Shane van Gisbergen Will Drive No. 88 Chevrolet in NASCAR Cup Series Stephen Doran Will Serve as Team’s Crew Chief in 2025

CONCORD, NORTH CAROLINA. –What began as a one-off PROJECT91 race in 2023 and continued as a successful Xfinity Series campaign in 2024 will turn into a fulltime NASCAR Cup Series season in 2025 for New Zealander Shane van Gisbergen. Trackhouse Racing announced today that it has acquired a third charter for the three-time Supercars champion who will join Ross Chastain and Daniel Suárez in the team’s 2025 Cup Series lineup. “This is a big day in so many ways for Trackhouse Racing, Shane, Chevrolet and race fans around the world,” said Trackhouse Racing founder and owner Justin Marks. “This is an important step for our organization and it’s a credit to the men and women at Trackhouse Racing whose hard work and success the last few years has led to us expanding to three Cup teams in 2025.

“It’s also a big step up for Shane who took a chance on Trackhouse Racing, moved here from New Zealand and now joins the most competitive stock car racing series in the world. Everyone will get to watch one of the world’s racing superstars compete in the NASCAR Cup Series next year.”Van Gisbergen said his mission since leaving the Supercars Series has been to come to America and earn a place in the Cup Series. He has raced full-time with Kaulig Racing in the Xfinity Series in 2024, winning at Portland International Raceway, Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway and the Chicago Street Race. He’s also raced in four Cup Series races in 2024 with plans to run in seven more races. “This is what I have planned for and I am ready,” said the 35-year-old Auckland, New Zealand native. “I know there is a tough learning curve ahead, but the best way to learn is to go out and do it. I feel I have made progress running the Xfinity Series this year with Kaulig Racing and I can’t thank everyone there enough. I look forward to the Cup Series. Those drivers and teams are the best in the world and it will be an honor to be part of their races.”

Van Gisbergen’s Chevrolet will carry the number 88 in 2025. That car number has been driven to victory lane 76 times in NASCAR history by legends including Dale Earnhardt Jr., Darrell Waltrip, Dale Jarrett, Donnie Allison, Ricky Rudd, Rusty Wallace, Buddy Baker and others. Stephen Doran, 38, will serve as the No. 88 crew chief in 2025. Doran is in his first year as a NASCAR Cup Series crew chief working with driver Zane Smith on the No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet. The Butler, Pennsylvania native began his NASCAR career in 2006 at Petty Enterprises and worked as Kevin Harvick’s lead engineer at Stewart-Haas Racing from 2014 to 2023.

Trackhouse Racing will announce the No. 88’s sponsors in the upcoming weeks. The story of today’s announcement began in 2023 when Marks convinced Van Gisbergen to climb behind the wheel of Trackhouse’s PROJECT91 Chevrolet at the inaugural Chicago Street Race. Marks created PROJECT91 in 2022 to expand the organization’s global reach by fielding a Cup Series entry for renowned international racing drivers. 2007 Formula One World Champion Kimi Räikkönen raced for PROJECT91 at Watkins Glen (N.Y.) International in 2022 and at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas in 2023. Van Gisbergen, though popular around the world, was little known to most of the NASCAR audience despite a resume that includes Supercars Championships for Triple Eight Race Engineering in 2016, 2021 and 2022, plus 78 wins and 47 pole positions making him the fourth most successful driver in series history. He also won the Bathurst 1000 in 2020, 2022 and 2023. The NASCAR world took notice at Chicago in 2023 when he led nine laps and won the race by 1.259 seconds in overtime. Van Gisbergen became one of six foreign-born drivers to win a Cup Series race and the first driver since Johnny Rutherford in 1963 to win his first Cup Series start. He returned later in the season to finish 10th on the road course at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. “Shane is the type of driver we had in mind when we created PROJECT91,” said Marks who expects another PROJECT91 entry in 2025. “He took advantage of his opportunity and that experience in Chicago launched a whole new chapter in an already successful story.”Van Gisbergen signed a driver development agreement with Trackhouse Racing that led to a full-time Xfinity Series seat at Kaulig Racing in 2024 along with competing in a handful of Cup Series races. Trackhouse Racing made its debut in 2021 and with Suárez as a single car team housed at Richard Childress Racing in Welcome, North Carolina. After purchasing the NASCAR assets of Chip Ganassi Racing later that season it expanded to a two-car team in 2022 with Suárez and Chastain. In 232 races, Trackhouse has won seven races, posted 41 top-five and 78 top-10 finishes.

SHEPHERD, MT (August 23, 2024) – Seth Bergman’s two-month winless streak on the American Sprint Car Series National Tour came to an end Friday night when he took the checkers on the opening night of the Harvey Ostermiller Memorial at Big Sky Speedway.

“I’ve run second to Sam [Hafertepe Jr.] so many times, I get tired of looking at the back of that thing,” Bergman said. “It’s just a very rewarding feeling when you’re close and you’re in a championship hunt, the guy you’re racing is winning and you’re right there and you’re running second a lot. To finally cross over that threshold again and get a win, it feels really really good.”

Bergman’s fourth-place Dash run put him right next to the No. 15H on row two to start the Feature, with Jake Bubak and Hank Davis out front. Bubak and Davis swapped lanes through Turns 1 and 2 on the start, with Bubak riding the top lane to the early lead after one lap. While Bubak paced the field, Hafertepe looked to be a man on a mission once again, as he immediately got around Davis for second on the bottom in Turn 4.

One lap later, Bergman followed Hafertepe through to take the third spot away from Davis. Matt Covington then tried to send him back another spot, but the two made contact in Turn 2 and Davis went flipping over the banking to bring out the red flag.

When the race went back green, Bubak was off like a rocket and grabbed a half-straightaway lead over Hafertepe. He would only get to enjoy his advantage for five laps though, as Andrew Deal’s spin on Lap 9 reset the field once again.

Bubak’s restart was a mirror image of the prior one, but the battle was on behind him for the runner-up spot. Bergman looked low in Turn 1, pulled in front exiting Turn 2 and then defended against a challenge from Hafertepe on the low side of Turn 3 to hold onto the spot.

Once he cleared Hafertepe, Bergman went to work on running down Bubak, and on Lap 15 the No. 23 car made the winning move. The slower car of Zach Blurton blocked Bubak’s progress on the bottom in Turn 3, and Bergman seized his opportunity to dart to the top and take command of the race with 10 to go.

The spinning car of Austyn Gossel brought the yellow out seconds after Bergman made his move, but Bubak was unable to reclaim the lead on the restart. From there, Bergman went unchallenged in the final segment to take his fifth Series win of the year and his first since the Speedweek finale at Tri-State Speedway in June.

“I’ve been doing it long enough to know to just take a deep breath, take [the track] for what it is,” Bergman said. “There’s still an opportunity to win a race, so that’s kind of where my mind was. Just taking it for what it was and finding an opportunity to win the race. We had a really good race car, and it was able to make the right moves at the right times.”

Bubak’s victory in last year’s Ostermiller Memorial under the Frontier Region banner proved that he knows how to get the job done at Big Sky, and another podium run against the National Tour further confirmed his speed in Billings.

“Finishing between Sam and Seth, they’re the two dominant cars every year I feel like,” Bubak said. “I think we’re in a good position.”

Hafertepe’s third-place effort snapped a five-race win streak in full-points events dating back to Tulsa Speedway on June 28. While he was disappointed to miss out on the Friday trophy, he knows what he has to do to be in contention come Feature time on Saturday with $12,012 on the line.

“On a normal racetrack, I think we’ve got a really good race car,” Hafertepe said. “Tonight obviously wasn’t a normal racetrack. So we’ll see. There’s not a lot we can take from tonight and use, but we can use little small segments. Like in Qualifying, we can use something out of that. We can use little small segments throughout the night to try and get better.”

Jason Martin finished fourth for his third-straight top-six effort, while Landon Britt came home fifth for his first top five since 81 Speedway on July 20.

The Triple X Hard Charger Award went to Frontier Region star Trever Kirkland, who made the Feature through the Last Chance Showdown before driving from 20th up to 12th in the main event.

UP NEXT: The National Tour returns to Big Sky Speedway on Saturday night for the $12,012-to-win conclusion to the Harvey Ostermiller Memorial. Tickets are available online here or at the track on race day. Can’t make it? Watch every lap live on DIRTVision.

Feature (25 Laps): 1. 23-Seth Bergman[4]; 2. 27B-Jake Bubak[1]; 3. 15H-Sam Hafertepe Jr[3]; 4. 36-Jason Martin[6]; 5. 10-Landon Britt[8]; 6. 45X-Kyler Johnson[10]; 7. 55B-Brandon Anderson[12]; 8. 2JR-Kelly Miller[11]; 9. 21-DJ Brink[7]; 10. 14-Blayne Brink[16]; 11. 95-Matt Covington[5]; 12. 37-Trever Kirkland[20]; 13. 6G-Bryan Gossel[15]; 14. 5H-Harli White[14]; 15. 72-Phil Dietz[22]; 16. 15D-Andrew Deal[18]; 17. 9K-Kory Wermling[13]; 18. 01-Rich Bailey[17]; 19. 938-Bradley Fezard[21]; 20. 28-Joe Perry[23]; 21. 2J-Zach Blurton[19]; 22. 16G-Austyn Gossel[9]; 23. 2C-Hank Davis[2]

The Jason Johnson Racing driver holds on to win on the night the World of Outlaws honored Eloy Gutierrez

GRAND FORKS, ND (August 23, 2024) – There looked to be no stopping Carson Macedo on Friday night at River Cities Speedway.

The Californian lined up sixth for the 40-lap finale with a stacked five names ahead in the lineup, but it didn’t matter. None of them would get in Macedo’s way on his charge toward Victory Lane.

Macedo moved the Jason Johnson Racing No. 41 wherever he wanted to march forward. After starting on row three, he snatched the lead from Michael “Buddy” Kofoid on Lap 19. A fierce battle ensued for the next few laps before Macedo secured the spot. He then picked his way through heavy traffic and survived Kofoid’s final surge to grab the win.

An emotional celebration followed as the evening was all about honoring Eloy Gutierrez who passed away on Monday. Gutierrez helped implement the use of electronic timing and scoring, evolving Sprint Car racing to a new level. He dedicated many years of his life to the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars. But most importantly, he was one of the kindest humans to ever grace the racing community. Gutierrez treated everyone he met with kindness and as a friend.

“I just want to give a huge shoutout to Eloy,” Macedo said. “We miss him very much. It just sucks not having him here. He was a guy that was a friend to you no matter who you were. You felt like Eloy was your best friend because he made it a point to make you feel that way every time you saw him. I know we’re going to miss him very much.”

Macedo’s win bumped his career tally up to 40 with The Greatest Show on Dirt. He became the 21st driver in Series history to reach the milestone. The victory was his second at River Cities, making him the eighth with at least a pair of checkered flags at the Fargo, ND bullring. River Cities also became the 10th track where he’s won at least twice with the World of Outlaws.

Macedo might’ve made the drive to the front look easy, but it by no means was a simple cruise to the lead on the exciting quarter mile that is River Cities Speedway.

When the green flag dropped on the 40-lapper, it was second starting Kofoid getting the jump on the pole sitter Haudenschild to lead the first lap. Kofoid established command in the early going as the Roth Motorsports No. 83 pulled ahead of the field.

It didn’t take long for Macedo to begin charging, and right before the halfway point of the race he grabbed second when Haudenschild got tripped up on the cushion in Turns 1 and 2. Right after Macedo secured the spot the yellow flag flew for the first time.

The caution set up a pivotal restart as Kofoid opted for the bottom and gave Macedo the top for the double-file formation. Macedo took advantage by ripping by Kofoid in Turns 1 and 2 when the green flag brought the action back to life.

Kofoid fought back a few laps later as he got a strong run down the back straightaway and slid Macedo into Turn 3. Then during the next lap Macedo returned the favor as he pulled off a Turn 3 slider to regain the lead. 

The laps clicked away quickly in the second half of the race. Kofoid and Haudenschild gave it everything they had in their hopes to catch Macedo, but it simply wasn’t enough. Both closed in on the final lap, but Macedo held on comfortably on his way to his fifth World of Outlaws victory of the season. 

“I started to kind of second guess what I was doing there at the end,” Macedo admitted. “I started to kind of second guess what I was doing there at the end. I was starting to get a little free up top in (Turns) 3 and 4, but if I got my wing back a little bit, I’d get tight other places. I kind of found a happy medium there and moved around just enough. I could see him (Kofoid) exiting to my inside off of (Turn) 4 a little bit, so I tried the bottom. It was really slick on entry, but it was really center off, so I could see where he was using that and making up a little bit of ground. It was slick up top in (Turns) 3 and 4 as well.”

Buddy Kofoid settled for runner-up after leading 19 laps. It gave the Penngrove, CA native 13 podiums for the year with the World of Outlaws. After how the restart unfolded, Kofoid found himself second guessing his choice to take the bottom groove on the racetrack.

“I knew I obviously took the lead on the top on the initial start,” Kofoid said. “But it had been almost 20 laps since to where I figured the middle had kind of slicked up just enough to where I could take off on the bottom. But I just needed to be on the outside on the restart. Carson and the 41 guys did a good job. To be honest I felt like I could still pace them in their dirty air. There were times I felt like I was faster. Everyone is just hauling ass here. They did a good job. I just made a mistake, and it cost me.”

Rounding out the top three in the Stenhouse Jr.-Marshall Racing No. 17 was Sheldon Haudenschild. The hunger continues to grow for a River Cities victory for the team NOS Energy Drink driver as he looks for his first win at the quarter mile.

“We kind of got going there towards the end,” Haudenschild explained. “We were just kind of hanging on there at the beginning and tried to burn some fuel off and just get rolling. (Kyle) Ripper and the boys did a great job all night. I rolled the bottom good there the last two laps or so and kind of got my nose and really threaded the needle with the one lapper. I really wanted to get a win for Eloy, but we’ve got tomorrow and we’ll keep fighting.”

Giovanni Scelzi and Donny Schatz completed the top five.

Tim Estenson earned the KSE Racing Hard Charger with a 24th to 16th drive.

Sheldon Haudenschild claimed his sixth Simpson Quick Time of 2024 and the 35th of his career in Sea Foam Qualifying.

NOS Energy Drink Heats One, Three, and Four belonged to Sheldon Haudenschild, Bill Balog, and Buddy Kofoid. Milton Hershey School Heat Two went to Logan Schuchart.

The Toyota Racing Dash was won by Sheldon Haudenschild.

Scott Bogucki topped the Micro-Lite Last Chance Showdown.

The Smith Titanium Brake Systems Break of the Race went to Justin Henderson.

UP NEXT: The World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars make their only appearance at West Fargo, ND’s Red River Valley Speedway on Saturday, August 24. For tickets, CLICK HERE.

If you can’t make it to the track, catch every lap live on DIRTVision.

FEATURE RESULTS:

NOS Energy Drink Feature (40 Laps): 1. 41-Carson Macedo[6]; 2. 83-Michael Kofoid[2]; 3. 17-Sheldon Haudenschild[1]; 4. 18-Giovanni Scelzi[3]; 5. 15-Donny Schatz[11]; 6. 2-David Gravel[7]; 7. 1S-Logan Schuchart[4]; 8. 23-Garet Williamson[8]; 9. 3Z-Brock Zearfoss[9]; 10. 17B-Bill Balog[5]; 11. 64-Andy Pake[13]; 12. 13-Mark Dobmeier[10]; 13. 6-Max Guilford[19]; 14. 7S-Landon Crawley[16]; 15. 70-Kraig Kinser[22]; 16. 14T-Tim Estenson[24]; 17. 24T-Christopher Thram[15]; 18. 17GP-Justin Henderson[12]; 19. 17Z-Zach Omdahl[18]; 20. 8-Jack Croaker[14]; 21. 10-Scott Bogucki[21]; 22. 11M-Brendan Mullen[17]; 23. 26-Blake Egeland[20]; 24. O-Nick Omdahl[23]

For complete results, CLICK HERE.

“Squirrel” has shown improvements since a summer reset with the World of Outlaws 

CONCORD, NC (August 9, 2024) – Brian Shirley’s 2024 World of Outlaws CASE Construction Equipment Late Models campaign can be summed up in a tell of two tales. 

Before the June Heartland Grand Tour, Shirley only managed three top-10s, sat outside of the top-10 in Series points, and held an average finish of 17.1 through 11 races. 

Entering the mid-point of August, the Chatham, IL driver flipped the script by switching his car’s chassis to Longhorn, won his first Series race of 2024 at North Dakota’s River Cities Speedway and earned three times as many top-10 finishes (12). His average finish improved to 8.4 to go to eighth in the season standings. 

While Shirley knows he can finish the year stronger than how it began, it’s all in an effort to build his team’s program back to full comfort behind the No. 3S Bob Cullen Racing Late Model to chase a championship in 2025. 

“The season has gone by so quickly,” Shirley said. “Truthfully, the goal when Bob (Cullen) wanted to switch cars was to start working towards 2025. We’ve set goals within the team and ourselves on how we want to end the year and that’s what we’re trying to do is strive for the goals that we set to hopefully put ourselves in a position to be in contention to have more wins and go for a championship.” 

Shirley’s team restarted from scratch with the mid-season change in cars, which brought a new form of motivation that paid dividends through remarkable top-10 finishes in the crown jewel events at Deer Creek Speedway, Fairbury Speedway, and Cedar Lake Speedway.  

“It’s been a compilation of dedication to the team,” he said. “The guys have kept working hard at it. Switching cars brought some new life to the team. We’re happy that (Bob) was willing to flip the team from one way to another, so we’ve been able to find what I need and these new race cars.” 

Staying inside the Prairie State for two days of racing at Highland Speedway and Spoon River Speedway brings Shirley to tracks he has experience at before but will have to work off a new notebook with the new chassis. 

Shirley won at Spoon River with the DIRTcar Summer Nationals in 2019 – the season that saw him win his third of four Summer Nationals titles. At Highland, Shirley’s best finish was a third-place finish with the Hell Tour in 2014. 

“Them (Illinois) tracks are right in my backyard,” Shirley said. “We’ve raced at Spoon River a lot. Highland, not so much, maybe once every couple of years for Summer Nationals. All in all, it’s one of those deals that we’re going there for the first time with this car and with the World of Outlaws. The notes that we did have there are not really as useful. I’ve got a good grasp on how those tracks race and how they change, but it’ll be the first time with everyone else. 

After the two nights in Illinois, the Series completes the trio of races with a two-night debut at Maquoketa Speedway. While Shirley picked up a top-10 at the track in March during the Nippy 50, he’ll have to re-learn how to get around the facility to his liking with the new car. 

“We ran at Maquoketa earlier in the year,” Shirley said. “It helped us get an understanding of the place, but we were racing with the old car. Honestly, every race going into the end of the season is a new experience with the car, but the new situation will help build the notebook, so we know where to get better for the future.” 

Shirley suits up behind the wheel of the No. 3S once more in Illinois and Iowa with the Series at the trio of debuting tracks at Highland Speedway (Aug. 14), Spoon River Speedway (Aug. 15), and two nights of the Hawkeye 100 at Maquoketa Speedway (Aug. 16-17). 

CLICK HERE to get $5 off your ticket for Spoon River Speedway and Maquoketa Speedway using Shirley’s code “SHIRLEY3S” at checkout. 

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (August 9, 2024) – History is now mere days away. On Sunday, August 11, the stars of Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, will take the Grand National Championship into the Streets of Downtown Sturgis, South Dakota, for the inaugural Arrowhead Brass Sturgis TT presented by Rick Ware Racing & The CAT Rental Store. The innovative event, developed and promoted in collaboration with AFT Events, Øuterkind and the City of Sturgis, reconnects the city to its legacy of motorcycle racing that dates back to the very origins of the fabled Sturgis Motorcycle Racing, now in the midst of its 84th edition. Equal parts heritage and modern-day spectacle, the Arrowhead Brass Sturgis TT will not just honor the past by way of the present but also look to the future with the highly anticipated introduction of the all-new AFT AdventureTrackers™ class. However, the season’s headlining story continues to be the quest of reigning Mission AFT SuperTwins champion Jared Mees (No. 1 Rogers Racing/SDI Racing/Indian Motorcycle FTR750) to become the first rider in the seven-decade history of the series to claim a tenth Grand National Championship. That mission came even more clearly into focus this past Tuesday night when Mees moved to the top of the points race for the first time this season. A victory this weekend would push him that much closer to the unprecedented achievement, but it will not come easily. When the series last did battle on a hybrid TT circuit that combined dirt and asphalt at the 2021 Atlanta Super TT, JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) was fastest in every practice and qualifying session, won both his heat and the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge, and ran away with the Main Event victory by several seconds. Despite spending the bulk of his season racing a Tytlers Cycle BMW Superbike, Beach is already back at the top of his dirt track game as evidenced by his runner-up finish at the Peoria TT and a first-career Half-Mile victory at Black Hills Speedway. The fact that Beach was beaten at all in Peoria underlines the fact that Briar Bauman (No. 3 Rick Ware Racing/KTM/Parts Plus KTM 790 Duke) is a rider to watch this weekend as well. Besides being a rider with the all-around talents to excel at the circuit, he’s also one who will be looking to make amends coming off a difficult Main Event in Rapid City. But perhaps no rider is more in need of a big day than Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750), who currently ranks second to Mees in the championship race. While TTs have never been Robinson’s forte, the Mission Roof Systems rider has improved in the discipline, and the novel nature of the circuit provides ample opportunity to shock the world. Pit up against a 17-point disadvantage with four rounds remaining, Robinson would be well served to put riders between himself and Mees. Fortunately for his championship hopes, Beach isn’t the only wild card with the potential to run up front; Multi-time TT winner Sammy Halbert (No. 69 OnlyFans/Martin Trucking/ Castro Yamaha MT-07) is back in the mix following a run of hugely impressive rides earlier this season. Several series regulars could also play the role of spoiler, including the likes of Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 JMC Motorsports/Fairway Ford Ohio Indian FTR750), Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing Indian FTR750), Brandon Price (No. 92 Memphis Shades/Sody Ent/OTBR Yamaha MT-07), and Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650), not to mention red-hot rookies Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Mission Foods/Zanotti Racing KTM 790 Duke) and Declan Bender (No. 70 GOMR/BriggsAuto.com/Martin Trucking Indian FTR750), who both claimed maiden premier-class top fives earlier this week. Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER Double defending Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER king Kody Kopp (No. 1 Rick Ware Racing/Parts Plus KTM 450 SX-F) has a chance to secure one of the few remaining accomplishments that has thus far eluded him during his record-breaking stint in the class. Now holding either sole possession or a share of the all-time lead in championships as well as career, single-season, Half-Mile, and Short Track victories, Kopp has yet to stand atop the podium at a TT. Doing so this Sunday would also tilt the balance of power back in his direction after seeing the last four races go to his primary rivals, Chase Saathoff (No. 88 JPG Motorsports Honda CRF450R) and Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F), who figure to once again be Kopp’s biggest threats this weekend. Tarren Santero (No. 75 Vinson Construction/P&M Motorcycles Honda CRF450R), Evan Renshaw(No. 265 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), and Jared Lowe (No. 63 BigR/Little Debbie Racing Honda CRF450R) were next best in Peoria. However, those results should be considered, at best, a rough guide of what may transpire this weekend, with the Arrowhead Brass Sturgis TT promising to be a different beast entirely. Meanwhile, Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R) and James Ott (No. 19 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450) will resume their fight for fourth in the championship hunt and hope to do so by adding to their seasons’ tally of podium finishes. AFT AdventureTrackers One of the fastest growing and fiercely competitive segments of the global motorcycle market will take their respective claims of supremacy to the Streets of Downtown Sturgis with the long-awaited debut of the AFT AdventureTrackers. And as a showcase for Dual Adventure bikes specifically designed to dominate any and all terrain they are confronted with, the hybrid TT course couldn’t possibly be more perfectly suited for the task at hand. The AFT AdventureTrackers class has been designed around production-based race bikes that are as close to street stock as is feasible. And in turn, an incredibly decorated and diverse collection of riders has been recruited to demonstrate exactly what these versatile machines are capable of. Saddlemen Race Development will field a Daytona 200 legend and big-bike specialist in teammates Danny Eslick (No. 64 Saddlemen Race Development Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250) and Frankie Garcia (No. 14 Saddlemen Race Development Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250). Meanwhile, Memphis Shades/Vinson Honda comes armed with a championship-winning dirt tracker in Dan Bromley (No. 62 Sody Enterprises/Memphis Shades/Vinson Honda Africa Twin). And Triumph has its bases well covered with big-name riders hailing from across dirt track, world enduro, stunt riding, and Superhooligan in Sammy Halbert (No. 69 Triumph Racing Triumph Tiger 1200), Robby McLendon (No. 169 Triumph Racing Triumph Tiger 1200), Ivan Cervantes (No. 25 Triumph Racing Triumph Tiger 1200), Nick ‘Apex’ Brocha (No. 777 Triumph Racing Triumph Tiger 1200), and Kole King (No. 80 Triumph Racing/Triumph Indianapolis Triumph Tiger 1200). Which style will prove superior for these machines and this course? That’s a fascinating question that won’t be answered until the AdventureTrackers’ rubber hits the road (and dirt) for the first time in history this Sunday. Due to its setting in Downtown Sturgis on the final day of the 84th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, race fans will obviously have a huge number of off-track attractions at their disposal. Included among them are the Progressive Insurance Sturgis TT Demo & Display Lot, numerous vendors, expansive food and beverage options, and live music from the Rally Point stage performed throughout the day by country music star and The Voice alum Joey Green. Attendance for Sunday, August 11’s inaugural Arrowhead Brass Sturgis TT presented by Rick Ware Racing & The CAT Rental Store is free of charge. Fans also have a unique opportunity to witness history in comfort from ideal vantage points offered by legendary Sturgis Main Street bars Loud American and One-Eyed Jacks Saloon. These Arrowhead Brass Sturgis TT VIP Experiences are available for $175 at https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/sturgis-tt-112510. Practice will start at 2:00 p.m. ET (11:0 a.m. PT) with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 4:45 p.m. ET (1:45 p.m. PT). You can catch the livestream of all the weekend’s racing activities on FloRacing. Motorsports fans can subscribe to FloRacing to enjoy over 1,000 live motorsports events in 2024. FloSports is available by visiting https://flosports.link/aft or by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire and Chromecast. The Arrowhead Brass Sturgis TT pre-race show will air on FS2 on Saturday, August 17, at 1:00 p.m. ET (10:00 a.m. PT), immediately followed by the race broadcast on FOX at 2:00 p.m. ET (11:00 a.m. PT). The complete two-hour pre-race and race package will then re-air on FS1 later that evening, starting at 9:00 p.m. ET (6:00 p.m. PT). For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.

WALTON, KY (August 8, 2024) – Jonathan Davenport and Ricky Thornton Jr. won the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series preliminary main events on Thursday night at Florence Speedway. Davenport won his 79th career Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series event, pocketing $6,000 for the first 25-lap race leading the entire distance over Devin Moran, Drake Troutman, Tyler Erb, and Josh Rice. Thornton went to Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Victory Lane for the 12th time in 2024 as he led the final 17 circuits to win the second 25-lap main event that also paid $6,000. Bobby Pierce tracked down Thornton late in the race to come home in second. Tim McCreadie was third followed by Hudson O’Neal, and Kyle Bronson. In Lucas Oil Victory Lane for the fifth time in 2024 and for the first time since June 20 at Lernerville, Davenport was 2.417 seconds ahead of Moran at the finish. “It’s a big relief really. I have not liked my car lately in the features. It drove well there honestly; I wished I would have started further back where I could’ve seen where my car was better or worse at. We are just going have to go back and watch the video and see where was better or where we were worse at. I think we will see more of a transition in the race Saturday around I would say the mid-point of the race. We will just have to wait and see. The biggest takeaway is we are finally in victory lane. That’s huge for us and our race team.” Moran, who vaulted past Davenport in the championship points after winning the Silver Dollar Nationals at Huset’s battled with Davenport early on in the race as he held the second spot the entire 25-lap distance. “I was real good on that start. We had a little bit softer tire than he did. I don’t think we could have done anything tonight with him. He was really, really good. I tried moving up, but I couldn’t really run up top. I started to move around, but I couldn’t do a whole lot. We had a second place tonight so I really can’t complain.” Troutman earned the Todd Steel Buildings Hard Charger of the Race as he came from 14th to round out the Big River Steel Podium in third in his Florence Speedway debut. “We took last weekend off and just went through this car really good. This is a new Jay Dickens engine under the hood. So, for the first time running here we gained some valuable experience that will hopefully help us the rest of the weekend.” The winner’s Lance and Darla Landers, Double L Motorsports, Longhorn Chassis is powered by a Cornett Racing Engine and sponsored by Nutrien Ag Solutions, Dyna Gro Seed, Lucas Oil Products, BobCat of Batesville, Bilstein Shocks, ASC Warranty, Mark Martin Automotive, Mega Plumbing of the Carolinas, and VP Fuels. Completing the top ten in the Group (A) A-Main were Jimmy Owens, Ethan Dotson, Dale McDowell, Tanner English, and Ross Bailes.

Thornton’s win was his first for Koehler Motorsports and their newly named crew chief, Chris Madden. “To come out the first night like we did; we had a lot of speed coming out of the box a few weeks ago. We didn’t have the finish we wanted at Huset’s, we came back home and put a new body on the car. I tore it up a little bit there. I felt like I was almost running too hard trying to get my tires to go. I know we went harder than most of them. I thought Nick [Hoffman] had a really good pace and then he really started to slow down going into three. I knew I needed to get a good run down the backstraightaway, and I was going to slide him and hopefully I could take off after I did that.” Pierce, who started ninth, made a late race charge at the end as he came up 2.080 seconds short of the win. “It was hard racing,” said of his battles during the race with Jason Jameson and Cory Hedgcock. “We have raced a lot here. I don’t know he [Jameson] knows how to smash the gas pedal I will give him that. He does a good job getting up there early, but we were just coming through, and I had the faster car, and I got under him and slid him. It just got tight up there. Me and Hedgecock had a little contact when we went three-wide, and I apologize for that. I got into his right front.” “We were trying to get back to the front, we were really fast, so I had to make the moves in 25 laps. There wasn’t a lot of time to get it done. I made a big screwup down there I hit that cushion so hard and man it just about finished our night off. I just about lost eight positions. So, it was fun trying to track RTJ back down. I would have loved to see a caution, but the racetrack was awesome.” McCreadie rounded out the Big River Steel Podium with his third-place finish. “It cost us a couple of spots there at the end when I got up in that cushion in four. I know it’s not victory lane where we all want to be, but we are definitely improving. It’s getting better every time we hit the track.” The winner’s Bobby and Jessica Koehler, Koehler Motorsports, Longhorn Chassis is powered by a Cornett Racing Engine and sponsored by Capital Waste, Traffic Control Safety Services, Ultimate Towing and Recovery, Ultimate Motorsports and RV Park. Rogers Realty and Auction Company, inc., Five-Star Metal Buildings, Coltman Farms, Hoker Trucking, and D&E Outside Services. Completing the top ten in the second A-Main was Cory Hedgecock, Brandon Overton, Nick Hoffman, Garrett Alberson, and Carson Ferguson. Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Race Summary 42nd Annual Sunoco North/South 100 – Presented by Lucas Oil – Prelim Night 1Thursday, August 8, 2024Florence Speedway – Union, KY Allstar Performance Time TrialsFast Time Group A: Jonathan Davenport / 15.410 seconds (overall)Fast Time Group B: Jason Jameson / 15.609 seconds Penske Shocks Heat Race #1 – Group A Finish (8 Laps, Top 5 Transfer): 1. 49-Jonathan Davenport[1]; 2. 20-Jimmy Owens[3]; 3. 17D-Zack Dohm[2]; 4. 1T-Tyler Erb[5]; 5. D48-Derek Groomer[6]; 6. 18P-Gray Parton[4]; 7. 11T-Tyler Collins[7]; 8. 5N-Dustin Nobbe[8] Summit Racing Products Heat Race #2 – Group A Finish (8 Laps, Top 5 Transfer): 1. 99-Devin Moran[2]; 2. 74-Ethan Dotson[1]; 3. 87-Ross Bailes[3]; 4. 96-Tanner English[4]; 5. 1G-Devin Gilpin[5]; 6. 49B-Billy Green[7]; 7. 7R-Brad Rickels[6]; 8. 8-Curt Addison[8] Earnhardt Technologies Heat Race #3 – Group A Finish (8 Laps, Top 5 Transfer): 1. 11R-Josh Rice[2]; 2. 17M-Dale McDowell[1]; 3. 99B-Boom Briggs[4]; 4. 7T-Drake Troutman[3]; 5. 17SS-Brenden Smith[6]; 6. 19M-Spencer Hughes[5]; 7. H22-Brandon Hardgrove[7]; 8. (DNS) 11-Calvin Carlton Simpson Race Products Heat Race #4 – Group A Finish (8 Laps, Top 5 Transfer): 1. 111-Max Blair[2]; 2. 79-Donald McIntosh[3]; 3. G4-Trent Ivey[1]; 4. 157-Mike Marlar[4]; 5. 38-Derek Fisher[5]; 6. 93-Cory Lawler[6]; 7. 90-Michael LeFevers[7] Penske Shocks Heat Race #1 – Group B Finish (8 Laps, Top 5 Transfer): 1. 20RT-Ricky Thornton Jr[2]; 2. 12-Jason Jameson[1]; 3. 32P-Bobby Pierce[3]; 4. 97C-Michael Chilton[4]; 5. 93X-Zak Blackwood[5]; 6. D6-Dustin Linville[6]; 7. 21-Robby Hensley[7]; 8. 6-Clay Harris[8] Summit Racing Products Heat Race #2 – Group B Finish (8 Laps, Top 5 Transfer): 1. 76-Brandon Overton[1]; 2. 23-Cory Hedgecock[2]; 3. 71-Hudson O’Neal[3]; 4. 4T-Tripp Gerrald[5]; 5. 7-Ross Robinson[6]; 6. 8M-Dillon McCowan[4]; 7. 18-Trevor Landrum[7] Earnhardt Technologies Heat Race #3 – Group B Finish (8 Laps, Top 5 Transfer): 1. 9-Nick Hoffman[2]; 2. 58-Garrett Alberson[1]; 3. 18D-Daulton Wilson[3]; 4. 71C-RJ Conley[4]; 5. 2-Tyler Stevens[5]; 6. 29J-Jordan Wever[6]; 7. 29-Clint Keenan[7]; 8. 99J-Donnie Jeschke[8] Simpson Race Products Heat Race #4 – Group B Finish (8 Laps, Top 5 Transfer): 1. 1-Tim McCreadie[1]; 2. 114-Jordan Koehler[2]; 3. 40B-Kyle Bronson[3]; 4. 93F-Carson Ferguson[4]; 5. 17-Blake Creech[5]; 6. 63-Austin Lay[6]; 7. 3:16-Mike Bargo[7] Fast Shafts B-Main Race #1 – Group A Finish (10 Laps, Top 4 Transfer): 1. 19M-Spencer Hughes[2]; 2. 11T-Tyler Collins[5]; 3. H22-Brandon Hardgrove[6]; 4. 5N-Dustin Nobbe[9]; 5. 7R-Brad Rickels[7]; 6. 49B-Billy Green[3]; 7. 18P-Gray Parton[1]; 8. 93-Cory Lawler[4]; 9. 8-Curt Addison[10]; 10. 90-Michael LeFevers[8]; 11. (DNS) 11-Calvin Carlton UNOH B-Main Race #1 – Group B Finish (10 Laps, Top 4 Transfer): 1. 29J-Jordan Wever[2]; 2. D6-Dustin Linville[1]; 3. 21-Robby Hensley[5]; 4. 8M-Dillon McCowan[3]; 5. 18-Trevor Landrum[7]; 6. 29-Clint Keenan[6]; 7. 63-Austin Lay[4]; 8. 3:16-Mike Bargo[8]; 9. (DNS) 6-Clay Harris; 10. (DNS) 99J-Donnie Jeschke 42nd Annual Sunoco North/South 100 Prelim Night 1 Group A Feature Finish (25 Laps): Pos – Start – Car # – Competitor – Hometown – Pay1 – 1 – 49 – Jonathan Davenport – Blairsville, GA – $6,0002 – 3 – 99 – Devin Moran – Dresden, OH – $3,0003 – 14 – 7T – Drake Troutman – Hyndman, PA – $2,0004 – 13 – 1T – Tyler Erb – New Waverly, TX – $1,2505 – 2 – 11R – Josh Rice – Crittenden, KY – $1,0006 – 5 – 20 – Jimmy Owens – Newport, TN – $9007 – 7 – 74 – Ethan Dotson – Bakersfield, CA – $8508 – 9 – 17D – Zack Dohm – Cross Lanes, WV – $8009 – 15 – 96 – Tanner English – Benton, KY – $75010 – 11 – 87 – Ross Bailes – Clover, SC – $70011 – 6 – 17M – Dale McDowell – Chickamauga, GA – $65012 – 19 – 1G – Devin Gilpin – Columbus, IN – $60013 – 12 – G4 – Trent Ivey – Union, SC – $55014 – 10 – 99B – Boom Briggs – Bear Lake, PA – $50015 – 17 – D48 – Derek Groomer – Bloomington, IN – $50016 – 20 – 38 – Derek Fisher – Olympia, KY – $50017 – 22 – 11T – Tyler Collins – North Vernon, IN – $50018 – 18 – 17SS – Brenden Smith – Dade City, FL – $50019 – 23 – H22 – Brandon Hardgrove – Burnside, KY – $50020 – 21 – 19M – Spencer Hughes – Meridian, MS – $50021 – 24 – 5N – Dustin Nobbe – Batesville, IN – $50022 – 4 – 111 – Max Blair – Centerville, PA – $50023 – 8 – 79 – Donald McIntosh – Dawsonville, GA – $50024 – 16 – 157 – Mike Marlar – Winfield, TN – $500 42nd Annual Sunoco North/South 100 Prelim Night 1 Group B Feature Finish (25 Laps):Pos – Start – Car # – Competitor – Hometown – Pay1 – 1 – 20RT – Ricky Thornton, Jr. – Martinsville, IN – $6,0002 – 9 – 32P – Bobby Pierce – Oakwood, IL – $3,0003 – 4 – 1 – Tim McCreadie – Watertown, NY – $2,0004 – 11 – 71 – Hudson O’Neal – Martinsville, IN – $1,2505 – 12 – 40B – Kyle Bronson – Brandon, FL – $1,0006 – 7 – 23 – Cory Hedgecock – Loudon, TN – $9007 – 3 – 76 – Brandon Overton – Evans, GA – $8508 – 2 – 9 – Nick Hoffman – Mooresville, NC – $8009 – 6 – 58 – Garrett Alberson – Las Cruces, NM – $75010 – 16 – 93F – Carson Ferguson – Lincolnton, NC – $70011 – 10 – 18D – Daulton Wilson – Fayetteville, NC – $65012 – 15 – 4T – Tripp Gerrald – Versailles, KY – $60013 – 14 – 71C – RJ Conley – Wheelersburg, OH – $55014 – 22 – D6 – Dustin Linville – Lancaster, KY – $50015 – 18 – 2 – Tyler Stevens – Paragould, AR – $50016 – 24 – 8M – Dillon McCowan – Urbana, MO – $50017 – 19 – 7 – Ross Robinson – Georgetown, DE – $50018 – 23 – 21 – Robby Hensley – Walton, KY – $50019 – 8 – 114 – Jordan Koehler – Mount Airy, NC – $50020 – 20 – 17 – Blake Creech – Richmond, IN – $50021 – 17 – 93X – Zak Blackwood – Columbus, IN – $50022 – 21 – 29J – Jordan Wever – Bloomington, IN – $50023 – 13 – 97C – Michael Chilton – Salvisa, KY – $50024 – 5 – 12 – Jason Jameson – Lawrenceburg, IN – $500 Race Statistics  Entrants: 61Group A Victory Fuel Pole Sitter: Jonathan DavenportGroup B Victory Fuel Pole Sitter: Ricky Thornton, Jr.Group A Lap Leaders: Jonathan Davenport (Laps 1-25)Group B Lap Leaders: Nick Hoffman (Laps 1-9); Ricky Thornton, Jr. (Laps 10-25)Group A Wieland Feature Winner: Jonathan DavenportGroup B Wieland Feature Winner: Ricky Thornton, Jr.Arizona Sport Shirts Crown Jewel Cup Feature Winner: n/aBrandon Ford TV Challenge Feature Winner: n/aGroup A Margin of Victory: 2.417 seconds Group B Margin of Victory: 2.080 seconds Group A Dave Warren Powersports Cautions: Zack Dohm, Boom Briggs, Mike Marlar, Dustin Nobbe (Initial Start); Mike Marlar, Donald McIntosh (Lap 1); Max Blair, Dale McDowell (Lap 1 Restart); Spencer Hughes (Lap 12)Group B Dave Warren Powersports Cautions: Jason Jameson (Lap 8); Blake Creech, Zak Blackwood, Michael Chilton (Lap 8 Restart)Series Provisionals: n/aFast Time Provisional: n/aSeries Emergency Provisionals: n/aTrack Provisional: n/aGroup A Big River Steel Podium Top 3: Jonathan Davenport, Devin Moran, Drake TroutmanGroup B Big River Steel Podium Top 3: Ricky Thornton, Jr., Bobby Pierce, Tim McCreadieGroup A Penske Shocks Top 5: Jonathan Davenport, Devin Moran, Drake Troutman, Tyler Erb, Josh RiceGroup B Penske Shocks Top 5: Ricky Thornton, Jr., Bobby Pierce, Tim McCreadie, Hudson O’Neal, Kyle BronsonGroup A Todd Steel Buildings Hard Charger of the Race: Drake Troutman (Advanced 11 Positions) Group B Todd Steel Buildings Hard Charger of the Race: Dustin Linville (Advanced 8 Positions) Group A PEM 4th Place Feature: Tyler ErbGroup B PEM 4th Place Feature: Hudson O’NealGroup A Wilwood Brakes Lucky 7th Place Feature: Ethan DotsonGroup B Wilwood Brakes Lucky 7th Place Feature: Brandon OvertonGroup A Deatherage Opticians Lucky 13th Place Feature: Trent IveyGroup B Deatherage Opticians Lucky 13th Place Feature: RJ ConleyGroup A MD3 Most Laps Led: Jonathan Davenport (25 Laps) Group B MD3 Most Laps Led: Ricky Thornton, Jr. (16 Laps) Group A Sunoco Race for Gas Highest Finisher: Drake TroutmanGroup B Sunoco Race for Gas Highest Finisher: Ricky Thornton, Jr.Midwest Sheet Metal Spoiler Challenge Point Leader: Ricky Thornton, Jr.O’Reilly Auto Parts Rookie of the Race: n/aGroup A Coltman Farms Fastest Lap of the Race: Devin Moran (Lap 1 – 16.829 seconds) Group B Coltman Farms Fastest Lap of the Race: Ricky Thornton, Jr. (Lap 12 – 17.132 seconds) Group A Slicker Graphics Slickest Move of the Race: Drake TroutmanGroup B Slicker Graphics Slickest Move of the Race: Ricky Thornton, Jr.Group A Miller Welders Hard Luck Award: Max BlairGroup B Miller Welders Hard Luck Award: Michael ChiltonGroup A Outerwears Crew Chief of the Race: Cory Fostvedt (Jonathan Davenport)Group A Outerwears Crew Chief of the Race: Chris Madden (Ricky Thornton, Jr.)Group A ARP Engine Builder of the Race: Cornett Racing EnginesGroup B ARP Engine Builder of the Race: Cornett Racing EnginesGroup A Miller Welders Chassis Builder of the Race: Longhorn ChassisGroup B Miller Welders Chassis Builder of the Race: Longhorn ChassisDirt Draft Fastest in Hot Laps: Bobby Pierce (15.452 seconds)Group A Time of Race: 21 minutes 26 seconds Group B Time of Race: 15 minutes 55 seconds  Sunoco North/South 100 Prelim Point Standings (After Night 1):Pos. – No. – Competitor – Thu 8/8 – Total – Fastest Lap from Qualifying1 – 49 – Jonathan Davenport – 260 – 260 – 2 – 20RT – Ricky Thornton, Jr. – 250 – 250 – 3 – 99 – Devin Moran – 230 – 230 – 15.6563 – 32P – Bobby Pierce – 230 – 230 – 15.7865 – 1 – Tim McCreadie – 220 – 220 – 15.6935 – 7T – Drake Troutman – 220 – 220 – 16.0577 – 71 – Hudson O’Neal – 210 – 210 – 15.8027 – 1T – Tyler Erb – 210 – 210 – 16.0829 – 40B – Kyle Bronson – 205 – 205 – 15.8649 – 11R – Josh Rice – 205 – 205 – 15.93111 – 23 – Cory Hedgecock – 200 – 200 – 15.75211 – 20 – Jimmy Owens – 200 – 200 – 15.75913 – 74 – Ethan Dotson – 195 – 195 – 15.51713 – 58 – Garrett Alberson – 195 – 195 – 15.65413 – 76 – Brandon Overton – 195 – 195 – 15.69516 – 17D – Zack Dohm – 190 – 190 – 15.64316 – 9 – Nick Hoffman – 190 – 190 – 15.71718 – 17M – Dale McDowell – 185 – 185 – 15.7118 – 96 – Tanner English – 185 – 185 – 16.00220 – 87 – Ross Bailes – 180 – 180 – 15.84720 – 93F – Carson Ferguson – 180 – 180 – 16.19922 – 18D – Daulton Wilson – 175 – 175 – 23 – 4T – Tripp Gerrald – 170 – 170 – 16.14823 – 1G – Devin Gilpin – 170 – 170 – 16.20925 – G4 – Trent Ivey – 165 – 165 – 15.90525 – 71C – RJ Conley – 165 – 165 – 16.01927 – 99B – Boom Briggs – 160 – 160 – 16.06927 – D6 – Dustin Linville – 160 – 160 – 16.15629 – 2 – Tyler Stevens – 155 – 155 – 16.20229 – D48 – Derek Groomer – 155 – 155 – 16.52631 – 8M – Dillon McCowan – 150 – 150 – 16.03331 – 38 – Derek Fisher – 150 – 150 – 16.25733 – 7 – Ross Robinson – 145 – 145 – 16.23133 – 11T – Tyler Collins – 145 – 145 – 16.64735 – 21 – Robby Hensley – 140 – 140 – 16.26435 – 17SS – Brenden Smith – 140 – 140 – 16.27937 – 12 – Jason Jameson – 135 – 135 – 15.60937 – 114 – Jordan Koehler – 135 – 135 – 15.73237 – H22 – Brandon Hardgrove – 135 – 135 – 16.57640 – 19M – Spencer Hughes – 130 – 130 – 16.11640 – 17 – Blake Creech – 130 – 130 – 16.23342 – 97C – Michael Chilton – 125 – 125 – 15.91942 – 111 – Max Blair – 125 – 125 – 15.96542 – 79 – Donald McIntosh – 125 – 125 – 16.05842 – 157 – Mike Marlar – 125 – 125 – 16.09742 – 93X – Zak Blackwood – 125 – 125 – 16.13742 – 29J – Jordan Wever – 125 – 125 – 16.29842 – 5N – Dustin Nobbe – 125 – 125 – 17.07849 – 18 – Trevor Landrum – 120 – 120 – 16.63249 – 7R – Brad Rickels – 120 – 120 – 16.6451 – 29 – Clint Keenan – 115 – 115 – 16.67351 – 49B – Billy Green – 115 – 115 – 16.82853 – 18P – Gray Parton – 110 – 110 – 15.86653 – 63 – Austin Lay – 110 – 110 – 16.55855 – 93 – Cory Lawler – 105 – 105 – 16.33255 – 3:16 – Mike Bargo – 105 – 105 – 16.76557 – 8 – Curt Addison – 100 – 100 – 58 – 90 – Michael LeFevers – 95 – 95 – 59 – 99J – Donnie Jeschke – 50 – 50 – 17.29859 – 11 – Calvin Carlton – 50 – 50 – 99.99859 – 6 – Clay Harris – 50 – 50 – 99.999

The Californian will make a run at the Kevin Gobrecht Rookie of the Year next seasonKNOXVILLE, IA (Aug. 8, 2024) – Cole Macedo, one of Sprint Car Racing’s top rising talents, is heading to the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car tour in 2025.The 24-year-old has linked Todd Carlile’s TwoC Racing for a rookie run with The Greatest Show on Dirt. The jump to the World of Outlaws tour will fulfill a childhood dream for Macedo as he follows the path of his older brother Carson.“I’m definitely excited,” Macedo said. “The goal from when I was a little kid for me and Carson both was to race with the World of Outlaws. It’s pretty surreal. Obviously, he’s already made it, but for me to follow his footsteps I’m super excited. I’m super grateful that Wayne and Todd and everybody there at TwoC Racing is giving me a shot. I’m definitely nervous, but I think it’s going to be an awesome deal. I think me and Wayne and the crew guys will work really well together. Todd seems like an awesome car owner.”It will also bring 2020 Kevin Gobrecht Rookie of the Year, Wayne Johnson, back on the tour as the former driver for TwoC Racing has moved to the crew chief role for the No. 2C. Johnson recently announced his retirement from being in the seat after a racing accident sidelined him earlier this year.“Man, I’m pumped,” Johnson said. “I’ve said this over and over about going out when I did. I wish I would’ve got the chance at 24 or 25 years old with the car owner that I have now, and I just never got the opportunity basically until I was too damn old to be doing it. I have a great car owner, and he didn’t want to do it without me driving. But when I mentioned that we could get Cole, he was like, ‘Well, let’s go back full-time Outlaw racing.’”Macedo has spent the last few years proving his potential. The Lemoore, CA native cut his teeth on the California bullrings before broadening his horizons in 2020 with a heavy slate of Ohio racing. He had a breakout 2021 that saw him bag seven 410 Sprint Car wins including his first with the All-Star Circuit of Champions.This year has been especially busy for Macedo as he racks up airline miles traveling from the west coast to the Midwest for racing. Out on the left coast he’s pursuing a Northern Auto Racing Club (NARC) championship with Tarlton Motorsports. They’ve tallied a trio of wins and sit just three markers behind the point lead. In the country’s heartland he’s made plenty of starts aboard the 2nd Law Motorsports No. 16T.“About a year and a half ago I told myself I’m going to race as much as I possibly can and never sit at home,” Macedo said. “Even if it’s a car that I don’t feel like is the best, I’m going to try to go make the best of it. Some of those nights were my best nights out there. I think racing as much as possible is a key to having success.”One of Macedo’s 47 races in a 410 Sprint Car this year came with the TwoC Racing crew at Knoxville Raceway. Macedo jumped in for a local show on June 8 and drove from 16th to fifth.“We just sat down and talked about next year and this that and the other, and I asked him if he’d like to run a couple races for us this year to just kind of see if we could work together,” Johnson said. “And we came to Knoxville for a weekly show and ran fifth. Then, we just talked ever since then about wanting to do it and kind of put it all together from that.”While Macedo and the TwoC team are ready to hit the road with the World of Outlaws, they both remained focused on their tasks at hand. Macedo has his sights on the NARC title in the Tarlton No. 21. TwoC Racing is chasing the American Sprint Car Series (ASCS) owner’s championship with Hank Davis in the seat.But once the checkered flag flies on 2024, the focus turns to fulfilling a lifelong goal for Macedo in 2024.“There’s a long list of people from when I grew up that I looked up to that raced World of Outlaws races,” Macedo said. “And I always told myself I want to be one of those guys one day. I feel like it’s the best of the best.”For tickets to World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car races, CLICK HERE.If you can’t make it to the track, catch every lap live on DIRTVision.

Yung Money wins his fourth consecutive Sprint Car race and earns the pole for Saturday’s $190,000-to-win Knoxville Nationals finale

KNOXVILLE, IA (August 9, 2024) – Not too long ago many questioned Kyle Larson’s chances at the NOS Energy Drink Knoxville Nationals presented by Casey’s. But in one short week, every trace of doubt has been erased, and he stands likely as the favorite.

A big week at Eldora Speedway served up struggles for the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion. It started with a strong runner-up, but then he closed out the week with a 13th during the Knight Before and missing the Kings Royal main event. 

And then it all began to turn around at Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55. Larson opened Ironman weekend with an unforgettable drive from 21st to victory. Then he topped his third Ironman 55 the following night by charging from 12th. The stage then moved to Southern Iowa Speedway (Oskaloosa, IA) on Monday, and “Yung Money” rolled from 13th to Victory Lane.

Knoxville Raceway then welcomed the Sprint Car world for “The Granddaddy of ‘Em All” this week. And Larson delivered yet another statement on Thursday during Toyota Qualifying Night.

Larson lined up sixth for the 25-lapper and put on another show in the Silva Motorsports No. 57. He methodically picked his way forward, passing some strong cars in the process. The Elk Grove, CA native punctuated his rise to the top of the leaderboard with a slider on Rico Abreu with only two laps remaining. Four straight wins for Larson with a combined 49 Sprint Cars passed. The Knoxville triumph was his 10th overall at “The Sprint Car Capital of the World.”

And just like that, Larson looks like the clear-cut favorite for Saturday as he aims to go back-to-back on the sport’s biggest stage. His performance earned him 490 points, enough to put him on the pole for the 50-lap finale. 

“Rico was doing a good job as the leader and doing a good job through traffic,” Larson recalled. “And Carson (Macedo) got kind of rolling there for a minute and thankfully I was able to get by him. I didn’t know exactly what to do. I felt like if you could hit the bottom, it was the best place to be, and I think Rico knew that as well. But then he got to that lapper and couldn’t follow him, had to go to the top or middle. And that lapper just hit the berm in front of me, gave me a bunch of clean air and probably messed him up. So, right place at the right time, but you always have to execute every lap. We were able to put ourselves in position to get another win. It feels really good. The car felt great during the Feature.”

Bill Balog and Abreu led the Feature to green, and it was Balog inching ahead to lead the opening lap. 

Throughout the opening half of the race, the action remained relatively tame up front. Balog made some daring moves in traffic to stay ahead of Abreu, but the action really warmed up beyond the halfway mark.

Abreu made his move with a slider on Balog on Lap 12. The battle between the two allowed third-running Carson Macedo to close in. Right after Abreu stole the lead, Macedo ripped by Balog to secure the runner-up spot.

It wasn’t much longer before Larson followed the footsteps of the two Californians up front and went by “The North Pole Nightmare” for third. Up ahead Abreu got trapped behind a lapped car allowing Macedo to look low down the back straightaway, but the No. 24 closed the door on the No. 41. 

That allowed Larson to close in, and on Lap 18 he rolled by Macedo for second. Then the sights were set on his childhood friend Abreu just ahead.

Larson got to work building momentum to chase down Abreu as he was nearly a second behind once he grabbed the runner-up position. It didn’t take long for the gap to shrink, but Abreu made some moves in traffic to hold Larson off at first as the race hit five laps to go.

But Larson stayed on the gas, and the opportunity he needed presented itself with only two laps remaining. As the two navigated Turns 1 and 2, Larson looked low as Abreu went to the cushion. Larson managed to pull alongside, and a lapped car drifted in Abreu’s lane exiting the corner. The disruption to Abreu’s line allowed Larson to power ahead down the back straightaway and head toward the white flag.

Abreu stayed close with Larson throughout the final rotation around the half mile, but there was no stopping Larson as he held on for the prelim win.

Now all the focus is on Saturday for Larson. With NASCAR duties in Richmond, VA, it’s going to be a busy day but he’s confident. It’s not his first rodeo of jumping between race cars and a few flights over a weekend.

“It’s always fun to run the 57. We’ve definitely been on it lately and no better time than now,” Larson said. “I’ve been fortunate enough now to be able to do double duty between NASCAR and the Sprint Car. No doubt it’s on your mind through the whole weekend. Richmond is a tough place for us. I’ll definitely be focused on that as well. I’m looking forward to getting back in the 5 car. It’s been a couple weeks since I’ve seen all of them with the break. Excited to see the 5 guys. And then hopefully Qualifying goes well then we’ll get back here and try to win another Knoxville Nationals.”

Abreu come home second and only a couple laps short of prelim glory. The St. Helena, CA driver earned some valuable lessons as he prepares to chase his first Knoxville Nationals title on Saturday. He’ll line up sixth.

“I’ve got to do a little better job managing traffic and knowing the race pace,” Abreu said. “I felt like I left the bottom open there, but I just wanted to keep it up on the pipes toward the end of the race. The top was just really far around. On the cushion my right front would get up a little bit where I had to give up some in the center. Other than that, Ricky (Warner), Zack (Middlebrooks), and Brady (Forbrook) did an awesome job.”

Rounding out the Knoxville Nationals prelim podium was Carson Macedo and the Jason Johnson Racing crew. It was a strong night from beginning to end that will set them up fourth in the lineup for Saturday’s finale.

“The race was in stages for me,” Macedo said. “I feel like early I got my wing back too far, and I had to push it back forward. I started catching them back once we got to traffic. I felt pretty good. And then once we got to traffic I felt really good. I could maneuver really nicely anywhere I wanted to go. I got to Rico when he kind of got messed up with a lapper and thought I was going to be able to squeeze underneath him and then just had to pace behind him for a minute.”

Tyler Courtney and Bill Balog rounded out the top five.

A 23rd to 13th run in the Roth Motorsports ride earned James McFadden the KSE Racing Hard Charger.

Daryn Pittman claimed Simpson Quick Time honors in Sea Foam Qualifying.

Your Life Iowa Heat Races One, Three, Four, and Five belonged to Daryn Pittman, Tasker Phillips, Carson Macedo, and Ayrton Gennetten. Milton Hershey School Heat Two went to Hunter Schuerenberg.

Dusty Zomer won the Micro-Lite Last Chance Showdown.

16 KNOXVILLE NATIONALS CHAMPIONSHIP FEATURE LOCK-INS:

Row 1: Kyle Larson – Daryn Pittman
Row 2: Tyler Courtney – Carson Macedo
Row 3: Giovanni Scelzi – Rico Abreu
Row 4: Brian Brown – Anthony Macri
Row 5: Brady Bacon – Scott Bogucki
Row 6: Corey Day – Brent Marks
Row 7: Bill Balog – Sheldon Haudenschild
Row 8: Chase Randall – Jacob Allen

UP NEXT: The World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars take on FVP “Hard Knox” Preliminary Night on Friday, August 9 with four more tickets up for grabs to Saturday’s $190,000-to-win NOS Energy Drink Knoxville Nationals presented by Casey’s finale. For tickets, CLICK HERE.

If you can’t make it to the track, catch every lap live on DIRTVision.

FEATURE RESULTS:

A Feature (25 Laps): 1. 57-Kyle Larson[6]; 2. 24R-Rico Abreu[2]; 3. 41-Carson Macedo[3]; 4. 7BC-Tyler Courtney[7]; 5. 17B-Bill Balog[1]; 6. 69K-Daryn Pittman[8]; 7. 49-Brad Sweet[9]; 8. 21H-Brady Bacon[4]; 9. 26-Zeb Wise[11]; 10. 21-Brian Brown[5]; 11. 58-Kaleb Johnson[14]; 12. 19S-Hunter Schuerenberg[13]; 13. 83SR-James McFadden[23]; 14. 8-Cory Eliason[24]; 15. 5T-Ryan Timms[17]; 16. 1D-Tasker Phillips[18]; 17. 24D-Danny Sams III[10]; 18. 36-Jason Martin[12]; 19. 3J-Dusty Zomer[21]; 20. 7S-Landon Crawley[16]; 21. 3G-Ayrton Gennetten[20]; 22. 13JT-Mark Dobmeier[15]; 23. 33W-Cap Henry[22]; 24. 25-Daison Pursley[19]

August 8, 2024

After taking the past two weeks off while NASCAR’s broadcast partner NBC focused on the Olympics, the Cup Series is back in action with Sunday evening’s Cook Out 400 at Richmond Raceway.

Jeremy Bullins, crew chief of the No. 21 DEX Imaging Mustang Dark Horse driven by Harrison Burton, said the break was refreshing, but he’s anxious to get back to work with the No. 21 race team.

“I have to admit, the two-week break has been great, and we were all able to hit the reset button and get prepared for the end of the season,” Bullins said. “It was nice to spend some time away, but I’m definitely ready to get back to the race track with our DEX Mustang.”

The 400-lap run on the three-quarter-mile Richmond oval is unique in that it will feature two different tire compounds, much like the recent All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway.

One choice of tires, which will be referred to as Primes, is the standard compound that was used at Richmond earlier this year. The Option tire has more grip – and therefore more speed – initially but is expected to fall off as the laps go by. Teams will have a total of eight sets of tires allotted for the race, six Primes and two Options.

Bullins said that will give him plenty to think about on the pit box as Sunday’s race plays out.

“This week should offer some interesting challenges with the addition of the Option tire that was used at the All-Star race,” he said. “With only having two sets of them for the race, it’ll add some variety to the race strategies based on when teams choose to use them.”

Practice for the Cook Out 400 is set for Saturday at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time to be followed by qualifying at 5:35. The NBC Sports App will carry the coverage of practice and qualifying.

Sunday’s 300-mile, 400-lap race is scheduled to get the green flag just after 6 p.m., with Stage breaks planned for Laps 70 and 230. USA Network will carry the live TV broadcast.

Scelzi steals night one with a late pass on Jacob Allen and grabs the point lead

KNOXVILLE, IA (August 7, 2024) – “Hot Sauce” is hungry.

Giovanni Scelzi is a Californian by birth but now calls Iowa home. KCP Racing, the team he competes with, is located roughly an hour’s drive from Knoxville Raceway. The pairing have won the 360 Nationals. They’ve sat on the pole of the NOS Energy Drink Knoxville Nationals presented by Casey’s. They’re hungrier than ever for a Knoxville Nationals.

And they made a big step toward that goal on Wednesday’s BRANDT Professional Agriculture Qualifying Night at “The Sprint Car Capital of the World.”

Scelzi lined up sixth for the 25-lapper and put on a show with a charge to the front. After an uneventful first half of the race for the Fresno, CA driver, Scelzi got up on the wheel to move forward. On Lap 17 he took over second. Then he sealed the deal with a daring move between leader Jacob Allen and a lapped car entering Turn 1.

Emotion flowed in Victory Lane. Scelzi yelled with joy as he rose atop the wing, and the crowd joined him with a roar.

“I don’t even know what to say. I’ve never run a prelim night. I’ve run second. This definitely sets us up good for Saturday,” Scelzi said. “Living just outside Des Moines now in Grimes, this is kind of a home for me. The first time I came here in I think 2016 or 2017 I got to work for Aaron Reutzel. And you know, Danny Lasoski being my idol was one that was obviously super successful here. And I think sometimes when you really put your mind to something at a place you want to be successful at, it makes you work harder to really do that. It’s the best racetrack in the world. Best fans in the world. There’s no question. Best racing surface you get all year long. Whether the track is a little bit wetter like it was tonight or it’s super dry, you almost have three lines of racing every time you come here. My guys did an incredible job. Hats off to Adam (Clark), Bob (Curtis), and Aaron (Beiler).”

Scelzi’s victory was his first in a 410 at Knoxville since topping a local show in 2019. But perhaps more important than the prelim win itself is where it’s currently slotted him for championship Saturday. A tally of 471 points has him atop the table after the opening night, nearly guaranteeing he’ll be starting in the first couple rows for the 50-lap finale.

The NOS Energy Drink Feature was led to green by Jacob Allen and Justin Peck. Allen inched ahead of Peck and narrowly led the first circuit. Peck built up momentum on the top and looked as if he may challenge Allen for the top spot in Turn 1 on Lap 2, but Allen got the bottom rolling and scooted away.

Allen checked out as the opening portion of the race unfolded. Back behind Scelzi looked to begin his march forward but met a tough challenge in the form of Brent Marks. The Myerstown, PA native fended off several attempts from the No. 18. Even when Scelzi got by him the first time, the yellow flag flew before the lap was completed, giving the spot back to Marks.

Scelzi finally managed to escape Marks on the 11th circuit, and then the real fun began. Two laps later he drove right by Chase Randall to grab third. And then in four more rotations he wasted no time wheeled around Justin Peck for second.

Then the pursuit of race-long leader Allen began. Up front the Shark Racing No. 1A navigated heavy traffic which allowed Scelzi to close in. The first attempt at the top spot was thwarted by Allen as he protected. But only a few laps later Scelzi made a magnificent move for the lead.

A big run off the exit of Turn 4 allowed Scelzi to dip under Allen heading down the front straightaway. With Allen to his outside, the 22-year-old was also faced with a lapped car directly ahead. Scelzi had just enough momentum to clear Allen entering Turn 1 and slice ahead of him to get to the cushion and clear the traffic in the set of corners. 

And that was all she wrote. The KCP No. 18 was dialed in with a motivated driver in the seat, and Scelzi set sail on his way to the checkered flag.

“What an incredible job by my guys,” Scelzi said. “Normally yellows are my kryptonite. And I just got by Brent Marks and the yellow came out of course. But man, the bottom got easier and easier to run as all of those crumbs got thrown up in the middle. Thank you, fans, for coming out. This is the busiest I’ve ever seen a Wednesday night. I hope everyone goes to Dingus because they can serve all of you.”

Allen held on for second wheeling his father, Bobby Allen’s, Sprint Car. It was a strong night for the Hanover, PA native as he sits eighth in points and likely on the bubble of locking into Saturday’s finale after Thursday’s prelim. Despite losing the lead late, Allen showed no signs of disappointment once the checkered flag flew.

“Honestly, I think I ran a pretty good race, a race that I’m pretty proud of running,” Allen said. “I felt like my race car was really good. We didn’t go through much lapped traffic, but I made a nice pass that I thought would maybe be a defining move on Blake Hahn. But obviously Gio had a really good car as well. There’s honestly nothing to hang our heads about. Last year I didn’t even race this race and took some time off. To come back, lead my prelim night, and run second is a huge accomplishment.”

Rounding out the Knoxville Nationals opener podium was Justin Peck aboard the Buch Motorsports machine. Peck is confident he and the Buch crew have something to build on after Wednesday but have a couple areas with room for improvement if they want to challenge for a Knoxville Nationals title.

“I feel like we’re pretty close, just need to find a little bit more speed,” Peck said. “I think our straight-line speed or straight-line grip is pretty good. I’m struggling kind of getting in the corner, and then depending on how that goes maybe struggling through the rest of the corner. Like I said, we’ll keep working. It’s cool to put it on the podium on a prelim night of the Knoxville Nationals.”

Chase Randall and Brent Marks completed the top five.

A 21st to 10th drive earned Anthony Macri the KSE Racing Hard Charger.

Matt Juhl claimed Simpson Quick Time honors in Sea Foam Qualifying.

Your Life Iowa Heats One, Three, Four, and Five belonged to Sam Hafertepe Jr., Donny Schatz, Aaron Reutzel, and Chase Randall. Milton Hershey School Heat Two went to Jamie Ball.

Anthony Macri won the Micro-Lite Last Chance Showdown.

The Smith Titanium Brake Systems Break of the Race went to Michael Kofoid. 

UP NEXT: The World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars are back at Knoxville Raceway for the second split-field prelim for the 63rd running of the NOS Energy Drink Knoxville Nationals presented by Casey’s on Thursday, August 8. For tickets, CLICK HERE.

If you can’t make it to the track, catch every lap live on DIRTVision.

FEATURE RESULTS:

A Feature (25 Laps): 1. 18-Giovanni Scelzi[6]; 2. 1A-Jacob Allen[1]; 3. 13-Justin Peck[2]; 4. 2KS-Chase Randall[3]; 5. 19-Brent Marks[4]; 6. 10-Scott Bogucki[5]; 7. 3Z-Brock Zearfoss[11]; 8. 87-Aaron Reutzel[13]; 9. 14-Corey Day[7]; 10. 39M-Anthony Macri[21]; 11. 9P-Parker Price Miller[15]; 12. 17-Sheldon Haudenschild[8]; 13. 9-Kasey Kahne[9]; 14. 27-Carson McCarl[10]; 15. 2-David Gravel[24]; 16. 48-Danny Dietrich[12]; 17. 15H-Sam Hafertepe Jr[17]; 18. 15-Donny Schatz[19]; 19. 23-Garet Williamson[23]; 20. 09-Matt Juhl[22]; 21. 4W-Jamie Ball[18]; 22. 52-Blake Hahn[14]; 23. (DNF) J2-John Carney II[20]; 24. (DNF) 6B-Brandon Wimmer[16]

For complete results, CLICK HERE.

August 10-11, 2024

With the two-week Olympic break in the rearview mirror, the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) and NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) will return to competition this weekend – taking on the .75-mile, D-shaped oval of Richmond Raceway. Drivers and teams of NASCAR’s top division have already made a stop at the Virginia short-track earlier this season – an event that saw Hendrick Motorsports’ Kyle Larson lead Team Chevy with a podium finish. For the NCTS, this weekend will mark its first and only appearance at Richmond Raceway this season, with “The Action Track” set to host the final race of the series’ regular season.

Chevrolet in the NASCAR Cup Series at Richmond Raceway: The green flag for Sunday’s Cook Out 400 will mark the NASCAR Cup Series’ 136th appearance at Richmond Raceway. Throughout the series’ rich history at the .75-mile Virginia short-track, 17 different drivers have delivered Chevrolet a combined 40 victories to lead its manufacturer competitors.

Hendrick Motorsports’ Kyle Larson is credited for Chevrolet’s one victory in the series’ Next Gen era – recorded in the April 2023 event. The 32-year-old Elk Grove, California, native is one of three active Team Chevy drivers with a win at Richmond Raceway in NASCAR’s top division, with Larson joining the likes of his Hendrick Motorsports teammate, Alex Bowman, with one victory, and the track’s winningest active driver, Kyle Busch, with six wins. Chevrolet also owns the record for the manufacturer with the longest streak of consecutive wins at the Virginia short-track. The record was set nearly 16 years ago after four different drivers earned a combined six-straight victories for Chevrolet at “The Action Track” – recorded from May 2006 to Sept. 2008. Seven-time NCS Champion Jimmie Johnson is credited with three of those victories, with Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kevin Harvick and Clint Bowyer also each tallying a triumph that led to the Bowtie brand’s record-setting streak.

FOUR SPOTS REMAIN WITH FOUR-TO-GORichmond Raceway will mark the NASCAR Cup Series’ final four-race stretch towards the end of its regular season. There have been 12 different drivers that have already earned a victory and a playoff berth this season, with five coming from the Chevrolet camp, including all four Hendrick Motorsports drivers (Kyle Larson – four wins; William Byron – three wins; Chase Elliott and Alex Bowman – one win each) and Trackhouse Racing’s Daniel Suarez. Heading into the weekend, four positions remain up for grabs to complete the series’ 16-driver playoff field. Of the four drivers that currently sit above the playoff cutline includes Trackhouse Racing’s Ross Chastain, who will head to Richmond Raceway in the 16th position and seven-points above the cutline.  Among the four different tracks left in the NCS’ regular season, Chevrolet has earned at least one victory in the Next Gen era at three of those venues. In addition to Larson’s victory at Richmond Raceway in April 2023, the Next Gen Camaro ZL1 has made three trips to victory lane at both Daytona International Speedway and Darlington Raceway – the most among its manufacturer competitors since the vehicle’s competition debut in 2022. Two of those victories came from Team Chevy drivers that currently sit in a must-win situation to solidify a playoff spot: Richard Childress Racing’s Austin Dillon (Daytona – Aug. 2022) and JTG Daugherty Racing’s Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (Daytona – Feb. 2023).

Rowdy at Richmond: Richard Childress Racing’s Kyle Busch may be sitting on the outside looking in, but the series’ seasoned veteran will look to capitalize on his playoff pressure experience to secure one of the final four postseason positions. The 39-year-old Las Vegas, Nevada, native is one of only two drivers to earn multiple championship titles in the series’ elimination era. In addition, Busch holds the record for the most consecutive appearances in the Championship Four with five over the last 10 years.  Faced with a must-win scenario, Busch will have a boost of confidence as the Team Chevy driver heads to a track that has fared statistically well for him throughout his storied career. Busch is the series’ winningest active driver at Richmond Raceway with six trips to victory lane in 37 career starts. The two-time champion has earned top-10 finishes in 11 of his last 13 starts at the track – a stretch that also includes a sweep of the wins in the 2018 events and four podium finishes. Busch also leads the series’ active drivers in runner-up finishes (seven), top-fives (19) and top-10s (28).

HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS’ ANNIVERSARY SEASON BOOSTING STRONG STATSWhile celebrating its 40th anniversary, Hendrick Motorsports is on track to putting together one of its best seasons yet. The organization’s four drivers have earned a combined nine wins in 22 points-paying NASCAR Cup Series races – a winning percentage of 41 percent on the season. Since Hendrick Motorsports’ inaugural season in 1984, the Chevrolet organization has earned the highest winning percentage in nine different seasons. Topping the list is the 2007 season when Jeff Gordon, Casey Mears, Kyle Busch and Jimmie Johnson collected a combined 18 wins and a winning percentage of 50%. The organization’s current driver lineup has added to this record once in 2021, with Kyle Larson, Chase Elliott, William Byron and Alex Bowman securing a combined 17 victories that season.

WHITE FLAG FOR NCTS REGULAR SEASON The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series’ 16-race regular season will come to a close at Richmond Raceway this weekend, with Saturday’s Clean Harbor 250 determining the final three drivers that will earn a playoff berth and a shot at the championship title. Among the seven drivers that have already solidified a spot in the postseason includes five drivers from four different Chevrolet organizations.  Three of Team Chevy’s full-time NCTS drivers have contributed to the manufacturer’s series-leading nine victories thus far this season, including McAnally-Hilgemann Racing’s Christian Eckes (three wins), Rev Racing’s Nick Sanchez (one win) and Spire Motorsports’ Rajah Caruth (one win). After collecting top-five finishes in the series’ last race at the Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, Eckes’ teammate Tyler Ankrum and CR7 Motorsports’ Grant Efinger both punched a ticket into the postseason.  While entering the weekend on the outside looking in, McAnally-Hilgemann Racing’s Daniel Dye sits just five-points below the playoff cutline. The 20-year-old DeLand, Florida, native has seen a strong improvement in his sophomore season – earning five top-10 finishes this season, including a career-best runner-up finish at Nashville Superspeedway earlier this summer.

Chevrolet in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at Richmond Raceway: Richmond Raceway has hosted 15 events for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, with Chevrolet leading the way with seven victories – a win count more than double its manufacturer competitors combined (Ford – three wins; Toyota – three wins). Among those wins includes both the series’ inaugural and most recent events at the .75-mile Virginia oval, with Terry Labonte (No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet) earning the Bowtie brand’s first victory at the track in Sept. 1995, and Carson Hocevar (No. 42 Niece Motorsports Chevrolet) scoring the win in July 2023.

Eckes Leads in Regular Season Battle: McAnally-Hilgemann Racing’s Christian Eckes is closing in on his first career NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series regular season title, with the 23-year-old Middletown, New York, native entering the Richmond race weekend with a 50-point lead over second-place Corey Heim. Week-after-week, the Team Chevy driver has proven to be a title contender. In 15 races this season, Eckes’ three victories have been accompanied by nine top-fives and a series-leading 14 top-10s. Eckes will head to the Virginia short-track with momentum from four-straight podium finishes, including a win at Nashville Superspeedway and a pair of runner-up finishes (WWTR and IRP). Eckes also leads the series with 698 laps led in 2,281 laps completed – earning an incredible laps led percentage of 30.6 percent on the season.

BOWTIE BULLETS:·       With 58 races complete across NASCAR’s three national series this season, Chevrolet has a winning percentage of 51.7% with 30 victories (NASCAR Cup Series – 10 wins; NASCAR Xfinity Series – 11 wins; NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series – nine wins). ·       Active Chevrolet drivers with a NASCAR Cup Series win at Richmond Raceway:    Kyle Busch: six wins (2018 sweep, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009)Kyle Larson: two wins (2023, 2017)Alex Bowman: one win (2021) ·       In 94 points-paying races in the Next Gen era, Chevrolet leads all manufacturers with 47 victories – a winning percentage of 50%.  ·       Team Chevy’s Kyle Larson and William Byron are the only two drivers with a double-digit win record in the NASCAR Cup Series’ Next Gen era – each recording 11 victories since the vehicle’s competition debut in 2022.  ·       Among the seven drivers that have already secured a playoff berth in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series includes five drivers from four different Chevrolet organizations (McAnally-Hilgemann Racing – Christian Eckes and Tyler Ankrum; Rev Racing – Nick Sanchez; Spire Motorsports – Rajah Caruth; CR7 Motorsports – Grant Enfinger).  ·       With its 42 NASCAR Cup Series Manufacturer Championships, 33 NASCAR Cup Series Driver Championships, and 861 all-time NASCAR Cup Series wins, Chevrolet continues to hold the title as the winningest brand in NASCAR Cup Series history.

Manufacturer Points Standings Chevrolet: 799Toyota: 786 (-13)Ford: 770 (-29)

Manufacturer Points Standings Chevrolet: 745Toyota: 708 (-37)Ford: 644 (-101)

Manufacturer Points Standings Chevrolet: 568Toyota: 527 (-41)Ford: 483 (-85)

TUNE-IN:NASCAR Cup Series Cook Out 400 Sunday, August 11, at 6 p.m. ET(USA Network, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90) NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Clean Harbors 250Saturday, August 10, at 7:30 p.m. ET(FS1, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90)

QUOTABLE QUOTES:Ross Chastain, No. 1 Jockey Infinite Cool Underwear Camaro ZL1What do you think about running the option tire at Richmond?“It does create another option for us and we are going to have to use the 45-minute practice session on Saturday to learn these tires. It’s going to put a lot on us as race teams, but I think it will make for a more entertaining race on Sunday and that’s what we are all about.” What did you think about how the option tire worked looking back at North Wilkesboro?“I thought it was good. The softer tire lasted a whole lot longer than we thought. Obviously, those tires won the race. The trick is learning how long the soft tires will last. If you figure that out, you will have a leg up on everyone.” You’ve talked about speed and grip, has something changed from last year or is it just the continued evolution of the Cup Series and the cars?“We came out of the box strong with this car and we are continuing to push the edge and try and be the fastest in the top level of our sport. It’s tough to stay on top. What I am experiencing is it’s very challenging. We’re still putting in the work, we’re still showing up and working hard to get it back.” What do you think about running the new Jockey paint scheme this weekend at Richmond?“The new paint scheme is a cheeky way to showcase the incredible comfort of Jockey Infinite Cool underwear. Racing in the summer heat can be intense, and knowing I’ve got the best cooling gear on makes all the difference. I can’t wait to hit the track and see the fans’ reactions!” Austin Dillon, No. 3 Bass Pro Shops Camaro ZL1Where does Richmond rank on your short-track favorites?“In my opinion, Richmond Raceway is one of the best short tracks in the country. It is fast, it is a fun track, and it is also one of the most challenging for a driver to keep up with the track conditions as rubber lays down and the temperature drops throughout the day. It is very difficult to keep the car’s balance the entire time. As a race fan, it is a good place to enjoy a race, and it is fun to watch the strategy part of 400 laps play out during the race. Some guys will take multiple sets of tires during a stage, while others will only take one set of tires and try to make a full run on that one set. The racing action is slick and enjoyable.” Corey LaJoie, No. 7 Advisor Advantage / Clear Spring Camaro ZL1How is the option tire going to influence the competition over the course of the weekend?“We have four opportunities to punch our ticket to the playoffs. The option tire will be a new variable and a new challenge for the teams to overcome. I’m ready to get back to work after the break and finish the year strong.” Kyle Busch, No. 8 Cheddar’s Patriotic Camaro ZL1The spring race at Richmond started on wet weather tires. What can be done to make the wet weather racing better on a short track?“I thought NASCAR did a good job getting the race started at Richmond in the spring while being on the wet weather tires. I felt like there were some guys that went hard to start and burn their tires up and other guys who kind of came on a little bit stronger later. I would say the only thing that I didn’t like was that the run was too short for the guys that were better on the long run to shine versus those who took off and ran too hard to start.” The start time for this race at Richmond will be in the early evening with a finish after dark. How big of a factor are those changing temperatures and track conditions?“I think the night racing at Richmond is the best racing at Richmond. I don’t know that it’ll really make that big of a difference besides the sun going down and being a little bit blinding into turn three but once you get past that into darkness, it’s just a normal Richmond race.” This race will have a tire strategy element similar to the All-Star race. What effect do you think that will have in the race? “I think adding in some variable and some differences to some of our races isn’t such a bad thing. It will definitely lend itself to those that want to be aggressive and use their soft tires earlier versus later in the race. The other difference in how the night will flow will obviously be based off of how The natural cautions fall.” Daniel Hemric, No. 31 Cirkul Camaro ZL1“The short tracks have been a bit of a tall task for us figure out in this car, but everyone has been working hard to identify the areas we need to improve on. I think Richmond will be a challenge for us, but it’s one we are up for. I’m excited to be back from our two-week break and get back to normal business, which is racing every weekend from now until Phoenix.” Alex Bowman, No. 48 Ally Camaro ZL1Bowman on racing at Richmond Raceway: “It’s been refreshing to have the Olympic break.. but I’m certainly ready to get back racing. It’s always nice to compete at Richmond (Raceway). We got a win there (Richmond Raceway) back in 2021 and this spring Blake (Harris) and I qualified well. I think we learned a few things and hopefully we can use that knowledge to perform well this Sunday in the night race.” Blake Harris, Crew Chief, No. 48 Ally Camaro ZL1Harris on the summer race at Richmond Raceway and the prime versus wet tire choice at Richmond Raceway:“I thought we had a pretty good No. 48 Ally Chevrolet Camaro in the spring Richmond race. We had a really good Saturday and qualified well. I’m looking forward to this weekend and fine tuning some things that we think we have found to improve since then. The option tire will certainly be interesting. There are not enough tires to the point that you would have to run them- it looks like Saturday is clearing up but we should get some practice on it and see how it runs.” Zane Smith, No. 71 Focused Health Camaro ZL1Second half of the season is here, how are you feeling after the two-week break, heading into Richmond?“I enjoyed the two-week break and feel recharged heading into the second half of the season. We have had a lot of positive momentum on our side the last couple of races and continuing to build off that should set us up for some really good finishes. I am thankful for my 71 Spire Motorsports team and all the hard work they put into making the car better and better every weekend. Looking forward to getting back to Richmond this weekend!” Carson Hocevar, No. 77 Delaware Life Camaro ZL1You had a chance to reset during the break, and you are returning to a track in which you’ve visited victory lane. Do you feel ready to go this week at Richmond?“I’m excited to go racing, especially because we ran well the last few weeks before we went on break. To be able to finally go back racing is going to be a lot of fun for our group. My last showing at Richmond wasn’t what we wanted, but the transition from trucks to Cup is a whole new level. Knowing what it takes to run solid and win at Richmond still applies. I’m hoping we can bounce back and show what we’re really capable of at this track.” You won a micro-sprint race at Millbridge Speedway in Salisbury, N.C., during the two-week break. Does racing in other classes help you sharpen your skills in a Cup car?“I see it as a positive to be able to race whenever possible. It’s fun to go race, and it helps me stay sharp during the time off. Not being in a race car for two full weeks feels super weird, so being able to compete, race and even win is beneficial for me. It gets me ready to go back to racing the rest of the season.” Daniel Suarez, No. 99 Choice Privileges Camaro ZL1How was your trip to Brazil?“It was pretty eventful. I got to marry the love of my life and celebrate with friends and family. Being able to do that was such a cool moment. As for racing, it was great, it was a lot of fun to race at Interlagos and learn a lot about the race, about the cars, about the drivers and about the rules too. Overall, it was a very positive weekend. I hope that one day I can come back and race again.” What do you think of the new tire rule at Richmond?“I’m a big fan of this. Because you’re going to see different options. You’re going have to play around with different tires a little bit more and I think that doesn’t make them feel even more.Right now, it’s not a secret that it’s not easy to pass, like in the old five years ago. […] It takes more work to be able to do something like that. So, I feel like having option tires is one more thing into the equation of the stride and I am a big fan of that.” What are your thoughts looking back on the Brickyard 400?“My team did a great job with the strategy. Our car wasn’t horrible, we just never had the track position that we wanted to, to show the speed of the car. We needed to be faster on the straightaways. But all-in-all, I felt like we had a decent Chevy. Still have some work to do, but the team executed a great strategy, so we will take it.” Connor Zilisch, No. 7 Silver Hare Racing Silverado RSTHow have you been preparing for your first truck race on an oval?“Richmond will be a good challenge for me. I’ve run a lot of ovals in ARCA and late models, so I feel like I’ve been preparing myself all year. We were good in the truck at COTA, but the truck will race a lot differently on an oval. I am excited to get out there.” Is there any track you’ve raced at this year that compares to Richmond?“It is somewhat similar to IRP, and you can draw comparisons from Pensacola. But for the most part, nothing is quite like Richmond. The biggest thing I have focused on is my preparation. I wanted to make sure when I show up on Saturday, I know what I’m getting myself into.” What are your expectations for the weekend?“I’ve been running well on the ovals and learning quickly. My goal for the year has been to continue to prepare myself each week for the next oval, most of which I’ve never seen before. I believe as long as I prepare, I can be just as successful as anyone else. I’ll show up Saturday ready to go, and hopefully we can put the No. 7 Silver Hare Silverado in victory lane.” Bayley Currey, No. 41 DQS Silverado RSTWhat are some differences between driving a truck vs. a Xfinity car at Richmond?“Mainly just the corner speed, there’s a lot more corner speed in a truck there compared to the Xfinity car. There’s a little less wheel spin, too. Trucks at Richmond, like a lot of these places, are momentum-based so you have to try and keep that up while not smoking the tires off. That’s a big deal here especially for us.” Matt Mills, No. 42 J.F. Electric / Utilitra Silverado RSTWhat is it about Richmond that tends to fit your driving style?“Richmond is one of those tracks that you have to be disciplined the whole race. What you do and how you drive the truck on lap one is going to affect how it drives on lap 40. So, just being aware of that and how big the tire falloff is there is important. You have to balance when it’s time to get positions and when you have to manage your tires. Honestly, it’s not a track for an aggressive driving style, and I think that mine is more calculated, so that helps. It’s a home track for me since I was born in Lynchburg, VA, so that has always added some extra motivation as well. It’s been a good rhythm track for me.” Kaden Honeycutt, No. 45 Moore’s Venture Foods Silverado RSTDo you think having all the recent late model experience will tend to help you save tires on Saturday?“I think for Richmond, if you’re fast at the start, you’re going to be fast for the whole race; but if you’re not, you’re just not going to be quick at all from start to finish. From what I’ve seen in the past, if you can take off quick on the short run and be able to manage your stuff throughout the whole stage, you’re going to be good. You don’t want to push it too much, especially if you spin the right rear tire. If you do that, you’re just going to make it mad, and you’ll be very free just like a late model. So, you just have to manage that throughout the night. That’s the way to go.” Rajah Caruth, No. 71 HendrickCars.com Silverado RSTRichmond is your home track, the place you saw your first race and the site of your first national series start. How special is the venue to you?“It’s been 10 years since the first race I ever went to. I even have the date, September 5, 2014, tattooed on me. It’s pretty surreal to look back on. It’s not the destination, it’s the journey. I remember I was 12-years-old and was surprised with tickets to my first NASCAR race, the Xfinity Series race that fall. Then you look at this season, with how well things have gone and to be in the mix for a championship, it has been quite a ride. I just feel really good about this weekend at this place that is pretty special to me. Hopefully we can have some good momentum to bring into Milwaukee and the playoffs.” The playoffs start next time out at Milwaukee. How are you getting prepared to go racing for a championship?“I’m honestly not doing much different. I’ve been mentally getting into the mindset since Nashville. I haven’t taken much time off these last two weeks. Everything is just amplified and everyone is getting excited. I’d be a lot more stressed if we were trying to lock in, but since we got our win and are fifth in points, we are in a really good spot. I’m just ready to compete for a championship and try to be one of the final four at Phoenix.” Chase Purdy, No. 77 Bama Buggies Silverado RSTIn a must win situation, how are you going to attack the weekend?“We have to remain focused and execute on everything we can. It is all or nothing. We have to put ourselves in position to win and make zero mistakes.” You’ve run well at Richmond in the past, what about the track suits your driving style?“Richmond is hard on tires, and a tough place to race, in general. It is a place I’ve had speed at. It is a great place to have an opportunity to capitalize on Saturday night.”

Chevrolet NASCAR Cup Series Statistics Manufacturers Championships:Total (1949-2023): 42First 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, 2023 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)                2024 STATISTICS:                                                                                                    Wins: 10Poles: 7Laps Led: 1,649Top-five finishes: 39Top-10 finishes: 82Stage wins: 12·       Chase Elliott: 1 ·       Kyle Larson: 8·       Ross Chastain: 1·       William Byron: 1·       Shane van Gisbergen: 1 CHEVROLET IN NASCAR CUMULATIVE STATISTICS:Total Chevrolet race wins: 861 (1949 to date)Poles won to date: 750Laps led to date: 250,804Top-five finishes to date: 4,337Top-10 finishes to date: 8,942                                                                                                          Total NASCAR Cup Wins by Corporation, 1949 to Date:                    General Motors: 1,195           Chevrolet: 861           Pontiac: 154           Oldsmobile: 115           Buick: 65            Ford: 833                                                                      Ford: 733           Mercury: 96           Lincoln: 4            Fiat Chrysler Automobiles: 467           Dodge: 217           Plymouth: 191           Chrysler: 59            Toyota: 187

The entire Sprint Car world has converged on Knoxville Raceway for “The Granddaddy of ‘Em All”

KNOXVILLE, IA (August 6, 2024) – No more waiting. The 63rd running of the NOS Energy Drink Knoxville Nationals presented by Casey’s is here.

The Sprint Car world has traveled to the small town of Knoxville, IA. The population sits just north of 7,000 but grows exponentially this week as “The Granddaddy of ‘Em All” invites people from all over the globe to the Marion County Fairgrounds. More than 100 drivers are ready to chase Sprint Car immortality, and tens of thousands of fans are ready to watch.

To go along with the unparalleled prestige of the Knoxville Nationals, the event offers up a massive purse that hands out more than a million dollars to the competitors on championship Saturday alone. This year’s winner will bank $190,000, and it pays $15,000 to simply make the finale.

It’s the most anticipated week of the year in Sprint Car Racing, and it has arrived. Another important chapter in the sport’s history books is ready to be written.

BUY KNOXVILLE NATIONALS TICKETS HERE

WATCH LIVE ON DIRTVision

Let’s look at the week’s top storylines:

SCHATZVILLE NATIONALS: As always when the Knoxville Nationals take center stage, many eyes will be firmly fixed on Donny Schatz and the Tony Stewart/Curb Agajanian Racing No. 15.

The numbers for Schatz at the sport’s most prestigious race are astonishing. He’s made the Saturday finale 25 consecutive years. The Fargo, ND native has won the main event 11 times including streaks of four in a row (2006-2009) and five in a row (2011-2015). He’s finished second another eight times and brought home his first third place run last year, marking his 20th podium finish.

The 10-time World of Outlaws champion again enters the week with one of the sport’s most coveted records within reach. Steve Kinser claimed 12 Knoxville Nationals titles during his illustrious career. Another checkered flag on Saturday would equal Schatz with “The King.”

BACK-TO-BACK?: Winning one Knoxville Nationals is difficult enough. Going back-to-back in the iconic event is another level of challenging.

27 different competitors can call themselves a Knoxville Nationals champion, but only seven have topped two in a row. The opportunity stands in front of Kyle Larson, courtesy of him leading all 50 laps in last year’s 62nd running.

The 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion is entered aboard the Silva Motorsports No. 57 as the pairing seek a second straight victory in “The Granddaddy of ‘Em All.” It would also be Larson’s third overall, which would put him in the company of Steve Kinser (12), Donny Schatz (11), Doug Wolfgang (five), Kenny Weld (four), Danny Lasoski, (four), and Mark Kinser (three) as the seventh with at least three Knoxville Nationals wins on their résumé.

Larson is fresh off sweeping the Ironman 55 weekend with drives to victory from 21st and 12th along with a charge from 13th to the win at Monday’s Front Row Challenge.

RETURNING WINNERS: Beyond Schatz and Larson, the pre-entry list also features five more former event champions.

1983 winner Sammy Swindell will make a popular return after not partaking in the 2023 edition. In addition to his one Nationals win, the three-time World of Outlaws champion also owns seven more podiums including a trio of runner-ups (1981, 1985, 1990).

Back in 2005 Kraig Kinser sat on the pole and joined his father Steve Kinser on the list of champions by leading all 30 laps. The Bloomington, IN native also picked up a top five in 2012. He’ll be aboard the Premier Motorsports No. 70 for the second consecutive year at Knoxville in August.

2010 winner Tim Shaffer is looking to make his 17th main event. Shaffer’s triumph 14 years ago halted Donny Schatz’s run of four straight. The “Steel City Outlaw” is entered behind the wheel of the Deyman-Rudzik No. 49X.

Brad Sweet will be aboard the Kasey Kahne Racing No. 49 in search of his second visit to the hallowed ground of Knoxville Nationals Victory Lane. The “Big Cat” won in 2018, podiumed in 2015 and 2021, and has been in the top 10 in eight of his 11 starts in the finale.

David Gravel, the 2019 victor, may be the favorite to become the ninth different driver to earn multiple Knoxville Nationals victories. He and Big Game Motorsports have already amassed 13 World of Outlaws wins in 2024 including one at Knoxville in June. Gravel grabbed the first gem of the triple crown by winning the Kings Royal less than three weeks ago, and Knoxville could be the second piece to the puzzle for the current Series point leader.

A NEW CHAMP?: Only 27 drivers have been crowned a Knoxville Nationals champion through 62 runnings, but several current stars of the sport stand out as potential favorites to add their name to the list of legends and Hall of Famers.

Carson Macedo would love nothing more than to take the Jason Johnson Racing No. 41 to Victory Lane for the third time on the sport’s biggest stage. Johnson himself topped the wild 2016 edition, and David Gravel took JJR to the top again in 2019. Last year, Macedo won his prelim and finished a personal best fifth in the finale.

Giovanni Scelzi has posted fourth-place finishes in two of the last three Knoxville Nationals Features with KCP Racing. “Hot Sauce” also topped the 2021 360 Nationals, one of his three victories at “The Sprint Car Capital of the World.”

Logan Schuchart continues to bang on the door of a Knoxville Nationals title. He finished in the top five in three straight runnings including drives from 22nd to second in 2019 and 17th to third in 2022. Last year, he was running second in the Shark Racing No. 1S before a flat tire derailed his effort.

Brian Brown is always one to watch at Knoxville when August rolls around. “Blackjack” put together three consecutive runner-ups in the finale from 2012 through 2014. He’s a 66-time Feature winner and five-time track champion at Knoxville and ready to add a Nationals victory to his résumé.

Rico Abreu is undoubtedly one of the sport’s best that is still lacking a Knoxville Nationals title. He scored a top 10 back in 2017 and looked primed to challenge Larson last year until an issue while running second ended those hopes. He’s fresh off an impressive victory in the Capitani Classic.

Many more talented gassers including Sheldon Haudenschild, Michael “Buddy” Kofoid, Corey Day, Brent Marks, recent 360 Knoxville Nationals champion Tyler Courtney, and more will be in search of their first Knoxville Nationals win.

DARK HORSES: While it’s a rare occurrence, not always do the favorites pull into Victory Lane when the checkered flag flies on Saturday night. And the 2024 roster features a handful of names that might make some noise up front in the finale.

Chase Randall continues to prove he’s one of the sport’s top rising stars, and his performance at Knoxville has been a key contributor toward that reputation. He’s won three times at the half mile this season including a pair in 410 action. Last year, he earned JETCO Rookie of the Year honors with TKS Motorsports.

It may be strange to think of a former World of Outlaws champion as a dark horse, but with Daryn Pittman only running a limited schedule these days, he’s behind most in terms of recent laps. The 2013 Series titlist linked with Kreitz Racing to bring the No. 69K out from Pennsylvania to Iowa. He owns a trio of top fives in the finale, peaking at third in 2019.

Austin McCarl would love to be the first Iowan to claim a Knoxville Nationals title. The “Big Unit” sat on the pole two years ago in what was his third Feature appearance. McCarl is a two-time and the reigning Knoxville track champion in the 410 division.

ADDITIONAL ACCOLADES: Of course, the main goal of this week for every driver is to become a Knoxville Nationals champion, but there are plenty of other opportunities for achievement and recognition.

The battle for the MPV Express Jesse Hockett Mr. Sprint Car Award has already started as it takes points from the 360 Nationals, Capitani Classic, Front Row Challenge, and 410 Nationals to decide the winner of the $6,500 prize.

The JETCO Rookie of the Year acknowledges the highest finishing driver making their event debut. Every year the Knoxville Nationals invites a wide array of first timers looking to be the best among the rookie class.

With all the special paint schemes that team roll out, the DGRD Best Appearing Car Award rewards the one that stands out from the rest.

To go along with those unique liveries, many teams also create special uniforms for the week leading to the Avanti Windows and Doors Best Dressed Crew Award.

For the Saturday finale, there will also be the SprintCarUnlimted.com Pole Award and the KSE Racing Hard Charger and MPI Steering Wheel Hard Charger Award.

THIS WEEKEND AT A GLANCE

WHEN AND WHERE

Wednesday-Saturday, August 7-10 at Knoxville Raceway in Knoxville, IA

ON THE INTERNET

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CURRENT CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS (43/73 Races):

1. David Gravel – Big Game Motorsports No. 2 (5986 PTS)
2. Donny Schatz – Tony Stewart/Curb Agajanian Racing No. 15 (-98 PTS)
3. Carson Macedo – Jason Johnson Racing No. 41 (-130 PTS)
4. Giovanni Scelzi – KCP Racing No. 18 (-204 PTS)
5. Michael Kofoid – Roth Motorsports No. 83 (-252 PTS)
6. Logan Schuchart – Shark Racing No. 1S (-326 PTS)
7. Sheldon Haudenschild – Stenhouse Jr.-Marshall Racing No. 17 (-354 PTS)
8. Bill Balog – B Squared Motorsports No. 17B (-784 PTS)
9. Brock Zearfoss – Brock Zearfoss Racing No. 3Z (-1016 PTS)
10. Kraig Kinser – Premier Motorsports No. 70 (-1232 PTS)

NOS ENERGY DRINK FEATURE WINNERS (16 Drivers):

13 Wins – David Gravel
7 Wins – Sheldon Haudenschild
3 Wins – Giovanni Scelzi, Carson Macedo, Donny Schatz
2 Wins – Tyler Courtney, Rico Abreu, Kyle Larson
1 Win – Brad Sweet, Brent Marks, Brady Bacon, Michael Kofoid, Corey Day, Logan Schuchart, James McFadden, T.J. Stutts

FEATURE LAPS LED (22 Drivers):

317 Laps – David Gravel
227 Laps – Carson Macedo
178 Laps – Giovanni Scelzi
166 Laps – Sheldon Haudenschild
97 Laps – Donny Schatz
75 Laps – Rico Abreu
49 Laps – Logan Schuchart
47 Laps – Kyle Larson
44 Laps – James McFadden
34 Laps – Brady Bacon, Michael Kofoid
25 Laps – Brad Sweet, T.J. Stutts
15 Laps – Ryan Timms, Tyler Courtney
13 Laps – Anthony Macri
12 Laps – Emerson Axsom
11 Laps – Bill Balog
9 Laps – Parker Price-Miller, Corey Day
3 Laps – Brent Marks
1 Lap – Kalib Henry

SIMPSON PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS QUICKTIME AWARDS (16 Drivers):

8 Quick Times – Carson Macedo
8 Quick Times – David Gravel
5 Quick Times – Sheldon Haudenschild
4 Quick Times – Giovanni Scelzi, Michael Kofoid
3 Quick Times – Brent Marks
1 Quick Time – Landon Crawley, Brian Brown, Aaron Reutzel, Brady Bacon, Donny Schatz, Daryn Pittman, Cory Eliason, Brock Zearfoss, Rico Abreu, Chase Dietz

HEAT RACE WINNERS (36 Drivers):

25 Heat Wins – David Gravel
21 Heat Wins – Carson Macedo
19 Heat Wins – Sheldon Haudenschild
16 Heat Wins – Giovanni Scelzi
12 Heat Wins – Michael Kofoid
9 Heat Wins – Rico Abreu
7 Heat Wins – Brock Zearfoss
6 Heat Wins – Donny Schatz, Logan Schuchart
5 Heat Wins – Tyler Courtney, Brent Marks
3 Heat Wins – Bill Balog
2 Heat Wins – Brian Brown, Landon Crawley, Corey Day, Garet Williamson, Kyle Larson, Anthony Macri, Daryn Pittman
1 Heat Win – Justin Peck, Sam Hafertepe Jr., Bill Rose, Ryan Timms, Danny Sams III, Emerson Axsom, Tim Shaffer, Nick Omdahl, Scott Bogucki, Austin McCarl, Brad Sweet, Spencer Bayston, Brady Bacon, Parker Price-Miller, Chase Dietz, T.J. Stutts, Kelby Watt

TOYOTA DASH APPEARANCES (58 Drivers):

33 Dashes – David Gravel
32 Dashes – Carson Macedo
29 Dashes – Giovanni Scelzi
28 Dashes – Sheldon Haudenschild
23 Dashes – Michael Kofoid
19 Dashes – Donny Schatz
14 Dashes – Logan Schuchart
10 Dashes – Bill Balog
9 Dashes – Rico Abreu, Brock Zearfoss
7 Dashes – Landon Crawley, Brent Marks
6 Dashes – Tyler Courtney
5 Dashes – Emerson Axsom, Corey Day
4 Dashes – Brian Brown, Brady Bacon, Anthony Macri
3 Dashes – Aaron Reutzel, Garet Williamson, Brad Sweet, Daryn Pittman, Justin Peck, James McFadden
2 Dashes – Cole Duncan, Cole Macedo, Kalib Henry, Danny Sams III, Kyle Larson, Parker Price-Miller, Chase Dietz, Ayrton Gennetten
1 Dash – Zeb Wise, Sam Hafertepe Jr., Bill Rose, Ryan Timms, Logan McCandless, Skylar Gee, Kody Hartlaub, Tim Shaffer, T.J. Michael, Craig Mintz, Brandon Spithaler, Sye Lynch, Cale Thomas, Kaleb Johnson, Nick Omdahl, Scott Bogucki, Austin McCarl, Christopher Thram, Kraig Kinser, Troy Wagaman Jr., T.J. Stutts, Freddie Rahmer, Jacob Allen, Lance Dewease, Kelby Watt, Will Armitage

MICRO-LITE LAST CHANCE SHOWDOWN WINS (33 Drivers):

3 LCS Wins – Bill Balog
2 LCS Wins – Logan McCandless, Brock Zearfoss, Garet Williamson, Landon Crawley, Anthony Macri
1 LCS Win – Austin McCarl, Corey Day, Kasey Kahne, Koty Adams, Jace Park, Landon Crawley, Kevin Newton, Brenham Crouch, Sheldon Haudenschild, Brandon Rahmer, David Gravel, Nate Dussel, Cole Macedo, Zeth Sabo, Brooke Tatnell, Donny Schatz, Brent Marks, Cory Eliason, Kerry Madsen, Creed Kemenah, Joel Myers Jr., Hunter Schuerenberg, Kody Hartlaub, Lucas Wolfe, Larry Wight, Kyle Larson, Jesse Attard

KSE HARD CHARGER AWARDS (23 Drivers):

8 Hard Chargers – Donny Schatz
6 Hard Chargers – Logan Schuchart
3 Hard Chargers – Carson Macedo
2 Hard Chargers – Aaron Reutzel, Michael Kofoid, Cale Thomas, Danny Dietrich
1 Hard Charger – Jace Park, Sam Hafertepe Jr., Brock Zearfoss, Chase Randall, Chris Windom, Noah Gass, Austin McCarl, Giovanni Scelzi, Sheldon Haudenschild, Landon Crawley, Sye Lynch, Bill Balog, Scotty Neitzel, Garet Williamson, Brent Marks, Larry Wight

PODIUM FINISHES (23 Drivers):

25 Podiums – David Gravel
19 Podiums – Carson Macedo
15 Podiums – Donny Schatz
14 Podiums – Sheldon Haudenschild
12 Podiums – Michael Kofoid
7 Podiums – Giovanni Scelzi
5 Podiums – Rico Abreu, Kyle Larson
3 Podiums – Brad Sweet, Tyler Courtney, Brent Marks
2 Podiums – Bill Balog, Aaron Reutzel, Logan Schuchart, Justin Peck, James McFadden
1 Podium – Anthony Macri, Brady Bacon, Cole Macedo, Parker Price-Miller, Ryan Timms, Emerson Axsom, T.J. Stutts

TOP 10 FINISHES (70 Drivers):

39 Top 10s – David Gravel
38 Top 10s – Donny Schatz
37 Top 10s – Giovanni Scelzi
35 Top 10s – Michael Kofoid
34 Top 10s – Carson Macedo
33 Top 10s – Logan Schuchart
29 Top 10s – Sheldon Haudenschild
19 Top 10s – Bill Balog
11 Top 10s – Brock Zearfoss
9 Top 10s – Tyler Courtney, Rico Abreu
8 Top 10s – Brent Marks, Brad Sweet, James McFadden
7 Top 10s – Anthony Macri
5 Top 10s – Aaron Reutzel, Corey Day, Kyle Larson
4 Top 10s – Cole Macedo, Landon Crawley, Brian Brown, Brady Bacon, Justin Peck
3 Top 10s – Cole Duncan, Skylar Gee, Ryan Timms, Garet Williamson, Emerson Axsom, Zeb Wise, Danny Dietrich
2 Top 10s – Chase Randall, Kraig Kinser, Cale Thomas, Jacob Allen, Parker Price-Miller, Cory Eliason, Chase Dietz, Troy Wagaman Jr., Daryn Pittman, Ayrton Gennetten
1 Top 10 – Kasey Kahne, Sam Hafertepe Jr., Chris Windom, Joe B. Miller, Scotty Milan, Brandon Spithaler, Kalib Henry, Tim Shaffer, Zane DeVault, Sye Lynch, Travis Philo, Trey Jacobs, Scotty Thiel, Mark Dobmeier, Kaleb Johnson, Scott Bogucki, Austin McCarl, Tim Kaeding, Christopher Thram, Landon Brooks, Greg Wilson, Spencer Bayston, Daison Pursley, Devon Borden, T.J. Stutts, Freddie Rahmer, Lance Dewease, Stewart Friesen, Jordan Poirier, Larry Wight

2024 WORLD OF OUTLAWS SPRINT CAR SCHEDULE & WINNERS:

No. / Day, Date / Track / Location / Winner (Total Wins)

1. Wed, Feb 7 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / Brad Sweet (1)
2. Thurs, Feb 8 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / David Gravel (1)
3. Fri, Feb 9 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / Tyler Courtney (1)
4. Sat, Feb 10 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / Sheldon Haudenschild (1)
5. Mon, March 4 / Volusia Speedway Park / Barberville, FL / Donny Schatz (1)
6. Fri, March 15 / Cotton Bowl Speedway / Paige, TX / Brent Marks (1)
7. Sat, March 16 / Cotton Bowl Speedway / Paige, TX / Giovanni Scelzi (1)
8. Sat, March 23 / Kennedale Speedway Park / Kennedale, TX / Carson Macedo (1)
9. Sat, March 30 / 81 Speedway / Wichita, KS / Rico Abreu (1)
10. Fri, April 5 / US 36 Raceway / Osborn, MO / David Gravel (2)
11. Sat, April 6 / Arrowhead Speedway / Colcord, OK / Sheldon Haudenschild (2)
12. Fri, April 12 / Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55 / Pevely, MO / David Gravel (3)
13. Sat, April 13 / Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55 / Pevely, MO / Donny Schatz (2)
14. Fri, April 19 / Paducah International Raceway / Paducah, KY / Sheldon Haudenschild (3)
15. Sat, April 20 / Tri-State Speedway / Haubstadt, IN / Brady Bacon (1)
16. Wed, May 1 / Jacksonville Speedway / Jacksonville, IL / David Gravel (4)
17. Fri, May 3 / Eldora Speedway / Rossburg, OH / Sheldon Haudenschild (4)
18. Sat, May 4 / Eldora Speedway / Rossburg, OH / David Gravel (5)
19. Wed, May 8 / Lincoln Speedway / Abbottstown, PA / David Gravel (6)
20. Fri, May 17 / Attica Raceway Park / Attica, OH / Michael Kofoid (1)
21. Sat, May 18 / Sharon Speedway / Hartford, OH / David Gravel (7)
22. Fri, May 24 / Atomic Speedway / Chillicothe, OH / David Gravel (8)
23. Sat, May 25 / Atomic Speedway / Chillicothe, OH / Sheldon Haudenschild (5)
24. Mon, May 27 / Fremont Speedway / Fremont, OH / Carson Macedo (2)
25. Fri, May 31 / Beaver Dam Raceway / Beaver Dam, WI / Sheldon Haudenschild (6)
26. Fri, June 7 / River Cities Speedway / Grand Forks, ND / Giovanni Scelzi (2)
27. Sat, June 8 / Ogilvie Raceway / Ogilvie, MN / Sheldon Haudenschild (7)
28. Fri, June 14 / Knoxville Raceway / Knoxville, IA / David Gravel (9)
29. Sat, June 15 / Knoxville Raceway / Knoxville, IA / Corey Day (1)
30. Wed, June 19 / Huset’s Speedway / Brandon, SD / Tyler Courtney (2)
31. Sat, June 29 / Cedar Lake Speedway / New Richmond, WI / Logan Schuchart (1)
32. Wed, July 10 / Beaver Dam Raceway / Beaver Dam, WI / Giovanni Scelzi (3)
33. Fri, July 12 / Wilmot Raceway / Wilmot, WI / Carson Macedo (3)
34. Sat, July 13 / Wilmot Raceway / Wilmot, WI / Donny Schatz (3)
35. Tues, July 16 / Attica Raceway Park / Attica, OH / David Gravel (10)
36. Fri, July 19 / Eldora Speedway / Rossburg, OH / Rico Abreu (2)
37. Sat, July 20 / Eldora Speedway / Rossburg, OH / David Gravel (11)
38. Wed, July 24 / BAPS Motor Speedway / York Haven, PA / James McFadden (1)
39. Fri, July 26 / Williams Grove Speedway / Mechanicsburg, PA / T.J. Stutts (1)
40. Sat, July 27 / Williams Grove Speedway / Mechanicsburg, PA / David Gravel (12)
41. Sun, July 28 / Weedsport Speedway / Weedsport, NY / David Gravel (13)
42. Fri, August 2 / Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55 / Pevely, MO / Kyle Larson (1)
43. Sat, August 3 / Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55 / Pevely, MO / Kyle Larson (2)

For the remaining 2024 World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car schedule, CLICK HERE.

BATAVIA, Ohio (August 56, 2024) – Already one of the highest paying events of the season, the 42nd Annual Sunoco North/South 100 presented by Lucas Oil is even bigger in 2024. The nation’s top dirt late model drivers will converge at Florence Speedway in Union, Ky., Thursday-Saturday, August 8-10, to chase over $315,000 in prize money. Thursday and Friday night’s preliminary A-Mains have increased to $6,000 to win. Each night, the field will be split into two groups based on pill draw, with each group competing in a full program of Dirt Draft Hot Laps, Allstar Performance Time Trials, Heat Races, B-Mains, and their respective A-Main.  The combined points from Thursday and Friday’s preliminary events will determine the line-ups for Saturday’s Heat Races. The Modified division will Time Trial and Heat Race on Thursday followed by their B-Mains and $2,000 to win A-Main on Friday. Saturday’s off-track festivities include the National Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Memorabilia Auction, a Dirt Racing Outreach Service, and Driver Autograph Session. The on-track action begins with Heat Races and B-Mains for the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series. Then, the 100-lap, $75,000 to win/ $3,500 to start Sunoco North/South 100 presented by Lucas Oil takes center stage. A $3,000 to win Non-Qualifiers race will cap off the weekend action. On Thursday and Friday, the pit gate opens at 3:00 PM, while the general admission gates open at 6:00 PM. Hot laps start at 7:00 PM, with racing one hour later at 8:00 PM. The pit, and general admission gates will all open at 3:00 PM for Saturday’s Sunoco North/South 100 presented by Lucas Oil. Hot laps are set to begin at 7:00 PM, with racing at 7:30 PM on Saturday. Florence Speedway is a half-mile clay oval located in Northern Kentucky off Interstate 71/75, approximately 25 miles south of Cincinnati, Ohio. For more information, visit www.florencespeedway.com. Ricky Thornton Jr. leads the Big River Steel Chase for the Championship presented by ARP. Devin Moran is second followed by Jonathan Davenport in third. Hudson O’Neal is fourth with Tim McCreadie rounding out the top five in the current championship standings. Drake Troutman is now 20 points ahead of Clay Harris in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Rookie of the Year chase. 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:Thursday – Group A: 1. $6,000, 2. $3,000, 3. $2,000, 4. $1,250, 5. $1,000, 6. $900, 7. $850, 8. $800, 9. $750, 10. $700, 11. $650, 12. $600, 13. $550, 14. $500, 15. $500, 16. $500, 17. $500, 18. $500, 19. $500, 20. $500, 21. $500, 22. $500, 23. $500, 24. $500 = $24,550 Thursday –

BATAVIA, Ohio (August 56, 2024) – Already one of the highest paying events of the season, the 42nd Annual Sunoco North/South 100 presented by Lucas Oil is even bigger in 2024. The nation’s top dirt late model drivers will converge at Florence Speedway in Union, Ky., Thursday-Saturday, August 8-10, to chase over $315,000 in prize money. Thursday and Friday night’s preliminary A-Mains have increased to $6,000 to win. Each night, the field will be split into two groups based on pill draw, with each group competing in a full program of Dirt Draft Hot Laps, Allstar Performance Time Trials, Heat Races, B-Mains, and their respective A-Main.  The combined points from Thursday and Friday’s preliminary events will determine the line-ups for Saturday’s Heat Races. The Modified division will Time Trial and Heat Race on Thursday followed by their B-Mains and $2,000 to win A-Main on Friday. Saturday’s off-track festivities include the National Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Memorabilia Auction, a Dirt Racing Outreach Service, and Driver Autograph Session. The on-track action begins with Heat Races and B-Mains for the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series. Then, the 100-lap, $75,000 to win/ $3,500 to start Sunoco North/South 100 presented by Lucas Oil takes center stage. A $3,000 to win Non-Qualifiers race will cap off the weekend action. On Thursday and Friday, the pit gate opens at 3:00 PM, while the general admission gates open at 6:00 PM. Hot laps start at 7:00 PM, with racing one hour later at 8:00 PM. The pit, and general admission gates will all open at 3:00 PM for Saturday’s Sunoco North/South 100 presented by Lucas Oil. Hot laps are set to begin at 7:00 PM, with racing at 7:30 PM on Saturday. Florence Speedway is a half-mile clay oval located in Northern Kentucky off Interstate 71/75, approximately 25 miles south of Cincinnati, Ohio. For more information, visit www.florencespeedway.com. Ricky Thornton Jr. leads the Big River Steel Chase for the Championship presented by ARP. Devin Moran is second followed by Jonathan Davenport in third. Hudson O’Neal is fourth with Tim McCreadie rounding out the top five in the current championship standings. Drake Troutman is now 20 points ahead of Clay Harris in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Rookie of the Year chase. 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:Thursday – Group A: 1. $6,000, 2. $3,000, 3. $2,000, 4. $1,250, 5. $1,000, 6. $900, 7. $850, 8. $800, 9. $750, 10. $700, 11. $650, 12. $600, 13. $550, 14. $500, 15. $500, 16. $500, 17. $500, 18. $500, 19. $500, 20. $500, 21. $500, 22. $500, 23. $500, 24. $500 = $24,550 Thursday – Group B: 1. $6,000, 2. $3,000, 3. $2,000, 4. $1,250, 5. $1,000, 6. $900, 7. $850, 8. $800, 9. $750, 10. $700, 11. $650, 12. $600, 13. $550, 14. $500, 15. $500, 16. $500, 17. $500, 18. $500, 19. $500, 20. $500, 21. $500, 22. $500, 23. $500, 24. $500 = $24,550 Friday – Group A: 1. $6,000, 2. $3,000, 3. $2,000, 4. $1,250, 5. $1,000, 6. $900, 7. $850, 8. $800, 9. $750, 10. $700, 11. $650, 12. $600, 13. $550, 14. $500, 15. $500, 16. $500, 17. $500, 18. $500, 19. $500, 20. $500, 21. $500, 22. $500, 23. $500, 24. $500 = $24,550 Friday – Group B: 1. $6,000, 2. $3,000, 3. $2,000, 4. $1,250, 5. $1,000, 6. $900, 7. $850, 8. $800, 9. $750, 10. $700, 11. $650, 12. $600, 13. $550, 14. $500, 15. $500, 16. $500, 17. $500, 18. $500, 19. $500, 20. $500, 21. $500, 22. $500, 23. $500, 24. $500 = $24,550 Saturday Non-Qualifiers Race: 1. $3,000, 2. $1,500, 3. $1,000, 4. 850, 5. $750, 6. $650, 7. $600, 8. $575, 9. $550, 10. $525, 11. $500, 12. $500, 13. $500, 14. $500, 15. $500, 16. $500, 17. $500, 18. $500, 19. $500, 20. $500 = $15,000 42nd Annual Sunoco North/South 100 Presented by Lucas Oil: 1. $75,000, 2. $20,000, 3. $10,000, 4. $9,000, 5. $8,000, 6. $7,000, 7. $6,000, 8. $5,000, 9. $4,750, 10. $4,500, 11. $4,250, 12. $4,000, 13. $3,750, 14. $3,700, 15. $3,650, 16. $3,600, 17. $3,550, 18. $3,500, 19. $3,500, 20. $3,500, 21. $3,500, 22. $3,500, 23. $3,500, 24. $3,500, 25. $3,500 = $203,750 Total Weekend Purse: $316,950 Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Tire Rule:Left Rear/Fronts – Hoosier (90) NLMT2, (90) NLMT3Right Rear – Hoosier (92) NLMT3, (92) NLMT4 Previous North/South 100 Champions:2023 – Bobby Pierce2022 – Jonathan Davenport2021 – Brandon Overton2020 – Tim McCreadie2019 – Chris Madden2018 – Ricky Weiss2017 – Tim McCreadie2016 – Bobby Pierce2015 – Jonathan Davenport2014 – Eddie Carrier Jr.2013 – Don O’Neal2012 – Don O’Neal2011 – Jimmy Owens2010 – Jimmy Owens2009 – Jimmy Mars2008 – Darren Miller2007 – Jimmy Owens2006 – Steve Shaver2005 – Bart Hartman2004 – Steve Shaver2003 – Dan Schlieper2002 – Chub Frank2001 – Rained Out2000 – Scott Bloomquist1999 – Bob Pierce1998 – Donnie Moran1997 – Rick Aukland1996 – Donnie Moran1995 – John Gill1994 – Jack Boggs1993 – John Gill1992 – Jack Boggs1991 – Rodney Combs1990 – Mike Head1989 – Jeff Purvis1988 – Scott Bloomquist1987 – Jeff Purvis1986 – Jack Boggs1985 – John Mason1984 – Pat Patrick1983 – Pat Patrick

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (August 6, 2024) – The 2024 Progressive American Flat Track season, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, continues tonight with the Black Hills Harley-Davidson Black Hills Half-Mile presented by The City of Sturgis in Rapid City, South Dakota. The Mission AFT SuperTwins and Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKERchampionship contenders will be back in action with the day’s first practice scheduled to start at 3:30 p.m. ET (12:30 p.m. PT). For those who can’t catch the action from the track, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive AFT. Catch every second of this weekend’s on-track action, starting with practice and qualifying and concluding with the victory podium, at https://flosports.link/aft. For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.

August 6, 2024 — TORRANCE, Calif.

• Acura salutes its championship heritage in sports car competition at the 2024 Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion with the return of the 2008 Acura ARX-01b
• Two-time IMSA Champion and current Acura ARX-06 GTP driver Ricky Taylor will pilot the legendary race machine in the Scott Pruett Legends of Endurance Cup Class
• Acura has won three of the last five IMSA Prototype championships and three of the last four Rolex 24 at Daytona endurance races

Acura will celebrate its rich legacy of endurance sports car competition by racing its iconic Acura ARX-01b prototype during Monterey Car Week, one of the world’s top gatherings of automotive and motorsports enthusiasts. Still wearing its iconic livery from the 2008 season, the Acura ARX-01b will compete in the Scott Pruett Legends of Endurance Cup at the 2024 Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca on Aug. 14-17. Two-time IMSA Series Champion and current Acura ARX-06 prototype driver Ricky Taylor will be behind the wheel.

Acura ARX-01b Returns to Laguna Seca
The 2024 Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion marks the return of the Acura ARX-01b [Acura Racing eXperimental, generation 1] to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, where it wowed race fans with one of the greatest finishes in the 67-year history of the famed racetrack.

In 2008, team owner and driver Gil de Ferran, a two-time season champion in the Championship Auto Racing Teams (CART) open-wheel racing series, and the 2003 Indy 500 winner, drove an Acura ARX-01b with future Indy 500 winner Simon Pagenaud in the American Le Mans Series LMP2 Class. This included the dramatic season finale at Laguna Seca. During the four-hour race, the final hour of action proved to be a classic, with Pagenaud finishing second, just .054 seconds behind another Acura ARX-01b driven by 2013 Indy 500 winner Tony Kanaan.

In 2009, the Fernandez Racing organization won eight races in the LMP2 class to win the class championship in an Acura ARX-01b. In addition, the Acura ARX-02a finished 1-2 in the LMP1 championship with a pair of entries fielded by Highcroft Racing and de Ferran Motorsports, winning eight of ten races – including on the track at Laguna Seca.

Acura began winning on the track within two years after it began sales in 1986. Race-prepped Acura Integras won two consecutive International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) Championships from 1988-90. Then the first in a successful line of endurance prototypes fielded by the brand over the last three decades, the famous Comptech Racing Acura-Spice GTP Lights race cars carried Acura to three consecutive Championships in the prestigious IMSA Camel GTP Lights series from 1991-93.

Acura racing success continues in 2024 with the championship-winning Acura NSX GT3 competing in the IMSA GTD class, and the electrified Acura ARX-06, competing in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar GTP Championship hybrid-powered GTP category and recently claimed victory at the iconic 12 Hours of Sebring. Acura has won three of the last five IMSA Prototype championships and three of the last four Rolex 24 at Daytona endurance races.

About Acura
Acura is a leading automotive brand committed to delivering expressive styling, innovative engineering and engaging dynamics, all built on the brand’s Precision Crafted Performance DNA. The Acura lineup consists of two sport sedans, the Integra and TLX, and three sport-utility vehicles, the RDX, MDX and all-electric ZDX. A fourth SUV, the ADX, will join the lineup as a new gateway model in 2025. High-performance Type S variants further demonstrate the virtues of Acura Precision Crafted Performance. All Acura vehicles sold in America are made in the U.S., using domestic and globally sourced parts.

More information about Acura is available here: https://acuranews.com/en-US. 

Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA to run two-car FIA WEC factory team starting in 2025

DETROIT (Aug. 6, 2024) – Cadillac Racing announced today that its FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) Hypercar program will expand to a two-car factory program to be named Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA beginning with the start of the 2025 season. “Cadillac is proud to be racing against the best in the world as part of the FIA World Endurance Championship, and that includes Hertz Team JOTA” said John Roth, vice president, Global Cadillac. “We are thrilled to welcome Hertz Team JOTA next year, bringing decades of racing and technical expertise together, to achieve continued success on the track and create new advocates for our brand around the globe.” Added Sam Hignett, director and founder, Hertz Team JOTA: “JOTA has always strived to become a manufacturer team, so now joining forces with Cadillac is the realization of this goal. Having competed against the Cadillac V-Series.R for the last two seasons, we have experienced how competitive it is and we are genuinely honored to be entrusted with fielding its cars from 2025 onward. We are in the privileged position to have enjoyed record-breaking success in the FIA World Endurance Championship, especially at Le Mans, and we are very much looking forward to continuing this success with Cadillac and Hertz.”

French version of news release | Logo in PNG, PDF, jpeg Drivers of the No. 12 and No. 38 Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA V-Series.R racecars, which are powered by the purpose-built Cadillac 5.5L DOHC V8 engine, will be announced in the future. England-based Hertz Team JOTA, owned in part by affiliates of Knighthead Capital Management, LLC, sponsored by global car rental company Hertz and seven-time champion and entrepreneur Tom Brady, entered the Hypercar class as a privateer in 2023 and currently runs two cars in the WEC with another manufacturer. It registered a historic first overall victory for a private team in Hypercar on May 11 at the TotalEnergies 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps and was runner-up in the season-opening Qatar Airways Qatar 1812 KM. Hertz Team JOTA leads the FIA World Cup for Hypercar private teams. Highlighting Cadillac Racing’s inaugural WEC season was the third-place finish in the centenary 24 Hours of Le Mans. The No. 2 Cadillac V-Series.R started the 2023 season with top-five finishes at Sebring, Portimão and Spa-Francorchamps. Cadillac Racing, which also runs a two-car Grand Touring Prototype (GTP) factory program in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, swept the 2023 GTP full-season and IMSA Michelin Endurance cup manufacturer, team and driver championships with Action Express Racing and the No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R. Overall, Cadillac Racing has earned nine Manufacturer Championships, five IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup Manufacturer Championships and 69 total sports car victories, including 30 in IMSA prototype competition since 2017. Cadillac Racing will announce its 2025 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship plans at a later date. The Cadillac V-Series.R marks the third-generation Cadillac prototype racecar and the brand’s first hybrid electrified race car. Codeveloped by Cadillac Design, Cadillac Racing and chassis constructor Dallara — the race car incorporates key Cadillac V-Series production car design elements, such as vertical lighting and floating blades.

Fifth and sixth for Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller; season-best fifth in GTD for AWA ELKHART LAKE, Wis. (August 4, 2024) – The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R recorded top-five finishes in both GTD PRO and GTD on Sunday at the end of a chaotic IMSA SportsCar Weekend event at Road America. The No. 3 Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller Motorsports entry of Antonio Garcia and Alexander Sims finished fifth in the GTD PRO class, with the AWA duo of Matt Bell and Orey Fidani matching that result for their best GTD finish of the season in their No. 13 Corvette Z06 GT3.R. The GTD PRO pole-sitting No. 4 Corvette of Nicky Catsburg and Tommy Milner placed sixth in the hectic race.

The two-hour, 40-minute contest looked more like a short-track race with six full-course caution periods. Two yellows inside the final hour worked against the three Corvette Z06 GT3.Rs, all of which looked to be in good shape on fuel strategy going into the final 70 minutes. The first unlucky break against the Corvettes came on the opening lap as Sims went spinning from second place after contact from another GTD PRO car, a dive-bomb move that sent the No. 3 off-track and into the gravel. Recovery crews quickly pulled Sims back onto the track with minor damage to the suspension of the car. That left class pole-sitter and leader Nicky Catsburg as the lone Corvette at the front of the field, and the No. 4 he shared with Tommy Milner led the first 10 laps before stopping for tires and fuel during the first caution period of the race. A handful of GTD PRO cars stayed out to jumble the running order, which put a greater premium on track position. Both the No. 3 and No. 4 Corvettes attempted to manage their fuel usage across the final 75 minutes to regain the top positions, but two full-course yellows in quick succession alleviated all fuel concerns for the full GTD PRO field. In GTD, Bell and Fidani were the day’s top movers by gaining 16 positions overall and 10 in class for their first top-five finish of the season. Fidani drove the first 46 minutes before Bell took over to the end. He was involved in multiple battles with other class competitors – five and six cars at a time – but stayed clean to the end. The result meant that Fidani continues to lead the Bob Akin Award standings, with the season championship going to the top Bronze-rated, points-scoring driver. The next race in IMSA for the Corvette Z06 GT3.Rs is the Michelin GT Challenge at Virginia International Raceway on August 23-25.

CORVETTE RACING BY PRATT MILLER MOTORSPORTS POST-EVENT DRIVER QUOTESANTONIO GARCIA, NO. 3 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R – FIFTH IN GTD PRO: “The first lap led to our whole race. The opening contact damaged the car somewhat, and from that point on we had to gamble on a different strategy, save fuel and do something different. In a way, it got us some positions but when it came time to fight at the end, the car wasn’t where it needed to be. We definitely tried to squeeze as much as we could out of it. It’s a shame. It was a little mistake (by the 64) but it hurt the momentum of our race.”

ALEXANDER SIMS, NO. 3 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R – FIFTH IN GTD PRO: “Rocky (Mike Rockenfeller) came and apologized. I know that there was nothing malicious in it. It was just a mistake, and we all make mistakes. That’s the way it goes. I have to give great credit to the Corvette, which held up pretty well for a decent hit. We had a little movement in the rear toe, and we could finish the race with it. Well done to the recovery crew to get me out of the gravel so quickly. That kept us on the lead lap and in the race. We came away with fifth which isn’t what you want after starting on the front row, but under the circumstances it could have been race over at that point. It was a good recovery. That’s racing, and we’ll go on to the next one.”

TOMMY MILNER, NO. 4 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R – SIXTH IN GTD PRO: “On our side, we had great racecars. The Corvettes were very good. It’s hard to pass here. What happens with guys that don’t think they have a car to win, they start making gambles on strategy and in this series you can win on gambles. Driving in traffic here makes it hard to follow cars. Even if you have a fast car, you can’t always use it. We’re very well aware that track position is king, so we try to prioritize that. Things just didn’t fall our way today. There were multiple situations and opportunities for us to make the right calls, and in the situations I think we made the right calls. I’m not happy with the end result, but the effort and strategy and the whole crew… everyone did a great job and did everything right. Luck was just not on our side.”

NICKY CATSBURG, NO. 4 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R – SIXTH IN GTD PRO: “Honestly it was a disappointing day today. I felt that as a team we executed really well and the Corvette was in a super-nice window in terms of balance. The start went well and from my point of view we did everything right and ended up with nothing. It’s unfortunate because I feel like we deserved something more today. Some of these races become a bit of a lottery. So I’m disappointed but on the other hand pleased with the momentum we have. We are getting more and more on top of the car. We are reliable, we are performing well in terms of setup, qualifying and race pace. The guys in the pitlane are doing good work. It was a good weekend with all the Oshkosh guests, and we had a lot of fun. It would have been nice to come away with a win instead of basically nothing. It is what it is, and now we can look forward to VIR which is a new track for me. It seems to be another awesome place, and I can’t wait for the next event.”

AWA POST-EVENT DRIVER QUOTESMATT BELL, NO. 13 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R – FIFTH IN GTD: “That was absolute chaos and a proper IMSA race! There was some seriously dicey, proper GT racing going on and I loved every bit of it, to be honest. A few people got a bit too far over the line and that cost them, but I think we struck the right balance and managed to progress through the field. It was nice to put in a couple of decent overtakes and we went up the field as people made mistakes. I think we were the top mover on the grid with great work by the team. We were super-sharp in the pits and super-sharp with strategy again. We’re marching toward that first podium. So yes, a good day in the office.”

After Driving PEAK Chevy Camaro for First Time. ‘Fast Jack” Ready for Brainerd

NORWALK, Ohio (Aug. 3, 2024) – After an 11-year absence, two-time Top Fuel World Champion Brittany Force made the most of her Saturday return to the Cornwell Tools “Night Under Fire,” pushing her blue-and-black Cornwell dragster to the night’s quickest time and fastest speed (3.840 seconds at 320.20 miles per hour) en route to a momentum-building victory at Summit Motorsport Park. John Force Racing missed a double-up win in Funny Car when mechanical issues slowed Jack Beckman and the PEAK Antifreeze and Coolant Chevrolet Camaro SS to 8.766 seconds at only 85.51 mph in a final round loss to Dale Creasy Jr. “Bill Bader’s events are always a highlight of the season (and) competing in them is such a privilege,” Brittany said. “We ran the quickest ET in the first round (but) in the final, our car started to spin (the tires). Fortunately, it was good enough for the win which gives us momentum heading into Brainerd (Minn., site of the Aug. 16-18 Lucas Oil Nationals, next event in the NHRA’s Mission Foods Series). Meanwhile, despite the final round disappointment, Beckman was pleased with the overall direction of his first week filling in for John Force, who continues to recover from a TBI suffered in a June 23 crash in Richmond, Va. “I’m still wrapping my head around the fact that it’s actually me sitting in John Force’s car,” said the 33-time NHRA tour winner. “(JFR president) Robert Hight did a conference call on Friday and I got to speak to John for the first time since his accident. That was medicine for the soul. “(Then), John called me (Saturday) before I got in the car. He said, ‘just go out there and do what you know how to do. There’s no pressure,’” recounted the former NHRA national record holder. “And he was right. I actually came out here to get licensed and wound up having a ton of fun in the process.  “I got to know (the members of) John’s PEAK team. I’ve known a few of them, but I got to spend more time with the rest of them and, I guess, under the circumstances, you could not have asked for a better way to get indoctrinated to the car and the team,” he said. After a set-up run of 4.007 seconds at 308.28 mph on Friday, “Fast Jack” was the No. 1 qualifier Saturday with a first round time of 4.047 at 309.34 mph. Unfortunately, his final round troubles enabled Creasy Jr. to win in a pedestrian 6.395 seconds at 107.10 mph. “We had a couple of electric gremlins, which is always frustrating,” said the man who taught more than 7,000 students the mechanics of the sport as an instructor at Frank Hawley’s Drag Racing School, “but it could have been worse. If it would have happened in Brainerd, it could have (really) put us behind the eight ball.  “We got to step on the throttle a bunch of times,” he said. “I got the runs I needed to get my license (renewed) and we probably learned a couple things about the car. Remember, John and I don’t weigh the same (and) our driving styles are a little bit different. The crew and I are going to have to meld our styles together to where everything is predictable again for them (like) it was when John was driving.  “The biggest thing is now I know how to go home and visualize exactly what this car looks like, feels like, sounds like and responds like. I’ll be better when we get to Brainerd.  You have to remember, it’s a brand new car. (It) had never been down the racetrack before, so I think we checked off all the boxes.”

Cadillac Racing GTP entries finish fourth, ninth in final sprint event of season

ELKHART LAKE, Wis. (Aug. 4, 2024) – The No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R regrouped after an inauspicious start Sunday to the IMSA SportsCar Weekend at Road America to challenge for the victory and eventually finish fourth in the choppy 2-hour, 40-minute race. The No. 01 Cadillac V-Series.R also found itself the object of contact and an off-course excursion that required an unscheduled stop to change the nose assembly and front-right tire. Renger van der Zande and Sebastien Bourdais, who started third, finished ninth after a service stop for tires with 2 minutes left.

After qualifying fifth, Pipo Derani found himself sitting backward in Turn 6 on the initial race lap when the No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R was bumped and spun, which dropped the Grand Touring Prototype (GTP) entry to the rear of the 10-car field. Derani climbed to eighth and ceded the seat to Jack Aitken after 25 minutes of driving time. Aitken, competing at Road America for the first time, continued to weave through the 47-car field covering four classes to be running third under yellow with 37 minutes left. He moved to second on the restart with 16 minutes, 20 seconds left and looked to challenge the leading No. 6 Porsche 963. Also on the green flag, Bourdais moved to fourth in the running order. In the final 8 minutes, the No. 7 Porsche 963 overtook Aitken for second and the No. 10 Acura AXR-06 slipped past the No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R in traffic on the white flag lap for the final podium spot.

Next up for GTP entries is the Tirerack.com Battle on the Bricks on the 2.439-mile, 14-turn Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course that incorporates sections of the oval track. The event was a 2-hour, 40-minute race in 2023 and expands to six hours Sept. 22. NBC will telecast the final three hours of the race, with Peacock providing flag-to-flag streaming coverage from 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. ET. Cadillac Racing photos from Road America for editorial use

No. 01 Cadillac V-Series.R

Renger van der Zande: “I think today wasn’t our day. We were in a great position after the first stop. It was one of those days in IMSA where there’s a lot of yellows, and a big lottery. But, obviously, we had a crash, which hurt the car quite a bit and that put us at the back of the field. After that the recovery worked out pretty smoothly but there was a tire that didn’t hold on for the last five minutes to the end. I think P5 was going to be a good recovery from all the drama that we had on the way. But it’s not a good day, also hurts for the championship. The Porsche extended its lead with two of its cars. It’s one of those days that you want to forget quickly. And on top of it I think we had a really fast car. We didn’t have a car to fight with because we’re still struggling with top speed quite a lot, but at least we maximized the setup and performance out of our car, so I’m proud of the team.”  Sebastien Bourdais: “The GT Porsche making contact on the outlap with me, just gave me no chance. I was down on the inside, he knew I was going to go by him in the straight, and I understeered a tiny little bit, but he just turned in and turned me around. And after that I washed out pretty severely behind (Nick) Yelloly in the Carousel, and he was washing out behind the No. 10 really bad too and drove himself off the road. And I was going to run myself off the road a little bit, but I had backed off already and I was going to be fine. But then when I ended up in the cloud of dust I didn’t know where I was, and then I lost it. And then our fate was sealed at that point. The rear tires were squared, and the car was very difficult to drive. And then just went from bad to worse at that point. We delaminated a tire with three laps to go there. So, we just move on.”No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R

Jack Aitken: “A tough Lap 1, but we did what we had to do to work our way back into it. The race came to us a little bit with the way the cautions played out. For most of the races played it simple and worked our way through the pack by picking people off and with good strategy and found ourselves in position to win the race at the end. It was an interesting race with fuel, different tire strategies. I tried to go for the lead and just had a bit of rubber and ended up wide in Canada Corner and that was the impetus to lose second place to the other Porsche. They were strong today, so take my hat off to them. Then I just couldn’t get back on terms with them through the traffic that quite intense. Then I made a small mistake and Ricky Taylor managed to get past as well. It was a bit frustrating that we came here to win and we put ourselves in that position, so that’s positive.” Pipo Derani: “This race was all about strategy, getting the yellows right. We came back to put ourselves in position to fight for the win and it was tight at the end. It was really close in fighting for the win so that’s a positive today. Let’s see how it goes the last two races and more points in the bag today. The championship keeps getting harder and harder, but it’s part of the game. You give all you have and sometimes you come out with the win and sometimes you come out with P4.”