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Author: Official Release

  • NASCAR and Straight Talk Wireless Announce Official Partnership

    NASCAR and Straight Talk Wireless Announce Official Partnership

    Straight Talk Wireless Becomes Entitlement Partner for the Straight Talk Wireless 400 at Homestead-Miami Speedway in October

    DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (July 25, 2024) – NASCAR and Straight Talk Wireless today announced an official multi-year partnership that makes Straight Talk Wireless an Official Wireless Partner of NASCAR. With this, Straight Talk Wireless also becomes an Official Partner of Homestead-Miami Speedway, including the entitlement to the October 27 NASCAR Cup Series playoff race – the Straight Talk Wireless 400. Terms were not disclosed.

    “We’re excited to come together with NASCAR as there is so much overlap between Straight Talk customers and NASCAR fans,” said Cheryl Gresham, CMO of Verizon Value. “This partnership is very fitting. Our Straight Talk customers appreciate real value and reliable service wherever they are. As they experience the legendary NASCAR series this year, we look forward to meeting them at the track.”

    In addition, NASCAR and Straight Talk Wireless will also be joining forces to present “NASCAR on Tour,” an exciting event series coming to select Walmart parking lots in Daytona Beach, Florida; Darlington, South Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Bentonville, Arkansas; Bristol, Tennessee; Kansas City, Missouri; Talladega, Alabama; Charlotte, North Carolina; Greenville, South Carolina; and Miami, Florida from August 21 to October 27. “NASCAR on Tour” will bring the ultimate racing experience to fans across the country, allowing them the opportunity to enjoy racing-themed experiences, giveaways, driver appearances, exclusive offers and much more. Additionally, new customers attending the “NASCAR on Tour” on-site events are eligible to participate in an exclusive Straight Talk Wireless promotion: buy one month and get one month free on any unlimited plan.

    “Straight Talk Wireless is such a recognizable brand, and one that shares NASCAR’s priorities in providing tremendous value for its customers and their families,” said Michelle Byron, NASCAR executive vice president and chief partnership and licensing officer. “We are thrilled to have Straight Talk Wireless join the NASCAR family as an Official Partner, both at the league and track level.”

    Available only at Walmart or via www.straighttalk.com, Straight Talk Wireless is a wireless service provider that offers a wide variety of value-based plans, including month-to-month options for customers seeking plan flexibility and affordable pricing. As part of the Official Partnership, Straight Talk Wireless will have a presence at all NASCAR-owned events, including the option to activate on site at select events and to create customized offers for NASCAR fans.

    The NASCAR Cup Series continues with the Cook Out 400 at Richmond Raceway on Sunday, August 11 at 6 pm ET on USA, MRN and SiriusXM and NASCAR Radio.

    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 14 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Sprint Race, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Mexico Series, NASCAR Whelen Euro Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly 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 five cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 11 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.

    For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, X and Snapchat.

    About Straight Talk Wireless

    Straight Talk Wireless provides quality no-contract wireless solutions to value-conscious consumers and is available exclusively at Walmart, Walmart.com, and Straighttalk.com.

    Straight Talk is part of the Verizon Value portfolio of prepaid brands, which includes Total Wireless, Visible, Tracfone, Simple Mobile, SafeLink, Walmart Family Mobile, and Verizon Prepaid.

  • SETH DYER HOPES TO BOUNCE BACK FROM A COUPLE OF MECHANICAL SETBACKS SATURDAY AT SANTA MARIA

    SETH DYER HOPES TO BOUNCE BACK FROM A COUPLE OF MECHANICAL SETBACKS SATURDAY AT SANTA MARIA

    (Yucca Valley, CA, July 24, 2024) Yucca Valley, California teenage racer Seth Dyer hopes to bounce back from a couple of subpar performances when the California Lightning Sprint Cars hit the track for round number one of the annual “Civil War Series” against the Bay Cities Racing Association this Saturday night, July 27th, at the Santa Maria Speedway. Enjoying his best season to date, Dyer has slipped two spots in the championship point standings due to mechanical gremlins in his last two races.

    Saturday’s race on the banked 1/3 mile track in San Luis Obispo County will be the 10th CLS race in 2024. High school student Dyer has started eight of the first nine and had raced his way up to fourth in the series standings. However, after back-to-back fourth-place finishes at the Bakersfield Speedway on May 18th and the Ventura Raceway on June 6th, things unraveled. At Bakersfield on June 15th, Dyer won his heat race and started on the pole for the main event. The ever-confident team led the first nine circuits at the famous “Okie Bowl.” However, on lap 10, his engine dropped a valve, and he was out of the race.

    Two weeks later, on the same 60-year-old oval he will be racing on this Saturday night, Dyer was competing with the freshened-up engine. After starting third in the main event, disaster struck again as he slowed and pulled off the track. Fortunately, it was not as serious as the last time. It was a broken injector wire.

    The two faux pas saw the teen slip from fourth to sixth in the series standings. However, he is only 39 points out of fourth and nine points out of fifth. The driver in fifth is Seth’s father, Jeff, who is out indefinitely due to a broken arm suffered in the USAC/CRA Series at Perris Auto Speedway on July 13th.

    While Seth had issues at the last race at Santa Maria on July 6th, Dyer Motorsports did have a good night. A week before his Perris crash, Jeff smoked the CLS field for his first win of the year.

    To see Seth in action on Saturday, spectator gates at the revamped speed plant will open at 4:00 PM; qualifying will begin at 5:00, and the first race will be at 7:00.Adult tickets are $30.00. Seniors, military, and students get a $2.00 discount. Kids 6-12 are $10.00, and children 5 and under are free. The track is located at 1900 Hutton Road in Nipomo. The track website is https://santamariaspeedway.net/.

    In 2024, the following marketing partners will help keep the Dyers on track. Dependable Machine Inc., Haircuts By Susie, Jobu Racing, LBA Investigations, Straight Time Stirrups, Justice Brothers, Fonseca Racing, Specialty Fasteners, and Blud Racing Lubricants. If you would like to be a part of Dyer Motorsports in 2024, call (760) 550-7237 or send an email to mailto:dyermotorsports4@gmail.com.

    Jeff is racing in memory of his grandparents, Glenn, and Beverly Sels, throughout the 2024 season.

    Jeff Dyer’s 2024 Racing Results

    2/24/24 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 14th A Main

    3/1/24 Imperial Valley Raceway California Lightning Sprints DNS

    3/2/24 Imperial Valley Raceway California Lightning Sprints 7th A Main

    3/9/24 Bakersfield Speedway California Lightning Sprints 2nd A Main

    3/16/24 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 19th A Main

    4/6/24 Mohave Valley Raceway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 20th A Main

    4/20/24 Bakersfield Speedway California Lightning Sprints DNS

    4/20/24 Bakersfield Speedway Ultimate Sprint Car Series 17th A Main

    5/4/24 Ventura Raceway California Lightning Sprints 2nd A Main

    5/18/24 Bakersfield Speedway California Lightning Sprints DNS

    5/25/24 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars DNS

    6/8/24 Ventura Raceway California Lightning Sprints 9th A Main

    6/15/24 Bakersfield Speedway California Lightning Sprints 10th A Main

    6/22/24 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 19th A Main

    7/6/24 Santa Maria Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 14th A Main

    7/6/24 Santa Maria Speedway California Lightning Sprints 1st A Main

    7/13/24 Perris Auto Speedway USAC/CRA Sprint Cars 14th A Main

    Seth Dyer’s 2024 Racing Results

    3/1/24 Imperial Valley Raceway California Lightning Sprints 7th A Main

    3/2/24 Imperial Valley Raceway California Lightning Sprints 13th A Main

    4/20/24 Bakersfield Speedway California Lightning Sprints 7th A Main

    5/4/24 Ventura Raceway California Lightning Sprints 9th A Main

    5/18/24 Bakersfield Speedway California Lightning Sprints 4th A Main

    5/25/24 Perris Auto Speedway Young Gun Sprint Cars 4th A Main

    6/8/24 Ventura Raceway California Lightning Sprints 4th A Main

    6/15/24 Bakersfield Speedway California Lightning Sprints 9th A Main

    7/6/24 Santa Maria Speedway California Lightning Sprints 12th A Main

  • Excitement Builds as IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge Return to Road America, August 1-4

    Excitement Builds as IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge Return to Road America, August 1-4

    ELKHART LAKE, Wis., July 24, 2024 – Road America is set to welcome back the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge from August 1-4, promising fans an exhilarating weekend of top-tier sports car racing. Adding to the excitement, this year’s event will feature the Mustang Challenge and the Porsche Carrera Cup, making it one of the most anticipated racing spectacles of the summer.

    Last year, Road America witnessed its largest IMSA weekend crowd in over four decades. Fans enjoyed perfect weather, with blue skies and temperatures in the low 70s, creating the ideal backdrop for world-class racers to navigate the challenging 4-mile track. The 2023 event was highlighted by the No. 7 Penske Porsche, driven by Matt Campbell and Felipe Nasr, securing victory as the sixth different winner in just seven WeatherTech Championship races, underscoring the unpredictable and thrilling nature of IMSA racing at Road America.

    As the 2024 event approaches, fans are encouraged to secure their tickets, golf carts, and camping spots early. Last year’s massive turnout is a testament to the event’s growing popularity, and this year is expected to draw even more attendees. Don’t miss out on the high-speed action and the chance to explore Road America’s picturesque grounds. Get your tickets now to be part of the excitement only Road America can deliver!

    Throughout the weekend, fans will notice many improvements around the grounds, including scenic viewing trails inside and outside turns 9 and 10, the newly named ‘The Bluffs’ at Turn 11, and a new pathway to Turn 12, known as ‘Canada Corner.’ Additional amenities include a new restroom facility with showers, an RV waste transfer station at Turn 1, fresh artistic carvings, and upgrades to ‘The Mission Foods 2Fast2Tasty Beach’ near Turn 11.

    Road America’s 2024 season is a breathtaking journey through motorsports history, competition, and excitement. Whether you’re a die-hard enthusiast or a casual spectator, Road America offers something extraordinary. Mark your calendars for this and other major events like the Fanatec GT World Challenge, the Ariens Art on Wheels Weekend featuring VSCDA, and the SCCA National Championship Runoffs. Plus, anyone 16 and under gets in FREE when accompanied by a paying adult at the gate. For full event dates, details and ticket information, visit www.roadamerica.com.

  • Toyota Racing Weekly Preview 07.24.24

    Toyota Racing Weekly Preview 07.24.24

    This Week in Motorsports: July 22 – 28, 2024

    NHRA:
    Sonoma Raceway – July 26-28

    ARCA:
    Salem Speedway – July 27

    PLANO, Texas (July 24, 2024) – While NASCAR is on its two-week break, NHRA and the ARCA Menards Series take center stage this weekend for Team Toyota. The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series stays out on the west coast and heads to Sonoma Raceway for race 12 of the season. The ARCA Menards Series stays in the “Hoosier State” and heads to Salem Speedway on Saturday.

    NHRA – Top Fuel | Funny Car

    Toyota continues Top Fuel stranglehold … Following last weekend’s race in Seattle, Toyota continues to hold the top-five positions in the Top Fuel points standings.
    Doug Kalitta maintains the category points lead, now over his teammate, Shawn Langdon, who made the finals in Seattle last weekend. Following his second consecutive win in Seattle, Steve Torrence jumped to third in the points standings, now with Justin Ashley in fourth and Antron Brown in fifth. In Funny Car, J.R. Todd continues to be the lead GR Supra Funny Car, currently sitting in fourth after a semi-finals appearance last weekend.

    Toyota extends streaks … Seattle was another streak-extending weekend for Toyota, which the manufacturer will look to continue in Sonoma. With Torrence’s triumph, Toyota Top Fuel Dragsters have claimed victory in 11 of the last 12 NHRA events dating back to last November. Additionally, with Torrence and Langdon making up the finals in Top Fuel last Sunday, Toyota has now had at least one driver in 34 consecutive final rounds in either Top Fuel and/or Funny Car.

    Ashley, Todd look for Sonoma repeats … Sonoma Raceway was favorable for Team Toyota last year as Ashley and Todd captured the Top Fuel and Funny Car Wally trophies. A repeat victory would be Ashley’s third of 2024 and a triumph on Sunday would be the second for Todd this season. This has also been one of Todd’s best tracks as he owns two Top Fuel wins and two Funny Car wins at Sonoma Raceway. The former Funny Car champion earned his first Funny Car win at the facility in 2017.

    NASCAR Regional Series – ARCA Menards Series

    Sawalich seeks top-five streak extension … William Sawalich has been excellent in his six ARCA Menards Series starts this season. Along with his three victories, the Joe Gibbs Racing driver has finished inside the top-five in all but one of those six starts this season, including a second-place finish last weekend in Indianapolis. In his debut at Salem Speedway last season, he finished sixth, and now seeks to extend this streak and capture another checkered flag.

    Breidinger on the cusp of series top-five … Halfway through the ARCA Menards Series season, Toni Breidinger finds herself just outside the top-five of the series points standings, currently sitting in the sixth position. Salem Speedway has been a solid spot for Breidinger in the past as she’s scored top-10 finishes in each of her two previous starts.

  • ARCA Menards Series at Salem Speedway & Menards Series West at Shasta Speedway: Pre-race Notes and Stats Update

    ARCA Menards Series at Salem Speedway & Menards Series West at Shasta Speedway: Pre-race Notes and Stats Update

    ARCA Menards Series
    The Race: Salem ARCA 200
    The Place: Salem Speedway
    The Date: Saturday, July 27, 2024
    The Time: 8 pm ET
    TV: Live, FS1/FloRacing; 8 pm ET
    Distance: 200 Laps/111 Miles

    • The Salem ARCA 200 is scheduled to be the eleventh of 20 races for the ARCA Menards Series in 2024. It will mark the series’ 111th race at the 0.555-mile high-banked oval dating to the first in October 1955 won by Jack Harrison. Salem Speedway has hosted more ARCA Menards Series races than any other track in series history.
    • Andres Perez (No. 2 Max Siegel Inc. Chevrolet) leads the ARCA Menards Series championship standings by 46 points over 2023 Daytona winner Greg Van Alst (No. 35 Zaki Ali Personal Injury Attorney / CB Fabricating Ford). Perez finished second at Salem in 2023 while Van Alst’s best finish at Salem came in his most recent start, 7th, in 2022.
    • With support from Hendrick Motorsports, Corey Day (No. 28 Chevrolet Performance/HendrickCars.com Chevrolet) will make his ARCA Menards Series debut driving for Pinnacle Racing Group. Day won his preliminary night feature at the 2023 Chili Bowl and finished third in the championship night main event. Day earned his first World of Outlaws victory in 2023 at Silver Dollar Speedway and has won at Knoxville Raceway and picked up an $62,000 payday at Skagit Speedway in 2024. He’s also scored several High Limit Racing Sprint Car Series wins in 2024.
    • William Sawalich (No. 18 Starkey / Sound Gear Toyota) finished sixth at Salem Speedway in 2023, the only time in his ARCA Menards Series career he finished in the top ten but not among the top five. Sawalich has three ARCA Menards Series wins so far in 2023, matched with Connor Zilisch to lead the series in victories.
    • Current ARCA Menards Series championship points leader Andres Perez (No. 2 Max Siegel Inc Chevrolet) finished a career-best second at Salem Speedway in 2023; Perez matched his career best finish last Friday night at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park.
    • Isaac Johnson (No. 34 Endress + Hauser Ford) will make his fourth start of the season driving a second entry for Van Alst Motorsports. Johnson scored his first career top-ten finish at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park last Friday night.
    • The ARCA Menards Series track qualifying record at Salem Speedway was set by Chandler Smith in 2018 at 16.844 seconds/118.618 miles per hour.
    • The ARCA Menards Series track race record at Salem Speedway was set by Tom Hessert III in 2014 at one hour, nine minutes, 34 seconds/95.736 miles per hour.
    • The banking at Salem Speedway tops out at 33 degrees, matching Talladega Superspeedway as the track with the steepest banking on the ARCA Menards Series schedule.
    • The 25 cars on the entry list represent the most for an ARCA Menards Series race at Salem Speedway since April 2018 when 24 teams entered.
    • Salem Speedway closed for eight years from 1979 through 1987. The ARCA Menards Series was the first to race at the track when it reopened in 1987, and except for a two-year hiatus in 1989 and 1990 and in 2020 when the race was canceled due to the pandemic, the series has raced there at least once a year since. Winners since 1987 include Bob Keselowski (1987), Larry Moore (1988), Bob Brevak (1988), Bob Schacht (1989), Bob Strait (1992, 1993), Scott Neal (1994), Tim Steele (1995, 1996, 2 – 1997), Tobey Butler (1996), Frank Kimmel (2 – 1998, 2000, 2 – 2001, 2 – 2002, 2004, 2008), Bill Baird (1999), Ken Schrader (1999, 2015), Tracy Leslie (2000), Shelby Howard (2 – 2003), Jason Jarrett (2004), Chad Blount (2005), Joey Miller (2005), Billy Venturini (2006), Blake Bjorklund (2006), Brian Keselowski (2007), Justin Allgaier (2007, 2008), Patrick Sheltra (2009), Justin Loftin (2009), Steve Arpin (2010), Dakoda Armstrong (2010), Brennan Poole (2011), Chris Buescher (2011), Alex Bowman (2012), Tom Hessert III (2012, 2013, 2014), Kyle Benjamin (2013), Grant Enfinger (2014, 2015), Christopher Bell (2 – 2016), Dalton Sargeant (2017), Austin Theriault (2017), Christian Eckes (2018), Chandler Smith (2018), Michael Self (2019), Ty Gibbs (2019), Jesse Love (2021, 2023), and Sammy Smith (2022).
    • There will be two five-minute breaks for teams to perform service at or near lap 75 and lap 125. Teams can change tires and add fuel during the same stop, but not simultaneously. Teams can have a maximum of six tires in the pit stall.
    • Should the race need to be extended into overtime, there will be unlimited attempts at a two-lap “green-white-checkered” finish. If the caution is displayed after the white flag is displayed, there will be unlimited attempts at a one-lap “green and white together” finish.

    ARCA Menards Series West
    The Race: Shasta 150
    The Place: Shasta Speedway
    The Date: Saturday, July 27, 2024
    The Time: 11:45 pm ET/8:45 pm PT
    TV: Live, FloRacing; 11:30 pm ET/8:30 pm PT
    Distance: 150 Laps/56.25 Miles

    • The Shasta 150 will serve as the seventh race of 12 scheduled for the ARCA Menards Series West in 2024. It will be the sixteenth race for the ARCA Menards Series at Shasta Speedway dating to the first in 1967 won by Scott Cain.
    • Reigning ARCA Menards Series West champion Sean Hingorani (No. 5 Fidelity Capital Toyota) assumed the series championship lead after sweeping the Independence Day weekend doubleheader at Irwindale Speedway. Hingorani, who leads current runner-up Tyler Reif (No. 13 Central Coast Cabinets Toyota) by five points, is the defending winner at Shasta Speedway.
    • Jack Wood (No. 16 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet) heads to Shasta Speedway coming off his best career ARCA Menards Series West finish, second, at Irwindale Speedway on July 6. Wood is third in the series championship standings, 31 points out of the lead.
    • Trevor Huddleston (No. 50 High Point Racing/Racecar Factory Ford) started from the General Tire Pole and led 111 laps last year at Shasta Speedway before finishing second to Hingorani. Huddleston was challenging for the win before a cut tire scuttled his chances for victory in the July 6 race at Irwindale; he sits fourth in the series championship standings just three points behind Wood for third.
    • Kyle Keller (No. 12 Setting the Stage/Battleborn Racing Ford) finished sixth at Shasta Speedway in 2023. Keller, fifth in ARCA Menards Series West standings 41 points out of the lead, has five top-ten finishes in 2024 including a season-best seventh at Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway in April.
    • Jaron Giannini (No. 23 Sigma Performance Services Chevrolet) returns for his third ARCA Menards Series West start of 2024. Giannini had a strong debut weekend at Irwindale, finishing sixth in his debut and backing it up with a fifth-place finish on July 6.
    • Previous ARCA Menards Series West winners at Shasta Speedway include Scott Cain (1967), Bill Schmitt (1976, 1979), Jim Walker (1977), Jimmy Insolo (2 – 1978), Jim Robinson (1981, 1983, 1985), Ron Eaton (1982), Derrike Cope (1984), Bill Sedgwick (1992), Rick Carelli (1993), Chris Eggleston (2015), and Sean Hingorani (2023).
    • The ARCA Menards Series West track qualifying record at Shasta Speedway is 15.873 seconds/85.050 miles per hour, set by David Mayhew, in 2015.
    • The ARCA Menards Series West race record at Shasta Speedway is 70.508 miles per hour, set by Sean Hingorani, in 2023.
    • There will be no scheduled pit stops in the Shasta 150. The only pit stops will be for emergency purposes only. Teams will have two tires in their pit box, but any tire changes need to be approved by an ARCA official.
    • Should the race need to be extended into overtime, there will be unlimited attempts at a two-lap “green-white-checkered” finish. If the caution is displayed after the white flag is displayed, there will be unlimited attempts at a one-lap “green and white together” finish.

    About ARCA
    The Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA), founded in 1953 by John and Mildred Marcum in Toledo, Ohio, and acquired by NASCAR in April 2018, is the leading grassroots stock car sanctioning body in the United States. Bridging the gap between NASCAR’s top three national touring series and weekly and regional tour racing all across the country, the organization sanctions over 100 races per year in the ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East, ARCA Menards Series West, ASA STARS National Tour, ASA CRA Super Series, ASA Midwest Tour, ASA Southern Super Series plus weekly racing at Toledo and Flat Rock Speedways. For more information about ARCA visit www.arcaracing.com, or follow ARCA on Facebook (@ARCARacing) and Twitter (@ARCA_Racing).

    About Menards
    A family-owned and run company started in 1958, Menards is recognized as the retail home center leader of the Midwest with 236 stores in 15 states. Menards is truly a one-stop shop for all of your home improvement needs featuring a full-service lumberyard and everything you need to plan a renovation or build a home, garage, cabin, shed, deck, fence or post frame building. You’ll find a large selection of lumber, roofing, siding, construction blocks, trusses, doors and windows, plus cabinets, appliances, countertops, flooring, lighting, paint, plumbing supplies and more. To complete the job, Menards has quality hand tools, power tools, fasteners, electrical tools plus storage options and supplies for everyone from the weekend warrior to the pro!

    Menards has what you need to complete your outdoor projects and keep your yard in tip-top shape including mowers, trimmers, blowers, pressure washers and more, plus a beautiful garden center stocked with plants, shrubs, trees, landscaping tools, grass seed, fertilizer options, outdoor décor and patio furniture. Menards also has everyday essentials like health & beauty products, housewares, pet and wildlife supplies, automotive items and even groceries. And at Christmas, an Enchanted Forest display area with impressive trees, lighting, decorations, ornaments, inflatables and more.
    Menards is known for friendly Customer Service and as the place to “Save Big Money” with low prices every day, and sales too! For more information, please visit Menards.com to learn about our store locations, offerings and services.

  • KENNINGTON AND CASTROL TEAM READY FOR EDMONTON

    KENNINGTON AND CASTROL TEAM READY FOR EDMONTON

    July 24, 2024. DJ Kennington, driver of the #17 Castrol EDGE Dodge, is set to make waves in round eight of the NASCAR Canada Series at Edmonton International Raceway in Wetaskiwin, AB, this Saturday, July 27th. This race marks the second stop on the series’ Western Canada swing.

    The Castrol team is looking for redemption after a challenging race last year, where a punctured radiator led to their only finish outside the top ten at the demanding 1/4-mile oval over eight races. Kennington has also scored three top-five finishes.

    Kennington and the Castrol team have made significant gains in performance with the new oval car they rolled out a few weeks ago and are set to reclaim their position at the front of the field.

    Here’s what you need to know.

    Race Event Preview
    Saturday July 27th Green Flag 7:30PM MT
    Bayer 300
    Race eight of 13 in 2024
    This is the ninth NASCAR Canada Series race Edmonton International Raceway

    The Track: 1/4-mile paved oval

    Best finish: Fourth in 2015

    Career Victories: 24

    Most Recent Win: Race one, Sutherland Automotive Speedway, 2022

    DJ Quote: “This is a challenging track, and 300 laps is a long race. It’s tough to pass so you want to be able to run the bottom groove. We’ve learned a lot about this car and we’re ready to break through. It was a total fluke and just a bad break with some debris taking us out of contention last year, so we’re excited to get going”.

    TV & Live Streaming
    All races will be streamed live on TSN+ and through FloRacing in the United States. The NAPA 300 from Edmonton International Raceway will also air on TSN Sunday and RDS2 date and times TBD.

    Race fans can follow DJ Kennington and the #17 Castrol EDGE Dodge team on their official social media platforms:

    Twitter www.twitter.com/@djkracing
    Instagram www.instagram.com/djkracing
    Website www.djkracing.ca
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/DJKenningtonRacing/

  • Top five finish for PT Autosport at VIR in Toyota GR Cup

    Top five finish for PT Autosport at VIR in Toyota GR Cup

    Solid results for the Precision Racing LA w/PT Autosport team, with Alex Sedgwick scoring a fifth-place finish in race one and Henry Drury leading his teammate home in race two

    ALTON, Va. (24 July 2024) – The Precision Racing LA w/PT Autosport duo of Henry Drury and Alex Sedgwick scored three top 15 finishes in two Toyota GR Cup races at VIRginia International Raceway last weekend in Sedgwick’s series debut.

    Rookie season GR Cup racer Drury was joined on the weekend by regular driver coach Sedgwick, getting a turn behind the wheel of the No. 44 Segra-sponsored Toyota GR86 Cup Car. The pair of 45-minute Toyota GR Cup races, staged as part of the SRO weekend, saw nonstop racing action and for the Precision Racing LA w/PT Autosport team, with a few mechanical gremlins along the way.

    In the first practice on Friday, Sedgwick focused on learning the new car, a very different ride than his usual Porsche 911 GT3 Cup car (228 HP vs the Porsche’s 510). Drury, on the other hand, felt comfortable from the start, though climbing a slightly uphill battle as most of his competitors had spent Thursday testing at the 17-turn, 3.270-mile road course located near Danville, Va. Drury, in the No. 88 PT Autosport Toyota GR86 Cup Car, led Sedgwick on the time sheets by an incredible .015 of a second. In the second session, both drivers headed out on sticker Continental tires, and at the checkered flag, Drury had set the 14th quickest time, with Sedgwick in 15th – now only .15 of a second back. The pair finally separated in race one qualifying, with Sedgwick starting race one in 12th and Drury in 16th, just three-tenths back.

    Hard rain fell shortly before the start of race, making it the first wet weather race in the GR Cup series’ young history. Much of the 33-car field optimistically fanned out at the green flag, and Sedgwick and Drury both took advantage, with Sedgwick taking 10th and Drury moving up five positions to 11th.

    With two competitors vying for position ahead, Drury wisely set up a move, passing both and sliding up to Sedgwick’s rear wing in seventh, with Sedgwick into sixth. With 25 minutes remaining, the pair continued to pace together, as Sedgwick took fifth and Drury sixth. But shortly thereafter, Drury felt his clutch go and pulled into pit lane. Sedgwick continued on, taking the checkered flag in fifth position – with Drury a disappointed 30th.

    “That was a fun race,” said Sedgwick. “We are lacking a bit of speed with dry settings, so the wet tires helped to equalize the grid a bit. I feel like it made it a more enjoyable car to race, with less grip available relative to the amount of power. I was able to work my way up to P5 at the end which I’m happy with for my first go.”

    “Pretty awesome race until it wasn’t,” said Drury. “Both PRLA cars were strong in the wet – like Alex said, it felt like everything was equalized a bit more compared to the advantage the top few teams have in the dry. I fought my way forwards behind Alex and made some really good progress, made some great moves, had some awesome fights, and was running P6 when the clutch exploded. Pretty happy with the performance, all in all.”

    With traffic making qualifying difficult, Drury took the green flag in P13, but with Sedgwick back in P21. Sedgwick began pressing his way forward while also managing a temperature alarm, up to P17 on lap two. Meanwhile, Drury fell back to 14th in the early chaos, but refused to relent, staying on the gas and joining a five-car battle for 12th that lasted for much of the race. He was joined with 23 minutes remaining by Sedgwick, right behind Drury in P15. But before the pair could engage, a significant incident ended the race under caution, with Drury in 13th and Sedgwick in 14th.

    “Sunday was some of the most exciting times I’ve ever had in a race car, a really strong day, said Drury. “We didn’t quite have the pace in the dry that some of the top teams have and spent too long fighting too hard for every inch in the midfield, so we really didn’t have time to keep moving forward. But lots of positives to take away, we will do everything we can to come back stronger and find another step forward at the next race.”

    “I struggled a bit on Sunday, managing the temperature,” said Sedgwick. “A bit frustrating but I was able to drive up to where Henry was and was in the running. But it was a good weekend, it was fun to race a different kind of car and work to make it go fast. Hopefully the wheels are in motion to continue helping PRLA and Henry move forward through the rest of the season.”

    Next up for Precision Racing LA with PT Autosport will be the doubleheader at Road America August 16-18. The pair of 45-minute races will be broadcast live at www.grcup.com.

    PT Autosport would like to thank partners STEAM Sports Foundation, Classic Car Club Manhattan and New Jersey Motorsports Park.

    About PT Autosport — Discover Unique Talent. Develop Champions.

    PT Autosport, based at New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, NJ, campaigns rising star Alex Sedgwick (UK) in the 2024 Porsche Carrera Cup North America series with JDX Racing, 2022 Aspiring Driver Shootout winner Henry Drury (UK) in the Toyota GR Cup North America series with Precision Racing LA, and 2023 Aspiring Driver Shootout winner Brenna Schubert (USA) in select SPEC-MX5 races for the 2024 season.

    PT Autosport is dedicated to providing merit-based motorsport industry opportunities for diverse individuals with high integrity, grit, and coach-ability, achieved through a development program for young aspiring drivers, engineers, mechanics, and other professionals. The first step of this process is applying for the annual Aspiring Driver Shootout, in which aspiring drivers aged 18-23 can compete for a team racing partnership with the team.

    A rigorous evaluation process of applicants determines the final competitors for the driver shootout. The winner earns financial support of up to $250,000 ($50,000 guaranteed) to pursue their racing career. The review process also provides the team the chance to identify unique talent for other roles in motorsport, including race engineers, mechanics, and professionals.

    PT Autosport is building a community that fosters the development of young talent to find a place where they can make an impact in the motorsport community as a career.

    PT Autosport social media

    Instagram: @pt_autosport
    TikTok: @ptautosport
    Twitter: @PtAutosport
    Facebook: PT Autosport

  • Event Preview: FR Americas, F4 U.S. and JS F4 Series at the New Jersey Lottery SpeedTour

    Event Preview: FR Americas, F4 U.S. and JS F4 Series at the New Jersey Lottery SpeedTour

    Track Facts:
    Circuit: Thunderbolt Course
    Length: 2.25-miles / 12-turn road course
    Race Direction: Clockwise
    Podium: Victory Circle, located at the rear of the Race Control Tower

    FR Americas Championship
    Practice: Friday, July 26 at 2:15 p.m. and 5:45 p.m. ET
    Qualifying: Saturday, July 27 at 10:25 a.m. ET
    Feature Race 1: Saturday, July 27 at 4:05 p.m. ET
    Feature Race 2: Sunday, July 28 at 9:45 a.m. ET
    Feature Race 3: Sunday, July 28 at 2:30 p.m. ET

    F4 U.S. Championship
    Practice: Friday, July 26 at 4:00 p.m. and 6:35 p.m. ET
    Qualifying: Saturday, July 27 at 11:45 a.m. ET
    Feature Race 1: Saturday, July 27 at 5:50 p.m. ET
    Feature Race 2: Sunday, July 28 at 11:05 a.m. ET
    Feature Race 3: Sunday, July 28 at 4:25 p.m. ET

    Ligier JS F4 Series
    Practice: Friday, July 26 at 1:00 p.m. and 4:55 p.m. ET
    Qualifying: Saturday, July 27 at 8:55 a.m. ET
    Feature Race 1: Saturday, July 27 at 2:10 p.m. ET
    Feature Race 2: Sunday, July 28 at 8:00 a.m. ET
    Feature Race 3: Sunday, July 28 at 12:45 p.m. ET

    Races will be streamed live at YouTube.com/SpeedTourTV FR Americas, F4 U.S. and JS F4 Arrive in New Jersey

    Formula Regional Americas Championship (FR Americas), Formula 4 United States Championship (F4 U.S.) and the Ligier JS F4 Series (JS F4) arrive at New Jersey Motorsports Park (NJMP) this weekend for the next round in their 2024 season. With races at NJMP, Canadian Tire Motorsport Park and Circuit of The Americas (COTA) remaining on the calendar for both FR Americas and F4 U.S., there’s still plenty of racing to go. However, for JS F4, the race at NJMP marks the penultimate round of the championship, with only COTA remaining on the 2024 calendar. The three championships will be joined by Sportscar Vintage Racing Association (SVRA), Formula Race Promotions, and Shelby Club North America for the New Jersey Lottery SpeedTour, with a weekend that features something for everyone. Tickets for the event are on sale now at SpeedTour.net/NJ.

    Point Standings Shake Up

    The battle for the 2024 FR Americas championship has seen a major shakeup over the last few weeks, as two of the four race winners this season have seen their progress slowed due to circumstances outside of their control. With back-to-back wins at Road America earlier this season, Titus Sherlock (No. 31 Crosslink Kiwi Motorsport Ligier JS F3) missed the races at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course last month when an off during practice put an early end to his weekend. Meanwhile, after winning four races this season—including three of the last four rounds—points leader Ryan Shehan (No. 66 Crosslink Kiwi Motorsport Ligier JS F3) will miss this weekend’s events at NJMP due to funding constraints. Both scenarios leave Patrick Woods-Toth (No. 27 Crosslink Kiwi Motorsport Ligier JS F3), who currently sits second in the standings, with an opportunity to open an expansive points lead with three races scheduled this weekend.

    From Chile to the Podium at Mid-Ohio

    Nicolas Ambiado (No. 55 TLink / Allegro Ligier JS F3) is coming off a career-best weekend at Mid-Ohio, earning his second podium in FR Americas and improving on his career-best finish with a second-place result. A resident of Santiago, Chile, Ambiado has one of the most grueling logistical schedules of the FR Americas competitors this season, traveling back and forth from South America for each round.

    Sherlock Returns

    Titus Sherlock (No. 31 Crosslink Kiwi Motorsport Ligier JS F3) returns to the cockpit after missing both races at Mid-Ohio. The Texas native entered the Mid-Ohio SpeedTour ranked third in the standings; however, after missing the two races, he’s now ranked fifth, 104.5 points behind the leader. Sherlock was on a similar trajectory last season in F4 U.S. when he entered the 2023 NJMP event at a 78.5-point deficit, but he found his footing that weekend to make a charge at the championship, ultimately finishing the season as the F4 U.S. Vice Champion. With two FR Americas wins already under his belt this year, Sherlock looks to once again return to winning form this weekend in New Jersey.

    Switching Lanes, But Still Going Fast

    Nicole Havrda (No. 6 Valley Kitchens Ltd / Colonial Countertops Ltd Ligier JS F3) has been turning laps for years, but it wasn’t always on the race track—it used to be in the swimming pool. Growing up a competitive swimmer, Havrda started swimming at the age of five and spent at least two hours in the pool every day. Hoping to one day make it to the Olympics, she was competing at the national level when she attended the Austrian F1 Grand Prix while on a family vacation and everything changed. Having caught the racing bug, Havrda shifted her focus to motorsports, attending driving schools and getting started in karting before moving into cars. As the 2024 Summer Olympics open in Paris this weekend, Havrda will be looking for her first FR Americas win after earning three podiums earlier this season.

    Bowlsbey Looks to Build on Consistency

    Hayden Bowlsbey (No. 22 IGY6 Motorsports / Save22 Ligier JS F3) finished last year’s New Jersey Lottery SpeedTour wheels up. Having to rebuild his car with the help of family and friends, Bowlsbey didn’t miss a beat. In fact, in the year that has followed, the 20-year-old driver has been more focused than ever, consistently bringing home top-five finishes and earning his first-career podiums in FR Americas. Coming off of one of his most consistent weekends to date with back-to-back fourth-place finishes at Mid-Ohio, Bowlsbey looks to build on that momentum when his IGY6 Motorsports team pulls into NJMP this weekend.

    Crossed Flags at NJMP

    F4 U.S. marks the halfway point of its 2024 season this weekend at NJMP, as the championship visits the Thunderbolt course for Rounds 6-7-8 of its 14-race season. The season has featured exceptionally competitive racing, with tight battles and close finishes as the Ligier JS F422 chassis and Ligier Storm powerhouse celebrate their premiere season on track. Both continue to prove their value, with 100% reliability in race completion and increased speeds over the previous generation racecar.

    Five Races Later, Six Points Separate Stati and Quimby

    With nearly half of the season in the books, the F4 U.S. championship battle continues to heat up. Each with two wins this year, Nicolas Stati (No. 15 AGI Sport Ligier JS F422) and Daniel Quimby (No. 24 Cruise America / MIR Raceline / FIJI Airways / GalvanizeIns Ligier JS F422) appear poised for an intense battle for the championship title, as only six points separate the two. Behind them, Pablo Benites Jr. (No. 44 Scuderia Buell Ligier JS F422) backed up his first-career win at Road America with a podium during the Mid-Ohio event to rank third, just 26 markers behind points leader Stati. With only 60 points separating the top-seven drivers in the standings, it’s still anyone’s title to win. The 2024 F4 U.S. Champion will receive a scholarship to compete in the 2025 season of FR Americas with full support from Ligier Automotive, Hankook Motorsports and Parella Motorsports Holdings.

    Alex Crosbie Steps Up to the Podium

    Last time out, Alex Crosbie (No. 41 Crosslink Kiwi Motorsport Ligier JS F422) earned his first-career podium in Round 4 at Mid-Ohio. This is the New Zealander’s first season racing in America, which means that he’s visiting each of the race circuits for the first time, while also learning the Ligier JS F422 chassis and adapting to his Crosslink Kiwi Motorsport crew.

    Roberts Bounces Back

    Connor Roberts (No. 46 ApexSpeed.com / Entropy Cellars Ligier JS F422) left the season opener at Road America with a perfect podium streak, but an incident in Round 4 put him behind the eight-ball at Mid-Ohio. Demonstrating the safety of the new chassis, Roberts was unharmed when contact sent him rolling into the gravel trap. However, extensive damage sustained to the car left the family-owned team scrambling to get ready for Sunday. Finishing setting up the car mere minutes before the race, Roberts maintained his composure and raced to a fifth-place finish, keeping his championship hopes alive.

    David vs. Goliath in the Team Championship Battle

    The fight is on for the F4 U.S. Team Championship title. While Crosslink Kiwi Motorsport continues to be a powerhouse with three entries in the series, they have faced stiff competition from the single-car teams in the paddock. With Crosslink Kiwi Motorsport (two wins), Atlantic Racing Team (two), and Scuderia Buell (one) all winning races this season, it took until Round 4 before Crosslink Kiwi Motorsport had two drivers represented on the same podium. Meanwhile, Team Roberts Racing continues to look for its first win after three podiums and a career-best finish of second, while MLT Motorsports is looking to secure its first podium after four top-five finishes.

    Frontrunners Emerge in Championship Battle

    With JS F4 entering the penultimate round of its 2024 season, the championship battle is coming down to the wire and there’s a lot on the line, as the championship-winning driver will also earn a full scholarship to compete in F4 U.S. in 2025. Accumulating three wins and seven podiums, Teddy Musella (No. 25 Scuderia Buell Ligier JS F4) currently leads the way. However, he’s facing tough competition from Kekai Hauanio (No. 29 N.E.Where Transportation / New’T Racing Ligier JS F4), who has four wins this season—including the two most recent rounds. Only 10 points separate Musella and Hauanio, and it’s just another 10 points back to third-place Bacon Zelenka (No. 45 Crosslink Kiwi Motorsport Ligier JS F4). With two wins at Road America earlier this season, Zelenka scored podiums at both NOLA Motorsports Park and Mid-Ohio to ensure he stays in the championship hunt. Determined to not let the boys have all the fun, Maite Cáceres (No. 6 Abitab / Supermatch Ligier JS F4) has stayed tight on their gearboxes all season. With four podiums in nine races and only one finish outside the top five, Cáceres may still be looking for her first win, but she’s keeping her championship hopes alive, just 39 points behind leader Musella.

    JENSEN Looks for Repeat Performance in New Jersey

    JENSEN returns to the site of their first race win one year after taking the top step of the podium with driver Oliver Westling in FR Americas. A longtime competitor in FR Americas, F4 U.S. and now JS F4, JENSEN secured two wins and four podiums in FR Americas last season en route to finishing second in the team championship point standings. Focused on their JS F4 efforts this year, the team returns to NJMP with drivers Jake Pollack (No. 1 JENSEN Ligier JS F4) and Athan Sterling (No. 2 JENSEN Ligier JS F4) behind the wheel. While Sterling makes his JS F4 debut after an extensive testing program with JENSEN, Pollack looks to add to his season-long stats and continue to chip away at the championship. With a career-best third-place finish, Pollack has two podium results, including in the most recent round at Mid-Ohio, where he also earned the Omologato Perfectly-Timed Move of the Race award for an impressive performance throughout the weekend.

    Rafal Wolosz Racing Near Home

    A resident of Rutherford, N.J., Rafal Wolosz (No. 27 Scuderia Buell Ligier JS F4) will have the benefit of racing near home this weekend for the New Jersey Lottery SpeedTour. Despite living just 120 miles north of the track, this will be Wolosz’s first time to the southern New Jersey circuit. After starting the season getting track time in his JS F4 car with SVRA, the Polish driver made his JS F4 debut at Mid-Ohio last month.

    Bacon Zelenka Reaches New Levels in Sim Racing

    It’s no secret that drivers often turn to sim racing as a way to prepare for their on-track racing, and 18-year-old Bacon Zelenka (No. 45 Crosslink Kiwi Motorsport Ligier JS F4) is no exception. In fact, Zelenka has reached the top level of GT3 competition, racing in the World GT Championship with Altitude Esport. Spending an estimated five hours a day on the sim, Zelenka adds it to an already packed schedule with multiple part-time jobs, working in the race shop and continuing his coursework at Purdue University.

    PMH Powering Diversity Scholarship Recipients Back in Action

    Two PMH Powering Diversity Scholarship Recipients will return to the track this weekend after scheduling conflicts sidelined them from the most recent round of JS F4 competition. Harbir Dass (No. 23 Berg DMG Racing Ligier JS F4) will be donning a new car number with his Berg DMG Racing entry, while Christopher Parrish (No. 83 IGY6 Motorsports / Save22 Ligier JS F4) returns to his usual IGY6 Motorsports ride. During their most recent outing with JS F4, both drivers achieved their career-best finishes, as Parrish finished second and Dass fifth in Round 5 at Road America.

  • AO Racing Bids Farewell to Priaulx

    AO Racing Bids Farewell to Priaulx

    ST CHARLES, Ill., (July 24, 2024) — Effective immediately, AO Racing and Sebastian Priaulx will part ways for the remainder of the 2024 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season. The change comes to allow the racer to focus on his growing commitments with Multimatic Motorsports.

    Priaulx, who was a part of the team’s two wins this season, will step away from the No. 77 Porsche 911 GT3 R to focus on his long-term future with Multimatic. Increasing obligations and schedule conflicts have necessitated the transition sooner than expected, but the team remains focused on the GTD PRO championship as they lead the points headed into the final rounds of the season.

    “All of us at AO Racing wish Seb the best and are thankful for the time Multimatic let him spend with us,” said Team Principal Gunnar Jeannette. “He has been a huge part of our team as we brought Rexy to life, and we are proud to have our early successes with him on the effort. We are working with Porsche to find a suitable driver to partner with Laurin for the remainder of the season.”

    AO Racing remains focused on continuing their bid on the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship GTD PRO title and will announce the new driver lineup in the coming days before the next round at Road America, August 2-4.

    About AO Racing

    Founded in 2022 by PJ Hyett and Gunnar Jeannette, AO Racing has swiftly risen to prominence in the world of professional sports car racing. With an unwavering commitment to on-track excellence and fan engagement, AO Racing commands attention with its fun liveries and fan-friendly presence, becoming a dynamic force in the sport. Central to AO Racing’s success is its unique blend of performance and personality. The iconic liveries of “Rexy” and “Roxy,” the T-Rex Porsche 911 GT3 Rawrs and “Spike” the LMP2 Dragon have captivated fans worldwide, earning AO Racing a dedicated following. With a focus on making racing accessible and enjoyable for enthusiasts of all ages, AO Racing has become a beloved favorite among motorsport lovers. The team has a global footprint, with strong efforts in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, Asian Le Mans Series, European Le Mans Series, and the FIA World Endurance Championship. With passion, precision, and a touch of flair, AO Racing is writing the next chapter in the annals of motorsport history.

  • TOP FUEL’S STEVE TORRENCE LOOKS AT KEEP ROLLING IN WINE COUNTRY AT DENSO NHRA SONOMA NATIONALS

    TOP FUEL’S STEVE TORRENCE LOOKS AT KEEP ROLLING IN WINE COUNTRY AT DENSO NHRA SONOMA NATIONALS

    SONOMA, Calif. (July 23, 2024) – Steve Torrence received as good of a sign as any last weekend in Seattle that things are coming together at a perfect time, racing to his first Top Fuel victory of the year. Now, the goal is to keep that momentum rolling at this weekend’s 36th annual Denso NHRA Sonoma Nationals at Sonoma Raceway, a track where the four-time champ has dominated over the years.

    Torrence didn’t win last season, as Justin Ashley picked up the victory in the heart of wine country, but the Texan has a strong record at the picturesque facility, winning four times in a five-year stretch, including back-to-back victories in 2021 and 2022.

    A fifth victory in Sonoma in his 11,000-horsepower Capco Contractors/Toyota dragster would tie him with reigning world champion Doug Kalitta for the most Top Fuel wins at Sonoma Raceway in NHRA history and also solidify another run at a world title.

    Torrence finished second a year ago, picking up one victory (Seattle) along the way. He hasn’t exactly struggled this year, either, but his first win of the year came on Sunday in Seattle, where the team showed a strong ability to run well in all conditions, the latest indication that things are coming together at an ideal point of the season.

    “We hadn’t just gone out and set the world on fire,” Torrence said. “But at the end of the day, I mean, we’ve been there when we needed to be there. We could have won the championship last year and didn’t have the driver to do it. So, we’ll keep fighting and we’ll keep digging. We’ve put ourselves in a hole on our own and we’re having to dig out. We’re crawling out of that hole and I think that we’re beginning to see some light. Hopefully it starts getting bright quickly because it’s been dark for about a year and a half, two years, but we’re getting there and we always stick together as a team.”

    Last year, Ashley (Top Fuel), J.R. Todd (Funny Car) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all took home wins in Sonoma. This year’s race will again be broadcast on both FOX and FS1, including eliminations coverage starting at 4 p.m. ET on Sunday, July 28 on FOX. It is the 12th of 20 races during the 2024 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season and the annual trek to Sonoma is a loaded weekend that also includes the GETTRX Pro Stock Motorcycle All-Star Callout and the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge on Saturday.

    Torrence will take part in the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge, looking for bonus points and a bonus purse, as well as another positive step forward with the Countdown to the Championship playoffs approaching. He’ll take on points leader Kalitta in a Seattle semifinal rematch, while the other rematch features Shawn Langdon and Clay Millican.

    Sunday’s win also bumped Torrence to third in points, another strong step forward after five previous semifinal appearances this year. Nothing comes easy in Top Fuel, especially in a class that also includes Antron Brown, Tony Schumacher, Clay Millican, Brittany Force and Top Fuel newcomer Tony Stewart, but Torrence is pleased with the recent progress from his team and now hopes it translates from race to trace.

    “Seattle was a great example of what we can do and what we need to do because you had the gamut of conditions,” Torrence said. “You’ve just got to stick it out. We’re champions and you can’t forget that even though when you look like you just showed up with all new stuff and don’t have a clue what you’re doing some weekends, and then you run like the four-time champ. It’s mentally taxing, but this is a great team and we’re just getting stronger.”

    Funny Car’s J.R. Todd has won both nitro categories in Sonoma and will look to collect another Denso NHRA Sonoma Nationals win taking on points leader Austin Prock, who joined the Funny Car ranks this season, Norwalk winner Bob Tasca III and defending world champion Matt Hagan, who each have two wins this season, and Ron Capps.

    Pro Stock returns to Sonoma after a year off in 2023. This season has been another year of intense competition featuring standouts like reigning champion Erica Enders, whose six Sonoma wins are the most of any NHRA driver, Greg Anderson, points leader Dallas Glenn, two-time 2024 winner Aaron Stanfield and Jeg Coughlin Jr.

    Herrera swept the weekend in Pro Stock Motorcycle at Sonoma last year, winning the Callout and the event en route to the title. He’s been dominant in 2024, winning the first six races of the year before Chase Van Sant won on Sunday in Seattle, snapping Herrera’s 11-race winning streak. Van Sant will look to keep rolling against Matt Smith, Jianna Evaristo, Angie Smith, Hector Arana Jr. and Steve Johnson, who is making his 500th career start this weekend. The GETTRX Pro Stock Motorcycle Callout features Herrera, M. Smith, Arana, Evaristo, Johnson, A. Smith, John Hall and Van Sant.

    The event also will feature thrilling competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the NHRA Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League Shootout, Street Legal and Top the Cops exhibitions.

    Fans will be invited all weekend long to the Nitro Alley Stage, which is the main entertainment hub in the pits, hosting Nitro School, meet and greets, music and much more. Race fans at Sonoma Raceway can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce and celebrate each of the drivers racing for the prestigious Wally on Sunday and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk. The final can’t-miss experience of any NHRA event is the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday after racing concludes, where fans are invited to congratulate the event winners.

    As always, fans get an exclusive pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet in Sonoma. Fans get a unique chance to see teams in action and service their hot rods between rounds, get autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers and more. They can also visit NHRA’s popular Nitro Alley and Manufacturers Midway, an exciting atmosphere that includes interactive displays, merchandise, food and fun for the entire family.

    NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 4:30 and 6:45 p.m. PT on Friday and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 10:30 a.m. PT on Sunday. Television coverage includes eliminations on FOX at 4 p.m. ET on Sunday.

    The first round of the GETTRX NHRA All- Star Pro Stock Motorcycle Callout takes place on Saturday at 11:30 a.m. PT, with the semifinals at 1:45 p.m. and the finals at 2:55 p.m. It will be broadcast at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on Saturday on FS1.

    To purchase tickets to the Denso NHRA Sonoma Nationals, fans can visit www.sonomaraceway.com or call 800-870-7223. For more information about NHRA, visit www.NHRA.com.

    About Mission Foods

    MISSION®, owned by GRUMA, S.A.B. de C.V., is the world’s leading brand for tortillas and wraps. MISSION® is also globally renowned for flatbreads, dips, salsas and Mexican food products. With presence in over 112 countries, MISSION® products are suited to the lifestyles and the local tastes of each country. With innovation and customer needs in mind, MISSION® focuses on the highest quality, authentic flavors, and providing healthy options that families and friends can enjoy together. For more information, please visit https://www.missionfoods.com/

    About NHRA

    NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 20 national events featuring the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by LearnEV+, NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown™, NHRA Holley EFI Factory X and Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage NHRA Mountain Motor Pro Stock at select national events. NHRA provides competition opportunities for drivers of all levels in the NHRA Summit Racing Series and NHRA Street Legal™. NHRA also offers the NHRA Jr. Street® program for teens and the Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League® for youth ages 5 to 17. With 110 Member Tracks, NHRA allows racers to compete at a variety of locations nationally and internationally. NHRA’s Youth and Education Services® (YES) Program reaches over 30,000 students annually to ignite their interest in automotive and racing related careers. NHRA’s streaming service, NHRA.tv®, allows fans to view all NHRA national events as well as exclusive features of the sport. In addition, NHRA owns and operates three racing facilities: Gainesville Raceway in Florida; Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park; and In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Southern California. For more information, log on to www.NHRA.com, or visit the official NHRA pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.