ROAR! - Weekly Racing Magazine - July 13, 2020

WHAT’S NEXT FOR CUSTER?

5 LESSONS LEARNED AT KENTUCKY

LONG SHOT TAKES KENTUCKY ROOKIE COLE CUSTER PICKS UP FIRST CAREER CUP SERIES WIN

ALL-STAR RACE IS A MUST-WATCH

CLINT BOWYER IN TROUBLE

THE BEAST HAS ARRIVED XOR and you know it means One look at the 2020 RO e gressive grille, and 5:38 axl business. A new, more ag ils. tra the of a monster on ratio makes it even more , r, thanks to its steel body eve as Durable and capable bo tur dra hin L 4-cylinder Ma boxed steel frame and 2.5 20 ROXOR is truly a 20 diesel engine. The new er. side-by-side unlike any oth

$16,599

FIND YOUR DEALER AT ROXOROFFROAD.COM Š2020 Mahindra Vehicle Sales and Service, Inc. All rights reserved. ROXOR is a registered trademark owned by Mahindra Vehicle Sales and Service, Inc. *Starting price on 2020 base model (not shown) is MSRP $16,599 USD; tax, title, dealer charges, freight/delivery and registration fees extra.

AVAILABLE NOW: KENTUCKY

MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION POLEPOSITIONMAG.COM UPDATES & POSTERS TWITTER @NPPMAG FACEBOOK NASCAR POLE POSITION

COMMUNITY CREATOR: ERIC ESTEPP

YOUTUBE

/outofthegroove

TWITTER

@ericestepp17

INSTAGRAM

@eric_estepp

PATREON

/outofthegroove

KENTUCKY FINISH CAME OUT OF NOWHERE

I

n this week’s episode of Out of the Groove, host and creator Eric Estepp gives us his race review and analysis from yesterday’s race at Kentucky.

This was a historic race, as Cole Custer’s win is the first for a NASCAR Cup Series rookie in well over a decade. Eric takes us through what this all means for Custer and the sport as a whole.

Eric also takes us through the entire race in general, along with all the most important storylines from the race. He talks through all of the

0 0 4

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

top finishers to try to decipher a rather strange early race, along with the exciting ending of the race that led to so much conversation online.

But what effect did the rules package have on the race at Kentucky? After last year’s showing and the positive reception from fans, what did the on track product show us from the package this weekend? Eric has all of that plus he puts the race on his patented Groovy Gauge in this week’s episode of Out of the Groove.

5 LESSONS LEARNED

5

LESSONS LEARNED AT KENTUCKY A ROOKIE REIGNS SUPREME IN QUAKER STATE 400 Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series event at Kentucky Speedway featured all that you could ever ask for in a NASCAR race: a thrilling finish, a surprising first-time winner in rookie Cole Custer and the beginning of a brand new feud involving two of the sport’s biggest stars — Jimmie Johnson and Brad Keselowski. And, just to put the icing on the cake, it didn’t rain a drop.

Following are five key takeaways from the Quaker State 400 Presented by Walmart, Race No. 17 of 36 on the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series schedule.

BY JA RED TURNER

0 0 6

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

RACE THROUGH * HEARTBURN Starts neutralizing acid in seconds

Available at Use as directed. *with headache or body aches and pains

©2020 Bayer

5 LESSONS LEARNED

5

KYLE BUSCH’S STRUGGLES MORE OBVIOUS THAN EVER

T

he 2020 NASCAR Cup Series season is one race shy of its halfway mark and Kyle Busch has yet to find his way to Victory Lane. Good luck wrapping your brain around that. Justifiably hailed as one of the favorites to win the 2020 title on the heels of a five-win 2019 season capped by a championship-solidifying victory in the season’s final race, Busch hasn’t just gone winless this year; he’s actually struggled to even contend for the win more often than not. In the seven races since Busch finished runner-up at Bristol on May 31, the reigning series champion has posted just one top-five finish (a fifth at Pocono) and finished 19th or worse on four occasions. The struggle continued on Sunday at Kentucky — a track where Busch won the inaugural Cup race in 2011 — as he finished 21st after managing to avoid calamity when his No. 18 Toyota drifted up into the wall near the race’s midway point.

0 0 8

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

5 LESSONS LEARNED

4

KENTUCKY IS NOW THE PLACE FOR KILLER FINISHES

R

emember last year’s thrilling Kentucky finish involving the Busch brothers where older brother Kurt nipped younger sibling Kyle in an all-out drag race to the checkered flag? While the final moments of Sunday’s showdown in the Bluegrass State didn’t offer that kind of family flavor, it was no less climactic as rookie Cole Custer — who hadn’t had one of the more dominant cars — seemingly came out of nowhere to execute a four-wide pass for the lead as the field approached Turn 1 on the final lap. Custer, who lined up sixth on the final restart with two laps to go, did the virtually unthinkable by winning at a track where he had never turned a lap in a NASCAR Cup Series car prior to the start of Sunday’s race. While Sunday’s outcome says a lot about Custer and the youngster’s enormous potential in the sport, it also says something about Kentucky Speedway, which shouldn’t have any problem convincing fans to buy tickets in future seasons.

0 1 0

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

Experience security and peace of mind with the Honda EG2800i Inverter Generator. It provides quiet power, long run times, and a 30A receptacle for easy connection to a transfer switch. And at only 67 lbs., it’s trusted, portable home backup and DIY power where you need it, when you need it—for your home, and life. Find out more at gen.honda.com.

Please read the owner’s manual before operating your Honda Power Equipment and never use in an enclosed or partially enclosed area where you could be exposed to odorless, poisonous carbon monoxide.

Connection of a generator to house power requires a transfer device to avoid possible injury to power company personnel. Consult a qualified electrician. Specifications subject to change without notice. © 2019 American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

5 LESSONS LEARNED

ONE HITCH FOR ALL YOUR TOWING NEEDS ALUMINUM ADJUSTABLE INTERCHANGEABLE HITCH MOUNTS UT623410

6” Drop 2” Receiver

6-3/4” Rise

PLASTIC CASE MODEL

UT623900

UT623411

8” Drop 2” Receiver

8 3/4” Rise

PLASTIC CASE MODEL

UT623911

UT625810

8” Drop 2 1/2” Receiver

8” Rise

PLASTIC CASE MODEL

UT653910

Black Oxide Finish with Stainless Steel Hitch Balls & Locks UT623800

6” Drop 2” Receiver

C

6-3/4” Rise

Plastic Case Included

Scan to view our products on youtube

PATENTED PRODUCT ONLY AVAILABLE THROUGH URIAH PRODUCTS® Contact us for more information Uriah Products® www.alumatow.com | 800.545.9633

0 1 2

3

THE PLAYOFF PICTURE IS COMING INTO FOCUS

ole Custer’s not-so-predictable victory at Kentucky had major playoff implications with just nine races left before the 16-driver championship-determining field is set. By virtue of having a win, Custer is now locked into the playoffs, which means one less playoff spot will be available for a winless driver to get in on the basis of points. The driver now squarely on the playoff bubble is seven-time champion Jimmie Johnson, who holds a solid but not altogether comfortable 24-point cushion on Austin Dillon as he seeks to qualify for the playoffs in his final season as a full-time Cup driver. Currently, nine drivers would make the playoffs as a result of having a win in 2020, while the other seven spots would be filled on the basis of points. The only driver in the top nine of the standings who lacks a win is eighth-place Aric Almirola, while Custer is the only driver outside of the top nine who’s been to Victory Lane.

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

TASTY WAYS TO ENJOY THE BENEFITS OF GINGER. P O P G I N G E R C H E W S A R E A S W E E T,

S P I C Y A N D H E A LT H Y G I N G E R T R E AT !

F I N D A F L AV O R N E A R Y O U @

PRINCEOFPEACEGINGER.COM

P O P G I N G E R AVA I L A B L E AT:

5 LESSONS LEARNED

2

JOHNSON AND KESELOWSKI AREN’T SEEING EYE-TO-EYE

H

istorically, Jimmie Johnson and Brad Keselowski have always raced each other fairly clean and for the most part gotten along. The two former champions were none too pleased with one another, however, on Sunday at Kentucky Speedway where a direct bump from Keselowski sent Johnson spinning on a late restart. Prior to the contact, Johnson was running third behind race leader Ryan Blaney while Keselowski had lined up in fifth. While it was clear that Keselowski’s No. 2 Ford made contact with Johnson’s No. 48 Chevrolet, versions differed from there. “I don’t know if he was trying to turn down to block me or if he was trying to turn down to get underneath Blaney, but he turned down and I was too far forward,” Keselowski said.

“There was kind of unavoidable contact at that time.” Johnson, meanwhile, tweeted this about the Keselowski dustup, which it sounds like could lead to some retribution from the seven-time champ in the near future.

0 1 4

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

®

Save Lives Y’all!

Ryman Two-time Liver Recipient

Register to be an Organ Donor at RegisterMe.org

Kentucky Circuit Court Clerks’

TRUSTFOR

LIFE

Organ Donor Awareness Program

les.

REPLACEMENT

LIFETIME

OF

See www.galleryofguns.com for complete program terms and conditions.

plete co

ntest ru

While enter o at GalleryofGu ur GRE ns.com A A Winn T GUN GIVEA , See ww WAY. er Ever w.galle y Week ryofgun s.com ! for com

5 LESSONS LEARNED

1

CUSTER SHOWS HIS TRUE POTENTIAL WITH WIN

W

ho saw that one coming? Making just his 20th start at NASCAR’s premier level, 22-year-old newcomer Cole Custer shocked the NASCAR world on Sunday by earning career win No. 1 at Kentucky Speedway with a gutsy four-wide pass for the lead on the final lap. Rest assured, it was a blockbuster, career-altering kind of moment for Custer, who prior to a fifth-place finish last weekend at Indianapolis had home no better than ninth in his first 19 Cup outings. Now, he’s not only a NASCAR Cup Series race winner; he’s also punched an automatic ticket into the 2020 Cup playoffs. Rest assured, no one expected what happened on Sunday to happen any less than Custer. “I’m surprised, yes,” the rookie driver said. But he’s also optimistic about the direction of his team, which is part of the powerful Stewart-Haas Racing stable. “We have definitely done a lot better job these last few weeks,” Custer said. “We started putting the whole picture together.”

©2020 Davidson’s, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

0 1 6

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

SUMMER GRILLING SPECIAL mr.steak THE MAN - THE LEGEND - THE STEAKS

®

STEAKHOUSE QUALITY MEATS Mr. Steak’s ranch to table steaks and burgers are hand-selected, hand-cut, and delivered directly to your door from local midwestern ranchers. Mr. Steak’s goal is to bring steakhouse quality meats to your home by offering the same USDA Prime and Choice steaks sold at many of the finest steakhouses in America, featuring no additives, humanely raised, and with a focus on sustainability. For every box sold, Mr. Steak donates a meal to hungry families in our community.

ORDER NOW AND RECEIVE A MrSteakv3.indd 1

FREE 10OZ NY STRIP STEAK • WWW.MRSTEAK.COM/RACING 5/15/2020 8:28:57 AM

RECAPPING JUST SAYIN’JIMMIE JOHNSON’S NASCAR CAREER ▶ CLINT BOWYER IS ON THE HOT SEAT Presently hanging onto a playoff spot by the proverbial hair of his chin, Clint Bowyer has to be at least modestly worried about his future at Stewart-Haas Racing. How could he not be?

Since joining SHR in 2017, Bowyer has been to Victory Lane just twice — both in 2018 — and finished no better than ninth in the standings. Bowyer’s struggles to win are now only further illuminated by the success of rookie teammate Cole Custer, who on Sunday at Kentucky Speedway prevailed for the first time at the Cup level in just his 20th start. If Bowyer — who is in a contract year — doesn’t step it up soon, he may be looking for a new ride in 2021.

JA RED TURNER ▶▶ Yay for Racing on the Daytona Road Course Last week, NASCAR released its latest update to the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series schedule, which continues to slowly but surely take shape. The only real shocker from the schedule announcement was that NASCAR’s top series won’t be competing on the road course at Watkins Glen International as originally scheduled but, rather, will be racing on the Daytona International Speedway road course for the first time. While Cup drivers have never competed on the DIS road course, the layout is no stranger to those in the sportscar ranks, who convene at Daytona early each year for the prestigious Rolex 24 at Daytona. If this experiment works, look for racing on the Daytona road course to become a thing. ▶▶ Wait, Where Was the Rain?

Brace yourself for what’s coming next. OK, here goes: There were no rain delays on Sunday at Kentucky Speedway.

Yes, this is not a misprint. For the first time in what feels like forever, a NASCAR Cup Series race was NOT impeded by wet weather. Let’s hope this is a good omen for future events, starting with Wednesday night’s All-Star Race at Bristol Motor Speedway — a track where rain has never been reluctant through the years to make an unwelcome visit.

0 1 8

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

■■ Clint Bowyer will be a free agent after this season.

L A E S K H T I W

T S A F T I FIX

NSOR OF O P S D U PRO

JORDANRSON ANDE NG RACI

? k a e L t n a l CoSohake, Pour & eGaoks in the: L x i F y l t n ze Plug e e n e r a F m 9 Per ad ock / He Ju s t

9 9 9

r Radiato asing C p m u P Water ore Heater C

9 Bl Gasket d a e H 9

s d a e H d ke c a r C s l ks a c e o l S B o s s l A rou old Engine* o P d e k or C & Crac o a Hot

dded t A Silicate e B m n u i a d C o 9 ass / S l g d i ow Tank u fl r q i e l v T O O 9N d to the e d d A e NO 9 Can B NG

ON WORKS EADS

AND MOST FINE RETAILERS

MADE IN THE

G DRAININ

FLUSHI

rks on D3147 wos.

M T S A t ine mee tested to water cooled eng ly t n e d n ll e ep ha s been ind for use wit K-Seal ha plastic and safe hard

UM H ALUMIN

AVAILABLE AT:

NO

USA

kseal.com | info@kseal.com | 888.254.0150

* WARNING/Caution: Take care before opening the cooling system when engine hot as it may be under pressure and could cause injury. Always consult a qualified mechanic before proceeding. If in doubt wait until engine cools or add via overflow tank.

NASCAR STANDINGS

NASCAR CUP SERIES

STANDINGS NO. DRIVER

PTS.

1

KEVIN HARVICK

675

Dual-Action Topical Analgesic Cream

2

DENNY HAMLIN

553

3

BRAD KESELOWSKI

587

4

JOEY LOGANO

564

5

RYAN BLANEY

580

Provides penetrating, fast pain relief from:

6

CHASE ELLIOTT

575

7

MARTIN TRUEX JR.

543

8

ALEX BOWMAN

498

9

COLE CUSTER

321

Arthritis Sore Muscles Back Pain

Low Price Available at:

Wal-Mart, HEB, Local drugstores & buy “online”

www.Thera-gesic.com Copyright © 2020 MainPointe Pharmaceuticals, LLC. All rights reserved.

10 ARIC ALMIROLA

504

11 KURT BUSCH

492

12 KYLE BUSCH

477

13 MATT DIBENEDETTO

456

14 CLINT BOWYER

435

15 WILLIAM BYRON

418

16 JIMMIE JOHNSON

412

17 AUSTIN DILLON

388

18 TYLER REDDICK

371

19 ERIK JONES

370

20 BUBBA WALLACE

328

21 CHRIS BUESCHER

321

22 RICKY STENHOUSE JR.

320

23 CHRISTOPHER BELL

309

24 MICHAEL MCDOWELL

298

25 JOHN HUNTER NEMECHEK 292 26 RYAN NEWMAN

276

27 TY DILLON

253

28 MATT KENSETH

234

29 COREY LAJOIE

222

30 RYAN PREECE

189

31 BRENNAN POOLE

119

32 QUIN HOUFF

85

33 DANIEL SUAREZ

170

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

0 2 0

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

WINS

POLES

TOP 5

TOP 10

4 0 10 14 4 0 9 10 2 1 6 12 2 0 3 7 1 0 7 8 1 1 7 9 1 1 3 9 1 0 2 5 1 0 2 3 0 0 5 9 0 1 4 10 0 1 7 9 0 0 2 5 0 1 2 5 0 0 0 5 0 0 2 6 0 0 1 4 0 0 1 5 0 0 4 6 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 4 0 1 3 3 0 0 1 5 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 BLUE AREAS HIGHLIGHT PLAYOFF QUALIFIERS

W

NASCAR STANDINGS

XFINITY SERIES

STANDINGS Engage Your Freedom!

• All Pistols, Pistol Frames, & Accessories are designed and manufactured in U.S.A.

NO. DRIVER

PTS.

1

CHASE BRISCOE

643

2

NOAH GRAGSON

624

3

AUSTIN CINDRIC

610

4

HARRISON BURTON

492

5

JUSTIN HALEY

521

6

BRANDON JONES

401

7

ROSS CHASTAIN

583

8

JUSTIN ALLGAIER

491

9

MICHAEL ANNETT

443

10 RILEY HERBST

376

11 RYAN SIEG

364

12 BRANDON BROWN

321

13 MYATT SNIDER

307

14 JEREMY CLEMENTS

291

15 ALEX LABBE

279

16 JESSE LITTLE

274

17 JOSH WILLIAMS

261

18 B.J. MCLEOD

233

19 JOE GRAF JR.

202

20 VINNIE MILLER

191

21 CHAD FINCHUM

191

• Next Generation Ergonomics & Features

22 DANIEL HEMRIC

290

23 ANTHONY ALFREDO

287

• Stainless Steel Slides & Barrels

24 AJ ALLMENDINGER

177

• Perfect for Every Day Carry!

25 JEFFREY EARNHARDT

175

26 TOMMY JOE MARTINS

154

27 MATT MILLS

125

28 COLBY HOWARD

115

29 KYLE WEATHERMAN

95

30 RAY BLACK JR.

92

Visit Us

www.Polymer80.com Save 20% by using Coupon Code:

0 2 2

NASCAR

31 MASON MASSEY

92

32 KODY VANDERWAL

90

33 JEB BURTON

79

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

WINS

POLES

TOP 5

TOP 10

5 0 9 12 2 0 8 11 2 0 9 11 2 0 7 10 1 0 6 10 1 1 4 7 0 0 6 13 0 0 3 7 0 0 2 7 0 0 2 8 0 0 2 5 0 0 0 3 0 2 2 4 0 0 1 3 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 6 0 0 1 6 1 0 3 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 BLUE AREAS HIGHLIGHT PLAYOFF QUALIFIERS

NASCAR STANDINGS

GANDER OUTDOORS TRUCK SERIES

STANDINGS NO. DRIVER

THE

JAMPUI

Say goodbye to sweaty and smelly feet with the Jampui boot featuring ultra breathable eVent membrane. Light as a trail runner, supportive as a boot—Jampui is perfect for work as well as ultra light backpacking and through hiking.

MISHMITAKIN.COM

PTS.

1

GRANT ENFINGER

221

2

SHELDON CREED

247

3

AUSTIN HILL

293

4

BEN RHODES

236

5

CHRISTIAN ECKES

222

6

ZANE SMITH

221

7

TODD GILLILAND

220

8

BRETT MOFFITT

205

9

TYLER ANKRUM

201

10 JOHNNY SAUTER

198

11 DEREK KRAUS

184

12 MATT CRAFTON

179

13 TANNER GRAY

172

14 STEWART FRIESEN

170

15 RAPHAEL LESSARD

143

16 TY MAJESKI

132

17 JORDAN ANDERSON

102

18 CODIE ROHRBAUGH

96

19 CORY ROPER

95

20 AUSTIN SELF

94

21 SPENCER BOYD

87

22 TATE FOGLEMAN

86

23 SPENCER DAVIS

110

24 ANGELA RUCH

70

25 NATALIE DECKER

66

26 KORBIN FORRISTER

63

27 CLAY GREENFIELD

43

28 PARKER KLIGERMAN

41

29 TIMMY HILL

39

30 BAYLEY CURREY

37

31 TYLER HILL

37

32 JENNIFER COBB

36

33 RYAN TRUEX

34

WINS

POLES

TOP 5

TOP 10

2 0 2 2 1 0 3 5 0 0 4 7 0 0 3 5 0 0 1 3 0 0 2 4 0 0 2 5 0 0 1 3 0 0 1 2 0 2 3 5 0 0 1 4 0 0 2 3 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 BLUE AREAS HIGHLIGHT PLAYOFF QUALIFIERS

0 2 4

ishni Takin-3rdpage.indd 1

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020 5/15/2020 8:30:21 AM

IN THE HOTSEAT

IN THE HOT SEAT

with Sara Houston

BY ROB TIONGSON

0 2 6

Throughout the season, Rob Tiongson interviews various drivers in the world of NASCAR. Today, he talks with Sara Houston, a regional NASCAR driver from Arizona. ▶▶ Tell us a bit about yourself and how your racing career started.

I am a 20-year-old regional level NASCAR driver.

I have been racing for about 12 years and it is my biggest passion in life. I started in go-karts when I was seven after I had been going to the track that my dad raced at for fun. I instantly fell in love with it. He introduced me to it and my parents have been supportive ever since. ▶▶ How is it like to balance your driving career while working for NASCAR? I work for NASCAR in our West Region building for all 13 of the NASCAR-owned tracks. I love it! I get to talk to fans all day and share my passion with them. I started working for Phoenix Raceway parttime while in college. After graduating this year, I took on a full-time position with NASCAR. Being a racer, a fan, and an employee of the sport brings everything full circle. I feel well rounded in that sense. While working a full-time job and traveling for my races can be challenging, I wouldn’t trade it for the world! I think I live and breathe racing as I turn on my Sirus NASCAR Radio in the morning on my way to work, actually work in the sport, and race on the weekends. ▶▶ What are your long-term hopes with your NASCAR career?

I would love to keep racing as long as I can. My next big goal is to be in ARCA. We are working to make this happen. As racing is my passion, I would love to continue my professional career in it as well.

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

Hand Cleaner Since 1948 Dirty Hands? No Water? No Problem!

For speedy clean up and excellent conditioning performance, try Joe’s Hand Cleaner

Building Relationships One Hand At A Time

www.joeshandcleaner.com Made in the USA

Available at:

NASCAR COMMUNITY

REDDIT REACTIONS COMPILED BY ROB TIONGSON r/NASCAR . Posted by u/LlindsayLlovesLlamas

1.0k

My dad on the left carrying tires. Worked in Winston Cup pit crews. Worked on the set of Days of Thunder. He was such a cool dude.

KICKING THINGS OFF THIS WEEK WAS LLINDSAYLLOVESLLAMA, SHARING A NEAT photo and series of reply posts about his father who served as a tire carrier for various NASCAR Cup Series pit crews. The photo that he shared in his post was from the 1980s when his father pitted for Geoffrey Bodine’s No. 5 ride. “Big Sweat” also worked with Truck Series veteran Timothy Peters and the legendary Jimmie Johnson. Moreover, how epic is it seeing him carry two Goodyear tires?

r/NASCAR . Posted by u/AirJosh42

213

Steve Grissom’s car after a gruesome hit and roll in 1997.

The car backed into the inside wall, busted the fuel cell, and tore the rear axel off the car. The fuel caught fire moments later. Steve was OK.

BY ALL MEANS, I CAN STILL HEAR BENNY PARSONS’ “OH NO!” CALL FROM THE 1997 Primestar 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. When Steve Grissom backed it into an awkwardly angled concrete backstretch barrier, his No. 41 literally broke in half with his car rolling around like a top before being hit by Kenny Wallace’s No. 81 Ford. AirJosh42 shared photos of what was left of Grissom’s Chevy Monte Carlo, which was pretty much the rollcage and some damaged sheet metal.

0 2 8

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

NASCAR COMMUNITY

Snakeskin-PolePos-ColAd.qxp_Layout 1 1/27/20 10:58 AM Page 1

r/NASCAR . Posted by u/felipefarias32

389

By:

BLACK

MAMBA

TOUGHEST GLOVES ON THE MARKET Long lasting for tough jobs that need tough gloves and ultimate protection.

3 times chemical protection of latex or vinyl gloves!

NEW!

IT’S INCREDIBLE SEEING KEVIN HARVICK’S SON, KEELAN, WIN HIS first go-kart race. Racing is in his blood. It’s evident not only with his father, but with his mother DeLana. However, how about the fact that Keelan is now eight years old? It won’t be long before he’s racing in NASCAR.

Snakeskin

r/NASCAR . Posted by u/EdHoovis

7 mil Enhanced Grip Nitrile

Black Mamba

18

6.25 mil Tough Black Nitrile

Orange Mamba 6.0 mil Hi-Viz Orange Nitrile

ProBlu Mamba 14 mil HD Long Blue Latex

Mamba Torque

Waterproof Detail Gloves Ideal for Auto Detailing and General MechanicWork

For samples or to find a dealer in your area, please visit: BLACKMAMBAGLOVES.COM

I’m sure there are some drivers that have been hurt at certain tracks, but I feel like for the most part dominant cars usually find their way towards the front.

EDHOOVIS ASKED REDDIT NASCAR NATION IF THEY’VE MISSED qualifying since the series’ return in mid-May. While most enjoy seeing the powerhouse teams having to work for it, they’ve expressed concern for smaller teams not having a chance to make it without actual ontrack qualifying. However, most want practice to return. r/NASCAR . Posted by u/StevenMWR

1.3k

6.25/10.25 Raised Torque Grips

0 3 0

Keelan Harvick won his first go-kart race today. I can’t wait to see Kevin and Keelan battling for the Truck Series championship in 2030!

Happy 7/11 NASCAR fans!

AH, WHO DOESN’T APPRECIATE KYLE PETTY DURING HIS SHORThaired, mustached years? Long before we knew him with the Yanni look, he was showcasing his talents with the Wood Brothers Racing’s No. 7 Ford. While most know this team by the No. 21, Petty sported a very appropriate car number.

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

TWEETSTORM COMPILED BY ROB TIONGSON

▶▶ While his last name isn’t Trickle, Cole Custer dropped the hammer in incredible fashion during Sunday’s Quaker State 400 at Kentucky Speedway. Taking his No. 41 Ford on the most outside lane on the final lap, Custer was all checkers or wreckers for this finish.

Bravery and aggression prevailed for this Cup Series rookie. Many took to Twitter to reply to his post-race tweet to congratulate him on his first ever premier division win. Indeed, that is truly NASCAR racing!

0 3 2

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

▶▶ Naturally, including yours truly, who didn’t think of lines such as “arms wide open” or “higher” when it came to Sheldon Creed winning his first NASCAR Gander RV and Outdoors Truck Series race. While it’s been years since Scott Stapp and his bandmates made the mainstream radio airwaves, it’s safe to say this Creed is going to continually make noise in the Truck Series. It’s always refreshing to see a first-time winner, like Sheldon Creed, in any level of NASCAR.

▶▶ One of these days, Daniel Hemric will make his way to NASCAR XFINTY Series victory circle. Until then, it was quite a feat for him to start deep in the field during Friday night’s race to place ninth. In a few weeks, perhaps it will be his turn to win.

▶▶ You know you’re onto something right when Twitter makes an icon for hashtags bearing your name or cause. In this case, Bubba Wallace has three new hashtags that race fans can use to show their commitment towards standing with him and inclusion not only in NASCAR, but in our world.

0 3 3

TWEETSTORM COMPILED BY ROB TIONGSON

▶▶ Certainly, Jimmie Johnson was fast and making steady gains during the Quaker State 400. However, he got a not-so-helpful push from Keselowski during one of the final restarts of the race. It’s safe to say that Johnson cannot wait to repay the favor on the pride of Rochester Hills, Michigan.

0 3 4

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

▶▶ It’s safe to say that Keith Parsons’ thread is worth a read. The son of the late Benny Parsons shares some wonderful examples of how he and his brother were raised to be respectful to all during their childhood.

Moreover, we learned that Benny Parsons would stand with Bubba Wallace.

LADIES & GENTLEMEN, (RE )START YOUR ENGINES! We know it’s been a rough year and you’re probably ready to hit the road.

Whether you’re looking to rev up the fun or shift down and relax, Kentucky State Parks offer a variety of outdoor adventures and nature escapes in beautiful surroundings.

Accommodations from rustic campsites and private cottages to resort parks give you lots of choices, plus 13 nationally recognized state park golf courses get you out on the links to soak up incredible views.

SPOTLIGHT

THE PERFECT STORM FOR NASCAR AND BRISTOL

BY ROB TIONGSON

A

fter nearly two months of points-paying races, NASCAR takes a break from the routine for its All-Star Race this Wednesday evening at Bristol Motor Speedway.

For as long as I’ve been around, this annual exhibition race has only been away once from its usual home, Charlotte Motor Speedway, when it was moved to Atlanta Motor Speedway long before my first birthday. In the 1986 running of that event, Bill Elliott absolutely destroyed the competition by leading all but one of the 83 laps run that afternoon.

Otherwise, the 1.5-mile quad-oval speedway in Concord, N.C. has been home to NASCAR’s equal to the stick and ball’s nights honoring the series’ best and upcoming stars. While newer fans may write off the most recent All-Star Races, many incredible memories and moments in NASCAR history took place at this venue.

Naturally, most old school fans point out to Dale Earnhardt’s 1987 win for a moment known as the “Pass in the Grass.” Sure, it was not an official pass for the lead, but seeing Earnhardt wheeling his No. 3 Wrangler Chevrolet Monte Carlo while it was on the edge was classic and gritty stock car goodness.

0 3 6

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

Two years later, Darrell Waltrip would be fuming following the race’s running.

When Waltrip was spun from the lead and win by Rusty Wallace, the vociferous threetime Cup champ famously said, “I hope he chokes on the $200,000.”

Certainly, many fans recall Davey Allison’s painful win in the 1992 edition of this race, the first run under the lights.

Although Allison successful beat Kyle Petty to the stripe, the two drivers tangled, with the race winner hitting the wall head on, sending him to the hospital versus Victory Lane.

The example can go on and on, including Jeff Gordon’s eventful but memorable three All-Star Race wins (1995, ’97 and ’01), Tony Stewart’s only victory in this event in 2009, and Carl Edwards’ post-race destruction in 2011.

All told, when NASCAR and Speedway Motorsports, LLC made the announcement that the All-Star Race would relocate to Bristol Motor Speedway, primarily because of rising COVID-19 cases, I initially had mixed feelings.

How could they move this race

SPOTLIGHT from its home after 33 years?

Naturally, like most longtime fans, my favorite AllStar Race moments happened at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

It’s home to many of NASCAR’s teams and drivers. Then again, public safety comes first for those in North Carolina as physical distancing, masks, and good hygiene continue to be everyone’s modus operandum all around the world.

Once I had more time to reflect on this move, I couldn’t help but feel incredibly excited for this race. Bristol Motor Speedway epitomizes everything that makes NASCAR such an embraced, popular sport in terms of action, competitiveness, and entertainment.

Firstly, who wouldn’t get excited about the prospect of drivers trading paint and forgetting Sunday school etiquette on those high banked concrete corners? If a driver needed to exact revenge, and I mean Jimmie Johnson or Joey Logano, this is the perfect time to do so.

Moreover, this is a track that absolutely oozes everything 0 3 8

that race fans clamor for this annual race. If you want drama, memorable on-track action, and a quote that’ll echo for as long as NASCAR’s around, Bristol’s the perfect venue for this.

Now, of course, fans may not be happy about the car number placement for this event. Sure, the lights underneath the cars may “be the final straw for me,” so says some race fans who likely said they’d stop watching NASCAR when drivers stood alongside Bubba Wallace.

OK, the car number placement experiment isn’t the greatest.

Yes, maybe the glow from these cars might evoke more thoughts from the Fast and the Furious movie franchise than NASCAR tradition. However, at least with the latter, I say why not?

Ultimately, this race has always been a great opportunity for NASCAR to try out experiments. In some cases, they’ve worked like double-file restarts, overtime sessions, one-off paint schemes, and the choose cone. While the option tire concept of 2016 didn’t take off, others became a part of our lore or traditions in NASCAR. Whether it’s Charlotte, Bristol, or another track if this event ever rotates in the future, the All-Star Race is not only about grand experiments or potential rules changes. It’s about race fans and drivers putting on an entertaining show, something that will be a near guarantee this Wednesday night.

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

SPOTLIGHT

SUPERSTAR RACING EXPERIENCE COMES TO CBS SPORTS IN PRIMETIME

BY ROB TIONGSON

C

BS Sports and Superstar Racing Experience (SRX), a new sports property created by The Montag Group, NASCAR Hall of Famers Ray Evernham and Tony Stewart, and investor George Pyne have entered into a multi-year partnership to produce a six-race, short-track series that will air Saturday nights in primetime on CBS Television Network and CBS All-Access in the Summer of 2021.

The SRX brings an entirely new entertainment concept to the marketplace – both competitively and commercially. The series features short, sprint races with a total emphasis on headto-head competition among elite drivers from diverse racing backgrounds. Each race will include a variety of drivers, courses and elements of reality to bring fans new and exciting stories every week across every screen.

0 4 0

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

The at-track experience will be exceptional, and marketers will have incredible flexibility, unprecedented options for exclusivity, and the ability to integrate endto-end – broadcast/digital, track and team - efficiently and effectively. The leadership team designed all of this based on decades of experience building best-in-class sports and entertainment properties worldwide.

“We are looking forward to teaming with Superstar Racing Experience to bring this exciting new auto racing series to CBS in primetime,” said Sean McManus, Chairman, CBS Sports.

“This innovative racing series will feature great drivers competing on short tracks and will provide viewers with unique, behind-the-scenes access, bringing fans closer to the action. With the backing from legends in the racing industry, the quality of the drivers and competition, and the atmosphere that short tracks will help to create, the Superstar Racing Experience is a great addition to our live summer sports programming that racing fans will embrace.”

“SRX is a series where the cars will be so evenly matched that talent instead of equipment will win the race,” said Stewart, a three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion who also won the 1997 INDYCAR Series title. “The competition will be intense, and thanks to the vision of such strong leaders in the sports and entertainment industry, millions will be able to watch live and in primetime on CBS.” Said Evernham: “We’ve set this up to bring the focus back to the drivers and their ability to compete head-to-head as opposed to the car deciding who wins. That’s going to create a unique dynamic for fans at the track and everywhere else. Adding superstar-caliber drivers and our unique racing features, you’re going to see all kinds of emotions playing out live. It’s going to be quite exciting and rekindle why a lot of people love short-track racing.”

Legendary and iconic drivers and mechanics from many of the world’s top circuits, including Stewart and Evernham, as well as rising stars, will compete on various short tracks around the country. There will be approximately 90 minutes of racing time within the two-hour television window. Races will have no pit stops but a “halftime” where the drivers and crew chiefs will make adjustments and strategy decisions. The TV production will feature all of the behind-the-scenes and human drama that comes with high-intensity competitions.

0 4 1

RACE TO FREEDOM TRUCK

Snakeskin-PolePos-ColAd.qxp_Layout 1 1/27/20 10:58 AM Page 1

By:

BLACK

MAMBA

TOUGHEST GLOVES ON THE MARKET Long lasting for tough jobs that need tough gloves and ultimate protection.

3 times chemical protection of latex or vinyl gloves!

NEW! Snakeskin 7 mil Enhanced Grip Nitrile

Black Mamba 6.25 mil Tough Black Nitrile

Orange Mamba 6.0 mil Hi-Viz Orange Nitrile

MEDI A RELE A SE ProBlu Mamba 14 mil HD Long Blue Latex

Mamba Torque 6.25/10.25 Raised Torque Grips

Waterproof Detail Gloves Ideal for Auto Detailing and General MechanicWork

For samples or to find a dealer in your area, please visit: BLACKMAMBAGLOVES.COM

0 4 2

JORDAN ANDERSON TO DEBUT “RACE TO FREEDOM” TRUCK

J

ordan Anderson Racing and A.E. Engine are proud to announce three new partnerships for the 2020 NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series race at Texas Motor Speedway.

U.S. LawShield®, Vaultek and SAR USA will debut on the No. 3 U.S. LawShield / SAR USA / Vaultek “Race to Freedom” Chevrolet Silverado that will run in the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series Vankor 350 on July 18 at Texas Motor Speedway.

“It’s going to be such a great honor to bring these three new partners into our sport,” said Jordan Anderson, who will drive the No. 3 “Race to Freedom” Chevrolet Silverado at Texas Motor Speedway. “I’ve always been a big believer in connecting partners that complement each other.

We’re going to harness the power of working together just as our team does on race day. U.S. LawShield, SAR USA, and Vaultek are three solid

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

PREMIUM QUALITY

AUTOMOTIVE LUBRICANTS WITH...

THE

POWER

TO PROTECT No. 105 Motor Assembly Grease

• The “Original” Prelube for Installed Engine Parts.

• Prevents “Dry Start” During Initial Start Up. • Trusted By Top Engine Builders For Decades.

Chain & Cable Fluid - Penetrating Oil

• A Superior, Non-Gumming Penetrating Oil. • For Chains, Cables, Tools and General Lubrication.

• Loosens Rusty Nuts & Bolts. Also For Metalworking.

Spray Lube `A´ White Lithium Grease

• Sprays Like a Fluid, Congeals To A Grease.

• For Locks, Latches, Hinges, Battery Terminals and More.

• Creamy White Color - Correct For Classic Show Cars.

Gear Shield Extra Heavy

• Heavy-Duty, Extreme Pressure Spray Lubricant.

• For Gears, Pins, Bushings and Jack Screws.

• Excellent Fifth Wheel Lubricant for Trucks.

Biodegradable Penetrating Oil

• ECO-Friendly, Bio-Based, Multi-Purpose Lubricating Oil. • For Tools, Locks, Latches and General Lubrication.

• Displaces Moisture and Will Deliver a “Wet Start.”

SYNXTREME HD-2 Grease

• 100% Synthetic, Calcium Sulfonate Complex Formula.

• NLGI GC-LB Certified Wheel Bearing & Chassis Lube.

Visit Our Online Webstore At: www.lubriplate.com Also Available At:

Newark, NJ 07105 / Toledo, OH 43605 / 800-733-4755 LubeXpert@lubriplate.com / www.lubriplate.com

for store locations CARQUEST.com

RACE TO FREEDOM TRUCK likeminded companies that are excited about our sport, and I’m looking forward to introducing them to all our great fans.”

With more than 80,000 fans across social media, Anderson not only provides a fascinating level of access, but also delivers his sponsors millions of impressions every month purely from his social media content. The “Race to Freedom” truck also allows all three partners to leverage their own social media to create an even larger online impact. Each sponsor will also be included in a complete A.E. Engine content activation program, to include print, digital, YouTube and additional social media.

Each sponsor’s branding will appear on the No. 3 Chevrolet Silverado during the July 18 race, with SAR USA on the front hood, U.S. LawShield on the rear quarter panel and Vaultek on the rear bumper.

STATEMENTS FROM THE SPONSORS: “U.S. LawShield® is pleased to partner with Jordan Ander0 4 4

son Racing as part of a sponsorship package and support for the NASCAR Truck Series. We respect what Jordan Anderson Racing has done in building a team from the ground up, pursuing excellence, never giving up, and of course, winning races in the ‘Race to Freedom Truck’.”

“SAR USA is proud to support the ‘Race to Freedom Truck’.

SAR USA is the exclusive importer of our parent company, Sarsilmaz, one of the world’s largest suppliers of small arms to elite forces around the world. Founded in 1880, we have a long and proud heritage and are excited to continue our tradition of excellence in the United States with this iconic brand.”

“Vaultek is proud to partner with NASCAR for the first ever ‘Race to Freedom Truck’. Vaultek’s cutting-edge safe technology and security is a perfect fit for NASCAR fans, and we’re thrilled to join in the history and legacy of what NASCAR has built and is continuing to grow.” ▶▶ About U.S. LawShield U.S. LawShield traces its roots back to 2009 when a group of Houston, Texas-based attorneys saw first-hand the injustice against law-abiding gun owners who were forced to legally defend themselves. They observed that these gun owners, who acted lawfully in self-defense, were at a significant disadvantage within the justice system. They watched these people face unwarranted hardships, loss of freedom and financial ruin in trying to defend themselves in what they felt was a rigged justice system. These passionate attorneys created what is known today as U.S. LawShield and its Legal Defense for Self-Defense Program now supports a community of members totaling over 500,000 strong across the United States. The company focuses on educating members in self-defense law; empowering them to handle critical life-threatening situations with confidence; and protecting them from potential injustices in the legal system after lawful acts of self-defense. www.uslawshield.com ▶▶ About SAR USA SAR USA is the exclusive U.S. importer for all firearms and ammunition products produced by Sarsilmaz Silah Sanayi of

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

THE ONLY CHARGER FOR LITHIUM ION BATTERIES

Manufactured and Serviced in the USA

INTELI-POWER® PD9100L Series Designed to meet the stringent voltages required for properly charging & maintaining lithium ion batteries NOW OFFERING: PDI PLUS Extended Lifetime Warranty

Learn More: www.progressivedyn.com | (269) 781-4241

CHeCk out tHe CuStom rifle Builder on our weBSite FIMS IS, In every SenSe, a FaMIly buSIneSS. In 2016 FIMS acquired its Class 07 FFL in order to expand into the manufacturing of firearms.

Hiring several engineers, FIMS is now paving the way to make an impact in the defense industry. vISIt uS onlIne at

FIMSFIrearMS.coM @FimsFirearms

Proud SPonSor of

@Fims_Firearms

#98 Chase Briscoe & Stewart-Haas racing

RACE TO FREEDOM TRUCK Istanbul, Turkey. Sarsilmaz is one of the largest firearms manufacturers in the world, founded in 1840. They produce some of the highest quality firearms on the planet and supply many NATO countries’ militaries. SAR USA works closely with the engineering staff at Sarsilmaz to develop new firearms products for the American market. With many years of firearms manufacturing experience to build on, SAR USA will soon be one of the major firearms companies in America. sarusa.com ▶▶ About Vaultek Vaultek creates rugged smart safes designed to safely secure your personal belongings. Innovation, safety and security are the pillars of Vaultek. Our mission is to build the highest quality safes, while providing true value to customers, and making a real contribution to the community. vaulteksafe.com ▶▶ About A.E. Engine Founded in 2005 by publishing and marketing executives, A.E. Engine is a sports sales, marketing and content development company. A.E. Engine has earned a reputation for creating quality, impactful publications, digital media, websites and events.

They specialize in delivering premium quality content to the most passionate fans in sports. ae-engine.com ▶▶ About Jordan Anderson Racing Jordan Anderson Racing is a professional race team that competes full time in the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series with their #3 Chevrolet Silverado. Founded in 2018 by veteran driver and thriving entrepreneur Jordan Anderson, the team has garnered national attention for their never give up approach to the sport, and success as a growing organization. For more information visit SponsorJordan.com or JordanAndersonRacing.com

START RUN STORE Start up with ease every time Store with confidence between use Run faster, cleaner, smoother

WWW.STARTRON.COM PROTECTION

0 4 6

020 Ad COL.indd 1

+ PERFORMANCE

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020 1/9/20 5:03 PM

WHEN YOUR ENGINE DEMANDS GREATNESS.

LISTEN TO IT.

The perfect balance of engine protection and premium performance.

See why FRAM Oil Filters leave the competition in the dust at fram.com.

fram.com

© 2020 Fram Group Operations LLC, 3255 West Hamlin Road, Rochester Hills, MI 48309 Printed in USA

FIRST TIME’S THE CHARM. Sunoco Rookie of the Year contender Cole Custer roared to his first Cup Series victory Sunday afternoon at Kentucky Speedway, emerging from a late-race restart with a bold four-wide move just after the white flag.

A QUICK PIT. Ryan Blaney and the No. 12 Advance Auto Parts Ford team pits during the Quaker State 400 Presented by Walmart at Kentucky Speedway.

0 4 8

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

A RARE SMILING FACE. Ryan Blaney gives a rare look at a momentarily maskless racer before the Quaker State 400 by Walmart at Kentucky.

NEED FOR CREED. Sheldon Creed prevailed in a frantic three-wide restart on Lap 52 of Saturday’s Buckle Up in Your Truck 225 NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series race and held the spot through the second stage break, earning his first career series victory.

0 4 9

CREDITS

ROAR! WEEKLY RACE MAGAZINE 11880 28TH ST. N, SUITE 101 ST. PETERSBURG, FL 33716 PHONE: (727) 209-0792 FAX: (727) 209-1776 ROAR! SITE: POLEPOSITIONMAG.COM CORPORATE: AE-ENGINE.COM EMAIL: ROAR@AE-ENGINE.COM

BUSINESS DEPARTMENT

PUBLISHER: CRAIG BARONCELLI EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, SALES: DAVID WATSON VICE PRESIDENT, EXECUTIVE ACCOUNTS: DAYNE MAASDORP VICE PRESIDENT, MOTORSPORTS: CHRIS VITA SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: JUSTIN HAND, MARK MORALES, JOHN ENGLE OFFICE MANAGER: DENNIS FASONE

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT

ART DIRECTOR: JOE RABUCK DIRECTOR, DIGITAL: NICOLE COOPER DIRECTOR, DIGITAL CONTENT: JOSH MULL MANAGING EDITOR: DAN GUTTENPLAN CONTRIBUTORS: JARED TURNER, BEN WHITE, JOSEPH WOLKIN , KEITH WALTZ, ROB TIONGSON A.E. ENGINE SPECIFIES THAT POSTPUBLISHING CHANGES MAY OCCUR TO ANY INFORMATION PRESENTED IN THIS PUBLICATION AND TAKES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR GOODS OR SERVICES ADVERTISED.

AVAILABLE NOW: KENTUCKY MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION POLEPOSITIONMAG.COM UPDATES & POSTERS TWITTER @NPPMAG FACEBOOK NASCAR POLE POSITION

0 5 0

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: JULY 13, 2020

SUBSCRIPTIONS: YOUR FREE SUBSCRIPTIONS CAN BE ORDERED ONLINE AT POLEPOSITIONMAG.COM. SALES INQUIRIES: IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING IN ROAR! WEEKLY RACE MAGAZINE, OR WOULD LIKE TO BECOME A FIELD REPRESENTATIVE, PLEASE CONTACT DAVID WATSON AT (727) 209-0789, OR DKW@AE-ENGINE.COM.