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SONOMA
ERIC ESTEPP’S OUT OF THE GROOVE Builds Loyal Audience
BY KAUY OSTLIEN
Those who have spent any time in the online NASCAR world, have undoubtedly come across Eric Estepp and his YouTube channel, Out of the Groove.
What began with stop-motion videos using 1:64-scale die-cast cars has grown into one of the most recognizable brands in NASCAR media. With more than 245,000 YouTube subscribers, Estepp has built a loyal audience by constantly evolving his content and keeping things fresh.
Even though Estepp says creating content for Out of the Groove is “definitely a grind,” it’s a challenge he approaches at full throttle. In fact, he’s doubling down this year on ideas that push his content forward while expanding on what’s already made his channel successful.
“I’ve noticed in the past that FOX or NBC will spend a lot more time on their pre-race shows than their post-race shows,” Estepp told NASCAR Pole Position. “And, I think, the reason is that the pre-race is what’s so interesting for a lot of fans because nothing has happened yet. It’s all speculative. Anything is possible.”
Pre-race content isn’t new for Estepp, but his renewed emphasis on previewing each weekend’s storylines has allowed him to bring in outside voices. Analytics content creator Dale Tanhardt and journalist Jeff Gluck are among those who have joined him to break down what fans should watch for heading into the race.
According to Estepp, bringing people like Gluck on to the channel is more than just good content – it’s personal.
“As I’ve gotten a little older, and I’ve been doing this now full time for about five-plus years, getting that mutual respect from people who I’ve always looked up to is really cool,” Estepp said.
That growing respect doesn’t stop with fellow media members. Teams, drivers and industry insiders have also taken notice.
“Over the past few years, I’ve been able to build some connections and earn that credibility now with many teams, drivers and their representatives,” Estepp said. “And so I’ve sporadically had drivers on this show in the past, but this year ... almost every week I’ve been able to get a driver or an industry insider on the show.”
So far this season, Estepp’s shows have featured guests such as NASCAR Cup Series champion Brad Keselowski and rising prospect Layne Riggs. Both have appeared on his monthly Sour Power Hour podcast, which Estepp co-hosts with NASCAR Xfinity Series veteran Brennan Poole.
It all speaks to the steady climb of Out of the Groove – from die-cast stop motion to becoming a weekly stop for fans, drivers and media members alike. Whether you’re scrolling online or walking through the garage, keep an eye out for Eric Estepp –and his signature glasses and beard.
NASCAR POLE POSITION AN OFFICIALLY LICENSED
PUBLICATION OF NASCAR 23110 STATE ROAD 54, SUITE 293 LUTZ, FL 33549
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EDITORIAL: KAUY OSTLIEN, ARMANY DEPAUL, CODY WILLIAMS
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NASCARCOLLECTIBLES
Q&AWITHBRENTPOWELL
Get to Know the Owner of Circle B Diecast
BY KAUY OSTLIEN
From casual race fans to die-hard NASCAR collectors, Circle B Diecast has become a go-to destination among retail outlets serving the NASCAR die-cast industry.
Based in Concord, North Carolina, the company previously focused on the wholesale side of the business and emerged as an industry leader through its creative use of on-track sponsorships and its wide selection of die-cast products.
Behind the scenes, the Circle B Diecast staff is comprised of race fans who have a passion for the sport. They are led by Circle B Diecast owner Brent Powell, who recently talked with NASCAR Pole Position about his growing business.
WHERE DID THE CIRCLE B NAME ORIGINATE?
Plan B Sales was our original name, but that only worked when we were wholesale, (and) didn’t work so much when we branched out into retail. My GM in Concord, North Carolina, used to always say when we would sponsor a car or truck, “Just put the Big Circle B” on the hood.
One day, we were taking my French bulldog Walter to the vet and saw a “Circle B Salon” sign in someone’s yard. I looked at my wife and said, “Why don’t we just split it and call the retail side Circle B Diecast?” WHY DO RACE FANS SELECT CIRCLE B FOR THEIR DIE-CAST PURCHASES?
Most of our customers know that we are just like them, just a group of race fans that enjoy the same things they do. I am like a kid at Christmas when the new shipment comes in. We open one (die-cast) to take a live photo for the website, and I always enjoy opening the cars and checking them out.
YOU’VE SPONSORED A NUMBER OF DRIVERS OVER THE YEARS. IS THERE ONE MEMORY – OR ONE PAINT SCHEME – THAT REALLY STICKS OUT?
There are several: The one Corey Lajoie raced at Kansas, where we ran my hometown high school mascot and colors, was really cool. We had a bunch of high school friends and their wives in attendance that day.
A close second would be Brett Moffitt’s Phoenix truck. Grant, our social media guy, came up with the idea to run a Jimmie Johnson paint scheme. We ran Jimmie’s second championship scheme, since Brett was running for his second championship. When I showed up in Phoenix, Brett and Matt had put my recently deceased brother’s name over the driver’s door where the driver’s name usually goes. That was really special.
WHAT IS THE MOST PRIZED POSSESSION IN YOUR PERSONAL COLLECTION?
It’s not a die-cast but the helmet Brett wore in that championship race I mentioned earlier. I had three of the real helmets painted just like J.J.’s helmet from his second championship year. Brett wore one when he won in Kansas that year, one for qualifying at Phoenix and one during the Phoenix race. The artist numbered them one, two and three of three. One was for me, one was for Brett and one for Jimmie.
NASCARCOLLECTIBLES
Show Us Your Collection
When NASCAR fans aren’t at the race track, they often seek alternative methods to remain connected with their favorite sport, and collecting is one tool they use to fuel their passion.
For years, NASCAR fans have collected everything under the sun, from die-cast cars to assorted merchandise and oddities.
Brian is one of these fans, but his collection is a bit unique in that it focuses solely on one driver, four-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and NASCAR Hall of Famer Jeff Gordon.
BRIAN STARTED COLLECTING JEFF GORDON memorabilia after watching the California native win the 1997 Daytona 500. Ironically, at the time, Brian was playing with a 1996 Racing Champions 1:18-scale Jeff Gordon die-cast, and as he puts it, after witnessing Gordon’s victory, “I had to have anything and everything with a 24 on it.”
BRIAN’S COLLECTION GOES far beyond die-cast cars. For example, there’s the Jeff Gordon squirt gun, Jeff Gordon walkie talkies and even a bumper off of Gordon’s No. 24 Chevrolet. “My friends and family constantly try and find things I don’t have like it’s a challenge,” he said.
BRIAN MAY HAVE ONE OF THE LARGEST collections of Jeff Gordon memorabilia. It starts with die-cast cars from his dirt-racing days and continues through his 24th season in the NASCAR Cup Series. A majority of the die-cast cars – 250 and growing – are 1:24 scale, but several other scales are represented in the collection.
TODAY, THE COLLECTION IS neatly organized in Brian’s basement, though it hasn’t always been that way. In 2019, he debated moving on from the hobby as his collection had sat in storage for several years. However, after almost selling, a spark reignited the veteran collector’s passion and he arranged the massive display over a two year-period.
BRIAN’S COLLECTION IS once again growing, with his fandom of the No. 24 car continuing with William Byron and an assortment of non-No. 24 die-casts. He even has a growing following on TikTok where he goes by the user name Bigtroxdiecast24. Brian uses the platform to show off his collection to his followers.
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Q&A with BLAINE PERKINS
BAKERSFIELD RACER ‘KEEPS BUILDING & GRINDING’
BY JARED TURNER
Growing up in Bakersfield, California – hometown of 2014 NASCAR Cup Series champion Kevin Harvick – Blaine Perkins caught the proverbial racing bug at an early age.
Now, in his fifth season as a NASCAR Xfinity Series driver, Perkins is still in search of his first win in NASCAR’s No. 2 division but has made significant strides in 2025 – his first year with Jordan Anderson Racing
Eleven races into the season, Perkins had already bagged more top-10 finishes (including a career-best seventh-place finish at Talladega) than in the rest of his time in the Xfinity Series combined.
Just 25 years old, Perkins is eager to continue honing his skills in NASCAR’s No. 2 division, all while aiming to eventually reach the next level.
WHAT DOES HAVING MORE TOP-10 FINISHES IN 2025 THAN IN THE REST OF YOUR TIME IN THE XFINITY SERIES SAY ABOUT YOUR PROGRESSION?
We had a good start to the year. We just keep building and grinding, and I feel like we’ve had some moments, for sure. It’s definitely been a big building year for us. We’re kind of all new as a team together. We’re just trying to learn each other and continue to have those good runs. We’re looking for a little more consistency, but the speed’s definitely there.
WHAT WAS LIFE GROWING UP IN BAKERSFIELD LIKE?
Obviously, a big Kevin Harvick town. I saw him whenever I was going to the gas station down the street. There would be a billboard or something. Big racing city. I grew up there at the go-kart track – the same track Kevin actually went to. I got in my first go-kart and really enjoyed it and then kind of decided to go the oval route –Bandoleros, Legend Car racing, kind of all over Southern California.
I moved to the East Coast about four years ago now, which I feel like you kind of have to do if you want to pursue your dream in NASCAR. But I’m definitely still
a West Coast guy and love to go back out there and still enjoy my time out there. HOW MUCH PRESSURE DO YOU FEEL TO LAND THAT BIG BREAK THAT WILL GET YOU TO THE CUP SERIES?
Everybody’s goal is to make it to the Cup Series one day, but I don’t think there’s any pressure or necessarily a time limit. You look at these guys at the top of their game in Cup, and they’re all mid-to-late 30s, early 40s, so that’s the good thing about racing: I feel like age isn’t necessarily a huge factor. I just want to continue to keep growing as a race car driver myself, and I feel like I’ve put myself in a really good position this year to be able to do that with the group of guys I have around me. WHAT LED YOU TO RACING?
My parents weren’t involved in racing at all. They were just big supporters of mine. One day when I went out to the go-kart track, I really enjoyed it, and from there it was just like, “All right, let’s see what we can do. Let’s go get a go-kart.”
Family has supported me all the way to this point. Looking back 15 years ago, I never thought it would have gotten to this point, but it’s just been really cool to kind of see some of my dreams come true.
MY FAVORITE WITH
Ryan Truex
As a part-time NASCAR Xfinity Series driver the last few seasons, Ryan Truex has been to Victory Lane three times – including twice at Dover, which the Mayetta, New Jersey, native considers his home track.
While eagerly anticipating his next career move, which he hopes will involve a fulltime ride in NASCAR, Ryan Truex recently sat down with NASCAR Pole Position to talk about some of his favorite things.
BY JARED TURNER
WHAT’S BEEN YOUR FAVORITE DAY IN RACING SO FAR?
FOR ME, WINNING Dover for the first time was really big from a career standpoint. Being at my home track and having family and friends and everyone there, that one was pretty special. And then something that wasn’t directly me was probably when Martin won the championship in 2017. Obviously, I’ve grown up my whole life watching him race and being at the trace track, so to be there for that moment, that day, that was definitely really special.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE FOOD?
BEING FROM NEW Jersey and having the pizza up there, that’s something I really miss in the South. It’s hard to find good pizza that’s like the way it is at home. I’d say that’s probably my favorite. It’s kind of a comfort food and kind of reminds me of home, and I don’t get it that
WHAT’S YOUR
FAVORITE
VACATION SPOT?
I LIKE THE BEACH. Anywhere that has a beach, I’m happy. But I also like the mountains, so I’m kind of all over the place. The beach in New Jersey, Long Beach Island where I grew up, is home, but I’ve lived in Charlotte for over 10 years now.
Beach Island, it’s like a vacation. Growing up in much, I never really got to enjoy the summers to pick a favorite, that – Long Beach Island in
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE RACE TRACK?
THAT’S AN EASY ONE – Dover, for sure. I don’t know if it’s a comfort thing or a confidence thing, but I’ve always run well there. It’s not like I have some secret knowledge about the track or anything like that; it just excites me when I go there, and for whatever reason, it’s always just suited my driving style. The bonus is that it’s close to home and I grew up going there. I’ve been to plenty of Cup races there up in the stands with my friends over the years.
NASCARLICENSEE
In recent years, NASCAR fans have embraced the idea that what’s old can be new again. Whether it’s the return to historic tracks like Rockingham and North Wilkesboro or a surge in retro T-shirt designs, nostalgia is back in style. That same spirit is now fueling a revival of an old favorite: slot car racing.
Thanks to Carrera, one of the most established names in the hobby, NASCAR slot car racing is experiencing a fullspeed comeback. In 2024, the brand launched a new line of officially licensed NASCAR slot cars, introducing a new generation of fans to a pastime that once captivated racing enthusiasts worldwide.
With more than 60 years of experience in slot car manufacturing, Carrera was well-positioned to lead NASCAR’s return to the slot car scene. According to Afia Ntiamoah, Carrera’s marketing manager, the brand’s diverse line of products is what sets it apart.
“Carrera demonstrates a strategic grasp of how various product lines can work in accordance with one another by combining these distinct innovations and play patterns. We can cater to a wide range of age groups and interest levels, from novices to avid collectors, thanks to our multi-category approach,” she said. Carrera previously had a brief presence in the
NextGen ZL1 “Hendrick Motorsports, Chase Elliott, No.9” and NASCAR Camaro
NextGen ZL1 “Hendrick Motorsports, Alex Bowman, No.48”
• Carrera GO: A 1:43-scale set designed for quick fun and younger racers. The GO lineup includes sets like the Watkins Glen Duel with Larson and Byron, and the Talladega Competition with Elliott and Bowman.
• Carrera EVOLUTION: A step up, this 1:24-scale track comes with 1:32-scale cars and dual-speed modes for a range of skill levels. The Darlington Showdown set includes cars from Larson and Byron and is aimed at racers ages 8 and up.
• Carrera DIGITAL 1:32: The most advanced option, the Daytona Challenge set offers a 1:24-scale track with cars
from Elliott and Bowman. This version allows up to six racers at once and fea tures customizable speed and braking for each car.
And the collection continues to grow. This year, Carrera is adding four new paint schemes from the current Cup Se ries season, including updated designs for Byron’s Raptor No. 24 and Bowman’s Ally No. 48. In addition to Hendrick Mo torsports, Richard Childress Racing is now part of the Carrera lineup, with Kyle Busch’s Cheddar’s No. 8 car and Austin Dillon’s Bass Pro Shops No. 3 entry mak ing their 1:32-scale debuts.
Fans attending races this season can see Carrera’s slot car displays in action and give their racing skills a shot! The brand will appear at the NASCAR Kids Zone at several events, and if you’re head ing to the Bristol Night Race, keep an eye out for their on-site setup for some handson fun.
Though still early in the partnership, Carrera has made a strong impression. As Ntiamoah notes, the NASCAR lineup is “really creating a lot of traction for us.”
With a growing catalog and an enthu siastic fan response, Carrera is proving that slot car racing isn’t just back – it’s racing into the future.
Alex Bowman, Evolution 1:32
Kyle Larson, Evolution 1:32
William Byron, Evolution 1:32
Chase Elliott, Evolution 1:32
NASCAR TALLADEGA COMPETITION
Solar, Satellites & Streaming
HOW RV TECH IS CHANGING THE NASCAR CAMPING EXPERIENCE
The infield experience at a NASCAR race has evolved. While the sense of community and love of racing remain, the tools fans bring with them are far more advanced than they were even a decade ago.
RV technology has reshaped how fans camp at the track, making the experience more self-sufficient, connected and comfortable.
Solar power is one of the most significant changes. As more tracks limit generator usage due to noise and emissions, and as fuel prices fluctuate, solar panels offer a quieter, cleaner alternative. Fans can now keep essentials like refrigerators, fans, phones and lights powered throughout the weekend without ever needing to refill a gas can. Portable panels and lithium battery banks have become common sights in RV lots across the NASCAR schedule.
Alongside solar power, connectivity has become a top priority for many. High-speed satellite internet services like Starlink, as well as cellular signal boosters, have made it possible to stay connected even in remote areas. Some fans rely on these systems to work remotely on Fridays before race weekends begin in earnest, while others simply want reliable access to streaming services, live timing data or in-car camera feeds.
These upgrades aren’t limited to tech enthusiasts. Many of today’s RV campers expect the same level of digital access at the track as they have at home. Whether it’s catching up on replays from earlier in the weekend or watching the race broadcast from a shaded camp chair, modern fans are blending outdoor living with digital convenience.
Satellite dishes and streaming setups have also changed how fans consume race content. Rather than rely solely on PA systems or radios, campers can now view full broadcast coverage from the comfort of their RV sites. Smart TVs, soundbars and streaming devices are becoming standard parts of the setup, especially at tracks where the infield doesn’t provide a full view of the racing surface.
Of course, these upgrades come with planning. Staying powered throughout a multi-day race weekend requires energy management, especially for fans who camp without hookups. Solar panels must be positioned for maximum sun exposure, battery levels monitored and systems configured to prioritize essential devices.
Despite the growing use of technology, the core of RV camping at NASCAR events hasn’t changed. Fans still gather around grills, share meals and celebrate wins together.
For the RV crowd, the race weekend has become more versatile. Some are working remotely, some are streaming multiple camera angles and some are simply enjoying the peace and quiet that solar panels bring. What hasn’t changed is the passion for the sport and the desire to make the most of every lap – both on and off the track.
• The lights shine bright from the campers on the infield of Bristol Motor Speedway.
COOLSTUFFFORRACEFANS
Rev Up Your Smart Home with Amazon’s Limited-Edition NASCAR Echo Pop!
NASCAR fans can now bring the thrill of the track into their homes with the new Officially Licensed NASCAR Limited-Edition Echo Pop, available to purchase starting June 4th, exclusively on Amazon.com and available while supplies last. This special collaboration between NASCAR and Amazon celebrates their growing partnership, which includes Prime Video’s coverage of select NASCAR races throughout the 2025 season.
The compact smart speaker features a custom-designed NASCAR faceplate and comes with a sleek black silicone sleeve, making it the perfect addition to any race fan’s collection. Like the standard Echo Pop, this limited-edition version packs impressive sound in its semi-spherical design, delivering full bass and clear vocals that fill any room.
The NASCAR Echo Pop, which works with Alexa, lets fans control their smart home devices, set reminders for upcoming
races, check weather conditions at their favorite tracks, and even play their preferred pump-up music before race day. The device’s front-firing speaker and compact design make it perfect for nightstands, desks, or kitchen counters.
The smart speaker features a
Aluminum Trailers
tap-to-pause sensor and microphone disable button for privacy control.
Don’t miss out on this exclusive piece of NASCAR tech history! The NASCAR Limited-Edition Echo Pop represents the perfect fusion of racing heritage and smart home innovation, available while supplies last.
Opti-Coat Ceramic Coatings
FOR VEHICLES, BOATS, RVS, MOTORCYCLES ... AND RACE CARS
Opti-Coat of Memphis, Tennessee, was the first company to release automotive ceramic coatings in the USA, and they’ve made history once again by introducing ceramic coatings to NASCAR.
Opti-Coat’s blue-and-white logo was featured on the hood of Jeb Burton’s No. 27 Jordan Anderson Racing/Bommarito Autosport Chevrolet Camaro last fall at Homestead-Miami Speedway. In the October 2024 race, the No. 27 car was not just wearing Opti-Coat’s logo on the hood – the car entered the race with Opti-Coat’s Pro Ceramic Coating installed on the vehicle.
As far as we know, it’s the first time a ceramiccoated race car competed in a NASCAR race.
Ceramic coatings create a barrier between your vehicle’s paint and the elements, helping keep your vehicle looking new.
BENEFITS OF CERAMIC COATINGS
• Warrantied Protection from all the elements and sun damage
• Long-Lasting Shine & Gloss
• Ease of Maintenance
• U.V. Protection
• Chemical & Stain Resistance
• Scratch & Swirl Resistance
• Resistance to Dirt & Water Spots
• Water Beading
Ceramic coatings were first developed in the 1970s for military and aerospace applications. In 2007, Opti-Coat introduced the first automotive ceramic coating for sale in the United States. This new type of coating was designed to protect the modern, damage-prone clear coat paint found on today’s vehicles.
Opti-Coat coatings are unique in composition, utilizing Silicon Carbide (SiC) – also known as industrial diamond – because it is much longer lasting and more durable than the more commonly used Silicon Dioxide (SiO2). A single application of an SiC coating has a lifespan of at least 10 years, compared to 1-3 years for SiO2 coatings.
Opti-Coat Ceramic Coatings are not just for cars, trucks and SUVs. Opti-Coat has specialized coatings for boats, RVs, motorcycles and even race cars. Opti-Coat is installed by top Professional Detailers throughout the U.S. and Canada.
To find a Professional Installer near you, visit https://opticoat. com/pages/installers
AUTOMOTIVE CERAMIC COATINGS
OPTI-COAT PRO3
The most advanced ceramic coating available, featuring four
times the thickness of standard ceramic coatings with four layers of Silicon Carbide (SiC) protection.
• 10-Year Warranty with no yearly maintenance required
• Optional Lifetime Warranty
OPTI-COAT PRO PLUS
A two-layer SiC protective coating, delivering even more gloss and slickness than single-layer coatings while maintaining the same durable chemical structure as Opti-Coat Pro.
• Enhanced Water Beading and Dirt-Release Properties
• 7-Year Warranty
OPTI-COAT PRO
The original professional ceramic coating. A permanent bonding, single-layer Silicon Carbide (SiC) coating offering long-term protection.
• Up to 10 years of durability
• 5-Year Warranty
OPTI-COAT ULTRA SHINE
An SiO2-based ceramic coating offering extreme gloss, shine, and slickness at a lower price point.
• Can fill minor scratches and swirls
• 2-Year Warranty
MOTORCYCLE CERAMIC COATING
OPTI-COAT PRO MOTORCYCLE CERAMIC COATING
Designed specifically for motorcycles, this includes:
• Opti-Coat Pro – Paint protection
• Opti-Guard Leather – Leather & vinyl protection
• Opti-Metal – Metal & chrome protection
• Protects motorcycle paint, leather, vinyl, metal, chrome, and even exhaust pipes
• 5-Year Warranty
RV & MARINE CERAMIC COATING
OPTI-COAT RV & MARINE
A protective ceramic coating designed for gelcoat surfaces found on RVs and boats.
• 5-Year Warranty
• Superior resistance to scratching, chemical etching, and UV fading
• Outstanding dirt-release properties
ABOUT OPTI-COAT
Opti-Coat has been designing and manufacturing ceramic coatings and auto detailing products in the USA since 2001. When looking for the best ceramic protection, paint protection film or auto detailing products to keep your vehicle, boat, RV, motorcycle or race car clean and protected, turn to Opti-Coat. For more information, visit www.opticoat.com.
Opti-Coat Pro
Opti-Coat Pro 3
Opti-Coat Pro Plus
Opti-Coat RV & Marine
Opti-Coat Pro Motorcycle
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FEATUREDCHARITY
A LegacyFamily
HOW THE PETTYS BUILT A HAVEN FOR KIDS
BY JARED TURNER
Since its genesis in 2004, Victory Junction – a Randleman, North Carolina-based year-round camp for children with serious illnesses and chronic medical conditions – has delivered more than 136,000 camp experiences while serving kids from all 50 states and several countries.
Synonymous with the Petty name, especially that of legendary co-founders Richard and Kyle Petty, Victory Junction – or a place like it – is the culmination of a vision cast by Richard’s grandson and Kyle’s son, Adam, before he died tragically at the age of 19 in a racing accident at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
Before Adam’s passing in May 2000, he had drawn inspiration from a visit he made to a Florida-based camp that was enriching the lives of sick children. Wanting to make a similar type of impact back home in North Carolina, Adam shared his idea with family members and close friends.
So, not long after Adam’s death, Richard and Kyle Petty, along with other members of the Petty family, set out to build Victory Junction – a camp established in Adam’s memory, with the goal of reaching and helping as many children as possible.
“When I see the joy and the smiles this camp brings to kids and their families, I can still feel Adam’s giving spirit and see his smile,” said Kyle Petty, a former NASCAR Cup Series driver turned NASCAR broadcaster.
Chad Coltrane, Victory Junction’s CEO since 2015, is motivated daily by a desire to carry out Adam Petty’s wishes in everything that goes on at Victory Junction.
“I didn’t know Adam, and I had never met Adam, but I heard the story about how this idea of camp came about and this idea of all the kids coming to Randleman and being served in one location,” he said. “I hope he would be shocked at how many kids we actually see here on-site now through all the different programs, and that he would be inspired by the numbers of kids that we serve.”
This year alone, Victory Junction has received more than 850 applications for its summer camp experiences, which begin in June and run through early August. Each week of camp is tailored to children with a different
medical condition, providing not only a welcome distraction from the daily challenges they face but also making a difference that extends far beyond the four or five days they spend at camp.
“We know through data and research, with Yale University as an example, that the work we’re doing is life-changing,” Coltrane said. “We know the kids leave camp with more self-confidence and more self-esteem and a willingness to try new things. We’ve done a study with kids that now are in their 30s, so now adults, and we know there is a longer-lasting impact of camp than that summer camp experience.
“It’s longer than the summer when they return home or the school year after. We know that it stays with them until at least their 20s and 30s. It’s a strong, strong mission.”
A nonprofit organization that relies on generous donors, Victory Junction is the sole beneficiary of the Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America – an annual cross-country motorcycle event that’s welcomed more than 9,000 riders and raised more than $22 million since its 1995 inception.
“Our camp footprint is larger than most camps, and it’s because of NASCAR and the Petty name and celebrity but mainly because of the advocacy that the Kyle Petty Charity Ride provides for us across the country at various locations year over year,” Coltrane said.
Kyle and Richard Petty both sit on the Board of Directors for Victory Junction, but their involvement runs much deeper. Not only are they regulars at camp during the summer, often mixing and mingling with the children at a fun-filled camp event dubbed NASCARnival, but Richard Petty recently donated 403 acres to Victory Junction.
The gift includes eight parcels of land next door to what had been the camp’s 140 acres, 84 of which Richard and his late wife, Lynda, donated to help launch Victory Junction.
“My family and I are dedicated to leaving a legacy,” said Richard Petty, a seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and the Cup Series’ all-time wins leader with 200 victories. “By donating an additional 403 acres, we hope to ensure the camp can continue serving even more children for generations to come.”
Coltrane called the additional land “a huge deal.”
“To be given that land at this point is a game-changer, and we’re being very meticulous and methodical in our planning and preparation of what we’re going to do with it,” he said. “Much like a university would, we want to create kind of a master plan and really just go about this in a slow and methodical and thoughtful way.”
To learn more about Victory Junction, including how you can offer support, visit VictoryJunction.org/Discover.
KICKTHE TIRES LightTHE fIRES
At Victory Junction, we believe every child deserves to laugh out loud, dream fearlessly, and race toward a life filled with endless possibilities. But for kids with serious and chronic medical conditions, these experiences can often feel out of reach.
Learn more and discover how you can get involved at
Founded by NASCAR legends Richard and Kyle Petty, Victory Junction puts fun at the forefront – at no cost to campers or their families. Every activity is carefully designed to help children build confidence, foster independence, and discover their incredible potential.
Kids and families need your support.
As a NASCAR fan, you know every race begins with preparation – “kicking the tires” to make sure everything’s ready before “lighting the fires” to power your favorite driver across the finish line.
We invite you to Kick the Tires by learning more about what makes Victory Junction a life-changing experience.
Feeling inspired? Then Light the Fires by helping send kids to camp. Refer a camper, or make a donation today!
FROM THE GRANDSTANDS TO THE PIT BOX
RACING ELECTRONICS ELEVATES THE LIVE-RACE EXPERIENCE
BY KAUY OSTLIEN
While most race fans are satisfied by simply being at the track and cheering for their favorite driver, there’s another group of die-hard NASCAR supporters who utilize stateof-the-art technology to elevate their live-race experience.
And that technology is available from Racing Electronics.
Anyone attending a NASCAR event has seen Racing Electronics’ signature red headsets and scanners throughout the stands, perched on the spotter stand or worn by crew members on pit road.
With more than 35 years in the business, Racing Electronics is the go-to brand for enhancing the live-race experience. The company supplies radio communications for many of NASCAR’s top teams – and they put fans in the middle of the action, too.
A scanner from Racing Electronics allows fans to monitor real-time radio chatter among drivers, crew chiefs and spotters.
Curious why your favorite driver stayed out under caution? Want to hear what was said after a late-race wreck? Or just want to follow the intensity of a greenwhite-checkered finish from the inside? A scanner offers that insight – raw, unfiltered and live.
And this isn’t surface-level access. Fans using Racing Electronics gear can tune in to any driver, hear strategy decisions as they’re made and catch every uncensored reaction. It’s as close to being in the car as fans can get without donning a fire suit and helmet.
Flexibility is a major attribute of the Racing Electronics gear. Spectators can lock onto a single driver’s
frequency, rotate among their favorite drivers, monitor NASCAR officials or even listen to the race’s live radio broadcast – all with crystalclear audio. Unlike streaming from a phone or using a standard handheld radio, Racing Electronics delivers real-time sound, ensuring listeners stay ahead of the action.
Not sure which team to listen to? There’s a solution for that, too – just hit the SCAN button and let the scanner cycle through all available channels, providing a constantly updated snapshot of what’s happening around the track.
Racing Electronics offers a full lineup of products on its website, including headsets, scanners and bundle packages for fans who prefer to purchase their gear. But for those attending a single event or trying out the experience for the first time, the company’s convenient rental program is a great option.
Simply visit the Racing Electronics website, click the Rentals tab and select the race you plan to attend. From there, choose from three rental options:
• Single-Headset Package: Includes one scanner and one headset – ideal for solo fans or first-timers.
• Two-Headset Package: Perfect for couples or friends; one scanner with two headsets.
• Intercom Package: Two headsets with microphones and a built-in intercom system. Allows for conversation with a companion while listening to the same scanner. No more shouting over the engines.
After booking, simply pick up the rental equipment at the Racing Electronics hauler on race day. Everything is ready to go, rentals are good for the entire weekend and returns after the race are just as simple.
No other sport offers the real-time, behind-the-scenes access available at a NASCAR event. And with Racing Electronics, fans are not simply watching the action, they’re experiencing it from the inside.
The next time you head to the track, upgrade your experience with a Racing Electronics scanner and headset that will put you in the middle of the action.
FAST LEARNERS
Young Guns Hit Their Marks In Loaded Xfinity Series Field
BY BRYAN AGUIAR
After honing their skills on America’s short tracks, these 10 NASCAR Xfinity Series drivers, all 21 years of age or under at the start of the season, are positioned to lead the sport into the future. The following recaps provide an overview of each driver’s early achievements, examine how they got to this point and detail what lies ahead:
PARKER RETZLAFF
HOMETOWN RHINELANDER, WISCONSIN
BIRTHDAY5/21/2003
TEAMALPHA
PRIME RACING
Retzlaff, 21, drives the No. 4 Alpha Prime Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. His series debut came at Phoenix in March 2022, where he qualified sixth and ran strong before a fuel-pump issue ended his day. He earned his first top-10 result one race later at Richmond.
Retzlaff posted a seventh-place finish at Daytona in August 2024 after running in the top three on the final lap. In 2024, he earned poles at Richmond and Martinsville and in April of this year he ended up second at Rockingham following a disqualification ahead of him.
Now, in his third Xfinity Series season, Retzlaff also has a pair of Cup Series starts on his résumé.
Strong qualifying speed and steady progress make this young racer a prospect for better-funded opportunities.
SAM MAYER
HOMETOWN FRANKLIN, WISCONSIN
BIRTHDAY6/26/2003 TEAM HAAS FACTORY TEAM
Born June 26, 2003, Mayer is a NASCAR Xfinity Series title contender aboard the No. 41 Ford Mustang fielded by veteran car owner Gene Haas.
The son of former open-wheel racer Scott Mayer made his Xfinity Series debut with JR Motorsports in 2021 and went full time in 2022, earning 19 top-10 finishes as a series rookie.
Mayer broke through in 2023 with four wins, including one at his home track of Road America, en route to a third-place finish in the series standings. He claimed ARCA Menards Series East titles in 2019 and 2020 and scored a Truck Series victory at age 17.
Mayer is building his résumé as he continues to mature
THOMAS ANNUNZIATA
HOMETOWN COLTS NECK, NEW JERSEY
BIRTHDAY6/14/2005 TEAM COPE FAMILY RACING
Born June 14, 2005, Thomas Annunziata competes part time in the Xfinity Series for Cope Family Racing. He made his series debut in 2024 with JD Motorsports and joined Derrike Cope’s No. 70 team this season.
A three-time national karting champion, Annunziata found success in Spec Miata and MX-5 racing before transitioning to Trans Am, where he won at COTA. In ARCA, he finished second at Daytona and scored three top-10 results in four starts.
With more experience, he’s building a versatile foundation in stock cars.
CONNOR ZILISCH
HOMETOWN MOORESVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA
BIRTHDAY07/22/2006
TEAM JR MOTORSPORTS
Zilisch, driver of the No. 88 Chevrolet for JR Motorsports, will celebrate his 19th birthday on July 22. The young racer won in his Xfinity Series debut at Watkins Glen in 2024 and added a second Xfinity Series victory at COTA early this season.
Before turning 18, Zilisch won the CIK-FIA Karting Academy title and topped the LMP2 class in major sports car endurance races such as the Rolex 24 At Daytona and 12 Hours of Sebring. He scored five ARCA wins in 2024 and earned a NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series pole at COTA.
Zilisch planned to make his Cup Series debut in the Coca-Cola 600 aboard a Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet. Supported by Red Bull and Trackhouse, Zilisch is a standout across multiple disciplines.
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CARSON KVAPIL
HOMETOWN MOORESVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA
BIRTHDAY5/22/2003
TEAM JR
MOTORSPORTS
1Kvapil, 21, is among eight rookies competing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. After a part-time 2024 Xfinity Series effort that produced four top-10 finishes, including a second at Dover, Kvapil was hired to drive No. 1 Chevrolet for JR Motorsports.
A proven winner in Late Models, Kvapil holds titles in the Carolina Pro Late Model Series and the CARS Tour. He made his NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series debut in 2023 with a 12th-place finish at Bristol and came home second in an ARCA Menard Series race at Kansas.
This year, he opened the Xfinity Series with a fourth at Daytona and challenged for a win at Circuit of The Americas before a tire issue left him deep in the finishing order. The son of 2003 Truck Series champion Travis Kvapil, fans should keep an eye on Carson Kvapil.
WILLIAM SAWALICH
HOMETOWN EDEN PRAIRIE, MINNESOTA
BIRTHDAY10/3/2006
TEAM
JOE GIBBS RACING
It’s appropriate that 18-year-old William Sawalich is driving the No. 18 Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing. He ran part time a year ago and earned his first Xfinity Series pole at Phoenix in just his third series start.
Sawalich claimed ARCA Menard Series East titles in 2023 and 2024 and notched nine national ARCA wins. He also earned a Truck Series pole at Talladega.
With backing from Starkey Hearing Technologies and support from his family, Sawalich balances racing with online classes at Liberty University.
SAMMY SMITH
HOMETOWN JOHNSTON, IOWA
BIRTHDAY6/4/2004
TEAM JR MOTORSPORTS
Born June 4, 2004, Smith drives the No. 8 Chevrolet for JR Motorsports. He won at Phoenix in just his 13th Xfinity Series start in 2023 and added victories at Talladega and Rockingham in 2024 and 2025. Smith won ARCA Menards Series East titles in 2021 and 2022 and notched six national ARCA victories. With roots in Legend Cars, Late Models and the CARS Tour, he brings both skill and experience as he continues to climb toward Cuplevel competition.
TAYLOR GRAY
HOMETOWN ARTESIA, NEW MEXICO
BIRTHDAY3/25/2005
TEAM
JOE GIBBS RACING
Gray, 19, drives the No. 54 Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing. After a partial 2024 Xfinity Series effort, he’s running the full schedule this year and turned heads with a runnerup finish at Texas early in the year.
A nine-time ARCA winner, Gray also logged 22 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series top-10 finishes with Tricon Garage. Coming from a family of NHRA drag racers, he’s showing polished growth with strong equipment.
JESSE LOVE
HOMETOWN MENLO PARK, CALIFORNIA
BIRTHDAY1/14/2005
TEAMRICHARD
CHILDRESS RACING 2
Love, 20, wheels the No. 2 Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing. He joined the Xfinity Series in 2024 after a dominant ARCA Menards Series campaign in which he won 10 races and claimed the series title.
Love’s rookie Xfinity Series season included a win at Talladega, 18 top-10 results and Rookie-ofthe-Year honors. He opened this year’s schedule with a Daytona win and crossed the line first at Rockingham, but that victory was nulified in postrace inspection.
Love made his Cup Series debut this season with RCR and is running select races for Beard Motorsports. A former ARCA Menards Series West champ, Love is already a major part of RCR’s longterm plans.
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Dye, 21, is navagating his rookie season in the NASCAR Xfinity Series from the seat of the No. 10 Kaulig Racing Chevrolet. After part-time Xfinity Series success in 2024, including a top10 finish at Iowa, he was hired to run the full schedule this year.
Dye was the ARCA Menards Series Rookie of the Year in 2022 and he finished second in the standings. In the Truck Series, he posted a best season finish of 10th. Known for consistency and clean racing, Dye is a reliable presence. He also advocates for mental health awareness through the Race to Stop Suicide initiative.
Meet the Boilin’ Brothers at these Locations
Atlanta Motor Speedway • Feb 22-23
Darlington Raceway • Apr 5-6
Moo, Brew & Que Music Fest • Charlotte, NC Apr 11-13
Merlefest • Wilkesboro, NC April 24-27
Carolina Country Music Fest • Myrtle Beach, SC June 5-8
MLB Speedway Classic • Bristol, TN July 31-Aug 2
Bristol Motor Speedway • Sept 11-13
Field & Stream Music Fest • Winnsboro, SC Oct 3-5
Greenville Country Music Fest • Greenville, SC Oct 18-20
GROWING UP IN THE SPOTLIGHT Byron Adjusts to New Role of a NASCAR Superstar
BY DUSTIN ALBINO
Like many big-name NASCAR drivers, William Byron’s affinity for stock car racing began as a child. He remembers being an avid collector of die-cast cars, always wanting to get his hand on something with a wheel.
Growing up, Byron’s mother, Dana, would incentivize her son to study school workbooks throughout the summer with the payoff being a new die-cast car. He remembers Carl Edwards’ No. 99 Office Depot scheme and the No. 40 Coors Light scheme of Sterling Marlin being among his favorites.
“I still love the die-cast cars and feel like I have a special place in my heart for those,” Byron shared, admitting he still brings home some of his No. 24 Chevrolet die-cast cars. “I don’t mind them at all and think they are cool with different paint schemes.”
Byron wasn’t keen on all sports as a youngster. Hailing from NASCAR’s hub in Charlotte, North Carolina, there was an infinite amount of information to absorb. He and his father, Bill, eventually began attending nearby races.
“When we started going to races, my dad and I, it was this sporting event to go do as father and son,” Byron noted. “I wasn’t into a ton of other sporting events – we would go to some (Carolina) Panthers games – but the races were our weekend thing. It kept me focused on something.”
But unlike the majority of his current Cup Series competitors, Byron didn’t begin racing until he was 14 years old. The calm, cool and collective prodigy was grasping Legends Car racing on the fly.
Competing at the track made it difficult for Byron to break out of his shell. He had trouble adjusting to new conditions. This was a true test, one that paid off.
“I think it was difficult in the sense of getting comfortable with the community at the track and getting in on everything,” Byron said. “I didn’t know the ins and outs of racing, so when I showed up to the track, I was there to race. I’ve never been very social at the track because it’s always been foreign to me. Being at the race track was more comfortable for a lot of kids because they grew up there.
“That was the hardest part, getting acclimated at the track and knowing where to go and what to do.”
Success, however, came quickly. Byron had blistering speed and could drive anything fast, a trait not all teenagers possess. He honed his craft through iRacing, though he credits Legend Car crew chief and racing mentor Dennis Lambert for getting him real-life experience.
“A lot of times, I would be getting out of school on Thursday afternoons and going to test and getting ready for the next race or traveling to the next track,” Byron recalled. “We were always doing something. Dennis was a great role model for me because he kept me focused on racing the car and focused on the right things. A lot of the lessons he taught me, I’ve held on to.
“Our relationship at the track is how I stayed focused and on the right things getting started because you have a really small window. At the time, I honestly can’t say I was thinking about a NASCAR career. I was just thinking about how do I win this race or have fun doing it. In the meantime, we were doing all the right things. I’m thankful for a lot of the steps that he sought out for me.”
It wasn’t long that Goliath race teams were taking notice of the Charlotte upstart. At 16 years old, he joined JR Motorsports’ Late Model program, known to be among the best in the country. For a year-and-a-half, he was guided by current Cup Series peer Josh Berry, who spearheaded JRM’s Late Model program. Berry would set up Byron’s car and compete against him at the track.
This is where Byron got his first true sense of how to race.
“Driving the car wasn’t that big of a jump,” Byron said. “The car is bigger, but making speed came pretty natural. The racing – race craft and racing against guys that are veterans – that was tough. Having to anticipate what your balance needed to be during the daytime or a night race at short tracks all around the Southeast. Saving tires, inverts, everything was very difficult.”
At 17 years old, Byron transitioned to what is now known as ARCA Menards Series East. He won a quartet of races in 14 events, en route to the championship with HScott Motorsports. Six of the 14 races were in companion with a national series, which put the rookie in front of more eyes.
“I feel like it keeps leveling up,” he said. “When you’re 16 or 17, you think everyone is watching you, but they aren’t really watching you until you get to some of the NASCAR tracks. Once I got to the K&N Series, that was a big deal and when I started to be on more of a national stage. Some of the races were broadcast.”
The spotlight kept getting brighter, as Byron linked with Kyle Busch Motorsports in the Craftsman Truck Series for the 2016 season. Driving the No. 9 truck, he was paired with crew chief Rudy Fugle, who won the 2015 championship with Erik Jones. An established notebook helped Byron get up to speed quickly.
It took only four races for Byron to find Victory Lane. And once he tasted success, the appetite grew larger. Byron set the record for most wins by a rookie with seven, but missed the series’ inaugural Championship 4 due to an engine failure in the Round of 8 elimination race at Phoenix Raceway.
Admittedly, Byron doesn’t think much about missing out on winning the 2016 Truck Series championship. During that summer, he inked a multi-year deal with Hendrick Motorsports, which included the 2017 campaign with JR Motorsports.
When Rick Hendrick calls, especially when you’re 18 years old, you listen.
“Mr. Hendrick wanted me and made it known and set out a path for me to where I am now,” Byron recalled. “His confidence in me and belief was what made it an easy decision.
In Byron’s lone Xfinity Series season, he won the championship, eclipsing veterans Elliott Sadler and Justin Allgaier, along with fellow rookie-of-the-year candidate Daniel Hemric. He won a series-high four races for full-time competitors and trailed only Sadler for best average finish (10.4).
Hendrick Motorsports dropped Kasey Kahne at the end of the 2017 season, freeing up space for Byron to join its Cup Series lineup. Alex Bowman also replaced a retiring Dale Earnhardt Jr., as NASCAR’s version of the New York Yankees became youthful, also having Chase Elliott incorporated into its driver lineup.
“When I got to the Cup Series, I was really green and didn’t know how to manage a team off the track,” Byron said. “How to sit in meetings and ask for what you need in the car. I could drive the car fast and could race well. I had confidence in that because I had won a lot of big races, but I didn’t have confidence in if the car is off, where do we go from here? What do we do next? I was easily swayed in different directions. I feel like that was the story of my rookie year. I didn’t stand up for what I believed in with the car and be honest about what I was feeling and work on it. That year was a real struggle.
“Once I got with Chad (Knaus, seven-time championship winning crew chief), he restructured the race team and catered it around what we needed and we started to click off and have made the playoffs ever since.”
Byron made the postseason in his sophomore year, capping the season 11th in points. It took until his 98th start – the 2020 regular-season finale – at Daytona International Speedway before he brought the No. 24 Chevrolet back to Victory Lane for the first time since Jeff Gordon’s last triumph in 2015.
That glimpse into Victory Lane, along with Fugle joining Hendrick Motorsports in 2021 to crew chief Byron, has made the No. 24 team one of the Cup Series’ most successful combinations.
“I think in the Cup Series it takes winning,” Byron said of now being an established figure. “I don’t feel like you can feel confident unless you’re winning or running consistently to where you can win. That was what it took for me.”
Earlier this season, Byron became the fifth driver to win consecutive Daytona 500s.
“It’s been a lot of growing under a microscope,” Byron noted. “Everything that I do or change, people comment about. It’s interesting in that way. I’m not a super vocal person, so I’m not going to set the record straight. I’m just going to be me. I just try to keep my head down and keep working because that’s the only way I know how to do it.”
Losi NASCAR RC Cars Built for True Race Fans
BY MATT HIGGINS
A quick stroll down any toy aisle reveals an array of radio-controlled cars. But let’s be honest – most are just that: toys.
For NASCAR fans used to speed, control and real racing performance, a basic toy won’t cut it. That’s where a company like Losi fills the void.
Losi is no stranger to high-performance RC. The company has been in the game for decades, with a reputation for championshiplevel engineering and truly hobby-grade machines. Their latest NASCAR line is fully licensed and built to reflect the quality that true race fans expect.
Here’s how a Losi RC car stacks up – and why it’s nothing like the toys that line department store shelves.
Precise Control: When we asked Losi about what sets hobby-grade cars apart, they started with control – and for good reason. Most toy RC cars have three basic steering settings: full left, full right or straight. The throttle is usually just as limited: slow, medium or fast. That’s not racing – that’s barely driving.
Losi’s hobby-grade RC cars offer fully proportional control. Whether turning the wheel a little or giving it full throttle, the car responds like a real NASCAR race car. The precision allows
Losi NASCAR RC Race Cars include an AWD drivetrain.
Never worry about signal conflicts, thanks to the interference-resistant 2.4GHz technology of the Spektrum SLT2 radio.
for smoother handling and more realistic driving, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced RC racers.
Modular Construction: Under the hood, toy-grade RC cars are typically one-board machines with no replaceable parts. Hobby-grade cars like the Losi NASCAR RC are built with modular components, making them easier to repair, upgrade and fine tune. That design difference leads to two major advantages: serviceability and customization.
Repairable: Clip a curb or hit a wall and a toy-grade car is usually headed for the trash. But Losi RC cars are built to take hits – and more importantly, built to be repaired. Replacement parts are readily available, and the modular layout means most components can be swapped or fixed with ease. It’s a product that’s built to last.
Upgradable: This is where hobby-grade RC really separates itself. With the Losi NASCAR RC, everything from the tires and suspension to the motor and electronics can be upgraded. This means better performance over time and a machine that evolves with your skills. The body can even be custom wrapped or switched out for your favorite driver’s scheme.
Adjustability: Ask any NASCAR crew chief – racing is all about adjustments. That same principle applies here. Unlike toy-grade RC cars, Losi’s models are built to be tuned. From the suspension setup to handling tweaks, your RC car can be dialed in to match different surfaces or racing styles. It’s about performance and authenticity.
LOSI NASCAR RC RACE CAR
The Losi NASCAR RC Race Car is a full-featured, hobbygrade machine built for real NASCAR fans. At 1/12 scale, it’s large enough to feel fast, while small enough for any neighborhood driveway or RC track. It comes ready-to-run out of the box – no extra gear required. The included LiPo battery charges fast via USB and gives solid runtime and performance.
Best of all, these cars are fully licensed. And there’s no need to pick one, Losi has seven spot-on offerings for 2025.
Those looking to bring home a piece of NASCAR that drives like the real thing, this is it. You can find your Losi NASCAR Racecar at your local hobby store or at Horizon Hobby’s online superstore horizonhobby.com.
Chase Elliott NAPA No. 9, Joey Logano Shell No. 22, William Byron Raptor No. 24, Ryan Blaney Advance Auto No. 12, Kyle Larson Valvoline No. 5, Christopher Bell DeWalt No. 20, Ross Chastain Busch Light No. 1
GET IN THE RACE
RC RACE CAR
Experience the thrill of real racing. The Losi NASCAR Racecar puts you in the driver’s seat. This hobby-grade RC machine o ers unmatched high performance, speed, and precision. Everything needed is included, so you’re ready for full throttle excitement right out of the box.
Learn more at Losi.com
CALIFORNIA
Discount Hobby Warehouse
7644 Clairemont Mesa Blvd
San Diego, CA 92111
Fast Track Hobbies
4420 Granite Dr STE 400 Rocklin, CA 95677
COLORADO
HobbyTown Westminster 9120 Wadsworth Pkwy Westminster, CO 80021
CONNECTICUT
R/C Madness Track & Hobby 101 North St Enfield, CT 06082
FLORIDA
KENTUCKY
Scale Reproductions, Inc. 3073 Breckenridge Ln Louisville, KY 40220
MASSACHUSETTS
Hobby Quarters
My Tobbies – Toys & Hobbies
2218 University Square Mall Tampa, FL 33612
GEORGIA
HobbyTown Kennesaw
840 Ernest W Barrett Pkwy NW Suite 650 Kennesaw, GA 30144
INDIANA
PENNSYLVANIA
Big Dog RC 482 Stoneboro Lateral Rd Stoneboro, PA 16153
Hobby Express 1713 PA-228
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
30 Commercial St Foxborough, MA 02035
MICHIGAN
Nankin Hobby Farmington 33350 W 9 Mile Rd
Farmington, MI 48336
Nankin Hobby Southgate 12020 Fort St #1005 Southgate, MI 48195
Asylum Xtreme 531 Eastern Blvd
Clarksville, IN 47129
Nankin Hobby Ypsilanti 1480 Washtenaw Ave
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
NEW HAMPSHIRE
HobbyTown Londonderry 4 Orchard View Dr Unit 5 Londonderry, NH 03053
NEW YORK
Bayshore Hobbies and Toys 2056 Sunrise Hwy Bayshore, NY 11706
HobbyTown Indianapolis 8265 Center Run Dr Indianapolis, IN 46250
SingerHobbies, LLC
2072 Burton Ln Martinsville, IN 46151
Small Addictions RC 1250 Upper Front St Binghamton, NY 13901
NORTH CAROLINA Hangar 18 Hobbies 112 Kilmayne Dr Cary, NC 27511
Sha er’s Full Steam Ahead Hobby Shop 630 N 4th Ave Altoona, PA 16601
Sports Zone Toys & Comics 359 Market St Sunbury, PA 17801
SOUTH CAROLINA
Xtreme RC Hobby 9841 US-78 Ladson, SC 29456
TENNESSEE
HobbyTown Knoxville 11145 Turkey Dr Knoxville, TN 37934
TEXAS
New Sun Racing 500 S 10th St STE D McAllen, TX 78501
Performance RC Hobby LLC 3609 Business Center Dr Suite 116 Pearland, TX 77584
UTAH
West Valley Hobbies 1765 W 5400 S Taylorsville, UT 84129
WISCONSIN
HobbyTown West Allis 1708 S 108th St West Allis, WI 53214
Pocono’s Veterans
Veteran-Based Organizations are Educating Potential Recruits
at Pocono Raceway.
BY JARED TURNER
When the NASCAR Cup Series visits Pennsylvania’s Pocono Raceway in June for The Great American Getaway 400 Presented by VISITPA.COM, the race itself won’t be the only marquee attraction.
Before the green flag waves on Sunday, June 22, fans at the “Tricky Triangle” are invited to spend time at Veterans Village –a two-to-three-acre area just outside the race track within Pocono Raceway’s Fan Fair where approximately 45 veteran-serving organizations will be represented.
Current and former members of the U.S. military along with high-flying national assets, including an array of sophisticated military equipment and gear, will be on hand to bolster recruitment efforts for each branch of the Armed Forces.
A breakfast and a special ceremony for Gold Star families are among the headline events scheduled at Veterans Village during race weekend.
Last year, 240 Gold Star families attended the breakfast and around 30 veterans’ organizations had a presence at Veterans Village throughout the weekend.
The event has grown every year since its 2022 inception, which was the brainchild of retired Sergeant Major Kevin Bittenbender, the director of military affairs at Pocono Raceway.
Bittenbender retired from the Army in 2018 after 34 years of service that included an 18-month deployment in Afghanistan that stretched from 2006-2008. Despite health challenges from exposure to burn pits resulting in the amputation of his left leg, his passion for outdoor activities remains unabated. He has embraced adaptive sports, competing at the paralympic level in Skeleton and Bobsled, and participated in marathons
Village
nationwide. Alongside personal pursuits, he mentors fellow amputees at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
In December 2022, Kevin was officially matched with his service dog from America’s VetDogs named Kirby, a familiar furry face at Pocono Raceway who will be, as always, by Bittenbender’s side at Veterans Village. Trained as both a PTSD and mobility service dog, Kirby’s journey to Bittenbender was sponsored by the NFL’s Houston Texans and their corporate partner, Kroger, as part of America’s VetDogs Puppy With a Purpose program. The experience of growing up in an NFL stadium and attending games and community events, combined with the expert training provided by America’s VetDogs, helped Kirby become a calm and confident service dog. Kirby is also well-known for this title of “MVP” — Most Valuable Pup — at the 2022 Animal Planet’s Puppy Bowl.
The 2025 edition of Veterans Village promises to be bigger and better than ever.
“This year, we’ll have not just our national assets but the Army Rock band playing, as well as the Navy Rock band,” Bittenbender said. “We’ll have some aerial aesthetic displays. We had two UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters on display last year amongst other wheeled assets. This year, we expect the same if not more, which will aid with our recruiting efforts for the National Guard and active-duty components. Potential recruits can talk with soldiers and sailors and Marines about what they do, and we’ll have some demonstrations with the equipment on display.”
Coming out to Veterans Village during the Pocono NASCAR weekend is a must for anyone interested in learning more about a specialized role in the military.
“It provides an avenue if someone is looking to get into, let’s say, the medical side of the house,” Bittenbender said. “We’ll have a bunch of medics, doctors and nurses, as well as aviators, if folks are looking to get into the aviation aspect of it. Last year, we had part of a Navy Seal team, and we’ll have some Special Operators from the Special Operations side of the house there, as well, to talk about what they do and some of the skills they’ve learned and applied in the military.”
Bittenbender considers outreach to veterans and their families a major part of his life’s work, and he couldn’t be more thankful that Pocono Raceway has afforded him the opportunity to carry out his mission.
“The administration at Pocono gives me flexibility and says, ‘Here’s the football. Run with it,’” Bittenbender said. “And it really takes me back to the time when I was in the military – I always tried to put myself outside of my comfort zone, and Pocono definitely allows me to do so. With that, it helps me be a better person but also give back to my community – my veterans community and my Gold Star community – to try to do well for them and live a life worthy of the sacrifice of the guys that I lost in Afghanistan.
“I’m able to do this in their memory. Anything and everything that I do, I do in their memory and in honor of them.”
Bittenbender approaches his job at Pocono Raceway with a simple philosophy that gives it special meaning.
“Any good recipe has ingredients, and if you’re missing an ingredient, the recipe doesn’t come out as planned. As director of military affairs at Pocono, my ingredients are three ‘Ps,’ an ‘A’ and a ‘C,’” Bittenbender said. “The three ‘Ps’ are having a purpose, a passion and being a part of something bigger than myself. Doing this Veterans Village and having a Gold Star breakfast applies to all those ingredients.
“The ‘A’ is for attitude. I can’t have a poor attitude going to a NASCAR race, nor being involved with NASCAR. It just makes me feel good about what I do, especially when I have other veterans coming up to me and saying how much they’ve enjoyed spending the time there with their families and making a memory for themselves.
“The ‘C’ is comfort zone. I’ve always tried to put myself outside of the comfort zone area. You can’t grow spiritually, mentally or physically without putting yourself outside of that comfort zone.”
CHANGING LIVES, ONE DOG AT A TIME
America’s VetDogs’ National Mission to Support Veterans and First Responders
America’s VetDogs, a 501(c)(3) charity headquartered in Smithtown, New York, is making a tremendous and lasting impact on the lives of military veterans, active-duty service members and first responders with physical and emotional disabilities. Since 2003, the non-profit organization has trained and placed nearly 1,200 service dogs with the men and women who have served the nation throughout all 50 U.S. states and territories.
These animals – primarily Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers and Lab/Golden crosses – are purpose bred at America’s VetDogs headquarters and training center on Long Island in New York. In most cases, these puppies then enter the organization’s prison puppy program
when they are 8 to 10 weeks old. In this special program, incarcerated individuals at more than a dozen correctional facilities up and down the East Coast, with support from expert advisers, help raise and train puppies who will one day work as service dogs. In many facilities, incarcerated veterans participate in the program, which gives them an emotional connection to their dog’s future handler and partner.
Each weekend, the puppies go home with a volunteer weekend puppy raiser. These weekend puppy raisers – who generally live within 30 miles of the facility – teach house manners, socialize them to car rides and traffic noise, visit stores, restaurants and hospitals, and hang out with kids and families so that they will be confident wherever their future veteran partner will go. When the puppies are between 14 and 16 months old. these special canines return to the headquarters of America’s VetDogs. For the next three to four months, they will work with a certified service dog or guide dog mobility instructor as they continue their formal training to become a guide or service dog.
After an extensive evaluation process, a dog will be matched and custom trained for a military veteran, active-duty service member or first responder who has gone through the application process. Thanks to generous donors, these dogs and training are provided at no cost to the people the organization serves. It costs America’s VetDogs more than $50,000 to breed, raise, train and place one dog.
While the monetary contributions of individuals, corporations, foundations, businesses, and service and civic clubs certainly play a critical role in helping America’s VetDogs accomplish its mission, the same is true of the puppy raisers who devote countless hours to helping prepare the animals for life with their future owner.
“We rely on between 1,400 and 1,600 volunteers – the majority of whom are raising puppies for us either full-time or part-time throughout the year,” said Mike Rosen, chief marketing officer for America’s VetDogs. “It is an incredibly selfless way to give back to America’s heroes. You’re investing a year or so of your life into raising a puppy, and then you’re giving it back to us so that dog can change, and sometimes even save, the life of a veteran or first responder.”
The job of a volunteer puppy raiser is twofold. It starts with basic obedience training, which involves the volunteer following the curriculum set by America’s VetDogs. “It’s ‘sit,’ ‘stay,’ ‘come,’ and ensuring the pups stay off the furniture and don’t beg for food, etc.,” Rosen said. “The most important role of a puppy raiser is socialization – getting that puppy accustomed to the sights, sounds and smells of the world that their future veteran or first responder handler may one day experience.
“We want our raisers to take them to work, take them into restaurants and bars, take them shopping, have them be around families and kids and other dogs. That way, they’ll really get used to anything that their future handler may one day walk into.”
Some puppy raisers have dedicated their time and energy to training more than 20-plus dogs for America’s VetDogs and its sister nonprofit, the Guide Dog Foundation, over the course of many years.
“If you or somebody you know may benefit from a service dog, apply,” Rosen said. “If you want to give back to the veteran and first responder community, volunteer. And if you have the wherewithal, consider donating. It’s an incredible way to give back and help save or change the life of a veteran or first responder who has served our nation or served your community.”
Learn how to apply, volunteer and donate at VetDogs.org/PolePosition.
PUPPY WITH A PURPOSE®
RETIRED U.S. ARMY SGT.
Major Kevin Bittenbender is no stranger to service—or resilience. After 34 years in the military and the amputation of his left leg due to combat-related burn pit exposure, Bittenbender found a new kind of support in Kirby, his highly trained service dog from America’s VetDogs. Kirby was raised through the organization’s Puppy With a Purpose® program, in partnership with the NFL’s Houston Texans and Kroger. Kirby was a frequent presence at Texans games and community events, acclimating to the sights and sounds of large crowds. That socialization molded Kirby into the calm, confident service dog that now stands proudly beside Bittenbender—whether at home or at Pocono Raceway, where he serves as Director of Military Affairs. Fans can meet Kirby during NASCAR race weekend at Pocono Raceway, June 20–22, where he’ll accompany Bittenbender at Veterans Village—an initiative he founded to connect veterans with vital resources and community. America’s VetDogs has partnered with sports teams, media companies, and corporations to raise nearly 50 future service and guide dogs through its Puppy With a Purpose® program. The initiative serves as a fundraising, awareness and training initiative designed to bring national attention to America’s VetDogs and the philanthropic work of its partners.
LEARN MORE AT VETDOGS.ORG/PWAP
CAREER-DEFINING MOVES
HOW THE RIGHT TEAM ELEVATED THESE NASCAR STARS
BY BRYAN AGUIAR
In NASCAR, a driver’s career can be shaped as much by the team they join as by their own talent. While some find instant success, others need a change of scenery to reach their full potential. For several Cup Series champions, a key team switch proved to be the catalyst for breakout performances, championship runs and lasting legacies. Here’s a look at five notable drivers whose careers were transformed after a high-profile move:
JOEY LOGANO
Joe Gibbs Racing (2009 – 2012) to Team Penske (2013 – present) Logano entered the NASCAR Cup Series with sky-high expectations. A rising star at Joe Gibbs Racing, he had already shown promise in the lower series, but his Cup Series results fell short of the hype. Over four full seasons with JGR, Logano scored only two victories.
His career trajectory changed dramatically in 2013 when he joined Team Penske. Under the guidance of Roger Penske, Logano quickly emerged as one of the sport’s most consistent and competitive drivers. He became a perennial title contender, winning multiple championships and amassing nearly 40 victories for the team, more than any other driver in Penske’s NASCAR history.
DALE JARRETT
career race at the age of 39, further proving how impactful the move to Yates had been.
KEVIN HARVICK
Richard Childress Racing (2001 – 2013) to Stewart-Haas Racing (2014 – 2023)
Harvick’s 13-year run with Richard Childress Racing featured numerous wins and consistent playoff appearances, but rarely the kind of dominance that defines a champion. That dominance finally arrived when Harvick joined Stewart-Haas Racing in 2014.
In his debut season with SHR, Harvick captured the Cup Series title and immediately asserted himself as one of the fastest cars in the field. He led more laps in his first two seasons with SHR (4,432) than he had in his entire RCR tenure (4,416).
A nine-win season in 2020 and five top-three points finishes over six years made this the most successful stretch of his career. Harvick retired in 2023 with 60 career wins.
MARTIN TRUEX JR.
Michael Waltrip Racing (2010 – 2013) to Furniture Row Racing (2014 – 2018) Truex Jr. showed glimpses of talent early in his Cup Series career, but consistency eluded him during stints at Dale Earnhardt Inc. and Michael Waltrip Racing. His move to Furniture Row Racing in 2014 proved to be the turning point.
Joe Gibbs Racing (1992 – 1994) to Yates Racing (1995 – 2006) Jarrett spent the early years of his NASCAR Cup Series career gaining experience with teams like Wood Brothers Racing and Joe Gibbs Racing, where he helped launch the new organization in the early 1990s. While his talent was clear, his results remained steady but unspectacular.
That changed in 1995 when Jarrett joined Robert Yates Racing. Driving the No. 88 Ford, he quickly became a championship-caliber competitor. He won 29 races with the team, and claimed the 1999 Cup Series title. Jarrett also won the Daytona 500 three times and recorded six consecutive top-five points finishes from 1996 through 2001.
His late-career success included winning his fifth
Truex reached the Championship 4 in 2015 and began building momentum. In 2016, he earned crown jewel wins at the Coca-Cola 600 and the Southern 500. His breakthrough came in 2017, when he won eight races and captured the series championship.
Even after Furniture Row closed in 2018, Truex remained a title contender with Joe Gibbs Racing, where he added 15 more wins before retiring.
KYLE BUSCH
Hendrick Motorsports (2005 – 2007) to Joe Gibbs Racing (2008 – 2022)
Busch’s move from Hendrick Motorsports to Joe Gibbs Racing is one of the most impactful team changes in recent NASCAR history. While Busch had already shown race-winning speed at Hendrick, his transition to JGR unlocked a new level of performance.
In his first year with Gibbs in 2008, Busch won eight races. Over 15 seasons, he claimed 56 Cup Series victories and two championships (2015 and 2019). While his raw talent was never in question, it was the switch to JGR that elevated him into the top tier of all-time NASCAR greats.
Permanently Fix Leaks in the:
• Radiator
• Water Pump Casing
• Heater Core
• Freeze Plug
• Block / Head
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Also Seals Cracked Heads & Cracked Porous Blocks
• Can be added to a hot or cold engine*
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• Mixes with all types of antifreeze
POOLE
ROOKIE QUESTIONS (10
What was the original name of the Coca-Cola 600?
a. Winston 600
b. North Carolina 600
c. World 600
d. All-American 600
While the NASCAR Cup Series now uses one lug nut, how many are still used in the Xfinity and Truck Series?
a. Six
b. Three
c. Four
d. Five
a.
TEST YOUR RACING KNOWLEDGE!
This section includes 10 NASCAR trivia questions, divided into three levels of difficulty:
Rookie (4 Questions): Perfect for casual fans or newcomers.
Advanced (4 Questions): A challenge for seasoned NASCAR followers.
Expert (2 Questions): Only true NASCAR historians will ace this section!
POINTS EACH)
In what year did the Indianapolis Motor Speedway host the inaugural Brickyard 400?
a. 1985
b. 2000
c. 1994
d. 1972
Which driver earned Toyota’s first NASCAR National Series championship?
a. Kyle Busch
b. Martin Truex Jr.
c. Robert Huffman
d. Todd Bodine
ADVANCED QUESTIONS
When
(15 POINTS EACH)
When Dodge returned to the NASCAR
Series in 2001, which team did NOT immediately make the switch?
a. Petty Enterprises
b. Chip Ganassi Racing
c. Penske Racing
d. Bill Davis Racing
NASCAR Hall of Fame Crew Chief Chad Knaus won his first Cup Series pole with which driver?
a. Jimmie Johnson
b. Stacy Compton
c. Wally Dallenbach Jr.
d. Casey Atwood
EXPERT QUESTIONS (20 POINTS EACH)
Pontiac’s last NASCAR Cup Series victory came at which track?
a. Darlington
b. Daytona
c. Dover d. Rockingham
NASCAR reduced the Cup Series schedule from 48 races in 1971 to how many in 1972?
LEADER BOARD
FIND THE DIFFERENCE
Spot the 5 differences between photo A and B.
SCAN THE QR CODE TO VIEW ALL TRACKSIDE TRIVIA ANSWERS ON
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Petty vs. Pearson
THE RIVALRY THAT SHAPED NASCAR
BY MIKE HEMBREE
An excerpt from a soon to be released book, Petty vs. Pearson, The Rivalry that Shaped NASCAR, dives into one of NASCAR’s most harrowing moments. When Richard Petty flipped down Darlington’s frontstretch in 1970, it was more than a terrifying wreck—it was a wake-up call for an entire sport. Here is an excerpt from the book.
From NASCAR’s early days, the specter of death hung over every race track, from the biggest to the smallest. Larry Mann was the first driver to perish in a Cup Series race, September 14, 1952. He hit the outside guardrail at infamously dangerous Langhorne Speedway in Pennsylvania and was pronounced dead from head injuries that night at Nazareth Hospital.
In the first ten years after the 1959 opening of Daytona International Speedway, six drivers were killed in accidents. Over the decades, the Daytona death list would grow past forty, including motorcycle racers, sports car drivers, and a go-kart racer. In 1994, Daytona claimed popular Alabama driver Neil Bonnett in a crash in practice. On the day of Bonnett’s funeral in Alabama, Rodney Orr died, also in Daytona practice. Other tracks had their own dark days. In 1995, drivers Gary Batson and Russell Phillips died in gruesome crashes in Late Model Sportsman races at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Also lost to accidents: Adam Petty (grandson of Richard), John Nemechek, Tony Roper, Kenny Irwin, and, for many, the unkindest cut of all, Dale Earnhardt.
we had. He said, ‘I wouldn’t do it. Those cars weren’t safe.’ The cars that I drove—and this is blunt, they would kill you. If you hit a concrete wall at 180 miles per hour, you certainly weren’t going to walk away.”
Even for bold, brave race car drivers who often talked of ignoring the threat of death because it was impossible to race with that thought lodged in the head, the reality was there.
Whether it was Daytona, Darlington, or anywhere in between, Petty vs. Pearson meant fans were about to witness something unforgettable.
Crew chief Dale Inman and Richard Petty shared more than trophies—they shared trust. Inman’s quick thinking during Petty’s most harrowing crashes was as vital as any raceday strategy.
Legendary motorsports journalist Chris Economaki often said that automobile racing mattered only if it had two things: speed and danger. NASCAR had both— sometimes too much of both. Across much of the 1990s and into 2001, with the death of Earnhardt, whose fan base rivaled that of Petty, the danger seemed omnipresent, like a midnight rider dropping in for a kill.
“A young driver I know went to the [NASCAR] Hall of Fame recently and told me that the cars we drove—you guys had to be idiots,” three-time Cup champion Darrell Waltrip said. “He said we had to be out of our minds to get in those cars with no more safety equipment than
“You start this race, and basically you’ve got a chill,” Waltrip said of racing at Talladega Superspeedway.
“From the time it starts to the time it’s over with, you’ve got a chill, wondering if this is going to be the day they’re going to put you up in the catchfence. Somebody is going in the catchfence.”
For too many years, although there were sporadic safety advances, the possibility of death or severe injury in NASCAR races generally was accepted as part of the game. Funerals were held, families grieved, a departed driver was replaced by the next one in line, and the sport raced on. A familiar phrase—he died doing what he loved—was uttered far too often. But Earnhardt’s
Richard Petty and David Pearson pushed each other to the limit, creating one of the fiercest rivalries in NASCAR history. Their battles weren’t just about wins—they defined an era.
Get Inside One of the Greatest Rivalries in NASCAR History
death changed the landscape dramatically. If the Intimidator, Ol’ Ironhead, the Man in Black, a man seemingly indestructible, could be killed on a race track, no one was safe. Critics claimed NASCAR was too insular and too slow in its safety initiatives, but a popular view in the garage area was that there were enough smart people in-house to solve every dilemma. The stretch of deaths in the 1990s and early 2000s challenged that line of thinking, and the two most important safety advances—head-and-neck restraints and so-called “soft walls”—were developed outside NASCAR.
After Earnhardt’s death, efforts to protect drivers from serious head injuries accelerated. The wall barriers dramatically reduced the possibility of serious injury or death when cars collided head-on with concrete walls, generally the most serious kind of wreck, and head-andneck restraints lessened the possibility of often-fatal neck snaps in high-speed crashes.
Those revolutionary changes were decades in the future when Richard Petty experienced the worst wreck of his career. Petty survived a string of dangerous crashes, none more violent than his stunning wreck in the Rebel 400 at Darlington Raceway, May 9, 1970. Petty veered right into the fourth-turn wall on the race’s 176th lap, and the contact sent his car across the track and into the concrete pit wall. Petty’s car destroyed that portion of the wall and continued down the frontstretch, flipping several times before stopping on its roof. Petty’s arm could be seen flopping from the driver’s window during the tumble. He looked like a rag doll.
A must-have for every fan’s collection
In Petty vs. Pearson, author Mike Hembree examines how the co-dominance of drivers Richard Petty and David Pearson helped drive NASCAR to national prominence.
• Parallel careers that coincided with seismic changes to NASCAR
By Mike Hembree
Foreword by Terry Labonte Hardcover, 248 pages
quarto.com
The ABC television network had joined the race in progress a few minutes before Petty’s crash. “There’s been a crash on the homestretch!” announcer Jim McKay said. “A car upside-down. A blue car.”
Retired driver Ned Jarrett, also working the broadcast, said, “That’s Richard Petty.”
A television camera showed the shocking scene. Petty was on his back in the car, motionless. As is often standard practice in life-threatening race crashes, the camera operator didn’t zoom in for a closer view, but it was clear that Petty was hurt. The red shop rag that Petty usually kept in his mouth to keep it moist during races had fallen out, and a quick look at the crash scene gave the mistaken appearance that there was blood on Petty.
“I ran with a rag in my mouth,” Petty said. “It looked terrible. I think the TV people said to move away from it. He looks like he’s coming apart.”
McKay said, “He certainly looks to be unconscious. The pit crew is running out. This could be a very bad accident to one of the best-known race drivers in the world.”
Members of Petty’s crew, including Dale Inman and Richie Barsz, and members of several other teams jumped the pit wall and ran to the car, even as other drivers were swerving to avoid the wreck. Petty was hanging upsidedown in his seat harness. While the crewmen worked to free him, conscious of the danger of a possible fire erupting, Petty, stirring awake, said, “I hurt my danged shoulder.”
A track safety worker, noticing smoke around the car, ran up and turned on a fire extinguisher. It clouded the wreck scene, making rescue more difficult. “Maurice [Petty] like to killed him,” Inman said.
Petty blacked out as they removed him from the car and loaded him into a waiting ambulance.
Available at bookstores and online.
50STATESOFSHORTTRACKS
Spoon River Speedway
Spoon River Speedway founder Morey Denney began racing in the 1970s, and in 1982, he and his brother decided to build a track on their farm. With help from Buckheart United Coal Mines, the threeeighths-mile, high-banked clay oval opened in 1983. Featuring 23 degrees of banking in the turns and widths of up to 80 feet, Spoon River quickly gained a reputation for speed and side-by-side racing that pushes cars over 100 mph.
A Legacy Carved in Clay
Still owned by Morey Denney, Spoon River Speedway has delivered thrilling weekly action for over 40 years. Its rural setting and lack of local restrictions have allowed for consistent, crowd-pleasing racing and top-tier track prep.
In 2010, Morey’s son Brad took over and operated the track through 2023. In 2024, the Denneys leased the speedway to Tim Neidig, who is now leading
SOUTH DAKOTA
the next chapter. After a strong first year, Neidig is focused on making 2025 the best season yet.
This year’s schedule adds new excitement with NFT Flat Track Motorcycles and go-kart racing on a specially built mini-oval. The World of Outlaws Sprint Cars will also return for another major event weekend, drawing top drivers and fans alike.
Plowboy Nationals: The Crown Jewel
The marquee event at Spoon River is the Plowboy Nationals. Entering its 35th year, the three-day spectacle is one of the Midwest’s most anticipated dirt races. Action kicks off Friday with E-Mods and Hornets, followed by UMP Pro Late Models on Saturday and Sunday.
More than 115 cars raced in last year’s edition, with that total expected to top 200 in 2025. With a major purse up for grabs, it’s a can’t-miss event for drivers and fans alike.
Spoon River has earned its place as Illinois’ premier three-eighths-mile dirt track. From its wall-free turns to the intensity of its high banks, it remains one of the most respected and loved tracks in the region.
NICKNAME Spoon River or The High Banks TRACK OPENED 1983 TRACK TYPE
High-banked oval TRACK LENGTH
Three-eighths mile TRACK SURFACE
Yellow clay
SEATING CAPACITY
3,500 full capacity
FEATURED DIVISIONS
DIRTcar UMP Modifieds, DIRTcar Pro Late Models, DIRTcar Pro Modifieds, B Modifieds, DIRTcar Sport Compacts and
Placerville Speedway
QUARTER-MILE BULLRING
TURNS OUT TOP OPENWHEEL TALENT WORDS:
CALIFORNIA
A little more than a century after the legendary California Gold Rush, another type of rush came to northern California in the form of Placerville Speedway.
Known as Hangtown Speedway when it opened in 1965, Placerville Speedway was carved from the region’s foothills. The highbanked, quarter-mile clay oval has produced several racers who have gone on to achieve national success.
Meet the Promoters
Growing up near Placerville Speedway, Kami Arnold and Scott Russell were always drawn to the track. Arnold’s uncles raced there, and Russell’s father was also a competitor. Before getting his own race car, Russell worked as a crew member for a friend’s team.
In 2016, Arnold and Russell took on a new challenge – managing and promoting Placerville Speedway. Russell manages the activities inside the fence, working with track crews and racers, while Arnold oversees spectator engagement, including concessions, merchandising and the fan experience.
Their leadership has proven successful, earning them multiple Promoter of the Year awards. Most recently, in 2024, they received the Promoter of the Year honor for Region 6 during the RPM Promoters Workshops.
Weekends at Placerville
Placerville Speedway hosts 28 weekends of racing each year, featuring three to four divisions per event, with 25 to 30 cars in each class. The fast-paced format includes both A and B mains, ensuring a full night of nonstop racing.
“We want to make sure the fans and racers get their money’s worth and want to come back,” the promoters noted.
FAST FACTS California
This commitment to quality racing has made Placerville Speedway one of the most popular tracks in the western United States.
Beyond the on-track action, the promoters work hard to keep fans entertained. When racing is on hold, spectators can enjoy activities such as hulahoop and dance contests, nickel tosses for kids, Pinewood Derby races, trivia competitions and other giveaways. Drivers also engage with the audience by tossing frisbees and candy into the stands, while the flag man adds to the excitement by handing out treats to young fans.
Bucket-List Events
Placerville Speedway operates from March to November and hosts a variety of special events throughout the season. Fan-focused nights like Kids Bike Night, Mother’s Day Madness and First Responders Night bring the community together.
During Kids Bike Night, the track gives away more than 40 bicycles to local children and organizes bike races down the frontstretch.
On First Responders Night, the track is illuminated with red and blue emergency lights as local police departments showcase helicopters and SWAT units for fans to explore.
One of the most anticipated events is the NorCal Posse Shootout, held annually on the first weekend in May. This two-day event is a celebration of dirt racing history. Local car builder and restorer Rick Hurst brings out restored race cars, including old Wedge Cars, Pro Stocks, Hardtops and Sprint cars.
During this event, racing legends return to Placerville Speedway to make exhibition laps, preserving the grassroots heritage of the sport and paying homage to the track’s storied past.
LOCATION
Placerville, California
NICKNAME
Little Knoxville on the Hill TRACK OPENED 1965
TRACK TYPE
High-banked oval
TRACK LENGTH
Quarter mile
TRACK SURFACE
Red clay
SEATING CAPACITY
1,800 in the main grandstands and 2,000 pit side.
FEATURED DIVISIONS
Winged 360 Sprint Cars, Limited Late Models, Pure Stocks, Mini Trucks and Winged 410 Sprint Cars.
LEGENDS OF THE TRACK
Brad Sweet, Kyle Larson (first Winged 360 win), Buddy Kofoid, Geo Scelzi, Paul McMahan and Andy Forsberg.
KEY EVENT IN HISTORY
World of Outlaws
Sprint Car Series races, USAC National Midget Series events and visits by the High Limit Sprint Car Series.
50STATESOFSHORTTRACKS
Senoia Raceway
‘WE
ARE GOING TO BUILD A RACE TRACK’
WORDS: ALLEN WALKER PHOTOGRAPHY: SENOIA RACEWAY
GEORGIA
Hence Pollard and his son, Sonny, attended a dirt-racing event at Georgia’s Coweta Raceway during the late 1960s. After the festivities were complete, the younger Pollard was surprised to hear his father say, “We are going to build a race track.”
And that’s exactly what they did.
Digging up a cow pasture on their property, the Pollards built a three-eighths-mile dirt oval.
Senoia Raceway opened in 1969 and became a full family effort – Hence’s wife managed the business affairs, Sonny handled track prep and other family members helped with concessions and tickets. The track remained family owned and operated until Hence Pollard’s sudden passing in 1981.
That same year, the track was sold to Charlie Edwards. Hence Pollard had discussed selling the track if something ever happened to him. While the Pollards owned the facility, Sonny wasn’t allowed to race there, so the sale gave him the opportunity to begin his driving career in his mid-20s. During that time, Sonny had children of his own, and the family spent weekends at Senoia Raceway and other tracks across the country, running Legend Cars and Late Models.
In 1989, Edwards paved the Senoia track. He operated it solo until the late 2000s when he began leasing it to other promoters. In 2010, new
FAST FACTS Georgia
leaseholders brought in red Georgia clay, converting the track back to its original surface. This move brought renewed attention as the major dirt-racing series began making annual visits.
In the mid-2010s, the Massey family took over the lease and replaced the red clay with gray clay sourced from strip mines.
Sonny Pollard stayed in contact with Edwards for years and had always expressed interest in buying the track if it was ever on the market. At the end of 2020, that opportunity came.
Back in Charge
With the Pollard family back at the helm, Senoia Raceway has elevated its weekly racing program, incorporating ideas and experiences they’ve gathered from race tracks across the country.
Generational fans help preserve the track’s history while always looking ahead. With a family-friendly atmosphere, Senoia Raceway is a Saturday-night destination. Fans can even purchase season passes, and the venue includes 2,000 hand-dug concrete grandstand seats along with a trackside tailgating area.
A Peach of an Event
While Senoia Raceway hosts competitive local and national racing series – including the World of Outlaws Late Model Series, the Schaeffer’s Oil Southern National Series and now the American Flat Track motorcycles – no event compares to the track’s Late Model headliner – the Peach State Classic.
Launched in 2021, this Classic has quickly become a must-see and must-run event. The weekend kicks off on Thursday night with local divisions. Friday features the 602 Late Models and Saturday closes out with the 604 division. The purse totals are some of the highest in Georgia: $68,000 on Friday and $135,000 on Saturday.
Last season, Senoia Raceway hosted more than 130 campers on-site for the event. This year, the Peach State Classic will be the finale of the FloRacing Night in America series.
LOCATION
Senoia, Georgia TRACK OPENED
1969
TRACK TYPE
Semi-banked oval
TRACK LENGTH
Three-eighths mile
TRACK SURFACE
Gray Clay
SEATING CAPACITY
2,000 concrete bleachers hand dug
FEATURED DIVISIONS
Late Models, Hot Shots, Mini Stocks, 602 Chargers and Limited Late Models.
LEGENDS OF THE TRACK
Mike Head (National Dirt HOF and Georgia HOF), Leon Archer, Leon Sales, Fletcher Cavender, Roscoe Smith, Sammy Cooper, Ricky Williams, Glen Morris and Clint Smith.
KEY EVENT IN HISTORY
Launched in 2021, the Peach State Classic has become a marquee event among southern dirt tracks.
50STATESOFSHORTTRACKS
Circle City Raceway
QUARTER-MILE INDY OVAL
AS ‘HEAVEN ON DIRT’
INDIANA
Located 20 minutes from downtown Indianapolis, Circle City Raceway opened in 2021 and the quarter-mile dirt track has emerged as a popular destination for both fans and racers from across Midwest.
Donna and Eddie VanMeter – veteran racers with more than 36 years of experience – purchased the facility in October 2023 with a vision of transforming the Hoosier State’s newest short track. Through their guidance, dedication and perseverance, Circle City Raceway is now known as “Heaven on Dirt.”
Unique Experience
Entering the grandstands, fans are immediately drawn to a massive videoboard on the backstretch. The state-of-the-art, LED screen provides a live feed of the racing action, ensuring fans can follow every lap from anywhere in the facility. For those unable to attend, the racing is live-streamed on CircleCityRacewayTV.com.
New this season, a VIP suite and balcony offer an unparalleled bird’s-eye view of the track, creating a premium experience for fans, businesses and sponsors.
Beyond the racing, the midway is lined with merchandise vendors and concession stands, while he track’s dedicated employees – known as some of the friendliest in dirt racing – are always available to assist.
“Our staff is some of the smartest, kindest and most patient in racing. From concessions to race officials, they always make sure everything is taken care of for our fans and racers,” the VanMeters proudly noted.
A Food Paradise
At Circle City Raceway, food isn’t an afterthought – it’s a featured attraction. Instead
of the usual burgers and hot dogs, the track has assembled a race-day menu like no other. Fried bologna sandwiches, smoked pork chops and freshly grilled specialties ensure fans never have to stop for dinner while en route to the track.
And for those looking to cool off on a hot summer night, hand-spun milkshakes and signature margaritas have become fan favorites.
“Our goal was to create a menu that allowed families to come straight from school or work on a Friday night without worrying about dinner,” said Donna VanMeter.
The experience doesn’t end with dinner as freshly baked cookies cap the evening.
FAST FACTS Indiana SOUTH DAKOTA
April to October
An open practice session on April 5 allowed racers to shake off the rust prior to the April 11 season opener.
Fans can expect more than 120 cars to fill the pit area for the track’s weekly Friday night events with the Midwest Thunder 410 Sprint Cars, UMP Modifieds and Indiana Crate Late Models rotating among the many divisions.
An impressive slate of special events includes appearances by the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series, the USAC National Sprint Car Series, the USAC National Midgets and the Northern All Stars Late Model Series.
The season concludes Saturday, Oct. 18, with the highly anticipated Spooky 150. This 10division program showcases a full day of racing action.
In a state known for its numerous and historic short tracks, Circle City Raceway has earned its spot, offering pure dirt-track entertainment, a family atmosphere and an unparalleled weekly racing experience.
LOCATION Indianapolis, Indiana
NICKNAME
Heaven on Dirt TRACK OPENED
May 2021
TRACK TYPE
Sightly banked oval TRACK LENGTH
Quarter mile TRACK SURFACE Clay SEATING CAPACITY
6,500 grandstands, 800 pit area stands, 100 suite area.
FEATURED DIVISIONS Midwest Thunder 410 Sprint Cars, Indiana Crate Late Models, UMP Modifieds, CCR Grub Getters and UMP Hornets. LEGENDS OF THE TRACK Tony Stewart, Kyle Larson, Kyle Busch, Rico Abreu and Brexton Busch.
KEY EVENT IN HISTORY
The Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series will visit the track on Friday, May 2.
I-94 Speedway
POPULAR OVAL GOES FROM DIRT TO PAVEMENT AND BACK TO DIRT
Located in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, I-94 Speedway began life in 1955. Built as a small-town dirt track to spotlight local racers, the speedway quickly became a gathering place for participants in the area’s grassroots racing scene.
Over time, the three-eighths-mile oval became known as a “racer’s track,” as a pit area packed with dedicated competitors entertained a large and loyal fan base.
A Strong Era for Pavement Racing
The track’s racing surface was switched to asphalt in June 1994, literally paving the way for the Late Models of the ARTGO Challenge Series to race for the Minnesota Governor’s Cup.
Steve Carlson, a five-time NASCAR Midwest Tour champion from West Salem, Wisconsin, topped the 100-lap race on Sept. 11, 1994.
I-94 Speedway operated as a paved track until 2008 when it returned to its dirt roots. This led to a relationship with the WISSOTA sanctioning body – a partnership that helped solidify I-94 Speedway as a key stop on the WISSOTA tour, consistently drawing hundreds of race cars and thousands of fans.
Hot Summer Nights
A night of racing at I-94 Speedway offers fans an experience unlike any other. The recently
updated facilities are second to none, and the ontrack product is just as impressive – consistently delivering competitive, edge-of-your-seat action.
Each weekend, local talent lines up against seasoned veterans and touring regulars from the WISSOTA circuit. And with a 7 p.m. green flag, fans can beat the summer heat, as the sun sets, the air cools, the cars get faster and the action intensifies.
Gopher State Showdown
Come early October, I-94 Speedway will shake off the brisk chill of fall with the Gopher State Showdown. Now entering its third year, this annual event is the final opportunity for racers to earn points toward the WISSOTA Auto Racing National Championship.
With racing from Thursday through Saturday night, the Gopher State Showdown features a massive lineup of nine divisions: Late Models, Modifieds, Super Stocks, Midwest Modifieds, Street Stocks, Mod Fours, GenX Late Models, Legend Cars and Hornets.
The event consistently draws some of the nation’s best drivers, each chasing one last visit to Victory Lane before the season ends. This year, the Gopher State Showdown will run Oct. 9-11, and fans are encouraged to purchase tickets early for this can’t-miss weekend of racing action.
A Timeless Track
Carved from the roots of midwestern dirt-track racing, I-94 Speedway has earned a place in the hearts of fans and racers alike – both locally and nationally. From its rich racing history to the beautiful sunsets that accent the on-track action, it’s a place where memories are made.
With high-speed straightaways and steeply banked corners, I-94 is a bucket-list destination for any dirt-track racer.
And a Saturday night under the lights at I-94 –surrounded by the roar of racing engines, the scent of race fuel and the energy generated by a grandstand full of enthusiastic race fans – is something that lives on long after the final checkered flag.
LOCATION
Fergus Falls, Minnesota
NICKNAME
The Fast Track TRACK OPENED 1955 TRACK TYPE
Banked oval TRACK LENGTH
Three-eighths mile TRACK SURFACE Dirt
SEATING CAPACITY
4,000
FEATURED DIVISIONS
WISSOTAsanctioned classes –Late Models, Modifieds, Midwest Modifieds, Street Stocks, Super Stocks and Short Trackers.
LEGENDS OF THE TRACK
Steve Carlson, Tim Johnson, Matt Kenseth and Travis Sauter.
KEY EVENT IN HISTORY
Introduction of the Gopher State Showdown, which ends the track’s season each October.
Washington
Evergreen Speedway
THE HUB FOR NASCAR RACING IN THE NORTHWEST
WASHINGTON
Evergreen Speedway stands as the only NASCAR-sanctioned short track in the state of Washington, and the facility has long served as a hub for the sanctioning body’s racing activities in the Northwest.
Located in Monroe, Washington, a fiveeighths-mile paved oval is the centerpiece of this multi-use motorsports complex that can accommodate 10,000 fans and plays host to a wide variety of racing series.
Adding to its unique appeal, the complex also features a shorter inner oval, a Figure-8 course and a quarter-mile dragstrip.
Horses Before Horsepower
Evergreen Speedway is publicly owned by Snohomish County. In 1949, the county granted the Evergreen State Fair permission to use a portion of the land the track now occupies. By 1950, that land was approved for the construction of a horse racing track.
In 1954, Evergreen began hosting auto races. However, poor weather conditions led to financial struggles, and auto racing was temporarily removed from the schedule. After several years focused solely on equestrian events, the track was paved in 1963 and auto racing returned.
In 1966, the inner oval and the Figure-8 layout were also paved.
In 2011, Douglas Hobbs, owner of High Road Promotions LLC, secured a county contract to operate the speedway through 2036. This agreement ensures that NASCAR-sanctioned events will continue to have a presence in Washington for the foreseeable future.
Racing at Evergreen
Over the years, Evergreen Speedway has hosted an impressive lineup of racing series, including Formula Drift, ARCA Menards Series West, Global Rallycross, the NASCAR Northwest
Series and the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Today, the track’s weekly racing features Late Models and several regional divisions.
Signature events include the Figure-8 Nationals, 60 Minutes of Fear, the Mark Galloway Shootout and the marquee Summer Showdown – a 200-lap Super Late Model race on the five-eighthsmile track.
“It’s one of the highest paying races on the West Coast for Late Models, if not the highest paying race,” said Benjamin Eyman, a track announcer at Evergreen Speedway. “Ty Dillon has run the Summer Showdown, along with a handful of other big names.”
FAST FACTS SOUTH DAKOTA
The track layout offers a tough challenge, with drivers needing to approach Turns 1 and 2 much differently than Turns 3 and 4.
“There’s so much caked-up rubber near the wall. You can’t really run up there,” Eyman explained. “And 3 and 4 is so much more difficult than 1 and 2 because it’s the turn we pit in usually, so it’s getting worn significantly more. To win here – and win that big race – is not easy. It takes a lot of skill.”
Looking Ahead
With an operations contract and a continued NASCAR affiliation, Evergreen Speedway’s future looks strong. The track also serves as a development ground for young racers, offering events for drivers as young as 12 years old.
“The Youth Hornets are our most important class because those are building the racers of the next generation,” Eyman said. “Those races are building the kids that are going to grow up and drive Mini Stocks, Street Stocks, Outlaw Figure-8s and Late Models.”
Backed by strong leadership, passionate fans and a clear focus on the future, Evergreen Speedway is positioned for long-term success.
LOCATION
Monroe, Washington
NICKNAME
The Superspeedway of the West
TRACK OPENED 1954
TRACK TYPE Oval
TRACK LENGTH
Five-eighths mile
TRACK SURFACE
Asphalt
SEATING CAPACITY
10,000
FEATURED DIVISIONS
Late Models and Formula Drift.
LEGENDS OF THE TRACK
The Zaretzke, Deitz and Cox families.
KEY EVENT IN HISTORY
When the fiveeighths-mile oval was paved in 1963.
WORDS: RUSS EDENS PHOTOGRAPHY: EVERGREEN SPEEDWAY
UNIQUE BANKING GENERATES AMAZING SPEEDS
OHIO Atomic Speedway
When it comes to pure, raw speed, very few race tracks can match the energy that Atomic Speedway generates. Known as the “Fastest 3/8th Mile Dirt Oval in the World,” it’s a place only the bravest can ride the cushion – and the fans absolutely love it.
Origins of Speed
Atomic Speedway was the end result when a group of businessmen from Chillicothe, Ohio, set out to capitalize on the surging popularity of stock car racing in the Buckeye State during the mid-1950s.
The group included race fans, car owners and drivers – people who understood what the future held for auto racing and wanted to build a track that could meet the sport’s growing demands. Construction was completed in 1953, and Atomic Speedway officially opened.
Three years later, in 1956, the track relocated from its original site to its current home in Ross County, Ohio.
Big-time racers from all over the country showed up to see what this new speedway was all about – and they quickly realized it was unliked any track on which they had previously battled.
Track CEO Charlie Vest said, “Just the ridiculous speed makes this place set aside. When you come here and watch race cars get around this
place, it’s amazing how fast Atomic Speedway is.”
Unlike Any Other
The speeds at Atomic Speedway are jaw-dropping, but how can such a small track be so fast? The answer lies in its high-banked, progressive layout. Turns 1 and 2 differ from Turns 3 and 4, creating a distinctive challenge for drivers on each lap.
A racer starts on the front straightaway before entering Turns 1 and 2, which feature 32 to 36 degrees of banking. From there, they hit a slightly curved back straightaway – described by Vest as almost D-shaped – before diving into Turns 3 and 4, both slightly steeper at 34 to 36 degrees.
Big Names and Big Events
Atomic Speedway has hosted some of the biggest events and toughest competitors in dirt racing. Each year, World of Outlaws fans can catch both the Sprint Car and Late Model divisions on the Atomic high banks. The Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series also runs major events at the track. Winged 410 Sprint Cars, Late Models, Modifieds, Sports Mods and the IMCA Racesaver 305 Sprint Cars, are featured on the Atomic schedule as well.
“Every world racing series we’ve had here,” said Vest.
Some of the biggest names in racing have competed – and won – at Atomic. NASCAR champion Jeff Gordon honed is racing skills on the track’s high banks, dominating from the start. Tony Stewart and Donny Schatz have also visited Victory Lane at Atomic.
Local heroes such the late Delmas Conley have earned legendary status for their long-term contributions.
“Every sprint car guy in a record book has been here,” Vest said. “If you probably went through a list of Sprint Car Hall of Fame or Dirt Car Hall of Fame people, just about everybody has been here.”
Current stars Kyle Larson, Christopher Bell and Alex Bowman have also turned laps at the famed Ohio oval.
FAST FACTS
LOCATION
Chillicothe, Ohio
NICKNAME
The Fastest
3/8th Mile Dirt Oval in the World
TRACK OPENED
1953
TRACK TYPE
High-banked oval
TRACK
LENGTH
Three-eighths mile
TRACK SURFACE
Clay SEATING CAPACITY
7,000
FEATURED DIVISIONS
Winged 410 Sprint Cars, Late Models, Kryptonite RaceCars, Modifieds, Sport Mods and IMCA Racesaver 305 Sprint Cars.
LEGENDS OF THE TRACK
Kyle Larson, Tony Stewart, Jeff Gordon, Donny Schatz and Delmas Conley.
KEY EVENT IN HISTORY
Terry McCarl waving to Donny Schatz on the last lap of a World of Outlaws race.
WORDS: ARMANY DEPAUL PHOTOGRAPHY: ATOMIC SPEEDWAY
Tennessee 50STATESOFSHORTTRACKS
Duck River Raceway Park
QUARTER-MILE MUSIC CITY DIRT TRACK SINGS A SWEET SONG
Located in the plains of middle Tennessee near metropolitan Nashville, Duck River Raceway Park is a short, aggressively banked dirt oval. Named after a river that runs nearby, the track hosts a variety of racing divisions, from Late Models to Street Stocks.
The track is a local favorite that attracts thousands of fans to its weekly races. Known for its high speeds and family-friendly atmosphere, Duck River Raceway Park offers an unforgettable experience for race fans of all ages.
Speed and Dedication
Founded in 1973, Duck River Raceway Park was originally built as a practice track. At the time, the primary speedway in the area was the now-defunct Smyrna Speedway. The Duck River oval was established by Sam Pugh, who remained a loyal volunteer and supporter of the facility even after selling it. He continued to drive the water truck and assist with maintenance until his passing in 2018.
Located in Wheel, Tennessee, Duck River quickly transitioned from a practice venue to a full-fledged racing facility after Smyrna Speedway closed. For more than 50 years, the track has been a staple of the local racing scene.
The quarter-mile track features steep banking at 21 degrees, resulting in high-speed racing with average lap times ranging from 12.6 to 12.9 seconds. Track legend Scott Cook holds the lap record at a blistering 11.432 seconds.
Today, the track is managed by Russell and Angie Boothe. Russell, being a racer himself, is a former two-time track champion in the Factory Stock Division. But his passion for racing goes far beyond what he did behind the wheel. Russell Boothe takes pride in his track, often working
up into the night making sure the track surface is adequately prepared for the following night’s races and is largely responsible for the track’s upkeep and renovations.
Marquee Events
Over the years, Duck River Raceway Park has hosted a variety of local and touring series events. Its season runs from early March through early December, culminating annually with the Duck River Winterfest.
Several marquee events are run at the track, including the Sam Pugh Labor Day Weekend and the Deep Fried 75 Super Late Model Series race. Duck River is also home to the Schaeffer’s Oil Spring Nationals, a premier event that attracts top-tier dirt racers from across the region.
SOUTH DAKOTA
The Factory Stock division makes frequent visits, drawing some of the best dirt racers in Tennessee and beyond. While the atmosphere is family-friendly, the competitive nature of the track often leads to intense, action-packed racing.
Premier Experience
At Duck River Raceway Park, the fan experience is at the heart of its success. Beyond the high-speed action and tight-corner racing, the track offers an array of amenities that make it perfect for a family outing.
One standout feature is the concession stand, which is known among locals for its smoked barbecue. All meats are smoked in-house with specialties including smoked bologna sandwiches.
For those with different tastes, the track also offers classic concessions such as pizza, chicken tenders and nachos. Fans with a sweet tooth can indulge in funnel cakes and deep-fried Oreos, generously dusted with powdered sugar.
Another highlight is the facility’s cleanliness. Track officials take pride in maintaining some of the cleanest restrooms of any sports venue in the Nashville area.
With a commitment to providing an outstanding experience both on and off the track, Duck River Raceway Park remains a must-visit destination.
LOCATION Wheel, Tennessee
TRACK
OPENED
1973
TRACK TYPE
High-banked oval
TRACK
LENGTH
Quarter mile
TRACK
SURFACE
Dirt
SEATING CAPACITY
4,000 FEATURED DIVISIONS
Super Late Models, 604 Late Models, 602 Late Models, and Pure Ponies.
LEGENDS OF THE TRACK
Scott Cook and Sam Pugh.
KEY EVENT IN HISTORY
Celebrating 50 years of operation in 2023.
WORDS: CODY WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY: DUCK RIVER RACEWAY PARK
Texas
BIG O Speedway
WHERE TEXAS DIRT
RACING ROARS TO LIFE
TEXAS
Just south of Dallas, near the town of Ennis, lies one of the Lone Star State’s most electrifying dirt tracks—BIG O Speedway. Known for its high banks, full-throttle action, and genuine hometown charm, this oval gem proudly wears the title “America’s Hometown Speedway.”
Celebrating 40 Years of Speed, Spirit and Southern Hospitality
Now in its 40th season, BIG O Speedway has evolved from a regional favorite into a must-visit destination for dirt-racing fans across the country. Since its grand opening in 1985, the facility has grown into a multi-use motorsports complex featuring a lightning-fast five-sixteenths-mile clay oval, a one-sixth-mile banked go-kart track dubbed THE BULLRING, and a dedicated side-byside racing course.
In 2018, the track entered a bold new era under fresh ownership. With a full-scale renovation that included a new racing surface, upgraded electrical systems, a backstretch wall, modern concession stands, and all-new announcer and scoring booths complete with a digital scoreboard, BIG O emerged as a first-class facility without losing an ounce of its local soul.
More Than Racing: It’s a Saturday Night Experience
BIG O Speedway delivers more than just
high-speed drama. It’s a full-blown weekend experience for fans of all ages. Kids 12 and under get in free, making it one of the most family-friendly venues in Texas motorsports.
And then there’s the food—real food. From 100% Angus beef burgers and quarter-pound all-beef hot dogs to Texas staples like Frito pie, sausage on a stick, chili cheese fries, and nachos, the concessions are a highlight of the night. The star of the show? The Turbo Inferno Burger—a fiery creation topped with jalapeños and pepper jack cheese, often enjoyed alongside beer-battered onion rings, fried pickle fries, or golden-cut homestyle fries.
The Beating Heart of East Texas Racing
BIG O Speedway isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving. With a long, robust racing calendar, it kicks off the season in late January with the “Warm Her Up” and closes the year with the fan-favorite “Leftover Nationals” after Thanksgiving. The track showcases a diverse lineup of weekly classes, including Eco Limited Modifieds, Crown Vics, Junior Limiteds, Factory Stocks, Late Models, and Limited Modifieds.
This year, the track adds a new level of excitement with the debut of its in-house series: BIG O Outlaw Sprint Cars. These wingless 410 monsters bring raw horsepower and $2,000-to-win stakes, promising edge-of-your-seat battles every time they hit the clay.
Plan Your Visit
Racing takes the green flag every Saturday night at 7 p.m., with general admission just $20. Whether you’re a hardcore race fan or a roadtripper in search of authentic Texas thrills, BIG O Speedway is the kind of place that sticks with you long after the dust settles.
For full details, tickets, and the latest schedule, cruise over to www.bigospeedway.com.
Fast cars. Big flavor. Texas heart. That’s BIG O Speedway!
FAST FACTS
LOCATION
Ennis, Texas
NICKNAME America’s Hometown Speedway TRACK OPENED 1985
TRACK TYPE
High-banked oval
TRACK LENGTH
Fivesixteenths mile
TRACK SURFACE Clay SEATING CAPACITY
3,500
FEATURED DIVISIONS Eco Limited Modifieds, Crown Vics, Factory Stocks, Junior Limiteds, Late Models and Limited Modifieds.
KEY EVENT IN HISTORY
2018 ownership change that led to facility modernization.
50STATESOFSHORTTRACKS
Desert Thunder Raceway
WHERE RACING AND COMMUNITY COME TOGETHER
UTAH
Price, Utah, has a longstanding tradition of auto racing. It began with a quarter-mile dirt oval at the Carbon County Fairgrounds, which quickly gave way to a larger half-mile oval across from the Carbon County Regional Airport. That track operated from 1981 to 1985.
After its closure, racers traveled as far as Moab and Hayden, Colorado. One local built a small oval on private land, but neighborhood complaints shut it down. At the urging of the County Commission, racers and fans formed the Central Utah Stock Car Racing Association to build a new track on the site of the old half-mile.
Desert Thunder Raceway was born in 1991.
Community-Owned Facility
It began as a community-owned venue and was sold to Chuck Buchannan in 1998, who expanded seating and added a concrete concession stand. In 2000, Harvey Howard took over, relocated pit road and dramatically increased the banking – earning the track the nickname “Fastest Track West of Denver.”
The track closed in 2018 but reopened in 2020 when racer Shane Weybright and his wife, Erin, bought it. Shane felt a calling to revive the venue.
“He didn’t go to a physical church,” Erin said. “He needed the gospel and fellowship without going to a physical church. … The drivers’ meetings are our place of worship.”
The Weybrights operate Desert Thunder on three values: character, family and respect, and racing has helped unite the community around those principles.
Reigniting the Thunder
Local business owner Amanda Paiz said:
“When Shane and Erin Weybright purchased Desert Thunder Raceway in Price, Utah, in 2020, the future of racing in eastern Utah was uncertain. However, with their deep-rooted passion for the sport, they not only revitalized the track but also instilled a greater purpose – one that extends beyond racing.
FAST FACTS Utah
LOCATION
Price, Utah
NICKNAME
Fastest Track West of Denver
SOUTH DAKOTA
“Committed to their community, Shane and Erin have transformed the dirt track into more than just a place for high-speed competition. Through the Desert Thunder Foundation Racing for a Cause, they have dedicated the last three years to raising awareness for suicide prevention, reducing the stigma surrounding substance use disorders and supporting various other important causes. Their efforts have made Desert Thunder Raceway a hub for both thrilling motorsports and meaningful community impact.”
Before buying the track, the Weybrights had only attended one race. But they saw the potential and longed for the fellowship it brought. Once the venue closed, they started exploring a purchase.
Today, the Desert Thunder Raceway is a moderately banked, three-eighths-mile clay true oval – slightly reconfigured but still fast.
Fans, Students and Affordable Fun
Since taking over, the Weybrights have partnered with the local high school’s graphic design class for an annual logo contest. Winning designs appear on official merch, giving students professional experience and portfolio pieces.
The Fan experience is a priority. Grandstands seat up to 1,500 people, plus hilltop tailgating spots. Admission is affordable: Free for kids under 5 and active military, $7 for kids 6-12, $10 for seniors and $13 for adults.
The track is clean and well-run, with food vendors offering everything from street tacos to barbecue. They even sell slushies! Desert Thunder remains a place where racing and community meet.
TRACK OPENED 1991 TRACK TYPE Oval
TRACK LENGTH
Three-eighths mile
TRACK SURFACE
Clay
SEATING CAPACITY
1,500 FEATURED DIVISIONS DTR Late Models and multiple IMCA divisions including Modifieds, Sport Mods, Stock Cars, Mod Lites, Hobby Stocks and Sport Compacts.
LEGENDS OF THE TRACK
Hubert Wilson, Dave Madill and Mickey Stubbings.
KEY EVENT IN HISTORY Introduction of the Annual Clash.
Willamette Speedway
CREATING A FUN, MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE FOR FANS
OREGON
Nestled in the wilderness of Lebanon, Oregon, sits Willamette Speedway. Pronounced “Willam-ette,” the one-third-mile, high-banked clay oval is dubbed the “Fastest 1/3 Mile Dirt Track on the West Coast” for good reason.
In 2022, Justin Sanders set a track record of 11.214 seconds. But Willamette isn’t just about speed – it’s about creating a fun, memorable experience for fans.
Over the years, the track has hosted some of the best dirt racers in the world. Among the many names etched in the record books are NASCAR stars Kyle Larson, Kasey Kahne and Ken Schrader – each of whom raced and won at Willamette.
Building a Local Legend
Founded in 1966 by Navy veteran and racing enthusiast Clair Arnold, Willamette quickly earned its place in Oregon motorsports history. Arnold passed away in 2009 and the track was sold in 2012 to brothers Jerry and Jimmy Schram.
Though no longer holding an ownership stake, Clair and Evelyn Arnold’s son, Bill Arnold, still works with the track. His duties include maintaining and preparing the racing surface for each weekend’s events.
Current promoter Cory Penfold describes Arnold as, “A master with the water truck.
“I’d put a Bill Arnold prepped track up against anyone in the nation,” said Penfold. “You’ll be hard pressed to find anyone to give drivers a smoother surface with multiple racing grooves. He truly is one of, if not the best in the country at putting a track together. There’s a reason I’ve dubbed him - ‘The Dirt Doctor.’”
The Schrams reconfigured the racing surface to increase the banking, installed electronic scoring, added 25 VIP boxes and built new concession and restroom structures under the bleachers.
In 2022, ownership passed to Cory Penfold and his wife Sandy, who brought back the dirt Late Model division and founded the I-5 Late
FAST FACTS Oregon
Model Series, which now runs six of its 12 races at Willamette each year.
One of the track’s most unique chapters involves the Highwallers, a prison-based race team from the Oregon State Penitentiary. The team built and raced cars out of the prison from the early years until 2010. The program was a resounding success – 95 percent of participants never returned to prison after release.
A Track for Every Type of Racer
Willamette Speedway has welcomed a wide variety of racing series, from the IMCA and NARC Series to the Northwest Midgets and Wingless Sprints.
Many local and regional legends have made their mark, as record holders include John Duty (Super Late Models), Bob Boyd (Late Models with sideboards), Brian Smith (Super Sports), Bricen James (Street Stocks), Travis Koch (Hornets) and Bailey Hibbard (Limited Sprints).
Drivers like Bricen James, Joey Tanner, Dakota Godard, Collen Winebarger and Darren Coffell remain fan favorites while Kaman Shafer, Justin Lemon and Wes Roles are among the rising stars.
Entertainment with a Twist
For Penfold, managing Willamette is about putting on a show. One of his signature moves is the “field inversion,” where the fastest qualifier starts at the back and the slowest starts up front.
This gives underfunded teams a shot at leading laps while making the veterans work through the field.
“It keeps the racing exciting and the fans engaged,” Penfold said. Drivers starting in the back two rows are known as “Dash Drivers,” and if they win the feature, they earn a $300 bonus on top of first-place prize money.
More Than Just Racing
Willamette also delivers a nostalgic experience with an old-school grandstand atmosphere and a family-friendly vibe. Fans rave about the food, especially the pulled pork and chicken with rice – an original recipe created by Penfold’s wife and inspired by the couple’s trips to Hawaii.
“It’s sweet, smoky and served hot – just like the action on the track,” said Penfold.
LOCATION
Lebanon, Oregon
NICKNAME
Fastest OneThird-Mile Dirt Track on the West Coast TRACK OPENED 1966
TRACK TYPE
Banked oval
TRACK LENGTH
One-third mile TRACK SURFACE
Clay SEATING CAPACITY
5,000
FEATURED DIVISIONS NARC Sprint Car Series, Wingless Sprint Series, Northwest Focus Midgets; I-5 Late Model Series and Northwest Dwarf Car Association.
LEGENDS OF THE TRACK
Don Wilson, Mark Howard, Russ Sell, Bob Jeffery; Trevor Glaser, George Waters, Dave McCombs, Bob Boyd and Darren Coffell.
KEY EVENT IN HISTORY
Some of NASCAR’s greats have won at the track, including Kyle Larson, Kasey Kahne and Ken Schrader.
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Leaking Coolant System?
Joe’s Hand Cleaner
CONVENIENCE & PERFORMANCE
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Petty Wins a Baker’s Dozen
Petty Wins a Baker’s Dozen
his familiar No. 43 Richard Petty was the class of the NASCAR
Wheeling his familiar No. 43 Dodge, Richard Petty was clearly the class of the NASCAR Cup Series field in 1975 as he recorded 13 wins and 24 top-10 finishes in 30 races.
The 1975 Serie s season was a year in which car owner s were st ar t ing to
such as Junior Johnson, Bud Moore, Petty and Roger Penske, had made money in the sport but were not willing to sink all of their hard-earned
The 1975 Cup Series season was a year in which car owners were starting to feel the financial pinch of fielding professional racing teams. Top name owners, such as Junior Johnson, Bud Moore, Petty Enterprises and Roger Penske, had made money in the sport but were not willing to sink all of their hard-earned profits back into their teams.
SEASON RECAP
DATE LOCATION
WINNER
Jan. 19 Riverside International Raceway Bobby Allison
Feb. 16
Feb. 23
Daytona International Speedway Benny Parsons
Richmond Raceway Richard Petty
To offset the costs of NASCAR addressed the what was and Achievements Plan
To offset the ever-increasing costs of racing, NASCAR addressed the problem with what was called the Awards and Achievements Plan.
March 2 Rockingham Speedway Cale Yarborough
March 16
Bristol Motor Speedway Richard Petty
NASCAR founder “Big” Bill France introduced a program where additional
number of races In other words, it was the rebirth of appearance money – but on a scale and it was paid to the top teams, those the fans paid to see In some cases, promoters would help with the costs
NASCAR founder “Big” Bill France introduced a program where additional money, aside from prize money, would be paid to those who fielded cars in a set number of races. In other words, it was the rebirth of appearance money – but on a larger scale and it was paid to the top teams, those the fans paid to see. In some cases, track promoters would help with the costs.
March 23
Atlanta Motor Speedway Richard Petty
d w ay Ri c h a r d P e t t y
April 6 North Wilkesboro Speedway Richard Petty
April 13
Darlington Raceway Bobby Allison
A p r il 13 D a r ling t o n Ra ce w ay B o b by A llis o n
A p r il 27 Ma r t ins v ille Sp ee d w ay Ri c h a r d P e t t y
April 27 Martinsville Speedway Richard Petty
May 4 Ta lla d e g a S up e r sp ee d w ay B u d d y B a ke r
May 4 Talladega Superspeedway Buddy Baker
May 10 Fairgrounds Speedway Nashville Darrell Waltrip
May 10 Fa ir g r o un ds Sp ee d w ay Na shv ille D a r r ell Wa l t r ip
Also, the system was
Also, the points system was changed for the fifth time in series history. Each race now carried equal point value with bonus points paid – a NASCAR first. Five points were awarded for leading the most laps in each race and five bonus points were also paid for leading at least one lap.
Petty accumulated 722 more points than Dave Marcis to claim his sixth series championship.
history Each race now carried equal value with bonus paid awarded for the most laps were also paid for at least one lap accumulated 722 more than Dave Marcis to claim his sixth series championship
Petty was questioned about retirement, having won so much in the sport but his answer ended all speculation, saying in part, “As long as you’re winning, you’re afraid to even think about quitting.”
Petty was about retirement, won so much in the sport but his answer ended all speculation, saying in part, “As long as you’re winning, you’re afraid to even think about quitting ”
1975
BEST DRIVER
May 19
Dover Motor Speedway David Pearson
May 19 D ove r M o t o r Sp ee d w ay D av i d P e a r s o n
May 25
Charlotte Motor Speedway Richard Petty
May 25 Ch a r lo t t e M o t o r Sp ee d w ay Ri c h a r d P e t t y
June 8
Riverside International Raceway Richard Petty
J un e 8 Ri ve r si d e Int e r n at i on a l Ra ce w ay Ri c h a r d P e t t y
June 15
Michigan International Speedway David Pearson
J un e 15 Mi c hig a n Int e r n at i o n a l Sp ee d w ay D av i d P e a r s o n
July 4
Daytona International Speedway Richard Petty
J ul y 4 D ay t o n a Int e r n at i on a l Sp ee d w ay Ri c h a r d P e t t y
July 20 Fairgrounds Speedway Nashville Cale Yarborough
J ul y 20 Fa ir g r o un ds Sp ee d w ay Na shv ille C a le Ya r b o r o ug h
Aug . 3 P o co n o Ra ce w ay D av i d P e a r s o n
Aug. 3 Pocono Raceway David Pearson
Aug. 17
Talladega Superspeedway Buddy Baker
Aug 17 Ta lla d e g a S up e r sp ee d w ay B ud d y B a ke r
Aug 24 Mi ch ig a n Int e r n at i o n a l Sp ee d w ay Ri c h a r d P e t t y
Aug. 24 Michigan International Speedway Richard Petty
S e p t . 1 D a r ling t o n Ra ce w ay B o b by A llis o n
Sept. 1 Darlington Raceway Bobby Allison
Sept. 14
Dover Motor Speedway Richard Petty
S e p t 14 D ove r M o t o r Sp ee d w ay Ri c h a r d P e t t y
S e p t 21 N o r t h W ilke sb o r o Sp ee d w ay Ri c h a r d P e t t y
Sept. 21 North Wilkesboro Speedway Richard Petty
Sep. 28 Martinsville Speedway Dave Marcis
S e p 2 8 Ma r t ins v ille Sp ee d w ay D ave Ma r c is
Oct. 5
Charlotte Motor Speedway Richard Petty
O c t . Ch a r lo t t e M o t o r Sp ee d w ay Ri c h a r d P e t t y
O c t Ri c hm o n d Ra ce w ay D a r
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Nov. 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 23
Richmond Raceway Darrell Waltrip
Rockingham Speedway Cale Yarborough
Bristol Motor Speedway Richard Petty
Atlanta Motor Speedway Buddy Baker
Ontario Motor Speedway Buddy Baker
PRESIDENT: GERALD FORD NO. 1 AT THE BOX OFFICE: ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO’S NEST NO. 1 SONG: “LOVE WILL KEEP US TOGETHER” BY CAPTAIN AND TENNILLE GALLON OF GAS: 57 CENTS POP CULTURE: IN APRIL, CHILDHOOD FRIENDS BILL GATES AND PAUL ALLEN FOUNDED MICROSOFT, WITH GATES AS THE CEO.
BEST RACE
BEST RACE
Pet t y Enterprises collected 13 Cup Series victories, including the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlot te Motor Speedway. Pet t y was NASC AR but so much at Charlot te, there five times his career All other drivers that season could only win in low digits the 30-race schedule. Buddy Baker was the nex t in the win column with four
RICHARD PETTY, DRIVER OF THE NO. 43 Petty Enterprises Dodge, collected 13 Cup Series victories, including the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Petty was quite successful at other NASCAR tracks but not so much at Charlotte, winning there only five times during his career. All other drivers that season could only win in low single digits throughout the 30-race schedule. Buddy Baker was the next highest in the win column with four.
DURING THE CLOSING LAPS OF THE Daytona 500, David Pearson looked to have the race won when he spun on the backstretch while trying to avoid a slower car. As a result, second-place Benny Parsons inherited the lead and pulled off the Cinderella victory of the season while driving for team owner L.G. Dewitt. The 1973 Cup Series champion was a true fan favorite, having pulled off a miraculous win in NASCAR’s biggest race.
RICHARD PETTY’S NO. 43
Day tona 500, David Pearson looked to have the race won when he spun on the backstretch while tr ying to avoid a slower car. As a result, Parsons inherited the lead and of f the Cinderella victor y of the season while for team owner L G Dewit t The 1973 Cup Series champion was a true fan favorite, of f a miraculous win in NASC AR’s race
Petty Enterprises Dodge won 13 times and had 24-top 10 finishes in that season’s 30 races.
Driving the No 15 Bud Moore Engineering Ford, Buddy Baker accumulated four wins and 13 top-10 results in 23 starts.
Pet t y Enterprises won had 24-top 10 finishes in that season ’ s races the No. 15 Bud Moore Engineering Ford, Baker accumulated four wins and 13 top-10 star ts
