ROAR! - Weekly Racing Magazine - August 6, 2020

CLOSING TIME TERRIBLE TUESDAY FOR MOTORSPORTS

MIS OFFERS THE LAST GOOD CHANCE FOR A PLAYOFF SPOT

IN THE HOT SEAT

SEAL THE DEAL

FAST PASTA’S ROLE MODELS

NEVER FORGET YOUR FIRST

BY THE NUMBERS THE POWER OF NO. 47

#

THE

1 SELLING UNDERSHIRT* Try our tees, 100% satisfaction guaranteed at JOCKEY.COM

*The NPD Group / Retailer tracking service, Premium/Mid-Tier U.S. Dollar Sales, 12ME Dec’18 ©2020 Jockey International, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Jockey and The Original American Underwear Brand are trademarks of Jockey International, Inc.

AVAILABLE NOW: MICHIGAN POWERED BY

BLUE-EMU POLEPOSITIONMAG.COM

@NPPMAG

NASCAR POLE POSITION I AUGUST 2020 I MICHIGAN

RAJAH Caruth

DRIVE FOR DIVERSITY CLASS OF 2020 SALUTE TO AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

NASCAR and the Military

OWNER SPOTLIGHT

The King: Richard Petty SEAL THE DEAL

Johnson’s Legendary Victories

I NASCAR CAREERS I NASCAR COMMUNIT Y I FOR THE RECORD I GROW IN’ TS I TA ILGAT ING UP NASCA R NASCAR PE RICA I NASCAR BUILDS I FAVORITE FINDS I NAS CAR NEW S I SP I MA DE IN AME EE DW AY SU Y OR ST HI AR DO NA SC

NPP20 08 MCH Cover RC.indd 1

KU

7/21/2020 7:28:05 PM

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

TERRIBLE TUESDAY FOR MOTORSPORTS In this week’s episode of Out of the Groove, host and creator Eric Estepp takes us through possibly one of the worst news days in recent motorsports memory. Strap in, it’s going to be a heavy bummer of an episode, but Eric brings us all the context and storylines to make sense of it all.

First up, we have the closure of Leavine Family racing. With fallout from the covid-19 epidemic and its downline impact on sponsorships being cited as the reason, Eric 0 0 4

takes us through the likely consequences of their absence. He also takes us through some of the speculation in the fanbase about other reasons, such as the Joe Gibbs licensing agreement.

But that’s not all. Eric also takes us through some of the crew changes of the week, including some context on who these folks are and how important they are to the success of the team. Catch it all on this week’s episode of Out of the Groove!

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

AMERICAN-MADE SOLUTIONS Discover the Ultimate All-in-One Car Wash Ready to Wash™ “Just Add Water” Complete Set

CupFone®

FloorLiner™

The Ready to Wash system offers virtually everything you need to clean, detail and keep your car sparkling. Plus, CupFone helps you navigate safely, and FloorLiner maintains your vehicle’s carpet so it stays like-new. Whatever the need, WheatherTech has the high-quality products to maximize the life and value of your vehicle.

Made in USA © 2020 MacNeil IP LLC

Auto. Home. Pet. Find Your Fit. 1-800-441-6287 or 1-630-769-1500

5 THINGS TO WATCH

5

THINGS TO WATCH AT MICHIGAN For the second time this season, the NASCAR Cup Series is set for a doubleheader. Only this time, it’s at Michigan International Speedway, where drivers typically compete twice a year on different weekends but couldn’t this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic that forced NASCAR to postpone the track’s June proceedings. This weekend will feature a pair of 400-mile events as drivers go racing on both Saturday and Sunday evening. Following are five things to watch for in what promises to be a busy, entertaining couple of days at the fast, two-mile oval.

BY JA RED TURNER

0 0 6

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

5 THINGS TO WATCH

5

A ROYALLY TICKED OFF KYLE BUSCH

T

wenty NASCAR Cup Series races in the books, nary a victory for Kyle Busch. If you predicted at the beginning of 2020 that the reigning NASCAR Cup series champion would still be winless come August, you’re either a soothsayer or not knowledgeable enough about the last 15 years of NASCAR history to know any better. Yet this is exactly where Busch finds himself heading into this weekend’s doubleheader at Michigan, a place where he has just one Cup win in 30 starts. That number is a bit deceiving, however, because some of Busch’s best Michigan performances have come in recent years. In fact, over the last six races at MIS, the Joe Gibbs Racing driver has recorded six top-10 finishes — and three of those were top-fives. After crashing early and finishing last in last weekend’s race at New Hampshire, Busch lamented the fact that it’s still 2020. Rest assured, though, that Busch has hardly written off this season and can’t be counted out.

0 0 8

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

5 THINGS TO WATCH

4

MOUNTING PRESSURE ON THE BUBBLE BOYS

W

ith six races to go in the regular season, William Byron is sitting squarely on the NASCAR Cup Series’ playoff bubble, just 15 points ahead of Tyler Reddick, 25 ahead of Jimmie Johnson and 31 ahead of Erik Jones. If Byron has a slipup in one or both of this weekend’s races at Michigan, Reddick, Johnson and Jones are all close enough in the standings to potentially leapfrog the Hendrick Motorsports driver and drop him to the wrong side of the playoff bubble for the time being. “This team never gives up, and we’re fighting for every spot we can as we approach the cutoff to make the playoffs,” said Reddick, a Cup series rookie who is the back-to-back and reigning NASCAR Xfinity Series champion. Byron currently holds the final playoff berth among drivers looking to advance on the basis of points. Ten drivers are locked into the postseason by virtue of having at least one win so far in 2020.

0 1 0

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

Home is where you

Breathe Freely Order now at

FilterBuy.com Largest selection of air filters made in the USA. Fast and free shipping delivered right to your door.

5 THINGS TO WATCH

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

A

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

A RELIEVED BUT MOTIVATED BRAD KESELOWSKI

day after scoring a big win at New Hampshire, Brad Keselowski received some even better news on Monday when Team Penske announced that he would remain in the organization’s No. 2 Ford for the 2021 season. Keselowski, who as recently as Sunday was noncommittal about his plans for next year, can now take a deep breath and focus on doing what he does best — driving race cars. News of the new contract couldn’t have come at a better time for the Rochester Hills, Michigan native, with this weekend’s doubleheader at Michigan International Speedway being next up on the NASCAR Cup Series calendar. Although Keselowski owns a pair of Xfinity Series triumphs at his home track, he is winless in 21 outings at the popular facility located in Michigan’s Irish Hills. Now armed with a new contract in hand and fresh off a trip to Victory Lane, Keselowski could be primed for the homecoming of all homecomings this weekend.

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 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 THINGS TO WATCH

2

THE BATTLE FOR MANUFACTURER BRAGGING RIGHTS

M

ore so than at any other track on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule, it’s all about manufacturer bragging rights at Michigan International Speedway — which is located within reasonably close proximity of the headquarters for both Ford and General Motors (Chevrolet).

Toyota, a Japanese manufacturer, likes to play the role of spoiler at MIS, but it’s the Ford and Chevy drivers who are competing in their respective manufacturer’s proverbial backyard and therefore always feel a bit of extra pressure to put their best foot forward. “I’ve been able to drive for every manufacturer in the Cup Series and know how much each one of them means to our sport,” said Ford driver Clint Bowyer, whose 10 career Cup victories include two in Fords, three in Toyotas and five in Chevrolets. “We don’t race without our manufacturers, and I know how much each takes pride in their results on the track, especially at Michigan.”

0 1 4

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

5 THINGS TO WATCH Celebrating 150 Years of Academic Excellence

Choose

TO BE BRAVE

Choose

ALCORN You choose to live by a higher standard. That’s why you belong at Alcorn. For 150 years, Alcorn State University has been at the forefront of excellence and innovation — empowering students to live extraordinary lives.

Join the Alcorn Family!

No out-of-state tuition.

Visit www.alcorn.edu

@ALCORNSTATEU

0 1 6

1

ANOTHER DENNY HAMLIN/ KEVIN HARVICK SHOWDOWN

W

hile hometown driver Brad Keselowski might be carrying the most momentum into Michigan by virtue of having won in convincing fashion this past weekend at New Hampshire, two other drivers have been the cream of the crop this season in the NASCAR Cup Series. Those two drivers, of course, are veterans Denny Hamlin and Kevin Harvick, who together have combined for a total of nine wins in 20 events. Hamlin (five wins) and Harvick (four wins) are likely to continue their frontrunning ways at Michigan, a track where both have made multiple trips to Victory Lane over the years. In the case of Harvick, he’s a three-time winner at MIS and has prevailed in two of the Cup Series’ three most recent visits to the high-speed facility.

Hamlin, meanwhile, is a two-time winner at MIS and finished second here to Harvick last August. Based on how 2020 has gone, similar outcomes in this weekend’s doubleheader won’t surprise anyone.

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

NOT FOR PRINT: NASCAR Ad Placement. Column AD 2.765” x 10.875”. 07/2020.

Contact: Larry Orman-Alcorn State University.

(Location: Work Files/Jobs In Progress/Ads/ Choose Alcorn Ad)

Get a Free Guide for Veterans with Mesothelioma Thousands of veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma and their families have used our free guide to learn about: Military Asbestos Exposure

Compensation Options

Filing or Appealing a VA Claim

Your Complete Guide To

MESOTHELIOMA Call Our Veterans Department Now

877-235-6007 Sponsored by The Peterson Firm, LLP

RECAPPING JIMMIE JOHNSON’S NASCAR CAREER

■■ Rick Hendrick, Jimmie Johnson, and Chad Knaus celebrated their first championship together in 2006.

YOU NEVER FORGET YOUR FIRST THE STARS ALIGNED FOR JIMMIE JOHNSON IN 2006

BY JA RED TURNER

A

s a NASCAR Cup Series rookie in 2002, Jimmie Johnson won three races and finished an impressive fifth in points. In his second year of racing in NASCAR’s premier division, Johnson raised his game even higher by once again winning three times but finishing second in the standings.

Then, in 2004, Johnson exploded by going to Victory Lane eight times on the way to another runner-up points finish. The following year, he slipped back down to fifth in the final points tally but still picked up four wins along the way.

It was in 2006 — Johnson’s fifth year at the sport’s top level — that all the stars finally aligned for the Hendrick Motorsports driver, however.Buoyed by five wins and a career-high 24 top-10 finishes in 36 starts, Johnson captured his first series championship in rather comfortable fashion as he claimed the crown by 56 points over 2003 champ Matt Kenseth.

Johnson played it fairly safe to come home ninth in the season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway as Kenseth finished three positions better — not nearly good enough to make up the ground he needed to make up coming into the weekend.

Johnson, whose background prior to NASCAR was mostly in

0 1 8

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

off-road racing, entered the NASCAR Cup Series with only one NASCAR Xfinity Series win to his credit over two nearly full seasons in the sport’s No. 2 division. But he needed only five seasons in Cup to ascend the sport’s highest mountain.

“It’s unbelievable,” Johnson said after earning the first of his now seven championships. “I’ve been working my whole life to get in this position to be a champion; it’s what I’ve always wanted to be, and to now be a champion means the world to me.”

While drivers often compete more than five seasons before securing their first Cup title, Johnson wasn’t surprised to reach this milestone so early.

After all, he was a legitimate title contender in all four seasons leading up to his breakthrough.

“We’ve done an awesome job in a short period of time,” Johnson said.

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.

BY THE NUMBER

CAR NO.

47

■■ 1952 – Fonty Flock (ISC Archives via Getty Images photo)

BY K EITH WA LTZ

O

nly 62 racers have driven cars carrying No 47 in the NASCAR Cup Series, with Jack Smith (194) and A.J. Allmendinger (189) having made the most starts while wheeling cars with that number. Smith, the NASCAR Cup Series’ Most Popular Driver in 1959, was also the most successful driver using No. 47 as he earned 18 of his 21 career victories in cars with the number.

A former open-wheel driver who made his NASCAR Cup Series debut in 2007,

Allmendinger scored his lone series victory in 2014 when he drove JTG Daugherty Racing’s No. 47 car to victory at Watkins Glen International.

Overall statistics show that cars carrying No. 47 in the NASCAR Cup Series have visited Victory Lane 25 times while posting 310 top-10 finishes in slightly more than 1,175 starts.

Fonty Flock was the first driver to use No. 47 when he wheeled a 1949 Hudson to a runner-up finish in the inaugural NASCAR Cup Series race on June 19, 1949, at the threequarter-mile Charlotte Speedway dirt track.

Flock was also the first driver to win a race in car No. 47. That victory came on Sept. 17, 1950, at Pennsylvania’s legendary Langhorne Speedway.

Ron Bouchard, Morgan Shepherd, Buck Baker, Dick Hutcherson and A.J. Foyt are the other winners in car No. 47.

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. currently drives the No. 47 Chevrolet for JTG Daugherty Racing.

■■ 2020 – Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (Getty Images photo)

0 2 0

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

NASCAR STANDINGS

NASCAR CUP SERIES

STANDINGS NO. DRIVER

PTS.

1

DENNY HAMLIN

688

Dual-Action Topical Analgesic Cream

2

KEVIN HARVICK

803

3

BRAD KESELOWSKI

722

4

JOEY LOGANO

653

5

RYAN BLANEY

685

Provides penetrating, fast pain relief from:

6

CHASE ELLIOTT

660

7

MARTIN TRUEX JR.

648

8

ALEX BOWMAN

561

9

AUSTIN DILLON

466

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 COLE CUSTER

381

11 ARIC ALMIROLA

614

12 KURT BUSCH

581

13 KYLE BUSCH

563

14 CLINT BOWYER

512

15 MATT DIBENEDETTO

509

16 WILLIAM BYRON

484

17 TYLER REDDICK

469

18 JIMMIE JOHNSON

459

19 ERIK JONES

453

20 BUBBA WALLACE

366

21 MICHAEL MCDOWELL

359

22 CHRIS BUESCHER

357

23 CHRISTOPHER BELL

355

24 RICKY STENHOUSE JR.

345

25 JOHN HUNTER NEMECHEK 326 26 RYAN NEWMAN

325

27 TY DILLON

292

28 MATT KENSETH

274

29 COREY LAJOIE

261

30 RYAN PREECE

216

31 BRENNAN POOLE

146

32 QUIN HOUFF

106

33 DANIEL SUAREZ

214

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

0 2 2

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

WINS

POLES

TOP 5

TOP 10

5 0 11 12 4 0 13 17 3 1 8 15 2 0 5 9 1 0 7 9 1 1 7 10 1 1 5 11 1 0 2 6 1 0 2 5 1 0 2 5 0 0 5 12 0 1 4 12 0 1 8 10 0 1 2 5 0 0 2 6 0 0 0 6 0 0 2 7 0 0 2 6 0 0 5 8 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 4 0 0 1 5 0 1 3 3 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

718

2

AUSTIN CINDRIC

722

3

NOAH GRAGSON

666

4

HARRISON BURTON

587

5

BRANDON JONES

500

6

JUSTIN HALEY

592

7

ROSS CHASTAIN

662

8

JUSTIN ALLGAIER

586

9

MICHAEL ANNETT

510

10 RILEY HERBST

410

11 RYAN SIEG

408

12 BRANDON BROWN

374

13 JEREMY CLEMENTS

342

14 MYATT SNIDER

325

15 ALEX LABBE

301

16 JESSE LITTLE

301

17 JOSH WILLIAMS

293

18 B.J. MCLEOD

256

19 JOE GRAF JR.

227

20 CHAD FINCHUM

212

21 VINNIE MILLER

210

• Next Generation Ergonomics & Features

22 DANIEL HEMRIC

326

23 ANTHONY ALFREDO

300

• Stainless Steel Slides & Barrels

24 JEFFREY EARNHARDT

220

• Perfect for Every Day Carry!

25 TOMMY JOE MARTINS

195

26 AJ ALLMENDINGER

177

27 MATT MILLS

147

28 COLBY HOWARD

129

29 JEB BURTON

115

30 KYLE WEATHERMAN

105

31 KODY VANDERWAL

105

32 DAVID STARR

96

33 RAY BLACK JR.

92

Visit Us

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

0 2 4

NASCAR

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

WINS

POLES

TOP 5

TOP 10

5 0 10 13 3 0 11 13 2 0 8 11 2 0 9 12 2 1 5 9 1 0 6 12 0 0 7 15 0 0 4 9 0 1 3 9 0 0 2 9 0 0 3 6 0 0 0 4 0 0 1 3 0 2 2 4 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 7 0 0 1 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 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

320

2

AUSTIN HILL

394

3

MATT CRAFTON

321

4

SHELDON CREED

319

5

BEN RHODES

351

6

CHRISTIAN ECKES

344

7

ZANE SMITH

344

8

BRETT MOFFITT

325

9

DEREK KRAUS

294

10 TODD GILLILAND

289

11 TYLER ANKRUM

267

12 JOHNNY SAUTER

236

13 TANNER GRAY

230

14 STEWART FRIESEN

218

15 RAPHAEL LESSARD

217

16 TY MAJESKI

194

17 AUSTIN SELF

161

18 JORDAN ANDERSON

140

19 CORY ROPER

137

20 SPENCER BOYD

133

21 CODIE ROHRBAUGH

132

22 TATE FOGLEMAN

126

23 SPENCER DAVIS

157

24 NATALIE DECKER

92

25 ANGELA RUCH

84

26 CHASE PURDY

78

27 TIMMY HILL

76

28 CLAY GREENFIELD

75

29 KORBIN FORRISTER

68

30 RYAN TRUEX

61

31 TYLER HILL

58

32 JENNIFER COBB

55

33 PARKER KLIGERMAN

41

WINS

POLES

TOP 5

TOP 10

2 0 4 5 1 0 5 9 1 0 5 6 1 1 3 6 0 0 4 8 0 0 3 5 0 0 2 6 0 0 3 5 0 0 2 6 0 0 2 6 0 0 1 3 0 2 3 6 0 0 1 3 0 0 1 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 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 BLUE AREAS HIGHLIGHT PLAYOFF QUALIFIERS

0 2 6

ishni Takin-3rdpage.indd 1

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020 5/15/2020 8:30:21 AM

DRIVER Q&A ■■ Michael McDowell drives the No.34 Ford for Front Row Motorsports.

MICHAEL MCDOWELL’S PATIENCE PAYS OFF

BY JOSEPH WOLK IN

Michael McDowell’s trials and tribulations in NASCAR have only made the Phoenix native a stronger person. His Front Row Motorsports squad saw minor improvements in 2018 and 2019. Now, he’s confident and car No. 34 is the best it has ever been, with multiple top 10s at superspeedways. ▶ HOW WOULD YOU EVALUATE THE FIRST HALF OF THE SEASON FOR YOUR TEAM? “It’s one of our best seasons yet. It’s been fun. Going into the quarantine break, we weren’t sure how we would be without practice and qualifying, but it’s suited us pretty well. It’s by far the best performance we’ve had at Front Row.” ▶ SO WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE MAKER FOR YOU? WHY ARE YOU DOING BETTER THAN IN THE PAST? “I think it’s a combination of things.

We’ve been growing the organization over the years. More than anything, it’s about people. It’s taken a few years to get that group 0 2 8

established. Everybody is clicking and working well. We’ve seen the writing on the wall that it could come together.

This is the time that it’s clicking and the pieces are working.” ▶ WHAT DO YOU WANT TO ACCOMPLISH DURING THE SECOND HALF OF THE YEAR WITH FRM? “I want to win a race. That’s what it’s all about. We’re putting ourselves in position to do that. We need to run well and put ourselves in that position. But we can’t do that from 15th place. There’s the Daytona road course and the ROVAL, and we have a better chance there than we normally do.”

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

PLAYOFF BUBBLE

MICHIGAN PROVIDES PROMISE FOR PLAYOFF BUBBLE CONTENDERS

BY ROB TIONGSON

I

f the most recent trip to the Michigan International Speedway provided any telling insights, expect the unexpected and make every ounce of Sunoco fuel count.

With each trip to the two-mile superspeedway nestled in Brooklyn, Mich. comes the debate between raw horsepower and fuel mileage.

Certainly, the balance between horsepower and maximizing one’s pit window proves as tricky as getting the setup right at Pocono Raceway.

Still, in a season in which practice and qualifying rounds are scrapped, this makes all the guesswork by crew chiefs and teams even more exciting to watch. While iRacing might serve as a decent preview for the drivers, there’s nothing quite like on-track time prior to the race.

0 3 0

In this case, the NASCAR Cup Series heads to the Irish Hills for a pair of 156-lap, 312-mile races that amp up the urgency level for those on the Playoff bubble. Even though the usual suspects continue to pad their win totals and Playoff points, the likes of Jimmie Johnson, William Byron, Tyler Reddick, and Erik Jones welcome the doubleheader race weekend at Michigan.

In most cases, the next opportunities to nab points and make gains with their season comes in a week’s time. However, if a driver and team have a bad race on Saturday afternoon, it can be all forgotten with a win or solid result on Sunday afternoon.

Having a short-term memory may be pivotal for Johnson and the No. 48 Ally Chevrolet

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 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.

PLAYOFF BUBBLE team, especially when they tackle the high-speed Michigan International Speedway. In his past 36 starts, Johnson has a victory (June 2014), five top-five finishes, and 13 top-10 finishes.

All too often, Johnson starts off with a promising run but winds up getting collected in someone else’s mistake. In some cases, Johnson winds up committing a rare error such as the case in the Real Heroes 400 at Darlington Raceway. Perhaps this weekend offers promising opportunities to Johnson and his No. 48 team with a win or strong finishes to rejoin the top-16.

As for Byron and Jones, it’s been a Jekyll and Hyde type season for these young guns. While both showcased flashes of brilliance throughout the year, much like Johnson, they’re often caught up in someone else’s disaster. However, when both capitalize on their race days, they’re handsomely rewarded with top-10 finishes.

Although Byron’s first three races at Michigan were quite rough, he netted his first top-10 result at the Wolverine State’s juggernaut track last August. Perhaps with some of Chad Knaus’ patented and aggressive crew chief tactics, the No. 24 Axalta Chevrolet will be in the mix with during the final laps of this weekend’s races.

Meanwhile, each trip to Michigan evokes powerful emotions for Jones. After all, he’s from Byron Township, Mich., two hours of the superspeedway. Whenever the Cup circuit returns to MIS, Jones often finds himself in the spotlight like Brad Keselowski, a fellow Michigander, almost to the levels of Dale Earnhardt Sr. during his quest to win a Daytona 500.

Unfortunately, Jones’ most recent trips to Michigan have been paltry, at best, with finishes of 13th or worse since taking over the No. 20 Toyota.

To say the least, he’d love to have a race weekend akin to his August 2017

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

WWW.STARTRON.COM PROTECTION

0 3 2

020 Ad COL.indd 1

+ PERFORMANCE

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020 1/9/20 5:03 PM

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 0 3 3 NOW OFFERING: PDI PLUS Extended Lifetime Warranty

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

PLAYOFF BUBBLE

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

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 3 4

experience in which he placed third in front of the home state fans.

Ultimately, Tyler Reddick and his No. 8 Chevy team are the biggest wild card for the NASCAR Playoff bubble picture. Despite this weekend’s races being his first Cup starts at Michigan, he’s tackled this superspeedway quite nicely when looking at his NASCAR XFINTY Series results.

Regardless of a so-so 13th place result in the 2017 race, he improved to a seventh-place finish in 2018 before driving his way to an exciting victory in last year’s event. If anything, his Michigan track record serves as a harbinger to his incredible abilities to adapt quickly in unfamiliar situations, such as his rookie campaign in the Cup Series.

All things considered, Reddick and crew chief Tyler Burnett are in prime position to spoil the Michigan party for their Playoff bubble rivals.

Clearly, the Richard Childress Racing team have good, consistent race pace, and they have maximized their opportunities in the “show up and race” weekend format.

In the end, Michigan’s about the best opportunity to secure a Playoff spot in these final six races of the regular season. With the unpredictable Daytona road course race looming along with another doubleheader weekend at Dover and the Coke Zero 400 on the main Daytona layout awaiting, Michigan offers promising chances in which the “Bubble Gang” can be in control of their destiny.

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

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.

IN THE HOT SEAT

IN THE HOT SEAT

Anthony Alfredo

BY ROB TIONGSON

Throughout the season, Rob Tiongson interviews various drivers in the world of NASCAR. Today, he talks with Anthony Alfredo, a driver in the NASCAR XFINITY Series. ▶▶ You’ve been making the most of your limited schedule with an average finish of 11th and you rank 15th after your 10 starts. How exciting has it been to compete in the XFINITY Series with RCR? It’s been a surreal experience. First things first, the opportunity has been a blessing and something I’ve worked hard for to get to this point in my career. I’m nowhere near where I want to be at, but I’m fortunate to be competing at this level for such an iconic organization.

We have an average finish of 11th which includes a DNF and a 20th place finish at Indy because the window net and we got trapped a lap down. If you take those two races out, I think our average finish might be eighth or so, or even better than that.

It’s been amazing to be running up front, leading laps. With such few starts, it’s been an incredible opportunity. I want to be able to do this full-time and go compete for a championship. ▶▶ Who were some drivers that inspired you or served as role models for you with your efforts?

That’s a great question because there’s not just one driver. I’d say if there is one that stands out more than the others, it was Dale Earnhardt Jr. He was my favorite driver and I idolized him.

He’s such an active influencer, even with him being retired from full-time driving, and to still be involved says a lot about him and his character and the ways he’s engaged with his fans and utilizes his platform to do well for others is something I strive to do.

0 3 6

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

RACE THROUGH * HEARTBURN Starts neutralizing acid in seconds

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

©2020 Bayer

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

0 3 8

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

KYLE BUSCH

REPLACEMENT

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

OF

ntest ru

plete co

les.

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

NASCAR DEFINED

THE INEVITABLE

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

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.

MICHIGAN’S PANTHEON OF VICTORS

0 4 0

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

THE PRODIGAL SON

UP TO 4 YEARS OF PROTECTION IS ONLY 5 MINUTES AWAY.

FRAM Ultra Air provides expectational engine protection in all driving conditions

• Extended protection – blended multi-fiber filter media provides long term durability • Superior dirt holding capacity* – Traps and holds smaller dirt and dust particles • Installs in as few as 5 mins†

* Based on FRAM Group testing of dirt holding capacity of models 4309, 9683 and their FRAM Extra Guard air filter equivalents under ISO-5011 † See vehicles owner manual for proper installation

fram.com © 2020 Fram Group Operations LLC, 127 Public Square Suite 5300, Cleveland, OH 44114 Printed in USA

BUBBA WALLACE

MICHIGAN’S PANTHEON OF VICTORS

0 4 2

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

THE HEIR APPARENT

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:

MATT KENSETH

MICHIGAN’S PANTHEON OF VICTORS

0 4 4

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

THE TERMINATOR

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

TYLER REDDICK

MICHIGAN’S PANTHEON OF VICTORS

0 4 6

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

THE NEW HOTNESS

OFFICIAL NASCAR MEMBERS CLUB

NY FAMILY ENJOYS THE NASCAR MOTORHOME EXPERIENCE

BY DA N GUT TENPL A N

M

ona Carmer got a taste of one of her favorite pastimes at last weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.

She piled her husband and two daughters into their 38-foot motorhome and ventured out to a NASCAR race -- something she’d been eager to do for a while.

“We just got back from our first race of the year,” Carmer said. “That’s the only one we’re going to. All of the others have been canceled or postponed.”

It’s been a tough season for Carmer, who calls herself one of the “bigger NASCAR addicts there ever was.” The resident of upstate New York typically attends all of the Cup Series races at Watkins Glen, Dover, New Hampshire, Darlington and Pocono each season.

0 4 8

■■ Mona Carmer, her husband and two daughters took in last weekend’s race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.

She joined the Original NASCAR Members Club in 2014, and immediately enjoyed the rewards of the club membership at a race in Darlington.

“We went on a garage tour, and we saw Richard Petty,” Carmer said. “Being our first time to have the garage tour experience, it brought a whole new appreciation for NASCAR. We could see the start and finish. We could see the cars get measured with lasers.

There were so many things we didn’t know about without having the experience.”

Carmer’s favorite racer of all-time is Kasey Kahne. She was introduced to the sport by her husband, whose uncle drove Ricky Craven’s show car from track to track. She has since passed the love of NASCAR on to her two daughters.

“I told our 11-year-old she couldn’t go to a NASCAR race until she could sit on the couch for an entire race,” Carmer said. “She did it at 7. So, it turned into a family affair.”

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

At Tracks Benefits* Receive 20% OFF your next Racing Electronics Rental!

Garate Tours.

Up Close Access to Driver Introductions.

Pace Car Rides.

Attending the Driver’s Meeting.

Joining the Race Winner in Victory Lane. * at selected tracks

Exclusive Members Only Online Store Up to 70% OFF your Favorite Driver NASCAR Licensed Products.

Ultimate VIP Experience Special Member Opportunities throughout the Season.

Exclusive Offers from Our Proud Partners.

CREDITS POWERED BY

BLUE-EMU POLEPOSITIONMAG.COM

@NPPMAG

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

NASCAR POLE POSITION I AUGUST 2020 I MICHIGAN

RAJAH Caruth

BUSINESS DEPARTMENT

DRIVE FOR DIVERSITY CLASS OF 2020 SALUTE TO AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

NASCAR and the Military

OWNER SPOTLIGHT

The King: Richard Petty SEAL THE DEAL

Johnson’s Legendary Victories

I NASCAR CAREERS I NASCAR COMMUNIT Y I FOR THE RECORD I GROW IN’ TS I TA ILGAT ING UP NASCAR NASCAR PE RICA I NASCAR BUILDS I FAVORITE FINDS I NASC AR NEW S I SP I MA DE IN AME EE DW AY SU AR HIS TO RY DO NA SC

KU

NPP20 08 MCH Cover RC.indd 1

7/21/2020 7:28:05 PM

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

0 5 0

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: AUGUST 6, 2020

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. 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.