Kyle Busch’s Stunning Win at Pala Casino 400 Highlights Lucas Oil’s Legacy in Motorsports, RCR Tech Partnership

 

Lucas Oil, primary sponsor of the No. 8 Lucas Oil Chevrolet Camaro and official engine oil supplier to Richard Childress Racing and ECR Engines, helped NASCAR Cup superstar Kyle “Rowdy” Busch dominate the Pala Casino 400 Cup race for the win in Fontana, Calif. Feb. 26. In his first year with Richard Childress Racing, Busch won in just his second start with the iconic team, notching his 61st career Cup victory, the most among active drivers and ninth all time. He also achieved another milestone by earning at least one Cup victory the past 19 consecutive seasons, eclipsing Richard “The King” Petty who won races in 18 straight seasons between 1960 and 1977.

 

Lucas Oil, RCR and ECR Engines announced just prior to the race an enhanced technical and developmental partnership between all three organizations for the 2023 race season. Lucas Oil has served as the official motor oil for both RCR and ECR Engines since 2014, helping drivers reach victory lane 21 times as part of this storied partnership.

 

“It was just a completely different feeling of a race car than what I had here last year,” Kyle Busch told Fox Sports after climbing from the No. 8 Lucas Oil Chevrolet Camaro. “I’ve been with a lot of great people that have given me a lot of great opportunities in my career, so it’s awesome to be able to reward them.”

 

Since 2014, expert scientists and technicians at Lucas Oil have been in lockstep with RCR and ECR to refine the perfect engine oil blend capable of drawing out every competitive advantage possible. The teams test engines in simulators and real-world racing scenarios capturing hundreds of data points to measure and find areas of improvement.

 

 

“We couldn’t be more proud of Kyle’s performance and the entire RCR team. This win is reaffirmation of our commitment to motorsports and continued partnership with exceptional race teams like RCR and ECR Engines. It was a blast to be trackside with the crew and see that beautiful Lucas Oil paint scheme with No. 8 on its side, Lucas Oil in its engine, and Rowdy himself in the driver’s seat to dominate the competition. This win is only the beginning; records are about to be smashed.” - Brandon Bernstein, Director of Partnership Marketing

 

The partnership with RCR and ECR Engines, and other motorsports teams, has helped shape the current line of Lucas Racing Only synthetic and synthetic-blend engine oils trusted by professional and grassroots race teams around the world. Each product offered in the Lucas Racing Only line utilizes a unique combination of chemical components, lubricants and other additives to achieve superior performance and protection under the extreme and demanding conditions that exist in the most competitive racing scenarios.

 

A similar balance of lubricants designed to mitigate friction and improve performance and durability in racing motor oil is at work in all Lucas Oil general automotive oils and treatments. By using Lucas Oil, vehicle owners can reap the same benefits as NASCAR Cup Series race cars - superior engine protection, better engine performance, extended oil life, high temperature and wear resistance, and enhanced engine cleanliness.

 

Here's to the first of many w RCR 🥂 pic.twitter.com/G72iRuDeOe

— Kyle Busch (@KyleBusch) March 15, 2023

 

source: Lucas Oil PR

Kyle Busch Notches First Win of RCR Era

Prevails at Auto Club

 

The Kyle Busch era at Richard Childress Racing began three weeks ago at the Los Angeles Coliseum, but the coronation was reserved for Sunday‘s Pala Casino 400 in the last NASCAR Cup Series race at 2-mile Auto Club Speedway.

 

Busch grabbed the lead from Ross Chastain on Lap 165 and regained it on Lap 180 at the end of a cycle of green-flag pit stops, as the race ran under green for the final 55 laps. He crossed the finish line on Lap 200 with a 2.998-second advantage over runner-up Chase Elliott.

 

The victory was the 61st of Busch‘s career, most among active drivers and ninth all-time. For the 19th straight season, Busch has won at least one NASCAR Cup Series race, breaking a tie with seven-time champion Richard Petty for the series record.

 

“Welcome to RCR, baby,” the No. 8 radio reported as Busch crossed the line. “First of many.”

 

Kyle and Kurt Busch now hold the record for most combined Cup victories by brothers with 95, one more than the total accumulated by Bobby and Donnie Allison.

 

Coincidentally, Busch claimed the first Cup win of his career at Auto Club, the bulk of whose property was recently sold — with plans to replace the 2-mile speedway with a short track.

 

Busch‘s victory at Auto Club came in his second start in the No. 8 Chevrolet for RCR, the team he joined after 15 seasons and two series championships with Joe Gibbs Racing.

 

“I can‘t thank Richard and Judy (Childress) enough, Austin (Dillon) for calling me and getting me talking and getting me the opportunity to come over here to RCR,” said Busch, who had to overcome a pit-road speeding penalty under caution on Lap 43.

 

“The guys did a great job. (Crew chief) Randall (Burnett) — everybody that worked so hard in the offseason. We did a lot of sim stuff, a lot of testing in general, just trying to get up to speed. There is nothing more rewarding than being able to go to Victory Lane. …

 

“You put yourself in a different situation and you‘re able to reward your guys. It‘s not about me always winning, but about the guys. I‘ve worked with a lot of great people who‘ve given me a lot of great opportunities in my career. It‘s awesome to be able to reward them.”

 

It’s going to be a ROWDY year! Congrats @KyleBusch on your first win of the season, here’s to many more 🏁 Get Rowdy with our winning Buy One, Get One 25% off deal at https://t.co/BldQaaVAHQ using code: Restock pic.twitter.com/tDauRSIgu1

— Rowdy Energy (@rowdyenergy) February 27, 2023

 

source: RCR Racing Media

Kyle Busch Has the Most Active Wins at @AutoClubSpdwy

Four Cup Race Wins with One Pole

 

Kyle Busch won his first #NASCAR Cup Series race at the ‘Sony HD 500’ at California Speedway while driving the Hendrick Motorsports No. 5 Kellogg's Chevrolet. Kyle started 25th and led 95 of 254 laps.

 

At the time, Kyle was the youngest-ever Cup race winner at age 20 years and 125 days. “It was really cool to be able to do my first burnout and celebrate with all the flashbulbs and lights and the speedway’s fireworks,” Busch said.

 

DYK: @KyleBusch has the most active wins at @AutoClubSpdwy with four? pic.twitter.com/AeipTEgQLi

— NASCAR (@NASCAR) February 26, 2023

Busch has won the Auto Club 400 four times, most recently in 2019 when he notched his 200th NASCAR victory. His other Fontana wins happened in 2005; 2013; & 2014.

 

In his twenty-three Fontana races, "Rowdy" has four wins; eleven top fives and sixteen top ten finishes. He has one pole and has led eight hundred and seven (807) laps.

 

Kyle will start today’s race from twenty-first (21) on the starting grid in the #8 Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing.

 

 

source: NASCAR Media

Rain and Snow Postpones NASCAR Event

Xfinity Series Moved to Sunday with Cup

 

Saturday’s scheduled Xfinity Series race at Auto Club Speedway was postponed to Sunday by wet weather.

 

The race was rescheduled at 8 p.m. ET (FS2, Motor Racing Network, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio) Sunday, following the Cup Series race at ACS.

 

 

Rain pounded the track much of the day. Snow, a rarity in the area and part of a massive winter storm that walloped California, fell for a while.

 

But NASCAR dried the track and attempted to start the race at about 6 p.m. ET. Drivers made several pace laps, but rain increased, forcing the cars to pit road before the green flag could be unfurled.

 

After about an hour’s wait — and a very long day for drivers and teams at the track, NASCAR postponed the race.

 

Since weather eliminated Saturday’s scheduled qualifying session, and the starting grid was set by rulebook metrics. This put Christopher Bell (Cup) and Austin Hill  (Xfinity) on pole for both races.

 

Thanks everyone that braved the weather and came to the track today! pic.twitter.com/v8636qSFY6

— Christopher Bell (@CBellRacing) February 25, 2023

Drivers Tyler Reddick, Austin Dillon, and Ross Chastain will be pulling double duty and running both events.

 

Good afternoon EST/ morning PST - while still cool @AutoClubSpdwy it’s dry and that’s good - what you’re seeing on radar is mainly the mountains and NO RAIN. As of 10a PST it is low 40s - clouds are breaking up. High this afternoon just shy of 50 #NASCAR (w/ @RaceWeather pic.twitter.com/3t9uyKJ1tC

— Brian Neudorff (@NASCAR_WXMAN) February 26, 2023

NASCAR Cup Series

• Next Race: Pala Casino 400
• The Place: Auto Club Speedway
• The Date: Sunday, February 26
• The Time: 3:30 p.m. ET
• The Purse: $8,484,302
• TV: FOX, 2:30 p.m. ET
• Radio: MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio
• Distance: 400 miles (200 laps)
• Stage 1 (Ends on Lap 65)
• Stage 2 (Ends on Lap 130)
• Final Stage (Ends on Lap 200)

NASCAR Xfinity Series

• Next Race: Production Alliance Group 300
• The Place: Auto Club Speedway
• The Date: Sunday, February 26
• The Time: 8 p.m. ET
• The Purse: $1,659,396
• TV: FS1, 4 p.m. ET
• Radio: MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio
• Distance: 300 miles (150 Laps);
• Stage 1 (Ends on Lap 35)
• Stage 2 (Ends on Lap 70)
• Final Stage (Ends on Lap 150) 

 

 

 

PRE RACE ACCESS UPDATE: Due to inclement weather and continued track drying efforts, fan access to pre-race ceremonies, the ballfield, and the track surface has been cancelled.

Access to pit road will be available through the pedestrian tunnel only. pic.twitter.com/TfHj2Q1B2s

— Auto Club Speedway (@AutoClubSpdwy) February 26, 2023

 

source: NBC Sports Media

2023 Xfinity Series Sunoco Rookies

How’d They Do?

Chandler Smith and Family

 

After an impressive top-five finish at his Daytona International Speedway debut, Jordan Anderson Racing’s Parker Retzlaff finds himself second in the Sunoco Rookie of the Year standings, just one point behind Chandler Smith, who finished his race in 12th and heads into this weekend leading the rookie class with 34 points. Smith earned the additional points to surpass Retzlaff in the standings by finishing second in the first stage at Daytona.

 

All eyes on @AutoClubSpdwy this weekend!👀🙌🏼 pic.twitter.com/LM67fm55sC

— Parker Retzlaff (@Parker79p) February 22, 2023

Joe Gibbs Racing’s Sammy Smith finished in 19th while Blaine Perkins fell victim to a crash early on in Lap 19 and finished in 37th.

 

All four drivers will be making their Xfinity Series debut at Auto Club Speedway this weekend.

 

 

source: NASCAR Media

Xfinity Series Going Back to Cali

Auto Club Speedway Up Today

 

After an action-packed race to kick off the season, the NASCAR Xfinity Series will be making its way back to the West Coast to keep the momentum flowing. Drivers will take the grid for the Production Alliance 300 at Auto Club Speedway on Saturday, February 25 at 5 p.m. ET, airing on FS1, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR radio.

 

In case anyone was wondering what behind the scenes looked like pic.twitter.com/IUasQZvxnM

— Auto Club Speedway (@AutoClubSpdwy) February 25, 2023

This will be the 33rd NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Auto Club Speedway, the previous 32 have produced 18 different race winners and 21 different pole winners. Five races have been won from the pole or first starting position, most recently by Kyle Busch in 2013.

 

Joey Logano leads the NASCAR Xfinity Series in poles at Auto Club Speedway with four (2009, 2010, 2012, 2013) while Kyle Busch leads the Xfinity Series at the Fontana, California track in wins with six (2008, 2009, 2010 sweep, 2011, 2013). Two former winners are entered in this weekend’s Production Alliance 300 – fulltime driver Cole Custer (2019, 2022) and NASCAR Cup Series regular Austin Dillon (2016), who will be behind the wheel of the No. 10 Chevrolet for Kaulig Racing.

 

NASCAR Xfinity Series

• Next Race: Production Alliance Group 300
• The Place: Auto Club Speedway
• The Date: Saturday, February 25
• The Time: 5 p.m. ET
• The Purse: $1,659,396
• TV: FS1, 4 p.m. ET
• Radio: MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio
• Distance: 300 miles (150 Laps)
• Stage 1 (Ends on Lap 35)
• Stage 2 (Ends on Lap 70)
• Final Stage (Ends on Lap 150)

 

The NASCAR Xfinity Series will hold practice at 12:05 p.m. ET followed by qualifying at 12:35 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 25 on FS1.

 

Race No. 2 of the #XfinitySeries season is upon us! pic.twitter.com/OmruZBALYK

— NASCAR Xfinity (@NASCAR_Xfinity) February 25, 2023

 

source: NASCAR Media

Alfonso Ribeiro Named Honorary Pace Car Driver for the Pala Casino 400

Host of “America’s Funniest Home Videos” and Co-Host of “Dancing with the Stars”

 

Auto Club Speedway announced today that veteran entertainer Alfonso Ribeiro will serve as the honorary pace car driver for the Pala Casino 400, the final NASCAR Cup Series race on the famed 2-mile oval on Sunday.

 

Ribeiro serves as host of ABC’s longest running show, “America’s Funniest Home Videos” and worked alongside Tyra Banks to co-host “Dancing with the Stars” for its 31st season.

 

“We’re ecstatic to have a performer of Alfonso’s caliber leading the field to green for the historic final race on our 2-mile oval,” said Auto Club Speedway President Dave Allen. “As a veteran in the television industry, Alfonso is all about entertaining and bringing joy to fans. He’ll find himself right at home here at Auto Club Speedway, where fans are first.”

 

 

Ribeiro, who began his electrifying 30-year career starring in the Tony® award-winning musical “The Tap Dance Kid,” took Broadway by storm early on with his unique style of musical and performing prowess. Tapping and dancing his way into the music industry, Ribeiro found himself working with the likes of Michael Jackson early on, appearing in his 1984 Pepsi campaign promoting his diamond record, Billie Jean, as well as producing multiple singles through Island Records.

 

Ribeiro transitioned seamlessly from stage to TV, where his career found its home after landing a role on NBC’s “Silver Spoons.” Continuing his partnership with NBC, he spent six seasons establishing his iconic role as Carlton Banks on NBC’s smash-hit, “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” Ribeiro soon stepped behind the camera to direct. Projects like “Meet the Browns,” “Are We There Yet?,” “One on One” and “Shake It Up” litter his expansive portfolio.

 

Leading the #PalaCasino400 field to green on Sunday...Alfonso Ribeiro! pic.twitter.com/EPqn1kFBbN

— Auto Club Speedway (@AutoClubSpdwy) February 22, 2023

 

source: Auto Club Speedway Media

Don Felder to Perform Pre-Race Concert Prior to Pala Casino 400

NASCAR Cup Series’ Pala Casino 400 Runs on Sunday

 

Guitar legend Don Felder already has his name secured in the rock and roll history books as the co-writer of “Hotel California.” On Sunday, Feb. 26, he’ll make NASCAR history as the final pre-race performer at Auto Club Speedway’s  2-mile oval.

 

The track announced today that Felder will perform a full concert in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Fan Zone prior to the Pala Casino 400. The former lead guitarist of The Eagles and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer will fire up the crowd before the stars of the NASCAR Cup Series compete for the final time on the legendary track.

 

“Don Felder is recognized in rock and roll history as an integral member of one of the most popular bands of our time,” said Auto Club Speedway President Dave Allen. “We look forward to welcoming Don Felder to perform for our race fans to get them ready for the Pala Casino 400.”

 

In 2023, Felder finds himself most decidedly back in the driver’s seat with the release of his first solo album in seven years, “American Rock ’N’ Roll” (BMG). It consists of 11 high-energy rockers mixed with touching, thoughtful ballads, and also boasts a who’s who of A-list guest contributors including Slash, Sammy Hagar, Peter Frampton, Mick Fleetwood, Joe Satriani, Orianthi, Richie Sambora, Alex Lifeson, and many, many more.

 

Not only is Felder a proud, longstanding member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, having been inducted with the Eagles back in 1998, he was also inaugurated into the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville in 2016 and the Florida Artists Hall of Fame in 2017. Fact is, Felder spent 27 years with the Eagles, who own the fine distinction of recording the top-selling album of all time — “Their Greatest Hits (1971-1975)”, which has sold over 38 million copies (and counting).

 

“I’m blessed enough to have contributed to and been a part of a very talented mixture of voices, writing, guitar parts, and production. I’m very proud of that,” he says of the group.

 

Don left the band in 2001 and has since forged an impressive career as a top-tier solo artist with a three fully realized full-length albums as well and several very successful singles for film scores like “Heavy Metal,” 1983’s sonically soaring “Airborne” and 2012’s multifaceted song-cycle treatise, “Road to Forever” and “American Rock ‘N’ Roll.” Felder added “best-selling author” to his impressive C.V. when his spellbinding 2008 memoir, Heaven and Hell: My Life in the Eagles (1974-2001), became an instant New York Timessmash bestseller.

 

The NASCAR weekend at Auto Club Speedway marks the historic continuation of NASCAR’s 75th anniversary season. The action begins on Saturday, Feb. 25 with the NASCAR Xfinity Series’ Production Alliance Group 300, then continues Sunday with the NASCAR Cup Series’ Pala Casino 400.

 

Get ready for one more pre-race concert!

Don Felder, formerly of the Eagles, will be taking the Main Stage in the @oreillyauto Fan Zone ahead of the #PalaCasino400 on Feb. 26th! pic.twitter.com/T4RYJ279w4

— Auto Club Speedway (@AutoClubSpdwy) February 9, 2023

 

source: Auto Club Speedway Media

Misty May-Treanor Named Honorary Starter for Pala Casino 400

"Honored to be Part of the Final Race on Auto Club Speedway’s 2-Mile Oval"

 

Auto Club Speedway will have a gold-medal flare for the final race on its 2-mile oval. Today, the track named three-time Olympic gold medalist and California native Misty May-Treanor the honorary starter for the Pala Casino 400 on Sunday, Feb. 26.

 

The beach volleyball champion will wave the green flag ahead of the highly-anticipated NASCAR Cup Series follow-up to the DAYTONA 500.

 

“We’re thrilled to have Misty as our honorary starter at Auto Club,” said Dave Allen, President of Auto Club Speedway. “She’s an incredible athlete and a sporting legend of the highest degree – the perfect fit for this historic last race on the 2-mile oval.”

 

Throughout her career, May-Treanor amassed more than 100 championships and competed in four Olympic games, her first in Sydney in 2000; however, it wasn’t until the 2004 Athens games she won her first Olympic gold alongside teammate Kerri Walsh-Jennings. From there, the pair went on to win another gold medal in the 2008 games and again in 2012, becoming the most successful duo in the history of women’s beach volleyball with 112 consecutive wins – a record that still stands today.

 

In addition to being a decorated Olympian, May-Treanor also holds the title of NASCAR Co-Grand Marshal. She, alongside other sporting legends gave the command before the inaugural Busch Light Clash at the Coliseum in 2022. Now, she’s back at another NASCAR event, adding a new accomplishment to her impressive resume – honorary starter for the Pala Casino 400.

 

“I’m honored to be part of the final race on Auto Club Speedway’s 2-mile oval,” said May-Treanor. “I can’t wait to feel the adrenaline in the air that always accompanies NASCAR racing.”

 

The NASCAR weekend at Auto Club Speedway marks the historic continuation of NASCAR’s 75thanniversary. The action begins on Saturday, Feb. 25 with the NASCAR Xfinity Series’ Production Alliance Group 300, then continues on Sunday with the NASCAR Cup Series’ Pala Casino 400.

 

We're going for gold! 🥇 Excited to have @MistyMayTreanor wave the green flag for the #PalaCasino400 as our Honorary Starter! pic.twitter.com/3C9coVFhmS

— Auto Club Speedway (@AutoClubSpdwy) February 20, 2023

 

source: Auto Club Speedway Media

Michael Rooker Named Grand Marshal for Pala Casino 400

"grateful for the chance to give the command"

 

 

All puns intended, the final command to start engines at Auto Club Speedway’s historic 2-mile oval will be a “Rowdy” one to remember. That’s because Michael Rooker will serve as the Grand Marshal for the Pala Casino 400 on Sunday.

 

The actor known for his role as Rowdy Burns in “Days of Thunder” will bellow the famous command “drivers start your engines!”

 

“Michael Rooker is an immensely successful actor, but his turn as Rowdy Burns is one of the most memorable on-screen depictions of motorsports on the big screen,” said Auto Club Speedway President Dave Allen. “We are proud to welcome him as our Grand Marshal, and we can’t wait to hear him give the command for the historic last race on the 2-mile oval.”

 

NASCAR and Auto Club Speedway announced earlier that the Pala Casino 400 will be the last race held on the track’s current configuration. Planning continues for a proposed half-mile short track located on a portion of the speedway’s current property, but timing for commencement of that project remains uncertain.

 

That lends extra gravitas to Rooker’s role on Sunday, and he embraces the opportunity.

 

“I am grateful for the chance to give the command for this historic event,” Rooker said. “As someone who was raised in NASCAR country, I’ve always appreciated fans asking about my portrayal of Rowdy Burns in ‘Days of Thunder’. As I return to another NASCAR race, I can unequivocally state that I agree with Robert Duvall’s character Harry Hogge who said, ‘rubbin, son, is racin’.”

 

Rooker is an American actor best known for his turn as the blue-skinned alien Yondu Udonta in the top grossing Marvel films Guardians of the Galaxy, and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, and also as the character fans loved to hate on AMC’s worldwide hit television show The Walking Dead, Merle Dixon.

 

Rooker has thrilled fans for decades with complex portrayals of characters audiences can’t help but embrace despite their dark personas. He made his film debut in 1986 playing the title role in Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer. He has since appeared in numerous films including Mississippi Burning, Sea of Love, Days of Thunder, JFK, Cliffhanger, Tombstone, Mallrats, Rosewood, The 6th Day, and Jumper. Rooker also has a prolific relationship with writer/director James Gunn, appearing in Gunn-helmed productions Slither, Super, The Belko Experiment and Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy franchise and Warner Bros’ The Suicide Squad. Rooker also voiced Yondu Udonta in the animated series What if….? from Marvel. In 2022, he began filming for the upcoming western series Horizons, reunited with JFK co-star Kevin Costner.

 

He has guest starred on numerous TV shows including Stargate SG-1, CSI: Miami, Las Vegas, JAG, Numb3rs, Law & Order, Chuck, Criminal Minds, Psych, Burn Notice, and Archer. He added his voice talents to Activision’s video game The Walking Dead: Survival Instinct. Rooker’s voice-over work in video games has also included Mike Harper, the lead character in Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, and the villain Vikke in Lollipop Chainsaw.

 

Rooker, who has eight brothers and sisters, was born in Jasper, Alabama and studied at the Goodman School of Drama in Chicago, where he moved with his mother and siblings at the age of thirteen.

 

The Pala Casino 400 weekend at Auto Club Speedway marks the historic continuation of NASCAR’s 75th anniversary season. The action begins on Saturday with the NASCAR Xfinity Series’ Production Alliance Group 300, then continues on Sunday with the NASCAR Cup Series’ Pala Casino 400.

 

In case you hadn't heard...Michael Rooker will be our Grand Marshal for the #PalaCasino400!

It'll be a "rowdy" final command! pic.twitter.com/fv6pUNdola

— Auto Club Speedway (@AutoClubSpdwy) February 21, 2023

 

source: Auto Club Speedway Media

NASCAR Magic Kingdom - Fontana

Stater Bros. (#staterbros) and Smithfield Racing “Smithfield Race to the Table” VIP Experience

Aric Almirola and NASCAR Race Mom

For a NASCAR nut like myself, the big show coming to town tops a trip to the Magic Kingdom of Disneyland. The only thing that could make it better is that NASCAR Race Mom (NRM) was bestowed a NASCAR VIP Experience by Stater Bros. (#staterbros) and Smithfield Racing. 

Myrna and I at Auto Club Speedway, Fontana, Califoria

My buddy Myrna (a NASCAR greenhorn) and I hit the California Freeway bright and early Sunday morning. I was pleasantly surprised when the traffic was fantastically scant, and we arrived at the track before 7:30 a.m. Arriving so early proved essential due to a few hiccups at the Will Call Window. Nevertheless, we still had time to explore the Fan Zone before our scheduled Garage/Pit Tour. There we were able to gather our free earplugs for the race.

View this post on Instagram

Waiting for our garage tour-and a meet and greet with Aric Amirola #fun thank you #StaterBros. #nascar @nascar #AutoClub400 @ACSupdates

A post shared by Z. Smith (@zwriter1) on Mar 1, 2020 at 2:28pm PST

Myrna and I met Lauren at Gate 30 at 9:10 a.m. sharp. Lauren was very NASCAR savvy and provided us with a tour both informative and entertaining.  During our garage promenade, we spotted Clint Bowyer (so friendly and greeting our group with jovial jabs); Regan Smith (he can be seen photo bombing us at the Smithfield Hauler); Cole Custer (breezed by me as I waited in line without acknowledging my greeting); Corey LaJoie (very handsome); and Ryan Blaney (a personal NASCAR RACE Mom Favorite) strolling briskly to this pit area.

Spot Regan Smith Ex-Driver, now a pit reporter for Fox?

Our tour included a stop at the Smithfield Racing hauler for a Meet and Greet with Aric Almirola; a tour of his hauler; and a stop at the #10 pit area. We were even allowed to climb atop the Pit Box to sit where the crew chief navagates the race.

Don't we look happy sitting on Aric's Pit Box #NASCAR

However, the coup de grâce was this NASCAR Fan’s honor of greeting NASCAR Legend Leonard Wood as he sauntered past. Mr. Wood took the time to stop, turn and wave in response. What a great memory.

We enjoyed the Chase Bryant concert in the comfort of the Busch Beer Block party. The generous hospitality area was centrally located and offered a wide variety of libation and cuisine. My sausage sandwich was delicious and really hit that spot. Since I was the designated driver, NRM stayed away from the alcoholic refreshment and opted for the bottled water.

Chase Bryant provide an awesome concert sprinkled with much appreciated patriotism

The rain started right before the scheduled green flag. My partner and I doubted that the race would even start – let alone finish this day. However, we were mistaken.

After a fitting tribute where the race field lined up five-wide for one of NASCAR's GOATS, Jimmie Johnson, Alex Bowman dominated in Fontana, to secure his second NASCAR Monster Energy Cup Series victory!

P6 in qualifying at @ACSupdates today. Always good to start up front and we know our @SmithfieldBrand Mustang has speed. Looking forward to having that speed for 200 laps tomorrow. 🤙😎#SmithfieldRacing pic.twitter.com/MBROehqg4C

— Aric Almirola (@Aric_Almirola) March 1, 2020

Our NASCAR Hero started sixth and finished eighth - a good top-ten day!

Thank you to Stater Bros. and Smithfield Racing for the very special “Smithfield Race to the Table Sweepstakes, sponsored by Stater Bros." NASCAR VIP Experience. It was a thrill.

🏁 🏆 Last Five Posts 🏆 🏁

1. Leap Year #NASCAR LoveCalifornia Dreamin’ Xfinity 101
2. Production Alliance Group #NXS Race Title Sponsor
3. Jimmie Johnson to Lead the Historic Five Wide Salute
4. Ford Mustangs Sweep #NASCAR Cup & Xfinity In Las Vegas
5. Las Vegas' Own: the Busch Brothers - Hometown Vegas Heroes

Myrna's first #NASCAR Race Experience and she gets to meet Aric Almirola!

Track Tribute to Kobe Bryant #NASCAR

The Happy #NASCAR Fans Sitting on the Wall in Front of the #10 Pitf

Aric Almirola's #10 Smithfield Monster Energy Race Car in the Garage

Leap Year #NASCAR Love

California Dreamin’ Xfinity 101

In a leap year, the extra day is added at the end of February, giving it twenty-nine (29) days instead of the consistent twenty-eight (28).* 

NASCAR Xfinity Series

• Next Race: Production Alliance 300
• The Place: Auto Club Speedway
• The Date: Saturday, February 29
• The Time: 4 p.m. ET
• TV: FS1, 3:30 p.m. ET
• Radio: MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio
• Distance: 300 miles (150 Laps);
• Stage 1 (Ends on Lap 35),
• Stage 2 (Ends on Lap 70),
• Final Stage (Ends on Lap 150)
• 2019 Race Winner: Cole Custer

After a wild season-opener at Daytona and a rain-delayed contest in Las Vegas, the NASCAR Xfinity Series competitors gear up for the Production Alliance Group 300 at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California, this Saturday at 4 p.m. ET on FS1, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

Auto Club Speedway has hosted 30 NASCAR Xfinity Series races (1997-2019) producing 19 different pole winners and 17 different race winners.

Back in 1997, Dale Earnhardt Inc. driver Steve Park won the inaugural pole at Auto Club Speedway in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with a speed of 175.157 mph. Todd Bodine took home the first win at Auto Club Speedway in the NASCAR Xfinity Series driving for car owner Scott Welliver.

Currently, Team Penske’s Joey Logano owns the record for the most Xfinity poles at Auto Club Speedway with four (2009, 2010, 2012, 2017). Joe Gibbs Racing’s Kyle Busch has the most Xfinity wins at Auto Club Speedway with six victories (Fall 2008, Spring 2009, 2010 sweep, Spring 2011, 2013).

Race day in

Cali. 😎 #PAG300 | @ACSupdates pic.twitter.com/p4BIoeec1h

— NASCAR Xfinity (@NASCAR_Xfinity) February 29, 2020

This weekend at Auto Club Speedway we are guaranteed to crown a first-time pole winner and race winner as none of the former winners are entered in Saturday’s event. On 03/20/2015, Austin Dillon captured the track record with a time of 38.1999 for a speed of 188.482 MPH.

Entry List
In Qualifying Order

1	13	Ty Dillon
2	53	Joey Gase(i)
3	00	Quin Houff #
4	17	Chris Buescher
5	32	Corey LaJoie
6	51	Garrett Smithley
7	34	Michael McDowell
8	8	Tyler Reddick #
9	95	Christopher Bell #
10	15	*Brennan Poole #
11	77	*Reed Sorenson
12	96	* Daniel Suarez
13	47	Ricky Stenhouse Jr
14	52	JJ Yeley(i)
15	43	Bubba Wallace
16	3	Austin Dillon
17	38	John Hunter Nemechek #
18	66	* Timmy Hill(i)
19	21	Matt DiBenedetto
20	9	Chase Elliott
21	22	Joey Logano
22	18	Kyle Busch
23	11	Denny Hamlin
24	14	Clint Bowyer
25	37	Ryan Preece
26	10	Aric Almirola
27	1	Kurt Busch
28	41	Cole Custer #
29	88	Alex Bowman

* = Required to Qualify on Time
I = Ineligible for Driver's Points

Production Alliance Group #NXS Race Title Sponsor

Company Signs Two-Year Deal with Auto Club Speedway

Auto Club Speedway officials announced that Production Alliance Group has renewed its title sponsorship for 2020 and 2021, serving as sponsor for the NASCAR Xfinity Series 300 race. This year’s Production Alliance Group 300 will run on Saturday, Feb. 29. The event will air on FS1 at 1PM (PT). The official race hashtag will be #PAG300.

We’re all in today at @LVMotorSpeedway! Pumped to get this No. 41 Production Alliance Group | @Haas_Automation @FordPerformance on track this afternoon

Tune in at 3:30 p.m. ET on @NASCARONFOX. #NASCAR | #SHRacing pic.twitter.com/5WisPEhGQs

— Cole Custer (@ColeCuster) February 23, 2020

Production Alliance Group is a world-wide premium live-event and creative development company based in Tustin, Calif. Their passion for their craft has allowed them to work with top names and brands in both corporate and entertainment industries.

“Over the past four years, our partnership with Production Alliance Group has grown tremendously,” said Auto Club Speedway President Dave Allen. “We’re delighted to be associated with such a quality team and look forward to continuing to bring unmatched entertainment to the greatest fans in NASCAR.”

Production Alliance Group’s television company, 3rd Rail Productions, produces original content and last year launched its latest reality show about iconic films from the 70s, 80s and 90s called Beyond the Backlot on YouTube and Facebook Watch. 

General admission tickets start at $30.00 and Kids 12 and under are free with Lefty’s Kids Club Membership to attend the NASCAR Xfinity Series Production Alliance Group 300 race. Purchase online at www.autoclubspeedway.com,  call 800-944-7223 or visit the Auto Club Speedway Ticket Office at 9300 Cherry Avenue, Fontana.

#NASCAR Driver Appearances all race weekend - who are you excited to see?
Schedule: https://t.co/8Ji5qPOgRD#PAG300 I #AutoClub400 pic.twitter.com/36Byc1fbB3

— Auto Club Speedway (@ACSupdates) February 25, 2020

Source: Track Press Release

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🏁 🏆 Last Five Posts 🏆 🏁

1. Jimmie Johnson to Lead the Historic Five Wide Salute
2. Ford Mustangs Sweep #NASCAR Cup & Xfinity In Las Vegas
3. Las Vegas' Own: the Busch Brothers - Hometown Vegas Heroes
4. NASCAR Xfinity Series In Vegas
5. Come on Down Kurt Busch