Category: XFINITY Series

NASCAR XFINITY Series news and information

  • Snap-on Extends, Expands Relationship with Penske Racing

    Snap-on Extends, Expands Relationship with Penske Racing

    [media-credit name=”www.penskeracing.com” align=”alignright” width=”212″][/media-credit]WILL SPONSOR NO. 22 DODGE IN NATIONWIDE SERIES

    MOORESVILLE, N.C. (January 26, 2012) – One of Penske Racing’s longest-tenured sponsors is building on its relationship with the organization in 2012. Entering its 30th year as a Penske Racing sponsor, Snap-on Tools will enhance its role with the organization to serve as a primary sponsor of the No. 22 Dodge Challenger in the NASCAR Nationwide Series for four races this season.

    Snap-on’s colors and branding will adorn the No. 22 car driven this season by both former Nationwide Series champion Brad Keselowski and rising star Parker Kligerman in races at Darlington Raceway (May 11), Dover International Speedway (June 2), New Hampshire Motor Speedway (July 14) and Richmond International Raceway (September 7).

    “We are excited to grow and develop our long-standing partnership with Snap-on as they expand our relationship to become a primary sponsor on the No. 22 Dodge for several Nationwide Series races this season,” said Roger Penske. “Snap-on has been a terrific partner with our organization now for 30 years and we look forward to celebrating this milestone with a great season together in 2012.”

    Snap-on will continue to be an associate sponsor on all Penske Racing cars competing in the NASCAR Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series this season as well as its IndyCar Series teams. Building on a strong and productive relationship that enters its third decade, Penske Automotive Group and Penske Truck Rental also continue to use Snap-on products across all levels of their respective businesses.

    “Snap-on is honored to be one of Penske Racing’s longest-tenured sponsors and is thrilled to be expanding the relationship,” said Yvette Morrison, vice president of marketing for Snap-on Tools. “Penske is a first-class organization and our partnership continues to be of great benefit to our company and our franchisees. We are excited to have one of the winningest teams in motorsports carry the Snap-on brand.”

    About Snap-on

    Snap-on Incorporated is a leading global innovator, manufacturer and marketer of tools, equipment, diagnostics, repair information and systems solutions for professional users performing critical tasks. Products and services include hand and power tools, tool storage, diagnostics software, information and management systems, shop equipment and other solutions for vehicle dealerships and repair centers, as well as customers in industry, government, agriculture, aviation and natural resources. Products and services are sold through the company’s franchisee, company-direct, distributor and Internet channels. Founded in 1920, Snap-on is a $2.6 billion, S&P 500 company headquartered in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

    About Penske Racing

    Penske Racing is one of the most successful teams in the history of professional sports. Competing in a variety of disciplines, cars owned and prepared by Penske Racing have produced 350 major race wins, 412 pole positions and 23 National Championships. For more information about Penske Racing, please visit www.penskeracing.com.

  • Tommy Baldwin Racing Expands NASCAR Nationwide Series Program; Ryan Truex to compete in season-opener at Daytona; Bobby Santos to run Daytona in July

    Tommy Baldwin Racing Expands NASCAR Nationwide Series Program; Ryan Truex to compete in season-opener at Daytona; Bobby Santos to run Daytona in July

    MOORESVILLE, N.C. (January 25, 2012) – Tommy Baldwin Racing (TBR) expands NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS) program with the addition of Ryan Truex and Bobby Santos, who will split driving duties with Ryan Blaney. Truex will compete in the DRIVE4COPD 300 at Daytona International Speedway (DIS) February 25. Santos will race in the Subway Jalapeno 250 at DIS July 6. Blaney will run six NNS events with TBR, debuting April 27 at Richmond International Raceway.

    Truex will make his first superspeedway start in the NNS season-opener. The 19-year-old racer made his NNS debut in 2010 at Gateway International Raceway and made 24 starts in the 2010 and 2011 seasons. He compiled five top-10 finishes including a third-place finish at Kansas Speedway. Truex competed in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East in 2009 and 2010 and won the championship both years with a top-10 average finish.

    “I’m happy to be back in a racecar,” said Truex. “I was back and forth between teams last year, so it is nice to be in a car for the first race of this season. I’m excited about racing at a superspeedway. This is my first restrictor plate race and first start at Daytona. It’s something I’ve never done, but it looks like a lot of fun. Superspeedway racing is something I need to learn as I progress in my career. Hopefully, I can find myself a good partner to work with and have a good finish at the end.”

    Santos has competed under the TBR Development banner since 2010. He competed in the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour (NWMT) in 2010 and 2011 and won the championship in his first season in the series. The 26-year-old won the inaugural USAC National Pavement Sprint Car Series championship last season in a family-owned car. Santos made five starts in the NNS since 2007. His last start was at DIS February 2011 where he finished 17th in a JR Motorsports-prepared Chevrolet.

    “I’m thrilled to compete in the Nationwide series again,” said Santos. “The Daytona race last year was a lot of fun. It was kind of a last minute deal, so I’m glad we’ll have some time to prepare for it this year. Tommy and Al have done a lot to help my career, and I appreciate them giving me this opportunity in the Nationwide Series.”

    This season will mark TBR’s fourth season of competition. TBR began as a part-time one-car NSCS team in 2009 and developed into a top-35 team by 2011. In 2012, TBR plans to compete with two NSCS teams. The part time NNS team will expand on TBR’s driver development program in the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour. The team would like to increase the number of races in both the NSCS and NNS schedules, provided more sponsorship can be found.

    “We are really working hard to develop young talent,” explained owner Tommy Baldwin. “The Nationwide series is a great place for young drivers to learn the ropes and compete at the same tracks as the ‘Cup series. It is important to give these kids opportunities to showcase their talents for their future and for the future of TBR.”

    TBR NASCAR Nationwide Series Schedule: ·       February 25th – Ryan Truex – Daytona International Speedway ·       April 27th – Ryan Blaney – Richmond International Raceway ·       May 11th – Ryan Blaney – Darlington Raceway ·       June 29th – Ryan Blaney – Kentucky Speedway ·       July 6th – Bobby Santos – Daytona International Speedway ·       July 28th – Ryan Blaney – Indianapolis Motor Speedway ·       August 24th – Ryan Blaney – Bristol Motor Speedway ·       October 12th – Ryan Blaney – Charlotte Motor Speedway

    About Tommy Baldwin Racing:

    NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) Crew Chief Tommy Baldwin formed Tommy Baldwin Racing (TBR) in 2009. Baldwin utilized a declining economy to open a NSCS team with a stringent budget. The team worked to build to full-time competition, and by the 2011 season, the team’s third season, TBR competed in every race and locked the No. 36 Chevrolet in the top-35 in NSCS Owner Points. Dave Blaney drove the No. 36 Chevrolet to TBR’s highest finish of third in the October 2011 event at Talladega Superspeedway. TBR also fielded a second car for select races in the past two seasons with multiple drivers.

    Based in Mooresville, N.C., TBR will compete in the NSCS in 2012 with NASCAR veterans David Reutimann and Dave Blaney. The team will also compete in the NASCAR Nationwide Series with Ryan Blaney, Bobby Santos and Ryan Truex.

    For more information on Tommy Baldwin Racing, visit tommybaldwinracing.com or follow us on Facebook, facebook.com/TBR.HBR, and Twitter, twitter.com/TBR_Racing.

  • Robert Richardson Jr. Partners with The ALS Association

    Robert Richardson Jr. Partners with The ALS Association

    [media-credit name=”RobertRichardson.net” align=”alignright” width=”268″][/media-credit]Lucky Fan to Win Pit Passes to Daytona 500 in “Drive Away ALS” Campaign

    CHINA GROVE, NORTH CAROLINA (January 25, 2012) – NASCAR driver Robert Richardson Jr. and The ALS Association have partnered together to bring ALS awareness to NASCAR fans and to raise funds to fight ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

    Richardson is the primary driver for the No. 23 Chevrolet in the NASCAR Nationwide Series for his family-owned team of R3 Motorsports. He began his racing career in 2001 driving Legend Cars and progressively advanced through the ranks of NASCAR to the Daytona 500; a race he has competed in three times.

    Richardson gives credit to his former McKinney, Texas high school football coach, Billy Whitman, for the ability to incorporate what he learned in football into racing. Whitman, who died in 2005 due to ALS, taught Richardson to have a never-say no type attitude.

    “All the competitive fire he put inside of me, I carry it with me every single race,” Richardson said. “Especially before qualifying, I listen to his voice. My car number is 23 because that was coach’s number when he played football. He had 23 tattooed on his arm, so I tattooed it on my car in honor of him.”

    ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative muscular disease that affects a person’s ability to breathe, eat, move, and swallow.  An estimated 30,000 Americans may have the disease at any given time, and approximately 5,600 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with ALS each year. ALS can strike anyone; people with the disease usually have a survival rate of two to five years from the time of their diagnoses.

    Richardson has created a website to spread ALS awareness and raise funds to support The ALS Association. NASCAR fans and interested parties can make a donation to the “Drive Away ALS” campaign at www.RobertRichardson.net/als.  Anyone who makes a donation to the campaign by February 2 will be entered to win two all-access pit passes to the Daytona 500 on February 26, 2012.

    “We are thrilled to work with Robert to raise awareness and funds for ALS. This is a great opportunity to spread the word about the need for better treatments, better care, and a cure for this disease,” said President and CEO of The ALS Association Jane H. Gilbert.

    The ALS Association is the only national non-profit organization fighting Lou Gehrig’s Disease on every front.  By leading the way in global research, providing assistance for people with ALS through a nationwide network of chapters, coordinating multidisciplinary care through certified clinical care centers, and fostering government partnerships, The Association builds hope and enhances quality of life while aggressively searching for new treatments and a cure.  For more information about The ALS Association, visit our website at www.alsa.org or call 800-782-4747.

  • NASCAR Champion Tony Stewart Kicks Off 2012 Sprint Cup Media Tour

    NASCAR Champion Tony Stewart Kicks Off 2012 Sprint Cup Media Tour

    [media-credit id=22 align=”alignright” width=”119″][/media-credit]

    It was just 65 days ago when Tony Stewart secured his third Sprint Cup Championship with a walk off victory at Miami Homestead Speedway.

    Starting with the season opening Daytona 500, defense of that championship begins in just three short weeks.

    Sandwiched in between those two events is the Sprint Cup Media Tour presented by Charlotte Motor Speedway.

    Strolling to the stage with “How You Like Me Now” playing over the public address system, Tony Stewart kicked off the 2012 Media Tour. He was joined by Ryan Newman, Matt Borland, Tony Gibson, and new comers Danica Patrick, Steve Addington, and Greg Zipadelli.

    The biggest news coming from SHR is the 10 race deal with Patrick and Go Daddy as the primary sponsor.

    During the media break out sessions, Stewart talked about the growth of his young company.

    “I am really proud of the success we have had. It’s amazing how far we have come in such a short amount of time.”

    Missing from the SHR superstar lineup was former crew chief Darian Grubb. Stewart stated he was happy Grubb quickly landed somewhere successful. He also made it clear his decision to part ways with Grubb, and hire Steve Addington, was made long before the season ending championship.

    It was revealed that during the chase, Stewart kept in touch with Addington via text messaging, including sending an encouraging text to Addington after the final race of the season.

    When asked about his new driver, Danica Patrick, Stewart continued his praise and offered a bold prediction.

    “Danica is talented and very confident. It is quite possible she could win the Daytona 500. A rookie won it last year, why can’t it happen again?”
    Fielding questions from media members on the other side of the room, Patrick echoed some of Stewart’s thoughts.

    “My inexperience at Daytona should not be a factor,” said Patrick. “The only thing I really had to work on is the bump drafting. There wasn’t bump drafting in Indy racing, so it took me some time to get used to it in Sprint Cup.”

    Stewart and Patrick worked on bump drafting during a recent testing session at Daytona International Speedway. During the three days of testing, both drivers ran multiple laps in single car formations and nose-to-tail formation; taking turns pushing each other around the speedway.

    Along with her 10 race deal at Stewart-Haas Racing, Patrick is also running a full Nationwide schedule in 2012 for JR Motorsports.

    She reflected on her exit from Indy car racing, and hinted at a possible return in the future.
    “I am relieved I can now focus on just NASCAR,” said Patrick. “I will miss Indy, but I am not going to rule out a return in the future.”

    Patrick said she doesn’t expect instant success in NASCAR’s top level and would be happy with mediocre results as long as she’s learning something along the way.
    “If I finish five laps down, it’s ok. As long as I learn something, improve, or get something from the race, its ok.”

    Danica Patrick’s first race of the season will be the Nationwide race at Daytona in February. Tony Stewart, last year’s winner, is also entered in the same race.

  • NASCAR Nationwide Series May Be The One to Watch in 2012

    NASCAR Nationwide Series May Be The One to Watch in 2012

    Sandwiched between the top-tier NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and the rough and tumble Camping World Truck Series is the middle child, the Nationwide Series. But for the upcoming 2012 season, this may indeed be the preferred series to watch for the NASCAR fandom.

    [media-credit name=”David Yeazell” align=”alignright” width=”218″][/media-credit]One of the biggest new stories in the Nationwide Series is of course that of Danica Patrick running her first full-time gig in NASCAR since her abdication from the world of open wheel racing. For her first Nationwide run, the marketing diva will be continuing her association with JR Motorsports with Tony Eury, Jr. as her crew chief.

    “I’m going into this season with a little bit more of a ‘I’m going to do it’ attitude,” Patrick said. “I’ve got a lot to learn and I know that.”

    “I’m going to make lots of mistakes I’m sure,” Patrick continued. “But I’m mentally wrapping my head around not just learning but being successful and running well and getting to Victory Lane and thinking about that so my thoughts translate to the real world and really happen.”

    Patrick also fully intends to run for the Nationwide championship and even her crew chief believes that is possible. Eury’s goal is to get his driver into the top ten in points after the first ten races of the season, positioning her to make a run at the title.

    “She’s gone to a lot of these tracks,” Eury Jr. said. “Before she wasn’t running for points.”

    “This year, she’s here for the reason to win the championship,” Eury Jr. continued. “So, she’s not going to be that person that kind of lays over.”

    In addition to seeing the new aggression of Patrick on the Nationwide as she attacks her first ever full-time stint, two other super aggressive drivers, in fact brothers, are planning to share a Nationwide gig in 2012.

    Big brother Kurt Busch will be sharing a 2012 Nationwide seat with little brother and team owner Kyle for Kyle Busch Motorsports.

    Monster Energy, leaving prior driver Ricky Carmichael high and dry, will sponsor the Busch brothers in their No. 54 Monster Energy Camry. Kyle will drive the season opener at Daytona and the following four races and then split the ride with his brother Kurt.

    While not competing with Patrick for the Nationwide championship, since both Busch brothers are also racing in the Cup Series, the duo fully intends to complete for the 2012 Nationwide Owner’s Championship.

    “We’ve had a lot of talks about how this whole deal is going to work out, what we’re both looking to get out of this and what a great opportunity this is to race in the Nationwide Series,” Kyle Busch said. “Kurt’s never done a full Nationwide deal; he’s always had the itch but never really cared about it.”

    While Danica Patrick and the Busch brothers have something to prove in the Nationwide Series, a driver whose Nationwide debut has been delayed also has to prove he can get back behind the wheel of a race car.

    Travis Pastrana, who was scheduled to come to the Nationwide world last year but could not due to a serious injury sustained during the X Games competition, plans to run seven Nationwide races, starting with Richmond.

    “I feel really good,” Pastrana said during the NASCAR Preview 2012. “The therapy the last two weeks has made huge improvements.”

    “We’ll start out with seven Nationwide races and that’s kind of a let’s see how we do, let’s see what we need more work on,” Pastrana continued. “If we’re running OK or if I can get sponsorship to keep running wherever we’re running, we’re going to keep trying to get seat time.”

    “I basically have to prove I can get in a car.”

    As opposed to Pastrana with something to prove, one driver who has already proven that he can drive a race car will be back to defend his Nationwide title. Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. will indeed return to the Series, driving full-time again for Roush Fenway Racing.

    “They’re working on sponsorship for it right now, so everything is good,” Stenhouse Jr. said. “It sounds like we’re going to be able to go and defend our title again.”

    Stenhouse Jr. won the Nationwide title by just 45 points over Kevin Harvick Inc. driver Elliott Sadler. And for this upcoming year, Stenhouse Jr. is certainly hoping that the championship competition will not be quite as close.

    “I think we will do little things at the beginning of the year different,” Stenhouse Jr. said. “So, hopefully the points chase isn’t so close all year. That drives you nuts.”

    Speaking of Elliott Sadler, or ‘Ricky Bobby’ as he is affectionately known, he will indeed be back to challenge the other Ricky, Stenhouse that is, for the Nationwide Series championship. Since Sadler’s former team is no longer, ‘Ricky Bobby’ will be driving the No. 2 OneMain Financial for Richard Childress Racing.

    “It is such a great opportunity to compete for such an accomplished organization like Richard Childress Racing,” Sadler said. “To have an organization like OneMain Financial support me on and off the track again this year really makes me eager to get back to the track to compete for the Nationwide Series championship.”

    “We came up short last year, but I know we have all the parts in place to win this year with this RCR team.”

    Speaking of Richard Childress Racing, that team will be putting a member of the family, grandson Austin Dillon, on the Nationwide Series track this year. Dillon, last year’s 2011 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Champion, will be driving the very storied No. 3 Chevy as his Nationwide ride, competing for another honor, the Nationwide Rookie of the Year.

    “I’m looking forward to the challenge of moving with Danny Stockman (crew chief) and the guys to the NASCAR Nationwide Series with the No. 3,” Dillon said. “Our goal next year is to win races and compete for Rookie of the Year honors.”

    Finally, there are two veterans worth mentioning as very good reasons to watch the 2012 Nationwide Series.

    First is Morgan Shepherd, who at the sweet age of 70 years, will be driving in his 45th season in the Nationwide Series. Shepherd, competing with plenty of faith, hopes to better his best ever 21st place in the Nationwide point standings in 2011.

    The other veteran who is always worth watching in the Nationwide Series is Kenny Wallace, affectionately known as the ‘Herminator’. Wallace will be back with RAB Racing, behind the wheel of the No. 09 American Ethanol Toyota Camry.

    “Corn farmers are excited to continue our relationship with RAB Racing and Kenny Wallace in 2012,” Garry Niemeyer, National Corn Growers Association President, said. “Kenny is a fan favorite and one of the most visible drivers in the sport.”

    So, from the veterans, like Morgan Shepherd and Kenny Wallace, to the newbies, like Danica Patrick and Travis Pastrana, the Nationwide Series does indeed seem to be the one to watch in 2012.

    Fans can catch all the action of the Nationwide Series, beginning with the DRIVE4COPD 300 at Daytona International Speedway on Saturday, February 25th, 2012.

  • Busch Brothers Join World Class Lineup of Monster Athletes to Announce Joining Monster Energy Team

    Busch Brothers Join World Class Lineup of Monster Athletes to Announce Joining Monster Energy Team

    [media-credit name=”Kyle Busch Motorsports” align=”alignright” width=”225″][/media-credit]A collection of world class Monster Energy action sports athletes welcomed Kyle and Kurt Busch to the Monster Energy team today with the announcement of a multi-year agreement as primary sponsor of the team’s No. 54 Monster Energy Camry in the NASCAR Nationwide Series for Kyle Busch Motorsports.

    With multi-time X Games and Dew Tour Champion Jamie Bestwick serving as announcer, a freestyle moto-x demo kicked things off at the headquarters of team owner Kyle Busch’s race shop. “It’s great to have the Busch brothers join the Monster team and be wearing the Claw – they have the right attitude for Monster, and they’re proven winners, which is what Monster is all about,” said Bestwick, who was joined in the announcement by a lineup including seven-time Supercross Champion Jeremy McGrath, multifold Freestyle Motocross X Games Medalists Jeremy “Twitch” Stenberg, Kyle Loza and Adam Jones, off-road champion Johnny Greaves and BMX legend Dave Mirra in making the announcement in front a slack-jawed platoon of NASCAR media members who very likely saw moto-x backflips live for the first time in person.

    “Now that you’ve joined Monster you may have to try a backflip yourself,” said Bestwick, who added, “all of us want to take some of your 650-horsepower cars here in the shop out for a 180 mile per hour spin, by the way. Keys, please.”

    “I’m thrilled to a be part of a team of athletes like this,” said Kyle Busch, who will drive the season-opening race on the 2.5-mile, 31-degree high banks of Daytona International Speedway, and the subsequent four races through California before splitting the balance of the season with Kurt. Their goal: Their goal: Securing the Nationwide Owner’s Championship. “Since debuting in NASCAR, Kyle Busch Motorsports has had the goal to add a championship-caliber Nationwide Series team to our organization. With today’s announcement of Monster Energy as primary sponsor and my brother Kurt as the second driver, we’ve accomplished that goal.”

    The Monster athletes on-hand had no problem bridging the gap between traditional motorsports and action sports culture. “We all share a desire to be the best, and do whatever it takes to win,” commented Jeremy McGrath, now a race-winning off-road truck competitor.

    “I wouldn’t mind taking a turn in one of those cars,” added Johnny Greaves, to which Kyle responded, “I’ve driven off-road trucks and who knows maybe I’ll do it again – I don’t mind getting dirty.”

    “Monster Energy has always stood for competing and winning no matter what the sport,” stated Monster Energy Company President, Mark Hall. “To make this happen, we’ve always sought out the most determined, fearless and committed athletes for the Monster team. With the Busch brothers sharing the wheel of Kyle Busch Motorsports Energy Camry, we have reason to believe we have drivers capable of running up front every weekend.”

    About Mad Media:

    Mad Media ( www.madmedia.com) is San Diego based marketing and creative agency offering professional print, web, and film production. They specialize in producing culturally relevant brand messaging using professional athletes, musicians, and artists. Mad Media focuses on sports and cultures that they are passionate about, including skateboarding, surfing, snowboarding, motocross, FMX, BMX, off-road racing, rally racing, Hip-Hop, Punk Rock and Mixed Martial Arts. Mad Media has produced over twenty major commercial and viral film projects this year for clients such as Subaru of America, DC Shoes, Monster Energy Drink, and Harley-Davidson. Mad Media has been executing immersive marketing campaigns since 1996.

  • OneMain Financial Team Set to Compete for NASCAR Nationwide Series Championship in 2012

    OneMain Financial Team Set to Compete for NASCAR Nationwide Series Championship in 2012

    Sadler paired with Crew Chief Luke Lambert at Richard Childress Racing

    WELCOME, N.C. (January 20, 2012) – When the 2012 NASCAR Nationwide Series season kicks off in late February, Elliott Sadler will once again be driving the No. 2 OneMain Financial Chevrolet. This season however, Sadler joins forces with Richard Childress Racing and looks to add to the organization’s five Nationwide Series championships.

    Announced in 2011, Kevin Harvick Inc. merged with RCR on the Nationwide Series programs, moving teams and much of its equipment to the Welcome, N.C., shop. OneMain Financial will continue the sponsorship of the No. 2 Chevrolet at RCR for a total of 29 Nationwide Series events during the 2012 season, marking the company’s ninth season with a strong presence in the sport. For generations, OneMain Financial has provided local, one-on-one, personalized service and affordable solutions to customer borrowing needs.

    Sadler, an Emporia, Va., native, notched 12 top-five and 24 top-10 finishes, as well as five pole awards last season in the 2011 Nationwide Series season. He finished second in the driver point standings in his first full-time Nationwide Series season since 1998, falling just 45 points short of the championship.

    “It is such a great opportunity to compete for such an accomplished organization like Richard Childress Racing,” said Sadler. “To have an organization like OneMain Financial support me on and off the track again this year really makes me eager to get back to the track to compete for the Nationwide Series championship. We came up short last year, finishing second in the points, but I know we have all the parts in place to win this year with this RCR team.”

    Luke Lambert has been tapped as crew chief for the OneMain Financial team for the season. Lambert served as interim crew chief for the No. 31 Sprint Cup Series team for 17 races last season with driver Jeff Burton, leading the team to two top-five and five top-10 finishes. Lambert, 29, joined RCR in 2005, serving as the team engineer for the No. 31 program from 2008 – 2010. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from North Carolina State University in 2005.

    In addition to the sponsorship with Sadler, OneMain Financial will serve as the primary sponsor on RCR’s No. 33 Chevrolet driven by Kevin Harvick in the Nationwide Series event at Texas Motor Speedway in November. Harvick is scheduled to share the No. 33 Nationwide Series ride with teammates Paul Menard and Brendan Gaughan for the 2012 season. OneMain Financial will also sponsor Joey Coulter’s No. 22 Camping World truck at the fall Texas race.

    For additional information on today’s announcement, and all that’s happening at RCR, please visit rcrracing.com.

    -30-

    About OneMain Financial

    OneMain Financial, based in Baltimore, Md., provides personalized loan solutions and one-on-one, local service at more than 1,300 branches nationwide. With a 99-year heritage of helping people realize their financial goals and dreams, their employees are part of the communities where they live and work. OneMain Financial works with each customer to find a solution that best fits their needs and budget, offering a straightforward loan application with fixed rates and clear terms. Additional information may be found at www.OneMainFinancial.com.

    About Richard Childress Racing

    Richard Childress Racing (www.rcrracing.com) has earned more than 200 victories and 14 championships, including six in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series with the legendary Dale Earnhardt. RCR was the first organization to win championships in the Sprint Cup Series, Nationwide Series and Camping World Truck Series. Its current Sprint Cup Series lineup includes Paul Menard (No. 27 Menards Chevrolet), Kevin Harvick (No. 29 Budweiser/Rheem/Jimmy John’s Chevrolet) and Jeff Burton (No. 31 Caterpillar/Wheaties Chevrolet). Its Nationwide Series program includes Elliott Sadler (No. 2 One Main Financial Chevrolet), 2011 Camping World Truck Series champion Austin Dillon (No. 3 Advocare/Bass Pro Shops Chevrolet) and Kevin Harvick/Brendan Gaughan/Paul Menard (No. 33 South Point Hotel & Casino/Menards/Hunt Brothers Pizza/Armour/Fast Fixin’/ Chevrolet). Tim George Jr. and Brendan Gaughan (No. 2 Potomac Family Dining Group/South Point Hotel & Casino Chevrolet), Joey Coulter (No. 22 RCR/Armour Chevrolet) and 2011 ARCA Racing Series champion Ty Dillon (No.3 Bass Pro Shops Chevrolet) will compete in the 2012 Camping World Truck Series season.

  • Start Times Finalized For Speedweeks 2012 Events

    Start Times Finalized For Speedweeks 2012 Events

    54th annual Daytona 500 set for a 1 p.m. start

    DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – For the third straight year, the 54th annual Daytona 500 on Sunday, Feb. 26, NASCAR’s biggest, richest and most prestigious race, is scheduled for a 1 p.m. start time (TV – FOX Sports, Radio – MRN Radio).

    Start times for the other remaining events of Speedweeks 2012 at Daytona International Speedway are as follows:

    ·         The 50th anniversary of the Rolex 24 At Daytona GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series race, Jan. 28-29, 3:30 p.m.

    ·         The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards, Saturday, Feb. 18, 4:30 p.m.

    ·         The Budweiser Shootout  non-points event, Saturday, Feb. 18, 8:10 p.m.

    ·         Daytona 500 Qualifying Presented By Kroger, Sunday, Feb. 19, 1:05 p.m.

    ·         Gatorade Duel At Daytona, Thursday, Feb. 23, 2 p.m.

    ·         NextEra Energy Resources 250 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race, Friday, Feb. 24, 7:30 p.m.

    ·         DRIVE4COPD 300 NASCAR Nationwide Series race, Saturday, Feb. 25, 1:15 p.m.

    The day of the Daytona 500 creates legends, breathtaking moments and more unforgettable memories than any other race in the world. Trevor Bayne, who at the age of 20 became the youngest winner of the Daytona 500 in 2011, will gun for back-to-back victories with the legendary Wood Brothers. In addition, Danica Patrick will make her NASCAR Sprint Cup Series debut for Stewart-Haas Racing and become just the third woman to take the green flag in the Daytona 500.

    Tickets for the Daytona 500 start at $65. New for 2012, kids 12 and under receive half-off Superstretch seats for the Daytona 500 while supplies last. Tickets are available online at http://www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.

    Fans can stay connected with Daytona International Speedway on Twitter (www.twitter.com/disupdates) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/DaytonaInternationalSpeedway).

  • Busch Brothers and Monster Energy: A Monster Partnership Fit for a Championship

    Busch Brothers and Monster Energy: A Monster Partnership Fit for a Championship

    [media-credit name=”KyleBuschMotorsports.com” align=”alignright” width=”300″][/media-credit]MOORESVILLE, N.C. (January 19, 2012) – Kyle Busch Motorsports (KBM) announced today that it has signed a multi-year agreement with Monster Energy Company as primary sponsor of the team’s No. 54 Monster Energy Camry in the NASCAR Nationwide Series. Team owner Kyle Busch, the all-time race winning driver in the history of the NASCAR Nationwide Series, will share driving duties with his brother Kurt Busch, the 2004 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion.

    Kyle will drive the season-opening race at Daytona International Speedway and the subsequent four races through California before splitting the balance of the season with Kurt. The team’s goal will be to capture an Owner’s Championship in its inaugural race season, similar to the Owner’s Championship accomplished by KBM in its first full season in the Camping World Truck Series in 2010.

    The development of this duo as teammates fits perfectly for primary team sponsor Monster Energy, who foregoes traditional forms of advertising and instead seeks brand exposure through the use of Extreme Athletes. With Monster Energy looking for increased presence across the NASCAR fan base, the company identified the Busch brothers as the drivers that best fit its family of Monster Energy Team Athletes.

    “Monster Energy has always stood for competing and winning no matter what the sport,” said Monster Energy Company President, Mark Hall. “To make this happen, we’ve always sought out the most determined, fearless and committed athletes for the Monster team. With the Busch brothers sharing the wheel of the Kyle Busch Motorsports Monster Energy Camry, we have every reason to believe we have drivers capable of running up front every weekend.”

    KBM team owner and driver Kyle Busch explained, “Since debuting in NASCAR, Kyle Busch Motorsports has had the goal to add a championship-caliber Nationwide Series team to our organization. With today’s announcement of Monster Energy as primary sponsor and my brother Kurt as the second driver, we’ve accomplished that goal. The Monster Energy team of athletes consists of champion performers united by a desire to be the best. Kurt and I share that same desire and will settle for nothing less than adding a NASCAR Championship to the long list of achievements for one of the strongest brands in the world.”

    In 222 starts over nine seasons, Kyle has proven himself to be the winningest competitor in the history of the NASCAR Nationwide Series. In addition to his 51 career wins, Kyle has secured 120 top-five finishes, 149 top-10 finishes and 23 poles. In 2010, Kyle made Series history with a record 13-win race season. Past NASCAR Nationwide Series Championships for Kyle include a Driver’s Championship in 2009 and Owner’s Championships in both 2008 and 2010 — all with Kyle’s NASCAR Sprint Cup Series team owner Joe Gibbs Racing.

    Kurt has 12 career starts, three poles and three wins in the NASCAR Nationwide Series with his last Series victory coming at Watkins Glen in 2011. Kurt will spend additional seat time in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, beginning with the season-opening race at Daytona International Speedway through a part-time commitment to Phoenix Racing and the No. 1 NASCAR Nationwide Series entry.

    “Kyle has done an impressive job in building this race team and I’m proud to be a part of it,” Kurt said. “He won a Truck Series Owner’s Championship in his first year and his team has kept on winning ever since. Now, it’s moving into the Nationwide Series, where the bar will remain high. His expectations are the same as mine, and we know each other better than anyone. We’re driven to win, and with Monster Energy driving us, we’ll be a tough team to beat.”

    To complement the driver lineup, and ensure a strong competitive advantage, KBM brings industry veteran and winning crew chief Mike Beam into the fold as the No. 54 Monster Energy Camry team leader. Beam is a long-time fixture in NASCAR who has accomplished career victories across all three major touring series. At an early age, Mike became a successful contributor towards a variety of competitive racing organizations including Petty Enterprises and Roush Fenway Racing.

    Most recently Beam obtained the 2011 NASCAR Nationwide Series Owner’s Championship. Through 48 career starts in the NASCAR Nationwide Series as a crew chief, Beam has accomplished 10 wins, 32 top-five finishes, 37 top-10 finishes and eight poles. Mike is also a past Late Model Sportsman (now the NASCAR Nationwide Series) National Championship winner with driver Butch Lindley so working towards an Owner’s Championship with Kyle Busch Motorsports is very familiar territory.

    “I am excited to join the KBM team and to have Monster Energy as our sponsor,” stated Beam. “Kyle and Kurt are two of the best drivers in NASCAR. To contend for the 2012 NASCAR Nationwide Series Owner’s Championship with Monster Energy and to have all of the elements in place that make a great team, you can not help being excited to be a part of this.”

    Kyle Busch Motorsports and Monster Energy, two of the fastest-growing brands in their respective industries, have positioned themselves together for great success in 2012.

    About Kyle Busch Motorsports

    Kyle Busch Motorsports (KBM) has quickly established itself as one of the most successful teams in all of NASCAR, capturing the 2010 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Owner’s Championship in its inaugural season and 16 Truck Series victories over its first two seasons. 2012 marks the team’s debut in the NASCAR Nationwide Series with team owner and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series star Kyle Busch sharing the driving duties behind the wheel of the No. 54 Monster Energy Camry with his brother Kurt, the 2004 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion. Veteran driver Jason Leffler joins the KBM driver lineup and will be the primary pilot of the No. 18 Tundra in the Truck Series.

    KBM prepares a fleet of race-winning Toyotas out of its 77,000-square-foot facility in Mooresville, N.C. Pending LEED certification the facility’s state-of-the art equipment and innovative green initiatives make it unmatched among its peers. Fans can stay up-to-date with all the latest KBM news online at www.KyleBuschMotorsports.com, by liking the team on Facebook (@KyleBuschMS)and following the team on Twitter ( @KBMteam http://www.twitter.com/KBMteam).

    About Monster Beverage Corporation

    Based in Corona, California, Monster Energy refuses to acknowledge the traditional and the disingenuous. Monster always supports the scene and the sport. Whether it be motocross, off-road, NASCAR, MotoGP, BMX, surf, snowboard, ski, skateboard, or the rock and roll lifestyle, Monster is a brand that believes in authenticity and the core of what its sports, athletes and musicians symbolize. Much more than a drink, it’s a way of life lived by our athletes, sports, bands, believers and fans. See more about Monster Beverage Corporation – including all of its drinks – at www.monsterenergy.com and Facebook.com/monsterenergy.

  • TBR Taps Ryan Blaney to Compete in NASCAR Nationwide Series

    TBR Taps Ryan Blaney to Compete in NASCAR Nationwide Series

    Blaney will run a combined NASCAR Nationwide and K&N Series schedule

    MOORESVILLE, N.C. (January 18, 2012) – Tommy Baldwin Racing (TBR) signed Ryan Blaney to compete in the NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS). The 18-year-old will get behind the wheel of the No. 36 SealWrap Repair Tape Chevrolet and compete in six events throughout the season with his debut set for April 27 at Richmond International Raceway. Blaney will also run six NASCAR K&N Pro Series (NKNPS) races in his family-owned DB Racing No. 10 SealWrap Repair Tape/Heavy Duty Industrial Services machine, beginning at Bristol Motor Speedway March 17, and Trent Owen will return as crew chief for the NKNPS car.

    Blaney, son of NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) and TBR driver Dave Blaney, made a combined three starts last season in the NKNPS East and West, winning in his third start and capturing his first NASCAR victory at Phoenix International Raceway. Blaney also won the 2011 PASS South Championship and found success in the ARCA Racing Series where he finished in the top-10 in his two starts.

    “I’m really excited about the opportunity to run a mix of K&N and Nationwide races this season,” Blaney commented. “We were really competitive in the K&N Series last year, and I think we will be even more competitive this year. Hopefully, we will have an opportunity to win all six races. We will have good equipment racing with TBR. It will be great to race with and learn from the Nationwide guys. To be able to race on bigger tracks will be a good learning experience too. I’m grateful that SealWrap is supporting my progression in NASCAR and really excited to work with them throughout the season.”

    This season will mark TBR’s fourth season of competition. TBR began as a part-time one-car NSCS team in 2009 and developed into a top-35 team by 2011. In 2012, TBR plans to compete with two NSCS teams. The part time NNS team will expand on TBR’s driver development program in the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour. The team would like to increase the number of races in both the NSCS and NNS schedules, barring more sponsorship opportunities.

    “We are really looking forward to restarting our Nationwide program as we have had much success in the past in that series,” explained Tommy Baldwin. “Watching Ryan the last few years, we are excited to get to the track and see him perform. As we look to the future, this Nationwide program is a stepping-stone for the Cup program, and we are excited to start with Ryan.”

    Blaney will join his dad, Dave Blaney, with TBR this season. The elder Blaney drove the No. 36 Tommy Baldwin Racing Chevrolet last season where he locked the team in to the top-35 in NSCS points and captured a third-place finish at Talladega Superspeedway.

    “I’m proud that Ryan is making the next step in his racing career,” Dave Blaney said. “I think it is a great opportunity for him to run with TBR and still run some races in the K&N Series. He has learned very quickly in every series he has driven, so I am anticipating what competing in the Nationwide series brings. Thanks to SealWrap and Heavy Duty who have stepped up their programs as Ryan has moved through the ranks. It’s really refreshing to build a relationship with companies at this level and be able to grow together.”

    SealWrap Repair Tape, a self-fusing rubber tape, partnered with Blaney in 2010 in the NKNPS. SealWrap Repair Tape uses a stretch-and-wrap technology that makes repairing irregular forms and shapes easy. There are no bonding agents, adhesives or glues to make it work. SealWrap fuses to itself and creates an air and watertight seal.

    “Everyone at SealWrap is extremely excited to be involved with such a professional organization as Tommy Baldwin Racing,” said Don Lux, SealWrap National Sales Manager. “We have been and will continue to support Ryan Blaney in his racing career, and this sponsorship opportunity is a perfect way for us to continue doing that. Nationwide and K&N fans are our customers. They are hard working, do-it-yourselfers who use our SealWrap product around the house and on their cars and trucks. We here are SealWrap are passionate about our product and passionate about racing!”

    Ryan Blaney’s Racing Schedule: ·       March 17th – NKNSE – Bristol Motor Speedway ·       April 26th – NKNSE – Richmond International Raceway ·       April 27th – NNS – Richmond International Raceway ·       May 11th – NNS – Darlington Raceway ·       May 19th – NKNPSE – Iowa Speedway ·       June 29th – NNS – Kentucky Speedway ·       July 28th – NNS – Indianapolis Motor Speedway ·       August 3rd – NKNPSE – Iowa Speedway ·       August 24th – NNS – Bristol Motor Speedway ·       September 28th – NKNPSE – Dover International Speedway ·       October 12th – NNS – Charlotte Motor Speedway ·       November 10th – NKNPSW – Phoenix International Raceway

    About SealWrap Repair Tape:

    SealWrap is a great product that everyone can use. SealWrap is a repair tape that you just stretch-and- wrap around whatever you need- no adhesives or glues are needed!

    The secret is SealWrap’s ability to fuse to itself. That means there are no bonding agents, adhesives or glues to make it work. It simply fuses to itself and won’t let go! Repairing irregular forms and shapes can now be handled easily. Simply STRETCH-N-WRAP!

    SealWrap’s tape works in all types of weather conditions – from -55 degrees Fahrenheit to 250 degrees Fahrenheit, water tight and air tight to 100 psi of pressure. This 30 mil. tape will insulate 600 volts per mil. and can be stretched to three times its original length. In addition, the elements of weather will not affect it, allowing it to be a long lasting repair.

    Visit www.sealwrap.com for more details.

    About Tommy Baldwin Racing:

    About Tommy Baldwin Racing:

    NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) Crew Chief Tommy Baldwin formed Tommy Baldwin Racing (TBR) in 2009. Baldwin utilized a declining economy to open a NSCS team with a stringent budget. The team worked to build to full-time competition, and by the 2011 season, the team’s third season, TBR competed in every race and locked the No. 36 Chevrolet in the top-35 in NSCS Owner Points. Dave Blaney drove the No. 36 Chevrolet to TBR’s highest finish of third in the October 2011 event at Talladega Superspeedway. TBR also fielded a second car for select races in the past two seasons with multiple drivers.

    Based in Mooresville, N.C., TBR will compete in the NSCS in 2012 with NASCAR veterans David Reutimann and Dave Blaney. The team will also compete in the NASCAR Nationwide Series with Ryan Blaney.

    For more information on Tommy Baldwin Racing, visit tommybaldwinracing.com or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.