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Press Release | LAS VEGAS MOTOR SPEEDWAY As the official beer sponsor of NASCAR, Busch Light is continuing its mission of bringing 21+ fans closer to the sport they love - this time throwing the fastest wedding ceremony imaginable! The Busch Light Pit Stop Wedding will be taking place at the South Point 400 NASCAR Cup Series playoff race where during Kevin Harvick’s pit stop, fans Tori Lindsay and Nick Brendal will tie the knot in under 15 seconds, right beside Harvick’s pit box, in the wedding capital of the world. With the lucky couple Tori and Nick, Busch Light hit the jackpot. Not only are they NASCAR superfans who were engaged earlier this year at the NASCAR Hall of Fame, they've got a love for Busch Light that's stronger than a pit crew during a tire change. These two also hail from Busch Light’s hometown of St. Louis, and were the pit-perfect pair to win. “I married my wife here in Las Vegas over a decade ago, and I can’t wait for two of my fans to share this experience at one of my final races in the wedding capital of the world,” said Harvick. “As my partner for the past seven years, Busch Light has always delivered dream opportunities for my fans. The Pit Stop Wedding will be unforgettable!” The beloved Busch Guy will serve as the couple’s ordained minister of ceremony, while Busch Light springs for the at-track reception and creates what’s likely the greatest homemade wedding video of all time including 80,000 passionate NASCAR fans! Since the 1990s, the Busch family of brands has created countless opportunities for 21+ NASCAR fans by providing unparalleled access to the sport. For over 44 years, the beer brand has sponsored key programs, such as the Busch Pole Award and of course the Busch Light Clash, and proudly continues to invest in the sport.

Press Release | SAM HUNT RACING MOORESVILLE, N.C. (September 29, 2023) – The Sherry Strong Foundation, founded by Sherry Pollex, will be highlighted on Sam Hunt Racing’s No. 24 GR Supra in the Drive for the Cure 250 at the Charlotte Motor Speedway ROVAL to honor Sherry’s life and her dedication to women and children’s health. Connor Mosack, who recently drove to a top-five finish at the series’ most recent road course race, will be behind the wheel. "My love and passion for this sport has never been drawn from the sole desire to stand in victory lane and collect statistics, or even collect the trophies that seem to bring us the temporary validation and happiness we often seek,” said Sam Hunt, Owner of Sam Hunt Racing. “My true love is people, and the ability to make a positive impact using this platform is my passion. Sherry Pollex not only shared this passion but was a proven champion within it. She fought her courageous battle with cancer alongside teammates who are near and dear to our SHR family. To honor Sherry, the Pollex family, and the Sherry Strong Foundation on our race car is a privilege I know I will never feel truly deserving of. It’s going to be a special weekend celebrating this champion in Charlotte.” Pollex’s brother-in-law Richmond Burgdoff, well-known known as “Fuz”, will act as Car Chief of the No. 24 SherryStrong.org GR Supra at the ROVAL. Early in 2023, Sam Hunt Racing welcomed Burgdoff to the team in the Lead Mechanic role. Burgdoff is the husband of Pollex’s sister, best friend, and Sherry Strong director, Jill Burgdoff. “The Pollex family is so appreciative to Sam Hunt, his team, and Toyota for bestowing this honor on our beloved Sherry. The outpouring of support and prayers has truly been heartwarming. Our family, along with race fans across the country, will carry on her legacy for many years to come through the Sherry Strong Foundation," said Jill Burgdoff. Throughout the October 6 weekend, the No. 24 SherryStrong.org GR Supra will be adorned in black and teal, representing Pollex’s charity, with her beloved dogs Charlee and Grayson riding along. SherryStrong.org is a resource for oncology patients and their caregivers to help them navigate a cancer diagnosis. The Sherry Strong Foundation is focused on bringing integrative therapies to women undergoing treatment for gynecological cancers at low or no cost to the patient while promoting healthy living. Sherry Pollex, the recipient of the 2017 National Motorsports Press Association’s Myers Brothers Award for outstanding contributions, began her journey into NASCAR as a public relations representative following her education at Florida State University. Her giving heart and love for helping others solidified a path to establishing the Martin Truex Jr. Foundation in 2007, raising awareness, boosting advocacy, and generating financial support for underfunded initiatives specific to ovarian and childhood cancers. However, Pollex’s personal, courageous battle with ovarian cancer that began in 2014 ignited a passion for advocacy for and empowerment of women battling gynecological cancers, to help educate and provide a focus on holistic and integrative approaches to wellness for women worldwide. Her efforts included the creation of the Sherry Strong Integrative Medicine Oncology at Novant Health’s Weisinger Cancer Institute in Charlotte, North Carolina. “My hope is that when other patients come in, there is this healing energy and peacefulness that comes over them,” said Sherry Pollex, following the opening of the clinic. “This isn’t a hospital. This is a place to come and get well and feel well. This is a place of hope.” The No. 24 SherryStrong.org GR Supra will compete on the ROVAL on Saturday, October 7th at 3:30PM EST. The Drive for the Cure 250 will be broadcast on USA Network, Performance Racing Network, and SiriusXM NASCAR Channel 90. To make a donation to the Sherry Strong Foundation, please visit sherrystrong.org/donate.

By Logan Morris As time progresses, we are gaining more information about the 2024 NASCAR Schedule. Just recently, it was announced on Thursday that North Wilkesboro Speedway would once again host NASCAR's All-Star Race for the second consecutive season in 2024. While this announcement has generated some groans from parts of the fanbase, it's essential to remember that everyone is entitled to their opinion. Personally, I'm thrilled by this announcement and I’m hopeful for similar decisions in the future. NASCAR, more than any other sport perhaps, constantly undergoes change. This has become increasingly evident over the past two to three decades. Teams go out of business or merge, drivers retire, and even the way the championship is decided has changed multiple times. Whether these changes are good or bad is a matter of debate, but many long-time fans have felt somewhat neglected by NASCAR in recent memory. The return of North Wilkesboro is an olive branch extended to those fans, and I believe NASCAR should do more of this. Returning to the concerns voiced by some segments of the fanbase, it's true that not everyone is thrilled about North Wilkesboro being back on the schedule for 2024. Some fans expressed dissatisfaction with this year's race, and to be honest, I shared some of those sentiments. To refresh your memory, Kyle Larson dominated the race in a manner reminiscent of the days of Richard Petty or Darrell Waltrip. For me, it wasn't an enjoyable watch. However, I'm still excited about its return for various reasons. The old-school NASCAR fanbase deserves to have their moment. They've witnessed significant changes and will continue to do so. While I appreciate that every sport evolves, and I believe some of NASCAR's recent changes are fantastic, it's worth noting that the average age of a NASCAR fan, according to Sports Business Journal, is pushing 60. There's nothing wrong with catering to that segment of the fanbase a few nights a year. No one will love every race; for instance, not everyone is a fan of road courses, yet NASCAR has added more of them to the schedule in recent years for those who enjoy them. NASCAR should strive to appeal to as many fans as possible, including the old-school fans. North Wilkesboro is for them, and NASCAR should make more decisions catering to these long-time supporters. It's important to remember that just because this year's All-Star Race left much to be desired doesn't mean next year's will follow suit. With the introduction of a new car, it takes time to figure out what works and what doesn't. Additionally, this was the first Cup race at North Wilkesboro since 1996, and there aren't many names left in the sport that had true success at the track, let alone still compete. Let's give it more than one chance to prove itself, especially at a track that's deeply rooted in NASCAR's history. We've given tracks with far less pedigree more opportunities to improve the racing. Once again, I understand that sports must evolve, but as NASCAR celebrates its 75th year, it should recommit itself to preserving some of that history in the modern-day series. There are plenty of dates available on the calendar, and North Wilkesboro should have a guaranteed spot for at least the next five years to give it every opportunity to produce the best race possible in this era. In the same vein, I believe NASCAR should add Rockingham Speedway to the schedule as soon as possible. Without NASCAR's foundation, we wouldn't be celebrating 75 years this season. NASCAR has the capability to construct a schedule that appeals to everyone, and that should be the goal. Let's have road courses, superspeedways, short tracks, and even a dirt race on the schedule. NASCAR should continue to innovate, as seen with the Chicago Street Course. However, it needs to strike a better balance between catering to new interests and preserving old traditions. NASCAR's fan base has diverse interests, and while it's not an easy task, they can do better. This season, which was promised to be a tribute to the sport's history, has hardly mentioned the 75-year history since this year's All-Star Race. I'm not suggesting that NASCAR should abandon its push for diversity or cater solely to the old-school fans with every decision. It shouldn't. But, it would be insulting to deny that fanbase a race or two each season that is specifically marketed towards them. Loyalty goes both ways, and these fans have remained steadfast through all the changes. Tracks like North Wilkesboro should be a thank-you gesture to them, an acknowledgment by NASCAR that they still value the fans who have stood by them for so long. North Wilkesboro should be a celebration of the history and tradition upon which the sport was founded. It goes beyond just a race; it evokes memories of legends like Fireball Roberts, Lee Petty, and Junior Johnson. The term "hallowed halls" doesn't do it justice. Lastly, we've seen this year how much the track's return means to the community and the sport. NASCAR is doing the right thing by bringing it back. Hopefully, this marks a bridge to embracing more tradition and ensuring it never fades away again.

By Logan Morris NASCAR Silly season had its latest surprise this past week when it was announced that Austin Hill would return to Richard Childress Racing and continue to compete full-time in the Xfinity Series next season. In his statement confirming the news, Hill talked about the fact he had multiple offers he was considering but ultimately chose to stay at RCR for the foreseeable future. While that creates a lot of long-term questions for RCR, it also creates immediate questions for Kaulig Racing. Hill was the heavily-rumoured favourite for Kaulig’s 31 Car next season. Team President Chris Rice seemingly validated the speculation by being caught off guard by Hill’s announcement on social media. Options appear to be dwindling, but there are still a few names out there that deserve consideration With that in mind, let’s take a look at three potential candidates for the 31 Car: Chandler Smith First, the front-runner for the ride - Chandler Smith. At first glance, there's a strong argument to be made that Smith needs further development in the Xfinity Series. After all, he's in his first full year in the Xfinity Series. However, in the world of racing, circumstances can often shape opportunities. While Smith's talent is still raw and undeveloped, the 31 car could be an ideal platform for him to learn on the job. Kaulig Racing fosters a family-like atmosphere that allowed someone like Justin Haley to learn and grow when they took a similar chance on him in 2021. Admittedly, Haley had more experience to rely on, but when considering age, there are parallels. Kaulig has already hinted at their belief in Smith. He made an unsuccessful attempt to qualify for this year's Daytona 500 in a third Kaulig car. He also made his Cup Series debut this season at Richmond, finishing 17th. Additionally, he's set to compete in this weekend's Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona. In the Xfinity Series, Smith secured his first career win at Richmond in the spring. He boasts five top 5 finishes and nine top 10 finishes. Again, it's reasonable to suggest that he would benefit from another year in the Xfinity Series. However, Kaulig might need to take a chance on their young prospect. Daniel Hemric Another potential candidate for taking over the 31 car next season is Daniel Hemric. The 2021 Xfinity Series Champion seems to have slipped from our attention at this point in his career. However, it's important to acknowledge that this might have less to do with Hemric and more to do with the influx of young talent that NASCAR has witnessed in recent years. Hemric has evolved into a steady journeyman who has returned to Kaulig Racing for the past two seasons. Undoubtedly, the most significant criticism against Hemric is his inability to secure wins. As of now, his Xfinity Series Championship-clinching win at Phoenix remains the sole triumph in his career. While this critique holds validity, he has transformed himself into a seasoned driver who comprehends how to preserve and manage his equipment—a trait strikingly similar to Justin Haley. Hemric also has one year of experience in the Cup Series to draw from. It's easy to forget that he earned the title of 2019 Cup Series Rookie of The Year. In the current Xfinity Series season, he is once again silently assembling a solid campaign. Presently, he occupies the 8th spot in the championship standings, accumulating four top-5 finishes and eleven top-10s. A compelling argument can be made that he deserves another opportunity in the Cup Series, even if the concept for 2024 is that he serves as a placeholder until a more promising option arises. As the old adage goes, you'll never know what someone can do with the ball if you never let them carry it. Perhaps Hemric isn't the definitive long-term solution, but taking a chance on him might be worthwhile. Noah Gragson Lastly, an additional option that Kaulig could consider is Noah Gragson. This is not to say that Gragson’s recent actions were acceptable or that he shouldn’t have been suspended. But in the same way that there was a path to redemption for Kyle Larson, there should also be one for Gragson. Kaulig Racing might provide the ideal environment for Gragson to rebuild his image while flying somewhat under the radar. It's possible that Kaulig might not want any association with him, and that would be understandable. Nevertheless, if any team were to welcome Gragson back to the Cup Series, it's likely to be Kaulig. As mentioned above, Kaulig Racing nurtures a family atmosphere within their team, and Noah has a history with them. He made several starts for them in 2022, achieving his best finish of 18th at Kansas, twice. This season, with Legacy Motor Club, he faced significant struggles before his suspension. He found himself at the very bottom of the standings when he and the team decided to part ways. While some might interpret this as a reason to believe he should face a long wait before being granted another opportunity, it's important to remember that it was just last season when he won an impressive eight races in the Xfinity Series, including an astonishing streak of four consecutive victories. Additionally, it's worth noting that he is still in the process of working through NASCAR's reinstatement procedure. The duration of this process remains uncertain. To assert that he no longer possesses considerable potential is a narrow viewpoint. It's plausible that Gragson might desire and require a step back to NASCAR's lower tiers. Irrespective of differing opinions regarding how this season concluded for him he navigated one of the most challenging rookie seasons in recent memory. While piloting the 31 car for Kaulig would entail less pressure compared to driving Legacy MC's iconic No. 42, it's a car that would still likely encounter difficulties in consistently running up front. Even if Kaulig or another team contemplated taking a leap of faith with Gragson, he might need to start anew in NASCAR's lower divisions and rediscover the joy of racing. For Kaulig, there could be financial advantages in bringing him on board. The truth is that a dissenting faction of NASCAR's fanbase is inclined to support Noah because they perceive him as being wronged by Legacy Motor Club. If Noah Gragson ever returns to compete in the Cup Series, it's a safe bet that he'll emerge as a top merchandise seller. However, if sponsors don’t support his immediate return it’s important to remember Kaulig doesn't have the deep pockets of a team like Hendrick Motorsports - they need sponsorship help. Regardless of Kaulig’s decision on who drives for the team next season, it appears that they are no longer getting their first pick. But, that doesn’t mean they’re aren’t some intriguing names still out there.

Press Release | KYLE BUSCH MOTORSPORTS MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Sept. 27, 2023) – Kyle Busch announced today that he has sold Kyle Busch Motorsports (KBM) and Rowdy Manufacturing to Spire Motorsports. Included in the sale are the assets of Busch’s NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series team and the assets of Rowdy Manufacturing’s chassis building operation and CNC machine shop. The transaction also includes the 77,000-square-foot facility that houses KBM and Rowdy Manufacturing in Mooresville, N.C. Since debuting in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 2010, KBM established itself as one of the most successful teams in all of NASCAR. Owned by Busch, a two-time Cup Series champion, and fueled by his passion for winning, the organization holds the Truck Series records for most career wins (100) and most wins in a single season (14 in 2014). In addition to collecting a series-record seven owner’s championships, the organization produced two championship-winning drivers: Erik Jones (2015) and Christopher Bell (2017). “When we started the Truck Series team back in 2010, I never imagined that we would be able to win 100 races with 18 different drivers and that one day I’d be racing in the Cup Series alongside so many of the drivers that I once mentored at KBM,” Busch said. “I owe a lot of gratitude to so many people, starting with Samantha and my family for believing in this dream that I had. It took countless hours by so many amazing people to make KBM the winningest team in Truck Series history. I will always appreciate everyone that walked through the doors and gave their all to make this such a successful organization. Not only has it been the people that were employed here, but it’s also the families that supported them while they worked long hours and traveled on the weekend sacrificing time at home and missing family events. And I certainly can’t say enough thanks to Toyota for the first 13 years of support and to Chevrolet for stepping up to the plate this year. Due to their commitment and that of our great sponsors, we’ve been able to compete at the highest levels and hang a lot of banners. “I’m at a different point in my life now than I was back in 2010. My family has grown, my Cup Series team changed this year and our son’s racing schedule has become as demanding as my own. It’s important to me to be able to spend more time with my family and my No. 8 team at Richard Childress Racing. It’ll be hard to walk away from the amazing facility that we’ve built. I’ll miss walking the shop floor talking with our employees, hosting our fan days in the lobby and spending countless hours there ensuring its success. However, I know at this point in my life and in my career that this is the correct decision.” Regarding Busch’s outlook on the next chapter for Spire Motorsports’ Truck Series operation, the winningest driver in Truck Series history is positive. “I’m confident that our assets and employees are in good hands moving forward. I don’t see the winning ways changing at all. I’ve known the Spire guys for a long time and their recent investments in NASCAR show their commitment to success.” Busch and Spire Motorsports representatives will be available to the media on Saturday, Sept. 30 at 10:30 a.m. CT in the Talladega Superspeedway media center.

Press Release | TRACKHOUSE RACING Concord, North Carolina – Kubota Tractor Corporation and Trackhouse Racing announced today the Nos. 1 and 99 Chevrolets will continue to carry the familiar Kubota orange paint scheme in races in the 2024 and 2025 NASCAR Cup Series seasons. With the sponsorship extension, Kubota also continues as the Official Tractor Company of Trackhouse Racing after serving as a primary sponsor on the team’s Chevrolets the last two seasons. “After the thrilling ride we’ve been on with Ross (Chastain), Daniel (Suárez), and the Trackhouse Racing team over the last two seasons, it was an easy decision to keep it rolling for another two,” said Todd Stucke, Kubota Tractor Corporation Senior Vice President of Marketing, Product Support, and Special Projects. “The Trackhouse team has been an outstanding partner and we're proud they'll continue representing our brand across Kubota Country, both on and off the track.” Chastain has piloted the No. 1 Kubota Chevrolet five times this season and will pilot the Kubota livery for a sixth time at the upcoming Homestead-Miami Speedway NASCAR Cup Series race on Sunday, October 22. In the same event last year while driving the orange-and-black No. 1 Kubota Chevrolet Camaro, Chastain finished second. “One of the awesome things about partnering with Kubota is they’re heavily involved in agriculture and it’s an authentic relationship,” said Chastain, who is an eighth-generation watermelon farmer. “I feel at home when I’m meeting with employees and customers who are connected to Kubota and look forward to continuing our relationship.” Suárez, 31, of Monterrey, Mexico, drove the No. 99 Kubota Chevrolet on Sunday at Texas Motor Speedway in Ft. Worth to an 8th-place finish and looks forward to continuing driving a Kubota-branded Chevrolet. “It’s great to have a brand like Kubota supporting our race team,” said Suárez, who became the first Mexican driver to win a NASCAR Xfinity title in 2016 and a Cup race in 2022. “I think their continued partnership says a lot about them and Trackhouse Racing and how to build a successful relationship.” In 2024, the Kubota livery will be on a Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet Camaro in seven race markets: Phoenix Raceway in Avondale, Ariz.; Las Vegas Motor Speedway; Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway; New Hampshire Motor Speedway; Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kan.; Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas; and Homestead-Miami (Fla.) Speedway. For the second year, Kubota and Trackhouse Racing are putting the partnership in overdrive in support of farmer veterans. In the races Kubota is serving as the primary sponsor of Chastain’s No. 1 Kubota Chevrolet, a $10,000 donation will be made to the Farmer Veteran Coalition for a top-10 finish. The Farmer Veteran Coalition (FVC) is a national nonprofit organization that assists military veterans and currently serving members of the Armed Forces to transition into careers in farming, and since 2015, Kubota has partnered with FVC on the “Geared to Give” program which has provided more than $900,000 to the coalition in the form of organizational support, grants to veterans and 41 pieces of donated equipment.

Press Release | LEGACY MOTOR CLUB CONCORD, N.C. (September 26th, 2023) – Today, LEGACY MOTOR CLUB™ drivers Erik Jones and Carson Hocevar, among other competitors, joined several breast cancer survivors at Charlotte Motor Speedway (CMS) to paint the pit wall pink for next weekend's Bank of America ROVAL 400. A tradition that has been held for now eleven years straight, the act of painting the wall pink has been a well-received gesture by CMS to promote breast cancer awareness during its races held in October. The speedway hosted over 50 breast cancer survivors, and invited the drivers as well as various media outlets, to join in the cause in the fun-filled event. Additionally, 2004 NASCAR Cup Series champion, Kurt Busch, announced that his Window of Hope initiative will be returning for a third season, as part of a new collaboration with the Erik Jones Foundation (EJF). Jones' foundation will support its efforts in the area of "cancer prevention and early detection and care". Every driver in the field for the race at CMS will run a uniquely colored pink window net to signify breast cancer awareness, which will then be autographed and put up for auction through the EJF, which will receive the proceeds to then be donated to multiple beneficiaries to support early cancer detection. The auction for the signed pink window nets will open October 9th and close October 16th. Both NASCAR Cup Series drivers Jones and Hocevar have close family ties to breast cancer, as each of their mothers have battled, and thankfully, overcame as survivors of the disease. Carol Jones, Erik's mother, was first diagnosed in 2013, and courageously fought into remission in the years since. "It's been so great that Kurt (Busch) would let us take this program over, and a huge thanks to him. It's been a program that I have had a lot of fun watching and participating in over the last few years, it's really a huge day for The Erik Jones Foundation." said Jones. "We have worked a lot on the cancer side of things with melanoma, and early detection with that, but we haven't been able to do anything with breast cancer, which for us is close to the heart with my mom going through it. So, to have a program that has continued to round the foundation out is really important. It has been a big goal of ours to continue the growth of these pillars on each side of the foundation, but just really excited to see the window nets on the car and be able to have a program in the Cup Series like that. You see the other guys and what they do, so to have a program of our own with the foundation is super special." Amy Hocevar was diagnosed when her son Carson was only six years old, and fought behind closed doors, initially shielding the news from him so he wouldn't be afraid at such a young age. Carson recalls that he only recently found out about her diagnosis, and admires her strength and commitment as a mom through the tough battle. "My mom hid that she had breast cancer from me when I was a kid. Luckily, it was shorter and not as severe as some cases, but obviously any type of cancer diagnosis such a scary situation. She battled through it for about a year-and-a-half to two years from my recollection as a six year old. Cancer is a very scary word, and as a six-year-old, I'm not sure if I would even be able to process what it meant. Looking back now, it all makes sense, because it was hard to understand what she was going through, and I didn't realize how scary that time must have been. I'm super glad that at least for me though, that time wasn't as scary as it should have been, and that my parents did a great job of avoiding that tough sit-down with me when I was so young." remembered Hocevar. "It was cool to be a part of today's event with Erik, with him being my teammate at LEGACY MOTOR CLUB and the fact that he has been attached to breast cancer as well with his mom fighting. Being able to come out to the racetrack and just show a little bit of support and put a paint brush to the pit wall is something big to be a part of. I'm glad I was able to come out and do this with some of the guys that I race with on Sunday to show our support for all of the brave people who were and are still fighting breast cancer." The NASCAR Cup Series heads to Talladega Superspeedway this week, but will return to Charlotte Motor Speedway the following weekend on Sunday, October 8th. Fans can watch the Bank of America ROVAL 400 race live on NBC, or listen to the radio broadcast on the local MRN Radio affiliate station as well as Sirius XM NASCAR Radio at 2:00 PM ET. For more updates on LEGACY MOTOR CLUB™, follow along on the team's official social media pages.

(Photo Source: Twitter.com/JRMotorsports) Press Release | JR MOTORSPORTS MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Sept. 26, 2023) – JR Motorsports has tabbed current NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoff contender and two-time ARCA Menards Series East champion Sammy Smith as its newest driver, the team announced today. Beginning in 2024, Smith will command JRM’s iconic No. 8 Chevrolet Camaro in full-time NXS competition with partnership from Pilot Flying J, TMC Transportation and the Allstate Peterbilt Group. “Sammy is a great fit for our program and will mesh well with our other drivers,” said JRM team owner Dale Earnhardt Jr. “He’s a young, talented racer who’s willing to learn and carries himself with a lot of professionalism. He has a bright future ahead. I’m excited for our team to help him continue his journey.” Smith, 19, transitions to JRM after spending the past two seasons stockpiling stats that include a win at Phoenix Raceway – which made him the youngest NXS winner in the track’s history – six top-five and 15 top-10 finishes. Smith also clinched a coveted spot in the NXS Playoffs this season. He replaces longtime JRM driver Josh Berry, who is moving to the Cup Series in 2024 to fill the seat vacated by retiring superstar Kevin Harvick. “I am very appreciative for the support of Pilot Flying J, TMC Transportation and all my partners that helped make this happen,” said Smith, a native of Johnston, Iowa. “The opportunity to race for JR Motorsports is one I am looking forward to and cannot wait to see what we all accomplish together.” Smith’s been aligned with Pilot Flying J, TMC Transportation and Allstate Peterbilt Group since his career began. As the largest operator of travel centers in North America, Pilot Flying J is a Knoxville, Tenn.-based company with more than 750 retail locations. Based out of Des Moines, Iowa, TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned open deck transportation company. The Allstate Peterbilt Group is the largest privately held factory-authorized dealer group in the Upper Midwest. “It’s special to welcome Pilot Flying J, TMC Transportation and Allstate Peterbilt Group back into the JRM family,” said JRM CEO Kelley Earnhardt Miller. “They were part of our Xfinity program for five years and were instrumental in helping us become a four-car operation in 2017. This reunion shows a lot of promise with a talent like Sammy at the wheel. We can’t wait to go to work with them.” All three brands spent the 2017-21 NXS seasons in partnership with JRM. The relationship produced Pilot Flying J’s first series victory at Daytona International Speedway in 2019 prior to a second win at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in 2021. “We have been supporting and cheering on Sammy throughout his journey in the Xfinity Series for the last two seasons,” said Adrienne Ingoldt, vice president of brand and marketing for Pilot Flying J. “We’re excited for the next chapter in his career and seeing the success he‘ll bring behind the wheel of JRM’s No. 8 car.” Smith, who began racing at the age of 8, carved his path through the ranks by way of go-karts, Legend Cars, Late Models and Super Late Models, winning several crown-jewel events in the latter such as the Winchester 400, Redbud 400 and Governor’s Cup. He has raced in multiple series, including the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and ARCA Menards Series. In addition to two championships, Smith is a 15-time winner at the ARCA Menards Series level. “We are excited to continue our motorsports partnership with Sammy as he joins the JRM race team,” said Jason Webb, EVP, asset management for TMC Transportation. “Having been a partner with JRM for several years, we know they are a first-class organization. Sammy will be joining a team that will provide him with the resources and tools to dominate on the track and continue to develop to reach his full potential.” Smith will join Justin Allgaier, Brandon Jones and Sam Mayer in completing JRM’s driver lineup in 2024. Specific partner races and crew duties for Smith and the No. 8 team will be announced at a later date.

Press Release | WINDOW OF HOPE x ERIK JONES FOUNDATION CONCORD, N.C. (Sept. 26, 2023) – NASCAR Cup Series veteran driver Kurt Busch announced the Window of Hope pink window net program will return for a third year to show support for breast cancer survivors and those continuing to battle breast cancer. Thermal Control Products will provide each NASCAR Cup Series participating driver with a pink window net to display at next month’s running of the Bank of America ROVAL™ 400 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. As the program continues for the third year, Kurt Busch also announced he is expanding the program to partner with the Erik Jones Foundation to support its efforts in the area of, “cancer prevention and early detection and care.” It is widely known by the NASCAR community that Erik’s foundation engages in cancer work because the disease took his father in 2016, when Erik was just 19 years old. A less well-known fact about Erik’s history with cancer is that his mother, Carol, is a breast cancer survivor. “From the very beginning, the NASCAR industry supported us, and I am thankful for their continued support as we enter year three,” said Busch. “This program has become something I look forward to every year and I am grateful for the opportunity to bring in the Erik Jones Foundation to help continue to give it life for years to come. After learning more about what motivates Erik’s foundation’s cancer efforts, I felt a partnership with him was a natural evolution of the program. I am thrilled about this partnership and confident Erik’s personal commitment to cancer detection and care will grow this program and positively impact his cancer efforts.” Following the October 8th ROVAL race, each participating driver will sign their window net to be auctioned through The Erik Jones Foundation, which will receive the proceeds to then be donated to multiple beneficiaries to support early cancer detection. The Erik Jones Foundation was established in part to encourage early cancer detection and care, a cause significant to Jones, who has had multiple family members battle cancer. “I’m glad Kurt reached out and suggested my foundation continue this important effort,” said Jones. “Fighting cancer is a very personal issue for me and my foundation. Many folks know that my father died of cancer, but most don’t know my mother is a breast cancer survivor. Everyone involved in my foundation, including my mom, is excited to add a breast cancer component to our efforts. We look forward to building on the legacy Kurt has laid with this program.” The inspiration for “Window of Hope” came from a request from one of Busch’s young fans to support breast cancer awareness. In September of 2019, Kurt Busch received a letter from a young fan, Mason Bradley, expressing how big of a fan he was of the 2004 champion, and his hopes to one day meet Busch in-person. Mason’s letter included a hand-drawn image of Busch’s car with a note reading, “maybe you could do the window net pink.” Bradley’s request for the pink window net was an inspiration to support others, like his mother Stephanie, who was battling breast cancer at the time but is now in remission. Through commitment and support from NASCAR and Thermal Control Products, “Window of Hope” became a reality in 2021 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The 2022 program raised more than $100,000 benefiting breast cancer research and treatment. The auction for the signed pink window nets will open October 9th and close October 16th.

Press Release | TRACKHOUSE RACING Concord, North Carolina – The WWEX Racing blue and black paint scheme that first appeared on the NASCAR Cup Series scene in 2022, and became a familiar sight to NASCAR fans in 2023, will return in 2024 serving as a primary sponsor for Daniel Suárez and Ross Chastain’s Trackhouse Racing Chevrolets. The Dallas-based global logistics group comprised of Worldwide Express, GlobalTranz and Unishippers announced today its logos will be on Chastain's No. 1 Chevrolet and Suárez’s No. 99 Chevrolet in the 2024 season through its WWEX Racing sponsorship initiative. Worldwide Express also remains the official logistics company of Trackhouse Racing in 2024. “I am glad Worldwide Express sees the value in our partnership to return in 2024,” said Chastain who drove the WWEX Racing paint scheme to victory lane at Nashville (Tenn.) Superspeedway on June 25. “They have really been a big part of our success over the last couple of seasons and we have been a big part of their business-to-business initiatives. I think the scheme is one of the best on the track and I’m proud to continue to wear the WWEX colors.” Suárez said he too welcomes the return of Worldwide Express and its sister brands. “You know, Worldwide Express does more than help Ross and I and Trackhouse Racing,” said Suárez. “At Los Angeles, Chicago and other races they were responsible for shipping a lot of the walls and materials that went into building the temporary tracks. “Trackhouse needs Worldwide Express to race and its obvious everyone in the sport of NASCAR does as well.” WWEX Racing livery – specifically a Worldwide Express scheme – will first appear on Suárez’s car at the Busch Light Clash on Feb. 5, 2024, when the NASCAR season kicks off with the non-points race around the football field at the Los Angeles Coliseum. It has been a strategic growth pattern for the WWEX Group brands in NASCAR, starting with its involvement in the Truck Series and climbing to the Cup Series in 2022 with Trackhouse Racing. Since its debut, Worldwide Express has used both Chastain and Suárez to meet customers and employees at the track, embarked on an active social media campaign and become a huge supporter of Trackhouse Racing, holding corporate gatherings at the team’s Concord, North Carolina race shop. The company also began a relationship with NASCAR and Richmond (Va.) Raceway in 2022, serving as the official shipping logistics partner for both and as the entitlement sponsor of the Truck Series race at Richmond. “We are really looking forward to our third year with Trackhouse Racing as we continue to deepen our commitment to the motorsports community," said Mike Grayson, executive vice president of WWEX Group. "Both Daniel and Ross have been amazing ambassadors of our brands, and we appreciate the energy and focus they and the entire Trackhouse team bring to every challenge. We’re excited about all the opportunities ahead of us next season.” WWEX Group, the parent brand of Worldwide Express, GlobalTranz and Unishippers, is a top-ranked, full-service logistics provider offering supercharged parcel, less-than-truckload (LTL), truckload and managed transportation shipping services for customers nationwide. Customers benefit from enhanced visibility and value-driven solutions, thanks to the company’s logistics experts, proprietary technology, unique data assets and business intelligence capabilities. The WWEX Racing initiative was born of a desire to address the complex but underserved shipping needs of the performance motorsports industry, using the unique combination of capabilities offered by the three brands’ combined 80+ years of expertise.

Press Release | PHOENIX RACEWAY PHOENIX (Sept. 28, 2023) – Women in Sports Events (WISE) Arizona honored Phoenix Raceway President Latasha Causey Wednesday night as the recipient of the Inspiring Sports Executive of the Year Award at the WISE Arizona Women of Inspiration Gala. “It is hard to think of someone more deserving of this award than Latasha Causey,” said Chip Wile, NASCAR Senior Vice President and Chief Track Properties Officer. “Latasha’s work at Phoenix Raceway is nothing short of inspirational, and she’s making a tremendous difference within the community and our sport.” A longtime native of the West Valley and former community development executive, Causey took leadership over Phoenix Raceway at the end of 2022 and became the first female African American track president in NASCAR history. She continues to serve as a founding member of the NASCAR Accelerators host committee while also acting as a member of the Boy and Girls Clubs of the Valley Board of Directors, and Vice Chair of the Valley of the Sun United Way. Her Inspiring Sports Executive of the Year Award from WISE Arizona joins a collection of other notable distinguishments, including being named one of the Most Influential Women in Arizona by AZ Big Media in 2021 and being chosen as a 2018 Outstanding Women in Business honoree by the Phoenix Business Journal. She was also featured in Frontdoors Magazine for her philanthropic accomplishments in 2017. Founded in 2018, WISE Arizona carries out the WISE mission by facilitating meaningful connections among local industry professionals and offering programming, events and valuable networking opportunities in the area throughout the year. WISE — Women in Sports and Events — is the leading voice and resource for women in the business of sports. A national organization and registered 501(c)(3) not-for-profit headquartered in New York City, WISE has chapters across North America. Latasha Causey’s leadership will be on full display during NASCAR Championship Weekend, Nov. 3-5. It begins Friday, Nov. 3 with an action-packed doubleheader involving the ARCA Menards Series West Championship Race, the Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100, and the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Championship. The excitement continues Saturday, Nov. 4, when the green flag flies for the NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship Race. Then on Sunday, Nov. 5, the stars of the NASCAR Cup Series will battle for the Bill France Cup in the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race. Fans should act now to secure the scarce remaining seats and experiences for this year’s NASCAR Championship Weekend by visiting www.PhoenixRaceway.com.

Press Release | CHARLOTTE MOTOR SPEEDWAY CONCORD, N.C. (Sept. 26, 2023) – With National Breast Cancer Awareness Month right around the corner, NASCAR Cup Series drivers Kurt Busch, Erik Jones and Bubba Wallace joined 60 breast cancer survivors and supporters, as well as officials from Charlotte Motor Speedway and Blue Cross NC in painting the famed race track’s pit wall pink on Tuesday. The event, which was also attended by NASCAR Xfinity Series drivers Daniel Hemric, Carson Hocevar, Kyle Weatherman and Bayley Currey, serves as a prelude to the Oct. 7 running of the Xfinity Series’ Drive for the Cure 250 presented by Blue Cross NC. Now in its 11th year, Paint Pit Wall Pink has become an annual event to celebrate survivors, provide hope for those battling breast cancer and raise awareness of the importance of early detection. "Every woman in North Carolina deserves the opportunity to be healthy. That's why education on early breast cancer detection is so critical," said Tammy Jones, VP of Brand and Demand Generation at Blue Cross NC. "Blue Cross NC is committed to increasing breast cancer awareness across the state through efforts like Paint the Wall Pink and Drive for the Cure 250." Charlotte Motor Speedway Executive Vice President and General Manager Greg Walter joined the survivors, drivers and volunteers in using 150 paint rollers and brushes and 50 gallons of paint courtesy of Sherwin Williams to cover much of the 4,000-square-foot pit road wall. “This is one of the most memorable days of the year for us at Charlotte Motor Speedway because it’s about so much more than motorsports,” said Walter. “To see the faces of those who have fought their battles and won, to hear stories of perseverance and encouragement for those currently fighting, and to use our platform to raise awareness to truly a noble cause. We’re grateful for a tremendous partnership with Blue Cross NC, and the opportunity to be involved in such a meaningful and impactful event.” The event also featured a special unveil of two Toyota pace car designs – inspired by the stories of breast cancer survivors Patrice Bidgood and Destiney Medlin – for the Drive for the Cure 250 race on Oct. 7. Fans can visit dftc250pacecar.com to vote for their favorite livery. The winning design will be displayed on the car during pace laps before the Drive for the Cure 250. While Busch announced his retirement from Cup Series racing earlier this year, his “Window of Hope” program will continue on with LEGACY MOTOR CLUB driver Erik Jones and the Erik Jones Foundation leading the charge, the two announced during Tuesday’s event. “From the very beginning, the NASCAR industry supported us, and I am thankful for their continued support as we enter year three,” said Busch. “This program has become something I look forward to every year and I am grateful for the opportunity to bring in the Erik Jones Foundation to help continue to give it life for years to come. After learning more about what motivates Erik’s foundation’s cancer efforts, I felt a partnership with him was a natural evolution of the program. I am thrilled about this partnership and confident Erik’s personal commitment to cancer detection and care will grow this program and positively impact his cancer efforts.” Following the Oct. 8 Bank of America ROVAL™ 400, participating drivers will sign their window net to be auctioned through The Erik Jones Foundation, which will receive the proceeds to then be donated to multiple beneficiaries to support early cancer detection. The Erik Jones Foundation was established in part to encourage early cancer detection and care, a cause significant to Jones, who has had multiple family members battle cancer. “I’m glad Kurt reached out and suggested my foundation continue this important effort,” said Jones. “Fighting cancer is a very personal issue for me and my foundation. Many folks know that my father died of cancer, but most don’t know my mother is a breast cancer survivor. Everyone involved in my foundation, including my mom, is excited to add a breast cancer component to our efforts. We look forward to building on the legacy Kurt has laid with this program.”

By Matt Marr Bubba Wallace, having won his second career pole (and first of this season), led the field to the start of the Auto Trader EchoPark Automotive 400 on Sunday. The first caution came out on lap 42 as Austin Dillon lost a wheel and slammed the wall. Not long after the ensuing restart, Aric Almirola and Alex Bowman both spun in turns one and two. With six laps remaining in stage one, Kyle Busch had a tire go down and hit the wall hard, bringing out the caution. He drove halfway across the track to pit road, all in reverse. This meant that the race went back to green with one lap remaining in Stage One, which Tyler Reddick ended up winning due to pit strategy. The tire issues didn’t stop there, as Corey Lajoie had one go down and spun. This brought out another caution on lap 111. Stage Two was won by Kyle Larson, and he continued to dominate through much of the final stage. With only 25 laps to go in the race, JJ Yeley (driving the #15 for Rick Ware Racing) wrecked coming off of turn two, bringing out a caution and eliminating Larson’s six-second lead. On the following restart, Larson and Bubba Wallace were side-by-side, battling hard for the lead, when Larson spun out on his own - no contact was made between the two drivers. Then with 12 to go, Ryan Blaney, Zane Smith, AJ Allmendinger and Erik Jones were all involved in a big wreck. Bubba Wallace and Chase Briscoe battled for the lead after what would prove to be the final restart with six to go. However, William Byron passed both of them and was able to hang on for the win. This marked the 300th win in the history of Hendrick Motorsports. Auto Trader EchoPark Automotive 400 Top 5: 1. William Byron 2. Ross Chastain 3. Bubba Wallace 4. Christopher Bell 5. Denny Hamlin Notables: 6. Kevin Harvick 10. Chase Briscoe 13. Justin Haley 19. Ty Dillon