WEST MEMPHIS, AR (September 24, 2024) – The American Sprint Car Series National Tour is back in Memphis for the first time in three years this weekend for a one-of-a-kind Sprint Car racing spectacle.

The Series will join forces with the ASCS Hurricane Area Super Sprints and the United Sprint Car Series for 360 Sprint Car racing’s newest premier event, the World Short Track Challenge at Riverside International Speedway.

The race will pay show-up points only for the National Tour, meaning teams will be gunning solely for Saturday night’s $10,000 top prize. All teams who start Saturday’s main event will make at least $1,000, which puts the World Short Track Challenge in a tie with the 360 Knoxville Nationals for the largest starting payout on the National Tour schedule. Friday’s preliminary action will conclude with a $2,000-to-win, $200-to-start Feature.

Tickets will be available at the track on race day. Can’t make it? Catch every lap live on DIRTVision.

Here are the top storylines entering the weekend:

WHAT A FIELD: With the season winding down and a huge purse up for grabs, teams from across the nation are planning to make the trip to “The Ditch” to chase the checkered flag.

The field of National Tour regulars will be headlined by championship contenders Seth Bergman and Sam Hafertepe Jr., who enter the weekend as the only Series full-timers with Riverside victories to their name. Bergman won with the National Tour in Memphis in 2012 and 2015, while Hafertepe did the same in 2014.

More than 50 names are on the pre-entry list for the event, but there are none bigger than three-time World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car champion Sammy Swindell. The 68-year-old Sprint Car legend is making his first National Tour start since the 2023 360 Knoxville Nationals, but if his wins in local action at Riverside on Aug. 24 and with the USCS at Buckshot Speedway on Aug. 31 are anything to go by, “Slammin’ Sammy” could be a contender for his first Series win in six years.

Other invaders to keep an eye on include four-time National Tour champion and current USCS points leader Terry Gray, North Dakota standout Tim Estenson and eight-time National Tour winner Derek Hagar.

RUN OF SHOW: The tri-sanctioned event will feature a format unlike anything else on the schedule leading up to the main event on Saturday.

After Hot Laps on Friday, cars will be divided into two groups for Qualifying, which will set the lineups for the Heat Races and pay points that will determine lineups later in the night. The top four qualifiers in each Heat Race will be inverted, and passing points will be paid out. The top 14 drivers in combined Qualifying points and Heat Race passing points will be locked into the Feature, while everyone else will have to race their way through a B-Main, C-Main or D-Main.

The top six finishers in the D-Main will transfer to the C-Main, the top six from the C-Main will move on to the B-Main, and the top six from the B-Main will start at the tail of the 25-lap Feature to conclude Friday’s program.

No Qualifying will be held on Saturday; instead, combined points from Qualifying, Heat Races and preliminary Mains on Friday along with a dice roll invert will set the starting lineups for Heat Races on Saturday, which will again pay passing points. After Saturday’s Heat Races, the top 12 in points from both nights will be locked into the Feature, while the rest of the field will be placed into a D-Main, C-Main or B-Main. Those races will see the top six finishers transfer in the same fashion as on Friday night.

Before the main event, a Dash will be held with the top two drivers in Friday’s points along with the top four from Saturday to set the first three rows of the Feature lineup. Once all preliminary action is complete, the weekend will wrap up with a 40-lap, $10,000-to-win Feature.

FEELS LIKE THE FIRST TIME: The win column was dominated by two familiar names in the first half of the year, with Bergman and Hafertepe combining to win 14 of the first 18 races of the National Tour season. The tide has shifted in the opposite direction since then, as neither driver has found Victory Lane in the last six races on tour.

Instead, the Series has seen five different winners in those six races. It was the first National Tour win of the season for all five drivers, and in the case of Rookie of the Year contender Hank Davis, his pair of wins at Electric City Speedway were the first and second of his career.

One of the leading candidates to continue the streak of first-time winners in 2024 is the No. 95 of Matt Covington. The 19-time National Tour winner entered the year fresh off a three-win season a year ago, but it has now been more than a year since his most recent score on Aug. 25, 2023 at Lakeside Speedway. While he hasn’t broken through yet, he has been in contention to do so all year, as he sits third in the standings on the heels of seven podiums and an average finish of 6.2.

The list of potential winners also includes Zach Blurton, who has picked up two podiums and five top 10s in the last nine races, as well as Andrew Deal, who made an impressive 22nd-to-ninth charge last time out at Arrowhead Speedway to remain second in the Rookie of the Year chase.

WELCOME HOME: No one will have a shorter drive to the track this weekend than Memphis’s own Landon Britt.

The driver of the No. 10 is another name on the list of those searching for their first National Tour victory of 2024. Britt enters Riverside amid a challenging stretch over the past few weeks, as he has only finished in the top 10 twice in the last six races.

While he has never won in 360 Sprint Car competition at his home track, his recent history there suggests it could be the place for a turnaround. Britt has raced at Riverside twice so far in 2024, coming home 10th in weekly action on May 11 and seventh with the USCS on May 25.

WHEN AND WHERE:
Friday and Saturday, Sept. 27-28, at Riverside International Speedway in West Memphis, AR

AROUND THE TURN:
The American Sprint Car Series National Tour will make its only stops of the year in Missouri and Kentucky, with Benton Speedway set for Friday, Oct. 11, before Paducah International Raceway on Saturday, Oct. 12.

CURRENT POINT STANDINGS (TOP 10):

1. Seth Bergman (3045 points)
2. Sam Hafertepe Jr. (-111)
3. Matt Covington (-240)
4. Hank Davis (-372)
5. Andrew Deal (-506)
6. Jason Martin (-526)
7. Landon Britt (-577)
8. Zach Blurton (-617)
9. Kyler Johnson (-629)
10. Terry Easum (-732)

FEATURE WINNERS (11):
Sam Hafertepe Jr. – Sunnyvale, TX – 9
Seth Bergman – Snohomish, WA – 5
Hank Davis – Sand Springs, OK – 2
Terry Easum – Broken Arrow, OK – 1
Jordon Mallett – Greenbrier, AR – 1
Kaleb Johnson – Sioux Falls, SD – 1
Tyler Courtney – Indianapolis, IN – 1
Jake Bubak – Arvada, CO – 1
Aaron Reutzel – Clute, TX – 1
Roger Crockett – Broken Arrow, OK – 1
Jason Martin – Liberal, KS – 1

QUICK TIME AWARDS (12):
Sam Hafertepe Jr. – Sunnyvale, TX – 11
Aaron Reutzel – Clute, TX – 2
Brady Baker – Alexander, AR – 1
Josh McCord – Broken Arrow, OK – 1
Alex Sewell – Sapulpa, OK – 1
Blake Hahn – Sapulpa, OK – 1
Matt Covington – Glenpool, OK – 1
Tyler Groenendyk – Oskaloosa, IA – 1
Jake Bubak – Arvada, CO – 1
Seth Bergman – Snohomish, WA – 1
Skylar Gee – Leduc, AB – 1
Roger Crockett – Broken Arrow, OK – 1

HEAT RACE WINS (40):
Seth Bergman – Snohomish, WA – 7
Jason Martin – Liberal, KS – 6
Hank Davis – Sand Springs, OK – 6
Sam Hafertepe Jr. – Sunnyvale, TX – 6
Matt Covington – Glenpool, OK – 5
Whit Gastineau – Moore, OK – 4
Terry Easum – Broken Arrow, OK – 3
Andrew Deal – Caney, KS – 3
Sean McClelland – Tulsa, OK – 3
Jordon Mallett – Greenbrier, AR – 3
Brady Baker – Alexander, AR – 2
Blake Hahn – Sapulpa, OK – 2
Zach Blurton – Quinter, KS – 2
Kyler Johnson – Quinter, KS – 2
Lane Whittington – Denham Springs, LA – 1
Koty Adams – Haughton, LA – 1
Bradley Fezard – Bonnerdale, AR – 1
Brekton Crouch – Lubbock, TX – 1
Jeremy Campbell – Wichita, KS – 1
Cody Gardner – Benton, AR – 1
Austyn Gossel – Windsor, CO – 1
Kyle Clark – Sapulpa, OK – 1
Matt Juhl – Tea, SD – 1
Garet Williamson – Columbia, MO – 1
Emerson Axsom – Franklin, IN – 1
Hunter Schuerenberg – Sikeston, MO – 1
Tanner Holmes – Jacksonville, OR – 1
Landon Britt – Memphis, TN – 1
Roger Crockett – Broken Arrow, OK – 1
Tyler Groenendyk – Oskaloosa, IA – 1
Parker Price-Miller – Kokomo, IN – 1
Colton Hardy – Phoenix, AZ – 1
Tanner Thorson – Broken Arrow, OK – 1
Brian Brown – Hugginsville, MO – 1
Jake Bubak – Arvada, CO – 1
Phil Dietz – Laurel, MT – 1
Joe Perry – Billings, MT – 1
Kory Wermling – Great Falls, MT – 1
Chris Martin – Ankeny, IA – 1
Garrett Benson – Concordia, MO – 1

DASH APPEARANCES (39):
Seth Bergman – Snohomish, WA – 20
Sam Hafertepe Jr. – Sunnyvale, TX – 19
Hank Davis – Sand Springs, OK – 12
Matt Covington – Glenpool, OK – 12
Jason Martin – Liberal, KS – 8
Jordon Mallett – Greenbrier, AR – 5
Whit Gastineau – Moore, OK – 5
Brady Baker – Alexander, AR – 5
Blake Hahn – Sapulpa, OK – 4
Sean McClelland – Tulsa, OK – 4
Zach Blurton – Quinter, KS – 3
Terry Easum – Broken Arrow, OK – 3
Andrew Deal – Caney, KS – 3
Kyler Johnson – Quinter, KS – 3
Alex Sewell – Broken Arrow, OK – 2
Jake Bubak – Arvada, CO – 2
Kory Wermling – Great Falls, MT – 2
Roger Crockett – Broken Arrow, OK – 2
Garrett Benson – Concordia, MO – 2
Lane Whittington – Denham Springs, LA – 1
Koty Adams – Haughton, LA – 1
Ryder Laplante – Calera, OK – 1
Bradley Fezard – Bonnerdale, AR – 1
Brekton Crouch – Lubbock, TX – 1
Jeremy Campbell – Wichita, KS – 1
Elijah Gile – Phoenix, AZ – 1
Cody Gardner – Benton, AR – 1
Austyn Gossel – Windsor, CO – 1
Kyle Clark – Sapulpa, OK – 1
Harli White – Lindsay, OK – 1
Austin McCarl – Altoona, IA – 1
Landon Britt – Memphis, TN – 1
DJ Brink – Rapid City, SD – 1
Phil Dietz – Laurel, MT – 1
Joe Perry – Billings, MT – 1
Skylar Gee – Leduc, AB – 1
Aaron Reutzel – Clute, TX – 1
Chris Martin – Ankeny, IA – 1
Riley Goodno – Knoxville, IA – 1

LAST CHANCE SHOWDOWN WINNERS (15):
Rees Moran – Tulsa, OK – 2
Landon Britt – Memphis, TN – 1
Sam Hafertepe Jr. – Sunnyvale, TX – 1
Sean McClelland – Tulsa, OK – 1
Blake Hahn – Sapulpa, OK – 1
Aaron Reutzel – Clute, TX – 1
Chase Porter – St. Joseph, MO – 1
Kerry Madsen – Knoxville, IA – 1
Chase Randall – Waco, TX – 1
Rich Bailey – Helena, MT – 1
Kyler Johnson – Quinter, KS – 1
Skylar Gee – Leduc, AB – 1
Zach Blurton – Quinter, KS – 1
Brandon Anderson – Glenpool, OK – 1
Noah Harris – Broken Arrow, OK – 1

PODIUM FINISHERS (24):
Seth Bergman – Snohomish, WA – 16
Sam Hafertepe Jr. – Sunnyvale, TX – 14
Matt Covington – Glenpool, OK – 7
Hank Davis – Sand Springs, OK – 7
Andrew Deal – Caney, KS – 2
Jordon Mallett – Greenbrier, AR – 2
Austin McCarl – Altoona, IA – 2
Jake Bubak – Arvada, CO – 2
Zach Blurton – Quinter, KS – 2
Roger Crockett – Broken Arrow, OK – 2
Jason Martin – Liberal, KS – 2
Brady Baker – Alexander, AR – 2
Terry Easum – Broken Arrow, OK – 1
Tanner Conn – Oklahoma City, OK – 1
Ryder Laplante – Calera, OK – 1
Kyle Clark – Sapulpa, OK – 1
Kaleb Johnson – Sioux Falls, SD – 1
Chase Randall – Waco, TX – 1
Kade Higday – Knoxville, IA – 1
Cory Eliason – Visalia, CA – 1
Brian Brown – Higginsville, MO – 1
Tyler Courtney – Indianapolis, IN – 1
Emerson Axsom – Franklin, IN – 1
Aaron Reutzel – Clute, TX – 1

TOP 10 FINISHERS (64):
Seth Bergman – Snohomish, WA – 20
Matt Covington – Glenpool, OK – 19
Sam Hafertepe Jr. – Sunnyvale, TX – 16
Jason Martin – Liberal, KS – 15
Hank Davis – Sand Springs, OK – 14
Landon Britt – Memphis, TN – 12
Andrew Deal – Caney, KS – 12
Kyler Johnson – Quinter, KS – 8
Jordon Mallett – Greenbrier, AR – 8
Zach Blurton – Quinter, KS – 7
Blake Hahn – Sapulpa, OK – 6
Austyn Gossel – Windsor, CO – 5
Rees Moran – Tulsa, OK – 4
Brandon Anderson – Glenpool, OK – 4
Harli White – Lindsay, OK – 4
Kelly Miller – Stirling, AB – 4
Sean McClelland – Tulsa, OK – 4
Kyle Clark – Sapulpa, OK – 3
Whit Gastineau – Moore, OK – 3
Jake Bubak – Arvada, CO – 3
Terry Easum – Broken Arrow, OK – 3
Terry McCarl – Altoona, IA – 3
Brady Baker – Alexander, AR – 3
Alex Sewell – Broken Arrow, OK – 2
Tyler Courtney – Indianapolis, IN – 2
Emerson Axsom – Franklin, IN – 2
Austin McCarl – Altoona, IA – 2
Brian Brown – Higginsville, MO – 2
Cory Eliason – Visalia, CA – 2
Tasker Phillips – Pleasantville, IA – 2
Jamie Ball – Knoxville, IA – 2
Kaleb Johnson – Sioux Falls, SD – 2
Jeremy Campbell – Wichita, KS – 2
Skylar Gee – Leduc, AB – 2
Riley Goodno – Knoxville, IA – 2
Roger Crockett – Broken Arrow, OK – 2
Bradley Fezard – Bonnerdale, AR – 2
Channin Tankersley – Arlington, TX – 1
Tanner Conn – Oklahoma City, OK – 1
Brekton Crouch – Lubbock, TX – 1
Jeremy Huish – Jetmore, KS – 1
Ryder Laplante – Calera, OK – 1
Bradley Fezard – Bonnerdale, AR – 1
Fred Mattox – Drumright, OK – 1
Dale Howard – Byhalia, MS – 1
Brad Bowden – Hernando, MS – 1
Michael Day – Farmersville, TX – 1
Chase Randall – Waco, TX – 1
Kade Higday – Knoxville, IA – 1
Justin Peck – Monrovia, IN – 1
Gunner Ramey – Sedalia, MO – 1
Miles Paulus – Marshall, MO – 1
Kasey Kahne – Enumclaw, WA – 1
Ryan Giles – Grimes, IA – 1
Kerry Madsen – Knoxville, IA – 1
Alex Hill – Six Nations, ON – 1
Cole Macedo – Lemoore, CA – 1
DJ Brink – Rapid City, SD – 1
Blayne Brink – Gillette, WY – 1
Phil Dietz – Laurel, MT – 1
Kory Wermling – Great Falls, MT – 1
Aaron Reutzel – Clute, TX – 1
Chris Martin – Ankeny, IA – 1
Emilio Hoover – Broken Arrow, OK – 1

2024 AMERICAN SPRINT CAR SERIES SCHEDULE & WINNERS:
Friday, Apr. 19 / Super Bee Speedway / Chatham, LA / Seth Bergman (1)
Friday, May 10 / Red Dirt Raceway / Meeker, OK / Terry Easum (1)
Friday, May 31 / Rush County Speedway / La Crosse, KS / Seth Bergman (2)
Saturday, June 1 / Dodge City Raceway Park / Dodge City, KS / Sam Hafertepe Jr. (1)
Tuesday, June 11 / Texarkana 67 Speedway / Texarkana, AR / Sam Hafertepe Jr. (2)
Thursday, June 13 / Creek County Speedway / Sapulpa, OK / Sam Hafertepe Jr. (3)
Friday, June 14 / Arrowhead Speedway / Colcord, OK / Seth Bergman (3)
Saturday, June 15 / Tri-State Speedway / Pocola, OK / Seth Bergman (4)
Saturday, June 22 / Batesville Motor Speedway / Locust Grove, AR / Jordon Mallett (1)
Friday, June 28 / Tulsa Speedway / Tulsa, OK / Sam Hafertepe Jr. (4)
Friday, July 19 / Lakeside Speedway / Kansas City, KS / Sam Hafertepe Jr. (5)
Saturday, July 20 / 81 Speedway / Wichita, KS / Sam Hafertepe Jr. (6)
Thursday, Aug. 1 / Knoxville Raceway / Knoxville, IA / Kaleb Johnson (1)
Friday, Aug. 2 / Knoxville Raceway / Knoxville, IA / Sam Hafertepe Jr. (7)
Saturday, Aug. 3 / Knoxville Raceway / Knoxville, IA / Tyler Courtney (1)
Friday, Aug. 16 / Dodge City Raceway Park / Dodge City, KS / Sam Hafertepe Jr. (8)
Saturday, Aug. 17 / Lincoln County Raceway / North Platte, NE / Sam Hafertepe Jr. (9)
Friday, Aug. 23 / Big Sky Speedway / Shepherd, MT / Seth Bergman (5)
Saturday, Aug. 24 / Big Sky Speedway / Shepherd, MT / Jake Bubak (1)
Friday, Aug. 30 / Electric City Speedway / Black Eagle, MT / Hank Davis (1)
Saturday, Aug. 31 / Electric City Speedway / Black Eagle, MT / Hank Davis (2)
Tuesday, Sept. 10 / Clay County Fair Speedway / Spencer, IA / Aaron Reutzel (1)
Friday, Sept. 13 / Arrowhead Speedway / Colcord, OK / Roger Crockett (1)
Saturday, Sept. 14 / Arrowhead Speedway / Colcord, OK / Jason Martin (1)
Friday, Sept. 27 / Riverside International Speedway / West Memphis, AR
Saturday, Sept. 28 / Riverside International Speedway / West Memphis, AR
Friday, Oct. 11 / Benton Speedway / Benton, MO
Saturday, Oct. 12 / Paducah International Raceway / Paducah, KY
Friday, Oct. 25 / RPM Speedway / Crandall, TX
Saturday, Oct. 26 / RPM Speedway / Crandall, TX
Thursday, Nov. 14 / Tulsa Speedway / Tulsa, OK
Friday, Nov. 15 / Creek County Speedway / Sapulpa, OK
Saturday, Nov. 16 / Creek County Speedway / Sapulpa, OK

ARTICLE: https://ascsracing.com/what-to-watch-for/what-to-watch-for-ascs-vs-uscs-battle-awaits-at-riverside-in-world-short-track-challenge/

EVENT INFO: https://ascsracing.com/schedule/event-info/?event=7530
TRACK INFO: https://riversideinternationalspeedway.com/
FAN 101: https://about.dirtcar.com/

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ENNIS, TX (September 24, 2024) — The Texas Motorplex today announced Olan and Judy Gotcher, long-time race operations and volunteers, and Rosalee Noble, Drag Racing Association of Women board member, have been named Texas Motorplex Legends in advance of the 2024 NHRA Texas Fall Nationals at the Stampede of Speed. The trio has made significant impacts at Texas Motorplex and across the drag racing landscape both on and off the track for decades.
 
“Olan, Judy and Rosalee are three people who many drag racing fans might not know but they are Legends nonetheless,” said Christie Meyer Johnson, Texas Motorplex co-owner. “They represent the hundreds of volunteers and behind the scenes people who make every drag race happen and support racers in their time of need. They have supported DRAW for decades and their love of drag racing and Texas Motorplex is appreciated beyond words. Calling them Legends is the least we can do to recognize their impact on our sport and Texas Motorplex.”
 
Noble had a passion for drag racing that goes back over 30 years to her time behind the wheel at Coles County Dragway in her 1982 Buick LeSabre Station wagon, affectionately called the Care Wagon. She was a three-time Coles County Dragway Champion and a runner-up in the Division 3 Race of Champions, earning respect and admiration from her competitors. Noble’s biggest impact on drag racing was her support and passion with the Drag Racing Association of Women (DRAW) since 1986. She became a board member in 1991, vice president in 1992, and president in 1993 and 1994. From 1995 until her passing, she served as the fundraising chair. Rosalee passed away this May, but not before she was informed, she was a Texas Motorplex Legend.

 Rosalee Noble, 2024 Texas Motorplex Legend, photo credit DRAW

Gotcher and his wife Judy have dedicated their lives to drag racing behind the scenes for over 40 years. Olan and Judy have worked in the tower for Division 4 races, NHRA national events, and weekend races making sure racer data was accurately input and race information stayed on track. There wasn’t a job the Gotchers didn’t tackle in the tower from race results to announcing. Their dedication and professionalism have ensured drag racers at every level of the sport have been able to enjoy a safe and fun environment whether that are a foot brake racer or Top Fuel world champion. Loan also spent time on the track behind the wheel as an avid sportsman and local racer at Texas Motorplex. Their dedication to the sport has been appreciated but largely unnoticed. That has not deterred them from being a positive and critical part of Texas Motorplex’s success as a premier motorsport facility.

Olan and Judy Gotcher, 2024 Texas Motorplex Legends, photo credit Auto Imagery

Along with his wife Judy, Olan has also been a major supporter the Drag Racing Association of Women (DRAW). He has been on the DRAW board for several years. In that time, he has served as the membership secretary where he edits and publishes the DRAW newsletter.

The Texas Motorplex Legends will be recognized and presented with their one-of-a-kind Legend spurs at separate ceremonies throughout the NHRA Texas Fall Nationals, October 9-13. For tickets to the Stampede of Speed or the NHRA Texas Fall Nationals visit www.stampedeofspeed.com.

Nitto NMRA World Finals + Holley Ford Fest is this weekend at Beech Bend Raceway Park. This is the biggest all-Ford motorsport event of the year! Watch as the World’s Fastest Fords of NMRA race heads-up and wheels-up all weekend long! Other special features include drifting, Vaughn Gittin Jr, BIGFOOT monster truck, autocross, flame-throwing jet cars, off-road racing, car show, burnout contests, Crown Vic circle track racing, manufacturers midway, swap meet, dyno shootouts & more!More Event FeaturesDaily ScheduleDirectionsCar Show Flyer

Sep 22, 2024 | Featured, Julie Nataas, Race Results

Randy Meyer Racing (RMR) continued their stellar 2024 season at the NHRA Carolina Nationals this past weekend, making it to their 14th final round of the year and securing their 6th runner-up finish. Julie Nataas, the defending event champion, and Hunter Green both put up an impressive fight at the historic zMAX Dragway, where RMR has previously claimed victory seven times.

Julie Nataas, racing in her final season with Randy Meyer Racing and her last appearance at Charlotte with the team, delivered an outstanding performance and her best this year. She qualified in the No. 1 position with a blistering 5.161-second pass at 268.06 MPH, the quickest elapsed time of the entire event. Hunter Green was close behind, earning the No. 2 qualifying spot with a 5.186-second run at 277.54 MPH, setting the stage for a strong showing from the team for eliminations.

In the first round, Nataas received a bye due to the 15 entries for the 16-car field, advancing her directly to the second round. Green faced off against former world champion Joey Severance, cutting an incredible .021-second reaction time and taking the win with a 5.236-second pass at 279.38 MPH, the top speed of the event, to Severance’s 5.629 at 231.44 MPH.

However, Green’s momentum was halted in the second round by Joe Maynard, as a slower reaction time ended his day. Green ran a 5.252 at 278.00 MPH, just shy of Maynard’s 5.239 at 272.94 MPH.

Nataas, meanwhile, took down Mike Coughlin in the second round, posting a 5.290-second pass at 267.80 MPH to Coughlin’s 5.433 at 270.70 MPH. In Sunday’s semifinal round, Nataas smoked the tires but caught a lucky break when Angelle Sampey red-lighted, giving Nataas the win and advancing her to the finals.

In the final round, Nataas faced Joe Maynard, unfortunately, traction troubles struck again, and Maynard took the win, leaving RMR just shy of victory at the Carolina Nationals.

Despite the runner-up finish, Randy Meyer Racing leaves Charlotte with heads held high, proud of their consistent performance throughout the season. Nataas secured Low ET in Top Alcohol Dragster at 5.161 seconds, while Green took Top Speed honors with 279.38 MPH.

Randy Meyer Racing will look to build on their momentum as the season continues, with Julie Nataas’ farewell tour providing even more motivation for the team to finish strong.

BATAVIA, Ohio (September 23, 2024) – Get ready for an epic showdown as the top drivers of the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series descend upon Brownstown, Ind., this weekend. Brownstown Speedway is set to host its most lucrative weekend ever, promising high stakes and intense racing action on Friday and Saturday. The festivities will begin on Friday, September 27, with the 3rd Annual CJ Rayburn Memorial. The event will include Dirt Draft Hot Laps, Allstar Performance Time Trials, Heat Races, B-Mains, and a 40-lap, $10,000-to-win A-Main. On Saturday, September 28, there will be a full show of Dirt Draft Hot Laps, Allstar Performance Time Trials, Heat Races, and B-Mains for the 45th Annual Jackson 100 presented by Summit Racing Equipment. The highlight of the evening will be a thrilling 100-lap race, with a record-breaking $50,000 prize for the winner. All gates will open at 12:00 PM (noon) each day. Hot Laps are scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM on Friday and 6:00 PM on Saturday. A Dirt Racing Outreach service will take place at 3:00 PM on Saturday in the Pavilion. The Indiana Pro Late Models join the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series on Friday; with Modifieds and Super Stocks on the card for Saturday. Brownstown Speedway is a quarter-mile oval located just off Highway 250 at the Jackson County Fairground, one mile southeast of Brownstown, Indiana. For more information or to purchase tickets in advance, please visit www.brownstownspeedway.com.  The Big River Steel Chase for the Championship, presented by ARP, has now narrowed down to a seven-race showdown among four drivers. Ricky Thornton Jr., Devin Moran, Jonathan Davenport, and Tim McCreadie will fiercely battle it out over the next four weeks to determine the 20th Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series National Champion. 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: 3rd Annual CJ Rayburn Memorial (Friday): 1. $10,000, 2. $5,500, 3. $3,500, 4. $2,700, 5. $2,500, 6. $2,300, 7. $2,200, 8. $2,100, 9. $2,050, 10. $2,000, 11. $1,600, 12. $1,400, 13. $1,200, 14. $1,000, 15. $950, 16. $925, 17. $900, 18. $875, 19. $850, 20. $825, 21. $800, 22. $800, 23. $800, 24. $800 = Total $48,575 45th Annual Jackson 100 (Saturday): 1. $50,000, 2. $20,000, 3. $10,000, 4. $8,000, 5. $7,000, 6. $6,000, 7. $4,500, 8. $4,000, 9. $3,800, 10. $3,600, 11. $3,400, 12. $3,200, 13. $3,000, 14. $2,500, 15. $2,400, 16. $2,300, 17. $2,200, 18. $2,100, 19. $2,000, 20. $2,000, 21. $2,000, 22. $2,000, 23. $2,000, 24. $2,000 = $150,000 Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Tire Rule:Left Rear/Fronts – Hoosier (90) NLMT2, (90) NLMT3Right Rear – Hoosier (92) NLMT3, (92) NLMT4 Previous Jackson 100 Winners:2023 – Ricky Thornton Jr.2022 – Tim McCreadie2021 – Jimmy Owens2020 – Tim McCreadie2019 – Hudson O’Neal2018 – Bobby Pierce2017 – Scott Bloomquist2016 – Scott Bloomquist2015 – Jonathan Davenport2014 – Scott Bloomquist2013 – Don O’Neal2012 – Jimmy Owens2011 – Scott Bloomquist2010 – Scott Bloomquist2009 – Earl Pearson Jr.2008 – Tim McCreadie2007 – Matt Miller2006 – Don O’Neal2005 – Billy Drake2004 – Don O’Neal2003 – Jim Curry2002 – Billy Drake2001 – Brian Brikhofer2000 – Don O’Neal1999 – Billy Moyer1998 – Jim Curry1997 – Rick Aukland1996 – John Gill1995 – Jack Boggs1994 – John Gill1993 – Davey Johnson1992 – Billy Moyer1991 – Scott Bloomquist1990 – Scott Bloomquist1989 – Jeff Purvis1988 – Jim Curry1987 – Billy Moyer1986 – Jack Boggs1985 – Kenny Brightbill1984 – Kenny Simpson1983 – Russ Petro1982 – Russ Petro1981 – Paul Crockett1980 – Charlie Swartz

Posted By: Mary Lendzion Sep 22, 2024

Written by Mary Lendzion
Photos by Rudy Rouweyha

Racers are the heart and soul of the Red Line Oil NMCA Muscle Car Nationals, and they certainly had everyone’s attention and appreciation across the categories at the 23rd Annual NMCA World Street Finals presented by Chevrolet Performance, held over the weekend of Sept. 19-22, 2024 at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in Indiana.

As the final of six events on this year’s tour, championships and coveted points standings were a focus for many. The pressure was on, but the persistence and the performances proved that the racers accepted the challenge, despite hot and humid conditions. As a special feature, they shared the track with NHRA Funny Car racer Paul Lee in his McLeod Racing/FTI Performance Charger, and NHRA Top Fuel racer Krista Baldwin in her McLeod Racing/Lucas Oil Dragster, as they were on hand to make a few passes.

“It would be understandable if our racers were worn out by the time this final race of the year rolled around, but instead, they felt invincible, and that is inspiring,” said Rollie Miller, General Manager and National Event Director for NMCA and NMRA. “Through testing, qualifying and eliminations, they showed their razor-sharp skills and their resolution, and we applaud and admire that.”



Seeing, hearing and feeling the force of the cars in VP Racing Lubricants Xtreme Pro Mod is always entrancing, and that definitely includes Bob Glenn’s 1967 Mustang-bodied Pro Mod, which he piloted to a 3.76 to qualify in the third spot. The Floridian then flew through the rounds and met Craig Sullivan and his 1949 Mercury-bodied Pro Mod in the final round of eliminations. Both drivers tickled the throttle a bit to help settle their high-horsepower cars mid-track, and Glenn headed to the celebratory NMCA Winner’s Circle with a 4.12, as Indiana-based Sullivan stopped the clocks at 4.61.

Tony Scott and Lindsay Wheelock lined up for the final round of eliminations in Holley EFI Factory Super Cars, and Scott secured the win with a 7.85 in his COPO Camaro when Wheelock ran into trouble, after recording a good .017 reaction time, and couldn’t complete her pass in her Drag Pak.

Lenny Grawburg, out of Florida, has one gorgeous 1969 Camaro, and he has been driving the wheels off of it all season in ARP Nitrous Pro Street. At this event, he landed in the NMCA Winner’s Circle with a 4.23, and he was promptly celebrated among his NMCA family.

Two of the NMCA’s finest racers, Jessie Coulter and Bill Trovato, were ready to give it their all in Edelbrock Xtreme Street, but Coulter, in a 2003 Mustang Cobra, got the win with a 4.53 when Trovato was forced to lift in his 2013 Camaro.

When Dwight Ausmus and David Theisen lined up for the Dart NA 10.5 final round of eliminations, fans knew they were about to see some seriously nail-biting, naturally aspirated action. Both went wheels-up at the hit, with Theisen going higher and harder in his 1969 Firebird, and Ausmus arrived at the finish line first for the win with a 7.73 in his 1972 Firebird to Theisen’s 7.85.



It took four rounds of tough competition in Scoggin Dickey Parts Center Street Warrior 10.10 presented by Chevrolet Performance, but Brian Keiser went to the NMCA Winner’s Circle with a holeshot and a 10.27 in his 2016 Mustang over Mike Winters, who was 10.16 in his 1982 Mustang.

In Micro Strategies Stock Eliminator, Denny Hillman used an 11.49 on an 11.45 in his 1967 Camaro to defeat Jim Kaekel, who broke out with an 11.06 on an 11.09 in his Oldsmobile.

Bruce Lang and Mark Nowicki, two tough racers, made it to the Micro Strategies Super Stock Eliminator final round of eliminations, and Lang landed the win with a 9.61 on a 9.61 in his 1968 Barracuda while Nowicki broke out with a 9.60 on a 9.61 in his 1998 Avenger.

Cool Kentuckian Audrey Baize found herself in the final round of eliminations in Erson Cams Nostalgia Muscle presented by World Products, where she took the win with an 11.80 in her 1969 Dart over talented racer Jeff Toepper, who turned in an 11.23 in his Camaro.

MagnaFuel Open Comp saw tight racing on both ends of the track all weekend, and among the racers holding their own in the category were David Rickey and Jason Dietsch, who made it to the final round of eliminations. Rickey rocketed to the win with a 10.51 in his 2002 Camaro over Dietsch, who drove to an 8.93 in his Mustang Cobra Jet.

SunCoast Performance 8.60 Street Race, which is also contested in the Holley NMRA Ford Nationals, put the spotlight on Logan Day and Justin Johnson, and Day, who made the trip all the way from Florida, won with an 8.61 in his 2021 Mustang over Johnson, who also turned in an 8.61 in his 1982 Fairmont but wasn’t quite as quick when the tree came down.



In LME Street King presented by Chevrolet Performance, David Rickey, in his 2002 Camaro, defeated Wesley Butler, in his 1997 Mustang, with a 10.55 to Butler’s 11.17. Rickey doubled up for the weekend, as he also earned a win in MagnaFuel Open Comp.

Proform Rumble presented by Chevrolet Performance featured a father and son final round of eliminations, with Nicholas and Dewayne Massengale. Son Nicholas illuminated the win light in his 1999 Trans Am with a 14.03 on a 14.00 while father Dewayne broke out with a 12.18 on a 12.25 in his Corvette.

Circle D Specialties NMCA True Street drivers went for a 30-mile cruise before returning to the racetrack to make three back-to-back laps down track in competition. When the dust settled, Kevin Schweizer emerged as the winner with an 8.98 average, while Mike Post was the runner-up with a 9.38 average. Other standouts included Larry Rose (10-second winner), Rick Doern (11-second winner), Bryan Benge (12-second winner), Boy Huyser (13-second winner), Adam Retford (14-second winner) and Mike Baker (15-second winner).

Challengers, Chargers and Demons were featured in the Dodge //Direct Connection Shootout, where John Johnson earned the overall win with an 8.65 average. Other winners included Michael England (9-second), Michael Smith (10-second), Jessica Sipple (11-second), Dennis Cherry (12-second), Kimberly Smith (13-second), Audrey Baize (14-second) and Adrian Vander Acker (15-second).

The eight quickest drivers in the Dodge // Direct Connection Shootout earned entry into the HHP Racing Quick 8 presented by Scoggin Dickey Parts Center, where John Johnson joined the NMCA Winner’s Circle festivities with an 8.54 on an 8.54 after Michael Smith turned on the red light.

More than 30 racers with remarkably clean and chock-full of character classic cars came together for the NMCA Nostalgia Super Stock vs. Victory Series Nostalgia Super Stock Shootout presented by FueLab, and the old school charm was appreciated by all in attendance. In the fifth and final round of eliminations, Gabriel Ray recorded a perfect .000 reaction time and took the win in a 1964 Chevelle over Shaun Johnston, who turned on a -.004 red light in a 1967 Belvedere.

About 60 racers took part in the incredibly intoxicating throwback Dave Duell Classic/ Nostalgia Super Stock category, and in the sixth and final round, Donald Stahl locked up the win with a 10.51 on a 10.50 in his 1964 Dodge over John Hamer, who broke out with a 10.22 on a 10.25 in his 1967 Barracuda. In A Class, Al Corda collected the win in his 1962 Dart over David Horton and his 1965 Belvedere with a 10.29 on a 10.25 to Horton’s 10.75 on a 10.75, and in B Class, Cameron Stark secured the win over Dalton Bruemmer, in a battle of the 1965 Belvederes, and in a double breakout, with an 11.48 on an 11.50 to Bruemmer’s 10.96 on an 11.00.



Fast and fan-favorite cars were part of the FX Shootout presented by Dale Meers Racing Engines, and Brent Wheeler wrapped up the win with a 9.50 on a 9.50 in his 1966 Coronet over accomplished Nostalgia Super Stock racer Doug Duell, who went through the traps at 9.03 on a 9.00 in his 1964 Fury wagon.

The final round of eliminations in National Parts Depot F.A.S.T. Presented by Horsepower Depot welcomed Jordan Pennington and Terry Pennington. Jordan, in a 1967 Corvette, cruised to the win with a 9.62 over Terry, who took the runner-up spot with a 15.61 in a 1969 Corvette.

In National Parts Depot F.A.S.T. Factory Stock presented by Cor-A-Vent, Ryan Van Dusen buckled into his 1967 Corvette, and Jeff Wilkins buckled into his 1970 Torino, and Van Dusen drove to the win with a 12.50 over Wilkins’ 18.88.

Bracket Mayhem was also in the mix at this event. In Bracket 1, Cameron Bowles drove his grandfather’s famous Little Coal Digger Maverick to a 6.14 on a 6.12 dial to claim victory over Rusty Dobbs, who drove to a dead-on 5.53, but wasn’t quite as quick on the tree as Bowels, and in Bracket 2, Randy Dobbs raced his Chevy II to a 6.37 on a on a 6.32 to defeat Keith Seymore, who raced his 1974 Malibu to a 6.63 on a 6.42.

The NMCA offers a sincere and heartfelt congratulations to the winners on their success, and thanks race fans and sponsors for their support.

Points will now be carefully counted, and a story announcing 2024 Red Line Oil NMCA Muscle Car Nationals champions, and the final points positions, will soon be posted to NMCADigital.com and the series’ Facebook page.

“The 2024 Red Line Oil NMCA Muscle Car Nationals tour has been tremendous,” said Steve Wolcott, president and CEO of NMRA and NMCA. “We had everything from amazing racing to awe-inspiring added elements designed to entertain racers and race fans of all ages.”

We look forward to celebrating our racing family at the Red Line Oil NMCA Muscle Car Nationals Awards Ceremony on Friday, December 13 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis.

Posted By: Mary Lendzion Sep 22, 2024

Written by Mary Lendzion
Photos by Rudy Rouweyha

Racers are the heart and soul of the Red Line Oil NMCA Muscle Car Nationals, and they certainly had everyone’s attention and appreciation across the categories at the 23rd Annual NMCA World Street Finals presented by Chevrolet Performance, held over the weekend of Sept. 19-22, 2024 at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in Indiana.

As the final of six events on this year’s tour, championships and coveted points standings were a focus for many. The pressure was on, but the persistence and the performances proved that the racers accepted the challenge, despite hot and humid conditions. As a special feature, they shared the track with NHRA Funny Car racer Paul Lee in his McLeod Racing/FTI Performance Charger, and NHRA Top Fuel racer Krista Baldwin in her McLeod Racing/Lucas Oil Dragster, as they were on hand to make a few passes.

“It would be understandable if our racers were worn out by the time this final race of the year rolled around, but instead, they felt invincible, and that is inspiring,” said Rollie Miller, General Manager and National Event Director for NMCA and NMRA. “Through testing, qualifying and eliminations, they showed their razor-sharp skills and their resolution, and we applaud and admire that.”



Seeing, hearing and feeling the force of the cars in VP Racing Lubricants Xtreme Pro Mod is always entrancing, and that definitely includes Bob Glenn’s 1967 Mustang-bodied Pro Mod, which he piloted to a 3.76 to qualify in the third spot. The Floridian then flew through the rounds and met Craig Sullivan and his 1949 Mercury-bodied Pro Mod in the final round of eliminations. Both drivers tickled the throttle a bit to help settle their high-horsepower cars mid-track, and Glenn headed to the celebratory NMCA Winner’s Circle with a 4.12, as Indiana-based Sullivan stopped the clocks at 4.61.

Tony Scott and Lindsay Wheelock lined up for the final round of eliminations in Holley EFI Factory Super Cars, and Scott secured the win with a 7.85 in his COPO Camaro when Wheelock ran into trouble, after recording a good .017 reaction time, and couldn’t complete her pass in her Drag Pak.

Lenny Grawburg, out of Florida, has one gorgeous 1969 Camaro, and he has been driving the wheels off of it all season in ARP Nitrous Pro Street. At this event, he landed in the NMCA Winner’s Circle with a 4.23, and he was promptly celebrated among his NMCA family.

Two of the NMCA’s finest racers, Jessie Coulter and Bill Trovato, were ready to give it their all in Edelbrock Xtreme Street, but Coulter, in a 2003 Mustang Cobra, got the win with a 4.53 when Trovato was forced to lift in his 2013 Camaro.

When Dwight Ausmus and David Theisen lined up for the Dart NA 10.5 final round of eliminations, fans knew they were about to see some seriously nail-biting, naturally aspirated action. Both went wheels-up at the hit, with Theisen going higher and harder in his 1969 Firebird, and Ausmus arrived at the finish line first for the win with a 7.73 in his 1972 Firebird to Theisen’s 7.85.



It took four rounds of tough competition in Scoggin Dickey Parts Center Street Warrior 10.10 presented by Chevrolet Performance, but Brian Keiser went to the NMCA Winner’s Circle with a holeshot and a 10.27 in his 2016 Mustang over Mike Winters, who was 10.16 in his 1982 Mustang.

In Micro Strategies Stock Eliminator, Denny Hillman used an 11.49 on an 11.45 in his 1967 Camaro to defeat Jim Kaekel, who broke out with an 11.06 on an 11.09 in his Oldsmobile.

Bruce Lang and Mark Nowicki, two tough racers, made it to the Micro Strategies Super Stock Eliminator final round of eliminations, and Lang landed the win with a 9.61 on a 9.61 in his 1968 Barracuda while Nowicki broke out with a 9.60 on a 9.61 in his 1998 Avenger.

Cool Kentuckian Audrey Baize found herself in the final round of eliminations in Erson Cams Nostalgia Muscle presented by World Products, where she took the win with an 11.80 in her 1969 Dart over talented racer Jeff Toepper, who turned in an 11.23 in his Camaro.

MagnaFuel Open Comp saw tight racing on both ends of the track all weekend, and among the racers holding their own in the category were David Rickey and Jason Dietsch, who made it to the final round of eliminations. Rickey rocketed to the win with a 10.51 in his 2002 Camaro over Dietsch, who drove to an 8.93 in his Mustang Cobra Jet.

SunCoast Performance 8.60 Street Race, which is also contested in the Holley NMRA Ford Nationals, put the spotlight on Logan Day and Justin Johnson, and Day, who made the trip all the way from Florida, won with an 8.61 in his 2021 Mustang over Johnson, who also turned in an 8.61 in his 1982 Fairmont but wasn’t quite as quick when the tree came down.



In LME Street King presented by Chevrolet Performance, David Rickey, in his 2002 Camaro, defeated Wesley Butler, in his 1997 Mustang, with a 10.55 to Butler’s 11.17. Rickey doubled up for the weekend, as he also earned a win in MagnaFuel Open Comp.

Proform Rumble presented by Chevrolet Performance featured a father and son final round of eliminations, with Nicholas and Dewayne Massengale. Son Nicholas illuminated the win light in his 1999 Trans Am with a 14.03 on a 14.00 while father Dewayne broke out with a 12.18 on a 12.25 in his Corvette.

Circle D Specialties NMCA True Street drivers went for a 30-mile cruise before returning to the racetrack to make three back-to-back laps down track in competition. When the dust settled, Kevin Schweizer emerged as the winner with an 8.98 average, while Mike Post was the runner-up with a 9.38 average. Other standouts included Larry Rose (10-second winner), Rick Doern (11-second winner), Bryan Benge (12-second winner), Boy Huyser (13-second winner), Adam Retford (14-second winner) and Mike Baker (15-second winner).

Challengers, Chargers and Demons were featured in the Dodge //Direct Connection Shootout, where John Johnson earned the overall win with an 8.65 average. Other winners included Michael England (9-second), Michael Smith (10-second), Jessica Sipple (11-second), Dennis Cherry (12-second), Kimberly Smith (13-second), Audrey Baize (14-second) and Adrian Vander Acker (15-second).

The eight quickest drivers in the Dodge // Direct Connection Shootout earned entry into the HHP Racing Quick 8 presented by Scoggin Dickey Parts Center, where John Johnson joined the NMCA Winner’s Circle festivities with an 8.54 on an 8.54 after Michael Smith turned on the red light.

More than 30 racers with remarkably clean and chock-full of character classic cars came together for the NMCA Nostalgia Super Stock vs. Victory Series Nostalgia Super Stock Shootout presented by FueLab, and the old school charm was appreciated by all in attendance. In the fifth and final round of eliminations, Gabriel Ray recorded a perfect .000 reaction time and took the win in a 1964 Chevelle over Shaun Johnston, who turned on a -.004 red light in a 1967 Belvedere.

About 60 racers took part in the incredibly intoxicating throwback Dave Duell Classic/ Nostalgia Super Stock category, and in the sixth and final round, Donald Stahl locked up the win with a 10.51 on a 10.50 in his 1964 Dodge over John Hamer, who broke out with a 10.22 on a 10.25 in his 1967 Barracuda. In A Class, Al Corda collected the win in his 1962 Dart over David Horton and his 1965 Belvedere with a 10.29 on a 10.25 to Horton’s 10.75 on a 10.75, and in B Class, Cameron Stark secured the win over Dalton Bruemmer, in a battle of the 1965 Belvederes, and in a double breakout, with an 11.48 on an 11.50 to Bruemmer’s 10.96 on an 11.00.



Fast and fan-favorite cars were part of the FX Shootout presented by Dale Meers Racing Engines, and Brent Wheeler wrapped up the win with a 9.50 on a 9.50 in his 1966 Coronet over accomplished Nostalgia Super Stock racer Doug Duell, who went through the traps at 9.03 on a 9.00 in his 1964 Fury wagon.

The final round of eliminations in National Parts Depot F.A.S.T. Presented by Horsepower Depot welcomed Jordan Pennington and Terry Pennington. Jordan, in a 1967 Corvette, cruised to the win with a 9.62 over Terry, who took the runner-up spot with a 15.61 in a 1969 Corvette.

In National Parts Depot F.A.S.T. Factory Stock presented by Cor-A-Vent, Ryan Van Dusen buckled into his 1967 Corvette, and Jeff Wilkins buckled into his 1970 Torino, and Van Dusen drove to the win with a 12.50 over Wilkins’ 18.88.

Bracket Mayhem was also in the mix at this event. In Bracket 1, Cameron Bowles drove his grandfather’s famous Little Coal Digger Maverick to a 6.14 on a 6.12 dial to claim victory over Rusty Dobbs, who drove to a dead-on 5.53, but wasn’t quite as quick on the tree as Bowels, and in Bracket 2, Randy Dobbs raced his Chevy II to a 6.37 on a on a 6.32 to defeat Keith Seymore, who raced his 1974 Malibu to a 6.63 on a 6.42.

The NMCA offers a sincere and heartfelt congratulations to the winners on their success, and thanks race fans and sponsors for their support.

Points will now be carefully counted, and a story announcing 2024 Red Line Oil NMCA Muscle Car Nationals champions, and the final points positions, will soon be posted to NMCADigital.com and the series’ Facebook page.

“The 2024 Red Line Oil NMCA Muscle Car Nationals tour has been tremendous,” said Steve Wolcott, president and CEO of NMRA and NMCA. “We had everything from amazing racing to awe-inspiring added elements designed to entertain racers and race fans of all ages.”

We look forward to celebrating our racing family at the Red Line Oil NMCA Muscle Car Nationals Awards Ceremony on Friday, December 13 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis.

Beckman Loses All-JFR Semifinal; Brittany Out in Quarterfinals at zMax Dragway

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Sept. 22, 2024) – Austin Prock didn’t dominate in the manner to which everyone has become accustomed this season, but the result was the same on Sunday at zMax Dragway, where the 29-year-old Funny Car rookie drove the Cornwell Tools Chevrolet Camaro SS to victory in the 16th NHRA Carolina Nationals. Driving a blue-and-black Chevy bearing the number 374, which was his grandfather’s competition number when he was racing Funny Cars in the 1970s, Prock covered the 1,000-foot distance in 3.924 seconds at a finish line speed of 326.46 miles per hour in the final round to get to the line just ahead of No. 1 qualifier Matt Hagan (3.958, 324.98 mph). “We’ve got a great team behind us and I just try not to mess it up,” said the winner. “I just stab and steer, and this Chevrolet Camaro has won me a lot of rounds this year (42 thus far). I’ve just been trying to do my best. I’ve been more focused than I ever have (been) in any category I’ve ever driven. “I just feel so comfortable – and I love racing with my family (dad Jimmy is his crew chief, brother Thomas a key technician),” he said. “I know how good this team was (with Robert Hight in the harnesses) and how great it was when they told me I was going to get put in the seat (while his predecessor went on medical leave). “I had high expectations for myself from the start,” said the 2019 Rookie-of-the-Year, an award he won at the wheel of a JFR Top Fuel dragster. “You don’t want to be the guy who lets them down. I’ve done that a couple times this year and it’s the worst feeling in the world.” It was Prock’s third straight tour victory, his seventh of the season, and it powered him to a commanding point lead entering this week’s 28th NHRA Midwest Nationals at St. Louis, a race that marks the midway point of the playoffs.  When qualifying begins Friday at World Wide Technology Raceway, the former quarter midget and sprint car driver will lead second place Bob Tasca III by 129 points and JFR teammate Jack Beckman (3rd), whom he defeated in an all-JFR, all-Chevy semifinal, by 136. The No. 2 qualifier after missing his 12th No. 1 start of the season by .001 of a second, Prock ousted Alexis DeJoria in round one and turned back three-time former series champion Ron Capps in the quarterfinals to set up an intramural duel with Beckman. In that race, he left first and never trailed, winning in 3.962 seconds to 4.016 for the PEAK Antifreeze and Coolant Camaro. It was a disappointing outcome for Beckman, who is earning Countdown points on behalf of 16-time series champion John Force, who continues to receive treatment for a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) suffered in a June crash in Richmond, Va.   Although he held onto third place in points, the two-time World Champion acknowledged that Sunday was a missed opportunity in the bid to get a 17th series title for Force. “It was another solid weekend for us, but frustrating,” Beckman said. “Our PEAK Chevy has all the resources and talent to put us back into the winners’ circle. It’s time to get it done in St. Louis.” After qualifying her HendrickCars.com Chevrolet No. 1 in Top Fuel and after putting up the event’s best performance numbers at 3.690 and 335.73 mph, Brittany Force succumbed to a loss of traction that slowed her to 3.909 seconds at 314.53 mph in a quarterfinal duel with Clay Millican. That left the two-time World Champion disappointed but still encouraged about the chances of ending a lengthy victory drought in one of the season’s last four events.  “Charlotte was a special weekend for us running for HendrickCars.com,” said the 16-time tour winner and Rookie-of-the-Year six years before Prock. “I’m very proud to represent Hendrick, especially here in their back yard. We had an incredibly strong car all weekend (and) even though we didn’t get the result we wanted, I’m proud of the progress we’re making and proud of our effort against Clay Millican. “We’re staying positive and we’re confident that bigger results are just around the corner.”

Garcia’s late charge sends him, Sims to P3; AWA wins second straight Akin Award in GTD INDIANAPOLIS (September 22, 2024) – Corvette factory drivers Antonio Garcia and Alexander Sims climbed back on the podium in GTD PRO on Sunday in the six-hour Battle on the Bricks at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course to lead the contingent of three Corvette Z06 GT3.Rs in the next-to-last race of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.

Garcia drove the final three hours in the No. 3 Corvette from Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller Motorsports and went from fifth to third in the final two laps to secure third place. It was the first podium for the Garcia/Sims duo since their victory in July at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park. Rain dominated the first half of the race, which saw three separate full-course yellow periods in the first 100 minutes. Sims and the No. 3 Corvette went toward the head of the class as the first GTD PRO car to take wet tires during the first yellow. A steady rain settled in not long after, with Sims taking the lead following a short pit stop during another full-course yellow. A third caution period, this one for almost an hour, kept Sims out front until the rain stopped for good in the third hour. The No. 3 Corvette did lose some time having to make two stops 30 minutes apart to switch to slick tires just before the halfway mark. Garcia drove the rest of the way in the No. 3 Z06 GT3.R, including a hard-fought battle during the final hour with the No. 14 Lexus and No. 23 Aston Martin for the final podium position. A restart with 55 minutes remaining set the stage for the finish with Garcia falling from fourth to fifth inside the final half-hour. He fought to regain the spot with five minutes left and gained another to third and the podium with two laps to go. The GTD PRO pole-winning No. 4 Corvette of Tommy Milner and Nicky Catsburg finished 11th in class after losing four laps due to contact and subsequent repair with 75 minutes to go. Catsburg led the first 15 laps from pole before making the team’s first stop during the initial full-course yellow. The No. 4 Z06 GT3.R was assessed an avoidable contact penalty near the one-hour mark before Milner was hit from behind by a prototype, which necessitated a lengthy stop to repair damage to the right-rear of the Corvette. In GTD, the No. 13 AWA Corvette moved closer to securing an automatic invitation to next year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans with a sixth-place class finish and winning the Bob Akin Award competition for the Indianapolis round. Both Orey Fidani and Lars Kern kept their Z06 GT3.R on the lead lap throughout the 90-minute stints, allowing Matt Bell to drive from 14th in class and into the top-five late in class. It was the third Akin race win for the AWA Corvette and second in a row. The award goes to the highest-finishing GTD entry featuring a Bronze-rated driver for each race as well as the full-season championship with Le Mans as the ultimate prize.  Both Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller Motorsports and AWA close the IMSA season with the 10-hour Petit Le Mans on Saturday, October 12 at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta.

CORVETTE RACING BY PRATT MILLER MOTORSPORTS POST-RACE DRIVER QUOTESANTONIO GARCIA, NO. 3 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “Those last laps were tough. We had a good call to pit before a yellow, but the way things unfolded it kind of helped the ones that stayed out. So we lost a little track position to some of the cars that were ahead of me when we got to the last restart. The restarts with these guys and being so close is not easy. I made up a few places but with how hard the race was for everyone, there were times where I got caught in traffic and lost some spots. I thought we were done when the (No. 23) Aston Martin passed me, but somehow I regrouped and put everything together to get back up there to them. Maybe I had a little more than them with the tires or made some good choices. With two or three laps left, that’s it. It’s time to go! It was either a podium, fourth or fifth. I went for it, and it worked. It would have been nice to win, but I’m happy with where we finished.”

ALEXANDER SIMS, NO. 3 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I was very happy that Antonio was in the car! He did a really, really good job. I really enjoyed the wet laps at the start of the race, so it was probably the right way around for the both of us. Antonio did a great job to keep in the fight. From the outside, I thought once Antonio got held up and passed by the Aston, I thought it would be hard for him to get back past with the pace situation as it was. Thankfully he stayed with them and kept fighting with them to the end… quite literally! It was great to watch.”

TOMMY MILNER, NO. 4 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I think parts of the race we did things really well. Nicky did a great job at the start to keep us in the lead. There were some tricky conditions that were tough for both of us. The class interactions with the prototype cars weren’t ideal for us. He had an incident, and so did I with a P2 car. I don’t know what happened there. It’s one of those days where you feel like sometimes things are going your way. The cautions were getting us back into it, but there were just too many ups and down for us today. It’s unfortunate. It was a good little fight for the 3 guys to get on the podium there at the end. So now we’ll go to Petit Le Mans and try again.”

AWA POST-RACE DRIVER QUOTESMATT BELL, NO. 13 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “I have absolutely no idea what happened in my three hours! I got updates every now and again from the guys on the pitbox, so I was trying to get by every GT car I could. We had a really, really good car especially early in the stints. I was able to be pretty aggressive, attack and go forward early in the stints. That put us in a great place for the team to be able to call some great strategy, and they called this race perfectly again. There’s been such good teamwork all year in the pitlane. There’s been so much hard work that’s gone into that. My two teammates did a great job in the first part of the race. An insane race! I absolutely love IMSA racing and GTD. It’s always so hard. I had some great fights out there and won more than we lost. We made great progress, and I’m really happy with the result.”

OREY FIDANI, NO. 13 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “That was the first time I’ve driven the Corvette in wet race conditions. We did a little bit of wet-weather testing earlier this year at Carolina Motorsports Park. It actually handles pretty well in the rain. It was awesome, and I think we’re in a good spot. At the start, there were a couple of cars in front of me that as the track came in, they were a little in the way a little and holding me and the cars behind me up. I needed to find my way around those guys but didn’t get to do that with the rain. But it’s fine. I’m pretty happy with things.”

LARS KERN, NO. 13 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R: “At the end of the day, we can be happy with the result. The team did a mega job. In my stint, I was struggling a lot when there was still a lot of water on the track. Once it dried, the car was rapid but we couldn’t really recover from this loss. So we could have finished better but I couldn’t activate the tires in my middle stint. I’m super-happy with what Matt did at the end. At one point I don’t think we really believed we could win the Akin Award today. Orey did great at the beginning and kept it clean. This was a big step toward our target of getting to Le Mans next year.”

CHEVROLET IN NHRA2024 NHRA CAROLINA NATIONALS zMAX DRAGWAY CONCORD, NORTH CAROLINA TEAM CHEVY RACE REPORT | NOTES & STATS SEPTEMBER 22, 2024 AUSTIN PROCK AND JOHN FORCE RACING TAKE CHEVROLET TO THE WINNER’S CIRCLE FOR THE SEVENTH TIME THIS SEASON AT zMAX DRAGWAY Chevrolet Captured Two Top Wally Trophies, with Prock in Funny Car and Dallas Glenn of KB Titan Racing in Pro Stock

Notes:Austin Prock, driver of the Cornwell Tools/HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car, captured his seventh victory of the 2024 season and 11th career NHRA win while earning Team Chevy their 168th in the NHRA Funny Car category. His win Sunday is his third in a row after winning the U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis, Reading last weekend, and now Charlotte 2.Prock, who maintained an 86-point lead heading into Charlotte 2 over Bob Tasca, III, leaves the NHRA Carolina Nationals still maintaining the Championship standings lead unofficially by 129 points over Tasca, III in second.Prock qualified No. 2 heading into Sunday’s race day, with his run of 3.833 seconds E.T. at 332.84 mph qualifying him behind Hagan. Prock defeated Alexis DeJoria in Round 1, Ron Capps in Round 2, and teammate Jack Beckman in the semifinals on his way to winning the NHRA Carolina Nationals by defeating Hagan in the finals.  After qualifying No. 3 this weekend at zMAX Dragway, Jack Beckman, driver of the PEAK Antifreeze and Coolant Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car and competing on behalf of 16-time champion John Force, fell to teammate Prock in the semifinals after defeating Buddy Hall in Round 1 and Daniel Wilkerson in Round 2.Sunday’s semifinal appearance is his second in four events after returning to the Funny Car seat for the first time in four years and being tapped to drive on behalf of Force after being sidelined while competing for his potential 17th career championship.Capturing her 49th No. 1 qualifier in NHRA, Brittany Force, driver of the HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Top Fuel dragster for John Force Racing, also earned her third of the season.Force set fast time on the first day of qualifying, taking the provisional pole position on the leaderboard with her and her team’s Q2 run of 3.690 seconds E.T. at 334.24 mph.Facing off against Clay Millican in Round 2 after defeating Ida Zetterstrom in Round 1, Force fell to her opponent with her run of 3.909 seconds E.T. at 314.53 mph to Millican’s 3.796 seconds E.T. at 323.04 mph.In a tight final race to the win light, Dallas Glenn, driver of the RAD Torque Chevrolet Camaro SS Pro Stock for KB Titan Racing, captured his 13th career NHRA victory and Chevrolet’s 397th in the category, the 278th in the Camaro, after defeating Elite Motorsports’ Aaron Stanfield with his run of 6.626 seconds E.T. at 207.18 mph to Stanfield’s 5.549 seconds E.T. at 207.75 mph.Erica Enders, driver of the Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage Melling Performance Chevrolet Camaro SS Pro Stock, captured her 40th career No. 1 qualifier and sixth of 2024, with her fastest run of four rounds at 6.557 seconds E.T. at 208.20 mph. Separated by .023 seconds, Greg Anderson, driver of the HenrickCars.comChevrolet Camaro SS Pro Stock for KB Titan Racing, qualified No. 2 heading into Sunday’s race day.

Quotes: AUSTIN PROCK, DRIVER OF THE CORNWELL TOOLS/HENDRICKCARS.COMCHEVROLET CAMARO SS FUNNY CAR, JOHN FORCE RACING:You said you made big changes ahead of the semifinal. How much trust is in this team?‘All of it. My dad (Jimmy Prock), Thomas (Prock), Nate HIldahl, all of these Cornwell Tools guys are just so incredibly smart. They study their craft every single day and it shows on the racetrack, and it sure is fun. This trophy right here is going to Rick Hendrick. I know he’s out there watching. He’s in Europe right now and wanted to be out here watching and couldn’t. HendrickCars.com doubled up this weekend with Kyle Larson (winning NASCAR in Bristol). What a weekend right in his hometown. I’m so proud to drive this Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car. This is a dream come true.” JACK BECKMAN, DRIVER OF THE PEAK ANTIFREEZE AND COOLANT CHEVROLET CAMARO SS FUNNY CAR, JOHN FORCE RACING:  “It was another solid weekend for us, but frustrating. Our PEAK Chevy team has all of the resources and talent to put our Camaro back into the Winner’s Circle. It’s time to get it done next weekend in St. Louis.” BRITTANY FORCE, DRIVER OF THE HENDRICKCARS.COM CHEVROLET TOP FUEL DRAGSTER, JOHN FORCE RACING:“Charlotte was a special weekend for us running HendrickCars.com. I’m very proud to represent Hendrick, especially here in Charlotte, North Carolina, their back yard. We had an incredibly strong car all weekend, taking the number one qualifier spot. Even though we didn’t get the result we wanted in the second round, I’m proud of how fast we were and the progress we’re making. I am proud that we put on a good drag race next to Clay Millican. We’re staying positive and confident that bigger results are just around the corner.” DALLAS GLENN, DRIVER OF THE RAD TORQUE SYSTEMS CHEVROLET CAMARO SS FUNNY CAR, KB TITAN RACING:“A lot (of pride in this Wally). I had to work really hard for this. I’m really tired. Aaron (Stanfield) and I always have really good races. He’s super tough. Super great racer. I don’t feel like I drove as good as I was in Reading, but I definitely drove a lot better there in the final. I had to earn that one. That thing went hard left, and I had to drive it out of the wall. Everybody at KB Titan Racing is here, and hey, we got the points lead back!”

AUSTIN PROCK, driver of the Cornwell Tools/HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car – Winner’s Circle Transcript:“We’ve got a great team behind us, and I try not to mess it up. I just stab and steer, and this Chevrolet Camaro has won me a lot of rounds this year.” You were just on the phone with (team owner) John (Force)…“He sounds great. Love hearing from him. I know he’s really proud of everything that’s going on and he thinks it’s really cool our family gets to work together, and the success we’ve had. It’s all good at John Force Racing.” Coming into this team and taking over for Robert (Hight) as the driver this year, you had high expectations. Even you have to be going wow…“I’ve just been trying my best. I’ve been more focused this year than I ever have in any category I’ve ever driven. I just feel so comfortable, and I love racing with my family. I know how good this team is and how great it was when they told me I was going to get put in the seat. I had high expectations for myself because you don’t want to be the guy who lets them down. I’ve done that a couple of times this year, and it’s the worst feeling in the world. They work so hard; they study so much to produce the results we have. I’m trying to put the same work in and just be a machine. It’s been working out. Missed the tree there. Had a lot of glare there on the tree, and had me a little nervous. I stuttered my foot and had a 70-light. I think that was the worst light of mine in three or four races.” Are you thinking far enough ahead yet that you legitimately have a shot at standing on the stage at the end of the year celebrating a championship?“No. I just look at it one round at a time. The only way we’re going to win this championship is if we’re perfect every time we drag it up there. Just one round at a time, and if we do that and everybody does their best, we’ll be up on that stage. Working hard, we’re trying to get that 348-point lead back.”

Toyota now has 15 victories in last 17 Top Fuel races

CONCORD, N.C. (Sept. 22, 2024) – Antron Brown captured his fifth win of the 2024 season and his second straight to begin the Countdown to the Championship by taking home the Wally Trophy in the NHRA Carolina Nationals at zMAX Dragway. Brown now has 79 wins in his historic NHRA career and 63 in Top Fuel, which puts him second all-time in Top Fuel history. He now holds the category points lead heading to St. Louis next weekend.

The triumph for Brown is also Toyota’s 15th Top Fuel win in the last 17 races, and by him making the finals on Sunday, Toyota has now reached 39 consecutive NHRA event final rounds in either Top Fuel and/or Funny Car.

Brown defeated Toyota teammate, Doug Kalitta, in the semifinals, as well as Steve and Billy Torrence on his way to victory today. Justin Ashley and Shawn Langdon were the other Toyota dragsters to advance out of round one, both falling in the second round.

In Funny Car, Ron Capps advanced to the second round in his NAPA Auto Care GR Supra Funny Car but fell in the quarterfinals. Alexis DeJoria and J.R. Todd were both eliminated in round one on Sunday.

The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series heads to World Wide Technology Raceway outside of St. Louis for the Midwest Nationals next weekend, with eliminations next Sunday, September 29.

Toyota Post-Race Recap

NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series

zMAX Dragway

NHRA Carolina Nationals

Race 16 of 20

TOYOTA TOP FUEL FINISHING POSITIONS 

Name	Car	Final Result	Round-by-Round
Antron Brown	Matco Tools Toyota Top Fuel Dragster	Winner	W (3.829 – holeshot) v. S. Torrence (3.817) W (3.869) v. B. Torrence (3.892) W (3.873) v. D. Kalitta (3.876) W (3.848) v. D. Foley (3.862)
Doug Kalitta	Mac Tools Toyota Top Fuel Dragster	Semi-finals	W (3.894) v. T. Stewart (4.299) W (3.905) v. S. Langdon (4.364) L (3.876) v. A. Brown (3.873)
Shawn Langdon	Kalitta Air Careers Toyota Top Fuel Dragster	Second Round	W (3.775) v. J. Hart (4.923) L (4.364) v. D. Kalitta (3.775)
Justin Ashley	SCAG Power Equipment Toyota Top Fuel Dragster	Second Round	W (4.498 – holeshot) v. D. Foley (4.411) L (5.203) v. D. Foley (4.709)
Billy Torrence	CAPCO Contractors Toyota Top Fuel Dragster	Second Round	W (3.884) v. S. Reed (6.993) L (3.892) v. A. Brown (3.869)
Steve Torrence	CAPCO Contractors Toyota Top Fuel Dragster	First Round	L (3.817) v. A. Brown (3.829 – holeshot)

TOYOTA FUNNY CAR FINISHING POSITIONS 

Name	Car	Final Result	Round-by-Round
Ron Capps	NAPA Auto Care Army Tribute Toyota GR Supra Funny Car	Second Round	W (3.933) v. C. Green (7.770) L (6.772) v. A. Prock (4.029)
J.R. Todd	DHL Toyota GR Supra Funny Car	First Round	L (3.945) v. D. Wilkerson (3.984 – holeshot)
Alexis DeJoria	Bandero CaféToyota GR Supra Funny Car	First Round	L (4.994) v. A. Prock (3.965)

*= Non-Toyota driver

TOYOTA QUOTES

ANTRON BROWN, Matco Tools Toyota Top Fuel Dragster, AB Motorsports

TF Final Result: Winner

Describe this win and how you’re feeling so far in the Countdown.

“I feel like we have some momentum going our way and we’re just finding ourselves in the right situation and we’re capitalizing on it. We’re doing the right things at the right time, and no matter what blows come our way, as we’ve had some struggles, I see Brian (Corradi, co-crew chief), Mark (Oswald, co-crew chief), Brad (Mason, car chief) and these Matco Tools guys make the car do what they want it to do. And we’re really, really close to where we need to be, but the good part is, we’re working and we’re getting better and we’re in the right spot, in the right time, to capitalize to make the runs we need to make to win the rounds and that’s the main thing. Our guys know how to race and I’m super proud, super blessed to be on this team and to bring these wins home means something, but the work is not done yet. Not at all. We have to keep going until the job’s finished.”

DOUG KALITTA, Mac Tools Toyota Top Fuel Dragster, Kalitta Motorsports

TF Final Result: Semifinalist

Take us through your day here in Charlotte.

“It was nice to go a couple rounds today. We were right there in the semifinals, it was really close, but we came up a little bit short. We’re figuring out a hot-track tune-up, and I think the guys are doing a good job figuring it out for Mac Tools, Revchem, Toyota, SealMaster and all the great people who help is make all this happen.”

Cadillac Racing GTP entries encounter unforced issues in six-hour race

INDIANAPOLIS (Sept. 22, 2024) – A promising start to the TireRack.com Battle on the Bricks ended in double disappointment for the Cadillac Racing Grand Touring Prototype (GTP) entries in the six-hour race Sunday. Contending with the 56-car, four-class field and dramatic changing weather and track conditions that included a long full-course yellow in the opening hours on the 2.439-mile, 14-turn Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course, the No. 01 Cadillac V-Series.R and No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R were poised to challenge for podium positions.

Sebastien Bourdais, who earned the second pole of the season for the No. 01 Cadillac V-Series.R and fifth in the eight IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship races for Cadillac Racing, traded the point multiple times with the No. 6 Porsche 963. And with Renger van der Zande in the seat and holding the lead, the No. 01 Cadillac V-Series.R gained maximum points at the halfway mark in the IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup standings. The No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R qualified fourth and Jack Aitken moved to second on Lap 8 and briefly took the lead on the first pit stop for Michelin wet tires. But unforced issues negated the strong start for both racecars powered by the purpose-built Cadillac 5.5-liter V8. While running seventh later in the race, driver Pipo Derani was alerted to an issue and was called onto pit lane. Cadillac statement: With 3 hours, 50 minutes left in the race, the No. 31 Whelen Cadillac lost oil pressure. After inspecting the vehicle in the garage, the decision was made to retire the car. We will regroup to diagnose the root cause of the issue and prepare to race again in the season finale at Road Atlanta. It was the first mechanical DNF for the No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R in the GTP era. With 1 hour, 27 minutes left and running second, van der Zande rolled onto pit lane for regular service and a switch to Bourdais for the close. A lap later, however, the right-rear tire on the No. 01 Cadillac V-Series.R went flat, and Bourdais had to make a full tour of the course before limping into the pit. An extended stop, which included untangled tire chord from the driveshaft, cost the team three laps.

Media resources* Photo gallery of on-track activity | Cadillac Racing IMSA statistics

Bourdais soldiered on, overtook the No. 7 Porsche 963 and drove the No. 01 Cadillac V-Series.R to eighth place overall. The No. 24 BMW M Hybrid V8 won the race.

The IMSA GTP season concludes Oct. 12 with the 10-hour Motul Petit Le Mans at 2.54-mile, 12-turn Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. The No. 01 Cadillac V-Series.R was runner-up in the 2023, clinching the GTP and IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup manufacturer championships for Cadillac Racing. Peacock will stream flag-to-flag coverage, with USA telecasting the race from 6-10:30 p.m.

What they’re saying

No. 01 Cadillac V-Series.R

Sebastien Bourdais: “I think pace-wise we were OK, but the competition was stronger again. … Unfortunately, we probably didn’t have what we needed to fight. But it turned into a very weird race at the end with the BMW winning. I jumped in the car. I did the out lap. I didn’t hit anyone, but something cut the right rear tire. Debris, or someone when they got by when I was crawling around on cold tires, I have no idea. I didn’t feel anything at all. Just another really disappointing race because it definitely feels like we did everything we could to give ourselves a chance, then we get nothing at the end.” Renger van der Zande: “I’m very disappointed with where we ended up because we had good speed in the car, we worked really hard on the setup and to get it done. The team did a fantastic job. I think we extracted everything we could out of the car. Seb did a good job; I did a good job. At the end, a blown tire ended our fight today. I’m not happy, but we’ll move forward from here, and we’ll see what we can do at Petit Le Mans and hopefully win that race.”

No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R

Jack Aitken: “The first stint went great for us. The car was working really well and managed to move up from P4 to second and even were closing in on the No. 6 Porsche. Then the rain started to come and we managed that pretty well, too, getting out of the pits in first place. But a bit of bad luck and the race unraveled for us. It was an encouraging race start and we’ll take that to Petit Le Mans.”

CONCORD, NC (September 22, 2024) — Unseasonably warm conditions dogged the Top Fuel and Funny Car competitors during the 16^th annual NHRA Carolina Nationals at zMax Dragway this weekend. For Josh Hart and the newly adorned pink TechNet Brakes for Breasts Top Fuel dragster the three-day national event was a good opportunity to talk about an amazing program supporting breast cancer awareness, but a tough weekend for on-track performance. Through two days of qualifying Hart’s team made three solid passes and landed on the qualifying sheet as the No. 11 quickest Top Fuel dragster on the property.
 
“We came off the trailer and made some decent runs considering the conditions were pretty tricky,” said Hart, the 2021 Carolina Nationals Top Fuel winner. “Everyone had to deal with the same track and same conditions. I thought we made the most of it. On Saturday we made a strong run in the first session and then we missed in it the last session. I had a lot of confidence coming in the first round match-up with Shawn (Langdon).”

 Josh Hart and the Brakes for Breasts Top Fuel dragster on track at the Carolina Nationals,
photo credit Auto Imagery/Gary Nastase

Entering race day Hart was ready for a close race with the No. 6 qualifier. The pink TechNet Brakes for Breasts Top Fuel dragster was first off the starting line with Hart’s .058 second reaction time getting a slight edge on Shawn Langdon’s .061 second reaction time. Unfortunately, by the time the 11,000-horsepower land rockets were closing in on halftrack Hart’s Goodyear tires lost traction and Langdon was pulling away on a smooth run.  Langdon’s elapsed time of 3.775 seconds outpaced Hart’s 4.923 second run.
 
“It was really warm for the first round and usually that gives us a little advantage,” said Hart. “It didn’t work out for us today. There were a lot of teams smoking the tires, but we need to work on our own program. We will head right to St. Louis and get ready for the Midwest Nationals. That is another great facility and we will get right back after it.”
 
For the fourth season in a row Hart is supporting the Brakes for Breasts initiative. Part of the Advance Auto Parts portfolio of brands, TechNet Professional Automotive Service features a network of more than 15,000 repair shops across the U.S. and Canada. Shops also participate in important charitable initiatives in the communities they serve, such as Brakes for Breasts.
 
“We’re pleased to once again feature TechNet and Brakes for Breasts on Josh’s dragster for this weekend’s race,” said Todd Sanders, Advance’s senior vice president, professional business. “We hope this partnership drives awareness around the fundraising program while encouraging race fans to be proactive around their own personal health.”
 
Hart hoped his efforts with the Brakes for Breasts Top Fuel dragster and the additional social and media promotion this weekend helped raise awareness for the 1 in 8 women who will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. All the funds raised will go towards the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Research Fund.
 
There are several ways for consumers to help the program through their donations. Fans and supporters can visit their local TechNet repair shop to give or get up to $40 on their qualifying brake service. Consumers can receive up to $40 rebate in the form of a TechNet Professional Prepaid Mastercard or $10 rebate per axle on Carquest Premium Gold brakes and $20 rebate per axle on Carquest Professional Platinum brakes. To find your local TechNet Professional Automotive Service Center, click here and help us put the brakes on breast cancer!
 
Hart and the Brakes for Breasts Top Fuel dragster team will be back on track for two qualifying runs to start the Midwest Nationals on Friday from World Wide Technology Raceway outside of St. Louis.
 
Qualifying Results
Q1: 3.795 sec, 326.71 mph; Qual. 9
Q2: 3.755 sec, 322.65 mph; Qual. 11
Q3: 3.792 sec, 327.59 mph; Qual. 11
Q4: 6.548 sec, 92.30 mph; Qual. 11
Bonus Points: 0
 

Race Results

First Round

Shawn Langdon, Avon, Ind., KalittaAir.com/careers dragster, (.061), 3.775 sec, 327.98 mph def.  Josh Hart, Ocala, Fla., TechNet Brakes for Breasts dragster, (.058), 4.923 sec, 165.97 mph

Mission Foods Drag Racing point standings – Top Fuel Championship Points
1. Antron Brown         2292
2. Justin Ashley           2239
3. Shawn Langdon      2230
4. Doug Kalitta             2225
5. Clay Millican           2174
6. Steve Torrence       2162
7. Tony Schumacher   2119
8. Tony Stewart          2118
9. Brittany Force         2114
10. Billy Torrence        2082
11. Josh Hart              2056
12. Shawn Reed          2029
 

CONCORD, N.C. (September 22, 2024) — In his second Countdown race of his career, rookie Funny Car driver for Jim Dunn Racing Buddy Hull was able to match his best qualifying effort in back-to-back weekends at the NHRA Carolina Nationals, entering race day from the No. 12 spot at zMAX Dragway.
 
“Now that we’re inching up in qualifying, I know I’m doing my part as a driver,” said Hull. “I’m keeping the car in the middle of the groove. I’m working with Big Jim and Jon (Dunn) to improve my reaction times with the race car idling up a bit, and adding a little more tug, so that way, when I smash the pedal, the car really moves.”

 Buddy Hull and the Lescure Funny Car qualified No. 12 at Carolina Nationals, photo credit Krista Zivcic

After making three solid qualifying runs on Friday and Saturday, Hull faced off against Jack Beckman in round one of eliminations on Sunday. It was Hull’s first time running against Beckman, who is currently competing for points for a sidelined John Force. Hull had previously raced against Force twice earlier this season. When Hull took off from the starting line, he like many other drivers during round one, smoked the tires.
 
“We took a bunch of weight off the clutch,” said Hull. “We were trying to just slide it down the track. It should have labored down through there and ran, between a 4.00 or 4.10. Instead, it straight up knocked the tires off the car. Which is not normal for us. But we were part of about half the field who did the exact same thing in this first round. Sometimes these track conditions will do that to you.”
 
This weekend was Hull’s first time competing in the Carolina Nationals. In 2021 he competed in the Four-Wide Nationals at zMAX Dragway driving his Top Fuel dragster, and this year he returned to the event for the first time in a nitro Funny Car. 
 
“From a driver’s perspective, from the first time I raced here at zMAX at the beginning of the year to now, I’m a completely different guy in my race car,” said Hull. “I’ve improved in almost every category as far as driving the race car goes. I’m way more comfortable now than I was back in April. We also have a significantly faster and more consistent race car than we did earlier in the season.”
 
Despite the tough first round exit, Hull still has a lot to be grateful for after his inaugural Carolina Nationals race weekend. It was the first race that his wife and newborn son, Maverick, have been able to attend since Maverick’s birth in mid-August.
 
“Having my family back on the road here with me is the best feeling,” said Hull. “My wife, Madi, and now Maverick are my biggest supporters and cheerleaders. I’m also thankful for our new sponsor Sunshine Energy Drink, who are based locally in the North Carolina area. I could not do what I do without the support of my family, Jim Dunn Racing and our incredible sponsors.”
 
Now that the Carolina Nationals is in the rearview mirror, Hull and the Jim Dunn Racing team are looking ahead to next race in the Countdown, the Midwest Nationals, located just outside of St. Louis. This will be the fourth year in a row that Hull has competed at the Midwest Nationals, but the first as a Funny Car and Countdown-competitive driver. He has his eyes on the prize: moving on up into the top 10.
 
“I’m thinking about the race to get into the top 10 every run,” said Hull. “We are absolutely bound to move up a bit and finish in the top 10. We have four races left. We need to win a round or two in St. Louis. But there’s no question that we can do it. Our car is going down the track more often than it ever has. We’re right there, and we’re getting better. I really think St. Louis is going to be our race.”
 
Hull and the Jim Dunn Racing team will next be in competition for the third race in the Countdown at the NHRA Midwest Nationals on September 27-29 at World Wide Technology Raceway. There will be one qualifying session on Friday, September 27 and two qualifying sessions on Saturday, September 28. For tickets or more information on the NHRA Midwest Nationals visit nhra.com.
 
Qualifying Results
Q1: 4.108 sec, 307.30 mph; Qual. 11
Q2: No run; Qual. 12
Q3: 7.197 sec, 93.39 mph; Qual. 12
Q4: 4.101 sec, 308.92 mph; Qual. 12
Bonus Points: 0
 
First Round
Jack Beckman, Norco, Calif., PEAK Chevrolet Camaro SS, (.077), 3.934, 322.81 mph def.  Buddy Hull, Dallas, Tex., Lescure Dodge Charger, (.105), 4.597, 191.95 mph
 
 
Mission Foods Drag Racing Series – Funny Car Championship Points
1. Austin Prock                        2370
2. Bob Tasca III                         2241
3. John Force/Jack Beckman   2234
4. Matt Hagan                         2217
5. Ron Capps                           2163
6. J.R. Todd                             2160
7. Alexis DeJoria                     2113
8. Dan Wilkerson                    2108
9. Blake Alexander                  2103
10. Chad Green                       2100
11. Cruz Pedregon                  2075
12. Buddy Hull                        2044
13. Dave Richards                   2032
 

The Californian sweeps the night in his home state’s biggest World of Outlaws race everTULARE, CA (September 21, 2024) – Only a few short weeks ago Carson Macedo saw the potential biggest win of his career fall from his grasp.The white flag waved at Huset’s Speedway, and he threw everything he had at Michael “Buddy” Kofoid with a final corner slider. Macedo cleared him but couldn’t stop Kofoid’s crossover as he watched $100,000 and Huset’s High Bank Nationals glory slip away.But he refused to suffer the same fate at the Dennis Roth Classic.It was a special event for several reasons for Macedo. First, the host track – Thunderbowl Raceway – is only about 30 miles from his hometown of Lemoore, CA. Secondly, the event boasted the largest winner’s share in World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car history with $83,000 going to the champion. And the event saluted perhaps his home state’s most impactful car owner in Sprint Car racing.There was plenty of motivation. He and the Jason Johnson Racing simply needed to execute, and that’s exactly what they did to perfection.Macedo pieced together a full sweep of the night. It started off with his second straight Simpson Quick Time. He then went on to top both his Heat Race and the Toyota Racing Dash. And he finalized the special evening by leading every circuit of the 35-lap finale to collect the massive payday.“What a night to have a perfect night,” Macedo said. “Philip (Dietz) just delivered tonight. It was, from start to finish, an absolutely excellent performance by this JJR 41 team. Adam Zimmerman and Robby McQuinn, they worked their tails off. They did a great job. They just made phenomenal adjustments. I wasn’t that comfortable in Hot Laps. Phil just knocked it out of the park for Qualifying really. We just never faded from that point on. It was just unbelievable to drive from start to finish.”The sweep of the night not only netted Macedo the massive check, it also came with some tasty rewards. With 20 pounds of choice New York steaks, 20 pounds of choice Tri-Tip, and 30 pounds of ribeye steaks collected courtesy of Roth Motorsports, Macedo walked away with 70 pounds of meat.Macedo’s ninth win of the year was his 44th overall with The Greatest Show on Dirt. He became the 20th different competitor to top a Series race at the Thunderbowl. The Tulare, CA 1/3 mile is the 26th different track where Macedo has won with the World of Outlaws and fourth in his home state.Macedo started on the pole for the main event and drove ahead to an early advantage. The 28-year-old may have gapped the field early on, but the action behind him was plentiful. Sixth-starting David Gravel charged by Buddy Kofoid to grab third, but Kofoid returned the favor by ripping the top in Turns 3 and 4 to take it right back. A little further behind them Sheldon Haudenschild was giving the fans a show all on his own aboard the NOS Energy Drink No. 17. He glued his right rear tire to the cushion and beat down the boards. After starting 12th, the Wooster, OH native had cracked the top five by Lap 7. A lap later he took fourth from Gravel. Up ahead of them Kofoid started to battle with Shane Golobic for the runner-up spot.A Lap 9 restart proved to be pivotal as Kofoid, Gravel, and Haudenschild all rocketed ahead of Golobic for spots second, third, and fourth. Kofoid looked to run down Macedo to deliver a storybook win for his Roth Motorsports crew, but it wasn’t in the cards on Saturday night. He did everything he could to keep up with Macedo through traffic, but he never managed to close in.Macedo maintained a healthy advantage throughout the race’s second half on his way to $83,000 and a mountain of meat to feed him and the Jason Johnson Racing cast for weeks.“Man, what a night,” Macedo said. “Obviously, we were racing for the Dennis Roth Classic. Dennis and Teresa Roth, they’ve given a lot to the sport of Sprint Car Racing. It feels special to win this race. I’ve been competing against the Roth 83 for a while. Obviously, out here in California driving the Tarlton Motorsports 21 and through the transition of my career.”Kofoid collected his sixth straight podium and $40,000 with a runner-up finish. The Penngrove, CA native had high hopes of bringing the Dennis Roth Classic trophy back to Roth’s Fresno, CA shop, but he didn’t hang his head over yet another strong run as he and the No. 83 team continue to click as the season winds down.“I feel like I could pace Carson,” Kofoid said. “And I felt like I was just as good as him, but clean air is huge, and when you��re behind him and he kicks up dust, it’s hard to see the wall sometimes when you’ve got to ride the wall. It was a really fun track. I’m just super happy that this event was able to happen for Dennis and Teresa. I feel like they deserve a race like this. I just feel very honored to be the guy to drive this car and be close to getting it done.”The final spot of the podium belonged to Haudenschild as his charge from 12th led him all the way to third. Combine that with his Friday run, and Haudenschild passed a total of 23 cars in two nights at the Thunderbowl. Time simply ran out for him to have an opportunity at potentially moving by Kofoid and Macedo for victory.“I had a beautiful race car honestly,” Haudenschild said. “I had confidence right from the drop of the green. I just knew I had to clear a few of those guys that would give a little bit of trouble. Once I got to the guys I knew I could race with like David (Gravel) and a couple other ones, I feel like we had the pace with them for sure. Just too little too late.”David Gravel and Shane Golobic rounded out the top five.A 23rd to 10th run earned Tim Kaeding the KSE Racing Hard Charger.Carson Macedo completed a weekend sweep of Simpson Quick Time Awards by claiming his 12th of the season and 45th of his career in Sea Foam Qualifying.NOS Energy Drink Heats One, Three, and Four belonged to Carson Macedo, Logan Schuchart, and Landon Brooks. Milton Hershey School Heat Two went to Kaleb Montgomery.Carson Macedo topped the Toyota Racing Dash.Bill Balog won the Micro-Lite Last Chance Showdown.The Smith Titanium Break Systems Brake of the Race went to Bill Balog.UP NEXT: The World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars head east for an Ohio doubleheader beginning with Wayne County Speedway’s (Orrville, OH) Buckeye Brawl presented by NOS Energy Drink on Friday, Sept. 27. Then it’s off to Hartford, OH’s Sharon Speedway on Saturday, Sept. 28 for the Federated Auto Parts Showdown. 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 (35 Laps): 1. 41-Carson Macedo[1]; 2. 83-Michael Kofoid[3]; 3. 17-Sheldon Haudenschild[12]; 4. 2-David Gravel[6]; 5. 17W-Shane Golobic[2]; 6. 1S-Logan Schuchart[5]; 7. 15-Donny Schatz[19]; 8. 18-Giovanni Scelzi[4]; 9. 23-Garet Williamson[11]; 10. 0-Tim Kaeding[23]; 11. 3-Kaleb Montgomery[7]; 12. 45-Landon Brooks[8]; 13. 41S-Dominic Scelzi[22]; 14. 17B-Bill Balog[21]; 15. 21-Cole Macedo[15]; 16. 29-Bud Kaeding[18]; 17. 88N-DJ Netto[9]; 18. 83V-Dylan Bloomfield[20]; 19. 88-Austin McCarl[17]; 20. 2K-Gauge Garcia[16]; 21. 3Z-Brock Zearfoss[24]; 22. 83T-Tanner Carrick[14]; 23. 2X-Justin Sanders[13]; 24. 57W-Jock Goodyer[10]For complete results, CLICK HERE.ARTICLE: https://worldofoutlaws.com/sprintcars/steak-dinner-carson-macedo-tops-dennis-roth-classic-for-biggest-win-of-career/EVENT INFO: https://worldofoutlaws.com/sprintcars/schedule/event-info/?event=6226 TRACK INFO: http://www.thunderbowlraceway.comFAN 101: https://about.worldofoutlaws.com/

We went into the European Finals race trailing Daniel Giles in his dragster by over 3 rounds worth of points, but a better qualifying position for us reduced the deficit slightly and then we really benefitted when he red lit in the 1^st round and eliminated himself.

With a full field of 32 cars in the eliminations, that means 5 rounds of knock-out racing to establish the winner. Due to rain on Sunday morning, and then prioritising the Pro cars (which need 90 minutes to turn-around) we didn’t get to run our 2^nd round until 5.30 in the afternoon!

We had another piece of luck in eliminations when one of our competitors had to withdraw due to some engine damage, giving us a bye run into the next round, and then as we advanced darkness was approaching fast.

The track is floodlit to enable night racing and we were fortunate that there was sufficient breeze to stop any dew forming.

With a 9pm curfew rapidly approaching, we had our final race at 8.50, and Scott did it!

The car performed flawlessly throughout the event and even set a new personal best of 7.27 seconds @ 183 mph set during a qualifying run.

So, we have now taken the lead in the points chase, with the final event this weekend. Obviously, we will do our utmost to win or at least stay in front and claim the championship. We’ve had a couple of years of near misses so we’re definitely up for it.

All-new Xbox-PlayStation title includes 35 real-life Midget drivers plus Millbridge, Micro Sprints

CONCORD, NC (Sept. 17, 2024) — The Xtreme Outlaw Midget Series presented by Toyota returns to the home console world of gaming for the second consecutive year with the official release of the all-new World of Outlaws: Dirt Racing 24 title on Xbox and PlayStation.

Thirty-five authentic national Midget drivers are represented on the in-game Midget roster, included along with the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series, World of Outlaws CASE Construction Equipment Late Model Series, Super DIRTcar Series Big Block Modifieds, ASCS Elite Non-Wing 410 Sprint Cars, DIRTcar Summit Racing Equipment Modified Nationals and several other dirt track racing divisions.

The game is available for purchase today on Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. The full roster of drivers included with the initial release is listed below and includes all new paint schemes for 2024 with additional schemes for select drivers to be added in a future DLC pack.

Xtreme Outlaw Midget Series championship chasers Ryan Timms and Chase McDermand are included in the playable drivers and shared their anticipation to continue dirt racing’s reach beyond the racetrack.

“When I was younger, I’d play the World of Outlaws 2002 game on my PlayStation, and that’s how I learned who a lot of the older drivers were,” Timms said. “Now me, and I’m sure a lot of other people are getting kids coming up to you and saying they use your car in the video game. It’s just pretty cool to see.”

“It’s one thing to see kids at the racetrack and stuff, but to hear from the kids outside of that playing as me in a video game is pretty cool,” McDermand said. “I’ve actually gotten a lot of feedback and comments from various fans and just friends and their kids sending me pictures and stuff of my car on a videogame. It’s pretty cool.”

New for the 2024 edition of the game is the addition of Winged Micro Sprints, as seen in the weekly program of the birthplace of the Xtreme Outlaw Midget Series — Millbridge Speedway. Several present-day open-wheel stars began their careers in Micro Sprints as kids, racing both on the real track and in the virtual world, which will continue to draw in new racers into 2025 and beyond.

“Chances are, if a kid likes to play a certain type of car on a video game, they’re gonna be able to make that connection when they go to the racetrack,” McDermand said. “That’s the same thing that they can do with drivers themselves, and that’s how you build fans and build and fanbase.

“Just being able to connect more people to our sport in whatever way possible is something that’s super important to be able to continue the sport that we all love.”

Both the Midgets and Millbridge Speedway are available for download today with all of the other car types, tracks and new features — including Outlaw Challenge mode, improved graphics, streamlined career mode, variable track conditions and more.

For more information about World of Outlaws: Dirt Racing 24 or to purchase your copy of the game, visit WorldofOutlawsGame.com or your home console’s digital store today.

Xtreme Outlaw Midget drivers included:

Chase McDermand

Ryan Timms
Zach Daum
Cannon McIntosh
Jade Avedisian
Ashton Torgerson
Karter Sarff

Hayden Reinbold

Tyler Edwards

Gavin Miller

Luke Drotschie

Peter Smith

Trevor Cline

Brayton Lynch
Jayden Clay

Kale Drake

TJ Smith

Elijah Gile

Austin Torgerson

Thomas Meseraull

Kyle Beilman
Kyle Jones
Nick Hoffman

Ethan Mitchell

Jake Neuman

Mitchell Davis

Gunnar Setser

Taylor Reimer

Andrew Felker

Casey Shuman

Gary Taylor

Tyler Robbins
Corbin Rueschenberg

Branigan Roark

Sean Robbins

ARTICLE: https://xtremeoutlawseries.com/news/gamers-unite-midgets-ready-to-race-in-world-of-outlaws-dirt-racing-24/

EVENT INFO:
TRACK INFO: https://worldofoutlawsgame.com/
FAN 101: https://about.dirtcar.com/ 

The World of Outlaws salute one of the sport’s most dedicated car owners with two huge nights of racingTULARE, CA (September 17, 2024) – The time has come for the biggest California race in World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car history.A three-week stay in the “Golden State” wraps up in a huge way this weekend (Sept. 20-21) at Tulare, CA’s Thunderbowl Raceway. The third annual Dennis Roth Classic is set to serve up a beefy $83,000 payday to the winner of the finale as a nod to Roth’s car number. His cars have become an iconic staple with many of the sport’s greats climbing behind the wheel of a Roth ride over the years.The pay won’t be the only prize on Saturday night as Roth is adding some other goods to the menu. The Simpson Quick Time and Toyota Dash winners will head home with 10 pounds of choice New York steaks. Each NOS Energy Drink Heat Race winner receives 20 pounds of choice tri-tip. The event winner gets 30 pounds of choice ribeye steaks while second and third collect 20 and 10 pounds. Danny Lasoski will also be making a special appearance as he reunites with his 1998 Knoxville Nationals winning Roth Motorsports ride. The team has kept the car maintained since that night, and Lasoski is heading to California to pace the field aboard the historic machine.All in all, it’s shaping up to be a memorable weekend saluting one of the most important figures in Sprint Car racing history.Tickets will be available at the gate, or fans can watch every lap live on DIRTVision.Let’s look at the weekend’s top storylines:BRING HOME THE BEEF: The stars could be aligning for a storybook weekend for Michael “Buddy” Kofoid.He’s living out his dream in 2024 as he tackles his rookie World of Outlaws campaign thanks to none other than Dennis and Teresa Roth giving him the opportunity. The Californian grew up watching the California car, and now he has the honor of piloting the No. 83 alongside the nation’s best. Kofoid would love nothing more than to bring the Dennis Roth Classic trophy to Roth’s Fresno, CA shop.Kofoid rolls into the weekend as, arguably, the hottest driver on tour. Four of the last five races have belonged to the 22-year-old including a sweep of Bakersfield and Merced last weekend. He hasn’t finished worse than fourth in the last nine races.Thunderbowl has seen Kofoid visit its Victory Lane multiple times in the past. Back in 2016 he topped a Trophy Cupprelim at only 14 years old. He claimed another prelim in 2021 that helped lead him to a Trophy Cup title. It’s also where he made his World of Outlaws debut in 2018.CARSON IS CLOSING: With only 14 races remaining before the 2024 World of Outlaws champion is crowned, there may be a battle brewing for the title.Carson Macedo and the Jason Johnson Racing team have strung together eight podiums in the last 11 races, including five victories. A pair of third place finishes over the weekend helped Macedo trim David Gravel’s advantage down to 86 markers.Thunderbowl gives Macedo two more chances in home territory to make up some ground before the tour ventures back east. Macedo won a Kings of Thunder 360 Sprint Car race at the Tulare, CA oval in 2021, and his best World of Outlaws finish there is fifth (2018).ROTH’S WINNERS: A record 16 different drivers have steered Dennis and Teresa Roth’s race cars to World of Outlaws Victory Lane, and along with Kofoid two more of those names will be in the Thunderbowl pit area this weekend.Current Series point leader David Gravel got his first national touring opportunity when Roth put him in the seat during the 2014 World of Outlaws season. The pairing claimed four races that year including a crown jewel triumph at Williams Grove Speedway’s National Open. Through Gravel hasn’t won with Roth at the Thunderbowl, he has claimed a pair of events with CJB Motorsports. The richest Sprint Car driver in the country this season eyes $83,000 this weekend.The other is Roth’s second winningest driver with the World of Outlaws, Tim Kaeding. The San Jose, CA native collected 19 of his 21 career checkered flags behind the wheel of the No. 83, and a trio of those came at Thunderbowl. “TK” added one more Tulare triumph in the Kinser No. 11K (2007). Kaeding’s four Series victories at the 1/3 mile are tied with Joey Saldana for the most.TAMING TULARE: In addition to Gravel, two more current full-time World of Outlaws competitors have won with The Greatest Show on Dirt at Thunderbowl.Ten-time Series champion Donny Schatz has topped three Tulare visits (2005, 2007, 2017). One more at the Dennis Roth Classic would equal him with Kaeding and Saldana for the most, and a weekend sweep in the Tony Stewart/Curb Agajanian Racing No. 15 would give him sole possession of the most.Giovanni Scelzi grew up less than an hour from Tulare, calling Fresno, CA home in his youth. Two years ago, Scelzi came out on top of a Thunderbowl thriller after trading sliders with Kyle Larson and David Gravel in the closing laps. “Hot Sauce” has also won there with both the Northern Auto Racing Club (NARC) and Sprint Car Challenge Tour (SCCT).CAN CALI CASH IN?: With such major money on the line, a big cast of local California talent is expected to join the field in search of an Outlaw upset.Rocklin, CA’s Shane Golobic has made it abundantly clear that he knows his way around Thunderbowl. He’s claimed a trio of the coveted Trophy Cup titles, and he’s won with a 410 under the hood in NARC action. Golobic is already a two-time Series winner with both scores coming in his home state at Antioch (2013) and Placerville (2019).Dominic Scelzi has been a force at Tulare to the tune of 12 career triumphs. Three of those have come in NARC action. The Fresno, CA native is still seeking his first World of Outlaws victory, and he led laps at the most recent Series visit in 2022. Cole Macedo was impressive this past weekend, posting finishes of sixth and fifth in the Tarlton Motorsports No. 21 at Bakersfield and Merced. Before he joins the tour full-time next year, the Lemoore, CA native looks to win one as a California local this weekend at the Thunderbowl. He topped a 360 show last year at Tulare and finished fourth with NARC back in May this year.Hanford, CA’s D.J. Netto has been perhaps the most impressive “Golden State” local through the California swing with a pair of top five finishes at Kings Speedway and Merced Speedway. Netto is a four-time Thunderbowl winner including two last year.These three will be joined by many more including the likes of Justin Sanders (Aromas, CA), Caeden Steele (Fresno, CA), Kaleb Montgomery (Templeton, CA), and many more.THIS WEEKEND AT A GLANCEWHEN AND WHERE Friday-Saturday, Sept 20-21 at Thunderbowl Raceway in Tulare, CAON THE INTERNETWorld of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series X – @WorldofOutlaws Instagram – @WoOSprint Facebook – Facebook.com/WorldofOutlawsSprintCarSeries YouTube – Youtube.com/WorldofOutlaws DIRTVision – DIRTVision.com – Platinum annual FAST PASS for $299 or monthly FAST PASS for $39/monthCURRENT CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS (55/69 Races):1. David Gravel – Big Game Motorsports No. 2 (7450 PTS) 2. Carson Macedo – Jason Johnson Racing No. 41 (-86 PTS) 3. Donny Schatz – Tony Stewart/Curb Agajanian Racing No. 15 (-132 PTS) 4. Giovanni Scelzi – KCP Racing No. 18 (-226 PTS) 5. Michael Kofoid – Roth Motorsports No. 83 (-232 PTS) 6. Sheldon Haudenschild – Stenhouse Jr.-Marshall Racing No. 17 (-360 PTS) 7. Logan Schuchart – Shark Racing No. 1S (-362 PTS) 8. Bill Balog – B Squared Motorsports No. 17B (-848 PTS) 9. Brock Zearfoss – Brock Zearfoss Racing No. 3Z (-1184 PTS) 10. Landon Crawley – Sides Motorsports No. 7S (-1438 PTS)NOS ENERGY DRINK FEATURE WINNERS (16 Drivers): 13 Wins – David Gravel 8 Wins – Sheldon Haudenschild, Carson Macedo 5 Wins – Michael Kofoid 4 Wins – Donny Schatz 3 Wins – Giovanni Scelzi, Kyle Larson 2 Wins – Tyler Courtney, Rico Abreu 1 Win – Brad Sweet, Brent Marks, Brady Bacon, Corey Day, Logan Schuchart, James McFadden, T.J. StuttsFEATURE LAPS LED (25 Drivers):373 Laps – Carson Macedo 317 Laps – David Gravel 205 Laps – Giovanni Scelzi 177 Laps – Sheldon Haudenschild 132 Laps – Donny Schatz 119 Laps – Michael Kofoid 97 Laps – Kyle Larson 75 Laps – Rico Abreu 49 Laps – Logan Schuchart 44 Laps – James McFadden 36 Laps – Emerson Axsom 34 Laps – Brady Bacon 29 Laps – Chase Randall 25 Laps – Brad Sweet, T.J. Stutts 15 Laps – Ryan Timms, Tyler Courtney 14 Laps – Shane Golobic 13 Laps – Anthony Macri 11 Laps – Bill Balog 9 Laps – Parker Price-Miller, Corey Day 4 Laps – Hunter Schuerenberg 3 Laps – Brent Marks 1 Lap – Kalib HenrySIMPSON PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS QUICKTIME AWARDS (21 Drivers):10 Quick Times – Carson Macedo 9 Quick Times – David Gravel 7 Quick Times – Sheldon Haudenschild 5 Quick Times – Michael Kofoid 4 Quick Times – Giovanni Scelzi 3 Quick Times – Brent Marks 2 Quick Times – Daryn Pittman, Donny Schatz, Landon Crawley 1 Quick Time – Brian Brown, Aaron Reutzel, Brady Bacon, Cory Eliason, Brock Zearfoss, Rico Abreu, Chase Dietz, Matt Juhl, Emerson Axsom, Shane Golobic, Bill Balog, Landon BrooksHEAT RACE WINNERS (52 Drivers): 27 Heat Wins – David Gravel, Carson Macedo 24 Heat Wins – Sheldon Haudenschild 19 Heat Wins – Giovanni Scelzi 18 Heat Wins – Michael Kofoid 9 Heat Wins – Rico Abreu, Logan Schuchart, Donny Schatz 7 Heat Wins – Brock Zearfoss 6 Heat Wins – Bill Balog5 Heat Wins – Tyler Courtney, Brent Marks 3 Heat Wins –Daryn Pittman, Garet Williamson, Kaleb Johnson 2 Heat Wins – Brian Brown, Landon Crawley,Corey Day, Kyle Larson, Anthony Macri, Sam Hafertepe Jr., Austin McCarl, Aaron Reutzel, Emerson Axsom, Scott Bogucki, Chase Randall 1 Heat Win – Justin Peck, Bill Rose, Ryan Timms, Danny Sams III, Tim Shaffer, Nick Omdahl, Brad Sweet, Spencer Bayston, Brady Bacon, Parker Price-Miller, Chase Dietz, T.J. Stutts, Kelby Watt, Jamie Ball, Hunter Schuerenberg, Tasker Phillips, Ayrton Gennetten, Tanner Holmes, Kasey Kahne, Cole Macedo, Cale Thomas, Dusty Zomer, Andy Pake, Shane Golobic, Dylan Bloomfield, D.J. NettoTOYOTA DASH APPEARANCES (69 Drivers):38 Dashes – Carson Macedo 37 Dashes – David Gravel 33 Dashes – Sheldon Haudenschild 32 Dashes – Giovanni Scelzi 27 Dashes – Michael Kofoid 20 Dashes – Donny Schatz 19 Dashes – Logan Schuchart 15 Dashes – Bill Balog 10 Dashes – Brock Zearfoss 9 Dashes – Rico Abreu 7 Dashes – Landon Crawley, Brent Marks 6 Dashes – Tyler Courtney, Emerson Axsom 5 Dashes – Corey Day, Aaron Reutzel, Garet Williamson 4 Dashes – Brian Brown, Brady Bacon, Anthony Macri 3 Dashes – 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, Scott Bogucki 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, Austin McCarl, Christopher Thram, Kraig Kinser, Troy Wagaman Jr., T.J. Stutts, Freddie Rahmer, Jacob Allen, Lance Dewease, Kelby Watt, Will Armitage, Dusty Zomer, Andy Pake, Shane Golobic, Justin Sanders, Kaleb Montgomery, Tanner Carrick, Tim Kaeding, Jock Goodyer, Landon Brooks, Dylan Bloomfield, Tim Kaeding, D.J. Netto, Jamie VealMICRO-LITE LAST CHANCE SHOWDOWN WINS (44 Drivers):3 LCS Wins – Bill Balog, Anthony Macri, Landon Crawley, Garet Williamson, Brock Zearfoss 2 LCS Wins – Logan McCandless 1 LCS Win – Austin McCarl, Corey Day, Kasey Kahne, Koty Adams, Jace Park, 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, Dusty Zomer, Chris Windom, Ayrton Gennetten, Brad Sweet, Kelby Watt, Scott Bogucki, Mark Dobmeier, Scott Winters, Christopher Thram, Logan Schuchart, Caeden Steele, Kraig KinserKSE HARD CHARGER AWARDS (33 Drivers):8 Hard Chargers – Donny Schatz 6 Hard Chargers – Logan Schuchart 3 Hard Chargers – Carson Macedo, Michael Kofoid, Garet Williamson 2 Hard Chargers – Aaron Reutzel, Cale Thomas, Danny Dietrich, Emerson Axsom, Tim Kaeding 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, Brent Marks, Larry Wight, Anthony Macri, James McFadden, Parker Price-Miller, Corey Day, Tim Estenson, David Gravel, Ryan Bernal, Shane GolobicPODIUM FINISHES (28 Drivers):27 Podiums – David Gravel, Carson Macedo 20 Podiums – Sheldon Haudenschild, Michael Kofoid 17 Podiums – Donny Schatz 9 Podiums – Giovanni Scelzi 6 Podiums – Kyle Larson 5 Podiums – Rico Abreu 3 Podiums – Brad Sweet, Tyler Courtney, Brent Marks, Bill Balog 2 Podiums – Aaron Reutzel, Logan Schuchart, Justin Peck, James McFadden, Corey Day, Emerson Axsom 1 Podium – Anthony Macri, Brady Bacon, Cole Macedo, Parker Price-Miller, Ryan Timms, T.J. Stutts, Chase Randall, Shane Golobic, Justin Sanders, Tim KaedingTOP 10 FINISHES (81 Drivers): 49 Top 10s – David Gravel 47 Top 10s – Giovanni Scelzi 46 Top 10s – Donny Schatz 45 Top 10s – Michael Kofoid, Carson Macedo 42 Top 10s – Logan Schuchart 38 Top 10s – Sheldon Haudenschild 28 Top 10s – Bill Balog 14 Top 10s – Brock Zearfoss 10 Top 10s – Tyler Courtney  9 Top 10s – Rico Abreu, Garet Williamson 8 Top 10s – Brent Marks, Brad Sweet, James McFadden, Anthony Macri, Garet Williamson 7 Top 10s – Aaron Reutzel 6 Top 10s – Kyle Larson, Corey Day, Emerson Axsom, Cole Macedo 5 Top 10s – Brian Brown, Ryan Timms 4 Top 10s – Landon Crawley, Brady Bacon, Justin Peck, Chase Randall 3 Top 10s – Cole Duncan, Skylar Gee, Zeb Wise, Danny Dietrich, Jacob Allen, Scott Bogucki 2 Top 10s – Kraig Kinser, Cale Thomas, Parker Price-Miller, Cory Eliason, Chase Dietz, Troy Wagaman Jr., Daryn Pittman, Ayrton Gennetten, Kerry Madsen, Tim Kaeding, D.J. Netto, Justin Sanders 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, Austin McCarl, 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, Andy Pake, Shane Golobic, Kaleb Montgomery, Dylan Bloomfield, Jamie Veal, Ryan Bernal, Jock Goodyer, Dominic Scelzi2024 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, Aug 2 / Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55 / Pevely, MO / Kyle Larson (1) 43. Sat, Aug 3 / Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55 / Pevely, MO / Kyle Larson (2) 44. Sat, Aug 10 / Knoxville Raceway / Knoxville, IA / Kyle Larson (3) 45. Fri, Aug 16 / Jackson Motorplex / Jackson, MN / Carson Macedo (4) 46. Sat, Aug 17 / Jackson Motorplex / Jackson, MN / Donny Schatz (4) 47. Fri, Aug 23 / River Cities Speedway / Grand Forks, ND / Carson Macedo (5) 48. Sat, Aug 24 / Red River Valley Speedway / West Fargo, ND / Carson Macedo (6) 49. Fri, Aug 30 / Huset’s Speedway / Brandon, SD / Sheldon Haudenschild (8) 50. Sat, Aug 31 / Huset’s Speedway / Brandon, SD / Carson Macedo (7) 51. Sun, Sept 1 / Huset’s Speedway / Brandon, SD / Michael Kofoid (2) 52. Fri, Sept 6 / Stockton Dirt Track / Stockton, CA / Michael Kofoid (3) 53. Sat, Sept 7 / Kings Speedway / Hanford, CA / Carson Macedo (8) 54. Fri, Sept 13 / Bakersfield Speedway / Bakersfield, CA / Michael Kofoid (4) 55. Sat, Sept 14 / Merced Speedway / Merced, CA / Michael Kofoid (5)For the remaining 2024 World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car schedule, CLICK HERE.ARTICLE: https://worldofoutlaws.com/sprintcars/what-to-watch-for-thunderbowls-dennis-roth-classic-ready-to-offer-83000-payday/EVENT INFO: https://worldofoutlaws.com/sprintcars/schedule/event-info/?event=6226 TRACK INFO: http://www.thunderbowlraceway.comFAN 101: https://about.worldofoutlaws.com/

BATAVIA, Ohio (September 17, 2024) – The 20th running of the Lucas Oil Late Model Knoxville Nationals presented by Your Life Iowa is set for this Thursday thru Saturday, September 19-21 at the famed Knoxville Raceway. It is the only annual late model event at the “Sprint Car Capital of the World,” bringing the nation’s elite dirt late model teams together on one of motorsports’ biggest stages. Over $290,000 in purse money will be paid out during three nights of racing on the historic black-dirt, half-mile oval at the Marion County Fairgrounds. The festivities on Thursday and Friday, September 19-20 will feature a complete program of Dirt Draft Hot Laps, Allstar Performance Time Trials, Heat Races, B-Mains, and a 25-lap, $7,000-to-win main event. The DTRA Dirt Trucks will join the racing action on Thursday, while the Dirt Crown Stock Cars will compete on Friday. Saturday night’s program will include Dirt Draft Hot Laps, B-Mains, and the 75-lap, $50,000-to-win main event for the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series. The Malvern Bank Super Late Models will serve as a support division on Saturday, September 21. The unique format of the Knoxville Nationals makes every lap on the track important. Drivers score points for each performance, from time trials to heat races, to preliminary night feature events. The champion at the end of the week not only writes their name into the history books but earns the $50,000 winner’s check. Numerous off-track activities will take place surrounding the three-day event. The Hall of Fame Auction will take place at the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame & Museum, behind turn two, on Saturday at 11:30 AM. There will be a Dirt Racing Outreach service in the Main Show Barn outside turn four at 1:45 PM, with an autograph session to follow at 3:00 PM, on Saturday. This half-mile speed-plant is located within the Marion County Fairgrounds, in the heart of Knoxville, Iowa, just a short drive from Des Moines. Three-day ticket packages and single-night tickets are available at www.knoxvilleraceway.com or by calling the ticket office at 641-842-5431. Ricky Thornton Jr. is currently leading the Big River Steel Chase for the Championship presented by ARP. Jonathan Davenport holds the second position, followed by Devin Moran in third. Hudson O’Neal and Tim McCreadie continue to battle for the fourth position in the championship standings. The 20th Lucas Oil Late Model Knoxville Nationals presented by Your Life Iowa will be the final bonus round in the Big River Steel Chase for the Championship presented by ARP. The Big River Steel Big Four drivers – who will battle the final seven events of the season to determine the 2024 National Championship – will be determined following Saturday’s main event at Knoxville Raceway. 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, September 19:B-Main Purses: 1. Transfer + $100, 2. Transfer + $100, 3. Transfer + $100, 4. $200, 5. $200, 6. $200, 7. $200, 8. $200, 9. $200, 10. $200, 11. $200, 12. $200, 13. $200, 14. $200, 15. $200, 16. $200, 17. $200, 18. $200, 19. $200, 20. $200, 21. $200, 22. $200, 23. $200, 24. $200 = Total $4,500 A-Main Purse: 1. $7,000, 2. $4,000, 3. $3,000, 4. $2,000, 5. $1,500, 6. $1,000, 7. $900, 8. $800, 9. $700, 10. $600, 11. $580, 12. $560, 13. $540, 14. $520, 15. $500, 16. $490, 17. $480, 18. $470, 19. $460, 20. $450, 21. $440, 22. $430, 23. $410, 24. $400 = Total $28,230 Friday, September 20:B-Main Purses: 1. Transfer + $100, 2. Transfer + $100, 3. Transfer + $100, 4. $200, 5. $200, 6. $200, 7. $200, 8. $200, 9. $200, 10. $200, 11. $200, 12. $200, 13. $200, 14. $200, 15. $200, 16. $200, 17. $200, 18. $200, 19. $200, 20. $200, 21. $200, 22. $200, 23. $200, 24. $200 = Total $4,500 A-Main Purse: 1. $7,000, 2. $4,000, 3. $3,000, 4. $2,000, 5. $1,500, 6. $1,000, 7. $900, 8. $800, 9. $700, 10. $600, 11. $580, 12. $560, 13. $540, 14. $520, 15. $500, 16. $490, 17. $480, 18. $470, 19. $460, 20. $450, 21. $440, 22. $430, 23. $410, 24. $400 = Total $28,230 Saturday, September 21:B-Main Purses: 1. Transfer + $200, 2. Transfer + $200, 3. Transfer + $200, 4. $500, 5. $500, 6. $500, 7. $500, 8. $500, 9. $500, 10. $500, 11. $500, 12. $400, 13. $400, 14. $400, 15. $400, 16. $400, 17. $400, 18. $400, 19. $400, 20. $400, 21. $400, 22. $400, 23. $400, 24. $400 = Total $9,800 A-Main Purse: 1. $50,000, 2. $25,000, 3. $10,000, 4. $8,750, 5. $7,500, 6. $7,000, 7. $6,500, 8. $6,000, 9. $5,500, 10. $5,000, 11. $4,500, 12. $4,000, 13. $3,500, 14. $3,400, 15. $3,300, 16. $3,200, 17. $3,100, 18. $3,000, 19. $3,000, 20. $3,000, 21. $3,000, 22. $3,000, 23. $2,700, 24. $2,700, 25. $2,500, 26. $2,500, 27. $2,500, 28. $2,500, 29. $2,500, 30. $2,500, 31. $2,500, 32. $2,500 = Total $196,650 Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Tire Rule:Left Rear/Fronts – Hoosier (90) NLMT2, (90) NLMT3Right Rear – Hoosier (92) NLMT3, (92) NLMT4 Previous Lucas Oil Late Model Knoxville Nationals Winners:2023 – Ricky Thornton Jr.2022 – Jonathan Davenport2021 – Mike Marlar2019 – Jimmy Owens2018 – Jimmy Owens2017 – Mike Marlar2016 – Mike Marlar2015 – Jared Landers2014 – Brian Birkhofer2013 – Darrell Lanigan2012 – Steve Francis2011 – Don O’Neal2010 – Billy Moyer2009 – Scott Bloomquist2008 – Tim McCreadie2007 – Brady Smith2006 – Brian Shirley2005 – Scott Bloomquist2004 – Brian Birkhofer

Defending champion enters six-hour Indianapolis race second, third in standings

DETROIT (Sept. 17, 2024) – Cadillac Racing will seek to add another signature victory in program history when it returns to iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the penultimate race of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season. New for the second edition of the TireRack.com Battle on the Bricks is extension of the September 22 race duration from 2 hours, 40 minutes to six hours on the 2.439-mile, 14-turn road course. The event, featuring 11 Grand Touring Prototype (GTP) entries in the 56-car field across four classes, is the fourth in the IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup series. The 10-hour Petit Le Mans on October 12 closes out the calendar.

Cadillac Racing is the defending and five-time IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup (IMEC) Manufacturer champion, while the No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R run by Action Express Racing claimed the team and driver titles in 2023. Cadillac and the No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R contingent are second in their respective categories entering the race that awards points at the three-hour mark and checkered flag. “It’s nice that the championship will now finish with two endurance races in a row, which can create a lot of interesting battles and different strategies around not only the overall championship but also the endurance championships,” said Pipo Derani, the 2023 GTP champion and endurance race champion who will share driving duties in both races with Jack Aitken and Tom Blomqvist. The No. 01 Cadillac V-Series.R driven by Sebastien Bourdais and Renger van der Zande are a close third in the IMEC GTP standings. The duo, who tested on the road course earlier this summer, have qualified in the top three in all seven races including earning the pole at Laguna Seca.

Media resources* Event notes, bios, more* Cadillac ’24 IMSA stats* About the V8 engine* Driver photos* Endurance Cup standings

Bourdais, who co-drove to the overall victory in the inaugural NASCAR Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series race at Indianapolis in 2012 and is a 10-time INDYCAR starter on the road course, said driving in the congested field spread across the four classes is a “game of patience.” “In a six-hour race, I guess there will be more management because it will come down to what happens at the last safety car, so it might be a bit easier to manage frustration. In a 2-hour, 40-minute race, it’s trying to get track position the whole time,” said Bourdais, the four-time Indy car champion.Blomqvist made two starts at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in May in INDYCAR competition: finishing 23rd on the road course and 31st in the Indianapolis 500. He co-drove to sixth place in the 2023 IMSA GTP race on the IMS road course with another manufacturer. “You’ve got to be patient and pick your moments carefully, especially when the track gets crowded. Having raced here last year in IMSA and this year in INDYCAR, I feel confident in knowing the nuances of the track, but it’s always evolving and, with managing traffic, balancing risk and reward will be a key factor in the race,” he said.

Peacock and IMSA.tv will stream qualifications at 3:35 p.m. ET Saturday. Peacock (in U.S.) and IMSA.tv (outside U.S.) will stream flag-to-flag action at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, with NBC telecasting the final three hours starting at 3 p.m.  IMSA Radio (imsa.com), RadioLeMans.comwill broadcast qualifications and be joined by SiriusXM (XM 206, Web/App 996) for the race. Cadillac Racing 2023 at Indianapolis (2-hour, 40-minute race):* Seventh (No. 01 Cadillac V-Series.R) start fourth – Sebastien Bourdais, Renger van der Zande* Fourth (No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R) start eighth – Pipo Derani, Alexander Sims

What they’re saying

No. 01 Cadillac V-Series.R

Sebastien Bourdais: “Physically, it’s hard. It’s a track that doesn’t give you much rest and it’s seriously difficult in traffic. There are a lot of sections on the track where you can’t pass. Once you get into turn 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 you got to wait all the way until the backstraight and same thing when you get to 7, 8, 9, 10. If you don’t clear just before you get to the long right, the marbles build up and you can’t pass either. There are few places to clear traffic and it’s really a game of patience because if you try to force the issue it can go sour pretty fast. You have to be careful but at the same time you can’t be too careful. In a 2-hour, 40-minute race, you can’t take it that easy. In a six-hour race, I guess there will be more management because it will come down to what happens at the last safety car, so it might be a bit easier to manage frustration. In a 2-hour, 40-minute race, it’s trying to get track position the whole time. You’re fighting for a couple tenths and then you give up 5 seconds on a lap because you get stuck behind a GT or something for six corners. It’s a tough one.”

Renger van der Zande: “It’s one of those tracks where strategy and track position will play a big role. It’s a fun track on your own. It’s not a typical IMSA track either. I did the 8 hours of Indy as well; finished second. It’s not the most exciting track but it’s the home for a lot of race teams, including our team. It’s a home race for them, so it’s a home race for me. I’m looking forward to Indy. The tough part for us in this part of the season is the hard tire, which we focused on getting it better and found some setup stuff that worked.”

No. 31 Whelen Cadillac V-Series.R

Pipo Derani: “Indianapolis six hours will be a new challenge as it enters the endurance rounds of the championship. It’s also a very peculiar racetrack, one that can create a lot of marbles off track. It’s most likely going to create a very interesting endurance event, and I am looking forward to that. I also think it’s nice that the championship will now finish with two endurance races in a row, which can create a lot of interesting battles and different strategies around not only the overall championship but also the endurance championships. Last year we had a relatively strong race car apart from the Porsches who were on a league of their own and we weren’t so quick in qualifying. We will be looking to unlock some speed this year and hope that we can fight the Porsches during the race.”

Jack Aitken: “Indianapolis may be a new track for me, but it’s one I know from the simulator and having watched quite a few races there, so I’m not too concerned about getting up to speed. Going to a six hour this year will mean a bit more strategy playing out over the race, and as always traffic management will be a huge part of the game. Competing at such a historic venue will always be a cool outing, and Indy is a bit of a home away from home at this point, thanks to the Dallara simulator being just next to the Speedway.”Tom Blomqvist: “Racing at Indy is always a special experience, and the new six-hour format definitely changes things and adds a new challenge for everyone. The circuit is tight and technical, so traffic management will be crucial to a strong result. Overtaking can be challenging, but there are a few decent spots to make moves, particularly heading into Turn 1 and on the backstretch. You’ve got to be patient and pick your moments carefully, especially when the track gets crowded. Having raced here last year in IMSA and this year in INDYCAR, I feel confident in knowing the nuances of the track, but it’s always evolving and, with managing traffic, balancing risk and reward will be a key factor in the race. To be back working with the team, Pipo and Jack is fantastic and I’m optimistic about our chances. We’re currently second in the Endurance Cup standings, so the goal for the last two rounds is to maximize every opportunity for points and try to win the title.”

Sep 16, 2024 | Featured, Race Results

Maple Grove Raceway Continues to Challenge Team as Hunter Green and Matt Sackman Battle Adversity

Reading, PA (September 16, 2024) – Randy Meyer Racing faced their toughest weekend of the 2024 NHRA season at the Pep Boys Nationals in Reading, Pennsylvania, marking their biggest upset of the year. Despite entering the event with high hopes, the team struggled to find their groove on the Maple Grove Raceway track, a venue that continues to elude their victory list.

Driving for the team were Top Alcohol Dragster points leader Hunter Green and the returning Matt Sackman, an experienced driver who has been exploring other forms of drag racing. Both drivers encountered challenges early on, with their cars overpowering the track and smoking the tires in the first two qualifying sessions, leaving them at the bottom of the field.

In the third and final qualifying session, Sackman finally put together a solid pass, running a 5.272-second elapsed time at 271.35 mph to secure a spot into eliminations. Green launched hard on his final attempt and kept the car hooked up, but an unfortunate issue with the timing system meant his run did not get recorded, and he failed to qualify for the event. Despite this setback, Green remains the Top Alcohol Dragster points leader.

Sackman, eager to make the most of his return, faced Brandon Greco in the first round of eliminations. He delivered his quickest pass of the weekend with a 5.234 at 272.01 mph to Greco’s 5.268 at 272.45 mph, advancing to the second round. However, the team’s struggles continued Saturday night under the lights as Sackman left too early on the starting line in his second-round matchup against Jackie Fricke, going red and handing the win to Fricke.

Although it was a disappointing weekend for the team, Hunter Green’s strong performance throughout the season keeps him atop the points standings. Green earned 10 points for not qualifying, but due to NHRA rules, he will not count them toward his national championship total. The team has confirmed that Green will replace Gary Pritchett in the upcoming NHRA Carolina Nationals this weekend.

According to NHRA guidelines, each driver is eligible to earn points at their first five regional and first ten national events, with their best three regional and best seven national finishes contributing to their national championship points total. Randy Meyer Racing remains confident that Green will bounce back in Charlotte, a track they’ve had the most success at.

Joining the team for the NHRA Carolina Nationals in Charlotte is defending event winner and reigning national champion Julie Nataas. This will be her final race at zMAX Dragway with Randy Meyer Racing, adding an extra layer of excitement as the team aims for redemption and a return to the winner’s circle.