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After a slow start to the season, the World of Outlaws rookie has rebounded in recent weeks

KNOXVILLE, IA (April 20, 2023) – Giovanni Scelzi has found his footing after a rough trek through the Florida swamp to start his 2023 World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series rookie campaign.

“Hot Sauce” has been on a steady climb, finishing inside the top 10 in seven of the last eight races, including finishes of eighth, seven, sixth and fifth, respectively, in the last four events.

The results have been a positive turnaround for he and his KCP Racing team after struggling to find the top 10 in the first five races of the year at Volusia Speedway Park; results that left them scratching their heads after ending 2022 with three consecutive top-10 finishes and a second-place run to cap off the year.

“To end the year strong and then kind of try to start your 2023 where you left off, we had the same car, same motor, same program and went to Volusia and really couldn’t have been much worse honestly,” Scelzi said. “We couldn’t qualify in the top 20 and just didn’t feel comfortable.”

While their March results at Volusia were 22nd, 16th and 11th, they were still a sign of their program moving in the right direction. In the few weeks of downtime between the season-opening weekend at Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals and the March Low-E Insulation Spring Showdown, Scelzi and his crew, consisting of Adam Clark, Jett Carney, and Aaron Beiler, utilized it to learn as much as they could.

“We came back home after the DIRTcar Nationals and just kind of rebounded,” Scelzi explained. “We sat down and kind of looked at everything in a healthy way, watched some film and kind of saw what we thought we were missing and tried to go with a different approach, go down there and just see where we were lacking and try to come with a new approach, and we did that, I felt like, very well.

“We qualified good, Heat Raced good, and we were probably going to run second, then the crank trigger took a crap. Even though it wasn’t a good finish, that felt a lot better. When you get a car that you can get around there and feel comfortable in and be competitive, it definitely helps your confidence.”

As the year rolls on, Scelzi said he expects a consistent trend of improvement due to what the nature of the World of Outlaws campaign teaches drivers.

In the past when he’s run a “True Outlaw” schedule, Scelzi found on nights when he wasn’t competing with The Greatest Show on Dirt, a mistake or two could be overcome. However, when racing against premier World of Outlaws drivers, missing the bottom or getting tight on the cushion once could be the difference between a top-five finish and nearly missing the top 10.

“I think we had a few eighth-place finishes in a row, but a couple of those eighths could’ve been top fives really easily if I wouldn’t have made one or two mistakes in the [Feature],” Scelzi said. “I think, with the Outlaws, that’s what makes you that much better. One or two mistakes costs you three or four spots where with another series, it won’t cost you that much time. I think I’ve done a decent job of minimizing mistakes or when I make a mistake, it’s not as detrimental.”

Along with the consistently battling the best drivers in the country each week, Scelzi said he expects the consistency of the World of Outlaws format to also benefit him. Instead of battling a different roster of drivers under a different format each weekend, the competition and rules won’t vary.

“I like repetition, doing stuff the same every time, that’s where I feel like I strive,” Scelzi noted. “As the year goes on, I think, with the Outlaws, having the same schedule every night, racing with the same guys every night gets you in a repetition of doing the same thing every single night. I feel like that’s helped. Racing different series is cool, different formats that’s fun, but I just feel like, for me, racing against the same group of guys every night, the same officials every night, the same rules every night brings me up to the next level. That’s why the Outlaws are so good.

“When you race with the Outlaws, it brings you to that next level. I feel like in years past when I did race with the Outlaws for a while, then I’d go to an All-Star race or a local show, I was that much better. I was ready to race that much harder.”

With only 13 races in the books and more than 60 remaining, Scelzi has plenty of time remaining this year to continue getting better and building his notebook. And factoring in the growing level of parity even at the top of the sport, Scelzi is confident that, with the right balance of perspective and patience, he and KCP have what it takes to one day challenge for a World of Outlaws title.

“I think sitting back and realizing I have all of the same equipment they have, I have as good if not better running engines than they have and the funding I need to win, I shouldn’t say there’s no reason I shouldn’t win, but my guys give me every opportunity to be competitive and potentially win a championship,” Scelzi said. “I feel like, obviously, it takes time, and that’s the hardest thing – waiting and learning as much as you possibly can, but there’s really nothing that money can buy that I don’t have right now.”

Scelzi and KCP will be in action next weekend at Tri-City Speedway (Granite City, IL) on April 28 and Tri-State Speedway (Haubstadt, IN) on April 29. For tickets to Tri-City Speedway, CLICK HERE. For tickets to Tri-State Speedway, call (812) 768-6025.

If you can’t make it to the track, catch all of the action on DIRTVision.

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GEICO 500 Talladega SuperspeedwayTalladega, AlabamaApril 23, 2023

April 20, 2023 ARP Trish

DOUBLE AT ‘DEGAShifting gears from a short-track to NASCAR’s longest oval, the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) and NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) will head to Talladega Superspeedway for a doubleheader race weekend. The 2.66-mile Alabama venue will be the first trip to a superspeedway since the series opened the 2023 season at Daytona International Speedway in February.
Chevrolet was the only manufacturer to find victory lane at Talladega last season across all three of NASCAR’s national touring series. The NCS and NXS made two appearances at the Alabama superspeedway in 2022. Team Chevy’s Ross Chastain and Noah Gragson swept the April race weekend, with Chase Elliott and AJ Allmendinger following up with victories in the series’ return in October. Rackley W.A.R.’s Matt DiBenedetto added to Chevrolet’s victory count when the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) took on the track in October, driving his No. 25 Silverado RST to the victory in the Chevrolet Silverado 250.

Matt DiBenedetto, No. 25 Rackley W.A.R. Silverado RSTOctober 1, 2022

WINNING WAYS AT TALLADEGAOn top of Chevrolet’s recent success at Talladega Superspeedway, the NASCAR Cup Series’ winningest manufacturer also has a rich history at the track, collecting a series-best 43 victories in NASCAR’s premier series. Darrell Waltrip is credited with Chevrolet’s first trip to victory lane at Talladega in May 1977, leading the Bowtie brand to a one-two-three-four finish in the event. Chevrolet went on a notable run from April 1999 to October 2007 when the manufacturer collected wins in 17 of the 18 NCS races held at the track in that time span.

FOUR WINS, FOUR DRIVERS, FOUR DIFFERENT CHEVY TEAMSNASCAR’s trip to Talladega Superspeedway one year ago started a streak of superspeedway victories for the Bowtie brand. Heading into Sunday’s GEICO 500, Chevrolet is riding the momentum of four consecutive superspeedway victories in NASCAR’s premier series – a feat accomplished by four drivers from four different Chevrolet teams. Chevrolet’s superspeedway streak began in April 2022 when Ross Chastain and the No. 1 Trackhouse Racing Camaro ZL1 collected their second win of the season. NASCAR’s top series next visited a superspeedway in August when Daytona International Speedway hosted the series’ regular-season finale. Entering the race in a must-win situation to make the playoffs, Austin Dillon did just that by powering his No. 3 Richard Childress Racing Camaro ZL1 team to the victory. Returning to Talladega in October, it was Chase Elliott and the No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports Camaro ZL1 team that prevailed with a win that advanced the team to the series’ Playoffs Round of Eight. Most recently, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. captured his first crown jewel event when he drove his No. 47 JTG Daugherty Racing Camaro ZL1 to the win in the 2023 Daytona 500.

HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS CLOSING IN ON ANOTHER MILESTONEOnly a few days after being named to NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers list, Kyle Larson scored a career-first by capturing the win in Sunday’s NOCO 400 at Martinsville Speedway. The victory – Larson’s second in the series’ past three races – brought Hendrick Motorsports one step closer to a milestone triumph with the organization now sitting at 295 all-time NASCAR Cup Series wins. The winningest organization in series’ history tallied its first NCS win at Martinsville Speedway in April 1984 with Geoff Bodine. To-date, 20 different drivers have contributed to the organization’s series-leading win count, all of which have been behind the wheel of a Chevrolet.

TWO-YEAR MARK FOR CONSECUTIVE NXS SUPERSPEEDWAY WINSDating back to Jeb Burton and Kaulig Racing’s NASCAR Xfinity Series win at Talladega Superspeedway in April 2021, Chevrolet has been triumphant in every NXS superspeedway race to-date. Approaching the two-year mark since the Bowtie brand’s NXS superspeedway streak began, seven different Chevrolet drivers have recorded a combined eight-straight superspeedway victories:

April 24, 2021 (Talladega) – Jeb Burton, No. 10 Kaulig Racing Camaro SSAugust 28, 2021 (Daytona) – Justin Haley, No. 11 Kaulig Racing Camaro SS October 2, 2021 (Talladega) – Brandon Brown, No. 68 Brandonbilt Motorsports Camaro SSFebruary 19, 2022 (Daytona) – Austin Hill, No. 21 Richard Childress Racing Camaro SSApril 23, 2022 (Talladega) – Noah Gragson, No. 9 JR Motorsports Camaro SSAugust 26, 2022 (Daytona) – Jeremy Clements, No. 51 Jeremy Clements Racing Camaro SSOctober 1, 2022 (Talladega) – AJ Allmendinger, No. 16 Kaulig Racing Camaro SSFebruary 19, 2023 (Daytona) – Austin Hill, No. 21 Richard Childress Racing Camaro SS

Saturday’s Ag-Pro 300 will mark the NXS’ 35th appearance at Talladega. Chevrolet has recorded a series-best 22 NXS wins at the track, including a streak of the past eight – dating back to Spencer Gallagher and GMS Racing’s victory in April 2018. Chevrolet earned the win in the series’ inaugural race at Talladega with Ernie Irvan in 1992, with the Bowtie brand going on to win the next two with Dale Earnhardt (1993) and Ken Schrader (1994).

BOWTIE BULLETS:·       Active Chevrolet drivers with a NASCAR Cup Series win at Talladega Superspeedway: Chase Elliott – 2 (2022 & 2019)Ross Chastain – 1 (2022) Ricky Stenhouse Jr. – (2017)Kyle Busch – 1 (2008)
·       In 107 NASCAR Cup Series races at Talladega Superspeedway, Chevrolet leads all manufacturers in race wins (43) and pole wins (37). Of those wins includes a record streak of 13 consecutive trips to victory lane captured by five different drivers from April 1999 to May 2005.
·       Chevrolet was the only manufacturer to win at Talladega Superspeedway in 2022 across all three NASCAR national touring series with NASCAR Cup Series wins by Ross Chastain and Chase Elliott; NASCAR Xfinity Series wins by Noah Gragson and AJ Allmendinger; and a NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series win by Matt DiBenedetto.
·       The NASCAR Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway in April 2022 started Chevrolet’s streak of superspeedway victories with the Bowtie brand taking the win in the series’ last four races on a superspeedway – recorded by four drivers from four different Chevrolet teams.
·       Kyle Larson’s win at Martinsville Speedway brought Hendrick Motorsports to 295 all-time NASCAR Cup Series wins – all of which have been with Chevrolet.
·       Only two drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series are repeat winners this season, both coming from Team Chevy (William Byron – Las Vegas & Phoenix; and Kyle Larson – Richmond & Martinsville).
·       Heading into the 10th points-paying NASCAR Cup Series race of the season, Chevrolet continues to lead the series in wins (six), top-fives (22), top-10s (39), stage wins (10) and laps led (1,147). Chevrolet’s win count, top-five finishes and stage wins thus far this season is double its manufacturer competitors.
·       Chevrolet’s series-leading six NASCAR Cup Series wins this season have been recorded by drivers from three different Chevrolet teams: Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (JTG Daugherty Racing), Kyle Busch (Richard Childress Racing), William Byron and Kyle Larson (Hendrick Motorsports).
·       Chevrolet drivers have recorded 10 of the 18 NASCAR Cup Series stage wins this season: William Byron (five; series-leading), Ross Chastain (three) and Kyle Larson (two).
·       Hendrick Motorsports’ Alex Bowman continues to lead the series with an average finish of 10.0. The Chevrolet driver is also tied at the top of the leaderboard for top-10 finishes this season with six.
·       Chevrolet continues to sit atop the manufacturer points standings in all three NASCAR national series, leading by 29 points in the NASCAR Cup Series, 13 points in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and four points in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.
·       With its 41 NASCAR Cup Series Manufacturer’s Championships, 33 NASCAR Cup Series Driver’s Championships, and 839 all-time NASCAR Cup Series wins, Chevrolet continues to hold the title of winningest brand in NASCAR Cup Series history.

FOR THE FANS:·       Fans can visit the Team Chevy Racing Display in the Fan Midway at Talladega Superspeedway.
·       Fans can check out an assortment of Chevrolet vehicles at the Team Chevy Racing Display including: Tahoe Premier, Trailblazer RS, Traverse Premier, Silverado 1500 Crew ZR2, Silverado 2500HD, Crew Carhartt Diesel, Corvette Coupe 3LT Z51, Camaro ZL1, Blazer RS.
·       Fans can also view Chase Elliott’s No. 9 Camaro ZL1 show car at the Chevrolet Display in the Fan Midway.

Team Chevy Driver Appearances at the Display:Saturday, April 22·       Gray Gaulding: 11:30 a.m. ·       Sam Mayer: 11:45 a.m. ·       Brandon Jones: 12 p.m. ·       Justin Allgaier: 12:15 p.m. ·       Josh Berry: 12:30 p.m. ·       Sheldon Creed: 12:45 p.m. ·       Derek Kraus: 1 p.m.  Sunday, April 23·       Erik Jones: 9:45 a.m. ·       Austin Hill: 10 a.m. ·       Austin Dillon: 11 a.m. ·       Alex Bowman: 11:15 a.m.  Chevrolet Display Hours of Operation: ·       Saturday, April 22: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. ·       Sunday, April 23: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Tune In: NASCAR Cup Series – GEICO 500; 3 p.m. ET on Sunday, April 23(FOX, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)
NASCAR Xfinity Series – Ag-Pro 300; 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, April 22(FS1, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)

QUOTABLE QUOTES:ROSS CHASTAIN, NO. 1 MOOSE FRATERNITY CAMARO ZL1Do you like racing at superspeedways like Talladega?“Superspeedways are such wild cards and we see that time and time again. In the April race last year, I just happened to be in the right place at the right time. I held the wheel straight and people wrecked around me and we won the race. That doesn’t always happen at superspeedway tracks though. You have so many things out of your control that you have to have a little bit of luck at them.”
This weekend at Talladega will be a year since you’ve won a race. You’ve had a lot of success since then with running well, finishing runner up in the Championship, does it feel like you haven’t won in a year to you?“I don’t really think a whole lot about the timelines and things like that. I’m so far ahead of where I ever thought I would be in my career, and this sport. I don’t get caught up in the timelines. I just wake up every day and try and put forth the effort to be the best racecar driver I can be. I have a lot of support from Trackhouse and Chevrolet and I certainly work on my race craft, but I don’t focus a lot on timelines.”

KYLE LARSON, NO. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM CAMARO ZL1Larson on superspeedway racing: “We had a good race there (at Talladega Superspeedway in April of 2022) and thought that maybe we figured something out, or at least for me. I feel like I’ve always struggled on superspeedways and that race I just never left the bottom lane. That’s kind of what I would love to do every time. It seems like superspeedway stuff changes a little bit every time you go back, at least a little bit, and makes the style different.”
CLIFF DANIELS, CREW CHIEF, NO. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM CAMARO ZL1Daniels on racing at Talladega Superspeedway: “(I’m) looking forward to Talladega (Superspeedway). I think it was an okay race for us at Daytona (International Speedway) with the way our cars performed. Obviously, we pressure ourselves to qualify up front. (We) did that in Daytona and raced reasonably. Our car hung around in the top 10 for most of the day. We are still trying to find a little bit to some of those other OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) that are a little bit stronger at the plate races than we are. Folks at Hendrick Motorsports have been hard at work trying to find that and hopefully we’ll see it show up on Sunday.”

KYLE BUSCH, NO. 8 MCLAREN CUSTOM GRILLS CAMARO ZL1Are you optimistic entering Talladega considering how well you ran at Daytona?“You know considering how well we ran at Daytona I would say that there is optimism going into Talladega. We definitely had some fast race cars in Daytona but I’ve also found over the years that Daytona cars aren’t the same as Talladega cars and it doesn’t correlate. You can take the same car from Daytona and go straight to Talladega with it and be slow. I’m optimistic and certainly looking forward to going to Talladega, although I’ve been known to get myself caught up in crashes there. I think the only three or four times I’ve ever finished a race there with a clean race car I’ve finished in the top three, top four including winning once. It just goes to show you that if you can stay clean then you can have a good day.”
Why were you and your RCR teammate Austin Dillon able to work so well together at Daytona?“Austin and I were really able to work together well at Daytona, I think, because we both had fast race cars. We were both able to find each other and continue to work together and help each other. Austin was my wingman there towards the later stages of the race and really gave me a good push to get to the lead and then we were riding there together to finish it out strong before that late caution came. Overall, it’s been really fun to work with Austin. I think he’s been a great piece to the puzzle of our success early on in the year and I want to continue that at Talladega.”
You won the 2008 spring race at Talladega and didn’t lead a lap until late in the race. How special was that win?“Winning that race in 2008 was super-cool. Being up front and having a fast car and dicing through traffic was cool. We got pushed by Juan Pablo Montoya there, got some really big pushes that got us to the lead. Once we got the lead, we were able to control it there the last couple of laps. The race was actually cut short while we were out front and we were able to win. Winning at Talladega in 2008 was pretty special because it gave me a win at Talladega, although I haven’t been able to back it up since then. I feel like there’s been plenty of other opportunities to win a race there that haven’t come to fruition. There’s a lot of other guys who are a lot more aggressive in restrictor plate racing and the draft and pushing the issue at times and putting themselves in some sticky situations.”

CHASE ELLIOTT, NO. 9 NAPA AUTO PARTS CAMARO ZL1Elliott on racing at Talladega: “It’s a bit of a mystery every time you go there. I mean, you kind of know what you’re going to have, but certainly it seems like when you show up to a race for the first time, a lot of times they’re the same players. It does seem like sometimes when you go back you can have a manufacturer that has found a little something that might be improved that trip to that specific style of track. So, a lot of times we kind of have to wait until we get there, see where we stack up and kind of address the weekend after that.”
ALAN GUSTAFSON, CREW CHIEF, NO. 9 NAPA AUTO PARTS CAMARO ZL1Gustafson talks about making his 650th start this weekend and reflecting on his career: “For this to be my 19th season and just to survive this long in this sport and continue to be competitive, it’s a big deal to me. There’s been a lot of great people I’ve met over the years that have had a major impact on my career here at Hendrick (Motorsports), from Mr. Hendrick himself to Terry Labonte and Gary DeHart to both Jeffs (Jeff Gordon and Jeff Andrews). I really appreciate those relationships. To me, having the success and accomplishments is great, but really, it’s the people and the relationships I’ve made that make me enjoy my job the most. So, yeah, this weekend will be really cool. I’m looking forward to it.”

WILLIAM BYRON, NO. 24 LIBERTY UNIVERSITY CAMARO ZL1Byron on his thoughts about Talladega: “I feel like we’re pretty good on superspeedways but there’s more to it than just being fast. I feel like we have a good handle on Daytona (International Speedway), but Talladega (Superspeedway) has still been a bit of a challenge results-wise. Obviously, you can only control so much in that style of racing, but Talladega really does depend more on handling and how well you can push or receive a push. That’s where I think we need to focus on for this weekend. If we can do either of those things well, we should be in a good position at the end.”
RUDY FUGLE, CREW CHIEF, NO. 24 LIBERTY UNIVERSITY CAMARO ZL1Fugle on his approach to superspeedway racing: “It’s not necessarily about having the fastest car at a superspeedway. It’s about having a car that can push better, run as a group better, make good decisions and out execute them. That’s our goal to work on this week. It’s always fun to go speedway racing when you have Hendrick (Motorsports) power but we want to work together better as a group to out run the others.”

JUSTIN HALEY, NO. 31 LEAFFILTER GUTTER PROTECTION CAMARO ZL1“Talladega is always a fun racetrack. I’ve won there a few times in other series, and it’s a style of racing I always enjoy. We had a good finish as a team last year in the spring at Talladega, so I know there’s an opportunity for us to excel. My teammate, AJ (Allmendinger), is always great to work with at the superspeedways. It’s definitely helped having him at these types of tracks.”

NOAH GRAGSON, NO. 42 WENDY’S BIGGIE BAG CAMARO ZL1“Wendy’s is such a fun brand – I love the new paint scheme of the No. 42 Biggie Bag Chevrolet and they have some fun stuff planned for the fans of Talladega. Talladega is such a party – it’s always one of the most fun races of the year for me and a good show for the fans – I’m really excited.
To pass at Talladega is tricky, I try to use the air, but you can’t side draft with this Next Gen car, so it’s pretty hard to pass. We are really optimistic for our speedway program and had a great race in Daytona and a strong car at Atlanta. You have to stay out of trouble, pick a good line and race your race. Being there at the end with a shot is what we want to do in the No. 42 Wendy’s Chevrolet. I have a ‘biggie’ paint scheme and Talladega is just going to be a good show all around.”

ERIK JONES, NO. 43 U.S. AIR FORCE CAMARO ZL1“Talladega this weekend is going to be a good one for us to try and get a win. Our speed has been a little off here in some places this season, so I am hoping Talladega is somewhere in which we can have some good speed in the No. 43 US Air Force Chevy and get out front to contend. I am definitely looking forward to that.”
Jones on track position at the end: “It is tough to be the leader at the end sometimes, but the race at Talladega is a long one and you just have to put yourself in a position where you have a chance at the end. So hopefully this time if we are up there at the end it will be our turn. When you have a fast car and don’t win, it is frustrating because wins are hard to come by especially at speedway races. Just trying to make it to the end of them is hard, but if you have a car that is capable of winning you want to take advantage of that.”

ALEX BOWMAN, NO. 48 ALLY CAMARO ZL1Bowman on heading to Talladega this weekend: “Our team always brings really fast race cars. I have just figured out every way to get caught up in something at superspeedways, so hopefully this weekend we can keep our car clean and contend for a win. Blake’s (Harris, crew chief) guy did pretty good here last year and I think we have a good foundation, so I am optimistic about what we can accomplish.”
BLAKE HARRIS, CREW CHIEF, NO. 48 ALLY CAMARO ZL1Harris on how his first year as a crew chief will help him this Sunday: “Statistically, last year we had some really good superspeedway runs. Michael (McDowell) did a really good job in those races. Alex (Bowman) did a really good job at staying clean this year at the DAYTONA 500 and got our first top five in our first race – that was big. Then, we go to Atlanta (Motor Speedway) and we ran basically inside the top 10 all day and got shuffled there at the end. There is a big part of just surviving these races and to be able to be there at the end, you have to be aggressive enough during the race to know what you need to get through the field. That approach stays the same for this weekend. We need a little luck on our side to get through all the wrecks, but at the same time we have to make sure we have ourselves in a position to win at the end of the race. Hopefully we can continue what we started in Daytona (International Speedway).”

AUSTIN HILL, NO. 62 REALTREE CAMARO ZL1Talladega and Daytona are both superspeedways but tend to produce different races in that it seems cars can get really strung out at Talladega. What has been your experience with racing at Talladega versus Daytona?“I’ve had success and have found myself up front at both Talladega and Daytona. I’m a firm believer that every superspeedway race races a little bit different than the last. You have to go into superspeedway weekends with a clear mindset. The things that maybe worked for you in Talladega last year, may not work for you this year. A lot has to do with the temperature outside, track temperature, the wind. There are a lot of different factors that play into the superspeedways with how the draft is that day. Every time we go to a superspeedway, it feels like I have to do something a little different inside the car to still get the performance out of the car that I’m looking for. When you get behind someone, the bubble is a lot different in each race that you run. I led laps and had a shot at winning at Talladega last season in the Xfinity car and it’s not a guarantee that what I did last year will work going into this weekend.”
You are making your second career Cup Series start this weekend at Talladega, but you have found success so far this season in the Xfinity Series. Does this affect your confidence getting in the Cup car? What are your overall expectations for this weekend?“With it being a superspeedway, my confidence level is probably as high as it’s going to get on a Cup race. The Cup and Xfinity cars are going to draft different – just the way that the energy is going to work on a superspeedway track in each car. But in saying that, it’s still a superspeedway. You are still drafting, still need to take the runs and pull out of line when you get the chance – you just have to do it differently in the two cars. My philosophy hasn’t changed though. I’m going to learn as much as I can in Stage 1, and then by the time we get to Stage 2 and 3, I can take a lot of the stuff that I’ve learned from the first stage and use it to our advantage. We may work on our Realtree Chevrolet during the first stage to get the car driving where I want it, and then be aggressive when we get to the final stage. I think we can win just as good as anybody can. The way these superspeedway races play out, you have to miss the big one and be aggressive all day. If you are there at the end, anything can happen.”

DANIEL SUAREZ, NO. 99 TOOTSIES ORCHID LOUNGE CAMARO ZL1Do you like racing at Talladega and Daytona?“At the beginning of my career I really didn’t but the more I have raced at those two tracks the more I have enjoyed it and I the better I have become. We have been really close a few times and I think we will win one of these soon.”
What is your Talladega strategy?“Talladega is very unpredictable and a lot of things can happen as we all know. As a driver you can put yourself in good positions and bad positions. You just have to be smart and keep yourself in good positions all day. Of course there is a lot of luck in that.”

Chevrolet NASCAR Cup Series Statistics Manufacturers Championships:Total (1949-2022): 41First title for Chevrolet: 1958Highest number of consecutive titles: 13 (2003-15) Years Won: 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1996, 1998, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2021, 2022 Drivers Championships:Total (1949-2021): 33First Chevrolet champion: Buck Baker (1957)Highest number of consecutive titles: 7 (2005-11)Most Recent: Kyle Larson (2021) Years Won: 1957, 1960, 1961, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1979, 1980, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2020, 2021 Event Victories:Record for total race wins in single season: 26 (2007) 2023 STATISTICS: Wins: 6Poles: 3Laps Led: 1,147Top-five finishes: 22Top-10 finishes: 39Stage wins: 10· Ross Chastain – 3 (Daytona), (Auto Club x2)· William Byron – 5 (Las Vegas x2), (Phoenix), (COTA), (Richmond)· Kyle Larson – 2 (Phoenix), (Bristol Dirt) CHEVROLET IN NASCAR CUMULATIVE STATISTICS:Total Chevrolet race wins: 839 (1949 to date)Poles won to date: 737Laps led to date: 246,691Top-five finishes to date: 4,243Top-10 finishes to date: 8,751
Total NASCAR Cup Wins by Corporation, 1949 to Date: General Motors: 1,173 Chevrolet: 839 Pontiac: 154 Oldsmobile: 115 Buick: 65 Ford: 821 Ford: 721 Mercury: 96 Lincoln: 4 Fiat Chrysler Automobiles: 467 Dodge: 217 Plymouth: 191 Chrysler: 59 Toyota: 172

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1 MONTH ALERT: May Brings Northeast Swing For World of Outlaws Late Models

April 20, 2023 ARP Trish

MARION CENTE, PA (April 19, 2023) – Northeast dirt fans will have three chances to see the World of Outlaws CASE Construction Equipment Late Models when they make their lone stop in the region this May.

First, the Most Powerful Late Models on the Planet will visit Pennsylvania for a doubleheader weekend at Marion Center Raceway on Friday, May 19, and Port Royal Speedway on Saturday, May 20. Then, they’ll make the trip north to Stateline Speedway, in Busti, NY, on Tuesday, May 23.

The swing will be a homecoming for Pennsylvania natives, and teammates, Max Blair (Centerville, PA) and Boom Briggs (Bear Lake, PA). Blair has had the most success with the Series at the tracks, having won at Stateline in 2019 and holds the track record at Marion Center. Briggs is searching for his first career Series win.

What you need to know:

MARION CENTER, MAY 19 (Connor Bobik Memorial)
Track:
1/4-mile in Marion Center, PA

Times (ET): EVENT PAGE

Tickets: You can purchase tickets at the gate.

Previous winners:
2022 – Dennis Erb Jr. on May 20

PORT ROYAL, MAY 20
Track: 1/2-mile track in Port Royal, PA

Times (ET):
2PM Pit Gates open
5PM Grandstand Gates open
6:30PM Hot Laps/Qualifying

Tickets: You can purchase tickets at the gate.

Previous winners:
2022- Jared Miley on May 21
2021 – Chris Madden on May 21, Chris Madden on May 22
2019 – Mason Zeigler on Aug. 17
2018 – Mike Marlar on Aug. 18
2017 – Brandon Sheppard on Aug. 19
2008 – Clint Smith on June 17
2007 – Darrell Lanigan on June 20

STATELINE, MAY 23
Track: 1/3-mile in Busti, NY

Times (ET): EVENT INFO

Tickets: You can purchase tickets at the gate.

Previous winners:
2021 – Dave Hess on June 17
2019 – Max Blair on September 19
2018 – Brandon Sheppard on June 14
2013 – Shane Clanton on June 1
2006 – Dick Barton on July 1
2005 – John Blankenship on July 2

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1 MONTH ALERT: World of Outlaws Set to Visit Attica, Sharon in May

April 20, 2023 ARP Trish

ATTICA, OH – The World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series is bringing dirt fans a May visit to Attica Raceway Park and Sharon Speedway.

In the Series’ second Ohio stop of the season, it’ll journey to Attica on Friday, May 19, and Sharon on Saturday, May 20.

It’ll also be another home state visit for Wooster, OH’s Sheldon Haudenschild, who’s already picked up a win this season at US 36 Raceway.

What you need to know:

ATTICA, MAY 19
Track:
1/3-mile in Attica, OH

Times (ET):
2PM Pit Gates open
5PM Grandstand Gates open
6:30PM Hot Laps/Qualifying

Tickets: CLICK HERE

Previous winners:
2022 – Kyle Larson on May 20, Kyle Larson on July 12
2021 – David Gravel on May 21, Spencer Bayston on July 13
2020 – Kyle Larson on July 14
2018 – Donny Schatz on July 10
2017 – David Gravel on July 11
2016 – Donny Schatz on July 12
2015 – Dale Blaney on May 29
2014 – Dale Blaney on May 30
2011 – Donny Schatz on May 20
2009 – Dale Blaney on May 29
2008 – Donny Schatz on May 30
2007 – Joey Saldana on April 20
2005 – Stevie Smith on July 13
1994 – Sammy Swindell on May 21
1993 – Joe Garte on May 21
1992 – Joey Allen on Aug. 7
1991 – Steve Kinser on Aug. 9
1990 – Steve Kinser on May 18

SHARON, MAY 20
Track:
3/8-mile in Hartford, OH

Times (ET):
2:00PM Pit Gates Open
4:00PM Grandstand Gates Open
6:30PM Hot Laps/Qualifying

Tickets: CLICK HERE

Previous winners:
2022 – Brad Sweet on Sept. 24
2021 – Dave Blaney on May 22
2007 – Steve Kinser on June 1
2006 – Jac Haudenschild on May 20
2005 – Jason Meyers on June 3
2004 –Danny Lasoski on June 4, Steve Kinser on July 28
2003 – Steve Kinser on July 30, Steve Kinser on July 30
2002 – Danny Lasoski on May 31, Joey Saldana on July 31

HOW TO WATCH
If you can’t make it to the tracks, you can watch both events live on DIRTVision – either at DIRTVision.com or by downloading the DIRTVision App.

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WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Rare April Trip to Knoxville Awaits the World of Outlaws

April 20, 2023 ARP Trish

The weekend is the first of eight scheduled nights of Knoxville racing in 2023The World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars are readying for an uncharacteristic springtime visit to “The Sprint Car Capital of the World.”The iconic Knoxville Raceway is the target of The Greatest Show on Dirt as the 2023 campaign rolls on. The half mile will host the Xtream Powered by Mediacom Showdown this weekend (April 21-22). The two nights will be the first of eight for the World of Outlaws at Knoxville in 2023 with another pair of evenings set for June 9-10 and the 62nd NOS Energy Drink Knoxville Nationals (August 9-12).This weekend will mark the first time the Series has raced at the Marion County facility in the month of April since 2012.FRIDAY TICKETS SATURDAY TICKETSLet’s look at some of the weekend’s top storylines.SCHATZVILLE: The early trip to Knoxville may be a welcome shift in the schedule for Donny Schatz.The 10-time Series champion has been combating some early struggles this season, but his success at Knoxville can’t be overstated. Schatz has mastered the black zook clay. The Tony Stewart/Curb-Agajanian Racing pilot picked up his 11th Knoxville Nationals title last season – second only to Steve Kinser’s 12. The driver out of Fargo, ND has remained solid in recent years at Knoxville with finishes of fourth or better in seven of his last eight starts.Coming off a nasty tumble in Pevely, Knoxville presents a prime opportunity for Schatz to rebound in strong fashion.MULTI-TIME WINNERS: Outside of Schatz, a handful of fellow full-time competitors have been stout at Knoxville. The trio of David Gravel, Brad Sweet, and Carson Macedo have all topped multiple Series races at the half mile.Gravel and Sweet lead the way with four victories apiece.Among Gravel’s triumphs is the 2019 Knoxville Nationals and a pair of wins in 2020. The wheelman of the Big Game Motorsports #2 made all four of his trips to Victory Lane over an 11 race stretch from June of 2018 to August of 2020.Sweet’s success is slightly more spread out. “The Big Cat” first claimed a Knoxville World of Outlaws checkered flag in 2014, then had to wait through nine more visits until another win in June of 2017. The Grass Valley, CA native also owns a Knoxville Nationals crown, topping “The Granddaddy of ‘Em All” in 2018.Macedo hasn’t found Knoxville glory as often as Gravel or Sweet, but he has more recently. In 2021, the 26 year old swept the June weekend at Knoxville. Macedo looks to pad his point lead with another strong Iowa outing.SHARKS’ SUCCESS: Last August at Knoxville, the Shark Racing duo of Logan Schuchart and Jacob Allen flexed their muscle.Before the Knoxville Nationals commenced, Schuchart began the week by topping the Capitani Classic. He followed that up by winning his Nationals prelim on Wednesday. During Saturday’s finale Schuchart finished third after starting 17th – his second podium in the last three editions of the sport’s most prestigious race.The night after Schuchart claimed his prelim, Allen came out on top of Thursday’s preliminary action for his first Knoxville win. Then on Saturday he joined his teammate in the top five by wheeling the #1A from 11th to fifth in the 50-lap main event.IOWA TRANSPLANT: This weekend serves somewhat of a home game for Gio Scelzi.The 21 year old is originally from Fresno, CA but recently relocated to “The Hawkeye State” as he’s behind the wheel of the Iowa-based KCP Racing #18.The Californian has adapted nicely to Knoxville. He and KCP won the 2021 Knoxville 360 Nationals. Then during the following week, they earned the pole for the 410 Nationals and finished a strong fourth.ZEARFOSS’ ZONE: After spending much of the early season having to charge forward in the Feature, Brock Zearfoss has improved his qualifying and Heat Race performance in recent weeks.The Jonestown, PA native didn’t make a Toyota Dash through the first 10 events of the season, but now he’s made the last three. The improvement helped lead to his first top five of the season at U.S. 36 Raceway.Zearfoss now heads to Knoxville where he’s a former top-five finisher in the 360 Nationals (’20) and a top five finisher in the 410 Nationals Hard Knox Night (’21).KNOXVILLE LOCALS: “The Sprint Car Capital of the World” is home to some of the country’s strongest local challengers, and much of the contingent will be in action this weekend looking to upset the World of Outlaws.Brian Brown always stands out as one of the favorites to stand in Victory Lane whenever the World of Outlaws invade Knoxville, IA. The five-time Knoxville track champion is currently tied for second on the all-time track win list – trailing only Danny Lasoski. Brown is a two-time winner in World of Outlaws competition at Knoxville (’19 &’21).Austin McCarl is another who could make some noise. At last year’s Knoxville Nationals, the Altoona, IA native experienced one of his most emotional career moments by earning the pole for the Saturday finale. The 2018 track champion continues to seek his first World of Outlaws victory.Knoxville’s very own Riley Goodno is one of the sport’s rising stars. Last year, in only his seventh career World of Outlaws Feature start, Goodno led laps and podiumed at Huset’s Speedway.More drivers local to or with ties to the area including Tasker Phillips, Ayrton Gennetten, Brandon Wimmer, Ian Madsen, and more are expected to be in action.INVADERS: This weekend’s roster is expected to have some added star power with more big names making the trip.A pair of drivers with World of Outlaws wins already under their belt this year, Rico Abreu and Buddy Kofoid, have Knoxville on their calendar.Tyler Courtney also has the weekend on his schedule with Clauson Marshall Racing. Last year, “Sunshine” led the most laps in Knoxville Nationals main event before finishing fourth.A fellow Hoosier in the form of Justin Peck will also be making his way to Knoxville. Last year, the Monrovia, IN native qualified for the Knoxville Nationals aboard the Buch Motorsports #13 and finished a personal-best 12th.Pennsylvania standout Anthony Macri plans to be in attendance. The Dillsburg, PA native has finished in the top five in each of the last two Hard Knox Nights including a runner-up in 2021 that transferred him into his first Knoxville Nationals finale.If you can’t make it to the track, catch all the action on DIRTVision.CURRENT CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS (13/83 Races)41 – Carson Macedo (1826PTS) 2. 49 – Brad Sweet (-12PTS) 3. 2 – David Gravel (-20PTS) 4. 1S – Logan Schuchart (-56PTS) 5. 11 – Michael Kofoid (-72PTS) 6. 17 – Sheldon Haudenschild (-108PTS) 7. 83 – James McFadden (-134PTS) 8. 5 – Spencer Bayston (-148PTS) 9. 15 – Donny Schatz (-162PTS) 10. 18 – Gio Scelzi (-172PTS)NOS ENERGY DRINK FEATURE WINNERS (7 Drivers): 3 wins – David Gravel (Big Game Motorsports #2), Brad Sweet (Kasey Kahne Racing #49)
2 wins – James McFadden (Roth Motorsports #83), Rico Abreu (Rico Abreu Racing #24)
1 win – Carson Macedo (Jason Johnson Racing #41), Buddy Kofoid (CMS Racing #11), Sheldon Haudenschild (Stenhouse Jr./Marshall Racing #17)FEATURE LAPS LED (11 Drivers):79 laps – Brad Sweet
77 laps – David Gravel
60 laps – James McFadden
46 laps – Buddy Kofoid
43 laps – Rico Abreu
41 laps – Carson Macedo
21 laps – Sheldon Haudenschild
10 laps – Anthony Macri, Cory Eliason
9 laps – Gio Scelzi, Brent MarksLOW-E INSULATION QUICKTIME AWARDS (8 Drivers): 5 QuickTimes – Carson Macedo
2 QuickTimes – David Gravel
1 QuickTime – Anthony Macri, Logan Schuchart, Brian Brown, Donny Schatz, Buddy Kofoid, Rico AbreuHEAT RACE WINNERS (17 Drivers):7 Heat Wins – David Gravel
6 Heat Wins – Buddy Kofoid, Carson Macedo
4 Heat Wins – Brent Marks
3 Heat Wins – Logan Schuchart, Sheldon Haudenschild, Brad Sweet
2 Heat Wins – Spencer Bayston, Gio Scelzi, Jacob Allen
1 Heat Win – James McFadden, Brian Brown, Donny Schatz, Danny Dietrich, Freddie Rahmer, Rico Abreu, Brock ZearfossTOYOTA DASH APPEARANCES (24 Drivers):10 Dashes – David Gravel
9 Dashes – Carson Macedo
8 Dashes – Logan Schuchart, Brad Sweet
6 Dashes – Buddy Kofoid, Jacob Allen
5 Dashes – Spencer Bayston, Gio Scelzi
4 Dashes – Brent Marks, Rico Abreu, Sheldon Haudenschild, Donny Schatz
3 Dashes – James McFadden, Brock Zearfoss
2 Dashes – Brian Brown, Danny Dietrich
1 Dash – Anthony Macri, Robbie Price, Cory Eliason, Justin Peck, Kasey Kahne, Freddie Rahmer, Devon Borden, Garet WilliamsonMICROLITE LAST CHANCE SHOWDOWN WINS (11 Drivers):1 LCS Win – Brock Zearfoss, Parker Price-Miller, Sheldon Haudenschild, Gio Scelzi, Noah Gass, Hunter Schuerenberg, James McFadden, Wayne Johnson, Ryan Timms, Ayrton Gennetten, Robbie PriceKSE HARD CHARGER AWARDS (10 Drivers):2 Hard Chargers – Brock Zearfoss, James McFadden, Tyler Courtney
1 Hard Charger – Donny Schatz, Gio Scelzi, Robbie Price, David Gravel, Logan Schuchart, Justin Peck, Blake HahnPODIUM FINISHES (15 Drivers):7 Podiums – Brad Sweet
6 Podiums – David Gravel
5 Podiums – Carson Macedo
4 Podiums – Buddy Kofoid
3 Podiums – James McFadden
2 Podiums – Jacob Allen, Sheldon Haudenschild, Rico Abreu, Logan Schuchart
1 Podium – Danny Dietrich, Brian Brown, Kasey Kahne, Devon Borden, Spencer Bayston, Brent MarksTOP 10 FINISHES (26 Drivers):13 Top 10s – Carson Macedo
11 Top 10s – Brad Sweet, David Gravel, Logan Schuchart
9 Top 10s – Sheldon Haudenschild, Michael Kofoid
7 Top 10s – James McFadden, Spencer Bayston, Gio Scelzi
6 Top 10s – Rico Abreu
5 Top 10s – Donny Schatz
4 Top 10s – Brent Marks, Jacob Allen, Justin Peck, Kasey Kahne
3 Top 10s – Tyler Courtney
2 Top 10s – Aaron Reutzel, Brian Brown, Danny Dietrich, Brock Zearfoss, Blake Hahn
1 Top 10 – Cory Eliason, Robbie Price, Zeb Wise, Devon Borden, Sam Hafertepe Jr.2023 WORLD OF OUTLAWS SPRINT CAR SCHEDULE & WINNERS:No. / Day, Date / Track / Location / Winner (Total Wins)Fri, Feb 10 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / David Gravel (1)Fri, Feb 10 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / David Gravel (2)Sat, Feb 11* / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / James McFadden (1)Sun, March 5 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / Carson Macedo (1)Mon, March 6 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / David Gravel (3)Sat, March 18 / Lincoln Speedway / Abbottstown, PA / Rico Abreu (1)Fri, March 24 / Talladega Short Track / Eastaboga, AL / Buddy Kofoid (1)Sat, March 25 / Magnolia Motor Speedway / Columbus, MS / Brad Sweet (1)Fri, March 31 / Devil’s Bowl Speedway / Mesquite, TX / Brad Sweet (2)Sat, April 1 / Devil’s Bowl Speedway / Mesquite, TX / James McFadden (2)Fri, April 7 / U.S. 36 Raceway / Osborn, MO / Sheldon Haudenschild (1)Sat, April 8 / 81 Speedway / Wichita, KS / Rico Abreu (2)Fri, April 14 / Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55 / Pevely, MO / Brad Sweet (3)

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CHEVROLET RACING: NASCAR CUP SERIES SUPERSPEEDWAY FAST FACTS

April 20, 2023 ARP Trish

· The NASCAR Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway in April 2022 started Chevrolet’s streak of superspeedway victories with the Bowtie brand taking the win in the series’ last four races on a superspeedway. · Chevrolet’s four consecutive NASCAR Cup Series superspeedway victories over the past year have been recorded by four drivers from four different Chevrolet teams:

· Eight active NASCAR Cup Series drivers have recorded a win at both Talladega Superspeedway and Daytona International Speedway, two of which are part of the Chevrolet lineup: Ricky Stenhouse Jr., No. 47 JTG Daugherty Racing Camaro ZL1Daytona – 2 (2023 and 2017)Talladega – 1 (2017) Kyle Busch, No. 8 Richard Childress Racing Camaro ZL1 Daytona – 1 (2008)Talladega – 1 (2008)

· In 107 NASCAR Cup Series races at Talladega Superspeedway, Chevrolet leads all manufacturers in race wins (43) and pole wins (37). Of those wins includes a record streak of 13 consecutive trips to victory lane captured by five different drivers from April 1999 to May 2005.

Active Chevrolet NASCAR Cup Series Winners atTalladega Superspeedway: 2 Chase Elliott (’22 and ’19)1 Ross Chastain (’22)1 Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (’17)1 Kyle Busch (’08) 1st Chevy NCS Win @ Talladega: Darrell Waltrip (May 1, 1977)Most Recent Chevy NCS Win @ Talladega: Chase Elliott (Oct. 2, 2022)

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No Half Measures as Progressive AFT Stars Ready for Mission Dallas Half-Mile presented by Roof Systems

April 20, 2023 ARP Trish

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (April 18, 2023) – The 2023 Progressive American Flat Track season resumes with this weekend’s high-profile Mission Dallas Half-Mile presented by Roof Systems at Devil’s Bowl Speedway in Mesquite, Texas on Saturday, April 22. Progressive AFT’s annual trek to the Dallas-Fort Worth area always carries heightened significance due to its status as the home event for some of the series’ strongest allies, partners, and teams, including Mission Foods, Roof Systems of Dallas, TX, and Al Lamb’s Dallas Honda. And this year, the stop always represents the first of five Half-Miles that will play such a critical role in determining the Championship. It couldn’t have come at a better time for reigning Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle champion Jared Mees (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Rogers Racing/SDI Racing FTR750), who enters the weekend third in the points after a late crash at the Arizona Super TT cost him a potential podium. Mees ranks as one of the greatest Half-Milers in the history of the sport. His 33 career victories – including two of his three wins last season – put him just two off the all-time mark currently held by the legendary Scott Parker. That said, Mees’ Half-Mile supremacy has been challenged as of late by Briar Bauman (No. 3 Parts Plus/Jacob Companies KTM 890 Duke). The two-time Mission SuperTwins champion earned a pair of HM wins of his own a year ago and also happened to double in runaway fashion the last time Progressive AFT visited Devil’s Bowl Speedway back in 2020. The Dallas Half-Mile will be an important test for the Estenson Racing Yamaha duo of Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) and JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT), who currently rank 1-2 in the points. The pair have combined for nine wins since the start of the ‘22 season, yet none have come on Half-Miles. Daniels does have an impressive track record at this venue, however, scoring both wins in ‘20 en route to the first of two support class titles earned prior to his graduation to the ranks of the premier class. Like Mees and Bauman, Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) scooped two Half-Mile wins last season. He’ll be motivated to score a strong performance as he defends his team’s and sponsors’ home turf, especially in the wake of twin outings hindered by practice crashes. Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 JMC Motorsports/Fairway Ford Indian FTR750) was the only other rider to win at least one Half-Mile a year ago. He’s not the only other with the potential to win this weekend, however, with the likes of Bronson Bauman (No. 37 Fastrack Racing/2 Wheelz KTM 890 Duke), Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing Indian FTR750), Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650), and Brandon Price (No. 92 Steve Watt Enterprises/Maxwell Industries Harley-Davidson XG750R) among those also lining the grid. Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER As strong as defending Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER champion and current points leader Kody Kopp (No. 1 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F) has looked early in his title defense, we’ve yet to see him where he shines the brightest. That changes now. Kopp’s blowout championship triumph a year ago was built in large part on his Half-Mile excellence, as he earned five of his seven victories at that distance. His two closest rivals are strong Half-Milers as well, however. Second-ranked Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 D&D Racing/Certified KTM 450 SX-F) stood atop the podium in the most recent HM, which took place at Voluisia Speedway Park in the 2022 season finale. Meanwhile, Kopp’s teammate Max Whale (No. 18 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F) boasts four career Half-Mile wins himself. And don’t forget about Shayna Texter-Bauman (No. 52 Parts Plus/Jacob Companies KTM 450 SX-F), who just so happens to own more Half-Mile victories than any other rider in Parts Unlimited AFT Singles history with 11 such wins to her name. Last year’s victory in Dallas-Fort Worth went to Morgen Mischler (No. 13 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R) albeit at Texas Motor Speedway. While KTM-mounted riders have swept the season’s first four rounds, it seems like only a matter of time before Mischler or one of his Turner Racing Honda teammates, Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R) and Chase Saathoff (No. 88 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), put an end to that streak. They’ll be joined in the effort by Estenson Racing Yamaha’s Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) and Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F), along with 1st Impressions Husqvarna’s James Ott (No. 19 1st Impressions Race Team/Husqvarna Racing FC450) and Chad Cose (No. 49 1st Impressions Race Team/Husqvarna Racing FC450) – every one of whom has teased top-of-the-podium pace at one point or another early in ‘23. Another rider to monitor on Saturday is Tanner Dean (No. 38 Waters Autobody Racing KTM 450 SX-F), who finished on the box here back in 2020. The Dallas Half-Mile will also feature the eagerly awaited opening round of the 2023 edition of Royal Enfield’s hugely successful Build. Train. Race. (BTR) program, which highlights, celebrates, and encourages the involvement of women in flat track racing. Since its inception, BTR has injected new talent into Progressive AFT events across the nation, welcoming both experienced and beginner racers to compete aboard customized INT650 motorcycles. The festivities will kick off a day early for fans, riders, and teams alike with Al Lamb’s Dallas Honda Pre-Party on Friday, April 21. The pre-party will feature a storewide sale, food, and fun, from 5:00 p.m until 8:00 p.m. local time at Al Lamb’s Dallas Honda, located at 9250 LBJ Freeway, in Dallas, Texas. There will be plenty to keep fans entertained at the track on Saturday as well, including a Kids Zone, numerous vendors, plenty of food and beverage options, music, extensive motorcycle parking, and fireworks to cap off the evening. General Admission tickets are just $40 (kids 12 and under free with a paid adult), while Premium General Admission Grandstand tickets are just $10 more. There is also an option to secure an Indoor Suite Reservation which provides exclusive viewing from the 3rd floor above the grandstands in a climate-controlled, private space that accommodates up to eight individuals, for $800. Pit Pass Upgrades are also available for purchase, which provide all-day access to the pits where fans can scope out the world’s fastest dirt track motorcycles and get up close and personal with the stars of the sport. Visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/dallas-half-mile-57732 to purchase your tickets today! Gates will open for fans at 5:00 p.m. ET (2:00 p.m. PT) with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 8:30 p.m. ET (5:30 p.m. PT). For those that can’t catch the live action from the circuit, FansChoice.tv is the live streaming home of Progressive AFT. Sign up now and catch every second of on-track action starting with Practice & Qualifying and ending with the Victory Podium at the end of the night at https://www.fanschoice.tv. FOX Sports coverage of the Mission Dallas Half-Mile presented by Roof Systems, featuring in-depth features and thrilling onboard cameras, will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, April 30, at 11:00 a.m. ET (8:00 a.m. PT).

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WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Southern Tripleheader Weekend Awaits World of Outlaws Late Models

April 20, 2023 ARP Trish

The Series stops at 411 Motor Speedway, and makes its debut at Talladega Short TrackSEYMOUR, TN – April 17, 2023 – A tripleheader of action in the South, including the season’s first $50,000-to-win race, awaits the World of Outlaws CASE Construction Equipment Late Model Series as they prepare for battle in Tennessee and Alabama.The weekend kicks off on Thursday, April 20, at 411 Motor Speedway for the Seymour Showdown—a 40-lap, $10,000-to-win Feature. Joining the World of Outlaws CASE Late Models are the track’s Sportsman, Four Wheel Drive, and Crown Vic divisions. Then, the Series moves south for its debut at Talladega Short Track for Alabama Gang 100 weekend—the same weekend the NASCAR Cup Series makes its first stop at Talladega Superspeedway. The event starts with two split-field 20-lap Features on Friday, April 21, each paying $4,000-to-win. The top three in each Feature will lock into the 60-lap, $50,000-to-win finale on Saturday, April 22—along with a spot in a dash on Saturday to determine the first three rows of the Feature.  Every other driver will run Heat Races lined up by Friday’s finish on Saturday. Along with the World of Outlaws CASE Late Models, the USCS Sprint Cars will join the card, including an appearance from 2023 Daytona 500 winner Ricky Stenhouse Jr.  CRUSA Modifieds will also race on Friday and the Hot Shots on Saturday.  TICKETS: bit.ly/3zJfaRv A total of $255,000 will be paid out between the events at 411 and Talladega. If you can’t make it to the track, watch all the action live on DIRTVision – either online on with the DIRTVision App.Here are some of the key storylines to keep an eye on:Madden’s Success: Chris Madden enters this weekend with the Series points lead and will return to two tracks where he’s found past success. The Gray Court, SC driver has three wins at Talladega and won the last time the World of Outlaws visited 411 in 2020. He’s finished in the top five in both Series events he’s entered at the Seymour, TN, oval. If Madden wins a Feature this weekend, it’ll be his 34th career World of Outlaws win and break a tie with Series champions Scott Bloomquist and Tim McCreadie for seventh on the all-time wins list. “Smokey” leads Brian Shirley by 14 points heading into Thursday’s event on the strength of three top 10s in four races. For a complete look at the World of Outlaws CASE Late Models points standings, CLICK HERE.A 411 Variety: The World of Outlaws CASE Late Models will visit 411 for the fourth time in Series history on Thursday, April 20. In the three previous Features, there have been three different winners. Along with Madden’s win in 2020, Brandon Overton and Cory Hedgecock each have a Series victory on the red-clay oval. For Hedgecock, it was his first career World of Outlaws win. If a driver scores their first career win this weekend, they’ll become the 101st different winner in Series history.O-Show and the Bulldog: Even though the World of Outlaws CASE Late Models haven’t raced at Talladega Short Track before, both Jimmy Owens and 2015 Series champion Shane Clanton have found Victory Lane at the track on multiple occasions. Clanton has five wins at the Alabama track, including three Ice Bowl victories. However, his last win there came in 2011. The “Georgia Bulldog” is two wins away from his 50th World of Outlaws triumph. Owens has three wins at Talladega, including two national tour victories in 2007 and 2020. But while the Newport, TN driver had found success at Talladega, he’s had even more at 411, with eight wins since 2020. If Owens can win at either track this weekend, it’ll be his 22nd World of Outlaws win.Grabbing Momentum: Since the World of Outlaws Late Models last raced at Volusia, ten full-time drivers have found Victory Lane. Along with Madden’s win last week, Bobby Pierce, Ryan Gustin, Cade Dillard, Kyle Bronson, Max Blair, Brian Shirley, Dennis Erb Jr., Johnny Scott, and Logan Martin each scored a victory at various tracks around the country. Other than Pierce, who won at Volusia, all of them are searching for their first World of Outlaws victory of the 2023 season.WHEN AND WHERE411 Motor Speedway in Seymour, TN on April 20
TICKETS: bit.ly/3IdAwdx    Talladega Short Track in Eastaboga, AL on April 21-22TICKETS: bit.ly/3zJfaRv ABOUT THE TRACK 411 Motor Speedway is a 3/8-mile dirt oval Talladega Short Track is a 1/3-mile red clay oval ONLINE
411 Motor Speedway: www.411motorspeedway.net   Talladega Short Track: www.talladegashorttrack.com On the Internet
World of Outlaws CASE 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/month  Around the Turn: The World of Outlaws CASE Late Models travel to Mississippi Thunder Speedway in Fountain City, WI for the third annual Dairyland Showdown on May 4-6. For Tickets: CLICK HERE. FEATURE WINNERS: (3 Drivers)
Rank- Driver- Hometown-WinsDevin Moran, Dresden, OH-2Bobby Pierce, Oakwood, IL-1Hudson O’Neal, Martinsville, IN-1HEAT RACE WINNERS (14 Drivers)
Rank- Driver- Hometown-WinsChris Madden, Gray Court, SC-3
Tim McCreadie, Watertown, NY-3Nick Hoffman, Mooresville, NC-2
Devin Moran, Dresden, OH-2
Bobby Pierce, Oakwood, IL-2
Brian Shirley, Chatham, IL-2Max Blair, Centerville, PA-1
Ricky Thornton Jr, Martinsville, IN-1
Kyle Strickler, Mooresville, NC-1
Chase Junghans, Manhattan, KS-1
Brandon Overton, Evans, GA-1
Dale McDowell, Chickamauga, GA-1
Jonathan Davenport, Blairsville, GA-1
Shane Clanton, Zebulon, GA-1LAST CHANCE SHOWDOWN WINNERS (9 Drivers)
Rank- Driver- Hometown-WinsMark Whitener, Middleburg, FL-2
Ryan Gustin, Marshalltown, IA-2Jimmy Owens, Newport, TN-1
Daulton Wilson, Fayetteville, NC-1
Tanner English, Benton, KY-1
Mike Norris, Sarver, PA-1
Dale McDowell, Chickamauga, GA-1
Ricky Thornton, Jr, Martinsville, IN-1
Mike Spatola, Manhattan, IL-1PODIUM FINISHES (7 Drivers)
Rank – Driver, Hometown – PodiumsTim McCreadie, Watertown, NY-3
Devin Moran, Dresden, OH-3Ricky Thornton Jr., Martinsville, IN-2Chris Madden, Gray Court, SC-1
Bobby Pierce, Oakwood, IL-1
Brandon Overton, Evans, GA-1
Hudson O’Neal, Martinsville, IN-1FOX FACTORY HARD CHARGER (4 Drivers)
Rank – Driver, Hometown – H.C.Brandon Sheppard, New Berlin, IL-1
Ryan Gustin, Marshalltown, IA-1
Chris Madden, Gray Court, SC-1
Hudson O’Neal, Martinsville, IN-1SIMPSON PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS QUICK TIMES (3 Drivers)
Rank – Driver, Hometown – QTsBrandon Overton, Evans, GA-2Devin Moran, Dresden, OH-1
Chris Madden, Gray Court, SC-1CASE FEATURE LAP LEADERS (7 Drivers)
Rank – Driver, Hometown – Laps LedTim McCreadie, Watertown, NY-60Brandon Overton, Evans, GA-29Devin Moran, Dresden, OH-28Nick Hoffman, Mooresville, NC-6
Hudson O’Neal, Martinsville, IN-6Ricky Thornton Jr., Martinsville, IN-1Bobby Pierce, Oakwood, IL-12023 World of Outlaws Late Model Schedule & WinnersThursday, Jan. 19 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / Devin Moran (1)Friday, Jan. 20/ Volusia Speedway Park/ Barberville, FL/ Devin Moran (2)Thursday, Feb. 16/Volusia Speedway Park/Barberville, FL/Bobby Pierce (3)Saturday, Feb. 18/Volusia Speedway Park/Barberville, FL/Hudson O’Neal (4)

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Land of Lincoln Doubleheader Next for Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series

April 20, 2023 ARP Trish

BATAVIA, Ohio (April 17, 2023) – The Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series is set for a return to the “Land of Lincoln” this weekend. There will be no shortage of excitement as the nation’s top dirt late model drivers converge at Tri-City Speedway on Friday, April 21, followed by Macon Speedway on Saturday, April 22. Located just across the Mississippi River from St. Louis, MO, Tri-City Speedway has gone through several changes in size since being built in 1961 but has settled in as a 3/8-mile oval. The St. Louis Screw and Bolt 50 will include a complete program of: Allstar Performance Time Trials, Heat Races, B-Mains, and a 50-lap, $12,000-to-win main event. The pit gate will open at 2:00PM CT with the General Admission gate opening at 5:30 PM CT. A 6:00 PM CT driver’s meeting will be conducted with on track action beginning at 6:30 PM CT. The Modifieds and B-Mods will also be in competition, each racing for a $1,000 pay day. Tri-City Speedway is located just 8 miles from downtown St. Louis by taking Exit 4 off I-270 and then 1/2-mile south on SR 203. For more information, visit Tri-City Speedway online at www.tricityspeedway.net or follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/tricityspeedway. The thrills won’t stop as the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series teams make their way to Macon Speedway on Saturday night. The 1/5-mile bullring that opened in 1946 is historically known to produce non-stop, door-to-door racing action. The event features Allstar Performance Time Trials, Heat Races, and B-Mains, highlighted by a 75-lap, $15,000-to-win main event. The pit gate will close at 2:30 PM CT and reopen at 3:00 PM CT. The general admission gate will open at 4:00 PM CT. A 5:30 PM CT driver’s meeting will take place before hot laps which begin at 6:00 PM CT. The Big 10 Modified division is also on the docket, competing for $1,000-to-win. Under the new ownership of Chris, Jolene, and Blade Kearns in 2023, Macon Speedway has already undergone several improvements with more to come. Improvements to the concession stand and souvenir areas have already taken place. Large amounts of new signage have been installed with more coming soon. New Whelen safety lights will replace the traditional traffic lights that are currently on the speedway fencing. A brand-new scoreboard has also been purchased and will be added in the coming weeks. Macon Speedway is located nine miles south of Decatur on U.S. 51, then 0.6 miles west on Andrews Street and south to 205 N. Wiles. For more information, follow Macon Speedway online at www.maconracing.com, on Facebook (www.facebook.com/maconracing) and Twitter (@maconspeedway). The Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series has seen eight different winners in the first eleven events of the 2023 season, including two first-time winners. Among those victors are the top three in the Big River Steel Chase for the Championship – presented by ARP standings – Ricky Thornton Jr., Hudson O’Neal, and Brandon Overton. Tim McCreadie and Devin Moran round out the top five in championship point standings. For the latest news, results, championship standings and more about the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series, please visit www.lucasdirt.com. Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Purses:Tri-City Speedway (April 21) Purse: $12,000, 2. $6,000, 3. $3,500, 4. $2,800, 5. $2,500, 6. $2,300, 7. $2,200, 8. $2,100, 9. $2,050, 10. $2,000, 11. $1,600, 12. $1,400, 13. $1,200, 14. $1,100, 15. $1,050, 16. $1,000, 17. $1,000, 18. $1,000, 19. $1,000, 20. $1,000, 21. $1,000, 22. $1,000, 23. $1,000, 24. $1,000 = Total $52,800 Macon Speedway (April 22) Purse: 1. $15,000, 2. $7,000, 3. $5,000, 4. $4,000, 5. $3,000, 6. $2,500, 7. $2,400, 8. $2,300, 9. $2,200, 10. $2,100, 11. $2,000, 12. $1,800, 13. $1,600, 14. $1,500, 15. $1,400, 16. $1,300, 17. $1,200, 18. $1,100, 19. $1,000, 20. $1,000, 21. $1,000, 22. $1,000, 23. $1,000, 24. $1,000, = Total $63,400 Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Tire Rule (April 21-22):Left Rear/Fronts – Hoosier (90) NLMT2, (90) LM20Right Rear – Hoosier (92) NLMT3, (92) LM30s, (92) NLMT4, (92) LM40 *Must use the same set of 4 tires for Time Trials, Heat Races, and B-Mains*For the A-Main, competitors may use 2 new tires.*Can cut and/or sipe any tire.*Flat tire must be replaced with a used tire of the same compound and construction to retain starting position.

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Land of Lincoln Doubleheader Next for Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series

April 20, 2023 ARP Trish

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Land of Lincoln Doubleheader Next for Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series

April 19, 2023 ARP Trish

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BUDDY HULL FINDS POSITIVES IN QUICK VEGAS EXIT

April 19, 2023 ARP Trish

LAS VEGAS, NV (April 17, 2023) — For Buddy Hull and the Methanol Moonshine Top Fuel dragster team success is not measured in win lights and trophies, yet. The Texas-based driver has been building his Top Fuel operation with a long-term plan and this weekend’s Las Vegas NHRA Four-Wide Nationals was a positive step. In the opening round Hull, the No. 15 qualifier, was in a quad composed of four-time world champion Steve Torrence, 49-time Top Fuel winner Doug Kalitta and recent Pep Boys Top Fuel Allstar Callout winner Josh Hart.

Hull was eager to make the most of the run and try to go rounds. He made one of the quickest runs of his career, a solid 3.859 second pass at 313.80 mph. It kept pace with his competitors but did not advance him to the second round. His dragster’s engine let go just before the finish line robbing the Methanol Moonshine machine of much needed horsepower.

Buddy Hull and Methanol Moonshine Top Fuel dragster, photo by Ron Lewis

“We needed that run,” said Hull. “My guys work hard and (crew chief) Mike (Guger) works hard. Unfortunately, we did kick the rods out around 800-850 feet, which cost us ET and potentially cost us a round of drag racing. I do know we have some very good data now. We got the car almost all the way down the track and so with that being said, we’ve collected enough data where we can go to the next race.”

With the backing of new sponsor Methanol Moonshine as well as Renegade Fuels, Go Lithium, and local backing from Findlay Toyota and Primal Steakhouse Hull and his team made the most of the four qualifying sessions and race day. The unique format of four-wide had Hull thrilled to be part of a show that had the fans excited.

Four-wide racing is an equalizer,” said Hull. “There’s no doubt I love it because the fans love it. You know, I went up there first round with a mindset of treating it like another qualifying run and shallow staging the car to get the best incrementals and data possible. We will be ready for Joliet.”

Hull will return to the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series, May 19-21 for the Gerber Collision and Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals at Rt. 66 Raceway. The team will have an exciting announcement in the coming weeks regarding this race outside of Chicago.

Qualifying Results

Q1: 5.093 sec, 136.75 mph; Qual. 11

Q2: 5.381 sec; 128.05 mph; Qual. 14

Q3: 6.270 sec; 98.95 mph; Qual. 15

Q4: No time; Qual. 15

Bonus Points: 0

Race Results

First Round

First: Josh Hart, R+L Carriers dragster, (.076) 3.768, 327.03 mph

Second: Steve Torrence, CAPCO dragster, (.046) 3.814, 319.37 mph

Doug Kalitta, Mac Tools dragster, (.065) 3.806, 324.59 mph

Buddy Hull, Methanol Moonshine dragster, (.119) 3.859, 313.80 mph

Camping World Drag Racing Series Top Ten – Top Fuel

1. Steve Torrence 323

2. Justin Ashley 310

3. Brittany Force 287

4. Antron Brown 274

4. Mike Salinas 274

6. Leah Pruett 252

7. Austin Prock 233

8. Shawn Langdon 230

9. Doug Kalitta 199

10. Josh Hart 171

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Motorcraft/Quick Lane Team Looking for Strong Run at Martinsville

April 18, 2023 ARP Trish

April 13, 2023

Harrrison Burton and the No. 21 Motorcraft/Quick Lane team are hoping to build on their recent good runs – in recent weeks and in prior races at Martinsville Speedway – in this weekend’s NOCO 400 at Martinsville, the home track of the Wood Brothers from nearby Stuart, Va.

“Last weekend on the Bristol dirt, everyone on the No. 21 car was excited to come away with a top-15 finish,” said crew chief Brian Wilson. “Over the last three weeks we have finishes of 22nd, 19th and 15th, so we feel like things are heading in a good direction as we go to Martinsville.”

The paper-clip-shaped, half-mile Martinsville oval has been one of Burton’s better tracks. He started 10^th and finished 11^th there in the Cup Series race last fall and won the Xfinity race there in 2020. He also qualified on the pole for the Xfinity race in 2021.

“Last fall’s race was one of our strongest weekends,” Wilson said. “We’ll look to build from those notes and incorporate what we’ve learned so far about this year’s short-track aero package.

“With the hotter temps forecasted and the lower downforce, we expect that all the drivers will have their hands full in trying to make speed.”

Wilson also pointed out that Martinsville races offer fans a chance to visit one of the best museums in motorsports.

“I’d encourage any race fans in the area of this weekend’s race to stop by the Wood Brothers’ shop in Stuart,” he said. “It’s an incredible walk down memory lane.”

Qualifying for the NOCO 400 is set for Saturday at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time and will be followed by qualifying at 5:20. FOX Sports 2 will carry the TV broadcast.

Sunday’s 400-lap race is set to get the green flag just after 3 p.m. with the TV coverage switching to FOX Sports 1. Stage breaks are planned for Laps 80 and 180.

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World of Outlaws Late Models Add June 1 Event at Farmer City, Lock-In 2024 Illini 100 Dates

April 18, 2023 ARP Trish

World of Outlaws Late Models Add June 1 Event at Farmer City, Lock-In 2024 Illini 100 Dates

The Series will battle for $10,000 on Thursday, June 1, kicking off a Midwest Tripleheader Weekend

FARMER CITY, IL – April 13, 2023 – For the first time in history,the World of Outlaws CASE Construction Equipment Late Models will battle at Farmer City Raceway in June for the newly announced Farmer City Showdown.

The new $10,000-to-win event will be on Thursday, June 1, to kick off a Midwest triple-header weekend, joining events at Tri-City Speedway in Granite City, IL (Friday, June 2) and Paducah International Raceway in Paducah, KY (Saturday, June 3).

FOR TICKETS: CLICK HERE

“We know there are hardcore dirt Late Model fans in Illinois who look forward to seeing our brand of racing, so we worked with promoters in the region to bring the World of Outlaws to Farmer City in June for the first time,” said Series Director Steve Francis. “We’re excited to add to an already huge weekend.”

For a complete look at the World of Outlaws CASE Late Models Schedule: CLICK HERE. 

In addition, officials have also announced the dates for the 2024 Illini 100 at Farmer City. The event will be April 11-13, 2024.

A practice night will start the weekend on Thursday, April 11, before an $8,000-to-win Feature on Friday, April 12, and a $25,000-to-win finale on Saturday, April 13.

Tickets for the 2024 Illini 100 will go on sale following the event’s renewal period later this year.

The World of Outlaws CASE Late Models return to action next weekend at 411 Motor Speedway in Seymour, TN, on Thursday, April 20, before heading to Talladega Short Track in Eastaboga, AL, on Friday-Saturday April 21-22 for the Alabama Gang 100.

If you can’t make it to the track, watch all the action live on DIRTVision – either online on with the DIRTVision App.

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2023 NHRA Four-Wide Nationals The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway Las Vegas, Nevada April 14-16, 2023

April 18, 2023 ARP Trish

2023 NHRA Four-Wide NationalsThe Strip at Las Vegas Motor SpeedwayLas Vegas, NevadaApril 14-16, 2023 The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway welcomes Chevrolet’s NHRA Top Fuel, Funny Car, and Pro Stock drivers for the 2023 NHRA Four-Wide Nationals, the fourth round of the season. The first of two four-wide events this year, and back-to-back, the Bowtie brand comes in as the defending winner in both Top Fuel and Pro Stock at Las Vegas. Brittany Force, driver of the Monster Energy/Flav-R-Pac Chevrolet Top Fuel dragster for John Force Racing, notes excitement while reflecting on past success in Las Vegas saying, “Heading to the first Four-Wide event of the season at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and we’re looking forward to returning to a track we’ve been successful in the past. We had a strong performance last season sweeping both events, the Four-Wide in the Spring and the Arizona nationals in the fall during the Countdown to the Championship,” said Force. “We’re back in our Monster Energy colors this weekend and are excited to turn things up with some exciting four-wide racing. There are more challenges but it’s definitely worth it when you end the day in the winner’s circle. The Strip at LVMS is one of my favorite tracks on the circuit and after a week off, I’m ready to chase down a Sin City win.”
In Pro Stock, Chevrolet, Elite Motorsports, and driver Erica Enders also enter this weekend’s four-wide event defending winners, looking to add to the 250 victories by the Bowtie brand after Dallas Glenn of KB Titan Racing raced to capture the Wally trophy at Pomona 1 two weeks ago. In 2022, Enders and her team swept Las Vegas both in the spring four-wide event and fall penultimate event.
The 2023 NHRA Four-Wide Nationals action from The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway airs first with Friday qualifying on Saturday, April 14 at 9:30 p.m. ET on FOX Sports 1 (FS1). Saturday qualifying from Las Vegas airs Saturday, April 15 at 9:30 p.m. ET on FS1. Sunday’s Finals will also air on FS1, starting at 9:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, April 16. Coverage streaming live throughout the weekend can be found through NHRA.tv, available via AppleTV, Android TV, and Roku devices.
WHAT THEY’RE SAYINGAustin Prock, driver of the Montana Brand/Rocky Mountain Twist Top Fuel dragster for John Force Racing:“I’m ready to get going after coming of a great weekend in Pomona at the Winternationals. I know we’re all hungry to get back to racing on this Montana Brand / Rocky Mountain Twist team,” Prock said. “Winning in Las Vegas at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway has always been on my bucket list and maybe this weekend will be our time to shine.”
John Force, driver of the BlueDEF Chevrolet Camaro Funny Car for John Force Racing:“Four-wide racing in Las Vegas, the perfect place to put on a show. I’ve had some success there, it’s a Bruton Smith track, but really, I’m just really ready to get back into my BlueDEF Chevy. The team, Danny Hood, Tim Fabrisi, Mac Savage, they’ve evaluated everything and looked over the car closely. We’ll be ready to race. Get things started with four qualifying rounds, make some clean runs and then see how things go on race day. I’m excited, though.”
Robert Hight, driver of the Auto Club/Cornwell Tools Flav-R-Pac Chevrolet Camaro Funny Car for John Force Racing:“It was a bummer leaving Pomona, one of our team’s home race tracks, with a first-round loss. Then to have to wait two weeks to get back in the seat, it’s painful and not just for me. I know Jimmy Prock along with assistant crew chiefs Thomas Prock and Nate Hildahl and the whole team are anxious to get back to racing. This Flav-R-Pac team is definitely looking forward to Vegas and going four-wide racing. It’s exciting for the fans more than anything. We just need to focus and do what we know how to do.” TEAM CHEVY BY THE NUMBERS1,422: Round wins for John Force (1st all-time)597: Round wins for Robert Hight (13th all-time, tying Bob Glidden in Phoenix)369: Number of wins in Pro Stock since 1970; 250 won in the Chevrolet Camaro body264: Final Round wins by John Force (the last coming in Topeka, runner-up)165: Number of career No. 1 qualifiers for John Force (1st all-time)156: Number of Chevrolet Racing Funny Car wins since 196777: Number of career No. 1 qualifiers for Robert Hight (6th all-time)76: Number of Chevrolet Racing Funny Car wins with the Camaro body43: Number of career No. 1 qualifiers for Brittany Force27: Number of NHRA championships Chevrolet holds as a manufacturer since entering the first in 1966. No other manufacturer has won it more than Chevrolet.24: Wins by John Force in a Chevrolet-bodied Funny Car18: Number of Pro Stock championships16: Chevrolet career Top Fuel wins in NHRA16: Number of Chevrolet career wins by Brittany Force7: Number of Funny Car driver championships2: Number of Top Fuel driver championships MOST RECENT WIN IN NHRA BY CHEVROLETPomona 1, 2023: Dallas Glenn, Pro Stock 2022 NHRA VEGAS FOUR-WIDE WINS BY CHEVROLETBrittany Force, Top FuelErica Enders, Pro Stock 2022 NHRA VEGAS FOUR-WIDE NO. 1 QUALIFIERS BY CHEVROLETAaron Stanfield, Pro Stock MOST RECENT DRIVER CHAMPIONSHIPS IN NHRA BY CHEVROLET2022: Brittany Force, Top Fuel2022: Erica Enders, Pro Stock2022: David Barton, Factory Stock Showdown2019: Robert Hight, Funny Car UPCOMING NHRA MILESTONES950: Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) is second all-time with 915 elimination round wins. He could reach 950 round wins with a decent run in the 18-race schedule.600: Robert Hight has 597 Funny Car elimination round victories to rank 13th on the all-time NHRA list, tied with Bob Glidden (Pro Stock). Cruz Pedregon (Funny Car) sits 12th with 615.439: By qualifying for his next race, Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) will extend his NHRA record to 439 consecutive race day appearances. His first appearance came in 2002 at Pomona 2, and he holds the longest career qualifying streak in NHRA.138: Greg Anderson (Pro Stock) ranks third on the NHRA all-time list with 121 No. 1 qualifiers. He will tie Warren Johnson (Pro Stock, 138) for second to John Force (165) on the list.261: By qualifying for his next race, Robert Hight will extend his NHRA record to 261 consecutive race day appearances. His first appearance came in 2010 at Pomona 2, and he currently sits seventh in career qualifying streaks in NHRA (Doug Kalitta is sixth at 268).65: Robert Hight moved into the top 10 on the all-time NHRA victory list with his win in Phoenix, tying the retired Larry Dixon (Top Fuel) at 62 wins. Jeg Coughlin Jr. (Pro Stock, retired) is next ninth on the list with 65.46: Erica Enders has 43 career Pro Stock victories (all with Chevrolet). Angelle Sampey (Pro Stock Motorcycle) is the all-time NHRA female leader with 46. 18: Brittany Force (16 Top Fuel career wins) will move past Shirley Muldowney (18 wins) into third on the NHRA all-time victory list for females. Erica Enders (Pro Stock, 43) and Angelle Sampey (Pro Stock Motorcycle, 46) are ahead.6: Erica Enders (Pro Stock) could tie Warren Johnson (6 Pro Stock championships) for second on the class list. The same holds for Greg Anderson. Bob Glidden is the leader with 10.3: Brittany Force (Top Fuel, 2 championships) would tie Shirley Muldowney (Top Fuel) and Angelle Sampey (Pro Stock Motorcycle) for second on the NHRA all-time championship list by females with another title in 2023. Erica Enders (Pro Stock, 5) is the leader.

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NOCO 400 Martinsville Speedway Martinsville, Virginia April 16, 2023

April 18, 2023 ARP Trish

TEAM CHEVY SEEKS WIN #60 AT MARTINSVILLENASCAR’s three national touring series will take on the oldest track on the circuit this weekend with the .526-mile Martinsville Speedway on tap to host the fifth tripleheader race weekend of the season. Famously known as “The Paperclip”, Martinsville is the only track that has hosted a NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) race every year since the inception of the series in 1949. Chevrolet has a storied history at the iconic short-track with the series’ winningest manufacturer heading into the weekend with 59 NCS wins at the track – just shy of double the next ranking manufacturer competitor. The first of Chevrolet’s series-leading wins at Martinsville came in 1957 when Buck Baker drove his Chevrolet 150 to victory lane. The Bowtie brand went on a winning streak at the track on a couple of different occasions including seven in a row from October 2004 to October 2007, as well as eight consecutive triumphs from April 2011 to October 2014. Other models that have also collected a win at the .526-mile Virginia oval include Bel Air, Biscayne, Impala, Monte Carlo, Lumina, Impala SS and SS.

HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS SHINES ON SHORT-TRACKSHendrick Motorsports leads all active organizations in NASCAR’s premier series with 56 short-track wins – all captured behind the wheel of a Chevrolet. 14 different drivers have contributed to the organization’s series-best short-track record, including all four of its current drivers. Of Hendrick Motorsports’ 56 NCS short-track wins, 27 have come at Martinsville Speedway. Eight different drivers have powered the organization to a victory at the .526-mile oval, led by Jeff Gordon and Jimmie Johnson who each have nine wins to their name. Hendrick Motorsports’ most recent win at the track came one year ago when William Byron took his first career grandfather clock in the April 2022 event. The organization posted a dominating performance in that race with Byron and teammate Chase Elliott leading a combined 397 of the race’s 403-laps, giving the organization a laps-led percentage of 98.5%.

NXS BACK ON-TRACK AT MARTINSILLEThe NASCAR Xfinity Series will make its 40th all-time appearance at Martinsville Speedway in Saturday’s ‘Call811.com Before You Dig. 250’. Chevrolet has recorded six NXS wins at the “The Paperclip” with two coming in 2021 courtesy of a JR Motorsports sweep (Josh Berry – April 2021; and Noah Gragson – October 2021). Chevrolet – the reigning NXS Manufacturer Champion – already has one short-track victory in the books this season with Kaulig Racing’s Chandler Smith’s first career win at Richmond Raceway just two weeks ago.

Returning to competition following the series’ first off-weekend of the season, Chevrolet continues to sit in command of the NXS driver and manufacturer points standings. Three drivers have powered the Camaro SS to a combined five wins in seven NXS races this season. Joining Smith on that list is series’ points leader Austin Hill (No. 2 Richard Childress Racing Camaro SS), who has amassed a series-best three wins thus far. AJ Allmendinger also contributed to the manufacturer’s win count this season at Circuit of The Americas when he returned to the series for the first time since moving up to full-time NCS competition.

SILVERADO RST LOOKING FOR A THREE-PEAT AT MARTINSVILLEThe NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series’ Long John Silver’s 200 at Martinsville Speedway will mark the series’ second short-track race of the season, but the first on asphalt. The Bowtie brand is coming off four top-10 finishes at Bristol Motor Speedway last weekend with the effort led by NCS regular William Byron in his first of three starts of 2023 behind the wheel of the No. 51 Kyle Busch Motorsports Silverado RST.

BOWTIE BULLETS:·       Active Chevrolet drivers with a NASCAR Cup Series win at Martinsville Speedway:Kyle Busch – 2 (2016 & 2017)William Byron – 1 (2022)Chase Elliott – 1 (2020)
·       In 148 NASCAR Cup Series races at Martinsville Speedway, Chevrolet has recorded 59 wins and 55 poles – both of which are series-best.
·       Hendrick Motorsports leads all active organizations with 56 all-time short-track wins in NASCAR’s premier series – all recorded behind the wheel of a Chevrolet. Of those victories, the organization has recorded a series-best 27 wins at Martinsville Speedway.
·       Heading into the ninth points-paying NASCAR Cup Series race of the season, Chevrolet continues to lead the series in wins (five), top-fives (21), top-10s (36), stage wins (10) and laps led (1,079). Chevrolet’s win count, top-five finishes, stage wins and laps led thus far this season is more than double its manufacturer competitors.
·       Chevrolet’s series-leading five NASCAR Cup Series wins this season have been recorded by drivers from three different Chevrolet teams: Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (JTG Daugherty Racing), Kyle Busch (Richard Childress Racing), William Byron and Kyle Larson (Hendrick Motorsports).
·       Richard Childress Racing’s Austin Dillon, JTG Daugherty’s Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Kaulig Racing’s Justin Haley delivered top-10 finishes at Bristol Motor Speedway marking the sixth time in eight points-paying NASCAR Cup Series races this season that at least three different Chevrolet teams were represented in the top-10.
·       Chevrolet drivers have recorded 10 of the 16 NASCAR Cup Series stage wins this season: William Byron (five; series-leading), Ross Chastain (three) and Kyle Larson (two).
·       Hendrick Motorsports’ Alex Bowman is the only driver in the NASCAR Cup Series to have a single-digit average finish this season with 9.9. The Chevrolet driver is also tied at the top of the leaderboard for top-10 finishes this season with six.
·       Chevrolet sits atop the manufacturer points standings in all three NASCAR national series, leading by 23 points in the NASCAR Cup Series, 20 points in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and three points in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.
·       With its 41 NASCAR Cup Series Manufacturer’s Championships, 33 NASCAR Cup Series Driver’s Championships, and 838 all-time NASCAR Cup Series wins, Chevrolet continues to hold the title of winningest brand in NASCAR Cup Series history.

FOR THE FANS:·       Fans can visit the Team Chevy Racing Display in the Fan Midway at Martinsville Speedway.
·       Fans can check out an assortment of Chevrolet vehicles at the Team Chevy Racing Display including: Tahoe Premier, Blazer RS, Trailblazer RS, Traverse Premier, 1500 Crew ZR2, 2500HD Crew Carhartt Diesel, Corvette Coupe 3LT Z51, Camaro ZL1.
Team Chevy Driver Appearances at the Display:Friday, April 14·       Grant Enfinger & Daniel Dye: 12:45 p.m.·       Nick Sanchez: 1 p.m. ·       Chase Purdy: 1:30 p.m.·       Christian Eckes & Jake Garcia: 1:45 p.m.
Saturday, April 15·       Jeremy Clements: 4 p.m. ·       Parker Kligerman: 4:15 p.m. ·       Sheldon Creed: 5:05 p.m.
Sunday, April 16·       Noah Gragson: 11:50 a.m.·       Ricky Stenhouse Jr: 12:10 p.m.·       Ty Dillon: 12:45 p.m.
Chevrolet Display Hours of Operation:·       Friday, April 14: 12 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.·       Saturday, April 15: 12 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.·       Sunday, April 16: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Tune In: NASCAR Cup Series – NOCO 400; 3 p.m. ET on Sunday, April 16(FS1, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)
NASCAR Xfinity Series – Call811.com Before you Dig. 250; 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, April 15(FS1, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)
NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series – Long John Silver’s 200; 7:30 p.m. ET on Friday, April 14 (FS1, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)

QUOTABLE QUOTES:ROSS CHASTAIN, NO. 1 UNISHIPPERS CAMARO ZL1How cool is it to have the “Hail Melon” move so well-known now?“What’s really cool about it now, and what I’m most proud of is it’s never going to happen again. If it does happen in NASCAR, they’ll get penalized so that will probably deter people from doing it again. I didn’t realize it at the time how historical it was but it’s neat now to look back on it and think about how it’s a moment NASCAR’s history.”
There were so many fan reactions to the move at the end of the Martinsville, what was it like for you to see all of that?“The cell phone camera views from Turns 3 and 4 looking down. They were filming the end of the race and most of them were following the 20 car around the whole track and there is a blur in the middle of all of their screens of my car. It was fun to hear their natural reactions when the cars slow down and to hear the roar, people yelling and asking what happened. I was on pit road and the car was broken and destroyed, and I’m trying to navigate crew members high-fiving me and I could hear the fans through my helmet and over the sound of the engine idling coming down pit road. I glanced up and people were pointing, cheering and high-fiving, and a few weren’t so kind gestures.”

KYLE LARSON, NO. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM CAMARO ZL1 Larson on his desire to get his first win at Martinsville Speedway: “I want to win at any track that I haven’t won at. Martinsville (Speedway) has been a place I’ve struggled at pretty regularly. Last year, we had two good races at Martinsville. I feel like it is potentially in our future to win a race there. If I did, that would probably be the all-time biggest win of my life, because any time you can accomplish something that is difficult to you or you don’t think you can accomplish, it means a lot.”
CLIFF DANIELS, CREW CHIEF, NO. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM CAMARO ZL1Daniels on building on the foundation of last year’s results at Martinsville: “(I’m) certainly optimistic going to Martinsville Speedway. Hendrick Motorsports, as a whole with the Next Gen car last year, had decent performance there. It is a different aerodynamic package than what we had last year, so there are some question marks around that. We will just have to work through it this weekend. It’s nice knowing that we have the foundation of performance last year with our company and hopefully we can build on that.”

KYLE BUSCH, NO. 8 MARK III EMPLOYEE BENEFITS CAMARO ZL1 Do you think that Martinsville is the most challenging short track on the schedule? How physically and mentally demanding is racing at Martinsville?“Martinsville is a challenging short track. I think with the Next Gen race car it’s become a bigger challenge just with the fact that everybody being a lot closer. Little setup differences with the old car meant an awful lot in speed and it seems like little setup differences with this car doesn’t really mean a whole lot so everybody runs the same speed no matter what so it just makes it tough to pass. Track position is everything. The aero affects when you get behind guys makes it tough to move around and find grip in other grooves in order to make moves. It seemed like with the old car you could definitely follow a lot better and keep yourself closer to the guy in front of you so if he made a little, tiny mistake you could pounce on that and make a pass.
The racing there is pretty demanding. I mean, you’re on the brakes all the time and steering all the time. You’re trying to feel that grip and not slip. You want to carry your speed as fast as you can while off the gas. The biggest thing that I learned that made me better at Martinsville is how fast can you go slow. You actually spend more of the lap off the throttle than you do on the throttle so it’s about figuring out how to go slow fast.”
How important is it to qualify well at Martinsville, not only for track position to start the race but also regarding pit selection?“Qualifying well at Martinsville I think now is more important than what it once was. I remember it used to be that it didn’t matter how you qualified. I was never a really good qualifier at Martinsville but you could always race towards the front, pick up some positions on pit road, and get yourself in a good position for the end of the race. I think track position and pit selection with qualifying well is very important. There’s four to five really, really good pit stalls on pit road and if you can get one of those pit stalls then that can really make or break your day on pit road.”
You ran well in the Busch Clash. Does that give you optimism for a good run at Martinsville? Can you apply anything you learned there to Martinsville?“Running well at the Clash I think gives me some pretty good optimism for Martinsville. I think we’re running the lower downforce package at Martinsville so to me, unfortunately, right now we’re kind of at a deficit with the lower downforce package. But if we can figure that out, then I feel like what we were able to do at the Clash will resonate and give us something for Martinsville that will keep us up front.”

ALAN GUSTAFSON, CREW CHIEF, NO. 9 NAPA AUTO PARTS CAMARO ZL1 Gustafson on racing at Martinsville: “Martinsville (Speedway) is just such a unique place and it’s so tied to the roots of short-track racing that I came from and I think most people that compete in the sport have come from. I think that just makes it special. I enjoy racing there. You can see the car all the way around the track. You can see when you’re good and when you’re not good. You can see the contact. It’s just fun. A lot of things have changed over the years, generations of cars, tires and rules packages, but Martinsville for the most part stays pretty much the same, which is cool.”

AJ ALLMENDINGER, NO. 16 ACTION INDUSTRIES CAMARO ZL1“We’re hoping we can make improvements on our short track program this weekend. We really struggled in Richmond so our primary focus is to improve on what we had there and keep moving forward.”

WILLIAM BYRON, NO. 24 LIBERTY UNIVERSITY CAMARO ZL1Byron on his thoughts about Martinsville: “Martinsville (Speedway) means a lot to me. I remember going there as a kid. Then, getting the win last April, especially with everything that was going on with my family, it meant a lot. I’ve always run well there, short tracks in general really. I think we have had really strong cars there lately, but we do have some room for improvement from the fall race last year. With how we’re running this season, though, I’m optimistic for this weekend.”
RUDY FUGLE, CREW CHIEF, NO. 24 LIBERTY UNIVERSITY CAMARO ZL1Fugle on what’s important at Martinsville: “I feel like we’ve always run well at Martinsville (Speedway). Not only run well but we finish well. I think the biggest thing, though, to be good there is to put together a solid weekend. We learned that in the fall when we didn’t qualify well and it put us behind almost all race. Qualifying is important any time, but it’s probably most important at a place like Martinsville. If we have a good Saturday, it will propel us to have a good Sunday, and that’s out goal this weekend.”

NOAH GRAGSON, NO. 42 SUNSEEKER RESORTS CAMARO ZL1Gragson on how he feels going into Martinsville: “I am really excited for Martinsville, I had the opportunity to drive there in the 48-car last year, so going in with an idea in mind of what it is going to be like is a big learning opportunity from last year. I am excited to get the chance to battle with the 42 Sunseeker team this weekend, Martinsville has always been a good track for us. Trucks in Xfinity we won races there, so I am excited for it.”

ERIK JONES, NO. 43 ALLEGIANT CAMARO ZL1Jones on how he feels going into Martinsville: “I am excited about Martinsville, last year I thought in the fall there we ran pretty well, so hopefully we can take some of that momentum and learn a little bit about the short track package and what we had in Richmond to try and make it a little bit better. I am ready to get out there, hoping for another solid run, hopefully get up in the top 10 and contend.”

RICKY STENHOUSE JR., NO. 47 KROGER / TREE TOP CAMARO ZL1“A strong run (fourth-place finish) at Bristol (Motor Speedway Dirt Race) is the way we needed things to go for us especially going into Martinsville Speedway. Martinsville is not one of our best tracks, but we are looking forward to going there because I feel like we’ve made some big improvements. At Martinsville, it’s all about qualifying well / good track position and staying out of trouble with our No. 47 Kroger / Tree Top Camaro.”

ALEX BOWMAN, NO. 48 ALLY CAMARO ZL1Bowman on having crew chief Blake Harris back: “It’s nice having him back, obviously. I think not having him at the track in the early part of the season was a setback. At the same time, I had Greg Ives back and we had a lot of time together, so communication wasn’t something we had to develop. Blake and I still worked closely at the shop on what I needed in the car, so I think it will just go back to business as usual this weekend.”
BLAKE HARRIS, CREW CHIEF, NO. 48 ALLY CAMARO ZL1Harris getting back on top of the pit box: “I am excited to get to Martinsville Speedway this weekend and have my first trip there with Alex (Bowman). He’s had success in the past there as have I with other drivers. I think it is one of his best short tracks and he runs really well there. There are a lot of specifics and driver inputs at Martinsville that complement his driving style really well. Hendrick Motorsports has a massive history of success there. Last year, they had speed in qualifying and in the race. Alex has only raced there once in the Next Gen car, so we have a year’s worth of development to get through and will hopefully go have a good weekend.”
Harris on reviewing the recent success of the No. 48 team for prep heading to Martinsville: “I think when you look at the past success and every week this year, we have had speed. Most of the tracks we have gone to, we have had top-five speed. Just carrying Hendrick Motorsports’ speed and performance that we have had all season and using that as a solid baseline will help us a lot.”

DANIEL SUAREZ, NO. 99 WORLDWIDE EXPRESS CAMARO ZL1How is your season so far?“Obviously, we want better finishes than what we have had the last few weeks. But if you look deeper you see that we had chances to win the race at Atlanta and COTA. We have some things to clean up, but everyone has a great attitude and we know if we can keep running well the finishes will come.”
What are your thoughts on Martinsville?“I’m glad to be back on concrete and asphalt in Martinsville after last weekend on dirt in Bristol. We feel pretty confident in our Martinsville package. I’m ready to get back up front.”

GRANT ENFINGER, NO. 23 CHAMPION POWER EQUIPMENT SILVERADO RSTWhat does it take to be successful around Martinsville?“Martinsville is definitely a ‘true’ short track. You’ve got to manage your fenders, you’ve got to manage your tires, and you’ve got to manage your temper when it comes to racing at that place. It feels like it’s a shorter race relatively compared to some of the intermediate races we run, and 100 laps goes by really quickly. You want to go there and qualify pretty well, because you’ve got to stay up front. It seems like if you get cycled to the back when you’re on equal tires, man you just use everything up. Maybe if you have to go to the back and you have a tire advantage, you could make it back up, but it’s tough. Hopefully we have a Champion Power Equipment Chevy good enough to win the race; Hensley and I have ran well here in the past and we have a pretty good record together on the short tracks, so hopefully we can rely on that and build off of what we had going for us in Bristol.”

RAJAH CARUTH, NO. 24 WENDELL SCOTT FOUNDATION SILVERADO RSTMartinsville Speedway was the site of your best-career NASCAR Xfinity Series finish; you haven’t raced there before in a truck, but do you have high expectations heading into this race?“Honestly, I have the same expectations every week. I work just as hard heading into a racetrack that I’ve competed at 10 times just as hard as how I work heading into a track I’ve never seen before. I’m confident in my team for bringing a fast Wendell Scott Foundation Silverado RST for every race; we’ve certainly had the pace this year but it just hasn’t quite fallen our way. My preparations and my expectations don’t necessarily change week-to-week, but I would say that my confidence is a little higher since I was able to have the good run in the NASCAR Xfinity Series car in the fall and was also able to get some track time in a late model as well the past couple of years. I’m looking forward to getting there in a truck, I’ve seen the photos of several GMS Racing drivers have success there in years past, and hopefully we can do the same this weekend.”

DANIEL DYE, NO. 43 HEISE LED LIGHTING SYSTEMS SILVERADO RSTMartinsville Speedway seems to be a return to your short track racing roots, are you the most comfortable with this type of racing?“Yeah, I’m pretty comfortable with short track racing, Martinsville is way different than anything I’ve ran before short track wise. But, it still is a half-mile track so I’m looking forward to it. We’ll see what Friday has in store for us through practice and qualifying. I’ve been looking at the weather, and with the new rain package that we have in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series it will be interesting to see if we run in the wet conditions or not. All in all, I’m happy to get back on the short tracks and get after it with our No. 43 Heise LED Lighting Systems team.”

CHASE PURDY, NO. 4 BAMA BUGGIES SILVERADO RSTAfter a tough week at the Bristol Dirt Race will it be good to get right back on track again Friday?“I think you have to have short-term memory when you have a weekend like we had at Bristol. Especially when you were fast and had a shot at a really good finish and it was all taken away. We’ll debrief the Bristol race and move onto Martinsville.”
Do you enjoy short track racing?“I’m really excited to get back to the roots of my racing, what me and a lot of other guys started in — short track racing. Martinsville is a fun place. There is always a lot of drama there and it is always action packed. I think it should be a good track for our No. 4 Bama Buggies team and I think it’ll put on a great show for the fans. I look forward to competing with the boss (Kyle Busch) and trying to get that 100th win before he does.”
What does it take to have a fast truck at Martinsville?“You don’t want to be too free on entry and then you have to be able to turn the center and have drive up off. You have to make sure it really turns at the two-thirds mark and get off the corner with a lot of rear drive. If you can do that, then I think you’ll be good. And then of course you have to keep your nose clean because it’s a long race. You need to make sure you don’t tear stuff up early so that you are there at the end.”

KYLE BUSCH, NO. 51 ZARIZ TRANSPORT SILVERADO RSTWhat does it take to be successful in a truck at Martinsville?“You have to have a truck that will turn the center without getting too loose in and too loose off. You also have to play the strategy right so that you can be up front at the end of the race and have enough tire left to hold people off. The last two truck races that I’ve won at Martinsville have been 250-lap races, with the race being 200 laps now things play out a little bit differently. With the new practice system, we’ll only have 20 minutes of practice to get our Zariz Silverado dialed in — that’s if the weather holds off. So, we’ll need to make sure we unload with a truck that is close because there isn’t much you can do to improve the handling with limited or no practice and then limited pit stops in the race. Last year we didn’t get a chance to practice or qualify and we didn’t do a good job of unloading close, so I had to drive way too hard just to run in the top five and used my stuff up and we were probably lucky to finish third. Hopefully, this year we’ll do a better job of unloading with a fast Zariz Silverado and we can go out and bring home KBM’s 100th win.”

Chevrolet NASCAR Cup Series Statistics Manufacturers Championships:Total (1949-2022): 41First title for Chevrolet: 1958Highest number of consecutive titles: 13 (2003-15) Years Won: 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1996, 1998, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2021, 2022 Drivers Championships:Total (1949-2021): 33First Chevrolet champion: Buck Baker (1957)Highest number of consecutive titles: 7 (2005-11)Most Recent: Kyle Larson (2021) Years Won: 1957, 1960, 1961, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1979, 1980, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2020, 2021 Event Victories:Record for total race wins in single season: 26 (2007) 2023 STATISTICS: Wins: 5Poles: 3Laps Led: 1,079Top-five finishes: 21Top-10 finishes: 36Stage wins: 10· Ross Chastain – 3 (Daytona), (Auto Club x2)· William Byron – 5 (Las Vegas x2), (Phoenix), (COTA), (Richmond)· Kyle Larson – 2 (Phoenix), (Bristol Dirt) CHEVROLET IN NASCAR CUMULATIVE STATISTICS:Total Chevrolet race wins: 838 (1949 to date)Poles won to date: 737Laps led to date: 246,623Top-five finishes to date: 4,242Top-10 finishes to date: 8,748 Total NASCAR Cup Wins by Corporation, 1949 to Date: General Motors: 1,172 Chevrolet: 838 Pontiac: 154 Oldsmobile: 115 Buick: 65 Ford: 821 Ford: 721 Mercury: 96 Lincoln: 4 Fiat Chrysler Automobiles: 467 Dodge: 217 Plymouth: 191 Chrysler: 59 Toyota: 172

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Megan Meyer Unveils 2023-2024 Gunk Livery with Shop Squad

April 18, 2023 ARP Trish

Apr 11, 2023 | Featured, Megan Meyer, Pre-Race Releases

Two-time Top Alcohol Dragster World Champion Megan Meyer will be making a new championship run this season in the inaugural Nitro Chaos Championship Series, a four-race gauntlet across the Midwest. Meyer will be competing at Nitro Chaos events beginning with Edgewater Sports Park near Cincinnati on April 28-29 with the attitude of having fun but also feeding the competitive fire that led her to two NHRA world championships. The popular world champion unveiled a new look racecar yesterday through her new YouTube channel with primary sponsor Gunk and new associate sponsor Shop Squad from NGK NTK. The racer and mother of one is looking forward to building on her Nitro Chaos success from last year. https://www.youtube.com/embed/U07cN-4h2Uc

“After we won the Nitro Chaos last year at Mo-Kan, it planted a seed in my head that maybe I could come back and do more of it,” said Megan, who stepped away from full-time competition after winning back-to-back NHRA Top Alcohol Dragster world championships in 2019-2020. “Representing Gunk and expanding our relationship with NGK and Shop Squad will make this adventure possible. We have so many exciting programs coming up this season I can’t wait to get to the track.”

Shop Squad is a support program from NGK NTK to advance the automotive repair industry through education, resources, and dialogue. Their Training Program is designed to educate automotive professionals on their parts and service channels and offers an online portal for on-demand learning. When automotive professionals sign up for Shop Squad an account is automatically created, and they have access to the expansive tech training portal.

“I can’t think of a better representative for the Shop Squad program than Megan Meyer,” said Jacklyn Donahue, Group Marketing Manager – Aftermarket, Niterra. “Her team knows all the ins and outs of what it takes to be an automotive professional. We are working together to build content and a community through her reach, creativity, and education and that is the goal of the Shop Squad program.”

Megan and Shop Squad are partnering up Boxo USA Tools and Chad Green Motorsports to promote a monthly Student Appreciation Contest for college students studying to become an automotive professional. Students can sign up each month using their simple online form and one winner each month will win prizes valued at over $500.

Last season Meyer represented Shop Squad at the Mo-Kan event with a local community event and display of the dragster and took top honors in the “A” Field outrunning teammate Julie Nataas in the final. This year Meyer will be racing for the championship and will also be taking fans along for the ride. Fans can follow Meyer’s journey through a five-part series called “Chasing Chaos” on her new YouTube channel. The team will have a videographer capturing behind-the-scenes footage as well as on track action. Fans can subscribe to “Chasing Chaos” here.

The unique Nitro Chaos series, which has a rules-free format that only requires entries to burn a minimum of 80% nitromethane, will hold championship events at Edgewater Sports Park near Cincinnati on April 28-29, Eddyville Raceway Park on May 26-28, Mo-Kan Dragway on July 14-15, and Thunder Valley Raceway Park on Sept. 22-23.

“I know I’m going to be 100% committed to chasing points and trying to get a championship in a different series,” Megan said. “From my point of view, if I want to race, I want to do the best that I can and try to compete for a championship. The fact that there’s only four races is perfect for me and our family. At the same time, I’m trying not to get too serious about it, just have fun.”

“I know there’s going to be a lot of tough competition and a lot more cars this year,” Megan continued. “It’s going to be tough. We don’t really know exactly what we’re going up against, whereas in NHRA Top Alcohol Dragster you know every person, every car, what they can run, and what their strategies are. Now, it’s a completely different ballgame. I’m excited for this new challenge. I’m going to do the best th

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BRITTANY FORCE AND MONSTER ENERGY LOOKING FOR CONTINUED SUCCESS AT THE STRIP AT LVMS

April 12, 2023 ARP Trish

LAS VEGAS (April 12, 2023) – Brittany Force and the Monster Energy / Flav-R-Pac Chevrolet dragster team have luck on their side at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Heading into this weekend’s NHRA Four-Wide Nationals they’ll be hoping to cash in on their lucky streak for their first win of the 2023 NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series season. When they swept the two tour events at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in 2022, Force and the Monster-Energy team became just the fifth pro team to win four-wide races on both coasts and the first John Force Racing driver to do so. She also became the first JFR driver to win the spring race at Vegas since it went four-wide in 2018. She is the 10th driver to sweep the spring and fall events at LVMS but just the third to do so in Top Fuel, along with Torrence and Larry Dixon. “Heading to the first Four-Wide event of the season at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and we’re looking forward to returning to a track we’ve been successful in the past. We had a strong performance last season sweeping both events, the Four-Wide in the Spring and the Arizona nationals in the fall during the Countdown to the Championship,” said Force. “We’re back in our Monster Energy colors this weekend and are excited to turn things up with some exciting four-wide racing. There are more challenges but it’s definitely worth it when you end the day in the winners circle. The Strip at LVMS is one of my favorite tracks on the circuit and after a week off, I’m ready to chase down a Sin City win.” Force also won the fall NHRA Nevada Nationals in 2019 when she also qualified No. 1 and drove the Flav-R-Pac/Monster Energy dragster to track records of 3.652 seconds and 338.17 mph. Force and the Monster Energy team enter the weekend sitting No. 4 in the points standings after a semifinal finish at the Winternationals and a quarterfinal exit in at the NHRA Arizona Nationals. The NHRA Four-Wide Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway begins with four rounds of qualifying with sessions on Friday and Saturday at noon and 2:30 p.m. Eliminations are scheduled for Sunday at noon. Television coverage on FOX Sports 1 (FS1) begins with qualifying shows Friday and Saturday at 9:30 p.m. ET. Eliminations will air on FS1 Sunday at 9:30 p.m.

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AUSTIN PROCK AND MONTANA BRAND / RMT RIDING MOMENTUM INTO LAS VEGAS FOUR-WIDE

April 12, 2023 ARP Trish

LAS VEGAS (April 12, 2023) – Austin Prock and the Montana Brand / Rocky Mountain Twist Chevrolet dragster team enter this weekend’s NHRA Four-Wide Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway with confidence after a runner-up finish at the most recent event, the NHRA Winternationals. Prock is coming off his third consecutive final-round appearance in the Winternationals, a performance that enabled him and his Montana Brand / RMT dragster to move up from eighth to fifth in NHRA Camping World championship points, just behind teammate Brittany Force. The runner-up performance came after two quarterfinal exits in Gainesville, Florida, and at the Arizona Nationals. “I’m ready to get going after coming of a great weekend in Pomona at the Winternationals. I know we’re all hungry to get back to racing on this Montana Brand / Rocky Mountain Twist team,” Prock said. “Winning in Las Vegas at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway has always been on my bucket list and maybe this weekend will be our time to shine.” Prock had his best outing at Las Vegas during last fall’s Nevada Nationals in which he qualified No. 2 before losing to Mike Salinas in the semifinals. At last year’s Four-Wide Nationals, Prock qualified No. 12 but made it to the second round of quads. The NHRA Four-Wide Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway begins with four rounds of qualifying with sessions on Friday and Saturday at noon and 2:30 p.m. Eliminations are scheduled for Sunday at noon. Television coverage on FOX Sports 1 (FS1) begins with qualifying shows Friday and Saturday at 9:30 p.m. ET. Eliminations will air on FS1 Sunday at 9:30 p.m.

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Chevy Racing–INDYCAR–Long Beach Grand Prix advance

April 12, 2023 ARP Trish

CHEVROLET IN NTT INDYCAR SERIES ACURA GRAND PRIX OF LONG BEACH STREETS OF LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA TEAM CHEVY ADVANCE APRIL 12, 2023
TEAM CHEVY LOOKS TO GO BACK-TO-BACK IN LONG BEACH
The demanding 1.968-mile, 11-turn temporary street circuit on the Streets of Long Beach hosts the NTT INDYCAR Series for the third event of the 2023 season. Capturing five victories at the southern California event since 2012, Chevrolet enters the race this year looking to go back-to-back. Team Penske and driver Josef Newgarden raced to the checkered flag in 2022, leading 34 of 80 laps and notching another victory for the Bowtie brand. Additionally, Chevrolet has 300 laps led as well as 15 podiums at Long Beach, controlling the 2015 and 2016 events with 76 and all 80 laps led in each, respectively.
Making his 100th INDYCAR start, Conor Daly looks forward to Long Beach this weekend saying, “I am obviously super excited to get to Long Beach and make my 100th NTT INDYCAR SERIES start! It is a track that I have many great memories at, from going to the race as a kid to winning in Indy Lights to racing there in an Indy car. Last year, we had a very strong race and made some great improvements,” noted Daly. “We were challenging for a Top 10 before I had to make a massive save near the end of the race. This year, we are in a position to make race number 100 be a great one!”
Alexander Rossi, driver of the No. 7 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, has won twice at Long Beach previously back-to-back in 2018 and 2019. “I’ve been fortunate to have good cars there and it’s a track that suits my driving style,” noted Rossi. “It’s pretty medium- to high-speed corners. There’s only one and the fountain that are slow-speed corners, so you can make time up from that standpoint. (…) We’re still learning as we go at this point. Yeah, I mean, I think based on St. Pete, I think based on the fact that I think Felix (Rosenqvist) was in the top six in qualifying last year, their cars are good. Certainly, there is a step we need to make to be as strong as Andretti or Penske on the street courses in general. But I think we’re close. I think we have just as good of a shot as anyone this weekend.”
”As we head to Long Beach for the second street course of the season, our Chevrolet engineers working with our teams understand the challenge of the track is significantly different than the Streets of St. Petersburg,” said Rob Buckner, IndyCar Program Manager at General Motors. “At Long Beach the track layout creates difficulty for drivers to overtake and creates multiple levels of contact between cars and cars and cars and walls. The track surface goes from mostly concrete to a few asphalt sections which creates differences in speed that tasks engineers with working to discover the optimum car setup and engine calibration.
“We are fortunate to have several drivers with successful records on the street courses and understand the nuances of the track, and the finesse needed to turn consistent fast laps,” noted Buckner. “At Long Beach, there is the measure of risk versus reward so if we can put all those components together and give our drivers the tools they need to compete, it will be another great weekend for Team Chevy.”
The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach kicks off with Practice 1 on Friday, April 14 at 6 p.m. ET, with Practice two starting Saturday, April 15 at 11:45 a.m. ET. Qualifications then start at 3:05 p.m. ET on Saturday. A final warm-up will start race day on Sunday at 12 p.m. ET. All practice and qualifying will be live on Peacock, INDYCAR Radio and SiriusXM Channel 160. The 85-lap, 167.28-mile race Sunday, April 16 will take the green flag at 3 p.m. ET live on NBC.
WHAT THEY’RE SAYING (QUOTES)Rinus VeeKay, No. 21 Chevrolet at Ed Carpenter Racing:“I am very ready to go to Long Beach and excited for the West Coast, always! Such a cool event, lots of celebrities, just a really special race for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. I haven’t had the results I was looking for at Long Beach yet, I am looking to make it happen on this one! I know the team is working very hard to get every bit of speed out of the BITNILE.COM cars. I am ready to race in the sunshine!” Pato O’Ward, No. 5 Chevrolet at Arrow McLaren INDYCAR:“Long Beach is a massive market for Latinos, and every time I go back I get to see more and more Pato jerseys. I love the town and atmosphere, and I can’t wait to give everyone a great show. Historically, this hasn’t been our best track, so we need to keep pushing to find that little extra bit we need.” Felix Rosenqvist, No. 6 Chevrolet at Arrow McLaren INDYCAR:“It’s awesome to get back to the West Coast again. Long Beach is one of the highlights of the season, and we’re curious as a team to see if we have made the same improvements there as we did in St. Petersburg.” Alexander Rossi, No. 7 Chevrolet at Arrow McLaren INDYCAR:”It’s always a special feeling racing in Long Beach. The atmosphere, the fans and the history make this event one of the highlights of the season. We’ve been working hard on our setup and strategy for this race, and I’m confident that our team can deliver a strong performance. We’ll be pushing to bounce back from the Texas disappointment, and I can’t wait to get out there and put on a show for our fans.” Santino Ferrucci, No. 14 Chevrolet at AJ Foyt Racing:“Looking forward to Long Beach. I haven’t raced there since 2019, so I’m rather excited to be back. Hopefully the track hasn’t changed too much. As long as we don’t make any mistakes this weekend, I think the team will be in really good shape, and we will keep building on what we learned in St. Pete.” Benjamin Pedersen, No. 55 Chevrolet at AJ Foyt Racing:“Long Beach race weekend, I’m very excited. It’s my first time racing at Long Beach. I’ll be learning a new track. Very excited. It’s going to be an awesome atmosphere event. Historically, the team has done pretty well there. Just getting caught up to speed as quickly as I can, and pushing as hard as I can, and see if I can deliver a strong result.”
CHEVROLET ON THE STREETS OF LONG BEACHWins at Long Beach (since 2012): 52012 – Will Power2014 – Mike Conway2015 – Scott Dixon2016 – Simon Pagenaud2022 – Josef Newgarden
Number of Team Chevy Pole Awards at Long Beach (since 2012): 5 (2012, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2021)Chevrolet Driver with the Most Long Beach Pole Awards (since 2012): Helio Castroneves – 3 (2015, 2016, 2017)Number of Team Chevy Podiums at Long Beach (since 2012): 15Number of laps led by Team Chevy at Long Beach (since 2012): 300 2023 CHEVROLET BY THE NUMBERS184: NTT INDYCAR SERIES races as V6 engine supplier since 2012 return to INDYCAR. 107: Wins in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES since 2012. 121: Earned poles since 2012. 5: Chevrolet drivers have won five of the 12 races since 2012 on the 1.968-mile, 11-turn temporary street circuit in Long Beach, California.7: Manufacturer Championships since 2012. 7: Driver/entrant champions since 2012. 26: Wins by Will Power since 2012 – all with Chevrolet power – most of any driver with same manufacturer. 14: Consecutive seasons with at least one win by Will Power, including past 11 with Chevrolet power. 9: Wins from pole by Will Power with Chevrolet power since 2012, most by any driver. 44: Pole starts by Will Power since 2012 in a Chevrolet-powered car, most of any driver.*Will Power’s career total of 68 poles makes him the all-time pole winner in INDYCAR.

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