ROAR! - Weekly Racing Magazine - May 29, 2020

THIS ONE’S FOR THE FANS ARE THE RACES TOO LONG?

REDEMPTION FOR NASCAR’S MOST POPULAR DRIVER

TRUCK SERIES THE REAL 2020 CONTENDERS

SEAL THE DEAL EDWARDS LOSES CONTROL

RUSTY WALRUS THE CHAMP IS HERE

PROTECT YOUR RACING INVESTMENTS WITH

THE HIGHEST QUALITY TRUCK HITCHES ON THE MARKET Our TORSION-FLEX Technology gives the user both power and control over adverse road conditions by isolating truck and trailer. It ensures cargo is delivered safely and smooth.

The combination of control, safety and a smoother ride creates the ultimate towing experience to the racetrack.

RACING & MOTORHOME HITCH With a specific flatplate that will slide in on a C-channel on the Super C hitch, this is ideal for towing race haulers or motor homes.

GOOSENECK COUPLERS GEN-Y’s Gooseneck Couplers range in tongue weight and go up to 30,000 LB towing capacity. The Torsion-Flex coupler is the best hitch for ultimate control & performance.

DROP HITCHES Our Boss Adjustable Drop Hitches start at 10,000 LB towing capacity and go up to 21,000 LB towing capacity. The Torsion-Flex Drop Hitch is the best hitch for ultimate control and safety while towing any bumper style trailer on the market including pintle style couplings.

PIN BOXES

The Executive pin boxes are available in 2 different styles. The King Pin allows you to connect to the 5th wheel hitch, while the 5th to Goose conversion style frees up your truck bed

sales@genyhitch.com | (574) 218-6363

www.genyhitch.com

AVAILABLE NOW: MICHIGAN

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

REDEMPTION FOR CHASE ELLIOTT In this week’s episode of Out of the Groove, host and creator Eric Estepp takes us through his race review and analysis of the Alsco 500 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Without a doubt the biggest storyline coming out of the race is the man who took the checkered flag, Chase Elliot, but there’s a lot more going on to this week’s race than just the winner.

First up, it was another mid-week race, this one being a Thursday night due to heavy storms in the Charlotte area. On top of the first 24 hour 0 0 4

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

delay, there were also several delays due to lightning in the area last night, giving the race an even later start time (albeit with a much shorter race length than the weekend’s Coke 600).

How did all of this play out during the show, and how were fans dealing with it at home?

Eric has the full breakdown, plus he takes us through the surprising finishing order and new standings. Where does it rank on the Groovy Gauge? You’ll have to watch the episode and find out!

5 THINGS WE LEARNED

5

THINGS WE LEARNED AT CHARLOTTE CHASE ELLIOTT TAKES ALSCO UNIFORM 500K WIN ELLIOTT FINALLY EXORCISES PESKY LATE RACE DEMONS While the waiting is likely the hardest part, as the late Tom Petty once sang, Chase Elliott must have felt like that wait to get into Victory Lane was as laborious as trying to beat Ninja Gaiden on the Nintendo Entertainment System. Although lightning delayed the action, it was the thunder on the track that prevailed. All told, with 16 lead changes among eight different drivers, it was quite the scramble for the Alsco Uniforms 500k. Now, here are the five notable takeaways from this Thursday night special at Charlotte.

BY ROB TIONGSON

0 0 6

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

RACE THROUGH * HEARTBURN Starts neutralizing acid in seconds

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

©2020 Bayer

5 THINGS WE LEARNED

5

STENHOUSE AND JTG RACING NAB SOLID TOP-FIVE

W

hen Ricky Stenhouse drove to a third-place finish at Las Vegas earlier in the year, it seemed like the two-time NASCAR XFINITY Series champion and the No. 47 JTG Racing Chevy team were prime for incredible things. However, Stenhouse and his team hit a bit of a snag with finishes of 20th or worse from Fontana through this past Sunday evening’s Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte. Things finally appeared to head in the right direction for the mullet-wearing wonder as he drove from his 24th starting spot to a fantastic fourth-place finish. This was not a case of parlaying smart pit strategy or lucking into a strong run. Instead, Stenhouse was a consistent, frontrunning racer all evening long as he finished sixth in Stage 1. It is evident that Stenhouse and crew chief Brian Pattie have what it takes to mix it up at the front when it all comes together.

0 0 8

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

5 THINGS WE LEARNED

4

KURT BUSCH KEEPS WITH CONSISTENT STRONG FINISHES

O

ther than few hiccups in the early going of 2020, Kurt Busch and his No. 1 Monster Energy Chevy Camaro seem to be constant fixtures at the front of the pack. Despite starting 14th for Thursday night’s race, Busch’s car seemed to be stronger in long runs as opposed to his showing in the Coca-Cola 600, a race in which he managed to place seventh. Steady, quiet, and smooth as the race progressed, Busch kept the consistency going with an eighth-place finish in Stage 1 and a sixth-place result in Stage 2. Sure, finishing in fifth at Charlotte Motor Speedway may not seem exciting. However, as the saying that defense wins championships still proves true in the stick and ball sports, the same can be said about consistency being a key element in NASCAR. Kurt Busch and Chip Ganassi Racing have what it takes to score multiple wins in 2020.

0 1 0

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

W

5 THINGS WE LEARNED

Engage Your Freedom!

• All Pistols, Pistol Frames, & Accessories are designed and manufactured in U.S.A. • Next Generation Ergonomics & Features • Stainless Steel Slides & Barrels • Perfect for Every Day Carry!

Visit Us

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

0 1 2

NASCAR

3 S

AUSTIN DILLON TURNS UP WICK WITH TOP-10

ometimes, reuniting the old band can produce some memorable new tunes. That may be the case with Austin Dillon and crew chief Justin Alexander. Together, this duo won a few crown jewel races such as the 2017 Coca-Cola 600 and the 2018 Daytona 500 to finish 11th and 13th in the final points tally. With Dillon and Alexander reunited for this season, it seems like both are like close friends who can complete each other’s sentences or thoughts. A fourth at Las Vegas and 11th in the Real Heroes 400 at Darlington Raceway were merely the coming attractions for their Charlotte races. While Dillon finished 14th in the Coca-Cola 600, he finished inside the top-10 in that race’s first three stages. During Thursday night’s Alsco Uniforms 500, Dillon reeled off seventh-place results in the first two stages before logging an eighthplace finish, good enough for 15th in the points standings.

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

CROWN? OUR KING WEARS A COWBOY HAT

From the legends who established the sport, to the new heroes fighting for a spot in the record books—there’s always something exciting to see at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Walk down Glory Road, drive our realistic race simulator and relive the unbelievable racing moments that made you a fan in the first place. THIS IS OUR SPORT. THIS IS OUR HOUSE.

nascarhall.com NASCAR ® AND NASCAR HALL OF FAME ® ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR STOCK CAR AUTO RACING, INC. © 2020

5 THINGS WE LEARNED

Dual-Action Topical Analgesic Cream Provides penetrating, fast pain relief from:

Arthritis Sore Muscles Back Pain

2

I Low Price Available at:

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

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

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

0 1 4

BLANEY CAPS OFF CHARLOTTE DOUBLE WITH THIRD

f Ryan Blaney had to finish third in every race for the rest of this season, he would probably accept such a condition, especially if it netted him this year’s NASCAR Cup Series championship. All told, the man who led the points standings in the early portion of the year has returned to his frontrunning form. Once he and crew chief Todd Gordon eliminated the cobwebs from their Darlington outings, the Charlotte double treated this still new combination quite kindly. After placing third in the Coca-Cola 600, Blaney and his No. 12 Team Penske comrades returned to the 1.5-mile Charlotte Motor Speedway with another fast Ford Mustang from their fleet. Driving from the 18th starting spot, Blaney tallied serious stage points with runner-up finishes in the first two stages. In the final stage, Blaney kept a steady presence near the front of the pack to place third again at Charlotte.

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 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

5 THINGS WE LEARNED

1

ELLIOTT FINALLY NABS FIRST WIN OF 2020

Y

ou cannot blame Chase Elliott and Alan Gustafson if they felt a bit nervous when they were leading with just two to go in the Alsco Uniforms 500k at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Despite this being a shorter race, it seemed like déjà vu for the No. 9 team. While Elliott only led for one stint, it was the most important one as he led the final 28 laps. It was quite the moment of redemption for Elliott after his heartbreaking Coca-Cola 600 defeat. Keeping pace with the frontrunners all evening long, Elliott caught Kevin Harvick, who seemed like the man to beat. As Harvick’s car struggled to maintain long run speed, Elliott’s Camaro seemed like it ran on rails. Also, this was quite the moment for Gustafson after the conundrum he encountered last Sunday night.

With one win in the books, how many more victories can Elliott capture this year?

0 1 6

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 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.

RECAPPING JIMMIE JOHNSON’S NASCAR CAREER

■■ Jimmie Johnson relinquished the lead to Carl Edwards on the final lap in a win at Kansas in 2008.

JIMMIE JOHNSON OUTLASTS EDWARDS’ HAIL MARY ATTEMPT AT KANSAS IN 2008

BY JA RED TURNER

O

ne of the most exciting wins of Jimmie Johnson’s amazing career to date came at Kansas Speedway on September 28, 2008.

On this particular day, however, it wasn’t Johnson who made the finish so exciting; it was Carl Edwards, the driver who tried — unsuccessfully — to outduel him.

With Johnson holding a semi-comfortable lead heading down the backstretch on the final lap, Edwards quite literally went for broke in turns 3 and 4 as he dove to Johnson’s inside and appeared to never lift off the throttle.

It was the kind of bonsai move you might see in some kind of racing movie, but Johnson admittedly wasn’t too surprised, even as Edwards grabbed the lead for a brief moment before his No. 99 Ford drifted up the track and into the wall.

“You know, in the off-road ranks, stadium trucks and stuff, slide job was a common move, kind of like dirt ovals,” said Johnson, who led a race-high 124 laps from the pole to secure his 38th win in

0 1 8

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

NASCAR’s premier division. “To be honest, I was cruising down the backstretch, had a decent lead. I knew he would go to the bottom. My concern was just making sure I was at his quarter panel coming off of Turn 2. So I was thinking through what I needed to do.

“Next thing you know, that car goes flying by. I knew instantly, there was no damn way he’s making the turn.”

Johnson — ever the picture of poise behind the wheel — regained the lead as Edwards began to lose control.

“Just stayed on the brake, tried to get redirected and turned down,” Johnson said.

“I was so in awe of how fast he drove it in. I watched him pound the wall and jump back on the gas. I thought, ‘Man, he’s serious about this win; I better get back on the gas myself.’ Got off the turn well and got back to the start/finish.”

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.

IN THE HOTSEAT

IN THE HOT SEAT

Mark Martin

BY ROB TIONGSON

During the season, Rob Tiongson interviews various drivers in the world of NASCAR. Today, as a preview for an upcoming special series, he talks with NASCAR Hall of Fame racer Mark Martin. ▶ ONE OF THE UNIQUE THINGS ABOUT YOUR DRIVING STYLE IS HOW YOU HELD THE STEERING WHEEL WITH YOUR HANDS TOGETHER ON THE SAME SIDE WHEN YOU’RE IN A CORNER. WHAT’S THE BACKGROUND STORY WITH YOUR DRIVING STYLE? Well, the seats weren’t as supportive as they are today. The restraint systems weren’t what they are today.

Back in the 1990s, we ran a lot slower steering boxes, so you’d turn the wheel a lot further. There were certain advantages for me using that grip and it held me in the seat. I ran my cars really loose. Whenever the back end would break loose, I wouldn’t have to loop my hands on the wheel. I could turn right and catch the back end without having to move my hands. That’s just the way I liked to drive. It supported me and it held me down in the seat the way I wanted to be. And I was able to make quick responses catching the back end of the car. ▶ WHO WERE SOME DRIVERS THAT YOU WERE REALLY CLOSE FRIENDS WITH IN THE NASCAR SCENE DURING THE 1990S? Ernie Irvan and I were really good friends. That’s really who I hung around with. I got along with a lot of the drivers really well. Davey Allison was really cool.

I got along with a lot of the good, great ones. Rusty Wallace and I got along really well. When it came right down to personal hanging out time, Ernie was the guy that I liked to hang out with. The others were fun and friendly to hang out with. But my relationship with Ernie was really special.

0 2 0

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

OWNER SPOTLIGHT

IN SEARCH OF RACING SUCCESS DAVEY ALLISON WAS ALSO A NASCAR TEAM OWNER

BY BEN WHITE

■■ Davey Allison fielded his own Xfinity and ARCA Series teams.

OWNER: DAVEY ALLISON MANUFACTURER: FORD, BUICK, CHEVROLET SERIES: XFINITY & ARCA SERIES

0 2 2

D

avey Allison, driver of the No. 28 Robert Yates Racing Ford, enjoyed a Cup Series career spanning 8 ½ seasons from 1985 through 1993. The Hollywood, Fla.. native won 19 Cup races before his untimely death on July 13, 1993, as a result of a helicopter accident while attempting to land in the infield at Talladega Superspeedway.

Today’s fans of NASCAR’s premier series may not realize the 1992 Daytona 500 winner fielded his own Xfinity Series and ARCA Series teams out of the Allison Racing shops in Hueytown, Ala. It was where his father, 1983 Cup Series champion and fellow Hall of Famer Bobby Allison, built and raced his own Cup cars in the 1960s and 1970s.

While driving in the Cup Series for Yates, Davey also wheeled his own then Busch Series Fords, Buicks and

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 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

OWNER SPOTLIGHT Chevrolets in select events, carrying the same familiar black and fluorescent orange colors he made so famous on the Winston Cup circuit.

All told, Davey logged 61 starts in his own cars, logging no wins, 15 topfives and 31 top-10s during 10 years of competition. He also entered 25 races for Bobby Allison Racing, Sadler Brothers Racing and Ed Whitaker Racing for a total of 86 career entries.

During a successful career in what is now the NASCAR Menard’s ARCA Series, Davey logged seven victories from 1983 through 1985, all coming on superspeedways at Talladega and Atlanta except for one victory on the short track at Macon, Ga., in 1984. Three victories were logged for Davey Allison Racing, two for his father’s team, and two for team owner Bill Collins. Those victories proved his talent and set the stage to drive in the Cup Series early in his career for team owners Hoss Ellington, Junior Johnson and Harry Ranier. When Ranier sold his team to Yates 0 2 4

■■ Davey Allison fielded his own Xfinity and ARCA Series teams.

in 1989, Davey remained there until his death in July of 1993.

When asked in late 1992 at Charlotte Motor Speedway if he would ever elevate his then Busch Series team to what was then known as the Winston Cup Series, Davey had no desire to make the move.

“No, I really don’t see that happening,” Davey said. “I enjoy fielding a team on a part-time basis in the Busch Series but have no desire to take that any further. I’ve seen through my Dad’s efforts as a Winston Cup team owner and Robert Yates current efforts how challenging that can be. It’s so competitive to field a Cup team. I have absolutely no plans to field a team at the Cup level. As far as I’m concerned, I’ll finish my Cup career with Robert Yates Racing, however long that will be.”

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 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:

DRIVER Q&A

A LITTLE LUCK REQUESTED

XFINITY SERIES UP-AND-COMER HAS HIGH EXPECTATIONS WITH JD MOTORSPORTS

BY JOSEPH WOLK IN

In Jesse Little’s rookie season in the XFINITY Series, he isn’t shy about his expectations.

The son of former Cup Series racer Chad Little is ready to make a name for himself, competing full-time for JD Motorsports in 2020 with plenty of goals to reach. ▶ WHAT’S IT BEEN LIKE TO START YOUR JOURNEY WITH JD MOTORSPORTS? “It was great to start off with. We learned a lot and we were growing a lot as a team. We hit the pause button for a while. It’s unique and almost like another offseason after barely getting the season started. I’m excited to keep going.” ▶ WHAT ARE YOUR EXPECTATIONS THIS YEAR? “I want to get the most out of the car that I can in every race with the equipment that Brian Berry and Johnny Davis can provide me. I think we have a shot at making the playoffs. The 12th spot could be ours if we play our cards right. If we’re cautiously aggressive throughout the season, I think it’s a great goal.” ▶ HOW DO YOU COMPARE YOURSELF TO ROSS CHASTAIN TO SEE HOW YOU CAN GET THE MOST OUT OF THIS CAR? “That’s my game plan. I’m modeling every bit I can after Ross in the sense of getting the most out of this and doing my best to make the playoffs. I want to turn heads. I’m going to racetracks that I’ve 0 2 6

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

■■ Jesse Little races in the XFINITY Series for JD Motorsports.

never been to this year, like Darlington, and my first laps will be at the wave of the green flag. It’s a complete unknown to me.” ▶ HOW DIFFERENT IS IT TO BE ABLE TO FOCUS ON RACING RATHER THAN THE OWNERSHIP SIDE? “When my uncle and I had our truck team, I was wearing a lot of different hats. It didn’t take away from driving, but it did make it harder to focus on that. Now, with the XFINITY stuff, it’s allowed me to channel my attention to being a better driver.”

CREW MEMBER PROFILE

BORN TO BE A RACER PLOURDE HAS KNOWN NOTHING BUT GOING FAST

BY BEN WHITE

B

illy Plourde, car chief for Germain Racing and driver Ty Dillion, grew up in a family of racers that took to the track in his native state of New Hampshire.

“I’ve been going to races since I was a baby,” Plourde said. “The first race I remember was when my Dad raced at Lee (USA) Speedway in New Hampshire. The first NASCAR event I saw in person was at New Hampshire Motor Speedway the year it opened in 1993.”

Plourde built his career in Street Stocks, Late Models, Pro Stocks and some Canadian stock car events. He admittedly ate and slept racing and wanted desperately to race but knew making a living as a seasonal driver would be difficult.

Plourde sold his house and brought his family to North Carolina in hopes of finding a job in NASCAR. His first job came with a car dealership as a mechanical technician while putting resumes out to Cup Series and Xfinity Series teams. Within the first two months, a job came his way from someone at Joe Gibbs Racing that once raced against him in New Hampshire. An interview led to a job of setting up car chassis for the organization in 2004.

Over the years, Plourde worked as a front end mechanic and tire carrier and also joined H Scott Motorsports, Robby Gordon Racing and JR Motorsports before becoming a car chief at Germain Racing in 2010.

“Basically, Matt Borland, our crew chief, handles the driver while I handle the crew and the car,” Plourde said. “I oversee the set up the on the car, whether I do it myself or have someone on the crew do it.”

■■ Billy Plourde, car chief for Germain Racing and Ty Dillon

EXTRA LAPS WITH BILLY PLOURDE RELATIONSHIP: SINGLE CHILDREN: CASSANDRA (26), SAMANTHA (18) HOMETOWN: BARRINGTON, N.H. FAVORITE VACATION SPOT: BAHAMAS FAVORITE HOLIDAY: CHRISTMAS FAVORITE SEASON: FALL FAVORITE TV SHOW: SEINFELD FAVORITE MOVIE: DAYS OF THUNDER FAVORITE MUSIC: COUNTRY

What I enjoy most is being hands on and being involved in the mechanical side of the process. I also enjoy the people management side of it as well as the competition side of it and trying to find an edge. -BILLY PLOURDE 0 2 8

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

BY THE NUMBER

13

BY THE NUMBER

CAR NO.

BY K EITH WA LTZ

M

any old-school racers had a deeprooted superstition about peanuts in the pit area, green race cars and the No. 13.

Therefore, it’s no surprise that NASCAR Cup Series cars sporting No. 13 have been few and far between through the years with a majority of the starts made by cars with that number coming during the last decade.

Germain Racing has been the caretaker of No. 13 since its Cup Series debut in 2009 with Germain drivers Casey

■■ 2019 – Ty Dillon (Getty Images photo)

0 3 0

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

■■ 1963 – Johnny Rutherford (Motorsports Images and Archives photo)

Mears (227), Ty Dillion (113) and Max Papis (33) leading the list of those who have raced cars sporting the number.

Overall statistics show that cars carrying No. 13 in the NASCAR Cup Series have visited Victory Lane just once while posting 36 top-10 finishes in only 618 starts.

Pat Kirkwood, of Ft. Worth, Texas, was the first to brush aside the superstition when he used No. 13 on the 1949 Oldsmobile he drove to a 29th-place finish in series race No. 4 on Sept. 11, 1949, at Pennsylvania’s legendary Langhorne Speedway.

Johnny Rutherford, who would eventually record three Indianapolis 500 victories, is the only driver to win a NASCAR Cup Series race in car No. 13.

That triumph came on Feb. 22, 1963, when Rutherford wheeled Smokey Yunick’s Chevrolet to victory in a 100-mile qualifying race for the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway.

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.

NASCAR STANDINGS

NASCAR CUP SERIES

STANDINGS

START RUN STORE

NO. DRIVER

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

PTS.

1

JOEY LOGANO

317

2

DENNY HAMLIN

244

3

KEVIN HARVICK

331

4

CHASE ELLIOTT

290

5

ALEX BOWMAN

288

6

BRAD KESELOWSKI

265

7

RYAN BLANEY

264

8

MARTIN TRUEX JR.

263

9

ARIC ALMIROLA

225

10 KURT BUSCH

223

11 MATT DIBENEDETTO

220

12 KYLE BUSCH

217

13 ERIK JONES

193

14 CLINT BOWYER

192

15 AUSTIN DILLON

190

16 JIMMIE JOHNSON

188

17 TYLER REDDICK

185

18 WILLIAM BYRON

183

19 CHRIS BUESCHER

164

20 RICKY STENHOUSE JR.

152

21 JOHN HUNTER NEMECHEK 141 22 COLE CUSTER

WWW.STARTRON.COM PROTECTION

0 3 2

020 Ad COL.indd 1

+ PERFORMANCE

138

23 BUBBA WALLACE

127

24 TY DILLON

126

25 MICHAEL MCDOWELL

125

26 COREY LAJOIE

119

27 RYAN NEWMAN

114

28 CHRISTOPHER BELL

111

29 RYAN PREECE

76

30 MATT KENSETH

61

31 BRENNAN POOLE

59

32 QUIN HOUFF

30

33 KYLE LARSON

121

WINS

POLES

TOP 5

TOP 10

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

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020 1/9/20 5:03 PM

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, 3255 West Hamlin Road, Rochester Hills, MI 48309 Printed in USA

NASCAR STANDINGS

XFINITY SERIES

STANDINGS

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

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®

NO. DRIVER

1

CHASE BRISCOE

251

2

HARRISON BURTON

234

3

NOAH GRAGSON

232

4

BRANDON JONES

186

5

AUSTIN CINDRIC

243

6

ROSS CHASTAIN

239

7

JUSTIN ALLGAIER

218

8

RYAN SIEG

192

9

JUSTIN HALEY

186

10 MICHAEL ANNETT

169

11 RILEY HERBST

160

12 BRANDON BROWN

144

13 ALEX LABBE

128

14 JOSH WILLIAMS

127

15 MYATT SNIDER

108

16 B.J. MCLEOD

100

17 CHAD FINCHUM

91

18 JESSE LITTLE

89

19 VINNIE MILLER

86

20 JEREMY CLEMENTS

75

21 JOE GRAF JR.

66

22 DANIEL HEMRIC

135

23 RAY BLACK JR.

92

24 DAVID STARR

59

25 TOMMY JOE MARTINS

57

26 ANTHONY ALFREDO

54

27 J.J. YELEY

52

28 DILLON BASSETT

43

29 MATT MILLS

38

30 JEB BURTON

32

31 MASON MASSEY

31

32 JEFFREY EARNHARDT

26

33 JOSH BILICKI

24

www.alumatow.com | 800.545.9633

0 3 4

PTS.

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

WINS

POLES

TOP 5

TOP 10

2 0 3 4 1 0 4 6 1 0 3 4 1 1 2 3 0 0 4 5 0 0 1 5 0 0 2 3 0 0 2 4 0 0 2 4 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 3 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 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

SPOTLIGHT

DISCOVER THE LIFE & LEGACY OF AMERICA’S PASTOR, BILLY GRAHAM Journey through history with one of the most influential voices of the 20th century.

Learn about Billy Graham and be moved by his message of God’s love. Through state-of-theart multimedia exhibits, films and memorabilia, relive the historic moments of his life, tour

the Graham family home, shop in Ruth’s Attic bookstore, and enjoy lunch in the dairy bar.

The Billy Graham Library in Charlotte will leave you inspired by this humble dairy farmer’s son and the message of hope he shared around the world. Admission is free—come just as you are.

For more information visit: BillyGrahamLibrary.org.

0 3 6

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

T

here’s nowhere else quite like the Billy Graham Library. The interactive Journey of Faith tour is a trip through history for the whole family. See how God’s love changed millions as you experience inspiring videos, photo galleries, and memorabilia. Explore Billy Graham’s childhood home, stroll the peaceful Memorial Prayer Garden, relax over lunch and specialty coffees, or shop the Christian bookstore. An extraordinary journey starts here.

GRAHAM FAMILY HOMEPLACE

EXHIBITS & MEMORABILIA

“#1 thing to do in Charlotte”

R THE ACTIVITIES FO WHOLE FAMILY

“They were all amazed at the majesty of God.”

—LUKE 9:43, NKJV

Monday to Saturday, 9:30–5:00 • BillyGrahamLibrary.org • 704-401-3200 • Reservations required for groups of 10 or more; email LibraryTours@bgea.org or call 704-401-3270. • 4330 Westmont Drive • Charlotte, North Carolina A ministry of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association Franklin Graham, President

©2020 BGEA

COMMUNITY CREATOR: RUSTY WALRUS

YOUTUBE

/Rusty Walrus

TWITTER

@rusty_walrus

INSTAGRAM

@rusty_walrus

CHASE ELLIOTT THE FUTURE CHAMPION? This week, popular YouTuber and streamer Rusty Walrus is back outside in his car for another fast reaction to last night’s race, and with so much hype behind Chase Elliot’s cathartic victory in Charlotte, Rusty definitely has plenty to say about what happened.

After everything that’s happened to Chase this year, Rusty takes us through why his victory means so much, not just to the No. 9 team, but to the NASCAR fanbase as a whole.

0 3 8

Chase Elliot is certainly NASCAR’s most popular driver, and with that comes a heavy burden of expectations.

But that’s not all, Rusty also has his piece to add to the debate over race length. Was the action last night better compared to Sunday’s action because of the number of laps, or was there something else at play?

Check out this week’s episode and find out what Rusty has to say.

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

10 TOUGH TRUCK TITLE CONTENDERS

■■ Matt Crafton has three Truck Series championships to his name.

BY ROB TIONGSON

W

hile only three NASCAR Gander RV and Outdoor Truck Series races are in the books, it’s never too early to consider the early title contenders.

Sure, there’s the usual favorites who’ll dabble for race wins from other divisions, but this is about the full-time drivers whose main focus is hoisting the Truck Series championship trophy following the season finale at Phoenix Raceway.

Although 24 drivers have scored points in the three races completed thus far, three of those racers previously won the series title. Certainly, Matt Crafton, Brett Moffitt, and Johnny Sauter, winners of three of the past four Truck Series championships, can make serious bids for Truck Series glory.

After all, they’ve got the experience, determination, and the excellent personnel and equipment from their longestablished teams.

Then again, there are plenty of young, enthusiastic challengers who are ready to make names for themselves like Austin Hill, Ben Rhodes, Sheldon Creed, Christian Eckes, and

0 4 0

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

Tyler Ankrum. Tenacious, gritty, and bold, some of these racers view their current Truck Series rides as their audition for the prestigious NASCAR Cup Series.

Regardless if this is a driver’s full-time focus or a proving ground series, there are at least 13 more races in which the proven champions and raw, fresh faces duke it out for wins, a spot in this year’s Playoffs, and a spot on the podium to hoist their prized reward, a testament to their consistency and aggression in one of racing’s most action-packed series.

Before the Truck Series heads to Atlanta Motor Speedway for Round 4 of this relatively new season, let us consider the 10 drivers who can be dubbed as “Tough Truck Title Contenders.”

10 TOUGH TRUCK TITLE CONTENDERS

100% GENUINE USA Dog Chews • Made in Chicago from USA beef hide • Tougher and thicker • Never contain dangerous chemicals, bacteria, shards or scraps • Dogs love ’em!

1

Matt Crafton - When anybody thinks about the Truck Series,

Matt Crafton is likely one of the first drivers that comes to mind.

After all, he’s competed full-time in this division for the past 20 years with three championships, 14 race wins, 117 top-fives and 274 top-10s.

Moreover, Crafton and his No. 88 Menards ThorSport Racing team are efficient at being sneaky good when it really counts. While most eyes were on Ross Chastain, Brett Moffitt, and Stewart Friesen, few kept their focus on Crafton in last year’s season finale. Once the checkered flag waved, it was the pride of Tulare, Calif. who stood tall with his team.

2

Brett Moffitt –

Fully recovered from a motocross accident just a few months ago, 27-year-old Brett Moffitt appears set for another run at the Truck Series championship. Coming off a terrific fourth-place finish at Charlotte Motor Speedway, the Grimes, Iowa native possesses a Jack Sprague-like intensity, and not just because he sports that infamous Mr. Pringles mustache.

Also, he competed in the IceBox Pickup Throwdown Series with some of his Truck Series competitors. Before thinking this series was just a virtual dress rehearsal for on-track racing, consider that Moffitt raced these events with his patented style of flat out, no holds barred intensity.

Go to www.wholesomehide.com for dealers

0 4 2

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

■■ Breff Moffitt will look to repeat his 2018 success.

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

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

10 TOUGH TRUCK TITLE CONTENDERS

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 4 4

3

Johnny Sauter – It seems like it’s either checkers or

wreckers for Johnny Sauter, the 2016 Truck Series champion.

However, when Sauter’s got momentum on his side, it’s hard to knock him off the good luck express. Consistent and steady with the wheel, at least for the most part, the 42-year-old’s average points standings finish since 2016 is 3.4. Not to mention, he’s got 24 wins and has been a staying power in this series since 2009.

4

Stewart Friesen

– Simply put, Stewart Friesen is more than just “best in class” when it comes to a Truck Series regular searching for their first championship. Hailing from Niagra-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada, the 36-year-old is coming off his best season in this series. On the heels of a campaign that saw Friesen score two wins, 12 top-five results, and 16 top-10s, Friesen has the makings to be a serious Truck Series title threat this year. It’d be foolish to dismiss the Canadian even if he’s in his first season in Toyota sheet metal after racing with the Bowtie Brigade for the past four years. While he’s strong in the short tracks, he’s shown some skills that pays the bills on the superspeedways in recent years.

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

5

Grant Enfinger

– The man whose last name rhymes with a famous James Bond villain, Grant Enfinger is a throwback racer who’s built for NASCAR’s finest superspeedways.

Scoring his first Truck Series win at Talladega in 2016, the Alabamian kicked off this season with a thrilling victory at Daytona. However, he’s had some tough results in the past two races with a 31st at Las Vegas and a 12th at Charlotte. Although consistency sometimes eludes the 2015 ARCA Menards Series champion, he is incredibly talented and seems to find ways to rally to a top-10 finish at some of the more technical tracks, something to watch as this season progresses.

10 TOUGH TRUCK TITLE CONTENDERS

6

Austin Hill – Following a terrific 2019

campaign resulting in four wins, seven top-fives and 13 top-10s, Austin Hill would love to improve on his fifth-place points finish.

Presently, the 26-year-old Georgian is making a great case to contend for the Truck Series title with a sixth at Daytona, third at Las Vegas, and ninth at Charlotte. Hill’s more than lover of a factor of three as he holds the points lead. Not to mention, he drives for Hattori Racing, the team that won the 2018 Truck championship with then driver Brett Moffitt. Certainly, Hill is quite adept at a plethora of the Truck Series tracks as he’s not afraid to mix it up on the short tracks and superspeedways.

8

Christian Eckes – Fresh

off his 2019 ARCA Menards Series championship, 19-year-old Christian Eckes might be competing in his first full-time Truck Series campaign. Be that as it may, Eckes is a smooth, steady racer who has an Erik Jones-like quiet sense of confidence. Making some noise in the recently concluded IceBox Pickup Throwdown Series, Eckes works with Rudy Fugle, considered one of the best crew chiefs in NASCAR. Once the series heads to the high speed, intermediate venues, look for Eckes to make noise and a formidable case for this year’s title fight.

0 4 6

7

Rhodes isn’t afraid to speak out and let his competitors know how he feels after an on-track tussle.

However, 2014 ARCA Menards East champion is a relentless, fearless driver who leads his fair share of laps during the season. With wins at Las Vegas and Kentucky, the 23-year-old is a raw but highly talented racer with a great team led by crew chief Matt Noyce. Finishing ninth or better in the past three years, there’s still plenty of upside for Rhodes as a legitimate contender for the Truck championship.

■■ Christian Eckes is competing in his first Truck Series campaign.

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

Ben Rhodes – Yes, Ben

STILL #1.

We’ve got a fresh new look and we’re available in more retailers than gotBut a fresh new we’rewe’re available moretoretailers than everWe’ve before. that’s notlook all, and because alsoin proud say we’re rated ever But that’sinnot because also proud to saymagazine. we’re rated thebefore. #1 toilet paper theall, country bywe’re a leading consumer the #1 toilet paper in the country by a leading consumer magazine.

Now that’s what we call a commitment to being the top for your bottom.

Find a retailer near at you at mywhitecloud.com Available Winn-Dixie

Find a retailer near you at mywhitecloud.com

10 TOUGH TRUCK TITLE CONTENDERS

9

Tyler Ankrum – Young and confident, Tyler Ankrum drove

his way to one of the most emotional wins in the Truck Series last year at Kentucky. Placing eighth in the final points tally, the San Bernardino, Calif. native joins the famed GMS Racing team for this year.

Naturally, it’s taking some time for Ankrum to get acclimated with his new surroundings with a pair of top-15s at Las Vegas and Charlotte. Make no mistake that Ankrum and his team can right the ship as this season progresses into the long hot summer.

10

Sheldon Creed – Last but not least, Sheldon Creed

and the No. 2 GMS Racing Chevy team look to improve on their 10th-place points finish in 2019. Logging three top-10s to start this season, including a fifth at Charlotte, the 22-year-old has the makings to be a NASCAR superstar if he can make a serious run at the Truck Series championship. Racing for one of the most consistent, frontrunning teams in this division certainly helps. Ultimately, it may be a case noted by Eminem also known as Slim Shady when it comes to this driver. Won’t the real Sheldon Creed please stand up?

■■ Sheldon Creed started the season with 3 Top-10 finshes.

0 4 8

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

W ORK A RMOR BUILT TO LAST

the last gloves you’ll ever need puncture, tear, flame, abrasion, and cutresistant SAVE 10%. USE CODE ‘VETERAN’ A portion of all proceeds go to the Gary Sinise Foundation

learn more at workarmor.com

MEDIA RELEASE

STEWART-HAAS RACING’S PARTNERSHIP WITH NOVANT HEALTH TAKES FLIGHT WITH ZIPLINE MEDI A RELE A SE

W

orking in extreme conditions where the clock is always ticking, Stewart-Haas Racing is well-versed in delivering under the most intense circumstances. The championship-winning NASCAR team has put its experience to good use during the COVID-19 pandemic, partnering with Novant Health to deliver 20 million face masks and produce 120 ICU webcam carts.

Novant Health has launched an emergency drone logistics operation for hospital pandemic response through a partnership with Zipline, the world’s only national-scale, ondemand drone logistics service, which will provide drone flight services. Stewart-Haas Racing is providing 25,000-squarefeet of property adjacent to its Kannapolis campus for Zipline to deliver medical supplies via its fleet of drones to Novant Health’s integrated system of physician practices, hospitals and outpatient centers.

0 5 0

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 2020

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granted Novant Health a Part 107 waiver to begin operation, which is being initiated as part of the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s (NCDOT) Unmanned Aircraft System Integration Pilot Program (IPP).

The operation provides contactless distribution of personal protective equipment and critical medical supplies to frontline healthcare workers in the Charlotte, North Carolina, metro area. The operation helps position Novant Health, which operates 15 hospitals and nearly 700 locations in the southeastern United States, to adapt quickly to the evolving pandemic and could lead to such innovative uses as testing, drug trials and vaccine distribution in the future.

The groundbreaking operation will provide ongoing drone logistics flights in Class-D controlled airspace,

where all air traffic is actively managed by the FAA under a Part 107 waiver issued to a major U.S. healthcare system. True to its roots, North Carolina is once again “First in Flight.”

“This new part of our relationship with Stewart-Haas Racing has – quite literally – taken our logistics operations to new heights,” said Mark Welch, senior vice president of supply chain, Novant Health.

“Once again, SHR stepped up when we had a need in response to this pandemic by providing us the critical space to create our distribution center. This operation is taking Novant Health logistics to the next level and we could not do it without the assistance of Stewart-Haas Racing.”

The operation uses battery-powered drones with autonomous navigation systems which launch from a distribution center near Stewart-Haas Racing. Novant Health is able to move its products efficiently from this hub to its frontline medical teams powered by Zipline’s long-range, fixed-wing drones. Since 2016, Zipline has used its fleet of drones to deliver 110,000 vaccines, units of blood and

critical medications internationally.

“As soon as we heard about the initiative Novant Health had with Zipline, our only question was, ‘How can we help?’,” said Mike Verlander, vice president of sales and marketing, Stewart-Haas Racing. “Finding a tract of land that could be used for the distribution center was paramount, and Gene Haas, the co-owner of our race team, had the perfect spot right behind our race shop.

He cut through all the red tape and dirt was quickly moved. We helped with logistical coordination during the build and have seen firsthand the work of the Zipline crew and the efficiency of the distribution center and the technology it houses. It’s all very impressive.”

In the span of a few minutes, a lightweight drone takes off from Novant Health’s distribution center, with the package placed inside a parachute in the belly of the Zipline drone. When the drone reaches its destination, it simply drops the parachute and the healthcare worker collects it. The drone then returns to the distribution center to get outfitted for its next flight.

0 5 1

OFFICIAL NASCAR MEMBERS CLUB Q&A

WORTH THE WAIT: TEXAS WOMAN REAPS REWARDS OF ONMC MEMBERSHIP

BY DA N GUT TENPL A N

P

atti Avella, 64, has been a NASCAR fans since the 1970s when she grew up in Texas rooting for Darrell Waltrip.

She’s attended races at 13 tracks over the years, and she typically shares the experience with family or friends. The one thing her guests never understood: how she can wait in line for hours to get autographs from her favorite drivers.

“I’d bring people who’d never been,” Avella said. “I’d want to stand in line, and they’d say, ‘How can you wait in line for hours just to get a signature? This is ridiculous.’ I like to do it.”

The lines haven’t been quite as long for Avella since she joined the Original NASCAR Members Club in 2012. The longtime racing fan shares her ONMC experience with ROAR in a recent interview.

0 5 2

▶ WHAT DREW YOU TO THE SPORT OF NASCAR? “I just like racing. In the early ‘70s, I used to go to quarter miles.

Then I started to get more into the NASCAR scene.” ▶ WHICH DRIVERS HAVE YOU ROOTED FOR? “In the 1970s, it was Darrell Waltrip. In the 1980s, I liked the Labontes and those Texas boys. I ended up buying a Toyota in the 2000s. I always had Chevys, but once I bought a Toyota, I thought I’ll take the Rookie of the Year. So, I’m with Denny Hamlin.” ▶ WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO JOIN THE ORIGINAL NASCAR MEMBERS CLUB? “I ordered something and it asked if I’d like to join. Right away, I got a chance to go on the infield and ride the pace car. I’ve always gotten pit passes; I’ve been to 13 tracks. This gave me more opportunities to get up close.” ▶ WHICH ARE YOUR FAVORITE TRACKS? “I live in Texas now, but I lived in Florida, Connecticut and Virigina as well. My first race was at Daytona. I went to Daytona no matter what when I lived in Florida. I went to Atlanta, Richmond, Darlington … I never went to Martinsville. I’m trying to get to all of them. I want to go to the Poconos this year, but I don’t know if the race will be on.” ▶ WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BIGGEST PERKS YOU’VE EXPERIENCED AS A PART OF YOUR ONMC MEMBERSHIP? “I took my future son-in-law to a race in Las Vegas. He had a great experience. My daughter got us tickets to Bristol. I told them my goal is to hit every track. I’m almost 65, but I’ll do it. There’s even more motivation now that my friend in the club can take us to the pits.”

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 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

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: AARON LEHMANN, JUSTIN HAND, MARK MORALES 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: MICHIGAN MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION POLEPOSITIONMAG.COM UPDATES & POSTERS TWITTER @NPPMAG FACEBOOK NASCAR POLE POSITION

0 5 4

ROAR! WEEKLY RACING MAGAZINE: MAY 29, 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.