   325.14 (W)

John Force                   2          .075     4.049   304.60

Alexis DeJoria             3          .136     4.257   220.30

Final Quad
Driver                              Qual       R/T         ET           MPH 
Bob Tasca III                5          .057     3.938   328.46 (W)      

Matt Hagan                 7          .056     3.955   324.98 (R/U)

Tim Wilkerson           11        .095     3.922   320.43

Ron Capps                   4          .073     3.978   316.75

Camping World Funny Car Top Ten

1. Bob Tasca III, 187

2. J.R. Todd, 166

3. Robert Hight, 152

4. Ron Capps, 139

5. Tim Wilkerson, 129

5. Matt Hagan, 129

7. John Force, 118

8. Alexis DeJoria, 117

9. Cruz Pedregon, 106

10. Chad Green, 66

·        Don Schumacher Racing (DSR) Funny Car pilot Matt Hagan earns runner-up finish with Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye in National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) Four Wide Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway

·        No. 4 seed Ron Capps also drove his DSR Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat to final round of unique four-wide racing event and sits fourth in Funny Car category after semifinal result in second race of the 2021 NHRA season 

·        DSR Top Fuel driver Leah Pruett took her No. 3 qualified Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye dragster to the quarterfinals

April 18, 2021, Las Vegas – Leaving Las Vegas a winner isn’t always in the cards, but Matt Hagan came close as he drove his Don Schumacher Racing (DSR) Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye Funny Car to a runner-up finish in the four-wide final elimination round of the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) Camping World Drag Racing Series nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. 

Hagan came into the Denso Spark Plugs NHRA Four Wide Nationals event looking for a similar outcome to his previous Vegas outing when he drove his Mopar-powered Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye to a big win last November at the Dodge NHRA Finals presented by Pennzoil to earn the 2020 NHRA Funny Car World Championship. This weekend, however, there was the added challenge presented by the unique four lane race format that drivers haven’t seen in almost two years. Hagan’s efforts through three qualifying runs on Friday and Saturday rewarded him with a seventh place on the eliminations ladder.

Hagan’s first elimination run, clocked at 3.932 seconds and 329.42 mph, was his quickest of the weekend and good enough to beat Blake Alexander and Chris Morel and move him on to the next stage along with round winner John Force. The DSR Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye was quickest off the start and gave Hagan the win in the second quad elimination round with a 3.927 second pass (325.06 mph) over Tim Wilkerson, John Force and Alexis DeJoria to advance to the final.

Facing off against his DSR teammate Ron Capps, Bob Tasca III and Wilkerson in the final quad, Hagan once again beat everyone off the start line with his quick reaction time (0.056 seconds), but saw a slightly faster Tasca edge him at the stripe for a runner-up finish to move him up into the fifth spot in the Funny Car standings behind his DSR teammate Capps.

Capps, for his part, had a tough start to his Vegas weekend after finding himself close to the edge of the ladder after two qualifying runs. However, the HEMI-powered Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat driver put it all on the line with a solid 3.919-second final qualifying lap at 329.89 mph to make a big move up to the fourth spot from which to start his race day.

Capps’ first saw (eventual event winner) Tasca in the opening quad along with Bobby Bode and Jim Campbell, where he drove to the round win and advanced to the next stanza. Capps added a holeshot win in the second round over Tasca, to eliminate Robert Hight, and J.R. Todd and move on to the final.

For the third time in a row, Capps found himself in battle against Tasca, as the pair were joined by teammate Hagan and Wilkerson. This time however, a dropped cylinder hampered his run, permitting Tasca and Hagan to battle for the finish line. Capps semifinal result puts him fourth in the point standings as the top Dodge SRT Charger in the Funny Car category after just two events into the 2021 NHRA season. 

A third competitive Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat, driven by Cruz Pedregon, is in this year’s Funny Car field. Looking to build on his Snap-on Tools team’s semifinal finish at the season-opening Gatornationals, Pedregon qualified his No. 8 for the Four Wide Nationals with a 3.960 seconds pass at 323.50 mph. Unfortunately, his race day ended prematurely with a loss in the first elimination round to J.R. Todd and Robert Hight.

In Top Fuel competition, DSR pilot Leah Pruett qualified her Mopar Dodge//SRT dragster in the top half of the field for a fifth consecutive event (dating back to Oct. 2020 at Dallas) but not without a bit of drama after an issue in qualifying saw the team play it safe by bringing out a backup car. Pruett rose to the occasion by qualifying seventh and then using a quick start in the opening round against her competitors to run a respectable 3.808-second elapsed time pass and advance to the next set against Torrence, Doug Kalitta, and Shawn Langdon. Pruett’s run and day was cut short in the second round by a loss of traction soon after the launch.

The next event on the 2021 schedule for the Mopar Dodge//SRT contingent is the NHRA Southern Nationals, set to take place in Atlanta, Georgia from April 30 to May 2.

ADDITIONAL NOTES and QUOTES

FUNNY CAR:

Matt Hagan, DSR Mopar Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye
(No. 7 Qualifier – 3.946 seconds at 325.22 mph)
Round 1: (0.070-second reaction time, 3.932 seconds at 329.42 mph) finished second to No. 3 John Force (0.054/3.925/332.02) and defeated No.10 Blake Alexander (0.090/3.958/320.97) and No. 15 Chris Morel (0.109/4.200/294.24) 

Round 2: (0.06/3.927/325.06) won round over No. 11 Tim Wilkerson (0.097/3.947/325.14) and defeated No. 2 John Force (0.075/4.049/304.60) and No. 3 Alexis DeJoria (0.136/4.257/ 220.30)

Round 3: (0.056/3.955/324.98) finished second to No. 5 Bob Tasca III (0.057/3.938/328.46) and defeated Tim Wilkerson (0.095/3.922/320.43) and No. 4 Ron Capps (0.071/3.978/316.75)

“We roll in here every weekend with the expectation of winning every race. We got some momentum going this weekend and we’ve got a great team lead by Dickie (Venables). We’ve got some new guys and I’m really proud of them this weekend. Dickie made some personnel moves on our car, swapping positions, and it seems like a great fit for everyone right now. That gives me confidence as a driver seeing these guys being confident in bolting the car together. I’m really happy with my crew and we’re moving back up in the points. We’ve got a weekend off and then Atlanta, which we’ve won before, and then we finish May at Houston (for the Mopar Express Lane Spring Nationals) where I won my first race a long time ago. Overall, I’m just really happy leaving Vegas. The car is responding. It was a crazy four-wide event. I’m glad I didn’t red light or screw up. I’m really excited. We have a good team, we’re meshing and going rounds.”

Ron Capps, DSR NAPA Auto Parts Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Funny Car
(No. 4 Qualifier – 3.919 seconds at 329.89 mph) 
Round 1: (0.075-second reaction time, 3.932 seconds at 316.38 mph) finished second to No. 5 Bob Tasca III ( 0.089 / 3.917/329.18) defeated No. 13 Bobby Bode (0.091/3.993/313.66) and No. 12 Jim Campbell (0.123/5.899/114.18)

Round 2: (0.081/3.935/321.50) won round ahead of No. 5 Bob Tasca III (0.089/3.934/331.77) and defeated No. 1 Robert Hight (0.083/3.951/318.24) and No. 9 J.R. Todd (0.123/3.983/319.29)

Round 3: (0.071/3.978/316.75) lost to No. 5 Bob Tasca III (0.057/3.938/328.46), Matt Hagan (0.056/3.955/324.98) and Tim Wilkerson (0.095/3.922/320.43) 

“It’s so nice to be back racing again after that month break, but it wasn’t a smooth weekend for the NAPA team. We had a dropped cylinder the first run, but we fought back to get qualified and we were on the bump spot going into the last session. Guido (Dean Antonelli) and John Medlen made great decisions to get us into the No. 4 qualifying position on the last qualifying run. Today was clockwork. We ended up in the same lane all three rounds today and that final was a stout group of cars, (Matt) Hagan, (Tim) Wilkerson, and (Bob) Tasca (III). I felt confident that we’d go up and repeat with a low 3.90, but we had a hiccup with a cylinder at 300-feet and that dropped us back and I saw Tasca pop out there. It was a good weekend overall, and good with the points. The schedule is heating up and we’ll be at Atlanta in two weeks. Just a great job all around for our NAPA AutoCare team.”

Cruz Pedregon, Pedregon Racing Snap-On Tools Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Funny Car

(No. 8 Qualifier – 3.960 seconds at 323.50 mph) 

Round 1: (0.051-second reaction time, 4.285 seconds at 283.85 mph) lost to No. 9 J.R. Todd (0.045/3.955/319.37) and Robert Hight (0.082/3.980/311.34) but finished ahead of No.16 Jonnie Lindberg (0.081/7.263/91.03)

“Our qualifying was strong and we were in top half the field, again, two races in a row. We’re a little off and there’s a little gap there between us and the top cars, but you know, (Crew Chief) John (Collins) and I and the team talk about where we’re making changes and try to get the car to close the gap. We’re still not exactly where we want to be. We’ll look back at the beginning of the year thinking our expectations are really high, but at the same time, we’re still jelling and getting everything fine-tuned. We want to go out there and be knocking them dead in all these rounds but it’s a long season and no one is really running away with it yet.”

TOP FUEL:

Leah Pruett, DSR Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye Top Fuel Dragster  
(No. 7 Qualifier – 3.800 seconds at 312.13 mph) 

Round 1: (0093-second reaction time, 3.808 seconds at 315.27 mph) finishes second to No. 2 Steve Torrence (0.117/3.756/325.14) and defeated No. 10 Greg Carillo (0.106/4.107/223.21) and No.15 Cameron Ferre (0.183/4.143/225.97)

Round 2: (0.111/10.921/55.03) loss to No. 2 Steve Torrence (0.051/3.773/322.04), No. 3 Doug Kalitta (0.058/3.768/325.22) and No. 6 Shawn Langdon (0.056/8.558/88.61)

“This was a ‘when it rains, it pours’ weekend for our Mopar Dodge//SRT team this weekend at the Four-Wide Nationals. We had a mix of problems that grew and it put us behind after qualifying. Not being able to make full pulls in the 3.70s during qualifying really put us behind the competition, and we were trying to work on the tune-up on race day and we just didn’t quite have the Mopar hot rod that we thought we had coming in here this weekend. We have a plan for the chassis moving forward and we found we were down on power and we’ll work on that and figure it out the next few weeks before Atlanta. When you’re down on power, it affects all of the other parts of the car, and when you have limited runs with just three qualifying laps, all the small details make a difference. We’ll do a 180 and when the team is on, I’m on, and we’re looking forward to regaining our momentum at the very last Atlanta race.”

NHRA Championship Points Standings:
Following the Denso Spark Plugs NHRA Four Wide Nationals 

FUNNY CAR (season wins in parentheses)
1. Bob Tasca III – 187 (1)

2. J.R. Todd – 166 (1)
3. Robert Hight – 152

4. Ron Capps (Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat) – 139

5. Matt Hagan (Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat) – 129

5. Tim Wilkerson – 129
7.John Force – 118
8. Alexis DeJoria – 117
9. Cruz Pedregon (Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat) – 106
10. Chad Green  – 66

TOP FUEL (season wins in parentheses)
1. Steve Torrance – 184 (1)

2. Shawn Langdon – 149

3. Antron Brown – 145

4. Doug Kalitta – 128
5. Billy Torrence – 118

6. Josh Hart – 113 (1)
7. Leah Pruett (Mopar Dodge//SRT) – 105

7. Clay Millican – 105
9. Justin Ashley – 104
10. Brittany Force – 99

Mopar  

Mopar (a simple contraction of the words MOtor and PARts) offers exceptional service, parts and customer-care. Born in 1937 as the name of a line of antifreeze products, the Mopar brand has evolved over more than 80 years to represent both complete vehicle care and authentic performance for owners and enthusiasts worldwide.

Mopar made its mark in the 1960s during the muscle-car era with performance parts to enhance speed and handling for both on-road and racing use. Later, the brand expanded to include technical service and customer support. Today, Mopar integrates service, parts and customer-care operations in order to enhance customer and dealer support worldwide.

Complete information on the Mopar brand is available at www.mopar.com. Mopar is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellantis. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit www.stellantis.com. 

Dodge//SRT

For more than 100 years, the Dodge brand has carried on the spirit of brothers John and Horace Dodge. Their influence continues today as Dodge shifts into high gear with muscle cars and SUVs that deliver unrivaled performance in each of the segments where they compete.

2021 marks the year that Dodge is distilled into a pure performance brand, offering Hellcat-powered, 700-plus-horsepower SRT versions of every model across the lineup. For the 2021 model year, Dodge delivers the drag-strip dominating 807-horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT Super Stock, the new 797-horsepower Dodge Charger SRT Redeye, the most powerful and fastest mass-produced sedan in the world, and the new 710-horsepower Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat, the most powerful SUV ever. Combined, these three muscle cars make Dodge the industry’s most powerful brand, offering more horsepower than any other American brand across its entire lineup.

In 2020, Dodge was named the “#1 Brand in Initial Quality,” making it the first domestic brand ever to rank No. 1 in the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Dodge brand also ranked No. 1 in the J.D. Power APEAL Study (mass market). These results are historic because it marks the first time a domestic brand has earned top spots in both J.D. Power studies in the same year.

Dodge is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellantis. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit www.stellantis.com.

DodgeGarage: Digital Hub for Drag Racing News

Fans can follow all the NHRA’s action this season at DodgeGarage, the one-stop portal for Dodge//SRT and Mopar drag-racing news. The site includes daily updates and access to an online racing HQ, news, events, galleries, available downloads, and merchandise. For more information, visit www.dodgegarage.com. 

LAS VEGAS, NV (April 18, 2021) — The ROKiT Bandero Premium Tequila Toyota Camry Funny Car team and driver Alexis DeJoria rolled into The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway looking to continue their high level of performance. At the end of the 21^st NHRA Las Vegas Four-Wide Nationals DeJoria and the team knew they had a strong race car and positive momentum as the 2021 season got underway. 

DeJoria steadily improved throughout qualifying on Friday and Saturday. In the final session the ROKiT Bandero Premium Tequila Funny Car blasted to the top with a blistering 3.912 second pass that moved her to No. 1 with one quad left to run. DeJoria settled for the No. 3 qualifier position after Robert Hight and John Force improved to close out Funny Car qualifying. The strong effort extended the team’s streak of top five qualifying positions to seven races and counting.

Heading into the first round of race day facing three competitors in the first quad DeJoria was focused on a first round win.  As the drivers were staging Chad Green in the far right fourth lane had issues staging, ultimately timing out. DeJoria got to the stripe beside Tim Wilkerson and both drivers advanced to the second quad ahead of Terry Haddock. DeJoria’s advancing time of 3.950 seconds at 321.73 mph was a stout run for the first session.

In the second round the quad DeJoria and the ROKiT team faced was stacked with experience with the addition of world champions as Matt Hagan and John Force. All the race cars launched together and as DeJoria’s Camry Funny Car was charging her blower belt shredded as she approached half-track, robbing her race car of much needed power. The No. 3 qualifier was forced to watch Wilkerson and Hagan drive away from her.   

“We have a great race car. This ROKiT Bandero Premium Tequila Toyota Camry continues to do really well in qualifying and on race day,” said DeJoria. “I am so proud of this team. We lost a blower belt on that last run at about 400 feet. I was on a great run and who knows what could have happened. I love getting in this race car because I know this Camry Funny Car has a chance to go to the top of the field on qualifying or win rounds on Sunday. The last run we made on Saturday was awesome and we got a strong first round win today. This team is going to keep grinding. I know Del and Nicky are the best and we will be ready for Atlanta.”

DeJoria will take the quarterfinal finish and her standings as the No. 8 Funny Car in the Top Ten and turn her focus to the NHRA Southern Nationals in two weeks.

Qualifying Results

Q1: 4.089 sec, 264.49 mph; Qual. 9

Q2: 3.976 sec, 318.77 mph; Qual. 6

Q3: 3.912 sec, 321.04 mph; Qual. 3

Bonus Points: +1 (3^rd quickest of Q3)

Port Royal, PA (April 18, 2021) – Not even a brief rain shower early in the evening could halt Jonathan Davenport. The three-time Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series National Champion sprinted to his first series win of 2021, which came on Sunday Night at Port Royal Speedway in the River Valley 40. Davenport became the 10th different winner in the first 12 races this season on the LOLMDS tour and the first driver to win a race from the pole starting position. It was not an easy victory as Shane Clanton and Brandon Sheppard gave Davenport all he wanted for most of the 40 lap main event. Clanton got by Sheppard on a lap 21 restart, and closed in on the leader in the final laps. He finished just .475 seconds behind the Davenport. Chris Ferguson came home in fourth followed by Stormy Scott. In Lucas Oil Victory Lane for the 51st time in his career Davenport explained his strategy in holding off Clanton in the final laps. “I don’t know if Clanton was easing in on me or what. I felt the top was dying and I did not think the bottom was where I needed to be. He was too close to take that chance, because I knew if he went to the top, he would get a big run and slide me. I just decided to move up and beat-up the wall so I could get a good run down the straightaways.” Clanton came up just short of the win, but was pleased with his finish. “My car was really good. I could have gone another 40 laps with the way the car ran tonight. We worked our tails off in the last week-and-a-half to get the car better. Hopefully we can keep this momentum up.” Sheppard rounded out the podium with his third-place finish. “Davenport has been really tough. Congratulations to him and Shane. It was a fun race. Thanks to the fans for coming out! We had a pretty good car. As bad of luck we have been having lately it is nice to get a top three here.” The winner’s Lance Landers Double L Motorsports Longhorn Chassis is powered by a Cornett Racing Engine and sponsored by Nutrien Ag Solutions, ASC Warranty, Bilstein Shocks, VP Fuels, Lucas Oil Products, Fatheadz Eyewear, and Midwest Sheet Metal. Completing the top ten were Gregg Satterlee, Josh Richards, Jimmy Owens, Tim  McCreadie, and Mike Marlar. Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Race Summary River Valley 40Sunday, April 18, 2021Port Royal Speedway – Port Royal, PA Allstar Performance Time TrialsFast Time Group A: Mike Marlar / 18.141 seconds (overall)Fast Time Group B: Brandon Sheppard / 18.457 seconds  Penske Race Shocks Heat Race #1 Finish (8 Laps, Top 4 Transfer):  1. 49-Jonathan Davenport[2]; 2. 157-Mike Marlar[1]; 3. 40B-Kyle Bronson[3]; 4. 39-Tim McCreadie[4]; 5. 71-Hudson O’Neal[6]; 6. 1-Earl Pearson Jr[5]; 7. 48-Colton Flinner[7]; 8. 0E-Rick Eckert[9]; 9. 66C-Matt Cosner[8]; 10. 15-Scott Flickinger[10]; 11. 17T-Tim Vance[11] Summit Racing Equipment Heat Race #2 Finish (8 Laps, Top 4 Transfer): 1. 9-Devin Moran[2]; 2. 22F-Chris Ferguson[1]; 3. 20RT-Ricky Thornton Jr[4]; 4. 1T-Tyler Erb[6]; 5. 20-Jimmy Owens[3]; 6. 72-Michael Norris[5]; 7. 2D-Dan Stone[7]; 8. 21C-Chad Myers[9]; 9. 1K-Pancho Lawler[10]; 10. 43A-Tyler Bare[8]; 11. (DNS) 4S-Danny Snyder Simpson Race Products Heat Race #3 Finish (8 Laps, Top 4 Transfer): 1. 1S-Brandon Sheppard[1]; 2. 2S-Stormy Scott[2]; 3. 14-Josh Richards[3]; 4. 25Z-Mason Zeigler[4]; 5. 20F-Trever Feathers[8]; 6. 2J-Jeff Rine[5]; 7. 24Y-Dylan Yoder[6]; 8. 72C-Jason Covert[7]; 9. C33-Chris Casner[10]; 10. 17-Nick Dickson[9]; 11. 3W-Tim Wilson[11] Ohlins Shocks Heat Race #4 Finish (8 Laps, Top 4 Transfer): 1. 25-Shane Clanton[1]; 2. 22-Gregg Satterlee[2]; 3. 7R-Ross Robinson[3]; 4. 76-Andy Haus[4]; 5. 4-Gary Stuhler[7]; 6. 32J-Shaun Jones[5]; 7. 1Z-Logan Zarin[6]; 8. 06-Mike Lupfer[8]; 9. 0G-Deshawn Gingerich[11]; 10. 69-Jon Hodgkiss[10]; 11. (DNS) 94M-Jason Miller LINE-X B-Main #1 Running Order (8 Laps to go Laps, Top 3 Transfer): 1. 20-Jimmy Owens[2]; 2. 72-Michael Norris[4]; 3. 1-Earl Pearson Jr[3]; 4. 0E-Rick Eckert[7]; 5. 2D-Dan Stone[6]; 6. 71-Hudson O’Neal[1]; 7. 66C-Matt Cosner[9]; 8. 1K-Pancho Lawler[10]; 9. 15-Scott Flickinger[11]; 10. 17T-Tim Vance[13]; 11. 48-Colton Flinner[5]; 12. (DNS) 43A-Tyler Bare; 13. (DNS) 21C-Chad Myers; 14. (DNS) 4S-Danny Snyder UNOH B-Main #2 Line Up (10 Laps, Top 3 Transfer): 1. 2J-Jeff Rine[3]; 2. 20F-Trever Feathers[1]; 3. 4-Gary Stuhler[2]; 4. 24Y-Dylan Yoder[5]; 5. 32J-Shaun Jones[4]; 6. 72C-Jason Covert[7]; 7. C33-Chris Casner[9]; 8. 1Z-Logan Zarin[6]; 9. 3W-Tim Wilson[13]; 10. 0G-Deshawn Gingerich[10]; 11. 69-Jon Hodgkiss[12]; 12. 06-Mike Lupfer[8]; 13. (DNS) 17-Nick Dickson; 14. (DNS) 94M-Jason Miller