Thursday, March 31, 2022

NCWTS Takes the Weekend Off

NCWTS Takes the Weekend Off

Twenty-One Different Drivers Lead Laps This Season

NCWTS Takes the Weekend Off

 

The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series will take this weekend off. Their next event will be contested at Martinsville Speedway on Thursday, April 7 in the ‘Blue-Emu Maximum Pain Relief 200.’

 

Top Ten Standings

  1. Chandler Smith* 
  2. Ben Rhodes 
  3. Stewart Friesen 
  4. Zane Smith* 
  5. Tanner Gray 
  6. Christian Eckes 
  7. Ty Majeski 
  8. John H. Nemechek 
  9. Tyler Ankrum 
  10. Derek Kraus

 

 

The first four NASCAR Camping World Truck Series races of the 2022 season have produced an average of 16.75 lead changes per race – the most through the first four races of a Truck season since the inception of the series in 1995. Plus, the final lead change of each of the first four races this season have occurred with two laps or less in each event. With two of the four races this season concluding with a Margin of Victory of less than a second.

 

The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series has seen 21 different drivers lead laps this season - the most through the first four races since 2005 (24). The first four races of the 2022 season have produced an average of nine different leaders per race – the most through four races since the inception of the series in 1995.

 

 

This weekend the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series will be off to regroup for next Thursday’s (April 7) Blue-Emu Maximum Pain Relief 200 on the historically famous half-mile Martinsville Speedway at 8 p.m. ET on FS1, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. 

 

Last season, the Truck Series only visited Martinsville Speedway once (October 30, 2021) and the race was won by Zane Smith, the series’ most recent winner (COTA).

 

 

source: NASCAR Media

Wednesday, March 30, 2022

Richmond Raceway’s Track Laps for Charity

Richmond Raceway’s Track Laps for Charity

Joins 2022 NASCAR Race Weeks

Richmond Raceway’s Track Laps for Charity

 

Richmond Raceway to host Track Laps for Charity as part of its 2022 NASCAR race weeks, which includes the Toyota Spring Race Week and first-ever summer race week. Track Laps for Charity offers fans the opportunity to drive their personal vehicles around America’s Premier Short Track for a donation of $20. All proceeds from each event will support the beneficiary charity and Richmond Raceway Cares.

 

 

“As we look ahead to NASCAR’s return, we will open the track for fans to take the first laps around America’s Premier Short Track to benefit a good cause,” said Dennis Bickmeier,  Richmond Raceway President. “Track Laps for Charity is one of our most popular community events that showcases the on-track experience to benefit worthy causes in our community.”

 

This is the third year of Track Laps for Charity events as Richmond Raceway continues to partner with organizations making a difference in our community. Richmond Raceway will host Track Laps for Charity events to benefit the Henrico Firefighter Foundation on Wednesday, March 30 and Special Olympics Virginia on Wednesday, Aug. 10. The events will be held under the lights from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

 

“The Henrico Firefighter Foundation is delighted to once again be part of Track Laps for Charity at Richmond Raceway,” said Stokes Grymes, president of the Henrico Firefighter Foundation. “Start your engines for a fun family experience that benefits both our foundations and all Henrico residents.”

 


The Henrico Firefighter Foundation was established to aid and assist the Henrico County, Virginia Division of Fire firefighters, first responders, emergency response personnel, emergency medical services personnel, civilian staff, retirees and volunteers to accomplish the mission of the Division of Fire.

 

The Foundation assists citizens before, during and after a time of crisis, disaster or emergency incident, including immediate emergency relief, monetary support and education. This is accomplished by supporting all things necessary to accomplish the mission of the Division of Fire, including assistance with ceremonies and receptions for firefighter graduations, retirements, promotion and recognition programs. Additionally, the Foundation provides grants and scholarships for Division personnel to attend conferences, seminars, training, education events and other programs. For more information about the Henrico Firefighter Foundation, visit henricofirefighterfoundation.org.

 

“As we return our Special Olympics athletes to a safe and healthy playing field, we are proud to do so with Richmond Raceway on our team,” said Rick Jeffrey, president of Special Olympics Virginia. “Whether on the playing field or in the gym, Richmond Raceway is helping our athletes get healthier and fitter with a chance to get better and win, and we are so grateful to be on the same team.”

 

c
Help Make a Difference

 

Special Olympics provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. This gives them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympic athletes and the community. To learn more about Special Olympics Virginia, visit specialolympicsva.org.

 

To participate in Track Laps for Charity, fans must abide by the following rules and restrictions.

 

  • • All drivers must be 18 years of age or older with a valid state-issued driver’s license. 
  • • Driver and passengers must sign Track Laps for Charity waivers. 
  • • All participants must adhere to Virginia state laws regarding the usage of seat belts and child safety restraints. 
  • • Passenger vehicles only; motorcycles are not permitted. 
  • • Maximum speed is 55 miles per hour and regulated by Richmond personnel in the Official Toyota Camry Pace Car. 
  • • Drivers must stay up to speed and refrain from lagging behind in order to speed up. 
  • • Track Laps for Charity may be postponed or canceled due to inclement weather or safety conditions. If a cancellation is necessary, Richmond will make its best effort to contact guests in advance of their visit.

 

For more information on Richmond Track Laps for Charity, visit www.richmondraceway.com/events/tracklapsforcharity.

 

To learn more about Richmond Raceway Cares, go to www.richmondraceway.com/richmondracewaycares.

 

 

 

Tuesday, March 29, 2022

Kurt Busch Donates 500 Tickets to Military & Veterans

Kurt Busch Donates 500 Tickets to Military & Veterans

Through Vet Tix for the Toyota Owners 400 NASCAR Cup Series Race at Richmond Raceway

 

Kurt Busch, driver of the No. 45 Toyota Camry TRD for 23XI Racing, is donating 500 tickets for military service members and veterans through Veteran Tickets Foundation (Vet Tix) for the Toyota Owners 400 NASCAR Cup Series race on Sunday, April 3 at Richmond Raceway.

 

“NASCAR does such a great job showing support and appreciation for the men and women of our Armed Forces and I’m really honored to play a small part in trying to give back to our active and veteran servicemembers,” said Kurt Busch. “The partnership with Vet Tix, and support from other drivers and tracks, has allowed for so many service members and first responders to enjoy a day watching a race and just have fun. This is a great fit with Richmond to also be able to provide military members with a great race day experience through the Military Hospitality area. Thanks to Richmond Raceway for working with me on this idea and to Vet Tix for the work the organization does for veterans.”

 

Military and veterans will be able to redeem up to four free tickets to the Toyota Owners 400 on www.vettix.org courtesy of Kurt Busch. Over numerous seasons, Busch has donated tickets to NASCAR races in partnership with Vet Tix to share appreciation for the service of our dedicated active duty military and veterans.

 



“We are grateful to Kurt Busch for donating tickets to our military and veterans, so we can host even more service members for the Toyota Owners 400 at America’s Premier Short Track,” said Dennis Bickmeier, Richmond Raceway President. “Along with our Military Appreciation program, we are proud to partner with Kurt Busch and Vet Tix to share our thankfulness to military and veterans at Richmond Raceway.”

 

Richmond Raceway’s long-time Military Appreciation program provides past and present service members $10 off select race tickets for each Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race at America’s Premier Short Track. The first 1,500 military and veteran ticketholders also receive complimentary access to the exclusive Military Hospitality presented by Dominion Energy at Richmond Raceway. To learn more about Military Appreciation at Richmond Raceway, visit www.richmondraceway.com/military.

 

“Our military personnel and veterans have sacrificed so much to defend our freedom,” said Michael Focareto III, Vet Tix CEO, Founder, and Navy veteran. “Vet Tix is honored to partner with Kurt Busch and Richmond Raceway by showing our gratitude to our military and veterans through Kurt’s generous ticket donation and Richmond Raceway’s Military Appreciation program. It’s a great way we can give something to those who gave while making memories.”

 

Vet Tix is a national 501(c)(3) non-profit that provides event tickets to their 1.6 million verified veterans, currently serving military members and first responder members. To date, Vet Tix has distributed over 11.5 million tickets. Vet Tix has built a well-respected brand over the years with hundreds of thousands of testimonials from their members (VetTixers) sharing how these experiences the organization provided them has contributed to incredible lifelong memories, opportunities for veterans, service members, and their families to reintegrate into society and American life all while strengthening their family bonds and sharing event experiences. To learn more about Vet Tix, visit www.vettix.org.

 

2022 NASCAR Season

For the first time since 1997, NASCAR will make its first stop in the Commonwealth of Virginia at Richmond Raceway for the Toyota Spring Race Weekend on April 1-3, featuring the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race on Friday, April 1 at 6:30 p.m., the ToyotaCare 250 NASCAR Xfinity Series race on Saturday, April 2 at 1:30 p.m. and the 67th annual Toyota Owners 400 Cup Series race on Sunday, April 3 at 3:30 p.m.

 

For the first time in track history, Richmond will host a summer race weekend on Aug. 13-14, featuring the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Playoffs on Saturday, Aug. 13 at 8:00 p.m. and the Federated Auto Parts 400 Cup Series race on Sunday, Aug. 14 at 3:00 p.m.

 

NASCAR tickets are available for purchase today via phone at 866-455-7223 or online at richmondraceway.com.

 

Stay connected to Richmond Raceway on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and the all-new NASCAR Tracks App.

 

About NASCAR

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 16 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR consists of three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series™), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour), one local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series) and three international series (NASCAR Pinty’s Series, NASCAR Peak Mexico Series, NASCAR Whelen Euro Series). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in eight cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races in more than 30 U.S. states, Canada, Mexico and Europe. For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat (‘NASCAR’).

 

About Richmond Raceway

Richmond Raceway is America’s Premier Short Track annually hosting two NASCAR race weekends, featuring the NASCAR Cup Series and either the NASCAR Xfinity Series or NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, on the iconic ¾-mile D-shaped oval. Richmond Raceway is a regional leader for events including sports, live music and consumer trade shows. The Richmond Raceway Complex hosts more than 200 live events over 280 event days annually including concerts with top national recording artists at Virginia Credit Union LIVE!, the region’s only covered amphitheater. For more information, visit richmondraceway.com, richmondracewaycomplex.com, or vaculive.com.

 

About Vet Tix

Veteran Tickets Foundation (Vet Tix), a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides free tickets to sporting events, concerts, performing arts and family activities to currently serving military, National Guard and Reserves, veterans of all eras, and immediate family of those killed in action. Since 2008, Vet Tix has provided over 11.5 million free event tickets to more than 1.7 million members. In 2018 Vet Tix launched 1st Tix, which provides the same benefit to our nation’s current and retired law enforcement officers, firefighters, and EMTs. These events help veterans and first responders reduce stress, strengthen family bonds, build lifelong memories, and encourage them to stay engaged with American life and their local communities. Vet Tix spends over 95 percent of its revenue on programs, ensuring that we give back to those who have given so much. Visit VetTix.org and 1stTix.org to learn more.

 

 

Sunday, March 27, 2022

NASCAR Cup Returns to the Circuit of The Americas

NASCAR Cup Returns to the Circuit of The Americas

NASCAR Cup Series

  • Next Race: EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix 
  • The Place: Circuit of The Americas 
  • The Date: Sunday, March 27  
  • The Time: 3:30 p.m. ET  
  • The Purse: $8,799,709  
  • TV: FOX, 3 p.m. ET  
  • Radio: PRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio 
  • Distance: 231.88 miles (68 laps)
    • Stage 1 (Ends on Lap 15)
    • Stage 2 (Ends on Lap 30)
    • Final Stage (Ends on Lap 68) 

2021 Race Winner: Chase Elliott

 

NASCAR Cup Returns to the Circuit of The Americas

 

 

The first five races of the 2022 season have been action-packed, and now the NASCAR Cup Series returns to the Circuit of The Americas (COTA) for the first of six road courses on the schedule (COTA, Sonoma, Road America, Indianapolis RC, Watkins Glen and the Charlotte Roval) for the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix this Sunday, March 27 at 3:30 p.m. ET on FOX, PRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

 

On 1,500 acres of land just outside of Austin, Texas construction began in 2010 on what is now known as the Circuit of The Americas. The 20-turn, 3.41-mile, multi-elevational counterclockwise circuit takes advantage of the naturally rolling landscape, including a 133-foot hill at Turn 1. The track also has an amphitheater, the largest permanent outdoor amphitheater in Central Texas, and a 251-foot observation tower.

 

The first NASCAR Cup Series race held at the Circuit of The Americas was last season on May 23, 2021 but the event was shortened 14 laps from the scheduled distance due to weather. The inaugural Cup event at COTA saw 10 different leaders and 11 lead changes. Hendrick Motorsport’s driver Chase Elliott took the checkered flag by passing his Hendrick Motorsports teammate Alex Bowman with just five laps before the race was called. The victory was his seventh NASCAR Cup Series road course career win moving him solely into third on the all-time series road course wins list behind NASCAR Hall of Famers Jeff Gordon (nine) and Tony Stewart (eight). 

 

 

Click Here for Starting Line-Up

 

This weekend’s on-track activity for the NASCAR Cup Series begins with practice on Saturday, March 26 at 10 a.m. ET followed by Busch Light Pole Qualifying at 11 a.m. ET. Both will be televised on FS1.

 

 

source: NASCAR Media

Friday, March 25, 2022

Truck Series Road Course Ringers

Truck Series Road Course Ringers

2021 Circuit of The Americas #Winner - Todd Gilliland)
2021 Circuit of The Americas #Winner - Todd Gilliland)

 

Last season, NASCAR Camping World Truck Series drivers put their skills to the test at three road courses producing three different winners - Daytona Road Course (Ben Rhodes), Circuit of The Americas (Todd Gilliland) and Watkins Glen International (Austin Hill).

 

This season, the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series will be tasked with competing on three road courses, but COTA is the only one returning from last season. Sonoma Raceway, who hasn’t hosted the Truck Series since 1998, and Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, who will be hosting the series for the first time, are the other two road courses on the schedule in 2022.

 

 

With Gilliland now competing in the NASCAR Cup Series and Hill in his rookie season in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, Rhodes is the only active truck road course winner set to compete this weekend in Austin for the XPEL 225.

 

ThorSport Racing’s driver and 2021 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series champion, Ben Rhodes is still looking for his first win of the 2022 season. Last year at this time, he had already won twice taking the first two races of the season in Daytona. Now, the Kentucky native finds himself fifth in points after posting two fives this season. Watch for Rhodes to be a contender this weekend as he finished 10th in last season event.

 

Some of Rhodes’ biggest competition this weekend will come from the Kyle Busch Motorsports stable. KBM drivers have won the last two races – Chandler Smith (Las Vegas) and Corey Heim (Atlanta). John Hunter Nemechek, driver of the No. 4 KBM Toyota will be one to watch as well. In 2021, he finished in third at the Daytona road course, just behind Rhodes and Sheldon Creed. At COTA, he had a 12th-place finish and in the last road course race of the season at Watkins Glen, he came in second, losing only to Austin Hill.

 

 

Joining Nemechek and Smith this weekend will be team owner/driver and two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch, who will be making his NASCAR Camping World Truck Series track debut on Saturday at COTA – his first on a road course in the series. Although Busch hasn’t competed on a road course in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, he does hold the record for wins in the series (61) and has eight road course wins under his belt (four in the NASCAR Cup Series and four in the NASCAR Xfinity Series).

 

 

source: NASCAR Media

Truck Series Crew Chief Eddie Troconis Re-Suspended

Truck Series Crew Chief Eddie Troconis Re-Suspended

NASCAR Crew Chief Indefinitely Suspended After Re-arrest

 

Eddie Troconis, the crew chief on Young’s Motorsports’ No. 02 Chevrolet Silverado, was originally arrested on Jan. 5 and charged with felony second degree assault charges following a confrontation with NASCAR spotter Clayton Hughes. The incident took place at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway on Oct. 2 of last year. 

 

The charge was dropped by a prosecutor in February and Troconis’ suspension was then lifted. 

 

However, the charge was reinstated this month and Troconis, whose legal name is Carlos Eduardo Trocon Ortiz, aged 42, was arrested by the Talladega (Ala.) County Sheriff’s department. The arrest took place on March 18. 

 

According to court records, a $7500 secured bond was set for Troconis. 

 

Troconis has been a crew chief at the national level of the sport since 2012, serving atop the pit box in 20 Xfinity Series races and 144 Truck Series races. He has won twice, both with Ben Rhodes, while working with ThorSport in 2017 and 2018. 

 

He's been paired with several drivers throughout the years including notable Cup names such as race winners Christopher Bell and Bubba Wallace, as well as former NXS champion Daniel Suarez

 

This year, he's worked with both Kaz Grala and Jesse Little in the No. 02 truck. 

 

 

Read More About Troconis' Original Suspension Here

 

source: US Motorsport

Thursday, March 24, 2022

Close Competition for Sunoco ROY Contenders

Corey Heim, driver of the #51 JBL Toyota, celebrates in Victory Lane
(Atlanta Motor Speedway) Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images

 

Close Competition for Sunoco ROY Contenders

Close competition for Sunoco Rookie of the Year Contenders - Going into the fourth race of the season the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series rookie standings have tightened with Corey Heim’s win last weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway he has jumped to the lead by 12 points over second place Jack Wood.

 

Heim will not be competing this weekend at COTA. It will be Thompson and Perkins series track debuts this weekend. Jack Wood (28th-place finish) and Lawless Alan (23rd) competed in last season’s race.

 

Sunoco Rookie Standings Following Atlanta:

 

 

source: NASCAR Media

Zane Smith - Truckin’ in Austin

Truckin’ in Austin

The Front Row Motorsports #38 Truck of Zane Smith
The Front Row Motorsports #38 Truck of Zane Smith

 

The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series heads to Texas for the fifth race of the season, the XPEL 225 this Saturday, March 26 at 1 p.m. ET on FS1, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio at the Circuit of The Americas (COTA). The race will be the first of a double-header Saturday that features the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at 4:30 p.m. ET.

 


 

Last year, Front Row Motorsports’ driver Todd Gilliland grabbed the victory in the No. 38 Ford in the inaugural NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race at the Circuit of The Americas. Fast forward to this year, Zane Smith (who had two top-10 finishes in road courses last year) is behind the wheel of the No. 38 Ford and hopes to bring home back-to-back wins for the Front Row Motorsports team.

 

Smith had a good 2021 season, posting one win, three top fives and 14 top 10s. He kept the momentum going with a 2022 season-opening win in Daytona but didn’t quite get the result he was looking for in the following race in Las Vegas. He was disqualified and bumped to last but that didn’t stop him from rebounding in last weekend’s race at Atlanta by posting a fifth-place finish. 

 

 

Watch for Smith to be upfront this weekend too. In his series track debut last season on the 3.41-mile road course, Smith started 15th and raced his way up to an eighth-place finish.

 

 

source: NASCAR Media

Wednesday, March 23, 2022

NASCAR Xfinity Series Rookie Ty Gibbs Previews Expectations Ahead of the Pit Boss 250

NASCAR Xfinity Series Rookie Ty Gibbs Previews Expectations Ahead of the Pit Boss 250

Feel like I’m Always Chasing Trophies

Ty Gibbs celebrates in victory lane after earning his first #NASCAR Xfinity Series #win.
Ty Gibbs celebrates in victory lane after earning his first NASCAR Xfinity Series
win of the 2022 season at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on March 5, 2022.

 

NASCAR driver Ty Gibbs might be in his first full-time Xfinity Series (NXS) season, but the 19-year-old grandson of NASCAR team owner and NFL legend Joe Gibbs has already compiled a resume that ranks him among the favorites to win when the penultimate series takes on Circuit of The Americas (COTA) for the Pit Boss 250 on Saturday.

 


 

While he’s made 23 starts in his young career (earning six victories in the process), Gibbs has yet to race at COTA outside of time on the simulator.

 

“The surface is a little bit old in some spots, and they’ve repaved some spots, so it’s going to be fun to try to manage it,” Gibbs said. “You’re going to have a lot of grip in a couple of corners and way less grip in the other corners… I feel like the track is very technical in its own way, so kind of trying to find the flow for it, it’s going to be a fun time.”

 

While most up-and-coming racers learn the ropes on oval tracks, Gibbs cut his teeth racing road courses, which he feels may give him an advantage in his inaugural visit to the 20-turn, 3.41-mile circuit.

 

“I kind of grew racing go-karts on road courses. I feel like, honestly, I spend more time on road courses than I do on ovals. It’s kind of funny to say that. I feel like being very disciplined, that really helps on road courses,” he said. “Hitting brake markers and trying not to lock the tires up – just being very disciplined, I think that helps.”

 

Gibbs exhibited his road course prowess by winning two of the seven road course events on the 2021 NXS schedule. The first came in his NXS debut on the Daytona road course in February, and then he added another at Watkins Glen. He tied Kyle Busch and AJ Allmendinger for the most road course wins on the season, and he did it in just five starts. He also added a third-place finish at Mid-Ohio.

 

As for his expectations for the weekend, the goal is simple.

 

“For me, I feel like I’m always chasing trophies,” he said. “I feel like each race (the goal) is the same going into it. I want to win all of them.”

 

Click Here for Ty Gibb's Racing Stats

 

Stenhouse Jr. Enjoys “Drive Time” in Austin

Stenhouse Jr. Enjoys “Drive Time” in Austin 
NASCAR Cup Series driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. tees off from turn one at Circuit
of The Americas (COTA) Tuesday as part of "Drive Time," a cross-promotional
event between NASCAR at COTA and the PGA TOUR's Dell Technologies
Match Play, both being hosted in Austin, Texas this weekend.

NASCAR Cup Series driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. sure felt a lot more comfortable Tuesday driving the Circuit of The Americas (COTA) layout rather than from the PGA TOUR championship tees of Austin Country Club.

 

Stenhouse Jr., an avid, low-handicap golfer, had the opportunity to enjoy both as he delved into the PGA TOUR world and then shared a slice of his racing livelihood with golfers Marc Leishman, Abraham Ancer and Talor Gooch. He started his day playing six holes with Leishman during a practice round for the Dell Technologies Match Play that begins Wednesday at Austin CC.

 


 

Stenhouse Jr. then had Leishman, Ancer and Gooch over to COTA, site of this weekend’s EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix NASCAR tripleheader, to hit shots from atop the iconic turn one, and the JTG Daugherty Racing driver culminated the day with hot laps for the TOUR pros on the challenging 3.41-mile, 20-turn layout.

 

Battling 20 mile-per-hour headwinds and a 133-foot drop from turn one to the frontstretch, the foursome launched drives from a tee box platform toward the asphalt fairway situated between luxury suites, attempted to hit a Texas-shaped green from 185 yards out and added a few long-distance putts down turn one to the green for good measure.

 

“This was a perfect day for me to come out and help promote our great event here at Circuit of The Americas,” Stenhouse Jr. said. “Obviously, we’ve got a ton of good racing coming here all weekend, but I also got to go over to Austin Country Club and play some golf at the Dell Technologies Match Play event and just kind of see what they’re going to be up against this weekend.

 

“The wind was a difficult challenge, but playing some holes with Leishman, giving me some pointers, so hopefully I can take that back to my golf group and have some good runs. But I really enjoyed getting them out here in the Camaro and running around this course that has a little bit of everything. It’s really fast in the front section, tight and technical in the back and we just had some fun today.”

 

Gooch actually attended the F1 race this past October at COTA and was quite familiar – and pleasantly surprised – of where the tee box platform would be situated.

 

“My first time here was last fall for that one race and so it’s kind of funny how we were staying at our seats that were in turn one,” said Gooch, who is ranked 32nd in the world with his first career win coming in November at The RSM Classic. “And so, whenever I saw that’s where we were going to be teeing off from, it was just like, this is crazy. Like, you couldn’t have made this up. So, this was kind of a dream come true kind of thing.”

 

Added Ancer: “That was a really cool experience. I’ve seen this track on TV so many times, and this is the first time that I’m here. And just seeing that (turn one) corner and how steep that is in person; it’s really cool. And trying to hit a driver into this wind was pretty dang tough as well, but it was awesome.”

 

The highlight of the day for the PGA TOUR players was a couple of hot laps each with Stenhouse Jr. around the road course and also getting an appreciation for the skill of him and his fellow drivers.

 

“I asked him this morning, I’m like a bloke only to scare him into trying to scare me. And he did,” said Leishman, who has six career PGA TOUR victories including his most recent coming last April at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans. “It was good going through the first probably eight turns, sliding through them. And he can drive. I mean, it’s really cool to be with someone whose so good at what they do and just to see that first hand. It was amazing.”

 

Added Gooch: “It was awesome. So, it’s always fun to get to meet someone that’s a pro in their sport. And we both have respect and admiration for each other with what we both do.”

 

Ancer enjoyed the wildest ride as Stenhouse Jr. culminated his hot laps with doughnuts on the frontstretch.

 

“He’s a monster, man,” said Ancer, who is ranked 20th in the world and the first Mexican golfer to ever move into the top 100 of the Official World Golf Ranking. “That was a lot of fun. I love cars and just how good and precise they are and how fast; I mean it’s pretty mind blowing. It is a lot of fun.”

 

While the TOUR players prepare for their upcoming competition, Stenhouse Jr. will be doing the same. The Cup Series hits the track Saturday for a one-hour practice (9-10 a.m. CT) followed by Cup qualifying at 10 a.m. Sunday’s EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix will take the green flag at 2:30 p.m. (TV: FOX).

 

“I think, you know, COTA this weekend is going to be perfect weather for us,” Stenhouse Jr. said. “I felt like we had a lot of obstacles to overcome last year. But this is a course that all of us drivers are looking forward to coming back to. We’ve got a brand-new race car that I feel like it’s made for this type of racetrack, and I think we’re going to put on a really good show, got really good concerts before and after the races. So, I hope everybody comes out and enjoys a great weekend.”

 

The EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix, NASCAR’s first 2022 road course weekend, culminates a three-day event that features the NASCAR Cup Series, Xfinity Series and Camping World Truck Series. The weekend kicks off Friday with FEVO Friday that includes practice and qualifying for the Xfinity and Camping World Truck Series. Prepare for an action-packed day on Saturday as the on-track activity features NASCAR Cup Series qualifying, the Pit Boss 250 Xfinity Series race and XPEL 225 Camping World Truck Series race. Click here for a full weekend schedule of events.

 


 

source: Cota Website

Tuesday, March 22, 2022

Lots of Opportunities for Race Fans to Catch Their Favorite Drivers During NASCAR at COTA Weekend

Lots of Opportunities for Race Fans to Catch Their Favorite Drivers During NASCAR at COTA Weekend

Lots of Opportunities for Race Fans to Catch Their Favorite Drivers During #NASCAR at COTA Weekend

 

One of the most memorable experiences for NASCAR fans is seeing the stars of the sport up close on race day. Fans attending NASCAR at COTA this weekend will have plenty of opportunities to catch their favorite driver for a picture, autograph or even a fist-bump.

 

The weekend driver appearances kick off Friday with NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) drivers Noah Gragson, Justin Allgaier and Miguel Paludo signing autographs at the Hendrick/JR Motorsports souvenir hauler from 1:30-2 p.m.

 

Before they strap in for Saturday’s races, NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS) drivers Zane Smith, Hailie Deegan, Tanner Gray and Taylor Gray and NXS driver Riley Herbst will be answering fan questions at the Ford Performance display from 9:30-9:45 (Deegan, Gray and Gray), 9:45-10 a.m. (Smith) and 12:45-1 p.m. (Herbst). Herbst will then sign autographs at the Stewart-Haas Racing merchandise hauler from 1-1:15 p.m.

 

Todd Gilliland, the 2021 Circuit of The Americas (COTA) NCWTS race winner, will be making an appearance at Boot Barn at Southpark Meadows in Austin, Texas Saturday from 1-3 p.m. and will be hanging out in the Fan Zone in COTA’s Grand Plaza Sunday from 10:45-11:15 a.m., first at the Ford Performance display and then at the EchoPark Stage.

 

Following the conclusion of Saturday’s on-track action, fans can make their way over to The Amphitheater for “After Party at The Amp,” where they’ll find NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) drivers Corey LaJoie, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Alex Bowman as well as special guest, NASCAR Hall of Famer Mark Martin answering fan questions prior to revered tribute rock band Hairball takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. for a two-hour concert.

 

On Sunday morning, fans enjoying the plethora of free entertainment in the Fan Zone in the Grand Plaza can see NCS drivers Gilliland, Tyler Reddick and Chris Buescher on the EchoPark Stage for Q&A sessions from 11-11:45 a.m. Reddick will then be signing autographs at the 3CHI display from 11:35-11:50 a.m.

 

Reigning #NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Larson
Reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Larson is one of many drivers
who will make an appearance during the March 25-27 NASCAR weekend at
Circuit of The Americas. Harold Hinson Photography

 

Before Midland takes the stage at 12:45 p.m. for a one-hour concert prior to the 2:30 p.m. start of the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix, reigning NCS champion Kyle Larson, his Hendrick Motorsports teammate William Byron and rookie Austin Cindric will join host Jose Castillo on the pre-race stage on the frontstretch for Q&A sessions from 12:15-12:45 p.m. during Trackside Live. While the NCS driver Q&A sessions, driver introductions and Midland concert are free with any race ticket, the purchase of a Track Pass ticket upgrade will allow those fans to move from the grandstands to the front of the stage for premier access.

 

Friday, March 25

  • • Hendrick/JR Motorsports Souvenir Hauler (Autograph Session)
    • o 1:30-2 p.m. – Noah Gragson, Justin Allgaier & Miguel Paludo

 

Saturday, March 26

  • • Ford Performance Display (Q&A Session)
    • 9:30-9:45 a.m. – Hailie Deegan, Tanner Gray and Taylor Gray
    • 9:45-10 a.m. – Zane Smith
    • 12:45-1 p.m. – Riley Herbst
  • • Stewart-Haas Racing Merchandise Hauler (Autograph Session)
    • 1-1:15 p.m. – Riley Herbst
  • • Boot Barn at Southpark Meadows (Appearance)
    • 1-3 p.m. – Todd Gilliland
  • • After Party at The Amp (Q&A Sessions)
    • 6:20-6:45 p.m. – Mark Martin
    • 6:30-6:45 p.m. – Corey LaJoie
    • 6:45-7 p.m. – Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
    • 7-7:15 p.m. – Alex Bowman

 

Sunday, March 27

  • • Ford Performance Display (Appearance)
    • 10:45-11 a.m. – Todd Gilliland
  • • EchoPark Stage in Grand Plaza (Q&A Sessions)
    • 11-11:15 a.m. – Todd Gilliland
    • 11:15-11:30 a.m. – Tyler Reddick
    • 11:30-11:45 a.m. – Chris Buescher
  • • 3CHI Display (Autographs)
    • 11:35-11:50 a.m. – Tyler Reddick
  • • Pre-Race Stage on Frontstretch (Q&A Sessions)
    • 12:15-12:30 p.m. – Kyle Larson and William Byron
    • 12:30-12:45 p.m. – Austin Cindric

 

 

Tickets:

Tickets for the March 25-27 NASCAR at COTA tripleheader weekend are on sale now at NASCARatCOTA.com/Tickets.  Further details can be found on the NASCAR at COTA website including the full race weekend schedule.

 

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Keep track of all things NASCAR at COTA by following on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Keep up with all the latest information on the NASCAR at COTA website and mobile app.

 

 

Weekend Race Schedule for COTA

Weekend Race Schedule for Circuit of The Americas

#NASCAR Cup; Xfinity and Truck Series

Weekend Race Schedule for Circuit of The Americas

 

NASCAR fans can enjoy three full days of #NASCAR action from the Camping World Truck Series, Xfinity Series and Cup Series, Friday – Sunday, March 25-27 at the Circuit of The Americas.

 

Thursday, March 24

  • 10 a.m. Campgrounds Open
  • 1-5 p.m. Media Credential Office Open
  • 4:30-6:30 p.m. NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Haulers Enter
  • 6-8 p.m. NASCAR Xfinity Series Haulers Enter

 

 

 

Friday, March 25
FEVO Friday

  • 6:45-7 a.m. NASCAR Cup Series Hauler Parade (Map of Route)
  • 7-9 a.m. NASCAR Cup Series Haulers Enter
  • 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Media Credential Office Open
  • 9-11 a.m. Hot Laps to Benefit Speedway Children's Charities
  • 12-5 p.m. Ticket Office Open
  • 1:30-5:30 p.m. Gates Open
    • Main Grandstand, Grand Plaza, Gates 1 & 3
  • 1:30-5:30 p.m. Suite/Paddock Lofts Open
  • 2-2:30 p.m. NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Practice (All Entries)
  • 2:30-3:30 p.m. NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Qualifying (Impound)
    • Group A & B/Multi-Vehicle, Two Rounds
  • 4-4:30 p.m. NASCAR Xfinity Series Practice (All Entries)
  • 4:30-5:30 p.m. NASCAR Xfinity Series Qualifying (Impound) 
    • Group A & B/Multi-Vehicle, Two Rounds

 

 

 

Saturday, March 26
NASCAR Camping World Truck Series
& Xfinity Series Races

  • 6 a.m. – 3 p.m. Media Credential Office Open
  • 7 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Ticket Office Open 
  • 8 a.m. Gates Open (Main Grandstand, Grand Plaza, Gates 1 & 3)
  • 8 a.m. Suite/Paddock Lofts Open
  • 8 a.m. Fan Zone Open
  • 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Graffiti Artist (Reflection Pond)
  • 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Race Day Rumble Presented by Pit Boss (Outside Turn 19)
  • 9 a.m. Swifty Swine Pig Races (Outside Turn 19)
  • 9-10 a.m. NASCAR Cup Series Practice (Group A & B)
  • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Stilt Walkers, Fire Breathers & More (Grand Plaza & Main Grandstands)
  • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Axe Throwing & Escape Room (Outside Turn 19)
  • 9:30 a.m. BMX Stunt Show (Outside Turn 19)
  • 9:30 a.m. Canine Stars (Grand Plaza Stadium)
  • 9:50 a.m. Full Steel Combat (Outside Turn 19)
  • 10-11 a.m. NASCAR Cup Series Qualifying (Impound) (Multi-Vehicle, Two Rounds)
  • 10 a.m. Human Cannonball (Reflection Pond)
  • 10:15 a.m. Great American High Dive (Grand Plaza Stadium)
  • 10:45 a.m. Swifty Swine Pig Races (Outside Turn 19)
  • 11 a.m. Canine Stars (Grand Plaza Stadium)
  • 11:15 a.m. BMX Stunt Show (Outside Turn 19)
  • 11:30 a.m. Human Cannonball (Reflection Pond)
  • 11:30 a.m. Great American High Dive (Grand Plaza Stadium)
  • 11:30 a.m. NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Driver Introductions
  • 12 p.m. NASCAR Camping World Truck Series XPEL 225
    • (Stages 12/26/42 laps = 142.43 miles)  
  • 2:15 p.m. Full Steel Combat (Outside Turn 19)
  • 2:15 p.m. Canine Stars (Grand Plaza Stadium)
  • 2:45 p.m. Great American High Dive (Grand Plaza Stadium)
  • 3 p.m. NASCAR Xfinity Series Driver Introductions
  • 3:30 p.m. NASCAR Xfinity Series Pit Boss 250
    • (Stages 14/30/46 Laps = 156 miles)
  • 5-6:15 p.m. Live DJ (The Amphitheater)
  • 6-9:30 p.m. After Party at The Amp featuring:
    • Axe Throwing (6-9:30 p.m.)
    • Mark Martin (6:20-6:45 p.m.)
    • Corey LaJoie (6:30-6:45 p.m.)
    • Live Auction to Benefit Speedway Children's Charities (6:30-7:30 p.m.)
    • Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (6:45-7 p.m.)
    • Alex Bowman (7-7:15 p.m.)
    • Hairball (7:30-9:30 p.m.) & more! (The Amphitheater)

 

Sunday, March 27
NASCAR Cup Series Race

  • 8:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. Ticket Office Open
  • 10 a.m. Gates Open (Main Grandstand, Grand Plaza, Gates 1 & 3)
  • 10 a.m. Suite/Paddock Lofts Open
  • 10 a.m. Fan Zone Open
  • 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Graffiti Artist (Pit Road & Reflection Pond)
  • 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Axe Throwing & Escape Room (Outside Turn 19)
  • 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Stilt Walkers, Fire Breathers & More 
    • Grand Plaza & Main Grandstands
  • 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Media Credential Office Open
  • 10:15 a.m. Swifty Swine Pig Races (Outside Turn 19)
  • 10:30 a.m. Human Cannonball (Reflection Pond)
  • 10:30 a.m. Canine Stars (Grand Plaza Stadium)
  • 10:35 a.m. BMX Stunt Show (Outside Turn 19)
  • 11 a.m. Full Steel Combat (Outside Turn 19)
  • 11-11:45 a.m. Trackside Live Featuring:
    • Todd Gilliland (11-11:15 a.m.)
    • Tyler Reddick (11:15-11:30 a.m.)
    • Chris Buescher (11:30-11:45 a.m.)
      • (EchoPark Stage in Grand Plaza)
  • 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Track Pass Access Open
  • 11:05 a.m. Great American High Dive (Grand Plaza Stadium)
  • 11:45 a.m. Swifty Swine Pig Races (Outside Turn 19)
  • 12 p.m. Human Cannonball (Reflection Pond)
  • 12 p.m. Canine Stars (Grand Plaza Stadium)
  • 12:05 p.m. BMX Stunt Show (Outside Turn 19)
  • 12:45 p.m. Great American High Dive (Grand Plaza Stadium)
  • 12:45-1:45 p.m. Pre-Race Concert: Midland
  • 1:15 p.m. Full Steel Combat (Outside Turn 19)
  • 1:45 p.m. BMX Stunt Show (Outside Turn 19)
  • 2 p.m. Swifty Swine Pig Races (Outside Turn 19)
  • 2 p.m. Human Cannonball (Reflection Pond)
  • 2 p.m. Great American High Dive (Grand Plaza Stadium)
  • 2 p.m. NASCAR Cup Series Driver Introductions
  • 2:30 p.m. NASCAR Cup EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix
    • (Stages 15/32/68 Laps = 231 miles)

 


source: COTA

Monday, March 21, 2022

NASCAR / ARCA Race Weekend Recap (Atlanta Motor Speedway & Five Flags Speedway)

NASCAR / ARCA Race Weekend Recap (Atlanta Motor Speedway & Five Flags Speedway)

Winners: William Byron (Cup); Ty Gibbs (Xfinity); Corey Heim (Trucks) Plus Sammy Smith (ARCA East)

 

NASCAR Cup (Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500)

William Byron Surges to Atlanta Win

William Byron Surges to Atlanta Win

 

It was superspeedway racing with all the trimmings.

 

“New” Atlanta Motor Speedway produced a fifth different 2022 winner — William Byron, who managed to keep an angry pack of drafting cars behind him for the final 10 laps of Sunday’s Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500.

 

In a race that produced 46 lead changes among 20 drivers — both track records — Byron crossed the finish line .109 seconds ahead of Christopher Bell and .145 seconds ahead of Ross Chastain.

 

Bell, however, was penalized for passing below the boundary line on the backstretch on the final lap and was demoted to 23rd, the last position on the lead lap. That elevated Chastain to his second straight runner-up finish.

 

“It was so different,” said Byron, who collected his third NASCAR Cup Series victory, his first of the season and his first at Atlanta, which had undergone a major repaving and reconfiguration since the series raced at the 1.54-mile track last July. “Honestly, the last few laps there and trying to manage the gap to Bubba and trying to not get too far out front. You know, my spotter Brandon (Lines), his first win, so congrats to him. Thanks to this whole team. They’ve done a great job this year.

 

“Lots of changes with the Next Gen car. The (No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports) Chevrolet was awesome there. Worked hard overnight. Had a pretty rough practice and worked hard on it and got it handling well, like I told you. It was kind of an intermediate style with a little bit of speedway into it, so a lot of fun.”

 

 

Next Race: The Cup Series will return on 03/27/2022 for the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix at Circuit of The Americas.

Pole: Chase Briscoe
(Qualifying was canceled due to inclement weather.)

Click Here for Race Results

 

 

NASCAR Xfinity (Nalley Cars 250)

Ty Gibbs Earns Second Xfinity Series Victory of 2022

Ty Gibbs Earns Second Xfinity Series Victory of 2022

 

With a brilliant move to the inside of leader Ryan Sieg on the final lap of a second overtime, Ty Gibbs seized control of Saturday’s Nalley Cars 250 at Atlanta Motor Speedway and won by 0.178 seconds over runner-up Austin Hill.

 

Overcoming a mistake on pit road, where he overshot his stall, Gibbs rallied to run near the front as the race reached the end of regulation and moved into overtime.

 

“What the heck? Oh, my gosh! I didn’t expect this at all,” said Gibbs, who at age 19 already is building a formidable legacy. “That’s one where I learned a big lesson-just never give up… Now I’m going to go party with the boys — let’s go!”

 

 

Next Race: The Xfinity Series will return on 03/26/2022 for the Pit Boss 250 at Circuit of The Americas.

Pole: Noah Gragson
(Qualifying was canceled due to inclement weather.)

Click Here for Race Results

 

 

NASCAR Trucks (FR8 208)

Corey Heim Snags First Truck Series Win at Atlanta

Corey Heim Snags First Truck Series Win at Atlanta

 

Moments after taking the white flag in Saturday’s FR8 208 at Atlanta Motor Speedway, Corey Heim powered to the inside of Kyle Busch Motorsports teammate Chandler Smith, got a push from teammate John Hunter Nemechek and held on to win his first NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race.

 

Heim’s No. 51 Toyota crossed the finish line 0.173 seconds ahead of the Toyota of Ben Rhodes, as Ty Majeski came home third and Smith slipped to fourth. Daytona International Speedway winner Zane Smith completed the top five on the repaved and reconfigured track.

 

“It’s awesome — I was at the right place at the right time,” said Heim, a 19-year-old from Marietta, Georgia, who won in his fifth Truck Series start. “Toyota Racing just helps us so much to get here and I’m just so glad to be here.”

 

 

Next Race: The Truck Series will return on 03/26/2022 for the XPEL 225 at the Circuit of The Americas.

Pole: Chandler Smith
(Qualifying was canceled due to inclement weather.)

Click Here for Race Results

 

 

ARCA (Pensacola 200 )

Sammy Smith Cruises to Victory at Five Flags in Pensacola

 

The ARCA Menards Series East ventured back to Florida on Saturday for Round 2 of the 2022 season at Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola, Florida.

 

While Sammy Smith was the driver who visited Victory Lane, it wasn’t without a fight from his chief rival, Taylor Gray. The two traded the lead multiple times in the final portion of the race, with Gray eventually fading to third after a late-race restart penalty.

 

“The whole time I felt good about it,” Smith said in Victory Lane. “Thanks to the whole team for making the car better all day. We struggled there in practice and really worked hard to get it good and here we are.”

 

The victory by Smith, combined with Gray’s third-place finish, means Smith has a 12-point edge in the battle for the East Series championship after two events.

 

 

Next Race: The ARCA Series – West will return on O3/26/2022 for the NAPA Auto Parts 150 presented by West Coast Stock Car Hall of Fame at Irwindale Speedway.

Pole: Leland Honeyman

Click Here for Race Results

 

source: NASCAR Media